Bird Day at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Bird Day at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Sunday, November 1, 2009

Interested in learning about birds? Already a “birder”? Then come to Fairchild’s Bird Day and learn from leading ornithological experts who will be available to answer your birding questions and who will give lectures on the topics listed below.
Discover our newly created James A. Kushlan Bird Trail which features five bird zones, including the hummingbird and the hawk zones. You can also buy plants that birds love, bird houses, bird baths, binoculars and more!

Activities
Learn about Florida's special birds with this year's James A. Kushlan Bird Lecturer- renowned guide and bird authority Larry Manfredi.
Enjoy talks by well known experts on: planting your very own bird habitat, the artwork of James Audubon, bird photography and the basics of birding!
Buy plants that will help you attract birds and butterflies to your yard.
Participate in bird related childrens' activities.
View birds from the Miami Museum of Science rehabilitation operation's Falcon Batchelor Bird of Prey Center. They will be bringing a Red Shouldered Hawk and an owl.

Explore the James A. Kushlan Bird Trail with expert birding guides.

Schedule
7:00 a.m. Member Bird Walk with Tropical Audubon Society Members. Meet at the Visitor Center.

9:30 a.m. Bird Walk

10:00 a.m. Roger Hammer, Bird Gardening

11:00 a.m. David Wagner, American Wildlife Art

1:00 p.m. Larry Manfredi, the James A. Kushlan Bird Lecturer will deliver the keynote address on South Florida's Special Birds.

2:15 p.m. Pedro Lastra, Photographing Birds

3:15 p.m. Joe Barros, Birding 101, followed by a bird walk

Fairchild's Bird Day is made possible by support from James A. Kushlan.

ADMISSION:

GATES OPEN: 9:30

PARKING: Visitors Entrance (North Entrance)

For more information, contact Jeremy Davit, 305-667-1651 ext. 3377, jdavit@fairchildgarden.org or www.fairchildgarden.org.

Clemencia Labin and Paula Otegui at Diana Lowenstein Fine Arts

Clemencia Labin Doping Pulpa
Paula Otegui Metaforas de la naturaleza

Diana Lowenstein Fine Arts
Saturday, October 31st, 2009

Diana Lowenstein Fine Arts is pleased to announce the solo exhibitions of Clemencia Labin and Paula Otegui. The opening reception will take place on October 31st from 7:30-10pm.

CLEMENCIA LABIN – Doping Pulpa
The art that Clemencia Labin has been working on for the past few years is brimming with moisture, fragrance and colour. It oozes tropical splendour and also winks playfully at creatures of the far-off, imaginary land of childhood: cuddly toys. The fabrics chosen by Labin in her work, cloths of all kinds with soft filling, are the same as those used for teddy bears. This element of tenderness which is connected to all things soft, snug and spongy, gives her work a warmth quite rare in the cynical, disbelieving world of contemporary art, so used to exploiting the darker, seedier side of culture.

Labin´s work not only strikes a note of tenderness, but also of fun, evident in titles such as Pulpa Chic and Doping Pulpa. Her art exudes a sense of ease and a healthy attitude of not taking itself too seriously, while simultaneously providing an in depth study, full of sensuality, tenderness and respect, working the materials with such expertise that her creations become surprising objects, in the purest sense of the word.

Her sense of fun is fully apparent in her creations, which constantly challenge formats and concepts. Are they wall sculptures or paintings with a three-dimensional element? Are they cuddly toys or are they to be admired forever on the wall of a gallery or museum?

Much is said about the influence of Pop Art in Clemencia´s work, but that is somewhat questionable. Labin´s work makes use of the ease, the humour and the colouring associated with Pop Art, but differs from it in that it is free of the inherent cynicism connected to that movement.

This exhibition takes place in an architectural space which is an elongated prism in shape for which Labin has designed an all-encompassing show: in other words, she uses the space as an interior designer or an architect would. She does not merely “hang” or position her pieces, but plans out meticulously how she is going to use the whole space.

Originally from Venezuela, Clemencia Labin studied at Columbia University and currently lives and works in Hamburg, Germany.


Project Room


PAULA OTEGUI – Metaforas de la naturaleza
Paula Otegui was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where she studied at the Escuela Superior Ernesto de la Cárcova, Instituto Universitario Nacional de Arte, as well as the Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes Prilidiano Pueyrredón. Her work has been exhibited internationally since 1995. She is the recipient of numerous awards and distinctions. Her intricately detailed paintings depicting a natural, yet fantastical world, are featured in the Project Room. As mirrored in her work, Otegui believes the world can be a complex sum, sometimes pathetic. The essential exists in the interactions. Everything occurs simultaneously, while the effects are infinite.

Exhibitions will be on view through November 25th, 2009.


Diana Lowenstein Fine Arts
2043 N Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33127
www.dlfinearts.com
Hours: Tuesday – Friday 10am - 5pm; Saturday 10am - 3pm
T. 305.576.1804 F. 305.576.1805

GET GORGEOUS: PRETTYCITY.COM AND SHAPE MAGAZINE HOST ANNUAL BEAUTY SAMPLE SALE AT NEWPORT BEACHSIDE HOTEL AND RESORT

GET GORGEOUS: PRETTYCITY.COM AND SHAPE MAGAZINE HOST ANNUAL BEAUTY SAMPLE SALE AT NEWPORT BEACHSIDE HOTEL AND RESORT

Guests Enjoy Complimentary Spa Services, On-Site Makeovers, Goodie Bags, Delicious Discounts and More!

SUNNY ISLES, FL – (October 29, 2009) – PrettyCity.com, the nation’s leading online resource for all things beauty-related, will host their Annual Beauty Sample Sale on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at The Newport Beachside Hotel and Resort (16701 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isles Beach). This is part of a nationwide series of events in partnership with Shape magazine.

With a unique take on the traditional “sample sale,” the Annual Beauty Sample Sale serves as a great way for beauty enthusiasts to stock up and save on beauty products and experience complimentary spa services and on-site makeovers.

In addition to distinctive treatments and deeply discounted sale prices on cosmetics, skin and hair care products, attendees will also enjoy complimentary cocktails, sweet treats and goodie bags from top national beauty brands. The Newport will also host a PrettyCity.com after party at Kitchen 305 with free drinks for ladies, all you can eat stone crab dinners for $35 and music by sultry songstress Angela Laino.

Previous Beauty Sample Sale cities include New York, Chicago and Milwaukee with Orlando and Tampa sales taking place this December. With more than 5,000 women in attendance at the Beauty Sample Sale in years past, the event is proving to be recession-proof as it has steadily grown since its inception three years ago. Both the New York City and Chicago Beauty Sample Sales sold out three weeks in advance this year.

“These events have been so popular largely because women consider taking care of themselves a top priority. They’re willing to spend money to look great, but they need help wading through the millions of products and thousands of services available to find the ones that truly work for them,” said Carolyn Brundage, chief executive officer and founder of PrettyCity.com. “The Beauty Sample Sale is a smart way for women to sample products and services that they’ve heard about without wasting their hard-earned dollars.”

This event is open to the public and tickets are available online for $10 at: www.BeautySampleSale.com.

About Pretty City, Inc.
PrettyCity.com is a beauty, leisure and wellness website devoted to making women everywhere prettier in some small way and richer in many big ways; by saving them money on the products and services they need to look and feel their best. The site boasts a comprehensive database of the country's top spas, salons medspas and more including editorial reviews, reader reviews and service discounts plus product reviews, beauty trend stories and more. For more information on The Beauty Sample Sale visit www.BeautySampleSale.com.

ABOUT NEWPORT BEACHSIDE HOTEL & RESORT
Nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale beaches, the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort offers guests a smart and fun way to travel with world-class amenities and more than 18,000- square-feet of event space. Located on beautiful Sunny Isles Beach, the scenic, oceanfront property is centrally located between two airports, South Beach nightlife, golf courses and world class shopping at the Bal Harbour Shops and Aventura Mall. The Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort is located at 16701 Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles Beach.

For reservations, call 305.949.1300 or toll-free at 800.327.5476, or email reservations@newportbeachside.com. For more information, visit http://www.newportbeachside.com/.

Donations of Books needed for Fairchild’s Ramble

Donations of Books needed for Fairchild’s Ramble

Coral Gables, FL, October 28, 2009—The Ramble, one of the oldest festivals in Miami, was started by Nell Jennings 69 years ago, in hopes of raising money for a much needed truck for Fairchild. Since then, Ramble has come a long way. Attracting over 50 vendors each November who sell everything from garden accessories and art to food and furniture, Ramble offers something special for everyone.

One of the most popular areas to shop is the amazing collection of items at the Old and Rare Books. In preparation for this year’s Ramble, volunteers for Old and Rare Books are busy collecting donations

“We are still in need of many more donations,” says Stuart Debenham who heads up Old and Rare Books. Debenham is happy to receive out-of-print books, non-fiction books as well as current best sellers, cookbooks, gardening books and more. Please, no text books or magazines. To arrange a donation, please contact Stuart Debenham at 305-665-8572 or email him at wdebenham@msn.com.

About Ramble
The Ramble Festival is in its 69th year and continues to be fall’s most anticipated event in South Florida. Ramble will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 20, 21 and 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables, 33156. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members. For more information, please visit www.fairchildgarden.org.

About Fairchild
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is dedicated to exploring, explaining and conserving the world of tropical plants. It is one of the premier conservation and education-based gardens in the world and a recognized international leader in both Florida and international conservation. Currently Fairchild has field programs in over 20 countries including support to protected areas in Madagascar and Africa and botanic garden development and renovation projects in South and Central America, the Caribbean and Middle East. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden houses palm and cycad collections that are nationally recognized by the American Public Gardens Association (APGA), has the world’s greatest living collection of palms and cycads; an education program reaching more than 52,000 school children per year; hosts popular events like the International Chocolate Festival, International Mango Festival and International Orchid Festival, the Ramble, concerts, affiliated plant society shows and sales and more; and, is a not-for-profit organization relying on the support of its 45,000 members and benefactors. Fairchild hosts major art events such as Mark di Suvero, Fernando Botero, Dale Chihuly and Kris Martin at Fairchild this year, Botero, Lichtenstein and Chihuly at Fairchild in 2008 and Chihuly at Fairchild in 2005 and 2006.

Fairchild is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables (Miami), Florida 33156, just a thirty minute drive from South Beach. Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members.

For more information, please visit us at www.fairchildgarden.org and on Facebook and Twitter.

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The Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration

The Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission will be hosting a Town Hall exploring Lincoln, Miami and the American Dream on Sunday, November 1 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County.

Join prominent educators, historians, elected officials and other community leaders, as they reflect on the lessons of Lincoln’s life, and discuss the impact that his life and words have on Miami today.

This event is free, but only a limited number of tickets remain. Please email lincolnlivesonrsvp@gmail.com for the promotion code so you will have a chance to attend this highly sought after event.

Moderated by Channel 4 anchorman Antonio Mora, the following respected panelists will voice their thoughts on how Lincoln’s life and words are shaping Miami more than 200 years since his birth. Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez, Miami-Dade Public Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, author and former FIU professor Dr. Marvin Dunn, John S. and James L. Knight Foundation President Alberto Ibargüen, Florida Immigrant and Advocacy Center Executive Director Cheryl Little, Sant La Haitian Neighborhood Center Executive Director Gepsie Metellus, Dade Community Foundation retired President Ruth Shack, 19th century American history professors Dr. Darden Pyron from Florida International University and Dr. Donald Spivey from the University of Miami.

Keynote speaker Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr., Director of the W.E.B. Dubois Institute for African and African American Research at Harvard University, will discuss his most recent book, Lincoln on Race & Slavery, and offer insights into how Lincoln’s legacy will continue to affect our nation in the future.

In addition, attendees will have the unique opportunity to enjoy performances by the Ambassador Chorale of Florida Memorial University and the orchestra of the New World School of Arts. Former Miami Heat player Alonzo Mourning will also read an excerpt from the work “Lincoln’s Portrait.”

Don’t forget to connect on Twitter at http://twitter.com/lincoln200yrs and on Facebook at http://facebook.com/Abraham.Lincoln.Bicentennial.Commission.

CONVERSATION WITH MADELEINE ALBRIGHT

CONVERSATION WITH MADELEINE ALBRIGHT
October 5th, 2009
Judea Temple in Coral Gables


Madeleine Albright is in her own right one of the most respected and influential women in the United States of America. Having served as a U.S. Permanent Representative for the United Nations and later being the first woman appointed as Secretary of State, she has undeniably left her mark on U.S. Politics and laws, from her strong commitment to democracy, enforcing rules and regulations on arms control as well as the promotion of human rights both nationally and internationally. In addition to her political success, Dr. Albright has also written three novels, Madam Secretary, a Memoir which was published in 2003, The Mighty and Almighty, released in 2006 as well as her Memo to the President, released in 2006, all of which have been New York Times bestsellers. Her new novel, Read my Pins, provides a first hand account into her unique pin collection, which she has used diplomatically during her post as Secretary of State. Premier Guide Miami’s Marie-Junie Pierre at Judea Temple at Coral Gables, Florida.

Dr. Albright’s memoir Read my Pins provides detailed input on how the former Madame Secretary would wear her pins based on the political figures with whom she was meeting. Although Dr. Albright did not initially start wearing a pin for an unspoken political message, she explains how the public started commenting on her pins, based on the figure with whom she was meeting, so her pin wearing started to accommodate accordingly.

Although Dr. Albright hasn’t served in a political post for the past couple of years, the political knowledge which she has amassed throughout the years will be useful for decades and politicians to come. When asked about her feelings about the current President and the issues which he is facing, Dr. Albright reiterates the issues that she had brought forth in 2006, before President Obama’s appointment as President. According to Dr. Albright, any new elected president after the era of George Bush would have to arrive at a solution for the following issues: 1) fighting terrorism without the creation of more terrorists, 2) the proliferation of new weapons, 3) the growing gap between the rich and the poor, 4) energy, environment, food security, pandemic disease, and 5) the restoration of the good name of democracy. As to her personal opinion regarding our current President and his accomplishments, Dr. Albright explains how the image of the United States of America has been bad over the past eight years. She further explains the huge efforts of the current President to convert that image into a good one by taking steps to rectify change in the Public Relations System of the United States. She goes on further to explain that President Obama is currently more popular in some countries than the actual leaders of those countries and how that image of him should be used to change the entire image of the United States of America.

Perhaps the most important issue which was brought up to Dr. Albright was the return to a civilized bipartisanship system where Democrats and Republicans can work together to create a better America. Dr. Albright explains how the media keeps the issues stirred up between the parties and how there is no accountability when it pertains to them. Although the country was built on a bipartisanship form of government, she explains how that bipartisanship has been taken to a level of non-civility between the two political parties. She also explains the efforts that President Obama has made in reaching out to the Republican party and their failure to reciprocate accordingly.

Dr. Madeleine Albright’s huge influence on American Politics as well as international politics is admirable. She currently serves on the Council on Foreign Relations Board of Directors, as Chairperson of the National Democracy Institute for International Affairs, and is currently the Professor of Diplomacy at the Georgetown University Walsh School of Foreign Service as well as various other posts which allow her to continue to share her vast political knowledge for the interest and benefit of our country. As a woman, she has paved the way for numerous other women who are interested in a career in politics and government, leaving behind a mark that will forever be engraved in American History.

To purchase "Read my Pins" visit any Books and Books store or www.booksandbooks.com.

Conversation with JAMES ELLROY

Conversation with JAMES ELLROY
SATURDAY OCTOBER 3rd, 2009
BOOKS & BOOKS (265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida, 33134.)

“I am a literary executor and an agent provocateur. I did what I did and saw what I saw and learned my way through to the rest of the story. Scriptural Pure Voracity and scandal red carcass, that conjunction gives it its sizzle. You carry the seed of Phillip within you already. You recall the time, this mirror that captures and sends conspiracy. I am here to tell you that it is all true and not at all what you think. You will read with some reluctance and capitulate in the end. The following pages will force you to succumb. I am going to tell you everything.”

These are a few excerpts from James Ellroy’s new novel, Blood’s A Rover, which was released on September 22nd, 2009. The author who also wrote, The Black Dahlia, L.A. Confidential as well as The Big Nowhere has earned nationwide success and acclaim for his work, which are often written in telegraphic prose style, a style of writing where words are omitted and one uses short staccato sentences. Premier Guide Miami’s Marie-Junie Pierre had a chance to conduct a one on one interview with Mr. Ellroy, otherwise known as the “Demon Dog of American Crime Fiction”, at Books & Books, located at 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, where he was doing a reading and signing of his new novel.

PGM: Your novels have been hugely concentrated on crime, politics, and history and often contains a combination of all three. How did this influence come about?

JE: I’ve always sensed when I was a kid that there was a guy outside of the courts, or the cars with a gun and a briefcase so what I wanted to do was show this guy, the unsung legbreaker who implements public policy at its lowest level. I always had a sense of history outside the frame of my consciousness as it was going on 40 years ago. It took me 40 years to think of it but now that I am older, I have a sense of what it all means.

PGM: Tell me a little bit more about your new novel, Blood’s A Rover. How does it compare to your previous work?

JE: Well, there are definitely more women in this novel as well as more diversity of character and motive. The style is more explicated and the novel is more reader friendly.

PGM: I definitely look forward to reading it. Is there any particular author whom you feel has influenced your work in any shape or form including this novel?

JE: Well, I would definitely say Don DeLillo and his novel, Libra.

PGM: “Libra”was certainly a very interesting perception of the Kennedy Assassination. Are there any projects that you are working on for release in the near future?

JE: Yes. My memoir, “The Hilliker Curse” is coming out next fall.

PGM: I look forward to reading it. Can you give your readers a little bit more information as to what this memoir will be about?

JE: It’s about women and me.

PGM: Thank you so much for meeting with Premier Guide, Mr. Ellroy. We wish you the best of luck.



To purchase a copy of James Ellroy's novel, please visit any Books & Books location or online at www.booksandbooks.com.

Sean Paul First Pitch at the Marlins Game at Landshark Stadium

Sean Paul First Pitch at the Marlins Game at Landshark Stadium

Sean Paul is in his own rights one of the most successful Jamaican Artists to ever top the U.S. Charts. Rising from the dancehalls of Kingston to full-fledged international stardom, Sean has played a major role in bringing dancehall to international mainstream. With more than 10 million albums sold, a Grammy, two billboard awards, and smash hits from collaborations with artists like Beyonce, Rihanna and Blu Cantrell, it’s hard not to feel a bit star-struck when one first meets Sean Paul. Despite his amazing success, however, Sean Paul is surprisingly humble. As he walks inside the Marlins Stadium clad in jeans and a tee shirt, he smilingly greets his fans like he would greet a well known friend or a member of his entourage. Sean makes no hesitations when shaking the hand of a hysteric female fan who jumps from the crowd just to hold his hand and repeatedly yell out how much she loves him. His bodyguard takes notice of the woman and keeps her in eyesight but Sean seems unaware of his stardom and his effect on the crowd. A smile lits up his face when the father of the nine year old boy whose baseball he’s signing asks him to turn around and pose for a picture with the little boy in front of him, who may very well be Sean Paul's biggest fan. Premier Guide Miami’s Marie-Junie Pierre got the chance to conduct a one on one interview with the internationally acclaimed star after his first pitch at the Marlins Game.

PGM: Sean, thank you so much for meeting with Premier Guide Miami tonight. First of all, how was the game?

SP: It was great. It was actually my first time playing baseball but I remembered shooting mangoes from the trees in Jamaica and I pretended like I was doing the same thing so I just went for it.

PGM: I’m really happy to hear that you enjoyed yourself. Now speaking of Jamaica, you come from a family of swimmers from there and your parents were polo swimmers. Is that correct?

SP: Yes. They were. My grandfather was a polo swimmer and he used to participate in competitions. My mother was also a swimmer.

PGM: Having come from a family of swimmers and being an avid swimmer yourself until the age of 21, what was it like making a leap from swimming to music?

SP: It wasn’t really a leap. I had reached a point where swimming had become a pastime for me. I wasn’t winning any competitions and all my friends were going away to college. Music had always been my passion so I made the decision to pursue a career in the music industry.

PGM: You’ve had a lot of success with your previous albums. Your new album, Imperial Blaze was released on August, 2009. Tell me a little bit more about this album. Why “Imperial Blaze”? What is the meaning behind the title?

SP: Imperial Blaze to me, means the “King of Fire”, like the fire that’s inside of me, where my energy and my music originate.

PGM: That’s a very interesting perception. What should we expect from this album as opposed to your previous albums?

SP: My previous albums were about partying but I think this album differs because it is a lot more personal. A lot of tracks on this album are about relationships and not just my own relationships but more precisely the relationships between men and women in general.

PGM: How do you think you have evolved as an artist in this album? How has your music evolved?

SP: I have evolved a lot technically music-wise. I’ve been working with younger generations in producing music and utilizing protools which enables me to do a lot more in terms of mixing and modernizing music. Recording has greatly evolved throughout the years, starting from tapes, to analog and now digital and kids growing up in this digital world are able to do a lot with it. They are taking it to the future. I feel that these kids in Jamaica are the best to represent the progress that we have been making in reggae and dancehall in order to take it to the future and to bring it to a broader audience in movie and tv screens. Working with these kids is something that I could do for my history, my music, and my country. It is definitely an honor. .

PGM: These kids are definitely lucky to have you as a mentor. What should we be looking forward to from you? Are there any future business endeavors in the horizon? What should we expect from Sean Paul?

SP: I definitely want to do some charity work. I also plan to come out with my own fashion line.

PGM: Sean, Premier Guide wishes you the best of luck and success and we really appreciate your time. Thanks again for meeting with us.

Meet Chef Bernard Matz from the Café at Books and Books

Meet Chef Bernard Matz from the Café at Books and Books

Chef Bernard Matz has worked in the culinary industry for over 20 years. Having opened up some of South Beach’s finest restaurants, including Wet Paint Café which-was co-owned with renowned T.V. Chef, Douglas Rodriguez, he has continued to delight the residents of South Florida with his remarkable culinary skills. In 2004, Chef Bernard, along with Bookstore owner Mitchell Kaplan decided to fuse their individual passions by opening a bookstore/café where readers can enjoy a delicious meal while also enjoying a good book. Premier Guide Miami’s Marie-Junie Pierre met with Chef Bernard outside of this breezy outdoor café located on Lincoln Road, where he sat down to give us an inside view into his experiences as a Chef and his career throughout the years.

PGM: What inspired you and Mr. Kaplan to name this eatery,” The Café at Books and Books”?

BM: I remember kicking around different names with Mitchell and we really didn’t have anything better so we decided to just call it the Café at Books and Books. The bookstore had been here for many years and the café was right next to it. Mitchell had seen seven different reincarnations in five years, where some of the operators would try to impede on his business. The landlord of the Café offered him the café and we decided to go just go along with the name of the bookstore.

PGM: How has the fusion between the café and the bookstore worked out?

BM: 99 % of our customers actually do not come for the books and are not really involved in the book process. We are really a fully fledged restaurant. We would love to ideally have a place where people can sit and drink coffee all afternoon but unfortunately we aren’t able to do that. We have to turn the tables in order to meet our overhead.

PGM: Tell me a little bit more about your background. How did you enter the culinary industry and how was your first experience in the field?

BM: I opened Wet Paint Café, in 1986. That was my first restaurant venture.
A lot of people knew about Wet Paint Café. The Chef, Douglas Rodriguez, went on to become a famous chef. It was one of the first cafés on South Beach, and it opened at a time when the rent was really cheap and nobody was really out here.

PGM: Did you attend a culinary institute to develop your culinary skills or do you consider yourself to be self-taught?
BM: I briefly attended a culinary institute in 1996 but I think that my culinary skills are a result of experience which I amassed in the field. I definitely consider myself to be a self-taught Chef.

PGM: Did you always want to be a chef while growing up?

BM: I knew innately that I was going to be a Chef but I never wanted to be a Chef. I worked with Chefs for many years but never worked as a Chef. It took me 25 years to actually do it. I would only cook at home because cooking at home was an art but I considered cooking at a restaurant to be a job.

PGM: How did you and Mitchell Kaplan meet?

BM: I met Mitchell during the signing of my book, Bernie’s Kitchen. He had actually known me from when I worked at the Wet Paint Cafe. When I met him, I was at a point where I wasn’t really looking to get back into the restaurant business but Mitchell gave me the opportunity to make this place my own and to treat my customers like my guests. This was exactly what I did from the very beginning and although we originally started with 30 seats, we now have about 140 seats.

PGM: Can you tell me a little bit about your book, Bernie’s Kitchen, which was released in 2004? What kind of book was it?

BM: Bernie’s Kitchen was a multimedia book. It was the first book of its kind and I was doing multimedia at the time. I was in the internet and the dot com boom of the nineties so I did marketing design and the collateral design and I was able to produce the book on the house. It was very fun because it allowed me to share my knowledge and expertise about food with others.

PGM: What are your future goals in this industry? Where do you see yourself in the next ten years?

BM: I would love to oversee a chain of cafés at Books & Books all over the country. I would also like to develop a chain of Fast Food Cuban restaurants.

PGM: That would definitely be a great business venture. What would be an alternative career, if someday you got tired of all that or it didn’t work anymore? Is there anything else that you would want to do?

BM: I’d probably do sales. I’ve always been really good in Sales and I have a lot of experience in marketing and business including a MBA in Finance.

PGM: That is quite impressive. What words of wisdom do you have for people who would like to pursue a career in the culinary field?

BM: There is nothing like “real hands on experience” in this business. There are too many factors that just cannot be taught in school .School is a great background if one can afford to put in the time but if someone really wants to succeed, hands-on experience, like a part time job in a restaurant, is not only helpful. It is vital in understanding the real work involved in this field.

Conversation with Matt Tyrnauer

On Thursday, September 24, 2009, filmmaker Matt Tyrnauer appeared at the Lincoln Theatre, South Beach to discuss his experience in the making of the film, Valentino: The Last Emperor with guest of the Miami International Fashion Week. The event was a fundraiser for the Miami Fashion Week Foundation, according to Beth Sobol, founder of Miami Fashion Week. MIFW hosted this event in effort to raise funds that will benefit emerging designers and students of fashion, photography, film and graphic design involved with the Miami International Fashion Week 2010 competitions.

VIP guests of MIFW were invited to an exclusive cocktail reception where they had a chance to mingle and be photographed with the director. The event was well attended, and local celebrities including, Miami's drag queen diva, Elaine Lancaster were present to support the Miami Fashion Week Foundation. Delicious bites were provided by neighborhood restaurant, Tiramesu and wines by Barefoot Wines. On display were art work from Romero Britto, the classic red Valentino dress, along with several other items for the silent auction.

Valentino: The Last Emperor was a rare look into the world of an Icon, a fashion king, a genius, a celebrated and respected fashion designer, perfectionist, and lover of all things beautiful, Valentino Garavani. Through the lens of Matt Tyrnauer, viewers were able to see the personal, professional and at times amusing side of this man who has a sincere passion for fashion and have devoted over 40 years of his life to his art and his partnership with Giancarlo Giammetti.

“When I was a child I would dream about everything beautiful in the world,” as a result he created “beautiful dresses for women who actually wear them“. Over the years Valentino draped women of the international society including Lady Diana and Elizabeth Taylor and more in his beautiful garbs. The level of work he produced and the basic understanding of a woman's body (the dress-the movement) have earned him respect and recognition all over the world.

Filmmaker and journalist Matt Tyrnauer, special correspondence for Vanity Fair Magazine, has written about several high profile public figures including Martha Stewart, Philippe Starck and others. He has written about Valentino for Vanity Fair as well as directed and produced, Valentino: The Last Emperor. Here he shares his experience with us on the filming of the "King of Couture", Valentino. Premier Guide Miami had the chance to talk with Matt Tyrnauer about his experience on following the final two years of the fashion Icon, Valentino’s career.

Here is the exclusive interview with Yetunde Taiwo and Matt Tyrnauer, director of Valentino: The Last Emperor.

PGM: Of all the designers in the world, why Valentino?

MT: I wanted to make a movie about the end of an ERA and Valentino was the last great master of high fashion working in the world. I happened to be with him for two years and it was final two years of his career, so we really wanted it to be the passing of an era and a very important era in the history of fashion. Valentino’s career has span through the golden age of the 20thcentury withclients like Jackie Kennedy Onassis on to present day with Julia Roberts and Gwyneth Paltrow, he designed for them. He was really the genius, central man of Hollywood, high fashion and the quintessential man of the red carpet. We got complete access to him and we really get to see a genius at work and you see him from the height of his powers to the day he decided to hang up the last dress and to walk out the door.

PGM: How did you find inspiration to do this documentary? Were there any challenges in approaching him to do this project?

MT: I think it was a sort of inner calling. I am not a fashion person at all-it’s not my field-that’s not my expertise. When I met Valentino I saw someone who was clearly an artistic genius also commercially very successful. The movie is about two people Valentino and Giancarlo Giammetti his lifelong partner in business and life. It is about a very extraordinary relationship, not just about dresses but two people who went on a journey together and created something truly extraordinary. Even though Valentino is an icon for half a century, you really don’t know the real story-you don’t really know what happened behind the scenes to allow him to have the level of success he had. That’s really what inspired me to make the story because I saw their unique journey and I thought that was worthy of a film.

PGM: What do you want the viewers to walk away with that they never knew before about Valentino?
MT: I think people feel like they know who Valentino is; they know he is the master of a certain kind of glamour. They know that he is a person who is very adept at circulating with famous people and movie stars. He is a figure of high society, but really what you see is a true human being behind this man of inspiration, genius. I think that at the end of the film you admire Valentino not because he is wealthy, not because he is talented, and he is, you will admire him because he is a human being who is a self created person. He started with nothing and he had a dream, fulfilled his dream to the fullest extent and that’s a very rare story among humans. People have a lot of dreams that go unfulfilled, I think Valentino could be an inspiration to us all because he achieved his dream and he did it in a fashion that very few people have done before and very few people will do after him.

...“After me, the flood”
_Valentino

Kim Vo: "From the Jungles of Vietnam to the Jungles of Beverly Hills”

Kim Vo: "From the Jungles of Vietnam to the Jungles of Beverly Hills”
By: Marie-Junie Pierre

Celebrity Hairstylist Kim Vo has been making his mark in the hairstyling industry for over a decade. Working with top celebs like Madonna, Kate Hudson and Britney Spears , just to name a few, Kim has the secret ingredient to keep these women looking gorgeous both on and off the Red Carpet.

Born in Vietnam to French and Vietnamese parents, Kim's multicultural background has greatly influenced his work. He infuses a lot of cultural ingredients into his products. Kim combines Asian botanical such as Boket with breakthrough French nano-technology to create products that leave his customers with luxurious and beautiful hair. His new hair care line is a testament to his cultural roots. “I’m really proud of it” he says. “It’s organic”, “We designed the bottle, we had to find the perfect gray, the perfect cream. We left out the Sodium Chloride .” His ritual is the Boket story, the use of cultural ingredients to create products that will keep the hair healthy and simultaneously beautiful.

Kim had a natural inclination towards hair even at an early age. “As a young child, I used to play with my mother’s hair” he says. When asked about the advantages of formal education in the hairstyling business, Kim explains the “ Nature versus Nurture Process.” “I believe that one goes to school for the fundamentals, he states, but the basics come before the fundamentals. They come naturally.”

According to Kim, the biggest misconception that people have of the Hairstyling Industry is that it is a glamorous profession. “It is not glamorous as it seems, he says. “It’s hard work”. Having worked at renowned salons like Cristophe and Prive, and now operating his own salons in Beverly Hills , Laguna Beach , Las Vegas and San Francisco , Kim knows the gruel work that is part of the profession.

Kim advises aspiring hairstylists to have "realistic expectations" as well as "patience" when entering into the profession. He acknowledges the need for them to have role models and pioneers to help them achieve and fulfill their goals. His life motto is quite simple, “anything worth anything is going to take amazing effort.” Kim's successful career is direct proof of the tremendous effort and work that he has put into it throughout the years. “From the jungles of Vietnam to the jungles of Beverly Hills” he states, “proof that anything can happen.”

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show http://premierguidemiami.com/2009/10/ft-lauderdale-international-boat-show-turns-50/

Art Basel Miami Beach 2009

Art Basel Miami Beach, Art Basel 2009. For more information, click here http://premierguidemiami.com/2009/10/art-basel-miami-beach-2009/

Kuten La, The Nechung State Oracle of Tibet

Kuten La, The Nechung State Oracle of Tibet/The Nechung State Oracle of Tibet, Kuten La http://premierguidemiami.com/2009/10/kuten-la-the-nechung-state-oracle-of-tibet/

KREL-2-GO GETS tiny AT MINI OXYGENE IN BAL HARBOUR

OCT 17-18 : KREL-2-GO GETS tiny AT MINI OXYGENE IN BAL HARBOUR. KREL caters to the kids and pets at Bal Harbour Shops from 12 noon to 8pm.

KREL DiscGlo SPRING 2010 COLLECTION LIGHTS UP ROCK FASHION WEEK MIAMI BEACH

THURSDAY OCTOBER 15, 2009 9:00 PM
KREL DiscGlo SPRING 2010 COLLECTION
LIGHTS UP ROCK FASHION WEEK MIAMI BEACH
EDEN ROC 4525 COLLINS AVENUE MIAMI BEACH, FL 33140
RSVP: KRELWEAR@TARAINK.COM

KREL internationally acclaimed Spring 2010 Collection, DiscGlo, is ready to roll at Rock Fashion Week, Miami Beach! Inspired by 24 hour party people, club culture and chameleon-like characters, discGlo brings you from night to day with a playful palette of hot neons and nudes. Characterized by altered states and heightened perceptions, the entire collection is glow-in-the-dark and blacklight-reactive, each unique piece will change and adapt to its environment, with patterns and colors shifting and transforming with varying degrees of light and dark. This is KRELԳ first collection that is composed entirely of one-of-a-kind pieces.

Epic Fridays

Mixology Contest

Time Will Tell At the Tides

Roam Wednesdays at the Epic

Go Green Tuesdays at The Conrad Hotel

Go Green Tuesdays
Save green while going green with weekly specials that are both body-friendly and earth-friendly.

Enjoy Specials on organic wines and spirits as well as a Go Green menu offering dishes such as slow-cooked or non-cooked foods and $1 menu options

Every Tuesday, 5-8pm
LvL25, Conrad Miami
1395 Brickell Avenue, 25th Floor
www.conradmiami.com
305.503.6529

Salon Champagne & Marky's Caviar tasting

"Salon Champagne & Marky's Caviar tasting

Limited to the first 50 RSVP
For those lucky enough to be in Miami on Tuesday October 13th between 7.00 and 9:00 pm, this tasting is something you'll want to RSVP to immediately. An evening of superb sparklers featuring one of Champagne's most elusive and sought-after gems.
Please join Jean-Baptiste Cristini of Champagne Salon and Champagne Delamotte for an exclusive opportunity to taste the 1997 vintage from Salon plus the Grand Cru Champagnes from Delamotte
1997 Champagne Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil Release price $500
1999 Delamotte Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Release price $95
Non-Vintage Delamotte Grand Cru Brut Rose Release price $99
Non-Vintage Delamotte Brut Release price $50
The Vintages of Salon Le Mesnil are rare-Only 37 were produced the past century-and then a limited number of bottles are produced.
Delamotte wines are made with grapes sourced from Cote des Blancs Grand Cru Vineyards

Special offer on those items will be so great that night only, we can't advertise on the web'


In store tasting
Purchase of a $20 Riedel Champagne glass will get you in and out to complete your collection

Caviar tasting sponsored by 'Marky's '
Marky's Caviar
1000 NW 159th Drive
Miami, FL 33169

RSVP 305/673-8282

W Wine Boutique
1328 Alton Road
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone: 305-673-8282
Email: Wwineboutique@aol.com"

Premier Guide Miami

PremierGuideMiami.com is an online publication committed to providing information on Miami's entertainment, travel and lifestyle that is of interest to residents and visitors alike. The PGM team will highlight various events throughout the city of Miami each week. We post the information, you choose.

We have extended Premier Guide Miami to Premier Guide Miami Travel where we will provide an online travel portal for all things travel from our various partners. We are in the process of updated the website, stay tuned.

PGM was created and founded by Daedrian McNaughton. Daedarian is a full time flight attendant and serve as Vice President to AlexShay.com where she handles all online operations of the website.

As the weeks go by we will be making major improvements. Please pass the word along and invite your friends to become fans of our facebook page and follow us on twitter http://twitter.com/pgmt .

Thank you for your support.

For more information and questions, please email us at info@premierguidemiami.com and visit us at http://premierguidemiami.com/ for daily updates on events, interviews and more.

Conversation with James Ellroy

Conversation with James Ellroy http://premierguidemiami.com/category/author-series/

Conversation with Madeleine Albright

Conversation with Madeleine Albright http://premierguidemiami.com/category/author-series/

V Georgio Vodka Commercial

V Georgio Vodka Commercial http://premierguidemiami.com/category/latest-video-posts/

Miami International Wine Fair 2009

Miami International Wine FAir 2009 http://premierguidemiami.com/category/latest-video-posts/

DVF + Elle Fashionably Conscious Private Party at BAl HArbour Shops Miami

DVF + Elle Fashionably Conscious Private Cocktail Party at Bal Harbour Shops http://premierguidemiami.com/category/latest-video-posts/

N.E.R.D (Pharrell) in Miami

KIA Soul Collective with NERD in Miami featuring Pharrell Williams. http://premierguidemiami.com/category/latest-video-posts/

Fashion Weeks Collide in Miami Beach

During the week of October 13-18, 2009 Miami will come alive with two mega fashion week events. The city of Miami Beach will be hosting Funkshion Fashion Week Miami Beach Spring/Summer 2010 and Rock Fashion Miami Beach 2009. The events will be at various venues including the Setai, Bass Museum of Arts and the Eden Roc Hotel.

The week's events will headline Dennis Rodman, Pamela Anderson, Richie Rich, Russell Simmons and more. Charitable organizations such as The American Heart Association and Susan G Komen for the Cure will benefit.

If you have not come to a decision as to which of the events to attend, we suggest both. Follow Premier Guide Miami as we will be covering both events. For more information on the above mentioned events and for complete line up, please visit http://premierguidemiami.com/.

Gerald Posner and the Never-before-told Story of the Making of Miami Beach at Books & Books

Gerald Posner and the Never-before-told Story of the Making of Miami Beach at Books & Books

DWNTWN Miami Concert Series Season 2

DWNTWN Miami Concert Series Season 2

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

Miami Events Miami Guide Miami Lifestyle PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events: "Celebrate Brazil
September 22, 2009 – 1:52 pm No Comment

Celebrate Brazil
Friday, October 2, 2009"

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

"MiMoWEEN at the Upper Eastside Garden – Knight Foundation Recipient
September 22, 2009 – 12:12 pm No Comment

October 31st from Noon to 6pm, the Upper Eastside Garden will be celebrating the newest putt putt obstacle built for our miniature golf course by our first kids sculpture class. The party will take place during MiMoWEEN, the historic MiMo (Miami Modern) District’s Halloween"

Books & Books presents American master JAMES ELLROY and Blood’s A Rover

Books & Books presents American master JAMES ELLROY and Blood’s A Rover

Heroes of the Hemisphere Gala

Heroes of the Hemisphere Gala

Kitchen 305 Night of Hilarity with Kevin Meaney

Kitchen 305 Night of Hilarity with Kevin Meaney

Kitchen 305 Night of Hilarity with Kevin Meaney

Kitchen 305 Night of Hilarity with Kevin Meaney

PRE-LAUNCH EVENTS OF THE 7th ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL

PRE-LAUNCH EVENTS OF THE 7th ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL

Tigertail’s 30th Season of Art n’ Soul Kick-Off Party?

Tigertail’s 30th Season of Art n’ Soul Kick-Off Party?

RETROSPECTIVE: ART AGAINST AIDS at PressitOn Art Gallery

RETROSPECTIVE: ART AGAINST AIDS at PressitOn Art Gallery

Inaugural Miami Beach Halloween Half Marathon! Run Miami Beach

Inaugural Miami Beach Halloween Half Marathon! Run Miami Beach

The Heavy Pets at Tobacco Road

The Heavy Pets at Tobacco Road

Actors’ Playhouse Presents: THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES

Actors’ Playhouse Presents: THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES

Miami Chapter of The Buoniconti Fund’s Block Party

Miami Chapter of The Buoniconti Fund’s Block Party

DRESS TO IMPRESS II GALA HONORING JUDITH RIPKA

DRESS TO IMPRESS II GALA HONORING JUDITH RIPKA

Saks Fifth Avenue Key to the Cure

Saks Fifth Avenue Key to the Cure

THE BLADES BROTHERS HOST NFL PARTY AT KITCHEN 305

THE BLADES BROTHERS HOST NFL PARTY AT KITCHEN 305

PUMA OPEN MIAMI

PUMA OPEN MIAMI

South BMW proudly presents the Deering Estate Foundation’s 8th annual “Wine on Harvest Moon”

South BMW proudly presents the Deering Estate Foundation’s 8th annual “Wine on Harvest Moon”

WE ARE ENERGY at Shore Club

WE ARE ENERGY at Shore Club

MOCA Mystery Dates

MOCA Mystery Dates

Miami City Ballet Opening

Miami City Ballet Opening

Interactive Culinary Demonstration & Champagne Deutz Luncheon with Chef Roly Cruz-Taura?

Interactive Culinary Demonstration & Champagne Deutz Luncheon with Chef Roly Cruz-Taura?

The Hilarious Pam Ann Touches Down in Miami October 23 & 24th

The Hilarious Pam Ann Touches Down in Miami October 23 & 24th

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

Miami Events Miami Guide Miami Lifestyle PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events: "Social Media Seminar & Networking Luncheon


Lunch & Learn Social Media Seminar & Networking
Thursday October 22, 2009,"

Explore Expo 2009

Explore Expo 2009

The Heart Menders Masquerade Ball

The Heart Menders Masquerade Ball

Miami International Piano Festival at the Bass Museum – Sleepless Night

Miami International Piano Festival at the Bass Museum – Sleepless Night

Support Breast Cancer Awareness at Monsieur this October!

Support Breast Cancer Awareness at Monsieur this October!

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

Miami Events Miami Guide Miami Lifestyle PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events: "Florida Beach Volleyball Tour Fall Fiesta


Florida Beach Volleyball Tour Fall Fiesta on the Beach Fort Lauderdale
October 10-11, 2009"

George Duran from Food Network Cooking Demo at Macy’s Dadeland Mall

George Duran from Food Network Cooking Demo at Macy’s Dadeland Mall

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

Miami Events Miami Guide Miami Lifestyle PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events: "Diamond Ball and Concert an International Affair
October 2, 2009 – 12:00 am No Comment

Diamond Ball & Concert “An International Affair”
October 16, 2009 6:30pm"

Grand Opening – The Michael Fux Family Center

Grand Opening – The Michael Fux Family Center

Concert at the Bass – Contemporary Diverging Paths: An Eclectic Blend of Music from the 1920s-1960s

Concert at the Bass – Contemporary Diverging Paths: An Eclectic Blend of Music from the 1920s-1960s

Bela Fleck, Zakir Hussain and Edgar Meyer at the Gusman

Bela Fleck, Zakir Hussain and Edgar Meyer at the Gusman

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

Miami Events Miami Guide Miami Lifestyle PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events: "A Special Evening at Coral Gables Library Featuring Hy Vong


A Special Evening at Coral Gables Library Featuring Hy Vong
October 20, 2009 at 8:30 pm"

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

Miami Events Miami Guide Miami Lifestyle PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events: "The Icons of The Andes Tour
October 2, 2009 – 6:03 pm No Comment

The Icons of The Andes Tour
FRIDAY October 17, 2009 at"

India and China, Tigers at Large in the East

India and China, Tigers at Large in the East

Inbound Trade Mission from Costa Rica to Florida

Inbound Trade Mission from Costa Rica to Florida

Business Showcase 2009

Business Showcase 2009

Open Barre Dance Series Announced

Open Barre Dance Series Announced

Washington Wine Theme Dinner

Washington Wine Theme Dinner

Napa Wine Theme Dinner

Napa Wine Theme Dinner

The Key to the Cure at Saks Bal Harbour Shops

The Key to the Cure at Saks Bal Harbour Shops

March of Dimes Signature Chefs & Wine Extravaganza

March of Dimes Signature Chefs & Wine Extravaganza

October at Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour

October at Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour

Support The Friends of the Miami Dade Public Library

Support The Friends of the Miami Dade Public Library

Caviar Kaspia Introduces Gilrs Night Out and Boys Night Out…

Caviar Kaspia Introduces Girls Night Out and Boys Night Out…

Coco Before Chanel (Coco avant Chanel) Premiere

Coco Before Chanel (Coco avant Chanel) Premiere

Yves Saint Laurent 5 avenue Marceau 75116 Paris

Yves Saint Laurent 5 avenue Marceau 75116 Paris

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

Miami Events Miami Guide Miami Lifestyle PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events: "Fashion on Film Festival: Valentino: The Last Emperor

Valentino: The Last Emperor
(Directed by Matt Tyrnauer/USA/2009)
Saturday, October 17, 2009, 9pm"

Miami Events | Miami Guide | Miami Lifestyle | PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events

Miami Events Miami Guide Miami Lifestyle PGM Live Miami, Love Miami, Play Miami » Upcoming Events: "Rock Fashion Week Miami Beach
October 4, 2009 – 5:44 pm No Comment

More details coming soon."