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

Meet 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

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

La Musa Restaurant & Rooftop Terrace, led by Executive Chef Michele Pili, offers classical Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Featured in the MICHELIN Guide Italy 2024, the restaurant is situated at ARIA Retreat & SPA in Lake Lugano (which is only about 20 minutes from Lake Como). It provides an intimate and elegant modern setting with just six tables, allowing diners to overlook the beautiful views of Lake Lugano. The tasting menu is recommended to fully experience Chef Pili’s culinary creations. The menu showcases dishes with influences from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Lepontine Alps, featuring unique textures and flavors. Chef Pili explains, “My cooking philosophy is simple, just like my concept of gastronomy. In every dish, I bring together Sardinia, my homeland, with the raw materials of the Lepontine Alps and the experiences from my travels.” Sommelier Matteo Zecchini enhances the dining experience with a curated and comprehensive wine list. The restaurant is open from 7:00 to 10:30. Tuesday to Saturday, from 12:30 to 2:30 and 7:00 to 10:30 on Sunday, and is closed on Monday. La Musa Restaurant & Rooftop Terrace Located at ARIA Retreat & SPA Cini 29, Cima, 22018, Italy +39 0344 629132 www.parco-san-marco.com/en/dining By Markin Abras, Senior Travel Writer. Images courtesy of La Musa.

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

Miami is renowned for its vibrant fashion scene, especially during Swim Week, which attracts talented designers from around the globe. Among these rising stars is Olga Nikoza, a Miami-based resort wear fashion designer who has captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts, influencers, and high fashion magazines this season with her unique creations. She showcased her 2025 collection, featuring vibrant colors with signature 3-D flower embroidery and butterfly accessories. This season, she introduced new designs made of 100% silk with her own signature prints. “It was an amazing show, and it was a pleasure to work with such a talented group of people and share the runway with star designer Rubin Singer!” said Olga. We also have to mention that this past year, Olga was acclaimed with the “Rising Star Award” in the swimwear category, presented by Fashion Group International (FGI). Her designs have been published in magazines such as Vogue, Glamour, and Harper's Bazaar.“I feel very grateful! It feels amazing when your hard work is rewarded,” Olga expressed. You can find NIKOZA Resort Wear 2025 collection at: www.nikoza.com. LEARN MORE Instagram: @nikoza_collection Website: www.nikoza.com By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Nikoza

We’re gearing up to head to Ocala, Fla. as the 70th Boys’ Junior Championship swings into action from July 6th to 8th. The Championship will unfold across two courses, Club Adena and Glenview Country Club, promising three days of intense competition. In a new format starting in 2024, all players will compete from the same tee for the Overall Championship, playing 54 holes of stroke play to crown the 70th Boys’ Junior Champion. The tournament will still recognize both a Regular Age Division (16-18) Champion and the Junior Age Division (13-15) Champion. Last year, Colton Swartz fired rounds of 66-70-70 to claim victory in the (16-18) age division. Arth Sinha was victorious in the (13-15) age division carding rounds of 73-69-72. Swartz has moved on to collegiate golf at Florida Southern, leaving Sinha determined to defend his title after recent successes in national qualifiers. Sinah qualified for the 2024 Junior PGA Championship and recorded a second-place finish at this year’s FJT Riverwood Open (16-18), with rounds of 72-70. No stranger to the Boys’ Junior Championship is Shawn Coultoff, who clinched the Champion title at the 2022 Boys’ Junior. Coultoff has had some magnificent feats since, qualifying for the U.S. Open Final Qualifying this year, along with committing to Florida State University to play on the Men’s Golf team. Also among the talent are other Florida College commits, Parker Severs and Palmer Haynes. Severs is set to take the fairways for the University of Florida, ranked 98th on Junior Golf Scoreboard, and most recently being crowned Champion of this year’s FJT Stone Creek Open (16-18). Haynes signed a National Letter of Intent to compete for the University of Central Florida Knights, starting with the 2024-25 season. Haynes was victorious at the FJT 12th Tour Championship in 2023, and most recently made the cut at the 107th Amateur Championship. Jessy Huebner, the highest-ranked junior golfer in the field, is set to tee it off at 9:09 A.M. off hole #1. Huebner, of Port St. Lucie, is ranked 59th overall on the Junior Golf Scoreboard. Clipper Salmon also has made a name for himself amidst the talented field. Salmon has a 2024 scoring average of 72.90 and made this apparent at his Amateur Championship debut. Salmon finished top 10 at 107th Amateur firing a 64 in the first round. Other notable players include Darren Zhou and Pavel Tsar. Zhou is the reigning Boys' Junior Player of the Year (2023), and finished one shot out of a play-off last year. He also clinched the 2024 Junior Orange Bowl Championship by two shots. Tsar is continuing his golf career at the University of Notre Dame. Among his other accomplishments includes qualifying for the 2024 U.S. Junior Championship. Keep an eye on the leaderboard and stay tuned for what is sure to be an exciting 70th Boys’ Junior Championship. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of FSGA. Top image by Matt Aylward/Unsplash

Maison Piaget celebrates its 150th anniversary with a virtuoso High Jewellery watch collection highlighting the extravagance and elegance of a unique style. Paying tribute to its incomparably masterful use of gold and colour, the watchmaking and jewellery Maison reinvents itself through some hundred bold, captivating pieces where the fluidity of cuff bracelets and necklaces and the radiance of the gemstones adorning them are magnified by the excellence of perfectly accomplished savoir-faire. Exalting the Piaget spirit To celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2024, Piaget rekindles its creative golden years of the 1960s and 1970s. “In 2022, when we began to design the 150 year anniversary collection,” recalls Stéphanie Sivrière, the Piaget jewellery and watch artistic director, “it wasn’t about identically reproducing heritage pieces, but rather taking inspiration from them. Revisiting those values of boldness, originality and elegance that characterize this Maison’s soul at the dawn of modernity.” Supported by the exceptional craftsmanship demonstrated at the Piaget High Jewellery workshops in Geneva, these 96 pieces are an invitation to celebrate that art of living – cheerful yet sophisticated, extravagant and colorful – which characterizes its jewellery creations. “Essence of Extraleganza” makes gold the subject and gemstones a true style element. It sets apart the women and men who will wear these pieces as free spirits seeking distinction. With a richness rarely achieved in terms of design, in the diversity of gemstones and range of designs, this 150th anniversary collection unveils its jewels in each of three emblematic Piaget realms: “Extraleganza”, “Piaget Society”, and “When mastery ignites artistry”. Emblematic realms Extraleganza - Named for its fusion of “extravagance” and “elegance”, this first chapter reveals the jeweller’s creative soul and avant-garde taste, adorned models set with exceptional stones in gold and light. The spectacular Swinging Sautoir in turquoise, malachite, and yellow sapphire – a signature Piaget piece since 1969 – is a perfect demonstration. Piaget Society - This second chapter celebrates the boldness of Piaget and its distinctive approach to jewellery. Here, richly coloured pieces make use of design and contract among gems to form a metaphor for the whirlwind life of those who wear them. When mastery ignites artistry - Under the combined influence of the Maison’s virtuosity in craftsmanship and the historical Piaget taste for the couture theme, this realm brings precious textures to gold while offering it a whole new fluidity. About Piaget Piaget epitomises daring creativity a quality that has continued to permeate through the Maison since its beginnings in 1874. From his first workshop in La Cote- aux- Fees, Georges-Edouard Piaget devoted himself to crafting high-precision movements in a feat that formed the very foundations of our pioneering name. In the late 1950s, Piaget unveiled the ultra-thin movements that would later become the Maison’s trademark and the cornerstone of the Altiplano collection. As a true innovator of the watch and jewellery world, Piaget strongly believed in creativity and artistic values. It is within the walls of our Ateliers de l’Extraordinaire where master artisans continue to harness rare skills that have been preserved and perfected from generation to generation, transforming gold, stones and precious gems into dazzling works of art.  Through its pursuit of masterful craftsmanship, the Maison has created emblems of daring excellence channeled into its collections including Alt plano, Piaget Polo, Limelight Gala, Possession, Piaget Sunlight, Piaget Rose and Extremely Piaget. ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Richemont

Hublot has teamed with contemporary artist Daniel Arsham for a groundbreaking horological creation, the Arsham Droplet. The revolutionary timepiece reimagines the classic pocket watch, blending antique form with futuristic materials and production methods. The Arsham Droplet can be enjoyed in three different ways: a pocket watch, a pendant or an eye-catching table clock. Daniel Arsham is known for his unique style of transforming everyday objects into "future relics”. The Arsham Droplet seamlessly unites Hublot's technical mastery and Daniel Arsham's distinctive artistic vision, resulting in a timepiece that pushes the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. Inspired by the organic, fluid forms found in nature, the Arsham Droplet represents a true milestone in the world of horology. Limited to just 99 pieces, the Arsham Droplet is a true collector's item. With its distinctive rounded drop shape and unparalleled complexity, the timepiece challenges conventional notions of what a pocket watch can be. The organic design is complemented by a titanium case and rubber bumpers in Arsham Green rubber with the artist's monogram stamped on the surface. Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe says: "Working with Daniel, we made the impossible possible! The Arsham Droplet is a testament to Hublot's unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of both form and function. This groundbreaking timepiece is a true work of art, seamlessly blending our horological expertise with Daniel Arsham's visionary artistic vision." ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of Hublot

The Miami Dolphins today announced they have signed five draft picks: linebacker Mohamed Kamara, safety Patrick McMorris, wide receiver Malik Washington, wide receiver Tahj Washington and running back Jaylen Wright. Kamara was selected in the fifth round (158th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. He played five years (2019-23) at Colorado State, where he earned All-Mountain West honors and was named Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year as a graduate student in 2023. He played in 49 career games with 33 starts and recorded 179 tackles (93 solo), 30.5 sacks, two passes defensed, five forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. McMorris was selected in the sixth round (198th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. He played his final season at California, where he started all 13 games and recorded 90 tackles (50 solo), 1.0 sack, one interception, eight passes defensed, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries and was named All-Pac 12 honorable mention. McMorris transferred from San Diego State, where he played four seasons (2019-22). He earned first-team All-Mountain West honors in 2021 and 2022. Malik Washington was selected in the sixth round (184th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. He played his final season at Virginia, where he appeared in 12 games with 11 starts and totaled 110 receptions for 1,427 yards (13.0 avg.) and nine touchdowns. He earned first-team All-ACC honors in 2023. Washington transferred from Northwestern, where he played four seasons (2019-22) and tallied 120 receptions for 1,348 yards (11.2 avg.) and three touchdowns. Tahj Washington was selected in the seventh round (241st overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. He played in 39 games with 30 starts over three seasons (2021-23) at Southern California, where he caught 163 receptions for 2,449 yards (15.0 avg.) and 15 touchdowns. He was named All-Pac 12 honorable mention in 2022. Washington transferred from Memphis, where he brought in 43 receptions for 743 yards (17.3 avg.) and six touchdowns as a redshirt freshman. Wright was selected in the fourth round (120th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. He played three seasons (2021-23) at Tennessee, where he appeared in 32 games with 12 starts and totaled 368 carries for 2,297 yards (6.2 avg.) and 18 touchdowns. In 2023, he started all 12 games and tallied 137 carries for 1,013 yards (7.4 avg.) and four touchdowns. His 7.4 yards per carry led all FBS running backs, earning him second-team All-SEC honors. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Miami Dolphins

Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade will host its annual black-tie “Wild About Kids” Disco Ball at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024. The event will kick off with a cocktail reception at 7 p.m. followed by a three-course dinner in the Alhambra Ballroom. South Florida’s community leaders, philanthropists and influencers will be among the guests who will experience the 70s with glitter and glamour under the disco ball. Guests will enjoy dinner, dancing, live entertainment, an engaging program and more to benefit great futures for Miami-Dade area youth. Proceeds will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s crucial programs and services at its six Clubs and sites combined including its educational after-school programs, tutoring and homework assistance, STEM, recreation, dance, arts and crafts, mentoring and summer and athletic programs. These programs help children realize their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. “Salsa Disco Queen” Lucy Grau will provide the soundtrack for the evening singing classic 70s hits from Donna Summer and more. Guests will also enjoy a unique 70s musical performance from Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s youth members. Emmy Award-winning journalist and WSVN Channel 7 News anchor Lynn Martinez will emcee the event. Supporters will have a special opportunity to sponsor a child through donations and participate in a silent auction featuring high-end items and exceptional luxury experiences. The 16th Annual “Wild About Kids Disco Ball” Gala Chair is Michelle Zubizarreta. Olga Guilarte, member of Boys & Girls of Miami-Dade’s Executive Committee, is the special event chair. Gala committee members from Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s Board of Directors include Conchi Argiz, Tom Bezold, Liana de Mena, Jackie Gonzalez, Lynda Gordon, Rudy Lleonart, Lisa Mendelson, Yuni Navarro, Kristina Perez-Cubas, Karen Rodriguez, Marianne Schmidhofer, Rae Stein, and Allison and Andy Stuart. “We’re thrilled to be back at the stunning Loews Coral Gables Hotel for 16th Annual ‘Wild About Kids’ Disco Ball. Guests will enjoy a spectacular 70s-themed evening grooving under the disco ball to help us raise funds to serve the Clubs’ many positive programs,” said Alex Rodriguez-Roig, president of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade. “The event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our Gala Chair Michelle Zubizarreta, our board members and donors who are committed to creating great futures for our area youth.” “I am honored to chair the 16th annual gala, ‘Wild About Kids Disco Ball.’ Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening of dinner, dancing and disco,” said Michelle Zubizarreta. “Most importantly, it’s an incredible opportunity to help build a better future for the kids in our community. Together we make a stronger impact and reach more children.” Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade thank the sponsors for their generous support. Sponsors include Carmen Rebozo Foundation, Gordon Alliance Foundation, Ansin Foundation, Meredith and Kenneth “Chip” Virnig, Ocean Bank, Allison and Andy Stuart, Academica, DRRT, First American Bank and Gemini. The In-kind sponsor is Total Wine & More and the media sponsor is WSVN Channel 7. Gala sponsorships and underwriting opportunities are now available. Sponsorships and tickets range from $1,250 to $75,000. For more information about sponsorship or underwriting opportunities, please contact Rhia Hunter at (305) 446-9910 ext. 108, or email rhunter@bgcmia.org or visit https://bgcmia.org/event/wakgala2024/. More on Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade has been serving youth in the community since 1946. What once was a single building and site for boys has grown to six Clubs and sites combined serving thousands of boys and girls year-round, providing programs in the areas of character and leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health and life skills, cultural arts and sports, fitness and recreation. Club staffing, initiatives, and programs are designed to inspire and enable area youth and provide them with the resources to succeed and share in the American Dream. For more information, please call 305.446.9910 or visit www.bgcmia.org, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade

Ennio Fazioli, a 94-year-old entrepreneur, continues to exude the charisma and enthusiasm that made him a respected figure in the world of design. Interestingly, Fazioli's influence has even reached Miami, where his iconic pieces are highly sought after by local collectors and design enthusiasts. Recognizing the value of his contributions to international design, Mr. Fazioli aims to celebrate the essence of "Made in Italy" through the release of exclusive patents signed by renowned Italian designers. These patents include original drawings and are intended for exhibitions, events, or potential sale, all in the interest of preserving Italian design's global presence. Celebrating over 70 years of creativity and innovation, Fazioli is set to release a historical archive of black-and-white images showcasing the events, products, and showrooms of MIM (Mobili Italiani Moderni). Founded by Fazioli in 1958 and closed in 2000, MIM has become a symbol of Italy's flourishing interior furniture industry. Since the 1960s, Fazioli has collaborated with illustrious designers such as Gio Ponti, Luigi Pellegrin, Vittorio Gregotti, Carlo Scarpa, Renato Venturi, Giuseppe Zammerini, Ico Parisi, Bruno Munari, and Ettore Sottsass, contributing to the creation of iconic design pieces. An ambassador of 100% Italian production, Ennio Fazioli represents the DNA of his brand in a global context where Italian quality holds strong appeal. He offers his extensive experience as a witness and leading protagonist of design, available for interviews, panels, conferences, and workshops that celebrate the history of Italian design. Fazioli is one of the few remaining figures able to narrate the birth of "Made in Italy" design through personal anecdotes and real-life stories. Fazioli's contributions are significant in promoting and protecting the "Made in Italy" brand, a source of global pride. The history of MIM has been characterized by its commitment to the entire furniture production cycle—from conception to distribution—thanks to Fazioli's foresight and creative flair. The historic shop in Piazza Augusto Imperatore in Rome, opened in 1964 with a project by Luigi Pellegrin, still bears the original sign designed by Bruno Munari in 1960. This shop has interpreted the trends, tastes, and lifestyle of an Italy that, during its economic boom, aspired to modernity, elegance, and international recognition. With the opening of showrooms in Paris, Brussels, and Antwerp, and hopefully one eventually in Miami, Fazioli gave a global dimension to his products by exporting them to England and the United States in the early 1980s. Since then, MIM furniture has become a timeless 'must-have,' maintaining vibrant interest among international collectors. Learn More Interested parties seeking more information regarding the opportunity to purchase MIM's products, patents, and all historical documentation of the brand, including original drawings and an extensive photographic archive, are invited to request further details by sending an email to publicrelations@allaboutitaly.net. For more information, please visit mim-design.it (content available in Italian only) or allaboutitaly.net (English only). By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Fazioli