This issue leads with Michael Kors  and his Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Earthy Elegance . Shown in New York and available in Miami boutiques, the collection focuses on soft tailoring, fluid draping, and polished ease that defines modern American luxury. Clive Christian’s Original No. 1 Perfume. Photo/Clive Christian STYLE & BEAUTY   Beyond Kors, we spotlight the latest collections from Armani , Gucci , Dolce & Gabbana , and Moschino . To complete the look, we turn to fragrance, featuring refined scents from Acqua di Parma  and Clive Christian . The Joan Collection by Poliform. Photo/Poliform HOME & REAL ESTATE   We explore design collections from Poliform , Henge , Fendi Casa , and Tiffany Home , alongside decorative surfaces by Casamonte . On the real estate side, we share insights into Miami property care through Omnio Home Concierge , highlighting the  Icon Brickell Sky Mansion  by Lourdes Alatriste , Viceroy Brickell Residences , and sophisticated pools by Diamond Spas . Taylor Fritz, the world’s No. 7 tennis player, to compete at the 2026 Miami Open. Photo/Taylor Fritz’s Instagram TRAVEL & EVENTS   At the Miami Open , we spoke with top players including Jannik Sinner , Taylor Fritz , Ben Shelton , Frances Tiafoe , and Jakub Menšík , the 2025 champion, along with Coco Gauff , Amanda Anisimova , Paula Badosa  and Tatjana Maria . We also travel to Argentina, from dining at Casa Cavia  in Buenos Aires to exploring the vineyards of Mendoza , before heading stateside for a closer look at Aman Miami Beach  and Sofitel Los Angeles  at Beverly Hills. And closer to home, don’t miss the South Florida Travel & Adventure Show on February 28, bringing travel inspiration right to South Florida. Daisy Kelliher is best known as the chief stew on Below Deck Sailing Yacht. Photo/Sarah Krick PEOPLE & CULTURE   We feature conversations with Daisy Kelliher  and Ice-T , and take a closer look at the creative work of Brandusa Niro , Raf Simons , and Stanek Gallery . Grace Surgical Arts. Photo/Oliver Johnson, Unsplash HEALTH & INSIGHTS   We close with practical guidance, featuring personalized aesthetic treatments from Grace Surgical Arts  and key updates on Florida Employment Law, with expert advice from The Campbell Law Group P.A . , to help professionals prepare for the year ahead. As always, thank you for being part of Miami Living!   Miami Living Team Cover Photo: Courtesy of Michael Kors. Michael Kors S/S 2026 collection Earthy Elegance, worn by Mica Argañaraz. Photography: Inez van Lamsweerde & Vinoodh Matadin. Shop at michaelkors.com .

Vertical Aerospace  is bringing its new electric aircraft, Valo, to Miami for a public display. The aircraft will be available for viewing at the Bass Museum in Collins Park on February 24 and 25. The showcase coincides with the iConnections capital introduction event. Valo is designed to modernize urban and intercity travel. The electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft can fly up to 100 miles at speeds reaching 150 mph. It features a cabin for four passengers with space for luggage and pets. The company is also developing a hybrid electric version capable of flying up to 1,000 miles. Vertical Aerospace is collaborating with infrastructure partners to establish a network of flight routes across South Florida. Proposed routes aim to bypass heavy traffic congestion. For example, a flight from Miami to Palm Beach would take approximately 36 minutes. Other planned connections include a nine minute flight from Opa Locka to Watson Island, a 23 minute trip from Boca Raton to Watson Island, and a 13 minute connection between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava noted that the region's busy general aviation airports make it an ideal launch site for advanced air mobility. Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, highlighted that the aircraft offers a new way to experience Miami by turning time lost in traffic into time gained. The public can view the Valo aircraft at The Bass Museum of Art on Tuesday, February 24 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Wednesday, February 25 from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm. By ML Staff. Photos: Vertical Aerospace.

The Taste of Tennis Miami  event series is returning to Miami on March 16, 2026. The gathering will take place at Hutong Miami  in Brickell from 7 pm to 10 pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to mingle with tennis players, industry insiders, and celebrities while experiencing premium hospitality. Aqua Restaurant Group  is serving as the official venue host following a similar event in New York. Founder David Yeo noted that the collaboration aligns with the company's focus on the intersection of culture, sport, and community. Miami native DJ Irie  will host the evening. The event will feature Northern Chinese cuisine, including a signature Peking Duck, alongside activations from sponsors such as BOSS, Segafredo, Maestro Dobel Tequila, Clos du Bois, and VOSS. Organizers will share the confirmed player attendance list via social media leading up to the event. Past participants have included athletes like Venus and Serena Williams, Alexander Zverev, and Iga Swiatek. Tickets are currently available for $250 plus fees. By ML Staff. Photos: Taste of Tennis.

The London-based nonprofit Delfina Foundation  has partnered with the Jorge M. Pérez Collection and El Espacio 23  to launch a new residency initiative. Jorge M. and Darlene Pérez are funding the program, which will offer four fully funded artist residencies over the next two years. Photo: Manuel Alvarado The initiative prioritizes artists from Latin American and Caribbean countries who are underrepresented in recent Delfina Foundation programs, as well as artists from related diaspora communities in the United States. The selected artists will complete twelve-week residencies in London. They will engage with the UK cultural landscape through research, dialogue, and professional exchange. Applications for the first two residencies, scheduled for autumn 2026 and winter 2027, opened on February 18, 2026 . The foundation will announce the selected artists in late March. A subsequent open call will follow for the remaining two opportunities. Photo: Maxwell Alexandre Jorge M. Pérez, founder of El Espacio 23, stated the initiative reflects a commitment to expanding global opportunities for artists from Latin America and the Caribbean. Aaron Cezar, Director of the Delfina Foundation, noted the partnership allows the organization to focus on international exchange while securing the foundation's future. In addition to the residency, artists will receive mentoring from curators connected to the Jorge M. Pérez Collection and El Espacio 23. Located in Miami, El Espacio 23 is an art space that houses apartments and workspaces for visiting artists and curators. Photo: Anne Tetzlaff This initiative continues the Pérez family's support for international cultural institutions. They recently established an endowment at Tate Modern in London to support curatorial research on African and Latin American art, alongside the donation of a painting by American artist Joan Mitchell. By ML Staff.

Swiss watchmaking workshop Artisans de Genève  revealed the Agassi Challenge , a custom watch project created with tennis player Andre Agassi. Commissioned by a private client and developed at Agassi's request, the timepiece focuses on performance and comfort. Agassi requested a light and durable watch to wear while in motion. Artisans de Genève designed and handcrafted a new 40-millimeter titanium case exclusively for him. The orange, pink, and black color palette draws inspiration from Agassi's sneakers from the 1990s. The project marks the first time the workshop developed a case entirely in-house. Artisans used a vintage Schaublin 102 lathe from the 1950s to machine the titanium case. A Titalyt treatment improves wear resistance and provides an anthracite finish. The watch features a metallized sapphire dial with a color gradient, an orange and pink chronograph pointer, and a custom tungsten rotor bearing Agassi’s initial. Agassi noted that he wanted a watch he would not even notice while on the court to avoid distractions. Artisans de Genève hosted a celebration at the Hudson River Tennis Club to unveil the watch. Attendees included Georgia Benjamin, Trang Trinh, Krissy Jones, Brynn Wallner, Scarr Pimentel, Will Kahn, Julia Azeroual, Scott Pask, Woldy Reyes, and Tara Thomas. The event began with a tennis exhibition. Following the match, filmmaker Spike Lee moderated a conversation between Agassi and Artisans de Genève founder John Isaac. The evening concluded with cocktails and food from Scarr’s Pizza. By ML Staff. Event photos courtesy of Sancho Scott. Watch Images/Artisans de Genève.

The Alhambra Orchestra  is hosting its "Spring Serenade" concert on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. The performance will take place at the Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 3010 De Soto Boulevard in Coral Gables. The chamber music event is free to the public and does not require tickets. The program features the original small ensemble version of Aaron Copland's "Appalachian Spring." Pianist Ciro Fodere and violinist Daniel Andai will join the orchestra to perform Felix Mendelssohn's Concerto for Violin and Piano. In addition, orchestra members will present Edward Elgar's "Serenade for Strings" and "Nimrod." The wind section and principal flutist Carol Naveira Nicholson will also perform an arrangement of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "The Magic Flute." The Alhambra Orchestra serves as Miami's community orchestra, providing classical music performances in local venues. For questions or special accommodations, attendees can contact the organization at 305-668-9260. By ML Staff. Photos: Alhambra Orchestra.

Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions  announced that the reserve has been met and bidding is now open at $7 million for a tri-level penthouse in Miami's Brickell Flatiron building. Originally listed for $14.9 million in cooperation with Jonathan Garcia and Elena C. Bluntzer of ONE Sotheby’s International Realty , the auction will conclude live on February 28. The live auction takes place during ModaMiami at The Biltmore Hotel Miami in Coral Gables. Returning for its second year, the event is held in partnership with RM Sotheby's  and features real estate alongside collectible automobiles. Following the live event, online bidding will continue throughout March. The penthouse sits at the top of the Brickell Flatiron tower, offering 200-degree views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay. A private elevator provides access to the residence, which includes over 2,700 square feet of wraparound terraces spanning all three levels. The open-plan layout features floor-to-ceiling impact glass and a private rooftop space complete with a pool and an entertainment terrace. Completed in 2020, the Brickell Flatiron building provides residents with a fitness center, pool, spa, clubhouse, and business center. The penthouse unit includes five assigned parking spaces, valet service, 24-hour security, and secured elevator access. Chad Roffers, CEO and Co-Founder of Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions, noted that the property aligns well with ModaMiami’s focus on luxury real estate and automobiles. Jonathan Garcia added that the auction platform allows global buyers to experience the design and scale of the residence. As part of Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions' Key For Key giving program in partnership with Giveback Homes, the closing of this property will result in funding toward new homes built for families in need. By ML Staff. Photos: Lux Media Group and Carol Villela.

Image by DepositPhotos Luxury watches have long represented more than just a way to tell time. They embody heritage, precision engineering, and timeless style, objects where artistry meets mechanics in a form that can be worn, passed down, and even appreciated. For collectors and enthusiasts seeking high-end models, browsing curated selections such as these exceptional Rolex watches  offers insight into what makes certain timepieces enduring symbols of refinement and long-term value. In an age of smart devices and fleeting trends, mechanical luxury watches remain globally respected, not for their connectivity, but for their permanence, craftsmanship, and quiet confidence. This enduring appeal rests on four pillars: centuries-old Swiss watchmaking tradition, uncompromising engineering, cultural symbolism, and tangible investment potential. Together, they explain why a well-chosen timepiece remains one of the most meaningful acquisitions a person can make. The Heritage Behind Iconic Swiss Watchmaking The roots of modern luxury watchmaking trace back to 16th-century Geneva, where Huguenot craftsmen laid the foundation for what would become the global standard in horological excellence. Over centuries, Swiss watchmakers refined techniques like hand-finishing, guilloché dials, and intricate complications (e.g., perpetual calendars, chronographs), turning timekeeping into a high art. Originally designed as functional tools, aviator’s chronographs, diver’s watches, military, field pieces, these instruments gradually evolved into emblems of success. Brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Jaeger-LeCoultre earned trust through reliability, then prestige through exclusivity. Today, heritage matters because it signals continuity: a brand that has survived wars, economic shifts, and technological disruption has proven its commitment to quality over expediency. Moreover, Swiss-made watches must meet strict legal criteria: movement assembly, casing, and final inspection must occur in Switzerland, and the movement must be of Swiss origin. Many also pursue COSC certification (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres), ensuring accuracy within -4/+6 seconds per day – a testament to relentless precision. Image by DepositPhotos Engineering Excellence: What Sets These Watches Apart In-House Movements and Precision Mechanics Unlike mass-produced quartz watches powered by batteries, luxury mechanical timepieces rely on hundreds of tiny components working in harmony. The best brands design and manufacture their own movements (“in-house calibers”), allowing total control over performance, aesthetics, and innovation. These self-winding (automatic) or manual-wind mechanisms are built to last decades, even generations, with proper care. Their durability isn’t just about longevity; it’s about consistency. A COSC-certified chronometer, for example, maintains accuracy under varying temperatures and positions, proving its reliability in real-world conditions. Materials and Innovation Luxury watches use only the finest materials: 904L stainless steel (used by Rolex), which is more corrosion-resistant and takes a higher polish than standard 316L steel 18k gold or platinum for cases and bracelets, often alloyed in-house for unique hues Sapphire crystals, nearly scratch-proof and treated with anti-reflective coatings Advanced water resistance systems, including screw-down crowns and gaskets tested to extreme depths Innovation continues quietly: Rolex’s Parachrom hairspring resists magnetic fields and temperature changes; Omega’s Co-Axial escapement reduces friction and servicing needs. These aren’t marketing gimmicks, they’re engineering solutions that enhance real-world performance. A Symbol of Achievement and Personal Milestones Few accessories carry the same cultural weight as a luxury watch. From James Bond’s Omega Seamaster to Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona, timepieces have marked pivotal moments in history and personal life alike. They are frequently gifted to commemorate promotions, retirements, anniversaries, or academic achievements, not as flashy displays, but as understated acknowledgments of hard-earned success. This symbolism transcends borders. In Asia, Europe, and the Americas, a fine watch signals discipline, taste, and long-term thinking. It’s not worn to impress, but to reflect an internal standard, one that values patience, precision, and legacy. The Investment Perspective: Are Luxury Watches a Smart Asset? While not all luxury watches appreciate, select models have demonstrated remarkable value retention, and even growth. According to the Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index , rare Rolex and Patek Philippe models have outperformed gold, art, and classic cars over the past decade. Key factors driving this include: Limited production: Brands intentionally restrict supply to maintain exclusivity Strong secondary market: Platforms like Chrono24 and authorized dealers create liquidity Brand discipline: Few luxury houses discount or overproduce, preserving perceived value That said, watches should first be purchased for passion. Investment potential is a bonus, not a guarantee, and depends heavily on model rarity, condition, and original documentation. How to Choose the Right Model Consider Your Lifestyle Sport models (e.g., Rolex Submariner, Omega Speedmaster) suit active wearers and daily use Dress watches (e.g., Patek Calatrava, Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin) excel in formal settings Size, Fit, and Aesthetic Preferences Case diameters have trended larger (40–42mm), but classic sizes (36–39mm) are returning. Try watches in person: a 41mm case may feel oversized on a slender wrist. Also consider bracelet comfort, Oyster vs. Jubilee, leather vs. rubber—as this affects daily enjoyment. Long-Term Value vs Personal Enjoyment If you love a watch, you’ll wear it, and wearing it preserves its spirit. Don’t chase “investment” models you don’t connect with. The best timepieces balance emotional resonance with enduring design. Image by DepositPhotos Caring for a High-End Mechanical Watch To maintain performance and value: Service every 5–10 years by an authorized technician Store in a dry, cool place away from magnets and direct sunlight Wind manually if not worn regularly (for automatics, use a watch winder) Keep original boxes, papers, and warranty cards – these significantly boost resale value A well-maintained watch can function flawlessly for over a century, as many vintage pieces prove. Why Demand Remains Strong in 2026 and Beyond Despite digital alternatives, demand for mechanical luxury watches continues to grow, especially among younger buyers who value authenticity, sustainability, and tangible assets. Brands are responding with restrained production, heritage-inspired designs, and transparent storytelling. Crucially, these timepieces appeal across generations: a grandfather’s Datejust can become a grandson’s first luxury purchase, carrying stories and standards forward. In a disposable world, that continuity is priceless. Conclusion Luxury timepieces endure not because they tell time better than a phone, but because they tell a deeper story, of human ingenuity, disciplined craftsmanship, and personal journey. Whether chosen for their engineering brilliance, emotional significance, or long-term value, they represent a rare fusion of art and function. In a thoughtful purchase, guided by taste, research, and respect for tradition, a luxury watch becomes more than an accessory. It becomes a companion for life, and perhaps, for lifetimes. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of DepositPhotos

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the beauty industry, offering people unprecedented levels of personalization, precision, and convenience. From tailored product recommendations to AI-powered skin analysis and virtual try-on technologies, beauty brands are using machine learning and computer vision to redefine how people discover, evaluate, and purchase cosmetics and skincare. As these innovations become mainstream and increasingly popular, they promise to enhance user satisfaction and democratize access to expert-level care that wouldn’t be as easily accessible otherwise. But in doing so, AI within the beauty industry raises important questions about mental health, self-perception, and the ethics of digital beauty. Hyper-personalized product Recommendations One of the most impactful uses of AI in beauty is its ability to deliver hyper-personalized product suggestions. By analyzing data such as skin type, tone, age, lifestyle, and even environmental factors like humidity or pollution in the area you’re in, AI algorithms can recommend products that are uniquely suited to an individual’s needs. Brands like Proven Skincare and Function of Beauty use AI to create custom formulations based on user-submitted quizzes and skin profiles. These systems often rely on natural language processing  (NLP) and predictive analytics to interpret consumer preferences and behaviors. For example, AI can track purchase history, browsing patterns, and product reviews to refine recommendations over time. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also reduces product waste and returns, an important consideration in an industry increasingly focused on sustainability. Skin Analysis and Diagnostic Tools AI-driven skin analysis tools are changing how consumers understand and care for their skin. Using computer vision and deep learning, these tools can assess high-resolution images to detect issues like acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and dehydration. Platforms like Neutrogena Skin360 and Haut.AI offer mobile apps that scan users’ faces and provide detailed insights, often accompanied by tailored product suggestions. These technologies mimic the expertise of dermatologists, making skin diagnostics more accessible to people who may not have regular access to professional care. Some systems even track changes over time, helping users monitor progress and adjust their routines accordingly. This data-driven approach gives consumers the opportunity to make informed decisions and gain a deeper understanding of their skin’s unique needs.  Virtual Try-Ons and Augmented Reality  Virtual try-on technology is another area where AI is making waves. Using augmented reality (AR) and facial recognition, consumers can “try on” makeup products like lipstick, eyeshadow, and foundation in real time using their smartphones or in-store kiosks. Brands such as L’Oréal, Sephora, and MAC have integrated these features into their apps and websites, allowing users to experiment with different looks without physical application. This innovation enhances the shopping experience by reducing guesswork and boosting confidence in purchasing decisions. It also opens up creative possibilities, enabling users to explore bold styles or seasonal trends without commitment. As AR and AI continue to evolve, virtual try-ons are expected to become even more realistic and interactive, potentially incorporating voice commands or gesture-based controls. The Future of AI in Beauty  The future of AI in beauty is poised to be even more immersive, intelligent, and inclusive. Innovations on the horizon include AI-generated formulations, real-time skin health monitoring, and even virtual beauty advisors powered by conversational AI. Generative AI is also being explored for content creation, helping brands produce personalized marketing materials, tutorials, and influencer-style videos tailored to individual users. This could redefine brand-consumer relationships, making beauty experiences more interactive and emotionally resonant on online platforms.  AI is expected to play a role in ethical sourcing and product transparency. By analyzing supply chain data and ingredient profiles, AI can help consumers make choices aligned with their personal values and ethical needs, whether that’s cruelty-free, vegan, or environmentally sustainable products. Mental Health Implications  While AI offers exciting possibilities, it also introduces complex challenges related to mental health and self-image. Hyper-personalization and virtual enhancements can blur the line between reality and aspiration, potentially reinforcing unrealistic beauty standards that damage one's self-image. When users see AI-enhanced versions of themselves or receive constant feedback about perceived flaws, it may lead to increased self-criticism or anxiety. Virtual try-ons, while empowering in many ways, can also contribute to appearance-based comparison and digital dysmorphia, especially among younger users. The pressure to look “perfect” in both real and virtual spaces may exacerbate body image issues and reduce self-esteem. If body dysmorphia issues are something that is persistently becoming an issue for your body image and general well-being, consulting with a professional trained via online PMHNP programs  may be the best way to get the support you need, and work together to lessen the mental load that comes with body image issues.  On the flip side, AI can also be a tool for empowerment. Personalized recommendations and skin diagnostics can help users feel more in control of their beauty routines and more confident in their appearance, knowing that they’re getting individualized attention and help.  For individuals with skin conditions or sensitivities, AI can offer targeted solutions that improve quality of life and reduce the frustration that comes with trial-and-error in finding what products work best for you. To mitigate risks, brands must prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and mental health awareness. Collaborations with mental health professionals and advocacy groups can also help ensure that AI-driven beauty tools support, not undermine, emotional well-being.  Conclusion AI is reshaping the beauty industry in profound ways, offering consumers smarter, more personalized, and more engaging experiences.  From skin analysis to virtual try-ons, these technologies are enhancing how people interact with products and care for themselves. As the industry continues to innovate, the focus must remain on ethical design, inclusivity, and mental health.  By balancing technological advancement with human-centered values, AI can help redefine beauty as something deeply personal, empowering, and emotionally enriching. By ML Staff

Over the past five years, a new form of online entertainment quietly became one of the fastest-growing segments of gaming in the United States. Sweepstakes casinos — platforms offering slots, poker, blackjack, and other casino-style games through a promotional model — attracted an estimated 50 million American players before a wave of state-level bans reshaped the landscape in 2025. Now, as several major states shut their doors to the industry, Florida has emerged as one of the most significant markets still standing. For South Florida residents, that shift is worth understanding. Image by DepositPhotos How the Model Works Sweepstakes casinos operate on a dual-currency system that distinguishes them from traditional online gambling. Players purchase "gold coins" for entertainment purposes. Alongside that purchase, they receive "sweeps coins" for free. Those sweeps coins can be used to play games and, when accumulated, redeemed for real cash prizes. The legal framework rests on the principle that no purchase is necessary to participate. Free mail-in entries and alternative methods of obtaining sweeps coins allow platforms to classify their offerings as promotional sweepstakes rather than gambling. This model allowed operators to function in most US states without obtaining gambling licenses, operating in what regulators and industry observers have long called a legal grey area. At their peak, platforms like Chumba Casino, WOW Vegas, Pulsz, McLuck, and dozens of others competed for players with sign-up bonuses, daily login rewards, and game libraries rivaling traditional online casinos. The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance , the industry's trade group, has advocated for regulated frameworks that would legitimize the model rather than eliminate it. The 2025 Crackdown The pushback arrived fast. California signed AB 831 into law last October, banning sweepstakes casinos effective January 1, 2026. The bill passed unanimously in both legislative chambers, driven by tribal gaming interests that argued the platforms undermined their exclusive compacts with the state. Connecticut, Montana, New Jersey, and Washington followed with their own restrictions. New York's attorney general forced 26 platforms to shut down through cease-and-desist orders. According to the  American Gaming Association , industry analysts estimated that California's ban alone removed roughly 20 percent of the sweepstakes industry's US revenue overnight. With nearly one-fifth of the American population now living in states that have banned or restricted the model, the market has contracted significantly. But it has not disappeared. Florida's Position Florida is now one of the largest states where sweepstakes casinos continue to operate without specific prohibition. Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania also remain open, but Florida's combination of population, tourism volume, and gaming culture gives it outsized significance for the industry. The state's relationship with gaming has always been complicated. The Seminole Tribe holds exclusive rights to most forms of casino gambling under its compact with the state, and the 2021 Seminole Gaming Compact expanded those rights to include online sports betting — a provision that has faced its own legal challenges. But sweepstakes casinos, operating under federal promotional sweepstakes law rather than state gambling statutes, have so far avoided the regulatory conflicts that brought them down in California. That does not mean the status quo is guaranteed. Florida legislators have introduced gaming-related bills in recent sessions, and the national momentum toward restriction creates pressure that could eventually reach Tallahassee. For now, though, the platforms remain accessible to Florida residents, and Miami's position as a hub for entertainment, tech, and tourism makes it a natural center of gravity for an industry looking for stable ground. What It Means for Players Image by DepositPhotos For South Florida residents who use or are curious about sweepstakes casinos, staying informed has become more important than it was a year ago. The rules differ dramatically from state to state, and they are changing quickly. A platform that is legal to access in Miami may be banned in the state you are traveling to next month. Sweepstakes news  coverage has expanded as the regulatory picture has grown more complex. Dedicated tracking sites now monitor which platforms operate in which states, how individual operators are responding to new legislation, and what pending bills could change access in the near future. For players who split time between Florida and other states — a common pattern in South Florida — that kind of real-time information is genuinely useful. The distinction between sweepstakes casinos and traditional online gambling also matters for understanding what protections exist. Sweepstakes platforms are not regulated by state gaming commissions in the same way licensed casinos are. Players should be aware that dispute resolution, responsible gaming tools, and financial protections vary significantly between platforms. Reading independent reviews and checking a platform's licensing and operational history before playing is a practical step that too few people take. The Bigger Picture The sweepstakes casino story is really a story about how quickly the American gaming landscape is evolving. A decade ago, online casino gaming of any kind was restricted to a handful of states. Five years ago, sweepstakes casinos had found a model that worked almost everywhere. Today, the patchwork of state laws creates a fragmented market where geography determines access. For Miami — a city built on entertainment, nightlife, and an appetite for the next thing — the sweepstakes conversation fits naturally into a broader question about how Americans play, how states regulate, and how the tension between consumer demand and political interests shapes what is available. Whether Florida will eventually follow California's lead or chart its own path toward regulated sweepstakes gaming remains to be seen. The Seminole Tribe's influence, the state's tourism economy, and the sheer scale of the Florida market will all play a role in that outcome. What is clear is that the days of sweepstakes casinos operating in a quiet grey area are over. The industry is now firmly in the spotlight, and the decisions being made in state capitals across the country will determine what comes next. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of DepositPhotos

Experience life at the top in this Icon Brickell penthouse, offering over 4,500 sq. ft. of luxurious living with 280-degree panoramic views of Miami’s skyline and Biscayne Bay. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls and two enclosed private terraces add an extra 1,500 sq. ft. of outdoor space, perfect for dining, entertaining, or simply taking in the view. Exclusively represented by luxury real estate expert Lourdes Alatriste from Douglas Elliman Real Estate (www.elliman.com), this extraordinary residence reflects the highest level of sophistication and global prestige. Located in one of Brickell’s most sought-after addresses, the penthouse offers direct access to Brickell City Centre, Mary Brickell Village, fine dining, luxury boutiques, and vibrant nightlife—making this a rare opportunity to own a landmark residence with expansive views. The exclusive penthouse features a beautifully designed kitchen featuring Florence cabinetry, Sub-Zero appliances, and Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, blending functionality with style. Five suites provide privacy and flexibility for residents and guests. 465 Brickell Ave Unit #PH5701, Miami, FL 33131 5 BD | 5F+2H BA | 4,770 SQFT | $14,999,000 About the Agent Recognized by The Wall Street Journal as one of the top sales agents worldwide, Lourdes Alatriste is a powerhouse in Miami’s luxury real estate market. With over $1 billion in career sales, Lourdes has built a stellar reputation for representing high-profile clients, including celebrities, CEOs, and influencers, who trust her expertise time and again. Lourdes’ unparalleled network spans Europe, Mexico, South America, and the Hamptons, driven by her exceptional work ethic, encyclopedic market knowledge, and unwavering dedication to her clients. She leverages the global strength of Douglas Elliman Real Estate to provide unmatched reach across 60+ countries, setting her apart as the premier choice for South Florida’s high-end luxury market. Connect with Lourdes Website: ourdesalatristemiami.com Instagram: @lourdesalatriste By ML staff. Images courtesy of Icon Brickell penthouse and Lourdes Alatriste.

Clive Christian’s No1 Feminine from the Original Collection has maintained its status as one of the brand’s most recognizable fragrances, known for its intricate composition and use of rare ingredients. The floral-amber perfume opens with bright notes of mirabelle plum, white peach, and bergamot before moving into a floral heart of jasmine, carnation, and rose. As it dries down, the scent settles into a warm base of Madagascan vanilla, musk, amber, and tonka bean, giving it both longevity and depth. Built from a complex formula of 248 components, No1 Feminine reflects Clive Christian’s emphasis on traditional craftsmanship and layered scent development. Learn more at us.clivechristian.com . Christian fragrances can be purchased at the following Miami locations: Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus Coral Gables . By ML Staff. Photo/Clive Christian