Area stage productions of Broadway classics will present The Ballad of Janis Matthews and the Dodo Scouts, a world premiere of an original musical written, directed, and designed by Giancarlo Rodaz and Rachel Dean. Performed by a stellar cast of theatre actors from London, NYC and Miami, this captivating story will not be told like your typical musical, but as a series of podcast episodes released online weekly, beginning November 28th, 2020. An all new folk-rock musical, The Ballad of Janis Matthews & The Dodo Scouts is a love letter to the 1960s and to the American family. Based on an original idea by Giancarlo Rodaz, the story follows Janis Matthews, a young girl who runs away to summer camp in order to escape her broken home. On her journey, she finds herself at the center of a mystery that forces her to question her idea of responsibility, friendship, and family. With an exciting new score from Rachel Dean, and an original book and story by Giancarlo Rodaz, this first of its kind scout musical challenges us to reassess our own relationships responsibilities within our families and communities. ASC will release Janis Matthews as a radio play-style series of podcast episodes throughout November and December. All episodes will be released on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Listeners will, for the first time, have the entire cast album of this new musical at their fingertips along with the full book. This production follows a series of workshops Janis Matthews has enjoyed during the past four years. The first took place at Area Stage, with the second taken on by the Mile Square Theatre in Hoboken, New Jersey in 2016. Most recently, the show received a full onstage production at ASC’s former home in the Riviera Theatre. Librettist Giancarlo Rodaz, who currently serves as Area Stage’s Associate Artistic Director, has continued developing the book throughout the show’s iterations. Likewise, composer Rachel Dean has enhanced her score, taking inspiration from Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Joni Mitchell, and other artists of the time. Following the immense success, and critical acclaim, of his directorial efforts on Shrek The Musical and She Kills Monsters in 2018, and The Wizard of Oz and the blockbuster Matilda the Musical in 2019, the young visionary Giancarlo Rodaz is fast becoming one of South Florida’s most original and prolific theatrical forces. He has previously presented original works at Area Stage Company, MicroTheater Miami, and with his own company Wild Theatre. Florida Theatre On Stage has lauded his work as “imaginative” and “delightful”. The Miami Herald raved, “Rodaz…creates a magically playful world”. Similarly, Rachel Dean has made quite the splash in the New York City theatre community. A graduate of NYU Tisch’s Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program, Dean currently serves as rehearsal pianist for Broadway’s Hamilton. Her work has been performed in New York, Miami, Ohio, Phoenix, and New Jersey, and she is a recipient of the ASCAP Foundation Max Dreyfus Award, created to identify up-and-coming talent and encourage the study of musical theatre as an art form. A cast of ten talented actors will lend their voices to the project. Amanda Harford will serve as Stage Manager and Katie Duerr pulls double duty as both a cast member and the Music Director. Story by Rebecca Ashton. Images courtesy of John Rodaz, Area Stage Company

Today, Cassadee Pope is recognized as a country music powerhouse and The Voice’s Season Three winner. But even before she competed on the popular NBC singing competition, Cassadee had been making waves in the music industry. At the age of 15, she signed her first record deal with her punk-rock band, Hey Monday, with whom she released two studio albums and three EPs. But after being the first female competitor to win The Voice, her solo career really took off. In October of 2013, Cassadee debuted her solo country album, Frame by Frame, and took the country music world by storm. She went on to team up with Chris Young on “Think of You,” for which she received her first Grammy nomination. Next came the release of her EP, during the summer of 2016, before her second studio album Stages in 2019, which she refers to as “the first project that was the most me.” In 2019, she also headlined the “2019 CMT Next Women of Country Tour,” which brought the franchise outside of the U.S. for the first time ever. It is now July of 2020, almost four months into quarantine, and the Pennsylvania native is getting ready to share her new stripped-down, acoustic album, Rise and Shine with the world on August 7th. The album, she shares, was completely spur of the moment. “I had my mom and sister over. We were all hanging out, including my boyfriend, and I’d been struggling with not working and not putting out any new music. I had all of these songs I’d written that I’d never released, so I decided to record an acoustic album. I went through and narrowed the songs down from thirty.” Her selection process included identifying songs that would translate well acoustically. Once she decided on the songs, she leaned on guitarist and producer, Tom Lombardo, to establish the sound. “I wanted something Dashboard Confessional meets Jimmy Eat World. I sent him the demos and we Facetimed after so I could hear what he came up with. He would go in and record his guitars and send them to me. I had barely any notes --it was exactly the sound I was looking for,” says Cassadee. Then, it was her turn to record the vocals. “I went into the studio --mask and all. We took all of the necessary precautions to keep everyone safe. There, I cut the vocals for all eight songs and spent some time picking the right microphone, a beautiful mic which made my voice warmer. I finished and sent it to the mixer. I’ve never not been in the studio when we’re recording the music side of things, so it was definitely a different experience.” This album is setting the stage and guiding fans to Cassadee’s new sound - leaning into more of her rock, pop side, with the storytelling influences of country music. Rise and Shine definitely represents a more personal side of the artist with singles such as, “Let Me Go,” which Cassadee explains was not written about a relationship. “‘Let Me Go’ represents a desperation of freedom from any situation: relationship, work, someone not understanding you or believing in you and making you feel trapped. In my case, it was written in a place where I felt creatively I wasn’t being embraced. I wasn’t feeling seen or heard. But that’s what I love about music, it’s all about interpretation. I love that fans can relate it to any situation they may be going through.” She mentions the song, which she’d performed over five years ago, was a fan favorite. They’ve been waiting for its release. “California Dreaming” features her boyfriend, actor and musician, Sam Palladio on it. “I put him on this song and he absolutely killed it. My mom loves it. It’s her favorite song.” Other hits include, “Counting on the Weather” (my favorite!) and the playful track, “Hoodie.” “We’ve all been there where we get in touch with someone because of something subtle, but it’s so obvious. The lyric video I shot for it is very fun.” If you’ve been following Cassadee since her Hey Monday days, you’ll recognize a stripped-down version of “Hangover” on the list as well. Since her start, Cassadee’s musical journey has definitely been one of “self-discovery.” “There was a lot of trial and error. I’ve had a lot of moments in my career where I didn’t really know myself and had a lot of influence from older, more powerful people in the industry.” Now she is coming into her own and letting go of those outside influences to pursue her sound. “I have a very clear direction of what I want to write. That includes tapping into where I come from, the rock realm, and intertwining that with those country roots.” Which is exactly what Rise and Shine sets up. With COVID still present, it’s hard to tell whether the Grammynominated artist will be able to get back into the studio to record a full album or play a live show soon. For now, Cassadee is engaging with fans in a virtual way, which included a live Virtual Release Party via Looped following the premiere of the “Let Me Go” lyric video. The event featured special performances from Cassadee and a virtual Meet & Greet with fans. The virtual events continued until the album’s release in August, including July 16 and August 6 dates. “I love being able to interact with fans. I’ve joined the Community app, so I’m able to text them directly. Yes, it’s really me! My fans know my voice, so I make sure to handle my own social media. I’m very hands-on.” In addition to Zoom writing sessions and virtual events, Cassadee is getting stuff done around the house Sam and she recently moved into together. “I’ve been mowing the lawn. I used to do it in Pennsylvania, but hadn’t in awhile. It’s really therapeutic. We’re also in the process of staining our fence and waiting for our new couch to arrive.” While Cassadee may not know what the rest of 2020 looks like when it comes to performing live, she knows exactly what she wants to do more of. “I want to be more vocal about how important mental health is to me. Honestly, I struggle with feeling enough. I think a lot of people do. Things that have happened in my childhood, like my dad leaving, really had an impact. It followed me into my relationships, including feeling like I’m going to be left. Feeling abandoned and neglected. Quarantine has resulted in Sam and I being in each other’s faces 24/7, but we’re able to share our feelings with each other, whereas if I was on tour, we wouldn’t have that ability. It’s really been a growing component of our relationship. The best part about this mental health journey is being able to name what we’re going through.” Follow Cassadee on Instagram and Twitter, and listen to Rise and Shine, available August 7, 2020. Words by Briana Dodson • Photo Credit: Chance Edwards

On was born in the Swiss Alps with one goal: to revolutionize the sensation of running. It’s all based on one radical idea. Soft landings followed by explosive take-offs. Or, as we call it, running on clouds. From small beginnings in Zürich, Switzerland, On set out in 2010 with a big ambition: to change the world of running. In the ten years since, On has been embraced into the hearts, and onto the feet, of more than seven million runners in over 50 countries. And there’s no sign of slowing down. How did it all start? It’s not just a love of running that brought former professional athlete Olivier Bernhard and his friends David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti together. They were dedicated to developing a revolutionary idea. This is their story. After retiring from professional competition, three-time world duathlon champion and multiple Ironman winner Olivier Bernhard devoted himself to finding a running shoe that would give him the perfect running sensation. In doing so, he crossed paths with a like-minded Swiss engineer who had an idea for a new kind of running shoe. In the years that followed, the perfect symbiosis of running experience and engineering expertise allowed that first radical idea to be refined. Dozens of prototypes were developed, but the basic concept — cushioned landing, firm takeoff — remained paramount throughout. It was this unique running sensation that convinced Caspar Coppetti and David Allemann to come aboard too. Together with Bernhard, they formally established the On in Zürich back in January 2010. Their mission to develop a product range fully engineered in Switzerland using the latest technology picked up pace. Just a month later, in February, the prototypes won the ISPO BrandNew Award, one of the most important prizes for innovation in sport. Ten years later, On running shoes is now available in over 6,500 retail stores in over 50 countries with offices in the USA, Japan, Australia, and Brazil. Click below to launch slideshow > Roger Federer Joins On By joining On as a co-entrepreneur, Roger becomes a driving force to On’s team and a close partner to the founders. He brings his unique experience to help take our product development, marketing, and fan experiences to new levels. Roger will also play a role in developing the athlete spirit that’s at the core of our high-performing culture. For more information, visit on-running.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of On

If an award were given for Multitasker of the Month, South Florida musicianturned- arts entrepreneur Jose Elias likely would win hands down. Besides regularly fronting either of his two groups, Nag Champayons and Cortadito, Elias occasionally lends guitar and tres support to Conjunto Progreso and the Spam Allstars, among others. As well, when not performing, the versatile dynamo somehow finds time to preside over producing activities at his Afro Roots Recordings studio and put in work as executive and artistic director of Community Arts & Culture, the non-profit entity through which he produces the long-running Afro Roots World Music Festival. But it is the latter that is the primary focus of Elias’ efforts. Since its inception 20-plus years ago, Afro Roots has emerged as a world-class extravaganza that has featured artists from Africa and the Americas, among them Malian superstar Salif Keita; Boukman Experyans, from Haiti, and Moroccan Gnawa musician Hassan Hakmoun. Equally significant, the event attracts attendees from across the U.S. and abroad to its anchor venue, the North Beach Bandshell, and to scaled-down versions of the event at a number of satellite locations in Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Enter the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of social distancing and masking requirements intended to lessen exposure to the virus, Elias has been forced to reconfigure Afro Roots, if not permanently then at least for the short term. For example, the 2020 Afro Roots Festival was co-produced with the Rhythm Foundation and took place as scheduled. Unlike in the past, however, it was all-virtual, with performances being live-streamed from the North Beach Bandshell. What follows is a conversation Elias and I had, prepandemic, in which he traced Afro Roots’ evolution from its modest beginning in the parking lot of Tobacco Road, a now-defunct night club/bar in downtown Miami. The Afro Roots Festival has moved around quite a bit since its inception at Tobacco Road, hasn’t it? Jose Elias: Yeah. We spent three years at Tobacco Road; then we moved it to St. John’s on the Lake Church, on Miami Beach, where we did another three years. After that, I believe, we went to IO – a downtown Miami venue that no longer exists and that used to be called the Vagabond. From there, I think we went to the North Beach Bandshell. And then, the Bandshell underwent renovation, so we moved it from there to the Moksha/7th Circuit space in Little Haiti, where we stayed for a couple of years. And then, from Moksha we went to the Little Haiti Cultural Center, across the street from Moksha, for a while. From there we brought it back to the Bandshell. Talk to me about your choice of Afro Roots as the name for the festival. I know you were born in the Dominican Republic to Cuban parents, and that African-derived cultures figure prominently in Cuba. Does that partly explain it? JE: Well, yes – to an extent. We chose the name because the whole purpose behind the festival was to celebrate the evolution of African culture in our community, which is something that I don’t think has ever really been celebrated in its totality. Of course, it’s celebrated within each of the area’s communities, but not in an inclusive way. So, really, Afro Roots is a trans-community celebration, one that includes all of the various communities in South Florida. So you’re talking about Cuba; you’re talking about Jamaica; you’re talking about Haiti; you’re talking about Brazil; you’re talking about African-based culture in the U.S.; you’re talking about the Garifuna of Central America. So, really, the artists that we present tend to be representative of various manifestations of continental and diaspora Africanity, but the percentage, or degree, can vary. In fact, we’ve gone a little bit more towards a global direction, beyond a strictly Afrocentric perspective. What was the reason for your presenting Afro Roots at various locations in the four southeast Florida counties of Miami-Dade, Broward, Monroe, and Palm Beach? JE: My whole thing is to bring the arts to underserved communities, and in doing so I hope it helps to dissolve the fear of the unknown, the unfamiliar. When people are introduced to new things, their horizons tend to broaden. Really, though, I’ve always been about sharing – about turning people on to new music and stuff. Take our concert here at the Seminole, for example. I was told that, here in Homestead, Reggae, Blues, and Country do really well. So, if we start to focus on doing those kinds of shows – offering things that serve as the anchor, or hook – then, by drawing people to the festival using those kinds of acts, we’ll be able to intersperse a little African spice, something different. That might be perceived as being off the beaten path, but not really; it’s just a reflection of a higher level of consciousness. Our hope is that people will realize that what they’re experiencing is valid. Everyone perceives things differently. I’ve learned over the years that sometimes there are cases when people might get offended because they don’t have – or don’t want to have – the ability to embrace and to appreciate something new. So, again, we’re going to do what we do to help remove the fear of the unknown. So how do you go about determining which performers to book for Afro Roots? JE: I just kind of let the Universe decide. I work with other curators in co-presenting. Miami-Dade College’s Live Arts is a co-presenting partner, and the Rhythm Foundation is a co-producer for our North Beach Bandshell shows. And then, down in Key West, we have the Studio of Key West and the Green Parrot. We also work with several co-presenters in Islamorada: the Morada Way Arts and Culture District. ICE (Islamorada Community Entertainment), and the Florida Keys Brewing Company. Up in Palm Beach County, we do the Road to Afro Roots, the kick-off to the main festival, at Guabanas. They’re our community partner up there. And next year we’re expanding to Doral, where we’re going to partner up with Doral Yard, a venue whose name is taken from midtown Miami’s now-defunct Wynwood Yard. Where do you envision Afro Roots being in, say, 20 years? JE: Our long-term goal is to take it outside of the state. One of our goals is to take it to the four-corner states of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah because there’s much more of an appreciation there. Today, one of the biggest obstacles to success in South Florida is that there’s not enough appreciation of music that has a global orientation. I wouldn’t necessarily call it World Music because it’s music, first and foremost! It’s called World Music because they, the merchandisers, have to have a category to put the music in. So, in a place like Colorado or New Mexico, it’s possible to do things where the outcome would be more impactful than in Miami, which is a multicultural microcosm of the world; yet, ironically, there’s a lack of appreciation, of embracing….For example, when we brought Salif Keita (a well-known artist from Mali) to the Bandshell about two years ago, only about 500 to 600 people turned out for the concert. That’s because there’s a relatively small immigrant African community in the area, a community where people would know who he is and who understand his trajectory and his value. To shift gears, so to speak, I believe that Afro Roots Recordings, which you launched in the mid-2000s or so, was an outgrowth of the festival. Am I correct? JE: Well, yes. Actually, though, the recording venture is kind of like an archival project through which we’re able to showcase a lot of the artists that are performing at the festival. Basically, it’s intended to help both us and the artists because we can raise money by selling their CDs at the festival’s main event and at our satellite shows and then sharing the proceeds with the artists – even if they’re not around. One of the first artists we recorded was Ibrahima Dioubate, a xylophone player, from Guinea, who lived in Miami for a while. I have an album of his that I never released because he moved, and we never kept in contact. I’ve got some really cool treasures there, man! That was a project that was, like, really hard to make happen, but, finally, we made it happen, and it was great! I’ve also recorded Morikeba Kouyate, a kora player from Senegal; and I’m working on a release by Sanba Zao, a percussionist/vocalist from Haiti. I’m really looking forward to finishing this project, which is going to be something else! Of your accomplishments to date, is there any one that you could say you’re most proud of? JE: Well, that we’ve been able to sustain the event. Here we are 21 years later, and it’s still evolving. Then there’s the fact that Afro Roots is a traveling festival; that, to me, is really cool! I hear you! With that, I want to thank you for taking the time to share your vision for the event. Words by Eddie Osborne. Eddie Osborne is a South Florida-based freelance writer. His work has appeared in a number of local and national publications, including Island Origins, Encore American & Worldwide News, Essence, Showcase, Sepia, Hip, & Writer’s Market ’85. Community Ar ts & Culture: www.communityar tsandculture.org. Photo credits: the late Luis Olazabal and Edwin Cardona: www.edwinantonio.com

The Everglades Foundation and its new partner Lacoste, have a new philanthropic capsule collection to honor the restoration and conservation of America’s Everglades, launching October 23rd. The collection will be available on Lacoste.com and at select Lacoste boutiques in South Florida beginning October 23, 2020. Prices will range from $60 to $110. For the collection, Lacoste collaborated with The Pantone Color Institute to launch a unique color inspired by the Everglades – “Forevergreen by Lacoste.” Lacoste also designed a custom logo featuring its iconic crocodile in Everglades habitat. Lacoste has dedicated its “Forevergreen by Lacoste” color and capsule collection to The Everglades Foundation. A portion of the proceeds from the collection’s sales will support the Foundation’s mission to restore and protect the Everglades through science, advocacy, and education. "We have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with Lacoste," said Eric Eikenberg, The Everglades Foundation CEO. "This partnership to support our mission to restore and protect one of the most unique ecosystems in the world speaks to Lacoste’s lasting commitment to the environment.” The Forevergreen color is a vibrant green shade that pays tribute to America’s Everglades, which is home to 2,000 unique species of plants and animals, more than 70 of them are federally threatened or endangered. Among other things, the Everglades is the only place on earth where alligators and crocodiles coexist. Besides protecting Florida’s coastlines against sea level rise and providing a buffer against storms, the 3-million-acre Everglades ecosystem, once restored, will help mitigate the effects of climate change by sequestering atmospheric carbon year-round. The Everglades also provides the water for nearly 9 million residents of South Florida and 50 million visitors annually. For more info visit Lacoste.com By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Lacoste.

Start the day exploring our latest exhibition Allied with Power: African and African Diaspora Art from the Jorge M. Pérez Collection, and revisit some favorites like Meleko Mokgosi: Your Trip to Africa and Polyphonic: Celebrating PAMM’s Fund for African American Art. Then grab a bite at Verde restaurant and bistro, which has been re-envisioned with limited indoor seating and socially distanced outdoor seating on the expansive terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay. You’ll also enjoy a new menu crafted by Executive Chef Hedy Goldsmith. Book your reservation here. No visit is complete without a stop at PAMM Shop. Peruse our new products including the new Allied with Power catalogue and our trendy PAMMasks. Want to visit PAMM before anyone else? Become a PAMM member and receive free tickets to the members-only preview on November 5–6. During the preview, enjoy added member perks including FREE parking and 20% off purchases at Verde and PAMM Shop. Join now! By ML Staff. Image courtesy of PAMM

Shooters Waterfront is casting a wider net to introduce new menu items, including new brunch, lunch and dinner items that put a sophisticated twist on coastal classics. Located at 3033 NE 32nd Ave., Shooters is known for exquisite views of the Intracoastal Waterway and coastal-inspired cuisine. The restaurant was recently named one of the top independent restaurants in the United States by Restaurant Business. An expansive kitchen anchors the restaurant, where a fully stocked raw bar, made to order sushi, creative plates from land and sea, crispy flatbreads and homemade desserts take center stage. Just in time for Fall, Shooters Waterfront is rolling out a new menu featuring seasonal food, drinks and desserts. New brunch entrees include, Blue Crab Benedict ($19), Jumbo lump crab, tomatoes, arugula, and bearnaise sauce; Buttermilk Fried Chicken ($19), 24-hour- brined chicken, buttermilk- dipped, breaded and golden-fried, white cheddar mashed potatoes, bacon gravy, green beans, and a buttermilk biscuit; Lox & Bagel ($15), Norwegian Atlantic smoked salmon, red onions, beefsteak tomatoes, capers, chives, and cream cheese; and Stone Crabs (MP), which are exclusively sold in Florida’s anticipated season. New lunch and dinner specials include, Quinoa Beet salad ($17), red and gold beets, kale-spinach, mesclun, quinoa, pistachios, crispy peas, goat cheese crumbles, red onions, alaffia sprouts, watermelon radish, and roasted poblano ranch; Flash fried mahi tacos ($18), tangy slaw, pickled radish, lime crema and elotes; Grilled Cobia ($25), this gluten free option contains shaved vegetables, red pepper coulis, chive oil, and pea shoots; Fish and chips, buttermilk cornmeal breaded fresh local caught fish, shoestring fries, paired with a sambal mango chili slaw. Shooters Waterfront has also added new signature and decadent cocktails to their menu including Mango Rum Punch ($12), made with Real McCoy Rum, amaretto, mango puree, pineapple and lime juice, and finished off with a splash of grenadine; Espresso Martini ($13) that consists of Grey Goose Vodka, Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, Kahlua, and espresso. Chocolate Godiva Martini ($14) made with Absolut Vodka, White Chocolate liquor, Kahlua, heavy cream, Hershey’s chocolate syrup and a cocoa powdered rim; Russell's Bourbon Infused Apple with Vanilla and Honey ($12), Russell's Bourbon, honey, vanilla extract garnished with a cinnamon sugar rim and a granny smith apple; Banana Butterscotch Martini ($13), Bacardi spiced rum, banana puree, butterscotch, Godiva White chocolate, and caramel; White Chocolate Raspberry Martini ($14), consisting of Godiva White Chocolate liquor, Absolut vanilla, raspberry puree, Chambord, and chocolate liquor; and finally a Key Lime Martini ($12), Grey Goose Vanilla, key lime juice, pineapple juice, creme coco pina colada, with a graham cracker crust rim. Shooters’ 400-seat dining room is outfitted with neutral décor, tranquil lighting and nautical accents. The restaurant’s chic lawn includes outdoor seating, fire pits, dockside couches and two oversized Birdcage cabanas. Each of the restaurant’s three artfully designed bars offer handcrafted cocktails, beer and an international selection of wines by the glass or bottle.. - Photos by Shooters Waterfront ML Staff. Images courtesy of Shooters

CityPlace Doral ― a welcoming open-air leisure destination offering memorable shopping, dining, wellness, and entertainment experiences ― is celebrating the grand opening of its new weekly farmers market, “Market Tuesdays at CityPlace Doral.” Located in CityPlace Doral’s beautiful Fountain Plaza, the farmers market will feature fresh produce, local honey, artisan breads, prepared foods, handmade items, and much more from local vendors. It will take place each Tuesday, indefinitely. “Market Tuesdays at CityPlace Doral” will feature the following vendors: · Ay Bendito Con Sabor a Puerto Rico, a food truck named the No. 7 nationwide Hispanic food truck by Yelp, and one of the top 25 Puerto Rican restaurants in the U.S. by Big 7 Travel · JRA Produce · TocToc Arepas, a family-owned, gluten-free business offering tasty Latin American flavors · Albert the Bread Man, importing bread from his Adar Bakery in Montreal, Canada; and featuring a “secret vinaigrette” · El Coco Loco Frio · Honey Bee Local · Pawfect Pupcake Co., an artisan dog bakery specializing in barkday cakes and gourmet treats for furbabies · Angela's Succulents, beautifully designed plant art using up-cycled handmade planters incorporating live succulents and natural rock elements · Ma. Charlotte Baked Goods · Il Mercato Italian Market, offering a variety of a variety of mouthwatering European dishes · Crystal Nuts, a variety of special, nutritious and original flavored nuts made from the finest ingredients · Acai Bowls by Coco Loco · Pancho's Argentinian Grill · Pharus Candle Company, handmade candles using soy blend natural wax and 100% natural cotton wick · Bocaditos Pepitos & Burgers, offering Venezualan street food · Sweet Blendz Korean Rice & Poke Bowls · Keto Lassend's Keto Bakery, perfect for those who are on keto or a low-carb diet, are type 1 or 2 diabetic, or just like really great baked goods · Dagmar Designs · H.O.P.E. Candles & Joy CityPlace Doral has implemented a number of important policies and procedures to safeguard the health and well-being of its valued guests and employees. The open-air entertainment destination has taken into account the best practices recommended by national experts like the CDC, as well as state and local health care officials, to determine the appropriate steps to make CityPlace Doral a place where guests feel comfortable venturing back into public and reconnecting with friends and family. When: Every Tuesday, 5–9 p.m., indefinitely Where: CityPlace Doral Fountain Plaza 8300 NW 36th Street Doral, FL 33166 About CityPlace Doral: CityPlace Doral is an attractive leisure destination offering a collection of memorable dining, shopping, wellness and entertainment experiences. Featuring 250,000 square feet of retail space, CityPlace Doral is a master-planned, mixed-use development nestled in the dynamic employment center of Doral in the heart of Miami-Dade County. CityPlace Doral combines the vision of world-renowned architects, designers and artists creating the next crown jewel of prosperous dining, entertainment and upscale shopping in one of South Florida’s growing cities. CityPlace Doral includes more than 40 dining, shopping and entertainment destinations for all palettes and walks of life, and the property’s entertainment retail component is anchored by a roster of first-class tenants from all over the country. By ML Staff. Images by CityPlace Doral

Marie France Van Damme collections are available online at mariefrancevandamme.com and city stores including her new boutique in Miami at Bal Harbour Shops Gifts for Her Marie France Van Damme | Silk Printed City Pajama - ($990) Dare to wear it any time of the day. Cut from luxurious washed silk satin, with intricate piping detail; this new city suit works from morning to night. Start with flats and a mini shoulder bag for daytime. Pair with heels, statement earrings and a precious clutch to take you through the night Metallic Metallic Silk Blend A Line Skirt - ($750) This eye catching maxi skirt makes a dramatic statement. Lined in silk chiffon, this is the ultimate boho chic item for your wardrobe. Available in gold, silver and nude Marie France Van Damme | Babouche Slippers - ($180) Handmade in the souks of Marrakesh, Morocco, using Marie France Van Damme’s silk fabrics, the slippers were created in the designer's signature fabrics. Leather sole. Silk chiffon fabric from Lyon. Perfect to pair with one of MFVD's signature caftans. Wear them at home or out to make a statement. Gifts for Pets Marie France Van Damme Pet Capsule Collection Designed Designed to seamlessly match Marie France Van Damme’s collections, the pet collection is named after Marie France’s two rescue dogs, Boubou and Momo, and includes a selection of metallic leather leashes and dog collars: the small size Boubou set ($450 USD), and medium Momo set ($550). Created for the chic traveler and their canine companions, the pet accessory collection is available in a metallic color palette of gold, black, bronze, and silver, to match the designer’s available collection of bags and clutches. The soft, texturally-rich, and multi-layered leather material incorporates the iconic braiding techniques and intricate leatherwork of Jay Ahr (a.k.a designer Jonathan Riss), who collaborated with Marie France Van Damme to design the pet capsule collection. A portion of proceeds will go to help rescue animals Gifts for the Home/Holiday Host MF Candle - ($86.00) A perfect blend of solar notes: lemon, bigarade and green mandarin with a heart of musk, coriander and neroli and a base of patchouli and oak moss. Made in France. Marie France Van Damme Leather Trays - Made In Italy - ($350) The first MF Private collection includes a collection of leather trays from a small factory in Genoa, Italy, in the designer’s signature metallic color palette in gold, silver, dark silver, and bronze. HOLIDAY TIPS Marie France offers the following for an effortless holiday from her first book with photographs by Herbert Ypma of the Hip Hotel series. RSVP: Simple Sophistication. Effortless Entertaining (Thames & Hudson) (R.S.V.P.) Simple Sophistication. Effortless Entertaining ($40.00) A perfect gift for any hostess is Marie France’s coffee table book which includes 200+ color illustrations. Fusing understated elegance with the dramatic Asian aesthetics of her Hong Kong home, Marie France reveals the secrets of successful entertaining with a forward by Francois Curiel, President of Christies Asia. Use A Splash of Color – A ‘’table runner’’, makes any event brighter and more festive Flowers – Flowers create a sense of occasion. But more is definitely not better. Stick with one color (Invented) Vases – The Best vases were never intended to be vases. Be creative. (Tons of) Tea Light – Tea light can be used everywhere. Especially to highlight shapes or features Uncomplicated Food/Wine - Food should be the simplest part of the equation. An easy way to entertain is to buy great cheeses, and do just one fantastic tray of different cheeses with fresh figs, apples and pears for decoration Work Before the Party (Not During It)- Make a checklist ahead of time. I can’t live without them and I have one for everything. When you entertain, you should completely enjoy the occasion. Short on time, Marie France Van Damme has also introduced an exclusive gift page in time for the holidays mariefrancevandamme.com Marie France Van Damme offers complimentary Fedex shipping, duties and all costs are included. MORE ON MARIE FRANCE VAN DAMME Located on the second floor of the Bal Harbour Shops (9700 Collins Ave, Bal Harbour Shops, Unit 267, Bal Harbour, FL 33154), the new 800-square foot store offers Marie France Van Damme’s exclusive collections of essentials including day dresses and evening wear, resort wear, bathing suits, and caftans, so as to provide the best of both worlds: luxe day resort wear and chic evening looks. In keeping with Marie France Van Damme’s signature aesthetic and elegant simplicity, the boutique features teak wood, bronze panels, and embossed crocodile leathers with textiles. For more info visit Marie France Van Damme. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Marie France Van Damme

When actor Chris Pratt found himself trending on Twitter on Oct. 17, it wasn’t because of his new film or the birth of his first child. Instead, Twitter users were clamoring for Pratt to be canceled because of his support of President Donald Trump. There was one problem: Pratt had never said such a thing. As a scholar of communication, I was drawn to the way this saga played out. But whereas a lot of attention has been given to how bots and bad actors fan false information, I see the issue as something more structural, with certain flaws baked into the way Twitter is built – particularly its trending function. Together, they cause what rhetoricians call “logical fallacies” to thrive. The most problematic Chris of them all The controversy began when television writer and producer Amy Berg tweeted pictures of the “Four Hollywood Chrises” accompanied by the caption “one has to go.” The post was intended to be a joke playing on a popular candy bar meme, which asks users to vote out one type of candy. In this case, the four Chrises were actors Chris Pratt, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth and Chris Pine. The overwhelming majority of votes were in favor of removing Pratt from the group. The rhetoric quickly escalated from there, with many users calling for the cancellation of Pratt based on the allegation that he was a “MAGA Bro” who supported Trump. Pratt, however, has never expressed support for any of the candidates in the 2020 election. The only known campaign contribution he has ever made was to Barack Obama’s reelection campaign in 2012. Nonetheless, on the morning of Oct. 17, “Chris Pratt” was trending on Twitter, with many tweeters continuing to reference his supposed support of Trump. When it sees a spike in tweets about a certain topic, Twitter’s algorithm kicks in and designates it as trending, which exposes it to even more users. Just like that, an illogical narrative spiraled out of control. A platform where logical fallacies thrive I could go into the intricacies of algorithms to show how they fuel this phenomenon. But the rhetorician in me sees insights in Ancient Greece. The classical thinker Aristotle created a form of logic called syllogistic reasoning. A syllogism is a type of argument in which a conclusion is drawn from the acceptance of at least two premises. The most famous syllogism is: Premise 1: All men are mortal Premise 2: Aristotle is a man Conclusion: Therefore, Aristotle must be mortal In other words, if you accept the premises of this argument, you must then accept the conclusion. Twitter users often accept a flawed syllogism by using a conclusion as one of the premises – namely, that the platform spreads truthful information. If you accept this as a premise, you’re forced to accept the conclusions it has already reached. In the case of Pratt, users assumed he supports Trump because that conclusion was trending on Twitter. Most tweets about Pratt cited no external sources supporting their claims, only other tweets. The reasoning of Twitter users spreading the misinformation probably looked like this: Premise 1: Truthful information trends on Twitter Premise 2: Pratt supporting Trump is trending Conclusion: Therefore, Pratt must support Trump Other fallacies are ingrained in the platform and advanced by its users. The logical fallacy of ad populum – believing that something is true because it is popular – is also promoted by Twitter’s trending function. Then there’s the fallacy of ad baculum, which translates to “appeal to the stick.” This approach attempts to get others to accept an idea through fear and intimidation. The result, in cases like this, is that people are too afraid to criticize the Twitter mob for attacking someone for fear they, too, will be attacked. Drowning out the truth Sorting legitimate information from misinformation on Twitter is especially difficult because the social media service’s trending function ends up “flooding the zone.” The concept of flooding the zone is borrowed from football. Coaches sometimes send multiple offensive players to the same area of the field hoping to overwhelm a single defender. In politics, former Trump campaign adviser Steve Bannon popularized the strategy by putting out numerous false attacks against Hillary Clinton to overwhelm voters and members of the press – a strategy he infamously called “flooding the zone with shit.” Sorting through the tweets about Pratt, it was difficult to understand where the association between Pratt and Trump came from. The claim’s basis stemmed primarily from the belief that because Pratt did not attend an online fundraiser for Joe Biden hosted by other members of the “Avengers” film franchise, he must, therefore, support Trump. In the days after the controversy, “Avengers” director Joe Russo revealed that Pratt was simply not asked to attend the fundraiser because he is currently in the U.K. [Deep knowledge, daily. Sign up for The Conversation’s newsletter.] Twitter has taken some steps to combat the spread on misinformation. Recently, it prevented a New York Post article with unsubstantiated claims from appearing on the platform. However, after receiving criticism, Twitter reversed its position. The platform has also introduced a function asking users if they want to read an article before retweeting it. Interestingly, neither of these steps stopped the spread of the attacks against Pratt, which were based on false reasoning and half-truths. Most posts condemning Pratt offered no claims of fact or links to sources. Therein lies Twitter’s biggest problem. How do you fact-check an argument that offers no facts? By Aaron Duncan, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Courtesy of The Conversation. Image by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic via Getty Images

The free-ride and the carve models complement Radinn’s current jetboard and come in two unique designs. While the previous ‘Explorer’ board was more focused on durability and easy-learning, the new shapes target advanced and pro-riders seeking greater maneuverability. The free-ride model comes with a weight of 27lbs, three kilos lighter than the G2X. The perfect choice for riders who are ready to trade some stability with greater control. While the length and width are similar to its predecessor, the board has enhanced hydrodynamics and allows easier turns. Advanced riders will be thrilled about the new carve model. At just 20lbs, it weighs a less than the G2X and is significantly smaller in size (5 ́10“ x 2 ́ x 0,5 ́). Sharp turns and carving are now possible and advanced jetboarders will be able to fine-tune their skills. “From day one, it was my vision to offer a range of different board shapes. Our product modularity allows swapping the jetpack and battery within minutes. Now, our customers can have several board types at home and decide on the spot which board fits best to the given riding conditions.” - Founder Alexander Lind  The sleek board design is inspired by the fusion of watersports and tech. Customers can choose between two colors per model: The freeride board comes in a clean, minimalist space grey and the carve model in a vibrant, dark cyan and grey. Both models also come in a full black version with a high-end carbon finish. Radinn recently launched the G3, their third generation jetpack making higher speeds and faster acceleration possible. All board shapes can be purchased at Radinn.com and the entry price for a complete package is 6.490USD. Customers can tailor their own jetboards with the product configurator on Radinn’s website and have it shipped directly to their home. G3 Jetpack One year after the launch of the second generation, Radinn introduces the new G3 jetpack with improved quality and exhilarating performance. “The third generation features an entirely new jetpack controller, the brains of the G3. Our improved technology unleashes higher speeds and faster acceleration.” said Alexander Lind. “We are constantly pushing our own boundaries and we are committed to raising the bar of the jetboarding industry.” The G3 jetpack will be available in two power options, Standard and Pro. Every customer receives the same hardware and has full flexibility when it comes to the product configuration. Both the jetpack and power pack can be purchased at a lower entry price with the software setting for beginners and later be upgraded via Radinn’s app to unleash full power. Product packages including the G3 Standard start at 6.490USD with a top speed of 44km/h and an average ride time of 25 minutes. Upgrading to the G3 Pro and an extended power pack delivers an average ride time of 45 minutes and electrifying speeds of 34 mph. For more info visit radinn.com By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Radinn

Enjoy this holiday season with Miami Living's favorite Ron Barcelo's rum recipes! Barcelo is a rum favorite for celebs like JLo, Lenny Kravitz, David Beckham and Ryan Phillippe! 1930 SPRITZ: Ingredients: 1 oz Ron Barcelo Platinum 2 oz prosecco or sparkling wine 1 oz Pomegranate juice   Preparation: Serve all ingredients in champagne flout  Enjoy! CANELAZO: Ingredients: 2 oz Ron Barcelo Imperial 1 oz Rum Chata 1 oz Baileys Pumpkin Spiced   Preparation: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake vigorously Strain into a coupe glass, or serve on the rocks if preferred Cheers! MORE ON Ron Barcelo Celebrating 90 years since its conceptualization, Ron Barcelo Rum was founded by Julian Barcelo in 1930 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The brand quickly gained popularity throughout the Dominican Republic, and was soon exported internationally throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Americas. Today, Ron Barcelo is the #1 exported dark rum in the world, Barcelo Imperial Premium Blend 30 Aniversario, Barcelo Imperial Onyx, Barcelo Imperial, Barcelo Gran Añejo and Barcelo Añejo is available in more than 70 countries worldwide, and is a leading brand in Spain and Chile, and continues to expand its superior quality product around the globe. Learn more about the brand by visiting www.ronbarcelousa.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Ron Barcelo