FREE: Rihanna's Pepsi Super Bowl Fan Jam

The Super Bowl is right around the corner. For those looking to celebrate in style...here's an option: Join Rihanna as she headlines this year's Pepsi Super Bowl Fan Jam! On February 4th, Rihanna will be singing tracks from her latest album called "Rated R" along with special guests including Timbaland, Justin Bieber and Miami's own DJ Irie. To make things ever better, the concert is totally FREE!!! The Pepsi Super Bowl Fan Jam will be hosted by Kevin Dillon (from HBO's Entourage) along with Nancy O'Dell and it will take place on 8th and Ocean Drive. You cannot attend the event without a ticket so visit the Ticketmaster website at: http://bit.ly/6GZMBX. *Ticketmaster is charging a $1.25 service fee for each ticket. If you prefer to watch the concert on television, it will be shown live on VH1 (February 4th at 8 p.m). I purchased my tickets earlier today so it's not too late to reserve your spot. For more information about the Fan Jam, check out http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/44/events/fan-jam. To my fellow Miamians: "La cosa se esta poniendo buena!"

Lotus House Thrift Store in Midtown Miami

Last September, a new kind of thrift store opened in Miami to benefit the Lotus House Women's Shelter operated by the Sundari Foundation. Lotus House Thrift is location at 203 NW 36th Street (corner of NW 2nd Ave), bordering the edge of Midtown and the Design District. This special store specializes in designer vintage, like new and gently used clothing, furnishings, collectables and more, all at great prices for today’s cost conscious shopper.
The Lotus House is a shelter located in Overtown, Miami. This unique resource center opens its doors to 130 women and children annually. At the shelter, the women are nurtured and supported to help them achieve greater self sufficiency by building a better way of life for themselves and their children. The goal is to help them transition into a permanent home off the streets. Lotus House Thrift is actually run and staffed entirely by Lotus House guests and alumni. If you love to shop, why not give back to your community and help women who are seeking a better lifestyle themselves. Your contributions will fund services such as individual and group counseling, computer lessons, medical and mental health services.
Lotus House Thrift is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Shoppers may also drop off items during these hours. For more information about the Sundari Foundation, The Lotus House or Lotus House Thrift, visit http://www.lotushouseshelter.org/. Shop for a good cause and share this cool thrift shop with your friends!

LISTEN UP: Your Chance to be a DASH DOLL!

Yesterday, The Miami New Times tweeted about an amazing job opportunity and I couldn't help but share the news with my Miami ladies!! Apparently, there will be a second season of "Kourtney and Khloe take Miami." The famous sisters are currently seeking potential employees (a.k.a. "Dash Dolls") for their Miami retail store called Dash. You are literally auditioning to be on their reality show so they are looking for outgoing and spunky Miami locals. The job post specifies that they need someone with a great sense of fashion and a passion for retail. However, they do not require having any retail experience. This may just be the chance of a lifetime and your big break during this harsh economy. To read the job listing on Craigslist, visit http://miami.craigslist.org/mdc/tfr/1572185886.html. You can also check out Bunim-Murray's website http://www.bunim-murray.com/. Don't forget the little people when you become famous!! I'm off to apply myself...GOOD LUCK!

Donate to Support Haiti Rescue Efforts

As January continues to bring weird weather, I'd like to share an awareness campaign that aims to help those who have been affected by the earthquakes in Haiti. "Save Haiti Saturday" benefits Project Medishare for Haiti, Inc., a nonprofit organization founded in 1995 by Drs. Barth Green and Arthur Fournier from the University of Miami School of Medicine. Several business, teams and individuals from the entertainment and sports industry have lent their names to this national effort, including the Miami Heat, Alonzo Mourning, Alex Rodriguez, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Ryan Seacrest and Lenny Kravitz. “Save Haiti Saturday” allows organizations to contribute part of their revenues toward Haiti initiatives. Individuals may also donate by following the instructions on the campaign's website. It's time to take action and make a difference in the world. The money raised will support the teams of doctors, nurses and rescue workers who are working around the clock, performing surgeries and taking care of the sick and wounded during this devastating time in Haiti. If you haven't donated anything, it is never too late! For more information about this campaign or to donate online: http://savehaitisaturday.com/.

MIA at Biscayne hosts The Electric Boutique's 2010 Spring Fashion Show

On January 22nd, The Electric Boutique showcased their 2010 Spring collection during a fashion show held at MIA at Biscayne (20 Biscayne Blvd.). MIA is a sophisticated hot spot found right in the heart of Downtown, Miami. This place is AWESOME! Catering to the needs of every guest, this venue has it all: a restaurant, a lounge and a night club. Every night at 11 p.m., the indoor lounge turns into a full blown 2 level night club. The Electric Boutique's fashion show featured outfits for every occasion ranging from funky dresses to casual jumpsuits. The boutique is known for their affordable prices ($10-$120) as well as their shoes and accessories. You can visit their facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=67256640347#/group.php?v=wall&gid=67256640347. To check out future events at MIA at Biscayne, log onto their website http://www.miabiscayne.com/index.htm. Word on the streets: the best nights to attend are Thursdays and Fridays.

Lounging with Arlenys, my fabulous partner in crime!

MIA at Biscayne transforms into a super hot night club.

Model struts in a flirty long green dress.


My favorite dress from the fashion show...perfect for Miami!

Super Bowl= "Leather and Laces" Miami Party!

Can you believe the 44rth Super Bowl will be hosted in MIAMI this year? On February 7th, it will literally be chaotic in this city. I'm sure you'll hear about plenty of parties. If you're into high end experiences, then you have to check out the 2010 “Leather & Laces” Party. It is the hottest, chicest and sexiest place to be during Super Bowl Weekend and this year's hosts are Kim Kardashian, Holly Madison and Roselyn Sanchez. The party is scheduled for Friday, February 5th, from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. at the Paris Theatre (550 Washington Ave.) on South Beach. For your entertainment, celebrity DJs, Tandaji Lathan and Avi, will be spinning their music while you gaze at the amazing skills of some Cirque du Soleil acrobats. Guests will be served a special Super Bowl Jello-Shot by women wearing leather, lingerie or painted body costumes. Sounds like a party. For more information regarding "Leather and Laces" or to purchase your tickets, visit www.leatherandlaces.com or call 214-244-5001. Enjoy the Super Bowl festivities and tell Kim I say HI!
Paris Theatre on South Beach

STK Miami: Now open at the Gansevoort South

A new steakhouse has arrived and it's got sexy written all over it! Last night, Ocean Drive Magazine along with Tara Ink PR hosted a special event at the newly opened restaurant and lounge, STK Miami. This amazing 2-story steakhouse has a futuristic vibe that will surely captivate your taste buds. At the event, guests were provided with a sample of some of the restaurant's tasty appetizers. STK has already been successful in New York and Los Angeles. Finally...they opened a location in MIAMI! Operated by General Manager, Seth Alexander, the venue has a spacious DJ lounge, second level V.I.P. bar and bistro dining areas. This is definitely going to be Miami's hottest new spot for the stylish, the sophisticated and the fashionable. There's even a catwalk across the back bar which gives every lady a chance to make her grand entrance! Upstairs, there is another dining room, bar and private dining room that overlooks the main floor. The view from the second level balconies are incredible: Miami's social scene at its very best. STK Miami is located at 2377 Collins Avenue at The Gansevoort South Beach Hotel and is open seven days a week for dinner from 6pm-midnight. For reservations please call 305-604-6988, and to book private events, contact Kristin Catasso at 305.604.6816 or visit www.stkhouse.com. If you haven't seen this steakhouse, make sure to visit with your friends and check out STK's famous design.

Dane Cook is making his debut in South Florida!

In the spirit of comedy, I wanted to share the fact that Dane Cook is making his first South Florida cameo at the Bank Atlantic Center during an exclusive show on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010. He is my absolute favorite comedian because he's not only clever but he gives you the ultimate "guy-next-door" perspective on life! As an actor, Cook has appeared in various films since 1997 including Employee of the Month, Good Luck Chuck and My Best Friend's Girl. Cook was also named Rolling Stone Magazine's "Hot Comic" and he was the winner of Comedy Central's Standup Showdown. Last year, Time Magazine listed him as one of the world's “100 Most Influential People.” Whether you enjoy his crazy sound effects or his random anecdotes, the show will certainly provide you with an amazing AB WORKOUT!!! To purchase your tickets, visit http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0D00432BDA3558E8. In the words of Martha Stewart: laughing is always "a good thing."

This Week: The South Beach Comedy Festival!!

For the 5th year in a row, the South Beach Comedy Festival is coming to Miami Beach Thursday, January 21st to Saturday, January 23rd, 2010. In association with Comedy Central, this year's festival features comedians from all across the country such as Brian Regan, Kevin Hart, Joe Rogan and Gabriel Iglesias. Acts will perform at the Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theatre, Lincoln Theatre, Colony Theater and the Lincoln Road Stage at Euclid Avenue, which is home to the Festival’s outdoor, nightly, free comedy stage. For ticket information or to check out the entire line-up of comedians, visit http://www.southbeachcomedyfestival.com/. Take a break from life and get a good laugh during one of these shows!

MELT: Playing in Miami starting this February!

The Leadership Miami Alumni Association of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce presents MELT. Melt is a play that embodies the diversity found in our great city of Miami. This production focuses on three families: one Cuban, one African-American and one Jewish who all live in South Florida. Through their interactions, the families soon realize that their stories are intricately woven tapestries of history and hope. The play was written by Michael McKeever and it will be performed at the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables (280 Miracle Mile) starting on February 10th (ends February 28th). Tickets range between $10 to $55 depending on which night you attend. For a complete schedule of performances or for more ticket information, visit www.actorsplayhouse.org or call (305) 444-9293. Reserve your tickets today and enjoy this cultural experience with some friends!

Kim Kardashian Celebrates Ocean Drive Magazine's 17th Anniversary at the Delano!

On January 14th, Ocean Drive Magazine celebrated their 17th Anniversary along with their January cover star: KIM KARDASHIAN! The event was hosted at one of Miami's hottest resorts, the Delano Hotel. While guests danced to the beats of DJ Mia Moretti, celebrities made their way into the party. Kim Kardashian was accompanied by her brother, Robert, as well as Niche Media's CEO and Founder, Jason Binn. Today, Ocean Drive Magazine is a premiere lifestyle publication that highlights South Florida's arts, business, culture, entertainment and fashion. This was definitely an amazing anniversary bash: perfect Miami weather and lots of style!

During the celebration, Kim joined DJ Mia Moretti on her poolside platform to greet all of the guests and to give a toast to Ocean Drive Magazine's success. Afterwards, she helped Jason Binn blow out the candles of a custom Stella Sweet Shoppe cupcake cake. The crowd cheered as Kim congratulated Jason! Every guest was treated to a cupcake and fans were able to take snapshots of the duo. Happy 17th Anniversary to Ocean Drive Magazine and here's to many more...CHEERS!!!

17^th Anniversary party for Niche Media’s Ocean Drive Magazine with Kim Kardashian at the Delano on Thursday, January 14^th, 2010.

Michael Caine, Kim Kardashian and Jason Binn

DJ Mia Moretti and Kim Kardashian

Mike Piazza, Alicia Rickter Piazza, Robert & Kim Kardashian
My favorite picture of Robert & Kim Kardashian!

Kim & Robert Kardashian checking out January's Ocean Drive Magazine where Kim is featured on the cover!

Jason Binn and Kim Kardashian celebrate Ocean Drive Magazine's 17th Anniversary!

Ever consider being a Beauty Queen?

Do you think you have what it takes to become the next Miss Florida USA 2011? The first step towards the state title begins by registering for a preliminary pageant near you. If you win on the local level, then you're off to Hollywood, Florida where you will compete for the crown of Miss Florida USA or Miss Florida Teen USA! The first preliminary pageants of the year, Miss Coral Gables USA & Teen USA, are actually taking place on February 6th at The New Theater in Coral Gables (Contestants do not need to live in the City of Coral Gables to compete). Attend a free Pageant Seminar this upcoming Saturday, January 16th, to meet pageant experts along with Miss Florida USA herself, Megan Clementi, and Miss Florida Teen USA, Alyssa Rivera. The event is being held at the Make Up Store inside of Sunset Place (2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m). Learn all about the pageant while meeting new friends. Try your luck! For more information, visit http://www.missfloridausa.com/ or send your inquiries to telair@aol.com. You can also check out last year's Miss Coral Gables USA Pageant on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yD3xDZqNes. YOU might be the next Miss Florida USA!!!

Alyssa Rivera, Miss Florida Teen USA 2010

Original Penguin Launches Resort Collection!

Are you a fan of Original Penguin? The popular lifestyle brand is hosting a special shopping event this Friday, January 15th, on South Beach (925 Lincoln Road). Swing by the store to celebrate the launch of their 2010 Original Penguin Resort Collection (7 p.m. till 10 p.m). Shop while jamming to celebrity award winning DJ, Mia Moretti. Those who shop during the event will receive exclusive savings including an additional 30% off on clearance merchandise. Guests will also receive an additional 10% off on new items from the Resort Collection. Sounds pretty sweet to me! For more information about Original Penguin or to shop online, visit http://www.originalpenguin.com/. Bring your friends this Friday and check out their new collection!

Mia Moretti (Photo by Jipsy)

Original Penguin Store on Lincoln Road (Photo by Jipsy)

Pooches: Get Ready for Pawpurrazzi 2010!

Pawpurrazzi is an annual event that benefits the Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet. On January 22nd (7 p.m.), pooches of all shapes and sizes will invade Jungle Island for a night of fun, food, fashion and music. At Pawpurrazzi, dogs roll in style and they dress to impress! Each dog enjoys pampering, doggie make-overs and even an ice cream bar. The night's highlight has to be the “Great Pets Who Walk in Front of Great People” show. This runway show features the community’s most influential pet owners alongside their dogs. For your entertainment, The University of Miami's Theatre Arts Department will also be performing a scene from....CATS! For more information please call Laurie Hoffman at 305-749-1815 or email laurie@humanesocietymiami.org. Support a great cause and make it a date night with your dog!

SoBe Arts Presents a Cabaret Series

Ever want to travel back in time and watch a live cabaret show? Check out Montserrat Franco as she plays Betty Boop in a series of cabaret shows. All performances are taking place at the newly reopened 1937 historical theatre, Little Stage, at the SoBe Institute of the Arts (2100 Washington Ave, Miami Beach). Artistic Director, Carson Kievman, has incorporated musical and visual elements from the 1930s and 1940s to provide audiences with an authentic cabaret experience. Performances start at 9 p.m. on January 15th & 16th and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 17th. Premium tickets cost $25 and regular tickets are $10. For reservations call 305-674-9220 or you can visit the SoBe Arts website for more information: http://www.sobearts.org/cabaret.html. Boop boop be-doop!

Need Adventure? Join the Great Urban Race!

The Great Urban Race is making its first stop ever in MIAMI on January 30th. This is not your ordinary race. It's actually a great opportunity to go on a crazy adventure around the city. Grab your "partner in crime" because only teams of two are allowed to participate in the race. The event's starting location is at Ocean's Ten Restaurant & Lounge (960 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach). Each team will receive an envelope with twelve clues including puzzles, scavenger clues, brain teasers and even physical challenges. Teams are only allowed to travel by foot or public transportation (includes buses, trains, ferries and trolleys). WOW I'm exhausted already haha!! Think you're up for the challenge? Sign up early because the longer you wait...the higher your entry fee ($40- $60). For a complete list of rules or to register online, visit http://greaturbanrace.com/register10_miami.php. Get inspired and check out these adventurelicious teams!!

FOOD ALERT: The Great Taste of The Grove

The 20th annual "Great Taste of the Grove" is presented by the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce at Peacock Park (2820 McFarlane Road). This two-day food and music extravaganza takes place this Saturday, January 9th (11 a.m. - 9 p.m) and Sunday, January 10th (11 a.m. - 7 p.m.). The Great Taste of the Grove offers live entertainment and an opportunity to sample dishes from some of the Grove's best known restaurants. Visitors can taste main courses and desserts from restaurants including Monty's, Bizcaya at the Ritz-Carlton, Chart House, Crepe Maker, Smoothie King and others. Last year's event drew 30,000 people so expect a crowd this weekend! The event is FREE. But, if you're planning on sampling the food, tickets range from $1 to $8. A portion of the proceeds from food ticket sales will benefit charitable community organizations. For more information, please visit http://www.thegreattasteofthegrove.com/.