For the fifth time, Ina Kim-Schaad and Meghan Stasi raised the trophy at the Women’s International Four-Ball Championship. The duo was also victorious in 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023 and have now added one more to their illustrious collection. This also marks Stasi’s ninth win at the championship.  It was tightly contested at the top of the leaderboard after the first round, with four teams within three shots of the lead. Greenlief (Virginia) and Rogowicz (Pennsylvania) took full advantage of their top spot from round one, sinking two birdies right from the start.  As they made the turn, Kim-Schaad (Florida) and Stasi (Florida) claimed a share of the lead with a birdie on the tenth hole. Sarah Spicer (Virginia) and Jessica Spicer (North Carolina) followed suit, joining the leaders with a birdie on the ninth hole. Greenlief and Rogowicz, one hole behind, responded with a birdie on the ninth hole to reclaim the lead at 9-under heading into the back nine. It would be a battle down the stretch to determine who would ultimately raise the trophy. Ina Kim-Schaad and Stasi refused to back down, and continued their run birdieing the 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th holes to pull ahead of the field. Their next birdie would come on 18 where they sat 13-under with one hole to go.  Not to be forgotten, Greenlief and Rogowicz held on with three birdies on the back nine, finishing 12-under total, just one shot off the winners.  Together, the duo of Kim-Schaad and Stasi tallied up eleven birdies on the final day to reach 13-under and a remarkable second-round 61. This is the lowest round put together by any pair teeing it up at the Women's International Four-Ball Championship. Stasi is among an elite group of individuals, being inducted into the FSGA Hall of Fame in 2023. Meanwhile, Kim-Schaad has quite a few accolades of her own, as an FSGA President's Award recipient in 2019, and winning the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur in the same year.  In the Middle Division, Corey Weworski and Susan West finished with a commanding 5-stroke lead over the rest of the field. The pair shot 69-66--135 to finish 9-under total.  By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of FSGA

Join us for a series of exciting events on our Coral Gables campus to highlight the achievements and contributions of Black alumni at the University of Miami. Below you'll find all the events taking place from February 23 to March 2 on our campus and across the country.   University of Miami, Coral Gables Campus Events Thursday, February 27: Black Alumni Scholarship Reception Time: 4 - 6 P.M. Location: Iron Arrow Room - Shalala Student Center Join us in honoring and celebrating the awardees of the Black Alumni Society Scholarship and the Center for Global Black Studies Research Fellowship. The reception will include remarks from university leadership and the Black Alumni Society, featuring student performances. We invite you to join us in congratulating all of our students' accomplishments.   Friday, February 28: Black State of the U Time: 5 - 7 P.M. Location: Lakeside Village Auditorium (Zoom option available as well) A panel discussion on Black achievement at the U.   Post Reception/Mixer Time: 7 - 9 P.M. Location: Lakeside Village Training Room 1084 Reception and mixer with students and alumni.   Saturday, March 1: Students of Culture Symposium: “The Story of We: Echoes of Yesterday, Voices of Today” Lunch & Learn Time: 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM Location: Shalala Student Center Ballrooms Join UM students for our distinguished keynote speaker and lunch  during the student symposium program.    Sunday, March 2: UTrailblazers’ Memory Lane Interactive Showcase and Brunch Time: 10 A.M. - 12 P.M. Location: Kislak Center Brunch and interactive presentation on Black history at the University of Miami. Traveling in town to join the celebration? Please review the hotel recommendations below: 1.  THesis Hotel (0.1 miles from UM campus) 2.  Loews Coral Gables (2 miles from UM campus)   Can’t make it back to campus? Look below for a Black Alumni Week celebration in your city.   Saturday, February 22: Chicago ’Canes: Bronzeville Bus Tour Time: 9 A.M. - 1 P.M. Location: DuSable Museum of African American History Sunday, February 23: Washington D.C. ’Canes at the Smithsonian Time: 2 - 5 P.M. Location: National Museum of African American History and Culture   Houston 'Canes | Black Alumni Sunday Funday Mixer Time: 1 - 3 P.M. Location: Notes Wine & Music Bar Monday, February 24: Atlanta ’Canes Community: Black Alumni Mixer Time: 7 - 9 P.M. Location: TEN ATL Bar & Lounge (East Atlanta Village) Tuesday, February 25: Broward County ’Canes Community: Black Alumni Mixer Time: 6 - 8 P.M. Location: Velvet Lounge & Cafe Wednesday, February 26: Palm Beach County ’Canes Community: The UM Black Experience Mixer Time: 6 - 8 P.M. Location: Historical Society of Palm Beach County By ML Staff. Courtesy of University of Miami

Compassionate care for aging parents is multi-faceted. There are emotional, physical, and even logistical aspects of the process that must be considered. Each stage of life brings its own sets of challenges, and as parents age, health-related problems, social role changes, and cognitive decline become commonplace. Providing compassionate care requires careful balance between one’s own necessities and that of the parents, as well as effective communication. Here are some tips on how to care for aging parents while ensuring that the relationships are nurturing, caring, and loving.  Image by Kawee / Adobestock Understanding the Aging Process Just like several things in life, aging is inevitable. Unfortunately, it is not one-size-fits-all. Each person experiences it differently and has their own set of needs. This is even more pronounced when it comes to parents, considering that with age, one is more prone to undergoing changes related to mobility, vision, hearing, memory, and overall physical capabilities. Best way to deliver care? Understand the changes that are taking place and adjust accordingly. Physical Changes It is common for people to suffer from chronic ailments such as arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes as they age. These ailments can alter an individual’s quality of life. Pay attention to the problems your parents suffer from and help them out with effective healthcare management. Proactive healthcare approaches like routine check-ups can help mitigate such issues in your parent's lives.  Cognitive Changes Aging is also associated with cognitive decline which includes memory loss and issues with logic and reasoning, as well as information processing speed. While some level of cognitive change is expected with age, significant changes could point towards more serious conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. It is prudent to manage and intervene such potential issues before they spirale out of control.  Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment A flexible home is imperative for the well-being of aging parents, but to ensure safety, comfort and mobility, it is necessary to eliminate some barriers. Altering a home’s currently set parameters can control the likelihood of falls or accidents. Home Adjustments Putting grab bars in bathrooms, enhancing lighting, and eliminating potential tripping hazards like loose rugs are good first steps. If mobility is an issue, ramps or stairlifts might be necessary. Greater assessment of the home her requires and modification of these areas will enable aging parents to live more safely and comfortably. Medical Attention Enable your parents easy access to healthcare services. This may include providing transport services to the doctor's office, arranging telehealth consultations, or scheduling healthcare practitioners to consult in their homes. Also, keeping track of medications, health documents, and their medical history, along with emergency contacts, can also prove useful when dealing with emergencies. Empathetic Communication Communication is the key to excellent and compassionate care. When conversing with your parents, be sure that you have taken an empathetic approach ensuring that they feel engaged, heard, and respected in regard to caring decisions.  Active Listening  When engaging your parent, allow them the chance to express themselves freely without being disrupted. Encourage them to talk and remind them that it is okay to express their emotions. This is crucial as it deepens the bond with them while providing better understanding of their various needs. Including Them in Decision Making When the time comes, try to include your parents in the decisions regarding their care. This can be empowering for them and assist with their autonomy. Have candid conversations where you respect their preferences even when they clash with yours. Medications to Manage A lot of elderly people tend to handle chronic conditions by taking multiple medications. Proper medication management is key to avoid side effects and interactions.  Understanding Medication Side Effects When it Comes to The Elderly When it comes to the elderly, Varied medications can have different effects as the body goes through some metabolism and organ function changes. Pain relievers, over the counter ones such as Tylenol, are widely used, however, Tylenol side effects in elderly  is a real concern one has to keep in mind. Liver damage is one such effect, especially when taken in higher doses, or abused with alcohol. Always consult with someone to keep medication use safe. Taking Care of the Organizing Help your parents manage their medications by organizing them into pill organizers and reminders. Don’t forget to set appointments with their healthcare professionals to monitor the patient’s needs and check for interactions. Image by pairhandmade / Adobestock Offer Emotional Help Aging parents and people tend to feel alone and at times suffer from low anxiety and depression. Providing emotional support can go a long way when helping parents and patients with compassion rich care.  Encouraging Active Help Older parents should be pushed to be more active, be it as joining a community or club, keeping in touch with family or other social networks, or any other form. Helping them will go a long way towards their health and overall well being. Staying Engaged It can sometimes be truly calming simply to spend time with your parents, without necessarily spending quality time with them. You can have conversations with them, do things together, and even share meals. In this scenario, your presence alone can provide comfort and strengthen your relationship further. Meeting Personal Needs With Caregiving Meeting the needs of elderly parents can be stressful at times, and it is crucial to take care of personal welfare at such times. Making Decisions In order to avoid caregiver burnout, boundaries should clearly be drawn. Altering the self-imposed limits to parents and other members of the family household should be something that one is willing to do. It may include tasks such as devoting more time to self-care or asking for assistance when necessary.  Getting Help Always be ready to seek help from friends, family, and professional caregivers. Dividing tasks brings relief while ensuring your parents get quality care.  Image by Kawee / Adobestock Planning Ahead It is of utmost importance to take the time to address the caregiving tasks of elderly parents, so planning always has to be a factor. This means getting into a conversation about what the care services will look like and how it will be funded, along with care for other legal aspects.  Considering Care Options   All family members should be actively engaged in dealing with elderly parents. Considerable attention should be given to long term care arrangements, which may include nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or even home health aides. Knowing their budget and their wishes helps to make decisions when required. Legal and Financial Planning  Check that everything is legally and financially organized. This may include setting up powers of attorney, drafting a living will, and discussing details of estate planning. It is best to have these discussions as early as possible to avoid confusion and stress down the line. Conclusion  Caring for elderly parents is a very difficult task that requires love, patience, and advanced planning. Understanding how aging happens, ensuring safety, communicating, drug managing, emotionally supporting the aging individual, self-care for the caregiver, and caring for their future are some of the essential steps to enable responsible and respectful care. It may be a tough journey, but it’s also one that allows you to nurture your bonds with loved ones while making great memories. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Communication is vital during international travel, especially when visiting unfamiliar destinations like China. Those traveling in China are more likely to have several issues since China has very strict restrictions on internet connection and independently purchasing SIM cards. That is where eSIM technology comes in— the newest effective feature that provides the ability to travel without worrying about connectivity. This blog will give an introduction to eSIMs and explain just why they are the perfect connectivity solution when traveling to China. Image by ajiro / Adobestock What Is eSIM Technology And How Does It Operate? An eSIM, also known as embedded SIM, is a type of SIM that is installed in your gadget. In contrast to regular SIMs, which implement a chip, e-SIMS are powered by software and can be configured to connect to a particular network. The process is simple: Travellers buy an eSIM plan, download a QR code or activation profile, and then connect to their desired network immediately. You can do this without the need to go to a store or replace actual SIM cards. Advantages of eSIMs for travelers Convenience: Activation can also be done instantly, and this can be done while you are at home before the trip. Flexibility: Authorized profiles can be created in eSIMs and will let users quickly shift from one network to another. Security: No physical SIM card means they cannot be lost or damaged. For travelers in and across China, with no delays, with no physical SIM card limitations, eSIMs are great to go. Concerns For Maintaining Communication In China Those considering traveling to China should prepare for some connectivity challenges that are not entirely similar to those of other nations. Internet Restrictions:  The “Great Firewall” blocks permission to commonly used websites and applications such as Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp. In the absence of a stable connection, using a VPN to access these restrictions may be a bit difficult. Limited SIM Card Availability:  When it comes to acquiring SIM cards, there are cases when tourists face some difficulties. Most stores demand local identification or registration which is too much of a bother. High Roaming Costs:  Using home provider international roaming plans can be costly, and there is always a chance of being overcharged for data consumption. These challenges can make going around China without adequate connectivity solutions very annoying. How eSIM Technology Makes Travel Easy In China For visitors, many of these challenges are solved by China eSIM  – they are easy and convenient. Instant Activation: eSIMs can be purchased and activated in advance before arriving in China, so there will be connectivity as soon as customers get off the plane. Compatibility:  The main advantages of eSIMs are that they are compatible with all the key Chinese telecom operators, which means a stable connection. Cost-Efficiency:  Users using eSIM services are normally cheaper than using international roaming services, and any data plan can be chosen for the time the traveler uses it. Flexibility: Since it is possible to change from one eSIM profile to another, this ensures that users can cope with the existing network demands. Whether you need the internet for business, mapping, or communication purposes, eSIMs make it easier while at the same time guaranteeing cheap and safe connections. Image by STUDIOGRAPHIC / Adobestock How VPNs Work When You Are Using eSIM In China Although eSIM makes staying connected easier, this being China, internet freedoms are limited, so a VPN is mostly necessary for many of the services. Why You Need a VPN in China: Access Blocked Websites:  Some prominent websites like Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram cannot be used in China without a VPN. So, a VPN can be used as it encrypts your connection and hides your location. Secure Your Data: Wireless connections such as public networks offered in most hotels and cafes are other bad networks that are easy to hack. A VPN puts a layer of security, safeguarding your information, such as passwords and other monetary information. Streamline Communication:  In many countries, most of the messaging applications or voice-over IP services like Skype or Zoom may be restricted or unstable. Connectivity with family, friends, or colleagues is achieved without interruption when using a VPN. Tips for using a VPN with an eSIM in China Choose the Right VPN:  You have to use a reliable VPN that can work in China, and try those that are fast and have a good degree of encryption. Pre-Install Your VPN : It’s advisable to download and set your VPN before you enter China since you may not easily access VPN websites. Opt for a High-Quality Connection: To combine your eSIM with VPNs successfully, choose the eSIM provider that will offer a reliable network connection in China. Image by THANANIT / Adobestock Choosing The Right eSIM For China: A Traveler’s Guide Finally, choosing the right provider is important to get the most out of eSIM technology. Here are some tips for choosing an eSIM Provider: Research Network Coverage: Make sure the provider you choose has a good relationship with Chinese telecommunications operators. Compare Pricing Plans: Always choose options according to your needs for data but do not have to overpay. Check Compatibility: Make sure the device you are using supports eSIM and also the provider you have is compatible with it. Conclusion eSIM technology is reshaping the future of travel and for good reason especially when used in countries such as China where connectivity presents a significant concern. Through instant activation, reliable coverage, and affordable pricing, eSIMs break the constraints of the communication process. If you are thinking about having your next trip to China, you may need to check out China eSIM for a more convenient trip. Be connected, wander fearlessly, and enjoy your trip to the maximum without giving second thoughts about your internet connection. For more tips on Internet access during travel, check out How to Stay Connected to the Internet While Traveling. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Alexander Zverev battled the heat and a tough challenge from Alexander Shevchenko on Wednesday to reach his sixth consecutive clay-court quarter-final at the Rio Open presented by Claro. The top seed, who is making his debut at the ATP 500, won a 72-minute opening set and needed a late charge to seal a 7-6(1), 7-6(6) win against the Kazakh. Zverev trailed 2/5 in the second-set tie-break and fought off two consecutive set points from 4/6, avoiding a decider after a gruelling two-hour, 28-minute battle. “Generally, I thought it was a pretty good match. It’s not easy conditions here. It’s hot, humid. You go to your limits sometimes physically,” Zverev said in his on-court interview. “I thought he played a very good match, so I’m happy with the win and definitely happy with the improvement from yesterday.” It was a stern test for Zverev from the first ball as he needed 10 minutes to break Shevchenko in a six-deuce opening game. Shevchenko eventually broke back and served for the set at 5-3, mirroring Zverev’s first-round match against Buyunchaokete, who held the same opportunity before the German fought back to win in a tie-break. Zverev raised his level in Wednesday’s tie-break, claiming 15 of 16 points spanning from late in the first set to an early break in the second. Zverev, who led 4-1 in the second set, struggled to find consistent baseline rhythm, fluctuating between hot and cold runs. Sporting blue athletic tape on his upper right arm for the second consecutive match, the 23-time tour-level titlist leaned on his forehand in times of trouble, hitting with great depth to rush the World No. 103 in the PIF ATP Rankings. “I was physically struggling I think at 4-1. I was really struggling to breathe," Zverev said. "The air is very heavy here. Very, very humid. I caught myself then afterwards and obviously happy I didn’t have to play a third set.” The 27-year-old is into his first ATP 500 clay quarter-final outside of his hometown tournament Hamburg. Up next for Zverev is Argentine Francisco Comesana, who saved a match point to beat sixth seed Nicolas Jarry 7-6(4), 6-7(1), 7-6(6). Despite the Chilean winning 10 more points than Comesana, the 24-year-old was the more consistent player in key moments, surviving the three tie-break clash after three hours and 14 minutes. Jarry will rue the backhand return he missed on his lone match point, which came at 6/5 in the third-set tie-break. The 29-year-old’s return barely went into the net, leaving Comesana with his hands over his head, stunned that the cleanly struck return had not made it over. Comesana cracked a smile in relief, tallying three consecutive points to reach his first tour-level quarter-final. “I thought I lost. I’m still thinking I lost, but I won. I don’t know what to say,” said Comesana. “I knew had to serve very well because he has everything, good serve, forehand, backhand. I knew I had to defend very well and I did it.” In a rematch of last year’s title match, defending champion and Argentine Sebastian Baez overcame countryman Mariano Navone 6-4, 1-6, 6-3. Baez trailed 0-2 in the deciding set before winning six of the next seven games to improve to 2-0 in his Lexus ATP Head2Head series with Navone. Baez will next meet Chun-Hsin Tseng, who escaped home hope Thiago Monteiro 6-7(4), 6-3, 7-6(4) in a three-hour, 20-minute marathon to finish the long day on Quadra Guga Kuerten. Tseng is into his second tour-level quarter-final and first above ATP 250 level. The 23-year-old is the second player representing Chinese Taipei to reach an ATP 500 quarter-final, alongside Yen-Hsun Lu. Tseng beat Baez in the 2018 Roland Garros boys' singles final to win the junior title. By ML staff. Image courtesy of Rio Open.

Only Brazilian left in the main draw of the Rio Open presented by Claro, Thiago Monteiro lost the chance to reach his third quarterfinal at the ATP 500 event this Wednesday. In a more-than-three-hour match, Monteiro was defeated by qualifier Chun-Hsin Tseng, who posted the biggest win of his career in the first round in Rio versus world number 28 Alejandro Tabilo. Tseng won by 6/7, 6/3 and 7/6 to advance to the quarterfinals. This is his second ATP Tour quarterfinal, the first above the ATP 250 level after 2024 Umag. Tseng is only the second player representing Chinese Taipei to reach an ATP 500 quarterfinal. The qualifier now takes on Sebastian Baez in the next round. “To be honest I don’t know who I’m playing next and I don’t want to know right now. I don’t want to say I’m defending the title because every year we start from scratch”, said Baez who looks to become the first ever two-time champion in Rio. Baez, who claimed the biggest of his six ATP Tour titles last year, won the rematch against fellow countryman Mariano Navone this Wednesday. Results - Wednesday, 19 February 2025 Men's Singles - Round of 16 F. Comesana (ARG) d [6] N. Jarry (CHI) 76(4) 67(1) 76(6) [1] A. Zverev (GER) d A. Shevchenko (KAZ) 76(1) 76(6) [Q] C. Tseng (TPE) d [WC] T. Monteiro (BRA) 67(4) 63 76(4) [5] S. Baez (ARG) d M. Navone (ARG) 64 16 63 Men's Doubles - Round of 16 R. Matos (BRA)/M. Melo (BRA) d [4] A. Krajicek (USA)/R. Ram (USA) 57 76(5) 10-4 P. Martinez (ESP)/J. Munar (ESP) d R. Carballes Baena (ESP)/A. Muller (FRA) 63 64 Men's Doubles - Quarterfinal [1] M. Gonzalez (ARG)/A. Molteni (ARG) d [WC] M. Demoliner (BRA)/F. Romboli (BRA) 75 76(0) L. Darderi (ITA)/M. Navone (ARG) d [WC] O. Luz (BRA)/F. Meligeni Alves (BRA) 36 75 10-6 By ML staff. Image courtesy of Rio Open.

Cole Haan proudly unveils the ØriginalGrand™ Energyweave Oxfords , the latest in its acclaimed ØriginalGrand™ franchise. Fusing advanced technology with timeless design and modern craftsmanship, this launch marks the brand’s most innovative and versatile oxford to date. First introduced in 2012, the ØriginalGrand™ Collection redefined and revolutionized footwear by merging performance-driven engineering with the look and feel of a premium crafted dress shoe. Over the years, the franchise has expanded to include oxfords, loafers, sneakers, boots, and golf shoes - each designed for superior cushioning, high traction, and all-day lightweight comfort. Engineered for energy return and ultimate flexibility, the ØriginalGrand™ Energyweave Oxfords  showcase the visible technology that defines Cole Haan’s DNA, delivering next-level performance with: Energyweave Heel Design – Engineered with Energy Rebound Cushioning Compound for unparalleled shock absorption that helps propel you forward. FlowerFlex™ Sole – An engineered sole with multi-directional flexibility and enhanced traction to take you wherever you’re going. FlowerFoam™ Cushioning – Patented cushioning made with a minimum of 25% dandelion rubber, blending sustainability with exceptional comfort. Versatile Design – Available in premium leather and suede in a range of colorways, with a sleek plain-toe upper featuring perforated detailing or a classic wingtip version, these oxfords seamlessly balance sophistication, versatility and modern performance. Both styles are priced at $170 and deliver a dynamic fusion of craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. Cole Haan  launches the ØriginalGrand™ Energyweave Oxfords as part of its Spring 2025 global campaign, Innovation That Moves You –   a celebration of visionary design crafted for the rhythm of real life. At Cole Haan, innovation goes beyond functionality; it’s about technology and meticulous craft that effortlessly adapts to your day to evening, wherever it takes you. The ØriginalGrand™ Energyweave Oxfords for Spring 2025 embody Cole Haan’s ongoing pursuit of progress - where style meets performance, and technology moves with you. The ØriginalGrand™ Energyweave Oxfords, along with Cole Haan’s Innovation That Moves You  global campaign, are now live at www.ColeHaan.com  and available in U.S. and select international retail stores worldwide. About Cole Haan Cole Haan is a global American lifestyle brand distributed in over 100 countries across the world serving always-connected, active professionals with innovative footwear and lifestyle accessories. With a nearly 100-year heritage, Cole Haan infuses its products with time-honored craftsmanship and modern innovation, making footwear and lifestyle accessories that customers wear from work, to workout, to weekend. Cole Haan's mission is to inspire customers to live extraordinary lives. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Cole Haan

Corey LeBlanc, Keith Costello and Drew Saito Locality Bank  officially completed its de novo period on January 12, 2025, marking a significant milestone and the end of the initial three-year supervisory phase for newly chartered banks, positioning the bank to expand its support of South Florida businesses. "This milestone represents a significant achievement for Locality Bank and the South Florida business community," said Keith Costello, CEO of Locality Bank. Keith Costello "When we opened our doors, South Florida had been without a new, locally headquartered community bank for years. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to giving local businesses the personalized service and support they need to succeed." The completion of the de novo period removes certain regulatory requirements and positions Locality Bank to: Expand lending capabilities to meet growing business needs Offer additional products and services tailored to local market demands Increase operational flexibility to support business growth initiatives As a community bank headquartered in South Florida, Locality Bank has a unique understanding of local market conditions. "Our bankers work directly with business owners in their communities," said Drew Saito, Chief Lending Officer and Co-Founder. "This direct relationship enables us to make informed decisions based on true market knowledge and specific business needs." Drew Saito Since its founding, Locality Bank has demonstrated exceptional growth and impact within the South Florida community. The bank’s assets have increased from $35 million to nearly $300 million, underscoring the strength of its community-focused business model. Over $200 million in loans have been provided to local businesses, empowering them to expand, hire, and drive sustainable growth. Additionally, the bank has attracted $250 million in deposits and nearly $40 million in capital from residents, supporting its ability to fund loans and sustain operations. This growth and unwavering commitment to the community reflect the success of Locality Bank’s approach, maintaining strong capital levels and asset quality while promoting local economic development. "This achievement reinforces our fundamental mission," added Corey LeBlanc, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Technology Officer, and Co-Founder. "We're focused on empowering local businesses to maximize their potential through personalized banking relationships and deep market expertise." Corey LeBlanc About Locality Bank Locality Bank combines the personal service of a community bank with innovative digital capabilities to serve South Florida businesses. Headquartered at 1400 South Andrews Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Locality Bank empowers local businesses to maximize their potential by blending relationship-driven banking with user-friendly technology. Visit www.localitybank.com , call (888) 238–5053, or email info@localitybank.com . Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , X , and YouTube  to stay connected. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Locality Bank

Image by Nataliya Vaitkevich / Pexels It's interesting how many business owners overlook common tax deductions, just like you might have missed that one email in your inbox. Understanding these deductions can not only lighten your tax burden but also help you reinvest in your business. From operating expenses to home office deductions, there are several avenues you could explore. Knowing the ins and outs can make a significant difference come tax season. So, what are the key deductions you should be aware of to maximize your benefits? Business Operating Expenses When managing your business finances, understanding business operating expenses is essential. These expenses are the day-to-day costs you incur while running your business, and they directly affect your profitability. Operating expenses include rent, utilities, salaries, and office supplies, among others. Identifying and tracking these costs helps you maintain a clear financial picture. To effectively manage operating expenses , it's important to categorize them. Fixed expenses, such as rent, remain constant, while variable expenses, like utilities or materials, fluctuate. By analyzing these categories, you can pinpoint areas for potential savings. For example, can you negotiate better rates with suppliers or implement energy-saving measures to reduce utility costs? Additionally, monitoring your operating expenses regularly allows you to spot trends over time. If you notice a sudden spike in a particular category, it could indicate a problem that requires your attention. Keeping a close eye on these expenses not only aids in budgeting but also helps you make informed decisions about future investments and growth strategies. Ultimately, a thorough understanding of your operating expenses is essential for maintaining financial health and ensuring sustainable success in your business. Home Office Deduction Many business owners can benefit from the home office deduction, which allows you to claim a portion of your home expenses as a business expense. To qualify, you need to use a specific area of your home exclusively for business purposes. This could be a room or a designated workspace that's not used for personal activities. The deduction can cover direct expenses, like repairs and utilities, as well as a percentage of indirect expenses, such as mortgage interest, rent, and property taxes. To calculate your deduction accurately, you have two methods: the simplified option or the regular method. The simplified option allows you to deduct $5 per square foot of your home office, up to a maximum of 300 square feet. Alternatively, the regular method requires you to calculate actual expenses based on the percentage of your home used for business. It's essential to maintain proper records to substantiate your claims. Confirm you document expenses and the square footage of your office space. Vehicle Expenses After maximizing your home office deduction, it's time to contemplate another significant area for tax savings: vehicle expenses . As a business owner, you likely use your vehicle for both personal and professional purposes. Understanding how to deduct these expenses can lead to substantial savings. You have two primary methods for calculating your vehicle deduction: the standard mileage rate or actual expenses. Here's a breakdown of what you should consider: Standard Mileage Rate : This method allows you to deduct a set rate per mile driven for business purposes. For 2023, the IRS standard mileage rate is 65.5 cents per mile. Actual Expenses : Alternatively, you can deduct the actual costs associated with operating your vehicle, including fuel, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation. Record Keeping : Whichever method you choose, meticulous record keeping is essential. Maintain a log of your business miles, along with receipts for any expenses related to the vehicle. Employee Benefits Offering employee benefits can greatly enhance your business's appeal and retention rates. When you provide benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, you're not just supporting your employees; you're also investing in your company's future. These benefits can lead to higher job satisfaction and productivity, which ultimately boosts your bottom line. From a tax perspective, many employee benefits are deductible business expenses. This means you can reduce your taxable income by the cost of providing these benefits. For example, contributions to health insurance premiums, retirement accounts, and even employee educational assistance can qualify for deductions. Moreover, certain benefits, such as flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs), can also provide tax advantages for both you and your employees. You can help your staff save on their taxes, while simultaneously lowering your own tax burden. It's essential to stay informed about the specific regulations surrounding these deductions, as they can vary by state and be subject to change. If you're operating in the UAE, you might find insights from A Guide to Minimizing Corporate Tax in The UAE  particularly useful in understanding local tax-saving strategies. Depreciation Deductions Depreciation deductions can greatly impact your business's financial health by allowing you to recover the cost of tangible assets over time. This process enables you to spread the expense of an asset across its useful life, reducing your taxable income each year. Understanding how to properly apply depreciation deductions is essential for maximizing your tax benefits. Here are three key methods to evaluate for calculating depreciation: Straight-Line Depreciation : This method distributes the cost evenly over the asset's useful life, making it simple to calculate. Declining Balance Method : This accelerated method allows for larger deductions in the earlier years, which can be beneficial if you plan on upgrading or replacing assets frequently. Section 179 Deduction : This provision lets you deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment in the year it's placed in service, providing immediate tax relief. Conclusion In summary, understanding and leveraging tax deductions can greatly benefit your bottom line. For instance, if you operate a home-based graphic design business, you could deduct a portion of your rent, utilities, and equipment costs, potentially saving thousands each year. By keeping accurate records and staying informed about these deductions, you'll not only maximize your savings but also guarantee compliance with tax regulations. Don't overlook these opportunities—your business's financial health depends on it. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Pexels

Giorgio Armani’s Spring 2025 Ready-to-Wear collection refines minimalist luxury with expert tailoring and fluid silhouettes. Soft hues of beige, pastel pink, and light blue create a serene palette, while lightweight fabrics like silk, linen, and wool enhance both comfort and sophistication. Tailored blazers, wide-leg trousers, and flowing dresses transition seamlessly from day to night, embodying Armani’s timeless aesthetic. Delicate pleating, subtle embroidery, and refined draping add depth to the collection’s understated elegance. Eveningwear features silk crepe gowns with minimal embellishments, emphasizing movement and grace. The collection maintains Armani’s signature balance of structure and ease, offering modern, versatile pieces for the contemporary woman. Discover more at www.armani.com . By ML staff. Images courtesy of Giorgio Armani.

A glamorous evening in New York to celebrate the opening of the new Michael Kors Collection store on Madison Avenue. The night kicked off with a special cocktail hour at the store featuring refreshments, light bites, and live jazz trio as guests explored the newly unveiled space.  Images by BFA Following the in-store event, Kors moved to the iconic Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle Hotel to welcome guests, including Katie Holmes, Alan Cumming, Julianna Margulies, Iman, Cristin Milioti and more for a quintessential Manhattan night complete with craft cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and that classic Bemelmans ambiance. In a fitting finale for the glamorous Upper East Side evening, guests enjoyed a surprise performance by Tony Award-winning actor Alan Cumming, who brought the house down in style. Images by EMILI By ML Staff. Image Courtesy of Michael Kors

The primary partnership of Red Bull and Trackhouse will serve on Shane van Gisbergen’s No. 88 Chevrolet in five NASCAR Cup Series races and for the Cup Series debut of 18-year-old Connor Zilisch who will drive the No. 87 Chevrolet at Circuit of the Americas on March 2. Red Bull is the official energy drink of Trackhouse Racing. Shame van Gisbergen has been a Red Bull Athlete since 2016 when the Auckland, New Zealand native raced in the Supercars series — where he won three driver’s titles, scored 78 wins and 47 pole positions, making him the fourth most successful driver in series history. Van Gisbergen said, “I have enjoyed a lot of new experiences and met a lot of new people since coming to NASCAR, but it is nice to be joined by Red Bull who has been a big supporter of mine for many years back home. Now I get to welcome my Trackhouse race team to the Red Bull family. I’d love nothing more than to give Red Bull a victory as a way to thank them for joining myself, Connor and Trackhouse Racing.” Connor Zilisch, a Trackhouse Racing development driver, stormed onto the racing scene in 2024, compiling an impressive resume that spotlights his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut win at Watkins Glen International. Zilisch is racing full-time in the Xfinity Series for JR Motorsports. Zilisch shared, “I was surprised when they presented me my Red Bull helmet and hat last summer and doubly surprised when they told me I would make my Cup debut in the No. 87 with a Red Bull paint scheme. Red Bull is going to bring a lot more eyes to NASCAR and I think everyone will win when that happens.” By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of RedBull