On Saturday, December 9, 2017, Market America | SHOP.COM sponsored a truly unique event as part of Art Basel Miami Beach, which was held Dec. 7-10.  JR and Loren Ridinger have always been big believers in helping others achieve their dreams.  This year, Market America | SHOP.COM invested in the dreams of a very talented new-to-the-scene artist! The National YoungArts Foundation has started the Daniel Arsham Fellowship, which includes a $25,000 award and year-long mentorship program with Arsham, an acclaimed artist. Market America | SHOP.COM sponsored the unrestricted $25,000 grant, which for its first year went to YoungArts alum and up-and-coming artist SHENEQUA. The program is currently funded for three years. Market America | SHOP.COM will also donate an additional $75,000 to support ongoing programming for YoungArts alumni. Read the rest of this entry »

Robin Thicke in town for his gig at  Fontainebleau Miami Beach with Pharell Williams dined at Hakkasan on Friday night – he and his wife shared a dim sum platter,sesame prawns, lobster soup and a bottle of Dewazakura sake.  Artist Romero Britto was spotted entering the Forge just before 10 p.m. with a group of a few friends on Monday (Labor Day). The artist arrived and began his evening with Champagne around the bar prior to being seated at his favorite table within the main dining room. After a great dining experience, the group finished their evening with a Sommelier guided tour of the restaurant’s subterranean wine cellar.  On Saturday, August 24, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and its Arsht Families committee, a volunteer group of parents committed to supporting children’s access to the performing arts, hosted an exclusive Slava’s Snowshow meet and greet event inside the Ziff Ballet Opera House’s Next Generation Green Room. Guests included Arsht Center members and VIPs, as well as an appearance by Burn Notice star Gabrielle Anwar, her fiancé, Miami-based restaurateur Shareef Malnik, and Anwar’s children: Willow Anwar, Hugo and Paisley Verea. The family enjoyed time with the Slava’s Snowshow clowns, participated in winter-themed arts and crafts, and indulged in sweet treats courtesy of Prelude by Barton G.  

Yolanda and Jeff Berkowitz

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore 

“It’s never too late to have a happy childhood,” mused Miami Children’s Museum (MCM) Chairman, Jeff Berkowitz as he addressed an animated crowd of 600 on Saturday, March 31 at the museum’s annual Be A Kid Again Gala, which was held in a gorgeous tent on Watson Island, home to MCM.  This year’s whimsical theme, “All You Need is Love” transported guests, most of whom dressed in their best 60s chic, back in time with a 60s/Beatles theme complete with old records, Beatles glasses, moustaches, a red double-decker bus, and fields of Driscoll’s strawberries as parting gifts. 

The party started in the actual museum, where guests got to tour the exhibits while sipping cocktails- which, incidentally, adds a whole new level of fun to the museum visit.   (A few moms who visit the museum regularly with their children suggested that there should be a permanent “bar installment” just for the parents.) 

After the cocktail reception, guests were escorted into the expansive tent for the party, for which MCM pulled out all the stops (which resembled the London Underground stops) with high-top and lounge tables in lieu of regular ballroom tables and a fun-filled buffet by Chef David Schwadron which included burgers, hot dogs, coconut shrimp, and fish and chips instead of the typical banquet food.  This kept people on their feet, chatting and dancing throughout the night. Read the rest of this entry »

Rachael Ray and Tricia Johnson at Amstel Light Burger Bash

 Romero Britto and Ingrid Hoffman were each spotted at Mondrian South Beach Wednesday night – the two were at the hotel for separate, private events. The artist attended a private dinner with Bank of America executives while the chef and TV personality was the guest of honor at the BlackBerry Fan Night event attended by several of the brand’s top Miami fans. Guests were invited to delight in cocktails and tapas prepared by Asia de Cuba Executive Sous Chef Nicolas Walker while experimenting with the BlackBerry Playbook tablet’s cutting edge capabilities.  

Salvatore Ferragamo, grandson of the famous shoe designer, who owns Il Borro wines, hosted an exclusive wine tasting at Rachel Dominguez’s restaurant, The Dome Restaurant & Caviar Bar on Tuesday night. 

During the week Serendipity 3 on Lincoln Road had many surprise guests enjoying their renowned Frozen Hot Chocolate. First up,” Vanilla Ice Ice Baby” Robert Van Winkle was spotted enjoying chilly beverage along with a Cake Martini.  Also famed Chicago Chef and restaurateur Charlie Trotter and wife Rochelle indulged in the tasty treat; Food Network Star Rachael Ray and Tricia Johnson stopped by the Serendipity 3 pop-up counter at Burger Bash getting their brain freeze on with some of the chocolate deliciousness. 

“Ice” Van Winkle also dined at SUSHISAMBA dromo along with Chef-lebrity Guy Fieri.  The group celebrated the annual Brazilian Carnaval celebration. Fieri returned the following night with Food Network great, Emeril Lagasse, mentioning to manager Maxi Silva that had brought his friends to his favorite place BAM! Guy Fieri also joined the Mardi Gras celebration at WALL’s installment of Favela Beach Tuesday. 

Cleveland Cavaliers, Andreas Varejao and Anthony Parker were spotted at The Rooftop at The Perry South Beach. New Orleans Saints, Pierre Thomas and Lance Moore Soul Trained their way into the hearts of the ladies by the DJ booth;  The duo made Pretty Ricky’s “Grind on Me” the anthem of the day. 

Gary Nader welcomed renowned dancer, actor and photographer Mikhail Baryshnikovto Miami for his first solo photography

Gary Nader, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Gloria, and Emilio Estefan

exhibition, “Dance This Way” on Thursday, February 23. Other invited guests included:  Gloria and Emilio Estefan and Romero Britto. Also in attendance were Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program Founder & President, Jennifer Valoppi and Board Member Karen Piazza, as well as Miami-Dade County Public Schools Superintendent, Alberto Carvalho. 

Film star and wine enthusiast Antonia Banderas introduced Anta Banderas Wines at the South Beach Wine and Food Festival. 

Will Ferrell dined at Edge, Steak & Bar on Wednesday evening. The comedic master is in town for the South Beach comedy festival.

Over 1, 500 guests checked into the Hotel Lancaster last Thursday night to celebrate world renowned, one-of-a-kind personality and Diva, Elaine Lancaster’s birthday. As over the top as Lancaster herself, the ballroom at Score nightclub was transformed into a swank hotel, with staff dressed as bellhops. Creative cake designer, Ana Paz, fashioned the birthday cake after a grand seaside hotel complete with palm trees, working lights and an edible replica of Lancaster standing guard. The party’s décor was enhanced by artists such as: Aaron Powell, Cecilia Paz, Joey Mugica, Samantha Perez, Haviart, Romero Britto, Howard Austin Feld, and Guillermo Manrique, each of whom created a unique, visual interpretation of Elaine Lancaster. Friends from all over the globe flew in to spend this special night by “her” side. Guests included: Roy and Lea Black, Andy and Fran Boros, Dr. Julio Hernandez, Frank Navarro, Adrienne Arsht, Michael Gongora, Flavio Nisti, Dale Stine, Brigitte Grosjean, Merle and Danny Weiss, Omar Gonzalez, Frankie Canas, Ricky Salazar, Aaron Von Powell, Beau Beasley, Mykel Stevens, Dan Sehres, Adora, David Rohn, Lydia Martin, Frank Navarro, Nick D’Annunzio, Red Carter, Samantha Perez, Michael Stanley, Rudy Rafuls, Jason Clarke, Mark Clay, Frankie Canas, Lesley Abravanel, Fabricio Martorano and many others.

Ay, Ay, Setai

If you are considering a chic respite right here in our own back yard, look no further than the Setai hotel. We know it’s not necessarily the newest nor “hippest” (whatever that means these days) nor the cheapest, by a long-shot, but as soon as you step into the lobby, you will discover why Conde Nast Traveler, has named the Setai one of “The World’s Best Places to Stay” for three years in a row. Forbes Traveler, has also included it in its list of “The Sexiest Hotels in America” and “400 Best Hotels” and Gallivanter’s Guide has granted the Setai the “Award for Excellence-Best Resort in North America” since the hotel’s opening. At the cornerstone of the Setai’s success is the service. Guests of all ages (yes, the place is surprisingly kid-friendly- providing treats and even pint-sized robes and slippers for the little ones) receive the VIP treatment from the time they check-in and throughout their stay. Upon arrival, guests wait in the posh lobby and enjoy refreshments while they are checked in and are personally escorted to their room and offered a tour of the property. Once inside the stylish, luxurious room, chocolate truffles and fruit await and beachside and poolside, valets provide Evian water, fruit, spray mists, suntan lotion and even after-sun moisturizer. The best part is that all of these amenities, including the beachside private teak cabanas, are included in the hotel price, unlike many other resorts that charge extra. While the average person may have to take out a loan or consider selling an organ to stay at the Setai during peak season, the hotel is offering some excellent packages to encourage that much needed and deserved end-of-summer mini vacay, including a complimentary night after a two-night stay and special neighbors’ rates for Florida residents. For more information, contact: www.setai.com.

Sizzling Summer Steals

The Spa at Icon Brickell is offering The Spa’s 50% off employee discount on all massages, facials and body treatments to all guests until the end of September. To make a reservation, call (305) 503-0369.

Agua at Mondrian introduces the September Sweet Treats promotion this month. From the Dreamsicle Delight body massage to the Sweet Citrus Mani & Pedi, each of the four delicious treatments will set you back just $99 (plus tax + gratuity), and comes with a complimentary glass of bubbly. For $20, guests may purchase the Passport to Pampering that includes use of the fitness center, steam room, sauna and relaxation lounges, along with a glass of champagne, without booking a service. For more information, contact: (305) 514-1950.

Ayama Yoga in Aventura is celebrating by offering free “classes to the masses.”  Throughout the month of September, new students can drop in for any morning, evening or weekend class at no cost.  For a schedule of classes, visit http://www.ayamayoga.com/schedule.

Fall Flicks

While we can’t get enough of Club 50 at the Viceroy, it is good to sometimes venture out and explore the other offerings at Icon Brickell. Starting this Saturday, September 5, The Spa invites guests to catch a classic movie in its intimate 30-person theater. This spa even has a theater, who knew?! For only $12 each, guests can curl up on the plush Philippe Starck-designed couches, enjoy a film from a specific genre, and munch on a gourmet cupcake and popcorn. This Saturday’s film is Citizen Kane, followed by Casablanca on September 12, Singing in the Rain on the 19, and To Kill a Mockingbird on the 26. Movies begin at 7:30. For the full dinner and-a-movie experience, we recommend making a reservation at Chef Michael Psilakis’ fabulous restaurant, Eos, which is located one floor above the theater. For more information, contact: 305.503.0369 or iconspa@viceroymiami.com

The Fontainebleau was the celeb Mecca last week. Last Wednesday,
at LIV’s Dirty Hairy party, American Idol’s, Simon Cowell, Randy
Jackson and Ryan Seacrest enjoyed a boys’night
out, sans Cara and Paula.  On Friday night, at LIV, Kid Cudi performed his hit “Day and Night” while pouring cheering fans shots of Grey Goose. Saturday night Hakkasan hosted a private dinner for director, Michael Bay, pop star, Robin Thicke and his wife, Paula Patton, Kid Cudi and Walter Perez from the new movie Fame. Later the crew held it down at LIV, ordering magnums of Dom rose. Sunday Paul Sevigny spun at Blade pool while Spice Girl, Mel B, and her husband performed synchronized swimming in the pool. Later that night Jazzy Jeff took to the turn-tables for the crew at Imagine Sundays at LIV.
Undisputed World heavyweight champion, Lennox Lewis, was spotted working out at Equinox South Beach on Tuesday.  On Saturday, Nick D’ Annunzio had dinner at Joe Allen with a few close friends including designer, Calvin Klein, publicist, Paul Wilmot and photographer, Pablo Alfaro.  Ludacris was at B.E.D. last Wednesday for the launch of his new Conjure Cognac, arriving at the club with an entourage, including Miamian Flo-Rida, all of whom carried bottles of Conjure with sparklers high in the air.  Ludacris got on the microphone to greet the crowd, and promote his premium liquor.  Matt Damon and his wife Luciana Barroso enjoyed the Miami Spice menu at Area 31 last week.

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

Celebrity sightings:

Entourage‘s Perrey Reeves (AKA “Mrs. Ari”) attended the kick-off party at the Raleigh and her sister-in-law, Marysia Reeves’s show. Cindy Taylor strutted her stuff on the catwalk at the inca 2010 cruise collection show at the W South Beach on Thursday night. Seen at W on Thursday and Friday for the Shay Todd show, Tara Reid, who didn’t mind the rain one bit. “It’s only water? What’s all the fuss about?” she said. After the show, she partied with her boyfriend, Michael Axtmann at the Wall.

Olivia Palermo and Whitney Port from The City attended Mara Hoffman’s show.  Port was also front row at L Space and seen lounging by the W pool on Monday. Donald and Lisa Pliner enjoyed Red Carter’s show on Friday.

Burn Notice star Jeffrey Donovan was seated first row at Ed Hardy and later seen drinking Patron shots out of champagne flutes at the Mercedes Benz Star Lounge.   Bravo’s ubiquitous Real Housewives, Kelly Killoren Bensimon (New York) and Dina Manzo (New Jersey) were all over the place.  Bensimon attended the kick-off party at the Raleigh Hotel on Wednesday, Caviar Kaspia at The Webster on Thursday, the Wall on Saturday and numerous shows.  She was also seen at the Mercedes Benz Star Lounge. Manzo followed suit attending many shows and hanging in the Star Lounge with her daughter. 

Hotelier Andre Balazs was front row at the L Space show and hit the Wall at the W South Beach on Saturday. Artist, Romero Britto, director, Michael Bay, and rapper, Lil’ Jon, also took in shows during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim.

At the Living Room on Saturday, Belkys Nerey celebrated her birthday alongside good friend, Marysol Patton. Supermodels, Angela Lindvall, Erin Wasson and Nicole Trunfio were seen at the Standard throughout the weekend.  Andy Roddick’s wife, model Brooklyn Decker, attended a few shows and had brunch at Asia de Cuba at the Mondrian Sunday afternoon. Lennox Lewis dined late along with a group of 15 at Smith & Wollensky. Latin Pop Star, Elvis Crespo and starting third baseman for the Florida Marlins and 2007 World Series MVP, Mike Lowell attended the smash-hit show, Fuerza Bruta, as did Miami Heat Coach Eric Spoelstra over the weekend.