Celebrate the holidays in style with festive cocktails at some South Florida’s best restaurants, where seasonal sips are sure to lift  spirits. Indulge in warm favorites like the Hot Chocolate Toddy at ADRIFT Mare , or enjoy a variety of creative holiday drinks such as Torno Subito’s  smoky and citrusy Down the Chimney cocktail and Delilah Miami’s  chic take on an Eggnog Espresso Martini. Whether seeking a cozy drink to unwind or a lively cocktail to toast the season, these South Florida venues offer the perfect options to get you into the holiday spirit. If you’re Downtown...Down the Chimmey at Torno Subito Torno Subito , Miami’s newest contemporary Italian hotspot by Michelin-starred Chef Massimo Bottura’s, celebrates its first holiday season in Miami by offering a unique and festive cocktail, Down the Chimney. Available until the New Year, this festive cocktail is made of Conejos Mezcal, Redemption Bourbon, mandarin juice, Amaretto and cinnamon syrup, finished with heavy whipping cream, a dash of grated cinnamon and mandarin zest –– encompassing the most merry holiday spirit. Photo Credit: Torno Subito Jingle All The Way to Delilah Miami’s Eggnog Espresso Martini Available throughout the month of December, Delilah Miami  is offering a spirited twist on a classic –– the Eggnog Espresso Martini. This rich drink, made with   Belvedere Vodka, espresso, Coffee Liqueur, cinnamon syrup and eggnog, sleighs the holiday cocktail game. Known for their white-glove service and elevated cuisine, guests can sip on the festive drink in Delilah Miami’s aesthetic indoor dining room or via the outdoor waterfront patio, boasting unbeatable views of Miami’s iconic skyline.  Photo Credit: Delilah Get Cozy With ADRIFT Mare’s Hot Chocolate Toddy This holiday season, ADRIFT Mare , located on the 25th floor of Hotel AKA Brickell, invites guests to enjoy a festive Mediterranean-inspired feast by Michelin-starred "Gypsy Chef" David Myers including the cozy Hot Chocolate Toddy. The merry concoction is a warm glass of spiked hot chocolate ideal for an after-dinner dessert drink. The exclusive cocktail is part of ADRIFT Mare’s Christmas  menu, available from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Get Jolly With LT Steak & Seafood’s 1888 Festive Old Fashioned   This holiday season, raise a glass to LT Steak & Seafood ’s 1888 Festive Old Fashioned ($17). Made  with chai tea syrup, Brugal 1888 and Angostura bitters, this seasonal cocktail delivers a taste of the holidays in every sip. Located within the iconic The Betsy South Beach , a Michelin-Key hotel, diners at LT Steak & Seafood are invited to imbibe this festive cocktail in the restaurant’s airy indoor dining room, featuring the soothing sounds of nightly live jazz from the adjacent Piano Bar. The 1888 Festive Old Fashioned pairs perfectly with selections from the restaurant’s holiday blackboard menu. Photo Credit: LT Steak & Seafood Sleigh The Day With The Tipsy Marshmallow at Sushi by Bou The acclaimed omakase concept Sushi By Bou  and its newest hidden gem location at Arlo Wynwood’s stylish Higher Ground cocktail lounge presents a cozy and creative limited-time holiday cocktail for the season. Come for omakase and the Tipsy Marshmallow ($19), made with Haku vodka, marshmallow syrup and espresso, rimmed with chocolate syrup and graham crackers before being topped with a gooey toasted marshmallow. Imagine an espresso martini marrying a s’mores.  Photo Credit: Sushi By Bou Sip, Sip, Hooray With Casa Sensei’s White Cosmo Taste a Winter Wonderland this holiday season by sipping from Casa Sensei ’s White Cosmo ($15).  Open for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the Pan-Asian and Latin American restaurant’s winter-esque cocktail is a crisp blend of vodka, St-Germain, white cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice and cranberry garnish for that pop of red and white. Pair the drink with a dish from the restaurant’s fan-favorite fusion menu — the spot has been v oted “Best Asian Restaurant” by Fort Lauderdale Magazine  for the past five years. Enjoy the Las Olas scenery and temperate winter weather from the alfresco waterfront patio or via a scenic Riverfront Gondola Tour overlooking the stunning canals of Fort Lauderdale. Photo Credit: Casa Sensei Winter Sip Wonderland at Taaza Get ready for a holly jolly time at Tinsel Tavern, a festive holiday pop-up bar transforming Taaza,  Amrit Ocean Resort ’s beachside restaurant, this December. Every Friday and Saturday night throughout the month of December, Taaza is serving up merry cocktails, mocktails and a delicious menu featuring both chilled and oven-fired delights all within a festive holiday ambiance adorned with lights, Christmas trees and an abundance of cheerful holiday decor. Holiday libations include Merry Christmas Ya Filthy Animal, made with spiced rum, peppermint, eggnog and garnished with cinnamon; the Fireside Mule, made with Islay Scotch, maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, bubbly ginger beer and roasted marshmallows; and Prancer’s Pomegranate Paloma, made with tequila, pomegranate and ginger ale. All cocktails are $18, while mocktails are $12. The outdoor pop-up bar will be open from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. and guests will receive complimentary valet parking.  Photo Credit: Taaza Jingle All The Way to Teatro Setting the stage for an immersive dining experience, Teatro  is the ideal pre- or post-show celebration spot offering  an avant-garde ambiance with a rich red color palette, a nod to the curtains on the theater stage.  The restaurant tucked on the second floor of the Adrienne Arsht Center’s  Ziff Ballet Opera House will offer limited-edition cocktails themed to this season’s performances. Inspired by Black Santa , showing from December 5-22, the Detroit Sleigh Ride features Angels’ Envy straight bourbon finished in Port Wine, martini and Rossi vermouth rosso, cinnamon-infused cranberry juice and cinnamon syrup, garnished with a cinnamon stick. Theatergoers planning to see The Miami City Ballet’s highly anticipated production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker , showing from December 13-24, can sip on The Toy Soldier, a smooth blend of Grey Goose vodka, rosemary lemon syrup and white cranberry syrup, topped with a splash of prosecco. Constellation Culinary Group , which operates Teatro, will also serve the signature libations at the bars within the theater during showtimes.  Photo Credit: Teatro ML Staff. Images credited to each mentioned restaurant.

Forethought Marketing , renowned for its dynamic approach to driving strategic growth for clients, is excited to announce the promotion of two key team members to leadership positions. Jackelyn Pericich-Insignares has been named Vice President , and Ingrid Faust has been appointed Director of Operations . These promotions underscore Forethought’s commitment to cultivating talent from within and empowering its team to spearhead innovative solutions for its clients. Miami-based agency promotes Jackelyn Pericich-Insignares to Vice President and Ingrid Faust as Director of Operations Jackie Pericich-Insignares steps into her role as Vice President , bringing her wealth of experience in client services and operational management to the forefront. In her new position, Jackie  will guide the company’s revenue strategy, ensuring that marketing initiatives are not only aligned with business objectives, but also push the boundaries of what's possible for Forethought's clients. Tasked with building and overseeing the Business Development Department, Jackie will continue to drive growth and elevate brand awareness while leading a team poised to take Forethought to new heights. "Jackie has been instrumental in shaping the heartbeat of our operations, and I’m looking forward to seeing how she’ll apply her talent for innovation to our sales and growth strategies,” said Suzanne Sarsfield Scarano, Visionary at Forethought Marketing. In her previous role as Director of Operations and Client Services, Jackie excelled at managing production schedules, coordinating with vendors, and implementing company-wide policies. Her analytical approach and problem-solving abilities have been key to delivering seamless, high-quality creative solutions. Ingrid Faust, Forethought's new Director of Operations , will be responsible for ensuring that every facet of the company’s processes and workflows is primed for efficiency and productivity. From quality assurance to performance metrics, Ingrid will take the helm of operations, focusing on streamlining internal procedures, optimizing workflow efficiencies, and overseeing critical client meetings. Her approach will fuse precision and creativity, ensuring Forethought continues to deliver exceptional service at every touchpoint. Ingrid’s ability to foster strong client relationships and seamlessly coordinate campaigns during her time as Account Manager has made her an indispensable asset. Now, as Director of Operations, she will be pivotal in driving the agency’s strategic initiatives forward. “Promoting from within is more than just a policy at Forethought—it’s a reflection of our belief in nurturing leadership from every level of our organization,” said Suzanne Sarsfield Scarano. “Jackie and Ingrid have proven their dedication, ingenuity, and passion for our clients. I have no doubt that their promotions will translate into even greater success for Forethought and our partners." These promotions are a testament to the innovative spirit that defines Forethought Marketing, as the company continues to expand its reach and impact, delivering communications solutions to encourage progress.  For more information on Forethought Marketing and the leadership team, visit forethoughtmarketing.com . By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Forethought Marketing

Living in Miami means enjoying eternal summer, vibrant culture, and unfortunately, a year-round battle with pests. Our subtropical paradise creates the perfect environment for various insects to thrive across all seasons. This guide will help you understand and prepare for Miami's most common pest challenges throughout the year. Image by antoniocuellarph / Pixabay Winter (December-February) While northern states enjoy a reprieve from insects during winter, Miami's mild temperatures keep certain pests active. American cockroaches, commonly known as palmetto bugs, often seek shelter indoors during our "cooler" months. Ghost ants also become more visible as they migrate into homes searching for warmth and food sources. Focus on sealing entry points around windows, doors, and utility penetrations during this season. Spring (March-May) Spring in Miami marks the beginning of our most active pest season. Fire ants begin expanding their colonies, creating those distinctive mounds across lawns and parks. March through May is prime termite swarming season – if you spot flying termites around dusk, it's time to call a professional. Mosquitoes also start their breeding cycle as rain patterns change. Pro tip: eliminate standing water in your yard, even in small containers like plant saucers. Summer (June-August) Miami summers bring our biggest pest challenges. Palmetto bugs reach peak activity, often appearing in bathrooms and kitchens. Mosquito populations explode, making evening activities challenging without proper protection. Carpenter ants become more visible, potentially indicating hidden structural damage. Hurricane season adds another layer of complexity – post-storm flooding can displace pests and drive them indoors in unprecedented numbers. Fall (September-November) As the mainland U.S. prepares for winter, Miami's fall brings its own pest patterns. Rodents begin seeking indoor shelter, even though our temperatures remain mild. Mosquitoes maintain strong populations until winter, and established ant colonies continue foraging. This is the ideal time to prepare your home for year-round pest prevention. Year-Round Threats Some pests ignore Miami's subtle seasonal changes. German cockroaches breed continuously in our climate, requiring constant vigilance in kitchens and food storage areas. Bed bugs maintain consistent activity levels, spreading through our tourist-heavy region. Sugar ants work tirelessly year-round, requiring ongoing management strategies. Prevention Calendar Monthly maintenance is crucial in Miami. Schedule professional pest treatments quarterly, focusing on exterior barriers. Check and repair window screens monthly – our climate accelerates wear and tear. Clean gutters before rainy season to prevent mosquito breeding grounds. Most importantly, maintain a year-round seal on exterior entry points. Local Resources Miami-Dade County offers extensive pest control resources, including free mosquito control services in many areas. For emergency pest situations, the county maintains a 24-hour hotline. Remember that our local pest control experts understand Miami's unique challenges – choose providers with extensive local experience. Climate Change Impact Recent years have shown shifting pest patterns in Miami. Breeding seasons extend longer, and we're seeing new invasive species establish themselves. What worked for pest control a decade ago may need updating as our local climate continues to evolve. Environmental Regulations: Protecting Miami's Ecosystem Miami's proximity to the Everglades, Biscayne Bay, and other sensitive ecosystems requires special consideration in pest control practices. The Miami-Dade County Environmental Protection Code establishes strict guidelines for pest management to protect our unique environment. Local Regulations All pest control Miami-Dade  companies must register with Miami-Dade County and maintain proper licensing. Treatments near schools, daycares, and healthcare facilities require 48-hour advance notice and specific low-toxicity products. Operators must maintain detailed application records and submit quarterly reports to the county. Waterway Protection Properties within 50 feet of canals, lakes, or Biscayne Bay face additional restrictions. Liquid pesticides cannot be applied within 10 feet of waterways during rain or when rain is forecast within 24 hours. Storm drain protection measures are mandatory during treatment. The county specifically prohibits certain chemicals known to harm marine life. Coastal Considerations Beachfront and coastal properties must use salt-tolerant, marine-safe pest control methods. Termite treatments near the coast require specialized barrier systems that won't leach into groundwater. Miami-Dade's "Coastal Protection Zone" restricts certain fumigants and requires wind speed monitoring during application. Violation Penalties First-time violations typically result in fines starting at $500, with repeat offenses reaching $10,000. Serious violations affecting protected waterways can lead to license suspension and mandatory remediation costs. For guidance on compliant pest control practices, residents can contact the Miami-Dade Environmental Resources Management Department or consult licensed operators familiar with local regulations. The Path Forward Successfully managing Miami's pest challenges requires understanding their seasonal patterns and maintaining consistent prevention efforts. While we can't eliminate all pests, we can create effective barriers between them and our living spaces. Remember, in Miami, pest control isn't a seasonal task – it's a year-round commitment to protecting our tropical lifestyle. By staying informed and proactive, you can minimize pest issues while enjoying everything else our beautiful city has to offer. Keep this calendar handy, and don't hesitate to contact local pest control experts when needed. After all, we may share our paradise with these creatures, but we can choose how close that relationship needs to be. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Pixabay

AI is here, for better or for worse.  However, while there are little to no complaints about how AI is helping automate menial or mechanical tasks, the subject of AI “art” is highly contentious. Can we even consider AI-generated images as art? Should we? Can Machines Be Artists? As it stands, some studies already show that most people can’t tell the difference between AI images and human artwork . These images are made by generative AI programs like Midjourney through language learning models and analyzing pre-existing images and artworks. So far, the discussion has mostly been about visual art, even if, for example, AI has already been used in music composition for movies. But how long until we see AI-generated short stories? Or videos? Or even entire films? In ChatGPT, one can already tell the program to write them a short story or a poem. And regardless of its actual aesthetic value, the resulting text is readable, coherent, and clearly follows literary conventions.  So, does that make it art? And consequently, should those who create images with generative AI be considered artists?  Defining Art in the Age of AI Well, to start, there is no consensus definition of art. There never has been, and perhaps that’s for the better. To define art is to limit what it is and what it can be, constricting creativity and imagination altogether. Ethical Concerns and Originality in AI-Generated Art Those who think AI art is not art emphasize that behind the artwork must be skill, intentionality, and expression in its pursuit of aesthetics and meaning.  There is also no originality; instead, the work of human artists is drawn from it. In fact, many artists claim that AI companies are stealing their work as they use them to train their AI. A group of more than 4,700 artists have already filed a lawsuit against these AI companies . Therefore, AI itself cannot be an artist—it’s inanimate and unconscious. The people who use AI to create their work cannot call themselves artists because they don’t actually perform the labor of the creative process. However, those who consider AI images art say that there is an art to crafting a prompt.  A Historical Perspective The involvement of technology in producing art has always been contentious since that technology was first introduced, and we have since considered the manipulation of such technology as valid artistry (photography, digital art, Photoshop, video editing, autotune, and music mixing, etc.). So, where do we draw the line? If you can’t—or shouldn’t—define what art is, we also cannot define what it is not. But perhaps more important than semantical debates or discussions of who or who doesn’t get to call themselves an artist is a more practical consideration: will AI replace artists? Will it get people out of jobs? Will AI Replace Human Artists? It’s no secret that technology has made many jobs obsolete throughout history. Graphic designers are already expressing concern, with companies using generative AI to create things like logos, posters, or video thumbnails.  Even art-adjacent endeavors, like, say, blog writing or creating YouTube videos— which many would say aren’t exactly art forms on their own but do include artistic aspects — already heavily involve AI.  Some say that AI will only fully replace the lower-skill, entry-level jobs. Jobs that require great artistic vision, something that many would agree AI does not have (or at least not yet), will not be replaced. We might see AI create logos, but movie directors or creative heads need not fear.  Collaborating with AI: A Path Forward for Artists And so the most positive, “the truth is in the middle” sort perspective—which seems to reflect the growing trend—is that people involved in art, regardless of skill level, should probably learn how to work with AI.  The most common example is using it for more efficient idea generation or editing. This approach combines the best of both worlds: the speed of AI with the subjectivity of a human mind. Most likely, just as with past technological revolutions, those who succeed are the ones who learn to adjust and adapt. After all, the world is only getting increasingly more digital. We’re spending swathes of our days looking at a screen, running entire businesses from a single computer, and even constantly getting at risk of having our online identity stolen. Try a VPN  to avoid having your sensitive information hacked as an artist. And just as we’ve been having the ongoing discussion about how the digitally-mediated connections we form on social media aren’t real human connections, we now need to determine if something as uniquely human such as art can be created by machines. Finding Balance Between Human and Machine Creativity Truth be told, volumes and volumes of books can be written about this topic. But perhaps it is too early—generative AI is only a few years old. For better or for worse, we have yet to see the scale and extent of its impact, and we have yet to see all the arguments on both, all, and any sides. But as of now, studies show that most people still like human art better than AI-generated ones , even if they often cannot tell the difference and can’t say why. If anything, that shows that AI can’t replace human creations, at least not fully. Perhaps this may change and perhaps it might not. The only thing we can be sure of is that it’s ultimately up to us to define what place AI ought to have in art. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Feeding South Florida ® , the leading hunger-relief organization in South Florida – celebrated its inaugural gala, with the theme of Emerald Peacock, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. The black-tie event, presented by Ryder System Inc., raised over $600,000 to support Feeding South Florida’s mission to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food, leading hunger and poverty advocacy efforts and transforming lives through innovative programming and education. Stephanie Wicky South Florida’s most impactful philanthropists, top community leaders and influencers were among the 320 guests who enjoyed a three-course dinner, dancing, live entertainment, an engaging program and more to raise crucial funds to fight food insecurity in South Florida. The event kicked off with a cocktail reception where Violinist Lexey performed. Co-chairs Steve Stowe, vice president and executive director of the Miami HEAT Charitable Fund, and Stephanie Wicky, vice president of marketing at Ryder Systems, Inc., welcomed guests to an unforgettable evening. Feeding South Florida President and CEO Paco Vélez shared heartwarming antidotes from his tenure leading the organization and how the funds raised throughout the evening would benefit food-insecure families in South Florida. Celebrated entertainment reporter Lisa Petrillo of CBS News Miami emceed the evening and engaged with the crowd alongside the first official female DJ of the Miami HEAT DJ Amaris Estevez who provided the soundtrack for the celebration. Feeding South Florida Board Chair Chris Mellgren addressed the crowd about his support and experience leading the organization’s Board. The event honored students from Feeding South Florida’s workforce training programs including Rubi Hierro, a graduate of the Culinary Training Program, and Roy Barnes, a graduate of the Warehouse Workforce Training Program. Feeding South Florida is dedicated to breaking the cycle of hunger and poverty not only by providing food, but also increasing self-sufficiency through job training and workforce development programs. Guests also heard the story of David Brown and Kayla Mason. Feeding South Florida not only connected this family with food support but also walked them through applications for vital resources to lift the overwhelming burden of their financial struggle and renewed their sense of stability and hope. Their story reflects the heart of Feeding South Florida’s mission: providing not just food, but empowerment, dignity and the tools families need to thrive, even in their toughest moments. Tony Tedaldi presented Gift from the Heart, where supporters had the opportunity to sponsor Feeding South Florida families through donations. Guests also participated in live and silent auctions featuring high-end items and exceptional luxury experiences including a Miami HEAT VIP Experience, a Goodyear Blimp ride, a Master’s Package, a stay at Casa Piazza in Mexico and an Epicurean Delight with Chef Susan Taves, MS. “We are humbled by the support from all those who joined us at our inaugural gala at the stunning Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino,” says Velez. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our co-chairs Steve Stowe and Stephanie Wicky, our board members and donors who made the night a success, and their ongoing commitment to our mission to end food insecurity in South Florida. The evening helped us continue to raise much-needed funds to put food on the table for South Florida families who need it the most.” “Feeding South Florida’s inaugural annual gala was a truly spectacular evening,” adds Wicky. “It was an honor to co-chair this event alongside Steve Stowe, as we work together to nourish our neighbors in need. The evening celebrated all the phenomenal work that Feeding South Florida does and raised awareness and funds for the future impact the organization will continue to make in the South Florida community.” Stephanie Wicky and Steve Stowe “I am proud to serve as co-chair for the Feeding South Florida’s inaugural gala and have worked with this incredible organization for so many years,” says Stowe. “Supporters enjoyed an exceptional evening of entertainment, dancing and dinner while raising crucial funds to make an indelible difference in the lives of South Floridian families who are experiencing food insecurity.” Gala committee members included Stephanie Wicky, Abigail Hutchings, Bree Diaz, Colleen Colistra, Helene Kafka, Ileana Rionda, Jennyfer Paola Uzor, Luis Davila, Kelly Murphy, Michael Block, Nicole Lasseter, Sandra Delgado De Oramas, Paula Renaldo and Soni Laing. Feeding South Florida is grateful for the generous sponsors for their support including Presenting Sponsor Ryder System, Inc., Diamond Sponsors the Siskind Family and JM Family Enterprises and Sapphire Sponsors Costco and The Friedlander Group at Morgan Stanley. ML Staff. Photo Credit: Austen Amacker

Italian luxury furniture and accessories brand Henge has unveiled its first flagship store in the United States, located in Miami's vibrant Design District. The 3,700 sf. showroom, opened during Miami's cultural week and the 2024 edition of Design Miami, underscores the brand's commitment to global expansion. Conceived as a "design atelier," the showroom offers architects, designers, and enthusiasts an immersive experience showcasing Henge's distinctive aesthetic, blending artisanal craftsmanship with contemporary design. Iconic pieces and new releases are displayed in a setting that emphasizes striking contrasts and material harmony. Showroom Highlights Oneon Kitchen : A statement piece by Massimo Castagna featuring a matte Ice Onyx stone island paired with metal accents and thermally treated wood. Gentle Sofa : Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, this sofa combines soft lines and premium materials for a sleek, modern look. Floyds Lights Collection : Created in collaboration with Venini and Ugo Cacciatori, this Murano glass lighting series showcases masterful blown glass artistry. Spyder X Lighting : A modular lighting system by Massimo Castagna offering customizable configurations. He-She Side Tables : Sculptural and elegantly backlit, these tables by Ugo Cacciatori marry innovation with functionality. Downtown Sofa : A contemporary piece by Massimo Castagna that balances style with comfort. “The opening of the Miami flagship store is a key moment in our global vision. Miami is a vibrant city, a crossroads of cultures and design, making it the perfect place to showcase Henge’s essence. This space is more than a showroom; it’s a place where clients can immerse themselves in our philosophy, feel the craftsmanship of our creations, and enjoy a unique experience. We are thrilled to bring our design language to one of the most dynamic cities in the world,” – Paolo Tormena, CEO of Henge. With every piece handcrafted in Italy using carefully selected materials, the Henge Miami showroom exemplifies the brand’s dedication to timeless design and luxury. This flagship opening marks a pivotal moment in Henge’s international growth, bringing its sophisticated vision of design to a wider audience. For more information, visit the new Henge showroom in the Miami Design District. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Henge

Miami-Dade Countyhas made history by hosting the first-ever official, exclusive welcome event for accredited international media attending the 25th GRAMMY LATINOS ® Awards , underscoring the destination’s position as the global capital of Latin music and culture. The historic reception, held at  The Epic Hotel in Downtown Miami , was attended by industry figures including David Whitaker , President & CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau  (GMCVB); Daniella Levine-Cava , Mayor of Miami-Dade County ; Manuel Abud , CEO of The Latin Recording Academy ® ; Clarissa Molina , Univision journalist and EMMY Award winner; and Stephen Neuman, Vice President of Global Government Affairs for American Airlines . “ Welcoming the LATINOS GRAMMY Awards® to Miami-Dade  County is not only a celebration of Latin music, but also a testament to the vital role Miami plays as a cultural capital,” said David Whitaker, President and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This iconic event is a powerful platform to showcase Miami ’s dynamic arts and cultural scene , diverse communities and thriving economy. We are honored to host this historic event and celebrate our position at the intersection of multicultural heritage, culture, sports, entertainment and music.” The return of the Latin GRAMMYs to Miami marks the third time the awards have been held in Greater Miami, with previous years including 2003 and 2020, the latter behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Miami -based Latin Recording Academy chose Miami to emphasize the destination’s pivotal role in the world of Latin music, as well as its status as a global gateway to the Americas. “Hosting the LATINOS GRAMMY Awards not only honors our community’s vibrant Latin roots, but also highlights our county as a global hub for culture and entertainment,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava . “We are so proud that Miami-Dade County will once again host the LATINOS GRAMMY Awards. As thousands of visitors are expected to fill our hotels, dine at our restaurants, and visit our small businesses, our workers and entrepreneurs will directly benefit as they boost our local economy.” Miami 's world-class venues shine during LATIN GRAMMY Week Throughout LATIN GRAMMY Week , premier venues across Greater Miami will showcase the destination’s event infrastructure and vibrant offerings. Events and celebrations will take place at The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts , The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science , The Miami Beach Convention Center , The Kaseya Center , and many hotels including The Kimpton EPIC Hotel , The Loews Miami Beach Hotel , and The Faena Hotel Miami Beach . Together, these spaces help highlight Miami ’s unique ability to host the world’s most prestigious events while providing artists and media with unparalleled experiences. “We are proud to be the Official Airline of the 25th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards , especially now that it is returning to Miami , the airline’s largest gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean,” said American Airlines Vice President of MIA Operations Juan Carlos Liscano . “Events of this magnitude attract thousands of travelers to the Miami metropolitan area and that would not be possible without a strong partnership with Miami-Dade County and the GMCVB. As Miami ’s Hometown Airline , we are committed to connecting communities and celebrating our diverse culture with deep roots in Latin America.” A cultural tapestry of music, art and innovation Miami and Miami Beach ’s connection to Latin culture is reflected in its music and arts, making it a natural home for the Latin GRAMMYs. From the colorful street art of Wynwood to Art Basel in Miami Beach and the Art of Black Miami , the destination offers a multicultural and artistic landscape that resonates with artists and audiences from around the world. The LATIN GRAMMY Awards bring the eyes of the world to Greater Miami and the destination proudly stands as a birthplace of creativity, culture and connectivity in Latin music, reaffirming its status as the ultimate destination for artists, industry leaders and fans. About the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is an accredited not-for-profit sales and marketing organization whose mission is to attract visitors to Greater Miami and Miami Beach for leisure, business, meetings and conventions. For a vacation guide, please visit their website at MiamiandMiamiBeach.com or call 1.888. 76. MIAMI (US/Canada only) or 305.447. 7777. To reach the GMCVB offices, please dial 305.539.3000. Meeting planners may call 1.800.933.8448 (US/Canada only) or 305.539.3071 or visit MiamiMeetings.com . To further engage with Miami , join the conversation by following us on our social media channels at Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . By ML Staff. Courtesy of GMCVB

Scanlan Theodore is pleased to invite you to celebrate the launch of Summer 25. Join them for an intimate cocktail event as they unveil their latest collection available exclusively at Bal Harbour Shops. ACCESS Preview 5–6 pm. Launch Event 6–8 pm. RSVP: balharbour@scanlantheodore.com . Not an Access Member? Join today . DATE AND TIME: Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM LOCATION: Scanlan Theodore ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of Bal Harbour Shops

Challenging Works for Violin and Piano written in Russia or France performed by all 9 members of the Castleman Violin Studio. Date and Time: Wednesday, January 22, 2025 7:30pm Location: Newman Recital Hall By ML Staff. Courtesy of Frost School of Music

The Big World , focusing on depictions of the land in The Wolfsonian's collection, challenges expectations of landscape art as it goes beyond bucolic scenes to reveal changing vistas of the modern era rendered in paintings, the decorative arts, and even a grand piano. The exhibition charts a course through the end of the 19th century and into the first half of the 20th, outlining the story of global growth and shifting ideas about the world around us—from pristine nature, to its radical alteration in modern urban and industrial centers, to panoramas ruined by war and environmental disregard. Date and Time: August 30, 2023–May 25, 2025 Location: The Wolfsonian–FIU @ 1001 Washington Avenue Starting November 21, 2024, keep an eye out in the galleries for labels by students from FIU professor John Bailly's Honors College class. Inspired by select landscapes in The Big World , these creative writings offer new perspectives on the exhibition's themes. By ML Staff. Courtesy of The Wolfsonian–FIU

Jaeger-LeCoultre is pleased to announce the appointment of Jérôme Lambert, currently Richemont Group Chief Operating Officer, as Maison Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2025. Jérôme Lambert has had a distinguished career within Richemont, having notably served as Chief Executive Officer of Jaeger-LeCoultre and the Richemont Group. “It is with profound honour and genuine pleasure that I return to the Grande Maison, the place where I first set foot into the magnificent world of Swiss watchmaking. This opportunity is both a privilege and a homecoming to the craft and heritage that have shaped my career.” Jérôme will be able to bring to bear his deep knowledge of the watch industry and affinity with the Maison as well as his vast Group experience to maintain its pioneering role in Swiss watchmaking and ensure its long-term success.   About Jaeger-LeCoultre: The Watchmaker of Watchmakers™   Since 1833, driven by an unquenchable thirst for innovation and creativity, and inspired by the peaceful natural surroundings of its home in the Vallée de Joux, Jaeger-LeCoultre has been distinguished by its mastery of complications and the precision of its mechanisms. Known as the Watchmaker of Watchmakers™, the Manufacture has expressed its relentlessly inventive spirit through the creation of more than 1,400 different calibres and the award of more than 430 patents. Harnessing 190 years of accumulated expertise, La Grande Maison’s watchmakers design, produce, finish and ornament the most advanced and precise mechanisms, blending passion with centuries-old savoir-faire, linking the past to the future, timeless but always up with the times. With 180 skills brought together under one roof, the Manufacture creates fine timepieces that combine technical ingenuity with aesthetic beauty and a distinctively understated sophistication. jaeger-lecoultre.com ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Richemont

While he was still in his teens, Anthony van Dyck swiftly worked his way up the ranks in Peter Paul Rubens ’s studio in Antwerp. Rubens would go on to describe him as ‘the best of my pupils’. In 1621, now in his early twenties, Van Dyck felt the time was right to move on — to embark on a fresh chapter of his career, in Italy. It’s said that, before doing so, he made a noteworthy exchange of gifts with his master. Van Dyck reportedly produced a handful of pictures for Rubens, including perhaps the portrait of the latter’s wife Isabella , today found in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. In return, aware of the younger man’s love of horses, Rubens gifted one of the finest steeds from his stable for Van Dyck’s use on his travels. According to Thomas Gambier Parry, the esteemed 19th-century collector, the horse in question was traditionally thought to have been the same one as appears in the painting An Andalusian horse . This landmark work by Van Dyck is being offered in Old Masters Part I at Christie’s during London Classic Week. Sir Anthony van Dyck (1599-1641), An Andalusian horse (recto); A wooded landscape — a sketch (verso) . Oil on canvas. 52 x 41¾ in (132 x 106 cm). Estimate: £2,000,000-3,000,000. Offered in Old Masters Part I on 3 December 2024 at Christie’s in London Created around 1621, shortly before the artist set out for Italy, An Andalusian horse features a grey stallion before an open landscape. It is painted with remarkable fluency and vigour, demonstrating the young artist’s bravura technique. Adopting a prepared grey ground, Van Dyck used rapidly brushed strokes of dark brown paint to articulate the outline of the horse’s body, before lavishly applying highlights in lead white to capture its modelling. The result is a forceful image of equine power. It was also the artist’s first grand-scale picture of a horse without a rider — the first of many across his career. Hailing from the Iberian peninsula, the Andalusian was, even by Van Dyck’s day, a long-established breed of horse. It was highly prized by Europe’s elite, renowned, among other attributes, for its beauty, brains, athleticism and flowing mane. King Henry VIII of England is known to have received a number of these horses as presents upon his wedding to Catherine of Aragon in 1509. His compatriot William Cavendish, 1st Duke of Newcastle, a celebrated breeder, would describe the Andalusian as ‘the noblest horse in the world’, adding that ‘from the tip of its ears to the tip of its hoofs, there is none to match its cut’. Sir Anthony van Dyck (1599-1641), Portrait of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, on Horseback, circa 1620. Oil on canvas. 75⅒ x 48⅖ in (191 x 123 cm). The Uffizi Galleries, Florence. Photo: Bridgeman The picture coming to auction has long been regarded as a preparatory work for a portrait Van Dyck made of Charles V , the Holy Roman Emperor, on horseback. That portrait dates from around the same year, 1621, and is found in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. Charles V had died a few decades earlier, and the painting was very likely commissioned posthumously by one of his descendants. Van Dyck would base his composition on the equestrian portrait of the ruler by Titian, Emperor Charles V at Mühlberg (1548) — today part of the collection of the Prado in Madrid. It is Van Dyck’s earliest surviving piece of equestrian portraiture, a genre he helped take to new heights in the mid-17th century. His two pictures of King Charles I of England on horseback from the 1630s — painted during a decade when he lived in London, and today found in the Royal Collection and the National Gallery — rank among the most famous equestrian portraits in the history of Western painting. Sir Anthony van Dyck (1599-1641), Equestrian Portrait of Charles I, circa 1638-39. Oil on canvas. 144½ x 115 in (367 x 292.1 cm). National Gallery, London. Photo: Bridgeman Writing in The Burlington Magazine in 2002, the art scholar Sir Oliver Millar suggested that when Van Dyck started work on the picture we now know as An Andalusian horse , he may actually have intended it to be the portrait of Charles V he had been commissioned to paint. For some reason, though, he wasn’t quite happy, cut down the canvas at an early stage, and adapted it for use instead as a study for the horse in the final painting (now in the Uffizi). Sir Oliver’s suggestion was prompted by an X-ray of An Andalusian horse carried out in the early 2000s, which hinted that Van Dyck had begun to paint, then erased, an armoured rider on the stallion’s back. As documented in the video above, the picture underwent infrared analysis earlier this year, which revealed, in fact, the underlying traces of a saddle and stirrups ready to receive a rider, albeit with no trace of the man himself. The painting was last offered for sale at Christie’s in 2000, and it was around then that a conservator removed a relining canvas that had been applied at some point to the back of An Andalusian horse . A rare landscape study was discovered on the reverse of Van Dyck’s canvas. Unknown for centuries, A wooded landscape — a sketch occupies an important place in the artist’s oeuvre. Though Van Dyck is recorded as having painted a number of independent landscape pictures, this is his only surviving work in oils in that genre. Executed in loose brushstrokes, it shows a steep, tree-covered bank on the left, which slopes down to a lake where a dog is seen drinking. The landscape on the reverse of Van Dyck’s An Andalusian horse . Its revelation, following the removal of a later relining canvas, marked an important addition to the artist’s oeuvre, as it is the only surviving landscape in oils from his entire career Millar raised the possibility that the work might have been a study used by Van Dyck when painting the landscape backdrop to a portrait now in the Louvre . The sloping bank is common to both images. (Painted around 1620, the portrait is believed to be of the Antwerpian civic official Joannes Woverius, with his young son.) When the aforementioned Gambier Parry acquired An Andalusian horse in 1859, he was unaware of the landscape study on the back. In making the purchase, he saw off competition from Sir Charles Eastlake, who was looking to secure the work for the National Gallery, the institution of which he was director. Gambier Parry hung the painting at Highnam Court, his home in Gloucestershire, where he also kept a fine collection of early Italian Renaissance pictures by the likes of Bernardo Daddi , Fra Angelico and Pesellino . It stayed within his family, by descent, until the sale in 2000. (Much of Gambier Parry’s collection remains intact at the Courtauld Institute of Art in London.) Van Dyck’s expressive use of paint in An Andalusian horse is typical of his formative years in Antwerp, when his works were characterised by a rich and varied texture. This was in contrast to the more restrained, courtly style that brought the artist success in his portraits of powerful patrons in England — both with horses and without. Van Dyck died in London in 1641, at the age of 42. According to Giovanni Pietro Bellori, writing in his biography of the artist a few decades later, Van Dyck excelled in portraiture which ‘apart from physical likeness… gave a certain nobility to heads, and grace to poses’. Bellori was talking about human subjects, but his words might well also apply to the subject of An Andalusian horse . ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Christies. Click here  for the latest Christies auctions