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  • Doral Holiday Fest Schedule Announced

    Diverse Schedule of 11 Performances include: Miami City Ballet, The Joey Alexander Trio, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Arturo Sandoval, Nu Deco Ensemble, Elizabeth Caballero with Shelly Berg and more. The Downtown Doral Culture and Arts Foundation (DDCAF) is pleased to announce the debut of DORAL LIVE, a three-week all-star outdoor concert series showcasing a stellar diverse roster of national touring artists and beloved South Florida cultural organizations. The concert series is the centerpiece of Downtown Doral Holiday Fest, Miami’s newest family-friendly arts experience this holiday season. The stellar line-up for opening weekend features the The Miami City Ballet’s RADIANCE on December 3rd and 4th with The Joey Alexander Trio on Sunday, December 5th. Highlighting the second weekend of performances are Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s Wild And Swingin’ Holiday Party!, Jazz impresario Arturo Sandoval, and an evening with Cuban-American soprano Elizabeth Caballero and pianist Shelly Berg, the multi GRAMMY nominee and celebrated Dean of the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. The final weekend opens with beloved Miami instrumental ensemble Nu Deco Ensemble followed by Flamenco Intimo, a Flamenco suite created by Siudy Garrido with original music by composer/guitarist Jose Luis de La Paz. The weekend continues with a performance by world renowned vocal play ensemble Naturally 7, A Creole Christmas with Etienne Charles, and a special evening of holiday music with bluegrass legend Chris Thile and Aoife O’Donovan.” TICKETING AND PACKAGES Multi-show packages for Doral LIVE are on sale now—3-show and 5-show packages are available, along with special pricing for families. Single tickets start at $37. More information is available at https://luxdoral.com/holiday-festival. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Downtown Doral Culture and Arts Foundation

  • Ring in the Holidays! Gulfstream Park Village to Host its Annual ‘Symphony in Lights’

    The holidays have arrived at Gulfstream Park Village! From November 13 – December 31, 2021, families are invited to come and see the beautiful lights display in the open-air lifestyle center. The property will be illuminated in more than 250,000 LED lights, all set to the sounds of holiday favorites from yesterday and today. A 10-minute light show will begin at the top of every hour from 6-11 p.m. The public is invited to the ‘Symphony in Lights’ kick-off event on Saturday, November 13 from 7-10 p.m. Emmy award-winning newscaster Calvin Hughes will serve as the emcee and the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida will perform a lively set along with the Valerie Tyson 7-piece band. Even Santa Claus himself will ride in on a full sleigh pulled by a Clydesdale horse. Event sponsor representatives from FPL and the YMCA will be in attendance, along with Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper and officials from the Hallandale Beach CRA. ‘Symphony in Lights’ is not only the perfect opportunity to experience some holiday magic, but also to enjoy shopping, dining and boundless entertainment at Gulfstream Park Village’s open-air setting. The center’s 11 distinct home stores, including Crate & Barrel, Williams-Sonoma, West Elm, Pottery Barn, Z Gallerie, The Container Store, Bang & Olufsen and many others, offer the very best in holiday décor, entertaining and gifts. Dining destinations, including Yard House, Texas de Brazil, Christine Lee’s, Pastry Is Art, Häagen-Dazs and more offer a delicious break from holiday shopping. A full directory of shops, restaurants and entertainment can be viewed at www.gulfstreampark.com. Symphony in Lights Kick-Off is on Saturday, November 13, 7 – 10 p.m. Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper and FPL will kick off the first light show from 7-7:30 p.m. Symphony in Lights Festival will continue on from November 14 until Friday, December 31, daily from 6–11 p.m. For more information, visit: https://gulfstreampark.com/events-and-entertainment/event-calendar/details/2021/11/13/default-calendar/symphony-in-lights-holiday-celebration By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Golfstream Park

  • Give Miami Day: Chefs Discuss the Importance of Sustainability for Future Growth and Development

    Three of Miami’s most beloved chefs will participate in a chefs panel discussion at Red Rooster Overtown at 10:30 a.m. on Give Day Miami (November 18th) to discuss all things food, community, their journey into the hospitality industry, and building sustainability for life. The event is in partnership with Casa Valentina, an organization that has provided safe, affordable homes for at-risk and aged out of foster care youth in Miami for the past 16 years, helping more than 200 young adults reach their potential with financial & educational counseling and life skills that provide a more reliable future. Tune in to watch the livestream at CasaValentina.org/GMD2021. Donations to help Casa Valentina house homeless young adults who aged out of foster care can be made HERE. Participating chefs include: Food & Wine Best New Chef 2020 Chef Niven Patel, Chef Niven Patel A three-time James Beard Award nominee, Chef Niven Patel was recently listed as one of Food & Wine Magazine’s Best New Chefs with the debut of his modern Indian restaurant, Ghee, which put Chef NivenPatel on the map with his Gujarati-inspired cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients that are sourced from his farm, Rancho Patel. Chef Niven is now at the helm of Mamey, a tropical hidden gem boasting an island-minded menu, and Orno, a NEW modern American restaurant with an open-kitchen concept, at THesis Hotel in Coral Gables. Not only does Chef Niven look forward to emphasizing his concern with the well-being of workers within the hospitality industry, he also [hopes] to bring residents of Casa Valentina to his own two-acre farm, Rancho Patel, in an effort to help mentor those in the next generation. “Life is all about sustainability. Whether it’s planting a garden, or helping youth navigate coming up in this industry, we have to invest time and passion into how we want our community to grow. “ - Chef Niven Patel James Beard Award-Winning Chef Michelle Bernstein As a Miami native of Jewish and Latinx descent, Chef Michelle Bernstein has charted a new course for vibrant Latin flavors and outstanding ingredients in her lively, eclectic cooking style. As a co-owner of Michelle Bernstein Catering and the infamous Miami Beach cocktail bar Sweet Liberty, Chef Bernstein services a variety of special events large and small while developing incredibly innovative menus for her clientele. Chef Bernstein is also known as the host on Check, Please! South Florida on PBS and the Emmy-award winning television show SoFlo Taste, as well as a featured guest judge on Top Chef, Chopped, and Good Morning America’s cooking segments. 2021 Rising Star Chef Tristen Epps of Red Rooster Overtown Chef Tristen Epps is the Chef De Cuisine at Red Rooster Overtown, where he combines his expert training and global travel experiences to cultivate a distinct, internationally influenced cooking style. Starting with a bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts and Food & Beverage Industry Management from Johnson & Wales University, Tristen has worked beside renowned chefs like Richard Rosendale, Thomas Keller, and Marcus Samuelsson on ABC’s The Taste. His culinary skills have also been recognized on Food Network’s Chopped, the Cooking Channel’s Best Thing I Ever Ate, and Bon Appetit.

  • Prepare Chunked Double Chocolate Biscotti

    These crisp double chocolate biscotti are tailor-made for dunking into coffee, warm milk, or hot chocolate. My 11-year-old son calls these biscotti “crunchy brownies.” It’s an apt description: biscotti are twice-baked, oblong-shaped cookies made intentionally dry and crunchy for dunking into coffee or tea — and these are made with a double dose of chocolate. I’m happy to say that they have nothing in common with the packaged biscotti sold in most coffee shops, which often taste like bricks. When you dunk these chocolate biscotti into a warm beverage, they soften, becoming rich, chocolaty and decadent. Biscotti might seem like grown-up cookies but kids can enjoy these too. Serve them with a glass of warm milk or hot chocolate for dunking and you will have very happy young gourmands. WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE DOUBLE CHOCOLATE BISCOTTI HOW TO MAKE DOUBLE CHOCOLATE BISCOTTI Begin by combining the dry ingredients: flour, natural unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk well. Set aside, then cream the butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Then beat in the vanilla extract. Add the dry ingredients and chocolate chips. Mix to combine. The dough will be sticky. Scrape the dough out onto a floured work surface, and dust the dough with flour as well. Gently shape into a ball. Cut the dough in half. Roll each piece of dough into a short log. Transfer the logs to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Then shape into longer logs about 3/4-inch high and 2 inches wide. Bake the logs for about 35 minutes. Let cool slightly, then slice on the diagonal about 3/4-inches wide and turn the biscotti on their sides. Place back in the oven for 10 minutes to crisp up. Let cool a bit, then serve with coffee, tea or milk. Double Chocolate Biscotti By Jennifer Segal These crisp double chocolate biscotti are tailor-made for dunking into coffee, warm milk, or hot chocolate. Servings: About 30 biscotti Prep Time: 20 Minutes Cook Time: 50 Minutes Total Time: 1 Hour 10 Minutes INGREDIENTS 1-3/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons natural unsweetened cocoa powder, such as Hershey's 1 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips INSTRUCTIONS Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt. In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Add the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the bowl and mixing well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla. Add the dry ingredients and chocolate chips and stir on low speed until just combined. Dust a work surface with flour. Using a rubber spatula, scrape the sticky dough out onto the work surface and dust the top of the dough lightly with flour. Using your hands, shape the dough into a rough ball (if it's still too sticky, dust with a bit more flour) and cut in half. Form the dough pieces into two short logs by rolling back and forth. Place the logs onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into longer logs about 3/4-inch high and 2 inches wide. Allow enough space for the logs to spread a few inches while they bake. Bake for about 35 minutes, until firm to the touch. Let the biscotti logs cool on the pan for about 5 minutes, or until just cool enough to touch (if you wait any longer, the biscotti will be difficult to cut); then, using a sharp knife, slice the logs on the diagonal into 3/4-inch slices (I do this right on the baking sheet). They will crumble just a bit; don't worry about it. Turn the biscotti on their sides (so that the cut sides are down) and place back in the oven for 10 minutes to dry and crisp up. Let cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with coffee, tea or warm milk. Freezer-Friendly Instructions: The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months: Shape the dough into logs, wrap each securely in plastic wrap, and place them in a sealable bag. When ready to bake, remove the logs from the freezer, thaw the dough until pliable, and then proceed with recipe. To freeze after baking: After the cookies are completely cooled, double-wrap them securely with aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap. Thaw overnight on the countertop before serving. NUTRITION INFO Per serving (30 servings) Serving size:1 biscotti Calories:110 Fat:5g Saturated fat:3g Carbohydrates:15g Sugar:11g Fiber:1g Protein:1g Sodium:111mg Cholesterol:22mg Special thanks to Jennifer Segal, for the recipe and images. You can support Jennifer by purchasing her cookbook, "Once Upon a Chef, the Cookbook," featuring over 100 delightful recipes.

  • Brightline Stations to Open Newest Enhancements

    Brightline, the only provider of modern, eco-friendly, intercity rail in America, introduced its newest enhancements to the rider experience: its signature bar, Mary Mary, innovative autonomous market called MRKT and Citizens culinary market helmed by Sam Nazarian’s C3 (Creating Culinary Communities). Named for two wives of Henry Flager, founder of Florida East Coast Railway, Mary Lily Kenan and Mary Harkness Flagler, Mary Mary is Brightline’s new elevated sit-down bar serving all-day breakfast, lunch and dinner. MRKT, the first fully-autonomous market in South Florida, makes picking up snacks and other conveniences easier. Mary Mary and MRKT will serve riders at all three Brightline stations -- Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach -- starting when service resumes on November 8. The launch of these food and beverage concepts follow Brightline’s unveiling of Brightline+, a new door-to-door service powered by its app and supported by a fleet of Brightline branded vehicles. Mary Mary’s beverage menu includes a selection of craft cocktails crafted by our local hospitality partner Breakthru Beverage Group, a selection of local and imported beer, wine by the glass and bottle provided by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, as well as various hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages, including coffee, juices, teas and carbonated Pepsi beverages. the seven signature cocktails on the Mary Mary menu include: Mule Skinner, a refreshing take on the moscow mule with Tito’s Vodka; Ball of Fire, featuring perfectly balance fruit and spice with Casamigos Blanco Tequila; Cool Spindle, a refreshing Hendricks Gin cocktail with fresh mint, cucumber and lime; Coffeepot, a combination of Tullamore DEW, Miami Club Cuban Coffee Liqueur, Lavazza iced coffee and cream; Galloping Goose, a twist on a traditional daiquiri featuring Bacardi Silver, Guava Reàl and lime; Top Dresser Drawer, Jim Beam paired with Aperol and top it off with Passion Fruit Reàl; and Good Ole’ Piggyback, a Whistle Pig Maple Syrup and smoke added to a Whistle Pig Piggyback Rye. The food offerings at Mary Mary include bakery items, handheld sandwiches, empanadas from Sergio’s Restaurant, and more, during breakfast and an all-day menu offering an assortment of appetizers, flatbreads, salads and sweet treats. Food at Mary Mary will soon be available for pre-order via the Brightline app for to-go pickup at the counter. Mary Mary is located after each train station’s check-in safety and security area. You can view the full menu for Mary Mary here. Brightline partnered with local food vendors and breweries as part of its mission to support local, small businesses with coffee being provided exclusively by Lavazza Coffee. The list of local partners includes Cerveceria la Tropical, Biscayne Bay Brewing, Concrete Beach Brewing, Deliver Lean, Holistik Granola Bags, Protano’s Bakery and Joy Wallace. “At Brightline, it is our priority to provide our travelers a complete hospitality experience from the moment they open our app to the moment they reach their final destination,” said Patrick Goddard, president at Brightline. Brightline is also debuting the first fully-autonomous market in Florida which will be located at its three open South Florida stations. MRKT is Brightline’s new checkout-free retail market powered by Zippin’, the world's number-one checkout-free platform for frictionless shopping and autonomous retail. This new seamless shopping experience enables guests to simply insert their credit card to access and depart with their favorite items charged automatically to their payment method of choice as shoppers exit. MRKT will offer travelers a large selection of Brightline swag, healthy snacks and prepared foods, beverages, small electronics such as chargers and headphones, and toiletries. This touchless environment is in-line with the station's COVID safety and sanitation enhancements. “MRKT brings autonomous shopping technology to Florida for the first time, continuing to show Brightline’s commitment to the integration of technology and to bringing a seamless and completely mobile travel experience to our guests,” said Goddard. Later this year, Brightline will be rolling out its mobile ordering options where travelers will have access to a selection of food and beverage options via a seat designated QR code menu. While inside the station, each seat within the lounge area will be paired with a unique QR code menu where guests can place food orders to be delivered directly to their location. Within the Brightline trains, QR codes will be placed at each seat for onboard mobile ordering. Brightline will be offering a new Premium service that will be offered onboard, previously known as Select, and will be a first-class experience with added amenities to take care of our guests every need. This is the same elevated first-class service our riders know and love and includes cold refreshment towels, individual sanitation wipes, an onboard snack basket, complimentary alcoholic beverages at the Premium lounge and complimentary alcoholic beverages per segment on board. This Premium service will also include morning and evening in-station food snacks and small bites, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, and a reduced priced menu for purchases. All our trains will also offer a Smart class selection, a comfortable business-class option with an array of food and beverages available for purchase. Additional features guests will have access to while riding with Brighltine include: enhanced ADA accessibility, bike and carry-on storage, checked luggage options, pet friendly travel options, free charging points and free, high-speed Wi-Fi for the duration of the ride and while at the stations. Opening on November 8 is Citizens Miami, the new 26,000 square foot, 16-stall food hall at MiamiCentral operated by C3 (Creating Culinary Communities). C3’s popular culinary brands, including EllaMia, Umami Burger, Sam’s Crispy Chicken, Krispy Rice, El Pollo Verde, Cicci di Carne, Sa’Moto and Cindy Lou’s Cookies, will occupy 11 of the 16 food vendor kiosks with redesigned spaces. With plans for expansion, C3 restaurant brands featured in the culinary market feature menu’s from celebrity chef partners Dani Garcia, Katsuya Uechi. ‘Iron Chef’ Masaharu Morimoto, Alvin Cailan and Dario Cecchini. Several brands present in the original food hall footprint will remain, including Rosetta Bakery, Patagonia, KUENKO, and Art de Vivre. About Brightline Brightline is the only provider of modern, eco-friendly, high-speed rail service in America. The company currently operates between Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach in Florida and is scheduled to complete construction to the Orlando International Airport by the end of 2022. Brightline was recognized by Fast Company as one of the Most Innovative Companies in travel, offering a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road. Brightline plans to bring its award-winning service to additional city pairs and congested corridors across the country that are too close to fly and too long to drive, with immediate plans to connect Las Vegas to Southern California. For more information, visit www.gobrightline.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. About C3 C3 (Creating Culinary Communities) is re-imagining the food service industry at a time when change is needed most. Founded and led by visionary Sam Nazarian with minority investors Simon, a global leader in the ownership of premier shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations, and Accor, the world-leading augmented hospitality group, C3 is simultaneously, systematically and broadly bringing together technology, underutilized retail, hotel and kitchen spaces and world-class culinary talent. C3's array of culinary brands co-exist to disrupt the food & beverage industry by capitalizing on rapidly evolving customer preferences through C3 established shared digital kitchens, Citizens culinary markets and mobile delivery with the next-gen Go by Citizens app which launched in 2021. Current C3 brands include Umami Burger, Krispy Rice, Sam's Crispy Chicken, Kumi, Sa’Moto, Ella Mia, Cicci di Carne, El Pollo Verde, Plant Nation and with many other brands in the pipeline. As of March 2021, C3 operates 800 digital kitchens across the U.S. To learn more, visit c3sbe.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Brightline.

  • Santa & the "Grinch" are Coming to CityPlace Doral for the New Holiday Magic Village Experience

    Celebrate the holiday season with Santa and the Grinch™ at CityPlace Doral! Santa is jolly to announce that Cherry Hill Programs (CHP), the industry leader in experiential photography that operates hundreds of holiday photo experiences across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, will launch the exclusive Holiday Magic Village experience at CityPlace Doral this season. Operated directly by CHP, Holiday Magic Village is the guests’ one-stop-shop for the ultimate holiday photo experience. Under the same roof at CityPlace Doral, families will have access to photos with Santa Claus in Santa’s Workshop and The Grinch’s Grotto™ with The Grinch™ ©Dr. Seuss. When guests arrive at the Holiday Magic Village, they will be immersed in holiday magic. A newly designed Santa’s Workshop and elaborate Grinch’s Grotto™ are joined by My Photo Op Spot – a virtual photo experience that instantly places guests’ personal photos from their personal devices in festive holiday backgrounds to download, save and share on social media. Guests can snap a selfie or upload photos already taken from their device using CHP’s My Photo product. This proprietary software removes the background of the photo like magic. Guests can scan the QR code displayed in the queue at the photo experience. My Photo Op Spot offers an opportunity for families, friends, and children to appear in different holiday backgrounds - making it easy to celebrate the holiday magic with everyone no matter where they’re located. Guests can tag their friends when they share on social media with the #MyPhotoOpSpot. Of course, Santa and the Grinch™ wouldn’t have come to CityPlace Doral if they didn’t think that it was safe to visit with everyone. All CDC Safety Guidelines for COVID-19 will be followed. To create a safe experience, guests must book the photo experience in advance at whereissanta.com. The Holiday Magic Village will not accommodate walk-up guests; however, guests can book same day reservations with no additional fee. The Holiday Magic Village Opens on November 18, 2021 and will close on December 24, 2021. November Dates: Nov. 18 to 21: 11 a.m.– 7 p.m. Nov. 22 to 23: Closed Nov. 24 11 a.m.– 7 p.m. Nov. 25 Closed Nov. 26-28: 11 a.m.– 7 p.m. Nov. 29 to 30: Closed December Dates: Dec. 1 to 5: 11 a.m.– 7 p.m. Dec. 6 to 7: Closed Dec. 8 to 12: 11 a.m.– 7 p.m. Dec. 13 to 14: Closed Dec. 15 to 21: 11 a.m.– 7 p.m. Dec. 22 to 23: 10 a.m.– 8 p.m. Dec. 24: 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. Capture the magic of the holiday season with a choice of commemorative photo packages. Whether a guest comes for a photo with Santa, the Grinch™ or the ultimate photo experience (both), guests can take home photo prints including 6x8, 4x6, 3x5 and wallet sizes and a limited edition 2021 postcard. Complete access to all digital images can be downloaded at holidaymagicvillage.com. All photo packages include a $25 to shop Shutterfly where gifts can be created for loved ones using the Holiday Magic Village photos. The Holiday Magic Village photo experience is available starting at $49.99. Visit whereissanta.com to learn more. Guests have access to My Photo MAGIC PASS too! My Photo MAGIC PASS gives guests complete access to My Photo SANTA MAGIC available at createholidaymagic.com for only $9.99 with a photo package purchase (a $19.99 value). To create a safe experience, guests must book the photo experience in advance at whereissanta.com. For more information, please visit https://www.cityplacedoral.com/events/holiday-magic-village/. By ML staff. Images courtesy of City Place Doral

  • Seminole Hard Rock "Winterfest" Boat Parade Reveals Mario Lopez as the 2021 Grand Marshal

    Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest® Boat Parade revealed two-time Emmy-winning television host, nationwide iHeartMedia radio host, author, and YouTube superstar, Mario Lopez, as the Grand Marshal of the 50th annual Parade taking place Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021. Lopez is one of the most iconic faces of television and best known from his early days on “Saved by the Bell” and dancing on the hit show, “Dancing with the Stars.” “We are excited to have Mario Lopez as the celebrity Grand Marshal to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Winterfest and the holiday season,” said Lisa Scott-Founds, President and CEO. “Lopez has won many hearts with his mesmerizing charm and charismatic presence on TV and Broadway.” Lopez will appear onboard the Fifth Third Bank Grand Marshal Showboat in the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest® Boat Parade on Dec. 11. He will be waving and greeting the spectators along the 12-mile Parade route as it sails along the New River, Intracoastal, the Parade Public Viewing Area presented by Baptist Health towards Pompano Beach. Mario Lopez will also appear at the private Winterfest® Grand Marshal Reception presented by University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center on Friday, Dec. 10. The reception will honor Lopez, the Winterfest Foundation’s Jr. Captain Violet Martin from the Florida Youth Orchestra, the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center Child Ambassador Jordan Levy, and celebrity guests. The evening will include a special performance by violinist Steve Avi, celebrity appearances by founding member of NSYC Joey Fatone and Bravo’s Below Deck Captain Lee. Lopez recently joined "Access Hollywood" and has signed a development deal with NBC/Universal. He also hosts the nationwide iHeartMedia radio shows, "On with Mario Lopez" and "iHeartRadio Countdown with Mario Lopez." Lopez has also launched a YouTube channel called "The Lopez Family" featuring his wife Courtney, their two children and their two dogs. He has recently appeared on the NBC hit drama “This is Us” and the CW series “Jane the Virgin.” Lopez has also appeared on “Brooklyn 99,” “The Rookie,” and served as a recurring voice on “Elena of Avalor” with his daughter Gia. He played ‘Dr. Mike Hamoui’ on F/X network's popular show "Nip/Tuck." Lopez previously starred in the highest-rated program in ABC Family history, "Holiday in Handcuffs" and also starred opposite Mark Consuelos in the made- for-TV movie, "Husband for Hire." Lopez has also appeared on the FOX and FOX Sports Networks on the shows The X Factor, LA Fight Club as well as EXTRA TV. Lopez’s relentless work ethic has extended him to include his love of sports, specifically boxing, fitness and clean eating. As a best-selling author, Mario has expanded beyond autobiographies and children’s books to healthy eating guides for the entire family and fitness books. Parade enthusiasts are invited to show their love for the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest® Boat Parade by voting in USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice for the favorite holiday parade in North America. Parade-goers are allowed to vote once a day until Dec. 6 at 12 p.m. by visiting https://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-holiday-parade-2021/. For more information on the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest® Boat Parade, how to win tickets to the exclusive Winterfest® Grand Marshal Reception or purchase tickets to watch the parade, visit WinterfestParade.com or call 954-767-0686. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Winterfest

  • Tickets Now on Sale for Margarita Live and a Tequila Tasting Experience on Nov. 18

    Miami, FL (November 4, 2021) – Tickets are now on sale for Margarita Live, An Intimate Experience at PALAPA MIAMI, an open air venue in Upper Buena Vista, on November 18. Margarita Live, a one-day only experience, takes guests on an immersive sensory journey to uncover the many claims behind the creation of the mystical drink, the Margarita, with various competing stories about who actually created the popular cocktail. Storytelling and live musical numbers will be performed as guests enjoy various margarita creations specially crafted for this intimate experience. An immersive storytelling experience accompanied by live music and libations, Margarita Live transports audience members to a world reminiscent of the 1930’s and 40’s across the US and Mexico border, where multiple live narratives begin to unfold. Audience members will learn the tale of the two Danny’s, reliving the experiences of two Hollywood icons - Rita Hayworth and Marjorie King - whom the Danny’s claim inspired the creations of the Margarita cocktail, perhaps at John Durlesser’s bar in LA during Hollywood’s golden era. The concept for the Margarita Live brand and its intimate and immersive experiences was conceived by Creative Director, Don Alam Khan, and Actor and Director, René Lavan. “We are thrilled to offer guests the opportunity to experience an immersive musical journey, in such a perfect intimate setting, while exploring some of the original stories surrounding the Margarita cocktail we all know and love,” says Lavan, who doubles as script co-writer and lead actor. “It is our hope that this intimate experience brings people together by celebrating what we have in common, rather than what separates us.” Margarita Live will take place at PALAPA at Upper Buena Vista, 184 NE 50th Terrace, Miami, FL 33137. There will be two showtimes on November 18th, 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm. Tickets start at $100 per person, and include 4 margarita creations per person; tickets can be purchased via Fever. For more information, visit the Margarita Live website or Instagram. For those looking to take the Margarita Live experience to the next level, a one-hour master class tequila tasting experience, led by an expert agave ambassador and accredited by the Academia Mexicana de Catadores will be offered prior to each show at 6 pm and 8:30 pm. Also taking place at Upper Buena Vista (home of Palapa) at 5020 NE 2nd Avenue, tickets are $75 per person (for a $150 value) and features a curated selection of very special tequilas. Ticket holders will learn about the craftsmanship and history of tequila, including how to taste, smell and properly appreciate it, and will receive a graduation certificate signed by the Academia Mexicana de Catadores along with a souvenir tasting glass. Tickets are very limited and can be purchased via Eventbrite. About Margarita Live, An Intimate Experience Margarita Live transports audience members to a world reminiscent of the 1930’s and 40’s across the US and Mexico border, where multiple live narratives begin to unfold. Alongside free-flowing libations of the beloved Margarita cocktail, singing, dancing and live interactive performances, the result is a thrilling blend of mystery, nostalgia and fun. For more information, visit the Margarita Live website or Instagram.

  • Internationally Renowned Artist Charles Fazzino Selected to Create the Artwork for Winterfest

    Winterfest is pleased to announce that internationally renowned 3-D Pop Artist, Charles Fazzino, has been selected as the official artist of the 50th Anniversary of Winterfest, “50 Years of Hard Rockin’ Fun ... Winterfest 2021.” The unveiling will take place during the “Winterfest White Hot Launch Party” on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021. Fazzino will unveil the poster at Wentworth Gallery at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood on Thursday, Nov. 18. The public is invited to the opening and will have the opportunity to mingle with celebrities such as Miami Dolphins player Emmanuel Ogbah. “Winterfest has been one of my favorite events for decades,” said Fazzino. I used to spend my winters in Florida at all the art festivals and watched Winterfest as it was just getting started. I am honored to once again be painting the official poster for the 50th anniversary, and I hope that my work accurately captures the spectacle and the celebration.” Parade producers will create some fun glimpses of the poster artwork around Fort Lauderdale and on social media. This is the third Winterfest poster designed by the acclaimed 3-D artist. Charles Fazzino is well known for his extravagant and vivid 3-D New York City scenes. Some of his most recent commissioned artwork includes poster art for the Olympics, NFL Super Bowl, and NASCAR Nextel Cup Series. “We are honored to have an internationally recognized artist to create our poster for our milestone anniversary,” said Lisa Scott Founds, President and CEO of Winterfest Inc. “Fazzino’s use of vibrant colors and celebratory images truly reflect the vision for this year’s parade.” The highly anticipated signature event of the holidays, Winterfest, is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. Fazzino is expected to view the parade along the staging area in downtown Fort Lauderdale. This year’s Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade will sparkle with iconic rock images, music, and décor in celebration of the 50th anniversary. The dazzling event will close out the year with floating stages of entertainment, beauty queens, celebrities, and starry-eyed spectators of all ages. For more information, to enter your boat in the parade, become a sponsor or to get involved, call 954-767-0686, or visit www.winterfestparade.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Winterfest

  • Nassau, Bahamas: Popular Tourist Destination For Floridians

    Nassau, Bahamas is a popular spot where cruise-ships stop, tourists thrive and locals live. It's filled with delicious cuisine, lively casinos, high-class resorts, and Bahamian Creole-speaking natives making it a top destination for many travelers. History Beyond the white sandy beaches is an island filled with history that lives amongst the local Bahamians. Since the beginning of time, the Bahamas was ruled by the British. As settlers, wars and struggles were brought upon the locals they continued to stay strong. Fast forward to the end of the era, on July 10th, 1982, the Bahamas became a free country, cutting ties with British rule. To this day, the island is a part of the Commonwealth of Nations and celebrates July 10th as Bahamian Independence Day. Currency The Bahamian Dollar (BSD) is the equivalent of the U.S. dollar. To distinguish the currency from others the symbol B$ is used. Businesses in Nassau, Bahamas accept either USD or BSD. If you are given BSD it is advised to use it before departing from the island as it is not accepted elsewhere. escape to paradise The Caribbean Island is located off the South-East coast of Florida making it quite accessible for Miami residents. To get to the island there are two forms of transportation: cruise-ship and plane. Major cruise lines include Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and more, which offer 3-day cruises to Nassau. If one prefers the more conventional way, they can fly nonstop from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Nassau International (NAS) in just under an hour. Airlines that fly direct -- Bahamasair & American Airlines. All that is required to enter the island is a valid passport. American Airlines flights run 5 times a day from MIA at a fairly reasonable price if your visiting paradise on an off-season. when to visit Nassau attracts many from near and far, making for a peak season from Mid-December to Mid-April. Anywhere past June calls for a chance of hurricanes. The Caribbean hurricane season brings unpredictable weather to the island, which is not ideal in any vacationers mind. Main attractions There are a handful of notable places to visit & activities to participate in Nassau. When staying at a resort there are plenty of outdoor activities in addition to the beaches. Resorts offer all sorts of water activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, water slides, lazy rivers, and more. If one is interested in exploring the outer banks of the resort, the Bahamian towns await. Giving tourists a sense of what life is like for the locals. These quaint beach towns radiate positive vibes throughout. Museums, historical landmarks (Queens Staircase, Fort Charolette, etc.) are also available to the public eye. Things To Do Graycliff's Wine Cellar, the third-largest in the world Snorkel or scuba dive, Andros Barrier Reef Day excursion to one of the 700 islands Swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters Powerboat to Pig Beach in Exuma ATV tour Words by Brooke Klaiman, https://www.brookeklaiman.com, Story content from Bahamas History ; Photo by Fernando Jorge on Unsplash, Photo by Jared Rice on Unsplash, Photo by Isabella Smith on Unsplash, Photo by Sophie Louisnard on Unsplash

  • CityPlace Doral To Celebrate its Annual ‘Light Up The Night’ Extravaganza with Mayor Juan Carlos

    All is merry and bright at CityPlace Doral! From Nov. 19–Dec. 31, 2021, the community is welcome to come and see the multi-colored LED lighting on the center’s Christmas tree and palm trees lining the outdoor shops, as well as a colorful waterfall display choreographed to everyday favorites and holiday classics. New to CityPlace Doral’s seasonal décor is a seven-foot, woven balsam topiary cheer deer. A 10-minute light show will begin at the top of every hour from 7-11 p.m. The community is invited to the ‘Light Up The Night’ kick-off event on Friday, Nov. 19, from 6-9 p.m. Guests will enjoy a tree lighting ceremony with City of Doral’s very-own Mayor Juan Carlos “JC” at 7:30 p.m., a fountain light show, magical snowfall and special appearances by Rudolph, Frosty and Santa. During the ‘Light Up The Night’ kick-off event The Yuletide Carolers will perform a cappella holiday entertainment. The professional singers, designers, and directors who comprise The Yuletide Carolers bring an authentically costumed Victorian quartet together to put a song in the hearts of all who gather. Guests can sip beer samples from VezaSur Brewing, a Miami-born brewery with Latin and American roots, or enjoy a colada, cortadito or café con leche from La Cafetera. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Unsplash & CityDoral

  • The Betsy Announces Nov. 2021 Arts and Culture Programs

    The Betsy presents a property-wide November 18th Arts Night in partnership with The City of Miami Beach Culture Crawl program. The Betsy Hotel features Live Jazz, Classical Music, Poetry Readings, and Exhibitions. The Betsy Hotel, the only Forbes Four Star and AAA Four Diamond rated Boutique Hotel in Greater Miami, distinguished by its noted arts focused programming, announces an exciting lineup for November with programs that include: Live Jazz, Classical Music, Poetry Readings, and Exhibitions. Events are free and open to the public. The Betsy is proud to partner with The City of Miami Beach Culture Crawl program in presenting a property-wide November 18th Arts Night. LIVE JAZZ - Free- no RSVP required Featuring virtuoso pianists @ The Steinway –in LT Steak and Seafood 6 to 11 PM – Every night of the week 11 AM – 4 PM – Weekends CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT - Tickets: $25 – https://www.artsticketing.com/sbce/from-england/28584 NOVEMBER 7 – Sunday @ 6 PM – in The Gallery South Beach Chamber Ensemble’s ‘Music From England’ Music by Vaughan Williams, Coleridge Taylor, Elgar; Poetry by Carlos Piintado Performed by Karen Lord Powell, violin, Sheena Gutierrez, violin, Eric Eakes, viola, Michael Andrews, cello. POETRY READING - Free - no RSVP required NOVEMBER 10 – Wednesday @ 7 PM – in The Gallery Supporting Women Writers in Miami – SWWIM Featuring Poets, Juliana Gray and Celia Lisset Alvarez. CLASSICAL PIANO CONCERT - Tickets: $25 – https://www.thebetsyhotel.com/calendar NOVEMBER 13 – Saturday @ 7:30 PM – in The Gallery Dranoff 2 Piano Foundation’s “The Full Spectrum of Light”, concert 1 Music by Tchaikovsky, Saint Saens, Samuel Barber, Colin McPhee Performed by Piano Duo Spektra | Inesa Gegprifti and Redi Llupa with acclaimed musicologist Frank Cooper. MONTHLY ARTS NIGHT - Free- no RSVP required NOVEMBER 18 – Thursday from 6 to 11 PM – in partnership with The City of Miami Beach Culture Crawl Property-wide activations including: JAZZ In the Lobby - from 6 PM - Brian Murphy, Piano, and Carole Ann Taylor, Vocals ACTIVATIONS In the Alley - from 6 PM - Artist Monika Bravo’s Victory over the sun #15 - @ 7:30 PM under #thebetsyorb – Poet Rebecca Butterfly Vaughns OPERA On the Terrace - @ 8:30 PM – Miami Classical Music Festival’s Duo Divas EXHIBITIONS In the Galleries - from 6 PM - featuring art by Jim Krantz, Seydou Keita, Tamary Kudita, Bunny Yeager, Andy Sweet, Monika Bravo, Alessandro Sarno, Ray Tenario CLASSICAL PIANO CONCERT - Free- no RSVP required NOVEMBER 21 – Sunday @ 3 PM – in The Gallery Dranoff 2 Piano Foundation’s “The Full Spectrum of Light”, concert 2 Music by Poulenc, Richard Rodney Bennett, Aaron Copland, Andriana Minou Performed by Piano Duo Antithesis| Petros Moschos and Dimitris Karydis -- Live from London FEATURED ARTIST RESIDENCIES –November 2021 in The Betsy Writers Room JULIANA GRAY (poet, US-based) – in partnership with Supporting Women Writers In Miami NADIA HUDGENS (photographer from Trinidad Tobago) – in partnership with WOPHA Congress: Women, Photography and Feminisms & Perez Art Museum Miami TAMARY KUDITA (photographer from Zimbabwe) – to install African Victorian, her first (ever) US exhibition opening at The Betsy for Miami Art Week 2021 More about The Betsy Writers Room -- https://www.thebetsyhotel.com/explore/arts-culture/writers-room That Evening Sun Goes Down (2020) Image by Zimbabwean Photographer, Tamary Kudita, who will be in residence at The Betsy Hotel, in November 2021, preparing to open her first US-based show at The Betsy during Miami Art Week. African Victorian, curated by Lesley Goldwasser. Special thanks to The Betsy’s November Arts Partners: South Beach Chamber Ensemble, Dranoff 2 Piano Foundation, Miami Classical Music Festival, Miami Beach Jewish Community Center, Supporting Women Writers in Miami, City of Miami Beach Culture Crawl, The Betsy’s myriad global exhibitions partners, South Florida creative and performing artists. By ML Staff. Image by Tamary Kudita.

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