Brett Rose and Kevin Janser, the board chair and president of the Memorial and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundations, recently presented a check for $15 million to South Broward Hospital District commissioners. The dollars were raised by the nonprofit organizations during capital campaigns for the construction of the Memorial Cancer Institute and expansion of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. It is the most recent payment made by the foundations to support programs, services, and facilities within Memorial Healthcare System. Scott Wester, Laura Raybin Miller, Steven Harvey, Elizabeth Justen, Brett Rose, Kevin Janser, Doug Harrison, and Brad Friedman “The contributions from our donors have had an immense and meaningful impact, and we feel honored to be beneficiaries of their kindness and goodwill,” said Janser. In the past five years, fundraising efforts by Memorial’s foundations have raised $107 million, including $56 million to assist the four-story expansion of the children’s hospital. The Memorial Foundation (www.mhs.net/about/foundation) and Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Foundation (www.jdch.com/give-back/foundation) raise funds philanthropically to assist patients, families, and underwrite the cost of programs, facilities, and equipment within the Memorial Healthcare System. To learn more or make a donation, please call 954.265.3454 or visit them online. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Memorial Healthcare System

Locality Bank, in collaboration with the Financial Services Volunteer Corps (FSVC), hosted a distinguished delegation of Iraqi bankers at its headquarters in Fort Lauderdale on Monday, May 13th, 2024. This initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, aimed to enhance micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Iraq. Nadia Abdul Hadi Mohamed, Widyan Kazem Mahdi, George Sanchez, Husseinn Abdulameer Jaber Ibadi, Elsa Rizk, Aysia Moroney, Rana Daou, Wattan Al-Taie, Drew Saito, Ali Abdulkareem Ridha Kinani, Dani Zyad Salman Husaini, Alaa Fayeq Dharir Al-Salihi The FSVC initiative is particularly pertinent given the challenging financial landscape in Iraq, where access to credit is severely limited, placing the country at 185 out of 190 nations according to the World Bank. Factors stifling MSME financing include inadequate lending processes, a poor grasp of MSME business models and risks, and stringent collateral requirements, as noted by the Iraqi Private Banking League (IPBL). The delegation, visiting under FSVC’s program, engaged in comprehensive discussions led by Drew Saito, Locality Bank’s Co-Founder and Chief Lending Officer, and George Sanchez, SBA Business Loan Specialist. The focus was on the bank’s successful local lending strategies and the innovative technologies it employs. Particular attention was given to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) program and its role in empowering local businesses, an area of keen interest to the Iraqi delegation. Locality Bank SBA Business Loan Specialist George Sanchez and Locality Bank’s Co-Founder and Chief Lending Officer Drew Saito “We were privileged to share our approaches to MSME financing and showcase how we leverage the SBA program to support local businesses,” said Saito. “These interactions are not only about sharing knowledge but also about fostering long-term partnerships.” The program included exploring the relationship management practices that Locality Bank utilizes to support its clients, especially micro and small businesses. Aysia Moroney, FSVC Program Officer for the Iraq project, stated, “The exchanges between Locality Bank and the Iraqi delegation were invaluable in assisting the delegation to gain practical insights on how they can strengthen their MSME lending processes and their support for small businesses in Iraq.” “It was enlightening to share strategies for empowering small businesses with our Iraqi counterparts,” said Keith Costello, CEO and Co-Founder of Locality Bank. “We hope these insights inspire meaningful advancements in Iraq’s banking sector to bolster their local economy.” FSVC Iraq Study Tour This event is part of FSVC’s ongoing efforts to foster a more inclusive and dynamic financial landscape for MSMEs in Iraq. To stay up to date on Locality Bank visit www.localitybank.com. About Locality Bank Locality Bank is a digital-first community bank based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The bank serves local businesses by offering the traditional services of a community bank as well as user-friendly, cutting-edge technology. The digital-first community bank is located at 1400 South Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale. To learn more, contact Locality Bank by calling 954-799-0900, visiting www.localitybank.com or via email at info@localitybank.com. You can also follow Locality Bank on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Locality Bank

This Spring, prepare to redefine your living spaces with Wallure Home, a visionary design studio and boutique bridging the gap between elegance and practicality in home furnishings. At the heart of Wallure Home lies a simple, yet profound philosophy: storage solutions should not only fulfill their purpose, but also elevate the beauty of your interiors. We sat down with Miami-based founder Alex Shamis who shared more about her vision for Wallure Home and the debut of the brand's two key pieces. Can you tell us about your background and how you came up with the idea for Wallure Home? I unearthed my love for design when working for my father in his hotel manufacturing business. My father taught me the intricacies of the furniture industry, including the meticulous attention to detail required to create luxury pieces. During this time, I purchased my first home in Miami and began the interior design process with the wonderful Christie Fantis at Casa By Christie. As we were renovating, I found immense passion in organizing and began searching for storage solutions. During this process, I encountered an absence of storage options that were both practical and visually stunning. This realization sparked my vision to bring function and beauty to those who appreciate refined design. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Wallure Home’s debut pieces? Wallure Home is launching with the debut of "The Bella" beauty cabinet and "The Scarpa" shoe console, which were inspired by the need for statement pieces and discreet organization in the entryway and bathroom. One of my biggest pet peeves is shoes all over the house, which led to the idea of one convenient place for shoes, hidden and not exposed for us to see. The beauty cabinet was designed to help us organize our cosmetics and simplify our getting-ready routine. With the vast array of products many of us own today, I aimed to create a functional and stylish piece that would elevate the look of any space. Can you share more about some of the design details and features in The Bella and The Scarpa that balance functionality and elegance? Each piece from Wallure Home is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship, meticulously fashioned with an unwavering commitment to detail and the finest materials. The Scarpa, with its white oak wood, Calacatta quartz top, and tan Italian leather-lined drawers, offers a distinguished home for your footwear. It features adjustable shoe shelves, a drawer with a built-in power strip for charging, and a side hook for hanging your purse or umbrella. The Bella redefines the storage of skincare and makeup, featuring soft-closing drawers lined with the same luxurious leather, a dropdown shelf for convenience, and a built-in power strip for your hair tools. It also features drawer organizers that can be used to efficiently store your cosmetics. How did your experience renovating your homes in Miami and Jackson Hole influence the vision for Wallure Home? Throughout the renovations of my two homes in Miami, Florida and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, I was able to work with entire spaces, in separate but uniquely beautiful locations. I worked with my amazing and inspiring interior designer (Christie at Casa by Christie) to bring my dreams to life. The challenges I encountered allowed me the opportunity to navigate the entire intricate process, from envisioning layouts to meticulously selecting each piece of furniture, providing firsthand insight into the importance of harmonizing functionality with style. This fueled my ambition to establish a furniture brand that mirrors this journey of transformation and refinement. During this process, I came across an absence of storage options that were both functional and beautiful, which both homes required. What’s next for Wallure Home, both in terms of product offerings and market expansion? Wallure Home is working on exciting new pieces! We plan to bring you more elegant storage that doubles as décor, and we are just getting started!  With each meticulously crafted piece, we aim to instill harmony, simplicity, and beauty into people's daily lives. Follow Wallure Home on social at @WallureHome By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Wallure Home

As the summer heat begins to sizzle, anticipation is mounting for the highly awaited Paraiso Miami Swim Week 2024, promising an exhilarating fusion of fashion, music, and wellness from May 30 to June 2. Acacia Miami Swimweek, Adrian E. Morales This year's event, which continues to elevate its status as a premier platform for swimwear and resort wear, boasts an impressive lineup of renowned brands, electrifying musical performances, and enriching wellness experiences. With registrations now open, attendees are gearing up for an unforgettable journey into the vibrant world of swim fashion. Maiyo Campaign Building upon the success of past editions, Paraiso Miami Swim Week 2024 promises to captivate audiences with a plethora of highlights. Among the headliners are esteemed brands that have graced the PARAISO Runways before, including Sinesia Karol and SHAN, renowned for their high-end resort wear and exquisite swimwear creations. Sinesia Karol, known for its elevated design sensibility and impeccable craftsmanship, will showcase its latest collection, captivating audiences with its blend of sophistication and allure. Similarly, SHAN will dazzle with its haute couture swimwear designs, setting new standards of elegance and style. Adding to the excitement, Leslie Amon will debut at swim week, sponsored by CoverGirl, presenting iconic luxury swimwear that seamlessly blends elegance with functionality. Drawing inspiration from the mesmerizing interplay of colors and contrasts between land and sea, Leslie Amon promises to deliver a visual spectacle that embodies the essence of summer glamour. Rounding out the roster of featured brands are industry stalwarts such as Luli Fama, PQ Swim, Chloe Rose, and Hunting Hue, ensuring a diverse and captivating showcase of swim fashion trends. Beyond the runway, Paraiso Miami Swim Week 2024 will host a series of engaging off-site experiences, including collaborations with Seafolly, Kulani Kinis, Dippin’ Daisy’s, Nike Swim, and Sigal, promising attendees an immersive journey into the world of swimwear culture. In addition to the fashion extravaganza, attendees can look forward to the highly anticipated Summer Fashion Summit, featuring insightful conversations with industry leaders. Among the esteemed speakers are Ron Grudland, CEO of Gottex; Sylvie McCallum, Chief Marketing Officer of Seafolly; and Australian entrepreneur Eloise Monaghan, founder of Honey Birdette, who will share her journey of building and selling her retail empire for $440 million. As the countdown to Paraiso Miami Swim Week 2024 begins, fashion enthusiasts, industry insiders, and wellness aficionados alike are gearing up for an unforgettable celebration of style, creativity, and summer vibes. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unparalleled experience — register now and prepare to dive into the ultimate summer extravaganza. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Paraiso Miami Swim Week.

In Florida's vibrant cities, where looks and wellness are prioritized, more men are opting for Permanent male enlargement surgery in Florida as a solution to enhance their physical attributes. These choices aren't just about aesthetics – they're also about improving self-confidence and fulfilling personal goals. This trend highlights a shift in attitudes toward male body image and self-assurance. This article aims to shed light on the information surrounding permanent male enlargement surgery Florida or penis enlargement surgery Florida. Rising Popularity of Permanent Enhancements The appeal of permanent male enhancement reflects a significant change in personal improvement strategies among men. Gone are the days of temporary fixes. Today, Florida men are choosing lasting solutions that make a profound difference in their quality of life and social interactions with penis enlargement surgery Florida. The trend of permanent male enhancement has been fueled by a growing awareness of the transformative power of these procedures. Men are realizing that investing in their physical appearance can lead to increased self-esteem, better romantic relationships and even improved professional opportunities. As more success stories emerge, the popularity of these treatments continues to soar, encouraging even more men to explore their options for lasting change regarding permanent male enlargement surgery Florida. Cost and Value Considerations in Choosing Permanent Male Enlargement Surgery For many, assessing the cost of permanent male enlargement surgery is a major step. It’s about more than just finding an affordable option – it's about investing in a procedure that brings lasting value when looking at the permanent male enlargement surgery cost. Clinics in Florida not only offer competitive pricing but also expert guidance to help clients understand the long-term benefits compared to the cost, ensuring decisions align with both finances and personal goals. While the upfront cost of permanent male enlargement surgery may seem substantial, many men find that the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. By choosing a reputable clinic with experienced medical doctors, patients can feel confident that they are receiving top-quality care that will deliver the desired results. Additionally, financing options and payment plans often make these procedures more accessible, allowing men to achieve their goals without undue financial strain. The Benefits of the Upsize Penis Filler Procedure Among various enhancement techniques, the Upsize Penis Filler Procedure stands out due to its innovative use of hyaluronic acid, proven safe and effective in other cosmetic treatments. This approach is less invasive than traditional surgery, which appeals to many by minimizing recovery time and allowing a quicker return to everyday life. The Upsize Penis Filler Procedure not only enhances size but also improves overall penile appearance, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and symmetrical look. This boost in confidence can translate to improved sexual performance and greater satisfaction for both partners. With minimal downtime and long-lasting results, it's no wonder that this procedure has become a top choice among Florida men seeking permanent enhancement. Variables Affecting Penis Enlargement Surgery Cost The cost of penis enlargement surgery varies, influenced by the type of procedure, medical doctor's expertise and clinic location. In Florida, renowned for high-quality aesthetic treatments, prices reflect the state's advanced medical capabilities and specialists’ expertise. Men interested in this surgery should carefully compare options and consult with several professionals to ensure they receive optimal care at a reasonable price. While cost is an important factor, it should not be the sole determinant when choosing a penis enlargement medical doctor. The experience and skill of the medical doctor, as well as the reputation of the clinic, can significantly impact the quality of results and the overall patient experience. Men should prioritize finding a board-certified medical doctor who specializes in male enhancement procedures and has a proven track record of success. Investing in a highly qualified professional can help ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications. The Future of Male Enhancement Trends Looking forward, people can expect continued advancements in male enhancement techniques, with technology playing a key role. Florida remains a leading hub for such innovations, ensuring that available services not only meet current standards but also push the boundaries of what personal improvement can achieve. By ML staff. Image courtesy of Bazoom.

Healthy living has never been more on-trend. In 2024, good living means living well and there’s no shortage of advice and guidance on how to do so. But it’s also never been easier to live unhealthily. For many, the 21st century is defined by excess and abandon. The impact on our health is starting to show. It’s become a cliché, but there’s no getting away from the fact that modern America is super-sized in every way. Over 38% of people in Florida are currently living with obesity. Recent studies show that more than 40% of Americans are obese. By 2030, half the country will be obese, according to some predictions. Perhaps this should come as no surprise. Americans’ portion sizes have increased 20% in the last 30 years. Our relationship with food has never been more confusing. And car travel has never been more necessary. It should also come as no surprise that the obesity epidemic has brought with it a rise in diabetes. How obesity and diabetes are linked The accumulation of an excessive amount of body fat can lead to type 2 diabetes. There is a linear relationship between an increase in body mass index (BMI) and an increased risk of developing the disease. This is partly because being overweight or obese can lead to insulin resistance, meaning the body’s insulin is not effectively reducing its internal sugar levels. Some experts now suggest half of all cases of type 2 diabetes are caused by obesity. Fighting back with diet The seemingly unstoppable rise of the obesity epidemic, and the diabetes epidemic following in its wake, might suggest pushing it back is an impossible task. While diabetes is a serious condition, the truth is you can significantly reduce the chance of developing it, and fight back even if you have already developed it, by making some relatively small changes in your life. The best obesity prevention strategies start with healthy diets. That means avoiding sweets and carbs and getting plenty of healthy whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Make sure you are in control of what you eat. That means planning out healthy shopping strategies, being aware of the marketing ploys companies use to tempt you with unhealthy snacks, and managing your portion sizes. Eating well should be the first step in any attempt to live better. A healthy diet helps the body function as intended, whether that’s allowing it to properly regulate blood sugar levels, or even just helping you get a healthy amount of sleep. Take control with exercise With your diet under control, focus on developing a sustainable exercise routine. Exercise should not be a punishment. It should be something that makes you feel great, and that you can look forward to. Jogging and yoga have consistently been found to be the most effective activities for preventing obesity. When you jog your whole body is active. Your arms swing, your waist twists, and your shoulders and abdomen support your frame as your legs drive you forward. Yoga, meanwhile, might seem like a more relaxed activity. But in fact, it requires you to engage muscles all over your body to hold poses correctly, especially muscles around your hips and pelvis. Get the best possible support These lifestyle changes could transform your life. But living with diabetes, and maybe even pushing it into remission, is no easy task. Alongside a commitment to healthy eating and activity, scientifically-backed diabetes weight loss programs can help you understand what the condition means for you personally. The support of a team of expert healthcare professionals can guide you through the changes your transition to a healthier lifestyle brings, and ensure your medication remains appropriate as your body adapts. America’s problem with obesity is not inevitable. It’s well within our power to turn the tide and make healthy living the new normal across the nation. By ML staff. Photo by Sonny Mauricio on Unsplash.

After a truly spectacular season, the Miami International Piano Festival’s Discovery Series ends this year’s season with the debuts of Alexandra Seagal (Israel) a captivating and spontaneous pianist, first prize winner of the 2022 Enescu Competition, and Cristian Budu (Brazil) a stunningly original pianist with astonishing musical insights. The Discovery Series is the crown jewel of this truly unique Festival.   Is in this series that we search for those artists that are not only great talents but are unique, passionate, and creative, and with much to share with our audiences. We have chosen the beautiful, intimate, and inspiring atmosphere of the Wolfsonian Museum in Miami Beach for these special artists, and we encourage you to come, support and discover them, they are the future of an extraordinary group of pianists emerging in this generation. Special Tour of the Wolfsonian Museum’s Special Collections included in the concert ticket. May 25, 2024 6:00 P.M A special tour of the museum has been organized as part of the May 25 concert giving our audience the rare opportunity to explore the incredible collection of the Wolfsonian Museum rooted in the Greatest century growth and change humanity has ever known – 1850 – 1950. DISCOVERY SERIES AT THE WOLFSONIAN-FIU MUSEUM 1001 Washington Ave. Miami Beach, FL Concert. at 7:30 PM May 25 ALEXANDRA SEGAL (Israel) “…..a captivating and spontaneous pianist, first prize winner of the 2022 Enescu Competition.” LiterNet C. SCHUMANN Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann Theme, Op. 20 R. SCHUMANN Symphonic Etudes Op. 13 J. BRAHMS Sonata No.3 in F minor, Op.5 May 26 CHRISTIAN BUDU (Brazil) “… a stunningly original pianist with musical insight and maturity comparable to colleagues twice his age.”  Gramophone CPE BACH Fantasy in C major, H. 284 R. SCHUMANN Arabeske, Op. 18 KreisleriaIana, op. 16 C. DEBUSSY Estampes CAMARGO GUARNIERI 4 Ponteios (n. 30, 40, 45 & 49) H. VILLALOBOS Brazilian Cycle (excerpts): Impressões Seresteiras & Festa no Sertão By ML Staff.  Image by Maksym Kaharlytskyi/Unsplash

Fontainebleau Miami Beach, South Florida’s iconic oceanfront luxury resort, will celebrate one of the most significant expansions in its seven-decade history with the opening MIAMI – Fontainebleau Miami Beach, South Florida’s iconic oceanfront luxury resort, will celebrate one of the most significant expansions in its seven-decade history with the opening of the all-new Coastal Convention Center in Q4 2024. Spanning five stories and 45,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art facility features a versatile, modern design to elevate customized business and leisure events – ranging from personal and intimate to grand, large-scale events – within Miami’s booming social and convention tourism industry. Conceived by Fontainebleau Development and brought to life by Miami-based Nichols Architects, and interior design firm Jeffrey Beers International, the Coastal Convention Center blends elegance and modernity while paying homage to Fontainebleau Miami Beach's rich brand heritage and the architectural legacy crafted by original architect Morris Lapidus. As Fontainebleau prepares to celebrate 70 years of timeless design and unmatched style this year, the Coastal Convention Center marks a new chapter for the storied resort, ushering in a new era of events on the beach. “The Coastal Convention Center will be a jewel in the crown of Fontainebleau Miami Beach and also this city’s social and tourism sector – a new, magnificent home for business and leisure events along the oceanfront,” says Fontainebleau Development Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Soffer. “This is the next evolution of our brand, further solidifying our role as a global hospitality leader, and we look forward to showing guests the world-class features and unparalleled service that are synonymous with the name Fontainebleau.” The interior of the Coastal Convention Center reflects Fontainebleau’s legacy of luxury, with decorative art and murals by Kevin Barry Art Advisory and Jean-Paul Philippe throughout. The Coastal Convention Center will feature a 16,500-square-foot divisible ballroom with an outdoor terrace; a 9,500-square-foot junior ballroom; 15 total meeting rooms; and 15,000-square-foot of pre-function space. Standout features include a grand staircase that pays homage to Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s “Stairway to Nowhere;” floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe meeting rooms in natural light; outdoor, street-level meeting space; LED walls and wayfinders; and a 7,000- square-foot, flexible Tides Rooftop Terrace with scenic ocean views. With sustainability a top priority, the Coastal Convention Center is being constructed to meet LEED certification standards, including features such as insulated glass to control internal temperatures and reduce energy use, and a rainwater collection and recycling system to increase water efficiency. The Coastal Convention Center is conveniently located just 12 miles from Miami International Airport and 28 miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and is connected to Fontainebleau Miami Beach by a one-of-a-kind pedestrian bridge – the only skybridge over Collins Avenue – that links to the hotel’s famed Trésor Tower. More information about the Fontainebleau Miami Beach can be found at fontainebleaumaimibeach.com. By ML Staff.  Image by Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Coinciding with the start of National BBQ Month and the kick-off of summer, BBQGuys.com, the leading specialty e-commerce platform for all things backyard – grills, outdoor kitchens, furniture and more – hosted an exclusive huddle and tour of its brand-new West Palm Beach Backyard Design Center in partnership with Teak + Table Outdoor with former NFL Quarterback Eli Manning on May 9. Owned by Brand Velocity Group (BVG), the private equity firm in which Manning is a partner, BBQGuys brings more than 25 years of industry experience in the outdoor living space and an impressive track record of product innovation. The West Palm Beach Backyard Design Center is BBQGuys’ third design center in the U.S., with existing destinations in Atlanta, Georgia, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and plans to expand into additional strategic markets across the U.S. During the event, guests had the opportunity to exclusively experience the new Backyard Design Center and learn about BBQGuys’ business concept from Manning as well as Russ Wheeler, CEO of BBQGuys, and Brand Velocity Group Founding and Managing Partner Steve Lebowitz. While enjoying light refreshments, guests explored and interacted with BBQGuys’ innovative outdoor kitchens and top-of-the-line grills, outdoor living accessories, and outdoor furniture, including design center partner Teak + Table’s designs. Conveniently located at 500 Palm Street in the Flamingo Park Historic District, the 8,000-square-foot BBQGuys Backyard Design Center features beautiful and innovative outdoor kitchens and equipment, top-of-the-line grills, smokers, fire pits, outdoor furniture and outdoor lifestyle products from brand partners including Blaze, Lynx, DCS, Kalamazoo, Urban Bonfire, Hestan, Twin Eagles, Alfresco, Fire Magic, Napoleon, Mont Alpi, Everdure, Kamado Joe, Recteq, Forno Venetzia and many others. BBQGuys Backyard Design Center is South Florida’s answer to designing a dream backyard, allowing consumers – ranging from homeowners and commercial clients to designers and contractors – to shop how, when and where they like. As the only e-commerce retailer solely focused on backyard living in the U.S., BBQGuys knows that the easiest way for customers to decide if a product is right for a space is to see it for themselves. It also provides customers with a turnkey experience showcasing completed backyards and offering complimentary 3D design services custom-tailored to their preferences and style. For more information, visit www.bbqguys.com. By ML Staff. Photos courtesy of BBQGuys

Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade hosted its 13th Annual “Claws for Kids” in memory of Judy Kramer at Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami Beach on May 7. South Florida’s top community leaders, philanthropists and influencers were among the 250 guests who enjoyed delicious stone crabs and other signature menu items without the wait. The event raised over $250,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s crucial programs and services at its six Clubs and sites combined. The funds will support its educational after-school programs, tutoring and homework assistance, STEM, dance, arts and crafts, mentoring and summer and athletic programs. These programs help children realize their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. Five-time Emmy award-winning journalist and WSVN Channel 7 news personality Belkys Nerey was the Master of Ceremonies alongside Brett Miller, who entertained the crowd with his rat pack and contemporary pop repertoire. Supporters had the opportunity to win raffle prizes such as a 50’ boat charter ride for 13 guests provided by The Advantaged Yacht Charters & Sales, Levian one-quarter chocolate diamond 14KT gold necklace, Conrad Hotel Stay for two nights with dining package and an exclusive, not available to the public Goodyear Blimp Ride provided by The Goodyear & Tire Company – Airship Operations and more. Mother and daughter duo, Lisa Mendelson and Lindsey Mendelson Pearson, graciously co-chaired this year’s event once again. Olga Guilarte was the Special Event Chair. “Claws for Kids” is held in memory of Judy Kramer, a longtime Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Board member, who helped create the event and chaired it since its inception until her passing in February 2021. The Claws for Kids host committee included Lily Pardo, Rae Stein and Jackie Gonzalez. This year’s event presented a surprise honor to long-time supporters Lisa and Victor Mendelson with the 2024 “From the Heart Award.” Through their unwavering dedication and caring stewardship to Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, the Mendelsons have made a profound impact on the lives of children in the Miami-Dade community. The Mendelsons were honored for their various contributions not only made to Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, but for their contributions and support made to so many organizations across South Florida spanning the arts, education, health and community organizations. “We are tremendously grateful for the unwavering support from all those who joined us for the 13th Annual ‘Claws for Kids’,” said Alex Rodriguez-Roig, president of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade. “It was an honor to present the Mendelsons with our 2024 ‘From the Heart’ award for their ongoing commitment to making a difference in the lives of Miami-Dade area youth. The 2024 Presenting Sponsor was the Carmen Rebozo Foundation. The Premier Claw Sponsors were DRRT and Lisa and Victor Mendelson and Lindsey Mendelson Pearson. The Jumbo Claw Sponsors were the Gordon Alliance Foundation, Mario Murgado and Murgado Automotive Group and Ocean Bank. The Large Claw Sponsors were Bermont Gold Wealth Advisory Group of Raymond James, FPL, Jackie and Nelson Gonzalez, Julie Grimes, Meredith and Kenneth Virnig, South Florida PBS, Rae and Barry Stein, Susan Abraham and the Anthony R. Abraham Foundation and WSVN Channel 7. The audio and visual equipment was provided by Hotwire Communications. The public relations, marketing and entertainment was underwritten by the Bernhardt Family and the printing was underwritten by Ana and Raul Marmol. Valet was provided by Quirch Foods and the wine was provided by Domaine Bousquet. For more information, please call 305.446.9910 or visit: www.bgcmia.org, www.facebook.com/BoysGirlsClubsMiamiDade, www.instagram.com/bgcmiamidade, www.twitter.com/BGCMia, www.youtube.com/user/BGCMiamiDade. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of BGCMIA.org

Rottenstreich Farley Bronstein Fisher Potter Hodas LLP (RFB + Fisher Potter Hodas) has tapped David R. Hazouri to join the firm’s Miami office as senior counsel. A litigator for more than 25 years, Hazouri is lateralling over to RFB + Fisher Potter Hodas from an experienced Miami family law firm handling high-net-worth divorce, celebrity family issues and international law. He has assisted clients in a wide variety of complex commercial and family law disputes, in both state and federal court, and has appeared before local and state administrative boards as well. In one of his more noteworthy matters, Hazouri settled a business dispute between billion-dollar entities over ownership rights to a website development concept and its underlying code; in another, he successfully represented a developer through trial in cross-use land rights dispute with a neighboring TV station and national media mogul. Hazouri has been qualified as an expert in discovery of electronically stored information (“ESI”). In 2006, he established his own eDiscovery consulting firm and later served as a managing director for a global legal process outsourcing company. Hazouri contributes his eDiscovery insights to Family Lawyer Magazine. He is a bar-certified lecturer, speaker, and presenter on eDiscovery issues. He is currently a Certified X1 social media examiner. He is the past Chair of the Electronic Discovery and Digital Evidence Committee of the Business Law Section of The Florida Bar, as well as a member of the Dade County Bar Association and New York State Bar Association. He holds Bar admissions in Florida and New York, and court admissions with the United States District Courts for the Southern and Middle Districts of Florida; and the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Hazouri earned his J.D., cum laude, from University of Miami School of Law; pursued a post-baccalaureate degree from School of the Art Institute of Chicago; and has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Duke University. RFB+Fisher Potter Hodas launched its Miami office in October 2024 with 7 attorneys to expand the firm’s presence in South Florida. The firm has nearly 30 lawyers across its three locations, which include Manhattan, New York; Palm Beach, Florida, and most recently Miami, Florida. Segal said, “We are extremely pleased to have David join the team at the Miami office of RFB + Fisher Potter Hodas. Bringing more than two decades of experience in matrimonial and commercial litigation, as well as a focus on eDiscovery, he is a great asset to our firm. We look forward to him providing counsel to our high-net-worth individuals in complex matrimonial disputes.” About Rottenstreich Farley Bronstein Fisher Potter Hodas LLP Rottenstreich Farley Bronstein Fisher Potter Hodas LLP represents high-net-worth individuals in complex matrimonial and commercial disputes. Its offices are located at 500 Park Avenue, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10022; 515 N. Flagler Drive, Suite 800, West Palm Beach FL 33401; and 201 South Biscayne Blvd, Suite 840, Miami FL 33131. For more information, visit www.rfbllp.com. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of RFBLLP

Throughout the years, fans have enjoyed playing their favourite sports in the virtual world, living out their wildest sports fantasy. As time has passed, and technology has advanced, there have been more and more sports games coming onto the market and available to fans. From football games to games such as Cleopatra Slots, the options are virtually endless, and most sports out there have a virtual game to support it. Image by Adria Vidal / Adobestock Every sports fan has dreamt about scoring a winning goal at the World Cup or getting a hole in one at the US Open, however for most of us, these remain a dream. Thankfully, thanks to technology and the sports games available, we can live these dreams over and over to our hearts content. But what exactly draws sports fans to play their sport-themed games and why are they so successful? In this article we’ll take a look at why there have been an increase in sport-themed games and why they’re so popular. Feeling Like A Superstar As we briefly mentioned above, one of the main reasons people choose to play sports-themed video games is to get a taste of being a professional athlete. Most of us sports fans won’t ever get the chance to step onto that pitch or court in real life, so having the opportunity to do so virtually is the next best thing. Being able to play out pretty much any scenario or experience you like over and over, changing it up everytime is a truly unique experience and one that right now is the closest thing we have to actually being a professional athlete. For example, most people don’t make it as footballers in life, however with EA FC 24, you have the opportunity to play for your favourite club, as a manager or your own player and live out your dreams of taking your club to glory. Image by Friends Stock / Adobestock Career Opportunities In recent times, playing sports games has become a potential career for people, either via streaming or via esports. Streaming and making videos on these games really took off in the early 2010’s, with people making videos on their favourite sports games for other people to watch, this blowing up into the multibillion industry we know today in Youtube and streaming platforms. People can stream themselves playing their favourite sports game to an audience, with add revenue and donations to support the streamer and make it a viable career option. Many now do this as a job and have made a great career out of content creation, making a significant salary by doing this. Another way to go is e-sports, where people will play their favourite sports games, become very good at them and end up playing professionally against other players from around the world, hoping to become champion. Players are up against each other not only just for the title of champion, but also for prize money, as they compete in tournaments, there is usually prize money up for grabs, with the winner usually picking up a sizable prize fund. E-sports is arguably harder to get into than streaming and content creation, as to compete in e-sports you have to be one of the best of the best and always be top of your game. However, if you're good enough, there’s numerous options for you. For example, a lot of professional football teams have their own e-sports teams competing in tournaments each year. Image by Stem-List / Unsplash Games That Are Available For Your Sport Football: EA FC 24, take control of your favourite teams and compete to become the best of the best and bring them to glory. Football Manager 2024: a much more realistic football simulator. Take control of a team, either try your hand at a top club or start from the very bottom and work your way up to be the best, controlling everything from tactics, finances, transfers and contracts, it’s all down to you. American football: NFL 24 - play football your way, show everyone who is the best around and lead your team to victory. Golf: PGA tour - take your swing at becoming the best golfer around, make it to the masters and then try to win the whole thing. Sports is and has always been a competitive thing, and virtually is no different. That said however, it’s something that everyone should be able to enjoy. Out there is a game for every sports fan, no matter the skill level. With the increase in popularity of sport, it’s only natural that the popularity for sports games also increases, and is something that doesn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon. After reading about the above games and why they’re so popular, which one will you be trying first? By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock & Unpslash