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  • Volocopter: Urban Air Mobility

    Volocopter, the German aircraft manufacturer that specializes in electric multirotor helicopters for air taxi use, announced a partnership with Skyports in order to build so called “Volo Ports,” making air taxi technology for all to enjoy a step closer to reality. Volo-Ports are physical landing pads, also known as eVTOL (electric take-off and landing), and include the following features: Enable real-life testing of the full customer journey to perfect the passenger experience; Showcase planned customer services, including pre-flight checks, passenger lounges and boarding procedures; Allow practical testing of ground operations and services, including battery swaps and charging, maintenance, safety and security; Provide the opportunity for authorities and industry regulators to interact with the infrastructure and provide feedback before they are asked to approve the final design. Volo-Ports are designed to provide passengers with a seamless air taxi experience that is safe, secure, and relaxing. They will merge with their surroundings, allowing passengers and passers-by to see through the whole structure. Brandlab together with Graft Architects and Arup won the Volocopter international tender to produce the Volo-Port design. Click below to launch slideshow > “Receiving the commercial license for air taxi aircraft is a question of time not possibility. We are thus focusing on shaping the necessary ecosystem around UAM, including air traffic management, city regulation and the take-off and landing infrastructure. It takes visionary partners, like Skyports and Brandlabs, willing to make investments to actively shape the future of urban air mobility,” says Alex Zosel, Co-Founder of Volocopter. “Once regulation comes through on the aviation and city level – and this will be sooner than most think-- we will be ready to take off.” “Each individual Volo-Port is designed so that it can stand alone or connect to other ports in numerous formations, enabling rapid deployment and scalability. We have analyzed the available spaces and movement dynamics in city centers across the world and recognize that infrastructure is a key enabler for the emerging UAM market. We are delighted to be building the world’s first operational Volo-Port in partnership with Volocopter,” says Duncan Walker, Managing Director of Skyports. Click below to launch slideshow > “Mobility patterns in cities worldwide are changing rapidly - seamless transitions from one mode to another are crucial for transport efficiencies and changing passenger demands. Our design of the architecture, as well as all services along the whole customer journey, link ground to air infrastructure in the smoothest way possible. Passengers experience the connection to the sky through our design. We aim to build trust and create excitement,” says Linda Stannieder, Co-Founder and CEO of Brandlab. For more information, visit www.volocopter.com. Words by John Edwards. Images by Volocopter.

  • Tzadik Properties, LLC Announces Completion of $115 Million in Refinancing Transactions

    Miami-based Tzadik Properties, LLC, an industry-leading multifamily property management company and one of the largest owner-operators in South Dakota, recently announced the completion of more than $115 million in refinancing transactions for portions of its Sioux Falls, SD and Rapid City, SD portfolios. These transactions are part of the company’s strategy to continue expanding and finding new growth opportunities. Spearheaded by Vice President of Capital Markets Lucas Grassano, who handled the processing, and Executive Vice President and Head of Acquisitions Michael Davalos, who oversaw the lender sourcing, these refinancings are part of the original business plan to move from short-term loans to long-term, lower-cost debt. The Sioux Falls A and Sioux Falls 1 portfolios, comprised of 707 units in 18 properties and 439 units in four properties, were refinanced with Greystone. Under the new terms, Tzadik moved from 6% interest bridge loans to 3.17% interest long-term loans and assigned $4.5 million of the proceeds for CapEx improvements and additional funds to return partner capital and buy back shares. Two more portfolios in Sioux Falls, including 459 units in four properties, and two properties in Rapid City, with a total of 261 units, were refinanced with Merchants Bank, moving from 6% bridge into 3.5% long-term loans. While these three transactions were cash neutral, two of the loans allowed CapEx holdbacks totaling $500,000. “Our team prides itself on our proven approach to close deals and build value while protecting the bottom line and being financially responsible,” said Tzadik Properties, LLC Chief Executive Officer Adam Marcus Hendry. “These refinancing transactions are part our of strategies to remain efficient with our expenses, which, in turn, fuels our constant growth.” Tzadik entered the South Dakota market in 2018 with 721 units and has quickly expanded to own and operate 2,206 units currently. Throughout the pandemic, Tzadik has remained actively investing and finding new growth opportunities. In 2020, Tzadik found new market opportunities with the acquisition of farms and ranches across the country, including 22,000 acres of income-producing ranch lands in South Dakota. The team is currently working on additional refinancing transactions for their portfolios in Texas and Nebraska. About Tzadik Properties, LLC Tzadik Properties, LLC is a growing, innovative and driven real estate and property management company based in Miami, Florida. Since its formation in 2007, Tzadik has managed more than $1 billion in apartment complexes, over 15 million square feet of commercial real estate, and more than 19,000 units in over 20 states. Through excellent management, a focus on company culture, and a tech-driven style of operating, Tzadik has established a reputation for “Building Lasting Relationships.” In 2020, Tzadik acquired JM Real Estate, Inc., a full-service, commercial property management, leasing, sales and investment acquisition company that is located in Brevard County, Florida, and serves from Titusville to Palm Bay. For more information about Tzadik, visit https://tz-m.com or call (305) 770-6383. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Unsplash

  • Rossinavi Launches 52M M/Y Florentia

    Viareggio-based shipyard Rossinavi reveals Florentia –the elegant 800GT motor yacht with a steel full-displacement hull and aluminium superstructure. It is a custom project with exterior design by Rome-based architecture firm Studio Vafiadis whilst Italian designer Carlo Colombo together with his Design Studio A++ looked after the design and styling of the interior areas. Click below to launch slideshow > “A yacht characterized by romantic lines for a timeless elegance that features refined interiors and generous spaces. Florentia is a vessel in which functionality and efficiency are a testament to style,” says Federico Rossi, Chief Operating Officer of Rossinavi. “Florentia’s interior design is inspired by the shapes of nature and ocean waves combined with technology and continuous research of design functionality. The soft lines of the boat’s architecture style pervade the space complementing neutral colors and precious materials contributing to a unique and refined yacht for a peaceful and relaxing experience,” says Carlo Colombo. Florentia’s key areas include a main deck, which welcomes guests on board, an upper deck featuring a multi- functional salon, the fly deck boasting a VIP Suite, and finally a lower deck where the remaining cabins for the guests and crews are located. Florentia can welcome up to 12 guests and 11 crew members on board at the same time in navigation. From the main deck, it is possible to access the salon and dining room, while the owner’s cabin is at bow. The main salon and the dining room are both majestic spaces, formally divided only by a structural bespoke cabinet. The main living area is at stern and features structural sofas that extend to the center of the boat while the dining table is at bow. The owner’s cabin has a private balcony as well as two walk-in wardrobes. The curvy shape of the master bed headboard, which is saddle-stitched and upholstered in leather, complements the sinuous details of the floor and ceiling that make ways to the owner’s bathroom. In the center of the room, just above the bed, is a ring-shaped mirror artwork reflecting the light coming from the sea in all directions at full beam. The upper deck is a rather large entertainment area. This multi-functional space could turn into a cinema thanks to the projector that appears from the ceiling. The amphitheatre-like upper deck area features a double-sided sofa upholstered in natural fabric and facing the bar area. From here, it is possible to reach the space designated to crew members as well as the cockpit where soft shapes, technical equipment and luxury materials are prestigious and functional. From the lobby of the fly deck, it is possible to enter the VIP Suite. This unique cabin boasts a private balcony at bow and access to the outdoor jacuzzi at stern. It is a proper separate reality within Florentia featuring a living room, a master bedroom and a private bathroom. Two symmetrical king bedrooms as well as two double bedrooms are in the lower deck which is also the area of the crew members together with a kitchen, living room, a laundry and five twin rooms. In Florentia, the multi-scenic approach leads to the creation of a symbiotic language, which characterizes this special yacht design line. For more information, visit: www.rossinavi.it/en.

  • Luxury Living: An Inside Look at 8325 Cheryl Lane

    Price: $12,950,000 Key Features: Introducing a luxury, personal resort in a premium location by a leading residential developer, Location Development. Designed by Csar Molina. This truly exceptional, high-quality residence embodies the Florida lifestyle, inside and out. The spacious floor plan highlights an indoor/outdoor lifestyle with large terraces, outdoor entertainment areas, and multiple bedrooms, featuring a master apartment and separate guest suite. A suite of thoughtfully-planned features and amenities that will provide incredible spaces to relax, entertain and experience the best that life has to offer. Complete home automation, wine room, media room, dedicated study, outdoor kitchen and fire pit, a lap pool, gym, hammam spa w/ steam room & hydrotherapy program. Garage fits up to 8 cars for an avid collector. Bedrooms 6 | Bathrooms 7 | Full 3 Partial | Interior 10,264 Sq Ft. Exterior 0.89 Acre Click below to launch slideshow > Contact: www.sothebysrealty.com

  • Journey Of a Tiffany Diamond

    Tiffany diamonds radiate intense beauty. In handcrafting the world’s most exceptional diamonds, we work to ensure high quality, beautiful artistry and responsible practices every step of the way. Tiffany directly acquires our diamonds from trusted sources and proudly provides provenance (region or countries of origin) and the craftsmanship journey for every newly sourced, individually registered diamond we set. Discover the worldwide journey that a Tiffany diamond takes to be worthy of the Tiffany Blue Box®. STEP 1: RESPONSIBLE SOURCING We source our rough diamonds from countries such as Australia, Botswana, Canada, Namibia, Russia and South Africa. We source approximately 65–75% of our stones as rough diamonds. All rough diamonds are sourced either directly from a known mine or from a supplier with a limited number of known mines. We encourage high standards in the mining industry to protect human rights and ecologically sensitive lands. STEP 2: PREPARATION The headquarters of Tiffany’s diamond operation is in Belgium. Only 0.04% of the world’s gem-grade diamonds meet our exacting standards. We send the rough diamonds we do accept to our workshop in Antwerp, Belgium. Here, we record the origin and sort for size, color, clarity and fluorescence, before creating each individual diamond’s unique design, to ensure the most beautiful diamond possible. STEP 3: CUTTING AND POLISHING Tiffany owns cutting and polishing workshops in Botswana, Mauritius, Belgium, Vietnam and Cambodia. We expertly cut and polish the majority of our diamonds at Tiffany workshops, and procure select polished diamonds from trusted suppliers who comply with our traceability, quality, social and environmental standards. We are proud to hire locally, invest in communities and provide a living wage. STEP 4: GRADING AND QUALITY CONTROL Tiffany operates gemological laboratories in the U.S., Cambodia and Vietnam. We inspect our diamonds at our network of Tiffany Gemological Laboratories in the U.S., Cambodia, and Vietnam. Grading oversight and quality validation occurs in New York, where grading and quality standards are set. STEP 5: SETTING Tiffany sets the majority of its diamonds at its workshops in the U.S. A setter individually adjusts each prong and basket to reveal the beauty of the stone, requiring great accuracy and artistry. Our workshops meet high standards for safety, cleanliness and a productive, welcoming environment. STEP 6: TIME FOR THE BLUE BOX A Tiffany diamond is now ready to be placed in its Tiffany Blue Box® and bag, made with paper from sustainable sources, including FSC®-certified and recycled materials. By ML staff. Images courtesy of Tiffany & Co.

  • UMG Hospitality Celebrated the Grand Opening of New Restaurant, Heaven Mykonos, at CityPlace Doral

    UMG Hospitality Group celebrated the grand opening of its newest dining concept, Heaven Mykonos, at CityPlace Doral on February 18, 2021. To celebrate the opening, Heaven Mykonos hosted a private socially-distanced VIP party and ribbon cutting ceremony. The evening began with welcome remarks and a special ribbon cutting ceremony. City of Doral Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez, City of Doral dignitaries and other VIPs joined UMG Hospitality Group Founders Dieuveny “DJ” Jean Louis and David Garretson, Corporate Chef Jorge Mas and General Manager Luis Toledo for the exclusive event. The ceremony was followed by a celebration where guests enjoyed Heaven Mykonos’ signature craft cocktails made with Toast Vodka™ and Miami Club Rum as well as an extensive list of wines. A generous sampling of the restaurant’s contemporary Mediterranean menu was served including Vitello Tonnato, Swordfish Carpaccio, oysters with spicy cucumber granite and balsamic pearls, slow-braised lamb flatbread and more. Guests danced to the beats of DJ Eran Hersh and enjoyed Heaven Mykonos’ virtual party robots and video walls. Founded by UMG Hospitality Group, Heaven Mykonos focuses on the flavors of the Mediterranean in a sexy lounge atmosphere. Located on the second floor of the vivacious CityPlace Doral, the restaurant offers tapas, an extensive wine list, craft cocktails and entertainment; and evolves into a sexy late-night lounge setting. Heaven Mykonos features Greek island-inspired décor, including airy white curtains and lush florals. Guests can also enjoy a second story VIP area and outdoor terrace. Under the direction of illustrious Miami Chef Jorge Mas, who serves as Corporate Chef for UMG Hospitality Group, the menu includes delicious Mediterranean seafood, seasonal salads, pastas, tapas, flatbreads made in a dedicated brick oven, and more. The impressive drink menu offers an array of wines and signature craft cocktails. Toast Vodka™ and Miami Club Rum cocktails are among the favorites on the cocktail list. Building on their love of the restaurant and entertainment industry, Louis and Garretson founded UMG Hospitality Group in 2018. In addition to Heaven Mykonos, the group includes Kuba Cabana, a lively dining concept which stems from the beautiful traditions of Latin and Caribbean music, cuisine and culture. Heaven Mykonos is located at CityPlace Doral, 8300 NW 36th Street, Ste 216, Doral, FL 33166. For more information, visit https://heavenmykonos.com/ By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Heaven Mykonos

  • Miami Design District Hosts Its 4th Annual Concours

    The Miami Design District hosted the 4th annual Concours this past weekend on Thursday, February 11th through Sunday, February 14th. Returning in a new format and in efforts to comply with social distancing guidelines, 30 of the most significant post-war cars were displayed “For the Love of Miami.” Exceptional vintage cars and supercars were showcased in Jungle Plaza, Palm Court, along Paseo Ponti, Jade Alley and Paradise Plaza. Actor Taylor Perez, influencer Isaac Likes and Houston Texan QB DeShaun Watson were all in town to take a tour of the Concours car show alongside Craig Robins, President and CEO of Dacra. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of the Miami Design District

  • Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to Host 10th Annual Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale

    Thousands of walkers and runners will make strides in the ongoing fight against drunk driving during the 10th Annual UKG presents the UBS Financial Services Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K brought to you by Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County. Runners and walkers can participate in the socially distanced in-person race on Sunday, April 25 at Huizenga Plaza in Fort Lauderdale or they can participate virtually at a location of their choice between Sunday, April 25 – Sunday, May 9. This is the 10th anniversary of MADD Broward County’s annual signature fundraising event in support of its mission to end drunk driving. All participants will log their miles using RaceJoy App. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, for the in-person race, MADD is following all CDC guidelines including social distancing and timed start waves, and masks are to be worn at all times other than on the race course. The organization is monitoring updates from Broward County and public health officials and will continue to respond based on their guidelines. Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale is a community-driven 5K that raises awareness about drunk driving and underage drinking and unites community members around MADD’s mission. Since it was established in 2011, this event has raised over $2 million that stays in our community to save lives and support victims of drunk driving, making it the most successful grassroots fundraiser in the history of Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Every dollar donated remains in the South Florida community to provide victim services and prevention education at no cost. “Drunk driving is still the deadliest killer on our nation’s roadways, claiming more than 10,000 lives and injuring more than 350,000 innocent people each year. Our goal is to raise awareness and funds so that we can see a future with no more victims,” said MADD National Chairwoman Heather Geronemus, who established and chaired the Fort Lauderdale event since 2011. Her late father, Dr. Robert Perry Geronemus, was struck and killed by a drunk driver in 2009. “Thank you to our sponsors, participants and donors who have supported Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K over the past 10 years so that we can provide free victim services and prevention education in South Florida. We are thrilled to be back and offer walkers and runners safe options to participate and make a difference in a meaningful cause, whether it’s the socially distanced in-person race or the virtual race.” Event sponsors include Signature Sponsor UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group), Title Sponsor UBS Financial Services, Presenting Sponsor Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County, State Safety Champion Sponsor Alert Today Florida, and Corporate Champion Sponsor La Croix. When: In-person Race: Sunday, April 25 Walk/Run start time: 7 a.m. Virtual Walk/Run: Sunday, April 25 – Sunday, May 9 at any time the participant chooses. Where: In-person Race: Huizenga Plaza 32 E. Las Olas Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33301 Virtual Run: Any place the participant chooses. Costs: Adult 5K Runner and Walker, Live/Virtual: $35 Youth 5K Runner and Walker (ages 5-18), Live/Virtual: $25 How: To register for the 10th Annual UKG presents the UBS Financial Services Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K brought to you by the Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County, visit www.walklikemadd.org/fortlauderdale. Event sponsorships are available. Awards will be given for top fundraiser, top team (private and corporate), as well as overall and age-group awards for 5K finishers. For the most up-to-date event information, visit www.facebook.com/MADDDashFortLaud. Contact FL.State@madd.org for any additional questions. more on MADD Founded by a mother whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to protect families from drunk driving and underage drinking. MADD also supports drunk and drugged driving victims and survivors at no charge, serving one person every nine minutes through local MADD victim advocates and at 1-877-MADD-HELP. In South Florida, the chapter’s annual Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K has raised more than $2 million since 2011. MADD’s Broward and Palm Beach chapters facilitate hundreds of free events each year to educate youth and parents on the dangers and consequences of impaired driving. Learn more at www.madd.org or by calling 1-877-ASK-MADD. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of MADD

  • Miami Living's Favorite Spots for Breads, Cakes & Pastries

    Savor your taste buds with some delightful bakeries right here in Miami. Here are some of our favorites! 1 - Pastryisart From delicious sandwiches, exquisite salads and hot soups to a unique line of desserts and cakes, Pastry is Art Bakery Cafe does it well. Award-winning Chef Rissone is the artistic genius behind every mouth-watering pastry, every sensuous dessert and each sumptuous cake that is produced. Address: 12591 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami, FL 33181 Telephone: (305) 603-9340 Website: Pastryisart 2 - Atelier Monnier South Beach Café Atelier Monnier is The French Bakery is meant for your breakfast, brunch and lunch and to reward yourself, celebrate or party. They have four locations in Miami and offer freshly made pastries, coffees, sandwiches, salads,  macarons, cakes, tarts, ice cream, sorbets, Belgian chocolates, and artisanal breads. All of their products are made with fresh and natural ingredients, locally crafted and exquisitely balanced, so you can enjoy the spectacular experience from the very first bite. Address: 1300 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Telephone: (786) 359-4033 Website: Atelier Monnier South Beach Café 3 - La Parisienne Bakery Maintaining their quality and tradition, La Parisienne Bakery has applied a simple philosophy: use traditional methods with the finest of ingredients and a slow fermentation process to produce high quality artisanal breads. This place has mouthwatering breads' collection that will make you wonder-stricken for sure. Address: 1909 NE 154th St, North Miami Beach, FL 33162 Telephone: (305) 948-9979 Website: La Parisienne Bakery 4 - Maison Valentine Every morning , Maison Valentine's chefs prepare their fresh delicacies & desserts. The warm smell of baking often escapes onto the street before they've even opened. Maison Valentine is a cozy hidden french pastry in Miami Beach offering comfortable seating inside with free wifi. You can also enjoy their patio in sunny days.  Maison Valentine is inspired by Valentine grandmother's cousin who devoted herself to her family. "Granny Vava was an outstanding cook. Her Pâtisserie (pastry) was always fresh and simple. It was the kind of dessert that every bit was memorable." Address: 1112 15th Street, Miami Beach, Florida 33139, United States Telephone: (786) 535-1432 Website: Maison Valentine 5 - Delices De France Patrick Baboun became a baker by happy circumstance. He was on vacation in Montreal when he bought a baguette and some cheese. He ate the bread and wanted more, but the bakery was closed. For the first time, he began thinking about how great the bread is made. After a few calls, he began an apprenticeship at a Canadian bakery, followed by years of work under French master bakers. You can taste the results at his bakery, Delices de France, in a shopping center off South Dixie Highway in Pinecrest (the main sign simply says, "French Bakery"). Loyal customers come for the crusty loaves, buttery croissants, creamy mini quiche, and incredible cakes, pastries, muffins, and tarts. Bread is baked on the premises, so the air wafts with the good scent of yeasty dough. ​ Address: 14453 S Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL 33176 Telephone: (305) 256-9700 Website: Delices De France Words By Sumbal Kuraishi. Images courtesy of bakeries featured in this story.

  • Cold Plasma Plus: Neck, Face & Eye Kit by Perricone MD

    Perricone MD takes a laboratory approach to the presentation and messaging of their skin care products, which is easy to appreciate. Recently, they launched their Cold Plasma Plus line, which takes a multi-pronged approach to minimizing the signs of aging. The trio of products included in the Cold Plasma Plus Face, Neck and Eye Kit contain similar ingredients targeted at different regions of the skin. The anti-aging mixture focuses on highly absorbable vitamins and minerals that are most likely to drive results. Some of the ingredients, like the Alpha Lipoic Acid and Omega 9 supplement what the body already produces. Many, however, are not naturally generated by the body but are still essential—such as Omega 3 and 6, which are constantly hawked as an essential part of a healthy diet by dieticians and doctors (usually alongside a picture of salmon and seeds). Perricone MD supplies a fairly useful breakdown of the ingredients on their website—a helpful resource considering the strength of the Cold Plasma Plus trio. The Cold Plasma Plus Advanced Serum Concentrate is applied to the face and designed to smooth the skin and prevent dark spots from forming. It should be followed up with the Cold Plasma Plus Advanced Eye Cream, which is targeted specifically at problems that affect the region around the eyes. Lastly, a Neck & Chest Broad Spectrum SPF 25 is applied to the neck and chest region to both provide defense against sun damage, as well as correct any uneven skin tone, wrinkles, and creases that may have resulted from prior sun exposure. All of the ingredients are delivered via a “proprietary liquid crystal delivery system” that Perricone MD promises will ensure faster and deeper penetration into the skin. Thankfully, Perricone MD has years of proprietary skin secrets under their belt to back it up. Using all three components of the Cold Plasma Plus Face, Neck and Eye Kit in conjunction promotes the signs of healthy skin, protecting and correcting in the process. For those who have only recently discovered the first signs of wrinkles, this kit presents an excellent preventative force. On the other hand, if age has already been showing its impact, it’s never too late to start taking better care of our skin and start promoting healthy rejuvenation. For more information, visit: www.perriconemd.com By Thomas Bender. Image courtesy of Cold Plasma Plus

  • Wu-Tang’s RZA Talks Second Chances and Cut Throat City Film

    As leader of the legendary multi-platinum selling rap group, The Wu-Tang Clan, RZA, or Bobby, as he is known to close friends and colleagues, had a particular way of putting beats to razer-sharp lyrics that made you feel part of a song’s creative process. Fans feel RZA’s music, both from Wu-Tang and his solo and collaborative efforts, on a cellular level. An urban-bred intellectual who expresses through a mic or camera lens, RZA is considered prophetic to his community and perhaps a unicorn to mainstream culture. With a penchant for Eastern philosophy as is evident in the name Wu-Tang Clan and lyrical nods to Shaolin Kung Fu, RZA shared, “One thing I’m looking forward to doing in the near future… I’ve never been to India, and I have to check that one off,” referring to the top item on his bucket list. I recommended he connect with Indian author and yogi, Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadhguru, when he makes the trip. RZA is so well-read and well-versed, it felt novel giving him someone and something beyond his scope to Google. As a film director, RZA paints complex portraits with colorful multi-faceted characters that inspire engagement and empathy. His latest directorial effort, the allegorical Cut Throat City (streaming on Netflix) features an all-star cast and examines the lives of people living in New Orleans’ economically depressed Lower Ninth Ward in the aftermath of 2005’s Hurricane Katrina. The historically disastrous storm broke through poorly constructed levees, flooding out the city’s most vulnerable residents, and leaving them with little hope or help from FEMA. Much like our current pandemic, Katrina shone a light on shameful racial and economic inequities. Though the film’s story is a sobering one and the lead character’s decisions are morally ambiguous, he insists the film portrays “a story of redemption,” with parallels to his own life. “No one [in this film] is completely bad and no one is completely good. They were all flawed. It exemplified their humanity and it comes down to a choice. The theme of [Cut Throat City] examines the importance of dreams against a backdrop of survival.” Reflecting on his early days in the spotlight, RZA denounces some of his youthful bravado as he recites a trademark Wu-Tang lyric for me, “Wu-Yang Clan ain’t nuthing ta fuck wit,” and laughs out loud at an ego-driven existence that took center stage early on. It’s now tempered, he says, by a need to serve something greater than himself. Throughout our conversation, RZA’s words are prophetic, culturally provocative and spiritually centered. We talked about a life lived outside the matrix of material trappings; a topic initiated by him and encouraged by me. Allison Kugel: Do you believe anything is possible, or that circumstances dictate our destiny? RZA: Wow, that’s a strong question. I think that persistence overcomes resistance. Therefore, every possibility is actually expressed in our children’s wishes. The things we wish for as young minds and things we thrive in our spirits for, I think they make that which seems impossible, possible. The whole Greek study of Icarus and the idea of men flying… that seems like it would be magic or some other thing. We fly every day now in many different variations of flight, for example, flights that leave our basic atmosphere and travel across the whole world. So, what seems impossible, I think positivity and possibilities are probably boundless. Allison Kugel: What lessons can be learned from poverty, and what lessons can be learned from wealth? RZA: Poverty and wealth are two very different circumstances, but those are physical circumstance. I think we have to be conscious to not have the physical circumstance truly shake our spiritual and our personality. I grew up in poverty, but I was never unhappy. Joy and love were in our household. My mother was a single mother, but joy and love made up for the lack of food and shelter. The point I make in saying that is, of course, in a capitalist society our freedoms are compartmentalized. Therefore, you could be physically free and not spiritually free. You can be spiritually and physically free, and not economically free. Since economic freedom is a requirement for proper food, clothing, and shelter, it can become something that transcends the physical, and bleeds into the spiritual. If life was simple, everything we want is already provided for us by the planet. There is nothing on this planet that we eat, ingest, take, dance with, fly with, that is not from the planet. It’s just that when you are dealing with certain [economic] systems, they take control over us. Even in some religious traditions they have ways of controlling what is naturally ours. I’m out here in New Jersey in the woods right now, and I just saw some deer walk by. A whole family [of deer] eating whatever they ate and they keep walking. Allison Kugel: I had a similar moment when I looked at a family of birds outside my house, and they don’t need anything. They’ve figured all of it out for free, on their own. RZA: Yes! There is a beautiful verse in the Holy Quran that speaks on that. I’ll paraphrase it. It says something like, “The birds and the bees are taking care of every day with no worries. Do you think Allah would do less for man, his greatest creation?” Everything they have access to, we have access to. It’s that we grabbed control over it and denied access to certain people. That’s playing into the theme of my film (RZA’s latest directorial effort, Cut Throat City, streaming on Netflix). Allison Kugel: Yup! That’s why I’m asking about it… RZA: One of the biggest issues of the situation in this film that I hope the audience catches is that Blink (played by Shameik Moore) goes in with his wife (played by Kat Graham) and child for help from FEMA and they ask, “What is your salary?” She says, “About $32,000.” Not a bad salary and not a great salary… Allison Kugel: It’s a hard salary. It’s a salary that would be very challenging to raise a family on. Would you agree? RZA: Yes, I would agree. And within that salary she’s paying a third of that in taxes. Her tax money is paid into a system to protect her when the time comes that you need the protection. Now here it is, I’m in need of what I paid into and I’m being denied because of my community or because of my race. That is the equation we overlook in our capitalist society. The money that they spend every year is not their money, it’s our money that they are controlling. Allison Kugel: After watching your film, Cut Throat City, which depicts the lives of people living in New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward in 2005, post-Hurricane Katrina, I researched and read that in 1965 there was also a catastrophic hurricane in the area. Same thing happened, where the levees were not maintained properly and they broke. They already knew there was a strong possibility it could happen again, and yet they did nothing to protect these people. RZA: The line that Ethan Hawke gives in the film, he talks about how it also happened in the early 1900s, but it was more intentional. They let the levees break so the water could flood the lower land and it wouldn’t spread up to the white districts. The thing about separation of people who are of color or [lower] economics, it has existed for a long time in our country and there is no relief and no delivery from the situation. Even if the Lower Ninth was built to be low income, as your city is growing and your tax dollars are coming into your city, those resources should be used to ensure everyone’s safety and security. In the beginning of the city’s history, I understand. I started in a small apartment when I left my house. I was nineteen years old and my mother said the time had come to go. I started in a small apartment and (Wu-Tang Clan member) Ghostface [Killah] was my roommate. We had another roommate, my cousin Rob. We lived there, three guys in a one bedroom, and we stayed there until we raised enough money to get a two bedroom (laugh). You know what I mean? Allison Kugel: (Laughs) Yes! I do know what you mean. RZA: We kept going, and it even got to the point where one of us could move out and one of us still stayed, and that lasted until we hit it big. The point is, it’s okay to start at the bottom and struggle, but when there is no relief from the struggle, that is when it becomes insidious, evil, and oppressive. Like I said, the money that FEMA was giving in 2005 for Hurricane Katrina Relief was the money that came from the people. It wasn’t [FEMA’s] money. Allison Kugel: I’m assuming you spent time in New Orleans prior to directing Cut Throat City? RZA: I traveled there many times and spent three weeks studying the city. This film wasn’t just about these four guys in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. It was the fact that this was a story about what happens when your aspirations turn into desperation. That I know, that I’ve felt, and that I’ve lived. I come from a single mother household and so does my whole crew. Seven of the nine members [of Wu-Tang Clan] are that. In this film, Blink (the film’s lead character) was a nerd, in all reality. He was an academic and went to college. He had a talent, you know? Allison Kugel: That is what is so heartbreaking about this story. Here is a guy who went to Tulane University, who has extraordinary talent for drawing and storytelling, and it’s wasted talent. It’s a squandered life. But then at the end of the film, there are two different endings. Explain that… RZA: A lot of people have been tweeting about that and asking what’s going on. The artist in me left it up for interpretation. If you go back and look at the film closely, you’ll see that there is an egg in there that should answer the questions. Maybe people missed it, but the reason why I did that is because in life, very few of us get second chances. But, what happens if you give a man a second chance? I, myself, am a second chance-er. When I read this story, I felt the character Blink all in my system. I felt his pain. Then I realized I actually was an artist and a smart guy who got caught up in gangs and the streets, and ended up facing eight years in jail, but I won my trial. When I won my trial, I changed my life. I focused on study and making myself better, looking at my creativity, and I formed The Wu-Tang Clan. I became a success story, because I was given a second chance. Allison Kugel: Sometimes a single decision can change everything… RZA: And I wasn’t bad. A lot of people are not bad, they just made a bad decision. [I wish] the criminal justice system could look at it that way. Most of the guys in the Wu were the same. We were all arrested felons or something like that, and we had a second chance. I wanted to express that in this film. In the original screenplay, though, I have to be honest, he dies. But as a director I get to tell the story and I get to shape it. I wanted to shape it with optimism. I said, “I’m going to leave some optimism there and let the people who watch it decide, which pill would they take?” In the film the detective tells him, “A pen will get you further than a gun.” I’m living proof. It was a pen that got me further than anytime I was trying to do something foolish with a gun. Allison Kugel: Speaking of which pill to take. You strike me as a guy who operates outside the matrix. I know you’re part of the Five Percent Nation. Do you sometimes feel like you don’t quite sync up with the everyday person? RZA: No. I don’t feel like I don’t sync up. I feel blessed that I see the beauty of what I see. Whether anybody else sees it or not, it’s okay. It’s not like, “Man, wow, they’re missing it.” Even as a vegan and never having a yearning for steak, never having the idea in the back of my head of the pain I’m inflicting on someone else; it’s a very liberating feeling to not be the cause of pain and turmoil to any living thing. I actually feel more required to do what I’m supposed to do, so that if there is positivity in what I’m doing, may others see it. They’ll see it in their own given time, and I’m okay with that. Allison Kugel: Do you want to explain what the Five Percent Nation is? RZA: I’m going to tell you something they taught us in studying the lessons of The Five Percent, and it is sometimes misunderstood. What they are trying to say when they say, “Five Percent,” is they took a number of 100% and they separated it into the different types of people in the world. They say that 10% of the people know the same things that the five percent know, but the 10% use it to control other people. They know that there’s falsehood. They know it’s a game, they know the rules of the game. They aren’t playing it, but they’re making everybody else play it. They say 85% of people are easily led in the wrong direction. The 10% will lead them in the wrong direction even though they know the right direction. Then there’s 5% of the people who know the right direction and they strive to teach it. Scientists who deal with quantum physics and the measurement of space, they say all the atoms in the entire universe only represent five percent of the universe. Allison Kugel: And the rest is space. RZA: The rest is space. It’s a mathematical equation. They taught us that we should all strive for the Twelve Jewels of Life which is: knowledge, wisdom, understanding, freedom, justice, equality, food, clothing, shelter, love, peace, and happiness. If you have that, you’re rich. I honestly feel I have that, and to me, that is more valuable than anything that is out there. In my art, I try to express those qualities. Allison Kugel: In the film who would you say was the most fun to direct, who was the most challenging, and who did you vibe with artistically? RZA: Wow, it’s hard to separate such a great cast and great talents. Every one of us had our moments, like an all-star team. I can say that Kat Graham really shows that it’s not just beauty in her, but it’s her strength and expression. I’m glad that she became the anchor of that family, and she did it beautifully. She could have played it pretty and sexy. Even though she was beautiful on screen, it was natural. She was strong to go and fight for her man. Ethan Hawke, I felt like we were on a natural high working together with the way the ideas were flowing back and forth, and his choices of emotions. And as a fan, it was a joy to have Terrence Howard, Wesley Snipes and Isaiah Washington come and work in my film. Allison Kugel: Did you originally think Kat Graham was too pretty for this role? RZA: No, that wasn’t a thought. I got lucky to get Kat. We had developed her role for another actress who became unavailable about two weeks before we were shooting. Then our agent said that Kat Graham read the script and was interested, and would I be interested to talk with her? We did a FaceTime and she said exactly what I needed to hear. Allison Kugel: Which was? RZA: She said to me, “The strength of this woman is in the pages, Bobby, and I want to bring you that strength.” It wasn’t about bringing beauty; it was about bringing me strength. Then when you look at T.I., he totally shocked me and blew my mind. T.I. also came into the cast late. I had been developing the film for five years, and I always wanted Method Man to play the role of Cousin, but he told me he wasn’t into the bad guy roles right now. Allison Kugel: What do you want people to take away from the film, Cut Throat City, beyond being entertained? RZA: I would like to think the people who see these four main characters in the film as criminals can now understand that they are a victim of circumstance. If we can walk away and understand that some people who are in bad situations are victims of circumstances, we can prevent the circumstances. I don’t know if that makes sense to you. Allison Kugel: That makes sense. RZA: How do we prevent the circumstances? Before I started the movie, I met with a guy who was locked up and he told me he read an article about me and he agreed with what he read about me. I asked him, “Which article was that?” He said it was an article where I said I was a nerd. And I was like, “Yes, I am. I like comic books. I like video games. I like chess.” He said, “I loved reading that about you, because I’m a nerd too!” This guy was serving 15 years for armed robbery. He was saying that really, he is also a creator, but there was no outlet for him. So he got caught up in a hustle. There was another guy that was in the cell with him who ended up fixing all the computers inside the jail, but he’s in for murder. I’m not justifying a murder, but he said that he was bullied and bullied and bullied. He was forced to fight, and once he fought it was like he became a cowboy. Allison Kugel: Here is the question I ask everybody. What do you think you came into this world to learn, and what do you think you came here to teach in this lifetime? RZA: Wow, that is a beautiful question. What did I come to learn? One thing I am learning is humility. Even though I may appeared, on the surface, to have it, it was something that I think I lacked. I was pretty conceited, really coming up. If you listen to my old music, I acted like, “I’m the greatest and everybody else is beneath me (laughs).” Allison Kugel: Well, you were in your twenties, right? RZA: Yes.. Allison Kugel: Hello! (laugh) RZA: Exactly. But it’s good to understand that there is a universe out there. You can be a sun, but there’s other suns. But I do think what I’m destined to teach, if anything, is that you can be a living example of your own ideas. Through my art, I’ll be able to inspire and that’s the best thing. I think I was brought her to inspire. I was born to inspire. Interview and story by Allison Kugel. RZA Photos Courtesy of CAA, Film Stills Courtesy of Well Go USA Entertainment/Netflix Cut Throat City is currently streaming on Netflix. Follow RZA on Facebook and Instagram. Allison Kugel is a syndicated entertainment and pop culture columnist and author of the book, Journaling Fame: A memoir of a life unhinged and on the record. Follow her on Instagram @theallisonkugel and at AllisonKugel.com.

  • Fontainebleau Development, LLC Celebrated Groundbreaking of Exclusive SeaGlass Jupiter Island

    Fontainebleau Development, LLC, in conjunction with Perko Development Partners as the local co-development partner, celebrated the groundbreaking of the ultra-luxurious SeaGlass Jupiter Island residences, a new condominium featuring 21 expansive oceanfront residences with unobstructed 360-degree views. In attendance were Jeffrey Soffer, Fontainebleau Development chairman and CEO; Bruce Weiner, Fontainebleau Development COO of Residential; Jim Cohen, Fontainebleau Development president of Residential; and Phil Perko, founder and president of Perko Development Partners. Also in attendance were Village of Tequesta Mayor Abby Brennan and Building Director Jose Rodriguez. Attendees were required to maintain a social distance of 6 feet between guests. The residences, located on exclusive Jupiter Island, are expected to be completed in fall 2022. Each of SeaGlass Jupiter Island’s expansive three- and four-bedroom corner residences maximizes panoramic ocean-to-Intracoastal vistas, and spans 3,781 to 5,323 square feet of living area. Designed by internationally renowned architect Robert M. Swedroe, AIA and his team at Swedroe Architecture, each residence features expansive private terraces with summer kitchens (the two penthouses have private rooftop terraces) and private climate-controlled, two-car garages. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway on Jupiter Island in the village of Tequesta, SeaGlass Jupiter Island captivates the imagination with its sleek contemporary architecture. This unique island retreat blends beautifully with the natural surroundings through exceptional attention to detail. Residents will enjoy upscale features including electronic fob-controlled access elevator to private entry foyers at each residence, 10-foot (or higher) ceilings with floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows, Miele® appliances, imported Snaidero® cabinetry, Dornbracht® fixtures, and steam showers. Additional amenities include the oceanfront infinity-edge heated swimming pool with sun shelf and heated relaxation spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, yoga and meditation lawn, gated arrival entry with valet, and 24/7 attended grand two-story lobby designed by Champalimaud Design. Since the launch of sales in May 2020, there has been significant interest in SeaGlass Jupiter Island, with prices ranging from $6.5 million to over $10 million. For more information about SeaGlass Jupiter Island, visit www.seaglassjupiterisland.com or call 561-575-1446. Schedule a private appointment to visit the onsite oceanfront Sales Gallery at 1500 Beach Road. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of SeaGlass Jupiter Island

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