VISU Contemporary presents Vanishing Act , an exhibition by internationally acclaimed photographer David LaChapelle , on view now through January 31, 2026, in Miami Beach. The exhibition brings together more than 30 significant works from across LaChapelle’s four-decade career, including the world premiere of nine new photographs. Curated by VISU Contemporary founder Bruce Halpryn, Vanishing Act explores the accelerating pace of modern life and the tension between beauty and collapse, artifice and authenticity. The exhibition combines landmark images with newly created works that reflect the growing urgency of LaChapelle’s social, environmental, and spiritual concerns. Among the premieres is Will the World End in Fire, Will the World End in Ice (2025), which revisits themes LaChapelle has developed over decades, examining the fragile boundary between nature and civilization. The work follows earlier series such as Gas, Land SCAPE, and Spree, in which abandoned symbols of consumption are overtaken by natural forces. The new image depicts a familiar cruise ship motif under an ominous sun, extending LaChapelle’s visual narrative of environmental reckoning. Another newly expanded body of work, Negative Currency (1990–2025), transforms global banknotes into luminous, negative images that resemble gemstones rather than instruments of commerce. Recent additions include currencies from Cuba, Venezuela, and North Korea, continuing LaChapelle’s investigation into value, power, and symbolism. The exhibition also includes Tower of Babel (2024), a contemporary reinterpretation of the biblical story of fragmentation and miscommunication, set against a digitally rendered Los Angeles skyline. Spirituality remains a central theme throughout the show, appearing in works such as Annunciation, Our Lady of the Flowers, and The Sorrows, where traditional religious iconography is reframed through a modern lens Selections from LaChapelle’s earlier series will also be on view, including Earth Laughs in Flowers, Gas, Biombos, and For Men Will Be Lovers of Self, highlighting the evolution of his photographic language and recurring interest in faith, vanity, mortality, and transcendence. VISU Contemporary is located in Miami Beach and will host public viewing throughout the exhibition run. By ML Staff. Photos: David LaChapelle, Piero J. Filipi .

The Miami International Piano Festival Academy (MIPFA) is holding its fourth annual winter residency in Miami Beach from January 6 through January 12, 2026, bringing together emerging pianists from around the world and internationally recognized faculty for an immersive week of study, performance, and public engagement. Supported by funding from the City of Miami Beach and hosted in partnership with the Cadet Hotel, the Academy welcomes up to 22 advanced piano students for an intensive residency focused on artistic development and mentorship. Participants live and study on site while working closely with leading classical keyboard artists. All public lectures and concerts are offered free of charge as part of the Academy’s commitment to community access. Evening recitals take place nightly at the Miami Beach Woman’s Club, located at 2401 Pine Tree Drive, within walking distance of the Cadet Hotel. The residency will also be documented through concert recordings and a forthcoming documentary film, with content made available online to a global audience. The winter academy was inspired by the Festival’s long-running summer program in Italy and brought to Miami Beach through the vision of Dr. Vilma Biaggi, a board member and longtime supporter of the Festival. The program emphasizes artistic retreat, cultural exchange, and the shared experience of music as a communal force. Concert Series Highlights Seven evening recitals are scheduled at 7:00 p.m. at the Miami Beach Woman’s Club, featuring faculty artists performing repertoire spanning Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, Brahms, Liszt, Ravel, Debussy, and Rachmaninov. The featured performers include: Ariel Lanyi (Israel) – January 6 Julien Libeer (Belgium) – January 7 Ilya Itin (Russia) – January 8 Stephen Beus (USA) – January 9 Albert Cano Smit (Spain) – January 10 On January 11, the series expands beyond Miami Beach with a Two Piano Extravaganza at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, featuring Kemal Gekic and Kristina Miller. Complimentary transportation is provided for attendees. The program concludes on January 12 with two student recitals showcasing selected Academy participants. Educational Mission and Global Reach In addition to performances, faculty members present daily lectures and presentations addressing piano technique, interpretation, and performance practice. These sessions are open to students and residents at no cost. The Academy is produced by Patrons of Exceptional Artists, a nonprofit organization dedicated for more than 25 years to identifying, mentoring, and promoting exceptionally talented pianists. The organization also oversees the broader Miami International Piano Festival, which operates both in Miami Beach and at the Gustav Mahler Cultural Center in Dobbiaco, Italy. Through its expanding digital platform, the Festival continues to archive and share concerts, lectures, and masterclasses worldwide, extending access to audiences beyond the concert hall and supporting the careers of young artists on the international stage. By ML Staff. Photos: The Miami International Piano Festival Academy.

A 33-year-old mother of three, Rachel Pedeaux, remains in a coma following a sudden cardiac arrest linked to an undiagnosed congenital heart condition, according to her family. The incident occurred the morning after Thanksgiving while Pedeaux was visiting her parents in South Florida after traveling from her home in New Orleans. Medical evaluations later revealed that Pedeaux has Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, a disorder affecting the heart’s electrical system that can go undetected for years. The cardiac arrest resulted in a severe hypoxic brain injury, leaving her unconscious for more than a month. Pedeaux was initially treated at South Miami Hospital and has since been transferred to Kindred Hospital in Coral Gables, a facility specializing in long-term acute care. Physicians are gradually reducing her reliance on a respirator, and her family recently shared that she has begun breathing on her own—an encouraging development in an otherwise uncertain recovery process. Although she remains unconscious, MRI imaging shows that some areas of her brain were not affected by the injury, offering cautious optimism. Doctors anticipate that her recovery, if possible, will require extensive neurological rehabilitation alongside continued cardiac treatment. Her parents, John and Maria Rodaz, founders of the Area Stage Theatre Company & Conservatory and well-known figures in Miami’s arts community, are spending extended time at her bedside while also caring for Pedeaux’s three young children. The financial impact of long-term medical care has been significant. To help offset treatment and recovery costs—many of which are not covered by insurance—a family friend has organized a GoFundMe campaign to support the Rodaz family and allow them to focus on Pedeaux’s care and her children’s needs. By sharing her story, the family hopes to raise awareness about congenital heart conditions that may remain undiagnosed until a life-threatening event occurs, emphasizing the importance of cardiac screening and early detection. By ML Staff. Photos: Courtesy of Rodaz Family.

Jenny McCarthy will appear in Florida this January to mark the national retail launch of Formless Beauty , her clean beauty brand now available at Sprouts Farmers Market locations nationwide. Formless Beauty is built around a minimalist approach to skincare and beauty, focusing on clean formulations, ingredient transparency, and functional performance. The line emphasizes products made without unnecessary additives, positioning itself within the growing demand for accessible, results-driven clean beauty. To coincide with the rollout, McCarthy is hosting two in-store pop-up events at Sprouts Farmers Market locations in Jacksonville and Miami. The appearances give shoppers an opportunity to meet McCarthy, explore the full Formless Beauty collection, and learn more about the brand’s development and philosophy directly from its founder. The first pop-up takes place on January 8 at the Sprouts Farmers Market in Jacksonville’s Town Center, followed by a Miami appearance on January 11 at the Sprouts location on Southwest 88th Street. Both events are open to the public during the scheduled times and are designed as informal meet-and-shop experiences. The Florida events reflect Formless Beauty’s broader expansion strategy, bringing founder engagement into retail spaces as the brand establishes its presence in health and wellness focused markets across the country. By ML Staff. Photo: Lynette McCarthy.

In a visual culture shaped by speed, saturation, and constant stimulation, Miami Shores–based artist Carlos Andrade offers a quieter proposition. His latest body of work, presented at CLAUG Creative Studio , examines color not as spectacle or statement, but as atmosphere—something meant to be lived with rather than simply observed. The series is composed of circular paintings built from precisely calibrated bands of color. Earthy ochres, softened greens, deep blues, and muted rose tones are layered with restraint and intention. These palettes are chosen for harmony rather than contrast, resulting in works that feel emotionally grounded while remaining visually calm. Rather than dominating a room, they integrate into it. Andrade approaches color as a companion to space. The paintings are designed to function both individually and collectively. Displayed as a group, they read as a cohesive chromatic system. Installed alone, they act as subtle anchors within an interior, shaping mood without demanding attention. The circular format plays a central role in this approach. By softening architectural lines, the works counterbalance rigid interiors and align naturally with contemporary design trends that favor warmth, texture, and emotional resonance over stark minimalism or visual excess. This body of work arrives at a moment when interiors are increasingly defined by organic materials and psychologically comforting environments. Andrade’s paintings resist immediacy. They are not meant to impress at first glance, but to unfold over time, rewarding prolonged engagement and repeated viewing. The series is currently on view at CLAUG Creative Studio and is available for purchase either as individual works or as a complete set. By ML Staff. Photos: CLAUG Creative Studio.

Galleria Fort Lauderdale is launching Get Fit 2026 , a complimentary weekly fitness series offering yoga, Pilates, and Zumba classes beginning January 17. The program is open to all ages and fitness levels and takes place every Saturday at 9 a.m. inside the mall near Swarovski. The series is presented in partnership with Powerhouse Gym and Be YogaFit Studio, providing an accessible, climate-controlled environment for community members looking to stay active or begin a new wellness routine. Classes rotate weekly, alternating between Zumba, yoga, and Pilates, and will continue through April 11. The opening class on January 17 features Zumba, followed by yoga on January 24 and Pilates on January 31. The rotation then repeats throughout the series. Instruction is led by three experienced fitness professionals: Beth Shaw, Sandra Fuller, and Pauline Case. Yoga sessions are led by Beth Shaw, founder and CEO of YogaFit Training Systems Worldwide, one of the world’s largest mind-body education organizations. Shaw is a longtime leader in the global wellness space and has trained more than 250,000 instructors worldwide. Her classes focus on restorative movement, stress reduction, and accessible wellness practices. Zumba classes are taught by Sandra Fuller, a certified instructor with more than eight years of experience. Her high-energy sessions emphasize rhythm, movement, and fun, with formats designed to be engaging and approachable for a wide range of participants. Pilates classes are led by Pauline Case, a South Florida–based fitness professional specializing in Pilates sculpt, strength training, barre, yoga, and breathwork. Her classes focus on mobility, posture, strength, and mindful movement, combining athletic conditioning with recovery-based practices. Registration is required in advance, and participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, towel, and water. Additional details about the fitness schedule and upcoming programming can be found through Galleria Fort Lauderdale. For updates and event highlights, Galleria Fort Lauderdale shares information on Instagram , Facebook , and X . By ML Staff. Photos: Galleria Fort Lauderdale.

The Little Lighthouse Foundation (LLF) held its 16th annual Holiday Toy Distribution on December 12 and 13, providing toys to thousands of children across South Florida. Supported by more than 500 volunteers, the two-day effort resulted in the distribution of over 16,000 toys to more than 8,000 children served through more than 100 partner facilities. The first day of the distribution took place on December 12 at Global Empowerment Mission, where volunteers organized and prepared toy pallets for pickup. Twenty-five partner organizations collected toys that were later delivered to more than 6,000 children as part of their holiday programming. On December 13, LLF hosted a large-scale community event at the Mana Wynwood Convention Center, welcoming more than 2,500 underserved children and their families. Volunteers distributed over 800 toys on site as part of a winter-themed experience designed to combine gift-giving with creative and social activities. Programming included a Santa’s Workshop organized by the Ladies of Little Lighthouse and The Kindest Kid, offering arts-and-crafts stations such as snowflake decorating, paper garland making, and handmade gifts. The event also featured photos with Santa, a sponsored photo booth, and music hosted by DJ M Dot, the official DJ of the Miami Heat and founder of the Dotted Line Foundation. Food and beverages were provided throughout the day by LLF’s culinary partners. Offerings included burgers from MEATZY, which supports LLF through its MEATZY Impact initiative, along with food and drinks from Joe’s Pizza, Pura Vida, and Starbucks. Beverages were supplied by Icelandic Glacial Water and LaCroix Sparkling Water. Remaining toys from the second day were delivered to children at additional LLF partner facilities following the event. Partner organizations supporting the 2025 Holiday Toy Distribution included Mana Wynwood Convention Center, Global Empowerment Mission, MEATZY, We The Best Foundation, LaCroix, The Ticket Clinic, Universal Property, Icelandic Glacial, Target, Starbucks, Kingdom Charitable Trust, The Kindest Kid, Ladies of Little Lighthouse, V2 Jets, Joe’s Pizza, AGI, Dotted Line Foundation, Pura Vida, and Sexy Fish. To stay connected with the Little Lighthouse Foundation and follow its ongoing community work, the organization can be found on Instagram , X , and Facebook , where it shares updates on programs, events, and impact. Those interested in supporting the foundation can also access donation and volunteer options directly through its official website, providing opportunities for individuals and organizations to contribute to initiatives serving children and families. By ML Staff. Photos: The Little Lighthouse Foundation.

USTA Florida will assume operations of the Crandon Park Tennis Center under a new agreement with Miami-Dade County, beginning January 16. The one-year permit allows the nonprofit organization to restore full operating hours and court availability while expanding access to public tennis programs and community play. The transition returns the tennis center to its prior level of daily use, supporting local players, schools, and recreational leagues that rely on the facility. Court and program fees are expected to remain unchanged during the permit period. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava described the agreement as a way to preserve an important public asset while long-term plans for the site continue. The partnership places day-to-day operations in the hands of USTA Florida, an organization founded in Miami with a statewide mission to grow participation in the sport. Under the agreement, USTA Florida will manage staffing, programming, and facility operations. The organization is coordinating with the county and existing service providers to ensure continuity as programs transition. A new online platform is scheduled to launch in early January, allowing players and community groups to book courts and programs through a centralized system on the USTA Florida website. During the initial phase, an interim management team led by USTA Florida Executive Director Laura Bowen will oversee the facility. The team includes staff and volunteers with experience in tennis programming, sports operations, and facility management, many of whom have direct ties to the local community. USTA Florida is also recruiting locally for a full-time site director and additional team members to support expanded services. County officials emphasized that restoring reliable access to the courts is critical for residents and youth programs. Christina White, Director of Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces, noted that the partnership ensures continued public use of the tennis center while broader planning efforts move forward. Additional information about USTA Florida’s work in public parks is available through USTA Florida, and the organization will continue engaging with local stakeholders to evaluate future programming needs at Crandon Park Tennis Center. By ML Staff. Photos: Unsplash/J. Schiemann.

The geographically and culturally-rich country of Saint Lucia is a small island nation located in the southern region of the eastern Caribbean chain of islands, just a three-and-a-half-hour direct flight from Miami. Words by Markin Abras & Adriana Garuolis THE SETTING Blessed by nature and recognized as being a singular destination for romantic getaways, Saint Lucia has 238 square miles of rainforest-covered land and 98 miles of turquoise-watered coastlines: all in all, a stunning visual paradise that stirs the soul. Its notable topography (it is more mountainous than most Caribbean islands) and diverse natural landscapes offer unique experiences for everyone. Explore tropical rainforests, a myriad of magnificent beaches, fishing villages, abandoned sugar plantations, coral reef diving and snorkeling spots, jungle biking and hiking trails, as well as numerous renowned tourist sites. NOTABLE The island has a prominent pair of volcanic spired peaks named The Pitons ; they are an UNESCO world heritage site.  At 2,400 feet, the Pitons are towering and breathtaking from every viewing point, and they are fronted by a marine reserve teeming with coral reef . The Sulphur Springs Park  features the world’s only “drive-in volcano” where visitors can holistically delight in warm sulphuric pools and volcanic mud baths.  The Saint Lucia Botanical Gardens and Diamond Falls feature 6 acres of tropical gardens, a 17-meter high waterfall (considered to be the most colorful waterfall in the Caribbean due to its rich mineral composition), and healing mineral hot spring baths originally constructed for the French troops of King Louis the XVI in the 18th century. CULTURE In addition to its resplendent natural beauty, Saint Lucia has a celebrated gastronomical scene that includes rum-making, locally-brewed beers, a growing production of organic cacao and chocolates, and world-class Caribbean cuisine characterized by dishes harvested from the sea and farm-to-table, locally-grown produce.  Saint Lucian food is a delectable fusion of East Indian, British, and French cookery. In line with its rich and vibrant cultural history, Saint Lucia holds several illustrious annual festivals proudly celebrating its roots.  These include The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, as well as two rival flower festivals: La Woz ("The Rose") and La Magwit ("The Marguerite").  Both sensational floral festivals are a spectacle of costumes and color preluded by Creole seances (consisting of all-night-long singing and dancing) and leading to a day of Church-service marches, followed by a street parade, and, finally, "the grand fête": a great feast and party.  It is relevant to note and said around the island that part of Saint Lucia's cultural diversity is attributed to the French and British settlers who battled for island control for over 150 years. Both ruled the island 7 times each with the British colonizing it last in 1814.  The island gained its sovereign independence in 1979.  The island is home to 178,000 warm and hospitable Lucians.  English is the official language, although French Creole is also spoken throughout the island. The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (US$1 = EC$2.70), but US dollars are readily accepted everywhere.   STAY IN LUXURY An overview of Calabash Cove CALABASH COVE Bonaire Estate, Marisule Gros Islet, St. Lucia www.calabashcove.com +1 758-456-3500 OVERVIEW Nestled in the sloping hills of the sheltered Bonaire Bay, Calabash Cove Resort & Spa counts amongst the top of the few all-inclusive luxury resort options in Saint Lucia. At Calabash Cove you will delight in the palpable harmony of nature’s elements --dramatic oceanfront sunsets included. Upon arrival, be immediately swept away by a breathtaking panorama of the Caribbean ocean and the capital city of Castries.  Walk through the Cove Gardens, masterfully landscaped walkways encircled by groves of fruiting trees and vibrant, fragrant flowers.  Relax on the paradisiacal white-sand beach of Bonaire Bay.   Get full-service pampering at Ti Spa.  Swim in the resort's impressive 500,000 gallon 40-foot infinity edge pool.  And experience fine dining at Windsong restaurant, featuring international cuisine with fresh local produce and soft live music in the evenings.   ACCOMMODATIONS A boutique luxury resort, Calabash Cove counts on 3 categories of rooms for an intimate total of 26 rooms, each infused with old Caribbean charm. The water’s-edge cottages are made from Balinese mahogany and feature their own private verandah and plunge pool, outdoor rain shower, super-size jacuzzi, hammocks, and unparalleled vistas of Bonaire Bay.  The swim-up junior suites are directly connected to the Sweetwaters infinity pool; they feature indoor rain showers, a jacuzzi, and stunning oceanfront views. The sunset ocean-view junior suites feature impressive vistas, a private patio, jacuzzi, and indoor rain shower. All in all, Calabash Cove does an excellent job of enticing its guests to stay on property for their entire stay --it’s a true island getaway that will recharge, renew, and reignite body, heart, and soul. Click to launch slideshow MARIGOT BAY RESORT AND MARINA Marig ot Bay Resort & Marina, Marigot Bay, St. Lucia www.marigotbayresort.com +1 758-458-5300 OVERVIEW The award-winning Marigot Bay Resort and Marina is another one of Saint Lucia’s prized, secluded locations, a hidden gem and private luxurious getaway for both romantic couples and vacationing families alike.  The Marigot Bay Resort and Marina is a sheltered bay located within a 30-acre property that is supremely lush and encircled by a serene turquoise sea.  A charming two-minute free water taxi ride away lies the LaBas Beach, a blissfully quiet and picturesque small stretch of white-sand beach lined with exotic coconut palm trees and clear calm waters to wade in.    Marigot Bay Resort and Marina ACCOMMODATIONS This five-star resort provides its visitors with a luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere, characterized by supreme and thoughtful personalized service in every aspect of its hospitality offerings.  The hotel features 4 restaurants, a rum cave, a swim-up bar, two outdoor pools (one for adults only), a holistic spa, a world-class premiere marina, and a plethora of signature resort activities and classes (such as rum tasting, body scrub making, and Saint Lucian cacao tea making).  Its unique concave-shaped campus is lined with multi-level townhouse buildings featuring 124 rooms and suites, most with spectacular views of Marigot Bay.     FEATURES Guests are welcome to dine at The Grill at 14⁰61⁰, the resort’s main restaurant, featuring fine dining and an open kitchen where one can watch the culinary team at work.  The Rum Cave serves regional rums and cigars along with beers, wines, whiskeys, specialty cocktails, and small plates.  The Brut Bar and Pool Bar is open poolside for lunch and specializes in sushi, local ceviche, salads, sandwiches and burgers.  Dine at Hurricane Hole for a scenic waterfront patio lunch and dinner.   The Auriga Spa offers a holistic approach to all of its natural, locally-inspired treatments. A spa sanctuary with nature-filled surroundings, the Auriga Spa features indoor massage pods with outdoor decks and open-air showers as well as a Zen garden with wooden soaking tubs, sauna, steam inhalation room, and hot tub.  A lovely treehouse massage hut serves as the elevated setting for a private dining experience, a massage amongst the trees, or trademark spa classes in holistic treatments.   THE MARINA The Marigot Bay Marina is touted as one of the best in the Caribbean.  It is blessed with naturally deep waters that accommodate the largest super yachts and sailboats from around the world year-round. It lies within a “hurricane hole”, so-called because it is surrounded by mountains which have historically protected it from tidal changes and severe weather.  Marina guests have access to the luxury resort services and amenities, including banking and immigration services, boutiques, supermarket, duty-free outlets, an art gallery, bakery, and ice cream parlor.   JADE MOUNTAIN and ANSE CHASTANET 1-800-223-1108 www.jademountain.com www.ansechastanet.com OVERVIEW Coming into Jade Mountain is like walking into a dreamworld, into buildings and spaces and landscapes that are mesmerizing and spellbinding: a masterful composition of elevated architecture, thriving nature, and singular luxury.  This is truly a new dimension of organic life.  Built upon a steep terrain in order to maximize vistas, guarantee utmost room-to-room seclusion, and minimize land disturbance, every space in Jade Mountain offers absorbing views of the iconic Pitons and the endless Caribbean Sea.   Jade Mountain All aspects of this impressionable resort are founded upon principles of environmental conservation and preservation and both Jade Mountain and its sister property Anse Chastanet are uniquely natural resorts that notably filter out all modern-day distractions: there are no phones, no tvs, no sound systems, nor clocks on property (WiFi, however, is available).  Guests are presented with an environment that facilitates an exceptional interaction with nature and the present moment.   This is an intentional philosophy by the resort creators: “so that the outside world cannot intrude.''    The property’s 600 lush, tropical acres border two soft-sand Caribbean beaches with pristine coral reefs teeming with aquatic life. Part of the property includes the historical plantation of Anse Mamin as well as Emerald Estate, where the resort grows its own organic produce and cacao beans. Booking a room at Jade Mountain or Anse Chastanet means booking an enormous resort experience with loads of facilities and activities at your fingertips.   Enjoy exploring the extensive estate, jungle biking, bird watching, sunset sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking, yoga, tennis, and some exciting island excursions.  Sign up for the rum mixology class, chocolate sensory tasting, creole history class, or plantation walks.  Indulge in Jade Mountain’s Kai en Ciel Spa (creole for “house in heaven”) or Anse Chastanet’s beachside Kai Belté Spa (creole for “house of beauty”).  The options are endless. ACCOMMODATIONS Architect and resort owner Nick Troubetzkoy has laudably succeeded in building both resorts in creative harmony with Saint Lucia's nature.  Jade Mountain guests stay in aptly-named sanctuaries -- large, loft-style spaces with a fourth wall that is entirely absent.  Accessible by a dramatic private bridge entrance, the sensuously secluded sanctuaries feature 15-foot ceilings, gorgeous natural finishings, and all the luxurious amenities you expect from a five-star resort. The unique open-space format encourages you to intimately connect with your surroundings and stimulate your senses -- breathing in the freshest of air, communing with the birds, and, if you wish, feeling the sun and the moon’s rays directly on your skin --truly a one-of-a-kind experience.   Welcome to your own enchanting sanctuary Choose from any of the 24 extraordinary galaxy, sun, moon, star or sky sanctuaries, all with extravagant infinity pools and striking views of the twin Pitons.  Please note that Jade Mountain is an adult’s only resort. Anse Chastanet’s unique, individually-designed suites are equally celebrated.  A dozen rooms are tucked behind the coconut palms that line the beach and the remainder tiptoe up a lush, flower-decked hillside. Octagonal whitewashed cottages make the most of the panoramic views, and some come with wraparound flower-draped balconies.  All 49 of the rooms share the property's continuing theme in common: an openness to the surroundings that fosters a feeling of connection to the landscape.  Rooms, bathrooms, and tropical hardwood furniture all blend harmoniously with the environment and nature. FEATURES As far as resort dining, Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet guests have plenty to choose from on property.  Jade cuisine at the Jade Mountain Club caters exclusively to resident guests and offers exotic and delicious modern fusion cuisine with live entertainment on select evenings.  The Treehouse Restaurant consists of two open-air treehouse structures with fine Caribbean dining and beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding hills.  Dine or enjoy a drink at the Piton Lounge and Bar with Piton and ocean views, turning into Emerald’s Vegetarian restaurant at night (for dinner reservations only).  Enjoy lunch at the Trou au Diable beach restaurant and bar at beach level, or the Jungle Grill at the neighboring beach of Anse Mamin (accessible only by foot or resort shuttle boats). Delight in East-Indian/St. Lucian fusion cuisine at Apsara, a dinner-only restaurant located beachside. The only thing that may be lacking in a vacation at Jade Mountain or Anse Chastanet is the time to enjoy all it has to offer.  These magnificent resorts are guaranteed to keep their guests awestruck and coming back to experience and see more. Making a Difference: Saint Lucia Tourism Enhancement Fund The Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA) launched the Tourism Enhancement Fund project in 2013 to encourage the sustainable development of Saint Lucia whilst facilitating the tourism sector development and management on the island. Through this fund, resort guests and island visitors are asked to donate $2 for each night of their stay at resorts in Saint Lucia. Donations are used to finance and implement developmental initiatives, including beautification, infrastructural, educational projects, and training programs in the Tourism and Hospitality sector. According to Karolin Troubetzkoy , President of SLHTA, “The Tourism Enhancement Fund has been able to bring about positive change, supporting long term projects like our Apprenticeship Placement initiative, which gives young unemployed persons their first exposure to a job. We also collaborate with the National Conservation Fund in the area of marine health and preservation and plastics reduction.” To learn more, visit www.saintluciatef.com . By Markin Abras & Adriana Garuolis. Images courtesy of each corresponding hotel.

Fountain Life , a leading healthy longevity brand delivering a next-generation preventive health model through advanced AI diagnostics, restorative therapeutics, and AI-driven health intelligence, today announced the appointment of  Dr. Dawn Mussallem, DO, DipABLM , as  Chief Medical Officer (CMO) . In this role, Dr. Mussallem will help advance Fountain Life’s mission to deliver premium services and treatments to optimize health to the next level elevating healthspan through cutting-edge diagnostics, precision prevention, and evidence-based lifestyle and regenerative strategies. Dr. Mussallem is a  Mayo Clinic Consultant in Hematology/Oncology  and  Assistant Professor of Medicine , widely recognized for her work in  cancer prevention, integrative oncology, lifestyle medicine, survivorship, and human performance . A double board-certified lifestyle medicine specialist at the  Robert and Monica Jacoby Center for Breast Health , she is known for delivering evidence-based, holistic breast cancer care that integrates advanced diagnostics, nutrition, movement, mind-body practices, and conventional therapies to optimize both longevity and quality of life. “Dr. Mussallem is the rare physician-leader who brings rigorous science, deep compassion, and firsthand lived experience to the front lines of human optimization,” said  Dr. William Kapp, co-founder and CEO of Fountain Life . “Her track record at Mayo Clinic building innovative programs, shaping medical education, and advancing whole-person care aligns with our commitment to redefining what healthcare can be when prevention and performance are the standard. We’re honored to welcome her as our Chief Medical Officer.” At Mayo Clinic Florida, Dr. Mussallem  founded the Integrative Medicine & Breast Health Program in 2015 , creating a patient-centered model supporting individuals during and after cancer diagnosis by transforming lifestyle alongside standard treatment. She is also  Chair of the Employee Well-Being Committee  and  Medical Director for the Humanities in Medicine program , leading initiatives that strengthen caregiver resilience, creativity, and meaning in work. Her current work includes championing a regenerative farm initiative connecting sustainable agriculture with clinical, culinary, and community education to expand access to nutrient-dense, plant-forward foods. As CMO, Dr. Mussallem will partner across Fountain Life’s clinical and operations teams to advance the company’s preventive and longevity care model helping refine clinical standards, enhance member outcomes, and accelerate innovation across Fountain Life’s programs. "Fountain Life positions us to humanize medicine through a truly next-generation model of care: AI-enabled and data-driven, yet deeply personal, integrating early detection, lifestyle-based disease reversal, regenerative therapies, high-touch physician-led guidance and accountability, and rigorous outcomes-focused research to extend both healthspan and lifespan. As Chief Medical Officer, my mission is to design and operationalize a scalable precision-health ecosystem that makes healthy aging, longevity, and peak existence visible, measurable, and achievable, while igniting the deeply personal purpose behind each person's efforts so meaningful change becomes sustainable. I am alive now to partner with this pioneering, world-class team to do what no health system has yet dared to do: transform healthcare from reactive to truly preventive, research-informed, and performance-oriented, so that more people around the world can experience the profound sense of aliveness I have been gifted." said Dr. Dawn Mussallem, Chief Medical Officer of Fountain Life.” A sought-after keynote and motivational speaker, Dr. Mussallem has delivered high-impact talks for global audiences, including at the  Global Wellness Summit ,  Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science Commencement ,  White House Correspondents’ events , and the  National Academy of Sciences , as well as major global stages surrounding the  Super Bowl ,  Wimbledon , and the  US Open . As an author and researcher, she has contributed book chapters, peer-reviewed publications, abstracts, and invited commentaries focused on how whole-food, plant-forward nutrition and lifestyle interventions modulate the tumor microenvironment, influence disease progression, and enhance survivorship, well-being, and healthspan. “Dr. Mussallem represents exactly the caliber of medical leadership required to scale a truly prevention-first model of care,” said  Shawn Buchheit, President of Fountain Life . “Her ability to unite advanced clinical rigor with lifestyle medicine, member experience, and real-world outcomes will be instrumental as we continue to expand Fountain Life and set a new standard for longevity, performance, and proactive healthcare.” Dr. Mussallem also co-directs the  International Medical Breast Training Program  and founded and directs  Mayo Clinic Florida’s Lifestyle Medicine Residency Curriculum , helping shape the next generation of physicians in preventive, integrative, and performance-oriented care. She serves as a scientific advisor to multiple organizations spanning lifestyle medicine, nutrition science, and health innovation, and is active in community and systems leadership including the  Blue Zones Project Jacksonville Steering Committee  and the  Food Policy Council . Her professional mission is deeply shaped by her own extraordinary health journey a stage IV cancer diagnosis three months into medical school , followed by a  life-restoring heart transplant in 2021 . In a landmark achievement, she became the  first person in the world to run a full marathon one year after a heart transplant , embodying the principles of recovery, regeneration, and peak performance that she teaches. Her work has been recognized through distinguished honors, including the  American College of Physicians Volunteerism in Medicine Award , multiple  Patients’ Choice  and  Compassionate Doctor  recognitions, and designation as a  Marquis Who’s Who Top Doctor . About Fountain Life Fountain Life is a leading longevity brand committed to helping people not only live longer but live better. By combining cutting-edge science, advanced AI-guided diagnostics, and restorative therapeutics, Fountain Life delivers a next-generation preventive health model. This approach integrates regenerative medicine and AI-driven health intelligence to detect disease early, optimize performance, and extend healthspan. Founded in 2020 by pioneering leaders in business, medicine, and innovation Dr. Peter Diamandis, Tony Robbins, and Dr. William Kapp Fountain Life was established to fill a critical void in healthcare: the absence of proactive, data-driven care that emphasizes prevention, optimization, and the extension of both healthspan and lifespan. In 2025, Fountain Life was named  Longevity Brand of the Year , underscoring its leadership in premium preventive healthcare and healthspan optimization. That same year,  Zori AI . Fountain Life’s proprietary intelligence engine was  recognized with a Global Tech Award , celebrating its breakthrough role in AI-powered health intelligence and personalized longevity guidance. Through its tiered membership programs CORE ,  APEX , and  APEX FAMILY . Fountain Life delivers scalable access to this groundbreaking model. At the heart of the experience is  Zori AI , which synthesizes each member’s comprehensive health data to uncover hidden risks and provide highly personalized recommendations. These insights are implemented through a dedicated care team and on-demand virtual care, ensuring ongoing support and precision delivery. Fountain Life is redefining the future of medicine, available now. To learn more or to take control of your health, visit  www.fountainlife.com . By ML staff. Image courtesy of Fountain Life

Most Americans imagine human trafficking as a violent kidnapping or a “stranger danger” crime – someone abducted from a parking lot or trapped in a shipping container brought in from another country. In fact, trafficking rarely takes this form . Human trafficking can be hard to track because it is a crime that hides in plain sight. Mireya Acierto/Photodisc via Getty Images In most cases, traffickers spend months or even years building trust and creating emotional and economic bonds with their victims. They use a variety of coercion and control techniques such as emotional abuse, forced criminality , financial abuse , and physical and sexual abuse to entrap their victims. Meanwhile, the perpetrators are making money off their victims’ unpaid labor, including unwanted sex work. Human trafficking is estimated to be a US$172 billion industry . The story of Jeffrey Epstein is just one example of how traffickers use a combination of manipulation, economic dependency and coercion – rather than physical captivity – to entrap vulnerable people and slowly erode their autonomy. Many victims don’t even realize they’re being exploited due to the manipulations of their traffickers. Epstein’s crimes have attracted the national spotlight due to the fame and power of his clientele. His case demonstrates the harsh reality that human trafficking is far more common and complex than most people imagine. Human trafficking can be hard to track because it is a crime that hides in plain sight. Most victims are trafficked by someone they know or trust – a family member, intimate partner or employer. Many continue to go to school or work while being exploited. Misconceptions about what trafficking looks like have made it harder to see and harder to measure . The available data on this crime and its victims has long been fragmented, incomplete and inconsistent. Law enforcement, government organizations such as health departments, and nonprofits that provide advocacy and victim services collect information differently. The same case could be counted multiple times by different agencies, while other victims go entirely uncounted, making it nearly impossible to understand the true scope of trafficking and effectively fight it. To address this problem, Florida in 2023 passed Senate Bill 7064 , a law requiring all state and local government agencies and nongovernmental organizations that receive federal or state funding to send their human trafficking data  to the University of South Florida’s Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Lab, known as the TIP lab. Florida’s agricultural industry attracts many migrant workers, who are vulnerable to being exploited. Wayne Eastep/The Image Bank via Getty Images The researchers developed TIPSTR, Florida’s statewide repository for anonymous human trafficking data . This single, consistent database is the most comprehensive data resource on human trafficking in any state in the U.S. The team compiled anonymous data from more than 30 state agencies and nonprofit organizations, including the Florida Department of Children and Families , the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay . Florida’s economy and geography create a mix of risk factors for trafficking that are distinct from most other states. With its large tourism , agriculture , construction and entertainment industries , the state depends heavily on temporary and mobile workforces . Its international airports and seaports connect it to global markets. Transient labor markets, seasonal employment and high migration make it easier for traffickers to exploit workers and harder for authorities to detect exploitation. The first full year of data collection was 2024, with findings published in July 2025 in the 2024 TIPSTR Report . The report demonstrates both the scale of the problem and the importance of reliable data. A self-report survey found that an estimated 500,000 current Florida residents were exploited or trafficked at work, and an estimated 200,000 were trafficked for sex. Minors made up half of those trafficked for sex and a quarter of those exploited at work. Of those reporting human trafficking, only 9% to 12% reported this crime to law enforcement, confirming concerns that it remains largely hidden from view. This is why TIPSTR does not solely rely on law enforcement data. At the same time, there are encouraging signs. The TIPSTR data shows prosecutions are increasing, and coordination among law enforcement, service providers and community organizations has strengthened. Seeing where trafficking is most concentrated and where services are missing is already helping policymakers and agencies identify potential changes. As criminologists note, data alone cannot end human trafficking, but without it, the problem remains hidden. What Florida has built through TIPSTR can serve as a model for other states seeking to understand and address the true scope of trafficking. Words by Shelly M. Wagers, Associate Professor of Criminology, and Joan A. Reid, Professor of Criminology. Special thanks for The Conversation . Support and donate today.

ACE Padel announced its entry into the U.S. market with the opening of its first club in Coconut Grove, Miami, marking the beginning of a nationwide expansion that will also include new locations in Denver and Los Angeles. The Miami club is scheduled to open in the first half of 2026 and represents the brand’s first permanent presence in the United States. The expansion is being developed in partnership with Aventura Asset Management , forming a joint venture that combines real estate development and financing with ACE’s focus on design, brand experience, and community-driven sports culture. The partnership is structured to scale premium padel destinations that integrate architecture, sound, and social interaction rather than functioning solely as athletic facilities. ACE also expanded its collaboration with Playtomic , the global padel booking and technology platform used by players in more than 110 countries. The integration allows ACE clubs to offer unified booking, matchmaking, and member engagement across all U.S. locations, aligning domestic growth with the sport’s international ecosystem. The Miami location will serve as the flagship for the rollout. Situated in Coconut Grove, the club will feature five outdoor padel courts, four covered by a 32-foot canopy. The courts are being developed with Mejor Set , a global padel court manufacturer and official provider for the Premier Padel Tour. The Miami installation is designed to be fully hurricane-proof and represents the first permitted padel courts of this kind within the city. After Miami, ACE will expand to Denver’s RiNo District, where a new club is planned with eight courts—five indoor and three outdoor—along with locker rooms, recovery facilities, and a viewing deck intended to support both competition and community engagement. The Denver site reflects ACE’s approach to positioning padel within creative urban neighborhoods. In Los Angeles, ACE will build on its existing presence through the LA Padel Invitational, a Pro-Am tournament launched in 2023 that brings together professional athletes, celebrities, and cultural figures. The tournament is scheduled to return to Beverly Hills in spring 2026. The permanent Los Angeles club, planned between Beverly Hills and Santa Monica, will include six outdoor courts, locker rooms, and curated social spaces. ACE Padel’s identity is shaped by a blend of Swedish design principles focused on safety and structure, Spanish padel culture rooted in warmth and hospitality, and American-style innovation and scale. This hybrid approach informs both the physical spaces and the member experience across all locations. Additional updates on club openings and events are shared through ACE Padel’s Instagram and official website . By ML Staff. Photos: ACE Padel.