Trump and Rubio to Attend College Football National Championship in Miami
Miami will be at the center of the national spotlight this Monday as the 2026 NCAA College Football National Championship kicks off at Hard Rock Stadium—and it won’t just be football fans watching.
According to Axios, Donald Trump and Marco Rubio are both planning to attend the title game, adding political intrigue to what is already one of the biggest sporting events of the year.
Miami vs. Indiana: A Championship With National Attention
The matchup between Miami and Indiana has captured national attention, bringing college football’s biggest stage to South Florida. With millions expected to tune in, the championship reinforces Miami’s growing role as a host city for major global events—sports, entertainment, and beyond.
Second Most Expensive Event Ever at Hard Rock Stadium
This game isn’t just historic on the field—it’s historic at the box office.
The January 2026 National Championship is now the second most expensive event ever held at Hard Rock Stadium, based on average ticket prices of approximately $4,330. The only event to surpass it was Super Bowl LIV, which averaged around $6,370 per ticket.
The championship has also surpassed other massive events hosted at the stadium, including Taylor Swift’s 2024 tour stop—making it the most expensive college football game ever recorded.
Who Are Trump and Rubio Rooting For?
Axios also highlighted an interesting subplot: who each political figure is supporting.
Marco Rubio, a longtime Florida political figure, is expected to be firmly behind the Miami Hurricanes.
President Trump has not publicly declared a favorite, but has recently praised Indiana’s quarterback, adding another layer of intrigue heading into the game.
A Big Moment for Miami on the National Stage
With record-setting ticket prices, political heavyweights in attendance, and a national championship on the line, Monday’s game is shaping up to be one of the most high-profile events Miami has hosted in years.
For South Florida, it’s another reminder that Miami continues to be a premier destination for world-class sports, entertainment, and global attention.
Court Orders Developer to Fully Restore Biscayne 21 After Failed Termination Attempt
Developer’s Termination Plan Ruled Invalid
In a significant win for Biscayne 21 condominium owners, the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court in Miami-Dade has declared the developer’s attempt to terminate the condominium invalid. The court vacated prior orders that had favored the developer, effectively halting any plans to terminate and redevelop the property. Biscayne 21 is located in Edgewater, a waterfront Miami neighborhood that has seen increasing redevelopment pressure in recent years.
Rather than simply blocking the termination, the court went a step further and imposed affirmative obligations on the developer.
The highlight of the ruling is that the developer is now legally required to restore the Biscayne 21 condominium and all affected units to their original condition as of May 2023. This includes reinstating utilities, services, and common area maintenance at the developer’s expense, with no additional costs to the unit owners.
Implications for Unit Owners
For the condominium’s residents, this decision means they retain ownership of their units and can expect the building to be brought back to a habitable and fully functional state. The court has ensured ongoing oversight, requiring regular status reports to guarantee compliance.
Mannarino to Open First U.S. Location at The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami
A celebrated name in Italy’s food scene is officially coming to Miami. Mannarino, the modern Italian butcher shop and kitchen founded in Milan, will debut its first U.S. location at The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami, further elevating Midtown’s rapidly evolving culinary and lifestyle landscape.
The announcement comes as the final retail lease at the project is secured, marking 100% retail lease-up for the development.
A Modern Take on the Italian Butcher Shop
Founded in Milan and now spanning 23 locations across Italy, Mannarino reimagines the traditional neighborhood butcher shop with a highly interactive, community-driven approach. Guests begin at the counter, guided by skilled butchers who help select premium cuts—whether for home cooking or to be grilled and served on-site.
The concept emphasizes quality and craftsmanship, featuring lighter cuts, carpaccio, tartare, and thoughtfully sourced meats that reflect Southern Italian culinary traditions.
“In Italy, we don’t just eat—we gather around the table,” said Gianmarco Venuto, Founder of Mannarino. “Mannarino is a celebration of craftsmanship, tradition, and community.”
What to Expect at the Miami Location
The Mannarino at The Standard Residences will blend retail butchery, Italian market, and dining into a single experience. Signature offerings are expected to include:
The Bombette – Mannarino’s celebrated rolled meat specialty
Grilled chicken skewers
Carpaccio and Italian tartare prepared with Piedmontese Fassona beef from the brand’s own farms
Seasonal sides such as grilled vegetables and roasted potatoes
Guests will be able to dine in or take premium cuts home, with expert guidance from the butcher—staying true to the brand’s omnichannel, education-forward model.
Design Rooted in Warmth and Tradition
The space will showcase Mannarino’s signature aesthetic: a warm, modern Italian market inspired by traditional butcher shops. Expect natural materials, curated design details, a mix of individual and family-style seating, and an inviting neighborhood atmosphere designed to encourage conversation and connection.
The opening is currently slated for Fall 2026.
A Milestone for Midtown Miami
The arrival of Mannarino aligns seamlessly with the vision behind The Standard Residences, a project developed by Rosso Development, Standard International, and Midtown Development.
“Mannarino brings something genuinely different to the neighborhood,” said Carlos Rosso, Founder and CEO of Rosso Development. “Their concept will meaningfully elevate the Midtown experience.”
With the residences now 96% sold, the leasing of Mannarino as the final retail tenant underscores strong demand for curated, experience-driven retail in Midtown Miami.
Why This Matters
For Midtown Miami, Mannarino’s U.S. debut represents more than just another restaurant opening—it signals continued momentum for the neighborhood as a destination where culture, design, food, and lifestyle intersect. For future residents and visitors alike, it adds a distinctly European, community-oriented culinary experience rarely found in South Florida.
Gianluca Vacchi’s GV Development Group Sues Partner Michael Stern for Fraud
A Legal Battle with Major Implications
In a surprising turn of events, Gianluca Vacchi’s associated company, GV NBV LLC, has filed a lawsuit against his partner Michael Stern and his associated entities. The lawsuit (click to view the full PDF) was filed by GV NBV LLC, naming Michael Stern, 6345 JV LLC, and 6345 Manager LLC as defendants. Although unrelated, this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for one of Miami’s most high-profile developments — 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana.
The Core of the Lawsuit
The complaint, filed on December 17, 2025, alleges that Michael Stern and his related entities engaged in fraudulent activities tied to a real estate development at 6345 Collins Avenue, known as the Casablanca Project. In the lawsuit, GV NBV LLC is seeking damages in excess of $750,000, underscoring the significant financial stakes involved. According to the filing, Stern allegedly misrepresented the value and safety of the investment, provided false or misleading documents, and concealed material facts from the plaintiff. In essence, the lawsuit claims these actions were part of a deliberate scheme to defraud GV NBV LLC.
A History of Allegations Against Michael Stern
Notably, this is not the first time Stern has faced legal troubles. The complaint references a series of other lawsuits where Stern has been accused of similar fraudulent conduct in other real estate projects. These past cases paint a broader picture of ongoing legal challenges for Stern, adding weight to the current allegations.
The JDSPulse Connection
It’s worth noting that a website known as JDSPulse has been dedicated to exposing alleged misconduct by Michael Stern. While we are not affiliated with this platform and cannot verify all of its claims, it does exist as an independent source focused on Stern’s business practices. This lawsuit adds a new chapter to that ongoing narrative.
Implications for 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana
Perhaps the most pressing question is how this legal battle will impact the 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana project. Gianluca Vacchi and Michael Stern are co-developers of this high-profile Miami development. With their partnership now in question, one must wonder how this lawsuit will affect the project’s future and their working relationship. Will this lead to delays or changes in the development? Only time will tell. Notably, the first hearing in this case is set for March 19, 2026 at 8:15 AM, marking the next major step in this unfolding story.
Conclusion: A Story to Watch
As this case unfolds, it will be important to watch how it impacts both the individuals involved and the broader Miami real estate landscape. For now, this lawsuit marks a significant rift between two major players and raises many questions about what comes next.
Miami Rail Expansion Hit by Steep Cost Increase and Funding Uncertainty
Plans to build a much-anticipated heavy rail line from Downtown Miami to Hard Rock Stadium have encountered a major setback as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) now estimates the project will cost approximately $4.2 billion — nearly double earlier projections. This dramatic increase threatens the viability of the project by undermining its competitiveness for critical federal support and raising fresh questions about the timeline and funding strategy for expanding mass transit in Miami-Dade County.
Rising Costs Put Federal Funding at Risk
The FDOT’s recent figure marks a steep escalation from earlier estimates that placed the project’s price tag well below $2.5 billion. This jump mainly reflects added infrastructure components — including a planned light maintenance facility — and refinements to the rail design, driving up overall capital costs.
One of the most significant consequences of the higher expense is its impact on the project’s cost-effectiveness rating with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The FTA, which provides a large portion of financing for major transit projects, scores proposals based on cost per passenger trip; rail options with lower costs are far more likely to secure funding than those with higher per-trip expenses. At an estimated $54.47 per passenger trip, the North Corridor’s numbers may fall well outside the competitive range needed to attract federal dollars.
Timeline and Project Scope in Flux
Originally conceived as part of Miami-Dade’s Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Program, the heavy rail extension along NW 27th Avenue would connect downtown with key northern destinations and major activity centers, including Hard Rock Stadium. FDOT and regional planners envisioned an elevated rail line with multiple stations and park-and-ride facilities.
However, with the latest cost estimates, the project’s timeline has grown uncertain. Officials no longer provide a firm start or completion date, and discussions are underway about staging construction in phases — building northward from downtown incrementally rather than as one large, single project — in hopes of improving its financial feasibility.
Why Costs Are Increasing
Several factors have contributed to the ballooning price tag:
Expanded scope: Additions like the maintenance facility and station enhancements contribute directly to higher capital costs.
Long planning horizon: The North Corridor has been in the planning phase for years, with design, environmental analysis, and public input adding complexity and cost. The FDOT’s project development and environment (PD&E) study continues to refine how best to deploy heavy rail in the corridor.
Inflation and construction markets: Like many infrastructure projects nationwide, recent inflation in labor, materials, and construction services plays a role in driving up estimates.
What This Means for Miami’s Transit Future
The North Corridor project remains a priority for regional mobility planners because it promises to expand access to rapid transit for underserved communities and reduce traffic congestion along a heavily traveled corridor. But at its current projected cost, securing competitive federal funding — essential for moving forward — will be challenging without adjustments.
Local leaders and transportation planners will need to explore cost-reduction strategies and potentially rethink how to phase the work to make the project more financially realistic while still delivering meaningful mobility benefits to residents and visitors.
Trump Directs $200 Billion Mortgage Bond Purchases to Boost Home Affordability
On January 8, 2026, former President Donald Trump instructed his representatives to begin buying $200 billion in mortgage bonds in a bid to lower mortgage rates and make homeownership more affordable for American families. This move, announced shortly after today’s stock market close, sent ripples through financial markets and housing sectors across the country.
What Exactly Is Happening?
Trump announced via a social media post that he is directing federal representatives to buy $200 billion worth of mortgage-backed securities (MBS). The goal of this strategy is to drive mortgage rates down, which could, in theory, reduce monthly housing payments and make homeownership more accessible for everyday buyers rather than just investors.
This is not formal legislation but an administrative directive aimed at influencing how government-backed mortgage markets behave in the short term.
Why Mortgage Bond Purchases Could Matter to Buyers
Mortgage bonds are investment products backed by home loans. When large institutions buy these bonds, it generally leads to greater liquidity in the mortgage market. Here’s how that could impact the average person:
Mortgage rates may decrease: Increased demand for mortgage bonds can lower yields, potentially translating to lower interest rates for new loans.
Lower monthly payments: If borrowing costs fall, homebuyers may see reduced monthly mortgage payments.
Improved affordability: Lower rates can help more families qualify for mortgages and make homeownership more attainable.
Part of a Broader Housing Affordability Push
This mortgage bond strategy is one piece of a broader set of housing proposals from Trump and his advisors. Just a day earlier, Trump unveiled plans to limit large institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, with the aim of making it easier for first-time buyers to compete in the housing market.
Critics note that while corporate buying bans and bond purchases may help with demand dynamics, they do not directly address core supply issues—like the lack of new housing construction—which also contribute to high prices and limited inventory.
Financial Market Reaction & What Comes Next
News broke after markets closed, and many mortgage and real estate stocks saw significant moves as traders reacted to the development. Because this directive is preliminary and not yet enacted as law, markets will be watching for follow-up actions from federal agencies and regulatory bodies.
In the coming days and weeks, analysts will digest whether this strategy has practical, lasting effects on mortgage rates and home buying, and whether Congress or federal regulators will support further housing policy initiatives.
What This Means for You
Whether you’re a potential homebuyer, a current homeowner, or someone following real estate markets, here’s what to keep in mind:
Potential for slightly lower mortgage costs if bond purchases successfully reduce mortgage yields.
Housing affordability may improve, but changes likely won’t be immediate.
Policy attention is increasing, so stay tuned for official government updates and future market responses.
Anatomy Opens Largest Location Yet at The Abbey at Aventura
Photo Credit: Justin Namon
Anatomy Aventura Debuts as the Brand’s Most Expansive and Innovative Club to Date
Anatomy, South Florida’s leading health and wellness brand, has officially opened Anatomy Aventura, its largest and most innovative location to date. The new club recently debuted at The Abbey at Aventura, bringing a next-level fitness, recovery, and social wellness experience to one of South Florida’s most dynamic communities.
Spanning 26,000 square feet across two floors, Anatomy Aventura redefines what a holistic wellness destination can be, blending performance-driven fitness, advanced recovery, and community-focused spaces under one roof.
Photo Credit: Justin Namon
Why Anatomy Expanded to Aventura
Driven by strong demand from both existing and prospective members, Anatomy expanded to Aventura to serve members from Miami-Dade and Broward counties. The new location is adjacent to Aventura Mall and is located at 19505 Biscayne Blvd, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to expanding its holistic wellness footprint across South Florida.
The Anatomy Team shared the vision behind the expansion, stating:
“We are incredibly excited to bring Anatomy to Aventura, a market that has long expressed a strong desire for a fitness and wellness destination of this caliber. As we continue to evolve and push the boundaries of health and wellness, this location represents our most expansive vision yet—an elevated social wellness club designed for movement, recovery, and connection.”
Photo Credit: Justin Namon
A State-of-the-Art Fitness and Wellness Destination
Designed by Frossard Fernandez Design, Anatomy Aventura reflects the evolution of the brand with a thoughtfully curated, two-story layout that integrates high-performance training with modern wellness amenities.
Key fitness features include:
Two expansive cardio decks with cutting-edge machines
Two floors of strength training areas, including an expanded dumbbell zone and a wide range of pin-loaded machines
Specialized group fitness studios offering Anatomy’s signature classes such as Training Camp, Booty Blast, The Gun Show, Metabolic Meltdown, and Pilates: Burn
Brand-new programming, including the Anatomy Sports Offering (sports performance training) and Team Training, a small group training experience
Advanced body composition testing for personalized wellness tracking
Dedicated lounge-style seating areas designed for both work and relaxation
The Sanctuary: Anatomy’s Most Expansive Recovery Experience Yet
At the heart of Anatomy Aventura is The Sanctuary, described in the press release as the most expansive recovery and rejuvenation space in the brand’s portfolio. As pioneers in the wellness recovery movement since 2014, Anatomy continues to integrate cutting-edge recovery modalities into a social health club environment.
The Sanctuary at Anatomy Aventura includes:
Two hot plunges and two cold plunges for contrast therapy
A spacious traditional sauna designed to accommodate guided recovery sessions
A eucalyptus steam room for deep relaxation
Refreshing cold showers
On-site access to VitaSquad mobile IV therapy
Setting a New Standard for Holistic Wellness in South Florida
As Anatomy continues its expansion across South Florida, the opening of Anatomy Aventura sets a new benchmark for the brand—bringing together fitness, recovery, and social connection in a single destination. The Aventura location reflects Anatomy’s most expansive vision yet, offering members a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.
Anatomy Aventura Location & Contact Information
Anatomy Aventura is located at The Abbey at Aventura, 19505 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL 33180.
Founded in 2014 with its flagship location in Miami Beach, Anatomy is Miami’s leading health and wellness brand, created through a collaboration of fitness, sports science, and nightlife veterans. The brand has since expanded across South Florida with locations in Midtown, Coconut Grove, Doral, and now Aventura, along with a strategic partnership with 1 Hotels, bringing Anatomy’s fitness and wellness experience to select properties including 1 Hotel South Beach, 1 Hotel Nashville, and 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay in Kauai, Hawaii.
Anatomy is known for its proprietary programming influenced by sports performance and strength conditioning science, its distinctive 5-tier personal training system, and its signature Sanctuary recovery concept featuring hot and cold plunges, saunas, and eucalyptus steam rooms. Each location is tailored to the needs of its surrounding community, offering a comprehensive, life-enriching approach to fitness and wellness.
Tech Billionaire Larry Page Drops $173.4M on Two Miami Coconut Grove Estates
In a headline-grabbing real-estate move, Google co-founder Larry Page — widely ranked as the second-wealthiest person in the world — has just spent a staggering $173.4 million on two ultra-luxury homes in Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal.
A Major Luxury Real Estate Buy in Miami
According to The Wall Street Journal, Page’s recent purchases include:
A 4.5-acre Biscayne Bay waterfront estate that previously belonged to restaurateur Jonathan Lewis, acquired for $101.5 million after being listed at up to $135 million.
A 17,000-square-foot nearby estate with seven bedrooms, bought for $71.9 million from Sloan and Roger Barnett on Jan. 5, 2026.
These two acquisitions bring Page’s Coconut Grove real-estate expenditures to $173.4 million, underlining the strength of Miami’s ultraluxury market.
Why Miami? Tax Policy and a Billionaire Migration
Real-estate insiders tell The Wall Street Journal that Page’s deals are part of a broader migration of Silicon Valley elites to Florida. This trend has accelerated amid debate over a proposed California wealth tax, which would impose a one-time 5% levy on billionaire assets retroactive to Jan. 1, 2026 — prompting some wealthy individuals to relocate to more tax-favorable states like Florida.
Miami’s appeal extends beyond taxes, though. The city’s luxury housing market has seen record-breaking sales, particularly in the nine-figure range, reflecting national demand among ultrawealthy buyers seeking waterfront estates, privacy, and investment upside.
Coconut Grove: A Hotspot for High-End Buyers
Coconut Grove stands out as one of South Florida’s premier luxury markets, boasting historic estates, deep water access, and lush privacy. Page’s high-profile purchases add to a growing list of elite transactions in the area — including several above $100 million in recent years — cementing the neighborhood’s reputation as a billionaire magnet.
The Bigger Picture: Florida’s Luxury Market Surge
Miami and the broader Florida luxury market continue to outperform many traditional high-end real-estate hubs:
In 2025, Florida recorded 19 sales above $50 million, outpacing New York and California.
Miami alone had four transactions exceeding $100 million, underlining fierce demand at the top tier.
For sellers and brokers alike, the influx of billionaire buyers is reshaping South Florida’s property landscape, with estates in Coconut Grove and beyond achieving unprecedented prices.
What This Means for Buyers and Investors
Whether you’re tracking ultra-luxury trends or contemplating your next investment or relocation:
Tax policy matters: State tax differences are increasingly influencing where high-net-worth individuals put down roots.
Miami remains a global magnet: With elite buyers like Larry Page making significant commitments, the city’s luxury market shows no sign of cooling.
Record sales set benchmarks: Transactions in the nine figures are resetting expectations for waterfront property values across South Florida.
Viceroy Brickell Launches 7% Leaseback Program for New Buyers
A new leaseback incentive is coming to Brickell — and it’s one that will immediately catch the attention of both lifestyle buyers and real estate investors.
Viceroy Brickell has officially announced a 7% Leaseback Program, offering buyers professionally managed rental income during a fixed leaseback term while maintaining ownership of their residence.
This limited-time program applies to new sales contracts only and is designed to provide predictable income, simplified ownership, and a reduced upfront deposit structure.
What Is the Viceroy Brickell 7% Leaseback Program?
The Viceroy Brickell Leaseback Program allows purchasers to lease their residence back to the developer under a fixed-term agreement after closing.
In return, owners receive quarterly payments equal to 7% annually of the purchase price, paid in arrears over a two-year term.
Key features include:
Fixed lease payments, not tied to nightly rental performance
Professional management through the Viceroy rental program
No short-term rental management required by the owner
This structure is particularly attractive for buyers seeking passive income without day-to-day operational involvement.
Program Highlights at a Glance
According to the official program details:
7% annual leaseback, paid quarterly
Two-year lease term
Available for new contracts only
Residences are professionally managed by Viceroy
Owners retain responsibility for:
Maintenance fees
Insurance
Real estate taxes
Example Provided by the Developer
Purchase Price: $900,000
Annual Lease Payment: $63,000
Total Leaseback Income Over Two Years: $126,000
Reduced Deposit Structure: Just 20% Until Closing
In addition to the leaseback incentive, Viceroy Brickell is offering a total-deposit structure of just 20% until closing, allowing buyers to lock in a contract with significantly less capital tied up during the pre-construction phase.
This is a notable advantage compared to many Brickell developments that require 30–40% in staged deposits prior to delivery.
Why This Matters for Brickell Condo Buyers
Brickell remains one of Miami’s most competitive submarkets, but rising prices and interest rates have made predictable income strategies increasingly important.
The Viceroy Brickell Leaseback Program appeals to:
Buyers who want income certainty rather than market-dependent rentals
Out-of-state and international buyers seeking hands-off ownership
Investors looking to offset carrying costs during the first two years of ownership
Because payments are fixed and contractually defined, this program removes short-term rental volatility from the equation.
Pricing and Delivery Timeline
Residences start in the $600,000s
Estimated delivery: Q1 2026
This positions the project as one of the more accessible branded condo opportunities in Brickell, particularly when combined with the leaseback and reduced deposit structure.
Important Disclaimer for Buyers
As noted by the developer:
Participation in the leaseback program is voluntary
The program is offered for a limited time
Leaseback terms must be finalized prior to contract execution
Payments are not a guarantee of future rental performance after the leaseback term ends
Buyers should review all program terms carefully and confirm eligibility before signing.
Final Thoughts
The Viceroy Brickell 7% Leaseback Program stands out as a strategic incentive in today’s Brickell condo market — blending brand-backed management, predictable income, and lower upfront capital requirements.
For buyers seeking a balance between lifestyle ownership and short-term income stability, this program is worth a closer look.
If you’d like full pricing, floor plans, or a breakdown of how the leaseback compares to traditional rental scenarios, feel free to reach out.
