Shipyard Rossinavi will officially unveil Alchemy, the 66-metre motor yacht at the Monaco Yacht Show (27-30 September). The fully custom motor yacht was completed and launched for sea trials earlier this year in the shipyard’s facility of Viareggio, Italy, and is a project by Vitruvius Yachts, a brand by Philippe Briand, while Enrico Gobbi - Team for Design is responsible for the interior design and outdoor spaces styling. Rossinavi’s Alchemy, designed by Vitruvius Yachts with interior styling by Enrico Gobbi - Team for Design An interior view of Alchemy. Photography by Giovanni Malgarini This new vessel is Rossinavi’s latest superyacht with diesel-electric propulsion and is propelled by pods to reduce the loss of energy between the engines and navigation speed. Alchemy is an elegant 66m tri-deck motor yacht commissioned by a private client who has very much been involved in every aspect of the design project, with a focus on the outdoor areas and wellness aspects of the yacht. The energetic and powerful exchange of the client's wishes, combined with Rossinavi's expertise, proved very fruitful, thanks in part to the Owner's representative, Fabrizio Loi of U.S.-based Interyachting LLC, who carefully coordinated the designers, the production process, and the inspections performed by Mike Worthington - Lees of Wintherbothams Ltd. Construction features include: The forward owner's cabin offers a clear view of the sea towards the aft, thanks to the spacious central corridor. This design feature creates a sense of openness and a strong connection to the maritime environment. Noteworthy technical elements include custom features such as the specialised aft toy storage hatches. These incorporate a mechanical system designed to ensure stability when launching the tender into the water. Emphasis has been placed on maximising onboard comfort and minimising vibration. Every technical and material choice, from the bow thruster to the air conditioning system and engine room layout, has been carefully considered to reduce onboard noise and vibrations, ultimately enhancing the overall comfort of the vessel. “The key word for this vessel is balance. With the Vitruvius team, we were able to best express the know-how and skills we have gained through decades of experience; together we were able to work in synergy under the precious guidance and presence of the owner.”’ Says Federico Rossi, Chief Operating Officer of Rossinavi An interior view of Alchemy. Photography by Giovanni Malgarini “I was very lucky to meet this owner, who guided and empowered the entire team involved in the creation of his superyacht. A real "Alchemy", as the name evokes, a combination of elements which leads to an original and refined result: a streamlined and elegant 3 deck vessel, 66m long, that fits perfectly with what Vitruvius Yachts represents.” Says Philippe Briand, Founder of Vitruvius Yachts. Key design specifications include: Alchemy’s silhouette is all about proportioned balance and exudes tranquillity. Its beauty is enhanced by optimal volumes and distribution of the living areas thanks to a meticulous process of research and development Generous outdoor square meterage (over 330 sqm) well distributed across three different decks. Main amenities include a jacuzzi, numerous sunpads, a bar and entertaining areas together with a barbecue positioned near one of the dining spaces. The bridge deck features a salon and another al fresco dining area for more formal occasions while the main deck exposes a large cockpit A monumental, suspended staircase takes centre stage in the main salon and connects the bridge to the upper deck. The grand staircase creates a dramatic connection with the two areas through a vertical opening right in the heart of the yacht featuring suspended glass steps that are supported between two partitions of white Carrara marble The Beach Club coincides with the vessel’s welcome area which is designed to give the impression of entering a spa. Teak wood enhanced by fine details in stainless steel and white marble with matt finish provides a relaxing atmosphere The garage area has enough space to store a vast array of equipment from paddleboards to windsurfs, from water skis to two tenders (respectively of 7m and 8m long), water slides, inflatable docks and even mountain bikes for exploration trips on land. The interior design and outdoor spaces style of Alchemy, conceived by Enrico Gobbi - Team for Design, is characterised by a calm and elegant atmosphere that influences all decks and areas. Every single piece of furniture is bespoke, including the oversized sofa in the main salon which is one of its kind. “Spa mood was the keyword for the interior design and exterior decor of this yacht; natural materials, soft colours, and essential shapes for the interiors. Soft indirect lights to 'wet' the simplicity of the forms, where the detail and construction quality had to emerge and characterise the space: 'detail makes the differences' this is the motto that we have followed more than ever in this project together with the owners. Never before on a yacht of this size have we worked that closely with the owners, who became full members of the design team: we started from a blank sheet of paper up to the design of the sofas’ decor and cushions to make every detail unique and unrepeatable. To sum up, in this refined project, luxury and uniqueness lie in the deep research for a refined detail.” Says Enrico Gobbi, Founder of Enrico Gobbi - Team for Design TECHNICAL DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION FEATURES OF M/Y ALCHEMY Length overall (LOA): 65.70m - 215.5ft Beam: 11.31m - 37.1ft Draft: 3.11m - 10.2ft Gross tonnage: 1194 GT Material: steel, aluminium Top speed: 16 kn Cruising speed: 12 kn Guest cabin: 5+1 Crew cabin: 8+1 Exterior Design: Philippe Briand - Vitruvius Yachts Interior Design: Enrico Gobbi - Team For Design Naval Architecture: Philippe Briand - Vitruvius Yachts & Rossinavi An interior view of Alchemy. Photography by Giovanni Malgarini MORE ON PHILIPPE BRIAND – VITRUVIUS YACHTS The internationally acclaimed naval architect and yacht designer Philippe Briand is a driving force in his field. He made his name designing award-winning sailing yachts under his own brand name and building on that experience has led him to create a revolutionary range of motor yachts Vitruvius Yachts. Inspired by a childhood sailing in the yachting centre of La Rochelle, France, Philippe Briand has dedicated his life to perfecting the art of conquering the sea. His designs stand out for their technical excellence and precision, combined with his strong artistic flair and ability to drive innovative design trends as he seeks perfection. As one of the founders of the Water Revolution Foundation he contributes to the standards moving towards the neutralisation of the ecological footprint of the yachting industry, and Vitruvius Yachts are 30% more efficient than other yachts of comparable size. With over 12,000 boats built to date Philippe Briand could reasonably be considered the most prolific yacht designer of our time. His loyal client base of extremely discerning owners appreciate his collaborative approach to design – they are involved at every stage of shaping their own remarkable superyacht. With offices in both London and La Rochelle, Briand and his team of designers and engineers work with yacht owners around the world who are looking for the very best. The impressive range of Vitruvius Yachts may range in size to over 100m in length. Briand’s meticulous attention to detail means they are perfected to the nearest millimetre. This dedicated approach to intelligent, sustainable yet stunningly elegant design has been recognized internationally with 34 prestigious yacht awards so far. www.philippebriand.com / www.vitruviusyachts.com MORE ON ENRICO GOBBI - TEAM FOR DESIGN Team for Design is a Yacht Design and Architecture firm established in 2005 and based in Italy, in the historic city of Venice. The most unique town on the water is a cradle of art, architecture and is representative of the Italian Style. Not least, native town of Team for Design’s chief designer Enrico Gobbi. Venice has had a relevant influence on the designer’s professional formation, his strong relation both with architecture and water reflects the presence of both these elements in the old town. Enrico Gobbi, after graduating from the world-renowned University of Architecture in Venice (IUAV), obtained a specialisation in Yacht Design and started working in the marine industry. Many years of experience achieved by collaborating with some of the most renowned design companies and shipyards brought him to become the creative mind of Team for Design. Team for Design along with Enrico Gobbi, brings together designers with different views of design and architecture from all over the world under the same firm, hence the word "TEAM" in our company name. We have an absolute passion for exceptional design, our mood is “all is possible: we draw your dreams... with a realistic vision”. The team for Design’s activities include exterior/interior design of custom superyachts and serial production yachts, beginning from the conceptual drawings up to the executive phase and project management during construction. Not least, the development of exclusive residential projects for some of our affectionate Clients brought us to open a Residential Department that creates luxurious interior design projects and prestigious buildings and villas. www.teamfordesign.com By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Rossinavi

Fueled by the power of change, the hope of the youth, and the value of empathy, ECHO follows an inquisitive young woman named FUTURE as she wanders into a fantasy world that explores our sacred bond with animals and nature. When FUTURE and her best friend the DOG encounter a mysterious CUBE, they quickly learn how their actions have the power to shape this world, and if we come together, we can rebuild our planet to create the world we all want to live in. Cirque du Soleil’s 20th Big Top show brings bold new visuals and a unique aesthetic on tour. Packed with vibrant characters, inspiring music, astounding lights and projections, and never-before-seen acrobatic feats, ECHO invites audiences on a journey through a universe of color, wonder, and infinite possibilities. This will be Cirque du Soleil’s official return to South Florida since 2019. For the first time, fans will enjoy a spectacular new location against the backdrop of the iconic Pegasus located at 1/ST’s Gulfstream Park. The 11-story bronze Pegasus statue is a symbol of the renowned Gulfstream Park, South Florida’s premiere entertainment destination featuring world-class Thoroughbred horse racing, a casino with Vegas-style slot machines and video tables, and The Village at Gulfstream Park offering destination retailers, signature restaurants, outdoor cafés, and unique entertainment options. It is also the first-ever Big Top show to come to Broward County! The iconic Big Top will be enjoyed by those far and near, in anticipation of ECHO coming to the region. Ticket Information Tickets for ECHO are now available online to Club Cirque members. Club Cirque membership is free and benefits include access to advance tickets, special offers and exclusive behind-the-scenes information. To join, go to www.cirqueclub.com. Tickets for the general public will be available starting on September 25th at https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/echo. For more information, visit https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/echo. Follow #ECHOCirque and #cirquedusoleil on social media By ML Staff. Images courtesy of ECHO

Florida Climate Week™ will be celebrated virtually from October 2nd to the 8th. The event offers numerous exclusive experiences that address solutions to reduce carbon emissions and create more resilient communities. Florida cities including Orlando, Edgewater, Kissimmee, Town of Longboat Key, Stuart, Winter Park, Miami Beach, Tampa, Clearwater, Fort Myers Beach, Holmes Beach, St. Augustine, Safety Harbor, Okeechobee, Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Village of Tequesta, and more have announced by Proclamation the week of October 2-8, 2023, as Florida Climate Week. More cities are expected to join within the next few days. Jupiter, FL, September 2023. VoLo Foundation announced today that October 2-8, 2023, will be declared Florida Climate Week™ (FCW). The week is marked with an annual event centered on the discussion and action of climate solutions in the state of Florida. This free virtual and in-person summit, which coincides with Energy Awareness Month, will unite policymakers, businesses, and individuals to address the urgency of the climate crisis and its impact on our state. In 2023, Florida Climate Week™ - Educate – Engage – Act will focus on solutions to reduce carbon emissions and create more environmentally resilient communities. The United States is ranked as the second-most-susceptible country in the world to climate-related changes, with Florida listed tenth, following nine regions in China. Data shows that rising sea levels, flooding, hurricanes, and wildfires pose a significant risk to Floridians’ health and to the state’s economy. Projections suggest that a substantial portion of Florida could be submerged underwater by 2050. These changes also lead to more frequent hurricanes that threaten the homes and livelihoods of Floridians. "With Florida being the 10th territory on the planet most affected by climate change, it was urgent that we have our week dedicated to the climate, as New York has it. I am a mother, and my vision is always set on the future," said Thais Lopez Vogel, co-founder and trustee of VoLo Foundation. VoLo Foundation’s climate action program manager and event coordinator, Nicole Salzberg, commented, "FCW will once again bring virtual presentations from our outstanding partners across the state. This event showcases our commitment to address climate change, to foster innovation, and to protect Florida's unique environment. By bringing together experts, policymakers, and communities, we outline a resilient future for the state." Additionally, Salzberg highlighted that “For the first time, FCW will also host in-person events centered on promoting awareness, education, and most importantly, action!” The program includes 35 virtual events and 10 in-person events that will address diverse topics, such as the effects of high temperatures and increasing heat in the state, the reduction of carbon emissions and energy-efficient solutions, the impact of climate change on children’s health, the importance of civil participation, agricultural innovation and the power of food to confront climate change, the negative impacts of plastic on our earth, technology to reduce environmental impact, climate change and mental health, and educational models for sustainability, among many others. Speakers and panelists include scientists, politicians, business leaders, and community advocates, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the conversation. To register for free and access the full agenda, visit www.floridaclimateweek.org. Join Florida Climate Week™, a unique opportunity to actively participate in protecting our state and finding solutions for a sustainable future! For more information about FLORIDA CLIMATE WEEK™, visit www.floridaclimateweek.org and follow VoLo on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Join the conversation using #fcw2023, #fcw, #flclimatesolutions, #climatecorrection, and #volofoundation. By ML Staff. Image by Filip Bunkens/Unsplash

Each fall, I begin my course on the intersection of music and artificial intelligence by asking my students if they’re concerned about AI’s role in composing or producing music. So far, the question has always elicited a resounding “yes.” Their fears can be summed up in a sentence: AI will create a world where music is plentiful, but musicians get cast aside. In the upcoming semester, I’m anticipating a discussion about Paul McCartney, who in June 2023 announced that he and a team of audio engineers had used machine learning to uncover a “lost” vocal track of John Lennon by separating the instruments from a demo recording. But resurrecting the voices of long-dead artists is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what’s possible – and what’s already being done. In an interview, McCartney admitted that AI represents a “scary” but “exciting” future for music. To me, his mix of consternation and exhilaration is spot on. Here are three ways AI is changing the way music gets made – each of which could threaten human musicians in various ways: 1. Song composition Many programs can already generate music with a simple prompt from the user, such as “Electronic Dance with a Warehouse Groove.” Fully generative apps train AI models on extensive databases of existing music. This enables them to learn musical structures, harmonies, melodies, rhythms, dynamics, timbres and form, and generate new content that stylistically matches the material in the database. There are many examples of these kinds of apps. But the most successful ones, like Boomy, allow nonmusicians to generate music and then post the AI-generated results on Spotify to earn money. Spotify recently removed many of these Boomy-generated tracks, claiming that this would protect human artists’ rights and royalties. The two companies quickly came to an agreement that allowed Boomy to re-upload the tracks. But the algorithms powering these apps still have a troubling ability to infringe upon existing copyright, which might go unnoticed to most users. After all, basing new music on a data set of existing music is bound to cause noticeable similarities between the music in the data set and the generated content. A poster for the AI music service Boomy in Austin, Texas.Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images Furthermore, streaming services like Spotify and Amazon Music are naturally incentivized to develop their own AI music-generation technology. Spotify, for instance, pays 70% of the revenue of each stream to the artist who created it. If the company could generate that music with its own algorithms, it could cut human artists out of the equation altogether. Over time, this could mean more money for giant streaming services, less money for musicians – and a less human approach to making music. 2. Mixing and mastering Machine-learning-enabled apps that help musicians balance all of the instruments and clean up the audio in a song – what’s known as mixing and mastering – are valuable tools for those who lack the experience, skill or resources to pull off professional-sounding tracks. Over the past decade, AI’s integration into music production has revolutionized how music is mixed and mastered. AI-driven apps like Landr, Cryo Mix and iZotope’s Neutron can automatically analyze tracks, balance audio levels and remove noise. These technologies streamline the production process, allowing musicians and producers to focus on the creative aspects of their work and leave some of the technical drudgery to AI. While these apps undoubtedly take some work away from professional mixers and producers, they also allow professionals to quickly complete less lucrative jobs, such as mixing or mastering for a local band, and focus on high-paying commissions that require more finesse. These apps also allow musicians to produce more professional-sounding work without involving an audio engineer they can’t afford. 3. Instrumental and vocal reproduction Using “tone transfer” algorithms via apps like Mawf, musicians can transform the sound of one instrument into another. Thai musician and engineer Yaboi Hanoi’s song “Enter Demons & Gods,” which won the third international AI Song Contest in 2022, was unique in that it was influenced not only by Thai mythology, but also by the sounds of native Thai musical instruments, which have a non-Western system of intonation. One of the most technically exciting aspects of Yaboi Hanoi’s entry was the reproduction of a traditional Thai woodwind instrument – the pi nai – which was resynthesized to perform the track. A variant of this technology lies at the core of the Vocaloid voice synthesis software, which allows users to produce convincingly human vocal tracks with swappable voices. Unsavory applications of this technique are popping up outside of the musical realm. For example, AI voice swapping has been used to scam people out of money. But musicians and producers can already use it to realistically reproduce the sound of any instrument or voice imaginable. The downside, of course, is that this technology can rob instrumentalists of the opportunity to perform on a recorded track. AI’s Wild West moment While I applaud Yaboi Hanoi’s victory, I have to wonder if it will encourage musicians to use AI to fake a cultural connection where none exists. In 2021, Capitol Music Group made headlines by signing an “AI rapper” that had been given the avatar of a Black male cyborg, but which was really the work of Factory New non-Black software engineers. The backlash was swift, with the record label roundly excoriated for blatant cultural appropriation. But AI musical cultural appropriation is easier to stumble into than you might think. With the extraordinary size of songs and samples that comprise the data sets used by apps like Boomy – see the open source “Million Song Dataset” for a sense of the scale – there’s a good chance that a user may unwittingly upload a newly generated track that pulls from a culture that isn’t their own, or cribs from an artist in a way that too closely mimics the original. Worse still, it won’t always be clear who is to blame for the offense, and current U.S. copyright laws are contradictory and woefully inadequate to the task of regulating these issues. These are all topics that have come up in my own class, which has allowed me to at least inform my students of the dangers of unchecked AI and how to best avoid these pitfalls. At the same time, at the end of each fall semester, I’ll again ask my students if they’re concerned about an AI takeover of music. At that point, and with a whole semester’s experience investigating these technologies, most of them say they’re excited to see how the technology will evolve and where the field will go. Some dark possibilities do lie ahead for humanity and AI. Still, at least in the realm of musical AI, there is cause for some optimism – assuming the pitfalls are avoided. By Jason Palamara, Assistant Professor of Music Technology, Indiana University Images courtesy of The Conversation. Top image by Erik Mclean/Unsplash

Fashion Group International (FGI) South Florida is thrilled to announce the inaugural Rising Star Awards, a celebration of the region’s most promising and creative talents and visionaries in the world of fashion on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, in downtown Miami at the Southeast Financial Center located at 200 S Biscayne Blvd. from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. EST. Set against the vibrant backdrop of downtown Miami, FGI South Florida will honor the next generation of fashion innovators and designers with a prestigious awards ceremony spotlighting emerging fashion designer finalists focusing on a spectrum of categories including Accessories, Innovation, Members' Choice Awards, Ready to Wear, and Swimwear. Distinguished honoree, fashion industry veteran, and beauty media entrepreneur, Derek Warburton, will also be honored and awarded with FGI South Florida’s inaugural Icon Award. As an internationally renowned beauty entrepreneur, celebrity stylist, TV personality, philanthropist, and creative director, Mr. Warburton has contributed to the fashion and beauty industries over the last three decades in an impactful and inspiring way. “I couldn’t be more honored to receive the FGI South Florida Icon Award at this year’s Rising Star Awards. I started my career in Miami and after all these years, it feels incredible to come back to where it all started and collaborate with an incredible organization that is doing meaningful work to support emerging designers and fashion entrepreneurs! So many designers and artists need help and guidance and I’m thrilled to support an organization that guides new talent,” Warburton said. FGI boasts a rich history dating back to 1928 when 17 visionary women came together under the leadership of the esteemed Edna Woolman Chase, Editor-In-Chief of Vogue, to foster connectivity within the fashion realm. Today, FGI has flourished with a presence spanning across North America in Toronto, Houston, South Florida, and beyond. At its core, FGI remains dedicated to building a supportive and thriving community of established and emerging fashion leaders while fostering opportunities for new and veteran talents in the fashion and beauty industries. Sandra Madjdi, Director of FGI South Florida, expresses her pride and excitement for this year’s Rising Star Awards event and ceremony: “Our FGI team is delighted to host the first-ever Rising Star awards in the South Florida region. Our organization’s rich history, originally founded in New York City by Vogue fashion editors and industry titans, has paved the way for the incredible talent of South Florida to shine, propelling innovation, connectivity, and advancement within the fashion industry.” Select tickets to this fashion event are available for sale on Eventbrite through September 29th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-annual-rising-star-awards-tickets-712090841877?aff=oddtdtcreator. MORE ON FGI SOUTH FLORIDA Founded in 1928, Fashion Group International has grown into a worldwide membership non-profit organization of industry leaders in the fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and retail sectors with its global headquarters located in New York City. The FGI South Florida chapter is based in Miami and has over 1,000 members. To learn more visit the chapter on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/fgisouthflorida. MORE ON DEREK WARBURTON Derek Michael Warburton, also known as Derek Fabulous, stands as an American media entrepreneur and a renowned celebrity fashion stylist. With an education that began at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, Warburton has built an influencer in the fashion and beauty industries on an international basis and is a renowned media and beauty entrepreneur, celebrity stylist, TV personality, philanthropist, creative director, and, most importantly, a storyteller. His humble beginnings led to his obsessive need to educate himself in the art of reinvention and to create a narrative. With an affinity for all things fashion and lifestyle, Derek wanted to create a brand that showed off his 25 years in the creative industry. Mr. Warburton’s worldwide view of culture and fashion, accompanied by years of working with top celebrities, has assisted his vision for a new eye of publishing in the modern digital age. Just last year, Derek released his second collaborative effort with FACE Stockholm, the Boundless Collection. Like all of Derek’s work, the beauty collection encapsulated Derek’s vibrant and expressive style. Visit https://derekwarburton.com to learn more. For media inquiries and additional information, please contact Sopi Mitil at sm@sopimitil.com and Rucht D`Oleo-Schwartz at info@fashionsfl.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Fashion Group International

Feeding South Florida® – the leading hunger-relief organization in South Florida – will host “Cuisine For A Cause” on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 6 – 9 p.m., at its Palm Beach County warehouse in Boynton Beach. South Florida’s top community leaders and philanthropists will enjoy a four-course dinner prepared by local celebrity chefs, cocktails and live entertainment. Supporters will also have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction. The four-course meal will be prepared in Feeding South Florida’s one-of-a-kind Community Kitchen by featured celebrity chefs James Beard-nominated Chef Lindsay Autry of The Regional Kitchen & Public House, Chef Ralph Pagano of Naked Taco, Bryce Statham of Blue Moon Fish Co. and Spotos Oyster Bar and Award-winning pastry Chef and Author Hedy Goldsmith of Sweet Hedy. Feeding South Florida’s Director of Culinary Services Susan Taves will also participate in preparing the meals. A portion of the proceeds support Feeding South Florida’s 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. Currently in South Florida, there are over 1.1 million food insecure individuals, and 1 in 9 individuals in South Florida remain uncertain about where they will get their next meal. “Cuisine For A Cause” is sponsored by Publix Super Markets Charities and Events on the Loose. In 2020, Feeding South Florida unveiled its state-of-the-art, 5,000-square-foot community kitchen. Although the kitchen is located in Palm Beach County, it provides 85,000 meals to people in the four counties that Feeding South Florida serves (Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties). The multi-purpose community kitchen serves as a meal production site, culinary training program, social enterprise catering, incubator space for graduates of the program, and healthy cooking classes. The kitchen advances Feeding South Florida’s mission of ending hunger in South Florida by serving up to 20,200 meals per day for children’s after-school and summer programs, meals for older adults and medically tailored meals. The kitchen also provides critical meals during disaster response. Individual tickets are available for $300. For more information and to register, please visit: www.feedingsouthflorida.org/cuisineforacause By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Peter Dawn/Unsplash, Feeding South Florida

The Florida Blue Training Center, home of Major League Soccer Club Inter Miami CF, announced on Friday a landmark deal with the Miami Sharks Rugby Club. The relationship announces that the Miami Sharks Rugby Club, the newest Major League Rugby franchise, becomes the first official partner outside of the Inter Miami CF traditional fútbol family to use the state-of-the-art training center daily. The Miami Sharks will join the Inter Miami CF First Team, Second Team and Academy teams at the facilities commencing in the first quarter of 2024, also marking the inaugural season for the Miami Sharks. The AutoNation Sports Field located at the Florida Blue Training Center in the City of Fort Lauderdale will serve as the matchday venue for the Professional Rugby Club and also provide access to the top-tier training resources of Inter Miami. “This is an exciting opportunity for a unique collaboration with a new face in the South Florida sports landscape. We are happy to provide the Miami Sharks a home and access to the state-of-the-art resources of the Florida Blue Training Center as we come together at a special time for sports fans in South Florida,” said Inter Miami CF Chief Business Officer, Xavier Asensi. The AutoNation Sports Field, currently utilized as a training and event space, will become the official home field for the Miami Sharks. To facilitate this transition, the facilities will undergo extensive preparations, including the addition of seating to accommodate an approximate capacity of 5,000 spectators. The agreement encompasses a comprehensive collaboration that extends beyond the realm of sports. Notably, this partnership includes a provision for facilitating and introducing partnerships, thereby establishing a mutually beneficial opportunity. The Miami Sharks has strong Argentine roots as the Club's inaugural captain, Tomás Cubelli, is the star of the Argentina Rugby National Team, nicknamed Los Pumas. Cubelli and Argentina began their 2023 World Cup campaign on Sept. 8 in Marsella France. Tomas Cubelli is a player admired by fans of Los Pumas; the only American team ranked in the top 10 of World Rugby. All his experience will be capitalized by the Miami franchise, where the largest community of Argentines abroad resides, around 70,000 people. "I am very excited to join the Miami Sharks in this exhilarating journey and to move to Miami, the capital of the world of professional sports," said Tomas Cubelli, as he gets ready for the 2024 MLR Season. With double-digit growth in attendance and viewership since its inception in 2018, Major League Rugby presents a promising platform, including substantial fan base growth, that has flourished in Florida and Miami in recent years. Marcos Galperin, founder, and CEO of MercadoLibre, has made the strategic choice to invest in the Miami Sharks, underscoring the increasing allure of rugby in this dynamic market. "It is an honor for us to train and play in the facilities where IMCF trains, we are convinced our players will thrive in such an environment and look forward to the crowds being able to enjoy another team action sport in the Miami area," said Marcos Galperin from Miami Sharks Rugby. The partnership highlights Inter Miami CF's dedication to fostering the growth of local sports in South Florida, particularly notable with fútbol and now extending to rugby, ahead of respective World Cups coming to the United States in 2026 and 2031. Given the robust Latin American connection of both teams, the promise of an intensely passionate game experience is undeniable. The convergence of Inter Miami and the Miami Sharks brings together this shared cultural fervor, ensuring an electric atmosphere that will resonate with fans and spectators alike and reflects the shared commitment to advancing the sports landscape in the region. About Miami Sharks The Miami Sharks, who will begin competing during the 2024 Major League Rugby (MLR) season, are Florida’s first professional rugby franchise. The founding owners of the Miami Sharks have made the strategic choice to invest in the Miami Sharks, underscoring the increasing allure of rugby in this dynamic market. The founder’s team is led by Marcos Galperin, founder and president of the leading e-commerce and financial services company Mercado Libre, Alejandro Macfarlane, and Ronaldo “Kony” Strazzolini. Among the confirmed players are Tomas Inciarte, Felipe Etcheverry, and Manuel Ardao of the Uruguay National team. Jose Pellicena is the head coach, with over 15 years of years of experience dedicated to rugby development in Argentina, encompassing clubs, selections, and significant contributions to UAR (Argentina’s Rugby Union). For more information go to www.MiamiSharks.com About Major League Rugby Major League Rugby has 13 teams representing the highest level of rugby in the United States and Canada. Major League Rugby is a professional sports league representing the highest level of rugby competition in North America. Matches are televised on Fox Sports, among other national and local market platforms. Select matches are available to stream live in North America on The Rugby Network, and all matches are available on The Rugby Network for international fans. MLR prides itself in fostering intense, high-stakes competition while bringing together a passionate community built on the values of Respect, Inclusivity, and Tradition. For more information about MLR, visit www.MajorLeague.Rugby About the Florida Blue Training Center & AutoNation Sports Field The Florida Blue Training Center is a 50,000-square-foot training facility in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which boasts six natural grass fields and one turf field for the development of professional and youth sports. The complex is leveraged to create unique activations for South Florida communities such as soccer clinics, and inclusive events for families and fans. The facility has welcomed the top National Teams and Club teams in the World including, World Champions, the Argentina Men’s National Team, FC Barcelona, River Plate, and the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams to name a few. The AutoNation Sports Field is currently host to Ft. Lauderdale High School Football Teams and beginning in 2024, the facility will also become home to the Miami Sharks Rugby Club. By ML staff. Images courtesy of Miami Shark.

Directed by Leesa Richards with principal photography by Richards and Eric Hernandez, the scene of the crime was The Betsy Hotel (thebetsyhotel.com) – an Art Deco era beachfront Ocean Drive resort. This historic luxury boutique property known for its commitment to the arts has celebrated a wide range of cultural luminaries from Langston Hughes to Mohammed Ali. As a haven for Miami-jazz it’s often featured our own Nicole Henry performing in B Bar, an underground space with a Speakeasy feel that served as the location for the video’s end sequence photography. Celebrating a 20-year career and eight critically acclaimed chart-topping CDs, Nicole is the recipient of a Soul Train Award for “Best Traditional Jazz Performance,” and has garnered four Top-10 jazz albums on the U.S. Billboard; JazzWeek; HMV Japan, and U.K. Sweet Rhythms charts. Nicole has 225,000+ monthly listeners on Spotify and has songs placed on over 18,000 Int’l playlists. The single release of “Is It a Crime,” from her latest album Time to Love Again was recently added as the #1 breakthrough single on the UK Soul Charts. This is her fourth charting single from the album which Downbeat Magazine called, an “exuberant, joyous, immaculately executed set.” The New York Times, Miami Herald, and Jazz Times Magazine have compared powerhouse jazz vocalist Nicole Henry to Whitney Houston and Natalie Cole for her dynamic range, impeccable phrasing, and bluesy gospel style. Whether burning through a swing tune or gently caressing a ballad, Nicole truly makes each song uniquely her own and “aims right for the emotional center.” (Billboard) The New York Times raved, “Every gesture and inflection conveyed confidence and mastery…I had the sense of being in the presence of a pop-soul superwoman.” Broadway World says, “So powerful is her charisma, so unique is her personality, so rich is her music, so abandoned is her joy that you can't watch her without being drawn in." Ms. Henry continues her national tour with upcoming performances throughout the end of the year including her upcoming 10th annual holiday fundraising concert on December 5th at the Colony Theatre in Miami Beach. For further tour dates visit nicolehenry.com. Stay Connected: Website: www.nicolehenry.com FB: www.Facebook.com/nicolehenrymusic IG: www.Instagram.com/nicolehenrymusic X (formerly Twitter: www.Twitter.com/nicolehenryjazz By ML Staff. Images courtesy of The Betsy Hotel

Perry Ellis International, Inc., the globally renowned fashion brand, today announced its partnership with Miami Dolphins Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Tua, who has the Miami Dolphins off to a 3-0 start in the National Football League (NFL) season, will serve as the global ambassador for the brand. The multi-year ambassador and product program will include the launch of a collection set to debut in summer 2024, and inspired by Tua's Hawaiian-Samoan heritage. "We're incredibly excited to unveil a long-term partnership with Tua," said Oscar Feldenkreis, President and CEO of Perry Ellis International, Inc. "As a remarkable talent, both on and off the field, Tua is the quintessential Perry Ellis man. In his position as a star quarterback, it's all about performance, and he is "Always Ready to Make the Play" which complements our brand ethos Always Ready. We're proud to welcome Tua to our own team as an ambassador and creative inspiration." In addition to serving as an ambassador for the brand, the partnership extends to a product collaboration, set to launch in Summer 2024. Tua and Perry Ellis are working closely together throughout the design process to tell a layered story, authentic to his heritage and the contemporary sensibility of the brand. Using elements like earth and water for inspiration and as a vehicle for innovation, the collection emulates the lush mountains, oceanic horizons, and the bright florals and textual foliage of the islands. Examining the artistry of Hawaiian-Samoan life and the symbiotic relationship between the Earth and its people, Tua and Perry Ellis aim to represent the native Hawaiian and Samoan islands in an authentic manner. In a stroke of serendipity, the tropical sensibility of the collection seamlessly connects to his new home on the verdant Florida coast. “This is a fun project for me. I appreciate the versatility, optimism, and inclusion that Perry Ellis values through their designs and their business,” says Tua Tagovailoa. “I’m excited to be working so closely with the Perry Ellis team and to have the full support of an iconic American brand.” In addition to their creative collaboration, Perry Ellis extends its support to Tua off the football field by partnering with the Tua Foundation. This partnership will focus on youth initiatives, health and wellness programs, and various charitable causes. In light of the recent natural disasters in Hawaii, the Tua Foundation is actively dedicating its resources to assist Maui families affected by the devastating wildfires. For more about the partnership and Perry Ellis, visit www.perryellis.com By ML staff. Images courtesy of Perry Ellis

Blurring the line between art and design, Avant Home brings a curatorial approach to shopping for the home with a disruptive retail experience. Avant Gallery is pleased to announce the preview opening of Avant Home, a new retail concept that cross-pollinates the brand’s renowned contemporary art program with a collection of high-end furniture, lighting, inspirational decorative objects and accessories, as well as interior design services, all intertwined with a flair of accessibility. With a team of interior designers and art consultants, Avant Home offers a holistic approach to curating entire room settings by meticulously hand-picking stunning statement furniture pieces, building world-class art collections, and completing the finishing touches with wow-factor details that are personalized for each bespoke project. “Throughout Avant’s 16 year history, we’ve learned a great deal from our clients and have recognized their zest to live passionately, which has become our shared ethos,” says Dmitry Prut, Avant Gallery + Home Founder and CEO. “This new direction and addition to what we have to offer marks an exciting milestone for the brand’s continued evolution as a leading destination for cutting-edge contemporary living. And the red-hot market in South Florida makes it the ideal place for introducing this concept.” Avant Home’s new preview location in Aventura Mall captures a gallery feel in a showroom setting, highlighting the synergy between the worlds of art and design. With expertly crafted furniture pieces harmonizing with one-of-a-kind artworks, each room brought to life presents a practical approach to shopping for all that’s needed for a collector’s residence. Offering a globally-sourced selection of pieces that are contemporary yet timeless, Avant Home embodies a refreshing elegance that is both imaginative and functional. Extending the aesthetics of Avant Gallery, Avant Home showcases a range of furniture options that exude a sense of sophistication blended with whimsy, with categories including accent seating, sofas, coffee tables, beds, bookshelves, dining tables and chairs, consoles and credenzas, rugs, and more. A myriad of pieces in luxurious performance fabrics, polished metal finishes, and rich wood create a visual and tactile experience of the highest caliber. Notable pieces in the selection include iconic seating by renowned artist and designer Ron Arad, Fishnet Chair by Marcel Wanders, works from famed Milan-based design studio Gufram’s collaborations with the Andy Warhol foundation and Daniel Arsham’s visionary Snarkitecture project, and a rather tongue-in-cheek acrylic chair filled with down feathers by Benjamin Rollins Caldwell—who has been exhibited at the celebrated DesignMiami fair—just to name a few. For the finishing touches, Avant Home also offers curated packages of Taschen books and exquisite accents—a playful Jean-Michel Basquiat mirror, dining plates featuring the work of Kehinde Wiley and Keith Haring, a collection of hand-painted KAWS figures by Dhani Barragan, and high fashion-inspired sculptures by Becky Rosa, among others. Beyond the showroom walls, Avant Home is engaged by real estate developers to expertly design, curate, and stage standout projects aligned with Avant’s own staging brand, Artmosphere®. Residential clients include Porsche Sunny Isles and luxury homes represented by Sotheby’s International Realty. Visit Avant Home at Aventura Mall, First Floor www.avantgallery.com | @avantgallery www.avanthome.com | @avant ABOUT AVANT GALLERY Since its launch in Miami Beach in 2007, Avant Gallery has been defined by its exciting and forward thinking programming. Known for a focus on accessibility, innovation and market responsiveness, Avant represents a global cadre of established and early-to-mid-career contemporary artists. In 2023, Avant Gallery was voted Best Art Gallery by the Miami New Times. Avant Gallery has locations in Miami’s Aventura Mall and Brickell City Centre, and New York City’s Hudson Yards. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Avant Gallery

This beef tenderloin with a rich red wine sauce is a true show-stopper. Nothing says holiday dinner like a show-stopping roast, and this sear-roasted beef tenderloin is as impressive as it gets. It’s also surprisingly simple to make. The sauce can be made mostly in advance so there’s very little fussing at the last minute — and beef tenderloin, believe it or not, is one of the easiest things in the world to cook. If you’re wondering, “Beef tenderloin is such an expensive cut. What if I overcook it?” I promise: you don’t need to be an experienced cook to make a perfect beef tenderloin. All you need is a meat thermometer. The one I use has a leave-in probe and remote monitor, so I know when the roast is done without ever even opening my oven — there’s no poking, cutting, peeking, or guesswork involved. WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE BEEF TENDERLOIN WITH RED WINE SAUCE The recipe calls for a beef tenderloin roast, which is the most tender (and most expensive) cut of beef available. “Beef tenderloin” refers to the large cut of beef before it is sliced into steaks. Once cut, those steaks are referred to as filet mignon, which is used in recipes like steak au poivre or pan-seared steaks Package labeling can vary depending upon where you shop. For example, you will sometimes find it labeled Chateaubriand or filet mignon roast, so if you’re uncertain about what you’re buying, just ask the butcher. Your tenderloin may have some kitchen twine tied around one end of it; butchers often tie tenderloin up near the tapered end so that it is the same thickness all the way around. If yours comes that way, leave the string on until after it’s cooked. If it doesn’t, no worries — no need to do any tying. When selecting a wine for the sauce, you can use any red, such as Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Red Zinfandel, that you have in the house. Don’t overthink it or use anything too pricey; when using wine for cooking, always select a bottle that’s inexpensive but still good enough to drink. STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS Step 1: Make the Sauce Melt 5 tablespoons of the butter in a medium saucepan and add the shallots. Cook over medium-low heat until soft and translucent, 7 to 8 minutes. Add the wine, beef broth, thyme sprigs, salt, pepper and sugar, and bring to a boil. Cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced by about half. While the liquid is reducing, place the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl. Soften in the microwave (if necessary), then add the flour. Using a spoon, mix together into a paste. This is called a buerre manié, and it’s used to thicken sauces. Once the wine mixture is reduced, reduce the heat to low and remove the thyme sprigs. Whisk the flour-butter mixture, a teaspoonful at a time, into the simmering liquid, and simmer for a few minutes, until the sauce is thickened. The sauce can be made up to this point and refrigerated several days ahead of time. Step 2: Roast the Beef Tenderloin The best way to cook beef tenderloin is a two-step process: sear, then roast. The tenderloin gets a nice crusty brown exterior, which adds delicious flavor and texture to an otherwise lean cut. Begin by seasoning the beef with kosher salt and pepper. Heat the oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat until almost smoking. Cook, turning with tongs, until well browned on all but one side, about 10 minutes total. Turn the tenderloin so that the un-seared side is down and transfer the skillet directly to a 400°F oven. Roast until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the meat registers 120ºF for medium-rare, 15 to 20 minutes, or until done to your liking. Step 3: Carve the Tenderloin and Finish the Sauce Transfer the roast to a carving board (preferably with a well for collecting juices) and let it rest, covered loosely with aluminum foil, for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute from the outside of the roast throughout the whole roast, making the tenderloin juicy. If you slice it too soon, the juices will pour out of it. Meanwhile, pour off the fat from the roasting pan. Set the pan on the stovetop and add the beef broth. Bring the broth to a boil, using a wooden spoon to scrape the fond (brown bits) from the bottom of the pan. Add the flavorful broth to the red wine sauce, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Carve the roast into 1/3-inch-thick slices. Serve the beef, passing the red wine sauce at the table. Roast Beef Tenderloin with Wine Sauce By Jennifer Segal This beef tenderloin with a rich red wine sauce is a true show-stopper. Servings: 4-6 Prep Time: 20 Minutes Cook Time: 1 Hour 20 Minutes Total Time: 1 Hour 40 Minutes, plus 1 hour to bring the meat to room temperature INGREDIENTS FOR THE SAUCE 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided ¾ cup finely chopped shallots, from 2-3 large shallots 1¼ cups red wine 3 cups beef broth 6 fresh thyme sprigs ¼ teaspoon kosher salt ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon sugar 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour FOR THE BEEF 1 (2 to 3 lb) center-cut beef tenderloin roast Kosher salt (½ teaspoon per pound of beef) Freshly ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon per pound of beef) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ¼ cup beef broth INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE SAUCE Melt 5 tablespoons of the butter in a medium saucepan. Add the shallots and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, 7 to 8 minutes. Add the wine, beef broth, thyme sprigs, salt, pepper and sugar, and bring to a boil. Cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced by about half. While the liquid is reducing, place the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl and soften in the microwave, if necessary (it should be soft but not melted). Add the flour and, using a small spoon, mix into a smooth paste. Once the wine mixture is reduced, reduce the heat to low and remove the thyme sprigs. Whisk the flour-butter paste, a teaspoonful at a time, into the simmering liquid, and simmer for a few minutes, until the sauce is thickened. Set aside. (The sauce can be made up to this point and refrigerated up to 3 days ahead of time.) FOR THE TENDERLOIN Let the beef stand at room temperature for 1 hour before roasting. Set an oven rack in the middle position and preheat the oven to 400°F. Season the beef all over with kosher salt and pepper. Heat the oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat until almost smoking. Cook, turning with tongs, until well browned on all but one side, about 10 minutes total. Turn the tenderloin so that the un-seared side is down, and transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. (If your pan isn't oven-proof, transfer the beef to a lightly oiled roasting pan.) Roast until a thermometer inserted into the center of the meat registers 120°F-125° for medium rare, about 15 minutes, or until done to your liking (115°F-120°F for rare, 130°F-135°F for medium). Keep in mind that these temperatures account for the fact that the temperature will continue to rise about 5 degrees while the meat rests. Transfer the meat to a carving board (preferably with a well for collecting juices) and let it rest, covered loosely with aluminum foil, for 10 to 15 minutes. Place a dishtowel or oven mitt over the handle of the roasting pan to remind yourself that it's hot. Meanwhile, carefully discard the fat from the roasting pan (remember that the handle is hot!). Set the pan on the stovetop and add the ¼ cup of beef broth. Bring the broth to a boil, using a wooden spoon to scrape the fond, or brown bits, from the bottom of the pan. Add the flavorful broth to the red wine sauce, and then bring the sauce to a simmer. Carve the tenderloin into ⅓-inch-thick slices. Serve the beef, passing the red wine sauce at the table. NUTRITION INFORMATION Per serving (6 servings) Calories:1,001 Fat:61 g Saturated fat:26 g Carbohydrates:9 g Sugar:3 g Fiber:1 g Protein:49 g Sodium:1093 mg Cholesterol:233 mg Special thanks to Jennifer Segal, for the recipe and images. You can support Jennifer by purchasing her cookbook, "Once Upon a Chef, the Cookbook," featuring over 100 delightful recipes.

The state of Florida ignited a controversy when it released a set of 2023 academic standards that require fifth graders to be taught that enslaved Black people in the U.S. “developed skills which, in some instances, could be applied for their benefit.” Image by Houcine Ncib/Unsplash As a researcher specializing in the history of race and racism in the U.S., I – like a growing chorus of critics – see that education standard as flawed and misleading. Whereas Florida would have students believe that enslaved Black people “benefited” by developing skills during slavery, the reality is that enslaved Africans contributed to the nation’s social, cultural and economic well-being by using skills they had already developed before captivity. What follows are examples of the skills the Africans brought with them as they entered the Americas as enslaved: 1. As farmers During the period between 1750 and 1775, the majority of the enslaved Africans that landed in the Carolinas came from the traditional rice-growing regions in Africa known as the Rice Coast. Subsequently, rice joined cotton as one of the most profitable agricultural products, not only in North Carolina and South Carolina but in Virginia and Georgia as well. Other African food staples, such as black rice, okra, black-eyed peas, yams, peanuts and watermelon, made their way into North America via slave ship cargoes. Ship captains relied on African agricultural products to feed the 12 million enslaved Africans transported to the Americas through a brutal voyage known as the Middle Passage. In some cases the Africans stowed away food as they boarded the ships. These foods were essential for the enslaved to survive the harsh conditions of their trans-Atlantic trip in the hulls of ships. Once on plantations in the land now known as the United States, enslaved people occasionally were able to cultivate small gardens. In these gardens, reflecting a small amount of freedom, enslaved men and women grew their own food. Some of the crops consisted of produce originating in Africa. From these they added unique ingredients, such as hot peppers, peanuts, okra and greens, to adapt West African stews into gumbo or jambalaya, which took rice, spices and heavily seasoned vegetables and meat. These dishes soon became staples in what would become known as down-home cooking. Crop surpluses from the communal gardens were sometimes sold in local markets, thus providing income that some enslaved people used to purchase freedom. Some of these African-derived crops became central to Southern cuisine. African crops like peanuts and okra became central to Southern cuisine.Ashraf Shazly/AFP via Getty Images 2. As cooks and chefs The culinary skills that the West Africans brought with them served to enhance, transform and produce unique eating habits and culinary practices in the South. Although enslaved Africans were forced to cook for families that held them as property, they also cooked for themselves, typically using a large pot that they had been given for the purpose. Using skills from various West African cultures, these cooks often worked together to prepare communal meals for their fellow enslaved people. The different cooking styles produced a range of popular meals centering on one-pot cooking to include stews or gumbos, or layering meat with greens. The meals comprised a high proportion of corn meal, animal fat and bits of meat or vegetables. Communal gardens, maintained by the enslaved, might supplement the meager supplies and what was available from hunting or fishing. Some of the cooks who emerged from these conditions became some of the highest regarded and valued among the enslaved in the regions. Enslaved chefs blended African, Native American and European traditions to create unique Southern cuisines that featured roasted beef, veal, turkey, duck, fowl and ham. Desserts and puddings featured jellies, oranges, apples, nuts, figs and raisins. Stews and soups changed, given the season, sometimes featuring oysters or fish. 3. As artisans and builders Slave ship manifests reveal that enslaved Africans included some who were woodcarvers and metalworkers. Others were skilled in various traditional crafts, including pottery making, weaving, basketry and wood carving. These crafts were instrumental in filling the perpetual scarcity of skilled labor on plantations. When planters and traders considered purchasing an enslaved Black person, one of the key factors influencing their decision and the price was their skills. Slave auction sales included carpenters, blacksmiths and shoemakers. Architectural designs showing West African influences have been identified in structures excavated from some colonial plantations in various areas of the South Carolina Lowcountry. These buildings, with clay-walled architecture, demonstrate that the West Africans came with building skills. Excavated clay pipes in the Chesapeake region reveal West African pottery decorative techniques. Across the nation, multiple landmarks were built by the enslaved. These include the White House, the U.S. Capitol and the Smithsonian Castle in Washington, Fraunces Tavern and Wall Street in New York, and Fort Sumter in South Carolina. Enslaved African women brought new medical practices and skills to the U.S. from their native lands.Hulton Archive via Getty Images 4. As midwives, herbalists and healers As Africans entered the Americas, they brought knowledge of medicinal plants. Some enslaved women were midwives who used medical practices and skills from their native lands. In many cases, while many of these plants were unavailable in the Americas, enslaved Africans’ knowledge, and that gleaned from Native Americans, helped them to identify a range of plants that could be beneficial to treat a wide range of illnesses among both the enslaved and the enslavers. Enslaved midwives delivered babies and, in some cases, provided the means for either avoiding pregnancies or performing abortions. They also treated respiratory illnesses. These practices and knowledge grew as they began incorporating techniques from Native American and European sources. They employed an interesting array of these practices to identify herbs, produce devices and to facilitate childbirth and maternal health and well-being. They utilized several herbal remedies such as cedar berries, tansy and cotton seeds to end pregnancies. In 1721, of the 5,880 Bostonians who contracted smallpox, 844 died. Even more would have died had it not been for a radical technique introduced by an enslaved person named Onesimus, who is credited with helping a small portion of the population survive. Onesimus, purchased by Cotton Mather in 1706, was being groomed to be a domestic servant. In 1716, Onesimus informed Mather that he had survived smallpox and no longer feared contagion. He described a practice known as variolation derived by West Africans to fight various infections. This was a method of intentionally infecting an individual by rubbing pus from an infected person into an open wound. Onesimus explained how this treatment resulted in significantly milder symptoms, eliminating the likelihood of contracting the disease. As physicians began to wonder about this mysterious method to prevent smallpox, they developed the technique known as vaccinations. Smallpox today has been eradicated worldwide primarily because of the medical advice rendered by Onesimus. Regardless of how Florida’s education standards misrepresent history, the reality is that the Africans forced to come to America brought an enormous range of skills. They were farmers, cooks, chefs, artisans, builders, midwives, herbalists and healers. Our country is richer because of their skills, techniques and knowledge. By Rodney Coates, Professor of Critical Race and Ethnic Studies, Miami University. Images courtesy and republishing permission courtesy of The Conversation. Support and donate today.