The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County (@arshtcenter) is proud to announce the 2026–27 CLASSICAL MUSIC SERIES, featuring an extraordinary five-show lineup in the acoustically brilliant Knight Concert Hall, “easily one of the best venues to see a concert” (Miami New Times). The new season brings five unforgettable evenings with some of the world’s most celebrated artists and ensembles, including the Arsht debut of CHAMBER ORCHESTRA OF EUROPE led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin with pianist Beatrice Rana; a highly anticipated return by legendary cellist YO-YO MA; the Arsht debut of the MUNICH PHILHARMONIC under Chief Conductor Lahav Shani; an intimate multimedia experience with violin icon ITZHAK PERLMAN; and a thrilling first appearance in the series by superstar pianist YUJA WANG. South Florida classical music lovers will experience a dynamic range of repertoire — from beloved masterworks by Brahms, Prokofiev, Shostakovich and Schubert to programs that showcase the virtuosity, artistry and global impact of today’s leading performers To enhance the musical experience, the Arsht will continue to offer free Arsht Plus classical lectures led by Miami-based classical music experts and musicians. The pre-concert lectures are hosted in the Adrienne Arsht Center’s Peacock Education Center (inside the Knight Concert Hall) prior to every concert in the series. SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS Five-show subscription packages are available now ranging from $210 to $835*. To renew a subscription or become a subscriber, visit ArshtCenter.org or call the Adrienne Arsht Center box office at 305.949.6722. The deadline to renew a subscription is June 5. Tickets for individual performances will be announced at a later date. For guests with accessibility needs, the Arsht provides accessible seating and complimentary assistive listening devices for all performances, along with sign language interpretation, open captioning and audio description at select shows to ensure an inclusive experience for all guests. The 2026-27 Classical Music series is made possible with leadership support from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, with additional support from Steinway & Sons; Caring Friends Foundation, Bank of America, N.A., Co-Trustee; and Funding Arts Network. Media sponsorship provided by WLRN. The new Classical Music five-show subscription series at the Arsht is as follows: Chamber Orchestra of Europe – Arsht debut Yannick Nézet-Séguin, Conductor Beatrice Rana, Piano December 8, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2 Brahms Symphony No. 2 The Chamber Orchestra of Europe, winner of two Grammys and three Gramophone Record of the Year Awards for its “virtuosic joy of playing and depth of feeling” (Sächsische Zeitung), makes its Arsht debut led by one of its long-standing artistic partners, COE Honorary Member Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Its recordings for Deutsche Grammophon of the four Brahms symphonies have been hailed as an “intoxicating combination of rich colors and lithe precision” (The Classic Review) and singled out for their “compelling drive and intensity” (The Guardian). Experience this masterful collaboration among players, conductor and composer the best way possible—live at the Knight Concert Hall. The all-Brahms program includes not only the richly lyrical Second Symphony, but also the massive Piano Concerto No. 2, featuring Italian pianist Beatrice Rana, “a compelling storyteller [of] sustained force and perfectly weighted brilliance” (The Guardian). Yo-Yo Ma and Solon Gordon Yo-Yo Ma, Cello Solon Gordon, Piano January 10, 2027 at 3 p.m. Program to be determined. Yo-Yo Ma’s multi-faceted career is a testament to his belief in culture’s power to generate trust and understanding. Whether performing new or familiar works for cello, bringing communities together to explore culture’s role in society or engaging with unexpected musical forms, Yo-Yo strives to foster connections that stimulate the imagination and reinforce our humanity. Now, Ma returns to the Knight Concert Hall for the first time since 2018 for an evening of revelatory collaborations with pianist Solon Gordon, whose multifaceted career bridges music and technology. As both an artist and software engineer, Gordon specializes in collaborative playing and finds joy in working with a wide range of musicians — from young students to touring professionals — while also contributing to fields including education technology. Together, the duo promises an afternoon of profound musical connection and artistry. Munich Philharmonic – Arsht debut Lahav Shani, Chief Conductor and Piano February 16, 2027 at 7:30 p.m. Prokofiev Symphony No. 1 “Classical”Shostakovich Piano Concerto No. 2Schubert Symphony No. 9 “Great” “A powerhouse ensemble with a distinctive, burnished sound” (The Guardian), the Munich Philharmonic, widely considered one of Europe’s finest orchestras, makes its Arsht debut led by its brand-new chief conductor, Lahav Shani. Shani, “a conductor of rare charisma and natural authority” (The New York Times), is already a house favorite, having received passionate applause and jubilant standing ovations from South Florida audiences when he led the Israel Philharmonic at the Knight Concert Hall in 2025. The Munich musicians are introducing themselves to you with a powerhouse lineup of masterpieces by some of classical music’s most popular MVPs: Prokofiev’s “Classical” Symphony, a time warp construction that evokes the elegance of Haydn and Mozart spiked by dissonant twists and unexpected modulations, and Schubert’s “Great” Symphony, blazing with relentless energy and lavish melodies. For Shani fans, there’s also the maestro “multitasking in style” (Medici.TV) as conductor and soloist in Shostakovich’s high-energy romp, the Piano Concerto No. 2. This audience favorite was written by Shostakovich as a 19th-birthday present for his son, Maxim, forever earning the composer a posthumous Father of the Year Award every time it’s played. An Evening with Itzhak Perlman Itzhak Perlman, Violin Rohan De Silva, Piano March 4, 2027 at 7:30 p.m. Program to be announced from the stage. Undeniably the reigning virtuoso of the violin, Itzhak Perlman enjoys superstar status rarely afforded a classical musician. Beloved for his charm, humanity and talent, he is treasured by audiences throughout the world who respond not only to his supreme artistry but also to his irrepressible joy of musicmaking and communicating with audiences. Now, discover more about the legendary “man behind the music” at An Evening with Itzhak Perlman. This multimedia program, curated by Tony Award-winning director Dan Sullivan and produced by Elliott Forrest, interweaves storytelling by Perlman from the stage, alongside personal photos, clips pulled from the Grammy-nominated Itzhak documentary and musicmaking with Perlman’s longtime pianist and friend Rohan De Silva. An Evening with Itzhak Perlman is “a rare opportunity to experience the artist behind the legend” (San Francisco Chronicle). Yuja Wang – Arsht debut Yuja Wang, Piano March 23, 2027 at 7:30 p.m. Program to be determined. Yuja Wang - Photo by Julia Wesely The wait is over! Yuja Wang, “quite simply the most uncannily gifted pianist in the concert world today” (San Francisco Chronicle), joins the Adrienne Arsht Center’s Classical Music series for the first time. Celebrated for her charismatic stage presence, jaw-dropping virtuosity, emotional honesty and fearless technique, Wang has been described as a “phenomenon… dazzling, daring and supremely controlled” (The Guardian). Recently, after Wang delivered a series of performances at Carnegie Hall, the Financial Times wrote that “the audience staggered out as one, all changed, all humbled, all grateful for that ticket.” It does not take a crystal ball to divine that Wang’s Arsht appearance will be one of the most overwhelmingly popular, most talked about classical music events of the South Florida season. *All programs, artists, ticket prices, availability, dates and times are subject to change without notice. Ticket prices include fees. Visit ArshtCenter.org for up-to-date information. Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Council and the City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency, and the state of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Adrienne Arsht Center also receives generous support from individuals, corporations and local, state and national foundations. By ML Staff. Content courtesy of the Adrienne Arsht Center. Top image Chamber Orchestra of Europe - Yannick Nézet-Séguin - Photo by Savel.

Orthodontic treatment has a reputation for being… a lot. A lot of appointments, a lot of adjustments, a lot of tiny rubber bands that seem to disappear the minute you leave the clinic. So when people hear that self-ligating braces can be “time-saving,” the obvious question is: time-saving how, exactly? The answer isn’t just marketing. Self-ligating systems change the mechanics of how the archwire is held in place, which can affect appointment length, how often you need to be seen, and—depending on your case—how efficiently teeth can be guided through different stages of movement. That said, “faster” doesn’t mean “instant,” and not every patient will see dramatic reductions in overall treatment time. The real advantage is often more practical: fewer hassles, simpler maintenance, and smoother day-to-day logistics. Let’s break down where the time savings tend to come from, what’s realistic to expect, and how to decide whether it’s a good fit for your schedule and goals. What makes self-ligating braces different? Traditional fixed braces typically use elastomeric ties (little rubber rings) or metal ligatures to secure the archwire into each bracket slot. Those ties do their job well, but they add steps: they need to be placed, removed, and replaced at adjustment appointments. They can also create more friction between wire and bracket, which may influence how the wire slides as teeth shift. Self-ligating braces, as the name suggests, don’t rely on external ligatures in the same way. Instead, each bracket has a built-in mechanism—often described as a “door” or “clip”—that holds the wire. This changes the workflow chairside and can also change how forces are expressed through the wire, especially in earlier stages when lighter wires are used. In other words, the “time-saving” claim isn’t magic—it’s design. If you want a clear, visual explanation of the mechanics and what that built-in clip is actually doing, this overview of how self-ligating braces work lays it out in a way that’s easy to picture without oversimplifying. Where the time savings actually happen Shorter adjustment appointments One of the most immediate differences is what happens at review visits. With traditional braces, replacing ties across multiple teeth takes time and precision. With self-ligating brackets, the clinician can often open the clip, change the wire, and close it again more quickly. In practice, that can mean: less time sitting in the chair per visit, and a more streamlined appointment, especially during wire changes. If you’re juggling work meetings, school pick-ups, or travel, shaving even 10–15 minutes off each visit can add up over the course of treatment. Potentially fewer visits (but this varies) Some patients are scheduled with slightly longer intervals between adjustments, depending on the orthodontist’s protocol and how the teeth are responding. Because there are no elastomeric ties to degrade or stain, there may be less need for frequent tie changes. That said, appointment frequency is still driven by biology and planning. Teeth move at the pace that bone remodelling allows, and certain stages—closing extraction spaces, coordinating bite changes, finishing details—still require monitoring. So it’s better to think “possible reduction in visit frequency” rather than a guarantee. Less time spent on tie-related issues Rubber ligatures can stain with coffee, tea, curry, or smoking; they can also snap or feel uncomfortable when they’re under tension. Those issues aren’t usually emergencies, but they can trigger “can you fit me in?” visits. Self-ligating braces remove that specific maintenance variable. Fewer fiddly components means fewer small problems that interrupt your schedule. Efficiency vs. “faster treatment”: what the research suggests You’ll often see broad claims online that self-ligating braces always reduce total treatment time. The evidence is more nuanced. Clinical studies and systematic reviews over the years have shown mixed results: some find modest reductions in treatment time or improved efficiency in early alignment; others find no significant difference in overall duration compared with conventional braces. Why the inconsistency? Because total treatment time isn’t determined by bracket type alone. It depends on: Case complexity and goals A straightforward case (mild crowding, good bite relationships) can finish efficiently with many systems. A complex case involving bite correction, impacted teeth, extractions, or significant asymmetry may take time no matter what bracket you choose. Treatment planning and biomechanics Bracket choice is one tool. The orthodontist’s plan—wire sequence, use of auxiliaries, anchorage strategy, elastics, and timing—usually has a bigger impact on how smoothly things progress. Patient cooperation (yes, even with fixed braces) Even if you can’t “forget” to wear your braces, you can still influence timelines. Missed appointments, poor hygiene leading to inflammation, repeated bracket breakages, and inconsistent elastic wear can easily add months. So, a good way to frame it is: self-ligating braces can remove friction points in the process (appointments, tie changes, minor disruptions), and in some cases they may support efficient tooth movement—especially early on—but they’re not a shortcut around the fundamentals of orthodontics. Practical time savings outside the clinic Easier cleaning can mean fewer delays Time isn’t just what happens in the chair; it’s also what happens if treatment gets slowed by avoidable complications. Braces create plaque traps, and inflamed gums can make tooth movement less predictable and finishing more difficult. Self-ligating brackets often have a slightly different profile and avoid elastic ties that can collect plaque and stain. That doesn’t replace good brushing and interdental cleaning, but some patients find it simpler to keep things cleaner—which can reduce the risk of setbacks like decalcification marks or gum problems that require extra attention. Fewer “little annoyances” that steal your time Small things matter: a pokey wire, a broken tie, or stained ligatures before an event can send you back for an extra visit. Self-ligating systems don’t eliminate all irritation (wires can still poke, brackets can still break), but they do remove one common source of nuisance appointments. Who benefits most from the time-saving advantages? Self-ligating braces tend to be especially appealing if: your schedule makes frequent, longer appointments difficult, you travel often and want fewer unexpected visits, you care about avoiding stained elastics, you’re aiming for a more streamlined experience during early alignment. They may be less of a deciding factor if you’re already expecting complex bite corrections where elastics, auxiliaries, or longer finishing phases will dominate the timeline. Questions worth asking at a consultation To keep the decision grounded in reality (and tailored to you), ask your orthodontist: How often will you expect to see me with this system compared with conventional braces? In cases like mine, do you typically see differences in overall treatment duration? What parts of treatment usually take the longest—and why? What can I do to avoid delays (diet, hygiene, breakage prevention, elastic wear)? Those answers tell you far more than generic promises about speed. The bottom line: time saved through fewer friction points Self-ligating braces aren’t a “fast pass,” but they can be a genuinely time-friendly option. The biggest wins are often practical: quicker adjustments, potentially longer intervals between visits, and fewer tie-related issues that create extra appointments. If you value efficiency and want a braces experience that fits more neatly into everyday life, it’s a conversation worth having—ideally framed around your specific case, not just a headline claim about speed. By ML staff. Photo by Vitaly Gariev and D Dental Office on Unsplash

Ear wax (cerumen) gets a bad reputation, but it’s doing an important job. It traps dust, helps repel water, and provides a mild antibacterial barrier. Most of the time, your ears manage wax perfectly well—old wax migrates outward naturally as you talk and chew, then flakes away unnoticed. So why do so many Londoners end up with blocked ears? City living can mean more earbud use, more background noise (prompting higher volume), and less downtime—plus plenty of people wear hearing aids, work with in-ear monitors, or swim regularly. Add anatomy (narrow or hairy ear canals), skin conditions, or simply age, and wax that should have moved out can become impacted. The tricky part is knowing when a “blocked” feeling is a harmless, temporary annoyance—and when it’s time to let a clinician take a look. Here’s how to make that call with confidence. Understanding what “normal” wax looks and feels like A little wax is expected It’s normal to see small amounts of yellow-brown wax at the opening of the ear canal. It’s also normal for wax levels to fluctuate. After a shower or swim, wax can swell slightly, making your ears feel briefly full. When wax becomes a problem Cerumen impaction (a true blockage) is common. Studies often place it at a few percent of the general population, with higher rates in older adults and people who use hearing aids. The key difference is this: impacted wax tends not to improve on its own and often causes symptoms that interfere with daily life. Signs you should stop DIY and consider professional removal If you’ve ever gone at your ears with cotton buds, you’re not alone. But cotton buds frequently push wax deeper, compact it, and irritate the canal skin—making the original issue worse. Ear candles are also a bad idea; they don’t reliably remove wax and can cause burns or blockages. Instead, consider booking an appointment if you notice any of the following patterns: Persistent muffled hearing in one or both ears that lasts more than a day or two A blocked or “underwater” sensation, especially after using earbuds or after swimming Tinnitus (ringing/buzzing) that’s new or clearly worse than usual Earache, itching, or a feeling of pressure that doesn’t settle Hearing aid or earbud issues, such as feedback, reduced volume, or frequent clogging Around this point, a lot of people try olive oil drops or over-the-counter softeners. Those can be appropriate, but if symptoms are significant—or if you’ve tried softening for several days and nothing changes—you’re often better served by an examination and a targeted approach. If you’re looking for an example of what that looks like in practice, this page on safe and professional earwax removal outlines the typical clinical options and what patients can expect. Red flags: when you should seek medical assessment promptly Wax can cause discomfort, but it shouldn’t cause severe or escalating symptoms. Some ear problems mimic wax blockage and need different treatment. Seek prompt medical advice (NHS 111, GP, or urgent care depending on severity) if you have: Pain, discharge, or signs of infection Severe ear pain Pus-like discharge, bleeding, or a foul smell Fever alongside ear symptoms These can indicate otitis externa (outer ear infection) or a middle ear problem—situations where irrigation or instrumentation may be inappropriate until assessed. Sudden hearing loss, dizziness, or neurological symptoms Sudden hearing loss (particularly in one ear) Spinning vertigo, significant imbalance, or vomiting Facial weakness or numbness These are not “wait and see” symptoms. Wax may be present incidentally, but the priority is ruling out urgent conditions. Why professional removal can be safer than “just clearing it at home” Your ear canal is delicate—and individual The ear canal’s skin is thin and easily irritated. People with eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, or a history of infections can be more prone to micro-injuries that then become painful or infected. What’s safe for one person can be risky for another. The method matters (and so does your history) Common clinical methods include microsuction and irrigation. Both can be effective in the right context, but certain histories change the risk profile—such as: a perforated eardrum (current or past) grommets or previous ear surgery recurrent middle ear infections a known narrow canal or canal growths (exostoses) A professional assessment helps match the technique to your ear anatomy and medical history, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. Better visibility means fewer surprises One underrated benefit of seeing a clinician is simply getting a proper look inside the ear. Not every blocked sensation is wax. Sometimes it’s inflammation, fluid behind the eardrum, or a foreign body (especially in children). Good lighting and magnification reduce guesswork. Practical London scenarios where booking is the sensible choice London life has a few repeat offenders when it comes to wax problems: You use earbuds daily (commuting, calls, gym) Earbuds can trap wax and heat, and they can encourage deeper wax migration. If you’re frequently turning the volume up or switching ears to “hear better,” that’s a sign to check for blockage. You wear hearing aids or earplugs for work Hearing aids and custom earplugs can increase cerumen build-up and create feedback or intermittency. Many audiology clinics see regular, predictable wax issues in these groups—routine checks can prevent last-minute disruptions. You’re a swimmer Water can swell wax, making a partial blockage suddenly symptomatic. If you keep getting post-swim fullness, it’s worth assessing whether wax is contributing or whether you’re developing swimmer’s ear. What to expect from an appointment (and how to choose a provider) A reputable ear wax removal appointment should start with a history and an ear examination (otoscopy). From there, the clinician should explain the recommended method, likely comfort level, and any aftercare. When choosing where to go in London, look for: clear information about who performs the procedure and their training a willingness to decline removal if red flags are present transparent guidance on risks and aftercare a clinical setting that prioritises hygiene and proper examination, not just “quick clearing” If you feel rushed past the assessment stage, or your questions are brushed off, that’s a signal to pause. Reducing the chance of wax impaction long-term If you’re prone to wax build-up, the goal isn’t constant removal—it’s fewer flare-ups. Simple habits help: Avoid cotton buds and scratching the canal (it irritates skin and compacts wax). Keep earbud use moderate and clean the tips regularly. If you’ve been advised it’s safe for you, occasional softening drops can reduce hard impaction—but don’t overdo it, and stop if pain occurs. Schedule periodic checks if you use hearing aids and notice recurring blockages. Ear wax is normal. Impacted ear wax is common. The smart move is recognising when you’ve crossed the line from “minor nuisance” to “this needs proper equipment and a trained eye.” In a busy city, good hearing isn’t a luxury—it’s how you stay connected, safe, and comfortable every day. By ML staff. Photo by Anthony Camerlo and Nubelson Fernandes on Unsplash

Robin Dimond is the founder and CEO of Fifth & Cor, a South Florida–based, self-funded creative marketing and innovation company redefining what modern brand building looks like through human-centered strategy, immersive storytelling, and purpose-driven leadership. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing, branding, and business development, Dimond has built Fifth & Cor into a nationally recognized agency serving clients across a broad range of industries. Founded on the belief that meaningful connection is the foundation of impactful business, the name “Fifth & Cor” reflects the company’s philosophy: “Fifth” representing the five senses and “Cor,” the Latin word for heart. Together, the name symbolizes Dimond’s mission to bring humanity, collaboration, and emotional intelligence back into the business world while helping brands create immersive, multi-channel experiences that resonate with consumers and communities alike. Miami Living Magazine caught up with Robin Dimond to discuss her journey as a self-funded entrepreneur, the importance of human-centered marketing, and how being based in South Florida influences her creative vision. 1. What inspired you to launch Fifth & Cor as a self-funded company, and what were the biggest risks you took early on? Fifth & Cor was built without private equity or VC funding because I believed strongly enough in the vision to bet on it myself. The biggest risk was putting everything I had into building it. There were definitely uncomfortable moments early on, but I believed in what we were creating and was willing to take that risk to build something long term and meaningful. 2. Fifth and Cor works across multiple industries. How do you maintain depth and authenticity in such a wide range of client work? We do not believe in plug and play packages or a traditional agency model where one account executive is stretched across multiple clients. We build dedicated teams with deep, industry-specific knowledge so we can truly connect, understand, and lead within each space. We also invest heavily in ongoing training, shows, and events to continuously deepen our expertise for every client we serve. 3. What does human-centered marketing mean to you in practice, and how do you ensure it is embedded within your team? Human-centered marketing means never losing sight of the person behind the strategy. It is about understanding what people actually need, feel, and experience, not just what the data says. We embed it into our team by constantly bringing it back to the why. Every decision, campaign, and piece of content is filtered through one question: does this genuinely connect, help, or add value to someone? If it does not, we do not move forward. 4. What is one leadership lesson you learned the hard way that still shapes how you run your company today? Hire people for heart and integrity first. Skills can be taught, but character is far harder to instill. Hiring someone lacking strong values can undermine culture, erode trust, and ultimately ruin a business. 5. You are deeply involved in community initiatives and school boards. How do you balance business growth with giving back? Our involvement in community initiatives and schools is directly connected to how we grow as a business. The next generation will soon enter the workforce and shape industries, so investing in them now is essential. Giving back is not a luxury for us, it is a responsibility. It influences how we grow, who we hire, and the long term impact we want to make. 6. Why is local hiring in Florida so important to you, and how has it influenced your company’s identity? Local hiring in Florida is deeply important to us because it reflects who we are and what we stand for as a company. While our clients span across the country, our roots are here—and we believe in actively contributing to the strength and growth of our local economy. By investing in Florida-based talent, we’re not only building a stronger business, we’re supporting a community that has supported us. It’s also a defining part of our identity that we do not offshore any work. Our clients know that the team behind their brand is accessible, accountable, and present. There’s real value in proximity—whether it’s the ability to collaborate in person, build deeper relationships, or simply know exactly who is working on your business. That level of transparency and connection is something we’re intentional about, and it’s a standard we’re proud to uphold. 7. What role do you believe businesses should play in shaping the future of their local communities? Business should be playing huge roles in shaping the local community’s future. That means investing in the next generation by helping to educate and mentor the young people who will one day become their workforce and giving back to the communities that support their success. 8. How has being based in Miami influenced your creative approach and overall business strategy? Being based in Miami has had a major influence on both our creativity and business strategy. The city is a true melting pot of cultures, perspectives, and lifestyles, and that diversity shapes how we think and create. It pushes us to approach every client and brand with a broader, more inclusive lens, allowing us to develop ideas and solutions that resonate across different audiences and markets. 9. Miami continues to grow as a hub for startups and innovation. What opportunities and challenges do you see in this market right now? Miami is full of opportunity as a growing hub for startups and innovation, but it is not an easy market to break into. For companies without strong funding, it can be especially challenging to gain traction and sustain growth. It’s a city that demands a high level of work ethic and commitment. Success here requires being fully invested and intentionally building a strong community and network from the start. 10. On a personal level, what drives your passion for building a more human-centered business world? I’m driven by a deep passion for connection and the human experience. In many ways, we’ve lost sight of true authenticity. Too many companies focus heavily on data and forget that there are real people behind it. Getting back to the core of why we do what we do is the most honest way to lead with authenticity and create a meaningful, lasting impact. 11. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, who want to build purpose-driven companies? No one gets ahead by stepping on others. Lasting success comes from helping the people around you succeed alongside you. If you are not creating opportunities, supporting others, and building genuine relationships, your success will ultimately be short-lived. To me, it has nothing to do with whether a business owner is a man or a woman. What truly matters is surrounding yourself with people who hold you accountable, offer honest feedback, and push you to grow. Authentic partnerships are incredibly powerful, and my business would be nothing without them. 12. What does success look like for you today compared to when you first started? When I first started, success was simply about building a profitable company. Today, my definition of success is much broader and centered around three things: our clients, our partners, and our team. For our clients, success means helping their businesses grow while creating a greater impact on their communities, employees, industries, and the economy as a whole. For our partners, it means connecting them to meaningful opportunities, generating valuable leads, helping them develop new skills, and supporting them in ways that make their work and lives easier. For our team, success is about building the next generation of leaders. I look at how each person has grown during their time with us and how we are helping shape future leaders who will go on to make an impact of their own. 13. Outside of work, what keeps you inspired and creatively energized? My family. Coming home to people who challenge me to see the world from different perspectives keeps me grounded and inspired. They are the reason behind everything I do. And to me, family is not defined solely by blood. It’s defined by the people who consistently show up, support one another, and grow together through every stage of life. Learn More & Connect: Website: www.fifthandcor.com Fifth & Cor Instagram: @fifthandcor Robin Dimond's Instagram: @robinssweetconfessions By ML Staff. Photos: Fifth & Cor

Burberry is spotlighting the history and craftsmanship behind its most recognizable designs, unveiling a heritage-focused campaign that revisits the origins of the brand’s outdoor-ready clothing and accessories. Founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, the British fashion house built its reputation on creating fabric that allowed people to move freely outdoors. That spirit of functionality and exploration continues to shape the label’s modern collections. Central to the initiative is the Burberry trench coat, described as a cornerstone of the brand for more than a century. The company’s Heritage Trench Coats are made from cotton gabardine and produced in Yorkshire, England, underscoring Burberry’s emphasis on long-standing materials and UK manufacturing. Learn more about the Burberry trench and related collections. The campaign also highlights the Burberry Check cashmere scarf, produced at a Scottish mill founded in 1797. Positioned as an iconic house code rooted in the brand’s heritage, the scarf reflects Burberry’s continued reliance on traditional textile expertise and UK-based production. By ML. Photo(s)/Burberry

CHANEL is inviting customers to a limited-time in-boutique experience built around the new LES BEIGES Coastal Summer Collection at CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty locations. During the appointment, guests can be matched to their shade of LES BEIGES Serum Concealer Natural Healthy Glow and LES BEIGES Water-Fresh Complexion Touch, then receive guidance on building a routine with products designed to create a sun-kissed look. The visit also includes a curated fragrance consultation featuring LES EAUX DE CHANEL and a styling session focused on CHANEL eyewear to complete the overall aesthetic. Customers can book an appointment for the Les Beiges Coastal Summer Collection experience at participating boutiques. By ML. Photo(s)/CHANEL

A full room makeover is satisfying, but it’s also disruptive, expensive, and—if we’re honest—often unnecessary. One of the quickest ways to make a home feel newly considered is to update the details your hands interact with every day. Door handles sit right at that intersection of function and design: you touch them dozens of times, and they quietly signal the age and quality of the interior. Brass, in particular, has re-entered mainstream design for good reasons. It works across styles (from Georgian to Japandi), it adds warmth without feeling loud, and it develops character over time rather than simply “wearing out.” If you’re looking for a refresh that feels intentional—not like a temporary trend—new brass door handles are a smart place to start. Why Door Handles Change the “Read” of a Space Most people notice paint colours, flooring, and furniture first. But our brains build a sense of finish quality from smaller cues: weight, temperature, texture, and how smoothly things operate. A solid-feeling handle with a clean backplate instantly makes a door feel better made—even if the door itself hasn’t changed. There’s also a visual reason this works. Handles sit at a consistent height throughout a home, so they create a repeating line. When that line is cohesive, the whole interior looks calmer and more resolved. When it’s mismatched—polished chrome in one room, tired brushed nickel in another—the house can feel pieced together, even if everything else is tasteful. Choosing the Right Brass Finish (Without Overthinking It) “Brass” isn’t one look. Finish choice is where many refresh projects go sideways, because the sample in your hand rarely matches what it does in a hallway at night. Polished, satin, antique: what they actually do in a room Polished brass reflects light and reads more traditional or “formal.” It can be stunning in period homes, but it shows fingerprints and can look a bit sharp in very minimal spaces. Satin or brushed brass is the modern workhorse. It softens reflections, hides wear better, and blends with both warm and cool palettes. Antique or aged brass brings depth quickly. It’s forgiving in high-traffic areas and looks especially good with natural materials—oak, linen, stone, and textured paint. A helpful rule: if your room already has lots of visual texture (panelling, grainy timber, patterned tiles), choose a calmer finish like satin. If the room is very clean-lined and simple, an aged finish can add just enough richness. Think in “metal families,” not perfect matches A common misconception is that every metal in a home must match. In practice, interiors feel more natural when metals relate rather than mirror each other. Brass pairs well with: Matte black (graphic contrast; great for contemporary updates) Nickel or chrome (works if one is dominant and the other is an accent) Bronze (a warmer, more layered look) The key is consistency in undertone: warm brass usually sits better with warm whites, oak, terracotta, and creamy neutrals; cooler brass finishes feel cleaner alongside greyed tones and crisp whites. The “Handle Upgrade” Plan: Measure, Specify, Install Once you decide to switch, a little planning prevents the most annoying surprises—misaligned holes, loose handles, or plates that don’t cover old marks. Step 1: Check what you’re replacing Before ordering anything, open a couple of doors and look at what you have. Are they lever-on-rose, lever-on-backplate, or knobs? Are there visible screw holes or shadow marks from a larger plate? If you’re moving from a backplate to a rose, make sure the new rose will cover any paint fade or indentations. If you’re staying with a backplate, verify the plate length so it masks existing marks. Around the point where you start comparing styles and finishes, it can be useful to browse a well-organised set of options to understand what’s available and what “good” looks like—shapes, backplate styles, and finish variations. A page like premium brass door hardware collections can help you benchmark designs and narrow your choices without guessing. Step 2: Decide where you need matching sets (and where you don’t) You don’t have to replace every handle in the house on day one. Prioritise what you and guests touch most: Front hall and living areas first Then bedrooms Bathrooms last (unless current hardware is failing) Step 3: Specify the “invisible” components A handle can look perfect and still feel wrong if the mechanics are cheap. Two things matter: Spring quality / return action: prevents drooping handles over time. Latch compatibility: especially on older doors, where latch sizes and backsets can vary. If you’re unsure, take one existing latch out (two screws) and measure it. It’s five minutes that can save an afternoon of frustration. Making Brass Work With Your Interior Style Brass is versatile, but it shines when it’s chosen with the rest of the room in mind. Period homes: respect the architecture In Victorian and Edwardian houses, overly modern levers can look out of place. Consider more classic profiles, subtle detailing, and finishes that don’t look brand new on day one (aged brass often feels “right” faster). If you have original features—cornicing, picture rails—brass can echo that craftsmanship without being fussy. Contemporary spaces: use brass as warmth, not ornament In modern interiors, brass works best when the silhouette is clean. Think slim levers, minimal roses, and a satin finish. Pairing brass with pale timber and matte paints is a reliable way to make a space feel warmer without adding clutter. Small upgrades that amplify the effect If you want the handle refresh to feel deliberate, consider doing one additional detail in the same finish—maybe a couple of cabinet pulls in the adjoining kitchen, or a matching thumbturn on bathroom doors. You’re building a visual “thread,” not a showroom set. Care, Patina, and Keeping the Look Intentional Brass is living metal. Some people love the patina; others prefer it crisp. For lacquered brass, a soft damp cloth is usually enough. Avoid harsh cleaners; they can cloud the protective coating. For unlacquered brass, expect gentle darkening where it’s handled most. If you want to brighten it occasionally, use a cleaner designed for brass—but test a small area first. The design trick is to choose a finish that suits your tolerance for change. If you don’t want maintenance, go satin or aged. If you like a brighter statement and don’t mind wiping it down, polished can be beautiful. The Bottom Line: A Small Change With Outsize Impact Refreshing your interiors doesn’t always require new furniture or a dramatic colour shift. Replacing tired handles with thoughtfully chosen brass can make doors feel heavier, rooms feel more coherent, and the whole home read as better finished. Measure carefully, choose a finish that complements your palette, and pay attention to the mechanics—not just the look. Done well, it’s the kind of upgrade you’ll notice every day, without ever getting tired of it. By ML staff. Photo by aranprime and Jean-Philippe Delberghe on Unsplash

New World Symphony has outlined plans for its 2026–27 season, highlighting a pair of family concerts for young audiences and a subscription series built around major orchestral works. The next kids concert series, designed for children ages 4 to 9, begins on Sunday, November 1 with Spooky Symphony at the New World Center. The events combine hands-on activities in the atrium with interactive performances where children are invited to move, clap, sing, dance and attend in costume. Season subscriptions feature discounted access to some of the orchestra’s most in-demand performances, including a Ravel’s Boléro program with Artistic Director Stéphane Denève and violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony at New World Center, Mozart’s Requiem led by Stephanie Childress at the Arsht Center in Downtown Miami, and a program of music by Steve Reich, Igor Stravinsky and Philip Glass with violinist Jennifer Koh. More information about concerts and subscriptions is available at New World Symphony. By ML. Photo(s)/New World Symphony

Givenchy has introduced a High Summer accessories collection featuring seasonal handbags and jewelry for the upcoming warm-weather months. The new line highlights lightweight designs and summer-focused materials across a range of bags and jewelry pieces intended for day and evening wear. The High Summer accessories are available in Givenchy boutiques and on Givenchy.com for online purchase. By ML. Photo(s)/Givenchy

Churchill Downs is inviting Kentucky Derby fans to complete a new survey that explores their preferences on brands and products connected to the Derby experience. The questionnaire asks participants about items such as their preferred bourbon labels and automotive choices, as part of an effort to better understand the interests of the event’s most engaged attendees. Organizers estimate the survey will take about 10 minutes to finish, and respondents will receive a discount for use at the Kentucky Derby Store online once they complete it. Fans who want to participate can complete the survey and share their feedback on the Derby experience. By ML. Photo(s)/Churchill Downs

Givenchy has introduced its Fall Winter 2026 Womenswear show, conceived by creative director Sarah Burton as an exploration of how women navigate contemporary life. The collection is described as an intuitive portrayal of women’s strengths, drawing on painterly themes and sculptural forms that reference Northern European old masters. Silhouettes range from precise tailoring to fluid draping, positioning the house’s design language as a mirror of the complexity of women’s experiences. Alongside the runway presentation, Givenchy has released a curated selection of accessories inspired by the show, available in boutiques and on Givenchy.com. By ML. Photo(s)/Givenchy

The immersive comedy cabaret Muerto de Risa – El Último Show de Álvarez Guedes has extended its engagement at Tropical Park in Miami for three additional weeks following strong audience response. The production, staged in a custom-built venue at Tropical Park, blends live music, stand-up comedy, cocktails, and theatrical storytelling that highlights the legacy of Cuban comedian Álvarez Guedes through dynamic performances and a central portrayal by Ariel Texido. After the curtain call, audiences can continue the evening at El Patio, where food trucks, drinks, and music extend the experience. Performances are scheduled on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and the run now continues through June 21, 2026. Additional information and tickets are available on the official website at alvarezguedesmiami.com. To mark the start of summer, the team behind Muerto de Risa will present a one-night-only event titled “¡Ñooo! Que Pachanga!” on June 4, hosted by Havana Club Rum with Giovanny Gutierrez. The celebration will feature a limited-edition Havana Club cocktail named “¡Fuácata!”, offered complimentary with Silver and Gold ticket packages and prepared with Havana Club Clásico, Cuban coffee, Creme de Cacao, Fernet Menta, and a mint garnish. By ML. Photo(s)/Muerto de Risa – El Último Show de Álvarez Guedes