Artificial Affection? - Floridians Spend A Month A Year Chatting With AI Companions, Reveals Study. South Florida Sun Times Oct 8, 2025 Forget Swiping Right - Floridians Are Now Spending Their Free Time Whispering Sweet Nothings To Chatbots. What Started As A Quirky Novelty Has Ballooned Into A Full-Blown Cultural Experiment: AI Companions Have Become The Digital Equivalent Of That Friend Who Always Picks Up, Never Interrupts, And Occasionally Offers Surprisingly Sage Advice. A new survey from AllSafeIT, an IT support provider, of 3,012 respondents, reveals the extent of our new digital devotion. On average, Floridians now spend an extra 31 days a year online thanks to their new AI “friends.” That’s a significant amount of time gone not to TikTok binges or Netflix marathons, but to chatting with a computer. The state-by-state split is striking: South Dakota residents are clocking a staggering 53 extra days per year with chatbots. That’s nearly two months of bonus digital companionship - clearly, the prairie winds aren’t the only thing whispering back. Vermont, by contrast, barely flirts with the trend. Vermonters average just five additional days a year, suggesting they still prefer maple syrup over machine learning for comfort. App or Friend? When asked to define their relationship with a chatbot, Floridians leaned more pragmatic than poetic: • 63% said it felt closer to using an app. • 37% said it was closer to talking with a friend. But the depth of that “friendship” quickly shows when you dig deeper. Almost a quarter of respondents said they would miss their favorite chatbot “quite a lot” or “a great deal” if it vanished tomorrow. Secrets, Trust, and Digital Confessions Four in ten Floridians say they would rather confess a secret to a chatbot than to a priest or therapist. Around one-third admit to telling their AI something they would never tell a partner, parent, or best friend. Some even let their guard down completely - 30% say they’ve uttered “I love you” to their chatbot, even if only half-joking. That mix of levity and honesty shows just how much emotional space these tools are occupying. And yet trust has limits. Only 14% said they completely trust a chatbot with personal information, while more than a third flatly said “not at all.” The Quirks of Human-AI Friendship Not all the findings are heavy - some are just plain quirky: • Cancel plans for a bot chat? 22% would. • Worried about being judged? 30% say a chatbot’s opinion would sting more than a stranger’s. • Better advice than friends? 42% say yes. • Understood better than a partner? 18% sheepishly admitted it. And then there are the almost comic hypotheticals: one in four Floridians would be fine with a chatbot officiating a wedding, and more than a quarter would pay for a “premium friendship” tier. Even more astonishing, 26% said their AI companion is more valuable to them than Netflix or Spotify. “Technology has always blurred the line between tool and companion, but this survey shows just how far that line has shifted,” says Bones Ljeoma of AllSafeIT. “For some, AI chatbots are as valuable as caffeine - or more valuable than streaming services. That says a lot about where digital relationships are heading in the next decade.” For more information visit: https://www.allsafeit.com/blog/time-spent-talking-to-chatbots-2025-survey Previous Next

Icons & Rebels: The Masterworks Season Of Gershwin, Mozart & Other Greats Fri Aug 23 2024 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

"Funny Women Of A Certain Age" Fri Jan 26 2024 17:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Old Lisbon Unveils New Aventura Location - A Generational Legacy Of Portuguese Culinary Tradition Aventura Digest December 18, 2024 Share Old Lisbon, Miami’s beloved destination for authentic Portuguese cuisine, proudly announces the opening of its newest location in Aventura. This 2,500 Square-Foot Restaurant elevates the dining experience, blending Portuguese tradition with modern elegance, while continuing the brand’s commitment to bringing the rich flavors of Portugal to South Florida. With a thoughtfully designed space that honors Portugal’s cultural heritage and a carefully curated menu, Old Lisbon Aventura sets a new standard for fine Portuguese dining. Old Lisbon’s story is as rich as its cuisine. When Founder Carlos Silva arrived in Miami from his native Portugal in 1991, his journey with Old Lisbon began in the most serendipitous of ways. Silva, eager to connect with his roots, stumbled upon a Portuguese restaurant preparing for its grand opening. Unable to contain his excitement, he knocked on the door and was greeted by the owner, who graciously offered a preview of the menu. Silva’s first meal—a perfectly Grilled Bacalhau paired with Vinho Verde—left a lasting impression. He became Old Lisbon’s very first customer, paying twenty dollars for a meal that would eventually shape his destiny. A few years later, Carlos Silva became the owner of Old Lisbon, transforming it into the iconic Portuguese fine dining restaurant chain it is today, with three prominent locations across South Florida. Now, the Aventura location marks the next chapter in this legacy as Silva's son, Carlos Silva Jr., takes the reins to lead this newest expansion. Carlos Jr.’s involvement marks the beginning of a new era for Old Lisbon, ensuring that the family’s passion for Portuguese cuisine continues to thrive for generations to come. “We’ve been honored to serve the South Florida community for over three decades,” said Carlos Silva. “With my son, Carlos Jr., taking on the Aventura location, it’s a proud moment to see this legacy grow into a true family business, ensuring the future of Old Lisbon remains rooted in tradition but flourishes with new ideas.” Old Lisbon Aventura brings the heart of Portuguese cuisine to life with a menu that celebrates the best of both sea and land. Standout dishes include: Bolinhos de Bacalhau (Codfish Croquettes with Black-Eyed Peas), the Fiery Chouriço Assado (Flaming Portuguese Sausage), and the exquisite Polvo Grelhado ou Frito (Grilled or Lightly Fried Octopus seared in Garlic and Olive Oil). For Seafood lovers, dishes like Camarão Ao Alho ou com Molho Picante (Grilled Shrimp with Garlic or homemade spicy sauce) and Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (Clams in a White Wine and Lime Consommé) offer a true taste of coastal Portugal. Hearty dishes such as the Bife à Old Lisbon (NY Strip Steak topped with a Fried Egg) and Carré de Cordeiro (Rack of Lamb with Broccolini and Punched Potatoes) reflect Portugal’s land-based culinary traditions. In addition to its core menu, the Aventura location offers a special lunch menu available from Monday through Friday, 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., featuring classics like Salada Portuguesa com Atum (Tuna Salad with Mixed Greens, Tomatoes, and Boiled Eggs) and Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (Shredded Codfish with Onions, Boiled Eggs, and Potatoes). For a more relaxed dining experience, guests can indulge in Happy Hour, available Monday through Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., featuring savory bites like Codfish Croquettes and Portuguese Sausage, paired with House Wines and Sangria specials. Guests can conclude their meal with traditional Portuguese desserts like Pasteis de Nata (Custard Tarts with Cinnamon) and the rich Delicia de Fátima (a custard-based dessert with cream and Maria cookies). Designed by architect Ricardo Azevedo., the new Aventura location marries modern elegance with timeless Portuguese aesthetics. The interior features hand-painted columns, a six-seat marble-topped bar, and an intimate dining room that seats 64 guests inside and 28 outside. The décor includes custom-made plateware, Portuguese chairs, and hand-painted mosaics, all imported from Portugal, adding to the authenticity of the experience. At the heart of the restaurant stands a 120-year-old olive tree, “Oliveira,” symbolizing the longevity and tradition that Old Lisbon represents. It greets diners as they walk in, reminding them of the deep-rooted history behind every dish. Complementing this environment is a specially curated music playlist, enhancing the dining experience with melodies that reflect the soul of Portugal. Additionally, wine lovers will be in paradise, the restaurant also boasts Florida’s most extensive selection of Portuguese Wines, offering guests an exceptional opportunity to savor the finest wines from Portugal's renowned vineyards. Each wine is carefully selected and stored in their floor to ceiling wine cellar. As Old Lisbon enters this new chapter, the Aventura location not only reflects the growth of the restaurant but also the continuation of a family legacy. With Carlos Silva Jr. taking the helm, the Silva family is ensuring that Old Lisbon remains a generational restaurant, preserving the authentic flavors of Portugal for years to come. Whether you’re seeking a quiet meal with family or a venue for special occasions, Old Lisbon Aventura offers an experience that blends tradition with modern sophistication. For reservations or more information about Old Lisbon Aventura, visit: https://oldlisbonrestaurants.com/aventura/. < Previous News Next News >

Dial Up Flavor with Summer Favorites Thu May 04 2023 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Family Fun For Everyone: At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Thu Feb 16 2023 17:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The CRA Budget Is Investing in Our Community: Over $1 Billion In Development Underway In Hallandale Beach By Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper September 20, 2024 Share Over the past years CRA has been strategically investing in various Above Ground Infrastructure Projects to enhance areas that typically have been without basic amenities. The main purpose of a Community Redevelopment Area is to address slums and blight. In analyzing the needs there are many factors to consider, the lack in parking, sidewalks, and lighting. When our city began 96 years ago, it was built out lot by lot and in some cases block by block. We were not a master-planned community like you see being built now. With this lack of continuity there comes a patchwork of simple quality of life amenities missing or nonexistent. Our goal is to change that. In 2020, the CRA took a loan based on future revenues of twenty million dollars. The projects to be funded included completing sidewalks throughout the city, west of 14th Avenue. Some streets have zero sidewalks and others simply one side, many are currently under construction. In addition, they are making sure there are safe ADA crosswalks installed. These measures will make our City much more walkable and safer. The other main project is to add street lighting. This project includes adding some decorative lighting along the main corridors but mainly to add led lighting on existing FPL light poles within the neighborhood. This certainly will make the area safer and more accessible. Another walkable community project being funded by the CRA is the Hallandale Beach Art Trail. The Art Trail will be built and interconnect our parks through a multi-use trail. The Trail will be highlighted with Art installations and streetscapes. While we are building out these two projects, we are also focused on additional Capital projects. Some of these are additions to our park amenities. Our City never finished Chaves Lake. As part of the GO Bond. That project fell behind schedule and currently has not been funded for over four years. This year due to the tax increment increases we can budget a new plan for Chaves Lake Eco Park and Community Garden. The first step to build the park will include a remediation project in partnership with the state and county. The other addition is the funding of a new pavilion at BF James Park. This summer our City arborist determined our old Banyan Tree had to be taken down. This was truly a sad day for the community who called the Banyon a Historic Gathering Place. The CRA will be building a new pavilion at the site where the tree was located. It will be a welcomed addition to the many residents that gather there to play dominoes and spend time together. The other main focal point of our CRA is economic development efforts is District 8. The area located on 1st Street has been an area that is currently being revitalized with restaurants and new stores. The CRA has been investing in these new businesses through grants and loans to create an entertainment district. The roadway has been repaved and storefronts updated. The community should be soon hearing about grand openings of new restaurants. On another note, Owners of Ice Box Café have found a new restauranteur soon to be announced. Please look for some grand openings and join us at District 8. The CRA is also providing 10-dollar ride credits for Uber or Lift within the CRA. You can be picked up and dropped off at one of the many businesses. In light of the extreme cost of housing our CRA is also expanding investments in Affordable Housing programs. We have a budget of over twelve million for housing to purchase land and existing homes to build units. Our Goal is to create a minimum of fifty housing units that will remain affordable. We will also continue to help individuals with first-time home buyers grants of up to eighty thousand and provide rental assistance. We are certainly continuing our successful Neighborhood Improvement programs this budget. This includes Hurricane Window and Door grants, Paint the Town or free paint program, Senior Mini grant for home improvements and emergency utility assistance. You can find out more about our CRA Budget and programs at: www.cohbCRA.org As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our city a better place. Connect with me by Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit my website at: www.mayorjoycooper.com - And my Facebook page @MayorJoyCooper. Like, follow, and share. < Previous News Next News >

Broward's 'Wynwood': The Downtown Hollywood Mural Project Is A Huge Success Thu Jul 28 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

6th Annual Winter Festival - The Berry Farm Brings Holiday Magic To Miami’s Countryside South Florida Sun Times Nov 19, 2025 The Holidays Are Getting A Country Twist This Year As The Berry Farm Invites Families Across South Florida To Celebrate The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year At Its 6th Annual Winter Festival, Running from Friday November 21st, 2025, Through Sunday, January 4th, 2026. Located in the heart of Miami’s countryside, The Berry Farm transforms its 40-acre property into a dazzling winter wonderland filled with festive lights, family fun, and good old-fashioned holiday cheer — Miami-style. The season kicks off with The Berry Farm’s beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 21st, at 8:00 p.m., where guests will watch a 42-foot Christmas tree come to life under a canopy of twinkling lights. From there, the celebration continues daily with both daytime festivities and the spectacular Berry Bright Winter Nights experience. Festival Highlights: • A breathtaking 42-foot Christmas tree anchoring the heart of the farm • Over 100,000 holiday lights transforming the landscape after sunset • Complimentary popcorn and hot chocolate for children • Holiday hayrides through the farm’s festive trails • Elaborate holiday photo ops and interactive displays across the property • Shaded bounce floors, a 24-piece obstacle course, and festive play zones • Scottish Highland cows, water pillows, and more daytime fun for the little ones • Photos with Santa on select dates (TBA) This year, guests can also enjoy bonfires on select nights, live violin performances from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday during Winter Festival, movies on the lawn under the stars (select nights), and new creative touches like hay art installations and an adult hay maze designed for a playful dose of nostalgia. Berry Bright Winter Nights When the sun sets, the lights come alive. Berry Bright Winter Nights offers guests an unforgettable after-dark experience surrounded by glowing trees, festive music, and that unmistakable holiday sparkle. Alongside the twinkling lights, visitors can line dance under the stars every Saturday night from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. — a fan-favorite experience that combines country charm with Miami energy. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, the dance floor will be alive with festive music and seasonal spirit throughout the Winter Festival. Extended evening hours (no separate ticket required): • Fridays: open until 10:00 p.m. • Saturdays & Sundays: open until 8:30 p.m. Dates: Friday, November 21st, 2025 - Sunday, November 23rd, 2025 | Friday, November 28th, 2025 - Sunday, November 30th, 2025 | Friday, December 5th, 2025 - Sunday, December 7th, 2025 | Friday, December 12th, 2025 - Sunday, December 14th, 2025 | Friday, December 19th, 2025 - Sunday, December 23th, 2025 | Friday, December 26th, 2025 - Sunday, December 30th, 2025 | Friday, January 2nd, 2025 - Sunday, January 4th, 2025 Admission to Berry Bright Winter Nights is included with any Winter Festival ticket on the above dates. Celebrate the Season, Miami’s Countryside Way: From families creating new holiday traditions to couples seeking a cozy date night, The Berry Farm’s Winter Festival offers something for everyone — a place where traditions meet the next generation and every twinkling light tells a story of togetherness. Event Details: The Berry Farm - 13720 Southwest 216th Street, Miami, Florida 33170 Friday, November 21st, 2025 - Sunday, January 4th, 2026 Daily hours vary; extended evening hours for Berry Bright Winter Nights Tickets available at: www.visittheberryfarm.com Previous Next

This Summer, Be Your Kid's Tennis Coach By Megan Rose Aug 12, 2025 As Summer Vacation Begins, Parents Across America Face A Familiar Challenge: How To Keep Children Active, Engaged, And Away From The Hypnotic Glow Of Screens. Among The Many Summer Activities Available, There's A Meaningful Solution In Your Neighborhood -- One That Offers Lifelong Benefits For You And Your Child. Become your child's tennis coach. Parent coaching is common in sports like soccer and basketball, yet tennis is often overlooked. That's a missed opportunity. Tennis is one of the few sports where parents and children can learn and play side-by-side for decades. Kids are spending more time behind screens than ever before. Studies show the average teen spends seven hours a day behind a screen. Only one in four adolescents meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity. That combination -- more screens, less movement -- sets the stage for long-term health risks. Tennis offers a better path. It builds endurance, coordination, agility, and strength. A long-term study found that tennis players lived 10 years longer than sedentary individuals -- more than any sport evaluated. Tennis supports cardiovascular health, healthy weight, and increased bone density in critical areas like the hips and spine during key growth years. Just as important are the mental benefits. Tennis has been linked to lower levels of stress and anxiety, better focus, and improved sleep. Kids who play tennis consistently report higher self-esteem and stronger social connections than their non-playing peers. Unlike screen time, which can erode self-worth, tennis builds self-confidence through challenge, feedback, and progress. For parents, coaching your child in tennis is more than just a way to keep them active. It's about being present. You're not watching from the bleachers. You're on the court with them. You laugh over mishits, celebrate clean shots, and navigate frustration together. These moments aren't just recreational; they’re relationship-building. Research shows that parental involvement in youth sports boosts kids' confidence, motivation, and enjoyment of the game. And unlike many team sports, where attention gets divided, tennis is just the two of you, with every rally strengthening your bond. Tennis also creates a rhythm that continues long after summer. It's one of the rare multi-generational sports where a 12-year-old and a 70-year-old can compete and connect at all walks of life. The best part? Tennis welcomes beginners – players and coaches alike. Few sports offer the same “choose your own adventure” experience, where parents and kids can learn and grow together. For parents who want to begin their coaching journey, there’s no shortage of support. For instance, USTA Coaching – which launches in August – will offer free, easy-to-use resources for new coaches, including a modular learning curriculum. It’s designed with parents in mind and includes everything from day-to-day training plans to simple drills – like aiming a ball into a laundry basket – that make it easier to build your child’s skills and confidence. All you really need to get started is a racquet, a few balls, and time. With over 270,000 public courts across the country, most of them free, there's a good chance one is nearby. And if not, a back wall or driveway will do just fine. So this summer, skip the screens. Grab a racquet and meet your child at the baseline. It doesn't matter if you're a beginner. What matters is that you're there. Your child will never forget the summer you coached them through their first serve -- and the bond that came with it. Megan Rose is the Managing Director of USTA Coaching and a mom of two. Previous Next

Tranquility On Tap At W South Beach Resort - Iconic South Beach Property Maintains Its Stronghold As The Pinnacle Of Luxury In Miami By Merilee Kern, MBA
 Jul 18, 2025 Nestled Right By The Atlantic Ocean Sits The World Renowned W South Beach, A 5-Star Resort That Embodies The Essence Of Miami’s Vibrant Culture. After Undergoing A $30 Million Renovation In 2020—Which Included The Redesign Of 408 Guest Suites; Refreshed Leisure Spaces; The Addition Of Its State-Of-The-Art “Away Spa;” And The Revitalization Of Its Multi-Million Dollar Art Collection—This Property Has Become A Favorite Among Celebrities, Influencers And Discerning Travelers From Around The Globe. Known For Capturing Miami’s Energy And Evolving Spirit, The W South Beach Resort Continues To Set New Standards In Luxury Hospitality. This elevated standard seems to start with the property’s commitment to exemplary service. “At W South Beach, everything is taken care of for you,” said Rick Ueno, General Manager of W South Beach. “Each guest receives a dedicated W Insider, available 24/7, who will take care of whatever, whenever—from picking up groceries to chartering a yacht to finding the best Omakase in town. No matter how busy Miami gets, W Insiders are connected to everyone and anything and can make reservations happen at any of Miami’s most desired places, many of which require reservations weeks in advance. And, W South Beach has six W Insiders—most hotels in the portfolio only offer one.” 
With the largest guest rooms in South Beach that feature balconies and breathtaking ocean views along with a wide range of amenities, this property offers a truly magnificent escape in the Magic City. Its residences, suites and guest rooms are available in sizes ranging from 574 to over 3,000 square feet. Each of the accommodations options are thoughtfully designed as urban seaside retreats. You'll find beach house style millwork, natural oak finishes, a soothing palette of textures and charming seaside inspired accents highlighted by corals and tranquil teals. The resort incorporates these and other thoughtful elements to create a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere for its guests. This includes selected music playlists and beach-inspired artwork. The hotel also implemented new technical features to its guest rooms following its $30 million renovation. Guests can now take advantage of circadian lighting with three preset mood modes, and sand gradient blackouts if they want to block out the Miami sun. For those seeking enhanced comfort and privacy there are five poolside bungalows with private entrances. These come with three floors and two bedrooms each, while also offering amenities like rooftop BBQs and private plunge pools. 

The premium Penthouses, called E WOW and E WOW Ocean Escape, cover around 3,000 square feet and feature nine foot ceilings and expansive glass balconies providing spectacular views of South Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Providing a decidedly sophisticated living experience, the Penthouses exude a soothing ambiance with colors and textures that endear even the most discerning traveler. When it comes to art, W South Beach is a haven for enthusiasts renowned for its collection displayed throughout its common areas. Curated by Aby Rosen, its collection notably includes works by Andy Warhol and Jean Michel Basquiat. For foodies, W South Beach offers an array of dining options. You can indulge in cuisine at RWSB (Restaurant W South Beach), savor Beijing delicacies at MR CHOW, and unwind at the Living Room Bar or WET Bar & Grille. Guests should also be sure to sip and savor at Irma's—a whimsical outdoor garden area created using salvaged wood and debris from Hurricane Irma—as it stands as a testament to Miami’s resilience. No visit to the W South Beach is complete without a visit to its Away Spa—an oasis of relaxation offering a variety of organic rituals and wellness treatments like detoxifying massages, body healing treatments, skincare therapies and other sensory spa experiences. The spa, which spans a whopping 9,540 feet, exudes tranquility with its neutral color palette, delicate white fabrics and exquisite brass finishes. It offers seven treatment rooms along with a couple’s suite for those seeking privacy. Additionally, there are spaces for manicures/pedicures well as an inviting spa lounge area. Don't miss out on the terrace where you can bask in the sun and enjoy the warm breezes. Do also endeavor to enjoy a eucalyptus-infused limestone steam shower in the powder room area.

“A must is a custom spa treatment at the stunning, minimalistic Away Spa,” Ueno urges. “We put a lot of intention behind the entire guest experience at this refuge, from the moment guests walk into the length of each treatment. Even the design of the spa was very intentional with only six treatment rooms to give it more of an intimate feel.  My favorite treatment is the popular 90-minute detox massage, where the therapist exfoliates your entire body then applies a rich blend of oils, finishing with a mud mask. Post spa treatment, guests can relax by the pool in one of W South Beach’s furnished plush cabanas.” The resort also boasts a fully equipped FIT gym spanning 2,500 square feet. It includes Pelotons, a hydro electric rower, a Fitness Mirror, Soul Cycle bike, techno fit equipment and more. On the same floor is the SWISH & SWING rooftop tennis and basketball court, boasting a regulation size basketball court and a Har Tru tennis court. Additionally, W South Beach guests can enhance their game with its Slinger Bag Ball machine that allows for practicing shots at different speeds, frequencies and elevations. Private tennis lessons with the resort’s expert instructor are also available upon request. For those seeking relaxation under the South Florida sun, W South Beach offers two swimming pools. At WET pool area, with its daybeds and stylish cabanas (some even equipped with TVs), patrons can indulge while receiving top-notch service. The property’s SAND beach area, located steps away from the hotel, provisions guests with beach equipment as well as food, beverage and other attentive services to ensure an immersive beach experience.

Speaking of being in close proximity to the best Miami has to offer, the property is decidedly well positioned. “For over a decade, W South Beach has drawn the world’s most sophisticated travelers and has been the social center of Miami’s major cultural events, including Art Basel, South Beach Wine & Food Festival and Miami Swim Week,” notes Ueno. “This year, the property will be hosting one of the most exclusive Miami F1 events, ‘Once Upon A Kitchen,’ in partnership with VIP concierge GR8 Experience. Hosted by world-renowned chef Massimo Bottura and his team from Osteria Francescana, this multi-layered sensorial dinner offers guests an intimate evening with award-winning culinary masters in W South Beach’s immersive new ballroom.”

The property is also amping up its game for group events. As a part of its $6 million meeting space renovation, W South Beach became the first hotel in North America to implement 360-degree immersive videomapping technology—changing the game for weddings, meetings, and activations in Miami. “The new ballroom uses an innovative, built-in projection system to transform the 4,300-square-foot blank canvas into any setting—from an underwater oceanic moment to the backdrop of any city in the world,” said Ueno. “The set-up is simple and the projections can be easily controlled from the touch of a button. High-tech meetings are the future and if companies want to impress and engage with their audience, our state-of-the-art ballroom is an incredible option.” In all, W South Beach Resort is a luxurious beach retreat that exceeds expectations. What is perhaps most impressive at this property is its commitment to guest experience excellence. Its staff is renowned to consistently go the extra mile to provide personalized service. It’s no wonder the W South Beach has also become a social hub attracting sophisticated travelers, celebrities and influencers, alike. 

And, this property boasts quite the celebrity pedigree. “As the leader in the market, W South Beach has become known for celebrity guests like Justin Bieber, Leonardo DiCaprio, Steven Tyler, Bono, Lizzo, Pharrell, Mark Walhberg and Tom Cruise,” notes Ueno. “It’s where LeBron James celebrated after announcing that he was taking his ‘talents to South Beach,’ and where Drake has played on New Year's Eve. It’s where Sports Illustrated forever changed the rules of the catwalk when model Mara Martin strutted on the runway while breastfeeding during Swim Week.” 
From A-list stars to vacationers, staycationers and locals, discerning travelers are consistently drawn to this property to indulge in its sophisticated design, outstanding service and lively atmosphere. As a result, W South Beach Resort has solidified itself as an iconic destination in South Miami's dynamic landscape. Previous Next

‘The Christmas Tree Story’ Brings Creation, Christmas And God’s Love Together In One Heartwarming Narrative South Florida Sun Times Dec 10, 2025 Eduardo Marti marks his debut in the literary scene with the release of “The Christmas Tree Story” (published by WestBow Press). As families prepare for the upcoming Yuletide, this book offers readers a heartwarming tale that reframes one of the world’s most beloved holiday symbols — the Christmas tree — as a reminder of God’s love, his promise and the purpose of Jesus’ birth. The book arrives at a moment when many parents and grandparents are looking for ways to help children understand the spiritual meaning of Christmas amid the commercial rush. Written in warm, accessible language for young readers, the story emphasizes that Christmas is not about the gifts under the tree but about who came to save the world: Jesus. The narrative begins with creation and the first sin, then traces God’s promise of restoration to the birth of Jesus. Marti explains how the familiar elements of the Christmas tree — the star, the lights, the gifts — reflect that promise. The star symbolizes the one that guided the shepherds to Bethlehem; the lights point to Jesus as the light of the world and the gifts represent God’s greatest gift of all. “I want readers to put the book down and look at their Christmas tree with new eyes, recognizing it as a beautiful, tangible symbol of God's perfect, loving plan of redemption” the author states. “In a time when people seek more authenticity, the book elevates the everyday Christmas tree into a teaching tool, helping families create a more intentional, faith-centered holiday tradition that fosters deeper conversation.” Released ahead of the holidays, “The Christmas Tree Story” fills a gap in seasonal children’s literature. Unlike most titles that focus only on the Nativity scene, this book connects Genesis to Christmas, providing a richer, more complete biblical context for young readers. “The Christmas Tree Story” By Eduardo Marti is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. About the Author Eduardo Marti is a husband, father and longtime youth baseball coach who enjoys creating resources that help families build meaningful faith traditions. “The Christmas Tree Story” is his debut publication and is dedicated to his late mother, whose love for Christmas inspired him to write a book that brings joy and spiritual depth to children and parents alike. He is currently developing a children’s series on the Fruit of the Holy Spirit and completing his nonfiction work, “From Eden to Eternity.” Previous Next