Community Calendar July 11 – 23, 2009

Saturday, July 11
Voluptuous You Fashion Show: Men may love big and beautiful women, but it’s no secret that the fashion industry is not quite so appreciative, which is why finding fashionable clothing in plus sizes can seem like a futile task. Luckily, there is a local fashion company, Voluptuous You, which makes custom-fit clothing specifically for full-figured women. Check out the different designs available at the company’s annual fashion show at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd. near Fort Lauderdale. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at the library or by visiting www.voluptuousyou.com. For more information, please call 954-465-1329.

Sunday, July 12
Zo’s Summer Groove Block Party: Ninety-degree weather, summer vacation and higher gas prices means that summer has definitely returned to Miami. But don’t fret, because it also means that it’s time for Zo’s Summer Groove (now renamed The Summer Groove). While there are tons of events (visit www.zsg.com for an official listing), do not miss The Summer Grove’s Block Party. Alonzo Mourning and Dwayne Wade will host one of the biggest block parties of the summer, featuring music, great food and lots of giveaways, rides and entertainment. The block party, held in front of the American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami, is free and open to everyone. This year’s bash will last from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, please call 305-476-0095.

Thursday, July 16
African Diaspora Culinary Delights: Interested in learning about the diverse cultures of the African Diaspora? Then start with your stomach. Come to the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, 101 West Flagler St. in Miami, and taste dishes from different parts of the African Diaspora including the Bahamas, Haiti, Jamaica and the American South. Listen as cooks, chefs and food critics discuss their culinary heritage and how living in Miami has influenced their cooking. This event is free, open to the public and starts at 6:30 p.m. For more information, please call 305-375-1492.

Saturday, July 18
Bashment Granny 2 – The Saga Continues: This Jamaican comedy play examines the ties of friendship, loyalty and trust and just how quickly the temptation of money can dissolve these bonds. This smash hit sequel will be performed at the North Miami Beach Performing Arts Center, 17011 N.E. 19th Ave. in North Miami Beach on Saturday at 8 p.m. and at the Omni Auditorium (BCC North Campus), 1000 Coconut Creek Blvd. in Coconut Creek on Sunday at 9 p.m. Tickets for all shows start at $37 – order yours soon because tickets are selling fast! For more information, please call 786-237-5493 or visit www. sunshinetheatrecompany.com.

Sunday, July 19
The Poet’s Place: The Miramar Cultural Arts Center, 2400 Civic Center in Miramar, partners with The Poets Place for an intimate evening celebrating literary art. Witness the artistry of the spoken word with performances by Sonia Mannings, Asia, Deborah Magdalena, and Analogy, accompanied by the smooth jazz sounds of The Live Poets Society Band. The show starts at 8 p.m.! To receive tickets to this free event, please print a voucher from the website miramarculturalcenter.org, and redeem at the Miramar Cultural Center Box Office. Each voucher is good for two free tickets, but there is a limited number of tickets available while supplies last. So, redeem your voucher today! For more information, please call 954-462-0222.

Thursday, July 23
South Florida Board of Realtists (SFBOR) 2009 Installation Fundraiser: This event of the SFBOR, the local branch of the oldest and largest African-American trade association in America, will feature appearances by Miami Gardens Mayor Shirley Gibson, Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce President Bill Diggs and Mistress of Ceremonies, Blossoming Rose and will serve to induct new members into the SFBOR. A realtist is defined as a real-estate broker. The reception begins at 6 p.m. The fundraiser will be held at the Hallandale Cultural Community Center, 410 S.E. 3rd St., Hallandale Beach, and individual tickets are $45. Tables are $400. To RSVP, please contact Janice Shackelford at Janice@circleofonemarketing.com or 305-576-3790.