Ballroom dancing has the costumes, the twirling, and the sequins. It reminds you of a time when dancing required agility, not just the ability to shake your ass. Although vibrating solo might attract attention, waltzing with a partner is not as easy as it looks. Watch the experts at the United States Dance Sport Championships. From the junior competitors to the world champions, these terpsichoreans will impress you with their precise steps and movements. Couples are traveling to South Florida from 30 countries for the chance to compete in this event. Categories will include American classics such as swing and the fox trot, as well as Latin dances like rumba, samba, and the cha-cha. The first session begins this morning at 9:00, and the competitions continue through Saturday night. You can purchase tickets for the entire event ($540) or per session ($20 to $70). The championship takes place at the Westin Diplomat Resort and Spa, 3555 S. Ocean Dr., Hollywood. Call 310-544-4636, or visit www.usdsc.com for a complete schedule. --Karen R. Figueiredo
Hurricanes Watch
At today's official watch party for the University of Miami Hurricanes season-opener football game, fans who bleed orange and green won't know what to celebrate. While watching the mighty, mighty Canes clash with longstanding rivals the Florida State Seminoles, game watchers will also enjoy the grand opening of the Arena Sports Bar & Grill. The plush new wing includes more television sets, bigger screens, and an impressive collection of sports memorabilia. Even better, because the party is taking place at GameWorks Miami in the Shops at Sunset Place (5701 Sunset Dr., South Miami), halftime will mean the fun is just beginning. GameWorks is the official host of a season of pigskin parties featuring cheerleaders, former Hurricanes players, and the on-site filming of Hurricane Game Day with coach Larry Coker. Scream "Go Canes!" tonight beginning at 8:00. Call 305-667-4263, or visit www.gameworks.com. Get your game schedule at www.hurricanesports.com. -- Patrice Elizabeth Grell Yursik
Jazzed
About free food
Who says there's no such thing as a free brunch? Well, we don't know if anyone says that, but today the City of Miami and the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce invite you to enjoy a free spread of tasty tropical treats during the Brunch Classic by the Bay. The sounds of Afro-Cuban jazz, bossa nova, and singer of classics Ruby Baker will serenade you as you snack and peruse the display of classic cars. Get out of your pajamas and get your free munch on from 11:00 to 4:00 at Margaret Pace Park, 1775 N. Bayshore Dr., Miami. Call 305-642-1271. -- Lyssa Oberkreser
