Photos by Carol Porter
Joe Barry Memorial Final
Photos By Alan Fabricant
The Joe Barry Memorial polo final was played under sunny skies at the National Polo Center (NPC).
Iconica, led by Patrona Maureen Brennan along with Peke Gonzalez, Luckitas Criado and the games’s MVP Santos Merlos topped a BTA team made up of Kelly Beal, Jesse Bray, Steve Krueger and Nachi Viana by a final score of 12-11.
Iconica jumped out to a six goal lead and barely held on for the exciting win.
If more time was possible, a different outcome may have taken place.
Inflation proof: Florida Prepaid rates are flat and more flexible than ever
Florida Prepaid 2023 Open Enrollment Launches to Provide Affordable, Guaranteed College Savings Plans for Florida Families.
Families can start saving for future tuition costs for as little as $45/month for a newborn.
- Open Enrollment runs February 1 through April 30, 2023 and is the annual window when families can lock in future tuition costs at today’s Plan prices. Prepaid Plans start at $45/month.
- Families that purchase a Prepaid Tuition Plan between February 1 and February 28 will receive a $50 gift card.
- Prepaid Plan monthly payments never go up, allowing families to budget for college savings.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Bringing affordable, inflation-proof college savings options to Florida families who are experiencing the challenges of today’s economy, Florida Prepaid kicked off its annual Open Enrollment period by encouraging families to purchase a Florida 529 Prepaid Plan to lock in the future cost of college.
Open Enrollment runs February 1 through April 30, 2023, and is the only window when families can lock in future tuition costs at today’s Plan prices. Plans start at just $45/month. To encourage Floridians to start saving for college, Florida Prepaid will give a $50 gift card to families that purchase a Prepaid Plan for tuition coverage between February 1 and February 28.
“Florida 529 Prepaid Plans offer tremendous value, security and savings at a time when Florida families are seeking all those things,” said Florida Prepaid College Board Chairman John D. Rood. “It can be a challenging time to raise a family, with food and fuel prices continuing to impact budgets, yet the comforting guarantee of a Prepaid Plan is that the price you lock in today will never go up. We encourage Florida families to research Florida 529 Prepaid Plans and find the best option for their current budget.”
Prepaid Plans allow families to save for college in a way that is risk-free and stress-free by locking in future college costs now, so their child’s college tuition is ready and waiting for them. Families simply pick a Prepaid Plan and make their payments. There are no worries about the ups and downs of the stock market or how much tuition might go up. The State of Florida guarantees all Prepaid Plans so families can never lose their investment.
If a child attends an out-of-state or private college, a Prepaid Plan will pay the same amount as it would pay at a public college or university in Florida, allowing the child to pursue their dreams no matter where that might take them.
This year, families can purchase a 4-Year Florida University Plan for a newborn for as low as $181 a month, a 2+2 Florida Plan for $145 a month, a 2-Year Florida College Plan for $54 a month or a 4-Year Florida College Plan for less than $116 a month.
The Board also offers a 1-Year Florida University Plan, which starts as low as $45 per month and covers 30 university credit hours. Multiple family members can purchase a 1-Year Florida University Plan for the same child, stacking the plans together and sharing the cost of college savings.
Families can use the online Prepaid Plan pricing tool to determine what the various plans cost based on a child’s age, as well as explore the different payment options available.
To learn more, visit myfloridaprepaid.com today.
###
According to Bankrate last fall, 81 percent of people between the ages 26 to 43 are stressed about money. They are also among the demographic with the most student loan debt and hit the hardest financially by COVID-19, but simultaneously at the age when they are establishing or building their families, and therefore should be focusing on the future. And saddled with student loans themselves, they likely know that they don’t want that same path for their children — but are unsure where to start.
Florida families, however, are in a unique position to avoid inflation when it comes to saving for college, thanks to the longest-running and most successful state-backed college savings program in the nation. And the plans are more flexible than ever, thanks to recent legislation allowing families to roll unused 529 Savings Plan money into a tax-free Roth IRA account gives families even more safety and flexibility when it comes to college savings.
While the prices of basic commodities, like food and fuel, continue to be impacted by inflation, the cost of saving for the future costs of college has barely budged with a Florida Prepaid Plan – plans this year will start as low as $45/month, in line with recent years.
Open Enrollment runs February 1 through April 30, 2023 and is a great time to discuss the importance of saving for college, and the unique benefits to Florida families. Notably:
- Of the almost 1.2 million Florida families with children under age 5, only 4.3% are currently saving for college with any of Florida Prepaid’s 529 plans
- According to a survey of Florida families conducted by Florida Prepaid, more Florida families are saving for family vacations (53 percent) than are saving for college (29 percent).
- The same survey found that nearly two-thirds of college savers in Florida are using a regular bank savings account, which lacks tax advantages and does not lock in tuition.
About the Florida Prepaid College Board
The Florida Prepaid College Board manages the Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program and the Florida 529 Savings Plan. Both are tax-favored 529 college savings plans authorized by Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. In 1987 the Florida Prepaid College Program was created by the Florida Legislature and the commitment and dedication of Mr. Stanley G. Tate to provide Florida families with an affordable means to save for their children’s future college education. The first Florida Prepaid College Plans were sold in 1988, and were augmented with the addition of the Florida 529 Savings Plan in 2002. The Board also oversees two direct-support organizations – The Florida Prepaid College Foundation and Florida ABLE, Inc., d/b/a ABLE United. Florida Prepaid is the largest, longest running and most successful prepaid plan in the nation with more than 2 million Florida Prepaid College Plans purchased and more than $15 billion in assets. The 529 Savings Plan has more than 128,000 active accounts with a market value of more than $1 billion.
MEREDITH WESTHEIMER| SENIOR DIRECTOR
o: 850.224.0174 | c: 561.213.8192 | MOORE
O’DWYER’S: TOP 49 U.S. AGENCY
PR NEWS: ELITE TOP 100
PROVOKE MEDIA: TOP 186 GLOBAL AGENCY
Polo for Life Announces 8th Annual ‘Polo for a Purpose, A Passage to India’ to Benefit Families Fighting Pediatric Cancer
WELLINGTON, FL – On Monday, February 27thpolo fans are invited to join a special event featuring an thrilling match and opportunity to support a worthy mission. Even better, the funds raised during the 8th Annual Polo for a Purpose, “A Passage to India” event, will be used to directly support South Florida families fighting pediatric cancer.
Founded by Brandon Phillips, a pediatric cancer survivor and professional equestrian athlete, Polo for Life has raised $2.2 million to date. As plans are underway for this year’s event, it has been announced that monies raised will support Pediatric Oncology Support Team (P.O.S.T.), Kids Cancer Foundation, and Baptist Health Foundation and subsequently families who are currently in the fight.
“According to St. Jude Research Hospital, approximately 400,000 children globally develop cancer every year,” shared Phillips when asked why he created this event.” Polo for Life estimates that more than 10,000 children in the U.S. under the age of 15 will be diagnosed this year alone and something must be done so we can continue to see survivors going on to live long, healthy lives. I know firsthand the fear of a cancer diagnosis and the incredible life that can follow. I’ve made it my mission to help as many children and families as I can.”
Featuring live entertainment, a fabulous cocktail reception, performance by the Wellington High School marching band, and an electrifying polo match, this event does so much more than provide an afternoon of fun. Polo for Life encourages the community to bid in the auction and take part in the event that makes a huge positive impact locally.
Gates for the event open at 3:00 p.m. with the polo match beginning at 4:00 p.m. Sponsorships are still available. Individual tickets and tables of eight can also be purchased online by visiting www.poloforlife.org/passagetoindia or calling 917-838-2074.
Polo for Life was founded by Brandon Phillips, a professional polo player who has won many of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. However, winning tournaments is not the biggest victory he has achieved–surviving stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is. Phillips was just 14 years old when diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and given a prognosis of six weeks to live. He endured five grueling months of intensive chemotherapy sessions yet never lost his spirit nor accepted death as an option. He beat the odds, went into remission, and vowed to dedicate his life to polo and his desire to help families facing the dreadful challenge of surviving childhood cancers. Polo for Life, Inc. raises money to help pediatric cancer patients and their families from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship and long-term follow-up. By partnering with South Florida organizations, Polo for Life provides financial assistance so families can remain in their homes, be confident they will have food to survive, and overcome financial hardships that come with a pediatric cancer diagnosis. It has donated more than $2 million since its founding.
ARTS GARAGE to Present Romantic Singing Sensation ANTHONY NUNZIATA, March 4 at 8 pm
(Delray Beach, FL – February 1, 2023) Marjorie Waldo, President & CEO of Arts Garage, today announced an upcoming performance by super crooner Anthony Nunziata, who has been dubbed “America’s new romantic singing sensation,” on Saturday, March 4, at 8 pm, with Love Songs from Broadway & Beyond.
We are so excited that the Brooklyn-born and Nashville-based singer, songwriter and entertainer is making a one-night-only return visit to Arts Garage with an intimate concert that includes his signature take on classic love songs from Broadway, jazz, classic pop, Italian arias and his timeless originals,” says Waldo.
Hailed by BroadwayWorld for capturing “theauthentic songwriting passion of a young Billy Joel with the soulfulness of Ed Sheeran,” Nunziata has been described as “an explosion of love and entertainment.” For his upcoming concert at Arts Garage, the beloved Italian-American tenor has planned a setlist that includes some of the most romantic music including a selection of classic standards, arias, famed love songs and celebrated original songs including Somewhere, Some Enchanted Evening, Can’t Help Falling in Love, Unchained Melody, O Sole Mio, and The Prayer, along with tunes from his critically-acclaimed, award-winning new jazz/pop release, The Love Album, which is now available on all streaming services.
“I’m in the business of making people feel good, making people happy. I’m grateful I get to tell stories for a living through lyrics and music. To make people laugh, cry, feel something—there’s nothing like it,” says Nunziata, who has headlined over 400 concerts over the past decade from small jazz clubs to two sold-out concerts at Carnegie Hall with the New York Pops Symphony Orchestra. His songs have been featured on MTV, Comedy Central, CBS News, NBC News, and more, and recently appeared in the Netflix film The Last Laugh opposite Chevy Chase and Richard Dreyfuss.
At Arts Garage, Nunziata will be backed by two of South Florida’s favorite musicians: Bobby Peacoon piano, and Jesse Jones, Jr. on sax.
How to Get Tickets to Anthony Nunziata:
Tickets are $45-$50 per person and are available for purchase by calling the Arts Garage at 561.450.6357 or by going online to www.ArtsGarage.org.
About Arts Garage:
Arts Garage delivers innovative, diverse, meaningful and accessible visual and performing arts experiences to Delray Beach and South Florida. “Connecting our community to the world through the Arts”—this vision drives all decision-making at Arts Garage, which brings local, emerging artists and established global performers into the local multi-cultural community (students and adults, locals and tourists, people of all ages, income levels, backgrounds) who share a love of the arts.
Diversity is a hallmark of Arts Garage, which provides multicultural programming that promotes inclusion in the arts. #DiscoverDiversity isn’t just a tagline—it is the cornerstone of our outreach programs, staffing, and marketing. Located at 94 NE 2nd Avenue in Delray Beach’s popular Pineapple Grove (33444), Arts Garage is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization sponsored in part by the Florida Department of State Division of Cultural Affairs, the Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, and the City of Delray Beach. For more information, please call 561.450.6357 or visit www.artsgarage.org.
Attached Image:
Anthony Nunziata at Arts Garage
Available for Interview:
Marjorie Waldo, President & CEO
Arts Garage
561.665.5857 / marjorie@artsgarage.org
Media Contact:
Gary Schweikhart, PR-BS, Inc.
561.756.4298 / gary@pr-bs.net
The Dreyfoos School of the Arts Charity Auction Hosted by Sotheby’s – Online Auction February 7-28
West Palm Beach, FL (January 30, 2023) The Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation announced today that they will host the Dreyfoos School of the Arts Charity Auction in celebration of the foundation’s 30th Anniversary. Sotheby’s is honored to host this online charity auction on behalf of The Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation from February 7 to February 28, 2023.
The Dreyfoos School of the Arts Charity Auction will feature incredible works from pre-eminent artists, designers and exceptional Alumni from a global range of countries covering a broad scope of artistic mediums.
Lots include paintings, photographs, sculptures and more from notables Henry Moore, Berthe Morisot, and Dietz Edzard, Kathy Ruttenberg and Emily Zuch; modern icons Larry Bell, Nan Goldin, and David Haxton; pop artists Mr. Brainwash, Shane Bowden, Ken Elias, and Helmut Koller; designers Maximilian Eicke, Sean Rush; and jewelers Aletto Brothers.
In addition to a diverse contingent of Caribbean and Latin American artists, and influential Cuban born artists such as Kadir Lopez Nieves, Carlos Luna and Andres Conde, who have become an integral part of the Florida Arts community, will also participate.
A generous community presence of notable galleries will also be participating in the Charity Auction, including Hauser and Wirth, Gavlak, Libertine, Liman Gallery along with South Florida artists Paul Gervais, Ellen Liman, Trish Savides, Wilma Bulkin Siegel, and Megan James. The auction exemplifies the importance of a symbiotic relationship of an active local community with its schools and children.
Ten works from inspirational Dreyfoos alumni such as Lauren Pearce, Erlin Geffrard, Amber Tutwiler, and Nava Lundy, round out the collection and provide a glimpse into the incredible talent that Dreyfoos fosters.
All of the proceeds from the Charity Auction benefit the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts (Dreyfoos) academic and art programs. The Foundation provides funding for students “critical needs”.
The Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation was founded in 1993 to bolster the art and academic programs at the internationally recognized Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts. Funds raised by the foundation provide curriculum enhancements not funded through Palm Beach County’s school district.
“Without the support of community partners, we cannot fulfill the mission of the school. We share our sincere thanks and gratitude towards Sotheby’s, our auction host who made this possible,” said Dr. Chris Snyder, CEO, Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation.
Auction details:
Bidding opens on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at 3 pm ET, and bidding closes on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at 3 pm ET. In addition to auction items being available to browse online on Sotheby.com, auction works are also on preview at Jane Holzer’s Warehouse- “The Factory” located at 433 Flamingo Dr., West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Preview dates are scheduled for Sunday, February 5 (6:30 pm to 8 pm), Monday, February 6, and Tuesday, February 7 (11 am to 6 pm).
The Dreyfoos School of the Arts Charity Auction is an online-only auction. To bid, participants must log on to Sothebys.com and either sign on to their exciting account or create a new account. No account is needed to browse the auction or view the preview.
Auction co-chairs include Denise Kalland and Lisa Marie Conte Browne.
The 2023 Auction Committee includes Gil Cohen, Nancy Hart, Francine Walker, Maximilian Eicke, Karen Swanson, Francine Birbragher, and Marisol Martinez.
To learn more, contact Dr. Chris Snyder, CEO of Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation, at 561.628.4377, email chris@soafi.org or visitSoafi.org.
The Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation provides support for the arts and academic curriculum at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, a public arts high school named among the top 1% of public high schools in the nation, among the ten best schools in Florida, and the #1 public school in Palm Beach County. Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation, Inc. | P.O. Box 552, West Palm Beach, FL 33402 | Phone 561-805-6298 | info@soafi.org
Dropbox link to Dreyfoos School of the Arts Charity Auction preview
Opening Saturday Nights Lights Grand Prix at WEF
Photos by Alan Fabricant
The $140,000 Southern Arches CSI3 Grand Prix was the opening event of the 2023 WEF season.
Forty-five riders and horses took the challenge of this difficult course layout.
Only six pair went clear (no knockdowns or time faults) during the first round.
Darragh Kenny of Ireland riding Volnay Du Boisdeville were the only ones to have a clean second round in the jump off.
For his win he picked up the winners check of $48,180.
Second place went to Carly Anthony of the USA aboard Jet Blue and a check for $29,200.
Olympian Laura Kraut of the USA riding Dorado 212 received $21,900 for her third place finish.
Celebrate Love Month at these Romantic Destinations
With the arrival of February, we move from New Year’s resolutions to the celebration of love and romance. For couples hoping to spark a few flames this month, these resorts and hotels offer packages to enhance your romantic endeavors. Not coupled up? No problem. Round up some friends and celebrate your own brand of love!
Casa Palopó | Santa Catarina, Guatemala
Looking for a fairytale setting this Valentine’s Day? Casa Palopó in Santa Catarina, Guatemala delivers. Tucked in the rolling hills of Santa Catarina and backdropped by the mythical Lake Atitlán, this idyllic setting sets the stage for romance.
Housed in a private home turned boutique hotel, this luxurious Relais & Chateaux property provides the perfect locale and amenities for a serene, romantic getaway. Here you’ll discover eccentrically decorated guest rooms adorned with colorful walls. Latin American artwork and handwove textiles made in Guatemala complete the interior. Sweeping views of the expansive lake, three majestic volcanoes and neighboring indigenous villages complete the peaceful landscape.
On offer for February, the Casa Palopó’s Valentine’s Day Package includes a welcome cocktail, continental breakfast for two and a wine and cheese tasting on the deck overlooking the stunning surroundings. For a little extra romantic adventure, check out the private glamping experience. For more information or to book, visit www.casapalopo.com
A Winter Getaway for Two | JW Marriott Cancun
Want to spend your Valentine’s Day cozying up in a private beachfront cabana or Bali-style day bed? Find your way to the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa. Surrounded by Cancun’s year-round turquoise blue seas and 80-degree forecasts you can spend the day basking in the sun to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
For a romantic experience, book the resort’s Valentine’s Day package, which offers a complimentary 80-minute Hunah Ku massage at the luxurious Sens Yah Spa and a special price on an additional massage. The package also includes a $100 USD daily resort credit for stays of 5 or more nights. Couples will receive a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and macarons to enjoy after their treatments. For more information or to book, visit JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa and use code Z85.
You, Me & Aruba – Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
Need a break from the kids…all kids, this Valentine’s Day? Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino has just the package for you. With the resort’s ‘You, Me and Aruba’ package you’ll spend your days and nights in a deluxe ocean view room in the adults-only Tradewinds Club, the resort’s luxury hotel-within-a-hotel. Available for couples planning a stay for at least four consecutive nights, this little taste of paradise serves up jaw-dropping views of the pristine beaches.
Guests at Aruba Marriott Resort’s Tradewinds Club experience every luxury they could ever desire within reach, including a private floor and lounge, access to the H2Oasis adults-only pool, exclusive amenities, personal concierge, complimentary food and beverages each day in the Tradewinds Lounge, and reserved beach seating. Upon arrival, raise a toast to love with complimentary bubbly and strawberries. The package also includes a dinner for two experience at Atardi, the resort’s toes-in-the-sand restaurant which boasts front-row seats to the island’s most vibrant sunsets. For more information or to book visit www.arubamarriott.com and use code HON.
Choose Your Swoon Moon | Hotel Rangá | Iceland
For those who prefer a snowy landscape, be over the moon with your Valentine at Hotel Rangá. Situated amid awe-inspiring nature in Southern Iceland, you’ll find serenity among the island’s picturesque landscapes and countless waterfalls. Take the perfect photo along a beautiful black sand beach. Or, catch the greatest light show of all time at Hotel Rangá, arguably the best place to see the famous Aurora Borealis given its countryside location providing darker skies and fewer artificial lights.
Stargaze and name constellations alongside the hotel’s resident astronomer at the property’s hi-tech, roll-off roof observatory. Experience love and luxury at Hotel Rangá when you indulge in the special “Choose Your Swoon Moon” package. Enjoy a bottle of champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, gourmet dining and more, designed to make you swoon over each other and Iceland. To book your best Valentine’s Day yet, visit www.hotelranga.is.
Valentine’s & Anti-Valentine’s Day | VASO Dublin, AC Hotel Columbus
Escape to America’s heartland this Valentine’s Day in the charming town of Dublin, Ohio. For couples of all varieties, there’s plenty of romance. But there’s also a good time awaiting singles looking for a fun Anti-valentines night out with friends.
Enjoy the sweeping views of the Scioto River and the picturesque Hallmark village of Dublin and its cobblestoned streets. Straight out of a cheesy rom-com film, this city offers romantic sunsets like you have never seen before. And they look even better from a rooftop.
The chic modern rooftop bar and restaurant, VASO sets the stage for an experiential dinner. The stylish bar offers a fun outdoor igloo activation on top of the AC Hotel Columbus Dublin — the ideal place to sweep your loved one off their feet or celebrate the single life with sexy craft cocktails and gourmet tapas inside a decorated private igloo; a life-sized, snow globe-like experience.
Couples looking to make it a dinner and a date night can upgrade with a stay at the AC Hotel Columbus Dublin, a bottle of wine and a bouquet of roses with the Valentine’s package. Or make it a night to remember with friends with the Anti-valentines package offering a round of shots, a can of washable chalk spray paint, and inflatable baseball bats in your igloo! Visit www.vasodublin.com to book your igloo and the AC Hotel Dublin to book your hotel stay.
An Unforgettable Tuscan Romance | Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa & Grand Universe Lucca
Finding love under the Tuscan sun is inevitable! This year, ditch the usual chocolate and flowers and head to the Tuscan region of Italy for an authentically romantic hideaway. Whether tucked away in a villa at Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa overlooking the colorful mountainous Serchio Valley or rekindling romance in the charming city of Lucca at Grand Universe Lucca, couples will forever be reminiscing on either of these cherishable Italian getaways.
Surrounded by beautiful gardens and parks, Renaissance Tuscany is a haven for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path stay and eager to explore Italy’s romantic food culture. In celebration of this loving holiday, the resort has curated a special six-course Valentine’s Day dinner. Highlights include a burrata and mint stuffed homemade ravioli with shellfish sauce, scampi tartare, carnaroli risotto and puff pastry stuffed with ricotta and pear mouse.
Those rejoicing in sweet symphony at Grand Universe Lucca can look forward to a decadent Chef’s amuse-bouche dinner featuring steamed Norway lobster, borage risotto with clams and bottarga and linguine pasta served with tomato sauce and sea urchins. Couples looking to stay at Grand Universe Lucca can book the Adagio double room for €310,00 a night including breakfast.
Make Your Valentine’s Night at Home Erotic and Exotic with these 6 Suggestions
By Julie Khanna
Forgoing fancy dinner reservations doesn’t have to mean settling on anything less than a special sexy Valentine’s Night at home. Not everyone wants to celebrate in a crowded restaurant with a hundred other people, enduring long waits despite reservations, or struggling to speak over the roaring volume of a packed house. Instead, many prefer carefully crafting the perfect date night in situ. It can be quite special and an intimate chance to reconnect or get some grounding. Whether you’re single, in a new relationship, or celebrating many years with your significant other, fewer things could make for a more exciting evening than some of the suggestions below.
Black Cherry Merlot Candle
@naturellivingco
Set a cozy romantic tone with the gentle flickers of an aromatic candle. Curating the ambiance is almost only possible with the perfect candle. As beautiful as it is fragrant, you’ll want to pair a glass of wine with this candle of aged oak. Amber base notes highlight the merlot, while vanilla balances the sweet finish. Filled with clean-burning, biodegradable, renewable, vegan, non-toxic, and natural Virgin Coconut Soy wax.
Price: $29.99
https://www.naturelliveco.com/product/black-cherry-merlot/37?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=true
Learn more at https://www.naturelliveco.com/ or follow @naturellivingco on Instagram.
Frosé from Bloomers Frozen Drinks
@bloomersfrose
Valentine’s Day is all about indulging in the things you love, and what better way to do that than with a delicious and refreshing Frosé drink? This frozen rosé wine slushie is the perfect treat for you and your special someone to enjoy on Valentine’s Day evening. And becoming your own mixologist has never been easier. Bloomers Frosé is simply blended with ice and a bottle of your favorite prosecco, rosé, or sauvignon blanc. Garnish with candied rose petals to add a little extra charisma.
Price: $16.99
https://bloomersfrose.com/product/bloomers-frose-1l/
Learn more at bloomersfrose.com or follow @bloomersfrose on Instagram
Titanium Guipure Embroidered Georgette Robe from Carol Coelho Intimates
It’s only fitting to indulge in something luxurious and sensual on the holiday curated around love and lust. The right piece of lingerie can make you feel sexy, and the rush of confidence is exciting. This stunning and elegant embroidered robe by Carol Coelho Intimates is the perfect lounge splurge. The guipure lace embroidered georgette kimono robe has a silk satin detail, silk satin waist, and 3/4 sleeves. Available in black and off-white, it can be paired with the titanium guipure georgette slip.
Price: $295
Learn more at https://carolcoelhointimates.com or follow @carolcoelhoofficial on Instagram.
CZ love pendant necklace from Bubs and Sass
Not only is this necklace beautiful and timeless, but it also carries a powerful message of love and affection. This stunning jewelry is crafted from high-quality materials and features a delicate yet bold “Love” pendant hanging beautifully on a dainty chain. It’s the ultimate declaration of love- for yourself or your partner. Being lightweight in design and comfortable to wear, it’s sure to be kept close at heart all day long.
Price: $28
Learn more at bubsandsass.com or follow @bubsandsass on Instagram.
Beluga Caviar from Real Gourmet Food
Caviar has long been recognized for its aphrodisiac properties. It almost feels sinful not to have it at the center of Valentine’s Date night. The luxurious delicacy has been enjoyed for centuries and epitomizes elegance and sophistication. Whether you romance it over an intimate candlelit dinner or serve it at a Valentine’s celebration, Beluga Caviar from Real Gourmet Food is an experience to be shared! Beluga Caviar is known for its rich buttery taste, from nature’s finest Sturgeon, and fused with the opulent nutty caviar notes of the exquisite Siberian Sturgeon for a harmonious symphony of buttery, nutty, and earthy silk pearls.
Price: $170
Learn more at realgourmetfood.com or follow @realgourmetfood on Instagram.
Chocolate Souffle stuffed cookies from La Gringuita Cookies
No Valentine’s Day would be complete without a finish of something sweet.
Everyone’s favorite stuffed cookie is the perfect way to end the night on a sweet note.
The Chocolate Souffle stuffed cookie comes in a 4.5 oz pouch and is ready in 12 minutes! La Gringuita Cookies are free of preservatives and are perfect for sharing with your loved one or for gifting to friends and family.
Price: $15
https://gringuita-cookies.com/
Learn more at www.gringuita-cookies.com or follow @gringuita_cookies on Instagram.
What’s the Deal with Catnip?
By Tricia Roberts
It’s no secret that cats love catnip. Leaves or oil from the mint-related plant (scientifically named nepeta cataria) usually gives a hallucinogenic or euphoric reaction to cats. But not all cats are affected, and the euphoric state doesn’t last long.
Cats like catnip for two reasons. Smelling the herb stimulates their senses while eating it calms them down. When cats get a good whiff of catnip, they’ll often respond by rolling around, flipping over, or rubbing on everything. Sometimes they’ll even make odd noises and get bursts of energy that send them running from room to room. When cats eat the herb, they’ll experience a calming effect as catnip causes fatigue and works as a sedative. Both smelling and eating catnip is safe and non-addictive for your cat, but ingesting too much can cause a tummy ache.
Not all cats, though, react to catnip. Interestingly, the ability to react to the plant is known to be genetic. Mother cats with a positive response to it are more likely to pass that response on to their kittens. It is said that about 30% of cats don’t have the inherited trait, and kittens won’t begin to show a response until they’re about 6 months old. Additionally, as a cat gets older, he or she may lose interest in the herb.
For those cats that do show reactions to catnip, the effect seems to last anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes, and then most cats choose to nap. After napping for a couple of hours, the interest may appear again.
Catnip may cause male cats to become aggressive. This is because of the herb’s connection to mating behavior. If catnip makes your cat appear aggressive, you should consider alternatives like honey-suckle or valerian.
For indoor cats that show a positive, euphoric response, catnip is safe and can be a valuable tool for environmental enrichment, especially for shelter cats or strictly indoor cats. Catnip is a great way to encourage cats to exercise. It can also be used during training to get your cat to use a scratching post rather than furniture and sleep in his or her own bed. Also, watching the effects it has on your cat can be very entertaining for you.
Catnip comes in a variety of forms. Some toys come pre-scented or filled with the herb, but you can also buy powdered catnip to sprinkle on the ground or on toys. Additionally, you can find catnip oil or spray which you can use on bedding. A little catnip goes a long way, so you won’t need much.