RESULTS

Six months after the COVID pandemic upended our community, the Nonprofit Executive Alliance of Broward (NEAB) has published its first report detailing the impact COVID 19 is having upon Broward County’s nonprofit community. The report, which covers all business aspects of nonprofits affected by COVID including budgets, operations, HR, programming, fundraising and others, is also a testament to the resiliency and innovation that the nonprofit sector has exhibited during these historic times. Comprised of executive leadership from the most well-known and respected nonprofits in Broward County, the mission of NEAB is to support health and human service organizations through its network of nonprofit CEOs that work together to promote advocacy, collaboration and education. “The nonprofit sector is seeing skyrocketing requests for assistance for basic needs such as food, housing and mental health while their budgets are impacted by COVID related constraints on fundraising and revenue generating programming. The intent of this report is to quantify the impact that COVID has had on our sector while also showing our ability to rise to the occasion and adapt. Our goal is to show the community that nonprofits are so much more than charities looking for money; they are an essential part of our community infrastructure. When we talk about essential employees that includes many of our nonprofits and their staff.” says Sandra Veszi Einhorn, Executive Director. The report looks at how nonprofits have been affected by the pandemic and how they are managing the uncertainty while maintaining quality services, keeping staff employed and being fiscally sustainable. The more than 90 nonprofits that represent the Alliance provide programs and services across the health and human service continuum and are uniquely positioned to analyze and address some of the most critical challenges we face with COVID - education, healthcare, childcare, housing and workforce. The report also highlights key themes and offers solutions that may become permanent changes to the way nonprofits deliver programs. Key Findings of the Nonprofit Executive Alliance of Broward COVID-19 Impact Report Many are transforming their delivery models in an effort to keep people healthy, connected, and ensuring that basic needs are being met. The most positive discovery has been the resiliency of Broward nonprofit organizations. While it was not without its share of struggles and challenges, most have been able to pivot, adapt and innovate. Top requests for assistance are for rent/mortgage, food and mental/behavioral health. When asked how COVID has impacted their organization 86% indicated changes in employee work habits and revenue streams, 89% reported changes in their service delivery model, 73% saw changes in volunteer participation. More than half of nonprofits surveyed have provided additional services to support their clients. While most of these services were related to financial or food assistance, some organizations have grown their footprint by expanding their qualifications for services. Forty eight percent are concerned with their ability to provide continuity of quality programming during the length of the pandemic. Additional concerns include another wave of stay at home orders, ensuring that client’s needs are being met, keeping employees safe and healthy, and ongoing external threats to efficient execution of their mission. 80% of organizations self-reported that their organizations adapted well- all staff had capability to work remotely and programs/services were also maintained, 14% indicated that they struggled to move programs/services online and less than 1% did not adapt well with staff issues and/or an inability to execute their mission virtually. 52% struggled communicating with clients, 30% were challenged by connecting with donors, funders and volunteers and not being able to be face to face with them. Less than 20% suggested that they had challenges communicating with staff. Organizations that rely on volunteers have also had their operations affected by the inability to recruit on site volunteers on an ongoing basis for activities such as food delivery and distribution. Client communication concerns include the inability to perform outreach, engage groups and individuals in a virtual setting and the digital divide, and the inability to effectively access technology. Budget implication- 44% cited the inability to raise funds, 34% are troubled by the ability to draw down grant funds or bill for programs/services and funders’ shifting funding priorities. Most organizations that have a fee for service model saw significant decrease in revenue and almost all had at least one event that has been cancelled. Just less than a third of organizations have had to tap into operational reserves. Less than 10% were lucky enough to have not had any fiscal impact on their budget thus far. 64% indicated that programmatic changes such as continuing with online service delivery would stay, 45% will continue to encourage staff to work remotely, 22% were planning on a reduced workforce or permanent cuts in other budget areas. Nonprofits leveraged this COVID opportunity to deepen their impact with the families they serve and support additional unmet needs. Being creative with engagement of stakeholders has been key. New COVID partnerships- 50% partnered with another nonprofit, 30% with a for profit business, 27% with a faith-based group and 22% with local government. For more information about the Nonprofit Executive Alliance of Broward and to read the COVID Impact Report please visit www.NPOBroward.org By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Unsplash.

Looking for a way to give back to the community? Donate blood at CityPlace Doral! The event, held in partnership with OneBlood, is happening on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Located at 3450 NW 83rd Avenue Doral, FL 33166, the blood drive will provide a free COVID-19 antibody tests for all successful donors. Donors will also receive a cupcake, two pairs of OneBlood Cancer awareness socks, and a wellness checkup. For more information or to make an appointment, click here and use the sponsor code #61227. When: Saturday, September 26 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday, September 27 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Where: CityPlace Doral 3450 NW 83rd Avenue Doral, FL 33166 Cost: Free to attend How: Visit oneblood.org/donate-now for more information.

Bringing new meaning to hard candy, Essential Candy® ― using only all-natural quality ingredients ― recently launched delicious healthy hard candy that incorporate essential oils and bring significant benefits to the body. Born from an idea to help those fighting cancer, Essential Candy is aptly referred to as “Candy With A Purpose,” and is available in both Signature Blends and cannabidiol (CBD) hard candies. Founded by wife-and-husband duo Tracy and Dean Ernst of Wellington, Florida, Essential Candy was created with Tracy’s inspiration that she wanted to help a friend who was battling cancer. The candy, which she saw as a palatable solution to the side effects of chemotherapy, is a vessel to help with the Ernsts’ mission to give back to their community and beyond. Containing no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or sweeteners, Essential Candy is vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, low-calorie and low-carb, and is approved by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for its CBD hard candies. From purified water to natural organic cane sugar, with just two grams of sugar per piece, Essential Candy’s ingredients remain true to their original source. The organic essential oils are harvested directly from growers around the world, who are known for their expertise and masters at their craft. Oils are distilled from plants through low-heat steam distillation or an expression process and are thoroughly tested to ensure purity, quality, effectiveness and the highest safety standards. Essential Candy’s proprietary Signature Blends are offered in the following flavors, which are created to focus on where the body needs support. All of the below are packaged in 3-oz. bags, with 23–25 individually wrapped candies in each bag, and priced from $10–$12: Baja Blend o Flavor: Lemon, Ginger, Black Pepper, Turmeric and Cayenne o Benefits: May help to relieve congestion, digestive issues, and cold/flu Clarity Blend o Flavor: Lemon, Peppermint and Rosemary o Benefits: Soothes the throat, may help to relieve congestion and open airways during allergy season, and provide headache relief Digestive Blend o Flavor: Lemon, Ginger and Peppermint o Benefits: May help to relieve nausea and digestive issues Greg’s Blend o Flavor: Lemon, Lime and Spearmint o Benefits: May help protect against viral and bacterial infections, in addition to restoring overall health Mind Body Soul Blend o Flavor: Copaiba, Clove and Cinnamon o Benefits: May help with pain relief, indigestion, oral issues and inflammation New Day Blend o Flavor: Peppermint and Tangerine o Benefits: May help with congestion and soothing a sore throat Uplifting Blend o Flavor: Orange and Lavender o Benefits: May help to reduce stress and provide an uplifting mood Wellness Blend o Flavor: Elderberry and Lemon o Benefits: May help to boost the immune system and relieve congestion The Variety Blends Pack 1 (Digestive, Baja, Mind Body Soul, and Wellness) and Variety Blends Pack 2 (Uplifting, Greg’s, New Day and Clarity), both in 1.6-oz. bags, are sold for $5. Essential Candy’s CBD line of hard candies, which is approved by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, third-party tested, and features 10mg of CBD Isolate per piece, include Signature Plus CBD with Mandarin ($19), Signature Plus CBD with Peppermint ($19), and Signature Plus CBD with Lemon and Ginger ($19). The CBD candies are available in 1.6-oz. bags each containing 12–13 individually wrapped hard candies. “The idea for Essential Candy came to me during meditation on a solo bicycle ride. I asked myself, ‘how can I help our dear friend going through chemotherapy?'” The guided message was simply to make hard candies with essential oils,” said Tracy Ernst, who is a vegetarian, as well as a yoga and meditation teacher. “I was alone pushing hard against the wind, and the vision of my friend fighting cancer just appeared in my mind. He wasn’t giving up the fight, and I was going to continue riding along with him.” “It was a spiritual, uplifting experience,” she continued. “And so began the journey of listening and being guided to help with a little piece of joy in every Essential Candy.” “What makes Essential Candy unique is the love we have for helping others through our ‘Get One Give One’ initiative,” said Dean Ernst, a serial entrepreneur. “For every bag of candy purchased, Essential Candy donates a bag to cancer support groups. We are happy to further our ‘Candy With A Purpose’ mission through this initiative and offer our all-natural hard candies to the world.” To learn more about Essential Candy or to purchase its products, visit https://essentialcandy.com. The company offers free shipping on orders over $50. Essential Candy Signature Blends are also available to purchase on walmart.com. My ML Staff, Image courtesy of Essential Candy

Although Miami and South Florida hasn't experienced wild fires like those in California, it is important to learn about the relationship between fires and water quality. Less than halfway through the 2020 wildfire season, fires are burning large swaths of the western U.S. As in previous years, these disasters have entered populated areas, damaging drinking water networks. Water systems have lost pressure, potentially sucking in pollutants, and several utilities are warning of possible and confirmed chemical contamination. We are environmental engineers who help communities affected by disasters, including support for responses to the 2017 Tubbs Fire and 2018 Camp Fire in California. As we concluded in a recently published study of burned areas, communities need to upgrade building codes to keep wildfires from causing widespread contamination of drinking water systems. They also need to act more aggressively to protect residents from possible toxic exposure immediately after fires. Debris in Paradise, California, after the Camp Fire, Nov. 17, 2018. Senior Airman Crystal Housman/U.S. Air National Guard, CC BY How wildfires poison water systems After both the 2017 Tubbs Fire in California’s Sonoma and Napa counties and the 2018 Camp Fire in Butte County, California, drinking water tests revealed a plethora of acutely toxic and carcinogenic pollutants. Water inside homes was not safe to use – or even to treat. Water pipes buried underground and inside of buildings were extensively contaminated. Both fires destroyed fire hydrants, water pipes and meter boxes. Leaks and ruptured hydrants were common. After the fires passed, testing ultimately revealed widespread hazardous drinking water contamination in areas affected by both fires. Evidence suggests that the toxic chemicals originated from a combination of burning vegetation, structures and plastic materials. Chemicals in the air may have also been sucked into hydrants as water pipes lost pressure. Some water system plastics decomposed and leached chemicals directly into water. Toxic chemicals then spread throughout pipe networks and into buildings. Limited water testing by state and local agencies showed that benzene and naphthalene were present at levels that could cause immediate physical harm. These chemicals, as well as methylene chloride, styrene, toluene and vinyl chloride, exceeded limits for longer-term exposure. All of these substances are volatile organic compounds – chemicals that readily evaporate into the air at room temperature. Many of them cause cancer. All can cause vomiting, diarrhea and nausea after a brief high-concentration exposure. Simply running a cold water faucet can release volatile organic compounds from tap water into the air. Heating water for showers or cooking makes them enter the air even faster, creating a more severe inhalation risk. Some can also be absorbed through the skin. Pipes, water meters and meter covers after wildfires destroyed them. Caitlin Proctor, Amisha Shah, David Yu, and Andrew Whelton/Purdue University, CC BY-ND Protecting the public In our view, agencies should not underestimate health hazards posed by fire-damaged drinking water systems. Just in the past month, after the CZU Lightning Complex Fire burned parts of San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties, California officials and a water utility issued and reissued an advisory allowing children to bathe in potentially contaminated drinking water. Five days later, when limited test results became available, both organizations recanted and said no one should bathe in the water. To avoid this kind of error, we recommend issuing “Do Not Use” orders in the wake of major fires to protect the public before water testing results are available. We believe it is acceptable to use water for fire fighting and toilet flushing, but not for purposes that involve ingestion, skin exposure or inhalation, such as bathing or cooking. Under no circumstance should people be told to smell the water to determine its safety, as officials recommended for months after the Camp Fire. Many harmful chemicals have no odor, so only testing can determine safety. Advisories to boil water should not be used, since boiling speeds up the release of toxic chemicals into the air. Nor do we recommend “Do Not Drink/Do Not Boil” advisories, which allow bathing in contaminated water. Before agencies lift or modify advisories, we believe they should be required to carry out thorough chemical screens of water systems. Too often, officials charged with protecting public health fail to take this step, exposing people to needless risk. More typically, they act like California’s San Lorenzo Valley Water District, which lifted a post-wildfire “Do Not Drink/Do Not Boil” order in parts of its territory on Sept. 7, 2020 with a notice to ratepayers that “If test results reveal anything harmful, you will be advised promptly.” California National Guard members load truckloads of water onto pallets at the Napa County Airport for delivery to areas affected by Northern California wildfires, Oct. 16, 2017. Staff Sgt Eddie Siguenza/Army National Guard, CC BY Agencies also need to test buildings for water contamination. Home drinking water quality can differ from room to room, so reliable testing should sample both cold and hot water at many locations within each building. While infrastructure is being repaired, survivors need a safe water supply. Water treatment devices sold for home use, such as refrigerator and faucet water filters, are not approved for extremely contaminated water, although sales representatives and government officials may mistakenly think the devices can be used for that purpose. While survivors wait for safe water to return, government agencies should ensure that reliable emergency water supplies are available. Update building codes for future fires Our research underscores that community building codes are inadequate to prevent wildfire-caused pollution of drinking water and homes. Adopting codes that require builders to install fire-resistant meter boxes and place them farther from vegetation would help prevent infrastructure from burning so readily in wildfires. Concrete meter boxes and water meters with minimal plastic components would be less likely to ignite. Some plastics may be practically impossible to make safe again, since all types are susceptible to fire and heat. Installing one-way valves, called backflow prevention devices, at each water meter can prevent contamination rushing out of the damaged building from flowing into the larger buried pipe network. Water main shutoff valves and water sampling taps should exist at every water meter box. Sample taps can help responders quickly determine water safety. As the past several years have shown, many communities need to be better prepared for wildfires. Two years after the Camp Fire, the town of Paradise, California is still clearing and repairing its water system, at an estimated cost of up to US$150 million. We believe the time to upgrade in other towns is now. By Andrew J. Whelton Associate Professor of Civil, Environmental & Ecological Engineering, Purdue Universit & Caitlin R. Proctor Lillian Gilbreth Postdoctoral Fellow, Purdue University. Special thanks to The Conversation for this story and images. You can support the independent network which provides news by donating today.

In the era of green technology, Serenity Yachts is paving the way in the yachting industry by building the next generation of vessels that do not rely on fossil fuel. Serenity’s unique solar-powered yachts are made with today’s modern sailor in mind. And while luxury has always played a large role in yacht design, green technology has historically lagged behind in the industry – until now. Serenity Yachts, which was featured in the annual Neiman Marcus Christmas Book in 2018, blends luxury and technology, creating a tranquil yachting experience. With quiet electric motors, the yachts allow all onboard to take in ocean air and listen to waves lapping against the hull, instead of experiencing the smell of diesel fumes and sound of a loud engine. Led by Executive Director Boyd Taylor, Serenity Yachts strives to eliminate dependency on fossil fuel, and commits to building yachts that stand the test of time. The brand designs its systems to make them simple to upgrade once new and improved technologies are available. Plus, each part of the yacht ― from the carbon fiber hulls to the hydraulic flybridge ― is designed to maximize efficiency and performance. Every yacht that Serenity builds is fully customizable. Serenity’s shipbuilders are artisans and seasoned masters of their craft. Serenity Yachts presently has two lines of vessels: the Serenity 64 and Serenity 74. Each is equipped with the latest technologies and offers a selection of the most cutting-edge equipment in navigation, entertainment, and smart home technologies. · The Serenity 64 offers 65 square meters of SunPower® solar panels and can cruise indefinitely at 4-6 knots while still providing power to one’s onboard amenities. The vessel features a combined galley and saloon on main deck, four VIP cabins (each with their own en-suite bathroom), one crew cabin, and a hydraulic flybridge. Other layouts are available. · The Serenity 74 offers 110 square meters of SunPower® solar panels and has the ability to cruise endlessly at 7–9 knots while still powering the onboard amenities. The ideal yacht for chartering, it features a combined galley and saloon on the main deck, four VIP cabins (each cabin with an en-suite bathroom) and two additional cabins and baths in the forepeaks, that can be configured for family or crew (other layouts are available). The Serenity 74’s chic interior was designed with fashion in mind. The vision for the design was inspired by the mind of former Neiman Marcus Fashion Director Ken Downing. “Serenity Yachts is committed to building vessels that are not only green, but performance-driven,” said Taylor. “Our solar-powered yachts allow you to experience the beauty that our reefs and oceans have to offer without polluting and damaging them in the process. We believe the future of yachting is in solar technology and want to show the world that yachting and leisure can be sustainable. Our hope is that others will follow in our footsteps so the industry changes as a whole.” For more information about Serenity Yachts, visit serenityyachts.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Serenity Yachts

The prestigious American Heritage School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida is the #1 private school in the United States and #1 high school in Florida for the highest number of National Merit Scholars; the school’s second campus in Boca Raton is #2 in National Merit Scholars out of all private schools in Florida. Their combined students from both campuses comprise 10 percent of all National Merit Scholars throughout the 2,227 public and private schools in Florida. A total of 77 seniors were named National Merit Semifinalists, and 52 seniors earned National Commended Scholar status. The students were top scorers in Florida on the PSAT exam they took junior year, which served as the National Merit Scholarship qualifying test. Most Semifinalists advance to “Finalist” status in the spring and are eligible to receive college scholarships. This marks the 11th consecutive year American Heritage has had the highest number of National Merit Semifinalists in Florida. One in four students in the Class of 2021 scored in the top one percent of students in the nation. “I am so proud of these students for earning this extremely prestigious award,” said Dr. Douglas Laurie, president of American Heritage Schools. “Not only are they nationally recognized as the top one percent academically, but they are also extremely well-rounded, excelling both in and out of the classroom in fine arts, sports, and community service,” Laurie added. In addition to the millions of dollars in possible scholarships, these bright students now have new opportunities for college and confidence about their futures. According to the National Merit Scholarship organization, colleges such as Harvard, Stanford, University of Chicago, and Vanderbilt enroll the greatest number of National Merit Scholars. American Heritage Class of 2014 alum, Dylan Cahill, reflects on the benefits of earning the merit-based award. “Becoming a National Merit Finalist was a stepping stone on my way to attending Dartmouth and ultimately Harvard Medical School,” said Cahill. “It gave me the tools to excel on future exams and the confidence as a student to propel me forward in my journey to medical school.” American Heritage School is the #1 private school in Florida for nationally recognized scholars in math competition, science fair, mock trial, moot court, and speech and debate. American Heritage School alumni are notable leaders in their chosen fields who are generating positive differences in the world. American Heritage School is an independent, non-sectarian, co-educational, college preparatory school in South Florida serving grades PK3 to 12. For more information about the National Merit Scholarship Program and American Heritage School, please click here to register for our Fall Virtual Open Houses. Dates and times for the online events: Broward Campus: October 17, 12:00 p.m. for grades PK-6, 2:00 p.m. for grades for 7-12. Palm Beach Campus: October 13, 9:30 a.m. for grades PK-5; October 17, 10:00 a.m. for 6-12. For more information about American Heritage School, visit https://www.ahschool.com/

The Miami Dolphins Foundation, as part of its Food Relief Program, partnered withPayless to distribute 1,600 meals, 1,000 shoe vouchers, along with 1,000 GoodDay face masks to South Florida students and their families at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, September 19. Meals for the event were provided by minority owned restaurants Arline’s Restaurant & Seafood, Brothers Bar-B-Que Pit, Chef Creole and Lorna’s Caribbean & American Grill. Launched on June 1 by a multi-million-dollar commitment from Stephen Ross, the Miami Dolphins Foundation Food Relief Program was created in response to record unemployment and food insecurity brought on by COVID-19. The program provides up to 1,000 meals each day from Centerplate, the team’s food, beverage and retail partner and local minority owned restaurants. These meals will be distributed to families in need in Miami Gardens and surrounding communities for up to a year. “The Miami Dolphins Foundation is excited to partner with Payless to assist students in South Florida with not only meals through our Food Relief Program but also getting them connected and ready to go back to school during these challenging times,” Miami Dolphins Foundation Executive Director Jesse Marks said. “Payless and its new Miami-based executive leadership team is dedicated to improving the lives of youth in the South Florida community and this partnership with the Miami Dolphins Foundation will greatly assist in those efforts.” Through collaborations with Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) and community partners of the Miami Dolphins FOOTBALL UNITES™ program, students and their families were identified and selected to attend the distribution. They received meals, shoe vouchers redeemable on Payless.com, as well as 1,000 washable and reusable cloth face masks from Good Day. Additionally, internet accessibility services will be provided by the Miami Dolphins and allocated for distribution to 100 students in need in Miami-Dade for a six-month period following the distribution. “This back-to-school season is truly unlike any other,” CEO of Payless Jared Margolis said. “Payless is excited to have had the opportunity to come back for our US customers and lend a helping hand at a time when value has never been more important. We’re back for our families, schools and communities, launching our Powered by Payless initiative, which is now amplified by our GoodDay Masks and Miami Dolphins partners, to help those in need by providing access to food, learning tools, personal protective equipment and shoes. Despite these unprecedented times, kids across the country are leading the way, and we couldn’t think of a better teammate to kick off our giveback efforts with than the Miami Dolphins.” Individuals and businesses that wish to participate in the match program can donate online at dolphins.com/meals. For more information on partnership with Payless, please visit and Payless.com. Follow @Payless on Instagram and Facebook via #PoweredByPayless, #PaylessIsBack and #YouLeadTheWay. By ML Staff. Image Credit: Miami Dolphins

Miami-Dade County Auditorium’s Second Drive-Through Theatre Experience is now digital! Watch the second Digital Premiere of the Drive-Through Theatre Experience featuring Latin Grammy Nominee José Negroni on the official Miami-Dade County Auditorium YouTube page. Miami-Dade County Auditorium’s Drive-Through Theatre Experience is a live outdoor series that allows patrons to enjoy free and unique cultural performances from the safety of their own vehicle. This performance features Latin Grammy Nominee José Negroni and was filmed live at the Miami-Dade County Auditorium outdoor theatre stage. In this piano concert, José Negroni combines his original classical style with captivating fusions of jazz and Latin rhythms in two original compositions. As Miami-Dade County begins to reopen, the Auditorium will continue to provide diverse and affordable arts experiences for residents and visitors. Celebrate the arts and enjoy your favorite performers in a safe and secure outdoor setting as we transition over to a new normal of performing arts. Miami-Dade County Auditorium is managed by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, with funding support from the office of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council develop cultural excellence, diversity and participation throughout Miami-Dade County by strategically creating and promoting opportunities for artists and cultural organizations, and our residents and visitors who are their audiences. Video & images courtesy of Miami-Dade County Auditorium.

Hakuna Ma'Vodka – it means no worries, Toast with Miami Living Magazine for National Vodka Day on Oct. 4! Toast Distillers, Inc., is a Black-owned, Miami-based spirits conglomerate best-known for its ultra-premium vodka, Toast™ Vodka. Toast Vodka is the world’s first ultra-premium, unflavored vodka made with coconut water. The vodka is 100% corn based, six times distilled, gluten-free and non-GMO. Established by CEO and founder Dieuveny “DJ” Jean Louis, the company’s profile includes a full range of ultra-premium to midline and well-line spirits products for vodka, rum, gin, tequila and whiskey. In celebration of National Vodka Day, Toast Vodka mixologists have shared their secret for making the perfect Dirty Martini: For the perfect dirty martini, we recommend using Toast™ Vodka due to its smooth drinkability and soft, gentle mouthfeel, which results in a silky sophisticated martini. The next ingredient with a starring role is the vermouth. Think of a crisp, lightly acidic glass of white wine that has been aromatized with soft herbs, botanicals, and spices, then fortified with distilled alcohol to raise the alcohol by volume and preserve the flavors. Now on to the olives and olive brine. This is where you can have a little fun with your garnish. *Pro tip: Try Castelvetrano olives, they are one of our personal favorites! The last, and perhaps most important, ingredient is ice. Use should use large ice cubes, if possible. Directions: Stir all of the ingredients in a mixing glass, but even a pint glass will work in a pinch. First, add 2 oz. of Toast vodka to the mixing glass. Next, add .5 oz. of dry vermouth and olive brine to the glass. Add just enough ice to cover the liquid. When you start stirring, you’ll the ice drop below the liquid line and the glass will get nice and cold. As soon as this happens, strain the liquid into a previously frozen coupe or martini glass. Make sure to quickly strain the liquid so that you do not over dilute the cocktail. Garnish the martini with an olive skewer, and sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Ingredients: 2 oz. Toast vodka .5 oz. dry vermouth .5 oz. olive brine Olives to garnish A 750ml bottle is just $22.99Toast Vodka is available for purchase at www.toastvodka.com. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Toast Distillers, Inc.

Born Juan Luis Londoño Arias, MALUMA is an urban pop musician from Medellin, Colombia who has made Latin Billboard Chart history by becoming the first and youngest artist to ever reach 1st and 2nd place simultaneously. MALUMA first broke into the music scene with “La Temperatura.” His hits include “Pasarla Bien,” “Miss Independent,” and “Obsesion” and he has been honored with an MTV Millennial Award and Latin Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. Miami Living Magazine sat down with MALUMA for an exclusive interview in which he shared his thoughts on his career, ambitions, inspirations, and his Pretty Boy, Dirty Boy tour in the United States. Javier Delgado: Tell us about how you broke into music. I understand that you also had a big interest in playing soccer. MALUMA: “I was just 16-years-old when I first got into a recording studio, thanks to my family. It was a present my uncles gave me. I was longing to record my own music. I started composing since I was very little but I never had the opportunity until I got to a recording studio. Being in a studio was like love at first sight, get it? From that very first day, I knew I wanted to do music and nothing else. I decided to leave soccer at the age of 16 and now that I just turned 23, I realize that it’s been a difficult, but beautiful road. Like everything in life, it requires a bit of sacrifice but at the same time I recognize that I’ve been blessed because of so many positive things that have happened in my life and my career. So it was a good decision to leave soccer and start up my music career.” But you were pretty good at soccer, right? MALUMA: “Yes, I played for different major Colombian teams like the Atletico Nacional until the age of 14 and then I moved to another team called La Equidad, where I played for two more years. Even though I loved soccer I realized that it was better as a hobby.” How would you describe your music style? MALUMA: “Urban. I have the opportunity to incorporate different things. Urban music has many ramifications. I love urban-pop, reggaetón, dansol, reggae, among others. They all branch out from urban music. Thank God I have the ability to rap and at the same time to create melodies. That’s why I love to venture into different rhythms.” So, your music is not just reggaetón –it’s much broader? MALUMA: “Yes, I also love to sing ballads, which is something people find hard to believe as they defined me as a reggaetoner, but I’m not only that, I think I have my own personal style that I’ve been developing and molding since early in my career. Bear in mind that I have nothing against reggaetoners, I’m a huge fan of them, but beyond that I have the tendency to explore a wider range of genres and love having a taste of most of them.” What is your source of inspiration when creating music? Tell us about your creative process. MALUMA: “Women are very important in my life. I was raised by women, my mother and my sister, [who is] older than me. They were the very first source of inspiration --my family. Then I also started to pay attention to the stories of my friends, stories that surrounded me. My friends would tell me what happened to them. Later, I started to pay attention to stories of others alien to me.” You’ve been successful in incorporating these stories into your music. In fact, you recently made some remarkable historical achievements by becoming the youngest artist to ever hold 1st and 2nd place simultaneously on the Latin Billboard Chart. How does this success make you feel? MALUMA: “It is a great motivation, but it is never enough. I’m very young, only 23-years-old, so this is just the beginning of my career. Obviously, this is great news, making history in the charts and my career. It motivates me to work harder every day. I’m not a conformist and I believe there are greater things yet to come as a result of the effort, dedication, and sacrifice I put into it. Music is my life.” Besides working on your music, you also invest time in connecting with your fan base via social media. This has made you one of the most popular artists in the world and some of your videos have received more than 2 billion views this year alone! What is MALUMA’s secret? MALUMA: “Being me. Being real. At times, people ask if I manage my social media, and I’m not going to lie. Yes, I do! It would be very difficult to convey through others what is it you want to transmit to your fans. I do not want anyone but me to manage my social media. I need to have that communication channel. Thanks to social media I’m able to grasp and understand what music my fans like. It is the bridge that connects us, and that’s probably why I have so many followers. They connect with me because I’m real.” How does that bridge work when performing a concert? MALUMA: “This is the favorite part of my career. If it was up to me, I would always be on stage, because the feeling of adrenaline never goes away. This is probably why so many artists continue to perform live concerts after a long career, because it keeps you alive. Beyond money and fame, this is an artist’s favorite part. The bridge is quite interesting: seeing your fans crying, singing along, and looking at you as their idol. It provides the fuel of inspiration and motivation to keep moving forward.” And who fueled your own inspiration? Are there any artists that you admire and look to for motivation? MALUMA: “Um, there’s many. One of them is Ricky Martin, I believe he raised the bar and brought Latin music to a higher level. His musical genres, as we know, he’s brought diversity and he’s done it brilliantly. He’s gone through ballads, then urban music and collaborates and works with other artists. Marc Anthony is a great idol and a personal friend. He has given me great advice. Also, Wisin and Yandel, Enrique Iglesias. There are many I admire that have been in the music industry for many years, and that is key. It is not about reaching the peak; it’s about keeping yourself there. They are role models to me.” Talking about Ricky Martin, is it true you’ll be starring in a musical about his life? MALUMA: “No, not at all. Just recently I received social media messages on Twitter and other channels asking if I was going to make a TV series or a movie, I don’t remember exactly. Until then I hadn’t even known about such a thing, I had no idea. This is false; I think this is just gossip and speculation. Trust me, I’m the official and direct source and no one has called me with that proposition.” Let’s talk about a controversial issue. How do you defend the song “Cuatro Babys” which has been censored by many alleging that the lyrics are machista and denigrate women? MALUMA: “Well, this is a pretty broad issue and at the same time it is a simple one. I sing to interpret songs. And because I sing this type of songs doesn’t mean that I’m in love with four babies, right? It is easy to point fingers, judge and accuse someone without having a clue what’s going on with the artist. I’m not the only one who sings, there are three other artists, but according to many people I’m the one singing all the naughty words, and this is not true. I sing the intro and the chorus and I have a small part at the end of the song, which is not naughty at all. No one else was been aimed at but me. I really do not care. I think it is a great song in the trap genre, a trend that is coming pretty strong. I launched it for the underground world, but the media took the song to a different level and made it a number one hit just recently in different countries. As there are people against it, there are probably more people that like it and therefore it became quite controversial. Obviously, the people affected by this controversy are my family, who always are there to support me. As I said previously, there’s nothing more beautiful and special than women. Then again, I’m a story teller and for that I’ve been pointed at and called names, but those who know me well recognize what kind of person I am. ‘Cuatro Babys’ is without a doubt the most successful hit I have in my repertoire further more than ‘Chantaje’ or ‘Vente Pa’Ca.’” Of all your hits, which one is your favorite? MALUMA: “Wow, this is a difficult one. In my concert shows I have many new, good songs that I started incorporating all of a sudden. As I said before, ‘Vente Pa’Ca’ and ‘Chantaje’ are top. I think ‘Chantaje’ with Shakira is the one I love the most for the time being.” You mentioned Shakira, how was your experience while recording “Chantaje”? And would you classify it in the salsa music genre? MALUMA: “It was incredible. Shakira and I have a special feeling and love for salsa. We shared this love to the point that while being in Barcelona recording the video, we taped scenes dancing salsa. They were not part of the original version and this is precisely why we decided to record ‘Chantaje’ and give it a salsa twist flavor.” Salsa is a Latin music genre, but in Columbia there are also vallenato and cumbia genres. Which one is your favorite? MALUMA: “I like vallenato better. But I have to confess that they are not my preference. I grew up listening to other types of music. The Colombian folklore has been there for a long time and it is not going to die. Nevertheless, there are vallenatos that I love like Diomedes Diaz, his songs will remain forever in time.” You’ve worked with Shakira and Thalia, who will your next music collaboration be with? MALUMA: “There are several artists that I’m very fond of, but I’d like to pursue the Anglo world. I’ve had the opportunity to work with great stars that are still on my radar, but I’d like to work with American artists, hopefully they’ll be women. I don’t know, maybe Ariana Grande or Selena Gomez. I think it would be a great step for my career and a dream come true.” You are about to start your Pretty Boy, Dirty Boy tour in the United States. What will you bring to your fans? MALUMA: “The most important thing is to bring a great show; this is the main reason we’ve prepared for this tour. There will be more than 14 performances where my team and I will be on the road. We worked very hard during our tour in Latin America and Europe. We are thrilled that for the first time we’ll be performing on a tour in America. I’ve received many messages through social media from fans that are very excited and can’t wait to see us perform. I believe that they paid to see a great show and this is what we came to do.” What connects you to the great city of Miami? MALUMA: “Its Latin flavor, it’s the truth. I cannot deny that I’m in love with my Hispanic culture, not only Colombians but my Venezuelan friends, Dominicans, Mexicans --the Latin flavor that runs through our veins. Every time I come to Miami, I simply connect with the extraordinary cultural diversity this city offers.” Interview by Javier Delgado, Written by Adriana Garuolis, Images, Nieman Group Connect with MALUMA For tour dates and personal updates, visit: facebook.com/malumamusik instagram.com/maluma twitter.com/maluma

Kuba Cabana, a lively, new dining concept which stems from the beautiful traditions of Latin and Caribbean music, cuisine and culture, has debuted at the popular leisure destination CityPlace Doral in Doral, Fla. The energetic, culinary experience-based venue, which serves a Modern Latin-inspired menu, can best be described as an atmosphere where “Old World Cuba Meets Modern Miami.” Kuba Cabana features unmistakable Cuban and Caribbean flair with stunning, vibrant décor from neon signs and tropical foliage to walls donned with Cuban-inspired art from ten local artists. “Kuba Cabana incorporates the experience of dynamic, Latin-inspired cuisine, decor reminiscent of Old Havana, all coupled with an unforgettable experience,” said Kuba Cabana co-manager Carlos Guerrero. “Kuba Cabana is a place where guests can enjoy an unforgettable meal with family and friends,” said Kuba Cabana co-manager Enrique Oropesa. Guests can choose to dine in the Cabana Garden, the outdoor terrace located directly in front of the iconic fountain at CityPlace Doral, or the more formal option, the Kuba Social Club, which boasts floor to ceiling drapery, hand-painted walls and canvases, and a stage for special performances. Ownership has spared no expense in creating a truly authentic feel both inside and outside of the venue. All walls and artwork, including the floor in the stunning Chef’s Table room, are hand-painted by local Miami artists. The culinary program brings the venue to the next level, led by Miami favorites, Corporate Chef Jorge Mas, and Executive Chef Pedro Sarracino, both have extensive experience in the international culinary world and Miami dining scene. The menu offers international Latin flare favorites such as the Pollo Barbacoa, Chuleta Ahumada and Kuviche – Kuba Cabana's classic ceviche with a Cuban twist. The restaurant exudes a sultry soundtrack of rumba, salsa, flamenco and tunes from the rich Latin musical cultures, and local DJs. “We are proud to bring Kuba Cabana’s unique vibe and excellent cuisine to Doral, complementing CityPlace Doral’s already thriving atmosphere,” said Founder Dieuveny “DJ” Jean Louis of UMG Hospitality Group. “Kuba Cabana distinguishes itself from others by offering a mix of stylish dining and lounge spaces paired with eclectic menus and world-class service. Our guests will get a true sense of modern Miami culture that is derived from years of tradition and culinary expressions, right here in Doral.” Guests feel as if they are emerged in Havana, Cuba, as they enter the 8,900-square-foot restaurant, boasting interior design by renowned Mexican design firm Concepto Visual Estudio, and the overall concept by the executive team, who traveled to Cuba for inspiration for the design. The inside bar, located within the Kuba Social Club, depicts the dayscape and nightscape of Old Cuba; the outside bar, located within the Cabana Garden, is constructed from a shiny, vintage red Pontiac Star Chief Convertible, to allow guests to travel back in time when sipping a cocktail, or enjoying dinner in the garden. The Kuba Social Club boasts a stage for live music, including entertainers and DJs, as well as a dedicated cigar room. The private Chef’s Table dining space, which is accessed through the kitchen, seats up to 12 guests and hosts those that are looking to take their dining experience to the next level. The ever-changing Latin-inspired menu brings the delicious flavors of Cuba and the Caribbean to South Florida with dinner Monday-Friday from 4 p.m.–close, Saturday 3 p.m. to close and Sunday for brunch, 1-4 p.m. and dinner from 4 p.m. to close. Happy Hour is offered Monday–Friday 4–6 p.m. Lunch will be available to guests soon. Bottle service is offered, and recommended after midnight, when the venue transforms into an upscale lounge atmosphere. Guests can enjoy an unforgettable experience with a DJ spinning sultry sounds and entertainment throughout the Kuba Social Club. The spirited Sunday brunch (1 p.m.–4 p.m.) features Kuba Cabana’s regular menu, as well as brunch dishes. Guests may add unlimited mimosas or Bloody Mary’s for $25. fan-favorite dishes · Tuna Tartare – Papaya, fermented adobo, burnt avocado, blue corn chips · Cobia Tiradito – Passion fruit leche de tigre, charred scallions, crispy quinoa, cilantro · Yuca Lote – Fried yuca ‘’Mexican Elote style,’’ mojo crema, cotija cheese, chili-lime · Not Your Caesar – Charred iceberg lettuce, smoked roe dressing, rye-crumbs, chives · Burrata y Papaya – Heirloom tomatoes, burnt papaya, pesto and balsamic glaze · Short Rib – Asado negro style, boniato puree, apple gremolata · Pollo Barbacoa – Guava smoked half chicken, spiced guava jus, herbs · Chuleta Ahumada – House cured pork chop, tropical sweet & sour sauce, chives · Pesca’o Frito – Whole-fried snapper, charred yellow peppers, lemon · Arroz de Mar – Corvina, octopus, squid, shrimp Signature drinks include: · Melon Toast – Toast™ Vodka, lime juice, simple syrup and muddle watermelon · Kuba Old Fashioned – Nativo™ Rum, angostura bitters, lightly sweetened by Kuba Cabana’s house made simple syrup · Mojito – Cruzan Rum, lime, sugar, and mint topped with soda water and a choice of fresh blueberry, mango or lychee · Diablo Maracuja – Vida Mezcal, passion fruit, muddled lemon, sugar and a touch of jalapeno · Kuba Lava – Powerful concoction of Tequillas Blanco, Reposado, Aneja and Mezcal, Cointreau, lime juice, simple syrup, finished with a splash of grapefruit juice During Happy Hour, guests can enjoy $4 select beers, $6 select wines, and $6 margaritas, piña coladas daiquiris and select cocktails. Some delicious dessert dishes include: · Chocoland – Nutella mousse, chocolate cookies, dark chocolate and guajillo dust · Churitos de Yuca – Sweet yuca fritters, chocolate, dulce de leche & cinnamon For guests’ convenience, Kuba Cabana offers scannable QR code menus on the tables. For more information, visit www.kubamiami.com, www.instagram.com/kubacabanamiami, www.facebook.com/kubacabana.doral, or call 305.800.5822. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Kuba Miami.

Cruise 2020 establishes a dialogue between traditions and craftsmanship. Wax fabric has been reinterpreted by Maria Grazia Chiuri, bringing a mix of cultures together. The iconic Toile de Jouy is revisited and adorned in indigo and vibrant colors, featuring reworked tarot motifs. By bringing different cultural influences together, an exciting new vision has been produced. DIOR CHEZ MOI Click to view collection > Camouflage Click to view collection > DIOR HEART IN LIGHTS Click to view collection > DIOR oblique Click to view collection > DIOR Millefiori Click to view collection > DIOR CHEZ MOI Click to view collection > By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Dior