Bryant played in 38 games last season for the HEAT, starting in four of them. He averaged 5.7 points and 3.7 rebounds in 11.6 minutes per game, while shooting 57.7 percent from the field and 87.2 percent from the free-throw line. Throughout the season, he led Miami in scoring twice, blocks eight times, rebounds five times, plus/minus four times, and steals once. Bryant scored in double figures in 10 games, including a season-high 26 points and 12 rebounds on March 29 against Portland. In his four starts, he recorded two double-digit scoring games, grabbed double-figure rebounds once, and shot a perfect 6-of-6 from the foul line. Bryant led the HEAT reserves in scoring three times, rebounds 13 times, and blocks on 11 occasions. Additionally, the seven-year NBA veteran achieved several milestones last season, including his 1,000th defensive rebound on November 30, his 250th game on January 15, and his 1,000th field goal on March 29. By ML Staff. Courtesy of NBA. For Miami HEAT

Inter Miami CF II earned a 2-2 this Saturday in the team’s away fixture against Chicago Fire II at SeekGeek Stadium. The draw featured Santiago Morales’ fourth goal of the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro campaign and second-half substitute Yuval Cohan’s second professional goal. The hosts earned the extra point in penalties after the draw in regulation. The Herons’ starting XI featured Owen Finnerty in goal; Captain Tye Barton, Nykolas Sessock, Gio Ferraina, and Alejo Ristano made up the back four; Morales, Pep Casas, and Ricardo Montenegro, in midfield; and forwards Ryan Carmichael, Dairon Reyes and Alejandro Flores led the team’s attack. The hosts struck early in the match, with Chicago’s Harold Osorio finding the back of the net in the 13th minute giving the hosts the 1-0 lead. Nevertheless, the Herons played a physical first half in midfield, taking charge in the press resulting in opening chances. It was Miami who found the back of the net next in the 20th minute with Morales equalizing with a smooth kick from the spot to tie the scoreline 1-1. The goal was the fourth for Morales this 2024 MLS NEXT Pro campaign, who’s now tied as the team’s leading scorer . The scoreline then remained 1-1 until the end of the half. A tight second half saw both sides attempt to establish control of the contest, with the hosts reclaiming their lead in the 50th minute. Miami continued the half strong, with multiple goal scoring opportunities from Morales, creating danger in the opponent’s box. Inter Miami II then struck back, taking advantage of momentum, with second-half substitute Cohan securing his second goal this 2024 campaign in the 78th minute to secure the 2-2 equalizer. The scoreline then held until the final whistle with the visitors earning a 2-2 draw in regulation; Chicago were then able to secure a point in the penalty shootout (6-5.) The Herons will now gear up to hit the road this upcoming Saturday, July 14 to face rivals Orlando City B at Osceola Heritage Park at 7 p.m. ET By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Inter Miami CF

Chaumet presents its new High Jewelry collection, Chaumet en Scène, a celebration of artistic disciplines that unfolds in three chapters: Music, Dance and Magic. The pieces in the Chaumet en Scène collection promise to transform the wearer into their own director, attract full attention and captivate the audience, creating breathless suspense... For the first scene, dedicated to Music, Chaumet artisans have created pieces both complex and delicate, including a necklace in the Harmony parure with 700 bezel and 2,800 claw settings to express an exquisite sense of movement. Each piece – necklaces, earrings and rings – recounts an extraordinary melody. Dance inspires the second scene in the narrative with creations that evoke the graceful movement of dancers. The Tango parure draws inspiration from the passionate dance, with rubellites and tourmalines following one another in golden spirals. The Ballet parure performs a contemporary pas de deux with Ceylon sapphires and diamonds, while the meeting of violet sapphires and white gold evokes the energy of jazz in the Swing parure. Dedicated to Magic, the third scene features the Voltige parure, evoking acrobats with diamonds that seem to float above the skin, as well as the Illusion parure, which dazzles with ravishing Mozambique rubies. One after the other, the Music, Dance and Magic scenes showcase the Maison’s virtuosity. Reveling in the spotlight, the parures adopt a rhythm of their own, mixing repetitive patterns and free time. Translating Chaumet’s renowned art of movement, each parure becomes a breathtaking performance in which the High Jewelry pieces magnify exceptional stones. ML Staff. Content/image(s) courtesy of Chaumet

Just for Me is a program dedicated to welcoming individuals and families with diverse sensory and accessibility needs to discover and explore everything Frost Science has to offer. This event is a way for you and your family to enjoy the museum in a quiet, comfortable and accepting environment. During Just for Me hours there will be sound and lighting adjustments within the exhibitions to make them more sensory-friendly. There will also be a special tactile and interactive activation within one exhibit so guests can engage with scientific concepts at their own pace and on their own terms. We encourage families to make connections and share resources during events. Discover what a day at the Museum looks like with our Social Narrative, made just for you. Special Activation: Animal Habits Learn about the relationship between animal adaptations and habitats while discovering the impacts of invasive species on Florida ecosystems. LOCATION Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science 1101 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL 33132 TIME AND DATE July 17, 2024 at 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM By ML Staff. Courtesy of Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Mission 44, the charity founded in 2021 by seven-time FIA Formula 1 World Champion, Sir Lewis Hamilton, will become the latest charity to be officially ‘supported by Formula 1’, as the two organizations formalize their relationship and build on years of successful collaboration. Since its launch, Mission 44 has advocated for greater representation, diversity, and inclusion in motorsport to create meaningful change for young people facing social injustice through education, empowerment, and employment opportunities. Formula 1 has worked closely with Mission 44 to address some of the challenges surrounding diversity and inclusion in the sport, supporting the charity in facilitating once-in-a-lifetime experiences for students from underrepresented groups and underserved communities to inspire them to consider careers in STEM and motorsport. Last year, Mission 44 and Formula 1 delivered outreach programmers in Austin, Silverstone, and São Paulo, positively impacting more than 150 young people. As a supported charity, F1 will support Mission 44 in raising awareness of their work and connect the charity with organizations across motorsport to identify apprenticeships and similar opportunities for young people from underrepresented groups. At this weekend’s FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS BRITISH GRAND PRIX 2024, F1 and Mission 44 will host a first of its kind networking event which will bring together scholars from the Formula 1 Engineering and Mission 44 MSc Motorsport Engineering scholarship programmers to knowledge share and help with the students’ professional development. Both schemes offer students crucial financial and career support, with the objective to increase opportunities in motorsport for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1 said: “Over the last few years, it has been a pleasure to support Mission 44 in its efforts to make our sport more diverse and give students and young people their first taste of the world of F1 and motorsport. We look forward to working with Mission 44 in this new capacity and seeing how many doors we can open together to inspire the next generation.” Jason Arthur, CEO of Mission 44 said: “When Lewis Hamilton launched Mission 44 three years ago, it was with the ambition to create a fairer, more inclusive future for young people around the world. Together with Formula 1, we will be able to increase awareness and access to motorsport career opportunities, so young people, no matter their background, can succeed. Change requires collective action, and we’re excited to grow our partnership with Formula 1 to drive diversity in motorsport forward.” By ML Staff. Content/image courtesy of Formula 1

Located inside The Four Seasons Hotel, the new restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Ryan Ratino has Fort Lauderdale residents very excited. MAASS is the ideal venue to go celebrate a special occasion. Not only do they have a hospitality team that specializes on guest experiences, but from the moment guests walk through the door, they will feel enchanted. For those who make a reservation, it’s not uncommon to find a personalized card with your name on it displayed on your table. This type of attention to detail—which is reflected across their services, food, and venue—is what sets MAASS apart from the rest. MAASS has a unique feel. The servers wear white blazers and sneakers, a very clean and coastal look. The comfortable booths, marble tables, and prestigious bar all contain various shades of beige and gold. It all aligns with the luxury beach décor. There is no doubt MAASS is a high-end restaurant, but they go out of their way to avoid a stuffy experience, and rather deliver an elegant refreshing voyage. To accompany on that voyage is a musical experience that plays louder (by choice of the chef) than other venues, but that just adds to the vibe. It’s a way to remind guests MAASS still likes to have fun. Whether you sit indoors across the very silent open kitchen or catch views of the ocean from the bar—there is not bad seat in this house. So, sit back, relax, and indulge. The critically acclaimed chef has done a fantastic job combining the European traditions with Japanese techniques in perfectly curated balanced dishes. The contemporary wood-fire concept is not something you see every day in Fort Lauderdale, and it’s refreshing to see fine dining done this way. The menu is broken up into four sections, guests will want to try a little bit of everything, but don’t let these portions fool you, and pace yourself. Before anything, your server will offer a palette cleanser, which will enhance the flavors coming. And before your main dish arrives, your server will have you pick your knife—it’s all part of the MAASS experience. First up are the Snacks. The peanut and strawberry Foie Gras Macaron and the Wagyu Beef Tart—drizzled with French onion—are two delicacies with very different flavors but complement each other very well. Each come with two perfectly bite-sized servings—ideal to share. The macarons were inspired by the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, perfect for those with a sweet tooth. While the tart is ideal for guest looking for a savory snack. Under the Starters, the Tomato dish is no ordinary tomato. In fact, it’s tomato six different ways, and it’s a beautiful presentation plated with a pearl onion, parmesan, and sweet herbs. Looking for something a little different? The Bluefin Tuna Crudo served with smoked vinegar, yuzu, radish, and spicy ketchup to top it off is fresh and delightful. Ready for the main course? While the Dry Aged Duck is a staple at MAASS, the Brioche Stuffed Chicken with black truffle and jus gras, and the Australian Wagyu Short Rib are two dishes worth venturing on. The chicken and short rib are both mouth-watering good. To finalize this fine-dining experience, the Strawberry Semifreddo is beautifully constructed and presented in a pillow-like plate, and for the Banana Trifle your server will personally pour miso caramel at your table. Accompany any four-course meal with one of their inspired cocktails. The Bebop is inspired by the Margarita, and the Solange is their take on the Pisco Sour. Come celebrate, be impressed, and never leave hungry. For more information, visit www.maassftl.com. MAASS is located at 525 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale By Claudia Paredes. Images courtesy of MAASS

German born contemporary artist Franz-Josef Baur’s series “Perception Fading Youth” delves into the interplay between colors and emotions, questioning whether color alone can evoke the same emotional depth as a detailed sculpture. This collection is characterized by a refined reduction of forms and a masterful use of color to achieve a profound emotional impact. Central to the series is the iconic Mickey Mouse, a symbol of shared childhood memories, which Baur uses to bridge the gap between nostalgia and contemporary art. In a unique collaboration with photographer Mario Schmolka, Baur enhances his work by featuring Austrian TV host Sasa Schwarzjirg in “Perception Fading Youth,” adding a human dimension to the artistic narrative. This inclusion blurs the boundaries between art and humanity, integrating human subjects into abstract representations to emphasize the humanity behind the forms. Sasa Schwarzjirg reflects on her participation: “Fading Youth is an omnipresent theme in showbiz, with replacements always in sight. But I don’t mourn my youth. Maybe since my inner child takes such a big space in my heart and mindsight? I have only developed my self-confidence over the years and feel more settled than ever. Nevertheless, the photo shoot was a challenge. I’m known for my major TV shows in an idealized, almost stylized perfection with hair and makeup. Standing in front of a camera so raw initially reminded me of my insecure, younger self.” Baur expresses his vision: “For years, I have been dealing with the theme of ‘human and art’ and love to connect the two; to blur boundaries. The art photoshoot with Sasa was a day of ‘performance art.’” About the Collaborators Sasa Schwarzjirg: An Austrian TV presenter, Sasa Schwarzjirg is renowned for her work on ‘The Masked Singer’ and her talk and travel shows on national television. She has been a European L’Oréal Testimonial and Ambassador, as well as a Wella Spokesperson. Mario Schmolka: An Austrian-American photographer, Mario Schmolka is known for his strong yet sensual imagery. After graduating from the College of Photography in Vienna, Schmolka moved to Milan and worked with influential photographers on major productions. His portfolio includes work for Moschino, Prada, Versace, and numerous celebrities such as Heidi Klum, David Duchovny, and Gerard Butler. Schmolka’s work has been showcased in exhibitions and publications, and he has received several accolades, including the Austrian Fashion Award in 2012. He continues to divide his time between the U.S. and Europe, collaborating with high-profile figures and brands. Through “Perception Fading Youth,” Baur, Schmolka, and Schwarzjirg create a compelling exploration of emotional resonance, nostalgia, and the intersection of art and humanity. To learn more at www.fjbaur.bigcartel.com , Instagram: @franz_josefbaur Credits Muse: Sasa Schwarzjirg ART: Franz Josef Baur Photographer: Mario Schmolka Makeup/Hair: Nico ART-Video: Nils Schmolka By ML staff.

I started my career 26 years ago as a writer and editor in the real estate and finance industry. As a staff reporter at the Mortgage Bankers Association of America, I found it almost overwhelming the amount of data and information available on almost every aspect of the market and the business I covered. When I joined the tennis industry in 2011, I was surprised to find how little our markets and business were researched, analyzed and reported on. We were often making decisions based on opinion or limited information that could not be cross-referenced or compared. Since 2019, USTA Florida has been working diligently to collect data on our programs and eco-system in a centralized space and analyze it for real business insights. While we don’t have as much information as we would like on facilities and community programs, we have enough quality information to release our first-ever State of Florida Tennis Report. The findings in this initial report are worthwhile in our efforts to advocate for tennis, and they set an important baseline for us to build upon in future years. Unprecedented Population Growth First and foremost, the census data in the report tells us that Florida’s population is growing at an unprecedented rate. According to recently recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida has four of the nation’s top five fastest-growing metropolitan statistical areas and three of the top 10 that gained the largest number of people from 2022 to 2023. A deeper look at county growth between 2020 and 2023 shows where municipalities are likely feeling pressure to improve or add infrastructure. It’s important to consider both percentage change and total population change. While the panhandle of Florida is often overlooked, Escambia has both high population density and growth. Okaloosa-Walton-Bay counties are also seeing rapid growth as a percentage of population. All counties and cities are NOT THE SAME The Villages and Ocala are driving incredible increases in population across Lake, Sumter and Marion counties. That growth is largely among adults, and that’s also the case with Southwest Florida, from Manatee to Collier counties. When it comes to population growth among youth, the western panhandle, most of central Florida and Jacksonville area (Duval, Clay, Baker, Putnam) are leading the charge. From central Florida south to Miami, you see a high percentage of Hispanic persons. Conversely, the Black/African-America population tends to be more predominant in North Florida (Tallahassee), as well as in Palm Beach, Broward and Hillsborough. In looking at the trends here, it’s important to note what is driving population growth in each area, and where there may be a convergence of many different demographics in a single market. Florida is a wildly diverse state and it requires a broad range of programs, facilities and services to meet different customer needs. There is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to Florida. Tennis Is Booming… But Differently Among Markets and Demographics. When it comes to demand for tennis play, we see from the Tennis Participation (PAC) Study that Florida has about the same number of people who want to play tennis – 1.7 million – as are currently playing. That finding seems to be verified by sustainable interest in the beginner programs we track and the facilities we manage. How those players shift into programs varies widely by market and program type. Junior play, which was hit hardest during the pandemic in 2020, has rebounded nicely, with consistent growth in team tennis and tournament play in 2023. With more than 1,029 junior tournaments in 2023, Florida continues to be tournament dominant in most areas when it comes to junior play. South Florida and Central Florida dominate this space. Team tennis is making a strong push in areas where we have staff coordinators and when facilities can accommodate it on their courts. Unsurprisingly Escambia/Fort Walton, which is not strong in tournament play, topped all areas for junior team tennis in 2023 with 447 players in that area alone. Adult tennis programs continue to see steady growth – driven by strong participation in entry level programs and adult leagues. Flexible League formats appear to be attracting more players, along with Tri-Level and Ault 18 and Over Leagues. Hillsborough County has the most participation of any county in the state, followed by Collier and Duval. Broward and Escambia Counties are seeing impressive percentage growth in participation. Roger Scott Tennis Center in Pensacola has more adult league teams playing at their facility than other facility in the state. Adaptive Tennis Programs, which are run largely through our partners at Love Serving Autism, Special Olympic Florida, and other adaptive organizations also have experienced steady growth in the last few years. In 2023, LSA had programs in 24 locations across the state of Florida and 435 total program participants. Special Olympics programs continue to expand in counties throughout the state. We welcomed more than 150 SOFL participants to the State Games in 2023. We continue to receive requests to start new adaptive tennis programs and we are seeing healthy growth in both participants and volunteer coaches. We Can Recruit New Coaches. We Need More of Them On Tennis Courts. The landscape for coaching in Florida is much more difficult to assess. Tracking certified coaches in the state of Florida requires data from two tennis teaching organizations, and it is not readily available. While there is no centralized data available on the number of non-certified coaches in the state, we know from simple population and program data that we don’t have nearly enough coaches on court to meet current or future demand for play. This is a problem that we noted in detail in our Call for Coaches last year. Thanks to our USTA FL Community Coach Program, which was launched in 2022, we do have insights into who may want to coach and how we can bring them in through half-day training sessions. In 2023, we trained 270 unique coaches to run community-based programs. Of that total, 144 were women and 126 were men, and very few were already certified. Red/Orange/Green ball, Summer Camps, and Wheelchair programs were the most popular curriculums offered. In 2022 and 2023 combined, we trained more than 500 community coaches. In the future, we hope to be able to track how many of these coaches are running programs and do a better job of following their pathway to the courts and to certification. We also need more information shared across the industry on coach demographics, employment and other insights that can help us do a better job of recruiting, training and developing coaches at all levels of the game. Courts and Infrastructure Remain Our Biggest Challenge Perhaps the biggest (and most surprising) takeaway from our work developing this report is the lack of available, accurate data on the number and type of courts in the Sunshine State. There are several different methods for collecting court information in the U.S. and all have their deficiencies. It took some time and effort to comb through the data and analyze the number of courts and facilities in the State of Florida. A current analysis shows we have nearly 11,000 tennis courts in the state at roughly 1600 facilities. Palm Beach County leads the way by a large margin, with Miami-Dade and Broward claiming the next highest counts. Comparing the court data by county with the population growth, we can identify areas where pressure is likely high for court availability. Pasco, Lake, Manatee, Osceola and Polk Counties all fall into this high-pressure category, and it’s no surprise that development is high in all of these areas – making them prime locations for future investment. To fully assess our infrastructure needs, we need a more detailed inventory of our facilities by type, courts, programs and condition. This is something we will be working on in the coming months, along with a separate economic impact report that will help us better demonstrate the financial impact of tennis events and facilities on the State and individual communities. The State of Florida Tennis is Strong, Diverse and Growing In looking at all of the information in our report, one thing is consistently clear: Florida remains a driving force in tennis play in America. Population growth, the ability to play year-round, and our many program offerings are strengths that we have compared to other states. At the same time, population growth is putting pressure on our existing infrastructure and we lack coaches. To serve our growing and diverse population, we will need to add courts, add coaches and add programs that meet the needs of specific communities. And we will need to do a better job of facilitating play in some areas and advocating in others. To download the full report and learn more about how you can access information that can help you become an advocate for tennis in your community, visit USTAFlorida.com/state-of-fl-tennis-2023. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of USTA Florida. Top image by Christian Tenguan/Unsplash

The world of custom-built trailers is vast and varied, catering to an array of industries and personal needs. From hauling equipment to providing mobile kitchens, these trailers are tailored to fit specific requirements, making them invaluable assets. This article explores the different types of custom-built trailers, highlighting their unique features and applications. Image by Guy Sagi / Adobestock Utility Trailers Utility trailers are the versatile workhorses of the trailer world. They are designed to transport a wide range of equipment, goods, and materials. What makes them stand out is their adaptability. Customization options include varying the size, weight capacity, flooring, tie-down points, and ramps to suit specific needs. In industries like construction and landscaping, utility trailers are essential. Contractors often use them to haul tools and materials to job sites, while landscapers rely on them to transport equipment like lawnmowers and trimmers. For personal use, utility trailers are perfect for tasks like moving furniture or carrying recreational gear. Enclosed Trailers When security and protection from the elements are paramount, enclosed trailers are the go-to choice. These trailers offer a secure, enclosed space to transport valuable or sensitive items. Customization options can include climate control, interior shelving, security features, and lighting, ensuring that whatever is inside stays safe and in optimal condition. Moving companies often use enclosed trailers to transport clients' belongings securely. They are also popular with mobile workshops and event equipment transporters, as they provide a reliable way to keep tools and gear safe from theft and weather damage. Flatbed Trailers Flatbed trailers are designed for hauling large, heavy, or irregularly shaped items that don't fit in standard enclosed trailers. Their open design allows for easy loading and unloading from any side. Customization options for flatbed trailers include adjustments in length, load capacity, tie-down mechanisms, and specialized extensions to handle oversized loads. Industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and construction frequently use flatbed trailers. Farmers use them to transport heavy machinery and large quantities of produce, while manufacturers rely on them for moving oversized industrial equipment. In construction, flatbed trailers are indispensable for carrying building materials and heavy equipment to job sites. Car Haulers Car haulers are specialized trailers designed to transport vehicles safely and efficiently. These trailers can be customized to accommodate the number of vehicles they need to carry, and they often include features like winches, ramps, and security systems to ensure the safe loading, unloading, and transport of vehicles. Automotive dealerships use car haulers to transport new and used vehicles between locations. Racing teams also rely on them to move race cars to different tracks, and car enthusiasts use them to transport their prized vehicles to shows and events. For an example of a custom car hauler, you can check out this car hauler with living quarters: www.milltrailers.com/product-category/car-hauler-trailers-with-living-quarters/. Image by Bogdan Varcaciuc / Adobestock Livestock Trailers For transporting animals, livestock trailers are specifically designed to ensure safety and humane conditions. These trailers can be customized with ventilation systems, non-slip flooring, partitions to separate animals, and loading ramps to facilitate easy access. Farmers and ranchers use livestock trailers to transport animals between farms, markets, and shows. Horse owners also rely on these trailers to move their horses safely, whether it's for competitions, sales, or veterinary visits. Food and Concession Trailers The mobile food industry has seen a surge in popularity, and food and concession trailers are at the heart of this trend. These trailers can be customized to function as fully equipped mobile kitchens, complete with cooking appliances, serving windows, water systems, and customized branding. Food trucks are a prime example, offering gourmet meals on wheels. Catering businesses also use these trailers to serve food at events and parties. For event vendors, these trailers provide a convenient and professional way to prepare and sell food on-site. Specialty Trailers Specialty trailers cater to niche requirements and can be customized to suit very specific needs. Examples include mobile offices, emergency response trailers, and tiny homes on wheels. Mobile Offices: These trailers can be customized with office interiors, power systems, and connectivity options, providing a fully functional workspace on the go. Emergency Response Trailers: Designed for rapid deployment, these trailers can be outfitted with medical equipment, communication systems, and other essential features for emergency situations. Tiny Homes on Wheels: These mobile homes can be customized with residential features, off-grid capabilities, and aesthetic details to provide a comfortable and stylish living space. Image by Aleksander / Adobestock Recreational Trailers For those who love the outdoors and travel, recreational trailers offer a way to bring the comforts of home on the road. These trailers can be customized with sleeping quarters, kitchenettes, entertainment systems, and storage solutions to enhance the travel experience. Camping enthusiasts use recreational trailers to explore the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Travel bloggers and adventure seekers also rely on these trailers to provide a mobile base of operations while they explore new destinations. Conclusion Custom-built trailers provide tailored solutions for a wide range of needs, from personal use to specialized industry requirements. Their versatility and customization options make them indispensable tools for many businesses and individuals. By understanding the different types of custom-built trailers available, you can choose the one that best fits your specific needs and enhances your operations. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Our hands and nails are essential to our daily lives, yet they often get overlooked when it comes to personal care. Keeping them healthy not only enhances our appearance but also protects us from various health issues. This guide covers everything you need to know about maintaining healthy hands and nails, from daily routines to professional treatments. By following these tips and tricks, you can achieve hands and nails that look and feel their best. Image by devmarya / Adobestock Understanding Hand and Nail Anatomy To properly care for our hands and nails, it's helpful to understand their structure. The skin on our hands consists of multiple layers, with the outer layer being the epidermis, which provides a barrier against environmental damage. Beneath it is the dermis, containing nerves, blood vessels, and sweat glands. Nails are made up of several parts: the nail plate (the visible part), the nail bed (the skin beneath the nail plate), the cuticle (the tissue at the base of the nail), and the lunula (the crescent-shaped white area at the nail's base). Nails grow from the matrix, a hidden area under the cuticle, which produces new cells that harden and form the nail plate. Daily Hand and Nail Care Routine Washing your hands is crucial for hygiene, but doing it right is equally important to avoid damaging your skin. Use lukewarm water and a gentle soap. Scrub all parts of your hands, including between fingers and under nails, for at least 20 seconds. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Regular moisturizing keeps your skin hydrated and prevents cracking. Apply a hand cream after washing your hands and before bed. Look for products with ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides for optimal hydration. Image by vladimirfloyd / Adobestock Nail Care Essentials Trim your nails regularly to prevent breakage and maintain their shape. Use a clean, sharp nail clipper and cut straight across, then slightly round the tips to prevent snagging. Filing helps smooth the edges and prevents splitting. Use a fine-grit nail file and move it in one direction rather than a back-and-forth motion, which can cause weakening. Cuticles protect your nails from infections, so it's important to care for them. Soak your hands in warm water to soften the cuticles, then gently push them back with a cuticle stick. Avoid cutting cuticles as this can lead to infections. Applying cuticle oil keeps your cuticles and nails hydrated. Look for oils with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, vitamin E, and almond oil. Nutrition for Healthy Hands and Nails Certain nutrients play a crucial role in nail health. Biotin (vitamin B7) strengthens nails, while vitamin E helps with hydration. Iron prevents nails from becoming brittle, and zinc supports nail growth. Incorporate foods rich in these vitamins and minerals into your diet. Eggs, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and fish are excellent choices. Drinking plenty of water also helps keep your nails hydrated from within. Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, including the health of your skin and nails. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to maintain optimal hydration levels. Nail Polish and Its Effects Select a nail polish that is free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP (dibutyl phthalate). These ingredients can cause damage and lead to brittle nails. Use a base coat to protect your nails and a top coat to seal in the color and add shine. Avoid using nail polish removers with acetone, as they can be very drying. Instead, opt for acetone-free formulas. Base coats create a barrier between your nail and the polish, preventing staining and strengthening the nail. Top coats add a protective layer that prolongs the life of your manicure and adds a glossy finish. Image by Svitlana / Adobestock Common Hand and Nail Problems and Solutions Dry, cracked hands can result from frequent washing, harsh weather, or dehydration. Use a rich hand cream regularly, and wear gloves when exposed to water or cold air. Brittle nails can be caused by excessive exposure to water, harsh chemicals, or nutritional deficiencies. Keep your nails trimmed, and moisturized, and avoid using your nails as tools. Strengthening treatments and a biotin supplement can also help. Fungal infections can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nails. Keep your nails clean and dry, and avoid walking barefoot in communal areas. Antifungal treatments, both topical and oral, can be prescribed by a doctor. DIY Treatments and Home Remedies Create a nourishing hand scrub by mixing sugar with olive oil or honey. Gently massage into your hands to exfoliate and moisturize. For a deep conditioning mask, apply a thick layer of coconut oil and wear cotton gloves overnight. Strengthen your nails naturally by soaking them in a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice. This can help nourish the nails and promote growth. Natural oils like coconut and olive oil are excellent for moisturizing and strengthening nails. They are rich in vitamins and fatty acids that promote healthy nail growth. Conclusion Healthy hands and nails are a reflection of your overall well-being. By understanding their anatomy, following a proper care routine, and addressing common issues, you can maintain their health and appearance. Implement these tips and tricks into your daily life for long-lasting benefits. Your hands and nails deserve the best care, so treat them with the attention they need. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Ice baths, also known as cold water immersion, have become a popular recovery tool among athletes and wellness enthusiasts. The practice involves immersing the body or specific body parts in ice-cold water, typically around 50-59°F (10-15°C), for a period of time. While the idea of plunging into icy water may seem daunting, the potential benefits of ice baths are well-documented and extend beyond just muscle recovery. Image by Layerform / Adobestock Enhanced Muscle Recovery One of the most well-known benefits of ice baths is their ability to aid muscle recovery. After intense physical exercise, muscles often experience microtears, leading to soreness and inflammation. Immersing the body in cold water constricts blood vessels and reduces metabolic activity, which helps to minimize inflammation and swelling. This process can lead to quicker recovery times and reduced muscle soreness, allowing athletes to return to their training routines more swiftly. Reduced Inflammation and Swelling The cold temperatures of an ice bath can have a significant impact on inflammation. By cooling the body, ice baths decrease the temperature of the tissues and constrict blood vessels, which helps to reduce the amount of fluid that accumulates in the affected areas. This reduction in fluid buildup can alleviate swelling and discomfort, particularly in areas that have been injured or subjected to excessive strain. As a result, ice baths can be beneficial not only for athletes but also for individuals recovering from injuries or surgery. Improved Circulation Although ice baths initially cause blood vessels to constrict, they subsequently lead to a process known as "vascular flushing." When the body is removed from the cold water, the blood vessels dilate, and blood flow increases as the body warms up. This process helps to flush out metabolic waste products and brings in oxygen-rich blood to the muscles. Improved circulation can enhance overall recovery and support the body’s natural healing processes. Image by Michele Ursi / Adobestock Mental Resilience and Stress Reduction The experience of enduring the discomfort of an ice bath can also contribute to mental resilience. Facing and overcoming the challenge of cold immersion can build mental toughness and improve one’s ability to handle stress. Additionally, the cold exposure triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood elevators. This can lead to reduced feelings of anxiety and stress, promoting a sense of well-being and mental clarity. Enhanced Immune Function Emerging research suggests that regular cold exposure, including ice baths, may have a positive effect on the immune system. Cold water immersion has been associated with an increase in the production of white blood cells and a boost in overall immune response. This enhanced immune function can contribute to better overall health and increased resistance to illnesses. Improved Sleep Quality Ice baths can also positively impact sleep quality. The reduction in muscle soreness and the overall sense of relaxation following an ice bath can contribute to a more restful night’s sleep. Additionally, the decrease in inflammation and stress can help create a more conducive environment for restful sleep. Image by Светлана Лазаренко / Adobestock Conclusion Ice baths offer a range of benefits that extend beyond muscle recovery, including reduced inflammation, improved circulation, mental resilience, and potential immune system enhancements. While the cold immersion might seem challenging, the physiological and psychological benefits can make it a valuable addition to a comprehensive wellness routine. As with any recovery method, it’s important to approach ice baths with mindfulness and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions. Embracing the chill of an ice bath might just be the refreshing boost your body and mind need. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Adobestock

Inter Miami CF II is gearing up for more MLS NEXT Pro action as the boys travel away to take on Orlando City B. The game will be at Osceola Heritage Park on Sunday July 14, at 7 p.m. ET. Subscribe to MLS NEXT Pro Season Pass on Apple TV to tune in to the game by clicking HERE. Inter Miami CF II is looking to get back to winning ways, after Saturday’s 2-2 draw to Chicago FC United at SeatGeek Stadium. The match featured goals from Santiago Morales and substitute Yuval Cohens equalizer towards the end of the match. Inter Miami II currently stands at 22 points this season with a record of six wins, six losses and four draws so far this 2024 regular season. The Herons will take on Orlando City B for what will be the third matchup between the sides this 2024 MLS NEXT Pro regular season. Inter Miami II previously defeated Orlando City twice back in June in a 3-1 and 2-0 in April. In all, Inter Miami II has recorded two wins, four losses and two draws in away fixtures this regular season. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Inter Miami CF