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Amy Scherzer's diary

MOSI fundraiser tries some scientific sipping

A Saturday wine-tasting benefit at the museum raised about $64,000 for educational programs.

By AMY SCHERZER
Published January 28, 2005

Here's the winning formula to last Saturday's 10th Einstein on Wine, the annual tasting benefit for the Museum of Science and Industry.

ABC Fine Wine & Spirits lined up 60-plus vintners. BEAM (Be Enthusiastic About MOSI) committee members wedged 22 restaurants among the exhibits and displays on three floors. The result: about $64,000 for educational programs.

The 1,000 guests resorted to steps for seats as they balanced their plates. In the lobby, Wholly Cats rocked near tables of auction offerings.

Two newcomers, Bootie beer and beignets, were welcomed. Low carb Bootie beer, a Wisconsin brew made from wheat, was a hit. NOLA Cafe beignets disappeared as owner Louis Robert talked up daily Cajun entrees he's introducing at his bistro.

Some of us got a new perspective - from the roof of the Imax Dome, an amazing place to rent for a wedding or party. Director Wit Ostrenko and his wife, Peg, showed off a 360-degree view of the city. Our timing was perfect. Miles away, we watched the spectacular Gasparilla Children's Parade fireworks.

'NOLES RULE KREWE: Vowing he'd be the "people's king," John Madiedo Jr. took over the throne of the Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago, becoming the 33rd ruler of the men's club. His daughter Mary Stella, 18, was crowned queen, making them the fifth pair of father-daughter royalty.

King Madiedo's men swarmed him with bear hugs and kisses Friday night as he showed off the 9-carat Super Bowl-size diamond and amethyst king's ring at the Tampa Convention Center.

What? No garnet and gold? The Florida State graduate is a director of the national Seminole Boosters Alumni Association. FSU football coach Bobby Bowden sent congratulations via video. Emcee Dennis Alvarez considered swapping his feathered cap for a University of Florida hat, but knew better. He swore loyalty - for at least a year.

The krewe saluted its founders who sought to promote Tampa's Latin culture. Capt. Joe Amon escorted four directors emeritus, all former kings: Dr. Henry J. Fernandez, Joe C. Granda, Joseph R. Lopez Sr. and Daniel Martinez. The late Cesar Gonzmart was the fifth founder.

Baron XXXI Arnie Hernandez proposed Daniel Almendares, Bob Dikman, Ben Geradts and Vince Pardo for knighthood. The four earned enough service points to wear their family crest on a plush velvet tunic. In a roomful of gorgeous gowns, the knights definitely won for Best Dressed.

Abdicating king Steve Yturriaga was reluctant to give up the throne.

"Go," said emcee El Rey XX Simon Canasi after thanking him for his service. "We're grateful we no longer have to pronounce your name."

La Rein a Mary Stella is a senior at Bayshore Christian School and takes freshman classes at Hillsborough Community College. Of course, she plans to attend Florida State in the fall.

The king is an insurance broker specializing in taxis. He and his wife, Debbie, live on Harbour Island. Son Joseph, 19, attends the University of Tampa.

Krewe member Andy Arena entertained the krewe with twin, Sammy, who sang dressed as the Phantom of the Opera. Together, they dedicated Proud to be an American to Sammy's son , Marine Cpl. Christopher Arena, who is stationed in Fallujah, Iraq.

Dinner and dancing to Infinidad followed. The hundreds of guests included representatives of 20 other krewes.

PARKER PARTY: Good friends cherished good memories of the late Chris Parker Saturdayat sunset on the deck of the RattleFish Raw Bar and Grill.

"This is a night he would have enjoyed himself," said Jodi Forca, remembering her pal Parker, co-founder of Bonefish Grill, who died a year ago in a boating accident.

Sean Spender Trio played for about 400 friends and family, including Parker's parents, Elaine Frick and Lewis Parker, and three sisters, Lizette, Susan Mayo and Samantha Braddock. Forca, Chris Sears and the family set up the Chris Parker Foundation to carry on his legacy. This year, they will award a culinary scholarship.

The foundation has raised about $10,000, including proceeds from this event and a silent auction featuring two jackets designed by Peggy Jennings, mother of Chris' good friend, Jay Jennings. Mrs. Jennings designed some of the outfits that first lady Laura Bush wore to last week's inauguration.

To pass along tips to Amy Scherzer, reach her at 226-3332 or scherzer@sptimes.com

SUNDAY: Ebony Fashion Fair benefits Tampa-Hillsborough Urban League; 5 p.m.; Tampa Theatre; $30; 229-8117.

WEDNESDAY: Napa Valley Vintners wine tasting auction benefits Abilities Foundation; Raymond James Stadium VIP reception, 6:30-7 p.m., $150 in advance and $175 at the door; grand tasting, 7-9 p.m.; $100 in advance and $125 at the door; (727) 538-7370, ext. 345.

FEB. 4: Girls, Boys & Bullying, Ophelia Project benefit luncheon; 11:30 a.m.; guest speaker Kathy Masarie, founder and director of Full Esteem Ahead; A La Carte Pavilion, $55; 224-9622, ext. 279.

FEB. 6: 13 Ugly Men Super Bowl XXXIX party benefits Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund; Splitsville at Channelside; 4 p.m. to midnight; $20; www.13uglymen.com

FEB. 10: Florida State Fair Opening Day Luncheon and fashion show; noon; $15; Charles M. Davis Special Events Center; 621-7821, ext. 216.

FEB. 12: To Life and Liberation dinner benefits the Florida Holocaust Museum; 6:30 p.m.; A La Carte Pavilion; $200; (727) 820-0100, ext. 243.

[Last modified January 27, 2005, 09:34:05]