Florida is the lightning capital of the U.S. due to the combination of heat, humidity, and sea breezes from both the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, which creates the perfect breeding ground for thunderstorms over the Florida Peninsula. For this reason, we thought you would like to learn more about this awesome power, which can generate wonder but can also be deadly. Yes, Florida also ranks number one in deadly lightning strikes. So remember, seek shelter when you hear thunder nearby. By Chris Vagasky Meteorologist, University of Wisconsin-Madison It’s been a warm day, maybe even a little humid, and the tall clouds in the distance remind you of cauliflower. You hear a sharp crack, like the sound of a batter hitting a home run, or a low rumble reminiscent of a truck driving down the highway. A distant thunderstorm, alive with lightning, is making itself known. Lightning flashes in thunderstorms at least 60 times per second somewhere around the planet, sometimes even near the North Pole. Each giant spark of electricity travels through the atmosphere at 200,000 miles per hour. It is hotter than the surface of the sun and delivers thousands of times more electricity than the power outlet that charges your smartphone. That’s why lightning is so dangerous. Lightning kills or injures about 250,000 people around the world every year, most frequently in developing countries, where many people work outside without lightning-safe shelters nearby. In the United States, an average of 28 people were killed by lightning every year between 2006 and 2023. Each year, insurance pays about US$1 billion in claims for lightning damage, and around 4 million acres of land burn in lightning-caused wildfires. Lightning strike density by state in 2023 While Texas had more total lightning strikes in 2023, Florida consistently leads the nation in lightning strike density, measured in strikes per square kilometer. Yet, estimates of U.S. lightning strikes have varied widely, from about 25 million a year, a number meteorologists have cited since the 1990s, to 40 million a year, reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That complicates lightning safety and protection efforts. I’m a meteorologist whose research focuses on understanding lightning behavior. In a new study, my colleagues and I used six years of data from a national lightning detection network that we believe has become precise enough to offer a more accurate picture of lightning strikes across the U.S. That knowledge is essential for improving forecasts and damage prevention. How much lightning strikes the US To get a clearer picture of how often lightning strikes, it helps to define what a lightning strike is. Imagine looking out a window at a thunderstorm with cloud-to-ground lightning nearby. The lightning appears to flicker. A lightning flash is all the cloud-to-ground lightning that occurs within 1 second and a 6-mile radius. Each flicker is a lightning stroke. Each stroke can hit one or more ground strike points, and there can be multiple strokes in the same channel. Lightning is a large electrical discharge trying to dissipate the electricity in a cloud, so if there is a lot of electricity built up, there can be a lot of lightning to get rid of it all. One lightning flash with five strokes that hit the ground in at least four locations. Photo created by stacking stills from a video provided by Brendon Melander, a Wyoming storm chaser. Over six years of data from the National Lightning Detection Network, we found that the U.S. averages 23.4 million flashes, 55.5 million strokes and 36.8 million ground strike points each year. Where lightning strikes most often The basic ingredients for thunderstorms are warm and moist air near the ground with cooler, drier air above it and a way to lift the warm moist air. Anywhere those ingredients are present, lightning can occur. This happens most frequently near the Gulf Coast, where the sea breeze helps trigger thunderstorms most days in the summer. Florida in particular is a hot spot for cloud-to-ground lightning strikes. The Miami-Fort Lauderdale area alone had over 120,000 lightning strokes in 2023. Frequency of lightning ground strikes per year, averaged over six years, shows the most activity along the Gulf Coast. Vagasky, et al, 2024 The Central and Southern U.S. aren’t quite as lightning prone, but they tend to have more thunderstorms and lightning strikes than the North and West of the country, though lightning in the West can be especially destructive when it sparks wildfires. The cool waters of the Pacific Ocean, meanwhile, tend to mean few thunderstorms along the West Coast. Counting lightning strikes To be able to count how much lightning is hitting the ground and where it is doing so, you have to be able to detect it. Luckily, cloud-to-ground lightning is fairly easy to detect – in fact, you may have done it. When lightning flashes, it acts like a giant radio antenna that sends electromagnetic waves – radio waves – around the world at the speed of light. If you have an AM radio station on during a thunderstorm, you may hear a lot of static. The National Lightning Detection Network uses strategically placed antennas to listen for these radio waves produced by lightning. It’s now able to locate at least 97% of the cloud-to-ground lightning that occurs across the U.S. The average number of cloud-to-ground lightning strike points per flash across the United States between 2017 and 2022. Vagasky, et al, 2024 The number of lightning strikes varies year to year depending on the prevailing weather patterns during the spring and summer months, when lightning is most common. There isn’t enough accurate U.S. data yet to say whether there is a trend toward more or less lightning. However, changes in lightning frequency and location can be an indicator of climate change affecting storms and precipitation, which is why the World Meteorological Organization designated lightning as an “essential climate variable.” Better data can boost safety Meteorologists and emergency management teams can use this new data and our analysis to better understand how lightning typically affects their regions. That can help them better forecast risks and prepare the public for thunderstorm hazards. Engineers are also using these results to create better lightning protection standards to keep people and property safe. Lightning strikes are still unpredictable. So, to stay safe, remember: When thunder roars, go indoors. By ML Staff. Special thanks to the Conversation for content/images. Support and donate today. Top gif by Marijana Jakelich from Pixabay

Fae Swim is thrilled to unveil their latest Bequia High Summer 2024 Collection, featuring the stunning Lais Ribeiro amidst the vibrant energy of the Caribbean Sea. This season's silhouettes come alive with a kaleidoscope of color, celebrating an intense passion for life's vivid moments. The collection showcases sustainable fabrics in a spectrum of tropical hues that echo the spirited essence of Bequia—vivacious and full of energy. Designed to complement sun-kissed skin and a golden summer glow, the pieces range from sleek string bikinis to intricately detailed paneling, inviting you to slip into a steamy new season of swimwear. Founded in 2016 by spouses Bianca and Adam Bennetts, Fae Swim began as a love story. The couple met in Bali in 2015, and their holiday romance quickly turned into a lifelong partnership. With a shared vision for creating high-end yet sustainable swimwear, Bianca began designing samples, and soon, Fae Swim was ready to take on the world. At the heart of Fae Swim lies a commitment to sustainability and creating a greener environment for future generations. The brand understands the fashion industry's impact on the environment and takes steps to reduce its own footprint. By making sustainable choices, Fae Swim works to create a better future for both people and the planet. Fae Swim uses 100% sustainable fabrics for every range. Their choices include ECONYL, Carvico from Italy, and REPREVE, all made from recycled materials such as fishing nets, industrial plastic, and post-consumer plastic bottles. By using these eco-friendly fabrics, they reduce their carbon footprint and minimize waste in landfills and oceans. Packaging is another important element of Fae’s sustainability efforts. Their swimwear is packed in cornstarch garment bags made from renewable and sustainable plant materials, as well as non-toxic compostable resin, making them 100% home compostable. When designing new collections, Bianca draws inspiration from the '80s and '90s while ensuring Fae Swim remains a forward-thinking brand. Sustainability, durability, and luxury are always at the forefront of her mind, with a focus on using the highest quality Italian fabrics. Additionally, their designs are created with longevity in mind, ensuring your Fae bikini lasts summer after summer. Now worn and loved by beachgoers and celebrities worldwide, Fae Swim has quickly established its name, with each collection more progressive than the last and the brand's essence woven into every piece. Each range is carefully curated to blend seamlessly, allowing Fae Swim lovers to mix and match their favorite pieces, pairing color-blocked separates with meticulously designed prints. Website: www.fae.house Instagram: FAE Photography Credits: Pixie Bella and Jesse Allen By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Pixie Bella & Jesse Allen

Eddie Nieves-Tañon, a wheelchair tennis player, rediscovered a passion for tennis in 2019 and has been an influential figure for all. Despite his challenges, Eddie competes in USTA tournaments and is a mentor to new players, finding joy and community in the sport. As USTA Florida honors Disability Pride Month, his story is one of resilience and the transformative power of tennis. There are No Limits in Life Eddie’s life took an unexpected turn in 2011, when he found out he had Transverse Myelitis, a rare neurological condition that caused inflammation of his spinal cord. Transverse Myelitis is inflammation of the spinal cord and can lead to partial or complete paralysis. This life-altering event made Eddie wheelchair-bound, but he wouldn’t let that stop him from living his life. This condition led Eddie to physical and emotional challenges, leading to a period of depression and inactivity. “I wanted to have something that would help me health wise and get out of this funk and depressed state,” he said. His rejuvenation came in 2019, while at the USTA National Campus pro-shop. Eddie ran into Jason Allen, a leader of Team USA for wheelchair tennis at the time. Jason, being heavily involved with wheelchair tennis, introduced him to the National Rollers program, which provides free clinics. “I picked a racquet when I was about 12 years old for tennis summer classes my mother put me in but after that never again, that was until 2019,” he recalled. “I wanted to do something that would get me out of the house, distract me for a bit.” With renewed hope and determination, Eddie embraced the chance to return to the sport, seeking both physical exercise and mental relief. Getting Involved with Wheelchair Tennis Eddie started in the National Rollers program until the Covid pandemic halted activities. However, the program resumed in April 2022, allowing Eddie to rejoin and immerse himself in tennis once again. “I’m currently playing in tournaments sanctioned by the USTA all over the states,” he said. “I also go to the clinic on Saturdays at the USTA National Campus, plus I practice regularly mid-week with another guy who just started and I’m teaching him the basics.” For Eddie, tennis is more than a sport, it’s his lifeline. “I love being involved with new people who are just starting, especially to get them comfy in their wheelchair,” he said. The camaraderie among players at tournaments, the friendships formed, and the joy of competition provide an unmatched sense of community. Tennis has significantly improved Eddie’s mental state, giving him a purpose and a way to help others. It’s also an excellent form of exercise, contributing to his overall well-being. Despite being almost 48, Eddie has set his sights on reaching the International Tennis Federation (ITF) level. He has already won numerous accolades and trophies in his division, but he wants to achieve more in wheelchair tennis. “I think I could get better, improve, and get to ITF level,” Eddie said, showcasing his determination and passion for the sport. Encouraging Others to Get Started Eddie is proactive in spreading the word about the sport, encouraging other wheelchair-bound individuals to give tennis a try and experience all the benefits mentally and physically. “I’ve met quite a few people that are wheelchair bound and told them about the free clinics that are given on Saturday by the USTA,” he said. “I also tell them what a great sport it is and that it’s an awesome way to exercise or do something different.” Eddie has met so many people throughout his life, especially since 2019 that motivated him, and pushed him to play tennis. He remains vocal and at the forefront of improving wheelchair tennis for all in the Florida community. “The most pressing issue for Florida wheelchair tennis is that there’s not enough information,” Eddie said. “What little information we have is not getting to where it needs to, like physical therapy places, rehab centers, and even placing some announcements at the entrance of the USTA National Campus.” Eddie also hopes to see more wheelchair tennis showcases throughout the state and the world. Embracing Diversity and Inclusion Living and playing tennis in Florida, Eddie values the importance of embracing and learning from different cultures. “That’s what makes this country so diverse and great at the same time,” he said. “We can always learn from others and vice versa!” As a Puerto Rican, Eddie appreciates the diversity of his community and believes that inclusivity enriches the tennis experience and society as a whole. For Eddie, tennis is a comprehensive sport that offers mental and physical challenges, structure, and health benefits. “Tennis is important because it has created a sense that I can do a sport that is as complete, mentally and physically, as there can be,” he said. “Tennis is a very inclusive sport where it can be played in and out of a wheelchair, which also has many different divisions to place people in depending on their injury, movement or lack of!” Tennis has given Eddie a renewed sense of purpose and a platform to inspire others, demonstrating that resilience and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements, no matter the obstacles. Eddie is an amazing reminder that no one can put limitations on what you want to accomplish in your life, no matter the challenges. He takes pride in being a wheelchair tennis player as well as helping others improve their game. Although he hasn’t been involved in tennis his entire life, Eddie is thrilled to assist others, the way Jason Allen did by opening the door to tennis, helping him go back to a normal life, filled with joy, positivity, and fun! By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy by Jaret Kappelman Marketing & Communications Coordinator for USTA Florida

After enduring 54 holes in the sweltering heat, Jessy Huebner remained cool under pressure and secured victory at the 70th Boys’ Junior Championship. Huebner shot rounds of 66-66-67, finishing the tournament victorious with a total score of 13-under par. Here’s how it happened. Huebner, starting the final round tied for first at 10-under, wasted no time asserting himself with a birdie on the first hole, seizing an early lead. Palmer Haynes, initially sharing the lead with Huebner, had a steady front nine, securing second place at the turn with a birdie on the seventh hole. Henry Robards, who was tied for fourth at the beginning of the final round, birdied the fifth hole to put him 9-under and solo third with 9 holes to go. Robards would find another birdie on the tenth hole to put him 10-under and move his way up the leaderboard. Meanwhile, Huebner would see some adversity on hole number 12 and card a bogey to bring him back down to 12-under par. The excitement began to build on the 16th hole as Robards surged. His birdie putt there brought him to 11-under par, just one stroke behind Huebner and Haynes. Showing remarkable composure, Robards drained a 30-foot putt to join them in the lead at 12-under. Meanwhile, Huebner had a promising birdie opportunity on the 17th green but settled for par. Haynes, facing a challenging shot, managed a crucial par-saving putt from off the green on the 17th hole. It all came down to the eighteenth hole, where the three players were deadlocked in a tie for first place. Palmer and Huebner both drove well off the tee, but it was Huebner's second shot that made the difference, landing him pin high and perfectly positioned for a birdie opportunity. Reflecting on the moment, Huebner remarked, "I checked the leaderboard after I finished 17 and knew I was tied for first. So, I knew I needed to focus up and I hit a great drive and left myself a perfect number with a little bit into wind and hit a low punch pitching wedge to five feet.” In a display of true champion form, Huebner confidently sank his 5-foot putt to secure victory, claiming both the Overall Championship and the (13-15) Division title in a clean sweep. This win punches his Golden Ticket into the 2024 U.S. Junior Amateur Golf Championship at Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Huebner stated “It feels great, it’s definitely been one of my goals this year,” Huebner said about heading to the Junior Am, “I didn’t get to play any qualifiers for it because I had other tournaments, so it definitely feels great to get in this way.” Henry Robards and Palmer Haynes finished tied-for-second place with a tournament total of 12-under par. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of FSGA

Loxen Entertainment, Inc., the not-for-profit theater company founded in 2019 whose mission is creating new and exciting work opportunities to members the artistic community residing in South Florida, announced today its upcoming productions for 2024-2025. In addition, the company also announced a new location for its presentations: the historic Colony Theatre on Lincoln Road. The upcoming season offerings include “The Play That Goes Wrong”, the smash hit comedy that is still running in London and New York; “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, the enchanting musical stage version of Roald Dahl’s beloved classic starring everyone’s favorite candyman Willy Wonka; and the hilarious Tony Award-winning musical farce “The Drowsy Chaperone”. “We are beyond excited to announce what we have lined up for our audiences this year,” said Benjamin Leon IV, Tony ® -nominated Broadway producer and founder and president of the company. “And what makes it extra special is that we will be presenting our shows at one of the best and most respected venues in our city: the beautiful Colony Theatre. I am grateful to Miami New Drama, the theater’s managing company, for trusting Loxen to uphold the excellent track record they have established through the years.” Loxen has become an important contributor to the arts community in South Florida through its high-quality productions of musicals during the company’s first five years. Its productions of In the Heights, Cabaret, Little Shop of Horrors, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee and Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein have received high praise from critics and audiences alike for their production values and artistic excellence. The company has presented its shows at a variety of venues such as the Ziff Opera House at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Downtown Miami, and the ARTime Theater in Southwest Miami. Starting in September, Loxen will be presenting all their shows at the Colony Theatre, one of Miami’s oldest and most esteemed venues located at 1040 Lincoln Road in the heart of Miami Beach. “The Play That Goes Wrong” by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields, runs September 5th through the 22 nd . The hilarious comedy follows the misadventures of an amateur theatre troupe that comes together once a year to stage a show. Unfortunately, things go very wrong during the performance with uproarious results. The Olivier and Tony Award-winning show has been running since 2012 in London, and since 2017 in New York. “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, the musical adaptation of the 1964 children's novel of the same name by Roald Dahl, with book by David Greig, music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman opens December 13th through the 22 nd . It tells the tale of Charlie Bucket, an imaginative boy who dreams of acquiring a golden ticket to tour Willy Wonka's over-the-top chocolate factory and can't believe his luck when it actually happens. The rest is pure imagination and joy for the entire family. “The Drowsy Chaperone”, the Tony Award-winning musical with music and lyrics by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison, and a book by Bob Martin and Don McKellar, runs February 28th through March 9th . The screwball plot concerns a musical theater fan who, feeling blue, decides to play for the audience an LP of his favorite musical. As the record plays, the show - a parody of 1920s American musical comedy - comes to life onstage, as the man wryly comments on the music, story and actors. Tickets for individual shows and season subscriptions are currently on sale at Loxen’s website https://www.loxen.org and through its social media: https://www.facebook.com/loxenproductions and Instagram @loxenentertainment. By ML Staff. Image Courtesy of Loxen Entertainment. Top image by Yiran Ding/Unsplash

The Miami HEAT are keeping a key piece of their lineup intact, announcing today that they have re-signed forward Haywood Highsmith. While the exact terms of the deal remain undisclosed, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with excitement over what this means for the team's future. Highsmith, who has become a fan favorite, appeared in 66 games last season, starting in 26 of them. He averaged 6.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, clocking an average of 20.7 minutes on the court. What really stood out was his efficiency, shooting an impressive 46.5 percent from the field and nearly 40 percent from beyond the arc. These numbers highlight his steady improvement over his three seasons with the HEAT, culminating in career highs across the board last year. The 2023 season was a breakout year for Highsmith. He notched double-figure scoring 17 times, setting a new personal best. On March 29 against Portland, he hit a career-high 20 points, showcasing his scoring prowess. During a stretch from March 24 to April 4, he scored in double figures for six consecutive games and drained at least one three-pointer in each of those matchups. His accuracy was on full display when he made seven consecutive three-pointers without a miss from March 24 to 26, tying the team season record. Off the bench, Highsmith proved to be a versatile and reliable player. He led the HEAT bench in scoring nine times, steals 14 times, rebounds 11 times, blocks 10 times, and assists three times. His all-around performance was instrumental in Miami's playoff runs each of the past three seasons, including their thrilling journey to the Eastern Conference Championship and NBA Finals appearance in 2023. Bringing back Highsmith is a significant move for the HEAT as they aim to build on their recent success. By ML Staff. Courtesy of NBA. For Miami HEAT

Inter Miami CF announced that Las Vegas Lights FC has exercised its option to purchase Homegrown Player Edison Azcona, who was on loan with the USL Championship side, making him the first Inter Miami Academy product to be transferred. The transfer fee will represent a club-record figure for Las Vegas. “Edison played an important part in our history across a number of milestones: he was a member of the inaugural Academy class, played in the first-ever match featuring an Inter Miami Academy team, was one of our first Homegrown signings, and was our first Homegrown player to play in a match for the First Team. We are very proud of all he accomplished with us, and wish him the best in this next phase of his career,” said Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Chris Henderson. Azcona, 20, became the first Inter Miami CF Academy product to feature for the First Team when he appeared as a substitute against Nashville SC in an MLS regular season match in May 2021. The versatile attacker went on to feature in 10 MLS matches for Inter Miami. In 2020, Azcona stood out in his first season at the professional level as an Academy registered player for Inter Miami CF II, earning a pair of end-of-season honors for his performance; the Dominican winger was named to the USL League One All-League Second Team, and was nominated as a finalist for the USL League One Young Player of the Year award. The Dominican was a member of the Club’s inaugural Academy class, and was in the starting XI for the first-ever match featuring an Inter Miami team at any level when the Academy U-17/U-18 traveled to South Korea to participate in the 2019 K League U-17 Championship tournament. On the international stage, Azcona has been a mainstay for the Dominican Republic across the youth and senior levels. Notably, he helped captained his country as it made history at the 2022 Concacaf U-20 Championship campaign, earning the nation’s first-ever qualifications for a FIFA U-20 World Cup and the Summer Olympics. He then represented the Dominican Republic U-20 national team at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where he made history by scoring the country’s first historic goal at any World Cup competition. The country’s participation at the U-20 World Cup also marked their first appearance ever at a World Cup of any category. The Club would like to thank Azcona for his contributions on and off the pitch throughout his time with Inter Miami, and wishes him well in the future. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Inter Miami CF

Major League Baseball announced that left-handed pitcher Tanner Scott has been named to the National League All-Star team. Scott, 29, has gone 6-5 with a 1.42 ERA (6 ER/38.0 IP) in 37 relief appearances with Miami this season, ranking second among National League qualifiers in opponent batting average (.142; 18x127), third in BABIP (.184), and fourth in ERA, while ranking tied for 10th in saves (13). He leads all of Major League Baseball this season with an 83.3 mph opponent average exit velocity (per Baseball Savant), is tied for second in the NL with 23 appearances of zero hits allowed and tied for fourth with 34 appearances of zero earned runs allowed. Over his last 30 appearances, the southpaw has held opponents to just 14 hits in 100 at-bats, allowing two earned runs in 30.1 innings pitched (0.59 ERA) and striking out at least one batter in 26 of those outings. Scott has struck out the side in two appearances this season, most recently as Thursday, July 4 vs. Boston, tying the third-most occurrences in Marlins history. Only Kyle Barraclough and Mike Dunn have recorded more such appearances (eight). Scott is the fifth reliever in Marlins history, and first left-hander, to be selected for the Midsummer Classic, joining A.J. Ramos and Fernando Rodney in 2016, Armando Benítez in 2004, and Bryan Harvey in the club’s inaugural season in 1993. The Warren, Ohio native is in his third season with Miami, posting a 2.82 ERA (56 ER/178.2 IP) with 45 saves, 93 walks, and 236 strikeouts in 178 appearances out of the bullpen. His 19 wins are tied for the second-most by a reliever in club history, trailing only Mike Dunn (26 relief wins), while his 236 strikeouts rank seventh-most all-time. After attending Howard College in Big Spring, Texas and Notre Dame College in South Euclid, Ohio, Scott owns a 28-23 record, 46 saves, and a 3.71 ERA (157 ER/334.2 IP) over eight Major League seasons split between Baltimore (2017-21) and Miami (2022-24). By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Miami Marlins/Getty Images

Broward Education Foundation, the only 501(c)3 charitable organization solely dedicated to serving students and teachers in Broward County Public Schools, announced its annual school supply drive kicks off July 8 and runs through August 23. Last school year, Broward Education Foundation provided essential school supplies valued at more than $2 million to 130,000 under-resourced students in Broward County Public Schools. The annual event fosters equity in education by providing teachers and students with the free resources they need to succeed. Contributions Help Students and Teachers in Broward County Public Schools When families are struggling to pay rent and buy groceries, the burden of sending a child to school fully equipped is many times unattainable. For these students, school supplies are a luxury,” said Dustin Jacobs, board chair of Broward Education Foundation. “This is where Broward Education Foundation School Supply Center steps in, and with the community’s help, we provide students with the free supplies they need in order to succeed.” According to the National Education Association, teachers will spend more than $820 on classroom supplies this year including books, snacks, pencils, paper and cleaning products. Teachers also benefit from the drive. Last year, Broward Education Foundation provided classroom supplies for 12,000 teachers in Broward County Public Schools. "Having the right tools is essential for a child's academic success. With these resources, children can thrive academically, and their social and emotional well-being is supported," said James A. Knapp, President & CEO of Broward Education Foundation. "Proper tools help build self-confidence and self-esteem, both of which are crucial for effective learning." Every child deserves a fair chance at a quality education, and by supporting schools in providing backpacks to students in need, donors are helping to level the playing field and create a brighter future for these students. How to help Place Broward Education Foundation School Supply Center donation boxes at your workplace: Then either drop off the collection at the Broward Education Foundation School Supply Center or arrange with them to pick up donations. Adopt a School: There are many opportunities to sponsor a school and provide students with backpacks filled with essential school supplies. Host a virtual drive within your organization: Encourage monetary donations through browardedfoundation.org/drive $250 can provide art supplies for an entire classroom $100 can support a teacher with crucial classroom tools and resources $25 can provide a student with a backpack filled with essential school supplies To boost success, Broward Education Foundation posted a free School Supply Drive Tool Kit on its website with ideas and tips, plus suggested social media messaging and sample email scripts to recruit support. School supplies needed most include backpacks, compositions books (black), crayons, erasers (pink rectangular), folders (2 pocket), glue sticks, hand sanitizer (individual), highlighters, hole punchers (single), index cards (3”x5”), markers, notebook paper, pencil pouches, pencil sharpeners, pencils (#2 with erasers), pencils (mechanical), pens (black and blue ink), rulers, scissors (children’s) and spiral notebooks (wide-ruled). Donations can be made at the Broward Education Foundation School Supply Center, 2300 W. Copans Road, Bay #5 in Pompano Beach. To request donations be picked up, call 754-321-9020 or email hector.javier@browardschools.com. Interested in hosting a supply drive? Contact mari-lee.baxter@browardschools.com. More about Broward Education Foundation The nonprofit Broward Education Foundation aligns with Broward County Public Schools by providing grants for teachers who develop innovative curriculum that increases student outcomes; vitally needed school supplies for students and teachers; scholarships for qualified high school seniors; and support for programs and initiatives. Each year, Broward Education Foundation contributes more than $4 million to Broward County schools, serving as the catalyst for educational excellence. For information visit Broward Education Foundation, email BEFInfo@browardschools.com, like or follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn. By ML Staff. Image Courtesy of Broward Education Foundation. Top image by Gabriel Baranski/Unsplash

The Wolfsonian–FIU is partnering with the City of Miami Beach and neighboring institutions to present free monthly evenings of à la carte culture! Grab your bike or comfy walking shoes and take in the best of South Beach's art, performances, screenings, and tours, planning your night as you like it—choose a couple of spots, or make the full rounds, 6–9pm. Visit mbartsandculture.org for details and route. For July's Culture Crawl, the museum is focusing on the fantastical pieces in The Big World: Alternative Landscapes in the Modern Era, with a free guided tour starting at 6:30pm. Following the tour, draw inspiration from the decorative artworks in the show by designing a take-home paper fan to beat the heat (materials and instructions provided). Date: Thursday, July 18, 2024 Time: 6–9pm Location: The Wolfsonian–FIU @ 1001 Washington Avenue By ML Staff. Courtesy of The Wolfsonian–FIU By ML Staff. Courtesy of The Wolfsonian–FIU

Prepare for an epic adventure around the cosmos during nightLAB: Space Odyssey. Adults 21+ can explore our new special exhibition, Journey to Space, unveil the culinary secrets of space travel with a NASA food scientist, enjoy stellar drinks, and more. Connect with friends and get ready to enjoy science socially. Experiment and explore during nightLAB. During the evening, guests can expect: Access to museum exhibitions from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Presentations with space chef and NASA food scientist, Dr. Vickie Kloeris Special live music performances by Skyview in the Frost Planetarium at 8:15 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. (limited seating available; reserve onsite) Space-inspired laser rock shows in the Frost Planetarium at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. (limited seating available; reserve onsite) Guest DJ set by AYDAMN in the Power of Science Lounge Galactic interactions with Frost Science educators including a space-themed giant tumbling block challenge and Mars coding mission “Ask Me Anything” with Dr. James R. Webb, a world-renowned astrophysicist from the Florida International University College of Arts, Sciences & Education Freeze-dried food tasting with local women-owned business OrbiFood A pop-up planetarium experience under the Oculus Activations from local partners including the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s Growing Beyond Earth project Drinks and snacks for purchase at the Space_Bar by Constellation Culinary Group Frost Science Members can purchase up to four tickets at $15.00 per person regardless of membership level entitlements. Onsite parking is available in the museum garage for $8 flat rate with validation. All cars must exit garage by 1:00 a.m. Member parking discount does not apply. Share your favorite photos and moments with us on social media at @frostscience. Share your favorite photos and moments with us on social media at @frostscience. Skyview Music Skyview is an indie space rock band from Florida established in 2007. The band combines live music, immersive full dome visuals and storytelling to create a one-of-a-kind concert experience. The show explores the history of humanity’s journey to space, from Sputnik to Voyager, aiming to inform, entertain and celebrate the Space Age. Having performed in planetariums and concert venues throughout the Southeast, Skyview makes their Miami debut in the Frost Planetarium during the 55th anniversary week of the Apollo 11 Moon mission. Please note: Frost Planetarium experiences may contain bright, flashing lights that may cause discomfort to those with light sensitivity or other pre-existing conditions. Partner Offer: Boulud Sud Special Dinner Experience Before nightLAB at Boulud Sud Indulge in a culinary adventure at Boulud Sud at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami with a special 3-course Mediterranean menu for a special price of $75++ at 5:00 p.m. Perfectly timed to precede your nightLab experience at Frost Science, the restaurant is located just five minutes away. For an added convenience, take the Metromover for a quick and scenic ride. Elevate your evening and book your pre-nightLAB dinner experience on Resy today! By ML Staff. Courtesy of Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Visit the Hublot Bal Harbour Boutique to enjoy a summer treat with Miami’s favorite – Peel Soft Serve! This event will take place from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Friday, July 12, 2024, and Saturday, July 13, 2024. If you wish to arrange a special appointment, please contact balharbour@hublot.com. ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of Bal Harbour Shops