Miami News Blog

via wetv.com

​If angry brides in Miami were to suddenly sprout fangs and stomp north like a mob of fuming Sasquatches, there's one business that just might scream and run.

In the past two years, Fort Lauderdale-based Total Focus Professional Photography and Video -- which banks on wedding DVDs -- has provoked more newlywed outrage than any other South Florida business of its kind, according to Complaintsboard.com. On the consumer watchdog website and similar online forums, more than 25 ladies and gents have posted complaints saying the company is guilty of everything from hiring pervy photographers to breaking contracts. Witness a sample:

Laura: "I would NOT recommend them to Satan."

Shana: "Scam artists! I felt like I was a contestant on Let's Make a Deal."

Ashley: "Are they kidding?!"

Asked by Riptide about the business, Michael Handler, a teacher from Plantation, says, "It's a joke. Whatever contract you sign means nothing." He explains that the same interview with his dad appeared twice back-to-back on a wedding video, which cost more than $1,700.

Total Focus -- which is located on West Oakland Park Boulevard -- was originally named Photovideo Network, state records show. Thirteen complaints in the past three years have been filed against the firm with Better Business Bureau. There are no lawsuits listed in Miami-Dade or Broward County civil courts.

Manager Jim Peters contends Total Focus has satisfied thousands of customers. Employees do their best to make customers happy. "In some cases, we have six-month relationships with clients. It's possible they have forgotten what's in the original contract."

Crista Stefanick is a slender, pretty 29-year-old who sounds more like a breezy kindergarten teacher than an angry bride. Still, the Miami Shores native claims the firm recently tossed aside her contract and held her wedding memories hostage. Last March, she and her fiancé had a church wedding. They had booked a horse and carriage, chartered a boat, and found Total Focus online. The couple agreed to pay about $1,600 for a video package, but then heard nothing from the videographer until 15 minutes before the ceremony.

We’re now mid-July, and for Miami natives and NBA appreciators, that means Zo’s Summer Groove is back in action. In addition to a lineup of celeb-infused events for the four-day charity event, Headliner Market Group scheduled a guide of after parties for celebs, athletes and VIPs to get down to once the sun set. Queen Latifah made her way down to the InterContinental Hotel to host the Publix ZSG Benefit Dinner, raising $50,000, which was something to celebrate on a Friday night. With a silent auction in progress, tastemakers sought out the after party to get rowdy. Making their way over to Parkwest Nightclub in Downtown Miami, Zo, Tracy and Wade brought a crew of noisemakers along for the ride. With Shawn Marion, Dorrell Wright and Earl Barron in tow, clearly the jam was ballin’. Actress Gabrielle Union (who has old ties to Wade) posted nearby two-time NBA champ James Posey, who played DJ all night in the booth as notable Doug E. Fresh and DJ Clue made love juice flow through the speaks. The second night of ZSG proved to rake in the movers, shakers and plenty of money makers.

The town’s gone crazy, that is for certain. Whether it’s over sun exposure, we just can’t tell. A swarm of thousands flocked to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood Sunday night for the launch of blackjack.

As though we weren’t all blowing Benjamins on enough crap as is, bombshell Carmen Electra comes into town to blow up our spot. The diva herself catapulted what seems like Florida’s biggest claim to fame since the harvesting of oranges. And although she would rather be “gambling on my favorite outfit to wear” the starlet took time out to sit at the table for the first legal dealing of the game.

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

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.

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.

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

“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.”

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The sexy Wednesday night VIP crowd invaded another stellar party at Santo’s signature Miami Live. Hosted by top Miami promoters Michael Madd and Abebe Lewis, the evening brought another go-around of live music, positive vibes and never-ending bottle service to the packed venue. Plenty of familiar faces came out to celebrate including Miami’s own Pit Bull, Keyshia Cole and Larry Johnson who were in the house with friends and plenty of bottles poppin’. Reggae star Red Rat kicked off the show pumping up the crowd with choice hits including “Tight Up Skirt” followed by modish duo Nina Sky, who graced the stage performing a crowd-pleasing set including their version of Alicia Keys’ “No One,” which had everyone crooning. The boys from Grind Mode were dancing on the floor to chart-toppers like Ball Greezy’s “Shone” before hitting the stage to bust out with live hit “I’m So High,” which produced a room full of airborne hands swaying from side to side. The combination of tracks spun by DJ Obscene, special guest DJ Laz and the in-house band – who cranked out a diverse playlist of old and new school jams – kept the party bumping for hours. Unannounced celeb guests and artists frequent this unique, invite-only event that keeps growing stronger as the months progress. After conquering Miami, future plans for the staple event are in the works to introduce to markets across the country, including L.A., with much success attributed to the chemistry between Madd, Lewis and the company, who keeps coming back for another hit.

Honorable jokester Chris Tucker made his rounds at The Forge last night for the signature Wednesday night dinner party, which was held in celebration of VIP Aquarians from all over town. Owner Shareef Malnik celebrated both his birthday and his father, Al’s at the annual bash. Although Tucker himself is a Virgo, it didn’t stop him from coming out of the shadows to show some love for the Malniks and their baby, SoBe’s distinguished eatery and nightspot, The Forge. Maybe Tucker, in time, will decide to grace other Miami hotspots with his presence and lighten up some. Hopefully the once-blistering star will get back on track one of these days and show us what he’s really good for in the spotlight. Even though Tucker hasn’t been the subject of any cover stories lately, the Malniks continue their reign on the cover of this month’s Haute Living. -- Tracy Block

Miami’s American Airlines Arena was packed with fans and industry professionals for a weekend-long event featuring two divalicious ladies in town to take part in the annual Market America Leadership Conference. Capitalizing on the ultimate launch opportunity, mama mogul Kimora Lee Simmons unveiled her new skincare line “Fabulosity” (available through marketamerica.com), featuring body butter, cleanser, sugar scrub and more. Killing two birds with one stone, Simmons was also on hand filming segments for an upcoming episode of Life In The Fab Lane while publicizing a new venture with Google underway (and then she announced her candidacy for 2012...). Simmons and her body butter weren’t the only stars who took center stage at the Market America showcase. Out of hiding, a polished Paulina Rubio performed hits in front of a crowd 23,000 strong in an effort to drive traffic from the Latino market. It’s too bad Tiger Woods wasn’t there promoting TW Design golf courses, then the conference would have been complete. -- Tracy Block

Ready... Set... Ross. Car alarms sounded in the streets as multiple Maybachs made their way down Washington Avenue Monday night in honor of The Boss of the Carol City Cartel, Rick Ross. Celebrating his 31st birthday in ultra VIP SoBe style, the Miami hip-hop star was joined by Jay Z, Scott Storch, Sean Kingston, Trick Daddy, DJ Khaled, and other entertainers. With a VIP section blocked off for Ross and company, White Diamonds was packed tighter than a bootleg case of Ross’ new album, Trilla, which hits the streets March 11.

Cash Money prospect Brisco (“Bitch I’m Me”) along with Slip-N-Slide up-and-comer Quote (“Don’t Wanna Fight” ft. Trina) came out to party along with a few hundred of Ross’ closest friends from the 305. Boston Celtics’ forward Paul Pierce had trouble getting past the velvet rope while Cincinnati Bengal Chad “Ocho Cinco” Johnson practiced prima donna behavior, giving out the cold shoulder to all in his path. The bitter athletes didn’t dim down the life of the party; Ross had bottles poppin’ from 1 a.m. on, with blunts a-blaze every few seconds. The smoke-filled urban hotspot hosted a drama-free night of good company, good times, and a good ‘ol buffet of chicken wings to accommodate a club filled with fans of the chronic. --Tracy Block

With Art Basel long gone and New Year’s Eve ’08 far, far away, Miami party hoppers are always looking for the next-best-thing, especially when it involves an elite crowd and complimentary cocktails. Enter the Stoli Hotel, a two-week party with DJs, fashionistas and celebs, with a crowd of boozers and oglers just waiting to get a taste. Wednesday night, famed socialite Kim Kardashian hosted an evening there featuring tracks spun by DJ Jordan Laws and free Stoli cocktails to quench thirst and get the party going. Kardashian strolled in around 11 p.m., posing for cameras and fans left and right with her sister Kourtney nearby. The ladies were later escorted to the spa room, where they received VIP treatment: foot massages, the ultimate pampering vacation from killer pumps. The Kardashians spent some time moseying around in their robes and slippers and then made a B-line for the bar and hung out with admirers. The only unsettling behavior was the sausage fest of males creepily mesmerized, in a shock-like state at the former Playboy seductress. Maybe Kim will make a cameo at the Stoli Hotel Miami Style Battle event on Saturday, featuring eight of the top designers vs. artists from Miami in a live Project Runway-esque showdown... if not, guests will just have to focus on taking down as much of the Stoli open bar they can handle. --Tracy Block

Celebrating the end to a long, rough football season, a handful of notable NFL players headed out way past their curfews to SoBe’s Tuesday night party in B.E.D. An elite crowd of Miami scenesters gathered as the team finally took some time to celebrate life off the field. The beginning to a great off-season, the not-so All Stars enjoyed bites and late night fun for the ultimate boys’ night out. Dante Culpepper, the quarterback for the Oakland Raiders, treated himself to a private bed while relaxing with some players from the New York Jets, running back Thomas Jones and middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma. Other athletes mingling around the nightspot with competitors nearby included Ryan Sims, defensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Larry Johnson and Adewale Ogunleye, who have been partying around town for the past couple of weeks, getting an early start on the end-of-season festivities. Hey, why not drown some sorrows in a round of Grey Goose and Motley Birds while luring some sexy company over to B.E.D.? --Tracy Block

An actual Sir was in town this past weekend, jetting in from England and heading to DeVito South Beach for some grub with the one he loves. Famed actor Sir Michael Caine treated his wife to a romantic dinner in a private DeVito cabana for two. Although Caine’s wife didn't indulge in the restaurant's prime kobe steaks (a notable part of the DeVito experience), Caine did not hold back chivalry or his appetite on his wife’s behalf as he forked into a hearty seafood platter, calamari and short ribs to make up his feast. Caine kicked off his fortnight visit to Miami at the trendiest eatery in town and met with owner David Manero with plans to return. Maybe this time his wifey will give in... it’s okay, Lady Caine, we won’t tell the folks back in England...

--Tracy Block

None other than notorious bed warmer Pamela Anderson was in town this past weekend taking a few days off from her life’s drama, as she checked into the Filmore Suite in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood. The starlet was in town for the 3-year anniversary party of the Seminole Paradise’s Pangaea Nightclub. Arriving at the hotel on Thursday, the seductress had plans of R & R for her weekend in the sun, especially by the pool with her posse. The Pangaea hostess headed out with a bang on Friday in a bombshell Fendi ensemble sporting her signature jugs as usual. She arrived at the club around 1 a.m. surrounded by a small crew who poured Grey Goose and Three Olives cocktails and she sipped champagne while mingling with the casino manager for quite some time. Anderson was accompanied by local Amazon Elaine Lancaster and the vice president of PETA during her stay in South Florida. Although the lady in drag did her best to attract as much attention as possible, Anderson sat calm and collected, not even giving up her spot in the VIP section to dance to a track or two. With much attention focused on the failure of her third marriage and rumors of a bun in the oven, Anderson wasn’t even able to enjoy some well-deserved hard liquor ... or maybe she wasn’t indulging because of the O.B.G.Y.N.’s orders. -- Tracy Block

Deadbeat Dolphin Ricky Williams headed to the new Michael's Kitchen at the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort in Sunny Isles Beach. Williams had promised Head Chef Michael Blum he would visit the new location after frequenting the old Hollywood hot spot. The running back dined in with a no-name girlfriend in tow. The couple feasted on popcorn rock shrimp, pear salad, veggie penne and three-cheese smoked black truffle macaroni. Not a celebratory occasion, the pair sipped two bottles of Badoit sparkling water (although who knows if Williams and his gal blazed up on the ride over). On his way out the door, Williams claimed he would do his best to get the rest of the team in there soon ... but something tells me the team ain’t so concerned with what Williams has to say these days. -- Tracy Block

Karu&Y continues to crank out the hottest Thursday night party in Miami into the New Year. Coined “college going out night,” students and graduated partiers alike headed to the Downtown hotspot to celebrate The U’s official Draftee Party, hosted by Kansas City Chief running back Larry Johnson. The Ace of Spades champagne party drew other former Cane pigskin notables like Roscoe Parish, Bryant McKinnie and Willis McGahee for the celebration. Radio personality Angie Martinez was also tipping her party hat as she celebrated her big day with Ja Rule, Scott Storch, Gorilla Tek and Pleasure from Pretty Ricky. A hot hip-hop spot and NFL lounge, Karu&Y is getting more play than all three Kardashian sisters combined! -- Tracy Block

Fried chicken and waffles wasn’t the only star appearance made last night at The Forge’s “Soul Kitchen Sunday” party. The headlining end-of-weekend event hosted a handful of celebs last night, continuing last week’s party of welcoming 2008. Shelling out for more than just good company, hip-hop artists Fabolous and Busta Rhymes, actors Tyrese and Meagan Good and ballers Dontrelle Willis and James Posey came out to show some love for the first of the elite Sunday parties of the New Year. The crew headed into the infamous hotspot Glass, where they sipped, lounged and danced to an impressive playlist of old and new school jams. While everyone else was busy preparing for the return to school and work, the somebodies continued “working” on livin’ the good life... -- Tracy Block

Ringing in the New Year doesn’t necessarily mean vacation is dunzo for notables taking time off in Miami. Thursday, January 3 had Miami hotspot Karu & Y blowing up with a handful of stars and ballers continuing the celebration of ’08. Last season’s Nip/Tuck seductress Sanaa Lathan was on hand with beau Wale Ogunleye of the Chicago Bears, who could be chillin’, seeing as how he won’t be called back to duty until training camp. Props to Lathan for dating an ex-Dolphin. The couple was accompanied by Stomp The Yard’s Meagan Good and N.Y. Jets running back Thomas Jones for some after-hours fun. The foursome requested a table together where they sipped champagne and Patron while Tony Rock, Rayzor and 99 Jamz’s Benji Brown mustered a few snickers from the crowd. To top it all off, White Boy from season one of I Love New York was on hand sketching out the single ladies, as usual. -- Tracy Block