The 2024 American Cancer Society Evening of Hope Miami Gala took place on Saturday, November 16 at the J.W. Marriott Marquis. Miami’s most compassionate and glamorous gathered in a shared mission: to end cancer for everyone, everywhere.

Event Chair Karen Ford, Vice Chair Nikki F. Upshaw, and Honorary Chair Gabriela B. Ibarra turned the Grand Ballroom into a jet-setting paradise where guests “traveled” to global destinations while sipping Bacardi and Southern Glazer’s finest. Guests dined on filet mignon and sipped top-shelf cocktails. The energy in the gorgeous ballroom was off the charts.

Veteran journalist Laurie Jennings kicked things off with charm, handing the mic to the event’s powerhouse leadership team to thank the sponsors and partners who made it all possible. Then came ACS Southeast Florida Executive Director Joan Gonzalez, who presented the inaugural Hope Awards to  Remedios Diaz-Oliver and Lilliam Machado for over 30 years of fundraising brilliance.

The live auction, hosted by a spirited Megan McRoberts, had guests vying for everything from all-inclusive cruises to once-in-a-lifetime experiences like a ride on the Goodyear Blimp or VIP suites for the Usher concert.

But the heart of the evening came when Casey Liening, a cancer thriver battling metastatic breast cancer, took the stage. Her story moved the room to tears and action, as hundreds raised their paddles during the Mission Moment to fund ACS’s life-changing work.

As if the night couldn’t soar higher, ACS Executive VP Kimberly Jackson honored NBA legend Alonzo Mourning with the 2024 ACS Courage Award, recognizing his battle with prostate cancer and advocacy for health awareness. His words left the room inspired.

And then—cue the confetti cannons. The final total raised was revealed, a whopping $750,626, sending guests into celebration mode as the dance floor ignited. Partygoers danced until the early hours of the morning.

It was an unforgettable evening of elegance, impact and undeniable hope. For more information contact or to make a donation visit miami.acsgala.org.

Miami’s well-heeled art set converged under one roof on Saturday, November 9, as Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) hosted its 11th annual Art of the Party gala on its stunning waterfront terrace. Honored at the soirée was Kenneth C. Griffin, billionaire philanthropist, founder of Citadel, and now, PAMM’s latest arts angel. The big news of the night: Griffin dropped a casual $10 million gift to enhance PAMM’s collection and fortify its role as Miami’s artistic crown jewel. Cue the applause.

Throughout the magical evening Miami’s finest artists, patrons, and tastemakers sipped, savored and celebrated all things PAMM. Among the highlights? The reveal of the newly minted Kenneth C. Griffin Gallery, PAMM’s largest and most central space, now forever tied to a man whose generosity knows no bounds.

But let’s not forget the other star of the evening: Colombian artist Delcy Morelos, recipient of the prestigious Pérez Prize and its hefty $50,000 award, thanks to Jorge and Darlene Pérez. Known for her deeply rooted explorations of humanity and nature, Morelos proves that minimal aesthetics can still pack a powerful, earthy punch.

As PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans put it, the night was a celebration of art, community, and transformative giving. “We’re thrilled to honor Delcy Morelos, whose work unearths the profound connections between people and the planet. And we’re deeply grateful to Ken Griffin—his philanthropic vision continues to inspire and uplift.”

Ken Griffin, for his part, kept it gracious. “Pérez Art Museum Miami is a world-class arts and cultural hub that enriches our great city,” he said. “I’m proud to support this outstanding institution alongside the Miami community.”

Nikki Kidd brought the soul, with her fabulous performance and Constellation Culinary Group delivered an artful menu. The after-party was a remix to remember, with artist José Parlá spinning vibes on the North Terrace Platform. (Pro tip: his exhibition Homecoming opens at PAMM on November 14. You heard it here first.)

As if all this weren’t enough, the event raised a staggering $1.7 million for PAMM’s arts education programs. This isn’t just philanthropy; it’s legacy-building. And for Griffin—already a benefactor to MoMA, the Art Institute of Chicago, and more—it’s just another masterpiece in his ongoing support for the arts.

Photos by World Red Eye

On Saturday, November 9, 2024, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) will host its 11th annual Art of the Party—an unmissable fête mixing philanthropy, fine dining, and flair. Honoring Kenneth C. Griffin, Citadel’s head honcho and an arts-and-culture patron extraordinaire, the night celebrates art with Miami-style glamour.

Expect a star-studded cocktail reception, a dinner that’s more culinary art than meal, and the announcement of the sixth Pérez Prize—a coveted award for artists shaping global art narratives. As PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans puts it, this event is all about creating “genuine human interactions with and through art.” Translation: it’s not just a party; it’s a cultural moment.

Funds raised will turbocharge PAMM’s arts education programs—already the largest outside Miami-Dade Public Schools—and keep the museum’s mission thriving.

The Breakdown:
Chef’s Table Dinner (6:30 PM): Dine under the stars on the East Portico, where cocktails, live music, and a gourmet menu accompany the evening’s honors.

Remix Party (9:30 PM): Hit the North Terrace Platform for a dance party led by DJ and artist José Parlá, whose exhibit Homecoming lands at PAMM later this month. Bonus: decadent desserts and an open bar to keep the vibes high.

Want in? Tickets and sponsorship info are at pamm.org/aotp24. Whether you’re mingling with Miami’s cultural elite or just there for the vibes, Art of the Party promises to be a masterpiece of its own.

Brightline is making travel from Miami to West Palm and Orlando effortless! Glide between cities with no traffic, no stress—just pure comfort. Since opening its Orlando station in 2023, Brightline has connected Central and South Florida like never before.

Whether it’s a quick trip to West Palm or a fun adventure to Orlando’s theme parks, Brightline offers seamless, stylish travel. You’ll love the comfort, real-time updates, and luxury amenities—all while avoiding the highway hassle.

When it comes to traveling to Orlando, Brightline offers two fabulous options: Premium and Smart. Let’s break down the perks!

Brightline Premium is all about luxury and comfort! With your ticket, you get access to the exclusive lounge, complimentary snacks and drinks, and spacious seating that makes you feel like a VIP. Enjoy priority boarding, extra legroom, and a complimentary meal delivered right to your seat. It’s perfect for those who want a first-class experience from start to finish!

Now, let’s talk about Brightline Smart. This option is all about value without sacrificing comfort. You’ll enjoy a comfortable ride with standard amenities and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for budget-savvy travelers who still want a smooth and stylish journey. You won’t have access to the lounge, but you’ll still get the convenience of real-time updates and a delightful ride to Orlando.

So whether you choose Premium for that extra touch of luxury or Smart for a budget-friendly experience, Brightline ensures that your travel to Orlando is easy, enjoyable, and oh-so-stylish.

Since 2023, Brightline has traveled 5.4 million miles, carried 2.6 million riders, and kept 1.9 million cars off the road. TIME named it one of the 100 Most Influential Companies, and Fast Company called it No.1 in Social Good! With praise from U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and a Webby Award-winning app, Brightline is changing the game.

And there’s more—new coaches, a chic loyalty program, and top-notch service are on the way. Perfect for day trips, Orlando getaways, or even a Miami to Gainesville run with easy car rentals at the Orlando station.

Brightline has some fabulous specials that you won’t want to miss! Whether you’re planning a getaway or just a fun day trip, there are incredible deals that make travel a breeze.

Group Discounts: Gather your friends! When you book for three or more, you can save 25%! It’s a great way to enjoy the journey together while keeping your budget in check.

Kids Ride Free: Yes, you heard that right! Kids can ride for 50% off. That means family fun just got a whole lot more affordable!

Seasonal Promotions: Keep an eye out for special seasonal offers that pop up throughout the year. These deals make it easy to plan that perfect getaway to Orlando or West Palm Beach without breaking the bank.

So why wait? Check out Brightline’s specials today and hop on board for a chic and cost-effective travel experience! Your next adventure awaits! The future of Florida travel is already here, thanks to Brightline.

Be sure to visit:

https://www.gobrightline.com/offers/large-groups

 https://www.gobrightline.com/offers/kids-ride-half-off

Emmy Squared Pizza has made  a splash with its latest venture, opening a second South Florida location in Coral Gables. If you’re a fan of their Detroit-style pizza or the famous Le Big Matt burger, get ready for another mouth-watering hotspot. This beloved pizza joint has brought its signature cheesy goodness to Coral Gables.

Step into this sleek, modern gem, and you’ll instantly feel the chic yet comfy vibe. Whether you’re on a romantic date night or hanging out with friends and family, Emmy Squared strikes the perfect balance between upscale elegance and laid-back charm, including both indoor and outdoor seating. Think intimate meals, lively group hangouts, and absolutely no need to break the bank—all with fantastic prices and top-tier food. You can even watch your favorite teams play on Emmy’s television screens.

Now, let’s talk about the pizza. It’s not your average slice, darling. Picture this: a square-shaped pie with thick, focaccia-like dough that’s airy on the inside but boasts a crispy, cheesy crust, thanks to the famous “frico” crust. The sauce isn’t slathered all over—oh no, just two red stripes racing down the middle of your pie, giving each bite a flavorful zing. And the toppings? From classic pepperoni to truffle mushroom cream and pickled jalapeños, this is pizza, but with a gourmet twist.

Emmy Squared serves two sizes—the signature 8×10-inch pie and the newly introduced 10×14-inch version, because who doesn’t want more pizza? And don’t forget about Emmy Hour (Mon-Fri, 3–6 pm), where you can score specials on food, beer, wine, and cocktails. 

Troy Tracy, CEO of Emmy Squared, explains, “The warm welcome in Fort Lauderdale made it clear that Florida is ready for more of our Detroit-style pizza and family-friendly vibe.” With 27 locations nationwide, Emmy Squared is just getting started in the Sunshine State.

Emmy Squared has something for everyone: gluten-free, vegan-friendly dishes, hearty sandwiches, refreshing salads, and shareable apps. Don’t miss the Le Big Matt burger, served on a pretzel bun and loaded with cheese, Sammy sauce, pickles, and greens. Add some crispy waffle fries on the side, and you’ve got the perfect meal.

What truly sets Emmy Squared Coral Gables apart, though, is the full-service bar. Creative cocktails and twists on classics are the perfect pairing for the vibrant food menu. Whether you’re sipping on a refreshing margarita or indulging in a bold bourbon concoction, the bar is your spot to unwind after a day of shopping or kick off a fabulous night out.

With its stylish décor, welcoming atmosphere, and mouth-watering menu, Emmy Squared is sure to become Coral Gables’ go-to destination for delicious food, drinks, and an unforgettable vibe. Head to Emmy’s for pizza perfection!

For more information visit: https://www.emmysquaredpizza.com/location/coral-gables/

Friends of St. Jude (FOSJ) Miami is rolling out the red carpet for its highly anticipated 16th Annual It’s All About the Kids gala on Saturday, October 5, at JW Marriott Marquis. This year’s event promises an unforgettable evening of celebration, philanthropy, glamour and fun.

Expect a night filled with excitement: a gourmet dinner prepared by top chefs, a live performance by Gente de Zona and the chance to participate in silent and live auctions, where you can bid on exclusive items and experiences, all while supporting a great cause.

The gala is a crucial event aimed at raising awareness and funding for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The mission of St. Jude is clear: to treat and defeat childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Every ticket purchased and every dollar raised contributes to groundbreaking research and exceptional care for sick children with the goal of eliminating childhood cancer.

By attending the gala, you will be actively participating in the fight against pediatric cancer. Each contribution, whether through ticket purchases, auctions, or donations, goes directly to supporting the lifesaving work at St. Jude. 

The Friends of St. Jude invites you for a night that blends joy with purpose: to ensure that no child has to fight cancer alone. Dress to impress, and prepare for a night filled with hope, community, and the spirit of giving.

For more information and to purchase tickets or make a donation visit:

https://www.stjude.org/get-involved/find-an-event/dinners-and-galas/its-all-about-the-kids-miami.html

About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Its purpose is clear: Finding cures. Saving children.® It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. When St. Jude opened in 1962, childhood cancer was largely considered incurable. Since then, St. Jude has helped push the overall survival rate from 20% to more than 80%, and it won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude shares the breakthroughs it makes to help doctors and researchers at local hospitals and cancer centers around the world improve the quality of treatment and care for even more children. Because of generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, so they can focus on helping their child live. Visit St. Jude Inspire to discover powerful St. Jude stories of hope, strength, love and kindness. Support the St. Jude mission by donating at stjude.org, liking St. Jude on Facebook, following St. Jude on X, Instagram,LinkedIn and TikTok, and subscribing to its YouTube channel.