A new study produced for the  Community Foundation of Broward  examines charitable giving patterns in Broward County, Fla., and reveals opportunities to nurture a more vibrant culture of local philanthropy. Unlocking Opportunities: Shaping the Future of Charitable Giving in Broward County , conducted by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, looks at the generosity and untapped philanthropic potential of the county. This deep dive into local giving blends data insights with perspectives from the community garnered through interviews with residents to offer recommendations for elevating philanthropy in Broward County.  “This insightful report about Broward County’s giving potential shows that our community can create an even greater charitable impact if nonprofits grow and evolve their outreach and collaboration with those who want to support the community they love,” said Community Foundation of Broward President/CEO Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, Ph.D. “Giving can be done in small and large ways. We have to foster that propensity to give.”  Key findings Giving in Broward County remains lower than in similar-sized communities.  Household characteristics such as age and marital status, as well as the cost of living in Broward County, help explain the difference. Focus group participants who had not given in the past year cited healthcare costs, caregiving, and other unexpected life circumstances as the top reasons that they were not able to give to charity, but they expressed hope they could give again in the future. Opportunities to expand philanthropy in Broward County require long-term commitment from local nonprofits.  Participants frequently highlighted nonprofits’ organizational leadership and demonstratable impact as important in their philanthropic decision-making process. Focus group participants who did not give locally reported that they did not have personal connections at local organizations.  Identity plays an important role in how and where Broward County households give.  Research shows that diverse populations have unique concerns, motivations, and approaches to charitable giving, and that diverse donors have not always been included in mainstream philanthropy. To engage with donors from these communities, nonprofits might consider adapting their communications and fundraising approaches accordingly. Donors find fulfillment through broader forms of generosity, including volunteering at events, serving on boards, and leveraging their personal and professional connections to expand the nonprofit’s reach.  Many participants wanted to give to organizations where they had the opportunity to give in many different ways. Individual trust levels in nonprofits are generally high, with some exceptions.  In Broward County, focus group participants generally reported high levels of trust in nonprofits. Participants had lower levels of trust in organizations that they perceived as wasteful or dishonest. Interest in donor-advised funds (DAFs) and other newer strategic giving vehicles is growing, especially among diverse donors . A substantial portion of participants reported they had made a change to their giving patterns in the last few years to be more strategic. The majority of participants reported that the events of the last five years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, did not have as large an impact as their personal milestones, such as retirement. Implications for Broward and other communities While many of the report’s findings are unique to the Broward County community, it also includes recommendations for nonprofit leaders, funders and donors elsewhere seeking to strengthen connections within their communities.   Build a culture of giving.  Nonprofit leaders may want to review internal operations, including aspects such as recruitment, employee retention, and advancement. Additionally, including all forms of generosity in the fundraising cycle from cultivation to stewardship can enhance relationships. Build bridges to meet next-gen and diverse donors where they are and create opportunities for engagement . As younger, more diverse generations’ influence increases, it is important for nonprofits to build trust with them. This requires authentic engagement by creating meaningful opportunities beyond giving money, such as volunteering or attending events.  Find or create giving opportunities that are fun.  Many participants reported that getting involved in the local community during potentially difficult life transitions, such as retirement or moving to a new area, can be especially rewarding. “Philanthropy is deeply personal, shaped by individual experiences, traditions and connections. Identifying key themes and practices that resonate with residents of Broward County and beyond equips organizations and donors with insights to deepen their philanthropic connections,” said Una Osili, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research and International Programs at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. “We are pleased to collaborate with the Community Foundation of Broward to help advance that goal.”  To download the full report,  click here .  By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Community Foundation of Broward.

This is a beginner level ballet class introducing the basics of dance for participants with no experience or a small amount of experience in ballet. The class will include basic ballet exercises with emphasis on coordination through the body, weight change, and balance. Simple stretching and strengthening exercises will also be incorporated within the class. Participants will also explore the use of curving and extending the spine and how it is utilized in Complexions' movement. The class will end with participants learning a small excerpt of the Complexions repertory. Beginner Adult Ballet Class With Complexions Contemporary Ballet Dance Rehearsal Studio Friday, April 25, 2025 7:00 PM Free, Ticket required from MossCenter.org   Important Information: Level of Experience Required: No experience required What to wear: Comfortable clothing that is breathable and movable. Shoe Options: socks, or ballet slippers. No pointe shoes. Age range: 18 years old and older. Note: This is a ticket for a participatory ballet class, NOT for the Complexions Contemporary Ballet performance. To attend the Complexions Contemporary Ballet main stage performance, buy your ticket here . By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Complexions Contemporary Balle

Barilla, the world’s biggest pasta producer, is to join Formula 1 as a new Official Partner in a multi-year deal starting this year.   Sport and food have long been credited with bringing people together and both Formula 1 and Barilla put excellence and dedication at the heart of their work, making it the perfect partnership.   As an Official Partner, Barilla will have a strong presence both on and off the track and will encourage connection and the spirit of togetherness among fans who will be able to enjoy dishes from the Italian brand’s Pasta Bars around the Paddock, and in the prestigious Formula 1 Paddock Club. Trackside signage, digital activations, and consumer promotions reaching millions of spectators worldwide will also bear the Barilla branding.  The partnership will connect fans of both brands across the world, united by a passion for sports and the bonding tradition of sharing a meal.   Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1, said:   “We are thrilled to welcome Barilla into the Formula 1 family, a collaboration flavoured with passion and heritage. Two stories that share the same values of excellence, authenticity and the pleasure of living extraordinary moments together. We cannot wait to start this incredible adventure with our new partner, certain that they will add an elevated taste to the emotions of F1.”  Paolo Barilla, Vice President of Barilla Group and former F1 driver, said:   “A lightning-fast F1 car and a delicious plate of pasta: what do they have in common? At first, it may not be obvious, but behind both, and the effort that goes into making them, are skilled professionals, passionate and determined, driven by the desire to keep improving. Our greatest satisfaction is being able to offer all the men and women of F1, after an intense competition, a well-deserved plate of pasta”.  Ilaria Lodigiani, Barilla Chief Category & Marketing Officer, said:    “We look forward to welcoming all Formula 1 fans to the table every race weekend to enjoy both the thrill of racing and the comfort of a great meal. This partnership is an invitation to celebrate the moments that matter together, because we believe that sharing a meal has the power to turn strangers into family. At the track, at home, or around a table, Barilla and Formula 1 unite people beyond sport and cuisine”.   By ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Formula 1

Inter Miami CF II fell against Toronto FC II this Thursday evening at Chase Stadium. Lineup Notes The Herons’ starting XI featured Rocco Rios Novo goal; Capitan Giovanni Ferraina, Tyler Hall, Ryan Sailor, and Samuel Basabe made up the back four; Bailey Sparks, Santiago Morales, Idoh Zeltzer-Zubida, and Ricardo Montenegro in midfield; and forwards Leonardo Afonso and Yuval Cohen led the team’s attack. Match Action Inter Miami CF II squared off against Toronto FC II in a tightly contested matchup, with both sides battling to find a breakthrough in the opening half. Chances came as each team matched the other’s intensity across the pitch. Despite a few close calls, neither side could find the back of the net before the break, sending the match into halftime remaining at 0-0. The Herons came out of the break with urgency, pushing forward in search of a breakthrough. Despite a spirited effort and several promising moments, they couldn’t find the finishing touch. Toronto capitalized in the 80th minute, scoring the lone goal of the match to secure a 1-0 win by the final whistle. Next Match Inter Miami II’s next MLS NEXT Pro match up will face Orlando City B on Tuesday, April 15th at 7 p.m. ET. at IMG Academy. By ML Staff. Content/images courtesy of Inter Miami CF

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood concluded its 2025 Poker Showdown on Wednesday, April 9 following a successful three-week run. The Poker Showdown kicked off on Wednesday, March 19 and saw 74 trophy events and more than 20,000 total entries, the fifth time in series history crossing the 20,000 entry mark. The tournament awarded more than $20 million in prize pools. Front row, left to right: Jeffery Fritz, Art Peacock, and Mitchell Hynam. Back row, left to right: Jared Hemingway, Daniel Marcus, and Mihai Niste. With 1,755 entries in the WPT Poker Showdown Championship, the final prize pool is more than $5.6 million, easily exceeding the $3 million guarantee. The field is down to its final six players who will reconvene on Thursday, May 29 in Las Vegas for a televised final table. Championship Final Table with Chip Counts: Seat 1: Art Peacock – 27,150,000 (109 bb) Seat 2: Jeffery Fritz – 16,150,000 (65 bb) Seat 3: Mitchell Hynam – 2,000,000 (8 bb) Seat 4: Jared Hemingway – 11,150,000 (45 bb) Seat 5: Daniel Marcus – 22,150,000 (89 bb) Seat 6: Mihai Niste – 8,650,000 (35 bb)   Remaining Payouts: 1st: $776,000 (includes a seat in WPT World Championship) 2nd: $515,000 3rd: $380,000 4th: $285,000 5th: $215,000 6th: $164,000 The series opening event, $400 Deep Stack No Limit Hold ‘em, drew 4,265 entries, creating a total prize pool of more than $1.4 million. Michael Newman of Nanuet, N.Y. won the opener, earning $103,274. Other signature event winners include: Femi Fashakin (Orlando, Fla.) winning the $600 Deep Stack NLH (Re-Entry) for $156,565 Jake Cody (Rochdale, England) winning the $2,200 Deep Stack NLH (Re-Entry) for $93,900 Cherish Andrews (Chambersburg, Penn.) winning the $25,500 High-Roller NLH (Re-Entry) for $408,265 Jonathan Jaffe (Longmeadow, Mass.) winning the $10,000 Heads-Up NLH for $100,000 Brek Schutten (Grand Rapids, Mich.) winning the $5,000 Deep Stack Eight Handed NLH (Re-Entry) for $185,400   Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown also hosted the “Larry Frank Memorial Charity Event Benefiting Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida” on Thursday, April 3. The charity event was in honor of Larry Frank, with proceeds going to Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida. The event had more than 140 entries and a prize pool of $15,000 + $9,200 in non-cash prizes. Matthew Zarcadoolas of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. won the top prize of $6,000 plus a $3,500 seat in the WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Championship. Poker action will return to Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood with its flagship series Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) Wednesday, July 31 – Tuesday, August 13. For more information and to view the series schedule, future tournament details and make hotel reservations, please visit SHRPO.com . Follow us on X at @SHRPO and @SHRHollyPoker . By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Hard Rock

Hiking is an adventure, especially if you’re more used to strolling down Miami’s boulevards rather than hitting dusty trails. Across the globe, routes lead through awe-inspiring landscapes waiting to be explored. Some take you to ancient ruins, while others showcase nature's raw beauty. If this appeals to your sense of exploration, stick around as we count down a few unique hiking destinations that are ideal for anyone who’s craving something extraordinary. The Majestic Dolomites The Dolomites, nestled in northern Italy, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for jagged peaks and lush valleys. Popular trails like Tre Cime di Lavaredo offer breathtaking panoramas for hikers of all levels. For a multi-day experience, there are tours involving hut to hut hiking Dolomites  visitors can enjoy, allowing adventurers to rest at charming alpine refuges while exploring diverse terrains. Unique rock formations and serene lakes make every step rewarding. Whether you prefer short walks or challenging ascents, the Dolomites provide endless opportunities for exploration amidst nature's beauty. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu This iconic trail in Peru combines stunning Andean scenery with rich historical significance. Spanning approximately 26 miles, it takes hikers past ancient ruins, cloud forests, and breathtaking mountain views. Reaching the Sun Gate at sunrise reveals Machu Picchu in all its glory, which is a once-in-a-lifetime sight. The trek typically lasts four days and is worth every second of your time. Guided tours help navigate the challenging terrain while uncovering stories of Incan culture along the way. With every step steeped in history and beauty, this hike offers an unforgettable adventure through time and nature's grandeur.  Just be warned that in peak periods, it can get busy, so if you want to avoid crowds it’s better to travel off-season . Japan’s Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes The Kumano Kodo trails in Japan weave through lush forests, quiet mountains, and ancient shrines. These UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes connect the sacred sites of the Kumano region, offering a peaceful journey for hikers seeking reflection. With multiple trail options like the Nakahechi route, visitors experience traditional villages and historic temples along their path. Rest stops include charming ryokans with warm hospitality and local cuisine. These paths, accessible for all skill levels, balance nature’s beauty with cultural discovery. They embody tranquility and spiritual connection that leave a lasting impression on every hiker who visits. Norway's Trolltunga Hike Trolltunga, or "The Troll’s Tongue," is one of Norway's most dramatic hiking destinations. The trail covers roughly 28 kilometers round trip and offers panoramic views of fjords and mountains. The final reward is the iconic rock ledge jutting over Lake Ringedalsvatnet, which is a perfect spot for awe-inspiring photos. While challenging due to steep climbs and changing weather, prepared hikers find it immensely rewarding. Hiking season runs from June to September when conditions are safest. Local guides can assist beginners in tackling this adventure. For those craving stunning scenery combined with a thrilling hike, Trolltunga delivers an unforgettable Nordic experience. Zion National Park’s Angels Landing Trail If you’d rather stick to a domestic hiking trip, Angels Landing in Utah’s Zion National Park offers one of the most exhilarating experiences in the U.S. The 5.4-mile trail ascends steep switchbacks, with sections that require gripping chains bolted into the rock for safety. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of Zion Canyon’s red cliffs and green valleys. Due to its popularity and challenging nature, permits are mandatory. The trail demands a head for heights but promises an unforgettable adventure for those prepared. It perfectly combines adrenaline-pumping moments with breathtaking desert landscapes unique to this iconic American park. Table Mountain Trails in South Africa Table Mountain offers diverse hiking routes for all fitness levels, with spectacular views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline. Popular paths like Platteklip Gorge provide a direct ascent, while Skeleton Gorge offers lush scenery through shaded forest. The summit rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the city, Robben Island, and the Atlantic Ocean. A cable car complements shorter trails for those seeking an easier option. Home to unique flora within its fynbos biome , Table Mountain blends natural beauty with accessibility. It’s a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts exploring South Africa’s rich landscapes. Final Thoughts Hiking opens the door to some of the world’s most incredible landscapes and cultural experiences. From sacred paths in Japan to dramatic cliffs in Norway, each trail offers a unique adventure.  Whether you’re a Miami resident seeking serenity or adrenaline that’s totally different from city life, these destinations inspire a connection with nature and unforgettable memories for every adventurer who takes the path forward. By ML staff. Image courtesy of Pexels.

In recognition of Financial Literacy Month, OneUnited Bank , a leading Community Development Financial Institution and the nation’s largest Black-owned bank, is joining forces with the innovative credit-building platform Esusu to revolutionize the path to homeownership for renters. By reporting on-time rental payments, this alliance simplifies credit building, paving the way to homeownership and delivering essential financial literacy tools and AI technology to help close the wealth gap. "This alliance is all about empowering renters with the financial tools they need to turn their homeownership dreams into reality," said Teri Williams, President & COO, OneUnited Bank. "For decades, our mission has been to promote financial empowerment for everyone, and this collaboration with Esusu is an important step in that direction." "Financial literacy is the key to achieving stability," noted Wemimo Abbey and Samir Goel, co-CEOs of Esusu. "This collaboration is all about equipping renters with the knowledge they need to navigate their journey to homeownership." To date, the Esusu platform has enabled over 200,000 renters to establish a credit score for the first time, while unlocking over $50 billion in credit activity. On average, renters see a positive credit score increase of 45 points, providing them access to better quality financial products and lower interest rates. "Recognizing rent payments as a valid form of credit building can truly change lives," added Williams. By enabling the reporting of rent payments to all three major credit bureaus, this initiative seeks to transform monthly rental costs into a pathway for increased mortgage eligibility. OneUnited Bank will make rent reporting available to all customers and Esusu will enable renters to access OneUnited Bank's AI-driven financial solutions through its app. This marks Esusu's first collaboration with a banking institution, showcasing the commitment of both organizations to empower underserved communities through cutting-edge, AI-driven financial solutions. By ML Staff. Image Courtesy of Esusu/OneUnited Bank

Viola Davis wore a Gucci red dress, red leather jacket and carried a mini Gucci Bamboo 1947 handbag in red patent leather   arriving to the “G20" New York Screening at Regal Times Square on April 08, 2025 in New York City. Learn more at gucci.com . By ML Staff. Images courtesy of IPA Agency

The 64th Florida Senior Amateur Championship is set to take place from April 15-17, 2025, at the esteemed Ponte Vedra Inn & Club’s Ocean Course in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. This annual event, conducted by the Florida State Golf Association (FSGA), gathers the state's top senior amateur golfers to compete over 54 holes of stroke play on one of Florida’s most storied courses. Defending Champion and Recent Achievements R.J. Nakashian of Palm Beach Gardens returns as the defending champion. In the 2024 championship, Nakashian secured victory after a dramatic six-hole playoff against 2023 champion Miles McConnell. His outstanding play throughout the season also earned him 2025 Senior Player of the Year honors, adding to an already impressive résumé. Notable Competitors The field is stacked with top-tier talent and decorated champions: Mike McCoy  – The 2022 Florida Senior Amateur Champion, 2013 U.S. Mid-Amateur winner, and 2023 U.S. Walker Cup captain, McCoy brings a wealth of competitive experience to Ponte Vedra. Pete Williams ,  Paul Royak , and  Miles McConnell  – All former FSGA Senior Players of the Year, this trio represents the core of Florida’s elite senior golf scene. McConnell, the 2023 champion, will look to bounce back after narrowly missing a repeat last year. Joe Alfieri  – Making his senior debut, Alfieri adds serious buzz to this year’s event. A 2024 inductee into the FSGA Hall of Fame, Alfieri’s amateur career includes five FSGA Player of the Year honors and numerous state titles. He’s already made a statement in the senior ranks by winning the 2025 Florida Azalea Senior Amateur in a playoff. His debut at the Senior Amateur marks a new chapter in one of Florida golf’s most storied careers. David Anthony  – A Ponte Vedra native and four-time FSGA Super-Senior Player of the Year, Anthony adds serious championship pedigree. He’s a three-time Super-Senior Champion and a past Florida Mid-Amateur Champion, with decades of experience and success across all levels of amateur golf in the state. Host Club Representation Ponte Vedra Inn & Club won’t just serve as the championship venue—it will also be represented inside the ropes by three of its own members: Ken Moody  – The 2012 Forty & Over Champion brings years of competitive experience to his home course. Clayton Brewer  – A 2017 Mid-Amateur Four-Ball (North) Champion, Brewer adds team and individual credentials to the field. Steve Horner  – Another club stalwart, Horner looks to make a strong showing in front of a hometown crowd. Their local knowledge and familiarity with the Ocean Course could prove to be a significant advantage over the 54-hole event. Format & Qualifying The road to Ponte Vedra was no easy feat. Over 400 players attempted to qualify for the championship through six qualifying sites held across the state. The final field represents the best of the best among Florida senior amateurs. After 36 holes, the field will be cut to the low 60 scores and ties for the final round on Thursday. With a competitive cutline looming and championship conditions expected, every shot over the first two days will matter. The Venue: Ocean Course at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club Known for its coastal beauty and strategic layout, the Ocean Course will challenge the field with tight fairways, rolling greens, and breezy conditions off the Atlantic. Precision and patience will be key over three rounds of championship golf. Tee Times and Pairings Pairings for the first two rounds are available here: 2025 Senior Amateur Championship Pairings Past Champions and History For a complete list of past champions and historical context of the event: Past Champions With over 400 hopefuls, a championship-caliber field, and a beautiful coastal test awaiting, the 64th Florida Senior Amateur is set to deliver another thrilling chapter in the FSGA's rich competitive history. By ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of FSGA

In 1755, when Jean-Marc Vacheron signed his first apprenticeship contract, it marked the beginning of a quest for excellence that continues to define Vacheron Constantin to this day. To mark 270 years of technical and aesthetic mastery, the Maison’s Les Cabinotiers workshop has created three single-piece edition timepieces paying homage to the Tour de l’Île, a historic Geneva landmark with deep ties to Vacheron Constantin. Set in elegant 40mm cases, each dial gives full rein to the artistic savoir-faire of the Métiers d’Art atelier. A spirit and identity forged in Geneva Set on a small island in the middle of the Rhône River, the Tour de l’Île (literal translation: tower of the island) is the remnant of a fortified castle built in the 13th century to defend Geneva. Bridges linking the two sides of the Rhône via the island – just downstream from where the river flows out of Lake Geneva – have existed since pre-Roman times. Underlining the strategic importance of the crossing, the bridge was demolished by Julius Caesar and subsequently rebuilt several times over the centuries. As a major checkpoint on the route connecting northern and southern Europe, this link elevated Geneva to become a major crossroads for European trade, providing the foundation for the city’s early wealth. In the 18th century, the city of Geneva became a major workshop devoted to timekeeping instruments, jewellery making and the decoration of objets d’art . It had at its disposal a highly skilled workforce of craftsmen and their apprentices. The Vacheron family alone illustrates the importance of watchmaking in the local economy and society at the time. Jean Jacques Vacheron, a weaver and an immigrant to Geneva, had five sons, of whom four entered the Fabrique (a grouping of all the crafts associated with watchmaking). Jean, the eldest, became a skilled maker of watch cases. The second son, Jean-Etienne, made tools for watchmaking; and the fourth, Antoine, assembled watch cases. Jean-Marc, the youngest, became a master watchmaker and opened his own workshop in 1755. By 1850, Geneva’s reputation was such that unscrupulous manufacturers elsewhere were increasingly producing counterfeits. In 1886, at the request of the Geneva Society of Watchmakers, the Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva created the Poinçon de Genève (Hallmark of Geneva) to protect the ‘Geneva’ designation of origin, this prestigious and demanding certification is a guarantee of origin, quality and excellence. A treasured Geneva landmark today, the Tour de l’Île clock tower stands as a symbol not only of the city’s fortitude and resilience but also of Vacheron Constantin’s history. From 1843 the Maison installed its workshops in the tower and displayed its signage on the façade. The Maison moved to more spacious workshops in 1875, about 100 metres away on the Quai des Moulins, then opened its first boutique in the tower in 1906. Inscribed on the dial of the clock on the Tour de l’Île, Geneva’s motto, Post Tenebras Lux (After Darkness, Light) dates back to the mid-16th century, a period of great change for the city. The motto expresses the idea that even in the darkest time there is the possibility of a brighter future and is a powerful symbol of Geneva’s commitment to freedom, independence and progress. Engraved inside the officer-style case back of each watch, Geneva’s motto echoes the Maison’s unwavering quest for excellence. Métiers d’art and art of finishing express the soul of Geneva Celebrating the savoir-faire of Vacheron Constantin’s master artisans – engravers, enamellers and guillocheurs – the Tribute to the Tour de l’Île timepieces epitomise the Maison’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship, culture and the Arts. With its own Métiers d’Art workshop dedicated to preserving rare and historic decorative crafts, fostering their development and passing the legacy down through the generations, the Maison provides a sanctuary for artistic crafts that may otherwise vanish. Capturing the spirit of Geneva, each of the three Tribute to the Tour de l’Île dials features a view of the tower inspired by an historic lithograph and reinterpreted by Vacheron Constantin’s designer. Miniaturised for a 33.6mm-diameter dial, yet faithful to every detail of the original image, the meticulously hand-crafted dials showcase several métiers d’art. One model features a miniature Grand Feu enamel painted dial in pastel shades that perfectly complement the 950-platinum case. The second piece, also cased in platinum, features a highly original combination of guilloché and Grand Feu enamel. The third piece displays a finely engraved 18K pink gold dial that matches its pink gold case. For the new Tribute to the Tour de l’Île single-piece edition watches, Vacheron Constantin has chosen a simple display of hours and minutes in order to focus on the artistic beauty of the dials. At 40mmin diameter and 9.42mm thick, the sobriety and proportions of the finely crafted case epitomise the understated elegance that has been a hallmark of the Maison for 270 years. On the reverse side of the watch, an officer-style caseback reveals the beauty of the movement beneath a transparent sapphire crystal. The mechanical elegance of the self-winding manufacture Calibre 2460 is enhanced by the finest of finishing, in the tradition of Haute Horlogerie inherited from the Age of Enlightenment. Perlage and Côtes de Genève on the bridges are complemented by a hand-guilloché 18K 5N pink gold winding rotor. Attesting to the quality of the craftsmanship, each watch bears the Poinçon de Genève (Geneva Hallmark) – a seal of excellence that guarantees both the watchmaking workmanship and the origins of the timepiece within the Canton of Geneva. The caseback bezel of each watch is engraved with Vacheron Constantin’s 270th anniversary emblem. As with every single-piece edition produced by the Les Cabinotiers workshop, the caseback is also engraved with the inscriptions ‘Pièce unique’, ‘Les Cabinotiers’, and ‘AC’ – for Atelier Cabinotiers. Les Cabinotiers: manifesting the Maison’s quest for excellence Specialised in the creation of single-piece edition models, Les Cabinotiers is the highest expression of Vacheron Constantin’s quest for excellence. A team of highly skilled women and men – craftsmen as well as watchmakers – Les Cabinotiers has the freedom to create single-edition pieces for which they can develop new technical ideas or explore and evolve the decorative crafts in new directions. The Les Cabinotiers workshop perpetuates the legacy of the Maison’s 18th-century forebears while embodying Vacheron Constantin’s spirit of innovation and continuing to expand its watchmaking capabilities. Whether grand complication timepieces or watches focused on artistic expression, the master watchmakers and artisans of Les Cabinotiers create timepieces that contribute to advancing horology. The name Les Cabinotiers is a reference to Geneva’s most gifted artisans of the 18th century (watchmakers, engravers, enamellers, jewellers, lapidaries, etc.) who plied their trade in workshops known as cabinets, located on the upper levels to benefit from the best natural light for the longest part of the day. Connecting the past with the future of watchmaking, the three Tribute to the Tour de l’Île pieces continue a golden legacy of Vacheron Constantin watches inspired by this Geneva landmark. They include a series of 1920s pocket watches with engraved cases, a 1994 pocket watch with an enamelled case, and the famous Tour de l’Île wristwatch created to mark the Maison’s 250th anniversary in 2005, featuring 16 complications – the world’s most complicated wristwatch at the time. Les Cabinotiers Tribute to the Tour de l’Île – Grand Feu miniature enamelling Complemented by a platinum 950 case, the Grand Feu enamel dial features a miniature enamel-painted reinterpretation of a lithograph drawn by Jean DuBois (1789–1849) and printed by Spengler & Cie. It captures the view of the tower with the richly detailed tableau of the Place de Bel-Air in the foreground, faithful to the monochrome original in every detail but rendered in pastel-coloured enamel. Employing the Geneva technique of miniature enamelling – developed in the city from the 18th century onwards – the dial required one month of meticulous hand craftsmanship to complete. The first challenge was to test pigment colours (which can often change in unpredictable ways when fired) to ensure that, in the finished work, they would correspond as closely as possible to the designer’s drawings. The enamelling itself is a demanding process that begins with the application of a fondant – a white enamel undercoat – to the 18K white gold dial to create a perfectly smooth surface. Then, the image is painted in multiple layers, using an extremely fine brush. Finally, the master enameller applies several layers of translucent enamel to protect the work and add brilliance and depth. Throughout this extremely delicate process, each layer must be fired at more than 800°C before applying the next layer. These firings are essential and require great mastery, with careful attention given to maintaining optimal temperatures, which helps prevent the formation of bubbles or cracks, shrinkage of the enamel or alteration of the colours.   Les Cabinotiers Tribute to the Tour de l’Île – Figurative guilloché and Grand Feu miniature enamelling The dial of this watch reinterprets an early 20th-century illustration produced by Charnaux – a photographic workshop and postcard publisher initially located on the Place de Bel-Air, immediately across the river from the Tour de l’Île. In adapting the illustration for the dial, Vacheron Constantin rendered the surrounding buildings as simple black line drawings to focus the eye on the tower and emphasise its strength and presence. This has been translated to the 18K 5N yellow gold dial in a subtle union of hand-guillochage and Grand Feu enamel against the soft texture and matte finish of the sandblasted background – the latter chosen to amplify the sense of perspective captured in the image. For the master guillocheur, working on the uneven texture of the sandblasted plate added greater technical difficulty to the work and required even more than usual precision. Resulting from multiple intersecting skills, this dial is the product of approximately 16 hours of meticulous guilloché work and 40 hours of miniature Grand Feu enamelling. On the dial, the fine black lines of the buildings are hand-guilloché. Every detail, even the most minute, is faithfully reproduced. A wide variety of guilloché patterns is used to differentiate parts of the buildings and enhance the sense of depth and architectural perspective. To create figurative drawings with guillochage – a signature technique from Vacheron Constantin’s guillocheur – required the development of new guilloché motifs from scratch. As of 1780, the date of the Maison’s oldest watch to feature a guilloché pattern, Vacheron Constantin began decorating its timepieces with a wide variety of guilloché motifs. Even today, these patterns engraved on the various metal bases are entirely hand-crafted. The machine is merely an extension of the human touch.  The craft of figurative drawing by guillochage was developed by the Maison’s own master guillocheur. The technique, which calls for great dexterity, is created by the alternating use of two hand-operated guilloché machines: one to engrave straight lines; and the other to make curves and circles. By combining these two techniques it becomes possible to create detailed illustrations entirely different from traditional geometric and abstract guilloché decoration, transforming the craft into a figurative art form in its own right. At the centre of the dial, the famous Tour de l’Île is painted in Grand Feu miniature enamel, standing out proudly from the surrounding buildings. To maximise the richness, depth and clarity of colour, multiple layers have been added sequentially: a base layer of white fondant to create a smooth surface, then multiple layers of colour topped by two layers of transparent fondant enamel to add brilliance and depth. The piece was fired at more than 800°C after every layer – a total of nine steps – requiring rare skill to mitigate all the risks inherent in such a demanding process. Les Cabinotiers Tribute to the Tour de l'Île - Engraving Inspired by an engraving of the Tour de l’Île and the bridges over the Rhône made in 1822 by Pierre Escuyer (1749-1834), the 18K 5N pink gold dial plate of this model precisely matches the case material. The dial is engraved in bas-relief, a technique in which the engraver draws an outline of the desired motif then carefully carves away the surrounding metal so that the motif is slightly raised from the surface, creating a subtle trompe l’oeil effect. Creating this miniature work on a plate barely one millimetre thick is a feat by the master engraver. Working from an initial sketch, the work is meticulous: each perspective line, drawn with extreme precision, converges towards the vanishing point, breathing dynamism into the composition. The bas-relief technique then brings the scene to life. By carving into the material, the engraver brings out the volumes and contrasts. The dome atop the bell tower, for example, stands out sharply thanks to the depth sculpted around it. The finishing work requires dexterity. Chiselling adds depth to the darker areas, such as the trees and windows, while polishing makes the roofs and facades gleam. A subtle satin finish gives the clouds an almost palpable impression of volume. At this minuscule scale, faithfully reproducing the details of the original engraving – the pedestrians on the bridge, the rooster perched on the weather vane – is a tour de force . This hand-engraved masterpiece required more than 140 hours of work. ML Staff. Courtesy of Vacheron Constantin

Louis Vuitton has announced a new chapter in its  Home Collections , unveiling an expanded offering across five categories:  Objets Nomades, Signature Collection (furniture and lighting), Decoration, Tableware,  and  Exceptional Gaming . The latest collection features works by three new designers— Patrick Jouin (France), Cristián Mohaded (Argentina),  and  Jaime Hayon (Spain) —alongside fresh pieces by returning creatives  Estúdio Campana, Patricia Urquiola,  and  Atelier Biagetti . Unveiled for the first time at  Palazzo Serbelloni , the collection pays homage to Italian graphic artist  Fortunato Depero  with textile and tableware creations, and to  Charlotte Perriand , who is celebrated through newly published textile designs. The Louis Vuitton Home Collections will be available in stores beginning  June 2025 . By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Louis Vuitton

The Intercollegiate/Interscholastic (I/I) program is thrilled to announce that the application for the Interscholastic Polo Varsity Letter is now open! The Interscholastic (IS) polo program is a competitive league in which high school students play against other polo teams in their region and across the country. Players must meet their school’s academic standards in order to compete. Students who receive the Varsity Letter have shown their commitment to both academic and polo excellence through their time commitment and level of play. Applications are now open for all interscholastic players who have met the requirements listed below in this past I/I season. REQUIREMENTS A player must meet the following requirements to be eligible to receive Varsity Letter recognition:· Completed IS Polo Varsity Letter Application· Currently in grades 9-12· An active member of an existing Interscholastic program· Meets all USPA IS eligibility requirements· Played in at least four regular season Interscholastic games during the current I/I season· Played in a Preliminary, Regional and/or National tournament during the current I/I season· Logged a minimum of 100 hours of riding, stick and balling, practice, and/or game time· Approval and confirmation from their interscholastic coach confirming the completion of all requirements Those who submit a completed application and meet all of the above requirements will be awarded a Varsity patch for the initial year, a letter of recognition from the United States Polo Association (USPA) and subsequent pins for each additional year earned. For more information, visit USPA . By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of United States Polo Association