Fun – Page 9 – Flair Miami

By Vannia Enriquez February 8, 2013 in All, Fun

CONTEST: YOUR IDEA IS AN OPPORTUNITY

In my previous posts you’ve probably read about the DWNTWN concert series, and free movie Wednesdays at the Wall Cast, but did you know that those were once just ideas?

These ideas, among many others have come to fruition thanks to the Knights Art Challenge. And now, it’s time to turn your idea into reality!

From Feb. 4 – Mar. 4, John S. and the James L. Knight Foundation will be accepting applications for a Miami-based community contest funding cultural projects that will grow the arts scene and engage/enrich our community experience.

Think you’ve got a good idea? Give it a shot! Applications are open to the public.

Only three simple rules. All projects must:
1. Include the arts
2. Take place in South Florida or benefit South Florida
3. Match Knight’s funding (If your idea is chosen you receive a grant, but you find other funds to match theirs.)

“We’re looking for the best ideas – truly Miami ideas – that help bring art to our neighborhoods and make culture ubiquitous in South Florida,” said Dennis Scholl, Knight Foundation’s vice president/arts. “In a truly creative town like ours, we see the challenge as a chance for everybody to participate, to dream, and ultimately see their ideas through to reality.”

Still have a few questions you’d like addressed? Be sure to attend one of the community roundtable discussions listed below.

7 p.m. Feb. 18: Cinema Paradiso, Ft. Lauderdale, 503 SE 6th St, Fort Lauderdale
7 p.m. Feb. 19: Opa-locka City Hall, 780 Fisherman St., Second Floor
7 p.m. Feb. 20: Cannonball, Downtown Miami, 1035 N. Miami Ave., Suite 200
7 p.m., Feb. 21: South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St.

Since 2008, the Knights Art Challenge has funded over 140 projects and spent close to $20 million, allowing our community to celebrate the arts and reach global recognition. So together, let’s continue this tradition and take initiative. (Who knows maybe I’ll team up with my artsy husband and submit an idea of our own.)

For more information, visit KnightArts.org. You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter @knightarts and #knightarts.

By Vannia Enriquez December 28, 2012 in All, Fitness, Fun

POST HOLIDAY WORKOUT

We’ve officially made it through Thanksgiving and Christmas, now to face New Year’s Eve…

Perhaps, you’re like me and you’ve given yourself the gift of indulgence during this holiday season. Don’t worry no one is judging, enjoying the holidays with family, friends and delicious food is a must!

But now, it’s time to get back into learning/practicing healthy habits.

Exercising and eating healthy shouldn’t just be resolutions you make, they should be daily practices.

So here are a few things you can do to melt away those holiday pounds and boost-up your metabolism:

Post Holiday Tips

Drink more water. Replacing juices/sodas for water is probably one of the easiest ways to shed those extra inches. It’s pretty simple:
Soda = Processed Sugar
Processed Sugar = Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates = Slower Metabolism
Slower Metabolism = Weight Gain
Eat breakfast daily. Just like your car needs gasoline to start running, your body needs fuel to get your metabolism going. A healthy breakfast can consist of a fruit, Greek yogurt, or egg whites with whole wheat toast.
Simplify and shop the perimeter. Don’t go crazy and start a new complicated diet that requires you to count calories or measure portions. Simplify, focus on eating more fruits/greens and learn to shop for groceries around the perimeters. (Avoid isles as they usually contain processed foods.)
Replace whites with browns. Replace white rice, white pasta, and white bread with brown rice, whole wheat pasta, and whole wheat bread. This will increase you fiber content, and minerals/vitamin intake.
Set a goal. Whether it’s walking, jogging, dancing or playing a sport, spend at least 20 minutes a day doing some type of cardiovascular activity. And if you’re feeling up to a challenge, get started today with our post holiday workout.

Post Holiday Workout

By Giselle Valenzano December 24, 2012 in All, Fun

A CELEBRATION

Since we survived the end of the world, I think the only right thing to do would be to bring in the new year the right way!

There are so many things going on in Miami on New Year’s Eve, and here are a few events that caught my attention:

King Mango Strut

When? Sunday December 30, 2012 2:00 pm
Where? Coconut Grove
What? Start your New Year’s festivities a day early with fellow Miamians’ at this annual event held in Coconut Grove!

Venetian Carnival New Year’s Eve

When? Monday December 31, 2012 8:00 pm
Where? Nikki Beach, 1 Ocean Drive Miami Beach
What? Enjoy signature Nikki Beach entertainment, a New York-style ball drop and our very own fireworks display on the beach!

Miami Beach New Year’s Eve Party

When? December 31, 2012
Where? Gather on the beach on Ocean Drive and 8th Street
What? Enjoy a free firework show on the beach with friends and family at midnight.

Bayfront Park New Year’s Eve

When? December 31, 2012 8:00pm – Midnight
Where? Bayfront Park, 301 N. Biscayne Blvd
What? Largest free New Years party in South Florida. Enjoy an evening of live performances, countdown, and fireworks.

Casino Royale 007 New Years Eve 2013

When? December 31, 2012
Where? Trio on The Bay, 1601 79th Street Causeway, North Bay Village
What? Celebrate New Years Eve on the Bay in Casino Royal 007 Style. Festivities include casino tables, open bar all night, food and cover included. Formal attire. Purchased in advance, price is $50; at the door $75.

A Musical New Years 2013

When? December 31, 2012
Where? Mokai 235 23rd St, Miami Beach
What? Count down to midnight with pulse pounding, fist pumping beats on a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system all night long. It’s the hottest and most affordable ticket in town.

Thats just the beginning, here a few other spots to check out:
Ricochet New Year’s Eve Celebration | New Years 2013 with Otto Knows
| Masquerade-Themed New Year’s Eve Celebration | C-LEVEL Rooftop NYE Fireworks Party | Tantra New Years Eve Event:: Beau Joie NYE
| Congress Hotel South Beach New Year’s Eve Rooftop Viewing Party
| “RA”ckin’ New Year’s Eve | Alesso Hosts New Year’s Eve 2012 Event at Wet at W South Beach | New Years Eve at The James Royal Palm | Cafe Prima Pasta New Years Celebration

By Giselle Valenzano December 17, 2012 in All, Fun

HOLIDAY FUN

The holidays are here, and it’s time to celebrate! I don’t know about you, but this time of year is my favorite and with so much going on, I decided to make a list of family friendly holiday fun.

So here you have it:

Hot Cocoa with Santa at Mandarin Oriental, Miami.
When? Thursday, Dec 20 6:30pm
Where? Hotel Mandarin Oriental, Miami
What? Bring your kids to meet santa as he reads one of his favorite stories aloud while delicious hot cocoa, sandwiches, scones and cookies are served.

Coconut Grove’s Candy Cane Village
When? Friday, Dec 21 10:00am – 5:00pm
Where? Peacock Park, Coconut Grove
What? Join Santa’s little helpers at this winter wonderland. Enjoy a day filled with events such as ice skating, snow show, carnival rides, holiday tunes, and caramel apples. ;)

Movies on the Plaza: A Christmas Story
When? Friday, Dec 21 7:00pm
Where? Brickell World Plaza, Miami
What? Enjoy an evening with the family while watching A Christmas Story, the 1983 holiday classic.

Zoo Lights
When? December 17-23, 7:00pm – 10:00pm
Where? Zoo Miami
What? Sip on some hot cocoa, grab a pair of 3D glasses, and check out Zoo Miami’s Zoo Lights.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas at Miami Children’s Museum
When? Monday, Dec 24 2:00pm
Where? Miami Children’s Museum, Watson Island
What? Get into the holiday spirit and enjoy a special performance of How the Grinch Stole Christmas by the MCM players.

Conrad Miami: Chistmas Eve & Christmas Day Celebrations
When? Monday, Dec 24 6:00pm
Where? Atrio Restaurant, Miami
What? Enjoy a fabulous Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner with the family at Atrio.

By Vannia Enriquez December 7, 2012 in All, Fashion, Fun

ART BASEL 2012: FASHION EVENTS GUIDE

It’s Fashion Friday once again, but here in Miami, it’s ALL about ART this week. However, fashion is art; so, in case you needed yet another event to attend… Here’s a list of fashionable events:

FRIDAY:

Hermès Editeur 3: Editions Of Works Of Art On Silk
WHAT: Japanese artist, Hiroshi Sugimoto, will showcase his limited-edition designs of silk scarves.
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 7 -9. From 11am – 7pm
WHERE: Garden Building, 175 NE 40th Street

Donna Karan Book Signing
WHAT: Connecting The Dots Book Tour with Donna Karan
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 7 • 12-2pm
WHERE: Delano Beach Club 1685 Collins Ave. – Miami Beach
DETAILS: RSVP to deb@deborahhughesinc.com

Design Talks with Pharrell Williams
WHAT: Art collector, rapper, and entrepreneur Pharell Williams, shares a “Design Talk” with the Design Miami audience. He’ll discuss details on his new book entitled Pharell: Places and Spaces I’ve Been.
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 7 • 3pm
WHERE: Design Miami, Meridian Avenue and 19th St.

OHWOW hosts Book Signing for Terry Richardson
WHAT: Terry Richardson, a fashion photographer, promotes TERRYWOOD featuring 25 of Richardson’s new photographs.
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 7 • 7-9pm
WHERE: The Standard Spa, 40 Island Ave. – Miami Beach

SATURDAY:

The Sartorialist Book Signing
WHAT: Blogger, fashion photographer, and author Scott Schuman will be promoting his book The Sartorialist: Closer.
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012 • 4-6pm
WHERE: The Webster, 1220 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL
DETAILS: RSVP to sartorialist@thewebstermiami.com

By Vannia Enriquez December 3, 2012 in All, Fun

2012 MIAMI ART WEEK GUIDE

Get excited, Art Week Miami 2012 is officially here. From Dec. 3-9 Miami will host some of the world’s most renowned art fairs, exhibitions, and satellite shows. But with so many options, where do you start? Well, here are a few of my favorites, hope to see you around.

Miami Says Art 2
WHAT: Opening reception commemorating Miami’s art community during 1976 – exhibiting documentary videos and photos capturing some of Miami’s arts leaders.
WHEN: 12.3.12 @ 12:30 pm
WHERE: JW Marriott Hotel Miami – 1109 Brickell Avenue, Downtown Miami. For more info contact 305-237-3620.

Design Miami
WHAT: “The global forum for design.” A showroom collection of modern and contemporary home designs exhibiting architectural, furniture, and fashion designs.
WHEN: 12.5.12 – 12.9.12
WHERE: Between Meridian Avenue & 19^thStreet
Next to the Miami Beach Convention Center
COST:General Admission: $25
Students & Senior Citizens (with valid ID): $15 All tickets are valid for one day only.

Art Basel Miami Beach
WHAT: The most prestigious art show in the United States showcasing various artwork from over 2,000 artists. Great event for collectors, dealers, and critics.
WHEN: Miami Beach 12.6.12 – 12.9.12
WHERE: 300 West 41st Street #214 Miami Beach, FL 33140
COST: One-Day Ticket $42
Permanent Pass: $90
Evening Ticket (after 4 pm): $29

Aqua 2012
WHAT: A contemporary art fair that began in 2005. Aqua features young dealers and galleries with strong emerging careers.
WHEN: Miami Beach 12.6.12 – 12.9.12
Thursday, Dec. 6, 11 – 9pm
Friday, Dec. 7, 11am – 9pm
Saturday, Dec. 8, 11am – 9pm
Sunday, Dec. 9, 11am – 4pm
WHERE: Aqua Hotel, 1530 Collins Ave., Miami Beach$10
COST: $10

Ink Miami Art Fair
WHAT: A fair focused on contemporary art work created on paper.
WHEN: 12.5.12 – 12.9.12
WHERE: Suites of Dorchester, 1850 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
COST: Free!

EXTRA FUN EVENTS FOR FASHIONISTAS:

Christian Louboutin: A Dazzling Future
WHAT: An exhibition by Chinese contemporary artist, Ye Hongxing.
WHEN: 12.8.12
WHERE: Christian Louboutin – 155 Northeast 40th Street

The Mural Project
WHAT: Pop-Up Heineken Beer Garden – 4 days of murals, fun, and music.
WHEN: 11.29.12 – 12.9.12
WHERE: Locations throughout Wynwood. (Click here for exact locations.)

Madewell Pop Up Shop
WHAT: Rebecca Raney x Madewell
WHEN: 12.1.12 – 12.6.12 (Special opening reception held on 12.6.12 from 6-10pm)
WHERE: Primary Flight – 4141 NE 2nd Ave, Suite 104

By Vannia Enriquez November 12, 2012 in All, Fun

JUST BREATHE

When I first introduced my blog, I mentioned that I also work for a local church called UBC Miami. Well, UBC recently went through a name change and is now known as Christ Journey Church. And one of the roles I play at the Christ Journey is to help plan events where women can connect to a community of other women, we call that Breathe. What’s Breathe?

BREATHE – a celebration for women to relax, connect, and be challenged. And you’re invited!

SAVE THE DATE!

Breathe Women’s Dinner with Breakout Sessions!
Friday • Nov. 30 • 7-9p • 624 Anastasia Ave. • FJ Theater
(Doors open at 6:30) Register today for only $20. Dinner is included.

Purchase your tickets here!

Join us Friday, Nov. 30, as we gather for our Breathe women’s dinner & partner with Wellspring Counseling. We’ll offer different breakout sessions to help us learn more about the the “layers” of a woman. Come and get tips from licensed counselors on topics like emotional health, improving your self-esteem, dealing with loss, and learning boundaries.

Breakout Session Details:

Doing Life Differently: Emotional Health
Presented by: Christine Schlottman, LMHC & CTS,
Enjoying good emotional health enables us to better handle many of the challenges that we face in life. This presentation will offer practical suggestions on how to experience emotional healing, and in return, live in greater freedom in our relationships with God, ourselves, and others.

Finding My True Self: Practical Ways to Improve Self-Esteem
Presented by: Heather Hendry, MHC and Marisol Weaver, MHC
A discussion of the origins of our identity, self-worth, and how we can apply God’s word and clinical counseling methods to make healthy adjustments.

Moving Through Loss: Drawing Nearer to God
Presented by: Kay Gackle, MFT and Vicki Gray, LCSW
Loss is one of the hardest things a human being can endure, whether it is loss of a loved one, a relationship, a job, a home, your health or anything else of deep value. Amidst the pain and confusion, lies untapped, unimaginable joy and peace. Together we will discover how God’s truth and love can transform the hurt into healing.

Stop the Madness! How Boundaries Help Create Peace
Presented by: Sally Livingston, LMFT
Understanding and learning to establish healthy boundaries is a vital part of a peaceful and intentional life. Learn how boundaries can help foster better relationships, find more enjoyment in life and and give you the ability to do more than “just get by” day-to-day.

Hope to see you there. You can expect a delicious meal and some quality girl talk!

Want to be eligible to win free tickets for you and a friend? Share the post on your facebook or Twitter and let us know you did it in a comment below, be sure to use the hash tag #breathe. Winners will be announced Thursday, Nov. 29.

By Vannia Enriquez November 5, 2012 in All, Fun

CALLING ALL BOOKWORMS

Are you attending this year’s 8-day literary party?

Formerly known as Books by the Bay, the Miami Book Fair International will be celebrating their 29th anniversary and this year’s events are scheduled from Nov. 11 – 18. From book signings, documentary screenings, writing workshops, to interactive food tastings and children’s arts and crafts; it’s the largest gathering of the year for readers and writers all across the nation.

This Fall is no different than others, the streets of downtown Miami and the Miami Dade College Downtown Campus will be filled with bookworms, artists, thespians, and over 300 critically-acclaimed authors. So what’s the name that everyone is talking about? Tom Wolfe.

Wolfe, an iconic journalist and author of over a dozen books, (best known for his classic writings The Bonfire of the Vanities and The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test) is scheduled for a presentation and book signing on opening night! Fans like me, await with much excitement, not only to see what trademark white suit he’ll be wearing; but to hear more details of his new book entitled Back to Blood, a novel set here in Miami.

And Wolfe isn’t the only notable name. Other renowned scheduled appearances are: Novelist and literary journalist, Joan Didion; writer for The New Yorker, Adam Gopni; and Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Robert Caro, among many others…

Looking for a new read? Don’t forget, the street fair begins Friday, Nov. 15th allowing over 250 publishers to sell both new and old books, some are signed collectibles and even original manuscripts.

Plan your week ahead and be sure to check out their list of programs and events today.

Image Souce: Miami Book Fair International

By Giselle Valenzano October 22, 2012 in All, Fun

WHAT TO DO THIS HALLOWEEN

For those who haven’t noticed, Halloween is right around the corner, and you may be wondering, what is there to do?

Whether you are looking for family friendly or adult only fun, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these Halloween festivities.

FUN FOR FAMILY:

Halloween Spooktacular
WHAT: Bring your kids out to enjoy an afternoon of face paining, pie eating contests, arts and crafts, trick-or-treating, costume contests, and more! Kids (3-10) admission is $5 and all activities are included with park admission.
WHEN: 10/27- 10/28/2012 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
WHERE: Jungle Island

Halloween on the Mile
WHAT: It’s a family affair (pets included) on Miracle Mile! Join other families on the mile for trick-or-treating, story time, special performances, kiddie costumes, and doggie costume contests!
WHEN: 10/31/2012 4:00-7:00 PM.
WHERE: On Miracle Mile

Monster Splash
WHAT: Monster Splash Daytime Splash and Nighttime Bash at the Miami Seaquarium. Trick-or-treat at Sharky’s Sweet Tooth Station, let the kids enjoy kiddie rides and bounce houses at the Little Monsters Play Area, and take a splash at Flipper’s Dance Party. Click here for more information on ticket prices.
WHEN: 10/26 – 10/31/2012
WHERE: Miami Seaquarium

House of Horror Amussement Park
WHAT: Enjoy an evening of carnival rides, food, and games, circus acts and live performances. Oh, and did I forget to mention a 2-acre haunted house? If you are looking for a little scare, House of Horror is the place for you! Tickets are $23 for adults and $15 for children (6 and under). Click here to receive a free coupon!
WHEN: 09/27-10/31/12 Mon. – Thur: 6PM to Midnight & Fri- Sun: 5PM to Midnight
WHERE: Miami International Mall (East Parking Lot)

FUN FOR ADULTS:

The Haunted Jaunt
WHAT: The first annual Haunted Jaunt hosted by The Ponce Society of Young Professionals. A Halloween-themed haunted house/street party for adults 21+ benefitting the Coral Gables Community Foundation. The “Jaunt” will feature a walk-through street fair experience in which each sponsor will have its own “haunted house” on the streets of Coral Gables. Also expect to enjoy costume contests, food and drinks, and vintage horror movies. Tickets are $20 and are available here. Costumes are encouraged!
WHEN: 10/24/2012 5PM – 11PM
WHERE: Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park, 2901 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables, FL

Spookover
WHAT: Interested in spending the night at the most haunted location in South Florida? Stay overnight at Deering Estate and get spooked while taking a night hike. Also, let the League of Paranormal Investigators take you on a paranormal investigation through Deering Estate! To purchase tickets call (305) 235-1668
WHEN: 10/26/2012 11PM – 4AM
WHERE: Deering Estate at Cutler, 16701 SW 72 Ave. Miami Fl 33157

Back in Black
WHAT: Considered the country’s leading adult-themed Halloween costume party, Back in Black has returned to Miami for its 3rd consecutive year! This 21+ party will take place in the heart of Miami at Bicentennial Park. Guests will get the chance to enjoy a line-up of dance’s top music performers including Dirty South, Paul Van Dyke and many more. Tickets are available here.
WHEN: 10/27/2012 2PM – MIDNIGHT
WHERE: Bicentennial Park, 1075 Biscayne Blvd, Miami Fl 33132.

Halloween Sundowner
WHAT: This 21+ Halloween party is held at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Enjoy a night of cocktails, snacks, music, dancing, costume contests and more! This is your opportunity to not only show off your best costume but also support the arts. Ticket proceeds benefit the museum’s preservation.
WHEN: 10/27/2012 8PM – MIDNIGHT
WHERE: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

If for some reason you are still in the “Halloween mood” after Halloween, on November 3rd you still have a chance to show off your favorite costume at the 4^th Annual Green Masquerade Ball, hosted by The Early Development of Global Education.

Hope you have a happy Halloween!

Banner Image source: oddandstrange.blogspot.com

By Vannia Enriquez October 19, 2012 in All, Fun

ON THE WALL

On the corner of 17 Street and Washington Avenue, located just two blocks from Lincoln Road, is the New World Center, home of the New World Symphony (America’s Orchestral Academy).

The center was built as an innovative facility to be used for a blend of music, arts, and recreational space. The iconic building and location is now a new landmark for Miami Beach and won the 2012 AIA Institute Honor Award for Regional and Urban Design.

The New World Center has state-of-the-art technical capabilities, both inside and outside. A live WALLCAST™ allows individuals to experience select events and concerts on a soaring, 7,000-square-foot projection. These concerts are free and open to the public.

And as Miami weather slowly begins to cool, NWC kicks off their 2012 SoundScape Cinema Series. A free movie series held every Wednesday night at 8pm, from now till the end of May. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, lawn chairs, blankets and enjoy a great evening with family and friends.

Here is what’s coming up on the wall:
Oct 24 The Hunger Games (2012)
Oct 31 Young Frankenstein (1974)
Nov 7 The Dark Knight (2008)
Nov 14 Singin’ In The Rain (1952)
Nov 21 The Goonies (1985)
Nov 28 Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
Dec 5 Presentation of video art from Art Basel Miami Beach
Dec 12 Amadeus (1984)
Dec 19 Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Dec 26 Funny Girl (1968)
Jan 2 Spider-Man (2002)
Jan 9 Hugo (2011) Directed
Jan 16 Rear Window (1954)
Jan 23 Jurassic Park (1993)
Jan 30 Cabaret (1972)
Feb 6 Iron Man (2008)
Feb 13 The Help (2011)
Feb 20 To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Feb 27 Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure (1985)
Mar 6 The Bourne Identity (2002)
Mar 13 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
Mar 20 Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Mar 27 My Fair Lady (1964)
Apr 3 Quantum of Solace (2008)
Apr 10 The Princess Bride (1987)
Apr 17 Men in Black (1997)
Apr 24 Titanic (1997)
May 1 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
May 8 Sunset Boulevard (1950)
May 15 Jaws (1975)
May 22 Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
May 29 Superman (1978)

Be sure to arrive early and take a stroll around the 2.5 acre park, a relaxing space with breathtaking sculptures and architecture.