Miami International Mall Presents the Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration

Hispanic Culture and fall fashion come alive at Miami International Mall with the Eighth Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration, created in partnership with the City of Doral, and taking place Sept. 21-22. The event is FREE and open to the public.


The community will experience the diverse cultures and flavors of various Latin American countries through colorful, energetic fashion shows and interactive entertainment as local leaders are recognized through the Hispanic Star Awards.  Miami International Mall, one of Miami’s leading shopping destinations, is currently seeking nominations for each of the coveted “Hispanic Star” awards.


On Friday, Sept. 21, the Hispanic Heritage Celebration kicks off with a culturally-inspired reception honoring the Hispanic Star Nominees in front of local dignitaries, community leaders, prominent media and special guests at the VIP Reception, which serves as the kick-off for the weekend Hispanic Heritage Celebration. The nominees will also participate in a dynamic, show-stopping presentation of the hottest fall fashion looks beginning at 7pm. A silent auction will follow with the proceeds collected being donated to Simon Youth Foundation and a local charity.


On Saturday, Sept. 22, Hispanic Heritage Celebration continues at the mall with the announcement of the Hispanic Star Award winners.  Additional weekend festivities include authentic folkloric music and fiery dance performances, country heritage exhibits, art and flag displays, live entertainment and a spirited parade of native dresses from South America, Central America and the Caribbean presented by the City of Doral.


For more information please visit www.simon.com or Miami International Mall’s Facebook page.


Miami International Mall features more than 140 nationally-recognized stores including Bath & Body Works, bebe, Cache, Express,  Hollister, Guess, Gymboree, Limited, Nine West, Victoria’s Secret Beauty and Mayors Jewelers, plus department stores JCPenney, Kohl’s, Macy’s and Sears.


Miami International Mall is located at 1455 NW 107 Ave., Doral; in close proximity to the Miami International Airport. The mall is open Mon.-Sat., 10am-9pm, and Sun., 11am-7pm.  For more information, call 305-593-1775 or visit www.simon.com.

Miami Beach Botanical Garden Hosts FREE Performing Arts Events

Miami Performance and Visual Art Festival - July 26-29

The first of its kind, this free festival will offer workshops, artist's talks, performances and parties for four days. Presented by Edge-Zones, a non-profit arts organization, live performances will be presented to the public in a participatory discourse during the four-day program. This intensive contemporary arts event will take place at three different sites: Downtown Miami, the Miami Design District, and the Botanical Gardens. 

This innovative program will explore the breaking down of boundaries between visual art, music, dance and poetry. A dynamic dialogue between time-based art practice and its documentation will occur through a comprehensive exhibition of site-reactive installations. 

At 9:30 a.m. on the 26th, the festival will start with a meet-and-greet here at the garden, with artist's talks and lunch to follow until noon. Come to the garden to pick up a schedule of events, and visit the event website here.

On the 29th, performances, installations, and discussions at the garden will start at 9:20 a.m., with a free children's workshop at 10 a.m. Events continue until 8 p.m., where you can join the party with DJ Action Pat at 150 NE 40th Street, a pop-up performance space in Miami. 

Shakespeare Under the Sun - August 4 and 11, 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily

The garden is hosting three outdoor plays produced by Arturo Fernandez of Ground Up & Rising. The first performance will be Julius Caesar, with two shows at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.  This is an hour-long, modern adaption of the Shakespearian classic. Ground Up & Rising is an award-winning,  non-profit theater organization with a vision "to replace the safe and already treaded with the avant-garde and risque." 

The producer, Arturo Fernandez, has been named as one of the Top 20 Artists Under 40 by the Miami New Times, and was given the 2010 Theater Visionary Award by the Miami ArtZine, amongst other accolades. Read more about Fernadez's performances and accomplishments here!

Start your weekend off right with a refreshing reminder of the performing talent Miami is known for. Some chairs will be provided, but everyone is encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets to sit on and enjoy the zoysia grass. For more information, 305-673-7256, Ext. 201.

Performances to follow will be Macbeth on August 26 and September 2, and Danny & the Deep Blue Sea, September 16 and 30.

For more information, please visit the Miami Beach Botanical Garden website.

Miami’s Independence Day Celebrations

CocoWalk

CocoWalk's All-Day 4th of July Celebration

July 4, 12:30pm-9:30pm. An all-day 4th of July Celebration at CocoWalk! Live Caribbean music from 12:30pm-3:30pm by entertainer Peter Berbard. The kids will enjoy the balloon twisting, face painting and 4th of July freebies from 2pm-5pm. The annual Hot Dog Eating Competition takes place at 5pm in the Courtyard, followed by Beer Pong at 6pm. Watch the fireworks at 9pm from one of the great restaurants with a view! At CocoWalk, 3015 Grand Ave., Coconut Grove, 305-444-0777. www.cocowalk.net

Miami Beach 4th of July Celebration: Fire On The 4th

July 4, noon-9:30pm. The City of Miami Beach proudly presents its annual patriotic 4th of July celebration of music and fireworks. There will be a DJ performing throughout the day starting at noon, followed by live jazz from 6pm-9pm. The fireworks get started at 9pm, but many people show up early to snag a spot on the beach and set up beach towels and chairs. No coolers or bottles will be permitted on the beach. The event is free and open to the public. At 8 Street and Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, 305-673-7577. www.miamibeachfl.gov

The view from Bayfront Park

America’s Birthday Bash at Bayfront Park 

July 4, 3pm-9:30pm. Bring the whole family to celebrate the birth of this great nation! Enjoy music, food and beverages, a free Kids’ Zone, and one of the largest fireworks displays in South Florida. The park is open all day. Free Kids’ Zone from 3pm-7pm; fireworks at 9pm. Free admission. At Bayfront Park 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., downtown Miami, 305-358-7550. www.bayfrontparkmiami.com

The Biscayne Lady

4th of July Dinner Cruise with Island Queen

July 4, 8pm-10pm. This special 4th of July dinner cruise aboard the Biscayne Lady includes an unlimited buffet and full open bar. There will be a professional DJ onboard playing dance music until the spectacular fireworks display over downtown Miami begins. Patriotic music will be played during the fireworks show. The Biscayne Lady features two ideal areas to view the fireworks, the sky deck and the front bow of the yacht. Please arrive one-hour prior to departure. The cruise departs from Bayside Marketplace, 401 Biscayne Blvd., downtown Miami. Info at 305-379-5119, Ext. 2001. www.islandqueencruises.com

Jungle Island’s 4th of July Fireworks Bash

July 4, 10am-6:30pm. This 4th of July, join Jungle Island’s salute to America’s Armed Forces with a fireworks and BBQ bash! Escape the heat and watch the City of Miami’s fireworks spectacular from the terrace of Jungle Island’s Treetop Ballroom. You will also enjoy an all-you-can-eat mouthwatering BBQ buffet, family entertainment including music and dancing, and last but not least, interactive visits from some of Jungle Island’s animal friends! Ticket info can be found here. At Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, 305-400-7000. www.jungleisland.com

The Miami Children's Museum

Miami Children’s Museum 4th of July Celebration 

July 4, 11am-3pm. Celebrate the 4th of July in style at the Miami Children’s Museum! There will be art, food, water games and more. There will even be a signing of the Declaration of Independence with Ben Franklin. At the Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Cswy., Miami, 305-373-5437. www.miamichildrensmuseum.org

The Key Biscayne Parade

Key Biscayne’s 4th of July Celebration

July 4, 11am-9:30pm. The parade will start at 11am with a flyover of jets, and proceed south on Crandon Boulevard from Harbor Drive to West Enid Drive. There will be patriotic-themed floats and marching groups. A picnic at Village Green Park (450 Crandon Blvd.) will follow at noon with food and rides for the kids, culminating with fireworks at the beach at 9pm. All events are free of charge. At locations throughout Key Biscayne, 305-361-8557. www.kb4.org

4th of July in the Grove

July 4, 4pm-11pm. Don’t miss the annual July 4th celebration and fireworks display at Peacock Park in Coconut Grove! Plan on having a fabulous time filled with food, music and patriotic cheer. At Peacock Park 2820 McFarlane Rd., Coconut Grove, 305-444-7270. www.coconutgrovechamber.com

The Barnacle Historic State Park

Old Fashioned July 4th Picnic 

July 4, 11am-4pm. Kids can participate in a historical scavenger hunt and make their own kites, toy boats and paper dolls in order to understand how different children’s lives were 100 years ago. Live music by singer/songwriter Joel Zoss from 11:30am-3pm. Pack a picnic or buy burgers, hot dogs and veggie dogs on-site. At The Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Hwy., Miami, 305-442-6866. www.floridastateparks.org

MAY Art Live On!

Before the summer fun begins, the city of Coconut Grove invites visitors to enjoy a night out with international art, hors d’oeuvres, friends and family. The Grove Gallery Walk, an event that takes place the first Saturday of each month, will continue with the May 5 event. 

The Grove Gallery Walk begins at 7pm and continues through 10pm. It is FREE and open to the public. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be made available at selected galleries, while live music at some locations.

* * * * * * * * * * *

This month RODEZArt.com Gallery (3015 Grand Avenue, Suite 237) will host the 24th annual exhibition by the National Art Exhibitions by the Mentally Ill (NAEMI), an organization dedicated to collecting, displaying and selling art by persons in recovery from mental illness. The exhibition features the works of artists from Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Spain and the United States. All 40 artworks featured in the exhibition will be available for sale with the proceeds benefiting the artists and NAEMI’s goals of helping artists from around the world.

Cristina Chacon Gallery (3162 Commodore Plaza, Suite 1f2) will feature artist Alberto González Vivo’s exhibit titled “Formas/Shapes.” His work ranges from geometric abstraction to Op art, influenced by his research on the production of artists Luis Tomasello, Julio Le Parc, Victor Vasarely, Martha Boto and Eduardo Moisset de Espanés, a generative geometry artist and creator of the Centre for Plastic Mathematical Research of Argentina. The artist’s use of light combined with geometric shapes and smart colors adds balance to his work creating effects of great magnetism.


May’s featured artist for FrameWorks Gallery (3196 Commodore Plaza) is fine art photographer Paul Marcellini. His photos capture the unspoiled scenes of wild Florida with breathtaking views of the Everglades. Through the end of May, Marcellini’s work will also be on display at the Everglades National Park Visitor’s Center.  In the past, he has been featured at the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, The Winter Park Side Walk Festival, The Santa Fe College Arts Festival and The Islamorada Fine Art Expo. 


At Boswell Mourot Fine Art (3162 Commodore Plaza), May’s exhibit will feature all of the current gallery’s artists. Boswell Mourot is solely a fine art gallery, selling original paintings, mixed media and sculptures by international, national and local artists for the established and emerging collector. Artists include Hans Feyerbend, Karen Deilke, John Allison and Diana Ashley.


The Coconut Grove Arts Festival Gallery (339 Mayfair Street, Suite 128) Meme Ferre will showcase her paintings for another month in her exhibition titled “Raw Energy / Energía Cruda.” Ferre’s pieces combine colors of the Caribbean and the iconic mysticism of India. She will also conduct a live program titled “Art Attack” during the opening, where she will paint to music.


The Jim Hunter Gallery (3390 Mary St. Suite 128) right next door will continue to feature Erika King’s retrospective collage collection, titled “Evolution of Spirit.” This exhibition displays iconic images of the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Statue of Liberty, Native Americans, angels and even Marilyn Monroe, through the use of familiar fragments of sheet music, stamps and torn foreign currency.


Art-inspired events such as these are provided by partnering galleries and the Coconut Grove BID. The Coconut Grove BID exists to improve the quality and financial success of the Grove’s commercial core. It enhances Grove parking, lighting, sanitation, marketing, and safety, as well as supporting special events. 


For more information on the Coconut Grove BID, or to see a map of participating galleries, visit www.coconutgrove.com or call 305-461-5506.

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents the 17th Annual National Children’s Theatre Festival FREE Kids Fest Family Weekend, April 28-29

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents an entire weekend of FREE theatre fun for the whole family at the 17th Annual National Children’s Theatre Festival Kids Fest Family Weekend.

Featuring activities geared toward children, Kids Fest will be held at the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables on Saturday & Sunday, April 28-29 from noon to 5 p.m. To make reservations, call 305-444-9293 or visit www.actorsplayhouse.org. Advance reservations are strongly suggested.

The festival will feature the brand new children's musical Peter Rabbit and the Garden of Doom, chosen as the winner of the 17th Annual National Children's Theatre Festival Competition.

This year's Kids Fest Family Weekend will also present several other great events and activities, including displays of magic and comedy as well as special performances of Disney on Broadway presented by Actors’ Playhouse’s acclaimed youth performing troupe, The Musical Miracles. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the creative arts through a variety of hands-on Activity Stations such as Puppet Passion, Mask Mania, Costume Creations and Video “Dress Up” Studio. Characters like Cycler the Robot, The Mad Hatter, Alice in Wonderland, Dorothy, and more will appear on the scene to take photos with guests.

Finals for Young Talent Big Dreams, the most widespread local youth talent contest in Miami-Dade County will be held following the festival at 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 28. Tickets for this event, which is modeled after the many reality TV talent shows that have gained in popularity in recent years, are just $10 for adults and children.

The Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. For more information please call 305-444-9293 or visit www.actorsplayhouse.org.

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Miami Marlins Reveal 2012 Friday Night Live Lineup: Latin Grammy Award-winning Daddy Yankee to Kick Off All-Star Lineup of Concerts

The Miami Marlins (formerly Florida Marlins) announced the first four musical acts to perform as part of the six Jiffy Lube Friday Night Live dates at Marlins Park this season. After the first Friday home game of each month, fans will be able to stay in their seats and experience a live post-game concert on the field with top recording artists and entertainers.

Puerto Rican reggaeton recording artist Daddy Yankee will launch the Friday Night Live concert series on April 13 when the Marlins take on the Houston Astros. Additional Friday Night Live acts confirmed to perform include: LL Cool J, Chino y Nacho and Flo Rida.

All 13 Friday home games will feature a pregame party on the West Plaza, including live music on the main stage, corporate partner activation areas, interactive games and entertainment. Six of the games will feature star-studded concerts, and the remaining seven games will include a post-game party on the West Plaza with live local and regional music and entertainment, food and beverage kiosks, appearances from the Marlins Energy Team and much more.  Post-game concerts are included with the price of admission to each Marlins Friday Night Live game.

Marlins Park, the home of the Miami Marlins

The 2012 Jiffy Lube Friday Night Live lineup will include performances by the following artists:

April 13 – Daddy Yankee
Daddy Yankee did more than anyone to establish reggaeton as a marketable music style during the early 21st century. Yankee's success was so phenomenal in the wake of his 2004 mainstream breakthrough album Barrio Fino, that it stands tall as the definitive reggaeton album of its time. Boasting a pair of fantastic hits, "Gasolina" and "Lo Que Pasó, Pasó," the album established the production duo Luny Tunes as reggaeton's hottest hitmakers. Barrio Fino was also the first reggaeton album to reach number one on the Top Latin Album chart, a position it held for roughly a year's time while selling over a million copies in the U.S. alone.

May 11 – LL Cool J
Born James Todd Smith, LL Cool J is a nickname that stands for "Ladies Love Cool James." He is known for romantic ballads such as "I Need Love," "Around the Way Girl" and "Hey Lover" as well as pioneering hip-hop such as "I Can't Live Without My Radio," "I'm Bad," "The Boomin' System" and "Mama Said Knock You Out". He has released 13 studio albums and two greatest hits compilations, including 2008's Exit 13.

June 8 – Chino y Nacho
Chino y Nacho are a Venezuelan reggaeton duo with a romantic, tropical style who made their album debut nationally in 2008 and later scored international chart-topping smash hits with "Mi Niña Bonita" and “Tu Angelito” in 2010. Founded in 2007, the duo is comprised of Chino (born Jesús Alberto Miranda Pérez) and Nacho (born Miguel Ignacio Mendoza). Prior to founding Chino y Nacho, they were members of the Caracas-based tropical boy band Calle Ciega. Following the incredible success of Calle Ciega, Chino y Nacho split from Calle Ciega and made their full-length album debut shortly thereafter with Época de Reyes (2008).

July 13 – Flo Rida
Not only has the Florida-born rapper become a chart fixture thanks to the blockbuster singles “Low (feat. T-Pain),” “Right Round,” “Club Can’t Handle Me” and “Good Feeling,” but he’s also broken down barriers by uniting millions of fans of pop, hip-hop, and club music around the world and establishing himself as an international, genre-busting superstar in the process. Flo brings his experiences traveling the globe to his third album, Only One Flo (Part 1).

The August 10 and September 14 musical acts will be announced soon.

For more information on Friday Night Live and to purchase tickets, visit www.Marlins.com or call 1-877-MARLINS.

City of Miami Beach Arts in the Parks presents Five Nights at the Opera

Don't miss any of the five exceptional opera films that will be shown throughout the month of March on The Wall at the New World Center during SoundScape. Films begin promptly at 7:30 p.m., and one is shown on each Thursday in March. This is a free event.

The New World Center is located at 500 17th St., Miami Beach.

March 1: CARMEN (1984) Directed by Francesco Rosi; featuring Placido Domingo and Julia Migenes

March 8: LA TRAVIATA (1983) Directed by Franco Zeffirelli, featuring Placido Domingo and Teresa Stratas

March 15: OTELLO (1986) Directed by Franco Zeffirelli, featuring Placido Domingo and Katia Ricciarelli

March 22: DON GIOVANNI (1979) Directed by Joseph Losey,  featuring Ruggero Raimondi and Kiri Te Kanawa

March 29: RIGOLETTO (1982) Directed by Jean-Pierre Ponnelle, featuring Luciano Pavarotti and Ingvar Wixell

The Florida Grand Opera will present live soloists prior to one of the screenings. Check the official website for details.

Miami Beach Arts in the Parks events feature a variety of cultural offerings such as concerts, plays, musical performances and other acts, and are free and open to the public. The Arts in the Parks program further elevates Miami Beach’s role as a leader in the cultural arts.

Arts in the Parks launched in 2006 in response to the results of community surveys and focus groups that indicated residents would like to see more free cultural events. The Miami Beach Arts in the Parks program hopes to increase the community rating of cultural activities, which is part of the City’s overall strategic plan.

The Cinema Series at SoundScape, also an Arts in the Parks program, continues its free film series on Wednesday nights at SoundScape.

For more information on Arts in the Parks visit www.mbculture.com.

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The Shops At Sunset Place’s “Living Fit! Health And Beauty Expo” With Special Guest Angelique Millis

The Shops at Sunset Place will present its “Living Fit! Health and Beauty Expo” on Saturday, February 25 from noon to 5 p.m., featuring fitness expert and lifestyle coach Angelique Millis. Many experts, services and organizations whose mission it is to educate families about the importance of healthy and balanced living will also be joining the effort. This event is free to the public and also features other fitness experts, beauty samplings, health screenings and giveaways.

Angelique Millis

Event attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy cutting-edge fitness demonstrations, healthy bites, top beauty trends, style makeovers, giveaways and much more. LA Fitness will be on hand offering free body fat percentage testing and registration for trial gym passes, Make Up Store will provide mini makeovers, Karma Couture will showcase jewelry styling tips and South Miami Dade Dermatology will provide skincare information. Plus, four local clinical centers will give information about recent research studies and offer enrollment for seasonal flu trials.

“We are excited to present this opportunity to raise awareness for healthy living,” said Tatiana Vidales, assistant director of marketing and business development at The Shops at Sunset Place. “The Shops at Sunset Place is a great place to shop and dine, as well as a community resource hosting events that help better our community.”

Angelique Millis is a Certified Fitness Expert, journalist and lifestyle coach living in Miami. As a weight loss success story, she transformed her physique by losing nearly 40 pounds and five dress sizes! She has transcended her passion for health and fitness into motivating and educating others on reaching their fitness potential. Angelique is a contributing writer to a variety of health and fitness magazines and websites including Kettlebell Magazine, Physique Magazine, Sports Nutrition Insider and Bodybuilding.com. Additional projects on the horizon in 2012 include a motivational health and fitness web channel, the “Fit in 30 Minutes” DVD Series and sharing her firsthand experience, tools and strategies for developing and retaining a strong and focused “life/work/fitness balance” through her current project entitled “How to Be in 2 Places at Once.”

For more information about The Shops at Sunset Place’s “Living Fit! Health and Beauty Expo,” please call 305-663-0482 or visit www.simon.com or www.facebook.com/ShopsAtSunsetPlace.

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Yogurtland Celebrates National Frozen Yogurt Day By Giving Away FREE Yogurt

February 6 is National Frozen Yogurt Day and to celebrate Yogurtland is offering FREE frozen yogurt for its guests!

Yogurtland, the nation’s fastest growing frozen yogurt brand, with more than 160 locations and counting, will be giving away 8 ounce cups of frozen yogurt to the first 200 guests in each participating location for one day only on Monday, February 6.

Additionally, to celebrate National Frozen Yogurt Day, Yogurtland will be serving its delicious frozen yogurt flavors in exclusive one-day only limited edition National Frozen Yogurt Day Cups and will be offering special collector’s spoons.

For those not familiar with Yogurtland, it is a pioneer in the pay-per-ounce, self-serve frozen yogurt marketplace bring the concept nationwide and is growing by leaps and bounds. For more information, you can visit www.yogurt-land.com and see a full listing of flavor and topping options; there are 16 flavors available per day and 35 different toppings.

The website includes a full list of Yogurtland locations, to find the most convenient location. There are nine locations in Southern Florida, including the one at The Village at Gulfstream Park, a shopping mall and entertainment destination in Hallandale Beach, located just a short drive from Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

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Jewish Museum Honors Florida's Jews from Poland During Florida Jewish History Month

The Jewish Museum of Florida, 301 Washington Ave., Miami Beach

       This year's observance of Florida Jewish History Month, in conjunction with the Museum's current exhibit, "Wooden Synagogues of Poland and the Florida Connection," will honor the 80% of American Jews whose origins are from Poland.
       For the January 8 kick-off event, the Jewish Museum of Florida welcomes Floridian families with Polish roots, who will share their experiences in a panel discussion. Bring family and friends to join this FREE celebration. Walk-ins welcome or RSVP to 786-972-3175 or e-mail info@jewishmuseum.com. 
       Jews have lived in Poland for more than 1,000 years. Poland was the center of the European Jewish world before World War II, when the Holocaust resulted in the death of 90% (3 million) of the Polish Jews. By preserving the memories of families, such as those on this panel, the Museum is able to keep Jewish cultural heritage alive and transmit it to future generations. 
       At the January 8 kick-off event, the Museum will award cash prizes to the winners of its statewide student creative writing contest. The Museum challenged middle and high school students to connect to their own cultural heritage, by answering the following question: "How does a place tell a story that represents your cultural heritage?"
       As part of the celebration, Joe's Stone Crab restaurant is providing their famous key lime pie, designated in 2006 as Florida's official state pie. The founders of Joe's, Joe and Jennie Weiss, were the first Jews to settle on Miami Beach in 1913. Joe's is still owned and run by the family, and has been open since 1913.
       The concept for Florida Jewish History Month began at the Jewish Museum of Florida. Founding Executive Director Marcia Jo Zerivitz worked closely with legislators to translate the Museum's mission into a statewide observance. In April 2003, Governor Jeb Bush signed a bill into that officially designated the month of January as Florida Jewish History Month. Florida is the first state in the nation to have a month dedicated to the tremendous contributions of Jews in its state. 
       The success of Florida Jewish History Month inspired the legislation for Jewish American Heritage Month, also initiated by the Museum, and observed each May, with a Proclamation signed by President George Bush in April 2006. 

* * * * * * * * * *

Rachel Kosowski, 1938.

       The family of Rachel Kosowski (Abramowitz) settled in Kosov, Poland about 300 years ago. She was born in Yanov in 1928. The family's plan to immigrate to Palestine on September 7, 1939 was thwarted by the outbreak of World War II on September 1, when Germany invaded Poland. The family was arrested and sent to Siberia.
       In 1946, they were allowed to return to Poland to vote for the Communists; however, they found severe anti-semitism and government-sponsored pogroms there. An organization called Bricha (escape) had been formed to find and bring Polish Jews to Germany on their way to Palestine. Bricha rescued Rachel's family and sent them to a DP (displaced persons) Camp. Rachel met her husband there, U.S. Army Chaplain (1st Lieutenant) Mayer Abramowitz. The couple moved to Miami Beach in 1951.

Maria (2nd from left) and son, Allan
Horowitz (3rd from left), with Russian
soldiers outside of Warsaw, 1946.

       The family of Allan Horowitz (Hall) from Krakow walked east to the Russian area in 1939, when the Germans overran the western part of Poland. In 1941, when the Germans came, the family went into hiding. After the war they were liberated.
       Father, Edmund, worked for the Polish government but was purged by the Soviets and sent to Siberia. He broke out of prison and fled to Paris with his wife, Maria. Edmund and Maria separated from their sons so that the Soviets could not use the children as hostages. The family eventually reunited and immigrated to the U.S. in 1947.   

Shomir Atzarim Zionist Organization,
Poland Hebrew School, Biala Podlaska,1939.
Alice Weinglas (2nd row, top, 1st from left)
with classmates. Only five of this
group survived the Holocaust. 

       Alice (Weinglas) Vinik was born in Biala Podlaska between the two world wars. In late 1939, when the Germans came, her family escaped to the Russian side. They were captured by Russian soldiers and forced to live and labor in the forest.
       Alice met her husband, Max Eiman from Bielsko, Poland. The family members were finally released and reunited in 1946 and returned to Poland. Due to the antisemitism and pogroms, they escaped and were smuggled across the borders.
       After time in Displaced Persons (DP) Camps in Austria and Germany, Alice came to America in 1949, and settled in Miami Beach in 1956.

Louis Schneider wearing
an "Acolyte" outfit, 1944.

       Louis Schneider's parents, Joseph and Debora, were born in Lipsko/Narol. His family was separated when his father was caught by French police in 1942. Louis' mother attempted to smuggle Louis and his sister into Switzerland, but they were caught at the border.
       While traversing northern Italy, their train was bombed by American planes and they were rescued from the wreckage by Italians. Louis spent the rest of the war hiding as "Luigi Sarto" in a Catholic monastery in Italy.
       The family miraculously reunited in 1946.

       

* * * * * * * * * * 

       The Jewish Museum of Florida is housed in two adjacent lovingly restored historic buildings on South Beach that were once synagogues for Miami Beach's first Jewish congregation. The Museum's focal point is its core exhibit "MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida: 1763 to the Present." Interesting history and art exhibits change periodically.

       Currently on display are: "Wooden Synagogues of Poland and the Florida Connection," through March 18, 2012 and "Rabbi Irving Lehrman: His Life & Art," through January 15, 2012. A Collections & Research Center, Timeline Wall of Jewish history, several films, Museum Store filled with unique items and Bessie's Bistro for snacks complete the experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

       Accredited by the American Association of Museums, the Museum is located at 301 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, and is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily, except Mondays, Civil and Jewish holidays. Admission: Adults-$6; Seniors-$5; Families-$12; Members and children under 6-Free; Saturdays-Free.

       For information please call 305-672-5044 or visit the website, www.jewishmuseum.com. 

The official logo for Florida Jewish History
Month, created by one of Miami's most
famous artists/residents, Romero Britto.

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Local, Fresh, Organic, Sustainable: Zen Village Farmer's Market

The Zen Village Farmer's Market is bringing local farmers together with the goal of providing affordable organic produce to the public.

The market is open every Sunday from 9am-3pm at Zen Village, 3570 Main Hwy., Coconut Grove. Information at 305-567-0165 and online at www.zenvillage.org.

Zen Village is a multi-cultural, united-faith organization and Buddhist temple that promotes spiritual well-being, diversity, and holistic wellness. The center offers healthy lifestyle education and wellness techniques that promote healing and self development. Zen Village's focus is to train instructors and healers to become community leaders in the holistic wellness professions with the hope of bringing on a healthier and better community. The mission of Zen Village is to teach individuals to nurture self and others by providing valuable ancient wisdom on holistic harmony in people's lives.

The goal with the Farmer's Market is to promote sustainable healthy living! Nutrition plays a big role in the cultivation of wellness. It is important to be mindful of the foods we eat.

Embracing sustainable living is a cyclic and synergistic effort. Local farmers are encouraged to do what they do best: grow healthy and organic produce free of pesticides, GMO agents, and other dangerous toxins. But most important of all, they grow them with love!

Consumers are always encouraged to eat whole foods that have been cultivated with integrity for overall good health. Hence, good nutrition is an important component for overall well-being. Thus, the farmer-consumer relationship is synergistic because the more local organically grown produce consumed, the more farmers are encouraged to continue their business at affordable prices.

Zen Village understands the importance of this relationship and offers the center free of charge to the farmers every Sunday.

A special emphasis of Asian vegetables will be showcased along with delicious foods prepared by professional chefs!

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Don't Miss the Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk This Saturday, Dec. 17

Enjoy strolling the quaint, tree-lined sidewalks of historic Downtown Hollywood while being serenaded by the sounds of a jazz saxophone, or the soft strings of a violin or harp. Take a moment to look over the shoulder of an artist painting and visit the art galleries and businesses showcasing local, regional and international artwork.


The ArtWalk takes place the third Saturday of every month, from 7pm-10pm. Please park in one of the Municipal Garages from 6am-10pm. The first two hours are FREE, and the cost is $1 per hour thereafter. Garages locations: 20th Avenue Municipal Garage (between Harrison Street and Van Buren Street), or 19th Avenue Municipal Garage (between Tyler Street & Polk Street).


Please download an event map to locate the garages and to help navigate the ArtWalk. A complete list of ArtWalk participants is below.

The Shade Post
2028 Harrison St., #102 
954-920-0029
www.ArtOfShade.com
A fashion lab and showroom for the Art of Shade, a recycled, redesigned one-of-a-kind label by designer Kayce Armstrong. Fashions from bikinis to couture gowns!


ANSU Gallery
Fine Arts | Collectibles | Gifts 
2028 Harrison St., #104
954-454-5632
www.AnsuGallery.com
Local artists show and sell their fine art. One-of-a-kind hand-painted porcelain collectibles and papier mâché sculptures. Hand-painted murals on tiles, magnets & more.


D'Art Vine
2000 Harrison St., #4
954-455-5594
www.DArtVine.com
Art gallery and custom framing.


Armando Perez Creations
Fine Artist | Jewelry Designer | Wax and Metal Sculptor
2029 Harrison St., #5
954-241-0081
www.ArmandoPerezCreations.com
Original oil paintings and jewelry designs by artist Armando Perez. Custom made jewelry and commissioned artwork.


ArtsPark Visual Arts Pavilion Gallery
One Young Circle
954-921-3500
www.HollywoodFL.org/artspark
In the Visual Arts Pavilion, visitors can enjoy demonstrations of glass blowing, jewelry making & sculpting, view rotating exhibitions and purchase original artwork.

And don't forget to stop by these amazing

Downtown Hollywood eateries & local businesses:

Cuenca's Montecristo Lounge of Hollywood
1928A Harrison St.
954-364-7660
www.facebook.com/Montecristo.Lounge
The Montecristo Lounge is a classic, relaxing and cozy members only cigar club that hosts a public "Art and Cigars" exhibition each month that attracts cigar aficionados and art lovers alike.


Niki's Café
2028 Harrison St., #103
954-920-7878
A fusion of European & Caribbean flavors ("Eurobbean") where you can enjoy the highest quality in imported cheeses and wines or a delicious plate of Latin food and ice cold beer.


Café Volare
2033 Harrison St.
954-655-5432 
Gourmet International food, fresh baked items, homemade pastas and desserts. Everything is fresh and made on the premises.


Megabite Chillout Lounge
1910B Hollywood Blvd.
954-237-2888
www.MegabiteCyberCafe.com
Chic internet lounge with live music, fanciful and exquisite food. Beer is served at 23°F and there are 20 flavors of bubble tea.


Alexandria Mediterranean Restaurant
2050 Hollywood Blvd.
954-925-4521
www.Alexandria-Restaurant.com
Offering our guests a full liquor bar, a hookah lounge, the best belly dance show every night, special VIP events and much more, all while enjoying the best Mediterranean seafood in town.


Goddess Store & Studio
2017 Harrison St.
954-929-2369
www.GoddessStore.com
Experience a variety of dance forms and yoga at our unique studio. An easy and fun way to maintain and improve your health and wellness. FREE Monthly Dance, Poetry and Art Events.


Kerry's Papery
2029 Hollywood Blvd.
954-547-3165
www.KerrysPapery.com
Invitation and stationery studio.


Comfort Zone Studio & Spa
2028 Harrison St., #101
954-923-2030
www.ComfortZoneSpa.com
Specializing in romantic couples treatments and spa parties. Customized facials, LED facial rejuvenation, a variety of massages, European waxing, natural nail services and more!


Paul Miller Hair Studio
2019 Hollywood Blvd.
954-922-9710
www.PaulMillerHair.com
Paul Miller Hair Studio features an upbeat and trendy atmosphere influenced by some of the most talented and professional hair stylists in Florida. Local and regional artists' work on display during ArtWalk (in December only).


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Magical Snowfall Returns for its 9th Year at Dolphin Mall

Dolphin Mall Rings in the Holiday Season with a Winter Wonderland in South Florida.

Dolphin Mall invites everyone to experience the ninth annual Magical Snowfall. The free winter festivities in Miami begin at Dolphin Mall at the Ramblas Plaza on Wednesday, Nov. 23, and continue into the New Year. There will be a snowfall at 7 p.m. daily, with an additional snowfall at 9 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.


Beginning Monday, December 19 there will be a 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. snowfall every day until Monday, January 2, 2012. There will be no snow on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24), Christmas Day (Dec. 25), New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31), or New Year’s Day (January 1, 2012).


In true Dolphin Mall holiday tradition, magical wands will be distributed every night to children under 12 years of age, when their parents sign up to receive the Dolphin Mall e-bulletin.

At the strikes of 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., the children will wave their wands in the air and magically the snow will return to the mall while illuminating the sky with a warm holiday glow. Youngsters can pick up their wands 30 minutes before each show. 


Dolphin Mall is an enclosed value retail/entertainment/dining destination with 240 retailers, restaurants and entertainment options. It is located just five miles west of Miami International Airport, where the Dolphin Expressway and the Florida Turnpike intersect. Shoppers can access the mall by taking Exit 27 off the Florida Turnpike. The address is 11401 NW 12 St., Miami. For information please call 305-DOLPHIN (365-7446).


Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with extended hours in the Ramblas Plaza entertainment area.


For a complete list of stores, dining and entertainment options at Dolphin Mall, please visit www.shopdolphinmall.com.


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The 15th Annual “Miracle On 136th Street” Holiday Parade at The Falls

The Falls 15th annual Miracle on 136th Street Holiday Parade will soon be marching its way into South Florida to kick off the most wonderful time of the year with a special guest starring as Grand Marshal.

Miracle on 136th Street takes place Saturday, Nov. 19 at 4pm at The Falls (Center Court), 8888 SW 136 St., Miami. More info at 305-255-4571, www.simon.com or on Facebook. The event is free and open to the public.

The celebration will include Santa’s first appearance of the season, along with internationally recognized costume characters, marching bands, motorcycles, clowns, vintage cars and local celebrities.

Parade starts at the east end of The Falls in front of Bloomingdale’s and will travel the entire length to the center, west to Macy’s.

Following the parade, The Falls officially kicks off the holiday season with the lighting of their more than one million white lights in the gardens that line the shopping area. The holiday lights will be on display through Jan. 6, 2012.

This year, the parade will benefit the United Way Center for Excellence in Early Education, an innovative learning, teaching and training initiative dedicated to elevating the quality of early care and education in Miami-Dade County and beyond.

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