When it comes to choosing the right decking material for your home, safety is a top priority—especially for families with children and pets. Composite decking has emerged as a popular choice for outdoor spaces due to its impressive safety features and slip-resistant properties. Let’s explore why composite decking is an excellent option for families, highlighting its safety benefits, slip resistance, and additional advantages. Safety Features of Composite Decking Built-In Safety Designs Composite decking is designed with safety in mind, incorporating features that help prevent common hazards. Unlike traditional wood decks, composite decking eliminates the risk of splinters, which can cause painful injuries to bare feet and hands. Its smooth surface means there are no sharp edges or protruding nails, providing a safer environment for everyone. Additionally, many composite decking options include UV inhibitors and anti-fungal agents, further enhancing safety by reducing the risk of mould and deterioration. Smooth Surface One of the standout safety features of composite decking is its splinter-free surface. Traditional wooden decks can develop splinters over time, posing a risk to children and pets. Composite decking, on the other hand, remains smooth and even, making it a much safer choice for active families. You can walk, play, and run on it without worrying about sharp splinters or rough patches. Of course, you must first ensure it’s installed properly to create a safe outdoor space. Check out this guide  for installation advice. Slip-Resistance and Weather Performance Slip-Resistant Properties One of the key advantages of composite decking is its slip-resistant nature. Modern composite decks are designed with textured surfaces that offer excellent traction, even when wet. This is particularly important in areas that experience frequent rain or spills, as a slip-resistant surface helps prevent accidents. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a day outside, you can feel confident knowing that your decking is designed to minimise slip hazards. Weather Resistance Composite decking performs exceptionally well in various weather conditions. Unlike traditional wood that can become slippery when wet or suffer from damage due to sun exposure, composite decking maintains its slip-resistant properties year-round. It resists warping, cracking, and fading, ensuring that your deck remains safe and functional, no matter the weather. This resilience means less worry about weather-related safety issues and more time enjoying your outdoor space. Benefits for Families with Children Safe Play Areas For families with children, composite decking offers a safe and inviting play area. The smooth, slip-resistant surface is ideal for active kids who love to run and play outside. With fewer risks of splinters  and falls, composite decking provides a secure environment where children can enjoy themselves without constant supervision. You can feel more at ease knowing that your outdoor space is designed with safety in mind. Ease of Cleaning Children can be messy, and maintaining a clean play area is essential for health and safety. Composite decking is easy to clean, with a surface that resists stains and mould. A simple wash with soap and water usually does the trick, helping you keep the deck hygienic and free from harmful bacteria. This ease of maintenance ensures that your outdoor area  The Benefits of Composite Decking Sample Packs Would you love to have a new decking area in your garden? Perhaps you’ve seen the popularity of composite materials and are wondering if this is the best way to renovate your outdoor space. From being durable to having a modern style, there are many reasons why this is a great move.  But, before jumping into this investment, you need to ensure you’re getting the right composite decking. Know that many companies give composite decking sample packs for free. So, you’ve got nothing to lose by ordering one. Let’s take a closer look at the advantages you can gain when you order one of these packs and wait for it to arrive. Check Out the Quality While there are many companies that offer composite decking, they’re not all the same. Some offer better quality products than others. This can mean thicker and more durable composite decking, while others area doing it cheaply to keep the price down. Generally, you want the best quality possible. This is going to be able to within UK weather and last for many years and still look new. The good thing about ordering composite decking samples is that you get the chance to test the quality before investing. You can be sure that this is the best option on the market.  Then, when you spend a lot of money on all the decking, you won’t be disappointed. Choose Your Colour Have you been debating several decking colours and you can’t quite make up your mind? Instead of going back and forth and taking a risk, you can order a sample pack. This gives you the chance to receive several options and compare these colours. You can see the differences between the options, as well as compare them to colours available in your garden. Then, you’re making an informed choice for your home. Gain Peace of Mind Perhaps you’re still on the fence about composite decking. You don’t know if it’s going to be the right style for you or even if you want to spend that type of money. This is where a free sample pack comes in. It can give you the confidence to know what to do next. Conclusion Composite decking offers an excellent solution for families seeking a safe and slip-resistant outdoor space. With its smooth surface, slip-resistant properties, and ease of maintenance, it provides a secure environment for children and pets to play and enjoy. By choosing composite decking, you’re investing in a durable, low-maintenance, and family-friendly option that enhances your outdoor living experience. By ML staff. Images courtesy of Pexel.

Off-season travel offers a unique way to explore the world. It involves visiting a place outside its busy tourist season. This approach to travel has many perks. Fewer people are at popular spots, making enjoying attractions without long lines easier. Prices for flights and hotels often drop, helping you save money on your trip. Plus, you can see how locals live without the usual tourist rush. One smart way to cut costs even more is using airline miles programs. For example, you can sell SkyMiles  to book cheaper hotels instead of sticking to partner hotels. This gives you more options and can lead to more significant savings. Off-season travel opens up a world of possibilities for budget-conscious explorers. Off-Season Travel Benefits Off-season travel presents numerous advantages for savvy travelers. The benefits extend beyond just financial savings, though that's undoubtedly a key factor. Cost savings are significant during off-peak periods. Flights to popular destinations can cost half as much as during peak season. Mid-week travel often yields even lower prices, and airline miles programs add another layer of savings potential. Activities and attractions often reduce their prices during slower periods. Many tour operators and venues offer discounts to attract visitors. In some destinations, there may be room for price negotiation on local tours and experiences, allowing travelers to experience more within their budget. Flexibility is a hallmark of off-season travel. As accommodations and tours become more available, last-minute bookings become more feasible. This allows for more spontaneous travel decisions without extensive advance planning. Cultural experiences tend to be richer outside of peak tourist seasons. Visitors are more likely to encounter locals going about their daily lives than other tourists, which can lead to more authentic interactions and insights into local customs and traditions. For example, smaller European towns often host local festivals and events during shoulder seasons, providing unique cultural experiences. Popular attractions become more enjoyable without large crowds. Iconic sites like Angkor Wat or Chichen Itza can be explored leisurely, offering better photography and contemplation opportunities without the pressure of long queues or crowded viewing areas. Off-season travel also contributes to sustainable tourism practices. It helps distribute the economic benefits of tourism more evenly throughout the year, supporting local communities during traditionally slower periods. Additionally, it reduces the strain on local resources and infrastructure during peak seasons. Smart Planning for Off-Season Adventures Different regions have unique off-seasons. Europe often sees fewer visitors in late fall and winter, except for ski destinations. Parts of Asia have monsoon seasons that deter many tourists. Latin America's low seasons vary by country and climate. Research is critical - check historical weather data and local event calendars. This helps avoid unpleasant surprises and can uncover hidden gems like local festivals. Airline miles programs like Delta SkyMiles can amplify off-season savings. During slower travel periods, airlines often reduce the number of miles needed for reward flights, making your miles stretch further. Look for off-peak award charts to find the best values. Some programs also allow mile redemptions for hotel stays or car rentals, offering even more flexibility. Consider selling unused reward miles for cash to boost your travel budget. Several reputable platforms facilitate this process safely and legally. Additionally, travel apps and websites often highlight off-season deals. Set up price alerts for your chosen destinations to catch sudden drops in airfare or accommodation costs. Off-Season Destinations Worth Exploring Winter transforms many European destinations. Lapland offers a magical snow-covered landscape and Northern Lights viewing opportunities. Paris has become less crowded, allowing for peaceful strolls and shorter lines at major attractions. Alpine resorts offer world-class skiing at more accessible prices compared to peak weeks. Monsoon seasons in Southeast Asia bring lush landscapes and dramatic skies. In Thailand, rain usually comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing. Vietnam's terraced rice fields are at their most beautiful during the wet season. Indonesia sees fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring temples and beaches in relative solitude. Mexico's shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds at archaeological sites like Chichen Itza. Peru's dry season ends in April but May can be an excellent time to visit Machu Picchu before peak crowds arrive. Brazil's spring (September to November) brings mild temperatures and colorful landscapes, perfect for exploring cities or the Amazon. How to Maximize Your SkyMiles Value Understand SkyMiles Worth:  Assess the current value of SkyMiles in the market. This fluctuates based on various factors, including demand and Delta's pricing policies. Choose the Right Platform:  Research reputable platforms offering fair SkyMiles rates. Top Dollar Payouts is one such option known for competitive pricing. Timing Your Sale:  Monitor SkyMiles value trends. Selling during periods of high demand can potentially yield better returns. How to Sell Delta Skymiles for Cash? Fill out the form on Top Dollar Payouts with your details and the number of miles you wish to sell. Receive a preliminary quote via email within 15 minutes. Engage in a personalized discussion with a representative to negotiate the best deal. Submit account information through a secure link for verification. After thorough verification, receive payment via PayPal (usually within a day) or bank wire transfer. Wrapping Up Your Off-Season Travel Plans Off-season travel opens up opportunities for budget-conscious and experience-seeking travelers. By exploring destinations during their quieter periods, visitors can enjoy significant cost savings, more authentic local experiences, and the luxury of space at popular attractions. As you plan your next adventure, consider the off-season – it might lead to your most memorable travel experience yet, all while keeping your budget intact. FAQs Is off-season travel always cheaper? Generally, yes. Flights, accommodations, and activities often cost less during off-peak times. However, some destinations may have higher prices during special events or festivals, even in the off-season. How can I find out when the off-season is for my destination? Check tourism websites for your chosen location. They usually list peak and off-peak seasons. Also, look at flight and hotel prices across different months to spot trends in pricing. Are attractions closed during the off-season? Not usually, but some may have reduced hours. Always check official websites for opening times. Popular tourist sites typically remain open year-round, but smaller attractions might close temporarily. Is it safe to travel during a destination's rainy season? It can be, but prepare accordingly. Pack rain gear and be flexible with your plans. Some activities might be limited, but many places offer indoor alternatives. Check for any weather-related travel advisories before booking. By ML staff. Images courtesy of digital eaters.

Dealing with a situation that requires a restraining order can be daunting. In Florida, the process is straightforward if you know the necessary steps to take. Filing a restraining order in Florida involves completing specific forms and submitting them to the appropriate court. Anyone feeling threatened or harassed by another person may seek legal protection. There are various types of restraining orders, including those for domestic violence, stalking, and repeat violence. The criteria for each type should be carefully reviewed to determine which suits your circumstances best. Once the correct form is completed, it must be filed with the clerk of the court in your county. An immediate temporary restraining order might be granted to provide quick protection until a court hearing is scheduled.  This critical step ensures that individuals facing immediate threats can feel safer while awaiting their official court date. Understanding Restraining Orders in Florida In Florida, restraining orders serve to protect individuals from harassment, abuse, or danger. The process involves understanding the types of restraining orders available and determining who is eligible to file for such orders. Types of Restraining Orders Florida law provides several types of restraining orders, each designed to address specific situations. Domestic Violence Injunctions  protect individuals from violence or threats by a family member or intimate partner. This includes physical harm, assault, or stalking. Dating Violence Injunctions  are for victims of violence in a current or past dating relationship. The relationship must have been substantial and continuous, not casual. Repeat Violence Injunctions  apply when there have been at least two incidents of violence or stalking. One of these incidents must have occurred within the last six months. Sexual Violence Injunctions  are available for victims of sexual battery, a lewd act committed on or in the presence of a minor, or other forcible felony involving a sexual act. Stalking/Cyberstalking Injunctions  are for individuals facing repeated, malicious harassment, either in person or online. This type of injunction helps prevent continual harassment and potential danger to the victim. Eligibility Criteria To file for any of these restraining orders, the petitioner must meet specific criteria. For Domestic Violence Injunctions , the petitioner must have been a victim of domestic violence or have reasonable cause to believe they are in imminent danger. For a Dating Violence Injunction , the relationship must have existed within the last six months and been characterized by frequent interactions. The Repeat Violence Injunction  requires evidence of at least two occurrences of violence or stalking, with one happening in the past six months. Sexual Violence Injunctions  necessitate that the victim has reported the incident to law enforcement and is cooperating in any criminal proceeding against the abuser. For Stalking/Cyberstalking Injunctions , persistent and malicious behaviors must be demonstrated. Each type of restraining order has its criteria and specific protections, making it essential for individuals seeking protection to understand which order best fits their situation. Filing for a Restraining Order Filing for a restraining order in Florida involves multiple steps to ensure your safety. This guide will cover preparing the necessary documentation, the legal process involved, and what happens after the court issues the order. Preparing the Documentation To file for a restraining order, start by gathering all relevant evidence. Necessary documents include any proof of threats or harm, such as text messages, emails, and photographs of injuries. It's crucial to provide specific details about the incidents, including dates and descriptions. Fill out the appropriate forms, which can be obtained from the Clerk of Court. Be thorough and accurate, as incomplete or incorrect information can delay the process. Include the respondent's full name, address, and any known aliases. Seek assistance from legal advocates or crisis centers if needed. They can provide guidance and help ensure all paperwork is completed properly. The Legal Process After submitting your documents, the Clerk of Court will schedule a hearing. This hearing is typically held within 15 days. You may be granted a temporary restraining order immediately, which lasts until the court hearing. At the hearing, both parties can present their case. Bring all evidence and any witnesses who can support your claims. The judge will assess the situation based on the evidence and testimonies. A lawyer specializing in criminal defense  can offer valuable assistance, especially if the case is complicated. They can provide legal advice and represent your interests in court. After the Court Order Once the court issues a restraining order, it's essential to understand the terms fully. The order will specify actions the respondent must refrain from, such as contacting you or coming near your residence. Ensure the restraining order is properly served to the respondent. This can be done through law enforcement or a process server. Keep a copy of the order with you at all times. If the respondent violates the order, call the police immediately. Violations can lead to arrest and additional legal consequences for the respondent. Keep detailed records of any violations to present in court if necessary. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Pexel

Vaping has quickly become the popular alternative to smoking cigarettes and even cigars. But as vaping continues to grow in popularity, changing consumer habits are shaping the market. James Smith, Head of Vaping Community at the online vaping supplies store Discount Vape Pen , shares his insights on the vaping trends that are capturing the attention of young adults today. Flavored E-Liquids One of the most significant trends in vaping is the continued popularity of flavored e-liquids. "Flavors are a big part of what makes vaping so appealing to younger users," Smith explains. "From fruity concoctions to dessert-inspired blends, there’s a flavor for every palate." And according to recent surveys , the majority of young vapers prefer sweet and fruity flavors, which offer a wide range of choices and an enjoyable sensory experience. This variety allows users to experiment and find their favorite, adding a level of personalization that traditional smoking methods lack. Health Considerations As awareness about the health risks associated with smoking continues to grow, many young adults are turning to vaping as a potentially less harmful alternative. "While vaping is not completely risk-free, it’s generally considered to be less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes. This is especially true when it comes to reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and carcinogens." One of the key advantages of vaping over smoking is the absence of combustion. Traditional cigarettes burn tobacco, releasing tar and thousands of harmful chemicals into the lungs and causing damage  to the tissue of the organ. Vaping, on the other hand, heats e-liquid to create vapor, significantly reducing the number of harmful substances inhaled. "This makes vaping a better option for those concerned about their long-term health but who still want to enjoy the experience of smoking," Smith adds. The health benefits of vaping compared to smoking have been supported by various studies, which suggest that vaping exposes users to fewer toxic substances. For example, Public Health England has reported  that vaping is at least 95% less harmful than smoking. Nicotine-Free Options Another trend that has been gaining traction is the move towards nicotine-free vaping, with many young adults interested in the vaping experience without the addictive qualities of nicotine. According to the NIH , “66% [of young adolescents surveyed] had used e-cigarettes without nicotine.” "We’ve seen more demand for nicotine-free e-liquids as awareness about nicotine dependence grows," Smith reports. This shift is partly driven by a growing health consciousness among younger consumers. Vaping without nicotine allows users to enjoy the flavors and social aspects of vaping without the risk of developing a nicotine habit. It’s a trend that reflects the broader movement towards wellness and mindful consumption. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Ready to dive into luxury? These pools redefine the ultimate splurge, from London’s sky-high splash to Copenhagen’s tropical oasis. Whether you’re floating above the city or lounging in an oceanfront villa, Miami Living presents the world’s most alluring pools. The Equis House The Equis House, designed by Barclay & Crousse Architecture, offers a modern living space that fully integrates with the natural environment. The design seamlessly blends exterior and interior areas, creating a fluid and unified space that blurs the distinction between inside and outside. Junglefish Pool The Bali-inspired jungle pool at Manon Les Suites, a former factory now transformed into a 5-star hotel in the heart of Copenhagen, serves as the focal point of the property. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a tropical-themed environment, with the “Junglefish Pool” as its centerpiece. Sky Pool When it comes to suspended floating pools, the Sky Pool in London stands alone. Picture it as a massive block of liquid blue, suspended in midair, 115 feet (35 meters) above the ground. This 82-foot (25-meter) pool, known as the Sky Pool, is constructed from an acrylic frame weighing 50 tonnes, with an 8-inch-thick structure and a 12-inch-thick base, nearly 10 feet deep. The pool is supported by a concealed steel frame and was built by Reynolds Polymer, Inc. in Colorado, then shipped from Texas over three weeks. Structural engineers Eckersley O’Callaghan and HAL Architects designed this marvel. Unfortunately, access is exclusive to residents of the Embassy Gardens development. Wall House The Wall House is a 1,000-sqm villa in Cascais, Portugal, designed by Guedes Cruz Arquitectos. This concrete, glass, and wood structure is characterized by bold, modern design and seamless integration with nature. The villa features glass walls, two intersecting glass-bottomed pools on different levels, and a large patio that connects indoor and outdoor living spaces. The interior architecture was led by José Guedes Cruz, Marco Martinez Marinho, and Cesar Marque, with landscape design by Guedes Cruz Architects. Photography is by Ricardo Oliveira Alves. Pavilion House This outdoor swimming pool, featuring a glass wall, extends along the length of this modern residence by Israeli architecture firm Pitsou Kedem, featuring slate walls inside and out. The 3,229-square-foot (300-square-meter) Pavilion House is a two-story structure with a flat concrete roof. The building is supported by perimeter pillars and enclosed with sliding glass doors and slate-covered concrete sections. One Za’abeel Dubai’s One Za’abeel twin skyscrapers boast two remarkable features: the world’s longest cantilever and the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool, which stretches 393 feet (120 meters). The cantilever is part of a 755-foot (230-meter) structure called “The Link,” which extends 221 feet (67.5 meters) over the city, connecting the two luxury towers. Designed by Nikken Sekkei Dubai, the cantilever spans three stories and is a central attraction for guests and residents of the One&Only Za’abeel resort, which occupies the top 30 floors of one tower. Without traditional beach activities, “The Link” serves as a unique recreational hub, offering exclusive amenities to residents. Celeste Celeste, a modern waterfront estate in Avalon, New South Wales, offers luxury living in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. The centerpiece of this property is its 65-foot infinity pool, which provides stunning views of the Pittwater estuary and Careel Bay. Designed by architect Rob Burton, the estate spans 17,609 square feet and includes a private jetty, boatshed, and deepwater mooring. The home features seamless indoor-outdoor living with a covered terrace and outdoor kitchen that complement the pool area. Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa Situated over 2,000 feet above Lake Lucerne in Switzerland, the pool at Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa is an architectural marvel, resembling an eagle’s nest suspended in mid-air. This stainless steel infinity pool, with its sleek design, features sophisticated lighting and multiple water jet systems. Best of all, it’s heated to perfection, ensuring you’ll never want to leave, no matter the weather. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of each featured property on this story.

Brazilian pop icon Fernanda Abreu brings her dance show “Amor Geral” to the Miami Beach Bandshell on Saturday, August 31. Abreu began her career in the 1980s with the legendary band Blitz, becoming a huge sensation and selling out stadiums throughout Brazil. Blitz also performed a historic show at the first edition of Rock in Rio in 1985. Abreu left the band and embarked on a successful solo career, releasing classic albums such as Da Lata (1995), Entidade Urbana (2000), and Na Paz (2004). Always innovative, curious, eclectic and demanding in her productions, Fernanda Abreu is considered the mother of modern Brazilian pop and dance music, full of grooves, samba and funk carioca. Her acclaimed album Amor Geral (2016) gave rise to this new show that highlights all of her greatest hits such as "Rio 40 Graus,” “Kátia Flávia, a Godiva do Irajá,” “Garota Carioca,” “Tambor,” “Deliciosamente,” and many more. This concert is presented by the 28th Inffinito Brazilian Film Festival of Miami and Brazilian Nites. More on Inffinito Created by producers Adriana L. Dutra, Cláudia Dutra and Viviane B. Spinelli since 1997 in 14 cities (Miami, New York, Vancouver, Barcelona, Madrid, London, Rome, Frascatti, Milan, Bogotá, Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Shanghai and, in Brazil, Canudos), the Inffinito Brazilian Film Festival is the main gateway for Brazilian productions into the North and Latin American markets. For more info visit inff.online. For more info visit BrazilianNites.com . By ML Staff. Courtesy of Miami Beach Bandshell

Known for his prowess in big-wave riding and pioneering countless water sports, Kai Lenny's visit to the Alinghi Red Bull Racing base introduced him to a new realm on the water as he sailed the team's cutting-edge hydrofoil yachts. Providing hydraulic power as a cyclor onboard the AC75 BoatOne, Lenny experienced firsthand the immense power and speed of these technological marvels, which travel upwards of 100km/h. "Every turn you make, whether it's a tack or a gybe, the g-force pulling you around makes it feel like you're in a Formula One car," he said. "There's nothing like it. Compared to other wind sports, it's like going from go-karts to Formula One." The surf champion, who regularly rides 80-foot waves, had his sailing skills put to the test when he took control of the AC40. After some challenging preparation in the high-tech simulator, his natural instincts kicked in once on the water. "To be able to go 40 knots downwind, it's just an insane feeling," Lenny enthused. "The only other place I get to go over 40 knots is on a giant wave and that happens only a couple times a year." Not one to miss an opportunity, Lenny brought out his wing foil for a session alongside the AC75. It was a stark contrast in size and speed, as he described: "When you're winging, you feel like a chicken and then a tiger comes running past you. BoatOne is so much faster, probably almost three times the speed of what I'm doing on the wing." Alinghi Red Bull Racing helmsman Maxime Bachelin was thrilled to share the water with the Hawaiian surf icon: "We all know Kai Lenny is a legend of watersports. He was one of the first to do wing foiling – and many of us on the team are wing foilers too – so seeing him do backflips and tricks next to us was quite incredible." Beyond the thrill of sailing, Lenny was fascinated by the design and technology aspects of the America's Cup campaign. "I take a lot of inspiration when I come here," he noted. "These campaigns attract the smartest people in the world to design and manufacture the boat. When you bring the two worlds of athletes and designers together, you can create greatness." The visit was a unique opportunity for both Lenny and the Alinghi Red Bull Racing team to learn from each other. As the first guest to be invited onto both the AC40 and AC75, Lenny's experience at the Base bridged the worlds of sailing and surfing, offering inspiration to the Swiss team as they prepare for the upcoming race season. EXTRA QUOTES Kai Lenny, Water Sports Champion: "I never thought I'd ever be able to do something like this. To be given the chance to actually do it, it's a bucket list thing. I was nervous, it was a bit scary, but it was a 10 out of 10 experience and I'll remember this forever. You get onto the fastest sailboats on earth with the best sailors in the world and you're able to experience something on the water that's so unique. You feel like you're in a jet plane. It almost no longer feels like sailing, it feels like flying. That's always been my favourite thing about water sports and all these beach toys like windsurfing, kiting, winging and foiling. You can harness the wind, ride across the water, feel the swells with the foils, but you're also flying and the dream is to always be flying. The art of flight is always something on our minds as humans." Maxime Bachelin, Helmsman, Alinghi Red Bull Racing: "Kai was a really great crew member. Onboard it was just like being out on a normal training day, and it was really inspiring to see how quickly he picked everything up. Hand his experience in water sports clearly gave him the edge onboard in understanding the dynamics of the boat. To have one of the world's best watermen here with us, we were really happy to share our world with him and everything we're doing on the AC75." By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of RedBull

Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Begas Grand Prix will host its first-ever free daytime F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Fan Experience November 22 & 23. Taking place on Las Vegas Boulevard across from Wynn Las Vegas, race weekend visitors and locals can dive into the world of Formula 1® with F1 and F1 ACADEMY team appearances, live entertainment, local food trucks and more. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and fans can secure their free tickets beginning today at 10 a.m. PT. Get your free tickets to this full throttle experience here “During race weekend, we transform the Strip into a place where fans of all ages can immerse themselves in all things Formula 1,” said Renee Wilm, CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. “The F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Fan Experience will be a daytime celebration where new Formula 1 fans can learn about the sport, and longtime aficionados can get up close and personal with their favorite teams, hypercars, interactive activations and much more. Thank you to our partners at Wynn Las Vegas for supporting our efforts to allow locals and visitors alike to join us steps away from the circuit for more race weekend action.” All fans who secure tickets to the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Fan Experience will be presented with an exclusive offer for the following three-day Las Vegas Grand Prix ticket types: Flamingo General Admission, T-Mobile General Admission, and Heineken GA+.    Activations at the F1® Las Vegas Grand Prix Fan Experience include: F1 Team Appearances and Activations: Participate in live Q&As and autograph signing sessions with some of your favorite F1 drivers, check out all the team showcars, activations and more.     F1 ACADEMY Showcase: Check out an F1 ACADEMY car inside the Fan Experience, grab exclusive merchandise and interact with trailblazing drivers from the all-female series. Cars on Displays: Check out Pirelli Hot Lap vehicles as well as an impressive collection of hypercars on display, courtesy of Petersen Museum. Food & Beverage: Indulge in delicious fare from local food trucks and restaurants as well as beverages from partners such as Heineken and Moët Hennessy. Live Entertainment: Watch top Las Vegas acts and resident DJs dazzle on stage with electric performances.   Partners Activations: Partake in fun, interactive fan experiences created by Las Vegas Grand Prix partners, including Aramco, Pacsun, T-Mobile and more. Additional details on participating drivers, live entertainment, food and beverage offerings and much more activations will be shared in the coming months. For more information and to secure your free tickets to the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Fan Experience, visit www.f1lasvegasgp.com/fanexperience . By ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Formula 1

The Miami HEAT teamed up with Girls, Inc. and Project UP-START to ring in the school year with a back-to-school shopping spree for 10 students presented by Netspend. Each received a $500 gift card to shop at the Target in Midtown Miami for school necessities such as notebooks, writing utensils, backpacks, clothing, and more. HEAT player, Haywood Highsmith, was also in attendance to assist the students with their shopping experience. Additionally, Papa Johns provided the families in attendance with pizza for lunch and vouchers for future use. Girls, Inc. of Greater Miami provides free after-school programs with mentoring, research-based activities, and an environment to help girls graduate high school and pursue careers in STEM. Project UP-START, under Miami-Dade’s Title I Administration, helps identify, enroll, and support students in unstable housing to ensure their academic success. By ML Staff. Courtesy of NBA. For Miami HEAT tickets click here .

Image by EKKAPON / Adobestock With no shortage of products and brands jostling for position in the market, Spruce CBD stands apart with a heritage as rich and unique as its offerings. The story begins not in a modern laboratory, but on the battlefields of the War of 1812. It was at this pivotal moment in America’s history when a particular strain of hemp made its way to the United States. But this wasn't just any old hemp. It was robust and potent — a variety that would go on to become the foundation of Spruce CBD's product line over two centuries later. Tony Spencer, founder of Spruce CBD , explains: "Our hemp strain has a lineage tracing back to the War of 1812. This heirloom variety, cultivated for generations on family farms in Kentucky and North Carolina, boasts a terpene profile unlike any other." Image by surasak / Adobestock It is this unique terpene composition that sets Spruce CBD apart in terms of potency and effectiveness. Terpenes, the aromatic compounds found in plants, play a crucial role in the efficacy of CBD products. Spruce has embraced this rich heritage, combining it with modern extraction methods to create CBD products of unparalleled quality. The company uses a moonshine extraction process, a nod to American ingenuity and tradition, which helps preserve the full spectrum of beneficial compounds found in their hemp. "We're not just selling CBD," Spencer notes. "We're continuing a legacy of natural wellness that has stood the test of time. Our moonshine extraction process is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation." The result is full-spectrum CBD products that harness the power of the "entourage effect" — the synergistic interaction of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds that enhance CBD's overall impact. Spruce's commitment to quality extends beyond their unique strain and extraction process. They partner directly with the family farms that have been cultivating this hemp for generations, ensuring sustainable practices and consistently high-quality crops. Every batch of their products undergoes rigorous third-party testing for potency and purity. Image by Hanna Aibetova / Adobestock Spencer emphasizes, "In a market flooded with mass-produced CBD, we offer something truly special: a lineage that can be traced back to the early days of American history, combined with cutting-edge science to meet the wellness needs of today's consumers." And as the wellness industry looks to the future, Spruce CBD remains rooted in its unique past. From oils to gummies, every Spruce CBD product carries with it this extraordinary heritage. The company offers products that not only meet the highest standards of quality but also tell a story — a story of resilience, innovation, and the enduring power of nature to enhance human wellbeing. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Bryant Miller Olive P.A. (BMO) is pleased to announce 13 attorneys, representing its Atlanta, Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando, Tallahassee and Tampa offices, recognized by  Best Lawyers®  2025. Only the top 5 percent of all practicing lawyers in the U.S. were selected by their peers for inclusion in the guide. Kenneth R. Artin, Esq.  was selected by his peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America  2025 in Orlando for Public Finance Law. This is the 18th year that Artin has been recognized in  The Best Lawyers in America . He has been actively practicing public finance law since 1986, representing municipalities, counties, public and not-for-profit colleges and universities, as well as special taxing districts as disclosure counsel, bond counsel and special development counsel. Artin also focuses on representing sponsors and lenders participating in public private partnerships. Artin has been an active member of the National Association of Bond Lawyers regularly serving as faculty on its annual Bond Attorneys Workshop and the Fundamentals of Municipal Bond Law on topics involving disclosure and federal securities law. He served as president of the Association 2015-2016. Rhonda D. Bond-Collins, Esq.  was selected by her peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America  2025 in Orlando for Public Finance Law. She has been practicing law for more than 25 years. She currently serves as the managing shareholder of the firm’s Orlando office and the co-chair of the firm’s Affordable Housing practice group. Her practice focuses on all aspects of tax-exempt and taxable financings with an emphasis on affordable housing transactions. She is a frequent lecturer at continuing legal education (CLE) programs including the Florida Association of Housing Finance Authorities annual conference and the City, County and Local Government Law section of the Florida Bar Board Certification Review Course. In 2022, Bond-Collins was elected, by unanimous vote, as a regular fellow of the American College of Bond Counsel. This is the first year she has been recognized in  The Best Lawyers in America . Randall C. Clement, Esq.   was named as Lawyer of the Year for Public Finance Law in Orlando by  Best Lawyers  in 2025. This additional recognition is awarded to one lawyer with the highest overall peer feedback for a specific practice area and geographic region in the  Best Lawyers  edition. This is the second consecutive year Clement has been named Lawyer of the Year in Orlando for Public Finance Law and is the 20th year that Clement has been recognized by T he Best Lawyers in America . Clement has been practicing public finance law since 1982, with extensive experience in state and local government revenue bond financings in Florida. Clement’s focus is on airport, hospital, multi-family and single-family housing, electric, and water and sewer utility financings, as well as various special tax and enterprise fund financings. Duane D. Draper, Esq . was named as Lawyer of the Year for Public Finance Law in Tampa by  Best Lawyers  in 2025. This additional recognition is awarded to one lawyer with the highest overall peer feedback for a specific practice area and geographic region in the  Best Lawyers  edition. This is the third consecutive year Draper has been named Lawyer of the Year in Tampa for Public Finance Law and is the 20th year that Draper has been recognized by T he Best Lawyers in America.  Since 1989, Draper has specialized in public finance, either as an attorney or investment banker. He currently chairs the firm’s Public Finance Group and serves as the Business Development Chair.  Lomenie L. Etienne, Esq.  was selected by her peers in the fifth edition of  Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America,  which recognizes attorneys in their 5th through tenth years of legal practice, highlighting the next generation of legal leaders for a specific practice area and geographical region. Etienne represents BMO’s Orlando office, and focuses her practice on public finance law, with an emphasis on bond, disclosure and underwriter’s counsel representation. She currently serves as co-chair of the firm's law clerk program. Denise M. Heekin, Esq.  was selected by her peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America 2025 in Miami for Employment Law for Management and Litigation for Labor and Employment. Heekin is the managing shareholder of the firm’s Miami office and Chair of the firm’s Labor and Employment Group. Heekin is Board-Certified in Labor and Employment Law by The Florida Bar, and she has represented management exclusively in the practice of labor and employment law throughout her entire legal career, advising clients in both the private and public sectors. This is her fourth year being recognized in  The Best Lawyers in America . JoLinda L. Herring, Esq ., BMO’s CEO and managing shareholder, was selected by her peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America  2025 in Miami for Public Finance Law. Herring’s practice is dedicated to municipal law, governmental tax-exempt financings, and blue-sky securities law, with a focus on commercial paper programs. She was instrumental in creating the Florida Municipal Loan Council and the Florida Rural Utility Financing Commission and serves as bond counsel to both entities. Herring joined Bryant Miller Olive as a law clerk in 1994, marking 2024 as her 30th anniversary with the firm. She has been recognized in  The Best Lawyers in America  for the past seven years. Leonard T. Marcinko, Esq.  was selected by his peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America 2025 in Atlanta for Public Finance Law. He has been recognized in  The Best Lawyers in America  for the past 20 years. Marcinko has more than 35 years of wide-ranging experience dealing with federal tax issues associated with the sale and issuance of tax-exempt bonds, as a government lawyer, as a private law practitioner, and as a public finance investment banker. In addition to his primary responsibility of dealing with federal income tax issues related to the firm’s public finance area, Marcinko has headed up Bryant Miller Olive’s representation of clients in the area of interest rate swaps and other derivative product transactions.  William A. Milford, Esq.  was selected by his peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America 2025 in Jacksonville for Public Finance Law. He focuses his legal practice on the federal income tax treatment of tax-exempt debt obligations. Milford has more than 19 years of experience in public finance. Milford serves as tax counsel on a variety of governmental, 501(c)(3) and exempt facility bond financings. In addition to transactional work, Milford advises issuers and borrowers on post-issuance tax compliance matters. Milford is a member of the National Association of Bond Lawyers. He currently serves as Chair of NABL’s Education Committee. This is the first year he has been recognized in  The Best Lawyers in America. David C. Miller, Esq . was selected for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in Americ a 2025 in Miami in Employment Law, Management. He is a board-certified attorney in Labor and Employment Law by The Florida Bar. An attorney for more than 20 years, his focus is on labor unions, employment litigation and human resources counseling, exclusively representing management. His primary focus is in three areas: Dealing with labor unions — bargaining, grievances, arbitrations, and litigation; Employment litigation — discrimination, whistleblower, wage/hour, retaliation and other causes of action before federal and state courts and administrative agencies; and human resources counseling — helping managers deal with day-to-day issues, training, compliance, policies and procedures, drafting ordinances, public records, and Sunshine Law. He also represents public sector employers who sponsor pension plans. This is his third year receiving recognition in  The Best Lawyers in America.   Robert C. Reid, Esq.  was selected by his peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America  2025 in Tallahassee for Public Finance Law. For the past 47 years, his practice has been concentrated in financial transactions and tax planning. Since 1985, his concentration in tax-exempt and taxable financing has increased so that now he exclusively devotes his practice to this area. Reid joined Bryant Miller Olive in 1989. He routinely applies his tax background and experience in tax matters arising in financings involving multi-family housing, single family housing, public housing, hotels, convention and sports facilities, educational facilities and governmental projects. In 2024, Reid was elected, by unanimous vote, as a regular fellow of the American College of Bond Counsel. This is the first year he has been recognized in  The Best Lawyers in America . Misty W. Taylor, Esq. , was selected by her peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America 2025 in Orlando in the field of Public Finance Law. Her practice focuses on community development and stewardship districts, affordable housing, healthcare and general local governments. She serves as chair of BMO’s Special District Finance Group and serves on the firm’s Board of Directors. Taylor joined the Firm as a paralegal in 2001 and has been an attorney in the firm’s Orlando office since 2008. Since joining the firm, Taylor has participated in hundreds of public finance transactions, including bond, disclosure, lender and underwriter’s counsel representations. This is the second year that she has been selected for  The Best Lawyers in America . Alan S. Zimmet, Esq.  was selected by his peers for inclusion in  The Best Lawyers in America  2025 in Tampa for Municipal Law and Litigation, Municipal. Zimmet is a member of the firm’s Litigation group and the Government Counsel Services Practice Group. He has more than 40 years of experience and is board-certified by The Florida Bar in City, County, and Local Government Law. Zimmet represents local governments, including cities, counties and special districts. His litigation practice focuses on construction matters, civil rights matters and other complex civil litigation cases. Zimmet handles matters in both state and federal trial courts, and has argued numerous cases before Florida’s appellate courts, including the Florida Supreme Court and the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. This is Zimmet’s fourth year being recognized in  The Best Lawyers in America .      “Year after year, Bryant Miller Olive P.A. celebrates many of its attorneys being selected to The Best Lawyers in America,” said Herring. “This is an incredible accomplishment, as these recognitions are provided by their legal peers. These designations reflect the continued respect we earn in the legal industry in various practice areas.”   For the 31st edition of  The Best Lawyers in America® , more than 23 million votes were analyzed, which resulted in more than 80,000 leading lawyers included in 2025. Additionally, more than 4 million votes were analyzed, which resulted in more than 27,000 lawyers being honored in the new edition of  Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America .   Lawyers on  The Best Lawyers in America  list are divided by geographic region and practice areas. They are reviewed by their peers based on professional expertise and undergo a rigorous authentication process to ensure they are in current practice and good standing. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Bryant Miller Olive P.A.

With the 2024-25 school year underway, Jack & Jill Center – the longest-running nonprofit provider of early childhood education in Broward County – is engaging students through real-life, hands-on business experiences with its “ Every Child, Every Dream, Every Day” Back-to-School Fundraising Campaign . Jack & Jill Center is currently enrolling for the 2024-25 school year for its state-of-the-art Madelaine Halmos Academy  (MHA) private elementary school campus. NAEYC-accredited early education is also available on campus, serving six weeks of age through VPK-4.   Reflecting on its commitment to supporting the diverse dreams and aspirations of all its students, Jack & Jill Center is launching the “Every Child, Every Dream, Every Day” Back-to-School Fundraising Campaign from Aug. 19 through Aug. 30. The campaign is a unique initiative that combines fundraising with real-life entrepreneurial experiences for students, aligning with the Center’s mission to nurture every child’s potential.   The campaign will feature classroom ventures where each Early Education classroom will create and manage a unique business project, ranging from art galleries to bake sales and more. In an effort to engage the community and showcase students’ entrepreneurial efforts, during the final week of the campaign, Jack & Jill Center’s corporate and community partners are invited to “shop” and experience the students’ businesses and creations. The proceeds will benefit Jack & Jill Center’s mission to strengthen children and families through innovative education, supportive programming and community engagement.   MHA is an expansion of Jack & Jill Center’s Early Education Center and debuted its new elementary school in June 2021. MHA provides a safe, academically sound and socially supportive environment for all learners. With its new building, MHA significantly extended its offerings by providing a school in the process of accreditation incorporating research-based best practices.   MHA’s unique features include STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) curriculum; dedicated, highly-skilled staff and educators with low student-to-teacher ratios; engaging extracurricular activities fostering healthy social-emotional growth and personal development; integrated classroom technology including smart boards and individual devices for each student; individualized instructional approaches; interactive, educational field trips; extended day programming (before- and after-school care and camps); daily healthy breakfast, lunch and snacks; family wraparound support programs; health services; on-site counseling and therapeutic services including two on-campus therapy assisted dogs; and summer camp experiences.   Additionally, each child who graduates from fifth grade and continues their education to graduate from high school will receive a college scholarship, established through the Florida Prepaid College Plan, from the Jack & Jill Center Opportunity Scholarship Fund. Through the Jack & Jill Center Opportunity Scholarship Fund, 98 students have been awarded college scholarships since 2022. The sponsorship is graciously funded by Steve and Madelaine Halmos through an endowment fund, the Steve and Madelaine Halmos Children’s Opportunity Fund, they established at the Community Foundation of Broward which supports scholarships for the children at Jack & Jill Center.   “We are excited to welcome back our returning and new Jack & Jill Center families for the 2024-25 school year and invite prospective parents to enroll their children in our Madelaine Halmos Academy and Early Education program,” said Amy Jewell, CEO of Jack & Jill Center. “This school year, we launched our ‘Every Child, Every Dream, Every Day’ Back-to-School Fundraising Campaign to provide real-life, hands-on business experiences for our students while raising much-needed funds to support our programs that enrich the lives of children and their families. Our quality early childhood education, elementary education, family strengthening program and HEALTH Program ensure every child and family has the tools they need to be successful in school and life.”   For over 80 years, Jack & Jill Center has served over 30,000 children and families in South Florida. Jack & Jill Center supports children of working families through quality early childhood education, elementary education and family strengthening programs to ensure every child and family has the tools they need to be successful.   MHA’s kindergarten through fifth-grade program currently serves over   175 total students from Broward County, including early education and elementary school education, who benefit from the Jack & Jill education program. MHA has the capability to serve 220 students in total.   Jack & Jill Center’s children and families have unrestricted access to the school’s HEALTH Program, including an on-site School Nurse. Services provided through this program are an essential piece of Jack & Jill Center’s comprehensive and holistic approach to service. Through comprehensive health assessments, provision of health services, preventative healthcare and community partnerships, the HEALTH program has a significant positive impact on the health and wellness of students, families and the community.   Jack & Jill Center’s comprehensive Family Program engages and supports families by providing intensive parent education, case management, referrals and a variety of other support services including, one-on-one financial coaching, therapeutic services, counseling, access to the Family Resource Room and computer lab, emergency assistance fund. Through this program, families gain the skills, knowledge and resources they need to increase self-sufficiency and foster their child's healthy growth and development.   For more information about the “Every Child, Every Dream, Every Day” Back-to-School Fundraising Campaign or to donate, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/dreamcampaign .   To learn more about MHA and enrollment opportunities, please visit https://madelainehalmosacademy.org/  or contact 954.463.8772, ext. 262   or via e-mail at enrollment@jackandjillcenter.org . By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Zyscovich Photography