Brushes With Cancer is an artistic celebration that pairs accomplished artists with "inspirations," people whose lives have been impacted by cancer as previvors, current patients, survivors or caregivers. Most of the participants are from south Florida. The artists bring to life the inspirations’ twist on cancer — stories, feelings and experiences — with works of art that represent the inspirations’ personal journey with the disease. All Miami is invited to join the artists, inspirations and their family and friends to view the finished works at a celebratory public art viewing and silent auction curated by Rosie Gordon-Wallace, arts advocate and founder of Miami’s Diaspora Vibe Cultural Arts Incubator. All proceeds will benefit future editions of Brushes With Cancer at the Adrienne Arsht Center. Complimentary refreshments will be served. RSVP HERE The Arsht Center’s Brushes With Cancer is presented in partnership with Twist Out Cancer, a nationwide non-profit organization that uses the creative arts to provide social and emotional support to individuals touched by cancer. More information is available at twistoutcancer.org . *Artists, titles, dates, times and availability subject to change. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of  twistoutcancer.org

First, let's say congratulations on taking your first step into the intriguing world of cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrencies are innovations people have started to be very interested in because of their many advantages that improve people's experiences worldwide. Some of the most known features include decentralized control, better privacy and security, and lower transaction fees. The crypto space started with  Bitcoin , developed in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto to improve the operations of traditional financial services.  Digital currencies have brought a lot of benefits, but we are not gonna lie and present you also the downsides. Hence, we must tell you that cryptocurrencies are also risky assets, so you should be careful when investing and take some precautions. However, you shouldn't fear entering the crypto space; instead, you should look for ways to maximize your chances of experiencing high returns. Want to find out how you can do this? If so, keep reading to discover the soundest investing rules to always keep in mind.  Image by fabrikasimf / Freepik Research, Research, Research Before you jump on the crypto bandwagon, it is essential to take your time and research, as only in this way will you better understand the market trends, how this technology functions, and all the risks present in this space. When you research, you should also discover the perfect cryptocurrency for your needs and desires, as there are so many that serve various purposes and preferences. Furthermore, if you get familiar with the crypto space, you will be able to discover all the developments and latest news from the crypto landscape, which help you to make the needed changes that will impact the success of your investment.  Also, the crypto space has a lot of technical words and concepts, so you need to learn more about them to truly understand how digital coins function. Some vital fundamentals to look at when making the first steps into the crypto world are the utility of the token, security, privacy, coding language, and scalability features.  Don't Invest More Than You Can Afford To Lose When making the first steps into the crypto world, you should also put in the amount of money you can afford to lose. As cryptocurrencies are still in their infant stage and are very volatile, they are associated with many risks, which could cause you to experience various losses. And even if things look good for an extended period, the prices of cryptocurrencies can still increase and drop constantly.  This is why, if you want to invest in cryptocurrencies, you should do so only with an amount you can lose and never something from your emergency funding. Next, keep in mind that only 5% of your portfolio should be for cryptocurrencies, as this is the best way to benefit from potential gains while limiting a possible negative impact on the entire portfolio.  Opt For Major Cryptocurrencies When you take the first steps into the crypto world, you should also consider the most established cryptocurrencies, like  Ethereum and Bitcoin, as they could bring bigger returns. This happens because they have a larger market capitalization and have faced more challenges over the years. However, as they have withstood them all, they have become even more powerful and ready to take on anything that could come in the future as well.  Even if established cryptocurrencies still have some risks, they are generally safer than newer crypto market additions. This is why investing in something with strong community support, a solid foundation, and a good track record of growth is better.  Store Your Cryptocurrencies Safely  When you invest in  cryptocurrencies , you should also look for safe storage options and keep your digital coins in hardware wallets, as they will offer better safety than keeping them on an exchange. Safe crypto wallets should have security protections like encryption, offline storage, multi-signature, PIN codes, anti-tampering mechanisms, and recovery phrases.  After this, make sure you don't reveal this information to anyone, as in this way, you will ensure that your accounts remain safe and you will not lose your digital coins.  Remain Disciplined When you make the first steps into the crypto space, you should also be disciplined, as otherwise, you risk that your emotions will take over, which might have a negative impact on your overall investment. So, set some rules you should follow no matter what, and don't let emotions impact what you do in the crypto sphere. Otherwise, you could experience a lot of losses, which would cost you greatly. After this, you should keep up with constant changes and refine your strategy based on mistakes or the lessons seen by others.  Consider Crypto Indicators While cryptocurrencies are risky assets, you can't really predict what will happen with them in the future, which is why it would be better to consider something that will help you, like  technical indicators , such as relative strength, moving averages, and crossovers, which will offer valuable signals. These indicators could help you identify the best times to enter or exit the market. Additionally, considering a long-term outcome rather than reacting to instant price swings will be better.  Last Words Cryptocurrencies have taken the world by storm and brought plenty of opportunities. However, as they are still something new, you should prepare with an excellent arsenal to avoid losing your funds. Luckily, some tips could help you in this process so that you can reduce the risks associated with digital currencies. If you want to enter the crypto world, you must do your research, understand all the challenges present, choose a reliable  exchange , and look for a safe crypto wallet to keep your money secure.  It is never too late to enter the crypto space, but you need to consider some rules, including the ones mentioned above.  By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Freepik

This summer has been a journey of learning and growth, as l've had the privilege of absorbing insights from seasoned designers, media experts, social media influencers and models.  The vision was to create a collection that celebrates every curve and age with elegance and sophistication. Our white luxury swim cover-ups are designed for the modern woman who is confident, radiant, and unapologetically beautiful. This is about feeling sexier, more empowered, and more at ease than ever before.  I can't wait for women to recognize the collection and  experience the confidence and allure that the pieces embody.  As a new entrepreneur , l've encountered many challenges and lessons. Trusting your gut is essential. When you're building something from the ground up, especially as a new entrepreneur, you are investing not just your time and resources, but your heart and soul. Every decision, every step, is guided by the passion and vision that inspired you to start in the first place. Going with your gut isn't just about intuition - it's about honoring the inner voice that led you to take this leap. After a decade, starting the brand  was a testament to my belief in my vision and  commitment to making it a reality.  To all the aspiring entrepreneurs out there: believe in yourself, honor your vision, and trust your instincts. The road may be winding, but your commitment and confidence are what will guide you through. Embrace the lessons along the way stay true to your purpose, and remember that the courage to follow your gut is one of the most,powerful tools you have. Website: TracyMarcus.com IG: @tracymarcusdesigns By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Tracy Marcus

You’ve probably been hearing a lot about sweepstakes casinos in the past few months. They’ve been growing steadily in popularity over the last five years but that popularity has gone totally mainstream since the start of 2024. Invoice by Proxima Studio / Adobestock They are a part of the wider interest in online gambling. They are very similar to regular online casinos with one very important distinction – players don’t have to spend real money to play the games. Instead, sweepstakes casinos have two special currencies, Gold Coins (GC) and Sweepstakes Coins (SC). GC can be used to play games and SC can be used to play games or be redeemed for prizes with real-world value.  Sweepstakes coins are also known as social casinos because they have a community component. Unlike traditional casinos, which are very solitary environments, sweepstakes casinos encourage conversation and community building. Most have very active social media pages and some have live chat features for players built into the site.  Today, we’ll break down why sweepstakes casinos have become so popular and what factors have contributed to their rise. At the end, we’ll discuss some of the sweepstakes casinos that have recently been attracting a lot of positive press. United States Gambling Laws The United States has been the main driver behind the rise and popularity of sweepstakes casinos . This is in large part due to the complicated nature of gambling laws across the country. Each state is able to set its own gambling and online gambling laws, while states with tribal casinos have an added layer of complexity. Add in the fact that so many Americans cross state lines regularly for work, travel  or as snowbirds and those are a lot of laws to remember. Sweepstakes casinos don’t require players to spend real money to play, which means they don’t fall under the same laws as regular online casinos. Instead, they are regulated as sweepstakes that are legal in almost every state. There are some requirements that need to be met, including the possibility of getting free SC, which can usually be done through the mail. Currently, Washington is the only state that has completely banned sweepstakes casinos but there are a few other states that are trending in that direction. Not having to worry about knowing all of the local laws and regulations surrounding online casinos is one of the most important reasons why sweepstakes casinos have become so popular in the United States.  Image by S Photographer / Adobestock Community Element As we mentioned above, the typical online casino experience is a lonely one. With the exception of roulette and craps, most casino games are completely solitary. There isn’t even usually the thrill of competition, since you’re only playing against the dealer or the slot machine algorithm. Sweepstakes casinos, on the other hand, have a community element that many people find attractive. Players can discuss their favorite games, their betting strategies and even non-gambling topics. They can build friendships from their shared hobby .  Most sweepstakes casinos also use social media to organize competitions where players can win SC and GC. Combined, these social elements are a huge reason for the rise of sweepstakes casinos. Image by producer / Adobestock Continuing reading to see which sweepstakes casinos have been generating the most buzz lately. Fortune Coins Fortune Coins are at the top of the sweepstakes casinos game. They have a great games library that includes a better balance of slot machine games and card games than most of their competitors do. They also have a selection of progressive jackpot games to add to the variety. Fortune Coins have a fully optimized site but they do not have a mobile app. This may be an issue for players who prefer app-based gaming. High 5  High 5 is one of the best sweepstakes casinos and is able to compete with regular online casinos. They have a library of nearly 700 games, which is impressive. Many titles are from top studio Pragmatic Play. They even offer live dealer games.  While they do have a good customer support team, High 5 do not have a live chat feature. Live chat features have become standard, so hopefully this will soon be implemented.  Image by Oleh / Adobestock WOW Vegas WOW Vegas was launched in 2022 and has rapidly become one of the leading sweepstakes casinos in the United States. They have a great games library with a focus on slot games, and some table games. They run many social media contests that give players plenty of opportunities to win SC and GC. Despite having a large library, WOW Vegas doesn’t have any live dealer games, which is an unfortunate oversight. There is also no loyalty program, despite there being great welcome bonuses for new players.  Pulsz Pulsz has a great library of over 300 games. They also do a great job of rotating their games so it’s easy for players to find their new favorite slot or table game. Though they don’t have an app, the site is fully optimized for both desktop and mobile.  Though they have 24/7 customer support, there is no live chat feature. This is frustrating for players who prefer to immediately be able to speak with someone to solve an issue. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

A Dynamic Group Exhibition Featuring Works From PAMM’s Collection By Artists Helen Frankenthaler, Richard Serra, Ellsworth Kelly, Among Others. Opening August 8, 2024. Morris Louis, Circum II, 1959-60. Acrylic resin on canvas. 100 x 137 inches. Collection Pérez Art Museum Miami, gift of the Estate of Morris Louis. © Pérez Art Museum Miami Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is pleased to present Every Sound Is a Shape of Time , a multidisciplinary exhibition featuring over 20 works by 17 artists including painting, sculpture, and lightwork. Curated by PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans, the exhibition showcases works from the museum’s collection made between 1958 and 2020—half of which will be presented for the first time. The title of the exhibition, Every Sound Is a Shape of Time , alludes to Cuban artist Glenda León’s work, inspired by “the space where sound and the visual merge.” The exhibition speaks to the interconnectedness between universal elements through the various multimedia artworks on view, centered around the core elements of beauty and humanism, and grounded in the strength of a plurality of voices. “With Every Sound Is a Shape of Time, we’re excited to bring together works that reflect on the common threads that emerge from our collection,” said PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans. Core to Every Sound Is a Shape of Time is Chilean artist Alfredo Jaar’s neon lightwork, I Can't Go On. I'll Go On. (2016). Two other works by Jaar further ground the show, including Europa (1994), his monumental installation responding to the Bosnian War and the indifference in response to this crisis in the early 1990s. Also of note in the exhibition is an entire gallery space showcasing several of the first acquisitions made by the museum, which include works by leading figures in Post-Painterly Abstraction of the 1950s and 1960s such as Helen Frankenthaler and Morris Louis. This group of artists strived to create something new in a moment of tumult and friction between abstraction and representation, as well as the parallel divide between inner and outer worlds in contemporary art’s subject matter. Participating artists include Abraham Cruzvillegas, Alfredo Jaar, Ellsworth Kelly, Glenda León, Helen Frankenthaler, Jennie C. Jones, Jules Olitski, Julie Mehretu, Lawrence Weiner, Luis Camnitzer, Lydia Okumura, Mark Bradford, Morris Louis, Nicole Cherubini, Richard Serra, Richard Dupont, and Robert Morris. The exhibition opens August 8, 2024 and will be on view through March 16, 2025. By ML Staff. Courtesy of PAMM

Join Frost Science for a programming series that provides a hands-on immersion into the world of technology. Engage with some of the latest technology while learning the basics behind how it works, from coding to electrical engineering. Every workshop includes take-home technology to help ignite curiosity at home. Sunday, August 25: Tech Lab: Video Game Design for Beginners Dive into the basics of computer science behind today’s most popular video games. Try out block-based coding to animate an avatar and learn more about the future of gaming technology.  The cost to participate in a Tech Lab is $40 per participant. Includes a Coding Games in Scratch Guidebook  to take home! Participants of all ages are welcome, but those under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The cost for parents and guardians who will attend the event but not participate in the “Make and Take” portion is $25 per person. Museum admission must be purchased separately to participate. Location Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science 1101 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL 33132 Time and Date August 25, 2024 at 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM By ML Staff. Courtesy of Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Lina Cerrone Gallery , an international contemporary art gallery in the heart of Miami’s Wynwood Arts District, is celebrating its first anniversary this winter with four exhibitions: Odysseus by globally acclaimed photographer Bastien Soleil , Masquerade by Korean illustrato r Lee Gihun , False Idols by graffiti artist Sven , and Oh What Beautiful Flowers by local emerging talent Patrick Penkwitt . The exhibitions will open September 9 through December 31 and includes: Odysseus  by Bastien Soleil Der Wanderer über dem Nebelmeer by Bastien Soleil French photographer Bastien Soleil, an underwater artist who received multiple international awards for his short film Tang’O , expresses his art and talent from behind the lens. Inspired by freedom and the quest for self-knowledge, his work highlights the raw beauty of his models, a technique he has developed during countless freedives (his parallel life to photography). Born in the center of France, Soleil officially “met” the sea in Asia. There, a love story started that still bears fruit today. After multiple adventures around the globe in a frantic search for happiness, Soleil received the undeniable “call of the sea” – a call so strong that it pushed him to become a freediving instructor. This has allowed him to explore and apply the complexity of his compositions both above and below the surface with exquisite effect. All his work is done in a natural, underwater environment without trickery or artificial light. His work reflects his personality: free and without artifice.  Masquerade  by Lee Gihun Masquerade 40 by Lee Gihun Korean artist Lee Gihun blends fantasy and reality, challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions of the world. Inspired by Noah’s Ark, his work critiques Western human-centric worldviews and explores the next generation’s place in society. Gihun’s unique style combines traditional Korean painting techniques with modern materials, creating flat, dark-colored planes and textured, three-dimensional forms. Born in 1980, he grew up in a paradoxical environment: a rural village nestled between national parks and Korea’s largest cement factory. This upbringing shaped his ambivalent perspective on nature and progress. Gihun’s art reflects his childhood experiences and Korea’s complex history, including the impacts of imperialism and the Cold War. Gihun extends his artistic process through social media and live painting performances, often using discarded materials to address social issues. An award-winning illustrator, Gihun has gained international recognition at events like the Biennial of Illustrations Bratislava and the Bologna Children’s Book Fair. He continues to create from his hometown in Korea, exploring the boundary between fantasy and reality while expressing anxiety and empathy for the world. Oh What Beautiful Flowers  by Patrick Penkwitt Messi by Patrick Penkwitt Growing up in Stuttgart, Germany, in a family of photographers, it was only natural for Miami-based artis t Patrick Penkwitt t o become a photographer at 16 years old. His grandfather was a war photographer, and his parents met in photography school; hence, creativity was embedded in his DNA. His creative journey began by working for skateboarding and BMX freestyle magazines in Germany and California. After years of shooting extreme sports, such as mountain biking, snowboarding and skiing, he shifted to working with some of the world’s top fashion and advertising brands.  Over time, Penkwitt’s artistic vision has expanded into painting, transforming his early influences into a lifelong project. Intuitively blending whimsy with seriousness, his vibrant paintings feature intricate, imaginative worlds that evoke a sense of play while offering layers of depth. His prints feature famous figures such as Lionel Messi and LeBron James . Penkwitt’s masterful use of color is both dynamic and unexpected, creating visual experiences that surprise and captivate the viewer. Now, as he explores his expanding practice, Penkwitt brings the same eye for detail and narrative composition that distinguished his photographic work into a new medium. His paintings showcase a unique interplay of surreal elements and vivid storytelling, capturing a spectrum of emotion and delight that resonates with viewers. Just like a pendulum, Penkwitt lets the pencil swing and move on its own to draw, making each painting one of a kind.   False Idols by Sven Never Fall by Sven For French graffiti artis t Sven , painting is a physical and visceral experience. His artistic process revolves around composing, decomposing and recomposing, channeling the vibrant energy of city life directly onto the canvas without any preliminary sketches. He envisions his body of work as pieces of a larger puzzle, each painting a fragment of the grand mural of his life, with many more pieces yet to be painted.  Sven's canvases pulsate with the hustle and bustle of urban life: pedestrians, vehicles, storefronts, buildings, and especially walls. Those walls, whether they border sports fields, industrial wastelands, abandoned houses or train stations, are his muse. They bear the textures, colors and layered histories that inspire him. In his works, materials like plaster, corrugated cardboard, spray paint and drips converge, blending elements of new realism, abstract expressionism and pop art. An urban soul, Sven draws inspiration from the energy of cities like New York, Amsterdam and London. His canvases explode with color: the yellow of mailboxes, the mustard of taxis, the scarlet of Chinese bazaars, the green of pharmacy signs, the pink of neon lights, the blue of clear skies, the black of asphalt, and the rainbow sheen of gasoline-streaked puddles. When working in black and white, he uses various textures to ensure his colorblind grandfather can experience the same visual impact. Sven's paintings are also characterized by his lettering and spectacular formats. Thanks to his work, Sven has been able to exhibit in different parts of the world and his paintings grace interiors from Miami to Paris. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Lina Cerrone Gallery

Kevin Janser, a nonprofit executive for more than 40 years, has announced he’ll be retiring at the end of September. He has spent the last 17 years leading Memorial and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation s. Kevin Janser During his time as president of Memorial’s foundations, Janser and his team raised nearly $250 million to support programs, services, and facilities within the healthcare system, including more than $56 million for the expansion of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. He also recently oversaw a successful capital campaign for the new Memorial Cancer Institute facility in Pembroke Pines.   “Kevin’s impact has been significant, not just within our Memorial family, but throughout the entire philanthropic community in South Florida,” said K. Scott Wester , Memorial Healthcare System president and CEO. “His leadership positively impacted countless families, and his passion for fundraising made a difference for causes and campaigns that matter.”   Kevin Janser, Duane Massa, Caitlin Stella, Craig Zinn A graduate of both Southern Illinois University and the University of West Florida, Janser began his career in higher education before transitioning to healthcare. Prior to joining Memorial in 2007, he was vice president of development at Holy Cross Hospital.   “Retiring is bittersweet,” said Janser, a Boca Raton resident. “I look forward to spending more time with my family, but I will miss the many colleagues, supporters, and friends who have made this journey so special. I thank each and every one of them.”   Beth Janser, Lotsy Dotsy, Kevin Janser Janser’s Memorial career included sharing the stage with former U.S. President Bill Clinton , music’s Gloria Estefan , author James Patterson , and sports figures that included Earvin “Magic” Johnson , Bob Costas , Pat Riley , and Derek Jeter . The Conine Clubhouse, where families can stay for free while a child is being treated at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, is annually funded by philanthropic gifts generated at events hosted with former major league ballplayer Jeff Conine . Janser also shepherded ongoing partnerships with Florida Panthers Captain Aleksander “Sasha” Barkov and Anthony Rizzo of the New York Yankees that have resulted in significant contributions to Memorial’s nonprofit foundations. He also oversaw numerous annual fundraisers that inspired philanthropic giving, including the Diamond Angels’ Fairy Tale Ball, Tour de Broward, and Joe DiMaggio American Icon Award.   Emilio Estefan, Kevin Janser Kevin Janser, Sasha Barkov, Caitlin Stella Kevin Janser, Anthony Rizzo, Caitlin Stella “Nothing is more important than the health of ourselves and our families. When individuals and businesses support Memorial’s adult and pediatric foundations, it’s an investment that directly benefits themselves, families, employees, and the entire community,” said Janser. Caitlin Stella, Dr. Andrew Greenfield, Zach Zinn, Craig Zinn, Brittany Zinn, Aurelio Fernandez, Kevin Janser The Memorial Foundation ( www.mhs.net/about/foundation ) and Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Foundation ( www.jdch.com/give-back/foundation ) raise funds philanthropically to assist patients, families, and underwrite the cost of programs, facilities, and equipment within the Memorial Healthcare System.   To learn more or make a donation, please call 954.265.3454 or visit them online. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of The Memorial Foundation

As a continuation of its ongoing dedication to the budding Cannabis industry, Florida-based  DAG Facilities – a national industry leader in the planning, design and construction of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) facilities for the indoor agriculture industry – is proud to serve as the presenting sponsor of the 7th Annual Cannabis LAB (CLAB) Conference and Expo. The 7th Annual CLAB Conference and Expo will take place on Oct. 14-15 at the Diplomat Resort in Hollywood, Florida.   The 7th Annual CLAB Conference and Expo is expected to be a landmark event for Florida’s Cannabis industry. The stakes are higher than ever this year as Florida voters prepare to decide on Amendment 3 in November, a crucial ballot measure that could legalize recreational Cannabis use across the state. With a 60% vote needed to pass, it is essential to garner support, spread awareness and highlight the transformative impact that legalizing Cannabis can have on Florida's economy, public health and social equity.   “We are proud to be the presenting sponsor of the 7th Annual CLAB Conference and Expo,” said DAG’s CEO Mark Gemignani. “Florida is poised to become one of the largest Cannabis markets in the country. This conference comes at a critical time for Florida’s Cannabis industry, with 22 new licenses expected to be announced, and right before Florida’s general election which includes a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana in the state. At the conference, participants will have the opportunity to hear from key leaders in the industry and have important conversations about the ‘Yes on 3’ initiative, the benefits and misconceptions of Cannabis legalization and more.”    The conference will be a pivotal platform for advocacy and education. Bringing together Cannabis industry leaders, business executives, celebrities and politicians, the event offers a unique opportunity to make a compelling, unified statement about the benefits of Cannabis legalization. Attendees will have the opportunity to network, share insights and strategize on how to amplify the "Yes on 3" message. The collective influence of these key stakeholders can significantly shape public opinion and demonstrate the broad, bipartisan support for this initiative.   Participants are invited to contribute to a historic effort to redefine Florida's Cannabis landscape. This event will highlight the potential economic benefits, such as job creation, increased tax revenues and the social and health advantages of a regulated Cannabis market. It will also provide a forum to address concerns and misconceptions about Cannabis, emphasizing the importance of a legal and controlled environment over the existing black market.   As Florida nears a possible significant policy shift, the 7th Annual CLAB Conference and Expo will be the catalyst for informed dialogue and decisive action, helping to ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for the state through the responsible legalization of Cannabis.   Gemignani continued, “DAG advocates for and supports the growth of Florida’s Cannabis industry and believes in responsible and safe use of Cannabis. Having a more controlled product is good for consumer safety. It will also allow for more discoveries in health care, building our economy with a new industry. Florida’s Cannabis industry has the potential to be more inclusive than other industries.”   Mr. Trainwreck , a critically acclaimed artist known for showcasing at Red Dot during Art Basel Miami Beach and throughout New York City, has been selected to create signature artwork for the event. He plans to showcase a chosen collection of his artwork of iconic 3D pop collage paintings and sculptures at the upcoming 7th Annual CLAB Conference and Expo, turning the location into a special art display. Alongside his presentation, there will be a silent auction offering attendees a chance to purchase art from his renowned collection.   CLAB focuses on law, accounting, and business, aiming to bring corporate professionalism to the Cannabis sector. DAG’s Director of Strategic Partnerships Todd Friedman is actively involved in CLAB, where he serves as an executive leadership committee member and the Miami Chair.   For more information about the 7th Annual CLAB Conference and Expo, please visit  www.clabconference.com . By ML Staff. Image courtesy of DAG Facilities

Michael Elkins, Esq. , founder and partner of Fort Lauderdale-based  MLE Law , is recognized in The Best Lawyers in America®  2025, Employment Law — Individuals, and Employment Law — Management in Fort Lauderdale. The 31st edition of The Best Lawyers in America recognizes only the top 5% of elite lawyers in the nation across 150 practice areas.   Elkins is a nationally quoted employment, business and sports attorney representing businesses, municipalities and individuals in labor and employment, business and sports matters. In addition, he provides outside General Counsel services (daily corporate advice, preparation and review of corporate documents, creation of corporate entities, merger and acquisition representation). A litigation attorney for nearly 25 years, Elkins continues to disrupt how lawyers attract and retain business by utilizing technology to make the business of law more efficient and beneficial for clients.  He is the creator and host of the “Quarter Four” podcast, which he founded in 2018. Through the podcast, he not only promotes MLE Law, but his overall brand. The podcast covers the intersection between business and sports, providing listeners an inside look into the psychology of what makes individuals successful on and off the field.   “I’m proud to once again be recognized by The Best Lawyers in America®  in the 2025 edition for my work in employment law,” said Elkins. “ Best Lawyers®  is an esteemed guide to legal excellence around the world, and it’s an honor to be selected by my peers in the legal field.”   For the 2025 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 the milestone 31st edition. 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 an authentication process to make sure they are in current practice and in good standing.   Best Lawyers  has published its list for more than four decades, earning the respect of the profession, the media, and the public as the most reliable, unbiased source of legal referrals. Its first international list was published in 2006 and since then has grown to provide lists in over 75 countries.   The entire The Best Lawyers in America  list can be viewed at  www.bestlawyers.com/America . By ML Staff. Image courtesy of MLE Law

Feeding South Florida ® – the leading hunger-relief organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties – is commemorating Hunger Action Month this September with a myriad of activities to encourage South Floridians to “Go Orange” to stand against hunger.  Hunger Action Month , a nationwide initiative created by Feeding America®, takes place throughout September and is designed to raise awareness about the issue of hunger in America and inspire others to take action toward ending it. This year Feeding South Florida’s theme is “Hunger Heroes Take Action.”   Currently, in South Florida, there are more than 1.2 million food insecure individuals. One in nine individuals in South Florida remain uncertain about where they will get their next meal due to inflation, the strained supply chain, rising fuel prices and increased housing costs among other factors. Proceeds raised during the month-long initiative will allow Feeding South Florida to fulfill its mission to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food, leading hunger and poverty advocacy efforts and transforming lives through innovative programming and education. An  online auction  during the month will allow bidders access to fun, unique items while supporting Feeding South Florida’s hunger relief efforts. Go Orange t-shirts and orange mustaches will be available for purchase to raise awareness about hunger. Monetary donations will go further during September with a  one-to-one match with Delta Airlines , up to $25,000. Every donation is critical as a $1 donation allows Feeding South Florida to provide approximately four meals to a family in need.   Feeding South Florida will also host two  Hunger Relief Town Hall Meetings  during Hunger Action Month to educate the public and donors about food insecurity and hunger relief efforts. The Hunger Relief Town Hall is a pivotal initiative hosted in collaboration with Health Choice Network, Feeding South Florida, Broward Community and Family Health Centers, University of Miami Health System and Jessie Trice Community Health System, through a grant from the National Institute of Health. This gathering brings together a diverse array of stakeholders – from community leaders and healthcare professionals to policymakers and grassroots advocates – to focus on tackling the multifaceted challenges of food insecurity head-on. The meetings will take place on Sept. 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Miami Dade College, Wolfson Campus and on Sept. 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Nova Southeastern University’s Rick Case Arena. During Hunger Action Month, South Floridians can “Go Orange” by participating in various activities throughout the month including:   Start a Fund Drive:   Raise money with coworkers, friends and family online. Start a Food Drive :  Feeding South Florida relies on the generous support of the community to host food drives to ensure it receives shelf-stable, high-demand products. Participate in the 2024 Outrun Hunger 5K – Palm Beach County:  (7:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21) Participants can raise funds for Feeding South Florida by running or walking during this fun-filled event taking place at the beautiful Okeeheelee Park (7715 Forest Hill Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33413). Participants can join the event as an individual or a team.  Pack to Give Back – Corporate Teams (Sept. 5, 12, 19 and 26) : Companies are encouraged to volunteer to sort food and pack meal boxes for families at one of Feeding South Florida’s warehouses. Shifts include 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 1:30-4:30 p.m.  Volunteer :  During Hunger Action Month,   coworkers,   family and friends are invited to volunteer to sort food at one of Feeding South Florida’s warehouses or help prepare and cook meals for children and seniors at Feeding South Florida’s 5,000-square-foot state-of-the-art multi-purpose Community Kitchen in Boynton Beach. Dates and times vary. For more details, visit  https://feedingsouthflorida.org/volunteer/ . Hunger Action Day (Sept. 13):  Feeding South Florida celebrates Hunger Action Day, also known as “GO ORANGE DAY.” The community is invited to purchase a “Hunger Heroes” t-shirt for $25 and wear it to support ending hunger in South Florida by visiting  www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024 . Go Orange! Throughout the month, individuals can host an orange bake sale, government and municipalities can issue a proclamation for Hunger Action Month, hotels can welcome guests with an in-room display that showcases Hunger Action Month, schools can develop students’ skills by creating a project to promote hunger awareness and much more.   During Hunger Action Month in the past, several landmark buildings including The Breakers, Miami Tower, and the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Guitar Hotel all participated in “GO ORANGE DAY” by turning their lights orange.  Register an individual or company's #GoOrange initiative to be added to Feeding South Florida’s community activity calendar. Contact  events@feedingsouthflorida.org . Get social:  Post on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or X using the hashtags #feedingsouthflorida #hungeractionmonth #hungerhero. Unlock the Hunger Action Month Social Media Tool Kit at  www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024 . “Hunger Action Month is an opportunity for the community to come together to raise awareness about food insecurity and be a part of the solution,” stated Paco Vélez, president and CEO of Feeding South Florida. “We’re grateful for our South Florida community which participates in Hunger Action Month year after year to support our mission and help families in need. The month-long initiative will help us continue to raise awareness and crucial funds to put food on the table for South Florida families who need it the most.” For more information about Hunger Action Month, please visit  www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024  or contact Allyson Vaulxat  Avaulx@feedingsouthflorida.org  or 954.518.1818 x1852. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Feeding South Florida

Come on down for an Amazinn opportunity!  Toyota of Hollywood  and  CBS Miami  (WFOR-TV) are teaming up to host an open casting call for The Price Is Right . Hosted by Drew Carey, The Price Is Right is television’s longest-running game show where audience members try to win cash and prizes.   The contestant search will take place inside the Toyota of Hollywood showroom on Friday, Aug. 30, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Price Is Right is seeking two enthusiastic semi-finalists who will have an opportunity to be selected as contestants on the show and be flown to Los Angeles, California to see the show live and have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “come on down.”   Audition Process : Each participant will get one minute to audition in front of a camera. For casting tips and audition advice, please click here .   Entrance : Complimentary admission will be provided to contestants at the Price Is Right table outside of the taping area at the Toyota of Hollywood showroom. All participants must check in at the registration table before being eligible for taping. No purchase is necessary.    Registration : All participants will need to register before they can audition. To ensure a timely process, participants are encouraged to download and fill out the video release form by visiting https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/the-price-is-right-contestant-search-miami/ .   Eligibility : All contestants must be United States citizens and living in the United States. Contestants must be 18 years or older at the time of the application and meet additional eligibility requirements as outlined in the registration form For more details and to download and print the registration form, please click here . By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Toyota of Hollywood