Attention Fashionistas: Classy, Landfill Chic Now Available

Remember the days when you would open your lunchbox and found an oh-so-tasty Capri Sun pouch next to your pan con bistec? (yes, my mom loved me!) Since then, I've been hooked on the goodness of the juice and many times stocked my mini-dorm room pantry with the pouches...after all, they were excellent mixers for my mocktails! But after all the joy they've brought to your life, the pouch was always destined to a grimy and non-environmentally conducive future in a landfill.

Well...not anymore! Capri Sun, in partnership with TerraCycle (an eco-company that has pioneered the concept that any disposable material can be reused and created into something of value) have teamed up in an effort to make the classic pouch a hot-item accessory for budding fashionistas!

Recently, the companies hosted a CAPRI SUN Ready to Re-Wear Runway Show hosted by teen sensation AnnaSophia Robb (Disney's Race to Witch Mountain). The best part of the event was a one-of-a-kind dress made entirely from Capri Sun pouches (modeled by 12-year-old Chantellyne Rivera of Miami, a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade). The dress is currently being auctioned off to benefit The Boys & Girls Club of America.

Visit http://www.ebaygivingworks.com/ and type in Capri Sun to bid on the dress!

Miami - Vote Earth!

It started in 2006...U.S. citizens started to get enthusiastic about our electoral process...more so than ever before. The result: Change. When it comes to historic elections, its safe to say our generation has become part of something that's bigger than us. Now, we have the opportunity to once again take part in an "election" that can impact our way of living on a global level by making the decision to Vote Earth.

How to cast your ballot: tomorrow night at 8:30 PM by turn off your light switch for 1-hour to celebrate Earth Hour.

The goal: One billion people voting with their light switch during Earth Hour to create a powerful mandate for our leaders to take strong and decisive action on climate change during the Dec. 2009 meeting in Copenhagen.

It's All About....Doggy Style

If fashion and dogs are your addiction then you're in luck because Cabana One is hosting a fashion show this Friday, March 27.....with some very cute doggies.

From 7 to 9, catch these unsual models work the runway for "Rescues Rock the Runway" to showcase Toru's new Spring line (super chic and stylish doggie apparel). The event costs $25 and goes to benefit Paws 4 You. Included in your $25 are drinks, hors d' oeuvres, and prizes.

Following the fashion show starts Cabana's weekly Friday night party featuring the sounds of DJ Ethics.

More info on the Fashion Show, call 786.242.RESQ.

Info on Bottle & Table Reservations for Cabana, contact Amanda Garcia at amandag360@yahoo.com

Cabana One at the Mayfair Hotel: 3000 Florida Ave.

Earth Hour Pre-party @MiaSci

The Miami Science Musuem, along with the City of Miami is GOING GREEN and celebrating Earth Hour for their monthly mixer @MiaSci tonight.

For $20, Miami's finest (and environmentally conscience) "Movers and Shakers" can enjoy food and an open bar all night AND with the Winter Music Conference in town, enjoy music by EP and a live performance by FANCY ME YET. Aside from a good time, the event will showcase our planet and how we can help conserve it as well as info on what others in the community are doing to contribute their part to this global effort.

Where else can you pay homage to mother earth, while downing a rum and coke and eating yummy meatballs on a toothpick? Gotta love these @MiaSci happy hours with substance!

Some details

Address: 3280 S. Miami Avenue (across from Vizcaya)

Time: Doors open at 6 PM

Cover: $20 at the door

um...I'm late

Thankfully these words apply to our weekly Wednesday rant. For today, let's say we had a little birdie come sing us a song...about chongas that is.

Local producer KC Chopz paid tribute to the chongas (ala Puffy using the beats from Asher Roth's "I Love College) complete with a shout to to bistec empanizado. While funny, this geniusness is pretty much recycled. I mean, has everyone forgotton our "Chongalicious" girls?

Seriously, WTF? There's no way he's better than our home girls....we're on "Team Chongalicious."

Cheap drinks till 2 AM and not at a Dive Bar? Tell me more...

Forget the smokey bar scene, this week's best "hump day" happy hour is happening at the River Lounge. Located at the Epic Hotel in Brickell, the new lounge will be hosting a soft-opening on Wednesday, March 25th from 4 PM to 2 AM with discounted drinks for those that RSVP to the event.

This newcomer to the Miami happy hour/nightlife scene promises to be Miami chic with its towering windows and schnazzy décor (including a circular bar, balcony, and cozy spots). Oh, and wait…a patio allowing us to brave the humidity for romantic, wind-blowing in your hair dates or the oh-so-sexy (or not-so-sexy) smoke. Offering both classy and adventurous drinks as well as yummy delicacies with a bar menu from restaurant Area 31, we think River Lounge is on its way to becoming the next “it” place. Sigh...a new place with a nice ambiance.

Plus, with cheap drinks running till 2 AM (FYI a ploy to lure us….which works), those cozy spots seem just right for a drunken make-out session for those whose happy hours end up being more than just an hour. Here's to a happy hump day!

Some details
Address: Epic Hotel, 270 Biscayne Blvd. Way
Date: March 25th
Time: 4 PM to 2 AM
RSVP: 305-698-2384

An Event Short

This event doesn't need an explanation....all you need to know is that wine will be involved.

This Thursday, March 26: Coral Gables Wine and Food Festival will be up and running for its 6th year.

A Bloody Good Time

Twilight fans, who have been anxiously awaiting the DVD release this March 21, can finally sink their teeth into it!

Walmart in Doral is hosting a midnight Twilight party for those waiting for the midnight DVD release. The best part is that the first 50 fans in line will receive an exclusive Twilight party park with everything you need to have the ultimate viewing party.

"Twilight stores" have already been set-up in the giant retailer nationwide. You can find items like: Twlight apparel, bags, music, and books.

The DVD goes on sale tomorrow at MIDNIGHT!

Doral Walmart: 8651 NW 13 Terr

A Seafood Affair

I've been slacking on my end of the posts this week but luckily we have Ms. Vaselina to keep us entertained. However, I'm back (please hold your excitement) and I have a new, low-key, cheap event for your family next SUNDAY funday.

The Deering Estate is hosting thier 5th Annual Deering Seafood Festival on the Bay. The festival features live music, art exhibits, the Lil Shrimp Kids Zone, boat rides, and tours of the historical Deering Estate and more.

Our favorite part because we love eat is the fact that there will be live cooking demos from local chefs representing these fab restaurants:

• Oceanaire
• Ortanique on the Mile
• Bizcaya (Ritz-Carlton)

Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children over the age of 4.

Click HERE for more info on the event and the types of seafood that will be served.

Deering Estate:16701 SW 72 Ave.

Wednesday "handcuffs edition" Rant

I once went out on a date with a guy that ended up being disastrous (not TOO disastrous, just really, REALLY not my type). The first sign should have been when he pulled up in his car, and on the rear view mirror there were handcuffs hanging.

Nope, he wasn't a cop in case you were wondering. He's part of that weird breed of Miami people that think that is somewhat cool.

I would have accepted over sized fluffy dice, but handcuffs? Seriously, WTF.

What tickles your pickle?

Hopefully, it’s the grand opening of The Electric Pickle in Wynwood (former Circa 28 digs). The new bar/lounge is throwing a “sneak-peak” party on Wednesday, March 18th to help those of us who have missed Circa 28 fill the void in our hearts for place that has a chill vibe, a thriving local music/arts scene, and most importantly, no cover to enter!

The party kicks off at 9 PM and will feature some of Miami’s best live bands such as ArtOfficial and The Jesse Jackson Band, DJ sets by Will Renuart and Captain Ridiculous as well as surprise guests.

Bottom line: be there or be square.

Some details:
Address: 2826 North Miami Ave.
Time: Doors open @ 9 PM

Sunday Funday

On any given Friday, probably 75% of my friends status updates are as follows: "TGIF...woo-hoo!!" At 5:59 PM, we all act like captive animals cut loose for the first time running ravenously toward our weekend...or happy hour (you say tomato, I say tomAto). Following a rambunctious Friday, we sleep in late and wake up to either shop or go to the beach and basically, do it all over again. After all, weekends are made for fun.

By the time Sundays roll around, you're spent. However, you could still have low-key fun. Here are some of my favorite, low-effort Sunday activities (aka no make-up or perfectly coiffed hair required) that are sure to help you make the most of your laziness:

• Movies: Sundays are perfect for catching up on the latest flicks...while in bed. Hit up Blockbluster....or better yet, sign up for Netflix and have the movies delivered right to you.
• Brunch: meet up friends and get wasted early at brunch. The key is to find a place with bottomless Mimosas.
• Lounge: lay out by the pool with a magazine or book...and a nice cold corona. Invite some friends over (but keep it at a minimum, you don't want a party!) and spend the day talking shit.
• Relax: take a super hot, 2-hour bubble bath then slip back into your jammies (please make sure they're clean ones).
• Sleep: nap it up! I usually like to get up and take a little nap on the couch....head to the sala for another one, then make it back to my bed.

Lazy Sundays are so fun, I suggest doing Sunday on Saturday.

St. Patty's in Miami

This year's St. Patty's Day should be like all of the other ones: green and full of alcohol resulting in uselessness at work the next day.

strictlyMIA has put together a list of suggestions for you on your quest for a good time this March 17th. In the end, we know that when you're with the right people you'll have fun no matter where you go.

Our Top Pick:

Although we are big fans of John Martin's annual St. Patrick's Day Festival in the Gables, its time to move on. This year we are trying something different and heading out to Irish Times' block party in South Miami starting at 6 pm.

Irish Times: 5350 Sunset Dr.

Other Suggestions:

• John Martin's: 253 Miracle Mile
• Duffy's Tavern: 2108 SW 57 Ave.
• The Playwright: 1265 Washington Ave.
• Waxy O' Connors: 1248 Washington Ave.
• Churchills: 5501 NE 2nd Ave.

MTV Wants You to Get Nailed

Get your 15 minutes of fame and become America's newest kind of celebrity, a Reality TV one.

MTV is now casting for their new salon based reality TV series, Nail'd, here in Miami Beach.

They are looking for people who have "BIG" personalities, attractive (shouldn't be too hard here in Miami), and outgoing.

The open casting call is this Saturday, March 14th from 6 pm to 9 pm.

Honeydoo Salon

1460 Washington Ave.

Walk of Shame...no more!

After our hoochie-filled post yesterday, how serendipitous was it for us to come across the Walk of Shame kit, thanks to our friends at ThrillList. The kit comes complete with all the essentials - cotton dress, pre-pasted toothbrush, flip-flops, backpack (for your hoochie gear), wipes (self-explanatory) and most importantly, posh-style sunglasses. The best part...a portion of proceeds goes toward breast cancer awareness. Where were these items when I needed to save face the morning after?

Sigh...how nice to know that you could still be naughty....and no one has to know! Stash one in your truck today ladies...or gentlemen, be chivalrous and have one handy.

Happy Friday!

Photo: WalkofShame.com

Is Miami a town of Samantha's?

Yes! Gotta love the Miami New Times' Riptide 2.0 for letting us all know that indeed, Miami women are naughty! According to a recent post, Dan Levy (founder of an online dating site) recently polled women in seven major metropolitan cities (Miami, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Washington DC) to get a sense of their sexual behaviors.

The question was simple...how long does it take to get you naked? Everything under the sun was considered sexual behavior (so for those ladies out their claiming virginity since you've haven't "run" across home base, sorry, you're not). And the answers to select we're simpler: less than one date, at least two, or more than three. In Miami, 37 percent leave their clothes at the door on the first date! This was higher than women polled in all the other cities.

Tisk, tisk girls...could it be that we're getting better at no-strings-attached sex? Are we really just hoochies? What do you think???

Whatever the case may be, its clear that women in Miami are thinking more like men and feeling more sexually liberated...so ladies, have fun...but make sure to take care of yourselves and please remember....no glove, no love!

Photo: SheKnows.com

Bike Miami!

Biking fans looking for a good exercise or a little fun without the worry of getting hit by a car, this post is for you.

Bike Miami is back on their 5th run this Saturday, March 14.

This free, family-fun event closes the street of Downtown Miami from 9 am to 3 pm so you can peacefully enjoy your bike ride.

More info: Bike Miami

Add Some Schnebly to the Mix

For those of you on a budget, who dream of visiting the ever-famous wineries in California, can put that dream on hold (for now) and enjoy the best kind of winery....one in your own backyard.

Newly-opened, Schnebly’s Winery in the Redlands (Homestead) has been making local headlines for their tours and tastings of their wine,which is only made from fruits like mango, lychee, and guava.

The tours and tastings go for about only $7.

For more info, visit Schnebly Winery or call 305-242-1224.


Schnebly Winery:
30205 SW 217 Ave.

Photo Courtesy of Schnebly Wines

WTF!

Have you ever had a moment when you're walking down Ocean or at FIU or simply in the elevator at work when something happens that makes you think...WTF? Well, get ready...because every Wednesday we're going to bring you a WTF story (either a rant or rave) that will make you laugh (or cry).

So here goes our first installment...

I was driving down Biscayne Blvd in Downtown and I saw a woman on the side of the street (mind you, pants down, booty facing the road) using the sidewalk as a public restroom (yes, for number 2)...in broad daylight AND in front of the bus stop.

Seriously, WTF.

Who's House Is It?

D-Wade is OUT OF CONTROL good!!! Despite having a mild obsession with him (and of course, Udonis Haslem)…no one can deny that Wade is a basketball genius. After yesterday’s show-stopping (crazy, magical, INSANE) game against the Chicago Bulls, there is no question that Wade’s mantra - “This is MY house” - is true. And yesterday was only a culmination of what he’s been doing this season…basically, every game he gets better and better. Don’t be left out! Get in the game and support our boys by going to http://www.heat.com/ for tickets!

Remaining home games this season:
· March 11th vs. Boston
· March 14th vs. Utah
· March 23rd vs. Memphis
· March 28th vs. Milwaukee
· March 30th vs. Orlando
· April 7th vs. New Orleans
· April 12th vs. New York
· April 15th vs. Detroit

I’m sure they’ll make it to the play-offs…maybe even more this year! Stay tuned.

Photo: Heat.com

Let's Go For an Art Walk

Every 2nd Saturday of the month, local art /design lovers flock to Miami’s artsiest neighborhoods for a night of free music, refreshments and of course, art.

For your viewing pleasure, Art/design galleries and alternate spaces in Wynwood and the Design District open their doors from 7 pm to 10 pm.


The Wynwood Art Walk and Design District’s Art + Design Night are ongoing events so make sure to keep these rotating on your calendars!

Do the White Thing

strictlyMIA is a connoisseur of anything and everything local especially bands/artists. Lucky for you (and us), we know where to find them.

This Thursday beginning at 10 pm, The White Room is hosting some of Miami's most bonafide crowd pleasers:

-Hoosha

-L'Savant

-Nick Briz (Noise Harmonium)

-Trans Overdrive

This eclectic line-up of indie/alternative, funk/blues, and electronic sound is sure to make your ears and your wallet very happy (NO COVER!) .

The White Room: 1306 N.Miami Ave.

Downtown Lunch Fun

For those of you who live and/or work in the Downtown area:

Spend your Thursday lunch hour wisely and pass by Bayfront Park's Farmers' Market and Lunchtime Experience!

This farmers' market offers:

• Locally grown fruits & veggies
• Live Music
• Food & Bev. Vendors
• Table & Chairs ( so you can enjoy your lunch by the bay!)

And best of all, its FREE.

[The market runs every Thursday from 11 am to 3 pm until April 5th]

Big City, Bright Lights...at Tobacco Road Tonight

While clearly my rhyming title is kinda whack....the lyrical mastery and jazz/funk beats of ArtOfficial will surely make up for it.

The boys will be playing tonight at Tobacco Road. They'll take the stage upstairs at 10 PM and make sure to get there early...this cozy space is sure to get packed, super quick. Plus, the drinks are SUPER cheap from 6 to 7:36 PM...so go ahead, start early...its been a long week and you deserve it.

Some details....

Location: Tobacco Road, upstairs

Address: 626 S. Miami Avenue

Time: 10 PM

Something to Wine About

Smith & Wollensky kicks off their 44th Annual National Wine Week on Monday, March 9th.

For $10 you get to taste 10 different wines during their lunch hour.

For more info, go here Smith & Wollensky's Wine Week or call 305-673-2800.

Photo courtesy of Smith & Wollensky

There is No Doubt...

Tragic Kingdom lovers get excited......No Doubt visits South Florida on June 3 but tickets go on sale on this Saturday on Live Nation!

What's even better than No Doubt visiting is that the lawn tickets are $10. Yes, $10 (for all of us who are broke)!

Concert will be held at:

Cruzan Amphitheatre
West Palm Beach

Restaurant Closings

Has this ever happened to you? You're craving a specific restaurant, you get excited as you get near only to find that its been closed! I'm not going to lie, its only happened to me once but I absolutely HATED it!

I came across a list of "restaurant victims" from the Miami New Times food blog that I found really helpful.

Join me in saying goodbye to:

• Christabelle's Quarter
• Macabi Steakhouse and Bar
• Santo ( Please note that the bar is still open)
• The Food Gang
• Two Chefs Too

For the complete list of restaurant closings in Miami, check out Miami New Times.

Destination Fashion 2009

Michael Kors will be re-presenting his collection from NY Fashion Week here in Miami this weekend at Destination Fashion 2009 at Bal Harbour Shops this Saturday, March 7th at 8:30 pm.

With a live performance from:

• Seal
• The Pointer Sisters

Guest attendees will also include:

• Academy Award Winner Tommy Lee Jones
• Romero Britto
• Don Shula

This event benefits The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis

If you are interested in purchasing tickets, please contact Stephanie Sayfie-Aagaard at 305-243-4656.

BE sure to check out some footage of the event from our friends at Viva Fashion Blog.

Queen of Gossip in MIA

Perez Hilton is coming back home to Miami to promote his new book: Red Carpet Suicide: A Survival Guide on Keeping Up With The Hiltons.

This Saturday, go check him out at:

Books and Books
927 Lincoln Rd.

Miami Beach

2:30 PM!

A Quick Intro

The next few weeks are what I would like to call a test run. I will be playing around with colors, fonts, the layout, the logo, etc. until I find something that suits the blog. In the meantime, I leave you with some great events happening this weekend:

1. Miami International Film Festival- This festival starts tomorrow Friday, March 6 and runs through Sunday, March 15. For the schedule of films and more info, visit http://www.miamifilmfestival.com/
2. Carnaval on the Mile- A free event for everyone in the family. For more info, visit http://www.carnavalmiami.com/onthemile/home.html

I am still playing around with the site and I am open to suggestions; good or bad :)