Dear Readers, Happy New Year's Eve!!!

In honor of Lady Gaga, who will be hosting the HOTTEST New Year's Eve Party at the Fontainebleau Hotel tonight, I'd like to share a special music video. Beyonce's "Video Phone" song featuring Lady Gaga is my absolute favorite! This is the song I will be rocking out to tonight so watch out MIAMI. To my readers who have supported my blog thus far: THANK YOU and may 2010 bring you love, peace & happiness! Enjoy the video (brought to you by MTV) and have a fabulous new year's eve bash! xoxo http://www.mtv.com/videos/beyonce/455581/video-phone-extended-remix.jhtml#id=1518072

The Original Miami Beach Antique Show

Do you find yourself shopping around for antiques? Find a unique piece by visiting the Original Miami Beach Antique Show (January 21 - 25, 2010). The event will be held at The Miami Beach Convention Center and it is actually the largest indoor antique show in the world. Meet more than 800 dealers (representing 22 countries) as they display their finest merchandise including 17th -19th Century American and European furniture, paintings, fine silver, porcelain, glass, rugs and antique jewelry. The show opens at noon daily and tickets cost $15 (valid for all five days of the show). For more information or to order tickets online, visit http://www.originalmiamibeachantiqueshow.com/. While you're on their website, enter their contest called "How Much Is It Worth?" Simply view the antique in a picture and guess its value. The contestant with the closest guess to the actual cost receives a $500 American Express Gift Card. Sounds like a great deal...GOOD LUCK!!

Broadway hits Miami Stage!

Do you love Disney's 1961 animated movie 101 Dalmations? Watch the Broadway version beginning tomorrow, December 30th, right here in Miami! The live musical stars Rachel York as Cruella de Vil and also features eight kids and 15 real Dalmatians. This family-friendly tale concerns Mr. and Mrs. Pongo, a pair of spotted dogs, whose puppies are kidnapped by Cruella de Vil. The new musical version was created by composer-lyricist Dennis DeYoung (lead singer and songwriter of the rock group Styx), playwright and co-lyricist B.T. McNicholl and four-time Tony Award winning director Jerry Zaks. The musical is told from a dog's perspective so that the human actors appear extra tall while the performers playing puppies and adult dogs seem smaller...very cool! 101 Dalmations runs till January 3rd at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets range from $25 to $70. For more information about the musical or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.arshtcenter.org/.

$25,000 to see Lady Gaga on New Year's?

A week ago, I posted information about Lady Gaga's New Year's Eve bash at the Fontainebleau Hotel on January 31st. BUT, I just found out that tickets range from $425 to $25,000. Is it really worth spending all this money to see Lady Gaga? For those looking for a free event, check out the "Downtown Countdown" at Bayfront Park on January 31st (8 p.m.). Enjoy the disco sounds of DJ Tarik and a fireworks display over Biscayne Bay when the clock strikes midnight! Watch the Big Orange ascend the side of the Hotel Intercontinental as the seconds count down.

Another option: celebrate New Year's Eve at Club 50 located on the 50th floor of the Viceroy Hotel (485 Brickell Avenue) in Downtown Miami. General admission is $200 ($75 for ladies, depends on space availability) from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. All guests will have open bar privileges and a champagne toast at midnight. The hotel's restaurant, Eos, is also offering dinner and a complimentary glass of champagne for $125 per person. To make your reservations, call 305-503-4400, Ext. 7138.

New Year's Eve is right around the corner! Where ever you decide to celebrate...make sure to ring in the new year with style. Here's to 2010...CHEERS!!

The Miami International Art Fair

Interested in seeing art from all over the world? Lucky for you, the Miami International Art Fair is coming to the Miami Beach Convention Center (January 7- 10, 2010). Galleries from every continent are set to present the best in contemporary art, photography, video, and installation art. The fair features exhibitors from Paris, Denmark, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Barcelona, New York and Tel Aviv (just to name a few). Visitors can purchase a one day pass for $15 or a multi-day pass for $20. For more information about the MIA fair or to see a complete list of exhibitors, please visit www.mia-artfair.com or call fair organizers at (239) 949-5411. Enjoy!

Another Night Before Christmas

Feeling the Christmas spirit? Check out "Another Night Before Christmas" now playing at Actor's Playhouse (Miracle Theatre- 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables). The show provides a timeless look at the dilemmas and joys of the holiday season and parallels the emotions of the film "Miracle on 34th Street." This holiday musical runs till December 27th. Today's preformance starts at 8 p.m. while Sunday's show begins at 2 p.m. For ticket reservations call 305-444-9293. Take the time to spend some quality time with your friends and family today. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

A Night with Family Builders USA

On December 12th, Family Builders USA hosted their 2nd Annual Gala, "Una Noche en Familia" in Downtown, Miami. Cynthia Olavarria (pictured above) was among the guests, which included politicians, artists, and TV personalities. Family Builders USA is a non-profit organization that aids Miami-Dade County families in crisis free of cost, providing assistance through counseling conferences and therapies with the support of a group of psychologists, doctors, social workers, and volunteers. To learn more about this organization, please visit their website: www.familybuildersusa.org.

Alfredo Santamaría & Mariana Rodriguez

Mariela Encarnacion & Tanya Charry

Poncho de Andas & Alfredo Santamaría

Melissa Marty & Mary Gamarra

Black Eyed Peas coming soon!

Are you ready for some BOOM BOOM POW? The Black Eyed Peas are swinging by Miami for their “The E.N.D. World Tour 2010.” The group will perform at the AmericanAirlines Arena on Saturday, February 6th, 2010, with special guests LMFAO. This is the first time the hip-hop quartet – Will.i.am, Apl.de.ap, Taboo and Fergie – unite since their 2006 Monkey Business Tour. Tickets are already on sale at the AmericanAirlines Arena Box Office and all Ticketmaster locations, via Ticketmaster (1-800-745-3000) or online at Ticketmaster.com. Log on to http://www.blackeyedpeas.com/ for the most up to date concert information. OMG Christmasss present ideaaa!!

Remembering Brittany Murphy...

Today, the world lost a talented actress who passed away at the tender age of 32: Brittany Murphy. According to numerous reports, she went into cardiac arrest earlier this morning and was pronounced dead upon her arrival to a nearby hospital. I actually found this beautiful picture of her and thought I would share it with my readers. During a 2005 advertising campaign for Jordache Jeans, Murphy was captured posing bareback on a horse in a photo by Patrick Demarchelier. Today, we remember her life. May she rest in peace.

Lady Gaga's coming to town!

Want to welcome the new year with Lady Gaga? On December 31st, Lady Gaga will be making an appearance at the James L. Knight Center in Downtown Miami at 7 p.m. Afterwards, she'll be heading over to the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach where she plans to officially ring in the new year! All events are scheduled to take place around the hotel's pool deck and inside LIV Nightclub (4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach). Lady Gaga will hit the stage to sing her first song of 2010 along with DJ David Berrie & Jus Ske. For event information or to purchase your tickets, please visit http://livnightclub.com/. This is definitely Miami's most exclusive celebrity New Year's Eve Bash. Don't miss out!

Bringing the HEAT this Christmas!

If you haven't been to a Miami Heat game this season, the time has arrived! They're not only the hottest team in the NBA but they also have the #1 dance team. Check out one of their games before the end of the year. Since Christmas is right around the corner, why not donate some toys for a good cause? The Miami HEAT Charitable Fund is actually teaming up with David Barton Gym over the holidays to raise awareness for their 2009 Toy Drive. Bring a new toy and receive a free a workout at their gym. Toys may be dropped off at the Gansevoort South (2323 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach). Enjoy training in yoga, pilates, cycling, cardio or any other class of your choice. For more information, call 305-534-1660 or send an email to Miami@dbgym.com. To check out the Miami Heat, visit http://www.nba.com/heat/index_main.html. LET'S GO HEAT!

Heat v. Orlando Magic with Megan Clementi, Miss Florida USA 2010

"Una Noche en Familia" Gala

The 2nd Annual Family Builders USA Gala, Una Noche en Familia, took place this past Saturday, December 12th at the Hilton Miami Downtown. Prominent community leaders and celebrities attended the gala to support the foundation's social programs in Miami. After enjoying a lovely cocktail reception, guests were welcomed by the organization's President, Alfredo Santamaría. In honor of Mr. Santamaría, the Office of the Mayor of the City of Miami presented him with a Proclamation declaring December 12th as “Family Builders USA Day.” During the gala, Luifer Cuello was presented with an award for his extraordinary community service while Michael Bileca was named “Leader of the Year 2009.” The celebration concluded with a stunning fashion show featuring designer Samy Gicherman's Tango Collection. For more information regarding this organization or to learn about furture events, visit their website at http://www.familybuildersusa.org/.
Alfredo Santamaría and Tanya Charry Melissa Marty

Holiday Art & Gift Fair at Sunset Place

Listen up my fellow shopaholics! The Shops at Sunset Place is hosting a Holiday Art and Gift Fair starting tomorrow (Dec. 18- 20). This means there will be lots of fun vendors selling their favorite holiday gifts for all last minute shoppers. The Shops at Sunset Place is located at the intersection of US 1 and Red Road/SW 57th Avenue in South Miami, Florida (5701 Sunset Drive). The fair opens on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.- 11 p.m. On Sunday, the fair will close by 9 p.m. If you don't find anything cute, you can always stop by Gameworks or check out a movie at their AMC Theatre. Ciao!

Salsa Dancers taking over Hollywood!

The 4th Annual World Salsa Championships began in Hollywood, Florida today (Dec. 16- 19). The most talented dancers from all over the world will hit the stage this weekend to shake things up! This international dance competition has received worldwide television exposure through ESPN and now you'll have the chance to see it LIVE! Dancers have flown in from countries like Japan, Sweden and Puerto Rico to win this coveted title. Tickets are still avalaible through the competition's website http://www.worldsalsachampionships.com/index2.htm. The festivities are being held at the Sheraton Ft. Lauderdale Airport Hotel (1825 Griffin Road, Dania Florida, 33004). Take some notes, learn new salsa tricks and enjoy live music. AZUCAR!

Cavalia coming to Miami in January

Have you driven toward Miami Beach lately and seen a huge horse on a banner that announces the arrival of Cavalia? Tickets are officially on sale for the equestrian spectacular, Cavalia (Jan. 19- 31). The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts and Cavalia USA Inc. are setting the show under the White Big Top at Bicentennial Park in Downtown Miami. Prepare to see a fastpaced and unique two hour performance featuring the beautiful bond between man and horse. The production was created by Cirque du Soleil co-founder, Normand Latourelle. Similiar to Cirque, Cavalia will have an amazing cast of talented acrobats, aerialists, riders, musicians and dancers. You'll actually see 60 horses throughout the show! Cavalia showcases 12 different breeds of horses including Arabians, Lusitanos and Spanish Pure Breed. Regular priced tickets range from $34 to $89.50 while VIP tickets cost $129 to $180. For a complete list of show dates or to make your reservations, call 1-866-999-8111 or visit www.Cavalia.net. This is a great holiday gift to surprise someone with on Christmas Day (wink...wink)!!!

Mike Lowell's Christmas Party at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade

Today, Mike Lowell hosted a Christmas party for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade at their Hank Kline Club. When Lowell arrived, he greeted the children and participated in a Q & A session. The children were delighted to ask him questions about his career and his hobbies. Afterwards, he gave every child a beautiful Christmas bag full of toys. It was great seeing the kids opening their new presents and sharing their gifts with their friends. Even though Mike Lowell is no longer playing baseball with the Florida Marlins, he encouraged the children to pursue their dreams and to stay active in their community. When asked which team he enjoyed playing for the most, he replied, "It would definitely be the Coral Gables Cavaliers." Of course, everyone cheered because he showed great pride towards his high school alma mater! For more information about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, please visit their website at www.bgcmia.org.

Sauma the Artist shares his Inspiration!

By popular demand, here is the 411 on one of Miami's most talented Cuban-American artist, Emilio Sauma. Born in Havana, Sauma paints each canvas with the inspiration he receives from his friends and his life in general. His art is influenced by the works of great masters such as Amelia Pelaez, Mijares and Carreno who were all Cuban artists. Sauma's style is full of color and bold black lines. When asked about his work Sauma replied, "Quiero que cuando una persona vea mi obra, se sienta completo,contento y feliz." One of his pieces was recently selected to represent Hispanic Heritage Month in Miami-Dade and the city published his art on their official poster for the month. In Febraury, Latin Builders will be hosting an art exhibition featuring Sauma's collection. Stay tuned for more details on his events! For now, you may contact him by sending your inquiries to Sauma@sauma.com. Most of his work is large in size but smaller versions are available upon request.

Debut Party for Partagas Black

Last night, General Cigar hosted the "Black Affair" at Cuban Crafters in Miami to debut the new Partagas Black. The two story cigar manufacturer transformed into a lively scene where music, dominoes, fashion and cigars came together. Cigar aficionados mingled and smoked while Sauma the Artist painted cigar boxes with his unique sketchings. The Guayabera Lady also showcased her most prominent designs, including a red guayabera tank top modeled by yours truly! For more information about Berta Bravo's elegant guayabera designs, visit www.TheGuayaberaLady.com. If you are interested in attending future cigar events, you can check out www.CigarWorld.com. In the meantime, stand next to a cigar crafter and admire the art of rolling an impeccable cigar out of tobacco leaves.

Holiday Boutique Shopping at Threads

There are so many boutiques in Miami these days. But, there is definitely one that stands out from the rest: THREADS! Boutique owners, Caro & Tuti, are hosting a special shopping event this Saturday, December 12th (1-4 p.m.) at 3532 SW 23rd Terrace in Miami. Enjoy cocktails & hors d'oeurves while you shop as well as a 10-15% discount! Since Threads is working with Hands on Miami this Christmas, guests are encouraged to bring one unwrapped toy to the event. Hands on Miami feeds the homeless, act as companions to the elderly, build low-income housing, restore the natural environment, tutor at-risk children, read to children in shelters, and even care for homeless pets. For more information about Hands on Miami, visit www.handsonmiami.org. If you'd like to contact Threads, email your inquiries to ThreadsMiami@gmail.com. Take the time to give a child in need a special gift this holiday season and buy yourself a hot outfit while you're there!

A Night at the Studio with Omar Vega!

Last week, one of Miami's most notable photographers, Omar Vega, hosted his very own welcome party for Art Basel. On December 2nd, local entrepreneurs and artists joined Mr. Vega at his Midtown Studio to celebrate creativity. The event brought artistry and fashion together by featuring the work of artists along with a bikini and a lingerie show. Models strutted through the party wearing lingerie by Shirley Pear and bikinis by Casa Bikini. Every guest enjoyed their glimpse into Art Basel's flare and sexy atmosphere. For information about Omar Vega, the official team photographer for The Miami Heat, visit his website at http://thevegavision.com/. You may also contact Mr. Vega directly by emailing your inquiries to MiamiVega@gmail.com. For the ladies who may be searching for that perfect bikini, visit www.CasaBikini.com. To learn more about Shirley Pear's sexy lingerie collection, go to www.ShirleyPear.com.

Women's Art in the Grove

Need a cocktail tonight? The Coconut Grove Gallery & Interiors is exhibiting the work of women artists today (Dec. 10th) from 5:30- 8:30 p.m. You can shop from a variety of vendors who will be selling their holiday gift favorites like jewelry, accessories and collectible art. All proceeds from this artistic shopping event will benefit the Women's Fund. The exhibit features women artists such as Bert Beirne, Jane Booth, Jackie Brice, Amanda Brisbane, Ellen Diamond, Luz Maria Gutierrez, Aletha Jones, Maggie McClellan, Erika King, Lisa Remeny and Deborah Rubin. Enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres as you stroll through the gallery. The Coconut Grove Gallery & Interiors is located at 2884 Bird Avenue in Coconut Grove. For further information call 305-445-7401. Free parking is available at the Mary Street Entrance.

The 2nd Annual "Una Noche en Familia" Gala

Family Builders USA is hosting their 2nd Annual Gala, “Una Noche en Familia,” on Saturday December 12th (8 p.m.), at the Hilton Miami Downtown. With “Una Noche en Familia,” Family Builders USA aims to benefit its social programs and to recognize the work of its tireless supporters during the organization’s six years of commitment to South Florida. At the gala, expect to see celebrities like Fanny Lu as well as a performance by the Venezuelan singer Marger who brings her unique electro acoustic sound to the celebration! The evening will conclude with an elegant runway show by celebrity fashion designer Samy Gicherman. For more information about “Una Noche en Familia,” please call 786.470.4664 or R.S.V.P. by calling 786.319.2655. Upon making a reservation, please provide a $100 donation per guest. To learn about Family Builders USA visit www.familybuildersusa.org.