The Gary Nader Art Centre proudly announces that Soraya Abu Naba’a, a Dominican-American artist with strong ties to Miami’s art scene, has been honored at the 31st Biennial of Visual Arts at the Museum of Modern Art in Santo Domingo. Her acclaimed installation, Palo vivo: Between Roots and Memories , was recognized for its immersive reflection on ecology, memory, and Caribbean identity. Abu Naba’a has exhibited multiple times in Miami, where her work continues to resonate within the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. The installation draws on two rural Caribbean elements—the palo vivo and the pelliza—transforming them into symbols of regeneration and belonging. Using fabric, wood, metal, and paint, Abu Naba’a creates a space where art, body, and nature are interconnected, inspired by the philosophy of deep ecology. “This award celebrates not only my creative journey, but also the ancestral wisdom that inspires my practice,” said Abu Naba’a. Gary Nader , founder of the Gary Nader Art Centre, added: “This recognition highlights Soraya’s powerful voice in Latin American art. Her work honors our roots and reflects on our shared future.” This award strengthens Abu Naba’a’s international presence and reflects the Gary Nader Art Centre’s commitment to supporting impactful, regionally rooted art. Learn more at www.garynader.com . By ML statt. Photo Gary Nader Art Centre/Soraya Abu Naba

Celebrate “My Rhythm. My Flavor. ¡Mi Gente!” this Hispanic Heritage Month at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood from Friday, Sept. 15 through Wednesday, Oct. 15. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Hispanic and Latin Americans and learn about their history and contributions to the U.S.   Entertainment Rare and iconic pieces from some of the biggest Hispanic artists from Hard Rock’s Memorabilia Vault Collection will be on display at the corner of Hard Rock Live and Hard Rock Cafe. Featured items include: Celia Cruz’s beaded gold-black stage jacket, custom-tailored by Mirr Design and worn by Celia Cruz during her performance at the Paleo Festival in Nyon, Switzerland, on July 1, 1999. Ednita Nazario’s silver bustier she wore during her “Metamorfosis” album cycle in the early ‘90s. Juanes’ custom LT Guitars P.A.R.C.E with a two-piece zebra wood body signed "Con Todo (illegible) Juanes 2014".  Kany Garcias’ black magnetic bracelet. Maluma’s five-piece tuxedo ensemble consisting of a textured tuxedo vest (no brand), Calvin Klein brand pants, a white-button down dress shirt, black belt and black leather upper with red and white accent Christian Louboutin loafers. Ricky Martin’s black shoes with buckle, worn during his appearance on the “Today” show on June 11, 1999. Shakira’s custom-made metal mesh halter top that was worn by her on stage during one of her world tours.   Hard Rock Live   Saturday, Sept. 20 8 p.m. Héctor Acosta: Dos Leyendas Una Tarima Tour Friday, Oct. 3 8 p.m. Willie Colόn & Jorge Celedόn Thursday, Oct. 9 *Sunday, Oct. 19 8 p.m. 8 p.m. Alleh y Yorghaki La Arrolladora *Saturday, Nov. 15 8 p.m. Olaga Tañόn   *Denotes Latin show after Hispanic Heritage Month.   For ticketing information, visit myHRL.com .   Food & Beverage Abiaka Hosts Chef Michelle Bernstein for La Cañita Pop-Up Paired with Abiaka, celebrity Chef Michelle Bernstein for a three-day culinary pop-up from Friday, Sept. 19, through Sunday, Sept. 21. The pop-up will give guests a glimpse into La Cañita, bringing bold, exciting Caribbean and Cuban food, live music, and a celebration of rum culture to South Florida.As part of the celebration, Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood will feature two exclusive cocktails throughout the month, starting Monday, Sept. 15. Prepared on the rocks, the Blackberry Pisco Sour is a refreshing cocktail made with pisco, muddled blackberries, fresh lemon juice, agave, and egg white. The Crystal Colada is a tropical cocktail made with rum, pineapple, and lime juice. Available until Wednesday, Oct. 15, at L Bar, Oculus Bar, Kuro, Abiaka Wood Fire Grill, Cipresso, and Council Oak Steaks & Seafood. Noches de Neón Friday, Sept. 19 from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. The Guitar Hotel Pool The Latin-inspired poolside party will occur on Friday, Sept. 19 from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. at The Guitar Hotel Pool. The event will feature live music from South Florida’s Bacilos, a GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY-winning Latin pop band, most notably recognized for their 2023 album, “Caraluna.” Tickets start at $85 and include a premium open bar. Drink and dance the night away while the audio-responsive feature on the guitar façade grooves to the beat of the music through a nightlight spectacular. For more information, visit: casino.hardrock.com/hollywood/events/neon-lit-nights . Hispanic Heritage Month Hotel & Resort As part of Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, the new 2025 vibrant Mi Gente t-shirts are available across the resort’s Rock Shop®, while supplies last.   Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood is also bringing a new Mi Gente photo opportunity in The Guitar Hotel lobby, where guests can upload their pictures and show their rhythm on social media by tagging @HardRockHolly and #MiGente on Facebook, X, and Instagram.   The Guitar Hotel façade will be lit in an ambient Mi Gente theme rotation nightly during Hispanic Heritage Month, from Monday, Sept. 15, through Wednesday, Oct. 15.   For more information about the resort’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations, visit: DescubreTuRitmo.com/Hollywood or www.HardRockHolly.com .  By ML Staff. Image/Seminole Hard Rock

Image by Matazu Multimedia / Pexels You’re in the baby aisle, phone in one hand, a sleek can of imported organic formula in the other. The label’s in German. The price isn’t subtle. And your search results? A jumble of parent blogs, Reddit debates, and polished influencer posts that all say different things. What you really want is clarity: something solid to help you decide if what you're holding is truly right for your baby.  That means looking past the marketing and focusing on what counts: how the product was regulated, how long it’ll stay safe on your shelf, and whether the seller is actually reliable.  Where it came from matters, but not nearly as much as who’s putting it in your cart.  What To Know About Global Baby Product Standards Europe has earned a strong reputation for its strict standards around infant nutrition. Many countries across the EU prohibit the use of artificial colors, GMOs, and additives that are still allowed in American baby products. The European Commission applies tougher organic guidelines. Stricter regulations don’t automatically translate to better or safer for every baby. What’s considered optimal in one region may not suit your child’s individual needs.  Take formulation choices. European brands often use skimmed milk as a base and steer clear of corn syrup solids, which are more common in American formulas. German options might emphasize probiotics and ingredients from biodynamic farming practices, while French products often avoid soy derivatives and synthetic forms of DHA. Even packaging can trip parents up. Some imported formulas arrive without English mixing instructions or include tins that don’t have measuring scoops. So while you might be getting a high-quality product, success comes down to whether it works for your child, and whether you feel confident using it as intended. Watch Supply Chain Safety Even when international standards are strong, that protection only goes so far if the seller on your end isn’t reliable. Imported baby products (especially formula)require careful handling during shipping and storage to stay safe and effective. If that chain breaks at any point, quality can suffer long before the package reaches your door. Before you hit purchase, take a moment to investigate the distributor. Are they FDA-registered to import food items? Do they follow proper cold-chain protocols when required? You should also be able to easily check for clear expiration dates and batch numbers. If any of that information is missing or vague, consider it a warning sign. And in case something goes wrong, make sure there's real, accessible customer support that can walk you through a recall or answer specific product questions. Without those basics, the risk isn’t worth it. Buying directly from trusted sources like Formuland  can make things a lot easier. Cultural Differences Affect Ingredient Choices European baby formulas are often shaped by a different set of nutritional philosophies. They typically focus on: Minimal ingredients Digestive support Early dairy introduction Avoidance of corn syrup solids Use of organic or biodynamic farming practices Formulas common in the US are more likely to highlight iron fortification or hypoallergenic blends.  Some European formulas may contain lower iron levels than American pediatricians recommend. They may include lactose in higher quantities, which can trigger sensitivities if your baby has a borderline intolerance. Oils used for fat content may differ.  Palm oil  is more common in certain European blends but is avoided by some US parents due to digestibility concerns. Know The Common Imports Not all baby products are created equal, and not all imports are necessary. Miami families most often turn to international brands for: Infant formula, particularly German and Dutch brands Organic baby food in jars or pouches with fewer preservatives Bottles and pacifiers made from medical-grade silicone or glass Baby skin care products with botanical ingredients and zero artificial fragrance Image by Abel Garcia / Pexels What to Avoid When Importing for Baby Some red flags are too important to ignore when shopping for imported baby products, especially formula. Unlicensed third-party sellers on open marketplaces top the list. These vendors often skip critical quality checks, increasing the risk of counterfeit or poorly handled items.  Another warning sign? Luxury formulas offered at unusually low prices. If the deal seems off, it probably is. Trust your gut. When a product arrives without an expiration date or batch number, that’s not something to overlook. These markers help verify where the item came from and whether it’s still safe for your baby to consume. It’s just as concerning when a listing skips over the ingredient list or doesn’t explain how to prepare the formula properly. Missing details like these often point to a seller who isn’t prioritizing safety or transparency. Choose sellers who communicate clearly and are easy to contact when needed. A trustworthy vendor won’t hide their return policy or disappear when issues come up. If getting support feels like a struggle, it’s a good reason to pause before placing that order. Choose Imported Baby Products Carefully Imported baby products can offer exciting benefits, but they’re not always easy to navigate. Safety standards and overall fit for your child can vary widely. The smartest move is to stick with products that come with clear labeling and are backed by trustworthy sellers. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Pexels

Louis Vuitton has officially reopened its newly expanded and renovated Women’s store at the Mall at Millenia in Orlando. The boutique now offers a larger, more immersive retail experience focused entirely on the Louis Vuitton Women’s universe. The updated store showcases the brand’s signature leather goods, ready-to-wear, shoes, jewelry, watches, fragrance, and beauty collections. A new dedicated space highlights fine jewelry and timepieces, including the Tumbler collection and a rare LV x Takashi Murakami trunk—one of only two in the U.S. The boutique’s design features clean lines, curated artworks, including a bold piece by Daniel Klewer. The store also debuts Louis Vuitton’s new beauty line, La Beauté Louis Vuitton, with an array of lipsticks, eyeshadows, and skincare. More info: louisvuitton.com By ML Staff. Photos/LV

Two organizations, one mission: second chances. In celebration of  National Happy Cat Month , celebrated in September,  PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary  and  Abandoned Pet Rescue  are collaborating to host  Thrifty Kitty Pop-Up Boutique  on Tuesday, Sept. 30. The evening will begin with a sneak peek from 4 to 5 p.m. and general admission will open from 5 to 8 p.m. Photo by Jonas Vincent, Unsplash The community is invited to an evening of shopping, style and second chances to benefit PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary and Abandoned Pet Rescue. Supporters can Buy-A-Bag, Fill-A-Bag with a selection of men’s and women’s fashion to help give cats and dogs a second chance at life. Admission is free. Full bags are $50, and half bags are $25. Luxury brands and wedding dresses are not included in the Buy-A-Bag, Fill-A-Bag, and will be available for purchase at thrift pricing.  Shoppers will also have the opportunity to meet adoptable cats and dogs looking for their furrr-ever homes and a second chance at love. Future pet parents can fill out adoption applications at the event. “Partnering with Abandoned Pet Rescue for this event means twice the impact for animals in need,” said Executive Director of PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary Michelle Schecht. “Every bag purchased at Thrifty Kitty Pop-Up Boutique helps give cats and dogs a second chance at life, while also connecting future pet parents with their forever companions.” Proceeds from the event will be equally split between PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary and Abandoned Pet Rescue, ensuring both organizations can continue their lifesaving work. Founded in 2018,  PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary is  a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to transform cats' lives one PURRR at a time, through rescue, adoption, and spay and neuter initiatives that help reduce overpopulation and ultimately enrich the human-feline connection. PURRR is committed to giving cats and their companions a better future by offering a safe haven and encouraging responsible pet ownership. PURRR’s team, and volunteers bring a wealth of experience and compassion to everything they do. From adoptions to spay and neuter services, every aspect of PURRR is driven by a deep love for cats and a commitment to their well-being. Founded in 1996,  Abandoned Pet Rescue  is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that rescues and shelters abandoned dogs and cats with the goal of finding them new homes. Abandoned Pet Rescue is one of the largest no-kill animal shelters in South Florida. Over the past decade, Abandoned Pet Rescue has provided comprehensive care for more than 10,000 dogs and cats that have come through the shelter as well as for community cats that have been trapped, neutered, vaccinated and released. Today, Abandoned Pet Rescue has the capacity to house up to 150 cats and 35 dogs. When: Tuesday, Sept. 30, from 4 to 8 p.m. | 4 to 5 p.m.: Sneak Peek | 5 to 8 p.m.: General Admission  Where: PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary | 1556 E. Commercial Blvd.Oakland Park, FL 33334 Cost: Free to attend | $50 Full Bag | $25 Half Bag For more information, please visit  https://www.purrr.org/event/thrifty-kitty-pop-up-boutique-september-2025/ .  For more information about PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary, please visit  www.purrr.org . For more information about rescue, adoption, and spay and neuter initiatives, email  info@purrr.org  or call 954-745-0801. Follow along on social media on  Facebook  and  Instagram . By ML Staff. Content courtesy of PURRR Adoption.

The Miami International Piano Festival (MIPF) has announced its 2025–2026 season, a great lineup featuring some of the world’s most talented pianists. Inspired by the success of its “Concerto Evening” three seasons ago, MIPF will once present three world-class pianists in one special night, under the baton of conductor Igor Gruppman, returning to Miami after two decades. The season also includes solo recitals by internationally celebrated artists at the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center, six debut recitals in the Discovery Series at the Wolfsonian Museum, a one-night-only jazz event, two intimate “Artists in Conversation” concerts, and a week of free recitals as part of the Winter Academy in Miami Beach. Schedule 2025–2026 Aventura Cultural Series Classical Sundays at FiveAventura Arts and Cultural Center October 19, 2025 Concerto Night with the Miami International Piano Festival Orchestra Conductor: Igor Gruppman Featuring: Ilya Itin (Russia) – Beethoven Concerto No. 4 Dmitry Ablogin (Russia) – Chopin Concerto No. 2 Alexander Gavrylyuk (Ukraine) – Grieg Concerto in A minor November 17, 2025 Solo recital by Dmitry Ablogin (Russia) Program includes works by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Chopin, and Hummel January 11, 2026 Two Piano ExtravaganzaKemal Gekic (Croatia) and Kristina Miller (Russia) Music by Rachmaninov and Lutoslawski February 22, 2026 Solo recital by Alexander Gavrylyuk (Ukraine) Mozart, Chopin, Liszt, Mussorgsky March 22, 2026 Special jazz eveningBill Charlap and Brandon Goldberg A two-piano conversation on the American Songbook April 26, 2026 Solo recital by Anton Gerzenberg (Germany) Music by Tausig, Prokofiev, Ligeti, Liszt, and Rachmaninov 2026 Discovery Series The Wolfsonian Museum, Miami Beach All concerts begin at 7:30 pm January 24 Luis Urbina (Venezuela) Schumann, Prokofiev January 25 Can Çakmur (Turkey) Beethoven, Liszt, Fazil Say, Chopin, Schubert February 14 Carter Johnson (Canada) Debussy, Beethoven, Prokofiev, Schumann February 15 Jonas Aumiller (Germany) Chopin, Brahms, Liszt (transcription) April 11 Emanuil Ivanov (Bulgaria) Debussy: 24 Preludes, Shostakovich April 12 Julian Kainrath (violin, Italy) and Emanuil Ivanov (piano, Bulgaria) Mendelssohn, Beethoven, Franck Master Series Miami Beach Woman’s Club 2401 Pine Tree Drive, Miami Beach All recitals at 7:00 pm Admission is free January 6 Ariel Lanyi (Israel) January 7 Julien Libeer (Belgium) January 8 Ilya Itin (Russia) January 9 Stephen Beus (USA) January 10 Albert Cano Smit (Spain) January 12 Student concerts (Part I and II) Conversation Series Miami Beach Woman’s Club All concerts begin at 7:30 pm May 2, 2026 Albert Cano Smit (Spain) Bach: The Art of the Fugue May 3, 2026 Ilya Itin (Russia) Scriabin: Preludes and Etudes The Miami International Piano Festival’s 2025–2026 season offers an unmatched variety of musical voices, from legendary performers to bold new talents. Whether you’re seeking grand orchestral works, intimate recitals, or insightful musical dialogues, this season delivers unforgettable artistry. For more information and tickets, visitmiamipianofest.com By ML Staff. Photo/Wix Media

A new study reveals that Florida has the ninth-highest rate of motorcyclist fatalities during holiday travel periods in the United States. The research by Florida-based personal injury lawyer  Blakeley Law Firm  analyzed the data for fatal and serious motorcycle crashes during major U.S. holidays from 2019 to 2023 using the NHTSA database. Average fatality rates per million residents were calculated to identify the states where motorcyclists are most at risk of experiencing deadly crashes during holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Florida  ranks ninth with 1.96 motorcycle fatalities per million during holiday weekends, 33% above the national average of 1.47. It reports a striking 43.0 average holiday crashes, the highest crash count in the country. While the state attracts a large population of riders, especially during the holidays, the high crash volume highlights a critical public safety issue. Looking at the study, a spokesperson at Blakeley Law Firm commented: “The data shows that states like Florida face disproportionately high fatality rates for motorcyclists during holiday periods. “These findings highlight the need for increased awareness, visibility measures, and enhanced traffic enforcement during holidays when traffic density and risk factors rise sharply. “Riders should take every precaution during these times,  especially in states that consistently show high crash rates.” Table for Extended Results: The study was conducted by Blakeley Law Firm, a Florida-based personal injury law firm representing clients injured in motor vehicle accidents or those who have lost loved ones due to negligence. The firm focuses exclusively on personal injury and wrongful death claims. By ML Staff. Content courtesy of Blakeley Law Firm . Photo source: Depositphotos

In a move to improve animal welfare and save more lives, Best Friends Animal Society , a national leader in the no-kill movement, has joined forces with Miami-Dade Animal Services (MDAS) to support and expand lifesaving efforts at the Pet Adoption and Protection Center and other locations. Photo by Giorgio Trovato on Unsplash Though MDAS has consistently achieved a save rate above the 90% no-kill benchmark, the shelter continues to grapple with capacity issues, often caring for more than 500 dogs and cats at any given time. Photo by 毛 祥 on Unsplash "We are incredibly grateful for the partnership and support from Best Friends Animal Society,” said Annette Jose, Director of Miami-Dade Animal Services. “Best Friends is different—they embed staff who work side-by-side with our team to implement meaningful, lasting change.” Key Components of the Partnership: Best Friends Animal Society staff embedded on-site at MDAS facilities Focused improvements on adoption, fostering, and return-to-home rates Enhanced welfare practices across both Doral and Medley shelter locations Building a sustainable no-kill model that could serve as a national example “Despite the overwhelming challenges—from high intake to limited space—MDAS staff remain fiercely committed to saving lives,” said Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society. “Together, we are building sustainable programs that will serve as a national model of innovation and heart.” Photo by Kelsey Adams on Unsplash How the Community Can Help Residents across Miami-Dade are encouraged to support the mission by adopting, fostering, or helping reunite lost pets with their families. Adopt a Pet No adoption fees through September All pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccines Adopters receive a $300 coupon book at participating PetSmart locations with proof of adoption Foster a Pet Short-term fostering opportunities (a few days to a few weeks) MDAS provides all supplies and medical care Get started with a quick online application: miamidade.gov/animals Adoption & Foster Locations Pet Adoption and Protection Center (Doral) 3599 NW 79 Avenue, Doral, FL 33122Monday through Friday: 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.Saturday and Sunday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.Closed on County holidays Medley Shelter 7401 NW 74th Street, Medley, FL 33166Saturday and Sunday: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.Closed on County holidays Offsite Adoption Locations PetSmart Flagler: 8241 W Flagler St Ste 101, Miami, FL 33144 PetSmart West Kendall: 16514 SW 88th St, Miami, FL 33196 Petco South Miami: 6200 South Dixie Highway, South Miami, FL 33143 Petco Homestead (cats only): 2565 NE 10TH Court, Homestead, FL 33033 Petco Doral (cats only): 10610 NW 19TH Street, Doral, FL 33172 Petco Kendall (cats only): 12014 SW 88th St, Miami, FL 33186 Petco South-Dade (cats only): 18579 South Dixie Highway, Miami, FL 33157 Useful Links and Contact Information Miami-Dade Animal Services: https://www.miamidade.gov/animalsBest Friends Animal Society: https://bestfriends.org By ML Staff.

Luxury design is evolving, and pools are no longer an afterthought—they’re becoming architectural statements. Leading this transformation is Diamond Spas , a custom pool and spa manufacturer known for its use of stainless steel, copper, glass, and acrylic to create sleek, visually stunning aquatic vessels . Their projects, often perched on rooftops or nestled into contemporary landscapes, merge engineering precision with high-end design. Stainless-steel rooftop / elevated spa with interior stairway, bench seating, two water features and catch basin. Copyright Jim Tschetter Photography / Tom Stringer Design Partners Based in Colorado and serving clients worldwide —including in design-forward cities like Miami—Diamond Spas specializes in fully customized vessels that reflect each client’s lifestyle. Features like infinity edges, integrated bench seating, underwater LED lighting, and glass panels allow their installations to act as both functional retreats and sculptural focal points. “Stainless steel is our most popular choice due to its modern, timeless appeal,” says Mitchell Martinek , Lead Design Manager at Diamond Spas. “For clients who want to preserve a view or showcase the spa’s interior, we use materials like acrylic or glass.” Tiled stainless steel rooftop / elevated swimming pool with descending stairs, auto cover, LED lighting and front water feature with catch basin. Copyright - Mark Woolcott Photography. My Block Wash Park, Denver CO For rooftop installations, the company uses lightweight metals such as stainless steel or copper—ideal alternatives to heavy concrete, especially in high-rise construction. These materials not only ease the structural load but also offer superior longevity and corrosion resistance. In projects where crane access is limited, pools are designed in modular sections to be transported via elevators and assembled onsite. Connect with Diamond Spas diamondspas.com www.instagram.com/diamond_spas_co Toll Free: (800) 951-7727 Local: (720) 864-9115 Fax: (866) 605-2358 By Miami Living Staff. Photos © Diamond Spas

Mike Munz, a personal trainer from Plantation, Florida, is set to return to the America’s Got Talent  stage after stunning the judges with his jaw-dropping body control and muscle mastery during his audition. Known for leaving Simon Cowell and the panel speechless, Munz will compete again on Tuesday, September 9, at 8PM ET/PT on NBC as part of AGT ’s 20th season live shows. Viewers are encouraged to vote and help send him to the semi-finals. Catch his unforgettable audition clip here: Watch Mike’s AGT Audition Don’t miss his next performance—tune in and vote! For details on all Top 44 acts, visit: nbc.com/americas-got-talent/credits/acts/season-20 By ML Staff. Photo/NBC

Australian Molly Picklum came into the final 2025 World Surf League stop at Cloudbreak in Fiji as the most in-form women's surfer and she finished Lexus WSL Finals Fiji with her first World Championship crown as Brazilian Yago Dora earned his first men's title. Here is all you need to know: Both Picklum and Dora entered the title deciding event as the No. 1 seeds and were able to put on stunning performances in four-to-six foot surf at Cloudbreak to claim their maiden World Titles. 2025 saw Picklum hold the number one ranking for most of the season after two event wins with 2023 World Champion and 2024 Olympic gold medallist Caroline Marks beating Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW), reigning World Champion Caitlin Simmers (USA) and Gabriela Bryan (HAW) to set up a Picklum clash, who she defeated first up to set up a thrilling finale. After that slow start, Picklum came back with a vengeance in the second match, posting a 15.83 (out of 20) two-wave total, which included an 8.83 (out of 10) for a long tube ride, to take it to a title-deciding match. Picklum then continued the charge, posting another 8.83 - the highest single-wave score of the event - and the highest two-wave total, 16.93, to take an unassailable lead over American Marks and become the first Australian World Champion since Stephanie Gilmore in 2022. Picklum, 22, declared: "I really feel like this is the cherry on top of what I've done to my career and my personal life, really turning things around. It's such a trip and something you can never take away from me to be a World Champion. To get this after such an amazing season is so special and something I'll remember for life. I'm just so grateful to get the opportunity to do what I love." In terms of following in the wake of her heroes, she added: "It's such a trip to be a Central Coast kid, growing up looking up to Steph [Gilmore], Layne [Beachley], Sally [Fitzgibbons], Tyler [Wright] and all of those girls, and to now be on a list with them, I just feel so honoured and grateful." Marks ends the season in second place for the second year in a row, while 19-year-old Simmers will be eager to bounce back next season as American Erin Brooks , 18, tries to take her surfing to the next level. In the men's event, 2019 champion Italo Ferreira started out strong by defeating in-form Australian Jack Robinson 14.33 to 5.83 however the Brazilian came unstuck against Griffin Colapinto in the next match as the American put on a surfing masterclass to reel off a 16.33 to 13.67 victory. Colapinto dug deep next time out to end the fairytale season of South African veteran Jordy Smith 15.43 to 13.50, but Dora was the class act in the last match of the 2025 season by taking the title 15.66 to 12.33. Dora looked steely, waiting with priority at the start to post a 7.33 for an impressive carve, to vertical snap, combination then followed with 8.33 for three massive carves and plenty of variation to become the fifth Brazilian World Champion since 2014 - including seven of the last 11. The 29-year-old said: "Griffin [Colapinto] was looking so dangerous out there all day, and it was nerve-racking coming up against him. It's so crazy that the whole year is decided like that in one heat. I'm really glad it's come my way and I'm over the moon, I'm so happy. I grew up watching the Brazilians before me dominating and winning World Titles and it's such an honour to join that list. I started my career on the free-surfing side, but I felt like competition is truly what drove me. Even though he fell just short of becoming only the second Californian man in history to win a World Title, the 27-year-old Colapinto ended the season with his best-ever showing of second place. Watch the Lexus WSL Finals Fiji replay on Red Bull TV HERE . By ML Staff. Content/images courtesy of RedBull

March of Dimes is proud to announce its annual Signature Chefs Miami event will return to Briza on the Bay on Thursday, November 6, 2025 , bringing together top culinary talent, business leaders, and advocates to support moms and babies across South Florida and beyond. The 2025 campaign will be chaired by Joanne Ruggiero, CEO of Jackson Memorial Medical Center and a longtime champion of maternal and infant health in the community. This year’s Signature Chefs event will honor Dr. Rodrigo Ruano, MD, PhD, Chief of the Division of Maternal- Fetal Medicine at the University of Miami and Director of the UHealth Jackson Fetal Care Center, with the 2nd Annual Mission Impact Award. Dr. Ruano is a globally recognized pioneer in fetal surgery and maternal-fetal medicine. Under his leadership, the UHealth Jackson Fetal Care Center has become a leading destination for complex in-utero procedures. His career highlights include performing Florida’s first in-utero embolization to treat a life-threatening fetal brain condition—only the second case of its kind in the world. In addition, Dr. Ruano is responsible for leading advancements in fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) and spina bifida repair surgery, significantly improving outcomes for high-risk pregnancies. This visionary work taking place in our community has saved countless lives and embodies the mission of March of Dimes to ensure all moms and babies have the best possible start. In addition to its powerful mission focus, Signature Chefs Miami will showcase an unforgettable tasting experience from some of the city’s most celebrated culinary talents. Guests will enjoy exclusive bites and signature dishes from Arcano, Chris Valdes Catering, Bulla Gastrobar, Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard and Bar, Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop, Goya Foods, Pisco y Nazca, Quinto, Toro Toro at InterContinental Miami, and more. Elevating the evening’s flavor and flair, Sunshine Steaks & Provisions joins as this year’s Signature Culinary Partner, providing premium proteins for our chefs to craft one-of-a-kind creations. Bacardi will once again serve as our Signature Cocktail Partner, offering elevated libations to complement the night’s experience. The evening will include an inspiring program, a high-energy live auction, and the opportunity to support Fund the Mission, which directly fuels March of Dimes’ efforts in research, advocacy, education, and support for moms and babies. To learn more about partnership opportunities, sponsorships, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.signaturechefs.org/event/miami or contact Sara Bloom at sbloom@marchofdimes.org or (786) 475-9339 . About March of Dimes March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We believe every baby deserves the best possible start. We're advocating for policies to protect them, working to radically improve the health care they receive, pioneering research to find solutions, and empowering families with programs, knowledge, and support. By ML Staff. Photo/Ben Koorengevel/Unsplash