Recognized as one of the Top 10 Hotel Bars in the World by the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards and one of the 100 Best Bars in Miami by the Miami New Times, The Regent Cocktail Club is returning to Gale South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton. “From an iconic Miami night out with friends to a laid-back evening with smooth cocktails and Cuban beats, every experience at The Regent Cocktail Club is memorable,” said John Meadow, founder and CEO of LDV Hospitality. “We’re excited to welcome guests back to create more memories that make this venue a staple in South Beach.” Beloved by locals and sought out by visitors, The Regent Cocktail Club once again welcomes patrons through a speakeasy-like entrance behind the host stand of Dolce Italian Restaurant, down a neon sign-illuminated stairway. The soulful, upbeat live jazz music and the faint echo of bartenders preparing cocktails set the vibe as guests enter. The space, which accommodates up to 200 guests, is a unique retro twist to a 1940s-style lounge, embodying the feel of a warm Havana night with its 12-seat bar, warm leathers, plush couches, and tropical wall coverings. When it first opened in 2012, The Regent Cocktail Club quickly became a hot spot for its lively yet subtle atmosphere, classic live jazz music, and picturesque drinks. In Winter 2019, the lounge underwent a full renovation and relocation before closing in March 2020. The current space, once the subterranean nightlife destination Rec Room, allows The Regent Cocktail Club to fully embrace Miami’s live music scene while more than tripling the capacity of the original. For the reopening, the in-house mixologists have crafted a dynamic cocktail menu, drawing inspiration from the original menu curated by award-winning bartenders of Bar Lab. Handcrafted cocktails include: Champiña ($20), which is prepared with Grey Goose, vanilla-infused Chinola Passion Fruit Liqueur, charred pineapple, lime juice, and egg white topped with bubbles; Peach One ($18), a refreshing cocktail made with Ketel One Cucumber, Pêche de Vigne, cucumber, and citrus, topped with Fever-Tree soda; and Guava Paloma ($21), a flavorful mixture of Patrón Reposado, pink guava, habañero shrub, lime juice, and Fever-Tree grapefruit soda. Other notable libations include Regent Club ($20), made with Oxley London Dry Gin, Aperol, pomegranate grenadine, lemon juice, raspberries, egg white, and cherry bitters; El Diablo ($19), a savory cocktail prepared with Cazadores Reposado, lime juice, agave, jalapeño, and crème de cassis, topped with Fever-Tree ginger beer; Dragon’s Breath ($19), made with Ilegal Mezcal, Thai chili syrup, hibiscus water, lime juice, passion fruit, and Tajin; and many others. As guests quench their thirst, they can also indulge in light fare like Chicken Empanadas ($14) served with chipotle sauce; Yuca Croquettes ($10) prepared with tasty salsa rosada; a Meat and Cheese Plate ($22) with tarallucci and dried fruit; and more. The Regent Cocktail Club also hosts private and special events for groups up to 175. The bar is continually frequented by Miami notables and celebrities. Recently, during Art Basel 2021, it hosted an exclusive party with a performance by hip-hop musicians Offset and Quavo and appearances by fashion designer Michele Lamy, model and musician Shaun Ross, and actors Ansel Elgort and Cuba Gooding Jr. The Regent Cocktail Club is located at 1690 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139). The bar, owned and operated by LDV Hospitality, is open from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., Thursday through Saturday, with live music from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. and resident DJs playing from 11 p.m. to close. For more information, visit RegentCocktailClub.com and follow on Instagram @TheRegentMIA.

Chotto Matte will host a three-day "Love Parade" of aphrodisiac-themed dishes and multisensory entertainment over Valentine's Day weekend. From Saturday, February 12 through Monday, February 14, romantic couples and besties looking to celebrate their special bond will enjoy “Chotto Lates” evening entertainment inspired by the traditional wild birds’ love parades in the rainforest – performers in flamboyant feathered costumes and high-energy DJs who will keep the vibe going till the wee hours. Chotto Matte’s “Love Parade” entertainment will begin at 7 p.m. each night and will be complemented by three aphrodisiac dishes spotlighting its cuisine’s fusion of Peruvian and Japanese ingredients and techniques, such as the O-Toro Tartar: an umami-rich dish made with fatty tuna, guacamole, green papaya, pomegranate, and wasabi soy and the Nikkei Oysters (4 pcs): Fresh oysters dressed with a zesty mix of Shiso mojito, marinated ikura dressing, seaweed salsa, and a yuzu vinaigrette. The new Matcha-Mango Cheesecake Mousse also lands on the menu, made with blueberry and yuzu salsa, coconut sorbet and sesame tuile as the perfect sweet finish to an evening of romance. Guests can complement their meal with a selection of delicious cocktails, from the restaurant’s famous Tokyo to Lima menu. From the iconic Pisco Sour with Barsol Quebranta pisco, to the Lima Old-Fashion with Banana infused Santa Terasa 1796 rum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. A wide selection of champagnes and wines are also available. Address: 1666 Lenox Ave #1664, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States Menu: chotto-matte.com Phone: +1 305-690-0743 By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Chotto Matte

Whether you are looking for an aquatic adventure, or to test your climbing skills, Florida’s Sports Coast, located in Pasco County, has something to offer for everyone. After a long day of activities, sit back and relax by the hotel pool before indulging in some of the best food available in the area. Vacation like you never have before and come to a destination that won’t disappoint your adventurous side (and your inner foodie). The journey begins north of Tampa, check-in at Marriott’s Springhill Suites in Land O’Lakes, this new construction has an ideal location that allows guests to be close to all the activities—everything is within a short drive. This is a modern hotel with spacious suites, friendly staff, complimentary breakfast buffet, and an outdoor pool next to the patio, perfect to unwind after a long day. Did someone say firepit? They got it! On a hot summer day, there is no better activity to begin with than heading straight to The Lift Adventure Park, located at SunWest Park, which operates three aquatic attractions. Before tackling the inflatable Aqua Park—which is a challenge for children, teens, and adults alike—relax by the public beach and study what’s the best technique to master the aqua park like a true Wipeout champ. While it might not look intimidating at first, don’t let it fool you. It’s almost a guarantee that you will fall in, and it won’t take long—pro-tip, use water shoes, to help stabilize your feet so they don’t sink and slip as much. Run, jump, slide, splash and get back on. On a hot summer day, there is no better feeling than falling into the refreshing water after breaking a sweat, competing against your friends to see who can finish the obstacle course first. At SunWest Park there are also volleyball courts and concession stands available to the public. So, if you’re looking to work on your tan, or maybe just admire the aqua park from a distance, that’s an option too. If you’re looking for another aquatic attraction, visit the Wake Park (which is next to the beach) to practice your wakeboarding skills, or to learn how to wakeboard. They have a ½ mile cable, and a personal instructor who will walk you through step by step via a radio connected headset. And as if that wasn’t enough, there are also rentals available to paddle board and kayak around the lake. Truly something for everyone! If you like to get your adrenaline going by reaching new heights, as opposed to splashing around in the water, then Treehoppers Aerial Adventure Park is for you. There are 9 courses available, which range from easy to very hard and marked like ski slopes—if you’ve never done anything like this before, start with the green circle easy courses—Sunshine or Sunflower. Each course is filled with unique elements (that will make you think “why did I think I could do this?”), from hanging wooden and rope courses that will challenge your balance, tenacity, and core, to ziplines that will send you soaring to the next platform. Reach heights of 65 feet if you attempt Commando or Black Storm courses—the black diamonds of the bunch. And don’t worry about it if you fall, everyone is harnessed in, so if you don’t finish the course, your ego will be the only thing getting bruised. Being securely attached (with an ingenious cable system) gives adventures the freedom and flexibility to move at their own pace on the course and discover what they are capable of. There are plenty of guides around (on the ground) to shout advice, and they will gladly come to your ‘rescue’ if you find yourself dangling from your safety harness. Looking for a different type of action? How about visiting the Giraffe Ranch, 47 acres full of exotic wildlife ready for you to explore. They offer five intimate safaris, whether you are doing a Segway or Camel Safari Tour, there are no roads or a specific path to follow—but you will always have a dedicated guide, so they will tell you exactly what to do if an ostrich or a pack of zebras head your way. During the tour you will learn about the animals, meet a friendly pygmy hippo, a rhino, and at the end get ready for the giraffe feeding. The animals come from all over the world—from Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. Unlike a zoo, at Giraffe Ranch the animals have space to roam, and because of the intimate tour settings, visitors really get an up close and personal experience. After a day of burning calories, a calm night out in town is just what your body needs. Sip on Grand Wine Bar is a cozy spot located in the trendy New Port Richey—here locals and tourist meet, mingle, and relax. This family owned and run charming wine bar is unpretentious, classy, and offers delicious food. If you like charcuterie boards, you’re in for a treat. This is charcuterie board heaven. Their four main boards are served with warm baguette on the side of a fantastic blend of sweet and savory items. Also available, paninis, flatbreads, and desserts like the Cannoli Dip, or the Halava, which complement the rest of the menu nicely. They have house made, domestic, imported, sparkling, and organic red and white wines—plenty to pick from. And if beer is more on your mind, their craft beer on tap is also a treat, and local! This jazzy speakeasy is the perfect place to come and unwind. Green Door on 8th in Dade City is also a family-owned restaurant with phenomenal food. All their food is made with fresh ingredients, which is why this family establishment does not struggle to keep the place full. Many of the house specialties are available for lunch and dinner, as well as the appetizers and salads. If you come for lunch, there is a wide selection of delicious sandwiches and wraps, but where the menu truly shines in the dinner menu’s main entrées. The Andouille Crusted catfish is the comfort food your body has been craving, and the Danish Salmon is smooth and hearty. If you still have room after licking your plate clean, try their take on a Florida classic, the key lime pie. For those looking for a little taste of home, but still want a restaurant experience, Kafe Kokopelli in Dade City has a classic menu and an exotic hunting lodge look and feel inside that will fulfill all your needs. Since 1996, they have been offering classics like Chicken Marsala, Rib Eye Steak, and if you come for brunch, try the Chicken and Waffles. This local restaurant delights visitors with hearty portions, and wonderful service. If you’re looking for a little more drink, Florida Avenue Brewing Co currently brews 12 beers made from local ingredients, all their beers represent a little bit of what Florida is all about—sea salt and fresh limes, guava and passion fruit. Their taproom offers something for everyone. If you want to learn more about how the beer is made, tour the brewery, and if you’re looking to make it a day, they offer a full menu with everything from crab cakes, to fish and chips, as well as a selection of refreshing cocktails and crowd-favorite churros with caramel Nutella sauce. They have an incredible industrial indoor space, with the taproom at the center, and an even more majestic outdoor space on a beautiful lawn where you’ll frequently find some local live music. Finally, don’t be fooled by the name Noble Crust, this local chain offers more than just pizza and pasta. Delicious cocktails and southern comfort food with an Italian twist will keep bringing you back. Come during happy hour and enjoy their unique, hand-crafted cocktails for only $5! The Pina Diablo, a pineapple mezcal drink with lime and a sugar rim is a spicy tropical delight with a hint of spice. For something more refreshing, the Hibiscus Sling is a wonderful blend of vodka, prosecco, bitters, and lemon juice. They also have quite the variety of frozen drinks—strawberry, watermelon, peach, and orange creamsicle flavors available, each one with a unique twist. This casual eatery features locally grown ingredients, generous portions, and great presentation. The Rigatoni + Short Rib Ragu and the Gorgonzola Filet are two main entrées to try, you won’t regret it. Whether you come to Florida’s Sports Coast to try something new like wakeboarding, or if you would like to get in touch with your wild side, at the end of your trip you’ll leave accomplished, empowered, and with the desire to come back and do it all over again. Afterall, who doesn’t like to play, eat, and drink? Let your inner adventurer take over and embark on a vacation like no other. To get more information on how to embark on your next adventure, visit: www.flsportscoast.com | www.theliftadventurepark.com | www.treehoppers.com | www.girafferanch.com To get more information to satisfy your inner foodie, visit: www.sipongrand.com | www.greendooron8th.com | www.kafekokopelli.com www.floridaavebrewing.com | www.noble-crust.com By Claudia Paredes and Thomas Bender • Photos credit: Florida’s Sports Coast. Top Photo by Ibrahim Rifath

Morris Lapidus was an architect, primarily known for his Neo-baroque "Miami Modern" hotels constructed in the 1950s and 60s, which have since come to define that era's resort-hotel style, synonymous with Miami and Miami Beach. Eden Roc Miami Beach Hotel A Jewish Ukrainian immigrant based in New York, Lapidus (November 25, 1902 – January 18, 2001) designed over 1,000 buildings during a career spanning more than 50 years, much of it spent as an outsider to the American architectural establishment. Born in Odessa in the Russian Empire (now Ukraine), his Orthodox Jewish family fled Russian pogroms to New York when he was an infant. As a young man, Lapidus explored acting which led to his interest in theatrical set design where he was directed by scene painters to study architecture. He attended Columbia University, graduating in 1927.[1] Lapidus worked for the prominent Beaux Arts firm of Warren and Wetmore. At that time his first project was to design a garage ornament for the Vanderbilt mansion. His design incorporated Mercury, the god of Speed, into a modern sculpture. Lapidus explained that the proposed "horse head and wagon was an anachronism." From 1929–1943 he worked with Ross-Frankel as a retail architect. When in early 1942 his father's company, U.S. Metals, employed Morris to design a Signaling Search Light, which had been commissioned by Admiral Rickover, he resigned from Ross-Frankel, but not before showing Evan Frankel the potato fields of The Hamptons, where they went to successfully field test the light. After this very successful 22 year career in retail interior design with Ross-Frankel, Lapidus was asked to be a "hotel doctor" on several Miami Hotels. He soon was the associate architect of five hotel projects in Miami Beach—Sans Souci Hotel 1947 (opened 1949, after 1996 called the RIU Florida Beach Hotel), followed closely by the Nautilus 1950, the diLido (1951), the Biltmore Terrace (1951), and the Algiers (1951), all along Collins Avenue, and amounting to the single-handed redesign of an entire district. The hotels were an immediate popular success and Lapidus began to push the boundaries of the hotel experience further. Then in 1952 he landed the job of the largest luxury hotel in Miami Beach, the property he is most associated with, the Fontainebleau Hotel, which was a 1,200 room hotel built by Ben Novack on the former Firestone estate, and perhaps the most famous hotel in the world.[2] It was followed the next year by the equally successful Eden Roc Hotel, (where Harry Belafonte broke the "color-line" at the Beach by staying the night there), and the Americana (later the Sheraton Bal Harbour) in 1956. The Sheraton was demolished by implosion shortly after dawn on Sunday, November 18, 2007 and is now a W Hotel The St. Regis at Bal Harbor. Using these hotels as his "laboratory for design" and exploring "how to sell a good time" Lapidus became famous for his Miami Beach hotels: the Fontainebleau (1954), the Eden Roc (1955), and the Americana (the Bal Harbor Sheraton) (1956). The opening of the Fontainebleau was shown on TV. American's watched as dancing people in ballroom upon ballroom streamed into their living rooms. In effect, Lapidus had out-palaced the palace and the modern era of the Miami Beach and her resort hotels began: everyone had to go. In 1955, Lapidus designed the Ponce de Leon Shopping Center near the plaza in St. Augustine, Florida. The anchor store, Woolworth's, was the scene of the first sit-in by black demonstrators from Florida Memorial College in March, 1960, and in 1963 by four young teenagers, who came to be known as the "St. Augustine Four." The Woolworth's door-handles and a Freedom Trail marker memorialize the events. Lapidus later worked with Igor Polevitsky on the addition to the Shellborne Hotel where as with earlier hotels, of the big eight. At all early hotels he gave Miami Beach's Collins Avenue its architectural style and made interesting nightscapes with his neon lettering; excelling with the Venetian lettering for "diLido", the curving "S" at the Shellborne, or in the "ER" on the top rock at the Eden Roc. In the hotel interiors he anticipated post-modernism while serving up postcard views through modern glazing and decidedly modern exteriors. Lapidus's modern tropical style, continued in the housing projects which he completed all the way up the coast on Collins Avenue from 44th to 94th; the Seacoast East and West and the condominiums at Haulover Beach mark sensuous bookends to the incredible sinuous ride on Florida's Millionaire Row on the Atlantic Ocean. The Lapidus style is idiosyncratic and immediately recognizable in photographs, derived as it was from his innovative and well-considered attention-getting techniques in his commercial store designs: sweeping curves, theatrically backlit floating ceilings, 'beanpoles', and the ameboid shapes that he called 'woggles', 'cheeseholes', as well his adept use of color, signage, lights, mirrors, techniques to "float columns", float stairs and move people along meandering lines—as people do not walk in a straight line—are the vocabulary of his design style. His many smaller projects give Miami Beach's Collins Avenue its style, including the interesting lettering styles in neon at the "diLido" and the Shellborne anticipating post-modernism. Beyond visual style, there is some degree of functionalism at work. His curving walls caught the prevailing ocean breezes in the era before central air-conditioning, and the sequence of his interior spaces was the result of careful attention to user experience: Lapidis heard complaints of endless featureless hotel corridors and when possible curved his hallways to avoid that effect. The Fontainebleau was built on the site of the Harvey Firestone estate and defined the new Gold Coast of Miami Beach. The hotel provided locations for the 1960 Jerry Lewis film The Bellboy, a success for both Lewis and Lapidus, and the James Bond thriller Goldfinger (1964); Whitney Houston's was filmed there in The Body Guard (1992) and Madonna shot her CD photos for her Bedtime Stories 2005 album at the Eden Roc. The Fontainebleau's most famous feature is the 'Staircase to Nowhere' (formally called the "floating staircase"), which merely led to a mezzanine-level coat check and ladies' powder-room, but offered the opportunity to make a glittering descent into the hotel lobby. The planter under the stair way is all that is original today of the 1954 opening interiors. My whole success is I've always been designing for people, first because I wanted to sell them merchandise. Then when I got into hotels, I had to rethink, what am I selling now? You're selling a good time. From 1993-until 2001, in the period before his death, Lapidus' style came back into focus. Deborah Desilets, architect and artist, was Morris Lapidus's last collaborator. She first came into contact with Lapidus when she was the marketing director for Arquitectonica in 1993. By January 18, 1996, Desilets had left ARQ to found her own firm VVA INC, where she was able to work with Lapidus on a number of architectural projects, arrange his theoretical notes, stories and images for lectures, and explore product designs. Lapidus said, "I went from the Fontainebleau to a fountain pen!" In the same manner he helped with the Fontainebleau expansion by attending meetings with the Hilton and owner, Stephen H. Muss. Of the new design , Lapidus said that it was an "Exclamation Point" to his 1954 edifice and provide his prestige to help garner the new addition. Desilets and Lapidus were a team and this collaboration continued until his untimely death. Prior to this Lapidus bequeathed his name and legacy to Desilets'--in an unprecedented act in the annuals of architectural history—as a female collaborator. To secure his legacy, Desilets' gifted to Syracuse University Special Collections all the remaining Lapidus Papers; as Lapidus himself had sent papers to Syracuse in years prior. Following in his style, Desilets has produced furniture, rugs and mirrors with Dennis Miller and Associates, New York, NY from 2005-2018 under the Morris Lapidus trademark. Of the projects they collaborated on there were three projects for Roots of Canada; Roots, at The Promenade Mall Toronto, Roots in Bloomfield, IL and Roots in New York, NY. Of the several Miami projects, the first was for the ornament for a Spanish-Italianate style mansion on Sunset Island II; next the totally modern design in the colorfully, upbeat restaurant Aura at 603 Lincoln Road, on Miami Beach at the Lincoln Road Mall which appeared in the first color issue of the New York Times, Dec 23, 1999. Very soon after there was a total resurgence in Lapidus. He began to give lectures, make appearances and to make gifts of his vast collection of memorabilia: 100-150 year old books were donated to the School of Architecture at Florida International University, Miami, Florida new SOA campus was designed by Bernard Tschumi, Dean of Columbia; The Wolfsonian Museum, Miami Beach received slides of his design for the Distillery Building at the 1939 World's Fair; The Bass Museum received his living room furniture set; and Columbia received more papers. At numerous Miami Beach functions, Lapidus was honored for his help in the 1994-1996 renovation of Lincoln Road by Ben Wood of Wood and Thompson. Lapidus did not live to see a Frank Gehry, Saha Hadid or Herzog and De Meuron building, or Ray Jungle's "jungle on the mall", but his expression regarding Lincoln Road fits: "Why be exotic in Private?". Lapidus and Desilets appeared on CNN discussing a project for Ron Bloomberg on 21st Street; a very modern building that housed production staff for the Miami Beach Ballet (MBB), who had their new headquarters next to the Bloomberg site. The MBB Arquitectonica in their tropical modernism style. ( Of note is that Laurinda Spear interned with Lapidus in the 70's and later introduced Desilets' to Lapidus while at a critique of the University of Miami student work at ARQ's office. Desilets' worked at ARQ and established the computer lab and then became the Director of Marketing which she left to pursue her work with Lapidus.) Lapidus was also honored by the Society of Architectural Historians at a convention held at the Eden Roc hotel in 1998. Lapidus had a plaque erected in his honor on Lincoln Road at "The Clam" Bandshell at Euclid, quoting him "A car never bought anything." At a lecture at Harvard Dean Silvetti asked, "Who's Afraid of Lapidus? That for 50 years his architecture was not published in magazines ...". In 2000, the Smithsonian's Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum honored Lapidus as an American Original for his lifetime of work, he was interviewed on Nov 14, 200 by Charlie Rose. During his last years he was accompanied and/or stood in for by Desilets' at lectures all over America; Cranbrook, Harvard, New York Architectural League, Corcoran Gallery, Columbia University, SOA Ruston, Austin, Texas, LA and others. Desilets continue this work to date. After all this renewed interest, Lapidus was quoted saying, "I never thought I would live to see the day when, suddenly, magazines are writing about me, newspapers are writing about me!" And indeed the people—his client's client—were clapping for him at the Cooper-Hewitt party when Lapidus exclaimed; debunking the Bauhaus's "form follows function" with "feelings find form."==Personal==Desilets" authored Rizzoli's "Morris Lapidus: The Architecture of Joy", released in October 2010. Prior to that, Assouline published with Desilets three books: "Morris Lapidus" 2004; "The Eden Roc 50th Anniversary" 2005; and "The DiLido" 2006. His son, architect Alan Lapidus, who worked with his father for 18 years, said, "His theory was if you create the stage setting and it's grand, everyone who enters will play their part." In 2001, Morris Lapidus died from heart failure at the age of 98 at his Miami Beach apartment. Morris Lapidus' wife of 63 years, Beatrice, had died in 1992. Textual inserts courtesy of Wikipedia. You can support Wikipedia by donating today.

EST.33 Thai Craft Brewery & Kitchen, the Asian and American barbecue fusion restaurant, celebrates its first anniversary with specials all week long. Starting Monday, January 24 through Saturday, January 29, guests can enjoy an all-new extended happy hour from 4pm until 9pm daily with food and beer specials. The happy hour menu includes food specials crafted by Chef Sean Bernal like: Salmon Belly & Pineapple Satay; Kopper Brined Smoked Chicken Drumsticks; Pork Crackling Bao Buns and more. In addition, beer specials by Head Brewer Todd Space include: a new anniversary release of Thai Sake Beer and a new debut of the Toasted Thai Rice Lager & Aromatic Snowy with Lemongrass along with EST.33’s core beer offerings like the Legend, Snowy, Bangkok & Schatzl and more. Chef Sean and Brewer Space will also host a special food and beer pairing dinner on Wednesday, January 26 at 7PM. Guests can enjoy happy hour in the outdoor bar and beer garden patio or enjoy dinner inside near the open-view brewery and kitchen. Reservations can be made via OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly, 304-425-9266. Food Kopper Brined Smoked Chicken Drumsticks Chicha-Bao – Pork Crackling Bao Buns with Peanut Hoisin Sauce & Pickled Green Papaya Laos Style Fried Pork Wontons Mac-Bao – Char Siu Pork with House Pickles Salmon Belly & Pineapple Satay – Tamarind Sambal Shitake Mushroom Skewers – Sweet Soy Beer Est. 33’s core offerings (Legend, Kopper, Snowy, 33, Brickell, Bangkok & Schatzl) Special Anniversary Release: Thai Sake Beer (8% Jasmine Rice beer with Cherries & Kaffir Lime) Special Release: Toasted Thai Rice Lager & Aromatic Snowy with Lemongrass By ML Staff. Images courtesy of EST.33 Thai Craft Brewery & Kitchen

Nothing says “I love you” like a luxurious weekend getaway. Here are seven South Florida hotels that have crafted packages with love for this Valentine’s Day. My Love Language Is…The Gabriel South Beach The Gabriel South Beach, located on Ocean Drive in South Beach, has created a Valentine’s Day package to satisfy all five love languages. When couples check-in for their romantic retreat steps from the beach, they will find welcome gifts on the bed as timeless and elegant as the “Blue Jewel'' itself – a Tiffany and Co. piece such as a Diamond Heart Pendant. Couples can find words of affirmation sticky notes from the hotel on their bathroom mirror along with the The Adventure Challenge book and camera to encourage growth through surprise experiences that can be shared on their trip. The hotel’s acts of service will include a private dinner and dance for the couple at its rooftop pool area with ocean view, as well as Black Car Service to a destination of their choice in Downtown Miami or Miami Beach. To close out the day, additional quality time and physical touch is encouraged with a romantic night-in kit that includes lingerie, candles and essential oils for a massage as well as a bottle of Dom Perignon and movies to enjoy privately. Available upon request, based on availability. “Marry Me” - The Balfour Hotel The Balfour Hotel, complementing this year’s Valentine’s Day rom-com “Marry Me,” has launched its very own over-the-top romantic getaway package inspired by the film, which features Latin artists Maluma and Jennifer Lopez. JLo plays the part of a superstar who was going to get married to her fiancé (played by Maluma) in front of an audience but married a stranger on a whim when she finds out he cheated on her. To celebrate the “wedding on a whim,” The Balfour Hotel will have an officiant and celebration for couples who decide to elope at its tropical courtyard escape. JLO BEAUTY skincare products will be included in-room, and couples can put their dance skills to the test with a private salsa and bachata class. Couples who book this package will have a private rooftop dining experience with Latin American cuisine crafted by executive chef Steven Acosta. Their private dinner will be accompanied by a Brazilian guitarist to set the tone for a magical evening under the stars. Available upon request, based on availability. A Magic City Love Affair - The Gabriel Miami The Gabriel Miami provides the best city escape for two, tapping into the rom-com hit, “Emily in Paris.” Upon arrival, couples will find rose petals across the bed and a fresh bouquet sourced from European-inspired florist, Zoom Bloomz. For a romantic day-in, couples will be provided Etam Paris lingerie and silk red pajamas. An ode to Emily and Gabriel’s secret bubbling romance, couples can play Love Lingual to see how much they really know each other. A city romance would not be complete without a chocolate fountain and strawberries, a Date Night candle, and a privately catered French menu from Constellation Culinary Group – inspired by chef Gabriel from the Netflix hit show. For a steamy end to the evening, couples will be given a massage kit with bath salts and massage tools as well as floral bath soap shaped as rose petals to relax. Available upon request, based on availability. Rekindle the Senses - THesis Hotel Miami Whether you want to escape to a rooftop oasis or indulge in a meal prepared by a 3x James Beard Nominee and Food & Wine’s 2020 Best New Chef Niven Patel, at THesis Hotel couples don’t have to choose just one. This Valentine’s Day package offers the perfect pairings for the perfect pair. Guests will find an apron gift and special recipe upon entering the King THesis Waterway View room. These will be accompanied by a basket of chocolates and wine. Boasting Orno, Mamey and Mamey on 3rd, this restaurant-forward hotel will host the couple for happy-hour drinks at Mamey on 3rd and a prix fixe dinner at Orno. Couples can enjoy a wine tasting at Mamey for a tropical retreat, then slip into comfy silk pajamas for the night. To wrap up their stay, they can have breakfast in bed, followed by a relaxed day by the pool and a private yoga session. Available upon request, based on availability. Contact info@THesishotelmiami.com for more information. Romancing The Sea Valentine’s Package - Hillsboro Beach Resort “Time enjoyed is never wasted,” is the motto at Hillsboro Beach Resort. At the crossroads between casual comfort and modern luxury, this beach resort welcomes couples who want to slow down and cherish a kiss of luxury. For a weekend retreat by the beach, couples can select a guest room, studio or suite. Upon arrival, they will find rose petals decorating the room and a pair of cozy robes to slip into and keep. They will be provided their own couples’ game, “Affection,” to play and keep for a fun bonding experience. Hillsboro wants to ensure couples can slow down and enjoy quality time together with its daily breakfast-in-bed as well as bicycle and kayak rentals to explore the exclusive Millionaire’s Mile. A beautiful beach picnic luncheon will be prepared for an afternoon to soak in the sun, and a local photographer can capture a beautiful photo session. To complete this tranquil escape, an outdoor beachside candlelit dinner will be served, along with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Champagne Brut. This package is valid from Feb. 11 to 14. A two-night minimum stay is required. Subject to availability at the time of booking. Available upon request, based on availability. Self-Love is the Best Love - Shelborne South Beach Shelborne South Beach is offering a Valentine’s Day package to promote the best and most important love: loving oneself! For those looking for a singles’ retreat, or simply trying to hit reset, they are in for a treat at GUYandGIRL spa with the GUYandGIRL Organic Facial and GUYandGIRL Reset Body Scrub as well as a massage. Back at their ocean- or city-view room, individuals can soak in a warm bath with rose petals and Lush bath bombs and enjoy their own breakfast in bed with a fresh bouquet of flowers. Guests will also have access to all Shelborne Beach Club amenities and water sports rentals, in addition to beach yoga on Saturdays. For more “me time,” people can enjoy specialty cocktails and charcuterie among other bites from Sweet Beach at the Shelborne. Available upon request, based on availability. That’s Amore - Gale South Beach Art Deco in South Beach is known to be simultaneously sexy as it is charming. At the Gale South Beach, couples are transported to an Italian villa of the 1940s. Upon check-in, they will find roses decorating the room and Tuscany-based Santa Maria Novella skincare products and candles. They can immerse themselves in the Miami sun and beach waves, enjoy a bike ride on the boardwalk and take a stroll on the sand, hand-in-hand. For a truly Italian experience, couples can jump on a vespa from Scooters South Beach and tour the gem that is Art Deco South Beach. In the evening, couples can indulge in an Italian dinner for two from a private garden oasis at Dolce Italian. This unique experience is complemented by a pasta-making session and gelato dessert alongside executive chef Paolo Dorigato. The romantic night will be topped off with live music and drinks from The Regent Cocktail Club at the hotel rooftop. Cheers to love! Available upon request, based on availability. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of The Gabriel Miami.

Heidi and Shane Battier are pleased to announce the return of Cabernet with Battier taking place at Byblos Miami on Saturday, January 29thth, 2022. After taking the year off due to Covid, Cabernet with Battier is BACK, and will be better - and more delicious - than ever. The inaugural event, held in January 2020, raised over $170,000 for The Battier Take Charge Foundation, a non-profit organization established by the Battier Family to fund college scholarships and educational opportunities for underprivileged youth. The event will kick off with a full wine tasting, from 8 highly acclaimed Napa Valley vineyards: Lyrix, Garguilo, Rapport, Sidelight, Purlieu, Le Pich, and Covert. Additionally, Benchmark Wines will be showcasing some rare wines and champagne throughout the evening. The tasting will be followed by a decadent dinner for 100, featuring Byblos Miami favorites with expertly paired wine selections. Following dinner, guests will join the Battiers in Byblos’ private event suite for a karaoke-themed after party. Because no Battier event is complete without Karaoke! The charity event will bring together some of South Florida’s finest to raise money for The Battier Take Charge Foundation, a non-profit organization established by the Battier Family to fund college scholarships and educational opportunities for underprivileged youth. “We couldn’t be more thrilled than to be bringing back Cabernet with Battier this year, to marry great people, great food and unbelievable wine all for this important cause. Through the Take Charge Foundation, Heidi and I have committed to continue providing resources for the development and education of underserved youth right here in our own backyard--affording them tools to build the lives they dream of.” - Shane Battier Notable past attendees of The Battier Take Charge Foundation’s events include Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Pat Riley, James Jones, Jimmy Buffet, Norris Cole, Udonis Haslem, Jon Secada, Pierre Garcon, Larry Johnson, Gabrielle Union, Jay Williams, Micky Arison and Ken Jeong. Tickets are available in a number of tiers beginning with limited single person tickets, available at $1,000. Tables are available ranging in price from $10,000-$20,000. Attendees must be 21 or older. Those who can’t make it to the event can still make an impact in the lives of driven young students by clicking here to make a donation to The Battier Take Charge Foundation. WHERE: Byblos 1545 Collins Ave Miami Beach, FL 33139 WHEN: Saturday, January 29th , 2022 RED CARPET MEDIA ARRIVAL: 7:00pm – 7:15pm EVENT START TIME: 7:30pm About the Battier Take Charge Foundation The Battier Take Charge Foundation, established by Heidi and Shane Battier, is dedicated to providing resources for the development and education of underserved youth and teens. The Battiers' charge is to encourage and inspire a new generation of potential leaders through educational opportunities and the cultivation of effective leadership skills. National partnerships include Houston’s KIPP Academy, Detroit’s Horizons - Upward Bound, Miami’s Big Brothers Big Sisters and Take Stock in Children Miami. Scholarship recipients have attended prestigious universities throughout the US. Their GUIDE Program is currently operating in Miami Central High School, impacting the lives of students through mentoring, college preparedness activities and college scholarships. Learn more at www.battiertakecharge.org. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Battier Take Charge Foundation

My State MLS, the first nationwide Multiple Listing Service of its kind with agents in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, is hosting free webinars in January, February and March for real estate professionals looking to grow their career and market their listings with an MLS that caters to their specific needs. The webinars will teach real estate professionals how to grow their business, how to use new tools that My State MLS offers its members, including how to upload manufactured housing listings to MHAuthoirty.com. All webinars take place on Thursdays from 2-3 p.m. ET. Please see the webinar schedule and registration details below: New Year, New Growth – January 20, 2-3 p.m. ET Getting a head start on resolutions? It's no secret that the past few years have been characterized by a real estate frenzy, and early predictions indicate that 2022 likely won't be much different. On this webinar, My State MLS will cover its top tips to keep that momentum going to grow a business, territory and team. David Mink, vice president of operations and national trainer for My State MLS, will be the moderator. New Career in the Real Estate and CE Shop – January 27, 2-3 p.m. ET The real estate and mortgage industries constantly evolve – and real estate education should too. My State MLS offers innovative CE Shop courses, created by industry experts, that are designed with real estate professionals’ success in mind, no matter if they’re new to the industry or a seasoned veteran. David Mink, vice president of operations and national trainer for My State MLS, will be the moderator. My State MLS Pro Search and Networking – February 10, 2-3 p.m. ET Professional Search is one of the most powerful tools for members of My State MLS. In this webinar, My State MLS will show attendees how to gain an edge on the competition, quickly laser target properties for clients, easily appraise property values, and how to network with other agents for those valuable referrals. David Mink, vice president of operations and national trainer for My State MLS, will be the moderator. Open Listing Advertisement – February 17, 2-3 p.m. ET Use Open Listings to get leads, advertise, and expand your business. Learn how to post Open Listings that will show up on My State MLS’ public search. The member’s photo, name, and company will also be promoted on all their listings with this upgrade on My State MLS. Dawn Pfaff, founder and president of My State MLS, will be the moderator. MH Authority – February 24, 2-3 p.m. ET My State MLS listened to industry professionals to provide the tools that mobile and manufactured housing professionals really need and have an exclusive website (MHAuthority.com) for these listings. Sign up for this webinar and My State MLS will explain how to upload listings, get leads, and more. David Mink, vice president of operations and national trainer for My State MLS, will be the moderator. Series: How to Win Listings for Different Types of Builds – March 10, 17, 24, 2-3 p.m. ET In this month-long series, My State MLS will show real estate professionals how to get listings in new construction developments, pre-selling and re-selling multi-family homes, and how to list and sell exotic and unique properties. David Mink, vice president of operations and national trainer for My State MLS, will be the moderator. To register, real estate and aspiring real estate professionals can visit: www.mystatemls.com/webinar_schedule The free event will take place online. Participants will receive online directions with next steps after registering here. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of My State MLS

Gulfstream Park Village is offering an opportunity to make a difference with its 2022 monthly blood drives in association with OneBlood, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) community asset responsible for providing safe, available, and affordable blood to more than 200 hospital partners and their patients. All donors will receive a FREE OneBlood Long Sleeve T-Shirt and a $20 eGift Card! Plus, a wellness checkup including blood pressure, temperature, iron count, pulse, and cholesterol screening! Appointments are encouraged, please visit www.oneblood.org/donate-now By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Unsplash.

After a successful debut in 2020, Kuba Cabana, a lively dining concept where “Old World Cuba Meets Modern Miami,” is announcing its 2022 “Cocktails & Cabaret” lineup. Located in the vibrant CityPlace Doral, the series of exhilarating evenings will take place on the last Thursday of every month for guests aged 21 and older. The “Classic Night Out” dinner show, hosted by Miss Noel Leon and singer/songwriter Sunni Stephens, features a Las Vegas Style Cabaret music revue reminiscent of Old Hollywood. Burlesque, drag, cirque, and dance performers from around the globe perform a variety of songs ranging from the Golden Age of Hollywood to the chart-topping hits of today with a seven-piece band starring Jonathan Cahm and a DJ. Upon arrival guests will receive a signature welcome cocktail followed by a prix fixe menu. Guests are invited to stay after the show to for a meet and greet with the Cocktail & Cabaret cast. An energetic, culinary experience-based venue serving modern Latin-inspired cuisine, Kuba Cabana features unmistakable Cuban and Caribbean flair. This dining concept stems from the beautiful traditions of Latin and Caribbean music, cuisine and culture. Vibrant décor ranges from neon signs and tropical foliage to walls donned with Cuban-inspired art by local artists. The 3-course Latin-style menu, prepared by Kuba Cabana’s celebrated Corporate Chef Jorge Mas and Executive Chef Pedro E. Sarracino, will include: First course – select one from: Tequeños | Spiced Guava Sauce Croquetas de Jamon | Garlic Aioli Kubiche | Corvina, Aji Cachucha, Leche de Tigre, Red Onion Tuna Tartare | Papaya, Adobo, Avocado, Blue Corn Chips Burrata & Papaya Salad | Burnt Papaya, Pesto, Balsamic Glaze Not Your Caesar Salad | Charred Romaine, Migas, Chickpeas Empanadas de Carne o Pollo | Herb Mayo, Red Pepper Aioli Pollito Canton | Crispy Chicken Thighs, Gochujang, Sesame Second course – select one from: Prime Palomilla | 10oz, French Fries Arroz de Mar | Octopus, Squid, Shrimp, Corvina Grilled Red Snapper | Sauteed Vegetables, Red Pepper Sofrito Smoked Guava Pollo Barbacoa | Congris y Maduros, Guava Jus Carne con Papas | Prime Eye Round, Salsa Criolla, Potato Puree Kuban Bistec |16oz Prime New York Strip Steak + $30 Grilled Maine Lobster | Half + $35, Whole +$60 Third course – select one from Chocoland | Nutella Mousse, Chocolate Cookies, Dark Chocolate Arroz Con Leche | Coconut Strudel, Passion Fruit, Meringue *The menu is subject to availability. When: The last Thursday of every month. 2022 dates include: Jan. 27 Feb. 24 March 31 April 28 May 26 June 30 July 28 Aug. 25 Sept. 29 Oct. 27 Nov. 17 Dec. 22 Time: From 8–9 p.m., guests can enjoy a cocktail hour. From 9:30 p.m.–close, the main event seating will feature a 3-course Latin-style menu. Beverages, cocktails and bottle specials are available for an additional charge. All orders must be placed prior to the start of the show. Cost: $99/person + 21% gratuity + taxes Prime tables are available, and range from $750–$3,000, including bottle service (ranging per person and table size). All table reservations include a bottle of select premium spirits, and a bottle of Prosecco. For inquiries and table reservations, contact 305-800-KUBA (5822) or events@kubamiami.com. For more information, please visit https://kubamiami.com/promo/ or https://www.opentable.com/r/kuba-cabana-doral. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Unsplash

The Gabriel Miami, Curio Collection by Hilton, is happy to announce the appointment of Duncan Clements to general manager. In this role, Clements is responsible for driving overall operations and guest satisfaction for the downtown lifestyle hotel’s 129 newly renovated rooms and suites. Clements assumes this position immediately and oversees all aspects of hotel operations. The Gabriel Miami is a cultural hub in Downtown Miami located within close proximity to the city’s main attractions, including museums, beaches, shopping and entertainment venues. The property is also at the epicenter of Miami’s downtown business district, offering rooms to business travelers as well as meeting and event attendees visiting the Magic City. “We are delighted to have someone with Duncan’s experience leading The Gabriel Miami," said Robert Festinger, Vice President of Hospitality Asset Management at CGI Merchant Group. "He brings extensive knowledge, a goal-oriented mindset, and passion to our day-to-day operation on property. We look forward to seeing how his innovative ideas and leadership will bring success to the hotel." Clements brings over 30 years of hospitality to his new role at The Gabriel Miami. He graduated from Manchester University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Hotel and Catering Studies. Throughout his professional career, Clements has held prestigious roles at major hospitality establishments across the globe, including properties in London, Adbu Dhabi, Glasgow, and Birmingham. Career highlights span across multiple hospitality brands, including Hilton International, Kimpton Hotels, Intercontinental Hotels, Destination Hotels and more. Most recently, Clements was the general manager at the Hillsboro Beach Resort in South Florida, where he served as the opening manager. He also managed large destination hotels, including the Elms Hotel and Spa in Excelsior Springs near Kansas City and the Yve Hotel in Downtown Miami. Clements also worked with Kimpton for 10 years, which brought him to notable properties in Chicago, Florida and Texas. Representing a forward-thinking approach, Clements will utilize his well-versed background and rich expertise to increase bookings for the downtown tower hotel. A strategic and driven business leader, he will work with the hotel staff to improve the guest experience and quality of service. He will also lead all efforts for hiring and training employees, in addition to managing budgets for the property. “I am honored to have the opportunity to join the team of hard-working hospitality professionals at The Gabriel Miami," stated Clements. "With an incredibly talented team behind me, I have no doubt that we will create unforgettable memories for guests visiting the hotel.” The Gabriel Miami is now accepting reservations with rates starting at $225 per night. For more information and to book your stay at The Gabriel Miami, visit thegabrielmiami.com. About Curio Collection by Hilton Curio Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of more than 100 one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts in nearly 30 countries and territories. Curio Collection properties offer travelers authentic, curated experiences through distinctly local offerings and elevated amenities, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. To make reservations, travelers can visit curiocollection.com. Read the latest brand and hotel stories at newsroom.hilton.com/curio, and connect with Curio Collection on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. About The Gabriel Miami, A Curio Collection by Hilton The Gabriel Miami, a Curio Collection Hotel, is a 129-key lifestyle hotel in Downtown Miami, offering spacious rooms and suites, a Dermanova Med Spa & Salon, 10,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and views of Biscayne Bay. The Gabriel Miami is located just minutes from Wynwood, the Design District, Miami Beach, and LoanDepot Park, and is within walking distance to the FTX Arena, PortMiami as well as countless dining and cultural attractions, including the Adrienne Arsht Center, Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science and the Pérez Art Museum Miami. Call 786.577.9700 to book a stay at The Gabriel Miami and visit thegabrielmiami.com for more information. Stay social and follow on Instagram @TheGabrielMiami. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Curio Collection by Hilton

On Saturday, April 2, Feeding South Florida®, the leading domestic hunger-relief organization in South Florida, will host its 11th Annual Outrun Hunger 5K presented by JM Family Enterprises. Returning in-person to the scenic Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, 500 runners, families, and community leaders of all ages will come together to take steps to raise funds and awareness to end hunger in South Florida. Currently in South Florida, there are over 700,00 food insecure individuals, and 1 in 9 individuals in South Florida remain uncertain about where they will get their next meal. Registration will begin at 6:45 a.m. and the 5K will begin at 7:30 a.m. After the race, an award ceremony and a raffle will take place. Participants can join the event as an individual or a team. Medals will be given for the top three places in each age category and overall best times for males and females. Those not participating in the race may also support the organization by creating a personalized fundraising page. To create a customized fundraising page, visit www.feedingsouthflorida.org/peertopeer. Runners and walkers can also create a custom fundraising page during registration. Media is invited to attend and cover the event and may do so by e-mailing fsf@dureeandcompany.com. When: Saturday, April 2, 2022 6:45 – 9 a.m. Registration begins at 6:45 a.m. Outrun Hunger 5K begins at 7:30 a.m. Where: Hollywood Beach Broadwalk – Charnow Park 300 Connecticut St, Hollywood, FL 33019 Cost: $35 race fee + $4.50 sign-up fee How: For more information and to register, participants can visit www.runsignup.com/outrunhunger. Event sponsorships and in-kind donations are available. For more information, contact Michele Fernandez at 954.518.1818 x1863 or mfernandez@feedingsouthflorida.org. About Feeding South Florida Feeding South Florida is a member of the Feeding America network of food banks and the leading domestic hunger-relief organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties. Providing support for 25 percent of the state’s food insecure population, its mission is to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food, leading hunger and poverty advocacy efforts, and transforming lives through innovative programming and education. In addition to providing over 90 million pounds of food (75 million meals) to nearly one million individuals through direct-service programs and a local network of over 350 community partners, Feeding South Florida addresses the root causes of hunger and breaks the cycle of poverty through its workforce training, food is medicine and client services programming. Visit www.feedingsouthflorida.org or call 954.518.1818. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Feeding South Florida