AUGUST 2012
Doral Business Council Forum Returns to Carolina Ale House BY GLORIA BURNS
he Doral Business Council’s Forum group had such a great time at their July 3rd event, the group is planning yet another social on August 21, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., at the Carolina Ale House, on NW 87 Ave. and 36th St. DBC Forum Chair, Gloria Burns, and Forum Vice Chair, Max Fleischer, expect another great gathering with lots of door prizes and fun for all. In addition, restaurant owner Joe Marouf has once again offered everyone’s first drink free.
T
Max Fleischer, of Send Out Cards, and Ricardo Trillos, of Cao Chocolates, at Carolina Ale House DBC Forum Social in July.
The Doral Business Council Forum meets the first and third Wednesday of every month at Tropico Restaurant, 8391 NW 12 St., at 7 a.m. for breakfast. Charge for guests is $10 and $8 for Forum mem––––––––––––– See
CAROLINA ALE, page 5
Doral Business Council Trustees Lunch at Gables’ CRAVE
oral Business Council Trustees have resumed luncheon meetings alternating between the Doral and other locations to broaden the DBC outreach and attract a broader membership base. On July 20, DBC Trustee Chair
D
BY ANA HEDMAN AFLAC Associate
Do I Need Cancer Insurance?
Nubielena Medina welcomed the group to CRAVE restaurant at the Village of Merrick Park in Coral Gables. Chef Josh Wahler, of Hell’s Kitchen fame and formerly with the Hyatt Blue in Doral, prepared a spectacular lunch
Despite the best efforts of doctors and researchers, cancer remains a concern for many individuals and families. People from all walks of life are at risk, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. U. S. men have a slightly less than one-in-two risk of developing cancer during their lifetime; for U.S. women, the risk is a little more than one-in-three. The financial impact of a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. A strong major medical plan is the first defense against medical expenses when facing a cancer diagnosis, but with rising deductibles, more and more people face substantial out-of-pocket expenses before their regular insurance fully kicks in. If you’re diagnosed with cancer, you should spend your time focusing on getting better, not worrying about your finances. Fortunately there is cancer insurance that can help ease the financial worries accompanying a cancer diagnosis by helping address the gaps in major medical insurance.
TRUSTEES, page 5
–––––––– See HEALTH CARE CORNER, page 5
From left: Executive Chef Josh Wahler at CRAVE; DBC Trustee Chair Nubielena Medina of NMG Consulting; Doral Mayor J.C. Bermudez and Christina Ward, CRAVE Group Sales and Marketing Manager.
BY GLORIA BURNS
HEALTH CARE CORNER
––––––––––––– See
TOP-RATED
INTERNATIONAL STUDIES CHARTER SCHOOL NOW ACCEPTING ENROLLMENT
WWW.ISCHS.NET
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Want To Attend College?
Advising Students and Families BY TOM WELCH Counseling Director, DSM
MAs South Florida families begin a new school year, the College Counselors of Divine Savior Academy are diligently working to prepare its first high school graduating class (2013) for the world of college. With over 3,500 different colleges and universities in this country alone, this choice is often a daunting task for families. As a college counseling director with over 16 years of experience, here is what I advise families with high school students. First, it is never too early to evaluate your financial situation and start making plans. Collect all of the information you can, including tuition costs, possible scholarships, and financial aid availability. During this process, keep in mind that good students have many different opportunities to help them find the money to pay for college. With an increasingly competitive marketplace, it is also imperative for students to prepare themselves both inside and outside of the classroom, so that they will not only have a successful high school career, but also qualify themselves for the best college opportunities. This is accomplished not merely by earning high grades, but by also succeeding in tough, college-prep classes and scoring well on standardized tests. Colleges are also more interested in well-rounded stu-
dents that have solid academic backgrounds, extracurricular achievements, and community involvement. It is important to spend time investigating, comparing, and evaluating potential schools. Be sure that your interests and strengths are a good fit for that institution before you spend time, energy, and money going through the application process. Once you have your list of desired schools, prepare yourself to make the best impression as a candidate for admission. This includes studying and practicing for interviews, visiting the campus, creating a wellwritten application essay, compiling strong recommendations, and consistently marketing yourself to the admissions department. Finally, after acceptance, decide where to enroll. Many factors effect this decision, including academic programs offered, reputation, location, size, student diversity, financial aid availability, and campus life. This important decision is often a first step toward independence. For this reason, the decisions made during these years will greatly impact a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future professional opportunities. Divine Savior Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comprehensive college counseling program assists families by guiding them throughout this process. Though families may feel overwhelmed at times, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reassuring for them to know they are given the information and assistance they need to achieve their goals. Tom Welch of Divine Savior Academy, 10311 NW 58 St., can be reached at 305597-4545, ext. 132; the Academy may be contacted by email through <ginger.poulos@dslca.org>.
Doral Tribune
6769 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 â&#x20AC;˘ Phone (305) 669-7355, Fax (305) 662-6980
PUBLISHERS .........................................................................................................................................................Grant & Michael Miller EDITOR ..............................................................................................................................................................................Richard Yager WRITERS, COLUMNISTS .................................................Bari Auerbach, Ron Beasley, R. Kenneth Bluh, Gloria Burns, Robert Hamilton, Gary Alan Ruse, Ike Seamans, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Celia Canabate, Cecile Fanfani, Enrique Chau, Diane Chasin, Sharon Christian, Lori Cohen, Amy Donner, Diane Maddox, Denzil Miles, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller, Georgia Tait, Walter White BOOKKEEPING ......................................................................................................................................................................Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT.............................................................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek RECEPTIONISTS........................................................................................................................................................................Gaby Cruz ART DIRECTOR........... .........................................................................................................................................................Maria Scheer GRAPHIC ARTISTS.............................................................................................................Isabel Ortega, Catalina Roca, Vera Salom, Isabel Vavrek,Sergio Yanes We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. If you send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material. General Provisions: Every issue of Community Newspapers is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including advertisements produced by Community Newspapers. Artwork and/or typography furnished or arranged for/by us, shall be the property of Community Newspapers. No such ad or any art thereof may be reproduced without the prior consent of Community Newspapers.
Editorial e-mail: cneditor@gate.net â&#x20AC;˘ www.communitynewspapers.com
Panter, Panter & Sampedro, P.A. congratulates our Partner,
David Sampedro for his recent accomplishment in becoming a %RDUG &HUWLÂżHG &LYLO 7ULDO $WWRUQH\ Mr. Sampedro will continue to practice in the areas of Wrongful Death, Catastrophic Injuries, Medical 0DOSUDFWLFH 3URGXFW /LDELOLW\ DQG 3UHPLVHV /LDELOLW\
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• Fitness & Defense • Free Anti-bullying Workshop in Doral
Julio G. Anta GET FIT WITH ANTA
esteem. A bully tries to rob a child of those very important traits. That’s why, as parents, we must provide our children with the confidence they need to succeed in life. Do you know what both bullies and those being bullied have in common? The answer is low self esteem. Both bully and victim exhibit the result of having been mistreated or bullied by their parents, siblings, or older or bigger kids. Invariably, a bully displays weakness by looking for an easy target, i.e., any youngster who appears weaker than they are. To compensate for their weaknesses,
Is your child in fear of their first day of school or has your child been a victim of bullying at their school? If you answer ‘yes’ to either question, I’ll help you prepare your child to meet any bullying challenges that may occur in the coming school year when Anta’s Fitness and Self Defense, 10721 NW 58 St. in Doral, conducts a free community service: the “Art of Fighting without Fighting” antibullying workshop. All students and parents of students of elementary grades are encouraged and welcome to come to this free event on Saturday, Aug. 25, at 11 a.m. Middle school and high school students are invited to a second workshop, Tuesday, Students Enzo Santoro and Tomas Pena enact bullying. Aug. 28 at 6:15 p.m., also at our studio. Since 1998 when Anta’s Fitness and they enjoy the power to hurt someone else. Self Defense was established, our goal has Our mission through the “Art of Fighting been to bully-proof children. In 2002 I without Fighting” workshop is to ensure became the first and am still the only that all children have the right to feel safe fully-certified South Florida instructor of and develop to their full potential. Dr. Terrance Webster Doyle’s “Bully Bullying and teen violence has had a dramatic increase of recent years, causing Busters” program. I’ve taught hundreds of anti-bullying unhealthy attitudes for many unfortunate workshops in schools and churches, for children in their future adult life. The good news: our workshop can Boy Scout troops, clubs and community groups, and I’ve been interviewed in help empower young people and change newspapers, magazines and TV shows as their lives permanently. We urge you to take advantage of this opportunity to help an anti-bullying expert. Through law enforcement experience your own children resolve conflict peaceand as an instructor of Krav Maga, Jeet fully and use combative methods only as a Kune Do, Kung Fu and Muay Thai kick- last resort. Registration is limited for this free boxing, I’ve developed “The Art of Fighting without Fighting” anti-bullying event, so call us today at 305-599-3649 to program, a complete verbal, confidence reserve your spot. building and personal protection inspired Julio Anta is the owner of Anta’s Fitness by Bruce Lee’s philosophy. All the motivation a child needs to and Self Defense since 1998. You can succeed in school, sports, and any endeav- contact him at 305-599-3649 or via the or in life, comes from confidence and self- internet at AntaMartialArts.com
August 2012
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CAROLINA ALE from front page ––––––––––––––––––––––––———–––––––––––––––––––––––––– bers. Those interested in applying for this networking category exclusive group and the other group, Business to Business,
TRUSTEE
should contact the DBC office or Gloria Burns at 305-968-3090. DBC membership is necessary in order to participate in either of these networking groups.
from front page ––––––––––––––––––––––––———––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
enjoyed by all. A special dessert honored DBC Executive Director Interim (and ‘birthday boy’) Ron Mann, inspiring a Happy Birthday serenade. Among the many attending the event were Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez, Vice
Mayor Micahel DiPietro, Jason Timmons of Great Florida Bank, Mara Falero of JetStream Credit Union, Lenny Sklawer of New York Life Insurance Co. and Jeffrey Robles of Mitchell Consulting, as well as many guests and newcomers.
HEALTH CARE CORNER from front page ––––––––––––––––––––––––——––––––––––— Because there are many cancer insurance options available, selecting the right plan can be confusing. Before purchasing cancer insurance, you should consider: • What is the carrier’s reputation and background; • Policy benefits, limitations, and definition of cancer; • Rate stability and longevity;
• Claims handling policies; • Spouse and dependents’ coverage; • Early detection and prevention coverage; • Benefit and administrative control; • Underwriter stability and credentials. It’s important to have the tools to find what best suits each individual’s needs, as well as an appropriate carrier.
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Fitzpatrick Named Opera’s New Artistic Administrator Florida Grand Opera has announced the appointment of Cassidy E. Fitzpatrick as its new Artistic Administrator as of July 30. Fitzpatric will report to Managing Director Kevin Mynatt as well as work closely with other executive staff members of FGO’s administrative office in Doral. Fitzpatrick is responsible for day-today operations of the Music Department to ensure smooth functioning of all artistic matters, coordinating with the Head of Music Staff, the Director of the Young Artist Studio and the Education Manager as well as the Director of Production and third party contacts. Most recently Fitzpatrick served as the Development & Artistic Associate for Boston Lyric Opera, where she worked under the Director of Artists Operations and coordinated all activities for an Emerging Artists Initiative. She dealt closely with artists and matters relating to the music department. Fitzpatrick received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in History and Music from Amherst College in Massachusetts. Florida Grand Opera was formed in
Cassidy E. Fitzpatrick became Artistic Administrator ofFlorida Grand Opera July 30.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
June 1994 by the merger of Greater Miami Opera, founded in 1941, and The Opera Guild Inc., of Fort Lauderdale, founded in 1945.
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Caribbean Showcase Aids Business August 23 Caribbean Trade Center’s Second Annual “Travel, Trade and Tourism Business Showcase” will be held on Thursday, Aug. 23 at the Firefighters Memorial Building, 8000 NW 21st St. in Doral. The showcase features country presentations, cultural insights, exhibits, exclusive networking opportunities from 5 to 9 p.m. Ample free parking is available. Lt-Gov. Jennifer Carroll will attend, joined by Edmund Bartlett, a member of Jamaica’s Parliament and former Minister of Tourism from 2007- 2011. Guests will include Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez, Hon. Dr. Neil Parsan, Trinidad & Tobago Ambassador to the U.S., Hon. Arnil Ramnanan, Consul General of Trinidad & Tobago, and Consul General of Canada, Hon. Louise Leger, members of the Miami Consular Corps, county and city leaders. Dutch Antilles Express as Diamond Sponsor co-hosts the event. The Airline recently inaugurated new daily non-stop service between Miami International and
Curacao. Other sponsors and supporters include Miami International Airport, Seafreight Agencies, Insel Air, Port Everglades, Africa Trade Development Center, Rosillio & Associates, Camacol, Miami-Dade Economic Development Division, Enterprise Florida, Latin Biz, Doral Business Council, Belize Tourism Board, British Virgin Islands Tourism Development, Inter-American Chamber of Commerce, Caribbean Tourism Organization. The presentation is expected to attract more than 300 attendees and 50 exhibits, part of unique “Travel, Trade and Tourism Business” a series to establish continuing relationships for business development. In recognition of Trinidad and Tobago’s and Jamaica’s Anniversary Celebration of independence, Caribbean Trade Center will be conducting a brief salute during the event in tribute to both nations’ milestone achievements.
www.communitynewspapers.com
PROJECT MANAGER:
Develop technological strategies for infrastructure, electrical, lighting, audio and video automation systems for markets in Latin America. Analyze project infrastructure, determine and provide technical and troubleshooting solutions. Coordinate with product management, design engineering and project procurement team in order to effectively generate project estimates. Coordinate and conduct technical pilots and competitive reviews communicating with prospective clients to refine project requirements and convert concepts into proposed solutions. Requirements: Masters Degree. Job in Miami, Florida. POLARIS CONTROLS INC.: Email resume to : info@polariscontrols.com
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Hectorr Wiltz,, MD.,, CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami
Do you or someone you know have Tinea Pedis/Athlete’s Foot? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 years or older that suffer from Tinea Pedis “Redness, Itchiness, Maceration, Erosion, and/or Scaling areas in between your toes” to participate in a three [3] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication or placebo at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $150.00.
¿Tiene usted o alguien que usted conozca Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies/Pie De Atleta? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 18 años o más que sufran de Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies “Enrojecimiento, Picazón, Humedad, Erosiones, y/o Descamación entre los dedos de los pies”, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere tres [3] visitas. Seguro Médico no es requerido para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación o placebo a no costo. • Compensación por tiempo y transporte hasta $150.00.
For more information please call / Para más información por favor llame:
(305) 220-5222
11760 0 Bird d Road,, Suite e 452
Miami,, Florida a 33175 5 • www.fxmresearch.com m
Hectorr Wiltz,, MD.,, CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami
Do you or someone you know have Toenail Fungus? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 to 70 years of age that suffer from Toenail Fungus, to participate in a fifteen [15] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $950.00.
¿Tienee ustedd o alguienn quee ustedd conozcaa Hongoss Enn Lass Uñass Dee Loss Pies? FXM Research in Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 18 a 70 años de edad que sufran de Hongos En Las Uñas De Los Pies, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere quince [15] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación sin costo alguno. • Reembolso por su tiempo y transporte hasta $950.00.
For more information please call / Para más información por favor llame:
(305) 220-5222
11760 0 Bird d Road,, Suite e 452
Miami,, Florida a 33175 5 • www.fxmresearch.com m
August 2012
‘Delicious Discounts at Dolphin Mall Aug 10-19 From Aug. 10-19, Dolphin Mall is hosting “Delicious Discounts at Dolphin Mall,” providing patrons choice of an array of dining options at discounted prices. Participating restaurants will offer 25 percent off food and beverage bills, excluding alcoholic beverages, taxes and tips. “We are delighted to bring this new exciting dining event to our patrons,” said Madelyn Bello Calvar, Mall Marketing Director. for Dolphin Mall. Required discount cards are available
at the Ramblas Information Booth, allowing customers to try as many restaurants as they wish on their schedule and budget. The special discount applies to the entire bill excluding alcoholic beverages, taxes and tips. Additional restrictions and exclusions apply. Participating restaurants include Mojitos Cuban Cuisine, Rotelli Pizza & Pasta, Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar, Catch of the Day, Dave and Buster’s, CinéBistro, and Johnny Rockets.
Cheesecake Factory Due to Open in Fall The Cheesecake Factory, a popular full-service restaurant, bakery and bar, is planning a fourth quarter opening at Dolphin Mall. “The Cheesecake Factory will be a huge favorite with our shoppers, and were excited to add them to our great restaurant lineup,” says Marketing Director Madelyn Bello-Calvar. Serving generously-portioned meals perfect for sharing since its first restaurant opened in 1978, The Cheesecake Factory
offers more than 200 inventive menu selections that include appetizers, seafood, steaks, salads, sandwiches, small plates and snacks made from scratch daily in each restaurant. The Cheesecake Factory will join several other new tenants at Dolphin Mall, including the recently opened A|X Armani Exchange, Billabong, Calvin Klein Accessories, Jeans Roy, Athletic Footwear, Fossil, OneClick Apple Specialist, and Watch Station.
Healthier Eating Result of Personal Experience Local Latina nutritionist, trainer and motivational speaker Josette Puig returned to her roots in South Florida to share her step-by-step guide to making healthier, life-altering decisions in her first lifestyle/diet/self-help publication. “Frumpy to Fabulous, One Change a Week to a Healthier You” is a quick guide to making good food choices, whether grocery shopping, dining out or preparing food at home. “I couldn’t have written this book had I not experienced, struggled and succeeded through all my hardships in life,” said Puig during a book signing event June 22 at Doral Fitness Studio, 9851 NW 58 St.
“I hope in some small way, my book will inspire and motivate other South Florida Latinas. I am living proof that they too, can overcome depression, divorce, financial stress or low self-esteem.” Puig, a former Miami TV sports producer and a Boston resident for the past eight years, became a stay-at-home mother of four and learned hard lessons from her own weight-loss struggles and yo-yo dieting habits. She is now on a mission to encourage others to live a healthier lifestyle by “eating clean.” Puig’s book is now available in the Kindle Store or through her website <www.getjosette.com>.
Be smart, read a book!
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Montessori Children’s Academy Nurturing your child’s mind, body and spirit 16 year record of success
Because your child deserves the best...
14 months to Elementary VPK provider with the highest Kindergarten readiness rate in Miami Low student to teacher ratio Montessori & state certified teachers Caring and loving staff Spanish Immersion program French, Mandarin, Yoga, Music & Movement Gardening and Etiquette
Montessori Children’s Academy SUMMER CAMP
American Montessori Society suggested lessons every morning
Fun filled camp afternoons Weekly field trips On site swimming with Red Cross FREE for 4 years olds
www.miamimontessori.com • 305.225.3070 • 9400 S.W. 16 St. Miami, FL 33165
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Web credibility & why is it important! BY ANTOINE DUPONT Web credibility is designing and providing information on your website in such a way that it comes across as trustworthy and knowledgeable. A credible website can reap huge benefits through a website for your business. Only 52.8 percent of web users believe online information to be credible (source: UCLA). That’s why you must prove there’s a real organization behind your website. Anyone can put up a website promising to deliver the ‘best service at the lowest prices’ but Web users must believe there’s a real organization behind the promise. A few things you can do to back up your credibility: • Links to external websites (referencing your organization) • Staff bios and descriptions • Ease of detail for contact • Photos of office, staff, products, etc. • Awards or professional recognitions Can you think of other ways to prove your organization is real? Look at a website you visit quite often and determine the elements that build your trust. Your website needs to provide ‘sensitive’ information, because it is akin to a one-way conversation between you and your site visitors, but you have total control over the dialogue. That’s why you must ensure that you answer any questions like: • What is the purpose of your organization?
• How much does it cost? • What happens if...? All statements you make should be backed up by third-party evidence. Did you say: “We helped our clients achieve an average of 70% growth last year?” Then you must prove it. Every single point made on your website must, without fail, be backed up with hard evidence - preferably from a thirdparty’s website. How else can a reader know for sure that you’re telling the truth? There has to be proof that the organization is growing and has clients to achieve credibility. You can prove this by providing a client list, testimonials, case studies, latest news or a blog section. Websites need to have an air of professionalism and confidence as your organization’s online representation. That’s why it’s essential to match its appearance and data in equal quality to the rest of your marketing materials. Creating a great first impression means crisp, professional layout with sharp graphics, free information to further prove your expertise, sending an instant and automatic confirmation to inquiries. There are many more! Just visit any website you trust and perceive to be professional and carefully observe what they are doing. Then decide whether or not you are doing it, too!
Antoine Dupont can be reached by Email at <adupont@adminesolutions.com>; by blog at <www.antoinedupont.com>; web site: < www.adminesolutions.com>.
Be smart, read a book!
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Atletes Train, Administrators Advance Academics MIAMI CHRISTIAN
UPDATE BY GLORIA BURNS While Miami Christian School is gearing up to begin another school year (classes start Wednesday, Aug. 22), those students participating in football, bowling, cross country and ladies’ volleyball have already begun their training. Student athletes and others scoring at the highest level in standardized testing are also focused on choosing their study concentrations, deciding in which local,
In anticipation of new academic ventures at MCS, Tony Vincent , President and CEO of LearningInHand.com will fly here from Phoenix, Arizona, to train teachers on the integration of technology into group collaborative projects during the orientation period. Vincent, a leading national expert on technology and educa- Tony Vincent, President/CEO, tion, provides LearningInHand.com. annual training to the MCS faculty who utilize laptops and Smart Boards in the classroom. *** In another new academic venture for the year, Dr. Timothy Sanchez, President of the Evangelical University of Bolivia,
New Scholars program welcomes Andrea Sinclair, Melissa Gonzalez.
regional and national academic competitions they’ll participate this year. Students qualified for the new Scholar’s Program, one of MCS’s new academic ventures, will also be working on collaborative projects, including participants A n d r e a S i n c l a i r and Melissa Gonzalez . ***
Dr. Timothy Sanchez, President of Evangelical University of Bolivia meets Margot Youssef, Engineering Instructor.
met with MCS Engineering Instructor, Margot Youssef, to discuss teaching a college engineering course on the campus of
MCS for Honors and Scholars students this year. A possible agreement to grant college credit for this course is being discussed. *** Associate School Head D r . T e r i Logan reports that as 39 graduates of the Class of 2012 head to college, nearly 70% will attend a university or college on scholarship offers totaling over $600,000. Class members continue to excel and achieve as they enter a new chapter in their lives, and we expect they’ll continue to participate in community service and volunteer activities as well. ***
Middle and high school students are looking forward to the annual MCS “Back to School Bash” scheduled Monday, Aug. 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., always a fun day to catch up with friends before hitting the books and the best way to kick off a new school year. ***
Re-enrollment is open for the 20122013 school year. Those interested in touring and getting registration information may contact Donna Gehring at 305221-7754 ext. 773. Also check out MCS on Facebook <fb.me/mcsvictors> and more from the <www.miamichristian.org> web site, including the new Scholar’s Program in high school grades for 201213.
Be smart, read a book!
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Millennia Atlantic University Expands Location in Doral BY ALEX I. MADEJA Director of Marketing
Millennia Atlantic University founded in 2005 in a modest strip mall ground-floor space where it held classes since 2007 has relocated to an impressive 11,000 sq. ft. facility, occupying three of four floors at 3801 NW 97 Ave. in Doral. On July 27, MAU hosted current and future students, faculty members, business leaders, and city officials for a grand opening event including a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony. The building was dedicated to Julián Temístocles Maza Mérida, grandfather of MAU president Aristides Maza-Duerto, PhD. Following the presentation, guests were treated to a catered reception complete with a string quartet and tours of the campus given by the university president, students, and staff. City of Doral Councilmembers Luigi Boria and Pete Cabrera joined in the celebration. “Millennia Atlantic University continues to grow,” said Maza Duerto. “This building serves as a long term commitment to the success of our students, and the Doral community. We now have one of the newest, most impressive educational facili-
New four-story home for Millennia Atlantic University. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
ties in Miami-Dade County.” The new facility underwent an extensive eight-month interior renovation project, lead by Moss Architecture + Design Group, to meet LEED certification “green energy efficient” standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBG). In addition to these improvements other interior design aspects included: • 12 classrooms, each equipped with
Smartboard technology (eight more than the previous location); • Free wireless internet access throughout the building; • A more spacious library and student lounge with an outdoor terrace; • Onsite parking and convenient charging stations throughout the corridors for elec-
tronic devices such as cell phones and laptop computers; • Motion sensitive lighting, proprietary inoffice cooling units, and water conserving bathrooms to conserve energy. During 2010, MAU was granted accreditation by the Accrediting Council for Independent Schools and Colleges (ACICS) to award associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. In 2011 the university was authorized by the Federal government to offer financial aid Title IV funding to those who qualify and designated a member of Yellow Ribbon Program by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The University’s new facility adjoins the U.S. Southern Command. MAU currently offers business management programs in administrative management, human resources, paralegal, health information, and more. The MBA Degree Program is also offered online. Financial aid is available for those who qualify, and small classrooms provide an average of 12:1 student to faculty ratio. For more information about the University and new academic programs, visit <www.maufl.edu> or follow MAU on Twitter at <@MAU_FL>.
Celebrating Millennia Atlantic campus grand opening are (l-r) Teresa Fitzgerald, Director of Academics, Brett Moss, Architect, Orianna Maza-Moss, Vice President, Administrative Affairs, Dr. Aristides Maza Tirado, Aristides Maza Duerto, President, Cecilia Duerto de Maza, Jenice Maza Duerto, Luis Eduardo Martinez, Chancellor and Sophia Langley. (Photo Credit: Biaggio Correale)
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Professional Dental Cleaning and Full Exam
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PROCEDURES PERFORMED General & Cosmetic Dentistry Dental Implants Veneers Teeth Whitening Invisalign®
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Kenia M. Cuevas, DDS 3650 NW 82 Avenue, Suite 202 Doral, FL 33166 Ph: 305.463.8220 F: 305.463.8255 Kenia@VidaDental.com
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Carlos
LOPEZ-CANTERA
August 2012
A RECORD OF TAX REFORM
Widely recognized as a leader in property tax reform Carlos: • Believes that foreclosures should be taken into consideration when assessing the value of your home, which is not the policy of the current administration; • Authored legislation to remove the burden of proof from property owners when appealing their values; • Restricted when Property Appraisers can assess a higher value to one's property by tightening the definition of "highest and best use"; and • Authored and sponsored a 2nd Homestead exemption for low-income seniors.
Contact Carlos at www.lopezcantera.com/contact and tell him that he has the experience and record needed to become the next Property Appraiser Pd. Pol. Adv. sponsored and paid for by Citizens for Lower Property Taxes, P.O Box 45-3723, Miami, FL 33245-2234
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Are you a Target?
The Evolving Threat of Hacking and Data Theft BY GREGORY T. CONTERIO
Not so long ago, I would advise my clients concerned with security there were essentially two kinds of hackers: the “Professionals” and the “Script Kiddies.” A Script Kiddie is someone whose principal interest in hacking is peer status. Usually, they don’t have the level of skill and experience to break into a computer system or network like a professional. Instead, they read up on known weaknesses and vulnerabilities of software and hardware, and look for systems which have not had those weaknesses fixed. That’s why a well-maintained system, with all its patches in place and holes properly plugged will frustrate these digital vandals, and they will move-on to an easier target. Now, simply being connected to the Internet makes you a potential target, not just for Script Kiddies, but for organized professionals no longer operating singly but as part of a large organization that scans the Internet for potential targets. They not even interested in your data. They simply want to gain access to your systems to access what they can then sell to a third party who wants your data. Some common sense tactics to keep your organization safe from cyber-criminals: Stronger Passwords at least seven characters in length with capitalized and lower-
case letters and numbers, not be names, birthdays, favorite colors or anything like those. Change passwords periodically, and forbid staff from sharing them without proper authorization. A Lockout Policy bars any entry after entering a password incorrectly four times, a most important measure because it defeats Brute Force attacks. Setting a policy effectively defeats repetitive entries, using letter and number combinations until successful. Use a Firewall to monitor all traffic in and out of your local network. The “firewall” built into Windows is ineffective compared to a physical firewall that prevents outside access to any of computer on your network. It’s probably one of the best, most important security steps you can take. Regularly update and patch your system since companies like Microsoft are very aggressive in ferreting-out weaknesses and vulnerabilities, constantly fixing patches and updates when they discovered. But it’s up to you to make sure these patches and updates protect your systems. Monitor your network as if you had an alarm on your back door. If you outsource to a computer consulting company, ask if they have a monitoring or maintenance service (like the Certain-Net plan we offer at Giatech). That helps ensure that even if attacked, your system is kept secure. For more details, contact Greg Conterio at greg@giatech.net>.
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Dr. Marino E. Carbonell Helps Families Deal with Substance Abuse and Reaches Out to Area Schools By Ann Lino Dr. Marino E. Carbonell, a private practitioner and certified addiction professional, has earned a reputation of excellence in his field with more than 18 years of experience as an addiction specialist with areas of expertise that include substance and alcohol abuse, relationship problems, parenting and family issues. Helping families deal with all types of addictions, parent/teen conflict issues, stress, and anxiety disorders in a private, confidential setting, Carbonell explains, “As a certified professional in the field of adolescent substance abuse, my experience in these matters suggest, that once parents succumb to negotiating certain expected behaviors with their children, parental decision-making starts down a very slippery slope.” He further notes, “It is crucial for parents to begin the conversation about the consequences of drug and alcohol use early and often. But the message should not be negotiable.” A licensed psychotherapist, Dr. Carbonell is board certified in professional counseling and a national certified counselor. His credentials include a doctorate in Child and Youth Studies from Nova Southeastern University’s Fischler Graduate School of Education and Human Services and a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. Dr. Carbonell is certified in Addictions Counseling from the University of Miami; is a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP) since 1994; and a Fellow of the American Psychotherapy Association. He is a member of the American Counseling Association. Dr. Carbonell serves on the Board of Directors of Informed Families. A consultant to several private schools in South Florida, Carbonell shares his experience and knowledge throughout the community traveling locally to public and private schools lecturing about the symptoms and consequences of substance and alcohol abuse to students and parents. At these encounters, Dr. Carbonell advises, “An adult’s relaxed attitude toward under-age drinking and experimental drug-use may suggest to a young person that the benefits outweigh the risks. Studies have found that family engagement is a better predictor of successful treatment. Underage drinking accounts for 25 percent of all alcohol consumed in the U.S. according to a new report recently released by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University (CASA).” Informed Families honored him with the Special Speakers Recognition Award. Additionally, he has written extensively about the subject of addiction and cognitive moral development in young adults and, in 2011, was honored to be selected for the Miami Award in the Mental Health Clinics category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA). This USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country that have achieved exceptional success in their local community. For additional information please visit www.marinocarbonell.com
Dr. Marino E. Carbonell, Ed.D., LMHC, CAP, FAPA, ICADC, BCPC, NCC 7344 SW 48 Street, Suite 104 • Miami, Florida 33155 305.447.2882
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August 2012
Seen at San Ignacio College's Anniversary Event
Ramiro Salas (left), Patricia Rodriguez, Luciana de la Fuente, Alex Azcuy, Alba Azcuy, Silvana Roekaert, and Raul Diez Canseco Terry
The Staff of San Ignacio College: Alexei Gutierrez (left), Chef Sandy Perez, Anna Moore, Rosa Rodriguez, Ligia Barros, Yannina Vasquez, and Yurandi Dominguez
Dina Mitjans (left), Honorable Juan Carlos Bermudez Mayor of the City of Doral, Barbara L. Romani, and Alex Azcuy
Michelin-Star Chef (left), Mey Hofmann, and Silvia Lafarga
Frank Bolanos (left), Frances Bolanos, Mrs. Irastorza and Benito Irastorza
August 2012
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How to Feel Comfortable About Investment Decisions BY RICK TONKINSON CFP®, MBA, CLU
MAfter 18 years of being a money manager, I have consistently heard how many people do not feel comfortable with their investment decisions. Have you ever second-guessed the investment decisions you have made? Do words like foolish, dumb, wrong, confused, guess, uncertain, frustrated, and overwhelmed describe your feelings? You are not alone in feeling uncomfortable about decisions you have made. Would you like to feel better about your investment decisions? If the answer is yes, here are some basic steps to consider.
Saver or Investor? If you need guaranteed stability, then you are a saver. When the stock market is positive, many people say that they want to invest and that they are an “investor.” They say that they can tolerate the volatility of the stock market and that their investment time horizon is long term (greater than 10 years). Then 2008 comes along and the stock market (S&P 500) drops 34 percent and the “investors” now are running for safety as “savers”. Their long-term time horizon has decreased from 10 years to 10 minutes and the risk tolerance has decreased from moderate to minimal. You need to be honest with yourself as to what degree you are a saver or an investor. This is a personal decision that in a perfect world should not be influenced by your family, friends or coworkers. There are investments for savers and investments for investors. Before you select from the thousand of choices, decide what will make you sleep at night. Don’t rely on a sales rep to tell you what your investment profile is because the sales rep may adjust your profile to fit the suitability of the investment they are trying to sell you.
Focus on Your Purpose Do you need to put money away for a rainy day? Make a “To Do List” of items that you want the money to attain such as vacation, education or wedding. Give each item a specific cost, such as $5,000 for a vacation. Determine which item motivates you to attain it. Motivation that is ratcheted up is called passion. If you find a passion for an item, that will be your top priority. How quickly you want to attain the item will help determine what the specific purpose of the money and then consider your options.
Be Realistic As an “investor,” you need to accept that you are prepared to lose part or all of your investment. If this risk is not comfortable for you, then you are a saver. There are times when people have borrowed on the equity of their home and invest in the stock market because the potential gains offset the risk of losing their home. People make reckless decisions so that they can attain the item they want quicker than what is realistic. Plan so that if it takes a year to attain an item, you give yourself two years to attain it. If you attain the item in one year, that’s good but don’t beat yourself up if you don’t make your deadline. The important thing is to keep working toward what you want. Tonkinson Financial, a South Florida based company with offices at 2398 S. Dixie Hwy, Miami, Fl 33133 offers financial planning services specializing in assisting the middle class. For more information, or an initial meeting at business or home, tel. 866323-8326 (toll-free); 305- 858-1628 (local), and/or visit the <http/www.TonkinsonFinancial.com> web site. Securities offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Fixed insurance products and services offered by Tonkinson Financial Inc.
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August 2012
Int’l Health Insurance Protects U.S. Travelers BY EFRAIN E. SORA General Agent
MAsegment of our population travels extensively outside the U.S. throughout the year. These Americans are missionaries, foreign students, business people or families taking vacations in any one of the four corners of the world. ..not to forget retirees, spending their golden years visiting exotic places. What do most of them have in common? A lack of the right coverage for that unexpected turn of events that could transform a trip into a misadventure, only because they were not carrying travel health insurance. Most of us who own personal or group health policies that we believe cover us anywhere in the world, and, to some extent that may be true, but on a very limited basis; f or ex., your U.S. policy may reimburse some emergency inpatient care (check your policy for specific “out-of-state” coverages). The two key words in the previous phrase are, “some” and “reimburse.” Another situation that can arise involves medical transportation or evacuation. What happens if you are in a remote area of the world and a medical
condition arises in which you need emergency treatment that can’t wait — and no emergency air transportation is available (and even if there was, you may not be able to afford the expense)? Such an unexpected events in life can turn into a deadly experience for you or a family member, leaving you to wish you had the right coverage. Travel Health Insurance is the answer. We all live under the misconception that Medicare is a cure-all at 65-and-over, and it may very well be, so long as the person stays within our 50 states. When you leave the U.S., Medicare will not provide reimbursements, emergency service to the nearest medical facility, or repatriations (some one to bring you home). You will be left to pocket all of these expenses. Travel Health Insurance is available to missionary groups of five or more who travel together, business people who travel various times during the year, or a student studying abroad. Age is not an issue on these policies so golden-agers can now explore the world, knowing they are covered for most eventualities. Some may set limits on pre-existing conditions. Where can you find this worthwhile coverage to protect you or a family member? Go online or simply ask your International Insurance Agent. Efraín E Sorá, General Agent, may be reached by Email at <esora@soraglobal.com>.
August 2012
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Debtors Can Strip 2nd Mortgages Mortgages in Chap. 7 Bankruptcy BY LETICIA PILOTO-RODRIGUEZ, P.L.
MA new court decision by the Federal Appeals Court for the 11th Circuit (In re: McNeal, No. 11-11352, 11th Cir., May 11, 2012) ) allows individuals by filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy to eliminate a second mortgage and any other inferior liens on real property that are undersecured (in other words, ‘upside down’). In the past, homeowners were only able to eliminate the second mortgage and other inferior liens in Chapter 13 bankruptcies, like past due amounts owed to Homeowner’s Associations, as long as they can demonstrate that their property is worth less than the first mortgage balance. The homeowner would file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, submit a payment plan, and then file a motion to eliminate the second mortgage as part of the plan. Most Chapter 13 plans last for five years so that when a debtor successfully completes his five-year plan, the court will issue an order stripping the second mortgage lien from the debtor’s residence.
Chapter 7 debtors were not afforded the same remedy until recently when the 11th Circuit Appeals Court issued a decision which permits Chapter 7 debtors to strip unsecured second mortgages. The issue of eliminating wholly-unsecured mortgages in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy has not yet been presented before the Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida; however, conversation amongst local bankruptcy practitioners seem to indicate that our local judiciary disagree with the Federal Appeals Court’s ruling. As a result, be cautious when prose cuting such a motion and prepare to file an appeal, if necessary. There are several advantages of filing for either a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Please consult with an attorney to obtain information on how filing for bankruptcy may help your circumstances.
Leticia Maria Piloto-Rodriguez, Esq., is a partner with Gonzalez & Rodriguez, P. L, at 999 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Penthouse 1135, and may be contacted by tel. at 305-461-4880 (Venezuela: (0212) 720-5269; or by Email at < lpiloto@gr-law.net>.
DOB Legacy Awards to Honor Doral Leaders The Doral Business Council will commemorate those dedicating years of public and private service to the growth and expansion of the City of Doral with an inaugural “Legacy Awards” event this fall. The awards recognizing diligent efforts of individuals to make Doral a thriving and prosperous city will be presented on behalf of the Council on Oct. 27. Honorees for the 2012 Doral Business Council Legacy Awards are Doral Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez; Juan Del Busto, Regional Executive, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Miami Branch and Stephen Musolino, Founder and President of Casa Linda Tile. The Legacy Awards gala will take
place in the Grand Ballroom of the Doral Golf and Spa resort, and include fine dining, dancing and a personalized video presentation providing recognition on the honorees’ achievements from many of their closest friends. The Doral Business Council’s Legacy Awards Gala is anticipated to become the signature event of the year in Doral with its 2012 honorees a great representation of what may be expected for years to come as Doral continues to flourish. Tables and individual tickets may be purchased by the public and are available through the DBC website <www.doralbusiness.com> or by calling 305-4709597.
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Included in your $10.00 Nightly Resort Fee. Rates are based on 1-2 guests per room, plus tax, and subject to availability. Promotional offer is valid until September 30, 2012. May not be valid during holiday periods or special events. May not be combined with any other discounts or promotions.
August 2012
August 2012
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How will a Midwest drought effect Florida? Preparing for soaring corn and soybean prices BY NELLY SANCHEZ
You may have already noticed changes in the price of food at your local supermarket. Like the price of gas, it’s going up again. It turns out the most severed rought in half a century is affecting more than just the Corn Belt. Reduced productions this year of U.S. corn and soybean pose a potential threat, not just here at home but worldwide. In its most recent report, the USDA alerted the nation that roughly 45 percent of the U. S. corn crop and 35 percent of the soybean crop is in poor to very poor condition. Iowa, our nation’s top producer of both crops, reported only about 20 percent of its corn and 25 percent of its soybean crops in good to excellent condition. States like Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, and Missouri reported similar results that combined together could be devastating to the economy. Corn and soybean each have varied uses, affecting everything you can think of from food to feed to gasoline. Because the U.S. is the world’s largest producer and exporter of these crops, our food chain of events is alarming, particularly to alreadyimpoverished countries suffering with overpopulation. For U. S. farmers, there’s the added threat of defaulting on debt or even losing
valuable farmland. While fresh corn is normally plentiful at your local market, check labels of processed foods and you’ll find most list corn syrup among the ingredients. You’ll also find it used in biodegradable plasticlike containers or in wood-protecting varnish. If your home has gypsum drywall, that comes from corn, too. It’s also used to make ethanol which is blended with gasoline to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Likewise, because soy is a high-protein fiber it makes perfect feed for livestock. Through a process called transesterification, soy biodiesel fuel is created that is not only renewable but eco-friendly, too. In 2007, Ford Mustangs debuted flexible foam made of soy in car seats. Ask most vegetarians what they substitute for meat and if they say “tofu,” they might well have said “soy.” As corn and soybean market prices rise, there are measures you can take to prepare. For a start, become a bargain shopper. Stock up on non-perishables. Check out a farmer’s market or better yet, take up gardening. You can also download a new app. Apps can send coupons straight to your phone and tell you where you can find the cheapest gas in your area. Just plug in your zip code…and join the ‘bargain brigade!’
Nelly Sanchez is the Marketing Manager for Drake Finance Group, an international trade finance non-bank lender. For more information, visit <drakefinance.com> or email <nelly@drakefinance.com>.
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Barbara Buxton, J.D., LL.M. Florida Attorney
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FPL CORNER FPL Researchers helping ensure Lightning’s Effects are gone in a Flash A team of engineers at Florida Power & Light Company works diligently to protect the electric grid from one very persistent and potentially destructive foe: lightning. Florida sustains more lightning strikes than any other state in the U.S., and more than almost any country, too (second only to Rwanda, the world’s lightning capital). Within FPL’s 35-county service territory, there are approximately 250,000 lightning strikes each year. That “striking” distinction puts Florida’s electric infrastructure under siege. When a lightning bolt hits electrical equipment, it can cause power outages and flickers. At a high-voltage “Lightning Lab” within FPL’s Reliability Assurance Center in Riviera Beach, Fla., engineers test equipment and research ways to reduce lightning’s impact on the grid, ultimately helping to reduce the number and duration of power outages. The engineering team tests the performance of its own equipment and insulators in the lab by zapping them with up to 2 million volts of electricity. Experimenting with simulated lightning allows the team to gather detailed data about the effects of lightning on FPL equipment and helps it discover ways to prevent future lightning-related problems. “This is the one center to handle product evaluation, forensic and application research needs,” said FPL Reliability Assurance Center Manager John Fischer. “It is a hub where experts can do hands-on analysis and subject matter experts can quickly get analytic capabilities. During my 40 years at FPL as an engineer, I’ve used this lab many times on complex issues and would not have been able to find solutions without the range of advanced possibilities here.” Since 1997, FPL has reduced the number of service interruptions for its customers by 15 percent. FPL is the only one of the 55 utilities in the state to have a research lab to simulate lightning and its potential impact in this manner. Fischer says this is one of the ways FPL is able to provide its customers with reliable service the lowest bill in the state. “The lightning lab, the entire Reliability Assurance Center and the talented engineers and experts who work here are definitely a benefit to our customers both in ensuring reliable service and keeping costs down,” Fischer said.
August 2012
What web designers don’t want you to know! BY JAMES PAREDES
As a business owner, you want to build a brand new website or you’ve decided you just need a facelift to your current on-line display. Whichever you choose, here is a framework you should understand before embarking on this project. With respect to price, there’ll be a huge range when building from scratch and it’s your job to determine who can give you the best result, based on desired outcomes. Two options: visit <1and1.com> or <wws.TemplateMonster.com> to get an idea of what corporations like “Go Daddy” offer. The most important point: two main elements develop a website: 1) Design and 2) Integration or Programming. The design is the visual image, the look and feel a customer experiences when landing on your website. Once a design has been approved, it needs to be “installed” or integrated into something. This can be simple HTML or a more sophisticated back-end like “Word Press” which I recommend to my clients. The advantages: * Word Press contains a content management system (CMS) that allows for simple, highly functional and quickly editable website that does not require a third party to manage or update. . * Word Press is an “open source” meaning there are thousands worldwide trying to improve the system and add functionality all at no cost to you. * It’s free with a very important caveat: it is not free to take the design to a WP integration; rather, the “software” of the CMS is free. Many companies charge from hundreds to thousands of dollars for a CMS.
With Word Press, you pay nothing! Consider the options of (1) hiring a designer / programmer for both design and integration of the site or (2) contracting a company specializing in website design. If you hire an individual, you’ll pay less because the same person is doing the entire job. A design agency will usually build a custom website design based on criteria you give them. Someone else will integrate the design into WP or whatever backend they recommend. If you only need a facelift for your website, make sure any re-design includes: * Phone number, email, social media icons (at the top of the page). * A contact form on every page * As many video and photos on your site as possible. In pricing a website re-design, determine cost effectiveness by asking for a project figure compared to paying an individual by the hour. If multiple changes are involved, hourly rates can skyrocket. Ask how many revisions you can make to eliminate misunderstanding. A website is arguably the most important marketing resource you have to communicate the business message. Take your time to best decide what you need, and pick a designer or company providing references and samples that showcase work they’ve done in the past.
Jaime Paredes is the owner of <www.SouthBeachWebMarketing> has been servicing small and medium-sized businesses in South Florida for almost five years, designing and developing 100-plus websites. You can reach him at 305-9723474 or by email at <jparedes8@gmail.com>.
See us online at: www.communitynewspapers.com
August 2012
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Gym Flooring Choice Helps Home and You BY BRANDON LOPEZ
MMany believe a common misconception that equipment is all that’s needed in a home gym or work out area. MAmong other factors typically overlooked that could be detrimental to your home or fitness center (and perhaps your health) is the flooring. That’s why rubbercovered flooring is a perfect choice for a home fitness center. It protects the underlying surface from free-falling weights, sweat, fluids, and other potential damage to wood, marble or even carpet. Another plus for rubber flooring is sound insulation, especially for an apartment or condominium. If your home work out center is located on a second or higher floor, rubber flooring can act as a noise barrier, helping to reduce the sound of a free-falling weight to floors below. Rubber flooring is also a great for your body. If you routinely do jumping jacks, jump rope, or similar activities, such
actions performed directly on wood or marble flooring can create increased wear and tear on your knees and feet. Rubber flooring provides a cushion that evenly absorbs the shock throughout your body, not solely on feet and knees. So if you’re considering outfitting a home gym or workout area, keep in mind that your flooring can be just as important as the equipment you’ll purchase. Rubber floor covering can save body wear and tear. And just possibly hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars from repairs to an existing floor.
Brandon Lopez is the Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator at Specialized Fitness Resources, a specialty flooring company based in Doral. For more information, contact <Brandon.lopez@specializedweb.com>; visit < www.specializedweb.com> or <www.facebook.com/specializedfitnessresources>; by Twitter or Instagram: <@SpecializedMIA>.
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Let’s Cut Down on Paper Usage! BY MIKE JOHNSTON
Are you aware of the ‘numbers’ paper filing costs your business? The average paper document is copied 19 times. Most of those documents are then shuffled, preserving about 90 percent of corporate “memory” on paper. Meanwhile, seven and one-half percent of all documents are lost every day while up to four percent of the remainder is misfiled. Did you know that business analysts have figured it costs up to $20 to file a document, $120 to find it, if misfiled, and $220 to reproduce it, if lost? The volume of filed documents doubles every 10 years. Paper files today contain up to 90 percent of corporate memory, often times filed away in basements, warehouses, storage units or other unsafe locations that expose corporate memory to fire, flood, or other possible disasters. On the other hand, electronic files are convenient, easily duplicated and stored in multiple locations that can offer easy redundant backup. By contrast, paper document storage is expensive. Offsite document storage companies charge to keep documents and then charge again when providing documents for review. Why wouldn’t a business want instant access to documents without paying storage fees and review charges? Onsite paper storage is also expensive. File cabinets require expensive real estate space just to accommodate their bulk and size. So how do electronic these systems work? Simply by scanning paper originals from most multifunction copiers or desktop scanners. These scanned documents are
stored as searchable PDF files. In addition, e-mails and network files can be directed to or dropped into file folders that mimic existing file folder sytems. Need to find all documents relating to ABC Company? Any compute with Internet access (with usage permissions) can retrieve all documents related to your search. Want to edit these documents and then forward them by e-mail or fax to someone? No problem and no printing required. The obvious reason to use less paper is to lessen the amount of paper, plastic, and toner that are filling up landfills. That trash has been only somewhat reduced by accumulations from certain businesses, now required to have Eco plans to bid on contracts. Document Management Systems provide efficient, easy to use workflows that save time, and money, too. For example, received invoices can be scanned directly to specific e-mails or folders with reviewable time frames that make sure documents are checked and timely forwarded to managers for approval and payment. It’s a procedure that not only saves time, but also makes sure payment deadlines are met for maximum cash discounts. Most companies and departments are potential candidates for Document Imaging Software to save time and money, as well as eliminating growing stacks of paper and storage files. In most cases the cost of software is considerably less than the savings incurred through its use. Isn’t time you considered DMS for your business? Mike Johnston of Barlop Business Systems can be reached at 305-504-0470; for information, visit <www.barlop.com> or by email <mjohnston@barlop.co>.
August 2012
Grow Business the Easy Way BY MAX FLETCHER
MOur dream business would be to have a constant flow of customers coming through our doors ready to buy. No selling, no marketing expense, of any kind. Is this possible? It’s easier than you think. Keep reading. People buy when they are ready. When you meet somebody at a networking event, online, or by phone, statistics show that less than three percent of those with who you interact with are ready to buy immediately. Another 20 percent of those you meet are not buyers of what you sell. The remaining 77 percent are going to buy what you are selling within 12 to 24 months. Want to be a millionaire? Focus on this 77 percent with great follow up, be patient, and you’ll attract customers for the rest of your life. Follow up with phone calls, and emails, and pray for business. Be outstanding in your follow up, and open the gates for customers and referrals will come to you over and over again, forever. A customer of mine, a real estate agent, starts his outstanding follow up with every prospect (whether they buy or not). He sends a personalized paper greeting card, saying that he had a great time with his prospective customer and praising them for their great taste, adding that he’s looking forward to helping them find the house of their dreams. That’s already an “outstanding” approach because it invites people come to
him for advice, information, or direct business. After closing a property, he sends a greeting card every 90 days with a personal note of appreciation, enclosing a little joke, a box of chocolates, or a gift card. Regardless of whether the prospect becomes a buying customer or not, he always sends birthday cards. Now, he is more than “the real estate agent who sold me the house”, but a friend, somebody who cares, somebody his clients want to do well. He gets referrals from the customer that he didn’t get before. Just by sending a personalized (adding pictures) paper greeting cards and occasional gifts, his business doubled within 12 months. The domino effect of referrals happens naturally because nobody else does it. My client is the only outstanding real estate agent in his area by showing how much he equally cares about his prospects and buying customers. People want to feel important and going the extra mile with a personal note does the trick. This same technique will apply to any industry for the simple reason that it’s personal, creates trust, rapport, and friendship – attributes all buyers expect from a vendor – but rarely find. The return on investment by sending paper greeting cards is amazing. A one dollar card can give you a new relationship that will not only ‘buy’ from you but a lasting friend who will refer new clients, over and over again.
Max Fleischer is an independent marketing distributor and can be contacted at 305-490-1436.
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August 2012
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Mercy Crespo Mercy.Crespo@halo.com
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