Hansen Group, a full-service hospitality company by event extraordinaire Bill Hansen, launched in South Florida. Hansen, who has owned and operated Bill Hansen Catering for over four decades, has expanded his brand to Hansen Group, which now serves as the parent company for each of his operating businesses. Over the last few years, Bill Hansen Catering has partnered with and acquired some of South Florida’s best event operators, expanding its scope of service. The new Hansen Group brand now offers event planners and clients the opportunity to visit a one-stop shop for catering, venues, concierge services and other event vendors in one place. Under Hansen Group, groups can choose from four different catering brands, Bill Hansen Catering, Lovables Catering + Kitchen, Eten Catering and Alexander Event Catering, to find catering services tailored to their budget. Also under Hansen Group, Bill Hansen Miami Venues helps clients find venues in South Florida for their group functions. “We are in the business of establishing thoughtful relationships, which can only be built by extraordinary service,” explained Hansen. “By visiting Hansen Group’s website, planners and clients will immediately be connected with someone who truly understands their needs, wants and vision for their event. From there, our concierge team can connect them with the right venue, caterer or vendor for their wedding or social function.” For those looking to plan an event or social gathering, visiting Hansen Group will guide them to venues that make sense in terms of budget, style and geographical preferences, from the Palm Beaches to the Florida Keys. Bill Hansen Catering is also the exclusive operator for events at Villa Woodbine, a historic mansion and venue in Coconut Grove. For weddings, Hansen Group has had relationships with the top planners, floral designers and other vendors for decades. It can point couples to those who best suit their preferences, whether they have a traditional, modern or eclectic style. Of course, no wedding is complete without entertainers and photographers, which Hansen Group can also assist in booking using its personalized approach to customer service. Whether planning a traditional wedding or an out-of-the-box party, Bill Hansen and his concierge team are available for complimentary consultations. For more information, visit hansengroup.co. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Hansen Group.

Sea Tow, the nation’s leading on-water marine assistance provider, is marking its 40th anniversary in business in 2023. Having broken barriers in the industry, Sea Tow is the premier provider of non-emergency on-water assistance including towing, fuel delivery, battery jumps and ungroundings, as well as salvage and recovery services including response to catastrophic events and marine spill response. Sea Tow is “Your Road Service at Sea®”. At the forefront of on-water assistance since 1983, with more than 500+ ports nationwide including the continental U.S., Alaska and Puerto Rico, Sea Tow is a member-driven, franchise-based business. The late Captain Joseph Frohnhoefer Jr. established the company in Southold, New York, when Congress enacted a law that directed the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard to make full use of all available and qualified resources in rendering aid in non-emergency boating calls. What began with just two boats on the water in the North Fork of Long Island, has grown into a network of over 110 franchise operated areas with more than 500 boats and 700 captains and crew nationwide. Technological innovation has been a large driver of the evolution and expansion of Sea Tow’s services. When the company first started, nearly all on-water assistance calls came via VHF radio. Now, most of today’s service calls originate from cell phones and come to Sea Tow’s 24/7/365 Customer Care and Dispatch Center, which first opened in 2003. The company has also gone paperless on the water, opting instead to use mobile-based digital dispatch and job management software. As a result, Sea Tow can respond faster, communicate more efficiently with the customer and collect real time data to help drive business decisions and increase customer service. Marine technology has also improved in the last 40 years. Outboard engines have transitioned from two-stroke to more eco-friendly four-stroke models. These contemporary engines not only favor the environment but also offer enhanced fuel efficiency, cost-effectiveness and superior technology that promotes longevity. Electronic advancements such as GPS, chart plotters, radar and depth sounders have allowed Sea Tow to better and more safely respond to mishaps on the water. In the digital age, Sea Tow leverages its online presence—through social media and blogs—to empower boaters. By promoting education and fostering anticipation of potential challenges, Sea Tow ensures boaters build on a solid foundation of knowledge and safety. Captains utilize resources such VHF radio over the internet and mobile devices to track weather, tides and more. Today, the second generation, family-owned company is led by Captain Frohnhoefer’s son, CEO Captain Joseph Frohnhoefer III and daughter, President Kristen Frohnhoefer. Sea Tow focuses on its many available services, franchise network, philanthropy and the embrace of technology as the industry continues to evolve. Sea Tow offers various recreational boater membership options to fit boaters’ needs and is the only company to offer membership options for commercial mariners. In addition to non-emergency on-water assistance for boaters, the company offers many services such as salvage and recovery, including post-hurricane catastrophic response, recovering derelict boats, airplane recovery, water taxi and launch services, over land transport, vessel demolition and disposal and much more. Sea Tow’s mission has always been to help people enjoy boating with key pillars of responsiveness, safety, professionalism, consistency, and dedication. The network of independently owned franchises, each operating their own areas of responsibility, assist boaters in many ways beyond strictly towing; from helping to troubleshoot to get boaters back underway, to utilizing captains’ local knowledge to help boaters navigate common pitfalls like shifting sandbars and tricky inlets. With philanthropy as a focus, Captain Joe Frohnhoefer Jr. established the Sea Tow Foundation in 2006 after he witnessed too many preventable accidents and fatalities on the water. Today, the Foundation continues to work with boating communities across the country to provide access to education, tools, and resources in order to eliminate preventable boating accidents and deaths. In fall 2022, the Foundation opened its 1,000th life jacket loaner station and now has over 1300 throughout all 50 states. At a local level, Sea Tow franchisees across the network participate in a variety of causes and opportunities for giving, including waterway cleanups, turtle and wildlife rescues, Toys for Tots, Wake the World and many other community events. “Forty years ago, our father founded Sea Tow to break barriers and pioneer an ‘industry’ that did not previously exist,” said Kristen Frohnhoefer. “What hasn’t changed in that time is a Sea Tow member having peace of mind by receiving priority service and knowing that a Sea Tow captain in a distinctive yellow Sea Tow boat is coming to assist them.” “The company’s success and growth can be attributed to a talented team at Sea Tow Services International Inc. and a network of Sea Tow franchisees along with their captains and crew who share a passion for helping people,” she continued. “As we look toward the future, we are excited to introduce new and expanding technologies, as well as solidify new and prominent partnerships, and expand franchise locations,” added Joseph Frohnhoefer. “We are very proud of our four decades of service and look forward to the next exciting chapter for Sea Tow.” More on Sea Tow Services International, Inc. Sea Tow Services International Inc., better known as Sea Tow®, has been the innovative and premier leader of on-water assistance since 1983. Servicing the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, members are provided with a 24/7 connection with Coast Guard-licensed captains. The pioneering concept, founded by Captain Joseph Frohnhoefer, was established in Southold, NY when the United States Coast Guard ceased response to non-emergency assistance calls. In 2023, Sea Tow is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of boater assistance, safety and support. In addition to on-water assistance, the franchise network handles salvage and recovery operations, and responds to natural disasters, environmental hazards and oil spill cleanups. Visit seatow.com to learn more or follow along on Facebook and Instagram. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Sea Tow Services International, Inc.

Soak up the sun and enjoy holiday fun at The LOOP! A winter wonderland awaits as Fort Lauderdale Beach transforms into a hub of holiday activities steps from the shoreline during the Third Annual WONDERLAND, Nov. 13, 2023–Jan. 1, 2024. Throughout the seven-week WONDERLAND holiday experience, locals and visitors of all ages will make lasting memories through an array of sights, sounds, special activities and performances, including the holiday MKT, strolling characters, live music, dance performances, visits with Santa, holiday movies and more. Get ready to glide and groove under the sun, where sustainability meets fun! Fort Lauderdale Beach has never been cooler with the debut of The Wonderland RINK at Las Olas Oceanside Park, a 4,000 sq. ft. eco-friendly, technological marvel that brings the thrill of ice skating seaside, under blue skies and swaying palm trees. Composed of self-moisturizing, seamless tongue-and-groove panels, The RINK offers a smooth surface for skaters to glide and turn as they would on conventional ice, while providing a traditional wintertime experience that's perfect for all ages, ice skating novices and pros alike. Open daily from Nov. 13 through Jan. 1, The RINK will feature weekly specialty theme skates, including Chill & Thrill College Student Skate Monday,Giving Tuesday benefiting local nonprofits, Glam & Glide Girls’ Night Out on Wednesdays, Skate in Cinema coinciding with Seasons Screenings movie nights, Rock The RINK on Fridays with live music, Love on Ice Couples Night on Saturdays and Family Skate with Santa and friends on Sundays. Half-time skates will take place every Monday and Wednesday for seniors (55+) and every Tuesday and Thursday for little ones (3-5 years old). Skaters can enjoy hot chocolate, iced coffees and other holiday treats from Ry’s Coffee daily. To help make the holiday season even brighter, The RINK will donate $2 from each ticket sale on Giving Tuesdays throughout the seven-week series to local nonprofit organizations, including the Humane Society of Broward County, United Way of Broward County’s Mission United, The Pride Center at Equality Park, Feeding South Florida, Broward Center Arts in Education and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Broward County. Supporters can also make any Tuesday a Giving Tuesday by adding a donation or keepsake ornament to any skate session purchase. Tickets for The RINK go on sale Friday, Oct. 6, by clicking here. To kick off WONDERLAND, the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Light Up the Beach takes center stage with the illumination of more than 50,000 holiday lights along the picturesque beachfront and the return of “Olas,” the wildly popular larger-than-life 20-foot beach snowman. Highlights include performances by the Bobby Rodriguez Orchestra plus a kids zone with Santa, inflatables, slides, pony rides and more. Follow The LOOP’s social channels @theloopflb for the chance to “Light Up Your Holidays” with and Florida Power & Light (FPL) and win one of 25 pairs of tickets to The RINK during the annual Light Up the Beach event. On Thursday, Dec. 7, the City of Fort Lauderdale will host its annual Menorah Lighting in honor of the first night of Hanukkah. Highlights include the traditional menorah lighting, music and delicious customary treats. On Christmas Eve, Sunday, Dec. 24, Jeff Grainger, backed by his six-piece band with Rat Pack buddies Sammy and Dean, will take guests back to the Swing Era with classic Sinatra tunes and holiday hits. WONDERLAND is presented by the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Beach Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale Parks and Recreation Department, and sponsors Visit Lauderdale and Florida Power & Light (FPL). The LOOP’s full schedule of holiday events and experiences* includes the following: *Performers' schedules, experiences, and Santa visits, subject to change THE RINK Glide into the holiday spirit at The RINK at The LOOP! Chills & Thrills College Student Skate: Every Monday, college students aged 18 and older can glide through the holiday season and skate back in time to retro beats from Classic Disco, Old-School Hip Hop and Motown to 70’s Yacht Rock. The exclusive, buy one, get one 50% special using promo code BOGO50 is the coolest way to take a break from textbooks without breaking the bank. Valid student enrollment and ID are required at check-in. Half-time Skates: Monday through Thursday: 30-minute sessions; 2:30–3 p.m. Join the vibrant community of active senior skaters (55+) who know that age is just a number and take to the ice every Monday and Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. for an invigorating 30-minute workout. The RINK will keep the energy high and the skates gliding to retro beats, all for the affordable price of $10, which includes skate rental. Calling all parents of little ones (ages 3-5)! Join The RINK every Tuesday and Thursday at 2:30 p.m. and watch the little skaters take their first steps on ice, during this 30-minute session designed for family fun and bonding. The combo parent and child ticket include skate rental for each and one skate assist. Double-blade skates to slip-on sneakers are also available. Giving Tuesday: Local nonprofits will receive $2 for every ticket sale. Nov. 21: Humane Society of Broward County Nov. 28: United Way of Broward County’s Mission United Dec. 5: The Pride Center at Equality Park Dec. 12: Feeding South Florida Dec. 19: Broward Center Arts in Education Dec 26: Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Broward County Glam & Glide GNO and Love on Ice Couples Night: Wednesday and Saturday, (21+) starting at 7 p.m. Ladies, get ready to sparkle and shine at Glam & Glide: Girl’s Night Out, the ultimate Wednesday night skating experience complete with Live DJ and specialty dress-up themes from Pajama Party to Holiday Hoedown. On Saturday, couples can experience Love on Ice, the ultimate SaturDATE night and making lasting memories together. Themed nights include: Wed, Nov. 15: Pajama Jam (Pop) Sat, Nov. 18: Ice, Ice Baby (Hip Hop) Wed, Nov. 22: Ice, Ice Baby (Hip Hop) Sat, Nov. 25: Retro Skate (50's–70’s) Wed, Nov. 29: Holiday Hoedown (Country) Sat, Dec. 2: Yacht Rock (70’s & 80’s Rock) Wed, Dec. 6: Silent Disco Night Sat, Dec. 9: Silent Disco Night Wed, Dec. 13: Ugly Sweater Night (EDM) Sat, Dec. 16: Ugly Sweater Night (EDM) Rock The RINK: Synced to the sounds from Friday night's “Music on the Main” concerts, the rink transforms into a live music venue, Nov 17 - Dec 15, where guests can skate to the rhythm of incredible bands. And that's not all – The RINK is turning up the excitement with the “Groove & Glide Sweepstakes” sponsored by FPL! Claim a free ticket to the concert series and automatically be entered for a chance to win one of four pairs of skate session tickets. SEASON SCREENINGS – HOLIDAY MOVIE NIGHTS Locals and visitors of all ages are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and a favorite movie date to the main lawn at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Come early to dine at one of Fort Lauderdale Beach’s restaurants, shop the MKT starting at 3 p.m., trade in their sandals for ice skates at The RINK, snap Instagram-worthy shots with family and friends or bring a picnic for a dinner and movie experience under the stars. Movie snacks and drinks are also available to purchase onsite, and limited chairs and blankets are available to borrow. The movie lineup includes: Thursday, Nov. 30 | Happy Feet; Rated PG Showtime: 7:30 p.m.; Run Time: 1 hour 48 minutes Synopsis: Mumble, a young emperor penguin, lives in Antarctica. Like others of his kind, he needs to be able to sing to attract a mate, but he has a terrible voice. Instead, Mumble must express himself, and lure a female through his amazing talent for tap-dancing. Thursday, Dec. 7 | Abominable; Rated PG Showtime: 8 p.m.; Run Time: 1 hour 26 minutes Synopsis: After discovering a Yeti on the roof of her apartment building, teenage Yi and her two friends embark on an epic quest to reunite the magical creature with his family. But to do so, they must stay one step ahead of a wealthy financier and a determined zoologist who wants to capture the beast for their own gain. Thursday, Dec. 14 | Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone; Rated PG Showtime: 7 p.m.; Run Time: 2 hours 32 minutes Synopsis: Adaptation of the first of J.K. Rowling’s popular children’s novels about Harry Potter, a boy who learns on his 11th birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses unique magical powers of his own. He is summoned from his life as an unwanted child to become a student at Hogwarts, an English boarding school for wizards. There, he meets several friends who become his closest allies and help him discover the truth about his parents’ mysterious deaths. Thursday, Dec. 21 | Arthur Christmas; Rated PG Showtime: 7:30 p.m.; Run Time: 1 hour 40 minutes Synopsis: Everyone knows that each Christmas, Santa Claus delivers presents to every last child on Earth. What everyone doesn’t know is that Santa accomplishes the feat with a very high-tech operation beneath the North Pole. But when the unthinkable happens, and Santa misses one child out of hundreds of millions, someone has to save the day. It’s up to Arthur, Santa’s youngest son, to deliver a present to the forgotten tyke before Christmas morning dawns. MUSIC ON THE MAIN LAWN Every Friday from 6:30 p.m., locals and visitors are invited to enjoy free live music on the main lawn at Las Olas Oceanside Park, featuring genres ranging from Motown to Top 40, Country Rock to Latin Pop and a Flashback Friday 80’s night. Attendees are invited to come early to enjoy various pre-concert activities starting at 3 p.m., including local artisans and food and drink vendors to sip, sup and shop before, during, and after the show. The live music lineup includes: Nov. 17 – ReaXion Band (Decades) Nov. 24 – OSG: The Old Skool Gang (Motown) Dec. 1 – Southbound 75 (Country/Rock) Dec. 8 – Laura Goodstone (Latin Pop) Dec. 15 – Private Stock (80's Flashback) CHRISTMAS EVE WITH SINATRA | Sunday, December 24, 5–9:30 p.m. Back by popular demand, Christmas Eve with Sinatra will be a night to remember filled with classic Sinatra tunes and holiday hits. Featuring Jeff Grainger, backed by his six-piece band with Rat Pack buddies Sammy and Dean, guests will feel like they are back in the Swing Era. Bring the whole family and start a new Christmas Eve tradition. The concert is free to attend and welcomes all ages. A limited number of VIP Supper Club-style tables are available for purchase. Cost: FREE open lawn seating or supper club seating is available for purchase ($30-135) A limited supply of chairs are available to rent for $7.50 Time: Seating opens at 5 p.m.; Concert begins at 6:30 p.m. For tickets and information, please visit https://theloopflb.com/events/christmas-eve-with-sinatra/. The MKT Sip, Sup, Stroll and Shop Small this holiday season with artisan-made gifts for giving, homemade bites for entertaining, and special fashion finds and accessories. The MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park expands its regular weekend hours leading up to, and after Thanksgiving, with night markets on Thursday and Friday and extended hours every Saturday and Sunday. Santa will be topping Dates: Thursdays: 3–10 p.m., beginning November 30 Fridays: 3–10 p.m., beginning November 17 Saturdays: 9 a.m.–7 p.m., beginning November 25 Sundays: 10 a.m.–7 p.m., beginning November 26 For more information, please visit https://theloopflb.com/events/categories/market/ FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA & HOLIDAY CHARACTERS November: Nov. 17: 6–8:30 p.m. Nov. 21: 5–7 p.m. Nov. 22: 6:30–9 p.m. Nov. 24: 6–8:30 p.m. Nov. 25: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Nov. 26: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Nov. 28: 5–7 p.m. Nov. 30: 6–8 p.m. December: Dec. 1: 6–8:30 p.m. Dec. 2: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 3: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 5: 5–7 p.m. Dec. 6: 6:30–9 p.m. Dec. 8: 6–8:30 p.m. Dec. 9: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 10: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 12: 5–7 p.m. Dec. 14: 6–8 p.m. Dec. 15: 6–8:30 p.m. Dec. 16 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 17: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 19: 5–7 p.m. Dec. 21 6–8 p.m. Dec. 23: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 24: 5–7 p.m. Cost: The LOOP’s WONDERLAND events are free and open to the public. Cost for The RINK (includes skate rental and 50 minutes of skate time): Adults (18+): $20 General Admission (13-17 years old): Children (6-12 years old): $15 Skate Assist: $7 – quantity limit 20 per session Specialty Skates Glam & Glide GNO and Love on Ice Couples Nights (21+) – Wednesdays and Saturdays, 7–10 p.m.: $25 Silent Disco (includes headsets) – Dec. 6 and Dec. 9: $30 Half Skate Sessions (30-minutes, includes skates): Seniors (55+) – Mondays and Wednesdays: $10 Adult and child combo (3-5 years old) – Tuesdays and Thursdays: $15 includes skates and skate assist Other Prices: Socks: $5 WONDERLAND ornament: $12; $6 donated to partner nonprofits Make every day Giving Tuesday: Increments of $6, $12, $18 may be added to tickets at checkout When: Monday, Nov. 13–Monday, Jan. 1 The RINK Hours: Monday–Thursday: 2:30–10 p.m. (2:30 p.m. for 30-min special sessions) Friday: 12–10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday (21+): 7–10 p.m. Holiday hours vary. Where: Las Olas Oceanside Park: 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 The most convenient place to park to access the event is the Las Olas Beach Parking Garage, where the PayByPhone payment option can be used, and parking can be extended from anywhere using the mobile PayByPhone APP. How: For details on all activities, registration, and ticket information, please visit www.theloopflb.com. To purchase tickets for The RINK at The LOOP, please visit https://theloopflb.ticketspice.com/the-rink-at-wonderland. More on The LOOP A cornerstone of activity, The LOOP (Las Olas Oceanside Park) is the central hub of the $65 million four-park system at the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach. The public greenspaces, including the Intracoastal Promenade, Las Olas Beach Garage Sunset Terrace, and DC Alexander Park, aim to provide infinite experiences for everyone under the sun and year-round activity in Fort Lauderdale’s oceanfront backyard. Through its four pillars, “FAME,” The LOOP offers a variety of special events, activities, and unique local experiences for all, including free concerts, holiday happenings, farmer’s markets, community workouts, and more. For more information, visit theloopflb.com or contact info@theloopflb.com. Follow The LOOP on Facebook at www.facebook.com/theloopflb and Instagram at www.instagram.com/theloopflb/. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of The Loop

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) Food and Nutrition Services is celebrating National School Lunch Week (NSLW), October 9 – 13, 2023, as part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and in recognition of the 30 million meals served daily to students around the country. This year’s theme, “Level Up With School Lunch,” features fun-filled student activities and district events that promote the importance of healthy eating while highlighting the many reasons students love school lunch. “We know our students can’t concentrate on learning if they do not have the proper nutrition,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. Peter B. Licata. “Our Food and Nutrition Services professionals are dedicated to ensuring students have a great variety of delicious and healthy meals available to help their academic achievement and overall well-being.” BCPS is highlighting National School Lunch Week through the following: Official proclamation by the School Board of Broward County, Florida (SBBC) declaring October 9 –13, 2023 as National School Lunch Week. Dignitaries are invited to have lunch at a school of their choice during NSLW. NSLW Poster Contest – Students of all grade levels are invited to create an original poster using the slogan “Level Up with School Lunch” and submit it by November 6, 2023. An award ceremony will be held to name and award prizes to the winners for each grade level. High School Instagram Contest: Students are encouraged to tap into their creativity to take a gamer-themed selfie that shows them enjoying their lunch and post it on Instagram tagging @BCPSFNS. The student with the most “likes” on the post will receive a $25 gift card to Fandango. BCPS School lunches are healthier than ever! NSLW showcases foods that are offered daily, which have more fruits and vegetables, more whole grains, and less fat and sodium. Cafeterias have also expanded their vegan and vegetarian options beyond the everyday salad. The federally funded NSLP provides nutritionally balanced, healthy meals to students every day. The program, which has been serving the nation's children for over 70 years, requires school meals to meet federal nutrition standards. For more information about NSLW, visit www.schoolnutrition.org. The USDA regulates what is served in schools, mandating the offering of appropriate servings of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and high-quality proteins. Vendors provide the latest new products and BCPS registered dietitians review the nutritional stats for the products and new recipes. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Unsplash

‘Tis the season to give back! For over 50 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade has been selling Christmas trees to help bring holiday cheer into South Florida homes and to create great futures for area youth. The tradition continues with the Thoma Bravo Christmas Tree Lot at Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s Hank Kline Club that will be open seven days a week, starting Monday, Nov. 20, until trees are sold out. Image by Sabri Tuzcu/Unsplash To kick off the 2023 holiday season, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade will host a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, Nov. 20, at 5 p.m. Miami dignitaries, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade board members, representatives from Thoma Bravo, who is sponsoring the tree lot this year, youth members and Santa Claus himself will attend to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade

Step into a world of refined luxury at Venu, nestled in the heart of Miami Beach. Once a historic gem, the 1916-built Miami Beach Municipal Golf Course Clubhouse has been transformed into the ultimate event space, poised to become the preferred destination for a wide range of intimate upscale private events and VIP gatherings. The building is one of Miami Beach's oldest public structures, proudly erected just one year after the city's official incorporation. Acquired by the City of Miami Beach in 1983, it underwent a painstakingly detailed renovation, boasting an investment exceeding $3.2 million in 2018. Today, the venue stands as a harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication, a canvas awaiting new memories, an enclave for hosting events that leave an indelible mark on those fortunate to pass through its storied doors. A Journey Back in Time Venu transports guests to the golden era of the 1920s and 1930s, evoking memories of Al Capone and the era's speakeasies in Miami. The ambiance is steeped in the glamour and allure of a bygone time, creating an unforgettable backdrop for any special occasion. Culinary Excellence by Executive Chef Samantha Cruz & SodexoLive! Led by the esteemed Executive Chef Samantha Cruz, winner of Food Network's "Beachside Brawl" Season Two, Venu's culinary offerings are exceptional. Chef Cruz promises a gastronomic experience that will leave a lasting impression influenced by Florida's rich history and Miami's Haitian, Latin, and Central American flavors. An Intimate Venue with Endless Possibilities With the capacity to host up to 200 guests in a flexible indoor-outdoor configuration, Venu offers a versatile canvas for events of all sizes. Whether it's an intimate cocktail party, a business meeting, a fairy-tale wedding, or a milestone celebration like a bat or bar mitzvah, Venu provides the perfect setting for every occasion. Unparalleled Service and World-Class Experience Venu is the favored choice for those seeking an upscale venue that guarantees a world-class event experience backed by a powerhouse dedicated team from the Miami Beach Convention team committed to ensuring that every detail is meticulously executed to perfection. This holiday season, make Venu your destination for creating magical moments and unforgettable celebrations, located at 2100 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139. CONTACT INFORMATION Miami Beach Convention Center Customer Service team at 786.276.2600, available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or click here for more information. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Miami Beach Convention

Kering and Alexander McQueen announce the appointment of Seán McGirr as Creative Director of the House. Seán McGirr was previously Head of Ready-to-Wear at JW Anderson. He joined JW Anderson in 2020 to head up the men’s collections, eventually adding womenswear to his responsibilities. Prior to that, he was Women's Designer for Dries Van Noten in Antwerp. From 2014 to 2018, he was part of Uniqlo's creative offices in Tokyo and Paris working on the men’s collections guided by Christophe Lemaire. He started his career assisting at Burberry and Vogue Hommes Japan. An Irish national, born in Dublin, he is a graduate of Central Saint Martins in London, where he obtained a Master of Arts in Fashion in 2014. Gianfilippo Testa, CEO of Alexander McQueen, said: “We are delighted to welcome Seán McGirr as Creative Director. With his experience, personality, and creative energy, he will bring a powerful creative language to Alexander McQueen while building on its unique heritage.” François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering, added: “Alexander McQueen is a House we are passionate about, and we are confident that Seán McGirr will be able to pursue its journey with a new creative impetus. We look forward to opening this new chapter in the history of this unique brand.” By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Kering

Introducing Louis Vuitton’s highly anticipated Men’s Fall Collection 2024. Channeling the essence of the Maison’s menswear artistry, the collection masterfully merges traditional elements of professional and casual dressing, giving rise to a captivating transitional wardrobe. Each garment and accessory undergoes a unique splicing process, bringing together conventionally divergent archetypes to forge an avant-garde, boundary-pushing aesthetic. For more information visit www.louisvuitton.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Luis Vuitton

It's that time of the year again! We are thrilled to unveil the exceptional nominees for the 32nd Annual South Florida Tourism Professional of the Year Award. The nominees will be recognized with an award made by the Academy of Hospitality and Tourism Advisory Board at the luncheon, to be held on November 16, 2023, at the Hyatt Regency Miami, the Presenting Sponsor of the event. These hospitality trailblazers have dedicated themselves to promoting our beautiful region, enhancing the visitor experience, and giving back to their community Our industry is well represented with a fantastic group of leaders nominated this year for this prestigious award. Here are our 2023 nominees: Bibi Andrade, Bibi Art Media, Inc. Julissa Kepner, Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay Mychal Milian, Marriott, and AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Airport Jonathan Plutzik, The Betsy South Beach Eric Poms, Orange Bowl Committee Gene Prescott, Seaway Hotels Group Ceci Velasco, Ocean Drive Association Distinguished past recipients of the South Florida Tourism Professional of the Year Award include, Steve Atkins, President of the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce; Dr. Peter Ricci, Florida Atlantic University, Dr. Paul George, History Miami, George Neary, Tours “R” Us, Wendy Kallergis, GMBHA, Henry Delgado, Smith & Wollensky, Rocco Angelo, Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, William Talbert, III, Alvin West, Sr. Retired GMCVB, and Academy Founders, Stuart Blumberg, Retired, Greater Miami & the Beaches Hotel Association, Bob Dickinson, Retired, Carnival Cruise Lines, and the late Alyce Robertson, Miami Dade Downtown Development Authority, Tony Goldman, Goldman Properties, and Jeanne Westphal. This year’s event features great speakers including Jane Wooldridge an award-winning business, arts and travel multimedia journalist and veteran of the Miami Herald. Currently she serves as Senior Director of Development. In this community-focused role, she works with civic, arts and business organizations and foundations to create strategic, tax-deductible partnerships supporting public service journalism amid a fast-fluctuating media landscape. Previously she was the Miami Herald’s Travel Editor, winning top honors as both an editor and individual Journalist of the Year in the prestigious Lowell Thomas Awards. Jane Wooldridge Between personal and business travel, she has visited more than 100 countries and contributed to national magazines and books. She is a Past President of the Society of American Travel Writers and serves on the boards of the SATW Foundation, the Local Media Foundation and Friends of the Underline. The Hyatt Regency Miami is the Presenting Sponsor of the event with Show Technology, a South Florida based audio visual production company, a long-time supporter of the event as a Signature Sponsor. Additional sponsors will be announced in the coming weeks. Celebrating 36 years of success, the Academy of Hospitality and Tourism is a member of the non-profit, NAF. NAF has refined a proven model that provides young people access to industry-specific curricular, work-based learning experiences and prepares them for college and industry careers. Academies (Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary, Education, and Arts and Entertainment) are in 20 Miami-Dade County public high schools. Proceeds of the luncheon benefit work-based learning activities and scholarships for AOHT students and professional development for teachers. Tickets for the South Florida Tourism Professional of the Year Award luncheon are $135.00 for an individual ticket or $1350 for a table/vendor sponsorship. To learn more click here. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of South Florida Tourism Professional of the Year Award

Entering the mix of the popularity explosion of professional soccer clubs, MCK Soccer Investments, LLC (“MCK”), led by Fort Lauderdale-based sports and employment attorney Michael Elkins, Esq., recently became a minority owner in the Israeli Premier League’s Hapoel Tel Aviv FC. Following the success of celebrities from athletes to actors investing in soccer clubs, and the soccer boom in South Florida thanks to Argentine professional player Lionel Messi joining Inter Miami CF, Elkins led and represented the minority ownership group in the transaction. One of the iconic football (soccer) clubs in Israel, Hapoel Tel Aviv’s accomplishments include 13 Israeli championships, 17 UEFA appearances, and wins against Chelsea, A.C. Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Benefica, Rangers, and Celtic. The club was founded in 1923 and just celebrated its 100th anniversary. In 2021, Elkins, founder of MLE Law, brought his passion for sports to initiate and grow his sports law practice within the firm. He is a lifelong avid sports fan and has been quoted on national media outlets on sports law matters. The firm does significant Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) work with college football players at major universities across the U.S. “Becoming a minority owner in Hapoel Tel Aviv FC is the culmination of my lifelong love of soccer and sports in general. Professional sports ownership in any capacity has always been my dream,” said Elkins. “Being able to merge MLE Law’s burgeoning sports law practice with my passion for sports while working with one of my closest friends is extremely exciting. I am happy to be part of this 100-year-old club, which I believe is a uniquely undervalued asset, along with the team’s rabid fanbase.” An innovator within the legal industry, Elkins is also the founder, producer and host of the “Quarter Four” podcast, which covers the intersection between business and sports, providing listeners an inside look into the psychology of what makes individuals successful on and off the field. Notable figures in the sports industry, including former National Football League (NFL) General Manager Michael Lombardi and VaynerSports Co-CEO AJ Vaynerchuk, have been guests on the podcast. A 22-year attorney, he represents businesses, municipalities and individuals in labor and employment, sports and business matters; as well as provides outside General Counsel services (daily corporate advice, preparation and review of corporate documents, creation of corporate entities, merger and acquisition representation). For more information, visit mlelawfirm.com. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of MLE Law

As part of its ongoing commitment to the community, Subaru of Pembroke Pines will host a Dog Appreciation “Pawty” and Pet Adoption Event on Sunday, Oct. 22 from 12-2 p.m. with special guest, Tour with Teddy. Guests are invited to bring their furry friends to celebrate Subaru Loves Pets® Month with music, food and giveaways as well as a pet costume contest and “trunk-or-treat.” Pet retailer Pet Supplies Plus, groomer Pet Spaw Palace and specialty dog treat baker 4Ms Custom Gifts will also be present. The event is free and open to the public. The event is part of Subaru Loves Pets, a national Subaru initiative that aims to support the lives of as many shelter animals as possible. For those who are yet to be pet parents, Subaru of Pembroke Pines invites guests to consider adopting a pet from the Humane Society of Broward County, who will be present with a selection of pets available for adoption. The Humane Society of Broward County will benefit from a $100 donation from Subaru of Pembroke Pines for each day that a pet is adopted throughout the month of October. The community is invited to enjoy this family-friendly event that features fun for all ages, including a “wrapped” Subaru vehicle that kids can color on and a photo booth with silly props. Dog trainers from the Humane Society of Broward County, doggie treats, groomers, and other community partners will be present to join the fun. According to the ASPCA®, almost 6.3 million companion animals enter shelters nationwide each year. Subaru is committed to helping all animals — including those in shelters — stay safe and healthy. Through the Love Promise and Subaru Loves Pet initiative, participating Subaru retailers partner with a local animal organization in its community and host adoption events across the country to help local shelter pets find loving homes. In 2022, Subaru and its retailers helped over 47,000 animals get adopted last October. Craig Zinn Automotive Group and Subaru of Pembroke Pines proudly support the Humane Society of Broward County in its quest to help find loving homes for pets. The Humane Society of Broward County is committed to supporting the lives of animals by providing adoptions, community services and education and serves as a hometown charity for the Subaru Share the Love campaign. Among its many initiatives, Subaru of Pembroke Pines is proud to help this incredible organization and provide services to animals in need. The Humane Society of Broward County is also a Hometown Charity to the annual Subaru Share the Love Campaign. To RSVP, please visit here. For more information about Craig Zinn Automotive Group, please visit https://www.czgroup.com/. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of the Craig Zinn Automotive Group

Earlier this year, James Beard award-winning chefs, and culinary professionals from Michelin-level restaurants gathered at SGWS Wynwood for the PACE Center for Girls' summer fundraiser. Some of South Florida’s most gifted culinarians worked together to create an over-the-top dinner, expertly paired with wines and cocktails. This event served an unforgettable fusion of flavors while supporting a meaningful cause. The event was set against the backdrop of SGWS Wynwood—an epicenter of creativity and talent. Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits’ SGWS Wynwood is a 17,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, multipurpose center with a focus on hospitality and education for culinary-focused meetings and events. The expansive modern-industrial venue features four versatile spaces – The Mixology Lounge (110 guests), Tasting Room (60 guests), Founders Room (24 guests) and the Terrace (40 guests) – for meetings and events with state-of-the-art audiovisual technology. Constellation Culinary Group curates chef-driven offerings for corporate, culinary and social events and activations of all sizes. This highly exclusive event, limited to just 100 seats, will feature a formal 10-course chef-driven dinner prepared by ten of Miami's top chefs. Presented in partnership with Kush Hospitality and Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, "Taste for Pace" is an extraordinary evening of fine dining, crafted to honor and support the incredible work of the Pace Center for Girls Miami. Featured Chefs & Restaurants: Niven Patel - Alpareno Restaurant Group (Ghee Indian Kitchen, Mamey, Orno): 4x James Beard Semifinalist, James Beard Award Semifinalist (2022), Michelin Bib Gourmand 2022, Food & Wine Magazine's Best New Chef 2020 Bradley Kilgore - Mary's Gold Brasserie Awards: Food & Wine Magazine Best New Chef, James Beard Foundation Awards Nominee for Best Chef South Alex Meyer and Luci Giangrandi - Boia De: Michelin Star 2022 Devin Braddock – Ariete: Michelin Star 2022 Michael Schwartz - Michael's Genuine Food & Drink Awards: Michelin Bib Gourmand 2022, James Beard Award Winner (2010), James Beard Award Semifinalist (2023) Norman Van Aken - Norman's Awards: James Beard Award Semifinalist (1993, 1997), James Beard Award Finalist (2005), James Beard Cookbook Semifinalist, Founding Father of New World Cuisine Jose Mendin - Pubelly Sushi/Casa Isola Awards: 5x James Beard Semifinalist, Food & Wine Magazine Best New Chef Nominee, 2x Cochon 555 Champion Scott Linquist - Coyo Taco, Como Como, Olla Zak H. Stern - Zak the Baker Awards: Michelin Bib Gourmand Recipient, 4x James Beard Semifinalist Michael Bolen - Lion and the Rambler Awards: Michelin Mention 2022 For over 38 years, the Pace Center for Girls has empowered at-promise girls and young women across Florida, offering education, counseling, training, and advocacy through a strength-based, gender-specific approach. With your sponsorship, we can continue transforming lives, improving academic performance, and reducing juvenile justice system involvement. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of SGWS Wynwood