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LTC 138-2004 Miami Herald Wrap - Visitors' Guide CITY OF MIAMI BEACH Office of the City Manager Letter to Commission No. 138-2004 m To: From: Mayor David Dermer and Members of the City Commission Jorge M. Gonzalez a A L-/--/ City Manager vVv !) MIAMI HERALD W P - VISITORS' GUIDE Date: June 1, 2004 Subject: This Letter to Commission (LTC) is intended to advise you of the "Herald Wrap" a new initiative being undertaken by the Miami Herald in partnership with the City of Miami Beach and the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Wrap is a weekly visitors' guide that is wrapped around the daily Miami Herald distributed to hotels throughout Greater Miami & the Beaches. It currently reaches more than 86,000 hotel rooms per week in 140 hotels providing a list of upcoming events, happenings and attractions. It also includes some brief editorials on shopping and points of interest within Miami-Dade County. The most recent version is attached for your review. JMG\eAAc\\mas c: Christina M. Cuervo, Assistant City Manager Ramiro Inguanzo, Chief of Staff, Office of the City Manager Max A. Sklar, Tourism and Cultural Development Assistant Director Michael Aller, Tourism and Convention Director/Chief of Protocol Nannette Rodriguez, Public Information Officer F:\info\$ALLlMax\TCDIL TC\Hearl Wrap L TC.doc Cn) .~ r o --I .j:"" ...... <- c= :r.: ;JJ m ,.." , () :::0 W m ~ - Cj) b- < o 3: ""1 ~ m .." 0 g W ~ TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES SATURDAY, MAY 29 - FRIDAY, JUNE 4, 2004 My ride is a dolphin named Onyx. I stick my anns out and wait as the trainer count~ down: "three, two, one!" On cue, Onyx pops up - THIS WEEK'S BIG THING facing me -and wa\'es his ~{)ral fins, the flip- pers that ex'end from his under- side. ! grab on, and off we go, belly to belly, moving sp""dily across tht:' lagoon at the Miami Seaquarium. I never imagined I'd have the chanc~ to bvdysurf in tflndem with a dolphin. But on a ""..ent after- O(lOn, I join a ~mall gmup cono;obt- . iog of visitors to Miami and l(lCal resident" who participate in the 5eaquarium's Water and Dolphin Exploration (WAD.E.) program. After an introduction to dolphin anatomy and behavior, we squeeze into wetsuits and head for the lagoon, where three dolphins and four members of the Seaquarium's Marine Mammal Training Staff greet us. As we stand in the water. the dolphins rub up against us like cats; their skin feels smooth as patent leather. The trainers direct the dolphin.s' behavior by feeding them fish. throwing them bans and blowing whistles, and they direc' 0.' as well, guiding us through a series of interaction~. We say hello and the dolphins greet us right back. talking, as we've learned in t W~~~~mf EVENTS Ink, Water, Brush, Hand and Heart: Painting from the Chinese Collection Through July 4 Lowe Art Museum University of Miami 1301 Stanford Drive Cora I Gables 305-284-3535 www.lowemuseum.org A historic survey of the Lowe's Chinese painting and calligraphy collection from the 17th-20th cen- turies. Curated by Brian A. Dursum. Florida Dance Festival June 2D-July 3 Various location~ throughout Miami-Dade County 305-867-711 ] www.fldance.urg the orientation, not through their smiling mouths but thn.ugh their blowholes. We salute and the dol- phins dive upside down and wave with their tail.. They also do som- ersaul's high in the air. Those who've enjoyed the W.A.D.E program at the Miami Seaquarium include actor Robert DeNiro, comic TIm Allen, and playwright Edwanl Albee. Bul some of the biggest celebrities to swim in the lagoon have actually been dolphin.. themselves: they were the stars of the TV ~ries "Flipper" tha' was filmed here at the 5eaquarium in the 1960s. The wooden dock and ranger station t.~i~~~~rf~~ ~r~:nf~~~~ show about a Florida Keys park ;:~~7~1 ~~I;;'~n7r?';nad~~~~:~', par- ticipants in the W.A.D.E. program swim in the same water once inhabited by the nine dolphins that together played the role of Flipper. One of their heirs, Sundance. is with our group in the lagoon today. As Sundance and the other dolphins dance through the water and take each of us on rides back and forth across ,he lagoon, we clap, cheer and laugh, but we're most often silent with awe. Spending time with these amaz- ing. graceful and intelligent ani- mals i.'i a humbling ex~rience; it's also an extreme thrill. We end the afternoon with kisses and hugs from the dolphins and take home This distinguished two-week pro- gram held in Miami and Miami Beach offers workshops, master classes, intensive courses and an outstanding performance ~ries featuring Florida, national and international.guest artists. 11th Annual South FlorIda Boat Show June 25-28 Miami Beach Convention Center 1901 Convention Center Drive Miami Beach 954-946-6164 www.soflahoal.ihow.com This regional event features new power boats up to 40 feet and per- sonal watercraft, ranging in price from under $5,000 to more than $250,000, AI.o on display are nau- tical accessories. including engines, boat lifts, fishing tackle, dive gear, and much more. Spt~cial features include boating/fishing ~)uvenir photographs, along with memorie!' of our experience in what that catchy Flipper theme song aptly described as the dol- phins' "world full of wonder." The 5eaquarium is celebrating [he 4iJth anniversary of Flipper's TV debut throughout the summer. In May and June, any visitor to the park celebrating their own 40th ~~~~;~ ~v~l~f::i~n~,t~:~~~~- the month of Juntt, all visitonol can win prius including a sea~m pass to the park. a W.A.D.E. sessivn and a special Flipper VII' Tour. All visitors can have a close-up look ~~*hi~:~~~~~~t::I:t;:nce of 5ea'luarium's daily dolphin shows in the Flipper Lagoon and the Whale and Dolphin S'adium. The WA.D.E. swim with the dvlphins program is offered Monday through Sunday at 12 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The cost is $140 ($120 fvr annual pass holders). The prob.,.am fee includes parking, a souvenir W.A.D.E. towt!'l, refreshmenl'l, and admission to the park. Participants mu.st be 52 inch~ tall and an adult must accompany participanl'" under 11' years old. Pregnant mothers may not participate in the dolphin swim program. For more informa. tion about the W.A.D.E. program and to register to participate, call 305-365-2501. Shows and exhibits op"" tv all visito~ for the price of Seaqua- seminars and a boat giveaway. The show runs Friday 4-10 p.m.; Satunlay 11 a.m.-IO p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m,-S p.m.; and Monday 4-10 p.m. Admission: $7.50 adults, $3.50 children ages 5-12. America's Birthday Bash July4 Bayfront Park Amphitheater Downtown Miami 301 N. Biscayne Boulevard 305-358-7550 www.bayfrontparkmiami.com Come celebrate America's inde- pendence at the biggest party in Miami featuring live music, food, drinks, arts and crafts, and an incredible fireworks display. 12th Annual International Mango Festival July 9-11 Fairchild Tropicalllo'anic Garden 10901 Old Cutler Road num admission include the whale and dolphin show in the Whale & Dolphin Stadium featuring the killer whale Lolita; the sea lion show; the Shark Channel inhabit- ed by 200-pound nurse sharks; the Main Reef Aquarium, a habitat for mu\liple species of fish; and the Manatee Exhibit, which is inrerac. tive, allowing guests to view Florida manatee!O through large underwater windtlws while learn. ing about their history, e....olution. anatomy. the th~at of endanger- ment to tht" manatet:' and t~ Seaquarium's manatt't" rehabilita- tion program, which rescues man- ate~ who.....e ~n injured ur urphan~ in accidenl'i with b(lc11 propellers. The St!aquarium's filcilities al!'iO include Salty'. Pirate I'laygwund, a children's play orea featuring a pirate ship and a shark-filled moat, and the Twpical Wings Exhibit. featuring toucans. macaws and other bird!'i and rep- tiles indigenous to the wlIrld'!olo rapidly depleting rainforests. The Miami Seaquarium is locat- ed at 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway on Virginia Key. flours are 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day of ,he year. The box office c1l,,",S a' 4:30 p.m. (Guests are advi~ to arrive by 1:30 p.m. to fully enjoy the facil- itie..) General admission is $24.95 and $]9.95 for children three to nine years old. For more informa- tion call 3OS-361-5705, or go to www.miamiseaquarium.com. Coral Gables 305-667.1651 www.fairchildgarden.org A festival that celebrates the mango fl!i1turing mango--inspired culinary delights. The fun includes tasting.<;, tree sale~, children's activities and a special Mango Brunch and Mango Auction. Film life's 8th Annual American Black Film Festival 2004 July 14-]8 Various locations throughout Miami !leach www.abff.com ABFF 2004 evening events include a comedy show, the HBO Short Film Competition and The Film Life Movie Awards. Sponsored by th. Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. For more information un evenb, vi~it www.Festi\.al~ason.(om. A ('f'Y ofJ1w. MiamI Hmdd/EJ Nunn fin-Bid will bt rltlJwmJ '''.Y(j(J{ room. Th1,,!WVb Is opdofl,a/. A emil' CJfSO.25 for MdJ puhtlnillM will bfo paurd w your iKllIUlIllfdrllwry 1" drrUIlOO. VISITORS' GUIDE TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES I ' Llltlngl a,e lubJect to change without notice. Pi.... call belo,e attending an event 0' vllltlng an att,actlon. Tf"I J f"Y'"'''' ANCIENT SPANISH MONASTERY The oldest building in the Western Hemisphere. this mast~"piece of Romanesque and Cistercian arch;~ tecture was built in Segovia in the 12th century and purchased by William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century. Then it sat In numbered boxes for 26 years in a Brooklyn warehouse. before being reassembled as a tourist attraction on its present site. Open daily. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (because of frequent weddings. call ahead). Adults $5. students $2.50. kids $2. 16711 W. Dixie Highway. North Miami Beach. 305-945-1461. www.spanishrnonastery.com ART DECO DISTRICT lined up like colorful bonbons along Ocean Drive. Collins Avenue and surrounding streets, the hotels and apartment buildings of South Beach represent the largest con- centration of Art Deco buildings in the world. Explore this National Historic District on a 90-minute guidE.>(j tour offered by the Miami Design Preservation League on Wednesday and Saturday at 10:30 a.m.. and Thursday at 6:30 p.m $20 per person. r~eet at the Welcome Center. 10th Street and Ocean Drive. South Beach 305- 672-2014. wwwmdpl.org BASS MUSEUM OF ART This eclectic faCility houses a per. manent collection of more than 2.800 objects. including European mastHs. 20th-century paintings. sculpture. graphics. design arts and photography. Open daily (except Monday) 10 a.m.-S pm. till 9 p.m Thursday. and 11 am.-s pm Sunday. Adults $6. seniors and stu- dents $4. under 6 free. 2121 Park Ave.. South Beach. 305-673-7530. wwwbassmuscurn.org CORAL CASTLE Often compared to Giza and Stonet\€'nge. this archit(.->ctural mar- vel was constructed between 1923 and 1951 by Latvian immigrant Ed Le~'dskalnin. who weighed all of 100 pounds but was still able to move and sculpt 1.100 tons of coral rock. How did he do it? No one knows. Open daily. 7 a.rn.-9 pm Adults $9.75. seniors $6.50. kids 7- 12 $5. under 6 free. 28655 S DiYie Highway. south Miami-Dade County. 305-248-6345. wwwcoralcastlccom DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER One of the most unique parkS in South Florida. this archeological and architectural preserve is listed In the National Register of Historic Places. The 440-acre property includes an endangered pine rock- land habitat. coastal tropical hard- wood rock land hammocks. man- grove forests. salt marshes. and a coastal dune island Naturalist- guided tours. Open daily. 10 am -5 pm. Adults $7. kids 4-14 $5.3 and under free. 16701 SW 72nd Ave.. south Miami-Dade County. 305- 235-1668. www.deeringestate.org EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK The only subtropical preserve in North America. this "rlver of grass" is made up of a variety of hi'Jbi- tats-including Sdwgrass prairil?s and hardwood hammocks-and is famc>(j for its. enormous bird popu. lation. as well as its resident i'ilhga- tors and crocodiles. Walking and canoe trails. and boat tours an(j tram tours get visitors close to the wildlife. Ranger-led activities arc offHed throu9hout the park; camp- ing is available. Open daily. but best visited from December to April $10 per vehicle at the main entrance. located off State Road 9336/SW 344th St in Florida City. 305-242- 7700. wwwnps.gov/ever. FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN Dating back to 1938. this lush par- adise of rare tropical plants- including palrns, cycads. flowering trees and vines-is also a center 0': botanic research. and hosts regular events like the International Orchid Festival (April) and Ramble-A Garden Festival (November). Open dally. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 pm. Adults $10. seniors $9. kids 3-12 $5. under 3 free. 10901 Old Cutler Road. Coral Gables. 305-667-1651. www,fairchildgarden,org H'STORICAL MUSEUM OF SOUTH- ERN FLORIDA A state-of-the-art faCility showcas- Ing 10.000 years of South Florida history. Open r~onday-Saturday. 10 a,m.-5 p.m. (till 9 pm. every third Thursday); Sunday. noon-S p rn Adults $5. seniors and students 1.4. kids 6-12 $2. under 6 free. Miami- Dade Cultural Center. 101 W. Flagler St. downtown. 305-375- 1492, www.historicdl.museurn,org JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA Housed in CI formor synagogue that Is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. this architectural Art Deco masterpiece features a copper dome and 80 stained-glass windows_ Inside is a permanent collection that includes .'MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida: depicting the Jewish experience in the state from 1763 to present Open Tuesday-Sunday. 10 a.rn.-5 p.m. Closed on Jewish holidays Adults $5. seniors and students $4. under 6 free: frcf! admission on Saturday. 301 Washington Ave.. South Beach. 305-672-5044. www.jcwishmLlSClJrrlCOrn MIAMI ART MUSEUM Featuring both permanent and traveling exhibits. f-1AM's primary focus is internaticnal art from the perspectivo o~ the AmlO:'ricds. With an emphasis on multicultural t"'iami. Open TlJI,!sday-Friday, 10 a,rn.-S P,n! (till 9 p,rn. every third Thursday): noon-5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Adults $5. seniors $2.50. students and kids 12 and under free; fr~ admission on Sundays and second Saturdays r~iarnl-Dade Cultural Center. 101 W Flagler St.. downtown 305-375- 3000, www.rniarrlli'Jrtmuscum.org MIAMI CHILDREN'S MUSEUM The young and young at heart play. learn, imagine and create with hun- dreds of Interactive exhibits Galleries. classrooms, educational gilt shop and 200-seat auditorium add to the 'un. Open daily. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. General admission $8. under 1 free 980 r~acArthur Causeway. off 1.395 between downtown Clnd South Beach. 305-373-5437. wwwmiarnichildrensrnuseum.org MIAMI METROZOO A cageless design lets the animals roam in a more natural environ. rnont at r"'etrozoo. horne to more than 800 animals from 225 species Includes the WIngs of Asia Aviary, largest op(.-.n-air Asi;}n aviary in the Western Hemisp~r'2'. along with animal shows. an ecology theater and children's zoo Open daily. 9:30 n.rn.-s:30 pm Adults $12. seniors $11. kids 3-12 $7. 2 and under free 12400 SW 152 St. south Miami- Dade County. 305-251-0400. www.mi;:tmimetrozco.com MIAMI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & PLANETARIUM An affiliate of the SmIthsonian Institution. tho museum houses South Florlda's largest natural his- tory collection, along with exhibits on tho envIronment. sciences and cultural heritage. A wildlife center features birds of prey. while a 230- seat planotarium illuminates tho heavens. Open daily. 10 a.m.-6 p.m Adults $10. soniors and students 13- 18 $8. kids 3-12 $6. under 3 fr~.., 3280 S. Miami Ave.. north Coconut Grove. 305-646-4200. www.mlamisci.org MIAMI SEAGUARIUM This marine lif~ entort"llnrncnt p.-)r~ features dally performances hy Lolita the killer wllale. acrobatic dolphins and hilariOUS sed lions Exhibit.s indudte: Discovery BaY-"ln endangered mangrove habltat- plus manatee nnd srlo'}r\.t prt::~sl2!nta- tlons. ;,nd the M.11n R(oCf AQllrlrlllm. a 7s0.000-gnllon tank t~"'"ming with fish of every size and color. Swim with th(: dolphins programs available. Open daily. 9:30 a rn.-6 pm Adults $24.95. kIds 3-9 $19.95. urld€-r 3 free. 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway. Key Biscay"". 305-361- 5705. www.miamiseaQuarium.com M'CCOSUKEE INDIAN VILLAGE & AIRBOAT TOURS A tour of thiS duthentic. ,1111898 takes in displays of 5l2'wlng. wood. working and otller crafts. alligator wrestling and typical cooking t~<:h- niQues. Afterward, enjoy a thrilling airboat ride through the Ev(!rglades. Restaurant and gift shop Opo:>n daily. g a m-s pm Adults $5. kids 5-12 $3.50. under 5 Iree. Tamiami Trail (U.5. 41). 18 miles west of Krome Ave.. extreme western Miami-Dade County. 305- 223-8380. www.mlccosukee.com MONKEY JUNGLE Home to ",,:arly 400 primates- most running free on a 30-acre rescrvo as visitors observf: from caged walkways-Monkey Jungle is one of the few protected hnbitats for €'ndangered primates in the, U.S and bOdsts North America's only semi-natural tropical rainforest. Daily presentations and ff~dings Open daily. 9:30 a.m-5 p.rn Adults $17.95. seniors $14.95. kids 3-9 $1195. under 3 free. 14805 SW. 216th SL south Miami-Dade County. 305-235-1611 www.rnonkeyjungle.corrl. MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART With a mission to rnaJ.rc c:ont0rnpo- r"lry cut .:Jcc(:ssiblo to divers/) "lUdl. eneos. t-10CA maintains an dctive schodul<: o~ provocativo. inr,ol/ativo cyhibitions. emphaSizing young ~nd cmerglng artists along with interna- tionally rccogniz~-d artISts. Open daily (except Monday) 11 a.m-s pm. noon-s p.m. on Sunday Adults $5. seniors and students $3. under 12 freo. 770 NE 12sth SL North Miami. 305-893-6211. www.mocanoml.org PARROT JUNGLE ISLAND This wildlife theme park IS homo:> to more th;tn 3.000 cAotie anlrTMls- inc:luding p;jrrots. mdcaws <"Jnd cockatoos who perform in d"lily ~hows-500 ~pOl:ios o~ plants. on(;. of-a-kirIO C\vidril':~s. plAnt nurseries, ?I potting farm dnd r:ducdtloMI 0xhibits, Open dtjlly 10 run -6 n m Adults 1.23 95. s~niors and stu. dents 1.2195. kids 3-10 $1895. under 3 ~rc",: 1111 Parrot .Jungle Trail. off 1-395 betwoen downtown t-1iami arid South Be~ct'l. 305-2- JUNGLE. www.parrotJur.gl(~.com VENETIAN POOL Once a (lUarry pit. but transforrnllS-d Into a palatidllagoon o~ vine-cov- ered loggias. sMdy porticos. Spanish fountains, obs(~rvdtion tow- ers and cascading watcr~alls, Venation Pool is nrobably thl':: only SWimming pool to he included on the National Register o~ Historic Places. During the summc-r, its 820.000 gallons 0' water arc drained and repl;Jced nightly from the subterrarv.,'an ;jqui~0r flOWing tY.:-rK:rJth it. Op(:n dolly: hours ar!) seasonal. Adults $9. kids 3-12 $5 (April-Oct); $6/$3 (Nov-~~arch) Children under 3 not .;dmlttf!d 2701 Do:> Soto Blvd. Coral Gables 305-460-5356 wwwveootianpoolcom VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS An Italian Rer~ISS;HlC(:.styI0 VIlla and forrndl gardens bUilt In 1916 as the winter residf~nc:e of industrialist James D~rin9. The 34-room b-3yfront house is. C"llIod With antiQlIIC: trCi'lsures, whlk: 10 acros o~ forrnAI gardens feature ~ountAjns and stat- uary OP":n daily. 9:30 a.m -5 pm: gardens open till 5:30 pm Adults $12. kids 6-12 $5 3251 S M'drTll Ave. Coconut Grove. 305-250-913.3. WWWVtzcaYrJmuseurn.com ANNOUNCING A SALE OF TIMELY PROPORTIONS 400/0 DISCOUNT ON ALL TAG HEUER SEL Models ~;,.-~ ~ ) Ilia! ~ JAm is ;lImo'! ready fm llHllrMlly......,....."~.....," '-'t! n....tt ..It* -.h ~ """" "'-t ..... ___004 !J"...."Jt, 'f'w ~ -'II ,,~. ..,......................,... ,...__...... .._f"',...."'-i, .., ."",1 tt..U(" _ th ....,,, .. ....., ...... ... n_ _ owJIl .._, II ....,..... ll.t k ....._ ,... I"" .... ,... ....,&.. ......L...btf... .,.,rttJ Ikllt Nt! I....' V.,UiKtnr 'UUdtitAlflllJ;11l Jttd la.,h~~t~lr IW\tOtwl'\ r_lk StSo, ,. !<t..d is U,U.,. 101 NE 1st STREET, MIAMI 305 371.2289 I 800 272.5605 , ^ f"'\r -. ~ '\VJt' Jt LcEuT ~..~~ "l..eUII' ~~~{:lfU(' ~~~~:"~'.."B~ ,"'" .."U IIA1 ...f ...\~- .:.~l 2'!ti - Ht ,..lw .........rd.. VISITORS' GUIDE TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES THE EVERGLADES Hometown and Habitat BY LISA SIMUNDSDN Jw;t west of the Miami met. ropolitan area, the Everglades is it subtropical wilderness of remark..1.ble diversity, a shel- tering landscape for many threatened or endangered ani. mals and birds. Indeed, becaust!' of its great variety of plant and animal life, the Everglades has been named an International Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, and a Ramsar Wetland of lnrernationallmportance, while also remaining a must. see attraction for more than a million visitors every year. Bu' in addition to the m~lange of flora and fauna found within the 1.4 million acres of the Everglades National Park, human history spans over 2,000 years here, ranging from nomadic Calusa tribes to modem settlers. And this unique weave of natural and cultural history can be seen today within the Miccosukee communities who still live and work in their ancestral homeland. Originally part of the Creek Nation, the Miccosukees first settled in Florida in the early 1700s and developed thriving communities in the Apalachee Bay region and along the Apalachicola River. However, LET'S PLAY BALL! Volleyball, that is! BY ANALISE ROSE Like baseball, volleyball is an all. American game that has achieved global popularity, ranking behind only soa:er among partidpation sports. According to California-based Volleyball World Wide, 800 million people acros.' the globe play this team sport at least once a week. As you may recall from high school gym class, the object of the game is for each team to send the ball over the net so that it grounds on the opponen(s court. With its simple rules, simple equip- ment fa ball and a net) and the fact that i' can be played by participants of all skill levels, it's no wonder tha' volleyball is a favorite leisure activity for so many. In Miami, this great game gets even better on the beach, whe~ swimsuit.c1ad players can take a quick dip in the ocean when things get too heated. There are beach vol- leyball facilities at both Lummus Park on South Beach and Crandon Park on Key Biscayne. You'll find sand v01leyba 11 courts - but no beach - at Greynolds Park in North Miami Beach, where huge shade 'rees and nature trails provide plenty of post-game res' and relaxation. Sand vol- leyball is also available at the Southwest YMCA in South Miami, while Tropical Park off Bird Road in western Miami. after the Seminole Wa~ of the early and mid-1800s, the u.s. government decr~d that all tri~s were to relocate out West. About 50 Mjccosuk~s escaped this forced relocation, hiding out in the Everglades. and todaY'!i tribe members are descendants of that hardy band of resisters. Modern Miccosukees have found a way to bridge the modern era and ancient tradi. lions. Some still live in dwellings called chickees as their anCt!stors did, while llth~ ers prefer contemporary huus-- ing. All are dedicated to pre- serving their identity, partici. pating in ancient rites and maintaining their language. medicines and clans. That said, the Miccosukees welcome visitors to discover their culture at the authentic Dade Coun'y sels up volley- ball nets upon request. Combine volleyball with gorgt"ous models in skimpy bathing suits and celebrity spectators and you ge' Volleypalooza, an annual charity event held each February at Lummu~ Park on Sou,h Beach. The tw<HIay tuumam~nt draws chLllieled and statuesque models from more than 20 top mod~ling agendes to com~te for a tro- phy and cash prizes that are donated tv charity. South Beach is also a stop on the Big Shot Volleyball pro beach series, organiud by New York-ba..d East End Volleyball and also played at Lummus Park in February. Serious volleyball spectators can also take in the University of Miami Hurricanes during home games at ,he Coral Gables campus from September through Novembeor. MicCllsukee Indian Village, located on Tamiami Trail (US. 41),18 miles west of Krome Avenue. Here you'll see demonstrations of woodcan'. ing, patchwork, k>eadwork. basket weaving and doll mak- ing. as well a!i tribal paintings and a photo history at the onsite museum. Th~n get ready to be thrilled as you watch a stun- ning display of alligator wrestling matches offered throughout the day. Not to be mi't.sed is an exhilarating nir- bc.,at ride through the Everglades, which leads to a typical hammock-style camp that has been owned by the same Miccosukee family for more ,han 100 years. Afterward, savor culinary spedalties at the Miccosukee restaurant. For more on the Miccosukees, call 305-223-&1flO or vlsit www.miCt..OSukee.com. For information about the GATEWAY TO HISTORY HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN FLORIDA BY SUSIE PAGANO South Florida's recent and distant past comes tu life at the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, a s'ate-of- the-art facility in Downtown Miami that explores the art~a's rich hi~torv and cultural influ- ences, fro~ the earliest Indian inhabitanlS to the present-day arrival of people from ,he Caribbean and Latin America. The museum invites you to go back thousands of years with artifacts from the Cutler Fossil Site, a cave--Iike sink- hole in southern Miami.Dade County once occupied by Paleo-Indians (10,000 - 7500 B.C.), who hunted large ani- mals such as mastodon and mammoth; and the Miami Circle, a primitive carved structur~ unt'drth~ in Downtown Y1iami and believed to be the work of Tequt'sta Indians between 500 and 2,lXXl years ago. The museum's permanent collection also examines the region's more recent history. including the Euro~an rival- ry in Florida and the Caribbean. The numerous exhibits focus on early Key Wes~ including the wrecking industry, which was a thriving part of the island's economy in the 19th cen'ury; the Seminole Indians; early home- steading in South Florida; ,he founding and develvpment of Miami in the late 19th and early 20th centuries; and pre- sent-day Miami as the gate- Everglades, mntact Everglades NativnalPark at 305-2~2-7700 or visi' www.nps.gov/ever. way of the Americas. In addition, the museum hosts a variety of 'raveling exhibits throughou, the year; recent exhibitions have explored South Florida's mar- itime histvry and the history of newspaper photography in Greater Miami. For more information on the museum, call 305-375-1492 Of vi~it www.historical-muse um.arg. .I<<J ~I:!~ ~ D"~Sti "!lfllI.II_..,n..." Ranked Among the Top FIve Steak Houses in America Celebrate the NFL's Wmningest Coach and Undefeated Season Before or After Dinner in Our ''No Name Lounge" and Piano Bar Whtn IIIddns YOIII' mtn'odon _ntWn .CIub Shu""..uJ tretlw .Priorlty ~, . Comp/lmnJr.y I'friIns _4 1Ital_ " IWlIIbtr of C/ub Shula ~. ~ <t~~~~ t~~f G . ~d --.... ~I____ - --- BAL HARBOUR BISTRO II~" ~:-: . ; ( .. ince 1979 - A melding of _ continental and the new ....J Miami regional cuisine, elegant sandwiches, freshest fish and seafood, specialty pastas, chicken and beef entrees, extraordinary desserts, coffees and classic liquers served in either our beautiful dining room or outside under the stars in our garden patio. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon refreshers seven days a week, 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. On premises. all-weather parking. LOCATED IN THE BAL HARBOUR SHOPS 9700 COLLINS AVE BAL HARBOUR TEL: 861 4544 / FAX: 861 S344 TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES W:;r~~~inQ ~~~m~~~'~~~~~~~~'r~J.~~'. ~ 1 lCaIl 888-76-MIAMI or the ---' ~ ~ l t;., n IMlaml Beach Tourism Hotline '~ I ':-~ '-....:: II \ I ,~ \ ! L at 305-673-7400 ,r:- ...~ L I L \ Y ) , ~ \...J J ~r--- _u_ ~ . - - .. ~- 'j., ~razllian :lm ;estlval ~j:~~:I;~~~ iLincoln Theatn' ilincoln Road, Miami Ik'ach 305-6.17-9900 w \\-w.bra:t:ilianfilmfestival.col11 Featuring over 30 acclaimed Brazilian films, the 8th Annual Brazilian Film Festival presents international ilIuest,;, dill.'Ctors, producers, ~acI<J.. ~..... llitm Jlii!,et.l1os:ll1", i~':' ~~ t~tC~~'A,",<- ~. i%~~r'J~~~ & ~;~~~"ri~::::' of Sdence 3280 South Miami Ave., I~=~~ve www.lniamisd.org iThe unique !'i~ oHlorida I ..are celeb.'.ra~"tn'a.Il.i1ii'l;~1 exrubi!, presenting' interactive lmodultii'on dtipIann!ng, f?t:r~u~:~tth;~;~~~ to natl~~~~:V~~~~,~fasci- impoi'lanre of'dtizens to thei, p.oI,:> \I . tf s 'di verse eniovironn\ent. 40~ 4t~~ A. ~ '~~ :?))~ '~ ~ ~I' :p~~ Bamboo Show & Sale une 12-13 FairchildTl'QRical BOCa,ni!= Gu~fb ~~1 ()ld Cutler Rd., Miami 305-667:1651 w\vwJalrchil~ganlen.org . "" fabulous sIiow and sale ot ~Utlful bambOo is presen !ry the AmericanBalnboo Society, Carib~!o.apter. e plant sale takes,place .f.. rom 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. . th days. BY JUUANNE MORENO Plays dealing with immigration ~~~ ::::;i:~~~~~~rt~:~~l,r take renter Dr. I I"" stage at this y~ar's International Hispanic 1neatre Festival, which runs June 4-20 in six venues in Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Oassie drama. con- temporary comedy and children's theater are also included among the 10 productions from six Lalin American countries, the United States, and Spain on the festival program. The performances are In Spanish. with some subtitled in English. Now in its 19th year, the awanl-winning festival is the only one in the United States dedicated to theater from diverse Spanish- speaking countries and Latino companies based in the United States. "These are groups whom you may never otherwise have a chanre to see," says International Hispanic Theatre Festival director Mario Ernesto Sanchez, who is also the director of the Coral UPCOMING "~~l\::' ,:' :I:~\: LS \~! :! ~; : I Li ~~ Pln,.\,o,;() Sultr 3.17 June 23-September 12 Bass Museum of Art 2121 Park Avenue, Miami Beach 305-673-7530 www.bassmuseum.org A cycle of 347 prints Picasso made :~ ~:~' (~~n;e:.t::~ h~~~), which are considered the most exhaustive examination of lust anywhere in his oeuvre. l'ht- n'ht rr Con/,..,-, July 7-September 5 Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables 305-444-9293 ~~';:'~~i~~l~~~~~~Oalilarious Gables-based Teatro Avante, which presents the festival in con- junction with American Airlines. "The festival is a way of gelling to know other cultures, other tradi. tions, other methods and styles. Being able to attend these perfor. mances is very benefidalto audi- ences here and to the artists them- selves." Harsh views of the current real- ilies of life in Latin America are revealed in plays from Venezu~la and Argentina, both countries rep- resented by large populations of recent immigrants in Miami. Arg~ntina's Grupo Mabel per- forms Mabel y EdgarrJo. a work reflecting the "daily sham" that permeates Argentine society. Passport, presented by Caracas's Teatro San Martin, c1ironicles "the ~~:~ :'he~ ~~;~l~ ~~;., for survival is a passport:' Another topical play, Carras al Pir. de un AItJo/(Letters at the Foot of a Tree), by Mexico's Mexicali a Secas theater group, tells the story of undocumented Mexicans who risk all in pursuit of a beller life in the United States. There will be a round table dis- cussion about theatre and diaspo- ra. featuring playwrights and directors from Mexico, Colombia, Cuba and Venezuela that will fur- ther explore how immigration is reflected in theater. International Children's Day Oune 12) will be marked with a special free festival presentation for all ages by Tealro Malta of Spain. In Dt VJ~e por Gloria Futlllt'S (Traveling Through Gloria Fuentes) members of a clown troupe go on a colorful journey inspired by the works of relebrat- ed Spanish poet Gloria Fuentes. 1ne festival opens with EI Hombrl' Innl8CU/ado (The Immaculate Man) - a Teatro Avante production starring Sanchez - about a family tom apart by the members' opposing political views.1ne festival direc- tor describes the playas "a mod. ern Greek tragedy in which both the left and the right explain their position.." The play evokes world events, particularly the war in Iraq. and public debate in this U.5. election year. "There are no winners or losers in these situa. ~~:~~~\% o;e~~o;:~td:'~l~st tion." says Sanchez. adding that the play will allow the audienre to debate and decide its ultimate outcome. The International Hispanic 1neatre Festival takes plare June 4.20. TIckets are available at the Teatro Avante box offiCI!, located at 235 Alcazar Avenue, in Downtown Coral Gables. between Ponre de Leon Blvd. and Salzedo, four blocks north of Miracle Mile. Open Monday.Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Satunlay and Sunday, 2.5 p.m. You'll find convenient parking at Lot #6, at the cor. ner of Alcazar and Salzedo. TIckets for all performances are $25; adults over 65, stu- dents, pel50ns with disabili- ties, and groups of 10 or more, $20. You Il\ay also purchase tickets by calling 305-445-8877 or 305-446-7144 or online at www.teatroavante.com. ::~~~ ~~~~;t;~si,,'lfrC:":~~i. ronment of contemporary America. Fairchild P.,ln1.' - -hll Annualla:'i.lt' of Ill.. Tropks July 17 Fairchild Tropical Botanic Ganlen 10901 Old Culler Road, Coral Gables 305-667.1651 www.falrchildgarden.org Fairchild Tropical Botanic Ganlen presents Fairchild Palms, an orga. nization of young professional volunteers who raise funds to support the Gardens educational programs, conservation efforts and sdentific initiatives. TIckets are $35 for members, $45 for non- members prior to the event; 510 extra at the door. Call for reserva. tions. Mlmni Spin' Ht'~1"'1II...o1 "'.tolllh August 1-31 Various restaurants throughout Miami-Dade County 30!>-539.3000 www.MiamiRestaurantMonthcom Celebrate the city's passion for food and life by enjoying special lunch and dinner menus at reduced rates. Indulge yourself with $19,99 lunch specials and dinners for just $29.99 (Includes an appetizer, entn!e and dessert). Tax and gratuity not included. 1I0I1wstl'il<! ~"aln StfN"1 h~.,t August 6 (First Friday of every month) Downtown Homestead 305-242-4814 www.homesteadmainstreel.com On the first Friday in August, the artists and chefs of Homestead host a .treel party along Krome and Washington Avenues. MI4tI11I11t'..tdl 1101 \Vh('t~l.\ Coni mll~~ 2004 August 11.15 Various locations throughout Miami Beach 305-538-3809 www.mlamibeachhotwheels coolblues.com Enjoy five days of music and a showcase of hot cars throughout :-iiaml Beach. 2004 1\-1TV Vid~o Music. A\\'HI'(I.. August 29 AmericanAirlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Boulevanl, Downtown Miami 786-m-1000 For the first time ever, the MTV Video Music Awanls will be broadcast live from the AmericanAirlines Arena in Downtown Miami. The VMAs will air live at8 p.m. lIT/PT. Sponsored by the Greater Miami Convention &. Visitors Bureau. For more information on events, visit www.FestivalSeason.com. A ropy ofTIr MlamJ IIrraJd/El NINVO Ht'fiIJd will"" ddlwnd co your ,oom. llll$ M'lvb M optlnnal. A mdjl of $0.25 iK nK'b publb"M will bt posmI,o .vwr KroUIN If Mllwry it ckdInt!'d. .;; ~~;;;;~';<' Meet the Faces of South Rorida's M-Iaml- 4t.....,~ ~~ , , Favorite Attraction! Bring this coupon It' .,:: ..J ,.J""" ,," l for $2 off regular admission, good SeaQUarmm., ---":'-"'l' \t) ~ · ~ _~ for l,Ip to 6 people: 30&-36 -~lQ~ ,t'" ' ----~ : ",~ VISITORS' GUIDE TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES / ATTRACTIONS LIstings are subject to change without notice. Please call before attending an event or visiting an attraction. ANCIENT SPANISH MONASTERY The oldest building in the Western Hemisphere, this masterpiece of Romanesque and Cistercian archi- tecture was built in Segovia in the 12th century and purchased by William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century. Then it sat in numberod boxes for 26 years in a Brooklyn warehouse, before being reassembled as a tourist attraction on its present site. Open daily, 9 am.-3 pm. (because of frequent weddings, call ahead). Adults $5, studc-nts $2.50, kids $2. 16711 W Dixie Highway. North Miami Beach, 305-945-1461. wwwspanishmonastery.com ART DECO DISTRICT Lined up like colorful bonbons along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue and surrounding streets. the hotels and apartment buildings of South Beach represent the largest con- c~ntration of Art Deco buildings in the world. Explore this National Historic District on a 9O-minute guided tour offered by the Miami Design Preservation League on Wednesday and Saturday at 10:30 a.m, and Thursday at 6:30 p.m $20 per person. Meet at the Welcome Center, 10th Street and Ocean Drtve. South Beach. 305- 672-2014, wwwmdpl.org BASS MUSEUM OF ART ThiS eclectic faciltty houses a per- manent collection of more than 2,800 objects, including European masters. 2Oth-century paintings, sculpture, graphics, design arts and photography Open daily (except Monday) 10 a.m.-5 p.m, till 9 pm Thursday, and 11 am-5 p.m Sunday. Adults $6, seniors and stu- dents $4, under 6 free. 2121 Park Ave., South Beach, 305-673-7530, www.bassmuseum.org. CORAL CASTLE Often compared to Giza and Stonehenge, this architectural mar- vel was constructed between 1923 and 1951 by Latvian immigrant Ed Leedskalnin, who weighed all of 100 poundS but was still able to move and sculpt 1,100 tons of coral rock How did he do It? No one knows. Open daily. 7 a.m-9 p.m Adults $9.75, seniors $6.50, kids 7- 12 $5. under 6 free 28655 S. Dixie Highway. south Miami-Dade County. 305-248-6345, www.coralcastle.com DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER One of the most unique parkS in South Florida. this archeological and architectural preserve is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The 440-acre property includes an endangered pine rock- land habitat. coastal tropical hard- wood rock land hammocks, man- grove forests, salt marshes. and a coastal dune island. Naturaltst- guided tours. Open daily. 10 am.-5 p.m Adults $7, kids 4-14 $5. 3 and under free. 16701 SW 72nd Ave south Miami-Dade County, 305.: 235-1668, wwwdeeringestate.org. EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK The only subtropical preserve in North America, this "river of grass" is made up of a variety of habi- tats-including sawgrass prairies and hardwood hammocks-and is famed for its enormous bird popu- lation, as well as its resident alliga- tors and crocodiles Walking and canoe trails. and boat tours and tram tours get visitors close to the wildlife. Ranger-led activities are offered throughout the pari<: camp- ing is available. Open daily, but best visited from December to April $10 per v{.-hicle at the main entrance. located off State Road 9336/SW. 344th 51. in Flonda City. 305- 242- 7700, www.nps.gov/ever. FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN Dating back to 1938, this lush par- adise of rare tropical plants- including palms, cycads, flowering trees and vines-is also a center of botanic research, and hosts regular events like the International Orchid Festival (April) and Ramble-A Garden Festival (November). Open daily. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 pm. Adults $10, seniors $9, kids 3-12 $5, under 3 free. 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables, 305-667-1651. www.fairchildgarden.org \ H'STORICAL MUSEUM OF SOUTH- ERN FLORIDA A state-of-the-art faCility showcas- ing 10.000 years of South Florida history. Open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (till 9 p.m. every third Thursday): Sunday. noon-5 pm Adults $5, seniors and students $4, kids 6-12 $2, under 6 free. Mlami- Dade Cultural Center. 101 W. Flagler St., downtown, 305-375- 1492, www.historical-museum.org JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA Housed in a former synagogue that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. this architectural Art Deco masterpiece features a copper dome and 80 stained-glass windows. Inside is a permanent collection that includes "MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Flonda" depicting the Jewish experienc~ in the state from 1763 to present Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m-5 p.m. Closed on Jewish holtdays. Adults $5. seniors and students $4. under 6 free: free admission on Saturday. 301 Washington Ave., South Beach. 305-672-5044 www.jewishmuseum.com . MIAMI ART MUSEUM Featuring both permanent and traveling exhibits. t~AM's primary focus is international art from the perspective of the Americas. with an emphasis on multicultural Miami Open Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (till 9 pm. every third Thursday): noon-5 p.m on Saturday and Sunday. Adults $5, sc-niors $2.50. students and kids 12 and under free: free admission on Sundays and second Saturdays. Miami-Dade Cultural Center, 101 W Flagler SL downtown. 305-375- 3000. www.miamiartmuseum.org MIAMI CHILDREN'S MUSEUM The young and young at heart play. ~am. imagine and create WIth hun- dreds of interactive ex.hibits Galleries. classrooms. educational gift shOp and 2oo-seat auditorium add to the fun. Open daily. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. General admission $8, under 1 free 980 MacArthur Causeway. off 1-395 between downtown and South Beach. 305-373-5437. www.miamichildrensmuseum.org MIAMI METROZOO A cageless design lets the animals rOam in a more natural environ- ment at Metrozoo, home to more than 800 animals from 225 species. Includes the Wings of Asia Aviary. largest open-air Asian aviary in the Western Hemisphere. along with animal shows. an ecology th€ater and children's zoo. Open daily, 9:30 a rn.-5:30 p.rn. Adults $12, seniors $11 kids 3-12 $7, 2 and under free 12400 SW 152 St.. south Miami- Dade County, 305-251-0400 www.miamimetrozQO.com MIAMI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & PLANETARIUM An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. th€' museum houses South Florida's largest natural his- tory collection. along with exhibits on the environment. sciences and cultural heritage. A wildlife center features birds of prey, while a 230- seat planetarium illuminates the heavens Open daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m Adults $10. seniors and students 13- 18 $8, kids 3-12 $6. under 3 free 3280 S. Miami Ave.. north Coconut Grove, 305-646-4200, www.miamisci.org. MIAMI SEAQUARIUM This marine life entertainment pari< features daily performances by Lolita the killer whale, acrobatic dolphins and hilarious sea lions. Exhibits include Discovery Bay-an endangered mangrove habitat- plus manatee and shark presenta- tions. and the Main Reef Aquarium, a 750,ooO-gallon tank teeming with fish of every size and color. Swim with the dolphins programs available. Open daily, 9:30 a.rn.-6 pm. Adults $24.95. kids 3-9 $19.95. under 3 fre". 4400 Rickerobacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, 305-361- 5705. www.miamiseaQuarium.com. MICCOSUKEE INDIAN VILLAGE & AIRBOAT TOURS A tour of this authentic village takes in displays of sewing. wood- working and other crafts. alligator wrestling and typical cooking tech- niques. Afterward. enjoy a thrilling airboat ride through the Everglades. Restaurant and gift shop. Open daily. 9 am-5 p.rn. Adults $5, kids 5-12 $350, under 5 free. Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41). 18 miles west of Krome Ave.. extreme western t~iami.Dade County, 305- 223-8380, wwwmiccosukeecom MONKEY JUNGLE Home to nearly 400 primates- most running free on a 30-acre reserve as visitors observe frorn caged walkways-Monkey Jungle is one of the few prot"cted habitats for endangered primat"s in the U.s. and boasts North America's only semi-natural tropical rainforest. Daily presentations and feedings Open daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.rn. Adults $17.95, seniors $14.95. kids 3-9 $11.95. under 3 free. 14805 SW. 216th St., south Miami-Dade County. 305-235-1611. www.monkeyjungle.com MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART With a mission to make contempo- rary art accessible to diverse audi- ences. MOCA maintains an active schedule of provocative. innovative exhibitions, emphasiZing young and emerging artists along with interna- tionally recognized artists. Open daily (except MOndayj 11 a.m.-5 p.rn., noon-5 p.m. on Sunday. Adults $5, seniors and studc-nts $3, under 12 free. 770 NE 125th 5t.. North Miami. 305-893-6211, wwwmocanoml,org PARROT JUNGLE ISLAND This wildlife theme park IS home to more than 3,000 exotic animals- including parrots, macaws and c.ockatoos who perform in daily shows-500 species of plants, one- of-a-kind aviaries. plant nurseries. a petting farm and educational exhibits. Open daily. 10 a.m.-6 p.m Adults $23.95, seniors and stu- dents $2195. kids 3-10 $1895, under 3 free. 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, off 1-395 between downtown Miami and South Beach. 305-2- JUNGLE, www.parrotjungle.com. VENETIAN POOL Once a quarry pit. but transformed into a palatial lagoon of vine-cov- ered loggias. shady porticos. Spanish fountains. observation tow- ers and cascading waterfalls. Venetian Pool is probably the only swimming pool to be included on the National Register of Historic Places. During the summer, its 820,000 gallons of water are drained and replaced nightly from the subterranean aquifer flowing beneath it Open daily: hours are seasonal. Adults $9, kids 3-12 $5 (April-Oct): $6/$3 (Nov.-March) Childrc-n under 3 not admitted 2701 De Soto Blvd., Coral Gables, 305-460-5356, www.venetianpool.com VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS An Italian Renaissance-style villa and formal gardens built in 1916 as the winter residence of industrialist James Deering. The 34-room bayfront house is filled with antique treasures. while 10 acres of formal gardens feature fountains and stat- uary. Open daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.: gardc-ns open till 5:30 p.m. Adults $12, kids 6-12 $5. 3251 S Miami Ave., Coconut Grove, 305-250-9133, www.vizcayamuseum.com ANNOUNCING A SALE OF TIMELY PROPORTIONS 400/0 DISCOUNT ON ALL TAG HEUER SEL Models ~ i~: l~l ~ ~~ ~~Q~.r~~::':.~~~;.n,~t.:::~:":.=::'::~'~.I:' .....................1.."'".1. it "JM1.~''''''"",.nf.1i .11~.'q'll. n. ".lIn "'....~ ........................__ '-'"t-""'- ~.. --,... '''--1"'fl ......._.....,..,...'.....;JIIM1 ~ h~lft1o ....', ,JIM" crjtH~un.l.mdIMU11~IJl! ....a lott-S4:).h' ftni4clht'\ f..... JA.t "so., .. ',~1lIkl1S MiW.. 101 NE 1 sf STREET, MIAMI 305 371.22891 800 272.5605 I A f'r 1t"\,vjl: R~"Mb..Y 1IU1U."' :::::.~,~I. O....JUluoWt.. ::'~~::':.:::. .....",,,. un _Jiu ....... Mt4\H, fI.... JJ1W ....... ~~; ~ - tH..... ~.. -....=:=:.=------= VISITORS' GUIDE TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES HOMESTEAD Small Town, Big Fun BY USA S1MUNDSON If you take the Florida Turnpike Exlension from Miami and stay on it heading sou,h, you'll notice a marked change in scenery once you pass the Kendall and Cutler Ridge areas. as rows of subur. ban houses give way to llat farmlands. palm nurseries and agricultural fields spreading to the horizon under the radi- an' Florida sky. This is Homestead, center of South Florida's fruit and nursery production, and the "last Slop" on the Florida mainland before entering the Florida Keys. So named because government land here was settled by homesteaders, Homestead retains that spirit of adventure in many ways. For one thing. it's the gateway to Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park. 'wo of the nation's most pris- tine wilderness areas. Homes'ead is also known for its rough-and-tumble attractions, including Homestead Championship Rodeo action at Doc DeMilly Arena, and exciting NASCAR. Grand Prix and Formula 1 rac- iog at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. Or check out the Homestead Sports Complex, home to Triple-A Baseball, soccer tournaments and paint- ball competitions. Not thrilling enough for you? How about alligator wrestling at Everglades Alligalor Farm, home to about 3,000 alligators of all sizes; or maybe you prefer f"",falling from 13,500 feet a' speeds up to 180 miles per hour on a tan- dem jump with Skydive Miami, based at Homestead General Airport. But Homestead ha.s ils graceful side as well. Part of the Florida Main Street Program, a technical assis- tance plan administered by the state's Bureau of Historic Preservation. Homestead is one of the state's most suc- cessful Main Strt:'et cities, with a quaint downtown area fea- FISHING FOR FUN In Miami's Lakes, Canals and Ocean Waters BY ANAUSE ROSE If you're hooked on fishing. you've come to the right place. Whether you drop your line off a bridge or head out to sea in search of the "big une," you're sure to land a great catch in Greater Miami, where year-round warmth and plentiful watel1l lure anglers from all over ,he world. In Biseayne Bay - the huge, sub'ropical. brackish lagoon that runs between Miami and Miami Beach and extends down toward the Keys - bonefish, tarpon and permit are plentiful, along with sea trout, mangrove snapper and the occasional snook and redfish. If you're heading to open Atlantic waters, look for sailfish, wahoo (which is what you'll say when you catch one), blackfin tuna. kingfish and dolphin. If you're like most visitors and haven't brought your boat, don't worry. Plenty of marinas throughout Greater Miami - including those at Haulover Beach, Crandon Park. Key Biseayne and Miamarina at Bayside - offer boat rentals or fishing char- tel1l that also include expert instruction,. drinks and snacks as you enjoy a day on the high seas. Freshwater fishing may be more your speed; if so, look no further than Miami's net- work of lakes and canaJs, where bluegill and peacock bass, and the state's top prize - the largemouth or black bass - are abundant. Top freshwater sites include two lakes a' Amelia Earhart Park in Hialeah; a lake at Larry and Penny Thompson Park in south Miami-Dade County; and Tropical Park's Urban Lake, located off Bird Iload in the western part of the county. Surprisingly, Miami'~ man- made canals provide excellent angling for a variety of sport- fish, including largemouth bass, snook. butterfly peacock and 'arpon. Note: If you're renting a boat to go out on your own, and not part of a charler, you'll need a saltwater or freshwater fishing license. Call 888-347- 4356 to purchase one, or visit www.wildlifelicetL<;e.t..''Om for more informataon. turing historic structures that have been renovated and reopened as museums, antique and collectible shops, cafes and restaurants. Highlights in Downtown Homestead include Old Town Hall, which houses the Homestead I Florida City Chamber of Commerce (founded in 1915); the his- toric Seminole Theatre, cur- rently being refurbished as a playhouse for live perfor- mances; and the First Baptist Church &< School, home to Art50u,h and featuring gal- leries, artists-in-residence programs, and live symphon- ic concerts. For relaxation and sight- seeing, Homestead can't be beat. Stretch ou' on the sand at Homestead Bayfront Park Beach, featuring an atoll pool beach, a tot lot and marina, or hunt ror bargains at Prime Outlets at Florida City, just minutes a~ay. Homestead i." also close to such popular attraction~ as Coral Castle, MIAMI METROZOO A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE BY SUSIE PAGANO The African plains have rome to Miami. So have the Australian Outback. the rivers of Asia. and the rainforests of southern Mexico, Central America and northern South America. In fact, a visit to Miami Metrozoo is like travel- ing to some of the world's most exotic animal kingdoms, all in the 'ime it takes to stroll the zoo's three miles of wind- ing walkways. Here you'll see 800 animals from 225 species, including rare white tigers, enormous Galapagos tortoises, graceful impalas, and powerful goril- las. Indeed, for the hundreds of thousands of tourists and locals who visit every year, Metrozoo is an outdoor class- room on 300 acres - a place where they can learn the sci- ence and ~rets of nature. BaiJed as an innovation in zoo technology and philoso- phy when il opened in 1981, Metrozoo's cageless design aJlows the animal~ to roam frt."ely within environmenl~ that mimic their natural habi- 'ats while subtle barriers keep them - and their human visi- to~ - Sc1fe. And there's always some- thing new at Metrozoo. Check out the Wings of Asia aviary, and the new indoor facm,y, Dr. Wilde's World, which houses traveling zoological exhibits featuring different regions and cultures of the world, Keeping visitors of all ages in mind, Metrozoo offers a children's petting 1.00 and an inc~ible, wild animal-theme Monkey Jungle and Fruit &< Spice Park. For mort" on t lomestead. contact the chamber of (,..om- merce a,305-247-2332 or visit www.chamberinaction.rom. II r":~ ........ ~.,'_ . '.. .... .11,' ,~ , ..\L ~i~\~~ ...".1 "~ .-') /.... . /.' ; .~. ~_v.., - ,~ ~.,. , '. ..... ' ..' . .. . ;;.. ~ . " t" " '. ' '.." I" li{ltl~_.f'll ,~.r..;.. ..... carousel. while - for those with tired feet - an elevated, air-conditioned monorail sys- tem offers the feeling of flying over an African veldt or plain. For more on Miami Me'rozoo, call 305-251-0400 or visit www.miamimetro zoo.rom. ~:- .:'-:.' " "~. r ' . .; , ' . .. . @DidYOUknOW'hatDa\'idLe''YYUlee''-dsHorida'Sfirs, ... elecll-d U.S. Scmltllr in 1845? Q And did yo.. know ,.) that he was Jewish? Q Jews have heena part ,,('Hjr - State lC!:3cy since 1763, and there's no hener p!;,ce toexp.lor~ th. eir.his.Wry thim f1[ the Jew. ish Museum of Honda. Q Enjoy MOSAIC: JnvUh ute in I-lorida anJ mtnJ:Um,g ne"' multimedia pres.=ntations in this lovingly reslnreJ. ilucm.ltlon,llly .' 4-"","'\ "cclaimed hi.\toric An Deco syn.~g()guc. () NllUip 10 ;,... · s"lU.th Bc.1Ch em be co~plete WH~~)ut .1 visit to the I/~: ,; JeWish Museum ofFlonda, an excltmg, exceptilIDfll .. .t,) di-;c",'ery for people of all ages and cultural h"ckJ,,,,oUR<t... ,... ... JEWlSU MUSEUM Of FLoRIDA 11i~ 301 Waahlngton Ava' South Beach' 3OS.672.S044 Tuea. - Sun. 10 am . 5 pm ~"\ www.jewlahm..aaum.com \.:..v 1(1) , ~~:!~ ~ {7~SE 1 "l!tT" L U"..r., ..... Ranked Among the Top FIVe Steak Houses in America. Celebrate the NFL's Wmningest Coach and Undefeated Season Before or After Dinner in Our "No Name Lounge" and Piano Bar Whtn mdrInt ro'" reSlt",/lIlDn /lUlllIon "Club ShuW' WId realvt "Priority Se....S, . Co...,,'_""'Y PlriJn: ond kome II _"."., of CbIb SI,,""- (r~~ ~c.d.trsM . ~ ~ l~!~l ~'h/, ~iaI' ~ V . ~ - - .,. ---- BAL HARBOUR BISTRO II~J - . . .. .,..... ..... ' - r ~n~~ti~:~t; ;'::~~i~~:f ..::> Miami regional cuisine, elegant sandwiches, freshest fish and seafood, specialty pastas, chicken and beef entrees, extraordinary desserts, coffees and classic Iiquers served in either our beautiful dining room or outside under the stars in our garden patio, Breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon refreshers seven days a week. 9 a.m. - 10 p.m, All major credit cards accepted, On premises, all-weather parking. LOCATED IN THE BAL HARBOUR SHOPS 9700 COLLINS AVE BAL HARBOUR TEL: 861 4S44 / FAX: 861 5344 VISITORS' GUIDE TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES 40~ 4t~ ~ A, ~A '~~ q>~ ~~ ~f' ~~~ SATURDAY, MAY 22 - FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2004 HAITIAN INSPIRATION: Sequins and Beads Speak of Spirits what's happening THIS WEEK Call 888-76-MIAMI or the Miami Beach Tourism Hotline at 305-673-7400. VP Records 25th Anniver- sary Reggae Music Concert May:1O BayfrontPark Amphitheater 301 N, Biscayne Blvd.. Downtown Miami 305438-9488 www.vprecords.com After a successful concert at the historic Radio City Music !-Iall in New York City, the lords of reggae come to Miami to celebrate VP Records' 25th Anniversary with an aJl.star event that will include per- formers Ber~s Hammond, Beenie Man, Tanto Metro &: Devonte, T.O.K., Sanchez, Lady Saw and many others (artists subject to changel. :Tickets on sale through lickelmaster. 'Florida Marlins VI, New York Mets May 28-30 Pro Player Stadium 2267 Dan Marino Blvd., Miami 305-623-6100 www.f1amarlins.com A three.game series featuring the 2003 World Series ~~~'~~~~ a~e~,e ~~:n~~;; 10,000 fans will receive a.": Martins Collectible Poster #5 : presented by The Miami : Ilerald. Game hours: Friday, : 7:35 p.m.; Saturday, 6:05 p.m.; : and Sunday 3:05 p.m. l ~~~~o~ulturat Arts Festl- t May 29-31 ~ Various locations throughout I I . ~ EVENTSC, Miami and Miami Beach 305-557-6212 www.umojafestival.org I _ _ - - - - - - - . Spectacular African festival, featuring fine arts and crafts, a vendor market, concerts with ,today's top R&B and hip hop ~,~~:~~~g WIth old school per. I !Jazz at MoCA: Mel Dancy & The Melting Pot May 28 Museum of Contemporary Art Joan Lehman Building. 770 NE 1251h St., North Miami 305-893-6211 Fran~ols-Marle Banler Thmugh May 30 Bass Museum of Art 2121 Park Ave.. Miami 305-673-75:10 w\\'w.bassmuseum.org A sdection of photographs and sketch~s ranging from images of everyday str~et II'''''''; to celebrity portraits by the accomplished French P''''~ n(lvelist, and Ntw YorA"er con. tributor. www.mocanomi.org rnis perfonnance is part of an exciting series of jazz concerts under the stors featuring swing. be-bop, Afro-Cuban and Latin jazz. The monthly program of free jazz concerts takes place from 8-9:30 p.m. 'lIl Ihe last Friday of every month. Museum remains open by donation from 7-10:00 p.m. BY JUUANNE MORENO The multi-colored sequined ban- ners used in Ilaitian religious cere- monies are a~ aesthetically arrest. ing as they THIS WEEK'S BIG THING are spiritu- allv pow- ~~i;:~:;~~~~";,~~tha~~u:\~~ onto satin or rayon fabric to create a single ,'ne "f these sparkling compositions depicting symbolic images of animals. ritual obj~l'i, saints and geometric forms. A stun. ~:n~~~~~c~;17e~f I~~~~ni~e;~~~i~~ Creole, are included in Ihe exhibi- tion Haitian Inspiration: Sequins and Beads Speak of Spirits, cur- rently on view at the Miami-Dade Public Library in Downtown Miami. Traditionally found in Vodou temples and created by religious practitioners. priests and priest. esses, the sacred arts of !-Iaiti have for decades attracted the attention of collectors around the world. Exhibits of these sophisticated art- works have served to increase pub. lie awareness about the Afro. Haitian religion. debunking its rep- utation as scary black magic, a per- ception of evil "voodoo" often pro- Ink. Water, Brush. Hand and Heart Painting from the Chinese Collection Through July 4 Lowe Art Museum University of Miami 1301 Stanford Drive Coral Gables 305-284-3535 www.lowemuseum.org A historic survey of Ihe Lowe's Chinese painting and calligraphy collection Imm Ihe 171h-20th cen- turies. Curated by Brian A. Dursum. Florida Dance Festival June 2D-July 3 Various locations throughout Miami-Dade Count)' 305-867-7111 www.fldance.org moted by Hollywood movies. The existtml."'e of beaded Vodou flags, Ihe best known of !-Iaiti's spiritual arl"i, has been traced back to the lBOOs in texts documenting the development of Ihe Creole reli- gion among the half-million African slaves of Ihe island that in colonial times was called St. Domingue. The flags are used in processions and in elaborately choreographed religious rituals used to summon the spirit.". Bo"l~ting a similar ritualistic histo- ry, boules covered with sequins and beads ohen used on the altars of Vodou temples to offer libations to the spirits are also included in Ihe exhibition at the library's main branch. Anthropologists cite African cer- emonial textiles, Ca,holic proces- sional banners and Ma~nic sym. bols as the varied sources of inspi- ration for the original creation of ;he:~uw~~~i I' SI,~~e~f~ncal~a~tiei ~~~ from their masters by disguising them as Catholic saints, and the syncretic nature of the Vodou reJi. gion is reflected by images denot- ing both African gods and images of their Christian counterparts. The banners' designs are based upon symbols and colors associated wilh Ihe Vodou deities, called The Lwa, usually surr(lunded by a decora. tive geometric border. These gods include Chief Bawon Samdi, the god of dealh and rebirth, a skeletal figure known for his velvet top hat, cane and sunglasses, and Mistress Ezili Freda, goddess of love and luxury, represented b)' ,he ~'ladonna, a pierc~ heart. as well as pink and white color!". The fig. ure of St. Jac(lues on a white horse, and pictur~ of serpents and oxen are other images with religious ~ig. nificance frequently reproduced in the sequined Ilags. American artist lina Girouard, who has worked with Haitian flag artist~ and written extensively about the art form, compares the creation (If a Vodou flag to the mak. ing of stained glas."t windows. In both cases, a master artist creates the design but relies on assistants to carry it out, hand sewing sequins and beads onto the cloth one by one, Until the 194Os, Ihe nags and bottJes were made exclusively for ~~~~~~ir~i~ ~%:'7~)t~~~i~:~~V~r. ers to Haiti had begun to acquire the works lrom the temples. The priest!" ~ubsequently began making flags for sale as artwork...., realizing that this t>ndeavor could create income that supported the Vodou societies. Eventually, artists who were not associated with the tern. pies began '0 work in Ihe sequin 'radition, creating nags wilh Ihe traditional symlx.ls and using Ihe flag as a medium to express their artistic vi!'oiions as well. \\'ork." by ,..vme of the~ inll()vative contem... porary artist~ are included in th~ exhibition. IlaUinn Inspiratiun: Sequins and Beads Speak or Spirits, curated by renowned lIaitian art collector Candice Rus~II. is one of several shows n(I\'\.' at tht:' Main Library urganized in celebration of Ilaiti's ;~t~':~h~\':7,~;?;,~ff:~~er.:'db~~~ nation. The works of art on display attest to ,he strength of the island's enduring culture. Haitian Inspiration: Sequins and Beads Speak of Spirits is on view at the Miami-Dade Public Library, Main Branch, through May 29. The Main Branch is located at 101 W. Flagler Stree', Downtown Miami. Call 305. 375-2665 for mol>' infonnation, or visit www.mdpls.org. This distinguished two-week pro- gram held in Miami and Miami Beach offers workshops, master classes, intensive courses and an outstanding performance series featuring Florida, national and international guest artists. 11th Annual South Florida Boat Show June 25-28 Miami Beach Convention Center 1901 Convention Center Drive Miami Beach 954-946-6164 www.soflaroatshow.com This regional event features new power boats up to 40 reet and per- sonal watercraft, ranging in price from under $5,000 to more than $250,000. Also on display are nau- tical accessories, including engines, boat lifl.., fishing tackle, dive gear, and much more. Special features include boatingl fishing ~minars and a boat giveaway. The show runs Friday 4-10 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-l0 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Monda)' 4-10 p.m. Admission: $7.50 adults, $3.50 children ages 5-12. America's Birthday Bash July 4 Baytront Park Amphitheater Downtown Miami 301 N. Biscayne Boulevard 305-358-7550 www.bayfrontparkmiami.com Come celebrate America's inde. pendence at the biggest party in Miami featuring live music, f(lOd, drinks, arts and crafts, and an incredible fireworks display. 12th Annual International Mango Festival July 9-11 Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden 10901 Old Cutler Road Coral Gables 305-<>67-1651 www.fairchildgarden.org A festivallhat celebra'es Ihe mango featuring mango-inspired culinary delight... The fun includes tastings, tree sales, children's activities and a special Mango Brunch and Mango Auction. Film Life's 8th Annual American Black Film Festival 2004 Jul}'14-18 Various locations throughout Miami Beach www.abff.com ABFF 2004 evening events include a comedy .how, the Hoo Short Film Competition and The Film Life Movie Awards. Sponsored by the Greater Miami Convention &: Visitors Bureau. For more information on events. visit w\'VW.FestivaISeason.com. VISITORS' GUIDE TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES / ATTRACTIONS Listings are subject to change without notice. Please call belore attending an event or visiting an attraction, ANCIENT SPANISH MONASTERY The oldest building in the Western Hemisphere. this masterpiece of Romanesque and Cistercian archi- tecture was built in Segovia in the 12th century and purchased by William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century Then it sat in numbered boxes for 26 years in a Brooklyn warehouse. before being reassembled as a tourist attraction on its present site. Open daily. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (because of frequent weddings. call ahead). Adults $5. students $2.50. kids $2. 16711 W Dixie Highway. North Miami Beach. 305-945-1461. www.sp~nishmonasterycom. ART DECO DISTRICT Lined up like colorful bonbons along Ocean Drive. Coilins Avenue and surrounding streets. the hotels and apartment buildings of South Beach represent the largest con- centration of Art Deco buildings in the world. Explore this National Historic District on a gO-minute guided tour offered by the r-liami Design Preservation League on Wednesday and Saturday at 10:30 a.m.. and Thursday at 6:30 p.m. $20 per person. Mc~t at the Welcome Center. 10th Street and Ocean Drive. South Beach. 305- 672-2014. wwwmdpl.org. BASS MUSEUM OF ART This eclectic faCility houses a per- manent collection of more than 2.800 objects. including European masters. 20th-century paintings. sculpture. graphics. design arts and photography. Open daily (except Monday) 10 a.m.-5 p.m.. till 9 p.m. Thursday. and 11 a.m.-5 pm Sunday. Adults $6. seniors and stu- dents $4. under 6 free. 2121 Park Ave.. South Beach. 305-673-7530. www.bassmuseum.org CORAL CASTLE Often compared to Giza and Stonehenge. this architectural mar- vel was constructed between 1923 and 1951 by Latvian immigrant Ed Leedskalnin. who weighed all of 100 pounds but was still able to move and sculpt 1.100 tons of coral rock. How did he do it? No one knows. Open daily. 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Adults $9.75. seniors $6.50. kids 7- 12 $5. under 6 free. 28655 S. Dixie Highway. south Miami-Dade County. 305-248-6345. www.coralcastle.com DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER One of the most unique parks in South Florida, this archeological and architectural preserve is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The 440-acre property includes an endangered pine rock- land habitat, coastal tropical hard- wood rock land hammocks. man. grove forests. salt marshes. and a coastal dune island. Naturalist. guided tours. Open daily. 10 a m.-5 p.m. Adults $7. kids 4-14 $5. 3 and under free. 16701 5W 72nd Ave.. south Miami-Dade County. 305- 235-1668. wwwdeeringestate.org. EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK The only subtropical preserve in North America. this "river of grass" is made up of a variety of habi- tats-including sawgrass prairies and hardwood hammocks-and is famed for its enormous bird popu- lation. as well as its resident alliga- tors and crocodiles. Walking and canoe trails. and boat tours and tram tours get Visitors close to the wildlife. Ranger-led activities arc offered throughout the park; camp- ing is available. Open daily. but best visited from December to April. $10 per vehicle at the main entrance. located off State Road 9336/SW 344th 51. in Florida City. 305-242- 7700. www.nps.gov/ever. FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN Dating back to 1938. this lush par- adise of rare tropical plants- including palms. cycads. flowering trees and vines-is also a center of betanic research. and hosts regular events like the International Orchid Festival (April) and Ramble-A Garden Festival (November). Open daily. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Adults $10. seniors $9. kids 3-12 $5. under 3 free. 10901 Old Cutler Road. Coral Gables. 305-667-1651. www.fairchildgarden.org. HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF SOUTH- ERN FLORIDA A state-of.the.art facility showcas- ing 10.000 years of South Florida history. Open Monday-Saturday. 10 a.m.-5 p.rn (till 9 p.m. every third Thursday); Sunday. noon-5 p.m Adults $5. seniors and students $4 kids 6-12 $2, under 6 free. Miami- Dade Cultural Center. 101 W Flagler St.. downtown. 305-375- 1492. wwwhistorical-museum.org JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA Housed in a former synagogue that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. this architectural Art Deco masterpiece features a copper dome and 80 stained-glass windows. Inside is a permanent collection that includes "MOSAIC; Jewish Life in Florida:' depicting the Jewish experience in the state from 1763 to present. Open Tuesday-Sunday. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed on Jewish holidays Adults $5. seniors and students $4. under 6 free: froo admission on Saturday. 301 Washington Ave.. South Beach. 305-672-5044. www,jewishmuscumcom MIAMI ART MUSEUM Featuri"g both permanent and traveling exhibits. MAM's primary focus is international C1rt from the perspective of the Americas. with an emphasis on multicultural Miami. Ope" Tuesday-Friday. 10 a.m.-5 pm (till 9 pm. evory third Thursday); noon-5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Adults $5. soniors $2.50. students and kids 12 and under tree: free admission on Sundays arod second Saturdays Miami-Dade Cultural Center, 101 W Flagler St.. downtown. 305-375- 3000. www.miamiartmuseum.org, MIAMI CHILDREN'S MUSEUM The young and young at heart play. learn, imagine and create with hun- dreds of interactive exhIbits Galleries, classrooms. educational gift shop and 2oo-seat auditorium add to the fun. Open daily. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. General admission $8. under 1 free. 980 MacArthur Causeway. off 1-395 between downtown and South Boach. 305-373-5437, wwwmiamichik1rensrnuseurn.org. MIAMI METROZOO A cageless design lets too animals roam in a more natural environ- ment at Metrozoo. home to more tha" 800 animals from 225 species Includes the Wings of Asia Aviary. largest open'air Asian aviary in the Western Hemisphere. along with animal shows. an ecology theater arId chlldren's zoo. Open daily. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m Adults $12. seniors $11. kids 3-12 $7. 2 and under free 12400 SW 152 St.. south '-liami- Dade County. 305-251-0400. www.miarnimetrozoo.ccm. MIAMI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & PLANETARIUM An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. the museum houses South Florida's largest natural his- tory collection. along with exhibits on the environment, sciences ~nd cultural heritage. A wildlife ce"ter features birds of prey. while a 230- seat planetarium iIIuminatos the heavens. Open daily. 10 a.m.-6 p.m Adults $10. seniors and students 13- 18 $8. kids 3-12 $6. under 3 free. 3280 5. Miami Ave.. north Coconut Grove. 305-646-4200. www.miamisci,org MIAMI SEAQUARIUM ThIS marino life entertainment park features daily performancos by Lolita the killer whale. acrobatic dolphins and hilarious sea lions Exhibits include Discovery Bay-an endangered mangrove habitat- plus manatee and shark preserota- tions. and the '-lain Reef Aquarium. a 750.000-gallon tank teeming with fish of every size and color. Swim With the dolphins programs available. Op(.." daily. 9:30 a.m-6 pm. Adults $24.95. kids 3-9 $19.95. undor 3 free. 4400 Rlckenbacker Causeway. Key Biscayno. 305-361- 5705. www.miamiseaQuarium.com MICCOSUKEE INDIAN VILLAGE & AIRBOAT TOURS A tour of this authentic Village takes in displays of sewing. wood- working and other crafts. alligator wrestling and typical COOking tech- niques. Afterward. enjoy a thrilling airboat ride through the Everglades. Restaurant and gift shop. Open daily. 9 a.m.-5 p.m Adults $5. kids 5-12 $3.50. under 5 free. Tamiami Trail (U.s. 41). 18 miles west of Krome Ave" extreme western Miami.Dade County. 305- 223-8380. www.miccosukee.com. MONKEY JUNGLE Home to nearly 400 primates- most running free on a 30-acre reserve as visitors obs€.>(Vc from cagc-d walkways-'-Ionkey Jungle is one of the few protected habitats for endangered primates in the U.S and boasts North America's only semi~natural tropical rainforest. Dally prosontations and feedings Open daily. 9:30 a.m.-5 pm. Adults $17.95. soniors $14.95. kids 3-9 $1195. under 3 free. 14805 5W 216th St.. south Miami-Dade County. 305-235-1611 www.monkeyjungle.com MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART With a mission to make contempo- rary art accessible to diverse audi- ences. MaCA mai"tains an active schedule of provocative. innovative exhibitions. emphasizing young and emerging artists along with interna. tionally recognized artists. Opon daily (except Monday) 11 a.m.-5 p.m.. noon-5 p.rT1. on Sunday Adults $5. seniors and students $3. under 12 froe. 770 NE 125th St. North Miami. 305-893-6211. www,mocanomi.org PARROT JUNGLE ISLAND This wildlife theme park is home to more than 3.000 oxotic animals- including parrots, macaws and cockatoos who perform in daily shows-500 species of plants. oroo- of-a-kind aviaries. plant nurseries, a petting farm and educational exhibits. Open daily. 10 a.m.-6 p.m Adults $23.95. seniors and stu- dents $21.95. kids 3-10 $18.95. undl":r 3 froo. 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail. off 1-395 ootwoon downtown Miami and South Beach. 305-2- JUNGLE. www.parrotjunglecom VENETIAN POOL Once a Quarry pit. but transformed into a palatial lagoon of vine-cov. ored loggias. shady porticos. Spanish fountains, observation tow- ers and cascading waterfalls. Venetian Pool is probably the only swimming pool to 00 includod on too National Register of Historic Places, During the summer. its 820.000 gallons of wator are drained ar<J replaced nightly from too subterranean aquifer flowing beneath it Open daily; hours arc seasonal. Adults $9. kids 3-12 $5 (April-Oct); $6/$3 (Nov.-March). Children undor 3 not admittc-d 2701 De 50to Blvd.. Coral Gables. 305-460-5356. www.venctianpool.com VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS An Italian Renaissance-style villa and fonnal gardens built in 1916 as the wjnt~r residence of industrialist James DOl";I"ing. Too 34-room bay front house is ftIIed WIth a"tique treasures. whilo 10 acres of formal gardens feature fountains and stat. uary. Open daily. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; gardens open till 5:30 p.m. Adults $12. kids 6-12 $5. 3251 S. Miami Avo. Coconut Grove. 305-250-9133. www.vizcayamuseum.com. FREE drinks while gaming, giveaways and $5 buffet! FREE transportation for groups of 20 or more. 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IOtooOrg : ~_____________________________________4 101 NE 1st STREET, MIAMI 305 371.2289 I 800 272.5605 Gcmtfr9 PI""!",,,,1 Cdlltl. !la_do Cour>c:M '0< COf'I1ll<JIW" Q<llTt;>lng I ,ern.t26,77 I 1 VISITORS' GUIDE TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES BAL HARBOUR VILLAGE Fashionably Fun BY USA SIMUNDSON Just over the Broad Cauoeway from North Miami Beach and minutes south of Haulover Beach, Bal Harbour Village is one of Greater Miami's most sophisticated neighborhoods, but its begin- nings were a bit more humble. The 24Soacre parcel of land between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay a' 96th Street was originally owned by a Detroi'-baoed company. which purchased it in the 1920s and planned to develop it. When World War 1I broke out though, the land was rented to the U.s. Air Corps for $1 a year, and it became an Air Corps training ground and prisoner-of-war camp. When the war ended, the sol- diers departed, leaving behind the barracks buildings, which were converted into apart- ments in 1946 by Robert Graham, one of the land's original owners. From that small construc- tion project grew the Village of Bal Harbour, which was also incorporated in 1946. Originally, the name chosen for the new community was "Bay Harbour"; however, the planning committee didn't think the designation wao; appropriate for a beachside TAKING A DIVE IN MIAMI Underwater Wonders BY ANAUSE ROSE Miami is world-famous for its golden sand beaches, glit- tering nightlife and multicul- tural energy. But a.s any expe- rienced scuba diver will tell you, the real action is below the waves in an underwater world of wrecks and reefs teeming with multicolored fish and other fascinating denizens of the sea. If you're looking for excel- lent reef diving, look no fur- ,her than the Emerald and Rainbow reefs, just offshore from Key Biscayne, which provide shelter for moray eels, lobster and tropical fish. On the southern end of Miami- Dade County, the clear, shal- low waters of Biscayne National Park protect a deli- cate undenvater community of brilliant coral reefs and a dazzling array of fish and other marine creatures. While Greater Miami's nat- ural reefs are among the bes' in the diving world, the area's real claim to underwater fame are illi artificial reefs, created by the intentional sinking of a variety of structures, including ships, airplanes and tanks. In fact Greater Miami and the Beaches boasts one of the largest artificial reef programs in the world, earning the nick- name, "WreckreationaJ Dive Capital of the Americas." Once sunk. these steel-and- metal hulks are adopted by local plant and animal life. Most of the best wreck sites are found in less than 130 feet of water a few miles offshore. but some are even closer. including the South Beach city. So. with a "B" taken from the word bay. and an "A" and "L" taken from the word Atlantic, the word "Bal" was created. Today. Bal Harbour Village is a pedestrian-friendly com- munity of world-class resorts, condos, shops and beaches. Most people, however, identify the area with its famous mall, Bal Harbour Shops, which was recently ranked the #1 most productive shopping center in the United States, according to Wo/lJtn S Wear Dally. The list of shops at Bal Harbour reads like a Who's Who of the fashion indus'ry: Louis Vuitton, Cucci, Hermes. Prada. Dolce &r Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, Gianni Versace, Chanel, Cartier and many more. In addition, Bal Harbour Shops is home to Underwater Park, which is just 200 yards east from the beach area between Is' and 5th Streets. Another favored spot is the Wreck Trek off Miami Beach. which consists of a series of wrecks connected by a trail of steel markers anchored to the Oct>an floor. You'll find plenty of dive operators in Greater Miami that offer equipment and the necessary instruction to get you going on your undenva- ter adventure. Check with your hotel concierge for more information. Saks Fifth Avenue and the first Neiman Marcus location out- side of Texas. After shopping, this fashion destination encourages peo- ple-watching at its many out- door cafes, while special events thmughout the year range from designer trunk shows and product launches to philan'hropic festivities and community e\'ents, induding the new monthly "Flirting With Food" cooking oeries for si ngles. Bal Harbour Village is equidistant from both the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale international airports, and is a short drive from anywhere on Miami Beach. For ~ore infor- mation on 5a] Harbour, call the Village at 305-866-4633 or visit \\'ww.ba Iharbourflorida.com. FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN MIAMI'S OWN GARDEN PARADISE BY SUSIE PAGANO If you weren't into bo101ny before, YllU will be after pay- ing a visit to Fairchild Tn1pical Botanic Garden. a green and flowering paradise located on 8., acr.. in Coral Gables, a few mites south of Downtown Miami. One of the world's preemi- nent botanic garden'i and a major center for botanical research, Fairchild houoes extensive collections of rare tropical plants, including every type of palm and cycad in the world. many of which are threatened by extinction. In fact, Fairchild is a haven for most of the world's threat- ened plant species. including about 100 endangered, threat- ened or rare specimens, from South Florida and Puerto Rico. In addition, the Fairchild herbarium is the largest in the region. with more than 165,000 preserved plant speci- mens fnlm Florida} the Bahamas and the Caribbean. You can view part of the park's amazing collection at Windows to the Tropics, a 16,428-square-foot conservato- ry wh"", 'wo level. of beauti- ful indoor gardens feature palms and cycads, ferns, orchids, aroids. bromeliads, fruit trees and unu!'iual vines. Other exhibi's at Fairchild indude a two-acre, outdoor tropical rainforest; the Mclamore Arboretum} an eight-acre display of about 740 species of 'ropical flower- ing trees; and the Keys Coastalll.bital, a four-acre naturali!'tic garden whose densely planted collection of native South Florida plants attracl" migratory bird!\ and other wildlife. One of the park'~ newe!'t aUractions is the William F. Whitman Tropical Fruit Pavilion, which opened in November 200., and f..tures exotic fruit species from Bome<.l, the Amazon. Indonesia. Thailand and other far-flung locales. For more information. call 305-667-1651 or visit www.fairchildgarden.org. ~ .. . ... ... 'I _. "I . I., '. .. _ ._ . ~ I . . . :~, I .. ' . .. . ~id you know that I>dvld Levy Yulee was FI{)rida'~ fin,t ... c1t'Cwd U.s. Senamr in 1845? l) And did Y'~I know .... that he wa'i. Jewish? Q Jews have heen a part of our - State legacy since 1763, and there's nn better place to expllue their history than at the Jewish Museum of Ami,la. l) Enjoy MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida and intriguin~ n('w multimetlia presentations In this lovingly fl>foitored. inu.rnationally . .. .....' acclainu.-d histluic Art [X'ell s)'tl~Ii:{'lg"c, (:I No nip tll;"" .. S\luth Beach c.1n he complcn' wltlw)tll a vi~it to the .; ..,:...., ~ Jewish Museum (If Rorida, an exciting. exceptional '., .,'" di.c.)Vcry for people of all ag.. and culnleal back wound,. ,.. ,~ STEAK DOUSE ."TIlI Ir................ Ranked Among the Top Five Steak Houses in America. Celebrate the NFL's Winningest Coach and Undefeated Season Before or After Dinner in Our ''No Name Lounge" and Piano Bar When ,~", YOIII' re..........n _n/Jon "Club Shul4" ...d receive "PrIority Statlns," ~,., l'<riJng ...d /ltcDme a IfInIfMr ofC/ub 911l1a. ~_."\~~~~..Ct!nlir ~,"c<=i~r'~.>': r.a;:~ ~X.l. . ~- ".V', nil .Ai&w .... -, -~.",.-cy BAL HARBOUR BISTRO II...... 'll.. ~~. - . " .c Since 1979 - A melding of continental and the new Miami regional cuisine, elegant sandwiches, freshest fish and seafood, specialty pastas, chicken and beef entrees, extraordinary desserts, coffees and classic liquers served in either our beautiful dining room or outside under the stars in our garden patio. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon refreshers seven days a week. 9 a.m. " 10 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. On premises, all-weather parking. LOCATED IN THE BAL HARBOUR SHOPS 9700 COLLINS AVE BAL HARBOUR TEL: 861 4544 / FAX: 861 5344 . ... HERALD W A TCHDOC; ~Seplembet22 ._ _ Monday ~ /72 F Company lack-Ing The Miami Herald delivers more than an award-winning newspaper, We bring our sun-splashed, tropical paradise to more than 5,5 expertise 'million visitors each year. With average individual room delivery to . more than 11,200 hotel rooms, 365 days a year, The Miami Herald ~t work \ is the perfect way to bring your message to visitors spending l billions of dollars per year in our region, . 4\ols ' That's right. ., last year visitors to Greater Miami and the Beaches spent more than $12 billion dollars on lodging, dining, shopping, . activities and more! PIII'I'OI.lun.1e .... Gardens Miami's Favorite Attraction Has A New Home! Guests will receive the newspaper wrapped in a special four-page, four-color wrap which will focus on sights, attractions, shopping, dining, calendar of events, weather and more. BY LESlJ[ E.\IOGE SpedaIIO The Herald LOfcm ip,uln dolor ,it .sOlet. COR1oCdct.", adiph,.icin~ dit. ,.cd dn _.._ ciuJ.(ftUd Icmf'lOr inc.didunt. ut 'a~~(.l:1 - Il':ln oM. sed do 8iuStT1' 10 t!\lt. sed do PoI\I. 'I ~ n\it~n. I.lli'lUa~~:i~:::du;~~:~ .... LESUI .. ... Lorem apsum dQk)r SIt anlCt. conscetelpur oolf>lS 9 . ~ =~;.~;;'::~~~:~ ~~~l~t~ ,"". ."., ..uH"'" ,,_.,.. _.;m ;_.., l.......~.m .,.;.., ..,;.".",.. ," r.m'~'" .............. 0..;. ..... ;,.... ,',,'..... . , This is your opportunity to: " Get front page exposure - Create awareness and action on the part of guests who are looking for information · Become top of mind 9865'()3 For more information contact: Carol Brenner @ 305.376-2587 ~ cbrenner@hcpaboard.com I .., .;-" ~ /,. ~ .~~) ,,,--j,\, t=-."S ~ ~.,j"<. L_ p u B L S H N G