Blogs

Tracy Block

Lance Bass and friends celebrated the former popstar’s 29th birthday atop the Gansevoort South with plenty of cupcakes, mojitos and SoBe lamesters.

Just because you’re a pop idol has-been and a year shy of 30 doesn’t mean you can’t still invite a few hundred of Miami’s top movers and shakers to your birthday party, right? Lance Bass may not be as cool as he used to, but the former 'N Syncer-slash-failed-astronaut extraordinaire hosted his 29th Sunday night at the Gansevoort South’s Plunge Rooftop Pool Bar.

With a fabulous crew adorned in everything from SoBe chic to cowboy hats to metallic blazers, the highlight of the evening was the sweet treat tower of cupcakes from Stella’s Sweet Shoppe, boasting Magnolia-worthy icing and fondant cake toppers with an airbrushed Lance in astro helmet and disco balls galore. The music was mediocre at best, as was the mood of another hungover Sunday night pool party.

Other D-listers, like Frankie Godoy from Bravo’s Make Me A Supermodel and recently freed jailbird Joe Francis from Girl’s Gone Wild, showed up for some drinks and then the party pretty much died faster than my mood once learning the complimentary mojito pitchers had run dry. All in all, I give that former popstar some cred, considering the exceptional choice of location, the ocean breeze, and, of course, the never-ending confectious cupcake tower. Lance: At least you came off as a sugar daddy in one sense of the word.

-- Tracy Block

Matt Damon spent Saturday afternoon at the Sport of Kings at Gulfstream Park. Though he did not buy into any poker play, the actor stopped by to shoot the shit with Poker Room Manager Scott Poole.

It’s no surprise that the star of a handful of casino-themed flicks frequents the SoFla gambling scene when he has the chance. Although he was not buying into any Texas Hold ‘Em tourneys Saturday, Matt Damon, wife Luciana Barroso and a couple pals headed over to Gulfstream Park in Hallandale for some equestrian action. Although most of the thoroughbreds have left the building for the season, the lack of live action didn’t stop Damon and his party from spending some quality racing time via simulcast. Damon and Co. concentrated on playing horses at the Sport of Kings, knowing full-well where to place bets with his hard-earned cash. A decade ago, Damon bought in for $10,000 at the infamous Word Series of Poker in Las Vegas, just to get knocked out in the first round by Doyle Brunson. Playing it smart, the actor didn’t waste time with cards Saturday night. Maybe he should just stick to “acting” like a pimp-ass gambler while the recession plays out.

More

Omar Vega

‘Bows were thrown all night long at the inaugural BBF match at Mansion Thursday night. Alonzo and Tracy Wilson Mourning hosted the extravaganza, which raised $250,000 for Zo’s charities.

Click here to see a slide show of buff brokers beating each other up.

While Paris Hilton was in town yesterday searching for her new BFF, things were busy heating up at Mansion for the inaugural BBF. The Broker Boxing Federation – comprised of real estate industry heavyweights – hosted a match that had fighters training up to six months in advance for the big debut. Raising funds for Alonzo Mourning Charities, the Mournings – who arrived separately and more than fashionably late – were joined by Brooke Hogan, Harry Morton and a slew of local socialites and VIPs. Aside multiple bloody moments in the ring, another night highlight included the arrival of James Brown impersonator, Tony Wilson, who walked the red carpet with a drum band in tow.

More

Seth Browarnik/Red Eye Productions

Dwyane Wade is celebrated by Ocean Drive’s Jerry Powers and others with a private dinner party and late-night Mokai fiesta Wednesday, April 9.

A special, notorious MIA somebody’s night kicked off being showered with love at a private dinner party hosted by Ocean Drive’s president Jerry Powers. The one-and-only Dwyane Wade has had quite the busy week. After attending an Art for Life Miami gala Saturday night, the all-star took some time off – maybe shot some hoops – and prepped for his big night of admiration. Guests of Wade’s Table 8 feast, which Executive Chef Govind Armstrong flew in especially for, included Alonzo Mourning, George and Darlene Perez, Scott Rothstein, Michael Carey, Wade’s pop and a few of his siblings from his ginormous family.

After some great eats at his personal, yet intimate banquet, Wade and company headed over to Miami nightspot Mokai for the April Ocean Drive cover party, which Wade graces with the utmost Miami style. Accompanied by Heat mates Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks, the b-ballers partied it up and were later joined by T.O. for that extra kick. Sippin’ on Platino cocktails and Peroni beer, Wade and his posse entertained fans with photo ops, proving, once again to be the complete opposite of a snooty Miami a-hole, which more than the majority of our upperclass population around here seem to be. Cheers to you, D. Wade... Miami never loved another icon or hero as much as you... How does it feel? -- Tracy Block

Tracy Block

DJ Khaled supports his new investment, Ace Hood, We The Best Records’ first official artist at a tasty Miami Live Wednesday, April 9.

“It’s not a party, it’s a vision,” Prince Markie D confirmed as a full house floated into the back room of Santo on Lincoln Road. If it’s humpday and you’re a hip-hop appreciator or a sexy female trying to get your groove on, there’s only one place I predict you’ll be – Miami Live. With expected VIP treatment for select ladies, party givers Michael Madd and Abebe Lewis were sure to keep the chicks in check with a mix of shots, Patron and, of course, some bubbly. As the showstoppers continued getting the ladies all riled up, I was wondering who on Earth was going to tame them for the circus they were about to observe. A party for DJ Khaled and Ace Hood, producer Gorilla Tek’s b-day and Miami Live all rolled into one? Sounds dangerous...and it was. Even local CCC boss Rick Ross came out along with hip-hop trickster Fabolous. As DJ Obscene began ripping a tight scramble of jams on the ones and twos, the Miami Live band took over hypnotizing the crowd with instrumentals of Kanye’s “Flashing Lights” and spicy Timbo/Flo-Rida track “Elevators.”

More

Wire Image

John Legend and D. Wade made appearances at the Art for Life Miami Beach gala Saturday, April 5. Legend was honored for his contributions while Wade posted on the host committee.

Instead of usual A-list bottle behavior, a cluster of celebs came out to The Bath Club on Miami Beach Saturday night to benefit Art For Life Miami Beach, a Miami glam gala raising funds for Miami-Dade County art programs geared toward providing significant exposure to urban and underprivileged youths. The event was backed by the notorious Simmons brothers (Russell, Danny and Rev. Run), who head Rush Philanthropic, one of many organizations benefiting disadvantaged city kids. The event highlighted art and youth-based contributions put forth by musicians John Legend and Wyclef Jean, finance expert Suze Orman and real estate mogul R. Donahue Peebles and honored their dedication to the cause – rightfully so, as 10-person tables ran between $10,000 and $15,000 a pop. Dwyane Wade, Alonzo and Tracy Mourning, Larry Johnson, Pauly Shore and Paulina Rubio were just a few of the charitable names that came out to show support. Making an ever-so-alluring statement showering her bro with love and fashionable statements, Wyclef’s sister Milky was on hand sporting a sleek black-and-blue vintage ‘80s dress from C. Madeleine’s with blue diamond earrings. Milky wasn’t the only one on hand lookin’ fly – except for Suze Orman, who looked like she was stopping by after attending a royal Indian wedding reception in a loud, frumpy gold top and plain black slacks. Everyone else put on their Saturday night chic and came out for cocktails, dinner and both live and silent auctions, featuring unique art, to do good deeds during the spring. -- Tracy Block

Clearly, Miami is the off-season hotspot for many a baller from all walks of leagues. Such was the case for Dallas Cowboy Terrell Owens Wednesday night. The wide receiver was on a cozy, yet casual dinner date with a no-name model hottie at the chic Lincoln Road eatery with definite love bug behavior going on. The pair snacked on Edamame before indulging in a slew of SUSHISAMBA specials, including King Crab California Rolls, Miso-Marinated Chilean Sea Bass and Crispy Yellowtail Taquitos. The sober set opted on juice and soda, maybe going for a tone induced by pheromones to do the trick instead of some liq... The funny thing is the “player” was spotted dining at SUSHISAMBA dromo a couple of weeks ago with an entirely different chick. Outfitted the other night in a white tank, jeans and a baseball cap, perhaps T.O. was playing it low-key and undercover, trying not to get caught with his pants – I mean guard – down... -- Tracy Block

Pauly Shore joins in the fun at The Forge “Dulce de Leche” swimwear show in true ball-busting style.

We all know how hard the party rocks over at The Forge on Wednesday night, but in light of bathing suit season, folks turned up the heat with a super-sexy male swimwear “Dulce de Leche” fashion show. Although I’m not too sure how many guests were thrilled about ogling sausages while forking their meat, a few familiar males came out to show love for the Wednesday night fete. Forge regulars Hulk Hogan, Pauly Shore and Brett Ratner were sure to have eyes traveling from the catwalk. In true comedic style, Shore ventured over to the Saks 5th Avenue Style Villa where he modeled a slim piece of swimwear for onlookers to cackle at. Hogan and Ratner sat tight, although seeing The Hulkster trying on one of those teeny bikinis probably would have been as disturbing as checking out Rosie O’Donnell in a hot pink thong... Check, please! -- Tracy Block

Omar Vega

Mary J. Blige along with her hubby and a celeb-studded crowd kicked it at Karu&Y Saturday night, celebrating the launch of her fresh tour with Jigga Man Jay Z.

After tearing up the American Airlines Arena alongside Jay Z, The Dream and surprise guests Kanye West, Timbaland and Young Jeezy Saturday night, the main mama of R&B, Miss Mary J. Blige headed out for some late night fun. The diva was in town kicking off her new joint tour with H.O.V.A entitled “Heart of the City,” which sold out just as fast as the presale for her Karu&Y after party, hosted by slammin’ Headliner Market Group.

More

Photo Courtesy of WireImage

Brody Jenner and a covered up Vanessa Minnillo co-host Victoria’s Secret PINK-sponsored “Rally at the Raleigh” Wednesday, March 12.

Normal celeb appearances at the trendy Raleigh pool usually occur after the sun has set, but not Wednesday afternoon, because it’s spring break, baby! A slew of celebs including Vanessa Minnillo, Brody Jenner, Frankie Delgado and models Daniela Pestova and Miranda Kerr headed over for Victoria’s Secret PINK-sponsored “Rally at the Raleigh” pool party to ring in Miami spring break. With Minnillo hosting the majority of the festivities, which included PINK pool games and multiple volleyball sets, Jenner and Delgado greeted scantily-clad ladies, taking full advantage of ogling the spring break attire. Minnillo took a breather from her humble hostess post to check out some of the new Victoria’s Secret PINK threads and mingled with Miami’s DJ Irie and a few admirers. Although the sexy star was not sporting a teeny bikini (which had more than a few guests bummed) she commanded just as much attention from the eager breakers without flaunting her beach bod – although it might have upgraded “Rally at the Raleigh” from being PG-13 event. -- Tracy Block

I’ve always wondered if certain Miami hip-hop headliners made the national VIP roster, but in Rick Ross’ case, he might as well be one of those American dudes who tours Asian landmarks and blows them away by the millions. Okay, so some of you may think Rick Ross ain’t the next best thing compared to a hefty plate of Mongolian beef, but I do! Even through waiting on a “media” line for an hour outside Mansion, this blogger withstood the fever Monday night and had no complaints. My company consisted of a few close friends and NFL up-and-comer Cecil Sapp of the Denver Broncos who could not have been more calm considering the never-ending thread streaming down Washington Ave. Following his entrance, Ross and friends graced the stage as a tribute to The Boss’ new album Trilla, which hits stores this week.

More

Manny Hernandez

Even superstars carry knapsacks. Dr. Dre leaves Equinox Fitness Club with his bag of tricks after a private sesh with famous body builder Stan Mcquay.

This past weekend, A-listers like Kate Hudson and Demi Moore were in town to welcome back the Miami International Film Festival, gracing the SoBe scene and screen with their presence. Among other stars in town for the fest was none other than the Academy Award-winning Cuba Gooding Jr., who is always down for a good time. Taking down more than a couple Heinekens at RokBar, the actor – who entered nonchalantly – was sure to make his presence known. He took over one of the VIP tables and worked his magic ‘til 3 a.m.

More

Kim Gibson

In town for the Miami International Film Festival, American Gangster’s Idris Elba headed to Karu&Y with Gabrielle Union by his side Thursday, February 28th.

Holding strong as the Midtown staple to kick off the weekend, Headliner Market Group’s Karu&Y Thursday night party drew in a slew of worthy party people hosted by American Gangster’s Idris Elba, in town to kick off the Miami International Film Festival. The handsome thirty-something superstar from HBO’s The Wire made his grand entrance with actress Gabrielle Union.

More

Happy couple John Cusimano and Rachael Ray chat with Gloria Estefan during a South Beach Wine & Food Fest exclusive SoBe Soundcheck event Friday, February 22nd.

Although plenty of the elite events at the South Beach Wine and Food Festival were sold out long ago, one party was mum to all but a select crowd of VIPs Friday night.

The always-modish, never disillusioned Hotel Victor put on an after-hours show for a cozy crowd of about 200 hosted by Food Network superstar Rachael Ray (you know, the gal on the Wheat Thins box) and her hubby, John Cusimano’s band The Cringe. Guests enjoyed complimentary vino from Three Daughters while tapping their feet as a slew of celebrity chefs and stars took over the event, which was kept on the super-hush.

More

Photo by Tracy Block

After making her rounds at the Moët & Chandon BubbleQ, Food Network personality and hostess Giada De Laurentiis holds down the fort at her Godiva panini station.

Foodies gathered Friday night behind the Delano on SoBe for the ultimate barbecue extravaganza: the Moët & Chandon BubbleQ hosted by Food Network Personality Giada De Laurentiis. The mother to be strutted around the tasting tent, greeting guests and taking breathers and was later joined in her center tent by Grammy award-winning crooner John Legend and his less-than-relaxed lady friend Christine Teigen. Although the singer was not too camera-happy or fan-friendly, he chilled with De Laurentiis and Bobby Flay for some nosh sampling and chatting. The event, in prep phases since Wednesday, drew in a 500-plus crowd ready to get tipsy on the bubbly while takin’ down the beef. Standout dishes included buffalo tacos, pulled pork, slow-roasted ribs, tender fillet mignon and Godiva paninis for dessert, although most bites were not cooked on festival grounds.

More