The Story Matters
Tropical Mayhem p.4 Bovine Skulls, Miss Miami Beach, Funky Chandeliers and Wearable Art with Consciousness
Vol. XXV No. 05
February 4, 2010
Visit us at miamisunpost.com
TRES JOSEPHINE! SEE PAGE 12
M AY H E M P. 4
N E W S P. 6
P O L I T I C S P. 8
H I S T O R Y P. 9
C A L E N D A R P. 1 4
4 1 1 P. 1 6
B O U N D P. 1 9
M U S I C P. 2 0
F A S H I O N P. 2 2
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kim Stark kim@miamisunpost.com SOCIETY EDITOR Jeannette Stark jeannette@miamisunpost.com COPY EDITOR Mary Louise English
PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER Kim Stark kim@miamisunpost.com ACCOUNTING Sandie Friedman SALES DIRECTORS Jeannette Stark Jamie Nunez
CALENDAR EDITOR Jake Orsinni calendar@miamisunpost.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jeffrey Bradley Stuart Davidson Marguerite Gil Mary Louise English Jennifer Fragoso John Hood Joshua Malina Joe Robertson Mary Jo Almeida-Shore Kim Steiner Michael Sasser
Stuart Davidson PUBLISHER EMERITUS Felix Stark (1929-1995) WEB SITE miamisunpost.com PRODUCTION Blue Studio MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 191870 Miami Beach, FL 33119 MAIN LINE 305.538.9797
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Stuart Davidson Eitan Moshe Klein Mary Jo Almeida-Shore Marguerite Gil Ines Hegedus-Garcia Jennifer Fragoso Mitchell Zachs
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FOR ADVERTISING & RATE INFO: Please call 305.538.9797 or email kim@miamisunpost.com SUBSCRIPTIONS First class mailing subscriptions are available at $150 per year. Call 305.538.9797. Copyright: The entire contents of SunPost are copyright 2008 by SunPost Media Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or part by any means including electronic media without the express written consent of the publisher. Covering Miami Beach, North Bay Village, Surfside, Bay Harbor Islands, Bal Harbour, Sunny Isles Beach, North Miami, North Miami Beach and Aventura, Coconut Grove, Brickell Avenue, Downtown, Design District, Wynwood, Upper Eastside, and Miami Shores.
Page 2 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • Thursday, February 4, 2009 • Page 3
Tropical Mayhem BITS AND PIECES OF MIAMI LIFE
Miami through my iphone
MIAMI ENIGMA by Ines Hegedus-Garcia - miamism.com - ines@miamism.com So I stop on Rickenbacker Causeway on Key Biscayne to take a photo of the Miami Skyline to show off during Super Bowl weekend and instead find this bovine skull on the shore. Granted, there are no cows or bulls anywhere near this place, so where in the world did this come from? Maybe an enchantment of sorts (brujeria) to see who wins the Super Bowl. I'm guessing you are wishing I would have shown you the skyline photo instead.
Love and Light
Funky Chandelier
THESE ARE AMAZING. FROM ITALIAN COMPANY, ANDROMEDA COMES THE MELT MEEE COLLECTION. (KILLER NAME) THESE MURANO GLASS CHANDELIERS ARE HAND-MADE GLASS, HAVE FLUID SHAPES AND LOTS AND LOTS OF STYLE. AND, THEY MAKE THEIR DEBUT ON MIAMI BEACH AS PART OF THE FORGE’S MULTIMILLION DOLLAR, FABULOUS NEW RENOVATION. SHAREEF MALNIK HAS HIRED DESIGNER FRANCOIS FROSSARD TO REDO
AND
REFRESH
THE
ENTIRE
RESTAURANT. THEY ARE UPDATING THE MENU AS WELL. WATCH THIS COLUMN FOR A SNEAK PEEK OF THE INTERIOR! Page 4 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
ROCK STAR 22K GOLD RING WITH RUBIES. THIS IS ONE VERY PRECIOUS AND VERY SOLID RING WITH A HALF CARAT OF FACETED RUBIES. $3,800.00
This one-of-akind bracelet from Turchin Love and Light Jewelry is simply divine! Fabulous turquoise, ebony and diamonds...just what every woman wants. Each piece of jewelry is handcrafted by creative artisans and jewelers from unique artifacts found in Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Africa and India. They come with a numbered document signed by the designer. Wearable art with consciousness. We love it! Pieces start at around $75. Turchin Love and Light Jewelry, 130 NE 40th Street, Miami. 305.573.7117 or turchinjewelry.com
Miss Miami Beach Auditions Wanna be in pageants? Well auditions are now on for the next Miss Miami Beach or Miss Teen Miami Beach. Sound fun? Well, if you win, you can be Miss Florida and after that, well the sky is the limit. Why pageants? Well, it is great exposure if you want to get into broadcasting, modeling, film or government. Prizes exceed $3000 and include clothing, jewelry, trips and photo shoots. Still got your attention? Contestants will be judged in 3 categories, interview, swimsuit and evening gown. Lucky you, no talent competition and no experience required. Head to miamibeachpageants.com, complete the form by march 1st. The big night is April 18th.
www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • Page 5
News
On Location Miami Beach Cinematheque Finds Historic New Home By Michael W. Sasser Miami Beach’s landmark Old City Hall building will become home later this year to another cultural icon — the Miami Beach Cinematheque. “We’re not sure of the exact date, but it will be in summer 2010, and we’re very excited about the move and upgrade,” said Dana Keith, who founded the Miami Beach Film Society in 1993 and opened the original MBC in 2003. After a $7 million renovation, the City of Miami Beach has approved the agreement that will make the city MBC’s landlord. “The city isn’t giving it away, but they aren’t ripping us off either,” Keith said. “They’re giving us a decent deal. There are a lot of limitations on what could be done with the space from a commercial perspective. As a cultural arts institution and a nonprofit, it was a perfect match.” For the past seven years MBC, home to the MBFS and host to numerous film series and other programs, has resided on Española Way. However, the changing marketplace, MBC’s evolution and ongoing challenges with parking and exposure prompted the relocation. “We love [Española Way],” Keith said. “We’ve found ourselves very much at home here. But we’re kind of outgrowing the space. Prices are going up and that’s affected us a lot. Accessibility and parking are always issues on South Beach. Also if you’re tucked into a space like we are, it’s not always easy to find us. When the scaffolding came down [at the renovated Old City Hall], it was just perfect. One of the biggest selling points was that it has a garage right behind it.” After several months of negotiations and approvals, the deal was set for MBC to make the transition. MBC will expand its facilities to include a full photographic arts gallery space, a film museum and a café with a signature line of products to supplement its larger cinema screening room with stadium seating. In addition, the new cinematheque will boast the latest state-of-the-art high definition projection abilities in collaboration with its digital partner, Emerging Pictures, and fiber optic 5.1 Dolby Digital surround sound. Those familiar with the comfortable feel of the current MBC will find themselves equally at home at the new site. “We’re taking the seats, the library and really trying to re-create things as the cinematheque is now, because that’s what people have said they wanted,” Keith said. “Our goal is to make the interior as beautiful as the exterior.” There will definitely be upgrades, expansion and new cultural components added. Windows on the Washington Avenue side of the building will permit 24-hour viewing of the gallery. Plans call for expanded daylight programming, youth programming and cultural programming such as the Made in Miami Movie Tour. “We’ll also be able to expand for more screenings of things,” Keith said. “A lot of films should have longer runs than we’ve been able to do in the past.” The aesthetic is as important to MBC as programming. Acclaimed architect Scott Weinkle, known for his international museum and gallery designs for such clients as the Jonas Mekas Visual Arts Center in Vilnius, Lithuania, and the Film Coop and Stendhal Gallery in New York City, is spearheading the architecPHOTO: MIAMISM.COM
Page 6 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
tural design of MBC's new headquarters. Interior designer Jeffrey Barone of Bonafida Design has also signed on to become part of the project. Moreover, the MBC construction operation will be a “green project,” led by “Green Team” Chairman Jeffrey Barone, and aided by MBC partner ECOMB, the Environmental Coalition of Miami and the Beaches. “This is a very exciting project for Miami Beach because it will be a pioneer in green initiatives in the commercial interior category, and potentially the first to qualify for the green accreditation standards. MBC will also be the first green cinema in the region!” says Gabriole Van Bryce, LEED AP professional and board member of ECOMB. "We see this as a wonderful opportunity for MBC to partner with green businesses in the community interested in donating green goods or services in exchange for formal recognition for this groundbreaking project.” The green component of the project, which includes environmentally friendly materials and practices, will actually help mitigate the cost of the relocation. “That has really brought out people to support us,” Keith said. “This isn’t going to be a multimillion-dollar project. We’re just redesigning the interior. We’re getting a lot of in-kind donations. The space puts us on different radar than we have been on in the past. A lot of people are coming forward to help.” Keith did not know what the total price tag would be for the redesign, but did say the relocation is the biggest project that MBC has undertaken. Fundraising is underway. “In the meantime, we’ll remain where we are as usual for as long as possible,” Keith said. Miami Beach Cinematheque is currently located at 512 Española Way. For more information, advance tickets or up-to-date movie screening schedules, call 305-67-FILMS (305-673-4567) or visit www.MBCinema.com.
TIDBITS
PROPERTY OF THE WEEK 1415 EUCLID AVE, MIAMI BEACH. The Temple House is South Beach's largest private residence. Steps to the beach, Lincoln Road and Lummus Park. Over 16,000 SQ FT as per previous tax records. This former synagogue was transformed into an ultra contemporary residential compound over a two year period. Living quarters abound on both levels, 6,000+ SQ FT grand LOFT with appx 30 foot high ceilings, 2.500+ SQ FT outdoor terrace, two car garage + parking for 3 additional vehicles. Rooftop swimming pool. $7,500,000. Contact: Ines Hegedus-Garcia 305-206-9366 or ines@miamism.com
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Page 8 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
Politics COLUMN
The Perfect Storm of Gridlock By Jeffrey Bradley This past Monday a confluence of intemperate weather, roadway construction and existing vehicular traffic brought movement by cars on many parts of the Beach to a standstill. Tempers flared while rain lashed and engines idled, and nobody got anywhere fast. Who did not see this coming? Who does not see in it the endgame for traffic on the Beach? These locked grids are already legendary, even as they become more frequent. And in microcosm their approach is as terrible and irresistible as a Katrina-storm boiling and toiling over the ocean’s surface, pushed this way and that by capricious winds and brought ashore, at last, by steering currents of inscrutable intent. Our own slow-motion vehicular train wreck, less spectacular in the forming, will be no less merciless in the outcome...because only so many cars can fit in a limited geographical area. Let’s consult the city’s own partial traffic advisory list on its website for this week: SOUTH BEACH • Upgrades to traffic signals will be ongoing throughout the week on the following streets: 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th Streets; Española Way at Washington Avenue and Alton Road at Lincoln Road. Expect sporadic lane closures. Pedestrian access will be maintained. Equipment materials will occupy portions of the right-of-way on Ocean Court. • SOUTH POINTE NEIGHBORHOOD: Roadway reconstruction work will be ongoing throughout the week. Only local traffic and emergency vehicles will be granted access. Expect sporadic lane closures at the following streets: • 2nd Street between Washington Avenue and Michigan Avenue (north side) • 4th Street between Meridian Avenue to Washington Avenue • Jefferson Court between 5th Street and 3rd Street • Euclid Court between 5th Street and 2nd Street MIDDLE BEACH • Indian Creek Drive from 28th Street to 36th Street: The installation of the sanitary sewer system will be ongoing throughout the week from 30th to 33rd Streets. • Indian Creek Drive from 26th Street to 28th Street: The east lane will remain closed for the installation of the sidewalks in this area. Only local traffic and emergency vehicles will be granted access to the east lane. • Intersections of 27th and 28th Street and Indian Creek Drive: The east lane will remain closed for the restoration of the water main trench. Only local traffic and emergency vehicles will be granted access to the east lane. This area will be re-opened by close of business day. • Indian Creek Drive from 38th to 41st Streets: The water main in the intersection of 41st Street and Indian Creek Drive will be installed and restored. NORTH BEACH • 63rd Street and Indian Creek Drive: Equipment materials will occupy portions of the right-of-way on 63rd Street and Indian Creek Drive for the installation of a red light camera on the southbound lane. This isn’t even counting the four major events that are sure to tangle things worse’n a giant ball of yarn through February 5th. Which leads to a couple of obvious conclusions. One, except for the installation of a few sidewalks (don’t get us wrong; they’re vastly preferable to walking in the roadway itself with the cars whizzing ‘round those deadman’s curves), what, exactly, has any of this to do with making Miami Beach a safer and more secure pedestrian and bicycle mobility environment? Besides nothing, we mean. See, like a gutted shark snapping at its own innards, all this construction only further slows traffic, snarls already throttled chokepoints, and makes more miserable those foolish enough to operate a motor vehicle on a small barrier island of finite space. The obtuse maxim that things will get better by making them worse is proven again, except that all the street-widening, lane add-ons and endless speed-enhancements make nothing better, only worse. (Quick — let’s put up another eyesore parking pedestal somewhere as fast as possible, and make it a trifecta!) More and more cars, during more and more of the day, are stuck on more and more clogged roadways resembling graveyards of tires and tin that breed intolerance, frustration and mayhem. And let’s not forget our commission, in its infinite wisdom, that works so diligently with the county to curtail, truncate or otherwise eliminate Miami Beach bus routes… leaving fewer ways to get around, and a bad situation worse. As Commissioner Libbin incredulously stated — at the suggestion made during a recent neighborhoods meeting that what was really needed opposite the golf course along Alton Road were traffic-calming measures designed to facilitate pedestrian and bicycle usage — “but this is about parking.” No, commissioner; actually, it’s not. What it is about is doing differently from the failed policies that placed such an emphasis on autocentricity, and turned a walkable beachside community into an Indy 500 speedway. And — surprise! — we expect YOU and other commissioners to start taking the lead and finding a way out of this costly, unproductive morass. You wanted to be elected. Good. Now please show leadership by implementing proven methodologies that de-emphasize an archaic, misdirected autocentricity and make reality alternative forms of moving people quickly and efficiently. True, boldness, perspicacity and a stalwart faith are necessary for doing what is right. But why should we expect anything less? After all, we can always visit the zoo to see the lemmings hide one behind the other and quake rather than act. As for our perfect storm scenario, two out of three necessary conditions — too much traffic and endless construction on its behalf — already exist. All that remains to brew things up is a little inclement weather. So forget about the Saints. Who wants to lay odds on it raining?
A Special Moment in Time COLUMN
Flagler Sets His Sights on Palm Beach By Seth H. Bramson mrfec@yahoo.com
As readers of this column are now aware — and contrary to some of the myths, fables and folderol that those who enjoy perpetrating those fairy tales have verbalized or written — Henry Flagler, Florida’s empire builder and the greatest single name in the history of the Sunshine State, did not set out either to be a railroad magnate or simply to extend his railroad down the east coast of Florida to enlarge his own ego. The facts unquestionably and undoubtedly show and prove otherwise. As has been noted herein, Flagler built two of the three great St. Augustine hotels, bought the third and extended the railroad to Ormond and Daytona in order to purchase, from John Anderson and James Price, the late and beloved Ormond Hotel. With the railroad having reached Daytona, Flagler, for several years, was content to oversee his growing businesses from his St. Augustine office. But all that would change, and with the change the greatest renaissance of a region in American history would begin. Sometime in 1891 or early ’92, a visitor came to see Flagler, bringing news of a wonderful subtropical paradise down along the southeast coast of Florida. “Here,” the visitor intoned, pointing to the map on Flagler’s office wall and showing him the bulge in Florida’s east coast, “is the place THE FEC BRIDGE ACROSS where you will want to build new hotels and extend the LAKE WORTH IS SHOWN HERE ON THE RIGHT. THE railroad to.” Flagler listened carefully and after several ROYAL POINCIANA IS IN days of contemplation called Joseph R. Parrott, his rail- THE RIGHT BACKGROUND. road vice president, and James Ingraham, his land com-
missioner, into his office. “Gentlemen,” Flagler said, pointing at the very spot that had been pointed out to him, “I would like for you to make arrangements so that we may go to see this place and I would like to do so at the earliest moment available.” With travel arranged by train to Daytona and by boat and buckboard south of there, the trio embarked on a trip south in and along the Florida peninsula that can be defined as, at best, difficult. Arriving at its destination, the boat pulled up to a rickety dock on Lake Worth, and the three men eyed their surroundings with no small amount of trepidation. Noting a somewhat derelict but obviously operating hostelry, with a broken name sign in front, Flagler directed his two associates to wait for him on the somewhat beat-up, not quite worthy of the name “front porch” of the inn. They were only too happy to do so. Flagler, meanwhile, intrepidly set off to explore the surroundings, plunging headlong into the thick over-
THE PALM BEACH DEPOT IS SHOWN DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF THE ROYAL POINCIANA HOTEL. WHITEHALL (THE MANSION) AND THE WHITEHALL HOTEL ARE IN THE RIGHT BACKGROUND.
growth of an island inhabited by a pitiful few humans while nearly overrun with rodents, reptiles, foxes, raccoons, possums and various other less-thandesirable fauna. On top of that, the local flora was not exactly welcoming, but all of that made no difference to Flagler. After traipsing around and about for almost three hours, and much to the relief of Parrott and Ingraham, Flagler suddenly strode back into view. “You will,” he said to his lieutenants, “arrange for us to purchase this place and we shall take that broken-down building with the ‘Palm Beach Inn’ sign and build a magnificent hotel facing the ocean, which we will name ‘The Breakers’ and then we will build a hotel facing Lake Worth, which I want to call ‘The Royal Poinciana.’” And once the command was given, the completion of the tasks was a fait accompli. The now Jacksonville, St. Augustine & Indian River Railway (which indicated the extension south from the Halifax River) would enter West Palm Beach in 1892, followed by the openings, in 1893 and 1894, of the two great hotels. Flagler, in order to serve the hotels, would construct a rail bridge across the lake and over to Palm Beach about a mile south of where the new rail bridge would later be constructed — but more about that next week, when we look at Whitehall, Flagler’s palatial mansion, which he built as a wedding gift for his young (30 years his junior) bride, Mary Lily Kenan, of the famous North Carolina family; along with Flagler’s realization that extending the railway to the shores of Biscayne Bay would be an absolute necessity.
ABOVE: A STATIONERY LETTERHEAD FROM THE ROYAL POINCIANA HOTEL, USED DURING THE 1890'S. (SEE DATE ON RIGHT SIDE). LEFT: FEC 4-4-2 TYPE STEAM LOCOMOTIVE 64 WAS, AT THE TIME IT WAS PURCHASED IN 1905, AMONG THE RAILROAD'S HEAVIEST POWER AND WAS THE LOCOMOTIVE TYPE THAT BROUGHT TRAINS TO AND FROM PALM BEACH.
Seth H. Bramson is the Company Historian of the Florida East Coast Railway and Adjunct Professor of History at both Barry University and FIU. He is America’s single most-published Greater Miami history book author, with 12 of his 17 books dealing directly with the villages, towns, cities and people of Miami-Dade County. He can be reached at mrfec@yahoo.com.
www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • February 4, 2009 • Page 9
411 Feature COLUMN
Michael Capponi Takes Action Again By Mary Jo Almeida-Shore maryjoshore@aol.com
If there’s one man in the nightlife industry who can be counted on when the chips are down, it’s Michael Capponi. Over the past several years, he’s helped countless numbers of underprivileged and afflicted people during disasters like the Tsunami, and Hurricane Katrina and has hosted events to benefit the United Way, Red Cross, Make-A-Wish and Bay Point Schools, to name a few, not to mention the homeless food drive he hosts every Thanksgiving. So it came as no surprise that Capponi took action once again to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. In addition to loading a private jet with emergency personnel, doctors and supplies just a few days after the quake, and heading to Haiti, Capponi threw an exclusive party, “Save Haiti Saturday,” along with a few of his influential friends, at his beautiful Sunset Island home- Villa Capponi to benefit Project Medishare, which provides medical assistance to earthquake victims. At the party, Emmy award winning, Local 10 news anchor, Laurie Jennings, who spent quite some time in Haiti covering the disaster and relief efforts, stood atop a coffee table on Capponi’s rooftop and explained that on seeing the nightlife impresario in Haiti, she exclaimed, “Hey Mr. Club Man, what are you doing here?” She soon realized that Capponi was there to assemble and unite people who could help, and to call them to action. Jennings also told several stories about the horrors she witnessed and about the progress that was being made before introducing handsome and buff Miami Beach firefighter, Adonis Garcia, joking, “How did his mother know he would grow up to be an ‘Adonis’ when she named him?” Garcia joined Capponi in relief efforts, along with Dr. Barth Green, who was Skyped in live from the wreckage in Haiti, sharing touching rescue accounts and urging more assistance. Another uplifting account came from local writer, Mamie Joeveer and her husband, UN volunteer, Tarmo, who Eric and Stacy Milon emotionally recounted the story of Tarmo’s rescue after being buried for 36 hours beneath the collapsed UN building in Haiti. A long list of VIPs attended Save Haiti Saturday, including: Alan Lieberman, Shareef Malnik, Eric and Stacy Milon, Commissioner Michael Gongora, Jerry, Sandi and Jacquelynn Powers, Rich Santelises, Nick and Kelly Arison, and Dr. Frank Pierre. Grey Goose provided cocktails and Phillipe Chow, donated satays while DJ Irie spun the music. LIV nightclub, who co-sponsored the evening, hosted the official after party. At press time, Capponi was in Haiti donating his time and efforts once again. To make a donation, go to: Above: Commissioner, Michael Gongora wih stylist, Ivan Pol. Above Left: Rob Schmidt and Laurie Jennings. Left: Enrique projectmedishare.org. Ginsberg of Medishare. Right: Laurie Jennings. Far right: Shareef Malnik and Jacquelynn Powers
Page 10 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
Michael Capponi and Hope Gainor
Adonis Garcia, Tarmo Joeveer, Mamie Ward Joeveer and Michael Capponi
The Powers & Rich Santelies
$3.00 OFF HAND CAR WASH Not combined with other offer
$15.00 OFF HAND CAR WAX Not combined with other offer
$15.00 OFF A FULL CAR WINDOW TINTING
Not combined with other offer
$25.00 OFF FULL DETAIL Not combined with other offer
MVR #25108466
www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • Page 11
COVER STORY
TRES JOSEPHINE! WEAM Unveils a Show Devoted to the One and Only La Baker Written by John Hood
I
n Anglophone countries, she was known as “the Bronze Venus,” “the Black Pearl” and “the Creole Goddess.” But to the French who embraced her, she was simply “La Baker.” She was the one and only Josephine Baker, star of
stage and screen, and keeper of a multicultural family long before there even was such a thing. Born Freda Josephine McDonald to a St. Louis washerwoman, Baker left home at 13 and took her name from her second husband, whom she married at 15. By 16 Josephine was touring the United States with The Jones Family Band and The Dixie Steppers. And though she was considered “too skinny and to dark” to step up to the chorus line in the Steppers’ Shuffle Along, she nonetheless learned the part. And when a dancer fell ill she was the logical replacement. A few comedic touches later and a star was born. It was in Paris, though, at La Revue Nègre, where Baker truly came into her own renown. Dressed only in a feather skirt and graced with no inhibition, her performance became the proverbial talk of the town. When that show closed, Baker starred in La Folie du Jour at the famous Folies-Bergère Theater. It was there where she unveiled her infamous “Banana Dance.” And the rest, as they say, became history. The SunPost got with her son, Jean Claude, on the eve of the World Erotic Art Museum’s “The Life of Josephine Baker.” Baker, owner of the New York eatery Chez Josephine, has long carried the torch for his adopted mother, and he’s done much to ensure her legacy lives on. At WEAM he’ll show some of his and the museum’s extensive collection of Baker memorabilia, and speak about her early years.
Please see Baker on page 22
Calendar WHAT TO DO IN MIAMI THIS WEEK
LOS LOBOS
Page 14 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
SAVE THE DATE:
February 5
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13
SUPERBOWL - PARTY Rock ‘n Soul Sports agent Drew Rosenhaus hosts a party for Superbowl. Expect a slew of NFL players, celebs and musicians. Tommie Harris, Willis McGahee, Santana Moss, Terrell Owens, Jeremy Shockey, and Lance Briggs are slated to appear. $100 for general admission or $250 for VIP. 9pm. Hard Rock Hotel, 5701 Seminole Way, Hollywood. For info 1-800-745-3000.
February 5
SUPERBOWL - PARTY Super Bunny Friday Playboy Playmate and E! Reality TV Star, Kendra will host a "Playboy Bunny" Party at Passion Nightclub. Also an evening gown and swimsuit contest by Tropic Beauty. Hard Rock Hotel, 5701 Seminole Way, Hollywood. For info: passionnightclub.com or 954-3213443.
February 5
SUPERBOWL - PARTY Leather & Laces This celeb-heavy party is hosted by the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. Co-hosted by hotties, Kim Kardashian, Holly Madison, Roselyn Sanchez, the party will feature cool vignettes by Cirque USA performers. Music by DJ Tendaji Lathan and DJ Avi. Lounge tickets for $350 include open ultra premium liquor, beer & wine. VIP tickets for $750 include all area VIP Access, open ultra premium liquor, beer & wine, passed hors d'oeuvres and sushi. 9pm. Paris Theater, 550 Washington Ave. Miami Beach. For info: leatherandlaces.com or 800-809-1277.
At the Deering Estate join volunteer junior student naturalists and volunteers as they open the resources of the estate to the public for family story time, on-site eco-arts and crafts and science programs, with an environmentally themed topic. 10am. Free with admission to the park of $10, $5 kids 4-14. Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Palmetto Bay. FOr info: 305-235-1668, ext. 23 or miamidade.gov/parks
February 6
Ballroom meets ballet in Edward Villella's epic tribute to modern dance, Program III - The Neighborhood Ballroom. A sultry widow, a vixenish flapper, a glamorous Hollywood star and a sexy Latin nightclub dancer all vie for the attention of one man dancing the hot new dances of the day: The Waltz, Quick Step, Fox-Trot and Mambo. 8pm. $85.00. Ziff Ballet Opera House, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. For info: arshtcenter.org.
Artwork created by current and former NFL players will be
auctioned off during the Smocks & Jocks Jazz Brunch. The creative abilities of NFL players will be highlighted in this special event which brings attention to the arts and the sport of football. Ticket proceeds benefit the Gene Upshaw Players Assistance Trust Fund and the VSA arts of Florida. 10:30am. $125. Villa Vecchia, 4821 Pinetree Dr., Miami Beach. For info: 202-756-9167
BOOKS Storytime
DANCE Miami City Ballet 3
SUPERBOWL - SOCIAL Smocks & Jocks
Do not miss this fabulous gala to benefit the Voices For Children Foundation. Entertainment includes performers from Cirque Du Soleil, delish cocktails and an extraordinary silent auction. The fun begins at 7:30pm, dinner and dancing at 9pm. $500. Mandarin Oriental, 500 Brickell Key Drive. For more info: 305-324-5678 ext. 18 or voices4.org.
February 6
February 5
February 6
BE A VOICE FEEL THE MAGIC GALA
ABOVE: KENDRA HOSTS SUPER BUNNY BASH AT THE HARD ROCK . BELOW: TRACEY MOFFAT, DIPTYCH NO. 2. 2009
FOOD Todd English Celebrity Chef, Todd English will be hosting a Wine & Dine event at his Fort Lauderdale eatery, da Campo Osteria. The evening starts with a champagne and hors d'Oeuvre reception poolside. Then a 5-course dinner with Italian wines will be served. 6pm. $175. il Lugano Suite Hotel, 3333 NE 32nd Avenue Ft. Lauderdale,. For info: 954-564-4400.
February 6
MUSIC Los Lobos
Los Lobos hit Miami for a night of provocative, engaging music. With influences that range from blues to jazz, and Latin music to traditional American folk music, these East Los Angeles veterans provide unique multicultural insight in their music. 3pm. $24-$40. Magic City Casino, 450 NW 37th Ave. Miami. For info: 305-649-3000 or magiccitycasino.com
February 6
KIDS The Wizard of Oz Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Miami Children's Museum for a very cool Wizard of Oz Children’s Educational Exhibition. Travel along with Dorothy and Toto on a multi-sensory, cross-disciplinary exploration of the Land of Oz and get to know your favorite movie characters. Kids can climb a mountain to the Wicked Witch's castle, play in munchkin houses and check out authentic memorabilia from the original movie. $7.50-$15. Miami Children's Museum, 980 MacArthur Cswy. Miami. For info: 305-373-5437.
Please see Calendar on page 24 www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • February 4, 2010 • Page 15
The 411
Eva Longoria Parker, Loren Ridinger and Paulina Rubio at Market America's World Conference event Bonnie Clearwaer & Diane Lieberman at MOCA's Bohemian Bash kick-off
Emilio and Gloria Estefan attend the Market America event
COLUMN
When the Bowl’s in Town, Everybody Wins By Mary Jo Almeida-Shore maryjoshore@aol.com
Anastasia Storer, Scott Lykins, Heidi Han, Allison Chung at the Catalina
Happy days are here again! With just days to the Big Game, and the requisite parties (60 and counting), promotions, events, concerts, goodie bags, celebrity and athlete appearances and fan experiences, what’s not to love about the Super Bowl, whether or not you are a football fan? While we have yet to see events in the lineup to top the Ocean Drive magazine/ Market America Super Bowl party — voted “Best Party” of 2007, it featured concerts by Fergie, JLo and Marc Anthony, music by the late, great, DJ AM and just about every A-list celeb you can imagine — we’ve managed to put together a short list of this year’s best bowl bets.
GQ MAGAZINE WANTS YOU! GQ Magazine invites those 21 and over to the Bud Light Hotel (aka The Surfcomber Hotel) for Patron cocktails and Bud Light at the Cool Water Pool Party all day Thursday, Feb. 4, where you can expect to see a few of your favorite modeling agencies. Later that night, GQ hosts its VIP Big Pre Game Event starting at 9 p.m. RSVPs are required by emailing: RSVP4@GQ.com for the pool party and RSVP1@GQ.com for the evening party.
SPARKS ARE FLYING Janice Lipton & Joey Krutel at MOCA's Bohemian Bash kick-off at the Catalina
American Idol winner and Grammy-nominated recording artist Jordin Sparks is hosting her third annual Jordin Sparks Experience at the Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach (4525 Collins Ave.). The fun-filled week began on Feb. 3 with the Sparkstown Teddy Bear Picnic by Jordin and David Archuleta, part of a special service project involving teddy bears that David and Jordin will deliver to children at a local hospital and to SOS Children’s Villages in Florida and Haiti. Other events included a Red Carpet VIP Reception with both live and silent auctions that raised additional funds for charity, which was capped off by a concert by Sparks, Jason DeRulo, Sam Moore, Marcus Mitchell, and Ethan Bortnick. The “Experience” will conclude with a red carpet, star-studded Red, White and Black afterparty on Feb. 5. DJ Babey Drew (Chris Brown’s DJ) will be spinning the tunes all night and there will be a celebrity open mic. For a full schedule of events and to buy tickets, visit jordinsparksexperience.com or call 888-868-6157. Select tickets are still available.
Kurt Strange, Ranite Aluma, Bejamin Orozco, Joana sabella, Jesse Hopfinger at MOCA's Bohemian Bash kick-off at the Catalina
Page 16 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
PROOF’S HAITI RELIEF EFFORT On Feb. 4, Miami Dolphins running back Ricky Williams is hosting a “Haiti Relief Effort” event from 7 to 10 p.m. at his restaurant, Proof Ocean Drive (1458 Ocean Drive), in the former Table 8 space. The Ricky Williams Foundation, a not-for-profit charity led by Williams supporting national and international communities in need, has joined forces with JBF Worldwide, NFL Players Association and the ClintonBush Haiti Fund to raise money and encourage relief efforts for the numerous victims suffering from the island’s recent and catastrophic earthquake. Guests will enjoy dinner prepared by Proof Ocean Drive’s executive chef Ivan Dorvil, cocktails and live music. Football fans will also be able to bid on items such as Super Bowl XLIV tickets, jerseys worn by their favorite players, genuine NFL memorabilia and a luxury timepiece during the event’s silent and live auction. Guests are asked for a minimum donation of $100 to attend this event.
HOTEL 944 Forget the Hotel California; 944 magazine has taken over the Eden Roc (4525 Collins Ave.) for a weekend of festivities, starting on Feb. 4 at 9 p.m., with the Official Super Skins Charity Party hosted by Jimmie Johnson and Nick Lachey and featuring a live performance by Snoop Dogg. A portion of the funds from this year’s event will go to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, a charity working to provide immediate relief and long-term support to earthquake survivors in Haiti. General admission tickets cost $250, VIP tickets $500. After the party, Paul Oakenfold will be spinning in the penthouse. Russell Simmons will host a celebrity charity poker tournament at Hotel 944 on Friday, Feb. 5, at 4 p.m. in the hotel’s Jose Cuervo Platino Penthouse. The tournament will benefit Athletes for Africa, a growing global network of people leveraging the positive behaviors and profiles of sports figures to engage youth and educate them about issues facing the people of Africa. A Buy-In ticket costs $500. To get the full schedule and to buy tickets, visit: hotel944.com.
THE W HOTEL GETS IN ON THE ACTION The W South Beach has got a few hot parties going on, including: Yellow Fever presents All-American Rejects on Thursday, Feb. 4, at 10
JR Ridinger and Tony Romo
Alejandro Sanz performs at Market America
p.m. at WET and WALL; the private Tide Sport Launch with Venus Williams on Friday, Feb. 5, and the TAO Super Bowl Party, also on Feb. 5, from 10 p.m. - 4 a.m.
NFL ALUMNI PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARDS DINNER The Player of the Year Awards Dinner will take place at the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa (3555 South Ocean Drive) on Friday, Feb. 5, at 6 p.m. Joining an impressive roster of current and former players will be the honorees, 10 current NFL stars including Drew Brees (Saints), Chris Johnson (Titans), Andre Johnson (Texans), Dallas Clark (Colts), Steve Hutchinson (Vikings), Jared Allen (Vikings), Elvis Dumervil (Broncos), Patrick Willis (49ers), Charles Woodson (Packers) and Joshua Cribbs (Browns), as well as Coach Sean Payton (Saints). Awards will be presented to each honoree by a Hall of Famer who once played the same position. Don Shula will present the Coach of the Year Award. Tickets are $10,000 for a table of eight, to be shared by an NFL legend and guest. Proceeds benefit youth-oriented programs of the NFL Alumni, a charity organization with a motto and mission of "Caring for Kids." For more information, contact: 800-878-5437, ext. 212.
BIG NAMES GIVE BIG Famed Transformers and Pearl Harbor director Michael Bay will open up his home for the second annual “Big Game Big Give” cocktail and dinner benefiting The Giving Back Fund on Saturday, Feb. 6, from 8 p.m.-midnight. For merely $1,000 a head, guests can enjoy Dewars Signature cocktails and hors d’oeuvres created by Jonathan Eismann of Pacific Time and mingle with celebs including Gossip Girl's Chace Crawford, Kristin Cavallari, Jerry Bruckheimer, Ken Dorsey, Jack Del Rio (Jacksonville Jaguars), LaMarr Woodley (Pittsburgh Steelers), Michael Boley (NY Giants), Akin Ayodele (Miami Dolphins), Kim Kardashian, Maurice Jones-Drew (Jacksonville Jaguars), Chris Johnston (Tennessee Titans), Brandon Marshall (Denver Broncos) and Mike Sims-Walker(Jacksonville Jaguars). For more information and to buy tickets, call David Wilson (Miami Marketing Group) at 305-534-7101.
CARREY AND MCCARTHY’S SATURDAY NIGHT SPECTACULAR Award-winning actor and comedian Jim Carrey and actress, activist and best-selling author Jenny McCarthy are bringing the star power to the fourth annual Saturday Night Spectacular, presented by American Airlines and Texas Energy Holdings on Feb. 5 at the Bank of America Tower at International Place (100 SE Second St., Miami) to benefit the power couple’s foundation: Generation Rescue. Michael and Eva Chow of Mr. Chow restaurant will serve as event ambassadors and entertainment will be provided by Cirque USA performers. Carrey, McCarthy and a slew of celebs will participate in a charity poker mini-tournament starting at midnight, with blinds every 10 minutes,
Eva Longoria Parker and Loren Ridinger
to benefit Generation Rescue. A total of 30 contestants (15 celebrities and 15 regular folks) will vie for the “1st Annual Big Kahuna Poker Title.” The winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip for two including roundtrip air on American Airlines, accommodations at Hotel Zaza, game tickets and ground transportation to the 2011 Super Bowl in Dallas, Texas. A $10,000 donation to Generation Rescue will also be made in the winner’s name. Tickets for the party cost $1,000, which includes premium open bar sponsored by Grey Goose vodka, sushi bar, hors d’oeuvres and buffet stations provided by III Forks. Entrance into the poker tourney costs $2,500 ($7,500 for VIP poker entry). All tickets can be purchased by calling 214244-5001 or 214-922-7005. For more information, visit saturdaynightspectacular.com.
NOBU WEEKEND AT ONE BAL HARBOUR The ultra-chic oceanfront ONE Bal Harbour Resort & Spa and Japanese cuisine empire, Nobu, kicks off “Nobu Weekend at ONE Bal Harbour” Feb. 4 through Feb. 7 — just in time for Super Bowl! Reservations will be available at the pop-up beginning Thursday, Feb. 4. A limited menu will be offered including select items such as Rock Shrimp Tempura, Black Cod with Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeno, Toro Tartare and much more. Bento Boxes and Nobu cocktails will also be available at the ONE Bal Harbour pool. For reservations, please call 786-515-6006; 10295 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. Nobu Weekend at ONE Bal Harbour will serve a prix-fixe $55 lunch menu from noon-4 p.m. and a $120 dinner menu from 6-11:30 p.m. Menu items are also available a la carte.
HENNESSY BLACK Hennessy is celebrating Black History month with the release of the historic limited edition V.S. bottle, with sales proceeds going toward the National Urban league. To localize this effort, on Wednesday, Feb. 3, Hennessy made a $5,000 donation to the Greater Miami Urban League to help continue the crusade for economic empowerment in the Miami community. The donation took place at private seated dinner held at the Hennessy Black Penthouse. The dinner also served as a sneak peek at the Penthouse, which will host numerous exclusive events during Super Bowl weekend. Nestled in the heart of South Beach on Ocean Drive, the Hennessy Black Penthouse will serve as the unmatched retreat where 150 invite-only VIP guests will enjoy exquisite cocktails, delectable fare and sultry beats provided by Miami's finest DJ Irie and his roster of talent.
READY, SET, GO! SET invites you to celebrate three years, during three nights, with three unforgettable events during Super Bowl weekend. The fun is sponsored by Dom Perignon, Belvedere, Grey Goose and Moet & Chandon. On Friday, Feb. 5, Eric Milon and Michael Capponi host the official kick-off party, along with Haute Living Magazine for the Rolls Royce Super Bowl afterparty. Saturday and Sunday nights, expect guest DJs, Sebastian Ingrosso alongside Chicco Secci and Steve Angello.
ShiraGirl Performs at Market America's World Conference
TO MARKET TO MARKET Internet marketing giant Market America closed its annual world conference on Saturday with a star-studded bang as it welcomed Emilio Estefan and Alejandro Sanz to a sold-out American Airlines Arena. Estefan, a 19-time Grammy Award-winning producer and songwriter, husband of international superstar Gloria Estefan, and CEO and founder of Estefan Enterprises, addressed the crowd of 25,000 Market America UnFranchise Owners, celebrities and fellow business icons as he shared the guiding principles of his newly released book, The Rhythm of Success. Estefan conducted a book signing following his onstage appearance to a crowd of thousands of excited entrepreneurs and supporters, including Desperate Housewives’ Eva Longoria-Parker, a close friend of JR and Loren Ridinger, who head up the Market America enterprise. Both JR and Loren addressed the crowd throughout the day, detailing the many benefits of the company. Sanz, 15-time Latin Grammy Award winner and two-time Grammy Award winner, closed the conference by performing four songs including his cross-over hit “Looking for Paradise,” which includes lyrics performed by Alicia Keys. Other stars in attendance included Paulina Rubio and husband Nicolas Vallejo, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Elena Tablada, Tracy and Alonso Mourning, and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo.
CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS: Rachel Zoe and husband Rodger Berman were spotted checking out of the Mondrian on Friday afternoon. On Saturday, Miami Dolphins player Akin Ayodele was seen at a Big Brothers/ Big Sisters luncheon where he praised the importance of being a mentor. Later that night, Ayodele stopped by the Jack Brewer Foundation event co-sponsored by LSN Partners, at the Mondrian in South Beach. This event kicked off Pro Bowl Week and benefited the nonprofit One Team for Haiti. Joining Ayodele at the party was Terrell Owens sporting sunglasses and a scarf (who got as many compliments for his VH1 show as he did for his football talent), Vikings’ running back Adrian Peterson, Zack Crockett, Florida Gator Carlos Dunlap and former NFL player Barrett Green. Creed lead singer Scott Stapp was unable to attend the event as planned, having just returned from a Haiti relief mission, but sent Creed auction items to help the cause. Will Smith and Darren Sharper, safety for the New Orleans Saints, had dinner at Meat Market with friends Tuesday night. They seemed to enjoy the food and engaged guests, chatting and signing autographs. Also on Tuesday night, for the sneak peek of the buzzed-about Coco de Ville, Pauly Shore, Tyson Beckford and Amaury Nolasco got a first look at the Miami sister to the L.A. hotspot and definitely noticed the beautiful crowd that they may not get in Hollywood. The newly opened lounge is brought to us by The One Group (STK), which has brought on One Fifty to assist with the marketing, and will be bringing back the popular Favela Chic party to the beach.
www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • February 4, 2010 • Page 17
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Page 18 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
Bound COLUMN
True Blue Bohemian Harry Smith Was Unlike Any Other Ever By John Hood
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To say that Harry Smith was an ethnomusicologist would be true, but it would only be a small portion of a very much larger truth. Yes, back in ’52, Smith did compile, produce and design The Anthology of American Folk Music, which became “the Bible” for folks like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. And, as everyone concurs, the six-album, 84-song set was basically responsible for launching the Folk Movement of the ‘60s. But that landmark compilation was only a fraction of what Smith did in and for the world, though its essence is very much indicative of the kind of mind he was. Reading Harry Smith: The Avant Garde in the American Vernacular (Getty Research Institute $35), one is reminded of the man’s multifacets. But even after reading as comprehensive a book as this, one gets the impression that no amount of ink will encompass his entirety. Based on major symposia held at the Getty in 2001 and 2002, the work collects essays from some of the art world’s most recognized experts. Paul Arthur, ex of Film Comment and Cineaste and co-editor of Millennium Film Journal, and a filmmaker in his own right, clips in with “The Onus of Representation: Harry Smith, Mahagonny, and Avant-Garde Film in the ‘70s.” Thomas Crow, contributing editor to Artforum and essayist of such figures as Gordon Matta-Clark and Robert Smithson, paints us “Folk into Art: A Phenomena of Class and Culture in Twentieth Century America.” And Greil Marcus, author of numerous books, including The Shape of Things to Come (’06), The Old, Weird America (’97) and Lipstick Traces (’89), scribbles up “Uncle Dave Macon: Agent of Satan?” But experts aren’t the only ones to herald the man, the myth and the legend that was Harry Smith. Robert Frank called Smith “the only true genius he ever met”; Kenneth Anger said he was “the greatest living magician”; and Patti Smith (no relation), who came up under his tutelage, appeared in his films and included Harry in her recently released Just Kids, dug the won-
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der worker so much she just spent three nights bouncing around L.A. singing and speaking about his life and his legacy. But more than the writings included in this anthology are the copious illustrations, which do more to cement Smith’s impact than any dozen essays, no matter how expertly they’re rendered. Film stills, charts, graphs, drawings, paintings and photographs, each more compelling than the last, tell a tale of a cat as engaged with the occult as he was immersed in bohemia. A man
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Love to Write? Then the SunPost Wants You! who saw things no one else dared even dream, and put those visions to work. And if what I’ve alluded to doesn’t sway you, perhaps his designation will; that is, if one can call “filmmaker, musicologist, anthropologist, ethnographer, collector of string figures and patterns” a simple designation. No, they don’t make them like Harry Smith anymore; chances are they never really had. He was the true blue bohemian, a man with boundless curiosity and immense inspiration. As Andrew Perchuk quotes T.J. Clark in his essay “Struggle and Structure,” “The real history of the avant-garde is the history of those who bypassed, ignored and rejected it; a history of secrecy and isolation.” And if that’s the case (as surely it must be), then this devoutly composed monograph brings one of its masters to great good light. Essential Links: Harry Smith Archives: harrysmitharchives.com The Avant Garde in American Vernacular: getty.edu Getty Museum Symposium: getty.edu
We are looking for freelance contributors to write on a whole host of subjects: WINE POLITICS ART MUSIC PEOPLE THEATRE ARTS COMMUNITY KIDS SUBMIT A WRITING SAMPLE TO: kim@miamisunpost.com
www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • February 4, 2009 • Page 19
Music COLUMN
Black Eyed Peas Just Wanna Have Fun By Alan Sculley There was a time when the Black Eyed Peas were known mainly for the serious, socially conscious side of their music. Early albums such as “Bridging the Gap” and “Behind the Front” gave the group a reputation for being one of the more literate and socially aware groups in hip-hop. Even when the core trio of will.i.am, apl.de.ap and Taboo added photogenic vocalist Fergie to its lineup for the 2003 CD “Elephunk,” the group’s breakthrough hit, “Where’s the Love,” was about 9-11 and the atmosphere of mistrust, fear and aggression left in its wake. But with its two most recent CDs, Monkey Business and The E.N.D., the group has ridden light-hearted — some might say frivolous — tracks like “My Humps,” “Let’s Get It Started” and “Boom Boom Pow” to the top of the charts, growing more popular than ever along the way. While some critics have accused the Black Eyed Peas of dumbing down their music to broaden the group’s appeal, Taboo offers a different explanation. To him, the lighter side of the Peas simply reflects a trait that always been key to the group’s personality. “The thing about Black Eyed Peas is we’re very humorous,” Taboo said in a late January phone interview. “All we do is laugh all day. When we’re doing interviews, we laugh. We don’t take anything too seriously. Life is too short to be serious. We like to have fun with it. That’s why this album (The E.N.D.) is a club record. We like to go to clubs. We like to dance. We like to have a good time. We’re best friends that get to travel the world and create a movement. That’s what’s special about Black Eyed Peas.” Considering the Black Eyed Peas’ stature in the music world today, it’s hard to criticize the group if it has lightened up. The foursome has clearly struck a chord unlike any other act on the hip-hop/dance-pop scene. With worldwide sales at 26 million, the Black Eyed Peas stand as the best-selling hip-hop act in music today. The first two singles from The E.N.D. — “Boom Boom Pow” and “I Gotta Feeling” — set a record by topping Billboard magazine’s top 40 singles chart for a combined 26 consecutive weeks, the longest stretch any act had kept a grip on the number one single slot. Sales of The E.N.D. currently stand at 9 million copies worldwide, and the group just took home two Grammy Awards during the Jan. 31 ceremony — for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals (for “I Gotta Feeling”) and Best Pop Vocal Album (for The E.N.D.) Now the group is riding this wave of success into the live arena, beginning its first United States tour in three years. And Taboo said he and his bandmates are stepping up their game to match their mushrooming popularity. The Black Eyed Peas are bringing out a custom-built stage with elevators and trapdoors, a whole new lighting system and video screens — a big change from previous tours that relied on the group’s own performance skills and a live band to make an impact with audiences. “Actually, Fergie was the one that was like, ‘We want to do something big for this next album,’” Taboo said. “If we’re going to be on this futuristic 3008 vibe, we need to step up our performance. “For us, it’s something we’ve never had before,” he said. “There’s a little bit of choreography in a couple of songs with the dancers we have. It’s a little bit more of a spectacle. Four people on stage jumping around, it was great energy and we won people over for many years. But we felt the fans, the ‘Peabodies,’ deserved a better performance and a better presentation with this tour.” Fans can expect a healthy selection of songs from The E.N.D., as well as tunes from Elephunk and Monkey Business, but not much in the way of earlier material. That makes sense considering not only the popularity of those albums, but also the fact that these are the three CDs that featured Fergie, whose first solo CD, the 2006 release The Dutchess, sold 6 million copies worldwide and made her the Black Eye Peas’ most recognizable face, despite will.i.am remaining the creative engine behind the group. Page 20 • Thursday, February 4, 2009 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
Up to then, the Black Eyed Peas had only achieved minor popularity, despite critical acclaim for 1998’s Bridging The Gap and 2000’s Behind the Front. But the departure of background vocalist Kim Hill in 2000 created an opening that was filled by Fergie, who immediately assumed a prominent role in the vocal mix on the 2003 CD, Elephunk. The funky R&B track, “Where Is the Love” — which featured guest vocals from Justin Timberlake — gave the group its first major hit, reaching number eight on Billboard’s “Hot 100” singles chart. Since then, the Black Eyed Peas have been on a roll. The flirty and funny “My Humps,” from Monkey Business, put Fergie squarely in the spotlight, while another single from the CD, “Don’t Phunk with My Heart,” also went top five. Before all was said and done, the CD had gone triple platinum and established the Black Eyed Peas as one of the most popular acts on the scene. When the Black Eyed Peas convened for The E.N.D., will.i.am came to the group with an idea for bringing a futuristic spin to the group’s sound. During the preceding year, he had become enamored with the underground dance club scene in Los Angeles, where artists were mixing electronics with dance sounds. On a 2008 trip to Australia, while will.i.am was filming a role in the movie X-Men Origins: Wolverine, he found that the sound had spread Down Under. He came to the rest of the group eager to add the electro-dance element to the Black Eyed Peas. “Will, he’s such a futuristic genius,” Taboo said. “Everything that he brings to the plate is 10 steps ahead. When he brought that to the camp, he was ‘Yo, Tab, App and Ferg, this is the direction of the album. I believe in this. I know that this sound could be big. Just believe in it, understand it, research it, study it and become it.’ So me and Fergie, we were kind of like, we were hesitant at first because we didn’t know what to expect. But once Will and App brought us to the studio to see what it was like, and they took us to the clubs and we got really inspired by the pulse of the youth, they won us over.” The electronics became a primary ingredient on The E.N.D. (which stands for “The Energy Never Dies”), infiltrating everything from beats to instrumental tones to the treated vocals, and putting a whole new sheen on the Black Eyed Peas sound. Taboo noted that it wasn’t a stretch to incorporate an electro-dance edge in the Black Eyed Peas’ music — it reminded the group members of early ‘90s hip-hop and jungle music, two key original influences on their music. “The beats kind of reminded us of hip-hop beats from our era,” Taboo said. “It was more about the hardness of the beats, and how they used synthesizers, and it inspired us to kind of add the Black Eyed Peas flavor to it.”
Food REVIEW
Area 31, Downtown SCENES FROM OY VEY! MY SON IS GAY!!
By Marguerite Gil (megs@famae.org) Photos: M. Gil
The Epic Hotel is one of several new buildings that have changed the downtown Miami urban landscape. Sleek and stylish, Epic is part of Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants. Located by the Miami River, the hotel, as well as the restaurant, offers guests a breathtaking, high-rise view of Biscayne Bay, the Miami River and of course, the superstructures that are defining that downtown neighborhood. Take the elevator up to the 16th floor, turn right and walk into a seafood destination known as Area 31. According to the New York Times travel section, this restaurant is considered one of the “Six Reasons for Food Lovers to Visit Miami.” A professional wait staff immediately greets you and takes you under their gastronomic wing, introduces you to the premises, the bar, the stunning view and the menu. Chef John Critchley is young, handsome and anxious to prepare flavors that will have you begging for more. Critchley grew up on the coast of Massachusetts. He has worked in Boston (Ken Oringer’s Clio Restaurant and Uni Sashimi Bar), as well as at an oyster farm. He also opened Toro, a tapas bar, with Oringer. Now he is bringing his experience and talent to South Florida. The décor is bland and beige-ish. The tables and chairs are nondescript, although the chairs do have a slightly backward, comfortable pitch that makes it easy for 5’2” women like me not to have to sit forward on the seat in order to be part of the conversation. There is a splash of muted color in the form of a nonintrusive painting on a side wall. What Area 31 doesn’t give guests in flashy décor is definitely made up for with the delectable menu selections. And let’s face it, isn’t it all about the food? So, the chef made some of his sublime servings during my lunch visit. There is a saying in Spanish: gusto a poco. It translates as “luscious, but not enough.” In essence, when food is this good, it’s never enough. Every dish was delicious — and in unexpected ways. The local yellowfin tuna was smothered in a concoction of passion fruit juice, Peruvian pepper and citrus. The results were squared-cut slices of fresh fish enveloped in liquids that sparked the taste buds. Then came the seared Key West snapper. Critchley could also have been an innovative painter. He “painted” my plate with a light, yet slightly spicy salsa verde brush stroke, accompanied by a chestnut puree, which left the palate once again wanting more. The third course was a Florida grey dorade with roasted fennel, slightly floating in a tomato broth paired with a 2008 Vina Esmeralda white wine. Really delicious. Yummy housemade sweet bites topped the amazing lunch. Crudos include Key West pink shrimp served with a touch of deep olive oil and key limes. Oysters are marinated in a golden balsamic alligator pepper sauce. The pastas and flatbreads include linguini with littleneck clams topped with a saffron broth. Gnocchi was filled with fresh ricotta, olive oil and poached tuna Bolognese. Sandwiches include Cuban panini, hand-packed burgers with pickled veggies on a challah sesame bun and the Area 31 special club served with mahi mahi, spicy aioli, bacon, lettuce and tomato. All of the sandwiches come with French fries or a field greens salad. Ocean to table dishes include Florida striped bass, day boat swordfish, mahi mahi and wahoo. There is of course lobster grilled in brown butter, surrounded by ruby red grapefruit slices and a breath of thyme. Area 31 offers a seven-course dinner that features fresh, sustainable seafood paired with boutique wines. Beside the amazing indoor/terrace 16th floor dining area, expect all sorts of special events including boat excursions and private charters. Area 31 is located at 270 Biscayne Blvd. Way, in downtown Miami. For more information about the VIP dinners visit www.area31restaurant.com or call 305-424-5234.
Film REVIEW
Oy Vey! My Son is Gay!! By Ursa Gil (famae.org)
Oy Vey! My Son is Gay!! is a romantic comedy about a Jewish mother named Shirley Hirsch (Lainie Kazan), who just wants to find her son Nelson (John Lloyd Young) a nice Jewish girl. But, Nelson is gay and hasn’t been able to come out to his parents. Fed up with his mother’s constant matchmaking, Nelson tells his mother that he’s seeing someone. Shirley decides to investigate her son’s love interest and goes to his apartment when he’s not there. Nelson’s boyfriend Angelo Ferraro (Jai Rodriguez) answers the door claiming to be his interior decorator. Shirley also meets Sybil (Carmen Electra) the sexy centerfold who lives downstairs. Shirley assumes, that Sybil is Nelson’s mysterious girlfriend, and can’t wait to introduce her to the rest of the family at an upcoming family wedding. But, Angelo is sick of hiding and wants Nelson to come out of the closet once and for all. After a long and emotional argument with Angelo, Nelson agrees to bring his boyfriend to the wedding. The Hirsch family must now come to terms with Nelson’s sexuality. “Oy Vey! My Son is Gay!!” is written and shot like a T.V. sitcom. That is one of the reasons why it doesn’t work well as a movie, however, it would make a great television show. At times this film is very stereotypical. The movie does tend to go a little over the top with all of the gay and Jewish clichés. Lainie Kazan and Saul Rubinek are very funny and have great chemistry on screen. Unfortunately the stars of the picture, Jai Rodriguez, John Lloyd Young were not a convincing gay couple. Throughout the whole film, Young seemed very uncomfortable around his partner. This movie may be difficult for some audiences to relate to. This is a movie for older adults. There is no cursing or nudity in this film but young children and young adults won’t understand the humor and will probably find this movie boring. There isn’t anything that is truly awful about this film but, there’s nothing unique or captivating about it either. If you really want to see this movie, skip the theater and rent it on video. Directed by Evgeny Afineevsky. For additional information contact 305.674.1040 or visit miamijewishfilmfestival.com www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • January 28, 2009 • Page 21
Baker cont’d from page 13
I thought she was crazy. Where is my tip? Bellhops live on the generosity of the customers. It’s only the last seven years of her life that I became a full part of Josephine’s “Rainbow Tribe” family. By then, Joe Boullion, famous bandland leader and Josephine’s fourth husband, had become the adoptive father of Josephine’s utopic dream of universal brotherhood: ten girls and two boys of different colors, races, and religions. Then she took you on her American tour, right? I am the only one of the children who performed with her onstage. In 1973, she called me in West Berlin, where I was a recording artist, model and owner of the famous Pimm’s Club discotheque and Pimm’s Boutique,
with this irresistible bait… "My Jean-Claude, we are going to America for three months. We are going to make $3 million," she said. "Maman," I replied, "are you sure?" "Oh, there is so much money, you have no idea!" Twelve weeks later, our producer went bankrupt. SunPost: Is it true you were a 14-year-old working as a bellhop in Paris when Josephine adopted you? Jean Claude Baker: Yes, I met Josephine Baker when I was a 14-year-old bellhop at the Hotel Scribe in Paris. I went to do an errand for her, and when I came back, she asked me, “My little one, do you love your mother, little one?”
Did she take you on other tours and/or let you hang backstage when she played Paris? I performed with Josephine in France, Brazil and Germany before we came to America. I never performed with her on the Paris stage.
This was not the question to ask me. Only six months earlier, I had left my mother and three younger sisters in my village in Burgundy and came to Paris to talk to my father about providing for my education. He first abandoned us when I was seven years of age, and did so again three days later in the hotel where he lived.
Where was she performing then? She was by then an aging star. Unfortunately, her glamorous days were gone and she was struggling from one booking to another.
After listening to my story, she said to me, “Men are all the same. You have no father. From today on, you will have two mothers.” Page 22 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
Did you get to meet other stars of the era, either backstage or elsewhere?
I was flabbergasted to meet Gloria Swanson, Mae West, The Fifth Dimension, Diana Ross, Ella Fitzgerald, Maurice Chevalier’s widow, Vincente Minnelli, Johnny Mathis, as well as many African-American performers who had been in Shuffle Along (1922) and Chocolate Dandies (1923) — Freddie Washington, Maude Russell and Johnny Hudgins, friends of hers before she went to Paris and fame with the show called
Josephine she opened in Paris in 1926. She told me a lot about those cabarets she had in the 1920s in Paris, Berlin, Rio, New York in 1936. It took me 20 years to write the critically acclaimed biography Josephine: The Hungry Heart with Chris Chase, first published by Random House in 1993 and now in its fifth paperback edition. I speak before the public and talk about Josephine’s life in the context of the time in which she lived.
La Revue Negre in 1925.
Do you see echoes of her work in any contemporary singers?
You’re the 13th of her 12 adopted children, right? Could you please explain? Although I was never officially adopted, Josephine always introduced me as the 13th of her 12 adopted
Indeed, I see her work in contemporary singers, most recently by Rihanna while she was doing Saturday Night Live. It was a revelation to me — she had the je ne sais quoi. It
children. There is nothing to explain; that was Josephine’s logic.
was almost a déjà vu. Are you still in touch with any of your “siblings”? Is there anyone even half as bold as she was?
My brother Jarry, the third officially adopted member of the Rainbow
Again, Rihanna, who despite terrible abuse was bold enough to come back
Tribe, from Finland, has worked with me at Chez Josephine for the past
and not be a victim.
15 years. Two years ago, I went to visit my brother Koffi (Ivory Coast) and his wife and twin daughters in Buenos Aires. In March of 2009, I went to
How did the teaming up with WEAM come about?
Paris and met with my brother Akio (Japan), the first one adopted, then
On my many past visits to South Beach, I always found time to go to the
my brother Brian (Algeria) and later Jean-Claude Boullion-Baker
World Erotic Art Museum. I regret that it is so-called, because people are still
(France), the other Jean-Claude of the Rainbow Tribe.
uncomfortable with the word "erotic." Besides the few "erotic" artifacts on display, there are invaluable museum pieces spanning centuries, which chronicle the way the human race has survived, multiplied, evolved, and slowly open the doors of eroticism. What will be your primary focus when you speak at the show about your mother? My focus will be “Josephine Baker, Springtime of Her Life: The Forgotten Years,” those 19 years she spent in the country of her birth, America, before going to Paris. Did you contribute any of your own keepsakes? For display, I will bring letters of Josephine and Martin Luther King Jr., her passport application before going to Paris and the blue feathers she wore in Josephine, her final, triumphant performance in Paris at the Bobino Theatre. If you could pinpoint one lesson you learned from Josephine Baker, what would it be? The greatest lesson I learned from my second mother, Josephine, is “Believe in yourself, and you can make it.” Your
restaurant
Chez
Josephine is a sort of homage to your mother, and you also wrote a biography of her back
If you could pinpoint the most important thing she left the world, what would that be? Because of her courage, talent and perseverance, she left this world in 1975 a much better place to live than the world into which she was born in 1906.
in ’01. What else have you done to keep her memory in the public eye? In 1986, I opened Chez
“The Life of Josephine Baker” takes place Monday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m. at World Erotic Art Museum, 1205 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Tickets are $15; no one under 18 admitted. For more information call 305-532-9336 or log on to www.weam.com.
Josephine in New York’s Theatre District as an homage to Josephine and for the first Chez www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • February 4, 2010 • Page 23
Calendar WHAT TO DO IN MIAMI THIS WEEK
CELEB CHEF TODD ENGLISH
February 6
February 7
Miami's favorite serial killer, Dexter is the feature player in local author, Jeff Lindsay's books. His fourth novel is released today called Dexter by Design. 8pm. Free. Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. For info: 305-442-4408 or booksandbooks.com
Amid much fanfare, The New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts meet on the field for the NFL Championship. 6:30pm. Sun Life Stadium, 2269 Dan Marino Blvd., Miami Gardens. For info: superbowl.com
BOOKS Killer With Heart
SPORTS Superbowl XLIV
February 7
February 6
FOOD Mondrian Munchies
ART Artist
Catch the provocative works of Australian Artist, Tracey Moffat. Using video and photography as her chief media, she presents a chronicle that is directly based on images and memories that she A SCENE has retained from watching TV and movies during her childFROM THE hood. Moffatt gained international attention with her film Night MOVIE, WIZCries: A Rural Tragedy when it was selected for the Cannes Film ARD OF OZ Festival in 1990. Her works are held in the collections of the Tate, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Los Angeles, and The National Gallery of Australia. $6. Bass Museum, 2121 Park Avenue (between 21st and 22nd Streets), Miami Beach. For info: 305-673-7530 or bassmuseum.org
February 6
BOOKS Gerald Posner Meet Author Gerald Posner. Miami Babylon uncover the politics of Miami Beach from Carl Fisher to Crocket and Tubbs, the events that have helped create the most unique party grounds in the South. 11am. $35.00. Limited seating, Checks made payable to Biscayne DAR, must be received at the club by Tuesday, Feb. 2nd; Surf Club, 9011 Collins Ave., Surfside.
February 7
Enjoy a fabulous brunch buffet at Asia de Cuba in the Mondrian. Munch on a diverse range of delicious specialties including Chinese five spice-scented Cuban French toast, and slow-roasted Asian black pork lechón asado to name a few. $10-$11 specialty cocktails and $25 mimosas. Noon. $42. Reservations. Asia de Cuba, 1100 West Ave. Miami Beach. For info: 305-514-1940 or chinagrillmgt.com
February 10
COMMUNITY Blitz Build 2010 Blitz Build is an accelerated construction event where 2,000 people will complete ten homes over the course of two weeks. Volunteers, homeowners, and sponsors work together to build not only houses, but a better future for homeowner families and the Miami-Dade community. Blitz Build 2010 will take place in Shrader's Haven, a 22-lot community located at 15372 SW 287 St. in South Dade. For info: miamihabitat.org.
February 11 MUSIC
Haiti’s Musical Mayor Local musician, via Haiti, Manno Charlemagne will perform every Thursday at Tap Tap. The 6o-year-old singer hits the stage at 8:30pm with a songlist of politically-charged numbers. No cover. Tap Tap, 819 5th St., Miami Beach. For info: 305-672-2898 or taptaprestaurant.com
MUSIC Bluegrass Fest Where else can you see novice as well as professional bluegrass musicians playing side by side, but at the Bluegrass Festival. A monthly event that has been going on for the last 31 years. The New River Boys will be performing. Bring lawn chairs. Food and beverages will be on sale. Free. 12:30pm. Greynolds Park, 17530 W Dixie Hwy., Sunny Isles Beach. For info: 305-945-3425
February 11 ART The White Dragon FAR ABOVE: ROSELYN SANCHEZ HOSTS LEATHER & LACES AT THE CAMEO. ABOVE: PEYTON MANNING OF THE COLTS. RIGHT: HAITIAN MUSICIAN MANNO CHARLEMAGNE
Page 24 • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
Local Miami artist Phaedra Robinson discusses her large mural-sized painting, The White Dragon. Reception and lecture 6:30pm. Free. Main Library, 101 West Flagler Street, Miami. For info: 305-375-2665.
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Josephine Pampanas, P.A., GRI | Miami Beach Broker-Associate Office 305.674.4051 • Cell 305.343.0517 • Fax 305.672.1499 • Josephine@josephinepampanas.com www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • Thursday, February 4, 2009 • Page 25
Fashion LOCAL STYLE PROFILE
Style Child:
Dawn Nicole Toroker By Jennifer Fragoso (fragosofashion@aim.com) Dawn Nicole Toroker, a resident of Miami since 2002, transformed her love of clothing and accessories into a successful career, attaining management positions at Ted Baker and Bloomingdale’s. Later Dawn landed a highly sought-after position as regional coordinator for Elie Tahari and at present has made the transition from apparel to fine jewelry, working as an account executive for David Yurman. Dawn is a business-savvy industry insider with impeccable style and has taken time out of her busy schedule to talk about — what else? — fashion. Future Style Children take note: Dawn is certainly one to watch. Jennifer Fragoso: Who is your favorite fashion icon and do you emulate her style at all? Dawn Nicole Toroker: Kate Moss. She mixes high-end designer with low-end contemporary and vintage pieces effortlessly. I really appreciate Kate’s look and in some ways take the same approach to dressing myself. What is your definition of style? My definition of style is dressing effortlessly with an edge. What is your favorite trend going into Spring 2010? I love all of the nude and neutral colors for Spring 2010. I also really dig the lightweight and perforated leathers in tan and camel that were all over the runways for Spring 2010. The item jacket for spring is lightweight linen and cotton with a simpler silhouette and a softer shoulder than we saw this fall. I don’t think the shoulder pad is gone but for spring it isn’t as relevant. What is your most treasured piece of jewelry? A miniature diamond menorah pendant my mother gave me when I was 13 years old. She got it on a trip to Israel and it has become a good luck piece. I never travel without it. I really like layering sentimental pieces of jewelry with fashion pieces to create a contemporary look.
FAR ABOVE: BLACK ONYX SPLIT-SHANK RING BY DAVID YURMAN. ABOVE: SILVER ICE NECKLACE. RIGHT: PRADA PERFORATED LEATHER WEDGE.
What is your most coveted piece of jewelry? A faceted, oval black onyx cocktail ring by David Yurman. It is a really bold statement piece that looks fresh day or night. This ring is a conversation starter. Miami seems to be a David Yurman town. Since you have been working for David Yurman for almost a year now, can you elaborate on why the women of Miami seem to love this line so much? Miami is a vibrant, dynamic city that enjoys bold fashion and color. David Yurman’s jewelry always incorporates beautiful, rich gemstones with intricate design, which appeals to the discerning tastes in our city. Valentine’s Day is upon us. Apart from the usual flowers and chocolates, do you have any gift suggestions for the men of our fair city? David Yurman money clips are great gifts for men. They are an easy alternative to the wallet: lightweight, sleek and can also be personalized. A customer favorite is the Chevron money clip. Cuff links are also a perfect, timeless gift. David Yurman offers a variety of options from the Cable Classic Cigar Band to the Black Diamond Two-Row. What piece would you most want to get this Valentine’s Day? Our new Silver Ice Infinity necklace is one of my favorite pieces in the collection. It is a bold statement piece that adds something special to any ensemble. Who is your favorite RTW designer? Elie Tahari. His clothes fit both my professional style and my lifestyle. I can wear his pieces to work and then run out to dinner and feel stylish and sophisticated in either setting. It is necessary that my professional clothes carry over into my personal life because I’m always on the go, traveling for work constantly, so I don’t have a lot of time to change in between work and play. Wearing Elie Tahari allows me to look professional while still feeling sexy, sophisticated and on trend.
Page 26 • Thursday, february 4, 2010 • The SunPost • www.miamisunpost.com
FAR ABOVE LEFT AND RIGHT: DAWN NICOLE TOROKER. ABOVE: DAWN LOOKING RADIANT IN A DRESS BY DKNY. NOTICE THE DAVID YURMAN COCKTAIL RING AND JEWELRY SHE IS WEARING.
What is your favorite handbag line and why? Chanel. The bags are timeless, elegant and great investment pieces. A Chanel bag will never go out of style and can be passed down from generation to generation. What pair of shoes turns you on right now? Every season Prada always introduces a wedge that is a must-have, and this season they have a perforated leather wedge in nude that I’ve got my eyes on. What is your “go to in a pinch” item in your closet? A DVF soft linen blouse with an exaggerated shoulder detail. It is a very feminine piece that can be worn with either a pair of jeans and wedges for day or tucked into a pencil skirt with heels for night. All I have to do is load on the jewelry and go. If you had "nothing to wear," where would you go first? Why? I really believe in fashion recycling so I either shop in a friend’s closet or go to C Madeleine’s in North Miami Beach — I always know I can find something interesting in either place. Whenever I have to go shopping last-minute, I always end up returning the items I purchased so I rarely go shopping last-minute. Shopping is a way to relax for me so if I have to rush I generally don’t feel satisfied. However, if hard-pressed, I will hit consignment stores and C Madeleine’s. You do a great deal of traveling for work; how do you approach dressing for business out of a suitcase? I like to stick to the basics: a little black dress, a cardigan and ballet flats. I try to pack in three colors — black, white and grey, or black, white and tan. It is all about mixing and matching. Dawn is a talented and sophisticated woman with a style all her own. She understands the business of fashion and is able to translate trends, drive sales and look fabulous all at the same time, making her the quintessential Style Child. *To find any of the David Yurman pieces mentioned in this article, go to David Yurman, Saks Fifth Avenue or Neiman Marcus in the Bal Harbour Shops.
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www.miamisunpost.com • The SunPost • Thursday, February 4, 2010 • Page 27