Latest news with #Dalia
Observer
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
My birthday gift — Memories of Alhambra
For my birthday, my best friend Dalia got us two tickets to a show called Memories of Alhambra, performing on the May 9. We were both looking forward to enjoying a flamenco show, like the many others we had seen on stage in the past few years. However, once we arrived at the venue, things didn't go as planned. The tickets didn't indicate which stage the performance was on, so we, along with many other spectators, had to walk almost ten minutes from the main stage to the smaller one. This situation was similar to last year with the Trio Joubran performance. I wondered why they couldn't specify on the tickets where exactly to go. This time, it was frustrating for Dalia, who was dressed in full flamenco attire, from the hair flower to the ruffled dress and uncomfortable heels. She had to endure the long walk to the other end. At the doors, we were delayed for five minutes as the security guards debated whether to allow her huge traditional Spanish fan in. They had to call their supervisor, who then had to call his superior before finally allowing us in with the fan. I jokingly reminded Dalia that fans are considered lethal weapons in Chinese action movies, so she should understand the security concern. Finding our seats in the balcony level was another challenge, as it was too high and made us dizzy trying to sit down. The show began with a poem by an Omani poet from the 1800s, followed by Arabic songs that were not related to the Andalusian era the show was supposed to be based on. The songs included an Egyptian song from the 1930s, a Levant song usually sung by prisoners, a few Moroccan songs that were difficult to understand and finally, a popular modern Omani song to end the show. Dalia and I exchanged looks of disbelief, as it would have been easy for the director of the Arabic part of the show to use Fairuz's famous Andalusian Muwashahat, which we had learned by heart in Arabic and music classes in school. The show was divided into different scenes representing areas from the Alhambra fortress, but without the show brochure explaining the significance of each, they all blended into one big act. There were intervals with an Omani narrator trying to connect Andalusian culture with Omani culture, but it came across as shallow due to the lack of historical or cultural links. It would have been better if he recited famous Arabic poems from that era or explained the different acts. The most enjoyable part of the Arabic music was the Omani oud player, who was impeccable. The Spanish part of the show, including the dances and costumes, was perfect. However, they made a mistake by using dirty mirrors to reflect the movements of a dancer, making it hard to see due to the smudged surface. Strangely enough, my mom, who had watched the show the day before, had the same complaint. The thunderous applause at the end indicated that the show had achieved its purpose: providing entertainment for expats unfamiliar with Arabic culture and Arabs too proud of their past glories to notice any difference. Memories of Alhambra was a hopeful musical fusion production that attempted to satisfy many tastes but lost authenticity along the way. Ironically, after the show, Dalia and I had dinner at a Syrian restaurant where we enjoyed a classic Arabic recital of songs that we had grown up listening to and deeply appreciated over time. BLURB The Spanish part of the show, including the dances and costumes, was perfect. However, they made a mistake by using dirty mirrors to reflect the movements of a dancer, making it hard to see due to the smudged surface.
Vogue
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Vogue
Rainwater Baths, Milk and Honey Facials, and My Cuban Abuela
When my fiancé and I started to plan our wedding, getting married in Miami was never a question. Despite the fact we both live in New York, celebrating in my hometown was a requirement upheld by me (and my family). But besides having the wedding hosted by my parents, there was a deeper reason behind the choice of venue. And it all was rooted in my maternal grandmother, Dalia. Dalia was a beauty pageant queen born in Havana, Cuba. She embodied the kind of old-school beauty that is unforgettable and irreplaceable. My grandmother's lore colored my life in so many ways—she was the background to all my mother's family stories, the reasoning that fortified every life lesson I was taught, and the inspiration that constantly pushed me to keep dreaming bigger and bigger. When she passed, it felt like her memory and traditions became an inherited gem that was hand-delivered to me. So, of course, during one of the most important seasons of my life, honoring my grandmother's memory and her stories was a natural choice. Cuban culture is rich with formality and heritage as it is, so there were some customs (like the exchanging of the 13 unity coins, also known as las arras, and wearing a mantilla during the Catholic church ceremony) that I had planned on well before my engagement. But for having a grandmother who personified diva glamour, a woman who couldn't live a moment without her La Prairie cream, I knew there were likely beauty rituals for the occasion, too. I was on the phone with my mom discussing where I would get ready the morning of, when she mentioned the Cuban beauty wedding traditions Abuela shared with her before my parents' 1994 wedding in Miami. Abuela had given her some stern advice: Stay out of the sun until after the wedding (which, if you live in Miami, or anywhere Caribbean-adjacent, is asking for the impossible). The other Cuban beauty wedding rituals included a milk and honey face mask in the days leading up to the wedding (to brighten the skin), and to wash your hair the night before with rainwater (for good luck)—and are both practically required. I'm five months out from my ceremony in November, but anyone who's planned a wedding knows that time is truly of the essence. Thankfully, I already have a daily sunscreen regimen (thank you, Supergoop Glowscreen!), and I've placed an order for Manuka honey just in case there's a disruption in the supply chain soon. For the rainwater, I've consulted my best friend, the Farmer's Almanac, to help me schedule out the right time to collect. Luckily, it's hurricane season in Miami, so sourcing fresh won't be an issue!
Cision Canada
15-05-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
249 new housing units in Saint-Laurent
Quorum launches construction of a sustainable and affordable project in the heart of Montreal MONTREAL, May 15, 2025 /CNW/ - During a groundbreaking ceremony attended by notable figures such as Emmanuella Lambropoulos, the federal Member of Parliament for Saint-Laurent; Alan DeSousa, the Mayor of Saint-Laurent; Vana Nazarian, City Councillor for the Côte-de-Liesse district; and Aref Salem, City Councillor for the Norman-McLaren district, Quorum announced the launch of its Dalia project. This residential complex will feature 249 rental units on the site of the former Valeant factory at 1956 Bourdon Street in the Saint-Laurent borough. Scheduled for completion in the summer of 2026, the project aims to provide sustainable and affordable housing, while seamlessly integrating into the urban landscape. Notably, a community consultation was conducted during the design phase to ensure alignment with local needs. The first phase, a seven-story multifamily building with 139 units, is currently under construction. The remaining three buildings, each three stories tall, will collectively offer an additional 110 units. IMAGES: CLICK HERE Located just steps from public transportation in a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) area, as well as nearby parks and major employment centres, the Dalia project has garnered support from the borough, local stakeholders, and residents. The Government of Canada has provided substantial financial backing of $93 million through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's (CMHC) Rental Construction Financing initiative, helping to bring this vision of modern, responsible housing to life. The project is distinguished by its strong commitment to sustainable development. It is designed to achieve LEED certification and will incorporate a geothermal system, with a significant portion of the structure constructed using wood to minimize its carbon footprint. From the outset, recycling practices for construction material waste will be implemented. Several units will adhere to universal accessibility standards, ensuring inclusivity. Additionally, a community garden will be established on the rooftop, and a bike path will connect the neighbourhood to the nearby metro station. Highlights 249 rental housing units Solar panels on all buildings Geothermal energy as the energy source for the entire site Energy performance for each building 50% higher than the standards required by the energy code Land allocation for the development of a multifunctional bike path along the railway and a public easement on the Dalia project site to connect the neighbourhood to the Du Collège metro station via Bourdon Street More than 45% of the area dedicated to green space Community gardens on the roof of the seven-story multifamily building Land allocation to the adjacent school to allow for the expansion of its playground, benefiting the well-being of children Development of an embankment and a sound barrier adjacent to the railway on the Dalia site and on half of the school's property Quotes "I want to emphasize the dedication and innovation demonstrated by my team, along with the invaluable collaboration and support from the Saint-Laurent borough and numerous local stakeholders, which have enabled this project to advance efficiently. This collective effort is essential, almost vital, when striving to realize affordable projects with multiple sustainable development components." - Maxime Laporte, Partner and Director of Development, Quorum. "I am very proud to be part of the launch of Dalia in our area. By aiming for LEED Gold and Silver certifications, this project sets a new standard for developing affordable and sustainable housing. Moreover, by transforming an industrial site into a green residential neighbourhood, this project will help reduce heat islands and enhance our resilience to climate change. Situated within a TOD area, it will promote active transportation, exemplified by its new multifunctional bike path accessible to the entire community. This will also help open up this sector and continue our tradition of welcoming new families, as well as our passion for innovation and architectural excellence." - Alan DeSousa, Mayor of Saint-Laurent. "The Dalia project perfectly represents the type of initiative our government aims to support—affordable, sustainable housing that is well integrated into our community. I am pleased to have collaborated with Groupe Quorum to support their request for $93 million in funding from the CMHC for the development of affordable housing in Saint-Laurent. It is crucial to build communities where people can thrive, while considering sustainable development and accessibility. I am proud that this innovative project is coming to life here, greatly benefiting families, seniors, and young people in our community." - Emmanuella Lambropoulos, Member of Parliament for Saint-Laurent. "I am thrilled about the construction of sustainable and affordable housing for families in Saint-Laurent. This new real estate project of 249 units will help alleviate the effects of the housing crisis within my riding. It will provide residents with pleasant spaces close to public transportation, while reducing their environmental footprint. I commend the teams that participated in the various stages, ensuring this new living environment comes to fruition." - Marwah Rizqy, Member of the National Assembly for Saint-Laurent. About Quorum Quorum, a family-owned real estate developer based in Montreal for over 40 years, holds the prestigious Diamond Palm Master Builder award from the APCHQ. As a pioneer in the design, construction, management, and promotion of affordable, high-quality residential projects, Quorum has successfully delivered over 6,000 housing units in Greater Montreal and beyond. The company is celebrated for its expertise, comprehensive service, and meticulous attention to detail, creating projects that offer substantial value to the communities it serves. With a strong commitment to social responsibility, Quorum actively supports programs and initiatives that focus on fostering entrepreneurial youth and promoting academic perseverance. SOURCE Quorum
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
249 new housing units in Saint-Laurent
Quorum launches construction of a sustainable and affordable project in the heart of Montreal MONTREAL, May 15, 2025 /CNW/ - During a groundbreaking ceremony attended by notable figures such as Emmanuella Lambropoulos, the federal Member of Parliament for Saint-Laurent; Alan DeSousa, the Mayor of Saint-Laurent; Vana Nazarian, City Councillor for the Côte-de-Liesse district; and Aref Salem, City Councillor for the Norman-McLaren district, Quorum announced the launch of its Dalia project. This residential complex will feature 249 rental units on the site of the former Valeant factory at 1956 Bourdon Street in the Saint-Laurent borough. Scheduled for completion in the summer of 2026, the project aims to provide sustainable and affordable housing, while seamlessly integrating into the urban landscape. Notably, a community consultation was conducted during the design phase to ensure alignment with local needs. The first phase, a seven-story multifamily building with 139 units, is currently under construction. The remaining three buildings, each three stories tall, will collectively offer an additional 110 units. IMAGES: CLICK HERE Located just steps from public transportation in a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) area, as well as nearby parks and major employment centres, the Dalia project has garnered support from the borough, local stakeholders, and residents. The Government of Canada has provided substantial financial backing of $93 million through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's (CMHC) Rental Construction Financing initiative, helping to bring this vision of modern, responsible housing to life. The project is distinguished by its strong commitment to sustainable development. It is designed to achieve LEED certification and will incorporate a geothermal system, with a significant portion of the structure constructed using wood to minimize its carbon footprint. From the outset, recycling practices for construction material waste will be implemented. Several units will adhere to universal accessibility standards, ensuring inclusivity. Additionally, a community garden will be established on the rooftop, and a bike path will connect the neighbourhood to the nearby metro station. Highlights 249 rental housing units Solar panels on all buildings Geothermal energy as the energy source for the entire site Energy performance for each building 50% higher than the standards required by the energy code Land allocation for the development of a multifunctional bike path along the railway and a public easement on the Dalia project site to connect the neighbourhood to the Du Collège metro station via Bourdon Street More than 45% of the area dedicated to green space Community gardens on the roof of the seven-story multifamily building Land allocation to the adjacent school to allow for the expansion of its playground, benefiting the well-being of children Development of an embankment and a sound barrier adjacent to the railway on the Dalia site and on half of the school's property Quotes "I want to emphasize the dedication and innovation demonstrated by my team, along with the invaluable collaboration and support from the Saint-Laurent borough and numerous local stakeholders, which have enabled this project to advance efficiently. This collective effort is essential, almost vital, when striving to realize affordable projects with multiple sustainable development components." - Maxime Laporte, Partner and Director of Development, Quorum. "I am very proud to be part of the launch of Dalia in our area. By aiming for LEED Gold and Silver certifications, this project sets a new standard for developing affordable and sustainable housing. Moreover, by transforming an industrial site into a green residential neighbourhood, this project will help reduce heat islands and enhance our resilience to climate change. Situated within a TOD area, it will promote active transportation, exemplified by its new multifunctional bike path accessible to the entire community. This will also help open up this sector and continue our tradition of welcoming new families, as well as our passion for innovation and architectural excellence." - Alan DeSousa, Mayor of Saint-Laurent. "The Dalia project perfectly represents the type of initiative our government aims to support—affordable, sustainable housing that is well integrated into our community. I am pleased to have collaborated with Groupe Quorum to support their request for $93 million in funding from the CMHC for the development of affordable housing in Saint-Laurent. It is crucial to build communities where people can thrive, while considering sustainable development and accessibility. I am proud that this innovative project is coming to life here, greatly benefiting families, seniors, and young people in our community." - Emmanuella Lambropoulos, Member of Parliament for Saint-Laurent. "I am thrilled about the construction of sustainable and affordable housing for families in Saint-Laurent. This new real estate project of 249 units will help alleviate the effects of the housing crisis within my riding. It will provide residents with pleasant spaces close to public transportation, while reducing their environmental footprint. I commend the teams that participated in the various stages, ensuring this new living environment comes to fruition." - Marwah Rizqy, Member of the National Assembly for Saint-Laurent. About Quorum Quorum, a family-owned real estate developer based in Montreal for over 40 years, holds the prestigious Diamond Palm Master Builder award from the APCHQ. As a pioneer in the design, construction, management, and promotion of affordable, high-quality residential projects, Quorum has successfully delivered over 6,000 housing units in Greater Montreal and beyond. The company is celebrated for its expertise, comprehensive service, and meticulous attention to detail, creating projects that offer substantial value to the communities it serves. With a strong commitment to social responsibility, Quorum actively supports programs and initiatives that focus on fostering entrepreneurial youth and promoting academic perseverance. SOURCE Quorum View original content to download multimedia:
Associated Press
28-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Dalia Pearson Joins Sterling Organization as Chief Financial Officer
Dalia holds a Master of Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, earned with magna cum laude honors, from Florida Atlantic University, completed the High Potentials Leadership Program at Harvard Business School and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the State of Florida. WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA / ACCESS Newswire / April 28, 2025 / Sterling Organization, a vertically integrated private equity real estate investment firm headquartered in West Palm Beach, FL, is pleased to welcome Dalia Pearson to its senior management team. Mrs. Pearson will serve as Chief Financial Officer and will be responsible for the financial aspects of the company including Property, Fund and Corporate accounting, tax planning, fund administration, compliance and treasury operations. Mrs. Pearson will also serve as the Chief Compliance Officer for the firm and will be a member of each of the Firm's Investment Pearson Sterling Organization CFO 'We are delighted to welcome someone of Dalia's caliber to Sterling's Senior Management Team,' said Brian Kosoy, Managing Principal and CEO of Sterling Organization. 'Her technical experience in leading a best-in-class real estate private equity firm's accounting and compliance department makes Dalia the ideal hire for Sterling. In addition, Dalia brings high-level strategic and technology-focused expertise, which we expect to leverage for the benefit of our investor partners. We could not be happier that Dalia has chosen to join our team as we believe she is a perfect cultural fit and are certain she will be an invaluable leader who will make a material impact across the entire organization.' Prior to joining Sterling Organization, Mrs. Pearson most recently spent almost a decade at Elion Partners, the last two as a Partner, where she oversaw the firm's corporate, real estate and fund financial reporting, treasury operations, fund administration, and tax compliance. Dalia played an integral role in Elion's strategic growth initiatives, contributing significantly to the firm's development into an institutional investment platform managing funds and separately managed accounts on behalf of institutional partners. Prior to joining Elion, Mrs. Pearson served as Financial Controller at Swire Properties, Inc. where she was responsible for the accounting operations and financial reporting and spent nine years working at RSM US LLP, most recently as an Audit Director. Dalia holds a Master of Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, earned with magna cum laude honors, from Florida Atlantic University, completed the High Potentials Leadership Program at Harvard Business School and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the State of Florida. Contact InformationDana Verhelst SVP, Marketing +15618127476 SOURCE: Sterling Organization press release
