OneUnited Bank , a leading Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), is proud to announce the winners of its 15 th  annual “I Got Bank! Youth Financial Literacy Essay & Art Contest.” Each of the ten (10) youth winners are awarded a $1,000  savings  account.   The 2025 winners are Jasmine Curd , 12, Blue Springs, MO, Andrew Elus , 11, Miami, FL, Rusty Fisher , 12, Apple Valley, CA, Jai Irby , 12, Boston, MA, Brandon Littlejohn , 12, Newman, GA, Jalonie Lue Shue,  12, Miami, FL, Zoë Madison Orndorff , 9, Homestead, FL, Arfa Mohamed , 8, Rocklin, CA, Alanna Oguadimma , 9, Milton, MA, Jacob Phillips , 8, Missouri City, TX. Each winner spoke about their financial literacy journey and how it will help them and their families. The panel of judges included Teri Williams , the bank’s President & Chief Operating Officer and Sherri Brewer , the bank’s Senior Vice President, Chief Retail Officer. Teri Williams President Williams stated, “In 2025, we saw growth in children’s understanding of money, including the cost of food and other necessities. They expressed a desire to help their families, which may reflect the current economy.  We are proud to ignite family conversations about money, which will improve their financial wellbeing.” Williams wrote the book “ I Got Bank! What My Grandad Taught Me About Mon ey” ( Beckham ), after discovering the lack of focus on educating urban youth about financial literacy. The “I Got Bank!” youth essay & art contest is part of a larger OneUnited Bank initiative to make financial literacy a core value in America. To learn more about past I Got Bank winners, please visit the OneUnited Bank Financial Literacy Blog . OneUnited Bank also offers its robust Financial Education Center  with online playlists on Financial Basics, Major Life Decisions, Starting a Career, Small Business and Preventing Elder Fraud. OneUnited Bank hopes its efforts will improve the financial skills of children and adults throughout the country.  By ML Staff. Photos/OneUnited Bank

The Gary Nader Art Centre is pleased to announce that multidisciplinary artist Soraya Abu Naba’a has been honored at the 31st Biennial of Visual Arts , held at the Museum of Modern Art  in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic , for her installation Palo vivo: Between Roots and Memories. The work explores the interconnection between community, land, and memory through two elements deeply rooted in Caribbean rural life: the palo vivo and the pelliza . Both, born from necessity and everyday use, are transformed into powerful symbols of regeneration, belonging, and connection to the environment. Inspired by deep ecology —a philosophical movement that recognizes the intrinsic value of all living beings—the installation combines materials such as fabric, wood, metal , and paint to create an immersive experience . The suspended textile forms evoke an expanded ecosystem in which t he boundaries between art, body, and nature dissolve, offering a poetics of repair and belonging. “I am deeply grateful to receive this award in recognition of an installation that weaves ancestral traditions with a contemporary aesthetic. This honor celebrates not only my creative journey, but also the wisdom of generations that continue to inspire my practice—and serves as a reminder of the profound interconnectedness of the natural world and all living beings" , said Abu Naba’a regarding this recognition. Gary Nader, founder and director of the Gary Nader Art Centre, added: “Soraya Abu Naba’a’s work reaffirms the strength of Latin American art as a vehicle of memory, identity, and awareness. This well-deserved recognition amplifies an authentic and powerful voice that honors our roots and invites us to reflect on the future.” With this award, Soraya Abu Naba’a further consolidates her position within the contemporary art landscape and reaffirms the Gary Nader Art Centre’s commitment to supporting artists whose innovative and relevant proposals contribute to the cultural and social dialogue of our region. By ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Gary Nader Art Centre

Miami’s streets just welcomed a new player with a distinctly local touch. Vlue , a ride-sharing platform founded in South Florida, has officially launched across Miami-Dade County, bringing with it a fresh vision for how the region gets around. With expansion into Broward and Palm Beach Counties planned for early 2026, Vlue is positioning itself as the ride of choice for locals and visitors alike. What makes Vlue stand out is its transparent, flat-rate pricing—a promise of no hidden fees and no surprises at the end of the ride. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to the airport or gathering friends for a night out, you know exactly what you’ll pay from the start. Drivers, too, get a better deal. Vlue’s platform fees start at just $2.25 per ride, meaning higher earnings and more respect for their time. That’s a big win for the people who keep Miami moving, and ultimately translates to safer, more reliable rides for everyone. But what really sets Vlue apart is its commitment to community. Safety is a top priority in every trip, with background checks, vehicle inspections, trip tracking and even the ability for riders to choose a male or female driver. A rewards program also adds extra perks, offering credits and referral bonuses for loyal riders. Launched after years of refining technology through beta testing and a soft rollout, Vlue has already brought 6,500+ drivers on board and is quickly becoming the fairer alternative locals have been waiting for. Whether you’re jetting off from MIA, heading to a night out in Brickell or simply commuting across town, Vlue makes the ride as stress-free as the destination. To book a ride download the free Vlue app, available on Apple and Android devices. By ML Staff. Content/images courtesy of Vlue.

Magic is in the air as The Cordish Companies Green Blazer Awards Gala & Celebration presented by Florida Blue benefits Community-Based Connections, Inc.(CBCI) at 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 11, at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. For the fourth year, CBCI will recognize outstanding individuals who have made a lasting impact on community health. This year’s honorees are Tim Curtin , Memorial Healthcare System ; Rosalyn Frazier, Broward Community & Family Health Centers ; Kathy Salerno, Broward Health and Ken Walters, Community Care Plan . Photo by Siniz Kim, Unsplash “Improving community health truly takes a village. Community Based Connections, Inc., is thrilled to celebrate four extraordinary individuals whose passion, leadership, and service are creating real change,” said Mikelange Olbel, CEO of Community Based Connections, Inc. “Their advocacy and commitment ensure that more of our neighbors are seen, heard, and connected to quality healthcare and life-changing services.”   The four honorees are each outstanding. Tim Curtin has been working with “at risk” communities for the past 40 years. He started out in the field of prevention working as a Park Service Worker in Harlem and in 1987 developed what was called in the “Inner City Olympics” to keep kids busy and off the drug riddled New York City streets. He has been serving Broward County, Florida communities since 1989 as a provider of community-based substance abuse and mental health services. As the vice president of community services for Memorial Healthcare System, Tim designs, implements and directs programs for maternal-child health, maternal depression, hurricane disaster, homelessness, adolescent substance abuse, juvenile diversion, crime prevention, kinship and foster care, after school programs, summer camps as well as senior programming throughout Broward County. Under Tim, Memorial’s community-based programs have been honored by the National Association of Public Hospitals, America’s Essential Hospitals, American Hospital Association, Florida Hospital Association, Florida Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association, Florida Department of Children and Families, Broward County Public Schools and more. Rosalyn Crawford Frazier is the CEO of Broward Community & Family Health Centers, Inc. (BCOM) operating four clinical practice sites and one dental site located in Broward County, Florida. For 22 years, she has been overseeing the successful operations of the oldest federally qualified health center in the County providing comprehensive medical, behavioral and oral health services. As a senior executive, she has over 35 years of experience in health care management, grant writing, financial management, physician recruitment, and managed care contracting for non-profit/for-profit health organizations. Frazier is heavily involved in health policy advocacy from grassroots levels through the highest levels of government. She has been integral in policy development having testified before legislative committees, lobbying and serving on various policy planning councils. Currently, she serves on the Health Policy Committee, Legislative Committee and the Health Center Financing Subcommittee with the National Association of Community Health Centers. She currently serves as the Board Chair for Health Choice Network, Inc. Top Row: Tim Curtin and Rosalyn Crawford Frazier; Bottom Row: Ken Walters and Kathy Salerno Kathy Salerno is the director, community relations, for Broward Health. She is actively involved in the community making a difference in such organizations as 211 Broward, Arc Broward, Broward Education Foundation, Healthy Start Coalition of Broward County, Leadership Broward, Pace Center for Girls, Parkland Chamber of Commerce, and Tower Forum to name a few. To her credit, she is a graduate of Leadership Florida Connect Class 12, Leadership Broward Class XXXVIII, Leadership Fort Lauderdale Class XXV. She was recognized as one of the top 30 under 30 in politics by the News Service of Florida, Forty under 40 by South Florida Business Journal , and an Advocate in Health by South Florida Business and Wealth . Salerno enjoys serving the community on local boards plus loves music, concerts, Broadway shows and spending time with her family. Ken Walters leads Community Care Plan’s daily operations with a strategic focus on efficiency, compliance and excellence. He ensures the health plan not only meets contractual requirements, but surpasses expectations in operational effectiveness, fostering an environment where members and providers experience outstanding service and become passionate advocates. With more than 27 years of expertise in government programs, Walters is dedicated to facilitating high-quality healthcare delivery for Medicare, Medicaid and underserved communities. His leadership drives initiatives that enhance accessibility and improve patient outcomes. “The Cordish Companies is proud to support the important work that Community-Based Connections does as part of our longstanding commitment to the South Florida community and beyond,” said Zed Smith, chief operating officer of The Cordish Companies . “As a company that has remained true to the family’s core values, we are pleased to support this annual event which has a direct impact on advancing social services programs that help local children and families.” The evening of celebration will include a cocktail reception, a seated three-course dinner with a continuous open bar, live musical entertainment, dancing and the impactful awards ceremony, which includes the presentation of the branded green blazers, hosted by special guest Local 10 News Anchor/Reporter Michaila Hightower. Last year’s honorees were Anna Fusco, Broward Teachers Union; Kenneth Jones, HCA Florida Northwest Hospital; Sandy Michael McDonald, Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development; Jasmin D. Shirley, Broward Health Regional Planning Council; Dion Smith, Children’s Services Council of Broward and Khalil Zeinieh, community advocate. Sponsors of this year’s awards event are The Cordish Companies as the title sponsor, Florida Blue as the presenting sponsor plus FP&L, Handy, HCA Hospital and Brenda D. Forman, clerk of courts. Tickets are $125 per person; a table is $2,500 .To attend, please reserve seats at communitybasedconnections.com/green-blazer-awards. By ML Staff. Photos courtesy of Community-Based Connections, Inc.

This September, The Bass invites you to dive into a dynamic month of art, music, film, and dialogue. From thought-provoking panel talks and live performances to immersive exhibitions and creative workshops, there's something for everyone—day or night. Highlights include Third Thursdays: Late Nights Live featuring White Elephant Group Films and cellist Guy Michel, hands-on art-making at Art After Hours , artist talks with Sarah Crowner, and new exhibitions from Isaac Julien, Charles Atlas, and more. Whether you're exploring identity through self-portraiture or experiencing groundbreaking media art, September at The Bass is your portal to creativity and conversation. THIRD THURSDAYS: LATE NIGHTS LIVE FEATURING WEG ( WHITE ELEPHANT GROUP FILMS) THU SEPT 18 | 6–9 PM 6 PM - Doors Open | 6:30 PM - Talk Starts (1 hour) SAVE THE DATE for Third Thursdays: Late Nights Live #atTheBass on September 18 as WEG (White Elephant Group Films) and their guest panel expand upon the anchors of The Bass’s Performing Perspectives: A Collection in Dialogue  exhibition through the lens and art of filmmaking with the topic ‘The Indexicality of Performance.’ Writers, directors, actors, casting directors, and editors explore the nuances of performance. The artists will dissect the evolution of a performance from the words on the page to the final portrayal. This program will examine how ideas, themes, and emotions are exchanged between artists and their audience. WEG is a South Florida-based collective of emerging artists creating films and community, White Elephant Group (WEG) is a team of 20+ award-winning film and digital media artists working across various artistic avenues including cinema, XR, mixed-multimedia and more to artistically address and elaborate upon the voices and experiences we’ve had coming from minority and underserved communities in South Florida. Learn more at https://www.wegfilms.com/ F REE RSVP at the link below! Third Thursday is presented by Art Bridges Access for All. Additional support from O, Cinema. Film still courtesy of WEG and The Bass, Miami Beach. THIRD THURSDAYS: LATE NIGHTS LIVE FEATURING GUY MICHEL | THU SEPT 18 | 6–9 PM SAVE THE DATE! Join us for LATE NIGHTS LIVE in Social Assembly featuring celloist Guy Michel on Thursday, September 18 from 6–9 PM. At the age of five in Haiti, Guy began a musical journey that shaped his life. He views the cello as a vessel of limitless potential, dedicated to exploring new possibilities in entertainment and education, transcending boundaries and celebrating cultural richness. As a member of the Recording Academy, he continues to explore and contribute to music’s evolution. From local stages to international arenas, he shares his musical vision, holding workshops to inspire the next generation. His journey celebrates the universal language of music, painting the world in harmonious colors, inviting all to join his remarkable odyssey of music, culture, and boundless possibilities. Limited seating. Use this link to add to calendar! Third Thursday is presented by Art Bridges Access for All. Additional support from O, Cinema. ART ATER HOURS | REFLECTIONS OF SELF THU SEPT 18 | 6:30–8 PM Join us for mixed-media self portraits on our next Third Thursday! Create a self-portrait that will span time and space using collage, paint, and photography to reflect your personal identity. September's art experience is Inspired by the Performance of Self anchor in Performing Perspectives: A Collection in Dialogue . Participants will draw inspiration from their own lives, in particular focusing on childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Art After Hours is created for adults ages 21+ at any skill level. All artmaking materials are provided and available to take home after class! The class is $25 for museum members and $30 for nonmembers. Register HERE ! THE BASS DIALOGUES WITH SARAH CROWNER THU SEPT 25 | 6 PM - Doors Open | 6:30 PM - Talk Begins (45 min–1 hr) Artist Sarah Crowner joins James Voorhies, Curator-at-Large at The Bass, for a conversation marking the opening of Faire Foyer: Sarah Crowner in Dialogue with Etel Adan , a newly commissioned exhibition that creates a setting for a formal exchange between Crowner’s work and the only monumental ceramic mural of its kind by the late Lebanese-American artist Etel Adan in the U.S. Voorhies and Crowner will highlight the interplay between Crowner’s sculptural and spatial works and Adnan’s mural within the broader context of how abstraction, materiality, and landscape shape an exhibition’s spatial environment and viewers’ perception. To learn more about the exhibition, visit Faire Foyer: Sarah Crowner in Dialogue with Etel Adan . Sarah Crowner lives in Brooklyn. Her diverse practice explores the spaces where geometry abuts gesture, materiality merges with composition, and the graphic confronts the handmade. Crowner’s work points to an expanded field of painting, investigating the relationship between the element and the whole, and how parts build an entirety. Complimentary access with RSVP . Limited seating based on first-come, first-served. Link below! ISAAC JULIEN: VAGABONDIA NOW ON VIEW We are pleased to announce Isaac Julien: Vagabondia , presenting the artist’s celebrated 2000 film and video installation recently gifted to The Bass’s collection by Rosa and Carlos de la Cruz, on view beginning August 20. Sir Isaac Julien (b. 1960), KBE RA, is a British artist and filmmaker who has devoted his four-decade career to expanding the possibilities of the moving image. Coming to prominence in 1980s London, his work—spanning film, video, and photography—combines poetic visual storytelling with critical explorations of cultural memory and the dispersion of Black individuals and communities throughout the diaspora. Go to this link to plan your next visit! Isaac Julien: Vagabondia  is organized by Claudia Mattos, Associate Curator of New Media Art. Vagabondia  is a gift from Rosa and Carlos de la Cruz. This exhibition is funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation New Media Initiative, with support from Sir Isaac Julien, KBE RA, in honor of Rosa de la Cruz. Isaac Julien, Vagabondia , 2000. Installation view, Turner Prize, Tate Britain, 2001. Artwork ©Isaac Julien. Photo: ©Tate. Courtesy of the artist and Victoria Miro. CHARLES ATLAS: HAIL THE NEW PURITAN NOW ON VIEW We are pleased to announce our latest exhibition Charles Atlas: Hail the New Puritan , on view now through October 19, 2025. Hail the New Puritan  (1985–86) by Charles Atlas is a landmark in the history of media-based performance, offering a fictionalized documentary of a day in the life of Scottish choreographer and dancer Michael Clark. Fusing the formal discipline of classical ballet with the raw vitality of punk, post-punk, and queer underground subcultures, Clark’s performances—and Atlas’s mock-documentary approach—broke new ground with their exploration of self-fashioned personas and the politics of style. Set against the backdrop of 1980s London, the film captures the spirit of a shifting cultural moment, where physical movement operates as both personal expression and social defiance. Atlas’s camera acts as an extension of the performing body, crafting a visual language attuned to the energies, textures, and codes of a changing society. Nearly four decades later, Hail the New Puritan  remains a vital cultural touchstone, its experimental pulse resonating across time. At The Bass, its presentation deepens a conversation already embedded within XI  (2004), the immersive installation by assume vivid astro focus (avaf) currently on view on the museum’s second floor. At the center of this constellation, Atlas’s film stands not only as a defining work of its time but as an influential force that continues to inform how artists visualize movement, stage identity, and imagine the political possibilities of performance. Look for special events and more throughout the season as The Bass continues its proud tradition of sharing powerful international contemporary art that excites, challenges, and educates audiences, bringing new perspectives to Miami Beach’s diverse cultural context. Go to this link to plan your next visit! Charles Atlas: Hail the New Puritan  is curated by Claudia Mattos, Associate Curator of New Media Art. This exhibition is funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation New Media Initiative. Hail the New Puritan , film still ©Charles Atlas. Courtesy of the artist and Luhring Augustine, New York. THE KALEIDOSCOPIC: WRITING HISTORIES THROUGH THE COLLECTION NOW ON VIEW Coming up this month #atTheBass... The Kaleidoscopic: Writing Histories Through the Collection , on view August 20. The Kaleidoscopic: Writing Histories Through the Collection  reimagines The Bass’s permanent collection as a dynamic, evolving archive. Rather than presenting history as fixed or linear, the exhibition embraces its shifting, fragmented nature. The Kaleidoscopic  invites visitors to engage with the collection as a living, multivocal space where meanings change over time and histories are continuously written, rewritten, and righted. Go to this link to plan your next visit! This exhibition was organized by Claudia Mattos, Associate Curator of New Media Art. This exhibition is made possible with generous support from Myriad Canada. Michael Snow, SSHTOORRTY , 2005. Collection of The Bass. FAIRE FOYER: SARAH CROWNER IN DIALOGUE WITH ETEL ADNAN NOW ON VIEW The Bass is greeting August with a brand-new season of art exhibitions! We are pleased to announce Faire Foyer: Sarah Crowner in Dialogue with Etel Adnan  on view August 20, 2025 through July 26, 2026. The exhibition brings together new work by the artist Sarah Crowner and a monumental ceramic mural by Etel Adnan, the only example of its kind in the United States. Crowner, whose practice engages geometric abstraction across painting, sculpture, and design, creates a semicircular carpeted alcove—or in French faire foyer—a welcoming transitional space connecting the exterior to the home's interior—that frames Adnan's mural. Sarah Crowner is an American artist whose work with geometric abstraction blurs the boundaries between painting, sculpture, set design, and ceramics. Exploring the formal language of abstraction with simplicity and intuition, her ongoing experiments in site-responsive installations revisit and reimagine the legacies of modernist art and architecture. Go to this link to plan your next visit! Organized by James Voorhies, The Bass Curator at Large. This exhibition is made possible with generous support from the Arison Arts Foundation and PHILLIPS. Sarah Crowner, Stone 1 (Small), 2024. © Sarah Crowner. Courtesy of the artist, Luring Augustine, New York, and Galerie Nordenhake, Berlin, Mexico City, and Stockholm. ASSUME VIVID ASTRO FOCUS: XI NOW ON VIEW The Bass is pleased to present the exhibition assume vivid astro focus: XI , an enveloping installation spanning floor to ceiling that features densely patterned wallpaper, multicolored seating, a modular stage, digital decals, sculptures that shapeshift into performative stage elements, and a large-scale projection covering an entire wall. Now on view, the exhibition is a collaborative work, bringing together individual pieces by assume vivid astro focus (avaf) as well as an array of collaborations and contributions by General Idea, Honeygun Labs, Natalja Kent, Michael Lazarus, Los Super Elegantes, Carla Machado, Justin Samson, Marco Boggio Sella, and Pete Woods. The São Paulo–based multidisciplinary art collective fuses drawing, sculpture, video and performance into large-scale installations and happenings where gender, politics and cultural codes freely interact. Inhabiting the social forms of discos and dance parties, avaf invites museum visitors to engage with the exhibition environment, creating lived experiences that contribute to the continually evolving social dynamics inherent in their work. Visit this link to learn more! This exhibition is organized by Claudia Mattos, Associate Curator of New Media Art. Installation view of assume vivid astro focus: XI . Photography by Zaire Aranguren. Courtesy of The Bass, Miami Beach and The de la Cruz collection. BASS BABIES THE CREATIVITY CENTER | THURSDAYS & SATURDAYS | 11 AM–12 PM Bass Babies is BACK beginning Thursday, September 11 from 11 AM–12 PM at The Creativity Center! Join us at The Bass Creativity Center for a weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors–aged 2 through 4–and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music. Registration info available at this link ! Photography by Monica McGivern. Courtesy of The Bass Miami Beach. THE STUDIO THE CREATIVITY CENTER | SAT & SUN | 12:30–4:30 PM Have you visited The Studio at The Bass Creativity Center? Newly renovated, explore a space for your imagination to run wild. Join us on weekends for Studio Drop-Ins at The Bass Creativity Center from 12:30–4:30 PM. Take a break during your next museum visit and drop in for self-guided art-making activities, design challenges, books, and more! Visit this link to learn more! By ML Staff. Courtesy/The Bass Museum of Art

The graceful forms and elegant silhouettes of classical Chinese furniture are loved by new and seasoned collectors alike. These sophisticated pieces elevate any interior space, and are a guaranteed conversation starter. An impressive and exceedingly rare set of four huanghuali ‘official's hat’ armchairs, 17th century . 47¾ in (121.3 cm) high, 26⅛ in (66.4 cm) wide, 19 in (48.3 cm) deep. Estimate: $1,200,000-1,800,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York What is classical Chinese furniture? Classical Chinese furniture refers to a wide variety of pieces made during the Ming and Qing dynasties, from the late 14th to the early 20th century. These forms include tables, cabinets, chairs, stools, beds, and smaller objects such as brush pots, cosmetic boxes and mirror stands — all furnishings found in a domestic space. How is classical Chinese furniture made? Chinese furniture is made without any glue or nails. Carved pieces of wood are held together by complex mortice and tenon joinery. This sophisticated joining system creates seamless transitions between horizontal planes and vertical supports. Supports for arms smoothly continue through the seat frame to become the legs of a chair, and delicate overlapping joints form the gracefully arched crest rails of horseshoe-back armchairs. A very rare huanghuali flush-sided corner-leg table, 17th century . 36¼ in (92.1 cm) high, 78 in (198.1 cm), 16 in (41 cm) wide. Estimate: $200,000-300,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Understanding how these joints hold a piece together will add to your overall appreciation of Chinese furniture. With great technical skill, master carpenters and cabinetmakers designed furniture with striking silhouettes and refined lines. The marriage of engineering and aesthetics created an artform still admired in the present day. What types of wood are used in Chinese furniture? Chinese furniture is made from a variety of woods, including tropical hardwoods, bamboo, and also decorated lacquer examples. Richly textured surfaces were often incorporated into furniture to provide a decorative element. Cabinet doors or table tops are the perfect canvas to showcase dynamic swirling grain or textured burl patterns. Of the various woods used in Chinese furniture, the most desired hardwoods are huanghuali and zitan. A rare pair of huanghuali ‘cabriole-leg’ stools, 17th century . 21¼ in (54 cm) high, 18⅞ in (48 cm) wide, 18⅞ in (47.9 cm) deep. Estimate: $150,000-250,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Huanghuali, known by its scientific name as Dalbergia odorifera, is a Chinese rosewood. Huanghuali is valued for its rich amber tones and abstract figural patterns, including the famed darker cluster markings known as ‘ghost faces’. It is a very durable material, impermeable to water and insects. The strength of the wood made this the ideal material to withstand the physical demands of the tenon-mortice construction of Chinese furniture. Zitan belongs to the genus Pterocarpus and is a purplish-black, fine-grained hardwood. The density of the wood makes it especially suitable for fine and intricate carving. Combined with its jade-like, lustrous surface, this made it the preferred material for Imperial Qing Dynasty furniture, which favoured elaborately carved and highly ornamented works. A rare and finely-carved zitan ‘one hundred antiques’ box and cover, 18th century . 8¾ in (22.2 cm) high, 16⅝ in (42.2 cm) wide, 10 ¼ in (26 cm) deep. Estimate: $25,000-35,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Jichimu, literally translated as ‘chicken-wing wood,’ has a distinct grain that resembles bird feathers. Another admired wood is tieliimu, which is related to jichimu, and has a shorter, less dramatic feathered grain. Why is Chinese furniture so valuable? The market for Chinese furniture is material driven. It is a market that balances quantity and quality of material with beauty, rarity, and form. The more robust the members, and the larger the piece, or more material used, the more desirable the example and thus the higher price realized. The prices of two similar-looking pieces from the same time period can differ by hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on the material used. A magnificent and very rare zitan floor screen, 16th-17th century . 79¼ in (201.3 cm) high, 55½ in (141 cm) wide, 25⅝ in (65.1 cm) deep. Estimate: $500,000-700,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York In this material driven market, examples in huanghuali and zitan are the most sought after and yield the most exceptional prices. Learning how to properly identify the materials used in Chinese furniture takes time and patience. Examine as many pieces as possible – test their weight, look closely at colour and grain patterns. What are the most popular chairs within Chinese furniture? ‘Official’s hat’ armchair The ‘official’s hat’ armchair is among the most powerful and monumental forms of classical Chinese furniture. The chair’s name references the curved crestrail, which resembles the winged official’s hat worn during the Ming period. The tall and supportive curved splat and elongated S-shaped arms encourage the sitter to sit in an upright regal posture, and the protruding crestrail with rounded ends behind the sitter’s head adds an imposing effect. A pair of huanghuali ‘official’s hat’ armchairs, late Qing dynasty . 44 in (111.8 cm) high, 24⅝ in (62.5 cm) wide, 20⅜ in (51.9 cm) deep. Estimate: $50,000-70,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York ‘Southern official’s hat’ armchair The ‘southern official’s hat’ armchair differs from the ‘official’s hat’ armchair in that its crestrails continue into the rear uprights as opposed to extending beyond them. The continuous line of the crestrail joining the rear upright posts is achieved with a rounded, right-angle joint called a ‘pipe-joint,’ which is again used to join the curved arms to the front upright posts. A very rare pair of inlaid huanghuali 'southern official's hat' armchairs, 16th-17th century. 49¾ in (126.4 cm) high, 24⅛ in (61.3 cm) wide, 19⅛ in (48.6 cm) deep. Estimate: $250,000-350,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Horseshoe-back armchair The horseshoe-back armchair is one of the most iconic forms of Chinese furniture. The graceful curve of the crestrail and the gradual downward slope of the arms give the horseshoe-back armchair its refined appearance. The seamless curve is achieved by a sophisticated joint called the ‘overlapping pressure pin scarf joint’. Its rounded arms gently cradle a sitter, while also providing support for the elbows and arms. A pair of huanghuali horseshoe-back armchairs, 17th-18th century . 39¼ in (99.7 cm), 26¼ in (66.7 cm) wide, 23¾ in (60.3 cm). Estimate: $60,000-80,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York What about classical Chinese tables? Recessed-leg table The recessed-leg table is amongst the most well-known and immediately recognisable forms found in classical Chinese furniture. Tables of this elegant and restrained form, with the graceful splay of the legs, trace their origins to furniture design of the Song dynasty. The basic proportions were adapted to make large painting tables, smaller tables, benches and stools. The form is also referred to in the Classic of Lu Ban as a ‘character one’ table due to its similarity in profile to the single horizontal stroke of the Chinese character for ‘one’. A rare huanghuali recessed-leg wine table, 17th-18th century . 31¾ in (80.6 cm) high, 38½ in (97.8 cm) wide, 25 in (63.5 cm) deep. Estimate: $120,000-180,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Painting table A painting table must have a broad enough surface to accommodate a large painting and accoutrements such as ink, ink stones, brushes and washers. Wang Shixiang, the distinguished scholar of Chinese furniture, defines a painting table as any table measuring 76 centimetres or 30 inches or more in depth. A very rare huanghuali corner-leg table, 17th century . 32¼ in (81.9 cm) high, 77½ in (197 cm), 20⅞ in (53 cm) deep. Estimate: $300,000-500,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Kang table Kang tables were typically used atop a platform, a couch-bed or daybed. The kang table was used to hold tea, food or objects to be used while the sitter rested on the bed. What other forms should I look out for? Sloping-stile cabinet The sloping-stile, tapered cabinet is among the most beautiful and elegant Chinese furniture designs. The very subtle splay of the legs lends a sense of stability and balance to the form while retaining a graceful and pleasing profile. The form was widely used in cabinetmaking throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. A pair of huanghuali square-corner cabinets, 18th-19th century . 56 in (142.2 cm) high, 30¾ in (78.1 cm) wide, 17¾ in (45.1 cm) deep. Estimate: $100,000-150,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Compound cabinet and hatchest Compound cabinets and hatchests combine a large square-corner cabinet with a small upper cabinet and were often made in pairs. Garments and large items would have been stored in the lower cabinets, while smaller items would have been kept in the top chests, often requiring the use of a ladder due to their massive size. A magnificent pair of finely-carved ‘hundred antiques’ zitan compound cabinets and hatchests, 19th century . 87½ in (222.3 cm) high, 50⅜ in (127.8 cm) wide, 22½ in (57.2 cm) deep. Estimate: $150,000-250,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Traveling cabinet The interior of a traveling cabinet can be fitted with either shelves, for the carrying of books or scrolls, or set with drawers and compartments. These cases ensured that the scholar-official or merchant had all the necessary accoutrement for his life on the road. What are the qualities new collectors should look for when purchasing Chinese furniture? When approaching a piece of Chinese furniture, step back and take in the whole object. How does it interact with the space around it? Look at the silhouette and profile, the splay of the legs, the movement of the arms, the textured planes of the cabinet doors. Consistency of form is the first indicator of quality and condition. A huanghuali corner-leg table, 17th-18th century . 34⅛ in (86.7 cm) high, 68 in (172.8 cm) wide, 20¼ in (51.4 cm) deep. Estimate: $40,000-60,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Condition is an important determining factor when it comes to value and also aesthetics. Given that Chinese furniture was used in daily life, it’s likely that even the most exceptional pieces have been restored, often in the form of patches to the wood, repairs to legs or arms, or reinforced joints. Don’t be afraid to look underneath a piece of furniture. To preserve the look of a piece, restoration is often concealed on its underside. The best way to understand what has been done is to turn it over. How should classical Chinese furniture be cared for? Chinese furniture is made from organic materials that react to their environment. In humid weather, wood expands, and in cold weather, it shrinks. Subjecting wood to unstable environmental conditions can lead to cracking panels and movement in the joints, among other problems. An important and massive huanghuali trestle-leg table, 17th century . 35½ in (90.2 cm) high, 124 in (315 cm), 17½ in (44.4 cm) deep. Estimate: $800,000-1,200,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York Serious collectors install humidifiers and other forms of climate control in their homes. Maintaining the ideal humidity and temperature for the furniture will prevent damage and ensure that you will enjoy the pieces for years to come. Regular polishing by a trusted furniture restorer will help furnishings look their very best. Waxing the furniture not only gives the works their famed lustre; it also prevents the wood from becoming dry and brittle. How do I fit classical Chinese furniture into my lifestyle? Classical Chinese furniture can rhyme with almost any interior design or style. Its minimalist lines and architectural forms can be the striking counterpoint to a modern painting or contemporary room. Place a bold piece of sculpture on an incense stand. Position a daybed as a bench at the end of your bed. Center a kang table in front of a sofa. An impressive and rare huanghuali six-post canopy bed, 17th century . 94½ in (240 cm) high, 88½ (224.8 cm) wide, 61½ in (156.2 cm) deep. Estimate: $300,000-500,000. Offered in Important Chinese Furniture and Works of Art on 18-19 September 2025 at Christie’s in New York ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Christie's. Click here  for the latest Christie's auctions

Today marks the preview day for Design Miami's first event in Seoul, and first multi-day event under the new Design Miami.In Situ initiative. The landmark exhibition of Korean collectible design, presented in collaboration with the Seoul Design Foundation, opens to the public tomorrow, September 2, 2025, and runs until September 14, 2025, hosted at Seoul’s iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Minjae Kim for Marta at Design Miami.In  Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. Titled Illuminated: A Spotlight on Korean Design, the exhibition presents over 170 pieces of Korean design, marking the first major international collectible design event in the city. Inspired by the Korean word “조명 (jo-myeong)”, meaning “to illuminate”, the exhibition spotlights the distinctiveness of Korean design, and the design luminaries who have shaped the country’s collectible design landscape. Curated by acclaimed Korean design expert, Hyeyoung Cho, the event is a true celebration of Korea’s rich design legacy, while inspiring the next generation. Alongside the objects on show, Design Miami is hosting a compelling program of Design Talks on Tuesday, September 2, to enrich the programming with thoughtful dialogue. ​ Exhibitor Highlights. Please find the full exhibition highlights press release HERE . Jongjin Park for J. Lohmann Gallery at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. Gallery SKLO at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. J. Lohmann Gallery (New York) presents work by Jongjin Park , whose inimitable ornamental language harmoniously combines materials that are seemingly at odds with one another to create his sublime and sculptural vessels. He paints porcelain slips onto single sheets of everyday paper towels. Jongjin then layers up to 1,000 individual sheets of paper to form spectacular millefeuille vessels with amazingly colorful and surprising textures. The innovative technique was developed by Park based on his experience with the centuries-old Moonjar craft. ​Also presenting is Gallery SKLO (Seoul) , the city’s only gallery dedicated to contemporary glass, which is committed to exploring the sculptural and artistic potential of the medium, pushing its material boundary. Among the designers on show are Kira Kim , a pioneering figure of the first generation of Korea’s studio glass movement; Joonyong Kim , who captures the spectrum and ephemerality of natural light; Jiyong Lee , known for his Cell Structure series, exploring the invisible systems of life through geometric abstraction in glass blocks; and Sunghoon Park , who harnesses the sculptural language of glass to create abstract yet immersive visions of the cosmos. Kyeok Kim for Charles Burnand and Byung Hoon Choi for Friedman Benda at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: WeCAP, courtesy of Design Miami. Friedman Benda (New York/Los Angeles) presents work by pioneering Korean designer, Byung Hoon Choi . Since the 1970s, Choi has advanced education and scholarship in the field, bringing Korean artistry to the global stage. His practice synthesizes traditional Korean craft and contemporary design, creating works that are both sculptural and functional, utilizing natural materials such as wood, clay, granite, and stone. In the exhibition, Friedman Benda presents his afterimage of beginning 021-577 (2021) and afterimage of beginning 018-499 (2018): sculptural works that harness natural materials to seek a form of realism that excludes artificiality and embraces nature’s beauty. Charles Burnand Gallery (London) presents works by six of Korea’s most compelling voices in collectible design: Mia Jung , Myungtaek Jung , Heechan Kim , Kyeok Kim , Jungin Lee , and Weon Rhee , including an illuminated chandelier by Kyeok Kim and hanging piece by Heechan Kim . Heechan Kim for Charles Burnand at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. FABRIKR (Seoul) is a sustainability-focused design duo, best known for dedication to upcycling, breathing new life into existing materials by thoughtfully transforming everyday objects into entirely new expressions. For Illuminated , the duo unveils a new chapter in their practice: presenting fully original, self-initiated creations that extend their long-standing ethos of transformation, yet move beyond reimagined objects. New works on show include FABRIKR’s Sparrow chair and Nest table, both crafted from epoxy resin, a signature material through the history of their practice; not just as a coating, but rather as a way of creating new forms and object identities.  FABRIKR at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. Marta (Los Angeles) spotlights the work of internationally recognized multi-disciplinary designer, Minjae Kim . Conceived as a triangulation of furnishings for an artist's retreat, the trio comprises a bed, a chair, and a light source: Daybed With Pillow , Ruffled Chair, and Lamp With Roof –in Minjae's mind, respectively: a place to dream, a place to sit, and illumination by which to create. Works presented by Marta and Charles Burnand at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. Salon 94 Design (New York) presents a diverse set of works by Sally J. Han x Locatelli Partners , Jay Sae Jung Oh , Jaiik Lee and Kwangho Lee . Inspired by traditional Korean ceramics—particularly the Moon Jars of the late Joseon Dynasty, with their imperfect roundness and visible joining marks— Jaiik Lee 's  Transition  series represents a pivotal evolution in his artistic journey, transforming rigid copper into flowing organic forms. Korea Heritage Foundation at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. Jaiik Lee for Salon 94 at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. SIDE Gallery (Barcelona) presents a compelling cross-section of contemporary Korean design, showcasing the work of four leading voices: Gyuhan Lee , Donghoon Sohn , Hyeokjin Lee , and Jinyeong Yeon . Through distinct methodologies and material vocabularies, each designer contributes to a broader global vision of what contemporary design can be—conceptually rigorous, materially conscious, and deeply rooted in cultural reflection. SIDE Gallery at Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul, 2025. Photo credit: Ilda Kim, courtesy of Design Miami. Design Talks Program Highlights.  More information here .  Under the curatorial theme Illuminated: A Spotlight on Korean Design , Design Miami.In Situ, Seoul presents a curated series of four design talks, hosted on September 2, 2025, including a collaborative session with the Herald Corporation. Highlights include Jen Roberts (Design Miami, CEO), in conversation with leading gallerists Hyojung Kim (Director, Gallery Sklo), Simon Stewart (Founder and Director, Charles Burnand Gallery), and Zesty Meyers (Principal & Co-Founder, R & Company) on the cultural importance of the collectible design market and the role of Korean creativity within the global landscape; pioneering Korean designers Byung Hoon Choi , Minjae Kim , Jaiik Lee , and Jane Yang-D’Hae on how Korean design engages with the global stage, and how it has achieved visibility, influence, and cultural resonance internationally; and a spotlight on the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize and how it has been pivotal in demonstrating the breadth and sophistication of Korean contemporary craft, with Myungtaek Jung (2022, Finalist; 2023, Expert Panelist), Dahye Jeong (2022, Winner); and Keeryong Choi (2023, Finalist; 2024, Expert Panelist) in conversation, presented by The Loewe Foundation. The design talks program will culminate with an in-depth conversation between Kuho Jung (Artist), Zuhyung Yu (CEO, Cafe ONION, Chicory Hotel), moderated by Hyeyoung Cho (Curator, Illuminated ), around K-Design and its meaningful contribution to ongoing transnational cultural dialogues, presented in partnership with Herald Corporation. VISITING THE EXHIBITION Design Miami.In Situ presents Illuminated: A Spotlight on Korean Design in collaboration with Seoul Design Foundation September 1-14, 2025​ Private Preview Day - September 1, 2025, by invitation only​ Public Viewing Days - September 2-14, 2025, 10AM-8PM Yigansumun Exhibition Hall, Dongdaemun Design Plaza​ 281 Eulji-ro, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea Link to public passes here.  ​​ Link to press passes here .  EXHIBITOR LIST Carpenters Workshop Gallery (New York/London/Paris/Los Angeles) Presenting: Wonmin Park​ Charles Burnand Gallery (London)​ Presenting: Heechan Kim, Jungin Lee, Kyeok Kim, Mia Jung, Myungtaek Jung, Weon Rhee ​ Dahyeon Yoo (Seoul) ​Eunkyung An (Seoul)​ FABRIKR (Seoul)​ Friedman Benda (New York/Los Angeles)​ Presenting: Byung Hoon Choi​ Gallery LVS & Craft (Seoul)​ Presenting: Dongjun Kim, Jeomsoo Na, Yeonsoon Chang ​ GalleryO (Seoul)​ Presenting: Dongchun Lee, Eunmi Chun, Healim Shin, Heeseung Koh, Junwon Jung​ Gallery SKLO (Seoul)​ Presenting: Jiyong Lee, Joonyong Kim, Kira Kim, Sunghoon Park, Taehoon Lee ​ Hostler Burrows (New York/Los Angeles) ​ Presenting: Jae Won Lee ​ Inchin Lee (Seoul) ​Insook Choi (Seoul) ​J.Lohmann Gallery (New York)​ Presenting: Jongjin Park​ Jeonghwa Seo (Seoul) ​Jihoon Ha (Seoul) ​Jongup Chun (Seoul) ​Korea Heritage Agency (Seoul) Presenting: Byungjin So and Joonghan So, Choonsik Kim, Daeyong Cho, Soohwa Jeong ​ Kuho Jung (Seoul) ​Kyounghee Kim (Seoul)  ​​Marta (Los Angeles)​ Presenting: Minjae Kim​ Mindy Solomon Gallery (Miami) Presenting: Jane Yang-D’Haene ​ Minwook Kim (Busan) ​NICEWORKSHOP (Seoul)​ Objects with Narratives (Brussels/Geneva)​ Presenting: Hakmin Lee, Junsu Kim, Rahee Yoon, Seongyoul Park, Sukkeun Kang, Sungho Cho​ R & Company (New York)​ Presenting: Hun Chung Lee​ Sangwook Huh (Seoul) ​Salon 94 Design (New York)​ Presenting: Jaiik Lee, Jay Sae Jung Oh, Kwangho Lee, Sally J. Han x Locatelli Partners​ Sejin Bae (Seoul)​ Seungji Mun (Seoul) ​Seungjin Yang (Seoul) ​SIDE Gallery (Barcelona)​ Presenting: Donghoon Sohn, Gyuhan Lee, Hyeokjin Lee, Jinyeong Yeon​ SOLUNA FINE CRAFT (Seoul)​ Presenting: Dahye Jeong, Keeryong Choi, Kyouhong Lee, Woosun Cheon, Yaerin Pyun​ Soyun Jung (Seoul)​ Todd Merrill Studio (New York)​ Presenting: Yunhwan Kim​ Sunyi Shin (Seoul)​ Yeunhee Ryu (Seoul)​ Yongjin Chung (Seoul) ​Youngsoon Lee (Seoul) EXHIBITION PARTNERS​ Kohler ​Korea Heritage Agency​ Loewe Foundation​ Maison Perrier-Jouët​ Range Rover By ML Staff. Photos/Design Miami.

Join us for a walking tour of the Miami Design District, as we explore the history of the art and architecture that characterize the neighborhood. We will visit outdoor installations and murals including Buckminster Fuller Fly's Eye Dome, Virgil Abloh’s Dollar a Gallon, Criola’s Interdimensional Portal, and more. DATE:  Saturday, September 27, 2025 TIME:  11:00AM - 12:00PM ADDRESS:  Palm Court 140 NE 39th St Miami FL, 33137 ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of MDD

This September, Christie’s 20th/21st Century Evening Sale will present an extraordinary array of modern and contemporary masterpieces from around the world. Among the highlights are  Zao Wou-Ki ’s  17.03.63 , a blazing red landmark work from his celebrated Hurricane Period;  Yayoi Kusama ’s rare large-scale multi-pumpkin painting  Pumpkin [TWAQN] ; and the exceptional  Pagodenlandschaft (Landscape with a Pagoda by a Lake)  by Walter Spies  —  all making their debut at auction. The sale will also feature highlights from leading Asian artists, including  Zeng Fanzhi , Rhee Seundja and  MR. , alongside significant works by prominent Western figures such as  Paul Cezanne ,  Tamara de Lempicka  and  Fernando Botero , bringing together artistic visions from across time and cultures. Explore more:  Hong Kong Auctions Auction times 26 Sep 07:00 PM (HKT) ML Staff. Content/images courtesy of Christie's

World of Warcraft has been running strong for nearly 20 years. While its servers are global, every city has its own unique WoW flavor. In Miami, that flavor comes with sunshine, cafecito, and a nightlife schedule that would put any raid calendar to shame. New players (and even veterans moving to the 305) often ask if there is a real WoW scene here, or if gamers are too busy hitting the beach. Spoiler alert: Miami players are absolutely out there, raiding, PvPing, and pushing keys. The local energy makes the game feel even better. Let's explore why WoW is such a natural fit for Miami's fast-paced, social lifestyle and where you can actually find other players in town. Miami Lifestyle Meets WoW Lifestyle On paper, Miami and WoW could not be more different. One is all beaches and cocktails. The other is about dragons and battlegrounds. But scratch the surface, and you will see the similarities. Both are about energy, about chasing moments that feel bigger than life, and about doing it together. A typical Miami player might spend the afternoon at South Beach, hit Wynwood for dinner, and still be home in time to log into a raid. How? Easy! They save their grind time with WoW boosting . They let pro players gear up their characters while they are out living life. By the time they sit down at their PC, their character is ready for high keys, raids, or even PvP. There are no wasted hours farming gear or doing chores. This is the perfect balance of Miami living and WoW progression. It is all about socializing IRL while still staying competitive in-game. After all, what is raid night if not a different kind of Miami party? Where Gaming Lives in Miami Gaming in Miami is not confined to bedrooms or endless online chats. WoW players are proof of that. In recent years, the city has become a full-fledged hub for organized gaming and esports, with arenas, training spaces, and community spots that appeal to seasoned adults just as much as to newcomers. In contrast to the stereotype of teens who grind in their bedrooms all night, most players of WoW are now in their early thirties. They usually combine work, family, and social life with it, and make the infrastructure of the city work in their favor. Take GameTime Miami (5701 Sunset Dr, South Miami), which is an arcade mixed with video games and small-scale competitions. Consider Dezerland Action Park (14401 NE 19th Ave, North Miami), which has both VR experiences and organized LAN events. Here, families come together. While their kids dive into VR adventures, parents chat about raid strategies, compare favorite boosting platforms, and plan new tactics for tonight's boss fights in Azeroth. It is a space where WoW guilds meet in person, discuss builds and rotations, and keep the social side of the game alive. All that is possible without giving up the joys of real-life community. Miami's integration into the global esports ecosystem adds another layer. Players gain exposure to international standards, tournaments, and events, while local hubs provide the gear, connectivity, and social structure to make high-level play possible. For WoW players, that means logging off one environment and jumping straight into another with friends, all supported by a city that values both competition and connection. In Miami, raiding is not just a solo digital grind; it is part of a wider lifestyle. It blends family, community, and high-level gameplay seamlessly. Esports Lifestyle in Miami Miami is not only a WoW hotspot. The city has also gained a reputation in the esports community at large. It has a rapidly expanding competitive environment, which is well-developed and surprisingly balanced between experienced competitors and novices. Take Miami Heretics, a Call of Duty squad shaking up the global scene. These guys are not just playing. They are putting Miami on the esports map with style, showing the city is more than sun, sand, and neon lights. In April 2025, just a short drive away in Boca Raton, the Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena went full-on esports mode for Challengers 2025, with a whopping $100,000 prize pool on the line.  Teams from across the country rolled in, fans packed the seats, and the energy was absolutely electric. Think Miami nightlife, but with headsets and pro-grade keyboards. Moments like this prove that the Magic City is not just a tourist playground. It is a real stage where top-tier gaming talent can strut, compete, and show off. Thus, WoW players can feel that same hype in their own raids or battlegrounds. Another contributor to the esports ecosystem is startups that are advancing the city. Technology, performance training, and youth programs are incorporated into companies such as Gamercraft and NESTRE Health and Performance. eLeague and similar programs provide younger players with a more organized entry into competitive gaming. The infrastructure of Miami is now accommodating both informal and professional growth. The city has managed to stay a cradle of talent across generations. Even educational establishments are not left out of the movement. The University of Miami has esports programs and teams in such games as League of Legends, Valorant, and Rocket League. Students juggle schoolwork during the day and competitive games at night. Most of them will come back to WoW and run battlegrounds or late-night raids with friends. Miami Esports does not exist in small pockets. It rides on the vitality of the city, combining social interaction, adrenaline, and community, as well as its nightlife. Be it professional competitions or amateur get-togethers, the competitive environment reflects the dynamic, energetic nature of the Magic City. WoW gamers, as well as fans of other games, are part and parcel of that ecosystem. Final Say! Miami does not sleep. neither do its gamers, at least in spirit. The city's nonstop energy, social buzz, and love for competition make it the perfect playground not just for WoW, but for esports as a whole. Raid nights, LAN meetups, and tournaments blend seamlessly with coffee runs, beach trips, and Wynwood nights. Players know how to balance the grind with life. Some even rely on WoW boosting so they can skip the boring parts and jump straight into the fun with friends. In Miami, the thrill of victory is not just digital. It is woven into the city itself, where gaming, community, and adrenaline collide. By ML staff. Image courtesy of WoW Miami.

Image by Tierney / Adobestock Dating someone from another culture might be a great experience. Italian women with their unique features are often admired worldwide. Those men who seek real romantic adventures certainly should pay attention to local girls. If you have ever discovered pros and cons of dating an Italian woman , then you realize what vibrant personalities these women possess.  Of course, such lists may be helpful, especially when you know a little about a potential partner. But the truth is that you need to go deeper, explore the cultural nuances of dating an Italian woman, and see how you should act to melt her heart. From celebrating traditions to sharing meals, everything is important when building relationships with women of Italy. If you are ready for taking an exciting journey through Italian culture, social customs, family bonds, and see what makes Italian women unique, then let’s start. Independence and Ambitions Many Italian women are independent and highly ambitious. They often prioritize professional achievements while still pursuing their personal goals. For men who value a partner with her own vision and plans, this is a huge advantage. However, those who expect a spouse to place shared routines above everything else may need to adjust their expectations. Italian women usually know exactly what they want, and attempts to control or “guide” them can backfire. What makes them impressive is the way they balance multiple social roles with ease—being professionals, daughters, friends, and partners—while still managing to remain charming and attractive. Their independence doesn’t take away from their femininity; instead, it adds depth and makes relationships with them both dynamic and inspiring. Passion and Romance Oh, women of Italy know everything or almost everything about passion and romance. Hardly can you find more romantic and deep partners than Italians. By choosing an Italian woman for marriage, you can be sure that she will greatly transform your life. Candlelit dinners, spontaneous trips, and grand romantic gestures will become a part of your dating experience . Think twice before starting relationships with an Italian bride, because not every man can handle such emotional intensity. Their passionate nature might also be a point of contention and occasional disagreement. After all, you will have to learn how to navigate such moments if you decide to build a connection with a passionate Italian woman. Cultural PeCUlarities Local customs, language, and everyday habits play an important role in building relationships. You may understand the same thing differently just because of communication style, humour, social norms, etc. As a result, you can face some misunderstandings even if you speak Italian. Open-mindedness and patience are the key. You can save and improve your relationships if you recognize potential threats beforehand. Discussing them with your partners can change a lot. Showing respect and curiosity will help as well. Ask how the woman sees this or that situation, and share your vision. Together, you can work out the ways to turn cultural peculiarities and other differences into a strong advantage for your connection.    Emotional Intensity When it comes to emotional intensity, Italian women take one step ahead. They openly express a variety of emotions like frustration, passion, excitement, joy, jealousy, etc. Such a range may fill your life with colors and tones, making every day vivid and alive. At the same time, not all men can hold these dynamic and dramatic moments. The key is to understand and accept the emotional intensity that an Italian woman possesses. Expressive communication will be a part of your everyday life if you choose an Italian girl for dating. Mind that a local woman doesn’t aim to hurt you. She just isn't shy to express her emotions, whether they are positive or not.  Image by blackday / Adobestock Food and Lifestyle For some people, food is just a way to satisfy a hunger, but not for Italians. Food takes a special place in the life of Italian women. They like how it is served on the plate, covering local traditions and customs. When dating an Italian girl, you should be ready for sharing and discussing recipes, as well as for long conversations while cooking or eating. Food is a part of the Italian lifestyle. Besides, an Italian woman will open a huge, interesting world for you once you walk into her life. But the most interesting thing that you will discover is how to enjoy every moment of your being. Local brides are positive and open-minded. Undoubtedly, you will become the same in case you are ready to open your heart as well.  Dating Expectations Italian women, like any other foreign brides, appreciate care, attention, support, and respect. They value deep conversations, humour, and attempts to make them feel special even on an ordinary day. They admire confidence but will never put up with arrogance. Showing interest in local culture, traditions, language, and lifestyle in general will be taken as a positive sign of your readiness to build serious relationships. So, if you want to start a meaningful connection with an Italian woman, then be ready to invest efforts, as local brides expect consistency and emotional presence. They do a lot for maintaining closeness and want the partner to do the same.  Summing - up Italian women are energetic, passionate, attractive, and deeply loving. They can bring joy and unforgettable moments into a man’s life, filling it with romance and warmth. At the same time, their emotional intensity may not be for everyone, and it requires a partner who is ready to embrace both the highs and the challenges. Now that you know the main traits of dating women from Italy, the decision is yours—whether such a vibrant and passionate partner is the right match for you. If yes, then do not waste a minute and join a good dating site like Victoriyaclub.com  to meet lovely girls from Italy.  By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Are you considering a local move? Whether you're shifting a few blocks away or relocating across town, understanding the ABC of local moves can make a difference in your transition. It's not just about packing boxes and hiring movers. It's about strategizing, budgeting, and timing your move to perfection. In this guide, we'll explain nuances of local moves, from costs to timelines, ensuring you're well-equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Therefore, experience a seamless relocation by immersing yourself in the insights ahead, tailored just for you. What Counts as a Local Move? A local move might sound pretty straightforward, but there's more to it than just moving within your current city or town. Generally, a move is considered local if it's within a certain distance, often around 50 miles, from the original location without crossing state lines. This distance can vary based on different moving company policies. For instance, AmeriSafe Moving Services FL notes that while many companies consider a move within the same metropolitan area as local, some might extend that range based on specific criteria or regional factors. The distinction between local and long-distance moves is crucial because it affects pricing, available services, and the required permits or regulations. Suppose you're unsure whether your upcoming relocation falls into the local move category. In that case, it's always a good idea to consult with your chosen moving company to get clarity and avoid surprises. A local move is a move within a radius of 50 miles The ABC of Local Moves: Understanding the Costs When considering a move, especially within luxury real estate , where properties and possessions might be of higher value, it's imperative to understand the cost dynamics involved. Local moves have their unique pricing structures, influenced by various factors. Let's break down the ABCs of these costs to help you budget effectively and make well-informed decisions. How Are Local Moves Calculated? Unlike long-distance moves, which are often priced by weight or volume, local moves are typically charged by the hour. That includes the time movers spend packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and even driving between your old and new residences. There may also be additional fees for services like disassembling and reassembling furniture or handling special items. Tips for Getting an Accurate Estimate In-Home Estimates: For a precise cost forecast, an in-home estimate is beneficial. That allows movers to assess the number of items, their size, and potential challenges, like narrow staircases or large furniture pieces. Avoid Hidden Fees: Always read the fine print. Some companies might charge extra for moving items up and down stairs, long carry distances from your home to the moving truck, or even for using additional packing materials. Saving Money on Your Local Move Part of the ABC of local moves is understanding and anticipating the costs. That can lead to significant savings. Here are some strategies: Move During Off-Peak Times: Rates can be lower mid-week or mid-month when demand is reduced. Declutter: Before you move, sell, donate, or dispose of items you no longer need. That reduces the volume of items, subsequently reducing moving time and costs. Pack Yourself: While professional packing has advantages, doing it yourself can shave off some expenses. Ensure items, especially high-value possessions, are packed securely to avoid damage. If you want to save money, follow the tips from the ABC of local moves Timing Your Move: Picking the Right Moment Deciding on the perfect time to make your local move can significantly impact both the cost and the ease of your transition. Various factors, from the time of year to the day of the week, play crucial roles in this decision-making process. Let’s explore how to pick the right moment for your move and ensure everything runs smoothly. Optimal Days and Times The moving industry is generally busier on weekends and at the beginning or end of each month, as this is when most people prefer to move. If you have the flexibility, scheduling your move during a weekday or in the middle of the month could mean less competition for moving services and potentially lower rates. Seasonal Considerations The summer months are the peak moving season. The weather is favorable, and families prefer to move without disrupting the school year. However, this also means higher demand for moving services, which could increase costs. Conversely, winter moves might offer cost savings, but you must contend with potentially unfavorable weather conditions. Tips for a Smooth Move Advance Booking: Regardless of when you decide to move, booking your moving services well in advance can secure your preferred date and potentially better rates. Weather Forecast: Keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially if you're planning a move during seasons with unpredictable conditions. That can help you prepare accordingly and avoid major disruptions on moving days. Personal Schedule: Consider your personal and work schedule. Picking a time that minimizes stress and disruption to your daily life is just as important as finding the most cost-effective moment. Timing is essential for any move How Long Does a Local Move Take? Estimating the duration of a local move is crucial for planning and setting realistic expectations. Several variables influence how long the process will take, from the size of your home to the efficiency of your movers. Here, we break down the key factors for good timing. Size and Volume of Possessions A small apartment may only take a few hours to pack and move, while a larger home could require a full day or more. The amount and size of your belongings play a significant role in determining the timeframe. Distance and Accessibility The physical distance between your old and new home, as well as the accessibility of each location, impacts the moving duration. If there are challenges like narrow staircases or a significant distance from the home to the moving truck, this can add time. Tips for a Faster Move Pre-Pack: If possible, have everything packed before the movers arrive. Label Boxes: Clearly label boxes with their contents and designated room to speed up unloading. Reserve Parking: Ensure ample parking space for the moving truck near your home. Use labels or write on your moving boxes Choosing a Reliable Local Mover In the ABC of local moves, selecting the right moving company is essential to the success and ease of your relocation. Here’s a quick guide to help you make an informed decision. Reputation and Reviews Begin by researching online reviews and ratings. These provide firsthand accounts of other customers' experiences. Word of mouth can also be invaluable. Ask friends or family if they have recommendations. Licensing and Insurance Ensure that the moving company has the necessary licenses and insurance. That speaks about their professionalism and safeguards your belongings during the move. Transparent Pricing If you want a detailed estimate, directly engage with local movers . Transparent pricing, without hidden fees, is a strong indicator of a trustworthy company. Evaluate their Customer Service How a company communicates and addresses your concerns can be a significant indicator of its overall service quality. Engage with them, ask questions, and gauge their responsiveness. Final Preparations and Moving Day Tips As moving day approaches, the anticipation builds. It's vital to have everything in place to ensure a hassle-free transition. Here are some essential final preparations and tips to consider as you gear up for the big day. Last-Minute Checks Essential Box: Pack a box or bag of essentials that you'll need immediately upon arrival: toiletries, change of clothes, chargers, and important documents. Update Address: Ensure you've updated your address with necessary services, banks, and postal offices. Notify Neighbors: Inform neighbors about your moving day, especially if it might cause temporary inconveniences like blocked driveways. Moving Day Advice Early Start: Begin the day early. That gives you a head start and some leeway in case of unforeseen delays. Snacks and Drinks: Have some refreshments on hand, especially on a hot day. That keeps everyone, including the movers, energized. Final Walkthrough: Before the movers leave, do a thorough walkthrough of your old home. Check for any forgotten items or areas that might need a last-minute cleaning. Make Your Next Local Move Easy And there you have it—the ABC of local moves demystified. Armed with this knowledge, you're now ready to take on the intricacies of your local relocation with ease. From understanding costs and timing to choosing the right mover, every step is crucial in ensuring a smooth transition. The goal is to move smartly, paving the way for flawless living in your new home. So go ahead, plan confidently, and get ready to start this exciting new chapter on the right foot! Meta: Master the ABC of local moves with our expert guide! Get tips on costs, timing, and choosing the best movers. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Pexel