Located on the exclusive Peninsula Papagayo, the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo Costa Rica, offers an unparalleled experience in luxury and natural beauty nestled within 2,300 acres of this peninsular nature sanctuary. The five-star resort, stretching over 250 acres of lush tropical grounds and flanked by two magnificent beaches, captivates guests with its 181 guest rooms, suites, and residences, each designed to embrace the exotic essences of the country. From the comfortable rattan and bamboo furnishings to the indigenous wood and stone finishes, every detail reflects the rich tapestry of Costa Rican culture. In 2018, the property underwent a remarkable $35 million refurbishment, elevating its already exceptional offerings to new heights of luxury and sophistication. Every aspect of the resort was meticulously revitalized, from its accommodations and dining venues to its spa and pool areas. The contemporary oceanfront property now exudes a fresh, sun-drenched ambiance, seamlessly blending Costa Rica’s lush tropical landscape with the Four Seasons’ signature indoor-outdoor spaces. ACCESS American Airlines offers direct flights from Miami International Airport to Liberia Airport (LIR), a mere three-hour journey. Upon arrival, guests have the option to either take a connecting flight via the resort’s private airstrip or enjoy a scenic 40-minute transfer by vehicle to reach the resort. ACCOMMODATIONS Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo offers 181 redesigned rooms and suites. The multi-story pavilions have curved roofs that blend with the trees, providing better views on higher floors. The ensuite bathroom has twin sinks, a deep soaking tub, a shower, and a private WC. The room’s décor includes new furnishings and local artisan pieces, enhancing the ocean views. The hotel’s suites are more spacious, with views of the tropical forest or bay, furnished patios, and adjoining infinity-edge pools. EXPERIENCES But the allure of the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo extends beyond its luxurious accommodations and gourmet offerings. Guests have access to a plethora of complimentary activities, from guided hikes to Latin dance classes, kayak and paddleboard rentals, snorkeling and fishing, mountain biking and e-bike tours, as well as golf and tennis centers, ensuring there’s never a dull moment during your stay. And for the ultimate adventure seekers, the Papagayo Explorers Club offers adrenaline-inducing excursions led by expert guides, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Costa Rica. All in all, the Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo offers a harmonious blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a dream destination for discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable escape. DINING For dining enthusiasts, the resort features six distinctive restaurants and bars onsite, each offering a culinary journey that celebrates local flavors and international cuisine. From the wood-fired open kitchen of Bahia to the Latin steakhouse experience at Nemare, every dining venue promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure within a spectacular tropical setting. SPA & WELLNESS CENTER At the heart of relaxation and rejuvenation lies the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo’s world-class spa and wellness center. With 18 spa treatment rooms equipped with waterfall showers, private sauna and steam rooms, and whirlpool tubs, guests can embark on a journey of pampering and renewal. From Ayurvedic and sound healing spa treatments to traditional hammam rituals, the spa’s menu caters to every need, ensuring a holistic wellness experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Adjacent to the spa is a state-of-the-art fitness center, equipped with Technogym equipment and offering ocean-view yoga and spin classes. Whether you prefer a heart-pumping workout or a serene yoga session, the fitness center provides the perfect space to stay active and energized during your stay. And with the surrounding tropical landscape as your backdrop, every workout becomes an invigorating experience. Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo Costa Rica 26Km al Norte del Doit, Peninsula Papagayo Liberia, Guanacaste US Toll Free: +1 (819) 819 - 5053 Domestic Hotel Direct: (506) 2696 - 0000 www.fourseasons.com/costarica By Markin Abras and Adriana Garuolis. Images courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo Costa Rica

Located in the southern region of Costa Rica, Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection, sprawls across 180 acres, offering a premium luxury experience in a serene, untouched locale. Known as a sanctuary for holistic well-being, the resort helps guests take a break from modern life and delve into self-discovery, while connecting deeply with nature. ACCESS Begin your Hacienda AltaGracia experience by booking a prop plane from San Jose, landing directly on the property’s private airstrip. From there, enjoy a 5-minute safari-inspired drive in a fully restored classic Land Cruiser to the estate. Alternatively, if you prefer to drive you can take a scenic route through the Talamanca mountains or along the Pacific coast, reaching your destination in just under 4 hours. ACCOMMODATIONS Nina Gotlieb, a New York designer, crafted the interiors of the resort’s 50 hacienda-style casitas each featuring spacious patios and terraces with panoramic views of the San Isidro Valley and nearby mountains. Enjoy luxurious amenities like fireplaces, bathtubs, and a butler’s pantry, alongside expansive window walls that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. The interior design features a neutral palette and rich textures of wood, stone, and organic fibers, bringing nature’s beauty indoors. SPA Located within Hacienda AltaGracia, THE WELL is one of Central America’s largest spa and wellness facilities, covering 20,000 square feet. It boasts indoor treatment rooms, aqua suites with Vichy showers, outdoor treatment “ranchos,” a panoramic swimming pool, a beauty salon, and a modern fitness center. THE WELL offers a comprehensive wellness experience, blending local healing traditions and modern science through therapies, coaching sessions, workshops, and fitness activities. Casa de Agua, a glass-walled oasis, serves as the property’s focal point for purification and relaxation rituals. With state-of-the-art technology and outdoor settings like a healing garden and Crystal Rancho, guests can immerse themselves in a holistic experience. The Visiting Masters Program hosts world-class healers and experts for bespoke treatments, fostering connection and vitality. Signature treatments such as Hierbas y Flores and Maderoterapia offer nature-inspired healing, while THE WELL Craniosacral Facial integrates holistic practices for health and beauty. EXPERIENCES Choose from a wide range of immersive experiences. Led by experienced guides, activities include jungle hiking through the property’s lush forests, horseback riding to explore the rich topography, and tours of sustainable coffee production. Other adventures include jungle climbing and experiencing local Costa Rican farm life such as sugarcane extraction and traditional tortilla making. For families, the Junior Adventurers’ Club provides curated activities promoting play, exploration, and education. Hacienda AltaGracia is also home of an extensive equestrian center equipped with 28 oversized indoor stables, a tack room, and an enclosed riding ring suitable for equine shows and events. DINING The culinary experience at Hacienda AltaGracia focuses on sustainable cooking and ingredient-driven fare, drawing inspiration from Costa Rican indigenous life. El Cultivo, the chef’s garden, fosters a deeper connection with food through private dinners and workshops. Grano embodies a soulful expression of Costa Rican and Latin American culinary traditions, while Cienfuegos offers an open-fire grill dining experience with family-style dishes and entertainment. Picoteo provides poolside cuisine for sharing, Las Brisas serves poolside favorites, and Mercado offers an extensive selection of coffee, snacks and other delights. Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection Contiguo a la Escuela de Santa Teresa de Cajón San José Province, Pérez Zeledón, 11908, Costa Rica US Toll Free: +1 (855) 812-2212 Domestic Hotel Direct: (506) 2105-3000 www.aubergeresorts.com/altagracia By Markin Abras and Adriana Garuolis. Images Hacienda AltaGracia

The Frost Symphony Orchestra opens the Centennial Season with an exciting program featuring works by two great American composers and Brahms’ second symphony.   Charles Griffes, a prominent American representative of musical Impressionism, tragically died at the age of thirty-five. His famous piano work, The White Peacock, written in 1915, was orchestrated one year before his death.     John Corigliano, one of the most significant living American composers, known for his film score for The Red Violin, composed Triathlon, a concerto for saxophone and orchestra, in 2020. Joining Gerard Schwarz and the Frost Symphony Orchestra for the Florida premiere of this virtuosic work is Timothy McAllister, one of today’s most celebrated classical saxophonist. McAllister has been hailed as “a virtuoso” (The New York Times), an “exemplary soloist” (Gramophone Magazine), and “a titan of contemporary music and the instrument in general” (The Cleveland Plain Dealer).   The concert concludes with Johannes Brahms’s beloved second symphony, a staple of the orchestral canon. Date and Time: Saturday, September 21, 2024 7:30pm   Tickets By ML Staff. Courtesy of Frost School of Music

Discover exciting opportunities for South Florida's professional visual artists with three new public art commissions from the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs. Call to Artists: Courtside Apartments + Rainbow Village REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS DEADLINE:  Monday, October 21, 2024, 11:59PM BUDGET:  Courtside Apartments: $225,000 / Rainbow Village: $540,000 ELIGIBILITY: Open to professional visual artists based in south Florida Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs through its Art in Public Places Program requests qualifications from professional artists to commission public art for two Miami-Dade County Department of Public Housing and Community Development projects.  Details + Apply Call to Artists: Ronald McDonald House at Jackson Memorial Hospital REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS DEADLINE:  Monday, October 7, 2024, 11:59PM BUDGET:  $210,000 ELIGIBILITY: Open to professional visual artists based in south Florida Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs through its Art in Public Places Program requests qualifications from professional artists to commission public art for the Ronald McDonald House at Jackson Memorial Hospital.  Details + Apply Call to Artists: PS MIA REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS DEADLINE:  Monday, September 16, 2024, 11:59PM BUDGET: $140,000.00  ELIGIBILITY: Open to professional visual artists based in south Florida Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs through its Art in Public Places Program and the Miami-Dade Aviation Department request qualifications from professional artists and/or artist teams to commission artworks for PS MIA. Details + Apply By ML Staff. Courtesy of 3 Calls to Artists

As part of LVMH's partnership with Paris 2024, the Group's social commitments actively encompassed the realm of sports, a key path to inspiring dreams and nurturing positive impact. LVMH opened the doors to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 for 15 non-profit associations, enabling over 2,500 people to share in the magic of the event. The Group spearheaded this initiative alongside the non-profit Secours Populaire Français right from the launch of its premium partnership with Paris 2024 in July 2023, sponsoring a program to encourage children and youth from underserved communities aged 4 to 25 to practice sports by covering the costs of club membership fees, classes and sports discovery sessions. Funding from LVMH has covered some 1,344 sports club memberships over two years, placing priority on girls to boost gender equity in youth sports and enable these young people to joint sports associations for the first time. In addition, LVMH provided over 700 tickets to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 events, plus hundreds of tickets for the Parc des Champions venue for beneficiaries of Secours Populaire Français programs. LVMH's support for these celebrations during the Paris 2024 Games enabled the largest possible number of people to share in the magic of the event. Over 180 children and accompanying adults were welcomed to the Maison LVMH and the Fondation Louis Vuitton during the Paris 2024 Games over three days organized by Secours Populaire Français. During their visits, they had a chance to discover the contributions by LVMH Maisons to the Paris 2024 Games, as well as the Group's Métiers d’Excellence professions in a special area. They also met artisans from Louis Vuitton during a workshop on specialized craftwork. Before attending different sporting events, the young people were also able to don Team France colors thanks to Make Up For Ever and enjoy fun with the paralympic Phryge, the emblematic Paris 2024 mascot. During the third day-long event hosted at the Fondation Louis Vuitton, young guests discovered exhibitions organized for the Cultural Olympiades before spending the rest of the day at the Jardin d’Acclimatation amusement park. This partnership with Secours Populaire Français continues LVMH's longstanding partnership with the organization, which began in 2019 and 2020 with an initiative for women in vulnerable situations called "Une Journée Pour Soi" (A Day of Your Own).  LVMH is proud to have contributed to the extraordinary success of the Paris 2024 Games and to helping make the events truly inclusive. ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of LVMH

Fort Lauderdale's Wonder Paws Rescue  is teeing up for its highly-anticipated, fourth-annual “ Par for the Paws ” charity golf tournament at Jacaranda Golf Club. Taking place on Saturday, October 26, the fun-filled event promises not only a day of golfing and entertainment but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of neglected and abandoned animals within the community. All proceeds from the tournament will directly support Wonder Paws Rescue’s efforts to provide care, shelter and second chances for furry friends in need.  Wonder Paws Rescue Co-Owner Patricia Lara (left) and daughter and Co-Owner Paulina Claure (right). What’s in store? The day kicks off with a welcome barbeque, followed by complimentary drinks, a silent auction and an awards banquet to honor the top golfers. Those ready to join in on the fun must register in advance, whether a golfer, partier, sponsor or those interested in underwriting opportunities. Participants will also have the chance to win big, with a $10,000 cash prize for a Hole in One, a $100,000 shoot-out and a Putt to Win a 7-night resort stay on the line. Whether you’re a golfer, sponsor or simply there to enjoy the festivities, there are multiple ways to get involved.  Advanced registration on the event’s website is required, with various levels of participation available for every kind of attendee—whether you're hitting the links or supporting from the sidelines. Wonder Paws Rescue, an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, is well-known in the community for its animal rescue efforts. Made up solely of volunteers, the organization has saved the lives of over 2,000 cats and dogs and counting. Funds raised from Par for the Paws will aid in veterinary care, live saving treatments, rescue missions, food and medication costs and more.  For more details and to register, visit the Par for the Paws  website. Can't attend? Interested animal lovers can still make a difference by donating online through the event’s donation form . Wonder Paws will match all donations up to $25,000. ML Staff. Images courtesy of Wonder Paws

As part of this exclusive partnership, Little Caesars will be prominently featured at Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins, with eight in-stadium concession stands offering our popular Super Slice pizza in both cheese and pepperoni options. Two of these stands will be fully branded Little Caesars locations, enhancing the game-day experience for fans with convenient access to our hot and fresh pizza. Fans can skip the line and order their favorite Little Caesar's pizza through the Hard Rock Stadium Mobile Ordering app, presented by Pepsi and powered by Cantaloupe, so they never miss out on the action. In addition to serving pizza, Little Caesars is committed to giving back to the community through the Love Kitchen initiative. As part of this partnership, the organizations will collaborate to host a community event in the Miami area, with details to be announced at a later date. This partnership also includes several key assets that will extend beyond the stadium. Little Caesars is teaming up with Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to create engaging digital player content. Fans can also look forward to unique in-market integrations such as co-branded pizza boxes, exclusive crew hats for stores, and in-store point-of-sale materials featuring Jaylen Waddle. "We are thrilled to partner with the Miami Dolphins and bring Little Caesars pizza to the passionate fans of South Florida," said Greg Hamilton, Chief Marketing Officer at Little Caesars. "This partnership represents our shared commitment to excellence, both on the field and off, and we look forward to delivering unforgettable experiences to Dolphins fans throughout the season." By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Miami Dolphins

The U.S. Team for the 2024 Presidents Cup was finalized today, with Captain Jim Furyk selecting six players to round out his 12-player team. Furyk selected Keegan Bradley, Sam Burns, Tony Finau, Brian Harman, Russell Henley and Max Homa. The Presidents Cup returns to The Royal Montreal Golf Club in Montreal the week of Sept. 24-29, 2024. CAPTAIN’S PICKS – U.S. TEAM KEEGAN BRADLEY Age: 38 PGA TOUR Wins: 7 Presidents Cup: 1 (2013) / 2-2-1 2024 Highlights: Notched the seventh win of his PGA TOUR career at the BMW Championship after entering the week at No. 50 in the FedExCup. The victory, which was one of three top-10s on the season, allowed him to advance to the TOUR Championship for the sixth time in his career. Captain Furyk on Bradley: “When I named Keegan as a captain’s assistant for the Presidents Cup I knew there was a chance he would play his way onto the U.S. Team, and I can say without a doubt he did just that. The grit he showed in the final round in Memphis followed by the win in Denver exemplified the competitive nature he has always played with, and I know he will bring that same fire to Royal Montreal in a few weeks.” SAM BURNS Age: 28 PGA TOUR Wins: 5 Presidents Cup: 1 (2022) / 0-3-2 2024 Highlights: Posted eight top-10 finishes including a T2 at the BMW Championship and a T3 at the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Advanced to his fourth straight TOUR Championship after being the only player to post top-five finishes in each of the first two FedExCup Playoffs events. Captain Furyk on Burns: “Sam is a great player who has consistently put himself on leaderboards over the last four years. He has proven to excel in match play competition and demonstrates an unwavering level of passion and determination on the course, which will be a great asset for our team in Montreal.” TONY FINAU Age: 34 PGA TOUR Wins: 6 Presidents Cup: 2 (2019, 2022) / 3-2-3 2024 Highlights: Owns five top-10 finishes including a season-best T2 at the Texas Children’s Houston Open. Matched his career-best finish in a major championship with a T3 at the U.S. Open, finishing two shots behind winner Bryson DeChambeau. Captain Furyk on Finau: “Tony is one of the best ball-strikers on the PGA TOUR and his game pairs well with any of the other 11 players given his consistency. He has become a stalwart in U.S. team competition and carries himself with a fun, outgoing demeanor which is contagious on the course and in the team room.” BRIAN HARMAN Age : 37 PGA TOUR Wins: 3 Presidents Cup: First Appearance 2024 Highlights: Recorded three top-10 finishes including a T2 at THE PLAYERS Championship, where he fell one shot shy of winner Scottie Scheffler. Finished 31st in the FedExCup to miss advancing to the TOUR Championship for a third straight season. Captain Furyk on Harman: “Throughout his career, Brian has been one of the fiercest match play competitors I’ve seen. His grit and tenacity were on full display winning the 2023 Open Championship, and I’m looking forward to having that mindset on our side at Royal Montreal.” RUSSELL HENLEY Age: 35 PGA TOUR Wins: 4 Presidents Cup: First Appearance 2024 Highlights: Has posted six top-10 finishes on the season, including three fourth-place showings and a solo-fifth at The Open Championship. Captain Furyk on Henley: “Russell has been one of the most consistent players on the PGA TOUR these last two years, and I can’t wait to have him in Montreal with the U.S. Team next month. He is unflappable under pressure and without doubt one of the best putters in our game, which is a fantastic combination for match play success.” MAX HOMA Age : 33 PGA TOUR Wins: 6 Presidents Cup: 1 (2022) / 4-0-0 2024 Highlights: Recorded three top-10 finishes including his career-best effort in a major championship where he was T3 at the Masters Tournament. Captain Furyk on Homa: “Max plays his best on the biggest stages, and that was on full display at the 2022 Presidents Cup and 2023 Ryder Cup. He was an emotional leader for both teams and someone who rallied the 11 players around him time and again, and I can’t wait to have him represent the U.S. again in Montreal.” For more information about the Presidents Cup, or to purchase tickets, please visit PresidentsCup.com . By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of PGA

As the winter season rolls in, Miami becomes a hot spot for tourists seeking warmth, lively events, and beautiful beaches. With renowned festivals like Art Basel, the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, and Miami Music Week, the city’s roads see an influx of vacationers eager to explore the Magic City. However, amidst the allure of Miami’s attractions, it’s vital to recognize the challenges of driving in a city known for heavy traffic and unpredictable driving behaviors. For many visitors, navigating Miami’s streets can be overwhelming. Understanding the unique traffic patterns and being aware of accident hotspots can make a huge difference in ensuring a safe vacation. Image by elvirkin / Adobestock The Traffic Landscape in Miami Miami has long been known for its congested roads and frequent car accidents. In fact, Miami-Dade County remains one of the top counties in Florida for traffic collisions, a distinction driven by several key factors. The city's fast pace, dense population, and its mix of local and tourist drivers make its roads especially tricky to navigate. Drivers in Miami are often in a rush, whether they're commuting to work or racing to catch the latest event. As a result, tourists are likely to encounter speeding, tailgating, and aggressive lane changes on major roads. And with Miami hosting major winter events that draw large crowds, such as Ultra Music Festival and Winter Party Festival, the roads become even more packed, heightening the chances of accidents. Changes to Florida's Statute of Limitations: Act Quickly After an Accident In addition to Miami’s traffic hazards, it’s important for visitors to know about recent changes to Florida’s statute of limitations for car accident claims. As of March 2023, the state shortened the period to file a personal injury claim from four years to two years. This new law significantly reduces the window of time you have to seek compensation for injuries sustained in a car accident. If you're injured in a car accident in Miami, the clock starts ticking the day of the incident. Consulting a Miami personal injury attorney as soon as possible is crucial to ensuring you don’t miss this new deadline and jeopardize your chance to recover damages. If you ever find yourself in an unfortunate accident situation while down in Miami, help is availavble.  Cenitz Miami Injury Lawyers are well-known in the city, have 30+ years of experience, and 104+ 5-star review on google. High-Risk Areas: Miami’s Traffic Hotspots When navigating Miami, certain roads are notorious for their heavy traffic and high accident rates. Below are two particularly dangerous areas you should watch out for: 1. I-95 and Biscayne Boulevard (US-1) Interstate 95, which runs through the heart of Miami, is one of the busiest highways in the region. The section where it intersects with Biscayne Boulevard (US-1), near Midtown and the Design District, is especially congested during rush hours. With drivers merging, exiting, and changing lanes at high speeds, accidents here are frequent. This area sees heightened traffic not only during weekdays but also on weekends, especially when major events like Art Basel take place in the nearby districts. 2. Collins Avenue (A1A) and Miami Beach For vacationers heading to the famed Miami Beach, Collins Avenue is a must-visit. Stretching parallel to the coastline, this road sees high pedestrian and vehicle traffic, particularly in winter when tourists flock to enjoy Miami’s pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife. The stretch between South Beach and North Beach is known for slow-moving traffic, frequent stops, and a higher incidence of fender benders. With its many hotels, restaurants, and bars, Collins Avenue can be especially dangerous for unfamiliar drivers, especially at night when visibility is reduced. Image by poladmonte / Adobestock How to Stay Safe on Miami’s Roads With Miami’s bustling traffic and aggressive driving culture, it’s important to take extra precautions. Here are some tips to help ensure a safer driving experience while you're in town: Anticipate Aggressive Drivers: Be prepared for sudden lane changes, tailgating, and speeding. If another driver is aggressive, avoid engaging and give them plenty of space. Stay Alert in Pedestrian Zones: Popular areas like Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road, and Wynwood have high foot traffic. Always be on the lookout for jaywalkers, cyclists, and scooters, especially in busy entertainment districts. Plan Around Events: If you’re in town for an event, such as Miami Art Week or a music festival, anticipate road closures, detours, and increased congestion. Consider using rideshare services or public transportation to avoid the headache of navigating crowded streets. Check Traffic Updates: Apps like Waze and Google Maps can provide real-time traffic data, helping you avoid accident-prone areas and stay informed of any road closures. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What should I do if I’m involved in a car accident during my Miami vacation?If you're in a car accident, make sure to stay at the scene, call the police, and gather information from all involved parties. Afterward, seek medical attention even if your injuries seem minor, and consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected. 2. How does Florida’s new statute of limitations affect me if I’m injured in an accident? As of 2023, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Florida has been reduced to two years. This means you have less time to take legal action if you're injured, so it's crucial to consult a lawyer right away after an accident. 3. What areas of Miami should I be most cautious about when driving? Some of the busiest and most accident-prone areas include I-95, Biscayne Boulevard, Collins Avenue, and popular tourist spots like South Beach and Downtown Miami. These roads see a mix of local and tourist traffic, making them particularly hazardous, especially during peak hours or large events. Image by snow12 / Adobestock Conclusion: Enjoy Miami, But Drive Carefully Winter in Miami brings sunshine, exciting events, and a wave of tourists. However, navigating Miami’s roads requires patience, caution, and an understanding of its unique traffic challenges. Whether you're heading to South Beach or attending a festival in Downtown, staying alert and driving defensively is key to avoiding accidents. If you do find yourself in a car accident, remember Florida’s statute of limitations has changed, and you now have only two years to file a claim. Speak with an experienced Miami attorney to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Inter Miami CF II secured three valuable points during their visit to Huntsville City FC on a thrilling MLS Next Pro night. The team delivered an excellent offensive and defensive performance, earning crucial points as they aim for a potential playoff spot. The match featured goals from Alejandro Flores and Ryan Carmichael, as well as an impressive performance by Owen Finnerty. Inter Miami CF II, coached by Federico Higuaín, took to the field in a 4-3-3 formation with Owen Finnerty between the sticks; captain Nykolas Sessock, Tyler Hall, Giovanni Ferraina, and Samuel Basabe in defense; Alejandro Flores, Jose Casas, and Ricardo Montenegro formed the midfield; while Idoh Zeltzer-Zubida and Ryan Carmichael flanked striker Cohen Yuval in attack. Inter Miami started the match the right way when Alejandro Flores scored his seventh goal of the season with a beautiful left-footed strike after a low cross from Cohen. Flores registered his fourth goal in the last five matches. The home team was then denied on several occasions thanks to a stellar performance by Finnerty. The goalkeeper allowed Inter Miami to go into halftime with a 0-1 lead. During the second half, Inter Miami managed to escape the offensive pressure from Huntsville and started creating more chances. In the 71st minute, the Northern Irish Carmichael scored an incredible half-volley following a great cross from captain Sessock, doubling the lead to 0-2. Two minutes later, the hosts were reduced to ten players after a red card. The result would hold for the final minutes of the match, securing another victory for the Herons. This victory places Inter Miami in the seventh position in the Eastern Conference with 39 points and marks another positive result for the team as they head into the final matches of the regular season. Up next, Inter Miami CF II will return home to host Philadelphia Union II on Sunday, September 15, at Chase Stadium at 7 p.m. ET. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Inter Miami CF

Taylor Swift album drops have become cultural moments – whether or not you are a fan of her music. Each album in the Swift catalogue seeks to open up new themes, discussion, sounds and ideas, while retaining a sense of familiarity that doesn’t alienate fans. Beth Garrabrant Lyrically, The Tortured Poets Department is a euphoric rejection of societal expectations. It embraces all the Taylor-isms her fans have come to know and love, from her one-note melodies to her recitative delivery (sung in the rhythm of ordinary speech). And it features her signature frank and open autopsies of relationships, delivered with maturity not only in the choices of language and obscenities ( “fuck you if I can’t have us” ) but in Swift’s outlook on her life and relationships. This is accompanied by the rich electro-pop production of longtime collaborators Jack Antonoff and Aaron Dessner. The first striking thing about the album (including its title), is the many references to poetry. The title track declares: “You’re not Dylan Thomas, I’m not Patti Smith”, pointing to other famously troubled (or “tortured”) lyrical poets. This track sets the tone for an album where lyrics are the central feature, with Swift choosing developed imagery over catchy pop hooks. The title track is also a clear rejection of any notion that Swift is presenting herself as a bohemian, and asserts that she does not struggle for her art. In fact, she appears to mock those who do, sneering: “Who uses typewriters anyway?” Tortured melodrama One of the unapologetic lyrical themes of the album is Swift’s intense commitment to love, relationships and their aftermath. To help convey this, Swift uses melodrama as a narrative device. Melodrama is a genre of performance that uses heightened and often over-the-top expressions of emotion. In Down Bad she evokes fantastic celestial imagery of “cosmic love” and being “heavenstruck”, but balances this with discovering the harsh realities of a relationship. She asks: “Did you really beam me up / In a cloud of sparkling dust / Just to do experiments on?”, perhaps suggesting that her passionate love is being taken advantage of. Swift tempers this with the extreme assertion that: “If I can’t have him, I might just die”. This melodrama pervades the rest of the album to celebrate emotional vulnerability as she shares her innermost thoughts. Emotional vulnerability is a major theme of The Tortured Poets Department. Beth Garrabrant On I Can Do it With a Broken Heart Swift declares: “I’m so depressed, I act like it’s my birthday every day”, before proudly owning her emotion, declaring: “I cry a lot, but I am so productive, it’s an art”. Here, she claims that she can use heartbreak as a stimulus for creativity, rather than allow it to dictate her everyday life. In his book Melodrama (1973) author, James L Smith draws on philosophical critiques and analyses of music, poetry and theatre to help define the core characteristics of the genre. “In melodrama,” he explains, “man remains undivided, free from the agony of choosing between conflicting imperatives and desires”. Swift often exhibits this in her lyrical retellings of past relationships, either positioning listeners at the beginning ( Enchanted ) or end of a relationship ( We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together ). Smith also asserts that “melodrama presses its own extreme conflicts to extreme conclusions”. This speaks to the extremes of emotion explored in The Tortured Poets Department, including frequent references to death. “I might just die, it would make no difference” , Swift opines on Down Bad. “Lights, camera, bitch, smile / Even when you wanna die” is how she describes her emotional state during the recent Eras Tour in I Can Do It With a Broken Heart . Art forms like songs and poetry can be extremely valuable for artists to process and channel their emotions. Not only does this seem to hold true for The Tortured Poets Department, but the album functions as something of an invitation for listeners to process their own grief and heartbreak alongside Swift. An “alchemy” that turns for her own “tortured” nights into communal therapy. By ML Staff. Image Courtesy of Samuel Murray Lecturer in Music, University of Liverpool. Special thanks to The Conversation .

Sotheby’s Fashion Icons sale celebrates the legendary people, unforgettable events and breathtaking creativity through the lens of fashion. The only one of its kind presented by an international auction house, this thoughtfully curated sale showcases clothing worn by iconic cultural figures and features only the finest examples of fashion created throughout history. Providing a unique and unparalleled platform for the sale of museum-worthy and historically important fashion, this sale also highlights important haute couture by the major houses including Christian Dior, Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli, as well as rare works of art by trailblazers of 20th century design, such as Alexander McQueen and John Galliano.   Sotheby’s are a trusted authority on the sale of Royal fashion and have previously held two world records for the highest price achieved for Royal Fashion ever sold at auction: Princess Diana’s ‘sheep’ sweater by Warm & Wonderful, 1981 ($1.1M, sold September 2023), which exceeded the previously set record achieved by her Victor Edelstein ballgown, 1989 ($604,800, sold January 2023). Our in-house fashion expertise provides support across several categories, ensuring that our clients receive un-matched customer service, particularly when considering bringing single owner collections to auction on an international scale.  For assistance with bidding and registration, please contact: +1 212 606 7000. When: August 29, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. enquiries@sothebys.com ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Sothebys