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Rolling hills, lush foliage, cascading waterfalls, sweeping mountain views -- this is Highlands, North Carolina. Here, you will find Old Edwards Inn and Spa, a luxurious Relais & Chateaux property nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The resort’s old-world charm and upscale amenities breed romance --from the blazing fireplaces (or outdoor fire pit) that encourage snuggling in the winter to the private balconies where fine bottles of wine and sunsets are meant to be enjoyed during the warmer months. Old Edwards Inn and Spa takes exceptional care of their guests. While we check in at the The Lodge, we are offered flutes of champagne. Complimentary Dove ice cream bars are also available. The Lodge is a warm and inviting milieu with its exposed wood beams, stone features, and cozy seating area focused around a lit fireplace. In the morning, Art’s at the Lodge serves coffee and light breakfast offerings; when night falls, a full cocktail menu, along with live music on Friday and Saturday nights are served up. The original part of Old Edwards Inn and Spa, which overlooks Main Street, houses the spa and salon, Hummingbird Lounge (a piano bar and library with a full bar, light bites, and live music on Friday and Saturday), and Historic Inn. There are a range of accommodations at Old Edwards, from guest rooms and suites to cottages and vacation homes. The most romantic of them all are the Falls Cottages; they’re intimate, rustic, and chic. Every inch of our cottage is thoughtfully appointed. A package of cookies (an Old Edwards tradition) and a complimentary bottle of wine and plate of charcuterie welcome our arrival. A refreshing blue and white color palette and rustic touches are sprinkled throughout the idyllic cottage. The living room has a working fireplace, a bar with a mini fridge (stocked with water bottles), a desk, and a couch with a pullout bed, perfect for cuddling up in while enjoying a movie and a roaring fire. The private balcony, accessed from the living room and bedroom, is equipped with patio furniture, so that you can luxuriate in the gorgeous view and breathe in the fresh mountain air. The generous-sized bedroom is appointed with a king-sized wrought-iron, four-poster bed outfitted in fine Italian linens. Blackout drapes, a mounted flatscreen TV, and convenient USB outlets complete the room. The bathroom is possibly the most impressive room in the cottage with its heated marble floors, towel warmer, grand freestanding tub, quality Molton Brown toiletries, multiple-jet shower, and comfy bathrobe-and-slipper sets. While it’s tempting to hole up in our cozy cottage and subsist on in-room dining (cheeseburger and fries are excellent) our entire stay, there is much to experience beyond our chic accommodations. A neat row of antique shops, quaint eateries, and an old-fashioned confectionery are steps away on Main Street. When you’re finished window shopping, explore the great outdoors. A wealth of outdoor activities are within driving distance: fly fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, tennis, ziplining, rafting... The nearby hiking trails and waterfalls (Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls) are a must. Or, stay onsite and take advantage of the state-of-the-art fitness center (fitness/yoga classes, hikes are offered); mineral pools with cabanas; and 18-hole golf course at Old Edwards Club. Click to view larger image > Hungry? Old Edwards has you covered. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar and Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden boast excellent menus. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar is a casual eatery that serves wood-fired pizzas and sandwiches with ingredients from the property’s gardens and local purveyors. We had dinner at Four65 one night, and started off with the Warm Wood-Fired Brussels Sprout Salad, which was incredibly delicious. Of course we had to try one of their “authentic wood-fired neapolitan pizzas,” so we ordered the Prosciutto: san marzano, mozzarella, prosciutto, arugula, hot pecan honey. This satiated my craving for something sweet, salty, and crunchy. Foodies are in for a genuine treat when they dine at Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden. The award-winning restaurant serves exceptional farm-to-table fare. My compliments to the chef, who presented us with dishes that were innovative, delicious, and perfectly plated. Made with the finest and freshest local ingredients, we devoured every bite of our romantic dinner. Everything, from the Fideos & Butter Poached Lobster, Crispy Leg of Duck Confit, Bourbon Maple Glazed Pork Belly and Grilled Lamb Mergueze Flatbread, to the Truffled Macaroni and Cheese, Pimento Cheese with Spicy Buttermilk Crackers, and Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie, was cooked to perfection. Madison’s offers an unrivaled dining experience greatly credited to their sophisticated ambiance, stellar service, and masterfully-prepared dishes. Right outside is the picturesque Wine Garden, their seasonal alfresco dining space featuring a patio-side water feature and lush greenery. Madison’s also serves breakfast and lunch, including southern staples, like House-made Buttermilk Biscuits with Country Sausage Gravy, Spicy Fried Chicken and Buttermilk Biscuits, Traditional Southern Benedict, and Thick-Cut Country White French Toast with powdered sugar, lemon curd, and berry compote. Does it get any better than this? No vacation is complete without a visit to the spa. The Spa and Salon at Old Edwards was rated “Top Hotel Spa in North America” by Condé Nast, so you can trust that you’re in good hands. The beautiful European-style spa boasts a mineral whirlpool, steam room, sauna, and offers a list of rejuvenating services: massages, therapeutic bodywork (polishes, scrubs, masks), and facials. I highly recommend the Sweet Mountain Metamorphosis, a 110-minute treatment that includes a foot wash, relaxing dry brushing (they send you home with the dry brush), CranioSacral Therapy, and a soothing massage. The experience was pure bliss and left me completely relaxed. If you want a light bite to eat, stop by The Spa Café for a smoothie or salad. Or better yet, pop by the front desk for a Dove bar. Yep, Old Edwards definitely knows how to spoil their guests. Click to view larger image > Words by Vanessa Pascale. Old Edwards Inn and Spa is located at 445 Main Street, Highlands, NC 28741. For more information and reservations, visit www.oldedwardsinn.com or call 866-526-8008

The City of Miami Beach is preparing to safely welcome back residents and visitors to a myriad of locales that had previously closed their doors in our collective effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. Now, as we restart our phased reopening of museums, office space, personal services, retail, restaurants, residential building amenities, gyms and hotels — we welcome you back! Note: Gyms, hotels and residential amenities remain closed. They are expected to open by the end of the month. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS Restaurants within arts and culture establishments must comply with restaurant requirements Limit the amount of staff and customers to 50% occupancy All persons working in or visiting an establishment, including but not limited to airports, seaports, and mass transit facilities and vehicles, shall wear a facial covering as described in Emergency Order 20-20, except that facial coverings shall not be required: for children under the age of two years; for persons who have trouble breathing; where Federal or state safety or health regulations prohibit the wearing of facial coverings; or for persons engaged in strenuous physical activity. Additional PPE may be required of persons engaged in specific activities as described in the Miami-Dade County Handbook RETAIL MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS Limit the number of staff and customers to a maximum of 50 percent of mall/store occupancy All persons working in or visiting an establishment, including but not limited to airports, seaports, and mass transit facilities and vehicles, shall wear a facial covering as described in Emergency Order 20-20, except that facial coverings shall not be required: for children under the age of two years; for persons who have trouble breathing; where Federal or state safety or health regulations prohibit the wearing of facial coverings; or for persons engaged in strenuous physical activity. Additional PPE may be required of persons engaged in specific activities as described in the Miami-Dade County Handbook OFFICE SPACES MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS All persons working in or visiting an establishment, including but not limited to airports, seaports, and mass transit facilities and vehicles, shall wear a facial covering as described in Emergency Order 20-20, except that facial coverings shall not be required: for children under the age of two years; for persons who have trouble breathing; where Federal or state safety or health regulations prohibit the wearing of facial coverings; or for persons engaged in strenuous physical activity. Additional PPE may be required of persons engaged in specific activities as described in the Miami-Dade County Handbook RESTAURANT MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS Restaurants that comply with all of these guidelines may also provide additional outdoor seating in compliance with Miami Beach Limit staff and customers to a maximum of 50% of capacity with the maintenance of social distancing of 6 feet between parties*. Any outdoor seating must maintain similar distancing, but in no event may the combined indoor and outdoor operation exceed 100% of its legally permitted building occupancy content to the entry of County and City personnel onto the establishment’s property for the sole purpose of inspection for compliance with County Order 23-20 and Miami Beach Phase 1 Reopening Order and Emergency Measures effective May 17, 2020. All persons working in or visiting an establishment, including but not limited to airports, seaports, and mass transit facilities and vehicles, shall wear a facial covering as described in Emergency Order 20-20, except that facial coverings shall not be required: for children under the age of two years; for persons who have trouble breathing; where Federal or state safety or health regulations prohibit the wearing of facial coverings; or for persons engaged in strenuous physical activity. Additional PPE may be required of persons engaged in specific activities as described in the Miami-Dade County Handbook (Handbook). GROOMING - MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS Capacity limited to 10 individuals (employees and customers) or 25% of building occupancy as required by law, whichever is smaller at any one time. Within the shop, a minimum of six feet (6’) distance between customers, except for families residing at that same dwelling All persons working in or visiting an establishment, including but not limited to airports, seaports, and mass transit facilities and vehicles, shall wear a facial covering as described in Emergency Order 20-20, except that facial coverings shall not be required: for children under the age of two years; for persons who have trouble breathing; where Federal or state safety or health regulations prohibit the wearing of facial coverings; or for persons engaged in strenuous physical activity. Additional PPE may be required of persons engaged in specific activities as described in the Miami-Dade County Handbook Any establishment that has an on-site employee or contractor who tests positive shall close for the shorter of: the time needed for all staff to be tested and the establishment to be deep-sanitized, as specified in the Handbook; or 14 days from the date such employee or contractor was last onsite at such establishment Where an establishment has multiple floors or structures, only those structures or floors where the infected person was present are required to be deep-sanitized as a condition of re-opening, and only those employees working in such structures or on such floors must be tested. Placement of trash containers for face coverings and other personal protective equipment (PPE) near exits and entrances and other common areas Comprehensive cleaning of facilities must be performed each night and include thoroughly disinfecting all frequent touchpoints (doors, stairwell handles, light switch, elevator switch, ) and emptying all trash receptacles using solid waste bags that are double-bagged and securely sealed Use reasonable efforts to ensure that on-site customers, employees, contractors and vendors maintain appropriate social distancing, as recommended by the then-current CDC guidelines, which may include, but are not limited to, marking floors at appropriate intervals or providing other visible systems to identify the appropriate social distance Visually mark separation 6 ft. apart for areas where people would group (e.g., queues and elevators) Procure increased amounts of soap, hand sanitizer, cleaning materials and protective equipment (face coverings, gloves) Clean and disinfect bathrooms every two to three hours Eliminate the use of common water fountains and interactive displays Train all personnel in new operating protocols and modifications to existing codes of conduct to deal with COVID 19 issues Install hand sanitizing dispensers or make sanitizer available at entrances and in common areas Space out customer queues at cashiers with floor markers (every 6 ft) Place signs outside and inside the elevators to limit capacity to 4 passengers, with visual markers for passengers to stand on Dressing rooms must be closed. Merchandise, particularly clothing, must not be handled or tried on by customers and returned to shelves or display racks before being properly cleaned Cart and basket handles must be sanitized between uses Eliminate car valet services Enable single point of entrance Mark with arrows entry and exit points, creating one-way circulation paths inside stores Only the customers receiving the service may enter the shop (except for a parent or guardian accompanying a minor) All services require an appointment; appointments must be recorded for tracking purposes and for the notification of others that may have been present in the shop, if a positive COVID-19 case is reported Customers must wait outside of the business (practicing social distancing) or in their cars until they are called for their appointment A paging system may be utilized similar to what restaurants use, so that customers do not congregate outside of or around the shop Walk-ins are prohibited Employees to wear face coverings and gloves at all times, the use of face shields is strongly encouraged Employees must not share tools Hairdressers must wear single-use aprons By Miami Living Staff

Explore the notes of taste and sound in this adventurous virtual event hosted by NWS Brass Fellows on Saturday, J‌une 6th at 7‌:30 P‌M. Tickets are just $25! From the comfort of your own home, enjoy a recital of brass quintet works paired with different beers by Veza Sur, Wynwood's Latin Craft Brewery and Bar. Ticket includes performance stream, selection of six beers (four will be paired with works during the concert) and a souvenir pint glass delivered to your home in advance of the event! The performance will be followed by a live Q&A session with Brass Fellows and Veza Sur's Brewmaster. Ticketholders must be at least 21 years old and present a valid ID at time of beer delivery or pick-up. In addition, ticketholders must reside in Miami-Dade or Broward counties. THE PROGRAM Tylman Susato (c. 1510-70) Transcribed for brass by John Iveson Renaissance Dances: Five Dances from The Danserye La Mourisque Bransle Quatre Bransles Ronde Ronde - Mon Amy Basse Danse Bergeret BEER PAIRING: MANGOLANDIA (MANGO BLONDE ALE) Did you ever wake up from the sound of ripe mangos falling on your roof? This bright and sessionable Blonde Ale is Miami Summer in a glass. Samuel Barber (1910-1981) Adagio for Strings BEER PAIRING: LA YUMA (DARK LAGER) Very easy drinking, with a malty finish. Enrique Crespo (b. 1941) Suite Americana No. 1 Ragtime Zamba Gaucha Bossa Nova BEER PAIRING: SPANGLISH (LATIN LAGER) Inspired by our Latin roots, crisp and refreshing, perfect for a hot Miami day. Duke Ellington (1899-1974) Arranged for brass by Jack Gale "In A Sentimental Mood" BEER PAIRING: MALA YERBA (SESSION IPA) West Coast meets Latin America in this perfectly balanced IPA. The perfect introduction to the world of India Pale Ales! What you need to know What do I get with my Beer and Brass ticket? The first 200 ticketholders will gain access to the concert stream, a set of 6 beers from Veza Sur, a souvenir pint glass and the opportunity to chat with Fellows and Brewmaster Rhett Dougherty post-concert during a Q&A session. You only need one ticket per household to access the stream. I purchased my ticket. What next? NWS will send you an order confirmation within a few hours after your purchase. It will include information on how to secure your beer delivery or pick-up with Veza Sur. Be sure to add tickets@nws.edu to your contacts and check your spam folder. How can I order more beers? You may purchase additional sets of the featured Veza Sur beers. A promo code for 20% off your beer order is included with your ticket confirmation! How do I get my beers? In your ticket confirmation email, there is a link to a form from Veza Sur to plan your delivery or pick-up. Ticketholders must live in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. For any beer inquiries, please contact beer@vezasur.com. NWS ticket order must be placed by June 1 to have beer delivered by Veza Sur. How do I watch? NWS will send you a custom access link on the morning of the event, Saturday, June 6. By accessing this link, you’ll be able to join the concert stream and participate in the live post-concert Q&A session with Fellows and Brewmaster. This link is non-transferable and cannot be shared. Can I watch the concert later? The Beer and Brass concert will air once on Saturday, June 6 at 7:30 PM and will not be aired again. To experience this virtual event please visit NWS's website. My Miami Living Staff

DHL Express has partnered with REEF Technology to pilot the use of four low-power electric-assist e-Cargo Cycles for deliveries across Miami. The three-wheeled cycles are equipped with accompanying cargo container and are capable of pulling up to 400 pounds or 60 cubic feet in volume. The e-Cargo technology is expected reduction of 101,000 kg of C02e annually. The two companies are bringing the environmentally friendly e-Cargo Cycles to Miami as part of the DHL GoGreen strategy to reduce its carbon footprint.  The short-term goal of DHL is to implement clean pickup and delivery solutions for 70% of its operations by 2025. Each e-Cargo Cycle deployed enables DHL to take one conventional delivery van off the road, reducing road traffic, noise and pollution while still providing fast efficient deliveries for customers. REEF’s mission is to build the ecosystem that connects the world to your block. By leveraging the power of proximity, REEF is reimagining parking facilities by creating last-block mobility and logistical hubs that serve the needs of cities, residents and businesses. REEF manages the hubs that will serve as the home base for the e-Cargo Cycles that DHL is using during this pilot. REEF’s technology-driven infrastructure provides congestion-reducing buffering zones and environmentally-conscious parking, micro-fulfillment and delivery solutions to enable the frictionless movement of goods and services. “We are excited to partner with DHL and the City of Miami to shape the future of last-block delivery,” said REEF Technology CEO Ari Ojalvo. “We appreciate Commissioner Manolo Reyes and his leadership on this issue from the outset and are grateful to Mayor Suarez, Ken Russell the District 2 Commissioner, the Downtown Development Authority, as well as the Miami Parking Authority for leading the way to make freight deliveries safer and more sustainable for the entire community.” “We are thrilled to be leveraging the REEF ecosystem and deploy these new environmentally-friendly vehicles not only to support our emissions-reduction efforts, but also significantly reduce the challenges associated with urban business deliveries, improving safety, productivity and costs,” said DHL Express U.S. CEO Greg Hewitt. “They reinforce our own ongoing program to minimize our environmental footprint and support the city government’s efforts to promote sustainable city living.” “This partnership between the City of Miami, the Downtown Development Authority, Miami Parking Authority, REEF Technology and DHL is an example of how both public and private entities can work together to realize innovative and environmental solutions that benefit the citizens of Miami,” said City Commissioner Manolo Reyes. The Miami e-Cargo cycle pilot, a DHL straight truck equipped with a customized trailer will carry up to nine cargo containers for the e-Cargo Cycles. The containers are delivered to the REEF Hub at the Courvoisier Centre, where they will be quickly connected to the e-Cargo Cycles at REEF Hub garages for last-mile inner-city deliveries in the morning. The containers can then be reloaded for outbound shipments in the afternoon. The four e-Cargo Cycles being deployed in Miami will result in an expected reduction of 101,000 kg of CO2e annually. DHL couriers will receive comprehensive training to operate the e-Cargo Cycles on the street to ensure compliance with all federal, state and local traffic regulations. For more info visit REEF Technology By Miami Living Staff, Image courtesy of Reef Technology

Burdines was an American chain of department stores operating in the state of Florida, headquartered in Miami. The original store opened in Bartow, Florida in 1896 as a carriage-trade shop. Over its nearly 110-year history, Burdines grew into a popular chain of department stores, known as 'The Florida Store,' decorated with palm trees in the center of the store, painted in pink and blue, and other subtropical colors and motifs. In 1956, the stores became a part of Federated Department Stores, Inc. (now Macy's, Inc.) On January 30, 2004, it was renamed Burdines-Macy's, and a year later, on March 6, 2005, the name Burdines was dropped altogether. The majority of the stores were rebranded as Macy's while a handful closed. Beginning In 1897, Henry Payne and William M. Burdine opened a dry goods store in the central Florida city of Bartow. A year later, Payne left the company, and Burdine brought in his son, John, as a partner, resulting in the company's name change to W.M. Burdine and Son. In 1898, Burdine bought a block on South Miami Avenue, one block south of Flagler Street, in the then-fledgling community of Miami. That year he opened the first W.M. Burdine & Son store at the location, just two years after the first people had arrived in the area from the newly completed Florida East Coast Railway to incorporate the city. His tiny store held only a few shelves of clothing, which were primarily sold to construction workers, soldiers from the Spanish–American War, and the local Miccosukee and Seminole Native Americans. Burdine was amazed with the business that he did in Miami and decided to close his store in Bartow and move his operations base to Miami, changing the business name to Burdines and Sons. By 1912, under the leadership of Roddy Burdine, Burdines had grown into a full-fledged department store and continued expanding. The land-boom of the 1920s helped the store launch its first branch in Miami Beach. As Florida's population soared, so did the growth of Burdines. Over the next thirty years, four other branches opened across the state of Florida. In the late 1940s, Burdines opened an international mail order program that served Latin America. This resulted in a rise of popularity for the company, and military personnel stationed in Cuba would send a supply ship to Miami every 6 months with orders for Burdines. Click to view larger image > 1956–1996 In 1956, Burdines merged with Federated Department Stores, Inc. The financial support given by Federated allowed Burdines to push north and westward in the 1970s and 1980s. Beginning in 1966 they opened stores in Hialeah (at Westland Mall), Pompano Beach, Hollywood, Orlando (at Orlando Fashion Square), Altamonte Springs, Clearwater, Sarasota (at Southgate Mall), Fort Lauderdale (Clearance Center), Plantation (at Broward Mall), Boca Raton, South Dade (Clearance Center), Fort Myers, West Palm Beach (at Palm Beach Shopping Center), St. Petersburg, Cutler Ridge, Fort Lauderdale (at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, 1981), Daytona Beach, Doral (at Miami International Mall), Melbourne (at Melbourne Square Mall), Tampa (at Tampa Bay Center and University Square), Coconut Grove (at Mayfair Shops, 1984-1991) Coral Springs (at Coral Square Mall), Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens. In 1971, the Burdines store in Dadeland Mall became the largest suburban department store south of New York. Burdines also piloted auto centers, beginning in 1960, at their 163rd St location and the Miami warehouse, after testing it in Fort Lauderdale. In 1991, following the 1988 merger of Federated with the Allied Stores Corporation and subsequent bankruptcy reorganization, Burdines absorbed Allied's Tampa-based Maas Brothers/Jordan Marsh Florida division, converting many of the stores to Burdines and closing the rest. The conversion resulted in there being fifty-eight Burdines stores in the state of Florida, more than twice their initial store count of 27. During the 1990s, stores opened at Pembroke Lakes Mall in Pembroke Pines in the Miami Metropolitan Area, Brandon Town Center in Brandon in the Tampa Bay Area, and Seminole Towne Center in Sanford in the Orlando Metropolitan Area. Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 1996, Burdines sold custom-made FIESTAWARE pitchers by The Homer Laughlin China Company. The pitchers held 67.5 ounces of liquid and stood seven inches tall. 1999–2001 From 1999 to 2001, Burdines experienced major growth, expanding into seven new locations and significantly renovating their existing stores with a lighter color palette and an upgraded decor. The most publicly anticipated stores that opened during this period were those located in expansions of The Florida Mall in Orlando and Aventura Mall in Aventura, while other stores opened with new shopping malls such as Citrus Park Town Center in Citrus Park and The Mall at Wellington Green in Wellington. During this period, Burdines also tried another new layout at their store in St. Petersburg's Tyrone Square Mall, in an attempt to improve convenience for shoppers. The store upgraded to use a central checkout system and was expected to be more popular among shoppers since they would only need to see a cashier once before leaving. However, the design failed as an employee had to manually apply a coded sticker (identifying who made the sale) to the price tag of each item before customers left the store. Thus, this convenience plan was quickly abandoned by Burdines, and the company resumed using traditional cashier layouts. The former flagship store in Miami continued to operate as a Macy's until it was closed in March 2018. Ross Stores leased the building in 2019, and are redeveloping it to relocate a nearby store whose building was set to be demolished in favor of a 92-story skyscraper. The redevelopment will permit a second store to be located on the first floor of the building. Special thanks for Wikipedia for textual inserts. Images by commons.wikimedia.org and State Archives of Florida. To ensure that Wikipedia continues to ensure that everyone has the right to free and open knowledge, please donate.

World AIDS Vaccine Day, also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, is observed annually on May 18. HIV vaccine advocates mark the day by promoting the continued urgent need for a vaccine to prevent HIV infection and AIDS. They acknowledge and thank the thousands of volunteers, community members, health professionals, supporters and scientists who are working together to find a safe and effective AIDS vaccine and urge the international community to recognize the importance of investing in new technologies as a critical element of a comprehensive response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The concept of World AIDS Vaccine Day is rooted in a May 18, 1997 commencement speech at Morgan State University made by then-President Bill Clinton. Clinton challenged the world to set new goals in the emerging age of science and technology and develop an AIDS vaccine within the next decade stating, “Only a truly effective, preventive HIV vaccine can limit and eventually eliminate the threat of AIDS.” The first World AIDS Vaccine Day was observed on May 18, 1998 to commemorate the anniversary of Clinton’s speech, and the tradition continues today. Each year communities around the globe hold a variety of activities on World AIDS Vaccine Day to raise awareness for AIDS vaccines, educate communities about HIV prevention and research for an AIDS vaccine and bring attention to the ways in which ordinary people can be a part of the international effort to stem the pandemic. Special thanks for Wikipedia for textual inserts. To ensure that Wikipedia continues to ensure that everyone has the right to free and open knowledge, please donate. Every week Miami Living showcases things like persons, places, animals, objects, events and things that we love. If you find this posting inspiring, share it and post a comment below. Got a love suggestion?

2020 marks 20 years for Cubavera. To celebrate, the brand has created a beautiful collection based on its biggest inspiration, Miami --a city that has so much to offer, from its rich culture, amazing climate, environment and diversity. The brand has had 20 years of colorful, vibrant pieces that fit Miami's lifestyle. Shop Cubavera (www.cubavera.com), where comfort meets style. Click on image to launch slideshow >

Paula Abdul hit the road on her North American tour late last year; a tour that’s been more than twenty-five years in the making, since her 1992 Under My Spell tour which grossed $60 million in ticket sales (a mint by 1992 standards), yet also yielded some tragedy that almost sidelined the beloved performer forever. The world knows Paula at the plucky, iconic dancer and popstar turned American Idol judge, turned legacy performer. What people may not know is that this Grammy-winning legend had to climb a mountain of adversity, both physical and emotional, to dance again. For Abdul, last’s year Straight Up Paula! tour was a miracle. When audiences come out to see her, they will bear witness to one of the greatest comeback stories in show business history. Because of Abdul’s preference for handling tough times privately, our conversation may shock you, and it will also make you root for her. Abdul’s imitable strength is in her refusal to allow her story to end with tragedy. She insisted on a second act with her long running stint on American Idol as the judge with heart, to Simon Cowell’s stone-cold blunt criticisms of aspiring vocalists. The show introduced her to a new generation of fans. Her Straight Up Paula! tour is a triumphant third act where she’ll share, not only her catalog of music and iconic choreography, but her surprisingly poignant life story. Beyond singing and dancing, it was Abdul’s million-dollar smile, huge heart and humble responses during interviews that captured the publics’ affections and helped to define an entire generation. Beginning with her first #1 hit, Straight Up, in 1988, Paula Abdul was a Gen X darling of epic proportions. She brought something new and engaging to the mix, matching meticulous dance choreography with pop music. Paula Abdul’s warmth and accessible appeal made an entire generation smitten. As someone put it to me recently, “She could have been your best friend’s sister, your cute neighbor… the girl next door you just had to get to know. Interview by Allison Kugel Allison Kugel: You’ve said that when it comes to your choreography, you would often dream the dance steps up in your mind, and then you would run to the bathroom mirror and go through the steps that you’d already envisioned. I find that so interesting, because that’s how I write. I write by either talking to myself or thinking out loud, whatever you want to call it (laughs); or by having these inspired thoughts that come into my awareness. I’ll then rush over to the computer and type it all out. By the time I get to my computer, it’s already written, just like by the time you get to that mirror the choreography is already done. Paula Abdul: Exactly the same! Allison Kugel: Do you feel that when it comes to your choreography, it’s being channeled through you, like it’s coming from some higher source? Because that’s how I often feel… Paula Abdul: Yes, that completely makes sense to me, because sometimes I’ll even question myself, like, “Where did that idea come from?” It’s really strange, but sometimes I can be in this zone where it feels like auto-pilot, and I’m not even aware of it. It’s kind of cool. Allison Kugel: I remember reading something your mom said years ago, about you being four or five years old and declaring that you were meant to be a dancer; something to that effect. When did you start taking dancing lessons? Paula Abdul: I started taking dancing lessons at seven, but I was four years old when I walked up to the TV set and told my family, “I’m going to do that,” and it was while watching Gene Kelly in Singing in the Rain. Allison Kugel: Well, I remember your mom telling a story about a night when it was raining so hard outside that she couldn’t bring you to your dance class, and you were hysterical crying. The thought of missing a dance class was just devastating to you. Did you actually feel from that very young age that dancing is what you were put on this earth to do? Paula Abdul: I absolutely did feel that way. I knew what my calling was. It’s very interesting, because I find that with dance, for many young kids, it’s just like that. I hear from so many parents saying that their daughter, that’s all she does. She does her studies, but she takes six classes a week and can’t bear the thought of not being able to make it through a class. Dance can strike a chord in your heart unlike anything else. It gets into your soul and it changes people’s lives. It’s been [therapeutic] for me, and for most people who dance. I hear so many of the same stories. Allison Kugel: Is there anything else you feel you are still here to accomplish or experience, that has yet to be done? Paula Abdul: I really want to do some more producing, both in television and film. I’d also like to do some more acting, something that is completely against type. I think it would be more challenging and fun, and it allows you to explore in a way where most people have no idea that a character like that can be within you. Allison Kugel: Let’s talk about your tour, Straight Up Paula!. Are you going to make each song’s choreography and costumes reminiscent of the original music videos, or will you change it up to reflect present day? Paula Abdul: It will be a little of both. I know that fans come to hear those songs, and they will, but I’m not doing a direct replication of those [music] videos. There is a nod to them, with a little bit of nostalgia. But for me, this is an opportunity to create my own vision of what I want to do in terms of interpreting the songs. I’m incorporating lots of technology and multimedia, and with some storytelling as well. I’m also going to cover some fun things, and some not so fun things, from my life in this show. It’s giving people a little bit more insight into who I am, and the career I’ve had. Allison Kugel: Going back to what we were talking about before, about being in the zone, how do you know when you’re in that zone and your creativity is flowing; versus when it feels forced? Paula Abdul: For me, there is such a difference when there is a flow. Eight or nine hours can go by, and I can’t even believe it. And then there are times when it seems like the day will never end. I’ve learned that when the latter is happening, I have to do an abrupt about face and change the environment; step outside, do some other activity to wipe the slate clean. When you’re hitting a wall, it’s stagnant energy. It’s not creative, and it’s not conducive to rehearsal hall or anything else I’m trying to accomplish. For me, muscle memory is now a tricky thing. Your brain also, in terms of remembering, it’s different now. Things that were natural in my body, from so many years of injuries, I need to re-address certain dance moves and change it to what feels better for me now. Allison Kugel: When you were talking about time flying by, or crawling by, it reminds me of what Deepak Chopra says about time not really existing, except in our minds. If you’re in the zone, you lose track of time and nine hours feels like nine minutes. Paula Abdul: And it’s the best feeling, I’m sure you know! I can’t stand the latter, when time crawls. It’s the worst. You want to just cancel the day and start fresh the next day. Allison Kugel: I always say that if you are in a creative field, it’s an odd thing, because you can’t just clock in and clock out. You have to be in a certain creative flow or nothing much is going to happen. Sometimes the best thing you can do when you feel that way is to not work. Paula Abdul: It’s true, because it’s more of a wasted day, and it’s miserable (laughs). Allison Kugel: I ask this question of everyone, because I learn so much about people through this question… when you pray, who or what do you pray to? Paula Abdul: I believe in God, and I do pray to God. But I am also spiritual in the sense that I know I have angels around me, and I know to pay attention to the signs I get from the universe. I used to not pay attention to the signs that were right in front of me. I feel that I finally get it. I do pay attention now, as I’ve gotten older, to those signs the universe gives me. (Paula’s dog wanted some attention and began to get very vocal in the background. We paused for a minute, so Paula could give her some love…) Paula Abdul: It’s so funny! Every time I’m doing an interview and she’s supposed to be quiet, she knows, and she starts up (laughs)! Allison Kugel: She can join in the conversation! Paula Abdul: Do you have any dogs? Allison Kugel: I have two dogs whom I adore, and I love horses as well. I ride horses a lot. Have you ever ridden? Paula Abdul: That’s so cool. There is this one place called Miraval Resort and Spa in Arizona. It’s magical and mystical, and they do this whole equine course. It’s unbelievable how vulnerable and therapeutic the experience is. Allison Kugel: Do you see yourself as a pioneer with putting dance at the forefront of the pop music industry? Paula Abdul: I definitely do. I feel that’s one of my biggest contributions. That’s what people herald me as doing, and it’s nice to know that. It’s nice to know that you can create and spark those kinds of dance crazes, but also that they can stand the test of time. A lot of dancers will say, “You’re American Music Awards dance opening numbers are ‘almanac.’” (Laughs) And artists that will say, “Man, I watched and learned everything that you ever did.” It’s wonderful to hear that. Allison Kugel: You came into the business as a dancer, and as a choreographer, and then you ventured into recording music. At that time, although you were extremely commercially successful, you had your share of critics. A lot of other artists at the time said, “She’s really a dancer, just trying to be a singer. She’s off-key, she should stick to choreography…” How did you handle that kind of criticism back then, and how do you handle it now? Paula Abdul: I feel like being in this business for over thirty years, you learn how to handle constructive criticism, and just plain old, simple criticism. What I have learned is that, although I can’t just say what the formula is for success, because success is different for everyone, I do know that a recipe for failure is trying to please everyone. You never will. For me, I’m an entertainer that happened to resonate with millions of people. I’m grateful for that. I’ve never claimed to be the best at anything. I’m a constant, perpetual student, and I love learning. I love improving upon weaknesses and nurturing the strengths; and being able to draw upon inspiration from others. Allison Kugel: Why do you think you resonated the way you did with my generation; those of us who were coming of age in the late eighties and into the early to mid-nineties? Paula Abdul: I think the through-line of most of my success is my heart, and I think that it connects with other people’s hearts, especially women. I have this profound love affair with women. I’ve never been a threat to women. I have been very inclusive, and always thought the most beautiful thing you can do is to recognize beauty in someone else and celebrate that. Because I was always an accessible type of artist, people felt that they knew me, and they do know me. Allison Kugel: Do you have a ten-year dream, as in, “in ten years I’d like to be retired, living on the beach.”? Do you have a plan like that, or is this the dream, to keep singing and dancing for as long as you can? Paula Abdul: I feel extremely grateful that I’m able to do this. I was sidelined for many, many years because the last time I was on tour I was in a terrible accident in a seven-seater jet. One of the engines blew up and the right wing caught on fire, and we plummeted. Allison Kugel: I don’t think many people out there are aware that you went through this ordeal. Were you belted in when the plane began to plummet? Paula Abdul: I wasn’t wearing my seatbelt. I was getting ready to put my seatbelt on, but I never made it and I hit my head on the [ceiling] of the plane. It caused me to have paralysis on my right side, and I endured fifteen cervical spinal surgeries. I went through all of that, mostly, privately. Back then, we didn’t have tabloids like we do now. We didn’t have the extent of paparazzi or the [internet], so you were able to contain some information. I was so afraid of being counted out and looked at as damaged goods. The problem was that, at the time, I was. I ended up having to take almost seven years off to have all these different neuro-surgeons operating on me. So, the fact that at this stage of my life, I’m able to do this, is the biggest gift ever! I am living, in many ways, my dream. But I also would love to branch out into other areas. And I get as much joy behind the scenes as I do from being out in front. Allison Kugel: What do you hope audiences will experience when they come out to see you on the Straight Up Paula! tour? Paula Abdul: I hope during the show they feel a celebration of fond memories of their time growing up with me. I also hope people get a chance to know me further, and get a better sense of who I am, with my whimsical ways and my sense of humor. It’s going to be a nod to everything that has inspired me since I was young, and celebrating my career, with the ups and the downs, and everything in between. I hope everyone leaves with a smile on their face. Story and interview by Interview by Allison Kugel Photo Credits: Studio 10 Australia Allison Kugel is a syndicated entertainment columnist, and author of the book, Journaling Fame: A memoir of a life unhinged and on the record. Follow her on Instagram @theallisonkugel and at AllisonKugel.com.

Make this year 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 view collection > To shop, visit www.larkandberry.com

Located in Midtown Miami, Maska’s contemporary-casual menu offers authentic and progressive Indian cuisine. The menu is divided into three categories: small plates, Maska Marke (from the tandoor and clay oven), and large plates. Standout signature menu items include, Lucknowi Galouti Kebab, Lamb Chops, Octopus Masala, Nalli Nihari & Murg Maska, which will appeal to all sorts of diners. The restaurant also features a full-service bar and serves specialty cocktails like their Maska Mule. Every Sunday from noon to 3 pm, guests can indulge in Maska’s a la carte brunch with dishes originating from different regions of India including Dosa Tacos Trio, Vegetable Korma Curry, and Chicken Kottu Paratha. Prices range from $8 - $26. Bottomless drink packages are also available. Note: Due to Corvid19 outbreak Maska is temporarily closed. Please call for hours and delivery options. Menu: maskamiami.com Phone: (786) 971-9100 Follow Maska on Facebook and Instagram: @maskamiami & @maska Miami. Address: 3252 Northeast 1st Avenue, Suite 109, Miami, Florida.

Shula’s Restaurant Group steps into a new era as NFL’s most-winningest coach hands over the reigns. Don Shula is no stranger to victory. As the NFL’s most-winningest coach, including a 17-0 unbeaten season for the 1972 Miami Dolphins, Don’s penchant for excellence never left him. Even after his retirement in 1980, Don continued giving everything in his life his all, including the restaurant group he founded in 1989. After 30 years in the restaurant business, Shula’s Restaurant Group now encompasses an incredible 28 locations throughout seven states within the U.S. The group is comprised of five brands, spanning the spectrum of fine dining, premium casual, casual and fast-casual concepts, including: Shula’s Steak House, Shula’s 2 Steak & Sports,347 Grille by Coach Shula, Shula’s Bar & Grill, and Shula Burger. Though each brand has its own distinct menu and atmosphere, there’s a common thread throughout each Shula’s Restaurant Group location: a commitment to excellence in food and service for every single diner. It’s a tradition that mirrors Don’s personal and professional dedication to quality and performance. “Our friendship with the Graham family in Miami Lakes was our first introduction to the restaurant business,” says Don of his first steps toward building the legendary namesake brand. “I wanted to connect with the local community on a different level, as well as celebrate the accomplishment of winning a ‘Perfect Season.’” Don’s main prerogative was to instill his own philosophies into the restaurant staff, as well providing an upscale dining experience. You might not think there’s much connection between professional football and the restaurant industry, but Don doesn’t see it that way. He takes pride in the competitive nature of the business, and taps into his desire to win to see the restaurant group through challenges. “The day-to-day operations are very much in line with how you prepare a sports team to win! You have to hire the right people, make sure they are coached properly for their positions, have the tools and equipment they need to succeed, and have a game plan in place,” he says. “It takes a lot of preparation and planning to make sure the guest has a winning experience every time.” Over the last three decades, Shula’s has been a mainstay in the restaurant industry as an example of a brand with staying power in an ever-changing culinary climate. “I think initially Shula’s was successful because of the name recognition, but that only works once or twice. You have to give people a reason to come back to the restaurant, and that’s our consistent and quality product,” says Don. He also believes that great partnerships are key to success, both on the field and in the restaurant business. “Our partners have believed in the brand, and have strived to live up to the standards we’ve implemented,” says Don. “We never compromise on quality, and that’s apparent on many levels. When a customer has a great experience, they share it, and word spreads.” Click below to launch slideshow > To help propel the future growth of the company, in 2019 Don brought in a new executive team that he believed could take the Restaurant Group to new heights over the next 30 years. A crucial member of that team is the new Corporate Culinary Director, Chef Demetrio Zavala, who has cooked under the tutelage of some of America’s best culinarians, including Daniel Humm of Eleven Madison Park, Eric Ripert of Le Bernardin, Rocco DiSpirito of Union Pacific, Daniel Boulud of Café Boulud, and Gordon Ramsey of Cielo. With Chef Zavala driving the menus and bringing creativity to the kitchen, the Shula’s stable of restaurant brands is poised for continued greatness. Additionally, Shula’s will be reimagining some of the concepts, and introducing new branding imagery and redesigns of some of the restaurant spaces over the next year. For his part, Don is enthusiastic about the changes, as well as the plans for Shula’s Restaurant Group in the future. “We hope to continue to build great relationships and expand our partner base, as well as opening new restaurants in new locations in the near future,” he says. “[My wife] Mary Anne and I have always wanted to build a legacy with the restaurant group that complemented my coaching career. It’s always our goal to present an extraordinary business that our family will be proud of for generations to come.” For more information about Shula’s Restaurant Group, visit Shulas.com.

The Restaurant at W South Beach (RWSB), owned and operated by Miami’s acclaimed KNR Hospitality Group, has been redesigned. For the new concept, located in the former Dutch Miami space, Executive Chef Josh Gripper and Executive Sous Chef Mario Alegre have created a “Roots American” menu, influenced by their respective upbringings Josh’s American South and Mario’s Puerto Rican heritage. Combining both chefs’ Caribbean inspirations and channeled through the spectrum of Josh’s classical French training, the menu, very much anchored in traditional comfort food, reflects a diverse melting pot of flavors. RWSB features a new menu including the debut of Sunday Brunch from noon–4 pm. “We wanted to offer our own interpretation of timeless dishes as well as contemporary items,” says Chef Gripper. “We’re excited for fans and the uninitiated to experience RWSB, knowing they will all enjoy the same exceptional dining experience they have come to expect at W South Beach.” Highlights include Yellowtail Crudo with fresh avocado ponzu, and pickled fresno and French Toast topped with lemon cream, toasted hazelnut, and apple. Enjoy creative dishes such as Kale Frittata with Meredith Farms feta; Jerk Chicken & Waffle dressed with habanero syrup and a side of pikliz (a Haitian condiment with pickled cabbage, carrots, bell peppers and Scotch bonnet peppers); Steak & Egg Burrito with pico de gallo; and Duck Hash & Sunny Side Eggs with red eye gravy. On the lighter side: a Smoked Salmon plate with the classic accoutrements and avocado toast on sourdough bread with poached eggs. And Sunday Funday would not be complete without refreshing libations —brunch goers can enjoy $30 bottles of rosé or cocktails on offer (mimosa, bellini, michelada and Bloody Mary) with an option to upgrade to 2-hour bottomless for only $25 person. Click below to launch slideshow > Lunch and dinner plates exhibit the same sophisticated sensibility with pizzas and pastas made in-house; locally sourced fish; prime cuts of meat; and garden-fresh produce. Notable dinner dishes include Grilled Octopus – caldo de pescado and crispy yucca; roasted beet salad with goat cheese, almond, and prosciutto; Ricotta Ravioli with fava beans and summer truffle; and Smoked Pork Chop with English peas and spiced baby carrot. RWSB is located inside W South Beach Hotel & Residences, 2201 Collins Avenue, in Miami Beach. For more info, visit www.rwsbmiami.com or call 305-938-3111. Note: Takeout and delivery during the Corvid19 outbreak is available. Menu: rwsbmiami.com Order: postmates.com, grubhub.com, ubereats.com, seamless.com, doordash.com Images courtesy of RWSB