By: Maryanne Salvat

maryannesalvat@aol.com 

Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour Key To The Cure 

To help raise both money and awareness for women’s cancers, Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour will once again partner with The Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center to host this year’s Key To The Cure, a charity shopping weekend taking place October 17 through October 20. During the shopping weekend, 2% of participating vendor sales from Saks Bal Harbour – up to $500,000 – will be donated to the Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center. Actress Jennifer Aniston has been named the 2013 Entertainment Industry Foundation’s ambassador for Saks Fifth Avenue’s 2013 Key to The Cure campaign.  In support of this program, Ms. Aniston will appear in a national public service announcement (PSA) wearing a limited-edition Key To The Cure T-shirt by celebrated designer Peter Dundas of Emilio Pucci. The T-shirt retails for $35 in Saks stores, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH stores or at www.mountsinaifoundation.org/KeyToTheCure. One hundred percent of the proceeds of the purchase price of each T-shirt sold at Saks Bal Harbour and via the Mount Sinai online site will be donated to The Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center.

First Annual MEDDY Awards

Medical and lifestyle organizations will gather on Friday, October 18, 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., for the 1st Annual MEDDY Awards, at Hyde Beach in the SLS Hotel, to honor those who have contributed to medical missions abroad. The event, presented by NBC6 reporter Kelly Blanco, will benefit local charity Jose’s Hands, and feature an inspiring Beauty & Fashion Experience, in collaboration with celebrity-endorsed designer Kymerah, luxury salon Warren-Tricomi, and modeling agency Quintessential Promotions. The evening will also count with performances by renowned local female powerhouse DJ YSL, alongside Miami’s celebrity drummer David Silva. Tickets can be purchased at www.joseshands.com/weekend. 

Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure 

More than 20,000 walkers and runners will join together for the Susan G. Komen Miami/Ft. Lauderdale 18^th Annual Race for the Cure® on Saturday, October 19, starting at 7:30am, at Bayfront Park. The Race will honor breast cancer survivors, support those dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis and raise funds for research to end breast cancer. Seventy five percent (75%) of net proceeds from the event stay in Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties to support local breast cancer programs. To register or volunteer go towww.komenmiaftl.orgor call 305.383.7116.

Connor Cruise at SET!

SET hosts DJ Connor Cruise on Saturday, October 19.  After completing recent tours across the globe, Connor Cruise has begun to make his mark across the electronic music world and the young stars future continues to look bright! Cruise has been spending time in the studio as a producer, working on remixes and original tracks with Grammy-nominated producer/DJ Andy Caldwell as well as Black Eyed Peas DJ/producer Poet.  His remix of “Feed me Diamonds” by MNDR was picked by Ultra records and was featured on David Letterman. He has also worked with similar artists such as the Veronicas, creating unique and creative remixes. Cruise has several original tracks in the pipeline that are poised to be hits worldwide; For tickets visit: http://www.wantickets.com/Events/140172/Connor-Cruise-at-SET-Nightclub/.

MISO: The Miami Symphony Orchestra

On Sunday, October 20, celebrate 25 years with The Miami Symphony Orchestra as they welcome back popular Spanish classical guitarist Ángel Romero, along with the virtuosic pianist Andreas Boyde, to commemorate MISO’s 25th Anniversary Season. Maestro Eduardo Marturet leads a colorful program that includes his very own homage to Cuban painter Waldo Balart, Beethoven’s magnificent Emperor Concerto, and the rich, warm sonorities of Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez. For more information or to purchase tickets visit: http://themiso.org. 

FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Turns 25! 

Celebrating its 25^th season this week, FUNKSHION hosts high fashion events all week long including the RedDress Show presented by the American Heart Association.   Heart disease being the number one killer of women, FUNKSHION Miami treasures the opportunity to create as much awareness as possible and raise money for the fight against this disease.  For a complete schedule of events visit: http://www.funkshion.com/schedule.html. 

Happenings at The Flat Miami 

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The Flat is thinking pink and introducing a specialty drink to their handcrafted cocktail menu for socially conscious sippers. During the entire month of October, patrons can enjoy Pink is the New Black ($13), a combination of vodka and St. Germain topped with a sparkling rosé and a splash of antioxidant rich cranberry juice. Twenty percent of proceeds from each drink will benefit The Florida Breast Cancer Foundation, a nonprofit, grassroots organization dedicated to ending breast cancer through advocacy, education, and research. All donations will remain in the State of Florida to support programs for Florida residents and institutions. 

To welcome the fall, The Flat has created a multi-course cocktail menu designed to “wet” the appetite. Based on the concept of the Miami Spice tasting menus, the Flat’s limited edition cocktail menu is a liquid adaption where patrons can enjoy a series of satisfying sips for only $33. Enjoy a selection of cocktails that progress over the palate from light-bodied to rich and dark, comparable to the complexity of a perfectly paired menu’s appetizer, entrée and dessert. The menu includes The Suite 180, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, Aperol, agave nectar and orange cream bitters topped with champagne. This light, citrus cocktail prepares the pallet for The First Date, a hearty, main course made with gin, yellow chartreuse, honey, and lemon juice. Cap off the evening with The Jesserna, a digestif dessert of muddled raspberries, bourbon, vanilla beans, Averna Italian Liqueur and lemon juice; for more information visit, www.theflatmiami.com.   

SeaFood Spice at The Trapiche Room 

With less than one month left of the ever-popular SeaFood Spice promotion, those seeking a romantic and intimate dining experience must visit The Trapiche Room. Located within Brickell’s JW Marriott Miami, the restaurant’s convenient location and serene setting affords Downtown’s movers and shakers the ideal venue for a working power lunch. When the sun sets, The Trapiche Room transforms into the city’s most intimate dining venue. Executive Chef Daniel Goldich offers refined Mediterranean dishes in a warm, candlelight environment. Complete with mahogany fixtures and classic décor, The Trapiche Room is just a few feet away from the hotel’s outdoor La Terresa. A stark contrast to The Trapiche Room, La Terrasa featuring gorgeous city views and eclectic nautical furniture, perfect for after dinner drinks and cigars.  http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/miajw-jw-marriott-hotel-miami/  or 305.329.3500.

Not So Scary Halloween Bash at MCM 

It’s not so scary, but all your little ghosts and goblins are guaranteed to have a boo-tiful time at Miami Children’s Museum’s “Not So Scary Family Halloween Bash!” on Sunday, October 20 from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Miami Children’s Museum on Watson Island. Considered one of Miami’s best Family Halloween events, you and your family are guaranteed to have a great and ghostly time as your costumed trick-or-treaters make their candy collecting way around the Museum’s 14 galleries.  Enjoy Miami’s best family friendly haunted house, create crazed crafts and become part of our fun and colorful costume parade.  Families are bound to have a bewitching time and will enjoy creating miniature pumpkin and sugar skulls, face painting, dancing the Monster Mash, eating delectable treats, taking part in our a silent auction and much, much more. All the proceeds from the Not So Scary Family Halloween Bash benefit the Museum’s educational programs. Individual tickets to the “Not So Scary Halloween Bash” are just $30.00 for members and $40.00 for non-members when purchased before October 1st.  After October 1^st,  Individual tickets become $40.00 for members and $50.00 for non-members. A Family Package for $200.00 is also available that includes 6 tickets.  For more information, to learn about sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets, visit www.miamichildrensmuseum.org/halloween or call 305.373.KIDS (5437), ext. 120.

Dark Dining at City Hall The Restaurant

On Friday, October 25, City Hall the Restaurant will host Dark Dining, a unique dining experience that promotes communication and enhances your senses. Dark Dining allows people without disabilities to get a better understanding of what life is like for individuals with visual impairments. Dark Dining provides diners with the opportunity to experience a first class meal while blindfolded. “This unique event is a sensory overload dining experience you won’t want to miss!!” says Steven Haas, owner of City Hall the Restaurant. Call 305-764-3130to make a reservation. $125 per person includes a four course dinner with wine pairings, tax and gratuity. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Miami Lighthouse for the Blind.

 By: Maryanne Salvat 

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim 2014 

South Beach will once again come alive this July, as the swimwear industry’s most highly anticipated event returns for the ninth year. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim will heat up the sands of The Raleigh Hotel with five days of designer runway shows, presentations and parties beginning on July 18 through July 22. IMG Fashion is proud to present an extensive list of incredible designers who will be presenting their latest Collections including: AGUA BENDITA, POKO PANO, DOLORES CORTES, WILDFOX SWIM, BEACH BUNNY, NICOLITA, AQUA DI LARA, MARA HOFFMAN SWIM, VIX SWIMWEAR, CIA.MARITIMA, BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP, GOTTEX, OAKLEY, L*SPACE BY MONICA WISE, A.Z ARAUJO, LULI FAMA, CAFFE SWIMWEAR, MAAJI SWIMWEAR, SAUVAGE, ZINGARA SWIMWEAR, 6 SHORE ROAD, A.CHE SWIMWEAR, AGUACLARA, AQUARELLA SWIMWEAR, CAITLIN KELLY SWIMWEAR and MINIMALE ANIMALE. To kick-off this exciting event ROXY will be showcasing their designs and celebrating 25 years in the industry with ROXY Pop Surf at the Raleigh pool deck on Thursday evening. Title sponsor Mercedes-Benz is joined by DHL, American Express, TRESemme, Smashbox Cosmetics, Ipanema, The Raleigh, Ocean Drive Magazine and Getty Images; for the official schedule visit:   http://miami.mbfashionweek.com/home.   FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach SWIM On July 17, FUNKSHION Fashion Week Miami Beach will swim into its 24^th season in Miami Beach. Debuted in 2003, FUNKSHION has brought Miami to the forefront of the South Florida Fashion World, working with designers from Miami, Latin America, New York City, Milan and Paris.  FUNKSHION offers an opportunity for designer collections to come to life, merging the worlds of fashion and music.  As with every season, since the inception of Funkshion, most shows are open to the general public free of charge.  Potential guests do need to officially rsvp at:  WWW.FASHIONWEEKMIAMI.COM Or  WWW.FUNKSHION.COM.

STYLE SAVES SWIM 

On Friday, July 19, stay stylish by giving back! To kick-off Miami Swim Week, Style Saves will host an exclusive event at the ultra-chic Soho Beach House, Miami, coordinated by In House Ideas. STYLE SAVES SWIM presented by Schick Quattro For Women Trimstyle, will celebrate the launch of CABANA, the beachwear trade event. For the third year, Style Saves’ Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser will gather 400 of Miami’s most recognized and influential people together to support Style Saves’ mission of “building confidence through clothes and giving a fresh start through fashion” to local underprivileged students in South Florida. In collaboration with The Miami Foundation, Style Saves’ mission is to imbue students with the self-confidence and assurance they need to succeed, both academically and personally. The event will feature three back-to-back designer fashion shows, sponsored open bar and sounds by DJ RUEN. FORD models will strut the runway showcasing designers from CABANA, the beachwear trade event and looks from swim retailer ATRIUM. To open the show, Venezuelan men’s swimwear line Crasqi will make their Swim Week debut. Guests will enjoy cocktails by Belvedere Vodka, Peroni Nastro Azzurro beer and Perrier Sparkling Natural Mineral Water, plus sweet treats from Stella’s Sweet Shoppe. The Funclick interactive photo booth sponsored by Metro 1 Properties will let guests capture memories to take home using the hashtag #stylesavesswim. Presenting sponsor, Schick Quattro for Women TrimStyle is the perfect partner to the swim theme, encouraging gals to get bikini-ready with the only razor and bikini trimmer in one. Fashion magazine Vogue Brasil and lifestyle publication Haute Living will cover the event as media sponsors while World Red Eye shoots as the official photographer.Tickets are $150 in advance and $175 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit: http://stylesaves.charityhappenings.org/; To learn more about Style Saves visit, www.stylesaves.org.

One year after the launch of The Paradise Fund: Miami, join for a night in historic 1957 Havana in grand “Paradise” fashion. Havana in the early 1950′s was a top tourist and nightlife destination. Havana, in its heyday, became known as the Monte Carlo of the Caribbean. Swanky Hotels, Cabarets, Nightclubs and Casinos could be found in abundance. This year, guests will be transported back to Havana’s glory days! Come enjoy tropical cocktails, seasonal bites, freshly rolled cigars and live, Cuban music from the era. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Paradise Fund’s Haiti-based education and development projects. Individual tickets are $150

2^nd Annual Youth Fitness Clinic

On Saturday, July 20 Little Lighthouse Foundation is calling all volunteers to participate in the 2^nd annual Youth Fitness Clinic at Ansin Sports Complex hosted by Rosenhaus Sports and participating clients. From 9AM – 12PM, 250 youth will participate in outdoor activities with twelve drill stations highlighting simple athletic movements. Each station will be equipped with volunteers, featuring cones, tackle dummies, ladders, passing, and more. Past NFL participants include Plaxico Burress, Jared Odrick, James Pruitt, and Robert Bailey. The Youth Clinic is free of charge and beverages and a commemorative t-shirt will be provided to all participants. If you are interested in volunteering or know youth interested in participating, contact Reed at Reed@v2rgroup.com or 305.417.8553 for a registration waiver.  

Taste of the Nation

South Florida  Share Our Strength, the country’s leading anti-hunger organization and producer of the highly respected annual nationwide culinary benefit, Taste of the Nation, dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the fight to end childhood hunger across America, is getting ready to roll.  Now called Taste of the Nation South Florida and bigger than ever, this year the region’s premier culinary benefit is showcasing more than 50 fabulous restaurants from both Dade and Broward counties, the finest wines and spirits, and an impressive array of auction items.  The much-anticipated event will take place Thursday, July 25, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., in the spacious main ballroom of the Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Tickets, priced at $125 per person as well as VIP tickets priced at $250 per person and providing access to the event an hour before the doors open, are available at: www.tasteofthenation.org. One hundred percent of ticket sales go to Share Our Strength to fight childhood hunger. 

By: Maryanne Salvat  

Wine Week at Piazzetta Marketplace & Restaurant 

Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach will host Wine Week at Piazzetta Marketplace & Restaurant throughout the week until Friday, March 22 with special appearances by Chef Michele Mazza.  While sharing in a delicious taste of Italy, guests will enjoy a stimulating collection of Italian wines with complimentary tastings presenting a new theme each day including crisp to light, sweet to dry and full bodied to light bodied. A Wine Expert will be present to enlighten the experience and offer a sensory experience for your palette. Sampled wines will be available for purchase at a ten percent discount during the day of the sampling. Piazzetta’s Wine Corner features a collection of Italian current wines including Chianti Classico and Brunello from Tuscany, as well as a wide variety of wines from around world with an emphasis on private vintages. Lunch seating is available from noon to 3:00PM. Dinner seating is available from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Seating is limited. To make a reservation for Wine Week at Piazzetta Marketplace & Restaurant, call 305.918.6816.  

FUNKSHION

FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach is a four day long event that provides an intelligent, innovative platform for progressive, established, and emerging designers to showcase their collections to media, celebrities, and international buyers. Beginning Wednesday, March 20, FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach is a four day/evening long event that provides an intelligent, innovative platform for progressive, established, and emerging designers to showcase their collections to media, celebrities, international buyers, and select style makers. The shows are geared towards designer diffusion collections and innovative lifestyle brands; RSVP:  collins@funkshion.com.

 Pulse 2.0: Late Night at the New World Symphony 

The New World Symphony will present a revamped version of its original classical music / nightclub-style event titled Pulse 2.0: Late Night at the New World Symphony on Friday, March 22, 9:30 p.m. at the New World Center.  The event is designed to integrate contemporary classical music with electronica music into an evening-long presentation to help attract new audiences for the art form.  Pulse 2.0 is sponsored in part by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Pulse 2.0 will feature Miami-based DJ Sean Drake, who has held residencies at the Vagabond, Pawn Shop, Shadow Lounge, NFA & Liquid.  DJ Sean Drake will spin lounge music between two sets of classical music, featuring composers such as Mozart, Shostakovich, Guillaume Connesson and Steve Reich.  The night concludes with DJ Drake’s last set—a dance party in the main performance hall.  Also, “Pulse Unplugged,” a 15-minute set of orchestral music in the style of MTV’s Unplugged series, in which Fellows will perform a few of the ensemble pieces without amplification in the pristine and intimate environment of SunTrust Pavilion, will take place during following the second orchestral set.  Pulse 2.0 will also feature a mezzo-soprano Irene Roberts. The event will utilize the flexibility of the New World Center’s concert hall, simulating a late-night lounge setting, featuring projections to accompany the electronica music.  New World Symphony Fellows will be located on stage lifts, while other portions of the main stage will be lowered to the floor, allowing attendees to walk among the performers throughout the evening.  In addition, some performers will be located on the hall’s satellites stages, positioned throughout the room, and the hall’s seating will be retracted, allowing additional space for dancing and socializing.  Tickets to Pulse: Late Night at the New World Symphony are just $25 and are available by calling the New World Symphony box office at 305.673.3331, or online at www.nws.edu.   Additional information about the New World Symphony may be found online at www.nws.edu.  

31^st Annual American Red Cross Ball

The American Red Cross South Florida Region will hold its 31^st Annual American Red Cross Ball on Saturday, March 23, at the Ritz-Carlton in Key Biscayne. The American Red Cross Ball is the cannot-miss event of the social calendar, with more than 400 prominent and influential community leaders and philanthropists in attendance for a night of elegance, delectable cuisine, graceful décor, music and dancing. Since 1982, the Red Cross ball has been established as one of Miami’s most prestigious social fundraising events. In 2012, the American Red Cross Ball raised more than $500,000 in support of the local disaster response programs, assistance to veterans and their families, and lifesaving courses offered by the American Red Cross in Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe counties. Marie-Ilene and Thomas A. Whitehurst will be the chairpersons of the 2013 American Red Cross Ball. Premier Beverage Company is donating the wine and champagne for this event and Bacardi USA is donating the spirits. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305.728.2512.

HINT Water=WMC Survival

With the Winter Music Conference taking place in the heart of South Beach and Spring starting this week, staying hydrated and keeping your skin protected from the sun is an absolute must! HINT Water makes the perfect option and is a great alternative to all the sugary beverages and sodas out. The warm weather brings the constant need for a thirst-quenching and hydrating beverage. With just a “hint” of fruit flavor, drinking water has become more fun and delicious tasting.  HINT comes in ten unique flavors including Watermelon, Blackberry, Pomegranate-Tangerine, Strawberry-Kiwi, Raspberry-Lime, Mango-Grapefruit, Lime, Pear, Honeydew-Hibiscus and Cucumber. Your skin has been left pale and lifeless because of winter so before you even think of hitting the beach or stepping foot into a swimsuit and frying yourself on the first sunny day you should think of using the G.M. Collin SPF 30 High Protection Cream, an ultra-light, water-resistant, non-occlusive sunscreen formulated exclusively with 100% natural mineral filters providing highly effective UV ray protection. Your skin will be more sensitive to the UV rays during the first sun exposures and protection is very important especially if you are attending WMC and will be standing, dancing and walking around for a good 12 hours each day in the hot blistering sun. Don’t get sun burnt on day 1 and ruin your other days left. So as you’re splashing around at a WMC pool party this spring, make sure to stay hydrated with HINT and protected with G.M. Collin Skincare.

 Beg for Mercy  

Should you find yourself imbibing in more than a “recommended” share of cocktails during WMC-consider packing a can of Mercy® a new caffeine-free and naturally flavored, functional beverage that helps to prevent hangovers. The creators of this party/after-party companion boast that it is a “miracle in a can,” and can “prevent hangovers, detoxify the body, boost the immune system, alleviate alcohol flush and replenish key nutrients.”  It’s all actually pretty scientific, as Mercy is comprised of a kajillion vitamins and a billion grams of each of those (don’t quote us on these figures). On a serious note, Mercy is a custom blend of amino acids, anti-oxidants and vitamins, formulated to replenish key nutrients and jump-start the body’s natural defenses, helping stave off dreaded hangover symptoms like headache and nausea. It is also the only hangover-prevention drink that contains B1, a vitamin proven to help offset alcohol’s negative effects- including liver damage! We are NOT making this up- we have actually researched this. Mixed with alcohol or served on its own, Mercy helps neutralize the dangerous alcohol by-product acetaldehyde and unlike many other functional beverages, Mercy is cold-filled and canned, which preserves the drink’s vitamins and nutrients by shielding them from heat and light. Each 8.4-ounce can of Mercy consumed during a night out, will counter the after-effects of up to five alcoholic beverages.  If you drink more than that, well, we are guessing a mere hangover is NOT your biggest problem.  With only 60 calories per can, Mercy appeals to health-and weight-conscious consumers and it actually tastes kind of like ginger ale. Mercy is available in select bars, restaurants, nightclubs and hotels in major cities and viawww.drinkmercy.com.   

BrazilFoundation

BrazilFoundation, a nonprofit organization that raises funds to support social projects in Brazil, will hold its second annual gala in Miami on Tuesday, March 26 at the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Sponsored by Graff Diamonds, Crédit Agricole and Carla Amorim, the evening will honor influential social investors and bring together over 400 leaders from the worlds of business, diplomacy, academia, fashion and art to generate resources for the community-led initiatives funded by the BrazilFoundation. Television and radio host Pedro Andrade will act as the evening’s master of ceremonies. Rising international star Naldo, who recently toured with Fat Joe in Brazil, will be making his official U.S. debut with a live musical performance at the charity gala; for more information visit www.Brazilfoundation.com.  

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim returns for its eighth 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 19-23, 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 Perry South Beach is taking part 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. For a complete schedule visit: www.MBfashionweek.com.

FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach

On Wednesday, July 18, join Creators Aleksandar Stojanovic, Matt Heien and Alain Perez as they present the 17^th season of FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach. Since 2003, FUNKSHION has brought Miami to the forefront of the Fashion World, working with designers showcasing in New York City, Milan and Paris. FUNKSHION offers a fun, young opportunity for designer collections to come to life, merging the worlds of fashion and music. Bringing in celebrity DJs and bands, FUNKSHION provides the perfect soundtrack for the catwalk. Every year Funkshion produces runway shows every October, March and July. These events are open to the public, for a complete schedule and to RSVP visit: www.fashionweekmiami.com.

Style Saves’ 1 Year Anniversary

On Thursday, July 19 from 9:00 p.m. to midnight, stay stylish by giving back! Celebrate Style Saves’ 1 Year Anniversary at Style Saves’ 2nd Annual Summer Fashion Show Fundraiser! To kick off 2012 Miami Swim Week, Style Saves will host an exclusive event at SOHO Beach House featuring four designer fashion shows, sponsored open bar and live DJ. The runway show will showcase looks from Trina Turk, Atrium, Papi swimwear for men & iShine365 swimwear for women. Following the fashion show, the party will continue. Guests will enjoy cocktails and treats from Stella’s Sweet Shoppe while viewing the online auction hosted by charitybuzz featured on iPads throughout the space and capturing memories in the CapturePod photo booth sponsored by Atrium. Tickets cost $100 in advance, $125 at the door. To purchase tickets visit http://stylesaves.charityhappenings.org.

Lila Nikole Collection at Bamboo

On Friday, July 20, Lila Nikole Collection by designer Lila Nikole Rivera will debut the Spring/Summer 2013 collection during Miami Fashion Week as an off-site runway experience at the newly opened Bamboo Miami in conjunction with Red Bull Sound Stage, which will be highlighting two of its star artists, Bonnie Beats and DJ Rob Dinero. The “Electrika” line incorporates prints with wild graphics and neon tones of pink, blue, yellow and green monokinis, bikinis and one pieces all inspired by Ultra Music Festival.Each look will be modeled by the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders on a hydraulic stage with digitally mapped graphics, simultaneously playing on the elevated, custom-built LED screens to give a 3-D illusion. Sponsors for the evening include Red Bull and Paul Mitchell High Tech studio, which will be providing hair and makeup ready looks for the runway.

Fashion’s Fight Against Parkinsons 2012
On Saturday, July 21, in conjunction with Miami Swim Week, national philanthropic organization Fashion’s Fight will host a glamorous evening of fashion and philanthropy to showcase the season’s hottest swimwear collections while raising money to benefit the Wilkins Parkinson’s Foundation (WPF). Hosted by Fashion’s Fight founder and top-model, Shannon Rusbuldt, and International musical sensation, Henry Santos, the inaugural Fashion’s Fight Against Parkinson’s will feature a series of runway shows by celebrity swimwear designer AmbiKa (bika swimwear), local cult favorite Luba and other designers. Rusbuldt and Santos, along with Miami Heat dancer Stephanie Hettchen and other celebrities, will walk in the runway shows. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.fashionsfight.com.

SPF (Sand ▪ Play ▪ Fashion) at Nikki Beach Miami

What Women Want, Nikki Beach Miami’s signature monthly fashion series will present a special Swim Edition this month in partnership with Equinox. SPF (Sand ▪ Play ▪ Fashion) will be a fashion filled weekend featuring swim shows, the summer’s hottest beauty treatments, and environmental education and awareness. Throughout the 2 days, well-known designers from across the world will be showing off their newest swimsuit lines on the runway and afterwards will set up pop-up boutiques allowing guests to shop the looks immediately following the show. During SPF, guests will be able to purchase raffle tickets in which the winner will receive a package consisting of $1,800 worth of private sessions from Equinox, brunch for 2 at Nikki Beach, Nikki Beach VIP Gold Card, and a swimsuit from each designer. 100% of the proceeds from the raffle will go to Ocean Charity Partners which raises funds for One World One Ocean, Surfrider Foundation Miami Chapter and Blue Marble Project. This event is open to the public, for more information visit www.nikkibeachmiami.com.

Salon Allure Benefits Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation

On July 21 and July 22, Salon Allure, a four-day boutique tradeshow featuring more than 70 of the world’s most exclusive brands in swim, resort, and now accessories, marks its third anniversary at Swim Week by inviting the public to its first-ever designer sample sale fundraiser, net proceeds for the event will benefit Salon Allure’s charity of choice: Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation (MCHF). Chaired by Norma Jean Abraham, celebrity co-chairs Tracy Wilson Mourning and Lisa Pliner, and style blogger Ginger Harris of Electric Blogarella at the Perry South Beach, attendees will have access to the same luxury swim and resort wear worn by Hollywood A-listers, from Fergie to Rihanna, all at discounts of up to 50 percent off. Guests will also enjoy complimentary cocktails, DJ performances, and the chance to support Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation with each purchase. To learn more and offer support, visit www.mchf.org.

Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation®

Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation® the nation’s premier culinary benefit dedicated to making sure no kid in America grows up hungry brings together pioneers of modern American cuisine, national celebrity chefs and mixologists including Stephan Pyles, mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim, Bravo’s Top Chef Tom Collichio, Michael Voltaggio and Stephanie Izard with one goal in mind: to raise critical funds needed to help end childhood hunger. 100% of ticket sales support Share Our Strength’s efforts to end childhood hunger.

This year’s Taste of the Nation event in Miami will be held on Thursday, July 19^th from 6-10 p.m. (VIP admission, tickets cost $250); 7-10 p.m. (general admission, tickets cost $125) at Turnberry Isle Miami. In honor of this year’s 25 anniversary, Turnberry Isle Miami is encouraging travelers to attend this incredible event and enjoy the resort’s spacious accommodations and Mediterranean style, world-class surroundings with a special Taste of the Nation room rate of $124. http://strengthflorida.org/get-involved/taste-of-the-nation/miami/.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Beats After Sunset

On Friday, July 6, Bass Museum of Art will host its monthly first Friday happy soiree Beats After Sunset from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy complimentary cocktails by Herradura Tequila and beats by Joseph Anthony while browsing works from current exhibitions “MENS SUITS” by Charles LeDray and “Erasey Page” by Miami-based artist Jillian Mayer in collaboration Eric Shoenborn. Admission is complimentary for members and basspass holders; $8 museum admission for non-members. Chalk Ping Pong and Billiards Lounge, will host an after party from 11:00 pm to 12:00 a.m. where Beats guests are invited to enjoy one complimentary beverage and ping pong. 

The Amazing Spider-man IMAX Experience 

For those in need of fleeing the summer‘s sweltering heat an escape to an icy cool IMAX movie theater may be the perfect solution. The Amazing Spider-man, released this week to sold-out audiences nationwide, is a sure bet for the Fourth of July holiday weekend.  With amazing 3-D effects and an impressive cast including, the adorable Andrew Garfield (Social Network), girl-next-door Emma Stone, Martin Sheen, Sally Field, and Denis Leary, the new superhero series is one not to be missed.  

FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach

On Wednesday, July 18, join creators Aleksandar Stojanovic, Matt Heien and Alain Perez as they present the 17^th season of FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach. Since 2003, FUNKSHION has brought Miami to the forefront of the Fashion World, working with designers showcasing in New York City, Milan and Paris. FUNKSHION offers a fun, young opportunity for designer collections to come to life, merging the worlds of fashion and music. Bringing in celebrity DJs and bands, FUNKSHION provides the perfect soundtrack for the catwalk. Every year Funkshion produces runway shows every October, March and July. These events are open to the public, for a complete schedule and to RSVP visit: www.fashionweekmiami.com.

International Mango Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Twenty years ago, a seed from one of Dr. David Fairchild’s century-old mango trees was planted in Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s fertile soil. Fast forward to the present and Fairchild is now a haven for tropical fruit research and home to hundreds of mango cultivars. This year, Fairchild celebrates the growth and development mangos have gone through to thrive in South Florida and around the world with the 20th Annual International Mango Festival on Saturday, July 14 and Sunday, July 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission to the International Mango Festival is free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under. For non-members, admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17. Those who walk or bike receive $5 off adult admission and $2 off child admission. Those with a Military ID have free admission, with $20 for their spouses and $10 for their children.

 A South Beach Star at Books & Books

Local favorite and author James Cubby will be at Books & Books South Beach/Design Within Reach on Thursday, October 13 at 7:00 p.m. for a reading from his new novel, South Beach Star. There will also be a book signing and reception after the reading. Beverages compliments of Delaplaine Champagne. The event will be held at Design Within Reach which is adjacent to Books & Books Lincoln Road.

 Funkshion: Fashion Week Miami Beach 

Funkshion: Fashion Week Miami Beach celebrates its 8th year and 17th season from October18 through October 23. As with every year, FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach fuses music and fashion and like no other city in the world.  MIAMI STYLE! FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach venues include: The Setai Hotel in Miami Beach and The Moore Building in the famed Design District in Miami.   FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach is a four day/evening long event providing an intelligent, innovative platform for progressive and established designers to showcase their collections to media, celebrities, international buyers, and select style makers. For a complete line-up and show listings visit WWW.FASHIONWEEKMIAMI.COM or WWW.FUNKSHION.COM.

Bass Museum of Art Pays Homage to Steve Jobs

The Bass Museum of Art, one of Miami Beach’s key cultural landmarks, pays homage to Steve Jobs, co-founder and former CEO of Apple, Inc., by prominently displaying Apple, a 38 X 38 inch silkscreen piece created by pop artist Andy Warhol. In light of Jobs’ recent death, the museum decided to honor the American inventor by sharing one of its contemporary works with its visitors. Warhol’s Apple is part of the artist’s famous 1985 Ads Portfolio which also includes works featuring brands such as Paramount, Chanel and Volkswagen. George Lindemann Jr., President of the Board of Directors of the Bass Museum of Art, is a fan of both men. “Apple represents the work of two creative geniuses who are no longer physically with us, yet remain very present,” adds Lindemann. Andy Warhol’s Apple is a piece of artwork from the permanent collection of the Bass Museum of Art and will be on view inside the museum’s new Chad Oppenheim designed lobby through Saturday, November 5.  

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force 15th Annual Miami Recognition Dinner

The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is proud to present the 15th Annual Miami Recognition Dinner, sponsored by Wells Fargo, at Fontainebleau Miami Beach on Saturday, October 15. This annual fundraising event honors individuals for their outstanding contributions to the social, cultural, political and humanitarian needs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. This year’s honorees include local activist and attorney Georg Ketelhohn and Ben Cohen, international sports star and chairman of the Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, the world’s first anti-bullying organization. The event will also feature a special appearance by actress Pam Grier, star of Showtime’s The L Word: Complete Series, the official stage sponsor for the evening. Tickets to the 15th annual Miami Recognition Dinner are $200 for general admission and $300 for VIP admission (which includes a private VIP cocktail reception and meet & greet prior to the dinner). For ticket information, visit www.thetaskforce.org/miami or call 305.571.1924. Become a fan of the Miami Recognition Dinner on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/MiamiDinner. 

Jazz Brunch at Solé on the Ocean

On Sunday, October 16, Solé on the Ocean, the boutique hotel in Sunny Isles Beach, will host a New Orleans-inspired “Jazz Brunch” to close out the 4th Annual Sunny Isles Beach Jazz Festival. Held at its beachfront lounge Alba from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., guests will enjoy traditional fare from “The Big Easy” while listening to the smooth sounds of The Frank Axtell Quartet jazz ensemble. The extensive brunch menu ($34.95 per person, excludes taxes and gratuity) will boast an array of breakfast and lunch fixings including Belgian Waffles; Biscuits with Gravy; Grits with Shrimp and Egg; Jambalaya; Creole Beef with Onions; paninis, fresh fruit and more. Unlimited Mimosas and Bloody Marys are available for an additional $10 (excluding tax and service fee). For Jazz Brunch and hotel reservations, call 786.923.9300 or email alba@soleoto.com. Valet is also available to diners at a discounted rate of $5.