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Alyse Mier

Arts, Culture, MSM Online

Dance as a Form of Emotional Expression

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By Alyse Mier Photography Courtesy of Mady’s Dance Factory Madeleine Richmond is a true testament of not allowing a tragic moment in your life define you. Both of Richmond’s parents passed away from AIDS when she was 7 years old. She was left to conquer the world on her own and find ways to cope with her loss. She found that the best therapy came from dance. It became an emotional outlet for her. She was allowed to express any sadness or anger, or simply just express herself creatively. Her passion for dance lead her to open Mady’s Dance Factory to ensure that no child would ever feel like they are alone or isolated in this world. This unique dance studio is a place where underprivileged kids can come together and use dance as a form of self-expression. MSM took the time to interview Richmond and learn a little more about her personal story and what her vision for Mady’s Dance Factory is: MSM: How is your dance studio different from other dance studios? Madeleine Richmond: We are a family owned business that focuses on creating a close-knit neighborhood vibe. We act more like a family than a dance school. We offer programs that are specific to underprivileged kids, and help them become involved in what would otherwise be economically challenging activities. MSM: What is your vision for community outreach?  MR: Performing at numerous charity events and partnering with organizations that promote wellness and community. Some of the organizations that we will be partnering up with this year are the Alzeheimers Association Miami, AIDS Walk Miami, Cure Search for Children’s Cancer, and Relay for Life American Cancer Association. Our vision is to assist children who have lost family members and create an outlet for emotional expression. MSM: How does your background inspire you to serve a particular community?  MR: My parents passed away when I was 7 years old. Growing up without parents left me feeling isolated and alone. I missed out on many normal childhood experiences, which made me feel even more isolated. However, I found one outlet where I could be free to show how I was feeling–dance. I want to create an environment where kids can express their different personalities and life struggles through the art known as dance. MSM: What do you hope to have accomplished five years from now?  MR: To see the growth of kids through many different life experiences is always rewarding. I would want to be a role model, teacher, friend, mother, encourager, motivator and loving influencer in the lives of the kids within this community. For more information on Mady’s Dance Factory, please visit www.madysdancefactory.com

Arts, Entertainment, MSM Online, Music

Creating the Stepping Stones for At-Risk Youth

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By Alyse Mier Photography by World Red Eye July 9th marked a day of pure joy for the staff and students at the Irie Foundation Allapattah Music and Literacy Center (IFAMLC). Media, volunteers, staff, Jeff Ransdell from Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and Miami’s very own DJ Irie were in attendance to celebrate the van that had been gifted to the center by Merrill Lynch. The students of the center had been working tirelessly for days to put together a performance that would impress the crowd. The performances consisted of exceptionally talented rappers, dancers, solo singers and spoken word poets who made the crowd’s jaws drop. The performers exhibited qualities of artistic professionals and were true examples of the center’s incredible success. Using the arts as a motivational and learning platform, the Irie Foundation has provided kids with a creative outlet for self-expression through its art programs. The students are encouraged to use their talents to increase self-confidence and build essential life skills. At the center, the children are taught how to write songs, produce music videos, edit music videos and, thanks to Irie’s efforts, may soon be able to listen to their very own music on the radio. Most importantly, the center works with each student to ensure that they turn their love for music and arts into a passion for academic success. Free tutoring lessons are offered to every single student and made mandatory for those students that want to participate in music and art classes but are receiving a “C” or below in one or more subjects in school. “Irie and his team are creating opportunities for these young kids to learn and to express themselves, and quite honestly I’m just proud to be a part of it,” said Ransdell who is the Managing Director and Market Executive for Merrill Lynch in the Southeast, Latin America & Caribbean. At the heart of the center is DJ Irie, whose goal is to provide at-risk youth with opportunities to express themselves through a creative outlet and in ways that would otherwise not be provided to them. He wants to be able to award the kids with the same opportunities and experiences that he was able to take advantage of when he was younger. “If I wasn’t able to experience and enjoy music and art at an early age, I don’t think I would be the person that I am today. Some of the kids in there know how to shoot, produce and edit music videos. When you have that knowledge you can take that and pursue it as a career. They don’t have to depend on anybody else, so the fact that all those things are available for them now really enables them to make that decision,” said Irie. The youth currently served by the center are walking testaments that the arts are an extremely powerful learning tool and exemplify just how critical a solid academic foundation is. For more information on the Irie Foundation, please visit iriefoundation.org

Entertainment, Fashion, MSM Online, Music

Julio Iglesias Jr. to Perform at SWIMMIAMI

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By Alyse Mier The most fashionable week of the year will kick off with SWIMMIAMI sponsored by Planet Fashion TV. The much-anticipated event will be hosted at the W South Beach Hotel and Residences on July 16th at 6pm. SWIMMIAMI will feature a VIP cocktail reception, a runway presentation by Lacoste™ and a performance by the widely talented Spanish singer Julio Iglesias Jr. Iglesias will perform a not to be missed modern day remake of his father’s hit song “Vous Les Femmes.” However, your swim week fun does not need to end there. SWIMMIAMI will carry on from July 17th through July 19th during swim week. Make sure to gather all your friends and dive into the most fashionable time of the year. To purchase VIP tickets, please call (305)793-1389 For more information, please visit planetfashiontv.com

Beauty, Body, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Skin Care

A Stress Free Guide to Miami Spa Month’s Deals

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By Alyse Mier Miami Spa Month is finally here! And along with this comes the obvious question, “where do I begin?” We know doing all the research and finding the best deals can cause even more stress, so there is no need to worry, we’ve compiled a list of some of Miami Spa Month’s best deals that are sure to leave you relaxed, rejuvenated and reinvigorated. Massages agua Spa at the Delano South Beach Thai Fusion Massage Let yourself unwind and feel the stresses from your life escape you during this 60-minute massage. This massage combines eastern and western massage techniques, as well as Thai yoga stretching to relive muscle tension throughout the body. Regular Price $190 Miami Spa Month Price $99 Lapis Spa at the Fontainebleau Hotel on Miami Beach Swedish Rubdown Massage This 50-minute massage is a traditional full body Swedish massage, promising to leave you rested, tension free and even improve your circulation. Regular Price $155 Miami Spa Month Price $99 Exhale Spa at the EPIC Hotel Fusion Massage and one month MindBody Membership Enjoy a 60-minute Swedish-based therapy combining rhythmic massage movements and aromatherapy. You can even customize your massage experience with your choice of an uplifting, detoxifying or relaxing herbal blend aromatherapy oils. Also, enjoy a one month MindBody membership which includes: unlimited classes, access to all of the amenities, 24-7 fitness center, EPIC pool deck, 15% off dining at Area31 and 10% off boutique purchases. Regular Price $405 Miami Spa Month Price $129 The Biltmore Spa Signature Chardonnay Massage The Biltmore Spa’s signature massage utilizes Swedish techniques to increase circulation, reduce tension and induce deep relaxation. Featuring French Chardonnay Grape seed Oil, one of the most powerful antioxidants found in nature. Gift yourself 70 minutes of pure bliss and relieve all your stresses. Regular Price $190 Miami Spa Month Price $99 The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental Tranquil Delight A 50-minute treatment that starts with a full body salt and oil scrub to exfoliate your skin. Complete the experience with a back, neck and shoulder massage that will bring you a sense of tranquility and peace. Miami Spa Month Special $99 Facials and Spa Combinations Bliss Spa at the W South Beach Fabulous Facial Customized ‘spa’-cifically for you with a variety of beauty boosting upgrades, this is “fab-for-all” facial that includes all the expertly performed facial essentials (cleansing, exfoliation and extractions). Regular Price $130 Miami Spa Month Price $99 The Spa at Viceroy Miami Spa Month Sampler Revive your mind, body and spirit with a 25-minute massage that targets the areas where you need it most. Then follow by a classic manicure and classic pedicure leaving you polished, ready and refreshed. Miami Spa Month Special $129 The Ritz-Carlton Spa Ritz Carlton Signature Facial A truly thorough facial, a trained skin esthetician will analyze your skins needs and customize a treatment plan just for you. This facial will focus on deep pore cleansing, detoxification of tissues and rebalancing skin’s overall appearance. Regular Price $155 Miami Spa Month Price $99 Elemis Spa at Merrick Park Elemis Cellutox Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap and 50-Minute Massage Cocoon yourself in a comforting wrap that combines the richness of sea plants, marine algae, detoxifying juniper and lemon. Enjoy a de-stressing scalp treatment and soothing foot massage with active ingredients that help redefine the look of cellulite. This package also includes 50-minute Swedish massage. Regular Price $190 Miami Spa Month Price $129 The Palms Spa – AVEDA Fountain of Youth: Feel Young and Look Younger Truly rejuvenate your skin with this facial that includes: 30 Minute Elemental Nature Facial/15 Minute The Green Science Skin-Renewing Eye Area Treatment/5 Minute Perfecting Plant Peel/15 Minute Warm Oil Infusion Scalp Massage. Following your treatment feel free to immerse yourself in Aveda’s tranquil indoor/outdoor relaxation area with steam room, work out in their fitness room or enjoy usage of the hotel’s pool and beach. Miami Spa Month Special $129

Events, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online

The Weekend Guide: 7/10-7/12

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By Alyse Mier We’re almost there! Just one more day until the beautiful and much anticipated weekend arrives. So it’s time to start calling up your friends and finding out what weekend plans you’ll have. Here, we’ve put together a list of some of this weekend’s low-key happenings, which we can all agree is much needed after a highly eventful Fourth of July weekend. Lookingglass Alice Join Alice and the Wonderland characters on their opening weekend in this modern retelling of the classic Alice in Wonderland. Take a journey down the rabbit hole and immerse yourself in Alice’s magical and circus like world. This show will prove to be quite the spectacle and a marvel for all ages. When: Friday July 10th – Begins at 8pm Where: The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami Dade County – 1300 N Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL Tickets: Can be purchased through www.arshtcenter.org Price: $55-$85 Craft and Craft Who doesn’t enjoy some arts and crafts every once in a while? Create your own pottery at Craft and Craft while drawing inspiration from the Women, Art and Social Change exhibition presented by The Newcomb Pottery Enterprise. While you’re channeling your inner Michelangelo sip on some delicious craft beer courtesy of J. Wakefield brewery. When: Friday July 10th – Begins at 7pm Where: Wolfsonian Museum – 1001 Washington Ave Miami Beach, FL Tickets: Can be purchased at museum entrance Price: $5 for members, $10 for non-members (includes supplies and beer samples) Additional Information: All those in attendance must be 21 and over Wynwood Art Walk Occurring the second Saturday of every month, this monthly event features opportunities to visit: art galleries, art institutions, retail businesses and local bars. Hundreds of people crowd the streets to enjoy a great night out and explore Miami’s cultural scene. When: Saturday July 11th – Begins at 6pm Where: Between N. Miami Ave & NW 23rd St Miami, FL Additional Information: This event is open to the public and most events are free of charge. Wynwood Graffiti Art Tour Stroll down the streets of Wynwood as you learn about its rich history. The tour will stop at some of the most interesting murals, and guests will learn about the genesis of street art. This tour is sure to bring you a newfound appreciation for street art. When: Saturday July 11th – Cocktail hour at 6pm, tour commences at 6:30pm Where: The tour will meet at Wood Tavern – 2531 NW 2nd Ave Miami, FL Price: $25 Additional Information: This is a walking tour that will visit about 8 different sites Sunday Market at Mary Brickell Village Come out and enjoy the warm and sunny Miami weather at this weekly farmers market. The Sunday Market will feature: art vendors, food vendors and live music. When: Sunday July 12th – Begins at 10am- 4pm Where: Mary Brickell Village – 900 S. Miami Ave Miami, FL Additional: This event is free and open to the public

Events, MSM Online

Celebrating the Fourth of July in Miami

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By Alyse Mier The Fourth of July has become symbiotic with backyard barbeques, pool parties and beach days. But in a city like Miami, where there is a party happening in what seems to be every corner, it can become quite the challenge to figure out which Fourth of July party to attend. Here we’ve broken down some of Miami’s top Independence Day events for you. 11th Annual IndepenDANCE Beach Party For those of you looking to spend the Fourth of July partying until the early hours of the morning, Nikki Beach’s day long beach bash is the event for you. With DJs Boris and Cocodrills headlining the event you’re sure to dance the day away, all while being beachside and getting a great tan. When: Saturday, July 4th from 12 noon -11pm Where: Nikki Beach Miami at One Ocean Drive South Beach, FL Price: $20-$1,600 Tickets: Can be purchased through http://www.wanttickets.com Additional Information: All those in attendance must be 21 and over Tiësto Presents Club Life Some of us won’t be able to take advantage of the day and go to the beach, but that’s no reason to not celebrate. What better way to celebrate than showing Netherlands native, Tiësto, how Miamians celebrate Independence Day? When: Saturday, July 4th – Begins at 11pm Where: LIV Fontainebleau – 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL Price: $90 Tickets: Can be purchased at http://www.flavorus.com Additional Information: All those in attendance must be 21 and over Coca-Cola Presents Miami Beach Fire on the Fourth Festival Coca Cola Presents Miami Beach Fire on the Fourth Festival is an all day event that is sure to please just about everyone. Guests can enjoy yoga, food trucks, Copa America Finals, a free concert, and incredible fireworks – making this the perfect family event. When: Saturday, July 4th from 9am-9pm Where: The North Shore Park Bandshell – Collins Ave & 73rd Street, Miami Beach, FL Additional Information: This event is open to the public. A shuttle bus service will be provided. For more information and the shuttle bus route map, please visit http://www.miamibeachfl.gov/news/scroll.aspx?id=70816 Fourth of July Cruise All aboard the Biscayne Lady! This cruise will take guests through Downtown Miami, Port of Miami, Fisher Island, Miami Beach and “Millionaire’s Row.” Best of all, being in the open water guarantees guests the best fireworks view in the city. When: Saturday, July 4th at 7:30 pm Where: The cruise will depart from Bayside Marketplace 401 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL Price: $125 for adults, $50 for children Tickets: Can be purchased from http://www.islandqueencruises.com

Fashion, MSM Online

The Best Summer Sandals

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By Alyse Mier During the summer season there is nothing more essential than a trusted pair of sandals. They are comfortable, easy to wear and most importantly add the necessary finishing touch to any outfit. In fact, sandals have become an essential part of any Miamian’s closet. Here we’ve broken down 10 of the trendiest summer sandals, so get ready for the sunniest and warmest of seasons with our guide to the top 10 summer sandals. 1. Sseko Designs Ribbon Sandals allow for us to express our creativity. We select the sole, ribbon, and additional accessory. Most importantly Sseko Designs works toward a great cause. By employing women in Uganda to make the sandals, Sseko Designs has enabled these women to earn money through dignified employment that will go directly toward their college education and ensure that these women will continue pursuing their dreams. Available at ssekodesigns.com / Sandals retail for around $50 / Ribbons and accessories are sold separately 2. Valentino’s Scarlet Flat Sandal is bound to give any look that edgy flare. The classic flip-flop shape is combined with a modern foot and ankle strap, embellished with gold studs, and create a new take on a classic shoe. Complete the look with ripped jeans and an edgy backless blouse. Available at valentino.com / Currently at a 40% discount of $597 3. Rachel Zoe Poppie Sandal’s smooth leather and industrial inspired hardware buckle and heel give any summer look that “wow” factor. The natural color is not only flattering, but it also makes it easy to combine with almost every outfit. Available at Nordstrom Rack / $160 4. Jimmy Choo NANSON FLAT is a sleek sandal that can easily transition from day to night. The mirrored leather strap and black laces add a unique element to this otherwise classic sandal. Pair this with fitted trousers and chic kimono top and you’ll be ready for any occasion. Available at jimmychoo.com / $595 5. Valia Gabriel Miramar Leather Sandals are elegant and simplistic. The slip on sandal has multiple soft leather straps across the top and smooth insoles, which are perfect for those long summer walks. Style yours with a summer maxi dress and a summer fedora for the ultimate beachy look. Available at net-a-porter.com / $225 6. Havaianas Slim Hardware Sandal feature hardware studs on a thin metallic strap. These sandals are guaranteed to be comfortable because of their traditional flip-flop style. Available at havaianas.com / $33 7. Ancient Greek Sandals with LALAoUNIS Rhodes is the ultimate gladiator sandal. While not being too tall or too short, this sandal is the perfect in-between for those of us who love gladiators and those of us who are skeptical of them. The gold accent cuff is what truly brings the whole sandal together. This sandal is sure to be the statement piece of any outfit. Available at ancient-greek-sandals.com / $448 8. Ted Baker London Raria Strappy Suede Sandal is a combination of a bold color and soft suede, giving this sandal a true sense of elegance. This beauty is definitely meant to be worn on a night out. Available at nordstrom.com / $215 9. House of Harlow Venus Sandals bring the tribal aesthetic right to your closet with its beaded ankle strap and textured leather. These sandals are perfect to complement any jogger pants. Available at anthropologie.com / $168 10. Dolce Vita Ashtyn Mixed Media Sandal is the perfect way to mix prints. The spotted front strap and open snakeskin heel combine perfectly to modernize this classic breezy sandal. Available at nordstrom.com / $150

Beauty, MSM Online, Skin Care

My Cabana Boy Has Us Covered

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By Alyse Mier Research has shown that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of their lifetime. Often times failure to prevent sunburn and sun damage is a direct cause of misapplication of sunscreen. However a new and innovative way has been developed to change the way we apply sunscreen from here on out. My Cabana Boy is the newest on the market device that makes sunscreen application a quick and effortless process. Simply insert your sunscreen into the applicator’s opening, adjust the height, lock the latch, pull the trigger and begin spraying. It’s that simple! My Cabana Boy maximizes coverage by adding several inches of reach, insuring that every inch will be perfectly covered. Another added bonus, the adjustable design fits nearly any brand of sunscreen, tanning oils and lotion sprays. Best of all, this product is extremely lightweight, making it the perfect summer essential for any beach bag. My Cabana Boy promises to give you more time to focus on the fun summer activities while staying protected from the sun. Thanks to My Cabana Boy there’s no reason to misapply sunscreen.

Accessories, Fashion, MSM Online

Garrett Leight & Thierry Lasry Proving That Opposites Really Do Attract

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By Alyse Mier Alexander Wang and H&M, Karl Lagerfeld and Cara Delevingne are among some of our favorite pairings made in fashion. Bound to soon join the list of collaborations made in fashion heaven are Garrett Leight and Thierry Lasry. Recently, the eyewear designers have been working together on a series of limited edition collections. For the third and final capsule the designers wanted to create frames that would showcase their individual creativity, design and would pay homage to their beloved cities, Los Angeles and Paris. The end result is two separate frames: The Thierry Lasry x Garrett Leight is a combination of Lasry’s D-frame design with a touch of Leight’s classic and retro influence. The second frame Garrett Leight x Thierry Lasry uses Leight’s rounded shape with Lasry’s layered details and removable clips, which gives these frames a futuristic feel. “Thierry and myself have always had a profound respect for each other’s originality,” says Leight. “We come from a similar background, in which we grew up in the business, and feel like we have really created our own paths. There’s a symmetry there that we can’t get from collaborating with anyone else. Working together has been such a rewarding experience.” This final collection is priced between $450-$495 and will be available for purchase at select fine retailers worldwide as well as on garrettleight.com on August 1st.

Culinary, MSM Online

Community Coffee Company: An Unlikely Summer Drink

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By Alyse Mier Summer is upon us, and in this Miami weather we rely on a cold drink to bring us some much needed refreshment. Some popular choices among us Miamians are a sparkling mimosa, a minty mojito or even sweet lemonade. But, have you ever considered sipping on a delicious blend of ice coffee? Let us introduce you to Community Coffee Company. Community Coffee is currently the largest family owned and operated coffee company in the United States. Started in the early 1900s, Community Coffee began as a small family owned country store providing the highest quality coffee and groceries to the local community. Staying true to its roots over 100 years later, Community Coffee continues to offer only the highest quality blends to everyone within its community. Each batch of coffee is carefully watched, smelled and tasted by someone with generations of expertise in making rich and bold coffee. To ensure this high quality standard, Community Coffee is made with 100% select Arabica beans and offered in a variety of different flavors – making this coffee the perfect fit for any taste bud. What we love most about Community Coffee is the option they provide for non-coffee drinkers. Community Tea is a crisp blend of orange pekoe and pekoe cut black teas from around the world. For more information on Community Coffee Company, please visit www.communitycoffee.com

Beauty, MSM Online

Perfume Perfectly Combined to Fit Any Personality

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By Alyse Mier Caron Paris is an avant-garde perfume brand that draws inspiration from the world of art and fashion. Originally established in 1904, Caron has since been able to adapt to the significant lifestyle changes while staying true to its core value, offering an array of beautiful fragrances and employing timeless techniques in the creation of each of its perfumes. Their newest collection La Selection Feminine offers women a classic vintage treat with a splash of modern chic. Più Bellodgia is a blend of carnation, green lily, cinnamon, clove, cedar, sandalwood and musk perfectly combined to create a rich and innocent scent that is best defined as romantic and extravagant. My Ylang a beautiful combination of white flowers, the sweet floral scent of ylang, blackcurrant bud, mandarin and a tinge of green vanilla from Madagascar. Leaving a powdery scent trail wherever you go. Aimez- Moi is an interesting combination of spice, citrus and floral. Bergamot, aniseed, violet, vanilla and magnolia come together in this perfume to create a floral and spontaneous scent. Nocturnes opens with notes of citrus fruits which unfurl among a bouquet of white flowers combined with notes of rose and jasmine leaving a woody amber impression. Parfum Sacré the surprise element of pepper comes together beautifully with the spicy scent of cinnamon, the feminine touch of rose, and the more masculine scents of musk and myrrh creating a highly sensual fragrance Lady Caron made up of magnolia, neroli, raspberry, peach and a delicate hint of oakmoss, which produce a classic and authentic scent. Caron Paris offers an array of beautiful fragrances and continues to employ timeless techniques in the creation of its fragrances, making each of them a unique handcrafted piece of art. To purchase, please visit www.luckyscent.com

Culinary, MSM Online

NASA Presents Italian Wine Specialist Course

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By Alyse Mier Photography Courtesy of Toscana Divino Italian wines are best known for their complexity, uniqueness and rich cultural history, yet these same qualities are what make Italian wines a difficult subject to both learn and teach. The North American Sommelier Association (NASA) has made it their personal goal to provide a cohesive and profound understanding of Italian wine to all those wanting to gain a greater knowledge. NASA will be hosting its NASA Italian Wine Specialist course from June 27-30. The four day wine education courses will take place in some of Miami’s best Italian restaurants. Those in attendance will be educated on all 20 Italian wine regions, wine laws, regulations, grape varietals, a brief overview of cuisine and culture, and food and wine pairings. Following the course, guests will take a wine certification exam on July 31st at Ironside Pizza, providing them with the chance to become certified wine specialists. During this time, NASA will also launch its newest one-day tasting course at Toscana Divino: Piemonte: King under the Mountain. The Piemonte region in Italy is highly recognized by the wine community to be one of the most prominent, historical, unique and significant wine regions of the world. Known to be shrouded in fog and have a sense of mysticism and enchantment the course aims to “lift” the mystery and focus on the wines produced in this region; their typicality, classification, history, and characteristics, as well as an overview of traditional food pairings, the entire region itself and tastings of the most incredible wines from this region are included. The courses are led by Diego Grom Meraviglia, a Gold-Pin professional sommelier and Vice President and Director of Education for NASA, as well as the founder of this internationally recognized certification, Alessandro Sbrendola. For more information and for details on registration visit http://www.nasommelier.com/courses/italian-wine-specialist/#miami

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