December 10 - 16, 2004 • Vol. 24 - No. 50

 
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Local

The Blonde and The Maven Share the Court and Meet for a Match with Chris Evert, Chevy Chase, Matthew Perry, and Former President George Bush
 
 
by the Blonde and The Maven
Staff Writers

 

The 15th annual Chris Evert/Bank of America Pro-Celebrity Tennis Classic, which is held in association with the Chris Evert Children's Hospital at Broward General Medical Center, was held on December 4th and 5th at Delray Beach Tennis Center. Chris Evert was born at Broward General, as were her three children. In 1998, she opened the Chris Evert Children's Hospital and the Chris Evert Women's Center. Chrissie is also on the board of the Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida, which is a non-profit corporation founded in 1989 in partnership with the state of Florida and the private sector. The Ounce of Prevention Fund identifies, funds, supports and evaluates programs designed to address critical needs of Florida's at-risk children and families. Chris started this Tennis Classic as a way to raise money for these projects and to heighten our awareness level. Her compassion for the well-being of her community is unprecedented.
Celebrities and pros team up for one set matches during the Tennis Classic, a two-day spectacular event. The tennis match was kicked off by Victoria’s Secret model Frederique and tennis pro Mary Joe Fernandez playing against Maeve Quinlan, an actress from “The Bold and the Beautiful,” and tennis pro Murphy Jensen, who also appeared in the movie Wimbledon. The second match was with musician and actor Gavin Rossdale (Gwen Stefani's husband) and Belgian tennis pro Xavier Malisse against Dan Brown, the author of The Da Vinci Code, and men's doubles champion and ESPN commentator Luke Jensen. The third match was the most fun event of the day. It included actor/comedian Chevy Chase and tennis pro sweetheart Chris Evert playing against racecar driver Helio Castroneves and tennis pro Lisa Raymond, who represented the USA at the 2004 Olympics. Saturday afternoon’s final match was with actor Scott Foley (“Scrubs” and the former husband of Jennifer Garner) and the number one, best female tennis player in the world, Lindsay Davenport, playing against actor Matthew Perry of “Friends” and the gorgeous and dangerously handsome German pro tennis player Tommy Haas. If that spectacular list of names doesn't impress you, then what if we added to Sunday's matches the former President of the United States of America, George H. W. Bush! IMPRESSED NOW? Well, the Blonde and The Maven certainly were!



The tournament was filled with excitement, laughter, great tennis, (and some not-so-great tennis), and, above all, a lot of fun provided by talented friends with big hearts to help Chrissie's important fundraiser.  
The Chris Evert/Bank of America Pro-Celebrity Tennis Classic was a phenomenal success as they doubled the amount they raised last year, totaling a whopping 1.2 million dollars for this wonderful cause. YOU GRAND-SLAMED IT AGAIN, CHRISSIE! YOU GO, GIRL!

                        
 

The Blonde: What a class act tennis icon and superstar Chrissie is! She was, as always, professional on the court, yet still kept her sense of humor and fun. I really enjoyed the free and more relaxed atmosphere of this tournament, unlike a stuffy Wimbledon classic.

THE Maven: When were you at Wimbledon?

The Blonde: When I was a tennis pro!

The Maven: Are you talking about one of your past lives again?

The Blonde: I think so!  Moving on, I truly love that Chris Evert gives back to the people and community that have supported HER all these years…Did you know Maven, that it was Chrissie who started the whole DIAMOND TENNIS BRACLET rage. That is another reason why she is my hero!

The Maven: I thought Diane Sawyer was your hero?  

The Blonde: I have many heros, including YOU!  Now, about Frederique… For a Victoria’s Secret model, she didn't wear a very sexy, lacy, little tennis outfit! And why, for goodness sake, did she change her socks every set? How smelly can a girl's feet get in a few minutes?
 
The Maven:  Well at least SHE FIT IN! I didn't mind you wearing a short mini-skirt, but the PINK, STRAPPY, HIGH-HEEL SHOES you wore on the tennis court was embarrassingly inappropriate, EVEN FOR YOU!

The Blonde: Do you think that's why the line judge kept yelling at me? Those shoes were cute! Well, I wore sneakers the next day!

The Maven: Yea, HIGH-HEEL SNEAKERS! ONLY YOU!  Back to the match, I loved the Jensen brothers. They injected fun and amusing humor to the game. When Luke was the armchair umpire, he delivered some of the best lines of the day while the teams were playing. "Please don't hit the celebrities…” “Your fly is down…” “Your shoe lace is untied!” When Murphy tried to serve using seven balls, Luke announced, “That counts as seven double faults!”

The Blonde: Yo, Maven, is seven double faults like dating seven guys at the same time?

The Maven: In Blonde-land it is! Wasn't it strange how the tone of Sunday's events had a subtle change, what with all the added security, bomb-sniffing dogs, and a whole lot more television cameras?

The Blonde: They must have known I was coming!

The Maven: Or possibly a former president?

The Blonde: I did notice the police, secret service and the security guards were a lot cuter and extremely well-built the second day. It kind of makes a girl wanna run for president to have them around all the time! Maven, not to be catty (because that's not my style) did you notice a couple of the girls, even with all the exercising they do and their youth, still had lucite on their thighs?

The Maven: I don't know about Lucite, but I did notice some cellulite! The Miami HEAT cheerleaders more than made up for it, though.

The Blonde: In closing, this was a classic two days to remember. It was thrilling to watch and hang with the amazing Chris Evert, the adorable Luke Perry, funny man Chevy Chase and the distinguished George Bush. They were such a blast to spend the weekend with.

The Maven: Readers, Luke wasn't there, but Mathew and all the rest were terrific!

The Blonde and The Maven: POINT, MATCH AND GAME…
 
 
 
PHOTO IDS
 
1. Chevy Chase
2. Matthew Perry
3. Chris Evert, George Bush, Lindsay Davenport, and Chevy Chase
4. Former President George Bush
5. Chevy Chase and Chris Evert
6. Matthew Perry
 
Photos by Robin Roth
 


Taste of the Tropics is a Lifesaver
 
 by Marguerite Gil
Arts and Entertainment Writer


 
 
 
Possibly one of the scariest moments in a person’s life would be to find out that he or she needs an organ transplant. A life can change drastically after that kind of a diagnosis. Where to go? What to do? Fortunately, there is an organization dedicated to helping people who face this overwhelming experience. The Transplant Foundation, Inc., a non-profit charitable organization, offers patient services, lifesaving transplant research and public education to increase organ donation.

The Transplant Foundation recently had its annual fundraising festival at Parrot Jungle, and the event was a huge success. Restaurant sponsors and vendors supplied the dinners and many volunteers made the evening shine. The program started off with a cocktail reception hosted by Talula Restaurant. Guests were able to bid on items from a silent auction, while Calypso Rhythm and St. James’ Club bands played tropical tunes.

The Transplant Foundation’s goal is to provide optimal transplantation, The Gift of Life, to all in need. As a direct results of this fundraiser, Transplant Foundation’s President, Allan Kolsky stated, “We are able to continue and expand our services which include, but are not limited to, allowing us to assist both pre-operative stages and the rehabilitative period, providing financial assistance for transportation, medications, housing and much more. We also help with pre- and post-transplant patients and place their families in a home-like environment with personal services, close to the hospital, clinics and other medical facilities while enjoying the comfort of being surrounded by other patients and their families. Education, another staff function, provides ongoing donor education programs, as well as an educational forum providing information to patients and their families plus educating college students about organ and tissue donation through our own Life 101 program. We also provide research led by our own world-class physicians, surgeons and researchers, resulting in a second chance at life for those with end stage organ failure. Funding also aids the University of Miami Transplant Program on research efforts seeking the induction of graft tolerance, free patients from a lifetime of immunosuppressive therapy.”
Need more information? Call 305 585-1500.

Send your arts and entertainment events information to megs@gate.net.

PHOTO IDS
 
1. …and the band played on at the Transplant Foundation gala
2. A guest checks out the premiums for bidding at the silent auction

Photos by Marguerite Gil


Sixth Annual Crystal Vision Gala
Raises More Than $275,000


 
More than $275,000 was raised for the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood’s education programs at the Sixth Annual Crystal Vision Gala, which was held October 30 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Approximately 475 VIPs, government officials and art patrons attended the black-tie event, which honors individuals in government, community service, business and from the public. This year’s winners of the Crystal Vision Award for Support of the Arts included Hollywood City Manager Cameron Benson (government), Jarett S. and Dara Levan (individuals), Funding Arts Broward (community service), and The Seminole Tribe (business). Multi-talented performer Jim Belushi & The Sacred Hearts Band entertained the crowd, along with the Center’s Fall Youth Touring Troupe.



“We were very excited about this year’s event and we’re looking forward to next year’s Seventh Annual Crystal Vision Awards Gala, which will be even bigger and better,” said Alan Koslow, Esq., chair of the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood’s Board of Trustees and a shareholder at Becker & Poliakoff, P.A.

The Art and Culture Center of Hollywood is a vibrant, regionally distinct, contemporary visual and performing arts organization offering visual art exhibitions, theatre, music and dance performances. Educational programming includes adult and children's arts classes, after-school programs, camps and other art curriculum. The Center is committed to creating opportunities for all people to experience the visual and performing arts.

The Art and Culture Center of Hollywood gratefully acknowledges support provided by its members, the City of Hollywood, and the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency. Funding for this organization is provided by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by The Broward Cultural Council. The Center is sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs; the Florida Arts Council; and the National Endowment of the Arts through the Southern Arts Federation. 
          
For more information about the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood, visit www.artandculturecenter.org.
 
 
 PHOTO IDS

1. Posing for the camera at the Sixth Annual Crystal Vision Gala are Gala Co-Chair Gary Bitner; Art and Culture Center of Hollywood Deputy Director Joy Satterlee; Art and Culture Center of Hollywood Executive Director Cynthia B. Miller; Alan B. Koslow, Esq., Gala Co-Chair and Chair of the Art and Culture Center’s Board of Trustees; City of Hollywood Mayor and Honorary Gala Chair Mara Giulianti; and Seminole Hard Rock & Casino President and Honorary Gala Chair Doug Pattison
 2. City of Hollywood City Manager Cameron Benson was the recipient of this year’s Art and Culture Center Crystal Vision Award in the government category
 3. Lance and Megan Glaros are all smiles at the Sixth Annual Crystal Vision Gala Awards
 4. City of Hollywood Mayor Mara Giulianti presents a key to the city to entertainer Jim Belushi


Experience the World in a Day:
Discover Miami


After an early autumn thrashing by unpredictable hurricanes, Miami has regained its distinctive beat, its resilient bounce, and its vivacious energy. Miami is like no other city in the United States. From its ambitious skyscraping luxury condos to its lush shoreline, from its hard-working communities to its hopping nightspots, Miami is more than meets the eye. Discover Miami invites residents and visitors alike to imbibe the distinctive international blend of cultures that exist in the diverse communities spread throughout Miami-Dade County.

Rescheduled due to Hurricane Frances, Discover Miami will take place Saturday, December 11, from 12 noon - 6pm, showcasing five of South Florida's historic neighborhoods during simultaneous “mini-festivals” that feature music, dance and theater performances; art and craft exhibitions; and traditional foods from their particular communities. Free guided tours taking patrons to all five sites on shuttle buses, as well as circulating shuttle buses will be part of the mix as well.

The Discover Miami project is produced by Music Fest Miami, Inc. in partnership with local community-based organizations. Visitors at the five events will get a unique glimpse into what makes Miami a distinctive mosaic and true crossroads of the Americas. All five events are free and open to the general public.

In the heart of historic Little Havana, an afternoon of Latin culture will be presented by The Latin Quarter Cultural Center, 1501 SW 8th Street. Performers at the outdoor stage on SW 15th Avenue and 8th Street, will include Danzón by Six, Mariachi de Mujeres, Habana Soul, and Ife-Ile Dance Company featuring Neri Torres. The program also includes performances by Saavedra, a Colombian tropical pop group who will play their hit “Yerba Buena” and Aliviante, an all-girl band playing Guatemalan pop music. Along Calle Ocho there will be exhibitions by artists and craftspeople and local restaurants selling Latin food.

At Temple Israel, 137 NE 19th Street, north of downtown Miami off of Biscayne Boulevard, a complex with a 1920's Art Deco synagogue at its center, a Jewish program will be presented by the Temple and the Jewish Museum of Florida.  The program includes the Klezmiamians, an authentic Jewish Klezmer dance band; a play addressing anti-semitism from City Theater’s “Summer Shorts” festival, and folk dancing led by Walli Chefitz and Kabbalistic spiritual storytelling by Rabbi Mitchell Chefitz. Karina Zilberman, Temple Israel’s cantor/soloist by way of Argentina, and Alejandra Czarny, will sing Jewish music in Hebrew, Yiddish, Spanish, English, and Ladino.  In addition, there will be art and history exhibitions, and a showcase of shorts from the Miami Jewish Film Festival.
 
In Little Haiti, at the colorful Caribbean Marketplace, NE 59th Street & NE 2nd Avenue, the cultural arts group Sosyete Koukouy, in collaboration with the Haitian Artists Network Development, will present an afternoon of storytelling, book signings, art exhibitions, and Haitian music and dance.  Performers include Gifrantz and ensemble, Haitian music with a world beat; Sosyete Koukouy, traditional Haitian drumming and dance troupe; Djanaye, an up-and-coming Haitian roots group; HAYO contemporary Haitian dance group; Nene & Friends twoubadou ballad music; Koukouy-Homestead, a new dance and music ensemble with a youthful spin; and solo acoustic performances by Kiki Wainwright, Yolande Thomas, and Marcel Alexis, Pantaleon Guilbeau, and Ingrid Llera, among others.

In Liberty City, African American & Caribbean culture will be presented by the Martin Luther King Economic Development Corporation, a producer of the monthly “Soul on 7th” cultural evening, at their headquarter's courtyard, 6116 SW 7th Avenue. Performers include comedian Larry Dogg, musical sensations Jazmn, Lyfe, Nicole Henry, Expressions of Praise and Gospel Explosion, in addition to readings by Miami Masters Poetry Slam Team, with Darrell “The Blackest Man” Payne, Caheej, Scotti Boi, Will “Da Real One” (HBO Def Poet), Renea L. Moss, international spoken word artist.  There will be a fashion show featuring local designers, and arts and crafts and soul food will be for sale.

At the Shores Performing Art Theater, located on the main street of the historic Village of Miami Shores, European American/Anglo culture will be presented by The Folk Club of South Florida. The afternoon, emceed by WLRN-FM's Michael Stock, will include a diverse mix of folk, blue-grass, country, and classical music performers. The line-up includes singer-songwriters Amy Carol Webb, Grant Livingston, Rod MacDonald, Raiford Starke, Carla Ulbrich, Celtic Bridge, players of pop, rock and country, and dulcimer player John Blosser. Also performing will be the New River Boys, players of high energy bluegrass, country, and folk, and The Coral Gables Chamber Symphony who will perform North American classical and contemporary music.

Narrated bus tours hosted by special guest guides, also free and open to the public, will bring patrons to all five sites in a day of adventure and exploration. Bus tours leaving from Little Havana and Little Haiti will be bilingual in Spanish and Creole, respectively. “The goal is to bring new diverse audiences and visitors to these neighborhoods, building bridges through music and culture,” says Suzanne Mosher, Executive Director of Music Fest Miami.

The tours have been developed in collaboration with Dr. Paul George, the foremost authority on the history of Miami, Professor at Miami-Dade College, and official historian for the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, where he leads his own ever-popular history tours of South Florida's diverse communities.

Free guided tour buses leave from each site at 12:30pm, make stops at all five sites and return to the starting point at about 5pm. Make reservations for guaranteed seating by calling 305-373-0011 or register on-line at www.discovermiami.org. Space is available on the day of the event on a first-come first-served basis.

Free Miami-Dade Transit shuttle buses will circulate from 11:30am through 6:30pm between all five sites and the Brickell Metrorail station. Travel by public transit or park your car at any site (no public parking at Brickell station) and spend the day as our guest. Parking in Little Havana at on-street meters (bring quarters for meters); at Temple Israel in free parking lot on-site; in Liberty City at free City of Miami lot behind MLK building off of NW 61st Street and NW 7th Avenue; in Little Haiti on the street plus secure parking lot at Notre-Dame D'Haiti Church, corner of NE 2nd Avenue and NE 62nd Street; and in Miami Shores at on-street spaces and surface lots. Call Miami-Dade Transit’s information line at 305-770-3131 for specific public bus directions to each site.

For further information, call Music Fest Miami at 305-373-0011 or visit www.discovermiami.org.


Douglas Gardens FOUNDERS to Host a
“Symphony” in Tribute to Community Pioneers
Judge Irving and Hazel Cypen

 
 
 
Douglas Gardens FOUNDERS will mark their anniversary of philanthropic and volunteer support to the landmark Miami Jewish Home & Hospital for the Aged (MJHHA) with a 22nd Annual FOUNDERS Gala on Dec. 11 at the Fontainebleau Hilton.

With its dazzling “Symphony in White” theme, the 7pm fundraiser chaired by Humanitarian FOUNDER Shirley Harris aims to celebrate—and advance—the success of the premier support group organization for the Miami Jewish Home, which marks its 59th Anniversary on December 18. Another main highlight of the gala, which is anticipated to draw more than 500 specially invited guests and VIPs, will be a moving tribute to retired Miami-Dade County circuit court Judge Irving and Hazel Cypen, “First Couple” of the Home and tireless advocates on behalf of Florida's elderly and disabled populations.

In addition to the Cypens’ philanthropic support of varied social, medical and educational institutions throughout the state, including the Ronald McDonald House, the University of Florida and Greater Miami Jewish Federation, the Million Dollar Club FOUNDERS and have also lent their leadership skills to various organizations benefiting youth and elderly alike.

Among the honors bestowed upon Hazel and Irving Cypen (who was elevated earlier this year to Chairman of the Board Emeritus and Honorary President of the Miami Jewish Home), the Double Grand NOTABLE couple was presented with a “Big Pi” Award from Pi Lambda Phi Education Foundation in 1995. Then, in 1996, the Cypens were presented with the First Annual Community Service Award from Sunbeam Communications, Inc., owner and operator of WSVN-Channel 7 in Miami. They are also recognized at the highest Panther-level of achievement for having enrolled hundreds of FOUNDERS to the Douglas Gardens organization.

WPLG-Channel 10 personality Glenna Milberg will return as emcee of this year’s FOUNDERS Gala, featuring a surprise guest and special video tributes from U.S. Senator Bob Graham, noted broadcast journalist and co-anchor of ABC's “The View,” Barbara Walters, and other noted local community leaders.

                Also assuming high-profile leadership roles at this year's gala are: 
                * MJHHA President & CEO Harold Beck and wife Vivian Beck, who will serve as Honorary Chairmen
                *    Million Dollar Club FOUNDERS Dr. Allan and Sheila Applestein, community patron Elinore Aronovitz, former “First Lady of Florida” Mary Call Collins, Chief U.S. Bankruptcy Judge A. Jay and Elly Cristol, philanthropist Marjorie Sonderling and MJHHA board member Elayne Tendrich, all of whom will serve as Honorary Co-Chairmen
                *    MJHHA Co-Chairman of the Board Stephen H. Cypen and wife Arlyn Cypen, who will serve with FOUNDERS President/MJHHA Co-Chairman of the Board Wayne A. Cypen and wife Nicole Cypen as Co-Chairmen
                *    Levitt-Weinstein President Emeritus Al Golden and Miami Jewish Home leader Ruth Neinken, who share duties as Underwriting Co-Chairmen
                *    Well-known Aventura interior designer Stuart Geller and former Bal Harbour Mayor Estelle Stern Spiegel, who will serve as Tribute Chairmen, and
                *    Greater Miami Women's Auxiliary President Yetta Brodie, Alzheimer's Care Committee/NOTABLES Founder & Chairwoman Bella Goldstein, Next Generation President Fred Katzin, Men's Club President Jerry Potashnick, Junior Auxiliary President Jean Tesser and Latin Auxiliary President Rebecca Zeligman-Salti, who will collectively represent the Miami Jewish Home's six other fund-raising units as Support Group Co-Chairmen.

For more information on the Miami Jewish Home and Hospital for the Aged at Douglas Gardens and its FOUNDERS program, please contact Director of Development Norma A. Orovitz at 305-751-8626, ext. 2124.


Amigos for Kids Kicks Off 13th Holiday Toy Drive
in Association with THE COLLECTION

 

Amigos for Kids, a South Florida non-profit organization committed to helping abused, abandoned and less fortunate children, and THE COLLECTION, South Florida's foremost luxury automotive dealership, have collaborated to launch the 13th annual Amigos Holiday Toy Drive. All supporters who bring a new, unwrapped toy to The Boutique, in THE COLLECTION from November 17, 2004, to December 31, 2005 will receive a $25 gift certificate to The Boutique (limited to one per customer).
 
The promotion will officially kick-off on Wednesday, November 17th with a private cocktail event at THE COLLECTION. On that night, 1% of all car sales initiated and 10% of all Boutique sales will be donated to Amigos.

“THE COLLECTION is proud and honored to collaborate with Amigos for Kids™ for their annual toy drive,” said Ken Gorin, Co-Owner and President of THE COLLECTION. “It’s important for THE COLLECTION to support its local community and especially our children—the future of our city—who need all the help and hope we can offer.”


This charity toy drive, which collects more than 10,000 toys annually for over 5,000 South Florida children, is unique in that it fulfills the specific requests of needy children. Together with the help of volunteers and corporate sponsors like THE COLLECTION, Amigos for Kids collects and delivers special holiday wishes for thousands of disadvantaged children in various South Florida outreach programs.  

This year, toys will be delivered in an all day caravan with Santa Claus, celebrities and hundreds of volunteers on Sunday, December 12, 2004. Top choices on the Amigos Holiday Toy Drive wish list are bikes, Dora the Explorer, Bratz, Cabbage Patch Kids, Aquadoodle, Spider Man action figures, Power Rangers action figures Gameboy, Tamagotchi, Ms. Packman, sports equipment. Leap Frog, board games like Twister and Monopoly, Cranium, Yu-Gi-Oh Cards, clothing, gift certificates and Balloon Lagoon.

THE COLLECTION is located at the corner of Bird Road and Ponce de Leon Blvd. in Coral Gables. The three-story, 350,000 square-foot facility is the first of its kind housing seven world-class auto franchises under one roof—Audi, Porsche, Ferrari, Maserati, Aston Martin, Jaguar and Lotus. Top-quality service and parts facilities, as well as a unique high performance and accessory boutique, also are available on site. Co-owner and President Ken Gorin is a 25-year automobile industry veteran who oversees all operations of the company's seven luxury dealerships.
 
Amigos for Kids is a 501(C) 3 non-profit corporation founded in 1991 to respond to the diverse needs of South Florida's abused, abandoned, neglected and less-fortunate children. To fulfill its mission, Amigos relies on the support of compassionate volunteers and donors throughout the community. The organization creates awareness of its cause through public service campaigns, high profile fundraising events and charity efforts such as the Annual Amigos for Kids Holiday Toy Drive.
 
For further information about THE COLLECTION, call 305-444-5555, or visit www.thecollection.com. To become an Amigo by donating your time or resources to children in need, call 305-279-1155 or visit www.amigosforkids.org.


Nikki Beach to Mark Seventh Anniversary with Two-Day Celebration, Introducing Intimate New Nikki VIP Club Garden Site
 
“Kill Bill”’s Vivica A. Fox and Matchbox Twenty’s Adam Gaynor
to Host Evening Festivities

With its reputation assured as one of the world’s most celebrated luxury playgrounds, Nikki Beach will welcome its eighth year of operation with a weekend long series of events, Saturday and Sunday, December 11 and 12, jam-packed with the sophisticated high-powered entertainment for which the address, One Ocean Drive, has become internationally famous.
Launched on Saturday at 4pm with the bow of the new Nikki VIP Club located on the site of its famed garden area, host Luigi Echeverria will welcome local residents and international visitors to world-class service in which a special club menu designed by Executive Chef Jason McClain will provide lunch and dinner. A private champagne bar will offer a variety of champagnes and drinks while internationally renowned DJ Tito will provide the dynamic sounds which identify him throughout the dance world.

While traditional brunch will be served from 11am throughout the wide expanse of lounges in which guests can either dine on the patio or receive table service in teepees, curtained beds, and champagne beds, the relaxed Saturday afternoon will move into high gear at 8pm when Vivica A. Fox, star of the Kill Bill, will introduce FUNKSHION’s evening fashion show bringing on a trio of the world’s most exciting designers to showcase their collections.
First on the runaway, which will be housed under the stars in a 150-foot structure built directly on the sand, will be the classic couture of designer Julian Chang. La Perla’s lingerie and swimwear will follow, with the evening’s finale bringing on the designs of Celine whose upscale luxury fashions currently define the Parisian woman’s style, grace and elegance.

Matchbox Twenty’s Adam Gaynor will host Sunday’s 8pm fashion show introducing the unique urban-edge fashions of Diesel, followed by Custo Barcelona’s funky European style. Complementing the fashions worn by the models will be Hair by Bal Harbour’s Femme Coiffure, and make-up by Dior.
Throughout the weekend, which has customarily attracted thousands to its high-energy climate, the celebration will also mark the first anniversary of Nikki Style magazine, and the second anniversary of Nikki Music.

Since its inception in December, 2003, the slick publication has become the voice of the sophisticated jet set travelers who, in addition to South Beach’s Pearl Restaurant and Champagne Bar, and Nikki Marina and Satine restaurants at Hollywood’s Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa, make up the core of the stylish international crowd who play and vacation at Jack and Lucia Penrod’s Nikki Beach operations in St. Tropez, Marbella, St. Barths, Puerto Vallarta, and Sardinia.

Nikki Music, whose lengthy discography includes the works of the world’s most popular DJs, will also be celebrating the advent of its global distribution.
Nikki Beach is located at One Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Further information is available by calling 305-538-1111 ext. 109, visiting www.nikkivip.com or www.nikkibeach.com.


Chanukah Celebration on Lincoln Road
 

The World’s Largest Spinning Dreidel will be one of the unique attractions of this year’s Chanukah celebration on Lincoln Road. The eight days of Chanukah began on December 7th and continues through December 15th. This is the fourth year that Chabad on Wheels, Rabbi Zev Katz, has sponsored the Chanukah Celebration on Lincoln Road.  Last Chanukah season, thousands of people participated in the lighting of the Chanukah candles at this Miami Beach tradition and tens of thousand of tourists viewed these very unique Chanukah symbols.

The Menorah and Dreidel on Lincoln Road were created by shell artist Roger Abramson. The Menorah is over 11 feet tall and was built with over 15,000 seashells. The Dreidel is over 12 feet tall, weighs 1000 pounds and was created with 20,000 to 25,000 seashells. The seashells were collected on Miami Beach. The Dreidel actually spins. On each side of the Dreidel are Hebrew letters, also created out of seashells…’a great miracle happened there.’

The huge Menorah has torches that are lit each of the 8 nights of Chanukah. The lighting of the Menorah is at 6:30 each night except on Friday, December 10, when the lighting takes place at 5pm. Governor Bush, The Miami Beach Mayor, City Commissioners and other religious and community leaders are invited to light the Chanukah candles.

The Miami Beach/Lincoln Road Chanukah party takes place at the Euclid Oval, the Corner of Lincoln Road and Euclid Avenue on Sunday, December 12, at 6pm. Everyone is invited to this celebration which features hot latkes made at the festivities, famous Israeli donuts, free gifts for every child, and live music.


BAP Development Hosts Broker Brunch
to Introduce Opera Place
 Record-Setting Turnout Attributed to
Developer’s Reputation for Quality


 
 
President of BAP Development Willy A. Bermello recently welcomed close to 550 Palm Beach-area brokers to the premier introduction of his new Mediterranean-style condominium, Opera Place. 

The exclusive sit-down event at the prestigious Breakers Hotel featured a formal brunch, followed by a comprehensive presentation by Bermello highlighting the two-tower, 556-unit luxury residential development. Bermello believes the impressive attendance at the Opera Place preview event was directly correlated with the reputation his company built with its first project in that area, 610 Clematis.

“We expected the brokers to take interest in Opera Place, because they had such a positive response to 610 Clematis,” said Bermello. “The brunch was a true testament to that. I am extremely pleased with the turnout as it gave us a broad platform from which to present the product.”

The day was capped-off with three raffle drawings. Mike Kovacs of Exit Realty won two tickets to the Dominican Republic, and Matt Koleos from MAK Realty and Sylvia Ware from Coldwell Banker each won dining certificates, redeemable at upscale West Palm Beach restaurants. 

“The luncheon was exceptionally well done, as fine of a broker event as I have seen,” noted Kovacs. “What got me interested in the project is the mixed-use aspect. With Florida Stage and high-end retail integrated into the development itself, this bears the marketing of a true landmark. Opera Place will represent a turning point for West Palm Beach.”   

Head of Sales for Opera Place Lisa McKeon concluded, “We were thrilled with the unprecedented number of guests. In the days following the event, we have seen a dramatic influx of interest in terms of sales. Over 50 additional unit reservations have been made.”

Opera Place is located at 419 Lakeview Avenue in West Palm Beach. The development is expected to include a showcase of luxury amenities, in addition to ground-floor retail and a 340-seat theater that will be home to Florida Stage. Exquisitely appointed ‘pied a terres’, as well as one, two, and three-bedroom residences and lofts ranging in price from the $200s to $2 million. The project is scheduled for completion in late 2007.


A temporary sales center is located at 527 Clematis Street. For more information, call 561-659-0555.
 
 
 PHOTO IDS
 
1. Alexia Bermello, Marketing Director, BAP Development; Mr. Grenette, Grenette Services; and Willy Bermello, Developer, BAP Development  


The Q Club Resort & Residences Celebrates
Construction Progress with Going Vertical Party


 
 
 
The familiar sounds of waves crashing were temporarily muted last weekend by Salsa music and Brazilian drums. Guests danced the night away at The Q Club Resort & Residences oceanfront party, which celebrated the start of construction on the 24-story condo/hotel. 

An eclectic presentation of culinary delights, from sushi to couscous and a chocolate fondue fountain, reflected the diverse mix of guests. The development team welcomed a who’s who of South Florida, including representatives from Hilton Hotels, the company signed on to manage The Q Club, as well as brokers and buyers, to the festive party. As they entered, partygoers were greeted by an enormous sand castle and Samba dancers, costumed in traditional Brazilian dress. 

During a brief ceremony, Kevin Macklin was awarded a $2,000 gift certificate to Saks Fifth Avenue for his sales performance. To date, he has sold 88 units in the 333-unit development. Following the presentation, karate maestros, tango dancers and gaucho entertainers resumed their awe-inspiring performances.

Construction began at 505 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. in July. At present, the second floor is being poured, and topping off is expected in May.

The Q Club will offer 24-hour valet, security, concierge, a multilingual front desk, daily housekeeping, room service and laundry facilities. There will also be a deluxe pool and amenity deck overlooking the beach, an oceanside bistro and 12,000 square feet of retail on the ground floor.
                Fully furnished, finished and outfitted studios, one and two bedrooms and penthouse residences range from the mid $300s to over $2 million.
Visit the onsite sales center, call 954-727-9995, or visit www.Qclubresort.com.
 
 PHOTO IDS
 
1. Peter Hall, Sales Associate, Q Club; Barbara Cortopasso; Adriana Ponsard; Jonathan Ponsard; Zina Simon; and Gerardo Pecchia


The Related Group Launches 500 Brickell
 
 


 
The Related Group of Florida has announced the introduction of 500 Brickell, Miami’s new high-tech condominium, named for its prestigious address in the Brickell neighborhood. 500 Brickell will be a SMART building, providing residents with WiFi technology through a smart panel and touchscreen TV, to access building services, the Web, email plus music and video features. Residents will be able to relax on their balcony or by the pool while playing their favorite satellite or cable channel, CD, DVD or MP3. The system is universally compatible and portable so it can be used anywhere in the world where WiFi is available. Options to customize the system include remote controlled lighting, draperies, HVAC, and a security/webcam. The building will also feature many green building elements.

Prices for the 633 residences in the 43-story SMART building will range from the $200,000s, with sales to begin next month.

“500 Brickell is about putting the future into residents’ hands. It’s about simplifying busy routines into turn-key, luxurious lifestyles through technological advances,” notes Project Manager John Chappelear. “In design and concept, this project will bring tomorrow’s inventions within today’s realm of possibility.” 

As Miami’s financial district and the hub of international trade, the neighborhood affords professionals and urbanites living at 500 Brickell a convenient, central location. The People Mover is just across the street, and within walking distance are fine restaurants and hotels, and the newly revived Riverwalk.

The generous showcase of onsite amenities will include a Michael Wolk-designed lobby, a 20-seat private movie theater and two swimming pools: one on the rooftop and another on the 11th floor, featuring a circular infinity-edge pool and daybeds, and state-of-the-art spa & fitness center overlooking the city.  Services will include a professional full-service concierge, 24-hour valet parking and security, and In addition, 20,000 square feet of premium retail space will occupy the ground floor. Private balconies with water and city views, premium Italian kitchens and lavish master baths will be among the in-unit features and finishes.

The Related Group of Florida is a privately-held, integrated real estate development company founded by Chairman Jorge M. Perez, specializing in the innovative design of condominiums, urban mixed-use and rental properties, with real estate financing, sales and property management divisions. The Related Group reported more than $1.25 billion in annual sales in 2003, while the company’s portfolio currently includes more than $6 billion in real estate assets.  Since its founding in 1979, The Related Group of Florida has built and managed more than 50,000 units. The company is ranked the top multifamily Florida real estate developer and the third largest Hispanic-owned business in the United States. For more information on The Related Group of Florida and its developments, visit www.relatedgroup.com.
Among The Related Group’s most recognized property developments in South Florida are Portofino Towers, Murano at Portofino, Murano Grande, Ocean I, II, III and IV, The Courtyards in CityPlace and The Tower Condominium at City Place.  Current projects under development include ICON, Las Olas Beach Club, The Loft 2, The Loft Downtown, The Plaza on Brickell, Boca Grand, 50 Biscayne Blvd., The Prado, The Slade, The Moorings, Marina Village and Villa Lofts.

Related Cervera Realty Services is the exclusive sales agent, and Arquitectonica is the architect.

For more information, visit www.500brickellcondo.com.
 
PHOTO IDS
 1. 500 Brickell


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