Miami, a city synonymous with sun, nightlife, and international flair, has a complex relationship with gambling. Technically, gambling in Miami is illegal, but the reality is far more nuanced. Thanks to a combination of legal loopholes, Native American gaming rights, and offshore opportunities, residents and visitors alike have a wide array of wagering options available in 2026. How Legal Is Gambling in Miami Florida’s gambling laws are among the most intricate in the United States. While commercial casinos are restricted in most areas, exceptions exist that allow  card rooms,  bingo halls,  pari-mutuel wagering (horse and dog racing), and  Native American tribal casinos.   This has created a unique environment where gambling thrives in pockets despite its official illegality. Miami’s laws permit gambling primarily in these formats: Card rooms:  Often attached to horse tracks or tribal facilities. Pari-mutuel betting:  Horse racing at locations such as Hialeah Park Racing and dog racing in nearby counties. Native American casinos:  Operated under federal compacts, like Miccosukee Indian Gaming. Offshore and online betting: Websites licensed outside the U.S. cater to Florida residents seeking more diverse gambling options. Miami’s Onshore Gambling Hotspots Hialeah Park Racing, one of Miami’s oldest gambling institutions, has recently reopened. Located at 2200 W 84th St, this historic track offers thoroughbred and quarter horse racing, and there are plans to add poker and slot machines in the near future.  The revival of Hialeah Park reflects a renewed interest in traditional pari-mutuel wagering in Miami, attracting both seasoned bettors and newcomers looking for an iconic Florida experience. Casinos and Card Rooms For those seeking slots and poker without leaving the city, Magic City Casino is a convenient option, just five minutes from Miami International Airport at 450 NW 37th Ave. With a wide range of slot machines, poker tables, and electronic gaming, it caters to casual and serious players alike.  However, the newer Calder Casino & Race Course in Miami Gardens is rapidly gaining attention. With 1,200 slot machines, poker, and horse racing, it has become a central hub for Miami’s gambling community. A short drive north into Broward County opens even more options: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino – Hollywood’s flagship casino offers slots, poker, and blackjack in a high-energy environment. Seminole Casino Coconut Creek – Popular for poker tournaments and electronic gaming. Mardi Gras Racetrack and Gaming – Known for horse racing and a variety of table games. Isle Casino & Racing – Offers a mix of slots and poker alongside pari-mutuel betting. Gulfstream Park Casino and Racing – Hallandale’s premier gaming venue, featuring slots, poker, and blackjack. Tribal Gaming at Miccosukee For a slightly more understated experience, Miccosukee Indian Gaming, located at 500 SW 177th Ave on the outskirts of the Everglades, offers a blend of Vegas-style gaming and local flavor. The casino spans more than 85,000 square feet and features poker, tab slots, and high-speed bingo.  With overnight accommodations, it provides a full-service gaming retreat for those unwilling to make the hour-long drive back to downtown Miami. Online Gambling and Offshore Opportunities While in-person casinos dominate the Miami scene, online betting continues to grow. Platforms like BetMGM offer residents access to sports betting and casino games from their phones or computers. Many of these platforms partner with providers such as Light & Wonder and Konami Gaming, ensuring high-quality slots, table games, and interactive experiences.  Additionally, offshore casinos operate legally for international licensees, providing a loophole for those seeking games not available in Miami’s card rooms or tribal casinos. Trends and Innovations in 2026 Miami’s gambling sector is evolving rapidly, embracing both technology and consumer preferences. Some of the notable trends include: Expansion of Tribal Casinos: Tribal operators are continually updating facilities and adding new gaming options to compete with larger commercial brands. Integration of Technology: Cashless payments, mobile apps, and digital loyalty programs are now standard, enhancing the convenience of both onshore and online gambling. Casino Reviews and Guides: Gamblers increasingly rely on resources such as the Eagle Casino MI review  to choose destinations and evaluate their experiences. Legal and Regulatory Adjustments: Florida lawmakers are monitoring trends in sports betting, online casinos, and prediction markets, adjusting regulations to balance economic benefits with responsible gambling practices. Practical Tips for Miami Gamblers Know Your Options: While slots and poker are concentrated in a few locations, horse racing and bingo provide alternatives with lower stakes and a community vibe. Check Age Requirements: Legal gambling age is 18  for pari-mutuel and bingo, 21 for casino table games. Plan for Travel: Some of the most desirable venues are outside Miami, including Gulfstream Park and Miccosukee, so consider transportation and lodging. Set a Budget: With the variety of gambling options, it’s easy to overspend—responsible gaming practices are essential. Conclusion Miami in 2026 represents a paradoxical gambling landscape: technically restricted yet thriving through clever legal structures, tribal compacts, and offshore options.  From the historic charm of Hialeah Park to the cutting-edge experiences at Magic City and Calder Casino, Miami offers a spectrum of gambling possibilities for locals and tourists. Meanwhile, online platforms like BetMGM, backed by developers such as Light & Wonder and Konami Gaming, bring the thrill directly to your device, ensuring that Miami’s gambling scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. By ML staff. Image courtesy of Golovna Group.

Questions like “will getting a pet benefit our child’s mental health?” are increasingly common and pertinent. In Spain, for instance, more than half of all households now have one or more pets. New Africa/Shutterstock Attachment is the name for the emotional bond between a developing child and the caregiver who provides them with security and comfort. This kind of bond can also, to a certain extent, also be formed with animals, and these relationships have been shown to have a range of beneficial effects: They boost emotional regulation, helping children learn to calm themselves They build responsibility, empathy and moral standards They “catalyse” relationships with people, for instance when a pet forms a point of common interest between a child and a family member they don’t know so well They support prosocial behaviour They help build understanding of nonverbal communication They can function as a comfort object, taking the place of the child’s primary attachment when that person is not present. But beyond these benefits, how does living alongside an animal impact children’s mental health? We can answer this question by looking at issues categorised as either internalising (such as depression, anxiety and their related physical symptoms) and externalising (a child’s behaviour and relationship with their environment: agression, rulebreaking, and so on). The INMA study We analysed data provided by the INMA Project (Infancia y Medio Ambiente, Children and Environment). This was a cohort study, meaning it involved periodic monitoring of a group of participants – in this case, from pregnancy to 6-7 years of age – through questionnaires, environmental measurements and clinical tests. INMA cohorts included in the analysis (red squares). Number of participants (pregnant women) during the study’s recruitment period). Llúcia González Our work included around 1,900 households in Spain, located in Asturias, Gipuzkoa (Basque Country), Sabadell (Barcelona) and Valencia. Of these, 52.3% had or had had one or more pets. 19.1% lived or had lived with dogs, 8.7% with cats, 14.8% with birds, and 28.6% with other animals such as hamsters, rabbits, turtles or fish. When we evaluated the relationship between the presence of animals and mental health, we observed that children who had never had a pet showed the most positive scores. Some trends, although they cannot be considered significant, showed slightly more negative results among children who had always lived with pets. Those who had only had pets intermittently had higher risks of experiencing problems, though this pattern was only significant for cats. The percentage of households with pets in our study. To account for other factors that might influence this relationship, we performed additional analyses to adjust the results according to social class, sex, age, cohort, and so on. We found no difference between those who had never lived with animals and those who had had them always or only intermittently. This applied to the variable that studied any type of pet, as well as the specific ones that evaluated the relationship with dogs and birds. Relationship between pets and children’s mental health. The most interesting finding was that having a cat at age 4-5 was associated with more mental health problems. Having other animals – such as hamsters, rabbits, turtles or fish – consistently throughout early childhood seemed to have a protective effect on boys and girls alike. Unpacking our findings In the early years of life, emotional bonds may not be fully formed. Therefore, the presence of dogs or birds may not have a major effect on mental health. It is also possible that variables not included in our study may have influenced the results. In the case of cats, their way of interacting with people could explain the effects observed. They are more independent, which limits emotional bonding, and some families may choose this animal as a pet because their children have emotional needs of their own. In addition, toxoplasmosis is more common in cats than in other animals. This infection – caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii which can be transmitted to humans – is linked to behavioural problems, as well as serious mental disorders such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Having fish, turtles and hamsters on a constant basis does seem to protect children from mental health problems. These pets demand stable and easy contact, and help kids to learn responsibility, empathy and self-control. Constant bonds are better Our study did not clearly associate the presence of some pets, such as dogs and birds, with benefits or harm to childrens’ mental health. This could be because our work focused on exposure to pets in very early life – further studies focusing on older children are required. In addition, children who lived with animals such as hamsters, rabbits, fish or turtles on a regular basis achieved better results than those who only had them intermittently. This suggests that a continuous link may be more beneficial than sporadic exposure. While living with a pet can promote responsibility, empathy and emotional self-regulation, its real impact depends on factors such as the nature of the bond, age and style of upbringing. Words by Llúcia González Safont, Researcher at the Biomedical Research Networking Center in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP) and member of the FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València Joint Research Unit in Epidemiology, Environment and Health, Fisabio, Blanca Sarzo Carles, Postdoctoral Researcher in Biostatistics, Fisabio and Marisa Estarlich Estarlich, Associate Professor, Universitat de València. Special thanks for The Conversation. Support and donate today.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans aim to translate the most up-to-date nutrition science into practical advice for the public as well as to guide federal policy for programs such as school lunches. Consuming less highly processed foods and sugary drinks and more whole grains can meaningfully improve your health. fizkes/iStock via Getty Images Plus But the newest version of the guidelines, released on Jan. 7, 2026, seems to be spurring more confusion than clarity about what people should be eating. I’ve been studying nutrition and chronic disease for over 35 years, and in 2020 I wrote “Sugarproof,” a book about reducing consumption of added sugars to improve health. I served as a scientific adviser for the new guidelines. I chose to participate in this process, despite its accelerated and sometimes controversial nature, for two reasons. First, I wanted to help ensure the review was conducted with scientific rigor. And second, federal health officials prioritized examining areas where the evidence has become especially strong – particularly food processing, added sugars and sugary beverages, which closely aligns with my research. My role, along with colleagues, was to review and synthesize that evidence and help clarify where the science is strongest and most consistent. The latest dietary guidelines, published on Jan. 7, 2026, have received mixed reviews from nutrition experts. What’s different in the new dietary guidelines? The dietary guidelines, first published in 1980, are updated every five years. The newest version differs from the previous versions in a few key ways. For one thing, the new report is shorter, at nine pages rather than 400. It offers simpler advice directly to the public, whereas previous guidelines were more directed at policymakers and nutrition experts. Also, the new guidelines reflect an important paradigm shift in defining a healthy diet. For the past half-century, dietary advice has been shaped by a focus on general dietary patterns and targets for individual nutrients, such as protein, fat and carbohydrate. The new guidelines instead emphasize overall diet quality. Some health and nutrition experts have criticized specific aspects of the guidelines, such as how the current administration developed them, or how they address saturated fat, beef, dairy, protein and alcohol intake. These points have dominated the public discourse. But while some of them are valid, they risk overshadowing the strongest, least controversial and most actionable conclusions from the scientific evidence. What we found in our scientific assessment was that just a few straightforward changes to your diet – specifically, reducing highly processed foods and sugary drinks, and increasing whole grains – can meaningfully improve your health. What the evidence actually shows My research assistants and I evaluated the conclusions of studies on consuming sugar, highly processed foods and whole grains, and assessed how well they were conducted and how likely they were to be biased. We graded the overall quality of the findings as low, moderate or high based on standardized criteria such as their consistency and plausibility. We found moderate to high quality evidence that people who eat higher amounts of processed foods have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia and death from any cause. Similarly, we found moderately solid evidence that people who drink more sugar-sweetened beverages have a higher risk of obesity and Type 2 diabetes, as well as quite conclusive evidence that children who drink fruit juice have a higher risk of obesity. And consuming more beverages containing artificial sweeteners raises the risk of death from any cause and Alzheimer’s disease, based on moderately good evidence. Whole grains, on the other hand, have a protective effect on health. We found high-quality evidence that people who eat more whole grains have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death from any cause. People who consume more dietary fiber, which is abundant in whole grains, have a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes and death from any cause, based on moderate-quality research. According to the research we evaluated, it’s these aspects – too much highly processed foods and sweetened beverages, and too little whole grain foods – that are significantly contributing to the epidemic of chronic diseases such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease in this country – and not protein, beef or dairy intake. Evidence suggests that people who eat higher amounts of processed foods have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia and death from any cause. fcafotodigital/E+ via Getty Images From scientific evidence to guidelines Our report was the first one to recommend that the guidelines explicitly mention decreasing consumption of highly processed foods. Overall, though, research on the negative health effects of sugar and processed foods and the beneficial effects of whole grains has been building for many years and has been noted in previous reports. On the other hand, research on how strongly protein, red meat, saturated fat and dairy are linked with chronic disease risk is much less conclusive. Yet the 2025 guidelines encourage increasing consumption of those foods – a change from previous versions. The inverted pyramid imagery used to represent the 2025 guidelines also emphasizes protein – specifically, meat and dairy – by putting these foods in a highly prominent spot in the top left corner of the image. Whole grains sit at the very bottom; and except for milk, beverages are not represented. Scientific advisers were not involved in designing the image. Making small changes that can improve your health An important point we encountered repeatedly in reviewing the research was that even small dietary changes could meaningfully lower people’s chronic disease risks. For example, consuming just 10% fewer calories per day from highly processed foods could lower the risk of diabetes by 14%, according to one of the lead studies we relied on for the evidence review. Another study showed that eating one less serving of highly processed foods per day lowers the risk of heart disease by 4%. You can achieve that simply by switching from a highly processed packaged bread to one with fewer ingredients or replacing one fast-food meal per week with a simple home-cooked meal. Or, switch your preferred brands of daily staples such as tomato sauce, yogurt, salad dressing, crackers and nut butter to ones that have fewer ingredients like added sugars, sweeteners, emulsifiers and preservatives. Cutting down on sugary beverages – for example, soda, sweet teas, juices and energy drinks – had an equally dramatic effect. Simply drinking the equivalent of one can less per day lowers the risk of diabetes by 26% and the risk of heart disease by 14%. And eating just one additional serving of whole grains per day – say, replacing packaged bread with whole grain bread – results in an 18% lower risk of diabetes and a 13% lower risk of death from all causes combined. How to adopt ‘kitchen processing’ Another way to make these improvements is to take basic elements of food processing back from manufacturers and return them to your own kitchen – what I call “kitchen processing.” Humans have always processed food by chopping, cooking, fermenting, drying or freezing. The problem with highly processed foods isn’t just the industrial processing that transforms the chemical structure of natural ingredients, but also what chemicals are added to improve taste and shelf life. Kitchen processing, though, can instead be optimized for health and for your household’s flavor preferences – and you can easily do it without cooking from scratch. Here are some simple examples: Instead of flavored yogurts, buy plain yogurt and add your favorite fruit or some homemade simple fruit compote. Instead of sugary or diet beverages, use a squeeze of citrus or even a splash of juice to flavor plain sparkling water. Start with a plain whole grain breakfast cereal and add your own favorite source of fiber and/or fruit. Instead of packaged “energy bars” make your own preferred mixture of nuts, seeds and dried fruit. Instead of bottled salad dressing, make a simple one at home with olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, a dab of mustard and other flavorings of choice, such as garlic, herbs, or honey. You can adapt this way of thinking to the foods you eat most often by making similar types of swaps. They may seem small, but they will build over time and have an outsized effect on your health. Words by Michael I Goran, Professor of Pediatrics and Vice Chair for Research, University of Southern California. Special thanks for The Conversation. Support and donate today.

Chanel has released its latest eyewear collection, which is now available for purchase in the brand’s boutiques and on its official website. The collection includes a range of sunglasses and optical frames that reflect the house’s signature design codes and seasonal updates. Customers can explore styles featuring classic silhouettes and contemporary shapes, along with a variety of colors and finishes. Shoppers can discover the new selection in Chanel boutiques worldwide or browse and purchase selected models on chanel.com for home delivery or in‑store pickup, depending on local availability. By ML. Photo(s)/Chanel

The Bass Museum of Art in Miami Beach has outlined a full schedule of exhibitions, member events, education programs, and family activities for spring and summer 2026, spanning evening fundraisers, workshops, youth camps, and a new satellite gallery in Collins Park. Paul Knight/Unsplash Night at the Museum Returns With Masked Reality Theme Night at the Museum: Masked Reality, the museum’s members-only annual event, will take place on April 23, 2026 from 8 to 11 p.m. at The Bass. This year’s Black and White edition invites attendees to explore a setting of visual contrasts and hidden identities, with a dress code that calls for bold black and white attire and masks. Active membership at the Affiliate level or higher, at The Bass is required to attend. Members can join or renew online. The event is presented with support from I’ve Been Framed, We Ship Art, H&C Collective, Las Tapas de Rosa, After Hours Photoshoot, and Go2Events. Workshops, Family Programs, and Camps Announced Workshops @ The Bass will feature Poetry Field Day on April 18, 2026 from 2 to 4 p.m., a poetry and collage session for adults 21 and over. Participants will tour the exhibition Jack Pierson: The Miami Years, create collages in small groups, and then use typewriters to develop collaborative poems using the Exquisite Corpse method. Registration is available through the museum’s website. Family Day | STEAM+ Celebration will be held on April 26, 2026 from 2 to 4 p.m. at The Creativity Center. The program invites families to respond to installations including Social Assembly: The Communal Table and Haegue Yang’s Coordinates of Speculative Solidarity, translating weather and plant patterns into environmentally minded designs using recycled materials. Guests can RSVP online for the event. Bass Babies, a weekly art program for children ages 2 to 4 and their caregivers, runs through April 30, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon. Led by teaching artist Paloma Dueñas, the sessions introduce young participants to colors, shapes, patterns, numbers, and letters through art and music-based activities. Registration is available on the museum’s Bass Babies page . Summer Art Camps at The Bass Creativity Center will run from June 8 to August 7, 2026, serving children ages 4 to 12 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with aftercare available until 5:45 p.m. Campers will work with teaching artists on projects in sculpture, painting, design, and related disciplines, and may enroll for individual weeks or the full season. Details and registration are posted on the Summer Art Camps webpage. New Rotunda Gallery and Ongoing Exhibitions The Bass has opened The Rotunda, a satellite gallery in Collins Park that offers free admission year-round. The space adds a new public-facing venue for exhibitions and projects adjacent to the museum campus. Visitors can learn more about The Rotunda and its development on the museum’s site. Current exhibitions at The Bass include Lawrence Lek: NOX Pavilion, on view through April 26, 2026, which presents immersive works that consider artificial intelligence, self-driving vehicles, and other intelligent machines as narrative subjects. The show is curated by Associate Curator of New Media Art Claudia Mattos and is supported by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation New Media Initiative. The museum is also presenting Faire Foyer: Sarah Crowner in Dialogue with Etel Adnan, on view through July 26, 2026. The project combines new work by Sarah Crowner with a large-scale ceramic mural by Etel Adnan, installed within a semicircular, carpeted foyer designed by Crowner as a transitional threshold between exterior and interior space. The exhibition is organized by former Curator at Large James Voorhies with support from the Arison Arts Foundation and Phillips. External Youth Filmmaker Camp in Downtown Miami FilmGate Miami will host its Youth Filmmaker Summer Bootcamp for teens ages 13 to 18, offering Narrative and AI Filmmaking from June 15 to 26, 2026 and Documentary plus Podcasting from July 20 to 31, 2026. The weekday program, based at FilmGate Miami’s Downtown Media Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with meals provided, culminates in a screening at the FilmGate Free-For-All Festival on August 26, 2026 at Silverspot Cinema. Families can learn more and enroll via FilmGate Miami’s website. By ML. Photo(s)/The Bass Museum of Art

Piegatto made its highly anticipated debut at Salone del Mobile.Milano 2026 with  Carved Landscapes , a comprehensive collection that explores furniture as contemporary artifact and inhabitable sculpture. The brand's inaugural presentation marked a pivotal moment in its evolution from regional recognition to global positioning. Featuring large-scale architectural pieces crafted from laminated birch with sculpted volumes. The series includes buffets and  large-format consoles, bookshelves, closed bar cabinets,  open TV cabinets, and f loating cocktail bar tables.  Each object is conceived as a carved architectural mass where function is revealed through subtraction rather than construction. Shelves appear hollowed, compartments feel excavated, and proportions are bold and deliberate—blurring the line between domestic architecture and furniture. Carved Landscapes  reimagines furniture through monolithic forms that stand between sculpture and use. Drawing inspiration from prehistoric monuments, geological formations, and the quiet authority of carved stone, each piece appears grounded and immovable, yet softened by human touch and ergonomic precision. “Salone del Mobile represents a moment of responsibility for us. It is where design is positioned culturally, not just commercially. With Carved Landscapes, we are entering the global conversation with clarity presenting furniture not as trend, but as architectural presence and material permanence.” - Pietro Estrada   The presentation unfolds as a spatial landscape rather than a conventional display, where tables function as landmarks, sofas become inhabitable terrain, and lighting acts as atmospheric texture. Wood, upholstery, and light are approached as primary materials worked with restraint, respect, and sculptural sensibility. New Introductions Retiro Sofa Collection: Sustainability Meets Sculptural Presence The Retiro Sofa introduces a groundbreaking sustainable material developed in-house by Piegatto. Crafted from a proprietary composite of reclaimed wood residue from the brand's own furniture production combined with resins, Retiro transforms industrial waste into durable outdoor seating. Its form resembles an eroded stone mass textured, grounded, and continuously engineered for full exterior use. The collection demonstrates that permanence can be achieved through reinvention rather than extraction, combining ergonomics, sculptural presence, and environmental responsibility in the luxury outdoor and collectible design segment. Toko Table Collection: Ancient Monuments Reimagined Inspired by menhirs and dolmen stones, the Toko Tables anchor interiors with symbolic and physical presence. Crafted from solid hardwood with custom finishes, these large-scale dining tables and consoles feature wood volumes stacked one atop another, defying gravity through clever male-female assembly. The geometry is redefined into a single surface curve, where the flat becomes slightly curved and merges with rounded corners. Rather than decorative detailing, Toko focuses on volume and proportion; transforming primitive structural language into contemporary furniture that functions as a landmark within a space. Nuuk Sofa Collection: Modular Landscapes Piegatto's first fully upholstered modular system, Nuuk creates continuous landscapes rather than isolated seating elements. Composed of six modules generating 20 configurations, the system integrates Palm side tables and Palm pendant lamps, giving the modular system Piegatto's signature aesthetic through wood details. Inspired by glacial landscapes and eroded rock formations, Nuuk combines generous proportions with fluid, organic silhouettes. Ovo Chair: Movement Meets Monumentality The Ovo Chair introduces softness into the collection's monolithic language. Defined by its enveloping oval form, the upholstered seat rests on a carved wooden base, balancing comfort with architectural presence. A 360-degree rotating mechanism allows fluid interaction within space. Available in dining and lounge versions, Ovo moves effortlessly between intimacy and statement; a quiet sculpture designed for movement and rest. Ikigai Tables: Balance and Essential Form The Ikigai Tables introduce a quieter expression within the collection, focusing on balance, purpose, and intentional simplicity. Defined by continuous lines and grounded proportions, each table feels inevitable in its shape expressing harmony between function, form, and meaning. The collection explores the Japanese concept of ikigai (reason for being) through furniture that carries a calm, centered presence. Majo and Cartussia Lamps: Light as Carved Matter Lighting plays a central role through two new collections. The Majo Lamps feature perforated surfaces that allow light to pass rhythmically through matter, transforming illumination into texture and shadow. The Cartussia Lamps, with their enclosed forms recalling vaulted architectural spaces, produce indirect and contemplative illumination. Together, they reinforce the exhibition's exploration of light as a carved, atmospheric element. Dunes: An Immersive Art Installation At the heart of the exhibition stands Dunes, an immersive installation composed of thousands of suspended threads. Through density, layering, and subtle movement, the piece introduces softness and impermanence into the otherwise monolithic environment. As viewers move around it, color, depth, and light continuously shift, evoking wind-shaped landscapes and the passage of time, a counterbalance between solidity and fluidity. By ML Staff. Content and images courtesy of Piegatto.

Officially opened April 17, Leonardo is Miami Beach’s latest dining destination rooted in refined hospitality and social dining traditions. The 4,500-square-foot restaurant and lounge brings a timeless experience where cuisine, music, art and design come together in an elegant yet lively setting. “Leonardo was created to revive the romance and ritual of classic Italian dining,” said founder and co-owner Igor Dze. “We wanted to build a place where people gather over incredible food and stay for the atmosphere, where dinner slowly evolves into something memorable as the night unfolds.” The concept draws from Dze’s early years living in Italy, where he became captivated by the country’s culture of lingering meals, thoughtful hospitality and restaurants that served as stages for connection, celebration and conversation. Inspired by the 1930s through the 1950s golden era, Leonardo reinterprets that tradition for a modern audience, pairing Old World nostalgia with Miami’s vivacious energy. Designed by Dze and his wife, Libria, Leonardo’s indoor and outdoor spaces transport guests to another era. Deep green walls, antique mirrors and warm finishes on aged wood are softly lit by ornate chandeliers and table lighting, creating an intimate ambience. Iconic artwork by Leonardo da Vinci lines the walls—a nod to the restaurant’s namesake. Co-owner Mehdi Vanden Broeck, whose background in New York and Miami’s high-end hospitality and nightlife scene includes Bagatelle, Habibi Miami and Kiki on the River, shapes the restaurant’s late-night rhythm. His command of VIP service and guest flow brings a measured approach to building energy throughout the evening while maintaining its sense of polish. Inspired by Executive Chef Andrea Albanese’s Tuscan upbringing, the menu weaves seasonal ingredients with time-honored techniques grounded in the region’s culinary traditions. Starters include Tuna Tartare with mango, soy and sesame oil; Beef Carpaccio finished with arugula and 36-month Parmigiano-Reggiano; and Burrata with tomato gazpacho and basil cream. A robust raw bar features Oysters with mignonette and cocktail sauce, as well as Caviar Service accompanied by traditional garnishes and blinis. Salads like Caesar with focaccia croutons and Caprese complement rich pastas such as Tagliatelle with slow-simmered meat ragù, Paccheri in a three-tomato sauce, Spaghetti alle Vongole with Manila clams and bottarga, and Linguine Aragosta with Maine lobster. The dining experience is enriched with a lineup of tableside presentations, from the Fettuccine alla Leonardo—finished inside a wheel of Parmesan—to the Whole Branzino, flambéed right before guests’ eyes. Entrées range from prime New York Steak and Filet Mignon with red wine reduction to Pollo al Limone with delicate lemon sauce. Desserts include indulgences such as Tiramisu, Panna Cotta and Lemon Delight Cake, a bright citrus finale reminiscent of Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Leonardo’s beverage program features curated libations such as the Hibiscus, a floral-forward martini with hibiscus-infused vodka and elderflower, and the Passion Paradise, a tequila-based cocktail layered with passion fruit and warm spice. Guests can also expect inventive takes on classics such as the Italian Old-Fashioned with pancetta-washed bourbon, the Miami Manhattan with amaro and vermouth, and the Tomato Peach Negroni. The menu also includes refreshing spritzes, zero-proof options, and an extensive wine list highlighting notable regions across Italy. Located at 2000 Collins Ave., Suite 2, Miami Beach, FL 33139, Leonardo will be open for dinner service Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m., and Wednesday and Sunday from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. After 10:30 p.m., the atmosphere shifts with deeper lighting, live music and cabaret performances. Written by ML Staff. Photos courtesy of World Red Eye & Leonardo.

Plant medicine retreats have become increasingly popular, offering participants the opportunity to explore personal growth and well-being through traditional herbal ceremonies. If you are considering your first retreat, it’s essential to understand the preparation, safety, and context involved in these unique experiences. Interest in plant medicine retreats, including those featuring ayahuasca, has grown rapidly as people look for alternative paths to healing and self-discovery. Many centers, such as Mai Niti healing center , focus on creating a safe and respectful environment for participants. Before you take part in your first retreat, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help you approach the experience with confidence and awareness. Understanding plant medicine retreats and their purpose Plant medicine retreats are immersive experiences built around the ceremonial use of herbal medicines, often rooted in Indigenous traditions. A plant medicine retreat can be structured to support personal reflection and potential transformation. Whether you’re attending an ayahuasca retreat in Peru or exploring other forms of traditional practice, it’s helpful to research the specific traditions and intentions behind the retreat you choose. First-timers often find these retreats appealing due to their promise of self-exploration and healing. However, it’s equally important to acknowledge the cultural significance of these practices and to seek out centers that honor their origins. Attending a plant medicine retreat is not simply about the experience itself, but about engaging meaningfully with practices that are both powerful and deeply rooted in tradition. How to choose the right retreat center The selection of a retreat center has a significant impact on your experience. Start by researching centers’ reputations, facilitators, and their approach to safety and ethics. Many participants gravitate toward a female led ayahuasca retreat, recognizing the value of nurturing leadership and group trust. When evaluating options for an ayahuasca retreat in Peru, consider the qualifications of the team and how they support participants before, during, and after ceremonies. Look for transparent information about medical screening, integration support, and cultural practices. Centers that collaborate with Indigenous healers or maintain strong ethical guidelines can provide added reassurance, especially for first-timers. Reading testimonials, attending informational sessions, and checking for open communication channels can help you decide on the most suitable retreat—one that aligns with your values and priorities. Preparing mentally and physically A successful plant medicine retreat requires thoughtful preparation. Most centers provide guidelines on dietary restrictions and ask for a thorough medical history to identify potential risks. If you plan to attend an ayahuasca retreat in Peru or any comparable program, you’ll likely be asked to abstain from certain foods and substances to ensure your safety and maximize the experience. Mental preparation is equally important. Setting intentions, understanding your motivations, and clarifying your goals can help shape your retreat experience. Engaging in practices such as meditation or journaling may improve self-awareness and readiness. Remember, an honest discussion about your mental health with retreat staff supports both your safety and the integrity of the overall ceremony. What to expect during and after the ceremony The retreat itself typically includes group ceremonies, personal reflection, and opportunities for integration. During a female-led ayahuasca retreat or similar event, you can expect a supportive environment where trained facilitators offer guidance throughout the experience. Group sharing circles, meals, and periods of rest are common elements that contribute to a sense of connection and support. After the ceremony, integration becomes crucial. You may receive guidance on how to process emotions or insights from the experience, whether through group discussions, counseling, or suggested practices. Ongoing support is especially helpful for first-timers as you bring lessons from the retreat into daily life. Many programs, including those designed as a female led ayahuasca retreat, offer online resources or follow-up sessions to help you continue your journey with confidence. Honoring safety, tradition, and ethics As a first-timer, it is your responsibility to engage with plant medicine ceremonies in a way that respects both tradition and safety. Choose a retreat that values proper medical screening, clear communication, and ethical involvement. Acknowledging the Indigenous roots of these ceremonies and honoring informed consent are vital for responsible participation. Whether you select an ayahuasca retreat in Peru, a plant medicine retreat closer to home, or other formats that meet your needs, prioritizing safety, compassion, and cultural respect allows you to make the most of the experience. Approaching your first retreat with preparation and mindfulness sets the stage for personal growth, deeper understanding, and meaningful transformation. By ML staff. Image courtesy of Bazoom AI

Organic food once was viewed as a niche category for health nuts and hippies, but today it’s a routine choice for millions of Americans. For years following passage of the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 , which established national organic standards, consumers had to seek out organic products at food co-ops and farmers markets. Today over half of organic sales are in conventional grocery store chains, club stores and supercenters; Walmart, Costco, Kroger, Target and Safeway are the top five organic retailers . CC BY-ND Surveys show that 82% of Americans buy some organic food , and availability has improved. So why do overall organic sales add up to a mere 6% of all food sold in the U.S.? And since organic farming has many benefits , including conserving soil and water and reducing use of synthetic chemicals, can its share grow? One issue is price. On average, organic food costs 20% more than conventionally produced food. Even hardcore organic shoppers like me sometimes bypass it due to cost. Some budget-constrained shoppers may restrict their organic purchases to foods they are especially concerned about, such as fruits and vegetables. Organic produce carries far fewer pesticide residues than conventionally grown versions. Price matters, but let’s dig deeper. Increasing organic food’s market share will require growing larger quantities and more diverse organic products. This will require more organic farmers than the U.S. currently has. There are some 2 million farms in the U.S. . Of them, only 16,585 are organic – less than 1%. They occupy 5.5 million acres , which is a small fraction of overall U.S. agricultural land. Roughly two-thirds of U.S. farmland is dedicated to growing animal feed and biofuel feedstocks like corn and soybeans , rather than food for people. In my view, converting more agricultural land to organic food production should be a national goal. Organic farmers produce healthy food, promote soil health and protect watersheds. Ruminant animals like dairy cows when raised organically must graze on pasture for at least 120 days each year, which reduces their methane emissions. The list of climate and environmental benefits associated with organic is long. Organic farming consumes 45% less energy than conventional production, mainly because it doesn’t use nitrogen fertilizers. And it emits 40% less greenhouse gases because organic farmers practice crop rotation, use cover crops and composting, and eliminate fossil fuel-based inputs. The vast majority of organic farms are small or midsized, both in terms of gross sales and acreage. Organic farmers are younger on average than conventional farmers . Starting small makes sense for beginning farmers, and organic price premiums allow them to survive on smaller plots of land. But first they need to go through a tough three-year transition period to cleanse the land. During this time they are ineligible to label products as organic, but must follow organic standards, including forgoing use of harmful chemicals and learning how to manage ecosystem processes. This typically results in short-term yield declines. Many farmers fail along the way. The transition period is just one of many challenges for organic farmers . Greater federal government support could help. In a recent report, Arizona State University’s Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems , which I direct, identified actions the Biden administration can take within existing budgets and laws to realize the untapped promise of organic agriculture . Current USDA assistance for organic producers is paltry, especially given the billions of dollars that the agency spends annually in support of agriculture. Two-thirds of farm subsidy dollars go to the top 10% richest farms . Our report recommends dedicating 6% of USDA spending to supporting the organic sector, a figure that reflects its market share. As an example, in 2020 the agency spent about $55 million on research directly pertinent to organic agriculture within its $3.6 billion Research, Education and Economics mission area. A 6% share of that budget would be $218 million for developing things like better ways of controlling pests by using natural predators instead of chemical pesticides. Organic food’s higher price includes costs associated with practices like forgoing use of harmful pesticides and improving animal welfare. A growing number of food systems scholars and practitioners are calling for use of a methodology called True Cost Accounting , which they believe reveals the full costs and benefits of food production. According to an analysis by the Rockefeller Foundation, American consumers spend $1.1 trillion yearly on food, but the true cost of that food is $3.2 trillion when all impacts like water pollution and farmworker health are factored in. Looked at through a True Cost Accounting lens, I see organic as a good deal. By Kathleen Merrigan , Executive Director, Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems from the Arizona State University. Special thanks to The Conversation

Zadig & Voltaire is partnering with @Fiorella.USA for an exclusive in-store customization experience. Guests will have the opportunity to design their own custom bag charms, adding a bold and personal touch to their favorite Zadig accessories. Blending Fiorella’s distinctive artistic style with Zadig & Voltaire’s edgy Parisian aesthetic, this collaboration offers a unique way to showcase individual expression through standout details. DATE: Saturday, June 7, 2025 TIME: 1PM - 6PM ADDRESS: Zadig & Voltaire 102 NE 40th St. Miami FL, 33137 ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of MDD

Casa Luna, located at 575 Hibiscus Lane in Miami, has sold for $9.6 million, setting a record in price per square foot for a non-waterfront home in the Bay Point community at approximately $2,433 per square foot. The transaction signals a notable shift in Miami’s luxury market, where non-waterfront properties in prime gated enclaves are beginning to achieve pricing levels historically reserved for premier waterfront homes and highly sought-after communities such as Sunset Islands in Miami Beach. The property is expected to be repositioned or remodeled to align with today’s luxury standards — a strategic sale led by Ana Teresa Rodriguez, founder and CEO of ATR Luxury Homes Group at Coldwell Banker Realty, alongside Claudia Aros, the property’s owner and co-listing agent. Originally acquired by the seller for approximately $2.7 million in 2018, the property has since appreciated significantly over an eight-year period, reflecting both the broader growth of Miami’s luxury market and the increasing recognition of Bay Point as a uniquely positioned enclave. A private guard-gated community adjacent to the Design District and in close proximity to Miami Shores, Bay Point is also near premier private schools including The Cushman School, Centner Academy, and Miami Country Day, factors that continue to attract a new wave of residents seeking privacy, location, and long-term value. Historically, non-waterfront homes in Bay Point have traded at a discount compared to waterfront properties, with prior sales averaging closer to $1,800 per square foot. This transaction narrows that gap, signaling a shift in how inland properties are being valued within the community. At approximately $2,433 per square foot, the sale places the property alongside top-tier transactions in enclaves such as Sunset Islands, positioning Bay Point as one of Miami’s most competitive luxury markets. Located within Bay Point, one of Miami’s most exclusive private guard-gated communities, the transaction further reinforces the area’s positioning among the city’s most competitive luxury enclaves. “This record sale reflects a clear understanding of where Miami’s luxury market is heading. Today’s buyers are placing a premium on location, privacy, and long-term value, and when a property is positioned correctly, it can achieve results at the highest level,” said Rodriguez. The closing of Casa Luna reflects continued momentum for ATR Luxury Homes Group in 2026, as demand for well-positioned properties across South Florida’s luxury market remains strong. By ML Staff. Photo/Casa Luna.

Developer 280 E Palmetto Park Road LLC's Glass House Boca Raton, the first modern glass building in downtown Boca Raton, and the Boca Raton Museum of Art are pleased to announce today a new cultural partnership rooted in a shared commitment to the arts and community in Boca Raton. As part of the agreement, Glass House Boca Raton residents will receive a complimentary Director Circle membership, an extension of the Museum's prestigious Visionary Circle tier. Director Circle members are part of a distinguished group that enjoys a deeper, more personal connection to the Museum and its leadership. The membership grants exclusive access to curated events and premium experiences, creating meaningful opportunities to engage more fully with arts and culture in Boca Raton. Among the benefits of the Director Circle membership is a private, behind-the-scenes tour led by the Museum's Director or Chief Curator, offering Glass House Boca Raton residents a closer look at the collection, exhibitions, and the vision that brings them to life. The offering complements Glass House Boca Raton's own Visionary Circle residential lifestyle program, which connects residents to the best of what Boca Raton has to offer. “We are thrilled to have teamed up with Glass House Boca Raton in what we believe can become a new model of cultural partnership," said Dr. Ena Heller, Director & CEO at the Boca Raton Museum of Art. "This collaboration reflects our mission to bring art and culture to the forefront of life in our community.” The Boca Raton Museum of Art and Glass House Boca Raton will also collaborate on an Art in Public Places initiative, extending the Museum’s presence beyond its walls through curated installations, rotating works and site-specific experiences within the Glass House Boca Raton community, bringing art into everyday residential life in downtown Boca Raton. Additional details about the initiative will be announced as the partnership develops. "Glass House Boca Raton was designed to offer residents not just a home, but an elevated way of life," said Noam Ziv, CEO and partner of 280 E Palmetto Park Road, LLC. "Our partnership with the Boca Raton Museum of Art is a natural extension of that vision, connecting our residents to the cultural life of this city." Together, the partnership brings art and everyday living into closer connection in downtown Boca Raton. Glass House Boca Raton is a boutique nine-story development with a rooftop oasis on the tenth level, offering 28 gracious two- to four-bedroom residences in the heart of downtown Boca Raton. Designed by acclaimed West Palm Beach architecture firm garciastromberg and developed by 280 E Palmetto Park Road, LLC, the building is scheduled for completion in Q4 2027. Douglas Elliman Development Marketing serves as the exclusive sales and marketing team. Pricing ranges from $2.7 million to over $8 million. The sales gallery is located at 221 E Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, FL 33432. For more information, call 561-232-2644 or visit glasshouseboca.com. By ML Staff. Photos/Glass House Boca Raton.