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Alyssa C. Shorstein is a partner at The Law Offices of Shorstein and Lee, LLC, located in St. Augustine, Florida. Alyssa graduated from St. Augustine High School (High School Diploma) in 2002, Flagler College (B.A.) in 2005 and University of Florida Levin College of Law (J.D.) in 2009. She has been in private practice serving clients in Criminal Defense, Bankruptcy, and Estate Planning & Probate law since 2009. Alyssa has served on the St. Johns County Bar Association since 2012 and served on the Florida Bar Grievance Committee 7B from 2014-2017. Alyssa takes the time to get to know you and what your individual needs are in your circumstances. She is skilled in finding and, if applicable, negotiating the best possible result for you. Her passion for helping others achieve what is best for them is clear from the beginning to the end of representation. Overview 15 years of experience Criminal Law, DUI & DWI, Bankruptcy Florida Practice Areas Criminal Law Criminal Appeals, Drug Crimes, Expungement, Fraud, Gun Crimes, Internet Crimes, Sex Crimes, Theft, Violent Crimes DUI & DWI Bankruptcy Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, Debt Relief Estate Planning Guardianship & Conservatorship Estate Administration, Health Care Directives, Trusts, Wills Probate Probate Administration, Probate Litigation, Will Contests Contact Law Office of Shorstein & Lee By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Law Office of Shorstein & Lee

Ms. Geraghty was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2016 and joined the law firm of Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A. as an associate, focusing on Plaintiff's Personal Injury matters. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with minors in Sociology and Human and Social Development, from the University of Miami in December 2012, graduating summa cum laude and becoming a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Ms. Geraghty continued her education at the University of Miami School of Law, where she obtained her Juris Doctor, graduating cum laude in 2016. During law school, Ms. Geraghty excelled academically, receiving top grades in Legal Communications I, Legal Communications II, Property, and the Human Rights Clinic. She was awarded the C.A.L.I. Excellence for the Future Award in Property, Legal Communications I, and the Human Rights Clinic, along with the Dean's Certificate of Achievement in Legal Communications I and II. Ms. Geraghty was recognized for her pro bono work, completing over 75 hours and earning the Pro Bono Challenge Distinction. She served as a Dean's Fellow for the Property course through the Academic Achievement Program, a staff editor for the Race and Social Justice Law Review, and a Clinical Fellow in the Human Rights Clinic. As a clinical fellow, she focused on immigration advocacy projects and authored published works on deportations to Haiti following the 2011 earthquake. Overview 8 years of experience Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, Workers' Compensation Florida Practice Areas Personal Injury Animal & Dog Bites, Brain Injury, Car Accidents, Construction Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Premises Liability, Truck Accidents, Wrongful Death Medical Malpractice Birth Injury, Medical Misdiagnosis, Pharmacy Errors, Surgical Errors Workers' Compensation Contact Information Website Blog By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A.

Sachin & Babi have taken a fresh visual approach this Fall, incorporating striking video content to highlight the collection’s debut. Their Fall campaign, shot in the majestic Grand Central Station in New York City, features their ethereal ball gowns paired with intricately embellished clutches. The iconic location, combined with the brand’s romantic aesthetic, creates a narrative that mirrors the founders' personal love story—an elegant ode to timeless romance that remains at the heart of their brand. By ML Staff. Image/video courtesy of Sachin & Babi.

Iconic, legendary and always vibrant, Miami Beach offers a smorgasbord of things to do. You can experience blockbuster clubs that include the The Palace , where mimosas and drag queens take center stage at the club’s famous drag show brunch; tour the Historic Art Deco District to see over 800 stunning architectural landmarks from the 1920s; or crack open some fresh claws at Joe's Stone Crab , heralded as the best anywhere, anytime. Parks, beaches, museums, hotels and spas all compete for well-deserved attention. Dance the night away with the beautiful people at the ultra-modern, high-energy LIV nightclub inside the Fontainebleau Hotel and Nightlife Complex. - Fontainebleau Hotel Nightlife, Bars and Clubs It’s no secret that the nights in Miami Beach are even more sizzling hot than the days. Here are some favorite haunts and under-the-radar gems. THE PALACE Every queen needs a palace, and this one’s a dandy. You can start the celebration early with mimosas and drag queens at The Palace’s famous drag show brunch-- an out-of-control spectacle in the best possible way—explore the rooftop bar, indulge in notorious nightlife, or just throw back the drinks and let go. MAC'S CLUB DEUCE Sip an eye-opening Irish coffee or Bloody Mary at Mac's Club Deuce, billed as Miami’s oldest bar and quirkiest dive. Playboy, Anthony Bourdain, and a slew of other celebrities have sung the praises of this local legend. This rustic classic opens their doors at 8 a.m. every day of the week and doesn’t stop the celebrations until the next morning at 5 a.m. LIV Dance the night away with the beautiful people at the ultra-modern, high-energy LIV nightclub inside the Fontainebleau Hotel and Nightlife Complex. Inside, you’ll find four full-service bars, and if you want to spoil yourself you can reserve a banquet spot or a private skybox. This is where legends and personalities come for both their shows and the after party, so keep your eye out for stars on the stage and off it. D’VINE HOOKAH LOUNGE Puff on an intricate hookah with Lincoln Road as a backdrop from D’vine Hookah Lounge, a first of its kind for Miami Beach. It features over 65 flavors to try while you kick back in their plush and modern lounge. More than that, they offer a full-service bar and a menu of exotic foods that will make the experience just… well, divine. Check out more nightlife from the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. Tour Miami Beach’s epic, Historic Art Deco District by foot or bike to wonder over 800 stunning architectural landmarks from the 1920s and beyond. - Patrick Farrell Art and Culture With colorful galleries, iconic art fairs and perched-on-the-edge-of-your-seat performing arts, Miami Beach is a mecca for art and culture lovers. HISTORIC ART DECO DISTRICT Tour Miami Beach’s epic, Historic Art Deco District by foot or bike to wonder over 800 stunning architectural landmarks from the 1920s and beyond. You can walk yourself through the history or take a narrated tour and hear the mesmerizing stories behind the first contemporary neighborhood to be recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. NEW WORLD CENTER Attend an outdoor audiovisual “wallcast” while listening to the New World Symphony at New World Center’s SoundScape Park, where the classic sounds of a full orchestra are combined with cutting edge audio and visual technologies to provide a free, mind-blowing concert experience. Make sure you bring something to sit on so you can relax and enjoy the music. THE FILLMORE MIAMI BEACH AT THE JACKIE GLEASON THEATER Willie Nelson! The White Stripes! Check out a concert or comedy show at The Fillmore at Jackie Gleason Theater, a historic landmark that’s been showcasing staggering talent since the 50s, including James Brown, Ike & Tina Turner, Otis Redding, Cream, and everyone else who was or is somebody. Renovated in 2007, the quality, variety and sheer number of shows held at the Fillmore is monumental. Yes, you need to go. WILZIG EROTIC ART MUSEUM Bring your wild side, a sense of humor, and possibly a date to experience the Wilzig Erotic Art Museum, filled with paintings, sculptures, pop culture props and miscellany. More than just a collection of inappropriate materials, this museum features spectacular artwork, some dating back to thousands of years ago and from all corners of the world. ROMERO BRITTO Buy a colorful, one-of-a-kind print, sculpture, tote bag, dish or puzzle wearing the artwork of Brazilian pop artist Romero Britto. Inspired by Matisse and Picasso, this cheery artist uses vibrant colors that exude happiness in a reflection of his optimistic view of the world. You can find his work in his Britto store in Miami International Airport, or in art stores all around Miami Beach. MIAMI BEACH CINEMATHEQUE & GALLERY Grab a coffee and snack and watch only the best indie flicks at the headquarters of the Miami Beach Film Society. Part of the Art Deco District, this cinema features a screening room, an art gallery, a bookstore, and a café to service all of your hipster needs. OOLITE ARTS Support the arts and check out sumptuous exhibits at Oolite Arts, which showcases over 1,000 visual artists, both budding and established. Oolite garners high praise as a trailblazer in the South Florida contemporary cultural scene and as a creative learning center. And there’s more! Check out more area art and culture from the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau.. A platter of Joe's Stone Crabs - Emeril's Florida Miami Beach Restaurants A legend for its daring Latin and Caribbean flavors, trendy restaurants anchored by celebrity chefs, and tremendous food festivals, Miami Beach invites you to explore its culinary scene one table at a time. JOE'S STONE CRAB Crack open some fresh claws at Joe's Stone Crab. They’ve been around for over 100 years now, starting out before Miami Beach was a city. They were also the first to serve the delicacy that is the Florida Stone Crab, and they’ve been the best at cooking them ever since. If crab isn’t your thing, they’ve got a bit of everything, from their renowned fried chicken to their famous key lime pie. You’ll likely have to wait for a table but it’ll be worth it. MANGO'S TROPICAL CAFÉ It’s easy to imagine you’re at the famous Brazilian Carnivale when you sit down for dinner and a show at Mango's Tropical Café. Expect lively reggae music, salsa dancing, and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. On a special night, you might catch some belly dancing or an ultra-modern hip hop show. LA SANDWICHERIE Order a croque monsieur and a salad with house specialty vinaigrette at La Sandwicherie, a small sandwich bar that packs a punch with its authentic French food and fresh smoothies. It’s not fancy, but this dive is regarded by many foodies as the best sandwich shop in all of Florida. THE FRIEZE Cool down with kosher Key lime sorbet or rich cappuccino chip ice cream, made fresh daily with premium juices, candies, chocolate, butterfat and creative ingredients at The Frieze. This small ice cream shop is nestled in the artistic district of Miami Beach, making it the perfect spot to refuel on your stroll around town. ICEBOX CAFÉ Indulge in a decadent raspberry chocolate mousse cake or streusel apple pie from Icebox Café, a restaurant in South Beach known for using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms in South Florida. The salads are memorable as well. NIKKI BEACH Dress up, sip fine champagne with your toes in the sand, and enjoy the Sunday brunch of your life at Nikki Beach. Their flagship location in South Beach features a fresh crepe and Belgian waffle station, farm fresh eggs and sushi, all in a beautiful beach club setting. Here are more area eateries from the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. By Lauren Tjaden. Image courtesy of Miami Beach. Special thanks to Visitflorida.org for this story reprint. Top image/beach party by Unsplash

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, Criola’s Interdimensional Portal, Virgil Abloh’s Dollar a Gallon, Amani Lewis’ Baltimore’s Finest, and more. Date : Saturday, September 7, 2024 Time: 11:00AM - 12:00PM Address: Palm Court 140 NE 39th St Miami FL, 33137 ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of MDD

Benito T. “Bennie” Gutierrez passed away July 25, in Sebring, Florida, at the age of 88. Gutierrez was born in San Antonio, Texas, in October 1935. He learned to ride and play from his father, who worked for polo families, such as the Hartmans and Beveridges. His first major polo victory came in 1960 when he won the Twenty Goal with the Royal Palm team, which included Bert and Bobby Beveridge and Ray Harrington. He won the tournament again in 1967 with Milwaukee (Walter Harden, Chico Barry, Robert Uihlein II). That same year, he won the Sixteen Goal with St. Louis’ Adolphus, Peter and Stephen Orthwein. Born in San Antonio, Texas, Gutierrez learned to ride and play from his father. His first major polo victory came in 1960 when he won the Twenty Goal with Royal Palm. Gutierrez earned an 8-goal handicap in 1968. The following year, he represented the U.S. in the Cup of Americas. He went on to win the Sixteen Goal with Tulsa (James Sharp, John Oxley, Jack Oxley) in 1969 and with Milwaukee (Robin Uihlein, Tommy Wayman, Billy Wayman) in 1971. The following year, the same Milwaukee team won the U.S. Open. Gutierrez earned an 8-goal handicap in 1968. The following year, he represented the U.S. in the Cup of Americas. His high-goal playing career was cut short by a serious polo accident at Royal Palm Polo Club in Boca Raton, Florida. After recovering, he won numerous low- and medium-goal events, including the 1976 Delegates Cup with Mallet Hill’s Fred, Gene and Paul Fortugno. Gutierrez was an exceptional horseman. After retiring from professional polo, he continued to train polo ponies and managed high-goal polo teams, including working with Guillermo “Memo” Gracida. Gutierrez was featured on product labels for Polo Ralph Lauren and the original Polo Ralph Lauren logo, still seen on their shirts, is based on a photo of Gutierrez. His family says it was taken from an image in a video shot in Connecticut and he received royalties from the image throughout his life. Gutierrez was featured on product labels for Polo Ralph Lauren and the original Polo Ralph Lauren logo, still seen on their shirts, is based on a photo of Gutierrez. He was head umpire of the USPA’s professional umpire program in its early days. In 1993, the Polo Training Foundation (PTF) honored him with the Carlton Beal Umpire Award. Former professional player Red Armour, who worked with Gutierrez in the umpire program, wrote in a 1994 article, “As umpires, Benny Gutierrez and I decided that if we were going to have an impact on the game several things had to be done: we would no longer tolerate or communicate with any abusive player, and we would do away with the from-the-spot penalty for minor infractions. Our motto became: if you foul, your team will be penalized. Gutierrez was honored with the Polo Training Foundation (PTF) Carlton Beal Umpire Award in 1993 and was inducted into the Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame a decade later. Gutierrez was inducted into the Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame in 2003. Outside of polo his biggest interest was his grandchildren. His son Mark Gutierrez wrote, “As busy as he was, he always made time for his family.” Gutierrez is survived by his wife Kay Gutierrez; son Mark Gutierrez (Rebecca); daughter Julie Collins (Rusty); grandchildren Ash Gutierrez, Joshua Collins (Alexandra) and Amanda Hill (Tim); great-grandson Archer; and brother Mike Gutierrez. He was predeceased by his brothers Fred, Rudie and Willie Gutierrez. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of United States Polo Association

Whether you are a first-time visitor or long-time resident, Hallandale Eats promises an unforgettable culinary adventure. The City of Hallandale Beach and the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (HBCRA) proudly announce the return of the much-anticipated Hallandale Eats restaurant weeks, part of the BE Local initiative. From September 16-30, 2024, South Florida foodies can indulge in diverse culinary delights and discover their new favorite local restaurants, while enjoying exclusive deals and special menus designed to celebrate the vibrant food culture of Hallandale Beach.   “We are thrilled to bring back the Hallandale Eats restaurant initiative, which is more than just two weeks of specials at our local restaurants,” said Dr. Jeremy Earle, Hallandale Beach City Manager and CRA Executive Director. “Hallandale Eats allows visitors to taste the incredible culinary talent we have in our city and strengthens our local business economy, while putting Hallandale Beach on the map as a premier dining destination in South Florida.” The City of Hallandale Beach’s Atlantic Village Participating restaurants will feature pre-fixed menus, special deals, and discounts available for dine-in, to-go, or delivery services. This 15-day initiative provides everyone, from the most discerning palates to casual diners, an excellent opportunity to try a variety of cuisines at accessible prices.   Participating Restaurants: 7 Spices Restaurant & Café - 701 N Federal Highway, Suite 101 Amsterdam Hallandale -100 S. Federal Highway Arahova Milano's - 613W Hallandale Beach Blvd, Unit 7 Casa Crudo - 601 N Federal Highway, Suite 109 Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar – 701 N. Federal Highway Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar - 801 N Federal Highway Suite 107 El TAYTA Peruvian Restaurant - 1721 E Hallandale Beach Blvd Flashback Diner - 220 S Federal Highway Gioia Italy - 701 N Federal Highway, Suite 112 Holyshakes - 601 N Federal Highway, Suite 110 Juice Mafia - 801 N Federal Highway Marash Turkish Cuisine - 710 W Hallandale Beach Blvd, Suite 106 Marcos Pizza - 701 W Hallandale Beach Blvd Matteos Trattoria -1825 E Hallandale Beach Blvd Mitch’s Downtown Bagel Café - 601 North Federal Highway, Suite 112 Moises Bakery - 115 E Hallandale Beach Blvd Pastinos Pastas & Vinos - 645 W Hallandale Beach Blvd Suite 101 Piola -1703 E Hallandale Beach Blvd. The Blues Burgers - 5150 NW 99th Ave The Juicy Seafood – 1430 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd The Wagyu House by Meat N' Bone - 601 N Federal Highway, Suite 113 Tu Pizza - 800 E Hallandale Beach Blvd, Suite 26 Wapo Taco - 1955 E Hallandale Beach Blvd, Suite 1 Yardhouse - 601 Silks Run, Suite 1490   Yard House part of Hallandale Eats Restaurant goers can have even more fun by scanning QR codes displayed at each restaurant to log their visits in a digital passport. The more restaurants you visit during Hallandale Eats, the more chances to win a prize! For more information about the participating restaurants and to view their Hallandale Eats offers, please visit https://bit.ly/HallandaleEats2024 .   About the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency The mission of the Hallandale Beach CRA is to promote economic development and enhance the quality of life by eliminating and preventing blighted conditions through the facilitation of community partnerships, business growth, job creation, and neighborhood rehabilitation. For more information, please visit https://cohbcra.org . About the City of Hallandale Beach The City of Hallandale Beach is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the community in a fiscally responsible manner by providing superior services that meet the needs of our residents and businesses, as well as planning for their future needs through continued communication. For more information, please visit https://www.cohb.org . By ML Staff. Images courtesy of David Roth, DHR Headshots

Aston Martin introduces the Valiant, an exclusive, track-focused, road-legal special edition designed to embody pure driving passion. Created by Aston Martin’s bespoke division, Q by Aston Martin, the Valiant features a 745PS twin-turbo 5.2-litre V12 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. With only 38 units produced worldwide, each Valiant is already fully allocated. Originally commissioned by Fernando Alonso, driver for the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team, the Valiant is inspired by Alonso’s 23-year F1® career and his quest for a more extreme version of the Aston Martin Valour. This limited-edition model showcases Aston Martin’s commitment to delivering exceptional driving experiences with cutting-edge technology and design. The Valiant continues Aston Martin’s tradition of high-performance vehicles, sitting alongside the Valkyrie, Vantage, Vantage GT3, and the upcoming Valhalla. It combines the essence of classic V12 power with modern engineering, featuring advanced lightweight materials and a distinctive aerodynamic design. Key performance features include a lightweight 3D-printed rear subframe, magnesium torque tube, and 21” magnesium wheels. The Valiant also incorporates Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers for superior suspension control and agility. The exterior design is defined by aggressive styling and aerodynamic efficiency, including a deep front splitter, carbon fibre grille, and distinctive aero discs. Inside, the two-seat cockpit focuses on driver engagement with a bespoke steering wheel, manual gear shift, and race-inspired Recaro Podium seats. Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, describes the Valiant as a bold expression of motorsport heritage and driving dynamics. The Valiant will be showcased at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, with first deliveries expected in Q4 2024. For further information, please visit: www.astonmartin.com By ML staff. Images courtesy of Aston Martin.

Divorce is a difficult and emotionally draining process. Even if you and your partner manage to keep the process amicable, it can still take a toll on you. Besides having to deal with all the emotions that come with it, you also need to figure out how to navigate a complicated legal process. That is why DIY-ing your divorce is not a good idea . While you can hire an attorney to assist you with the divorce proceedings, it's important to familiarize yourself with the process so you know what to expect. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for the obstacles you'll face during the divorce process. Divorce Process Step by Step Although the specifics can vary from one divorce case to another, the process typically follows the same general format. Here are some steps that you have to go through before the court finally dissolves your marriage: Step 1: Separation You can't wake up one day and decide to divorce your spouse. The two of you need to have been separated for a while before filing for a divorce. The waiting period can be as short as a few weeks or as long as a few years. However, some states don't impose a waiting period, so it's important to familiarize yourself with local laws before you move forward with your divorce. Step 2: Determining the Grounds for Divorce Next, you will have to determine the grounds for your divorce . You can file for a fault divorce or a no-fault divorce. A fault divorce means that there are specific grounds for your divorce, such as adultery, abuse, or abandonment. On the other hand, a no-fault divorce means that neither you nor your spouse is alleging any specific wrongdoing as the reason for divorce. In this case, the divorce is based on irreconcilable disagreements between the two of you. Step 3: Filing the Divorce Petition You or your partner can file a divorce petition to terminate your marriage. You can file for a petition  even if both of you don't agree to the divorce. A divorce petition must include: A statement informing the court that at least one spouse meets the state's requirements for divorce. Generally, one spouse must have lived in the state for a certain period before filing for divorce. A legal reason for divorce, which can vary from one state to another, and whether you file an at-fault or a no-fault divorce. Any other information required by the state, such as your plans for child-related matters and how you're going to divide your marital property. Step 3: Notifying Your Spouse and Filing Proof of Service Notify your spouse about the divorce by giving them a copy of the petition that's been stamped by the court. Once your spouse has been served with the papers, you'll need to file a proof of service, which verifies that you met the statutory requirements for serving your spouse with a copy of the divorce petition. When your spouse receives the paperwork, they must file a response within a given timeframe. Failure to do so could result in the court making a default judgment against them. Step 4: Requesting Temporary Court Orders While you and your spouse might be ready to go separate ways, it might take the court months to finalize your divorce process , especially when children are involved. This might make day-to-day life hard since you're not seeing eye-to-eye with each other. In this case, you or your partner can request a temporary court order to settle matters such as child custody and child support during the time you're waiting for your divorce to be finalized. Step 5: Negotiating a Settlement Unless you and your soon-to-be ex amicably agree on matters such as property division, child custody, or child support, you will have to negotiate a settlement. To help you reach a mutual agreement, your attorney can set up a settlement conference in court where you'll meet and discuss the case. Step 6: Trial If both of you don't come to a mutual agreement during negotiations, you will have to take the case to trial. At trial, both parties will be required to present evidence to back up their claims regarding issues such as child custody and property division. The court will then consider all the evidence before making a final ruling. Step 7: Finalizing Judgment The last step is to finalize the judgment. This involves the judge signing a decree, which will end the marriage officially. The decree will also make orders regarding matters such as division of property, financial support, and child custody. Ready to Push Through With Your Divorce? Although the divorce process seems straightforward, completing the legal requirements by yourself can still be difficult. That is why you need to seek the help of an experienced attorney. An attorney will make the process smooth and protect your rights to ensure you end your marriage in a professional and dignified manner. By ML staff. Images courtesy of Pexel.

The Biden administration wants to sell off the yachts, homes and other luxury assets it has seized from Russian oligarchs and use those proceeds to support reparations for Ukraine. As part of his proposal for the latest aid package to Ukraine, President Joe Biden is asking lawmakers for the authority to formally confiscate the assets of sanctioned oligarchs to pay to “remedy the harm Russia caused … and help build Ukraine.” The House has already passed a bill urging Biden to sell the assets , but it didn’t specifically give him the authority to do so. Others have encouraged the administration to sell off the tens of billions of dollars in Russian central bank assets it has frozen. It’s not clear from the White House statement whether Biden plans to go after state-owned assets too. That he has gone to Congress to get permission indicates that his lawyers believe, as do I , that current law permits only freezing, and not selling, foreign property in the course of an international crisis. I’ve studied and practiced international law for several decades and advised the departments of State and Defense on issues like this one. The idea of forcing Russia to pay reparations for the harm to Ukraine has obvious appeal. But the U.S. needs to comply with constitutional and international law when it does so. Freezing vs. confiscating You might ask what the difference is between seizing or freezing property – forbidding anyone to dispose of or use an asset or take income from it – and confiscating it. Freezing destroys the economic benefits of ownership. But the owner at least retains the hope that, when the conflict is over and the freeze order ends, the property – or its equivalent in money – will return. Confiscation means selling off the property and giving the proceeds, along with any cash seized, to a designated beneficiary – in this case, people acting on behalf of Ukraine. The International Economic Emergency Powers Act of 1977 permits only freezing, and not selling, foreign property in the course of an international crisis. Congress adopted this law to replace the Trading With the Enemy Act of 1917 , which gave the president much broader power to take action against U.S. adversaries in and out of war. Since then, the U.S. has frequently used the power to seize assets belonging to foreign individuals or nations as an economic sanction to punish what it considers bad behavior. For example, after Iran stormed and seized the American embassy in Tehran, the U.S. government seized billions of dollars in Iranian assets in the U.S, including cash and property. The U.S. has also frozen assets of Venezuela and the Taliban over ties to terrorism and Russian individuals considered responsible for human rights violations, thanks to the Magnitsky Act . In all these cases, the United States held on to the foreign property rather than sell it off. In some cases, it used the seized property as a bargaining chip toward a future settlement. In 2016, the Obama administration famously returned US$400 million to Iran that the U.S. had seized after the embassy siege in 1979 – delivering stacks of Swiss francs stuffed inside a Boeing 737. In other cases, the assets remain under government control, administered by an office of the U.S. Treasury, in hope that eventually some compromise can be reached. The Patriot Act, adopted in the wake of 9/11, created a limited exception to the confiscation ban in instances in which the United States is at war. The U.S. never has used this authority. And despite the increasingly heated rhetoric , stepped-up sanctions and growing aid for Ukraine , the U.S. is not at war with Russia. The US frozen billions worth of Iranian assets after the siege of the American embassy in Tehran. AP Photo Redressing gross violations A fundamental principle of justice says those who cause harm while breaking the law should pay. In international law, we call this “reparations.” As the United Nations puts it , “Adequate, effective and prompt reparation is intended to promote justice by redressing gross violations of international human rights law or serious violations of international humanitarian law.” In recent history, victors have often forced reparations on the losers of war – as was the case following both World War I and World War II – especially when they are deemed responsible for massive death and ruin. Russia has wrought terrible destruction in Ukraine. Several cities, including Mariupol, are all but destroyed , and evidence of war crimes in places like Bucha is mounting . So it makes sense that so many scholars, lawmakers and others would argue that the regime of Vladimir Putin and those who benefit from his rule should help pay for it. Some, such as Harvard legal scholar Laurence Tribe, argue U.S. law already allows the president to use any seized or frozen asset as reparations. But, as other experts have pointed out , doing so has serious problems. The legal issues noted above are one major hurdle and open this up to being challenged in court. Another is political. Confiscating assets takes away important bargaining chips in any future negotiations, as they have been with Iran and other countries. Specialists in sanctions law – including me – agree with Biden that Congress needs to pass a new law. Punishing Russia while preserving the rule of law The question then becomes what that legislation should look like to avoid running afoul of international law and the U.S. Constitution. There still seem to be several limitations on what Congress can do. For example, the Constitution’s Fifth Amendment guarantees due process before the government can confiscate a private citizen’s property. But does this apply to property in the U.S. that belongs to a foreign citizen? The answer seems to be yes, at least according to two Supreme Court cases. Selling off Russian state property such as central bank assets, creates other problems. International law provides a certain degree of immunity from confiscation to foreign nations and their assets overseas. Outside of wartime, confiscation of state property, including U.S. deposits of Russia’s central bank, runs up against these challenges . A case currently before the International Court of Justice will decide whether the United States violated this rule when it used funds from frozen Iranian central bank deposits to compensate people who had won a default judgment from Iran for supporting terrorists. So, yes, I believe that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is outrageous and demands a response. But that doesn’t mean the U.S. and other countries should ride roughshod over international law and the U.S. Constitution to do so. Congress should be able to craft a law that allows some assets to be confiscated without violating due process or international law. I predict that disregarding these issues will likely produce embarrassing judicial setbacks that will make it harder to help Ukraine down the road. Words by Paul B. Stephan John C. Jeffries Jr. Distinguished Professor of Law and David H. Ibbeken '71 Research Professor of Law, University of Virginia. Special thanks to The Conversation for reprint permission. Top image: Biden wants to find a way to seize oligarch-owned yachts. AP Photo/Francisco Ubilla

Join University of Miami at 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, for the kickoff screen of the 2024 fall edition of Sundays at The U with Movies.   Our first title will be Luca Guadagnino's 2009 Oscar-nominated masterpiece "I Am Love," starring Tilda Swinton.   I AM LOVE | 2009 | DIRECTOR: Luca Guadagnino | WITH: Tilda Swinton, Flavio Parenti, Edoardo Gabbriellini, Alba Rohrwacher | RUNNING TIME: 2 HOURS | RATED R for nudity, sexual content | LANGUAGE: Italian, Russian, English | PROJECTION: 2K DCP   Emma (played by Swinton) left Russia to live with her husband in Italy. Now a member of a powerful industrial family, she is the respected mother of three, but feels unfulfilled. One day, Antonio, a talented chef and her son's friend, makes her senses kindle. "“I Am Love” is an amazing film. It is deep, rich, human. It is not about rich and poor, but about old and new. It is about the ancient war between tradition and feeling. For this role, Tilda Swinton learned to speak Italian with a Russian accent, as Tilda Swinton would, but her performance is nothing as trivial as a feat of learning.   "She evokes Emma as a woman who for years has accepted the needs of the Recchis and discovers in a few days to accept her own needs. She must have been waiting a long time for Antonio, whoever he would be." -- Roger Ebert   Tickets are $5 and available at link above. Students use code UMSTUDENT at checkout for free admission (must show Cane card at the door). By ML Staff. Courtesy of University of Miami

International fashion model, former Miss Jamaica, and Miss Universe second runner-up Davina Bennett shares her experience working with Latin superstar Maluma on his album, 7 Días En Jamaica , released back in 2021. Davina plays the female lead in #7DJ ( Seven Days in Jamaica ), companion film to Maluma’s seven-song EP by the same appellation. It was the first day of shooting on set in Jamaica. I remember being so nervous because I had never done anything quite like this before. There I was, a small town girl about to shoot a very sexy scene with a superstar, Maluma. I went on set, did as I was told, and the entire production started clapping. The producer said, “One shot, and we’ve got it!” They showed the playback to Maluma and he said, “This girl knows what she is doing. Beautiful!” In that moment, I gained the confidence to get this job done. Being Miss Jamaica and the muse for a project that’s meant to be a love letter to the island is a feeling I can’t quite explain. The experience was unlike anything I had done in this lifetime. Scenes from the videos --“Love” featuring Charly Blacks, “La Burbaja,” “Agua De Jamaica,” and “Desayun-Arte”-- were shot in Jamaica. We shot in the parishes of Portland and Kingston, showcasing the breathtaking views, scenery of the countryside, and the vibrancy and simplicity of the city. The most thrilling aspect of this project was Maluma’s painstaking effort to showcase Jamaica and life on the island. Our culture was respected and the Jamaican people were included in bringing this project to life --from the production teams, dancers, extras, and creatives alike. Being on a production in my country, alongside other Jamaicans and the best teams from Colombia, is a feeling I’ll never forget. After Jamaica, we packed our bags and headed to Colombia to continue shooting. I was fortunate enough to be able to bring along my stylist Neko Kelly and hair stylist Melleisa Dawkins. Our first stop was Cartagena. We were shocked by how similar it was to our country, it was almost frightening. Our first scenes were on the Island of Baru, a place full of diversity. The houses, shops, roads and people reminded us so much of Jamaica, it was almost impossible to tell the two apart. The production crew had sought advice from me and my team about the location, styling and the overall creative setup of the shoots when filming scenes. This was to ensure Jamaica was being depicted in the most authentic way at all times, a commendable display of respect I’d say. After shooting various scenes in Baru and other neighboring towns in Cartagena, we journeyed to the city of Medellin, Maluma’s hometown. Medellin had astonishing scenes of the mountains, luxurious malls, tall buildings, an awe-inspiring culture and history we couldn’t get enough of. It was an honor to be there to shoot and work amongst talented people, all whilst experiencing the culture and what the city and its people had to offer. Revisiting Colombia is definitely on my bucket list. Keeping this project a secret was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. The premiere came quickly, and then the album was out. I remember feeling a deep pleasure and sense of pride from this achievement, knowing that I was selected for this role where I got to represent black women, Jamaicans and the Caribbean people. To me, this is more than just any music album—it’s a celebration of cultures, music, race and backgrounds coming together as one. Being the representation for my island is not something I took lightly, and seeing the outcome of this project has not only given me extreme gratification, but a renewed faith that we are constantly evolving as conscious beings. 7 Días En Jamaica was the first domino. I hope that this is the beginning of something new in the industry, and that this project will inspire other artists to explore and celebrate new cultures, unite countries, art, people, talent and creatives to create magic around the world that will inspire our future generations to continue. Follow Davina on Instagram: @davinabennett Words by Davina Bennett. Images by Angello Faccini.