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As the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak impacted the events community, show organizers and catering companies found themselves with plenty of flowers, food and beverages, but no guests to enjoy them. At the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC), Centerplate, exclusive food and beverage provider, partnered with event organizers and a local nonprofit to provide immediate relief to those in need. Due to unexpected event cancellations in early March, Centerplate had over 2,000 pounds of prepped food from the Zendesk Relate Conference and Miami City Ballet Gala. Centerplate at MBCC joined forces with event organizers in order to donate the extra food to Food Rescue US’ local site Food Rescue Miami. Food Rescue US is a platform that matches last-minute food donations with volunteers who then pick up and deliver the items to local charities or those facing food insecurity. (TSNN) The 1,000-pound food rescue from the Miami City Ballet Gala featured 32 gallons of milk, 21 (64 oz) containers of yogurt, 12 wheels of brie cheese, 5 (32 lb.) buckets of diced potato, 26 containers of pizza cheese, 6 (40 lb.) cases of lettuce, and other fresh fruits and vegetables. Zendesk offered an additional 1,000 lbs. of produce, bread, chips, snacks, sandwiches, pastries and mixed meats and cheeses. MBCC’s Centerplate Executive Director Steve Haas was proud to participate in the recovery effort. While it was a disappointment to have the cancellation, Haas said the donation “let somebody benefit from this.” Under the circumstances, he said, he understood the reason and hopes the Convention Center will host a rescheduled gala in the fall. “Centerplate works with Food Rescue on a regular basis as there’s often food left over from the larger events,” Haas said. “I’m thrilled when we can do this [and] take care of people who need it.” (RE:MiamiBeach) Centerplate at MBCC commits to overall food sustainability by leveraging every opportunity to reduce food waste, sourcing fresh produce, ingredients, meats and seafood from local farms and organizations to providing eco-friendly cutlery and dishware at their concessions. By Miami Beach Convention Center

New Vantage Roadster joins Coupe in Aston Martin’s most driver-focused model line. The Vantage Roadster convertible model delivers a compelling blend of potent performance, outstanding dynamics, and everyday usability. Powered by Aston Martin’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo 510PS/685Nm V8 engine and mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, Vantage Roadster accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 second and is capable of 190 mph with the roof raised. Weight increases by just 60 kg compared with the Coupe thanks to a new, lighter Z-fold roof mechanism and optimized exterior and chassis revisions throughout. Click below to launch slideshow > Vantage Roadster’s tailored fabric hood features a compact powered Z-fold mechanism that ensures rapid operation (lowered in 6.7 or raised in 6.8 seconds at speeds of up to 50 kmh/31 mph); Vantage Roadster has the fastest full operating cycle of any automatic automotive convertible system. Aston Martin President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Andy Palmer, said of the Vantage Roadster: “Open-top Aston Martins are always firm favorites with our customers, so it’s very exciting to introduce the Vantage Roadster. For many, driving with the roof down is the true definition of the sports car experience as it truly brings your senses to life. Vantage has always delivered the purest of thrills, but in Roadster form that adrenaline rush is set to go to the next level.” The Vantage range starts at $161,000 with first deliveries scheduled for Q2 2020. For more info visit www.astonmartin.com By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Aston Martin

With so many tomato pasta sauces on the market, how do you find a sauce that stands apart from the others? After trying Organico Bello, we knew there was a story behind it. The Beginning Meet Chef Neil Fusco, the creator and force behind this delightful pasta sauce. Neil grew up on a small farm in southern Italy, where hard work was a part of everyday life. He was the eldest of five, the first-born son of Italian farmers who eventually immigrated to New York. Every morning he and his family rose with the sun and followed his mother on the mile-long trek to the family’s tomato fields. It was their job to pull out the weeds between the rows of tomato plants. Being the eldest child, Neil was also responsible for helping his mother cook. Early on, he learned that quality starts with simple, real ingredients. If his food wasn’t harvested from his family farm it came from neighbors, friends, or local markets. In the 1970s, the Fusco family immigrated to the United States and settled in the Bronx, New York. One of Neil’s first jobs was in a pizza shop near Yankee Stadium. He went on to establish a restaurant, then later, he created Organico Bello Pasta Sauce. He has always felt that food does more than nourish the body. The sharing of food, perhaps more importantly, nourishes the soul, a nourishment that stays with us long after the meal has ended. His goal has been to offer a quality product that families feel good about sharing. This inspired him to start Organico Bello, a delicious pasta sauce made from organic tomatoes grown and harvested near his childhood home in Italy. Simple Ingredients Their sauces start with the tomatoes. Organic Southern Italian tomatoes are known for their sweet flavor and low acidity, and coveted for their firm pulp and deep red color. As Chef Neil likes to say, ‘If you start with a good tomato, you don’t need the sugar.’ Sugar is often used to mask an inferior tomato. If the tomato is not allowed to ripen on the vine, it doesn’t develop that sweet, low acidic flavor. Organico Bello tomatoes are picked at peak ripeness, capturing the tomatoes at their best flavor. These attributes make them perfect for cooking. Their cooking method brings out the best in their tomatoes by simmering it just enough to enhance the integrity of the fruit. This maintains the impeccable flavor through heating, simmering, and even baking. Sauces are perfect for the home chef that wants to experiment with new recipes, like zucchini lasagna. The rich, delicious flavors of Organico Bello Spicy Marinara Sauce complement the earthy tones of the vegetables to create an amazing dish to be shared with family and friends. Organico Bello Tomato Basil Sauce makes an excellent base for tomato basil soup. Just add heavy cream and simmer to make a hearty soup on a cool night. Whatever the recipe, you can be confident that you are using good, simple ingredients. Open a Jar When you open a jar of Organico Bello Pasta Sauce, you are opening a jar of wholesome ingredients. Food was made to be enjoyed in its simplest form, which is why they don’t add sugar, water, or artificial preservatives. These pasta sauces are Whole30 approved, Certified USDA Organic, and Non-GMO Project Verified. If you start with good ingredients, you don’t need anything else. “We strive to offer the cleanest and healthiest sauce we can. We feel that being USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified helps reach that goal. Using ingredients free from chemicals and genetic mutation just tastes better!” To order and learn more, visit Organic Bello.

Verde is a 100-seat full service bistro located in the Perez Art Museum Miami, adjacent to Museum Park, with sweeping views of Biscayne Bay with lush vegetation. Designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron, Verde embraces the aesthetic of the museum with large glass windows, teak woods and textured fabrics. This relaxing and serene backdrop extends outdoors onto the Veranda where guests can dine al fresco. Enjoy locally inspired cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients that are artfully prepared. Kimchee Glazed Salmon with Quinoa, Lobster Bucatini, Citrus Ceviche and a variety of pizzas are among the delectable dishes guests will find on the menu. Hand-crafted specialty cocktails and a select list of food friendly wines will round out the experience. Additionally, Verde’s coffee bar serves pastries and sweets, fresh juices, sandwiches and salads, empanadas and specialty coffee drinks to go. The latest edition to PAMM's dining program, Cucuyo, is a fusion of art and culinary expertise. Cucuyo is open for Thursday Happy Hours and Weekends. With its welcoming atmosphere and creative cuisine, Verde will be the perfect place for a relaxing meal with friends or a quick bite before or after a tour of the galleries. Verde will feature special themed pre-fixe dinners and pop-up concepts celebrating museum exhibitions and programming throughout the year. Museum admission is not required to experience the restaurant. Click to view larger image > VERDE Information Due to Covid-19, please call for updated hours and safety measure. Website: Verde Email: Verde@pamm.org Address: 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132 Telephone: (305) 375-8282 Instagram: @Verdemiami Facebook: Verde Miami Hours: Open for lunch on weekdays, dinner on Thursdays, and brunch on Saturday through Monday. Verde is closed on Wednesdays. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Verde

Starting on Wednesday, March 18, all Whole Foods Market stores in the U.S. and Canada will service customers who are 60 and older one hour before opening to the general public, under the new adjusted hours posted on the store’s web page. (example: if a store’s new hours are 9am-8pm, customers who are 60+ can shop starting at 8am.) In addition, Whole Foods Market stores will close up to two hours early to give our Team Members more time to restock shelves, sanitize our stores and rest in preparation for the next day. During this time, stores will remain open for pickup (in stores that offer it), and we will continue to fulfill Prime delivery orders in an effort to meet unprecedented demand and ensure that people who need to remain at home can still get their groceries in a timely manner.

Twenty-nine years after releasing his debut album, Lenny Kravitz is still letting love rule, but with an eye towards societal strife that continues to go unchecked. The multi-Grammy award winning musician brings forth a conscious body of work with Raise Vibration, his eleventh studio album, out September 7th. The first single off the Raise Vibration album, It’s Enough, is a battle cry against corporate greed, political corruption and racism. Kravitz switches gears with his follow up single, Low, exploring the perils of his near-mythical sensuality with intonations alluding to his past intimate relationships. For Lenny Kravitz, the art of the story is paramount, while pop music trends are immaterial. He tells stories through his writing, vocals, and the multitude of instruments he has mastered over the years. Musically, Raise Vibration is an eclectic blend of the kind of stylistic rock n’ roll-funk sound that Kravitz is known for, with subtle nods to vintage R&B and choruses that sway towards pop appeal. His music puts you in a trance-like groove and defies all genre. Lenny Kravitz, the man, is a veritable roadmap of his past experiences. From making his way in an industry that doesn’t always value individuality, to making his way in a world that begged to define and categorize him by race and ethnicity in his formative years, he wears his memories on his sleeve and they inform much of his artistic expression. Our conversation surprised me as it took a more intimate turn. He and I delved into matters of spirituality, racial identity, family and the rituals that aide him in creating his eclectic sound. We were very much on the same page as he shared his feelings about everything from racism and societal injustice to his personal spiritual journey, his family and his music. Click below to launch slideshow > Interview by Allison Kugel Allison Kugel: You’ve said you were born to make music. Can you share your earliest memory where you became aware that music was going to be your life? Lenny Kravitz: For me the pivotal moment was going to see The Jackson 5, live at Madison Square Garden, when I was six years old. I was in the first grade. I had already been intently listening to their record. But I went to the show, and the next morning that was it! I was completely sold. I knew that’s what I wanted to do. Allison Kugel: What was it about The Jackson 5 that resonated with you? Lenny Kravitz: Number one was the music. The music was incredible. The music that was made by these kids was not elementary, it wasn’t bubble gum as they used to say back then about young artists. This was very sophisticated, high-level music with the best musicians, the best producers, and [Michael] was one of the best singers who ever lived and who ever will live. The level of interpretation and feeling and vocal range… it was a perfect storm for me, the way everything came together. On top of the music, the presentation and the showmanship were top level and soulful, and these were people that I could identify with. They looked like me. I had the same hair… there were so many things that came together in my mind. Allison Kugel: It’s interesting to hear you say that. My son is half Jewish and half Jamaican, and he does the same thing. He tends to gravitate towards people he sees on television, in film, and with music, who have his skin tone and his hair. Lenny Kravitz: Yup! I have the same background, except I’m Jewish and Bahamian. Allison Kugel: When and where do you feel most creative and musical? Lenny Kravitz: It could be anywhere, but it’s in the studio, so wherever that may be. My studio is in the Bahamas. It’s my favorite place to work; it’s my workshop. When I’m in the studio and I’ve got all my equipment and all my instruments, and everything is set up, that’s the magical place for me. It’s where I’m comfortable and where I can flow. When I’m inspired and in that flow, I can move. I jump around from instrument to instrument, and it’s wonderful. Allison Kugel: You are such a true musician in every sense of the word. Aside from singing, you play several instruments, and you write and produce. When you record your music, is it all you doing everything in the studio? Are you recording all of the instrumentals in addition to doing your vocals and producing? Lenny Kravitz: Yes, I start on drums normally and then I go to a guitar, a bass, another guitar, keyboard, percussion… I keep layering as though I was painting, until my picture is complete. Allison Kugel: Your upcoming album is called Raise Vibration and the first single, It’s Enough, is a call-to-action anthem about political corruption and social and racial injustice. Was writing It’s Enough a form of therapy for you, and a way of turning hopelessness into empowerment? For example, I live part of the year in Florida, not too far from Parkland. When the Parkland school shooting happened, I went into a depression where I was feeling helpless as a parent. Then I thought, “I’m a writer. I can contribute something by writing a piece about this.” Was it a similar process for you? Lenny Kravitz: I react to the world. Just as you say you did, I have a reaction. I actually recorded the song twice. I was trying to find the direction for the record. The way the song started, the first version of It’s Enough was a full-on guitar, bass, drum, punk rock song. It had an angry tone to it, because that felt like the proper reaction. And then I thought about it and ended up changing it and finding this groove, which is the polar opposite of what it started out as. I found that by being calm and by being centered and by being quiet, it was more effective. It brought out a whole new feeling in the song, and I think it enables the listener to hear the lyrics even better. Allison Kugel: And you feel it brings more of a positive energy, as opposed to the original version, which would have brought forth anger. Lenny Kravitz: Absolutely. I’m all about positive energy. I’m stating the facts, but in the end, I always take an optimistic and positive tone that, “People, we can do this!” We can do it. It’s just a matter of waking up. Allison Kugel: What does the title of your album, Raise Vibration, mean to you? And how do you raise your vibration? Do you meditate? Do you Pray? Lenny Kravitz: It means exactly that; waking up. I meditate, I pray, I try to be still, I try to be quiet… and listen. It means having the desire to learn, to improve, and to face my faults and learn from them. I’m always looking to go higher. And taking as much ego out of myself as possible. Allison Kugel: How do you define God? Lenny Kravitz: I believe that God is my creator, our creator. Whether we realize it or not, I believe we are all created by the same God. I believe we are all one creation, we are all connected, and I believe that God is the ultimate source of love and all we are looking for. Allison Kugel: Do you consider yourself an activist? Lenny Kravitz: That’s a difficult one. I use my music to express myself, and if it inspires others then that’s a beautiful thing. I don’t know that I’m initially doing it for any other reason than to express myself. But I do see myself going more in that direction where you could call it that. Allison: I ask because when I listened to It’s Enough, your first single off this new album, I could tell you’re at a point in your life, and in your career, where you have no problem stating your opinions on societal issues. Lenny Kravitz: Right, but for instance, from my first album, Let Love Rule up until now, I haven’t had that problem. It’s always been within me to express myself truthfully. Allison Kugel: I always say that when I enter a room, or wherever I may be, that I never walk alone because I can feel the presence of God beside me, as well as my great grandparents, my grandparents, my parents, siblings and my son. I walk into a space with the energy of those who made me who I am, walking beside me. When you enter a space, who walks beside you? Lenny Kravitz: God is with me at all times which I am always aware of. And the energy of my mother, of my grandmother, of my grandfather. My daughter (actress, Zoe Kravitz), who is here with me on this earth, is always with me. And like you said, knowing that and feeling that, and knowing that spirit is far superior to anything here. The physical presence is wonderful, and something that we require and crave as human beings. We’re spiritual beings living a physical experience, but as you say, you recognize that you have these people with you and it just shows how strong spirit is and how strong energy is. My mother’s (the late actress, Roxie Roker) been gone for twenty plus years, and I can still feel her every day. I can still sense her presence because the energy she left is so powerful. That’s an awesome thing. Allison Kugel: Your music really transcends any one genre. It’s a blend of rock, punk, blues, soul, pop; it’s really everything. You can’t categorize your music. And I remember seeing a clip of you, I believe it was on Oprah’s Master Class, where you tell the story of sitting in a classroom as a young boy and you didn’t know which box to check off on a piece of paper asking you to identify your race. Everyone’s life has a theme, and that theme repeats itself over and over again because it’s tied to something we’re supposed to learn while we’re here. In your case it seems to be this ongoing theme where people want to put you in a box and label you, and you railing against that. Lenny Kravitz: People love a box (laughs)! And they want to put you right in it, so they can easily define, for their own comfort, what you are. I’ve been fighting against that from day one in my life, and in my musical life. Like with radio stations, this one only plays this, and that one only plays that. This fits here, and that fits there, and you don’t fit here. It’s like, “Shit! That’s not what art is about!” But, unfortunately, that’s not what the business is, which is very frustrating. Going back to that time in school, I knew I was black, but I knew that wasn’t all I was. I knew I was also Russian Jewish and I knew that my great grandmother was full blooded Cherokee Indian. My mother always taught me, “Yes, you’re black, but you’re just as much this and you’re just as much that, and you don’t discount that.” If you’re mixed, like me and like your son, you don’t discount one of your parents. You’re just as much one as the other. But, what my mother did say to me when I was a child that I think was very smart, and I didn’t realize it until I got older, was, “Even though you’re mixed, society only wants to see you as black.” I didn’t understand that at age seven. Allison Kugel: Did you feel diminished by it, at that time, at age seven? Lenny Kravitz: I remember her saying it, but I don’t remember exactly how I felt when she said it. From what I recall, I remember thinking, “What does that mean?” Of course, as I grew and went through life, I understood what that meant. People aren’t going to see all the complexities and the differences. People are going to see what they see, and that is the color of your skin. Not all people, but a lot of people. That was a very good lesson once it kicked in. I was like, “Okay, people don’t see everything for what it is.” People see what they want to see. They judge it how they want to judge it, based upon their pre-conceived ideas of what that is. Allison Kugel: It’s a tough conversation to have with a child. Lenny Kravitz: But kids know from what I see are not tripping on the race thing like generations before, are they? Allison Kugel: There is a difference from generations ago, and my son has several multiracial friends. Recently, he said, “Mom, what does black mean? My skin is brown.” Part of my response in explaining it was that “black” is a political term and a societal designation, as is “white.” Of course, that will also make more sense as he gets older. Lenny Kravitz: You have to explain to kids people’s fucked up attitudes about race. That’s really what you’re doing. You have to break down the judgment and short sightedness, and peoples’ hang ups, and the history of people screwing over other people because they were different. Allison Kugel: Speaking of kids, how would your daughter Zoe describe you, both as a man and as an artist? Lenny Kravitz: Oh wow! We’re very, very close. I think she would say that I have respect and integrity, and love in my heart. I think as a musician, she respects what I do. She’s grown up around it. She grew up seeing it her whole life. This is hard because If I say, “She thinks I’m amazing,” then it sounds like I’m complimenting myself. She respects the craft, what it takes and what I put into it, which is everything. Allison Kugel: On September 7th, the day the new album, Raise Vibration, is released, what are those days like for you, when a new album drops? Lenny Kravitz: When I’m finished with an album, I’m at that place where I let go and I’m excited that I’m finished. It’s always exciting getting a new project out. I hope the people who enjoy my music will get something beautiful from it and will relate to it. As far as the rest, in terms of how well it does, sales and all of that, that’s all great, but the main thing for me is that I expressed myself authentically to who I am, who I was at that moment in time, and that it represents me well. That to me is everything. That’s a success. Photo Credit: Mathieu Bitton, Mark Seliger. Album cover image by Mathieu Bitton 3X Platinum Lenny Kravitz GREATEST HITS album is available on vinyl as a 2 LP set via Virgin/Ume at uDiscoverMusic. His 11th studio album Raise Vibration via BMG. Pre-order at LennyKravitz.com. The album’s debut track, It’s Enough, is available to stream at iTunes. Allison Kugel is a syndicated entertainment and pop culture journalist, and author of the book, Journaling Fame: A memoir of a life unhinged and on the record. Follow her on Instagram @theallisonkugel and visit AllisonKugel.com.

In these uncertain times, we can all do our part to raise the vibration of this planet and initiate collective healing on a mass scale, and that goes beyond our first responders in the medical and safety fields to whom we owe a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. Something as simple as a smile, a wave or asking someone how their day is going has healing ripple effects that are much needed. We all matter, and we must all do our part. One man, Pastor Joel Osteen, of Lakewood Church in Houston Texas, has been doing his part, and then some since taking over his late father, John Osteen's, Lakewood congregation in 1999 as head pastor. Osteen's eternal optimism, interpretation of bible scripture and his practice of radical acceptance, has skyrocketed his church and his message into the stratosphere. Osteen's parishioners who attend his church and follow him on television, through his podcasts, many New York Times bestselling books, tours and radio broadcasts have responded in massive numbers to Osteen's message of "come as you are." During our conversation, we discuss his deep-rooted belief that human beings do not have to be perfect to embrace Christianity, or any faith for that matter. You simply must have the desire in your heart to be better today than you were yesterday; an all-inclusive qualification, that Osteen insists, allows us all to measure up in the eyes of God. It's not a surprise that millions around the globe draw inspiration and spiritual education from Joel Osteen, both, civilians and public figures, alike. The contagion of the COVID-19 pandemic we currently face is daunting, but the contagion of hope and faith is a powerful force that can indeed help to heal our planet, boost our immune systems and encourage us to reflect on how we can be better; how we can each be a miracle to the world around us. Pastor Joel Osteen's recent online streaming Palm Sunday service saw five million viewers tuning in to pray. The power of five million people in unified prayer is a powerful force, indeed. This Sunday's live streaming Easter service anticipates even larger numbers, with numerous special guests sharing messages of love and inspiration for all who attend the service at JoelOsteen.com. Both Joel and I hope to see you there. Over the years, when I have been interviewed about my work, people have asked me, "What are some of your go-to apps on your phone?" Perhaps expecting my answer to reflect our society's obsession with social media, they're often surprised when I say, "I listen to Joel Osteen's messages every morning through his mobile app. It's how I start my day." Interview By Allison Kugel Allison Kugel: I've been listening to you and applying your advice in my life for many moons. What's curious to me about that, is that I was born and raised in the Jewish faith. I’m wondering how many people of different faiths find comfort and inspiration in your words. Have you heard that before? Joel Osteen: I’ve heard it a lot, Allison. Jewish people stop me every day. Somehow, I have that connection with the Jewish people, and interestingly, with some Muslims as well. I’ve sold many, many books in Muslim countries. I feel blessed to be able to connect with people from different faiths, and I even have people come to the church sometimes that are not from the Christian faith. My goal was to reach a broad group, and I feel honored that people listen to me from different faiths. Allison Kugel: How has your ministry changed in the wake of this COVID-19 pandemic in terms of how you're interacting with your congregation, and with the world at large? Are you approaching your messages differently? Joel Osteen: You know, I wouldn't say that I am. I guess I am approaching it differently in one sense. I’m speaking more to the subject at hand, and talking about choosing faith and not fear, and things like that. Other than that, it's just a shift away from the people being here [in Houston's Compaq Center] and being able to pray with people in person. Fortunately, we had our online platform, and this network of television stations already lined up. Other than not seeing everyone in person, it hasn't changed that much. Allison Kugel: Apart from 9/11, which was of course devastating, the last several decades we've just kind of had good times. We didn't live through things like the Spanish Flu, The Great Depression, World War I or World War II, like previous generations did. Now we are faced with the enormity of this pandemic. Do you think the word "faith" has taken on new meaning now? Joel Osteen: I think it has. I think our faith is tested and tried in the difficult times, and you make a good point in that we haven't lived like previous generations did. We haven't had to endure that. This is such a time of uncertainty, but I do believe this is when we turn to our faith. This is when you can feel that peace and that hope to get through it. That is what I feel faith is all about. It's not just for the good times. Even though we hadn't previously experienced those kinds of things in our generation, we all experience difficulties in relationships, finances, the loss of loved ones and with health issues. I think our faith can be seen there. Allison Kugel: Faith comes into play any time we have to believe, in the absence of concrete physical evidence… Joel Osteen: I think we can see we are not really in control as much as we think we are. I think for me, I’ve encouraged people that it's a great time to re-evaluate your life, and your priorities; and to ask, "Do I have things in order? Am I taking people for granted? Am I loving the people God's given me to love?" These things can cause us to ask those important questions. That's how good can come out of it. We can reevaluate and maybe make some adjustments. Allison Kugel: Any personal "aha" moments over the last few weeks you'd like to share? Joel Osteen: I don't think I've had an "aha" moment, per se, but I do think I'm like a lot of people. We can go 90 miles an hour, because life is so busy and we're always in a hurry. It's a fast pace and this has kind of made us slow down. It's made us not be able to travel and it's made us spend some time. I do think that's hit me, to think, "Wow, it's good to slow down sometimes and enjoy life, just let stuff go by, and not take people for granted." I hate that people are dying and that people are sick, but in one sense I've learned to just embrace where I am. We can't have services on the weekend, we can't do all that we used to do, but you know what, I’m just going to slow down, take it at this pace, and not fight it; not live upset, and not live fearful. Allison Kugel: What's your take on destiny versus free will as it applies to us humans? Joel Osteen: I do think that God's planned out things for each one of us. Like you said, he gives us a free will. We can make choices that can keep us from becoming who we were created to be, but I believe that when you're honoring God, when you're being your best, I believe that God will get you to where you're supposed to be. So, a sickness, or a virus, or another person can't stop your destiny. I believe that. I know that sometimes it's hard to reconcile that God gives us free will, and he knew all that we were going to do wrong, but I think he gives us the free will, and I believe when you're doing your best, God will get you to where you're supposed to be. Allison Kugel: People often comment about the enormity of your church. My feeling is that it took courage for you to preach a message that it doesn't matter what you did yesterday, you're welcome here today. It doesn't matter what mistakes you've made, if you want to do better and be better, you can. It certainly goes against traditional concepts of sin and guilt. Joel Osteen: I do believe everything you said, Allison. It probably does go against the old school, or the generations that had hellfire and brimstone, where you go to church to feel guilty. People are already feeling guilty enough. I do believe that is what the scripture teaches, that, you know what, you move forward, and your past doesn't have to stop you. You go through the scripture and you see it again and again, with different examples. When Jesus was here, he lifted the fallen, he restored those who were broken, and so I do believe that. Of course, I believe in sin and repentance from sin, but we've all made mistakes. Life beats us up, and I feel like my message is to tell people to get back up and go again, because God gives us another chance and He can still get you to where you're supposed to be. Allison Kugel: Have you been revisiting scripture to connect to all that is going on in the year 2020, and this seismic shift in our world? Joel Osteen: I’m always searching the scripture and I’m always studying. I don't know if it's specifically that, but I agree with what you are saying that some scripture becomes more real right now. I talked the other day, and I think it was from the Book of Matthew, where it says in the last days, there will be pandemics. And I think, "Well, you know, we're stepping into these times." But Jesus said, "Even then, don't lose faith. Keep your faith and don't live in fear." Allison Kugel: Do you feel pressure to be perfect? If you are the person that millions of people look to for guidance, what or whom do you look to when you are troubled? Joel Osteen: You know, I feel like I have a good family around me that I can turn to. I start the day off with prayer and meditation. That helps me to stay grounded. I feel a responsibility, but I don't really feel that pressure. Again, I have good people around me, and I try to live in a place of peace and strength, and not take on more than I have to. I think God gives you the grace for certain things. Allison Kugel: In what ways is your wife Victoria the backbone of your family? Joel Osteen: Victoria is a strong woman. She is wise, she's determined, and she is very loving, fun, joyful, and she does keep our family filled with hope and joy. I feel blessed to have somebody that has seen things in me that I never saw in myself. She’s got that ability to pull them out of people, not just me, but in others as well. I know I wouldn't be who I am if she wasn't in my life. Allison Kugel: I was going to ask if you think you would be where you are now if Victoria wasn't in your life… Joel Osteen: No. I tell people all the time I wouldn't be half of who I am. She saw, before my dad passed and I stepped up to pastor, she used to tell me I was going to pastor the church. That was like telling me I was going to go be an astronaut. I said, "Victoria, I would never be a pastor. I don't know what to say." She saw this in me before I saw it myself, so I think having her believe in me early on, way before my dad died, that really helped me to step up. Allison Kugel: I ask everyone this question, and I think it's really fitting considering who you are. What do you think you came into this life as Joel Osteen to learn? And what do you think you came here to teach? Joel Osteen: Hmm, what did I come here to learn? Maybe I came here to learn about the goodness of God; how good God is. I feel like that is what I’ve seen in my life, and that's why it's easy for me to tell people that God is for you and that he can restore you, and he's got a great plan. I've just seen that my whole life. I had a great mom and dad. My mom's still alive, but a lot of people get the image of God from their earthly father. My dad was just for everybody, and for me. I feel that maybe I came here to see the goodness of God. I think I came here to teach people about the goodness of God, and to make God good again. We touched on the fact that a lot of people were raised to believe that God is mad at them, and they were taught guilt and that you can't measure up. But I just have a different view of God, so maybe it's to spread a different message. Allison Kugel: And what do you think is your spiritual mission, overall? Joel Osteen: To bring good into the world, to lift people up, to give them hope, to help them forgive, and to help them feel better about themselves. My mission is to help them to know who God is, and to know who they are. A lot of people, we don't know who we are. We think we're just average. I believe we are all made in the image of God, and that we have greatness in us. So, it's to lift people up and help push them into their destiny. Allison Kugel: I watched one of your services where you invited Kanye West to come up on stage to share his testimony. He said something interesting. He said that for a while he was caught up in being of service to fame, rather than being of service to God. Have you ever felt yourself getting pulled in that direction, where you felt like you were being of service to the fame you have achieved? Joel Osteen: I don't know that I felt that so much. One of my strengths is that I get up every morning and I search my heart and my mind, and I ask myself if I’m on the right path. Am I making good decisions? I think there's opportunities that come along with what I do, where I think, "You know what? That would feel good for my ego, but that's not for me." But I don't feel much different than I did twenty years ago when I was working for my father, behind the scenes. I have more influence now, but I don't really see myself as a celebrity, or as somebody with fame. I don't feel like I have that temptation too much. Allison Kugel: How did your relationship with Kanye West start? Joel Osteen: It started with a text from a friend of mine saying, "Kanye West wants to talk with you." I then got a text one day from [Kanye] that said, "Can we talk?" I called and we talked for an hour or two that first day. It started from his journey of faith, this new twist that he's taken. During that first conversation he told me his background and what he was all about. My next question to him was, "What do you need from us?" He said, "I don't need anything. I was just looking for friendship." And so, it started off as friendship, and I was very impressed with him. He didn't call to come to the church, and he didn't really need anything from me. I found him to be very genuine and very respectful over the last six or eight months. He's just a very genuine, respectful, kind, quite person. Not the Kanye that you see out there. Allison Kugel: Let's talk about your live streaming Easter Sunday service. You're having some interesting guests, including Mariah Carey and Tyler Perry; as well as the Houston Chief of Police and the Houston Fire Department Chief. How was it all put together? Joel Osteen: We wanted to do a segment where we honored the first responders and the medical professionals, and we asked the police chief and the fire chief to come out. They're always supportive friends, and so we asked if they would come out to represent the first responders, nationwide. I also called Tyler Perry because he's spoken here at Lakewood Church before, and people love him. I just kind of wanted something special this Easter season, during these times that are so uncertain. So, he made us a five-minute video. He's very warm and inspiring. And then Kanye West texted me just a few days ago and said, "What are you all doing for Easter?" I asked him if he wanted to do something together, and he said, "Yes, I would like to get my choir involved." I said absolutely, let's do it. So, he's working on that end. I don't know what it's all going to be, but he's going to do something with social distancing and all the right things. Allison Kugel: And Mariah Carey? Joel Osteen: I’ve known Mariah from years past and she wanted to do something to honor the First Responders. She called and asked if we could do something together, and of course I thought it would be great. She wants to sing her song, Hero, which she'll do from her apartment in New York. We’ll put footage of the First Responders over her song. She has a real heart to say thank you to people, and so we thought it would work with our other segments. She's an amazing lady, too, so it just kind of fell into place. Allison Kugel: What is Lakewood Church doing in terms of donations of medical supplies, food, or whatever kind of support you're working on for your local hospitals and other service providers in the Houston area? Joel Osteen: We're doing something called Boxes of Hope. These are for the elderly, and for people that have special needs children. These are boxes filled with groceries, water, soaps, and things that they need if they can't get to the grocery store. My brother Paul is a medical doctor and he's working with some of his contacts, and we're donating masks and medical supplies down to the large medical center we have here in Houston. Another thing we are doing is taking food trucks down to the medical center for the first responders, nurses and doctors, so they can step outside and have some free food. We also did a blood drive last week at the Gulf Coast Blood Center. We're always their biggest blood drive in North America. We'll have another couple of thousand people that will come through and give blood. People here at Lakewood [Church], they love to help, they love to give, and they love to share. Allison Kugel: In times like this I know that you preach positivity, which is so important, but in these times do you think it's okay for people to have moments of anxiety, depression, or even moments where they feel a lack of faith? Joel Osteen: Yes, I definitely do, Allison, because we are human. Jesus, even in scriptures, one time he was so depressed he sweat great drops of blood. I think that's normal, and I don't think we need to beat ourselves up for that. But I would encourage people to not stay there. Don't live there. Don't live out of the anxiety and fear and lack of faith. But I wouldn't beat myself up for that, or for even people saying I’ve doubted, and I've gotten away from God. Well, come back. You don't have to stay there. Allison Kugel: Do you think at some point we'll all transcend religion and religious denominations, and simply gain knowledge from, as Deepak Chopra would say, “all of the great wisdom traditions," and from all the great prophets that have walked the earth? Perhaps, at some point, as a human race, do you think we'll feel that all roads lead to Rome, so to speak? Joel Osteen: I really don't know. I go back to how I grew up fifty years ago, when the denominational walls were so strong. My dad was basically asked to leave the Baptists because he didn't believe exactly like them. I see how far we've come, that it's not like that today, so I do think these walls are coming down. I think the things that have separated us are getting less and less, and I don't know where it will end up, but I do think that just like when we talked earlier, so many people from different faiths watch us and listen to us. I do think it's a good thing that we don't have all these things separating us. Allison Kugel: How can people tune in to your Easter service this Sunday? Joel: They would have to watch our live stream at JoelOsteen.com, this Sunday morning at 8:30 AM central time, and then at 11:00 AM central time. It will then replay on Facebook and YouTube, and all those platforms. Allison Kugel: Thank you for a great interview, and for inspiring me on a daily basis for so many years. Joel Osteen: Awe, thank you so much. I'm very honored. Join Joel Osteen, Mariah Carey, Kanye West and Tyler Perry for Lakewood Church's live streaming Easter Sunday Service at 8:30 AM CT, and at 11 AM CT at JoelOsteen.com. Photos courtesy of Lakewood Church. Allison Kugel is a syndicated entertainment columnist, author of memoir, Journaling Fame: A memoir of a life unhinged and on the record, and owner of Full Scale Media. Follow her on Instagram @theallisonkugel and at AllisonKugel.com.

“The sun is shining, the weather is sweet. Make you want to move your dancing feet.” –Bob Marley. Is there anything more relaxing than watching the crashing waves of a blue-green sea on a sunny day? What’s more delicious than the sweet taste of coconut mixed with rum or the soundtrack of the water meeting the sandy beach? It’s a vibe, and it can be found at Couples Tower Isle Jamaica. Welcome to indulgent island life, where the food, libations, and spa services are limitless. I open the tall, white gate to uncover our intimate Signature Oasis Spa Villa. Wrapped within our fenced-in area is a tranquil sanctuary appointed with a personal plunge pool —heated to the alluring temperature of a hot tub— and an alfresco dining set —perfect for those mornings you want in-suite dining. Two lounge chairs sit in the shallow end of the pool, beckoning us to bask in the sun. At the other end of the terrace, there are walls of lush, green foliage and an outdoor shower. A steady breeze sweeps the island, causing the towering palms trees to emit a lulling swooshing sound. It’s beautiful, private, peaceful…. Simply, it’s paradise. Inside our 639-square-foot villa are three rooms —a living room, bedroom, and bathroom— divided by white pocket doors. With its high ceilings, minimalist décor, and light color palette, the space feels serene and airy. The king-sized bed is appointed with a gorgeous wood carved headboard and is dressed in plush white bedding. There is an enormous walk-in shower with showerheads on either side, a dual vanity, a shampoo and body wash pump set, plus comfy bathrobes and slippers —to promote relaxation. The villa boasts flat screen TVs in the bedroom and living room, a Brita water pitcher (the eco-friendly resort has eliminated bottled water), a mini fridge stocked with soft drinks, bubbly, and a small selection of wine and liquor. The best part about these villas, in addition to the private, hot plunge pool, which is heavenly, is that you have access to unlimited spa services. Outfitted in our bathrobes and slippers, we take a short, scenic walk through the manicured grounds to The Oasis Spa. Here, the spa concierge helps us schedule our spa services. I recommend that you book them sooner than later as space is limited. During our stay, we booked about two treatments a day. The award winning spa offers a nice selection of couples treatments, which we took full advantage of, as well as treatments (a variety of facials, massages, and body treatments) you can indulge in on your own. We enjoyed the Couples Seaweed Body Wrap, Couples 50-minute Aromatherapy Massage, Couples 50-minute Hot Stone Massage, Couples Facial, and Couples Manicure & Pedicure. The spa treatments are relaxing and rejuvenating, and the staff is friendly and accomodating. It’s no wonder they were named Best Caribbean Hotel Spa by Travel + Leisure. In addition to the private spa villas, there are two beachfront buildings that house 226 rooms and suites. There are four swimming pools and four jacuzzis at Tower Isle. Stay active during your trip and take advantage of their fitness center, tennis courts, beach volleyball, golf, and water sports, including scuba diving —all included. Across the way, there is a private au naturel island, which can be accessed by boat, simply coordinate with the hotel to explore it. Click below to launch slideshow > Tower Isle offers six different restaurants to satiate guests’ discerning palates. For a light meal or snack, stop by the Pool Grill for all-day dining; this is where you’ll find their tasty Jamaican beef patties. The Patio Restaurant is an open-air space with a buffet that serves an appetizing assortment of entrées for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The perfect spot for breakfast, omelettes are made-to-order and crispy bacon and sausage are plentiful. They also offer Jamaican breakfast staples, cereals, yogurt, fresh juice, fruit, and an array of breads and sweet pastries. Smoothies, salads, sandwiches are available at The Veggie Bar. And if you prefer to stay in, there’s in-suite dining. Get dolled up for dinner and experience the resort’s three formal restaurants: The Verandah (continental fare), Bayside (Asian cuisine, requires a reservation), and Eight Rivers (authentic Jamaican cuisine, requires a reservation). Bayside is a must because of its gorgeous setting, romantic ambiance, and stellar fare. Situated on the water, Bayside offers Asianinspired cuisine with a stunning view. To start, we ordered the Tasting Platter, which featured shrimp skewers, a spring roll, fried wontons, and an egg roll. For our entrées, we selected the special of the night: coconut curry lobster, which was delicious and succulent, as well as the tender lamb chops, and a noodle dish with chicken. The presentation was first-rate, and every dish was bursting with flavor. Tower Isle does a fantastic job at keeping their guests entertained with daily and nightly entertainment and activities. During the day, you can participate in Arts & Crafts, Jewelry-Making, Salsa Dancing, and games. Additionally, the resort offers trips to Dunn’s River Falls, Sunset Bar, and area excursions. At night, stop by the piano bar for a lively sing-along or retire to the lounge for speciality cocktails and dancing (their DJ is on point!). Perhaps Martinis on the Roof is more your speed —scintillating conversations under the moonlight are always a good idea. During our stay, the resort celebrated their 42nd Anniversary and spared no expense to honor it with their guests. There was live entertainment and an extraordinary buffet fraught with Jamaican specialities, like Jerk Turkey and Oxtail Risotto, loads of fresh seafood, carving stations, and an incredible display of sweets —gourmet chocolates, cakes, pies, and cookies galore. With over four decades of service under their belt, it’s evident that Couples Resort Tower Isle knows what they’re doing. They have everything needed to ensure that your stay here is romantic, rejuvenating, and memorable. Words by Vanessa Pascale. Images courtesy of Tower Isle. For more information, visit: https://couples.com/resorts/tower-isle

Sprouting is the practice of germinating seeds — whether grains, nuts or other kinds of seeds — so they are easier to digest and your body can access their full nutritional values. Because sprouts are more digestible, the human body can absorb more of the vitamins, nutrients and minerals that are naturally present in all whole grains and seeds. Those nutrients include magnesium, zinc, protein, vitamin c, folate and iron. Sprouted foods also have many health benefits. “This germinating process breaks down some of the starch, which makes the percentage of nutrients higher. It also breaks down phytate, a form of phytic acid that normally decreases absorption of vitamins and minerals in the body. So sprouted grains have more available nutrients than mature grains,” states Kristina Secinaro, a nutritionist at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. The latest research shows that when you compare sprouted seeds to unsprouted grain seeds, the unsprouted grains had a lower protein content including deficiency of certain essential amino acids. Many different types of “seed” foods can be sprouted, some that you probably don’t even realize are seeds. Grains, for example, are really the seeds of cereal grasses, so they make some of the best sprouts. Sprouting seeds makes them edible even when raw, but sprouted seeds can also be used in baked and cooked recipes too. Now you can add sprouted seeds and grains in your diet and enjoy these delicious and extremely healthy foods. Special thanks to Dr. Josh Axe and Heidi Godman. For the latest healthy lifestyle info visit https://draxe.com and www.health.harvard.edu. Image by Wallpapercave

Make this holiday even more sparkling and bright by giving her Lark & Berry’s cultured diamonds, type 2A --the rarest type of diamond. Launched in London in 2018, Lark and Berry offers precious metal collections set with cultured diamonds, better known as laboratory-grown diamonds. Founder, Laura Chavez had long dreamed of starting her own high-quality jewelry brand, yet the long-standing traditions of controversial, environmentally-disturbing diamond mining held her back from purchasing. After two years of thorough research, Laura discovered a burgeoning innovative industry: using technology to create diamonds --without endangering lives or perpetuating political turmoil. Click below to launch slideshow > By ML Staff. Images by L&B For more info visit www.larkandberry.com

You may have heard of the term “Wardrobing” -- the act of buying an outfit, wearing it out, and then returning it. We know people do it. It’s a rising trend, and most fashion brands struggle with how to handle it -- except for DIESEL. The new campaign, “Enjoy Before Returning” is a playful, nonconformist stance on this controversial topic. Rather than condemning wardrobing, DIESEL embraces it. For more info visit shop.diesel.com Images by Angelo Pennetta | Production by Art Partner | Stylist Julia Sarr-Jamois

Top: Ksubi Barrettes: Zara Top: MSGM Pants: Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Shoes: Zara Top: Markus Lupfer Skirt: Tibi Shoes: Zara Hat: Dollar General Top: Acne Studios Pants: Sundry Shoes: Zara Hat: Ikea Dress: Norma Kamali Vest: SAM. Eyeglasses: Quay Top: Fila Pants: David Lerner Boots: Maje Photographer: Orlando Behar. Model: Ada, ONE.1 Models. Hair and Make-up: Omeski Jones, The Agency