RESULTS

The Miami Dolphins announced they have signed wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to a contract extension through the 2028 season. Waddle was a first-round pick (sixth overall) by Miami in the 2021 NFL Draft. He's started 47 games with Miami, recording 251 receptions for 3,385 yards (13.5 avg.) and 18 touchdowns. He recorded his third consecutive 1,000-yard receiving season in 2023, becoming the first player in franchise history to do so. He holds the Dolphins record for the most receiving yards in the first three years of a career and set Dolphins rookie records in receptions (104) and receiving yards (1,015). In 2021, Waddle won the Dan Marino Most Valuable Player Award, selected by the South Florida media. He was the first Dolphins rookie to win the team MVP award since Zach Thomas did so in 1996. Waddle was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2021. He played collegiately at Alabama. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Miami Dolphins

Inter Miami CF head coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino, and defenders Jordi Alba and Ian Fray have been named to the Team of the Matchday for Matchday 23 of the MLS 2024 regular season. The tactician and the duo earned Team of the Matchday honors after crucial their roles in the team's 1-2 win over Nashville SC at GEODIS Park on Saturday night to extend its Club-record run of matches unbeaten on the road in MLS to seven, and overall winning streak to three. Inter Miami head coach ‘Tata’ Martino leads the Team of the Matchday for a second time this season after the team’s valuable win on the road over the weekend. Overall, Martino’s Inter Miami side has been in stellar form this 2024 regular season and currently sit at the top of the Supporters’ Shield standings with a total 44 points from 13 wins, five draws and three losses. Alba once again features in the starting XI, marking third overall TOTM selection this 2024 MLS season following a masterful performance in Saturday's away match. The Spanish left back secured his spot after a solid performance in the win over Nashville SC, including bagging a fantastic goal in the 44th minute of play after taking a touch off his chest and smashing a powerful long-distance volley into the far corner of the net to score the team’s second goal on the night. The goal took his tally this campaign to three. Academy product Fray, meanwhile, earned a spot on the Team of the Matchday bench for the second time this season after a stellar defensive performance, while also securing the match opener by heading a corner delivery from Julian Gressel into the back of the net in the 40th minute. The Homegrown defender earned his second-ever selection to the MLS Team of the Matchday. Additionally, with the opener, Fray registered his second goal in two matches since his return from a season-ending ACL injury suffered in July 2023. 2024 Inter Miami Team of the Matchday Honorees: Matchday 1 and 2: Drake Callender and Lionel Messi Matchday 3: Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino, Julian Gressel, Luis Suárez, and Lionel Messi Matchday 4: Jordi Alba Matchday 5: Luis Suárez, Leonardo Campana, and Federico Redondo Matchday 8: David Ruiz and Lionel Messi Matchday 9: Diego Gómez and Lionel Messi Matchday 10: Sergio Busquets and Lionel Messi Matchday 11: Sergio Busquets and Lionel Messi Matchday 12: Matías Rojas, Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez Matchday 13: Matías Rojas Matchday 15: Leonardo Campana Matchday 16: Robert Taylor Matchday 18: Jordi Alba and Lionel Messi Matchday 20: Leo Afonso Matchday 21: Ian Fray and Julian Gressel Matchday 23: Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino, Jordi Alba and Ian Fray By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Inter Miami CF

Forté Development secured a $47.5 million construction loan from New York-based  360 Capital Funding , on July 3, 2024, for its  Forté Luxe , a luxury boutique waterfront community in Jupiter, Florida. 360 Capital Funding is a non-conventional lender that finances real estate projects in the continental United States.    “We are very pleased to secure construction financing with 360 Capital Funding, at very competitive rates and terms, for Forté Luxe,” said Marius Fortelni, founder and CEO of Forté Development. “This luxurious residential community offers its residents a one-of-a-kind opportunity to live at the water’s edge and enjoy the ultimate South Florida lifestyle.”   “It has been a pleasure to work with Marius and his team throughout the iterations of this project to bring this unique offering to Jupiter,” said Michael Horowitz and Jordan Horowitz, of Cooper Horowitz, who arranged the financing on behalf of Forté Development. “360 Capital Funding immediately recognized the niche in the market that this product would serve and efficiently pursued and concluded the financing. It was a collaborative effort from start to finish, and we look forward to seeing this project succeed.”   Featuring just 17 multi-level residences on an exceptional and unique peninsula surrounded on three sides by beautiful Intracoastal Waterway views, Forté Luxe, which is currently under construction, is expected to be completed in Q4 2025. Forté Luxe   offers views of cobalt blue water typically only found in the Bahamas. Pricing ranges from $4.35 million to $8 million. With direct water access, it is located at 12450 Crystal Cove Place, Jupiter, FL 33469.       Boasting modern architecture, the pet-friendly community will offer 13 private boat slips for up to 60-foot vessels (residents can purchase dockage), and a private resort-style swimming pool and sun deck with entertainment areas.    Residences will range from 3,550 to over 5,000 square feet of living area. Features will include:  Expansive great room interiors showcasing captivating views through full-height glass doors and windows. Private garage with grand entry, featuring unrestricted views of the beach line and water. Private interior elevators. Voluminous ceilings and full-height sliding glass windows and doors. Waterfront covered terrace with built-in outdoor gas grills for al fresco dining. Spacious elevated balconies with spectacular Intracoastal views. Engineered hardwood or large format porcelain flooring throughout the residence. Designer kitchens featuring sleek European-inspired cabinetry, Quartz countertops with a waterfall island, and top-of-the-line appliances and plumbing fixtures. Separate laundry room with full-size washer and dryer on same level as Owner's Suite. Expansive walk-in closets and luxurious spa-like bath retreats. Designer-appointed bathrooms include European cabinetry, premium Quartz countertops, soaking tubs, designer fixtures and glass enclosed walk-in showers. Exquisitely appointed interiors with a premium lighting package, including recessed lighting and signature fixtures at entry and dining room.   Architecture is by Alfonso Jurado, Interiors by Steven G. is the interior designer, and KAST Construction is the general contractor for the project. Douglas Elliman Development Marketing is the exclusive sales team.   The Forté Luxe Sales Center is open by appointment only at 11911 N US 1 #102, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. For more information, call 561-800-4622.   By ML Staff. Renderings by Wearevisuals

Looking for a support system after the initial whirlwind of childbirth subsided, mothers and friends  Kacie McDonnell Hosmer  (FOX Nation; Mansion Global) and  Gianna DeMedio Simon  (So Sorry For Your Loss) created the   Mother Up  podcast determined to fill the void. With the guiding principle that “no one’s tougher than a mother,” Mother Up is an off-the-cuff, sexy and fresh take on the grit of motherhood and a guide for women to become the best version of themselves in this intricate phase of life. New episodes air every Monday.    Between Hosmer and Simon, they have three children under four years of age. One of them is done having kids while the other is currently pregnant and aiming for two more. Both agree that motherhood is the most rewarding job they’ve ever had but were not prepared for some of the fine print in the job description. They recognized how much information is published about how to care for a child and how to be a “good” parent, but none about being the best version of “you” in the new role. Produced by Podcast Engineers, the Mother Up podcast is a safe place where Hosmer and Simon discuss the roller coaster ride of all things motherhood. Episodes feature the pair opening up about real-life experiences and sharing statistics and research about this important point of a woman’s journey. Popular episodes have included discussions about  evolving friendships in motherhood , and the little-known term called  matrescense , or the process of becoming a mother. A myriad of expert guests join to have intimate and informative conversations that offer the support women are seeking after their six-week postpartum appointment and advice on how women can level up, or “mother up,” their lives.    With a decade of friendship under their belts, Hosmer and Simon’s dynamic provides a listening experience emulating sitting at the table with best friends expressing vulnerabilities over a glass of wine — where there’s space for healthy debate of differences, and no judgment of one’s own perceived flaws and imperfections. Mother Up is more than just a conversation. It seeks to provide guidance for moms-to-be, first-time mothers and seasoned, multi-child mamas on the intricacies of caring for themself in this unique phase of life. It promises to give moms a sense of community, balance, vulnerability, fun, wittiness and accuracy. Each episode is a new passage into the stories of everything from motherhood, skincare, postpartum care, sex, relationships and marriage to entrepreneurship, travel, recipes, career, mental health, wellness, product recommendations and more. Notable guests include Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Nazanin Saedi, Co-founder of Mary Ruth Organics, David Ghiyam; Founder and CEO of Grande Lash, Alicia Grande; and Licensed Clinical Psychologist and narcissism abuse expert, Dr. Jamie Zuckerman.   “We recognize balancing being a mom and being yourself is challenging. It seems today’s society only allows women to be sexy or covered in spit-up,” said Hosmer. “But we want to be both and want to feel confident, beautiful, strong, vulnerable, nurturing and bold doing it. We saw a similar desire from other moms and decided to create the content we were craving with the Mother Up podcast. Each episode is about ditching the pressure and embracing the real, messy and sometimes hilarious realities of being a mom.”   “It’s easy to lose yourself in motherhood. Not to mention the emotional toll brought on by lack of sleep, lack of self, lack of independence, an ungodly love of tiny dictators and interjection from society on how to handle motherhood the ‘right way’ all while trying to raise good humans, have a career, maintain a sex life and look presentable,” said Simon. “We wanted to create a space that not only helps mothers nurture their families, but also nurtures themselves. It can be hard to feel sexy and strong, physically and mentally, in the throes of motherhood. But the truth is, no one’s tougher than a mother! We hope the Mother Up podcast helps moms believe and truly feel that.”   New episodes of Mother Up are available on  Spotify ,  Apple Podcasts  and  YouTube  every Monday. For more information about Mother Up, please visit  https://www.motheruppod.com/ .   More on Mother Up Podcast: Founded by mothers and friends Kacie McDonnell Hosmer and Gianna DeMedio Simon, with the guiding principle that “no one’s tougher than a mother,” the Mother Up podcast is an off-the-cuff, sexy and fresh take on the grit of motherhood and a guide for women to become the best version of themselves in this intricate phase of life. Weekly episodes feature a myriad of guests that offer the support women are seeking after their six-week postpartum appointment and advice on how women can level up, or “mother up,” their lives. For more information, visit   motheruppod.com  and follow along on Instagram at @motheruppod . Mother Up is available on  Spotify ,  Apple Podcasts  and  YouTube  every Monday. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Mother Up Podcast

The  McMahon Mix & Mingle Inc.  will host a fundraising dinner supporting  Broward Children’s Center  at McIsland, the private residence of the McMahon Family, on Saturday, July 27, 7:30–10:30 p.m. For a $25 donation, guests will enjoy a delicious dinner buffet and an open bar.    The McMahon Mix & Mingle will benefit Broward Children’s Center,   a nonprofit organization that has been serving infants, children, and young adults with special needs since 1971. All proceeds from the event will support Broward Children’s Center’s crucial programs and medical, developmental, and therapeutic services designed to meet the specific needs of infants, children and young adults who are developmentally disabled and medically fragile and their families.    McIsland is set in a tropical paradise ambiance, curated in the McMahon’s backyard, fostering connections over delightful food and drinks. Guests are encouraged to dress in business casual or tropical attire.    The McMahon Mix & Mingle   is made possible through the heart and hard work of the McMahon family and an extensive network of friends who volunteer their time, resources and culinary skills to fuel each event. Each event is a testament to the power of community-driven efforts, embodying the belief that together, a significant impact can be made. For more information or to RSVP, please visit https://www.mcmahonmixandmingle.com/broward_childrens By ML Staff. Top image by Kiana Bosman/Unsplash

The Friends of Jack & Jill Center  – a support group of volunteers committed to developing community awareness, fundraising and program assistance for Jack & Jill Center’s  children and their families – is honored to host the 23rd Annual Power Lunch at First Baptist Downtown Event Center in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, Sept. 26, at 11:30 a.m. Neki Mohan, the vice president of Visit Lauderdale, will serve as the master of ceremonies. The event pays tribute to special and outstanding honorees in the South Florida community who have helped The Friends of Jack & Jill Center raise over $6.5 million for high-need children and families since its inception in 1999. Over 300 business professionals in Broward County are anticipated to attend the 23rd Annual Power Lunch.   In recognition of their dedication to Jack & Jill Center, the luncheon will honor Greg Young, known as Greg the Barber, as the volunteer honoree, Holman Enterprises as the philanthropic organization honoree and Stephen Distributing as the corporate honoree. These awards are bestowed to those who have gone above and beyond through their contributions and service to the Jack & Jill Center.   The proceeds from the event will benefit Jack & Jill Center’s mission to strengthen children and families through innovative education, supportive programming and community engagement. Jack & Jill Center supports children of high-need working families through quality early childhood education, elementary education, family strengthening program and HEALTH Program to ensure every child and family has the tools they need to be successful. Jack & Jill Center has served 30,000 children and families in South Florida since 1942.   Event sponsorships and underwriting opportunities are now available. Sponsorships and tickets range from $1,500 to $20,000. Individual tickets are $150. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.jackandjillcenter.org/event/powerlunch/ .   To attend the event or become a sponsor, visit https://www.jackandjillcenter.org/powerlunch/  or contact Emma Hadley, Special Events Manager at 561-889-4688 or  ehadley@jackandjillcenter.org . By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Delaney Turner/unsplash

In the world of finance, payday loans online  have emerged as a quick and convenient solution for those in immediate need of funds. Considered a form of short-term financing, these loans offer a temporary fix for unexpected expenses, bridging the gap between paydays. This guide is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of payday loans online, enabling you to make an informed decision when considering this financial option. Image by Jirapong / Adobestock How Do Payday Loans Online Work? Online payday loans work similarly to traditional payday loans, with the main difference being that the entire process, from application to repayment, happens over the internet. Borrowers apply for a loan online, providing details such as employment history and current income. If approved, funds are directly transferred into the borrower's account, usually within one business day. These loans are typically fee-based, and the full loan amount plus fees are to be repaid on the borrower's next payday. Benefits of Payday Loans Online The primary advantage of payday loans online is their convenience and speed. With online applications accessible 24/7, potential borrowers can apply whenever it suits them, without the need to visit a physical location or meet face-to-face with a lender. The entire process is fast, with instant decisions and quick funding. Moreover, online payday loans often require less paperwork and have less stringent criteria than traditional loans, making them a viable option for those with less than perfect credit histories. Points to Consider Before Applying Despite their convenience, payday loans online come with high interest rates and fees that can lead to a cycle of debt if not managed carefully. Here are a few points to consider before taking out an online payday loan: Consider alternate borrowing options:  Before opting for a payday loan, explore other options like personal loans, credit card advances, or assistance from friends and family.  Calculate the total cost:  Be sure to understand the total cost of the loan, including all fees and charges, and ensure you can comfortably meet the repayment conditions.  Read terms and conditions:  Always read the loan contract thoroughly to understand all terms and conditions, including penalties for late or non-payment.  Use responsibly:  Only use payday loans for emergencies, and never as a long-term financial solution.  Image by Tierney / Adobestock Conclusion Understanding the ins and outs of payday loans online is an essential step towards financial literacy. Recognising the potential benefits, as well as the inherent risks, will help you make informed decisions about your finances. At the end of the day, managing your personal finances responsibly can ensure your financial health in the long run. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

The popularity of kratom has surged in the United States, particularly with the convenience of online shopping. Understanding this herbal supplement, navigating its legal landscape, ensuring quality and safety, and choosing reputable vendors is crucial for consumers. This guide aims to provide comprehensive insights to empower consumers in making informed decisions. Image by Thanasate / Adobestock Understanding Kratom Kratom is a tropical evergreen tree in the coffee family, native to Southeast Asia. The leaves contain compounds that can have psychotropic (mind-altering) effects. Kratom comes in different varieties characterized by the color of the veins in the leaves: red, green, and white. Each strain is associated with slightly different effects and potency levels, making it important for consumers to understand these differences before making a purchase. Traditionally, kratom has been used in Southeast Asia for its stimulant and analgesic effects. In the US, it's used for similar purposes, often as a natural alternative for managing pain or enhancing mood and productivity. For more information on where to buy kratom , visit reputable vendors who adhere to strict quality standards and offer transparency in their sourcing and manufacturing processes. Image by Stock.Foto.Touch / Adobestock Legal Landscape of Kratom in the US Kratom's legal status in the US is complex and varies by state. At the federal level, kratom is legal, but the FDA has raised concerns about its safety and has issued warnings about potential health risks associated with its use. Many states have implemented their own regulations regarding the sale and use of kratom. Some have banned it outright, while others have imposed age restrictions or labeling requirements. It's crucial for consumers to be aware of the laws in their state before purchasing kratom online. The FDA has not approved kratom for any medical use and has raised concerns about its safety, citing risks of addiction, abuse, and dependency. The DEA has considered classifying kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance, although this has not yet been implemented. Quality and Safety Concerns The source of kratom can significantly impact its quality and safety. Consumers should research vendors carefully, considering whether they source their kratom domestically or internationally and whether they adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). GMP-compliant vendors follow rigorous manufacturing standards to ensure the safety and purity of their products. This includes proper handling, labeling, and testing procedures to minimize contaminants and ensure consistency. Reputable vendors often provide lab testing results from third-party laboratories to verify the purity and potency of their kratom products. Consumers should look for these certifications to ensure they are purchasing a safe and effective product. Image by Anucha / Adobestock Choosing a Reputable Vendor Before purchasing kratom online, consumers should research vendors thoroughly. Reading customer reviews and testimonials can provide insights into the reliability and quality of a vendor's products and customer service. A trustworthy vendor should be transparent about where their kratom is sourced from and how it is manufactured. This includes providing information about cultivation practices, processing methods, and quality control measures. Good customer service is essential when purchasing kratom online. Consumers should review a vendor's policies regarding returns, refunds, and shipping to ensure a smooth purchasing experience and recourse in case of any issues. Navigating Product Selection Kratom products should include essential information such as the mitragynine content, the main active alkaloid in kratom, and the origin of the product. This information helps consumers choose products that align with their needs and preferences. Different kratom strains have distinct effects. For example, red vein kratom is often associated with relaxation and pain relief, while green vein kratom may offer a balance of effects and white vein kratom is known for its stimulating properties. Kratom is available in various forms, including powdered leaves, capsules, and extracts. Each form has its advantages and may affect the onset and duration of effects. Consumers should consider their preferences and convenience when selecting a form. Image by Alonkorn / Adobestock Health Considerations and Risks Advocates of kratom suggest it can provide pain relief, mood enhancement, and increased energy levels. Some users report it helps them manage chronic pain or reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. However, kratom also carries risks, including potential dependency and withdrawal symptoms with prolonged use. The FDA has warned about the potential for abuse and addiction, urging caution and moderation in use. Kratom can interact with other medications and substances, potentially leading to adverse effects or reducing the effectiveness of medications. Consumers should consult with a healthcare provider before using kratom, especially if they are taking medications. Consumer Tips for Safe Usage Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing can help consumers determine their tolerance and minimize the risk of adverse effects. Dosage guidelines can vary depending on the individual's tolerance and desired effects. To reduce the risk of tolerance and dependency, it's recommended to use kratom intermittently rather than daily. Taking breaks between uses can help maintain its effectiveness and minimize potential negative effects on health. Conclusion Navigating the online kratom market requires consumers to be well-informed about kratom's effects, legal status, quality considerations, and safe usage practices. By understanding these factors and choosing reputable vendors, consumers can make informed decisions that prioritize their health and well-being. As the landscape evolves, staying updated on legislative developments and emerging research will be key to navigating the future of kratom in the US. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Ashlee Keating is a dynamic force in the pop music scene, captivating audiences with her infectious energy and empowering anthems. With her newest single " Thirsty " set to premiere this summer alongside a steamy music video, Ashlee continues to push creative boundaries. Known for her unique twists on holiday classics and her chart-topping hits like "SAUCY" and "YASSS," Ashlee has established herself as a multifaceted talent. Her singles "Hurt Me So Good" and "Bad Mistake" made major strides in the music industry, spending weeks on the Top 20 Billboard Dance/Club Chart. Beyond her musical achievements, she is a passionate advocate for women empowerment and the LGBTQ+ community, using her platform to spread messages of love, positivity, and confidence. From her early days in Broadway to her current status as a Billboard-charting sensation, Ashlee’s journey is a testament to her talent, resilience, and dedication to living your passions and making a positive impact. Miami Living (ML): Hey Ashlee!  It's such a pleasure to have you here with us. Your journey in the music industry has been incredible, and we're thrilled to dive into your latest projects and inspirations. Let's start by talking about your upcoming single "Thirsty." Can you give us a glimpse into what's in store for your fans with this new release? Ashlee: Thank you so much!! That means a lot! I’m super excited about this release! There will be a lot of fun content. I just dropped my official “ Thirsty ” merch line to pre-order on my website www.ashleekeating.com . I was shocked I sold out in my medium and large tanks in a day! There’s more in stock now. I have baby tee tanks and a fun Thirsty water bottle. There’s another BIG surprise coming as well for Thirsty that I can’t wait to share! Stay tuned ;) ML: Your journey includes being a contestant on "Star Search" and a member of Radio Disney’s “Up and Coming Artist” Incubator Program. What was that like for you at the time, and what advice would you give to young aspiring artists? Ashlee: It was an incredible experience I’ll never forget with such incredible platforms for people to hear and see my talent. Forever grateful for Disney giving me the opportunity to hear my music on the radio for the first time and go to live shows, opening up for some big artists like Demi Lovato and more. What I'd say to young aspiring artists is continue to work super hard on your craft as much as possible! If you work hard enough your dreams can come true!   ML: "SAUCY" became an anthem for both female empowerment and the LGBTQ+ community. What message do you hope to convey through your music, and how important is it for you to connect with these communities? Ashlee: Awe thank you. I always hope to convey inspiration and empowerment as much as possible. Music speaks volumes and is therapeutic. It’s very important to me to leave a strong message about self-love through my music that lives on forever and that people can dance and feel something to. ML: Your vibrant and colorful style has become iconic. Can you share how your fashion choices reflect your personality and music, and where you draw your style inspiration from? Ashlee: Thank you!! I’ve always loved fashion and expressing myself through it! I have always loved the 2000’s era of music and fashion, so I love incorporating that into everything I do and “ashleefying” it!  ML: With your strong involvement in philanthropy, particularly supporting women empowerment and the LGBTQ+ community, what are some of the most impactful moments you've experienced through your charitable work? Ashlee: Being able to give back using my platform and recognition is such an honor and blessing no matter what organization I am working with. The feeling of giving back is amazing.  ML: You've been involved in the entertainment industry since a young age, from Broadway to movies and now pop music. What has been the most challenging aspect of transitioning between these different mediums, and what has been the most rewarding? Ashlee: They are two totally different worlds, but I would say the most challenging is balancing my time between the two. The most rewarding I’d have to say is seeing reactions from both my music and any acting roles when viewed or listened to. It’s the best feeling when you put in the work.  ML: Fitness and dance play a big role in your life.  How do you incorporate these elements into your daily routine and performances, and what advice would you give to fans looking to stay active and healthy? Ashlee: Yes, they definitely do! I’m a workout-aholic LOL! It’s part of my daily routine but I take rest days as well. I love getting my endorphins going as well as doing it for my mental clarity and health. Feeling healthy in my mind, body, and soul is crucial. Dancing is just something I love! It’s self-expression, whether I’m out with friends, in the club, at a party or performing, you’ll see me dancing for sure! Haha. My advice would be to make it part of your daily routine to drink plenty of water (no pun intended - stay “thirsty”) and keep your body moving whether that’s taking walks or working out, just move your body and stay as active as possible.  ML: As we near the end of our interview, reflecting on your journey so far, what is the most valuable lesson you've learned in your career, and how do you envision your future in the music industry evolving from here? Ashlee: Man, I’ve learned a lot and will always continue to grow and learn! I’d have to say learning how to work with people and different personalities as well as learning how to manage my time effectively. Balance is important. I envision my future SO BRIGHT!! I have big goals and plans! I want to be a top 40 artist and become a household and legendary name that makes a huge impact on the world!  Social Media: Socials: IG  | TikTok | FB | Twitter  Music: Spotify , Apple Music , YouTube  Website: ashleekeating.com   By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Combina Kay & Jason Kent

M eet Roderick McClure and Joshua Ferrell, the visionary duo behind RodFather Productions, celebrated for their groundbreaking approach to storytelling in cinema. Their latest venture, Both Eyes Open , a gripping psychological thriller starring Taye Diggs and a stellar ensemble, has garnered acclaim for its bold exploration of honesty and paranoia. Known as industry "game changers," Roderick and Joshua share a remarkable journey—Roderick, a late bloomer turned pioneer, and Joshua, a compassionate people connector empowering young creatives. Together, their synergy at RodFather Productions not only elevates overlooked narratives but also fosters an unparalleled on-set environment that leaves a lasting impact on all collaborators. Join us as we delve into their cinematic legacy, their future aspirations, and the family ethos that defines their success. Miami Living (ML): Roderick and Joshua, it's a pleasure to speak with you both. Can you take us back to the beginning of RodFather Productions? What sparked the idea to collaborate and create your own filmmaking legacy together? Roderick: The idea for RodFather Productions was born out of our mutual passion for storytelling and a shared vision to bring unique, authentic narratives to the screen. From the moment we met, we connected over our love for cinema and our desire to challenge the status quo in the film industry. Joshua’s incredible ability to connect with people and my drive to push creative boundaries made us a perfect team. We wanted to create a platform that not only told compelling stories but also fostered a supportive and inclusive environment for all creatives. ML: Your latest project, the edge-of-your-seat thriller “Both Eyes Open”, has captivated audiences with its psychological depth. How did the concept for this thriller evolve, and what were some of the most rewarding moments in bringing such a gripping narrative to life? Joshua: "Both Eyes Open" started as a captivating script that immediately caught our attention. The psychological depth and the exploration of honesty and paranoia were themes that intrigued us. Our director brought a unique vision to the project, and the collaboration between the cast and crew was nothing short of magical. One of the most rewarding moments was seeing how the actors, especially Gail Bean and Joy Brunson, brought their characters to life in ways that exceeded our expectations. The entire process, from pre-production to the final edit, was an exhilarating journey. ML: Acclaimed actor Taye Diggs (The Best Man/Chicago/Rent) has spoken highly of his experience working with RodFather Productions. What do you think contributed most to the positive atmosphere on set, and how do you maintain such a supportive environment throughout filming? Valuing People: One of our foundational principles is prioritizing people. We understand that our success is built on the talent, dedication, and creativity of our team members. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, we ensure that everyone feels valued and heard. This approach not only boosts morale but also encourages collaboration and innovation, leading to better outcomes for our projects. Emphasizing Fun and Enjoyment: Creativity flourishes in an environment where people enjoy what they do. We make it a priority to ensure that our work is not only productive but also enjoyable. By incorporating fun into our processes, we foster a positive atmosphere that stimulates creativity and keeps our team motivated. Whether it's through team-bonding activities, celebrating milestones, or simply maintaining a light-hearted work culture, we believe that having fun is a critical element of our success. Commitment to Quality and Excellence: We are dedicated to delivering high-quality work in everything we do. This commitment drives us to continuously improve and strive for excellence. By setting high standards and holding ourselves accountable, we ensure that our projects meet or exceed expectations, which strengthens our reputation and builds trust with our partners and audience. This standard becomes infectious on set. ML: Roderick, you've been hailed as a pioneer and disruptor in the industry. What drives your passion for storytelling, and how do you identify the unique narratives that RodFather Productions aims to bring to audiences? Roderick: My passion for storytelling stems from my own experiences and the transformative power of cinema. Growing up, films were a window to a world beyond my own, shaping my dreams and aspirations. We look for narratives that are not only unique but also reflect diverse experiences and perspectives. Our goal is to tell real stories about real people, showcasing that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve greatness. ML: Joshua, your role as a "people connector" is integral to your work. Could you share a bit about how you cultivate relationships within the industry and empower creatives to thrive under the RodFather Productions banner? Joshua: I love to create and advocate for opportunities for people I see significant potential in. I use my network to introduce young creatives to industry professionals who can help them advance their careers. By facilitating these connections, I help them build relationships that are crucial for their professional growth. I focus on creating a supportive community. By fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support among young creatives, I help them build a network of peers who can offer advice, share opportunities, and collaborate on projects. This sense of community not only empowers them but also creates a strong support system that can help them overcome challenges together. I had the pleasure of employing over 20 mentees and associates from my network for our most recent film, Both Eyes Open. This included actors and aspiring actors who either landed key roles in the film, key background spots or made meaningful connections for future opportunities. Photographers had their work credited in a feature film for the first time, as well as musical artists who created scores that were included in the film. Additionally, I hired a friend who is a chef that has been trying to expand her business to the film industry to cater our production, and she has since been hired for three other unrelated productions as a result of the excellent service she provided for ours. I also hired friends who own professional transportation services, who have subsequently received recurring clientele from our cast even after production concluded. And the list goes on. This collaborative effort not only enriched our film but also provided valuable opportunities for everyone involved. ML: Both of you have backgrounds that include overcoming significant challenges. Can you share a moment when your love for movies helped you navigate adversity? Roderick: Growing up watching movies exposed me to a world that was totally different from the neighborhood I grew up in. It was through watching movies that my dreams, goals and aspirations were formed. I knew I wanted to be successful and explore many things. Each movie had its own unique impression on me. One example was the role of Al Pacino in The Godfather. I saw a well-dressed young man that possessed power and courage in the face of danger. He was always cool, calm and collected. I became intrigued by the storyline and interested in filmmaking. ML: Beyond the glitz of Hollywood, you're involved in philanthropy. Could you tell us about a cause or project that's particularly close to your hearts? Roderick: I love supporting domestic organizations that empower future minority leaders and serve underserved communities which even lead me to start my own non-profit organization, Millennial Bridge. We also support various mission efforts in Africa including Heart4Africa, a non-profit organization that takes in orphan babies that have been abandoned on the streets. ML: Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of RodFather Productions? Are there particular genres or types of stories you hope to explore further? Roderick: The future of RodFather Productions is incredibly exciting. We have several upcoming projects that we're passionate about, including a feature on a young African American entrepreneur who founded an airline by the age of 27. We’re also diving into animation, which opens up a whole new world of storytelling possibilities. Exploring different genres and pushing creative boundaries is what keeps us energized and motivated for the future. https://www.rodfatherproductions.com/ By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Eric Jordan

An exclusive offer for Miami Design District Shoppers Explore the Summer collection by A.L.C. at Miami Design District and enjoy $100 off when you spend $495 or more during the month of July. Present this event listing at A.L.C. Miami Design District upon checkout to redeem your offer. Applicable only on full-price items and cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid through July 31, 2024. DATE : Thursday, July 11, 2024 - Wednesday, July 31, 2024 TIME : Monday - Saturday 11AM - 7PM Sunday 12PM - 6PM ADDRESS 90 NE 40th St Miami, Florida ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of MDD

For a spectacular dining experience, head to THE VIEW Lugano , a luxury 5-star hotel that overlooks Lugano and the lake. It is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary Italian dishes. Executive Chef Diego Della Schiava leads the culinary creations at THE VIEW , alongside Sous Chefs Francesco Sangalli, Silvia Artuso, Andrea Muscari, and other highly qualified team members. Sommelier Silvia Panetto provides the perfect wine pairings, with an extensive wine selection updated monthly. Wines are curated by producers from Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland, South America, and beyond. As a member of the AIS  (Associazione Italiana dei Sommelier), THE VIEW is committed to serving some of the best wines available worldwide. Dishes at THE VIEW focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients to create Mediterranean and Swiss contemporary cuisine. For a special experience, choose either a five-course or six-course tasting menu. Notable dishes include Risotto Carnaroli Riserva S. Massimo with potatoes, mussels, tomato, and smen, as well as lamb rump in hay with wild garlic, coratella, asparagus, and yolk. If you prefer fish, try the fillet of turbot. Vegan options are also available, such as warm vegetable galantine served with sprouts and chickpea curry sauce. Weather permitting, choose a table on the terrace to enjoy the gorgeous views of Lugano and the lake. The restaurant operates during specific hours: breakfast is served from 7:30 to 10:30, lunch is available from 12:00 to 14:30 with a Bistrot menu that requires booking, and dinner is offered from 19:00 to 22:30. Address: THE VIEW Lugano Via Guidino 29, 6900 Paradiso, Switzerland Phone: +41 91 210 00 00 By Markin Abras, Senior Travel Writer. Images courtesy of The View Lugano