Miami Beach News 1.11.2012

P u b l i s h e d i n c o o p e r a t i o n w i t h T h e M i a m i B e a c h C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– C o n n e c t i n g L o c a l B u s i n e s s e s s i n c e 1 9 5 8

JANUARY 11, 2012

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www.communitynewspapers.com

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Miami Beach Senior High PTSA We Have Constructed Our ‘A’

BY LAURIE KAYE DAVIS

Miami Beach Senior High School PTSA President Five years ago my friend told me her daughter was going to attend Scholar’s Academy at Miami Beach Senior High School (MBSH) and had turned down MAST Academy. MAST was an “A” school while MBSH was a “D” school. I said to her, “Are you crazy? Why would you send her there?” The following year, my daughter informed me that she wanted a real high school experience with “real kids” and that she wanted to leave her private school to attend Miami Beach Senior High. I said, “No way!”

However, at this point, MBSH had improved to a “B.” Ultimately, I let it be her decision.

Fast forward four years. Wednesday, I received an email from our Principal, Dr. Rosanne Sidener, which read: SCHOOL GRADES CAME OUT TODAY. BEACH HIGH IS AN “A” GO HITIDES! I was overcome with emotion as I reflected on how hard our students work and how incredible our teachers and administrators are. I have had the opportunity to volunteer in our classrooms and

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See

PTSA, page 8

ING Miami Marathon Entries Climb Towards 25,000

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outh Florida’s premier running event is about to celebrate its 10th Anniversary by hitting the 25,000 runner milestone.

Entries for the 2012 ING Miami Marathon and Half-Marathon®, which will be held January 29 through the streets of downtown Miami, Miami Beach and Coconut Grove, have eclipsed the 16,500 mark eight weeks before the race, a trend toward that magical 25,000 total. There is a strong chance that race entries will be capped at that level for 2012 to accommodate existing operations.

There were about 12,500 entries at this point last year, the growth serving as a definitive sign of the expanding stature of the largest long distance running event in South Florida history. A field of 21,116 participated in 2011, so the projected number of 25,000 is about an 18% increase and comes on the heels of an 18% increase last year over the 2010 race.

“Why is this happening? The ING Miami Marathon and Half-Marathon® has earned its niche as a premier running event,” said Race Director David Scott.

“We have become known as a can’t miss

race for runners throughout the U.S., South America and the Caribbean.

“You are coming to Miami. It has become that South Florida big event that Miami is noted for. We have Super Bowls, NASCAR Championships, National Championship football games, Tennis on Key Biscayne, PGA TOUR Golf, even Wrestlemania. Now the the ING Miami Marathon and HalfMarathon® has gained national appeal and I think we have an International appeal now as well.”

The race has come a long way since 3,400 runners participated in the first Miami Marathon 10 years ago. Several official hotels are already sold out and the Expo which precedes race day is close to being sold out for vendors.

In addition to the 25,000 runners, more than 5,000 South Florida middle school students will also participate in the Run For Something Better, a 1.2 mile run from the county courthouse on Flagler Street that culminates a 15week program designed to promote fitness to kids.

The Tropical 5K, a great family event –––––––––– See

Phone: 305-669-7355

Letter from the Chair

BY JASON LOEB

Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber As a father, I have high hopes for my two daughters and the contributions they will make in the business and local community one day as adults.

Everyday, I become more amazed with how quickly the younger generations grasp new knowledge and apply it to their everyday lives. Yet during this journey, it’s so important that we provide them our support and guidance. The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, along with City National Bank and Communities in Schools, Inc., recently co-hosted an event that I think is incredibly valuable and worth highlighting: the Real Money Business Boot Camp.

Held at Jungle Island, 70 students from Miami Beach Senior High and North Western Senior High learned about the many financial decisions they will face upon graduation. Helping us were several local businesses covering a range of sectors including FIU Career Center, State Farm Insurance, The Continental Group, Warren Henry Auto, Best Buy, Hiperfit and more, all of which set up educational stations.

Each student was given a budget upon arrival. At each station, the students were presented with real life expenditures covering housing decisions, to car lease payments, to recreational options such as laptops from Best Buy and/or gym memberships. Representatives from each company gave the students detailed options on how they could allocate their money and the different ways they might be able to save in using their services. It was an eye opening experience for these young

ING MARATHON, page 4 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See

LETTER, page 4

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

January 12 - 25, 2012

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT

Dr. BRIAN SCHRINER Brian Schriner, Dean of FIU College of Architecture + The Arts, has over 20 years experience in higher education administration.

This past September — working with FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg and long-time FIU supporter Ambassador Paul L. Cejas – Schriner presided over the opening of the College of Architecture + The Arts Miami Beach Urban Studios. Located in the heart of South Beach in the 420 Lincoln Road Building, the FIU College of Architecture + the Arts Miami Beach Urban Studio is a unique 16,000 sq. ft facility featuring a public gallery, design studios, performance and rehearsal space, faculty offices, conference rooms, and classrooms.

It’s also home to the Office of Engaged Creativity, developed by Schriner and charged with collaborating with community partners by deploying the power of the Arts to create, innovate, and inspire a more beautiful, sustainable, healthy, and just tomorrow.

The Miami Beach Urban Studio and the Office of Engaged Creativity allows our graduate students and faculty to tap into the vibrant, creative energy that can only be found on Miami Beach, said Dean Schriner when asked, Why Miami Beach? The arts are vital to the spirit of our community and serve as economic drivers. South Beach offers an extraordinary creative environment, and we are fortunate to be able to provide our students the opportunity to engage with our communities while pursuing their professional studies on Lincoln Road. We couldn’t be more excited about joining the Miami Beach family!”

Schriner is also a new member of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Board of Governors and in November 2011 was appointed by Jason Loeb, Chairman of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, as Chair of the newly created Council of Art

Dr. BRIAN SCHRINER

and Culture. The Council’s mission is to positively impact the importance and success of art and culture in Miami Beach and to ensure the art and cultural programs of Miami Beach are recognized locally, nationally, and internationally, said Schriner.

Schriner is also an award-winning educator and an accomplished author. Speaking Intelligently, his most recent book focuses on improving workplace communication skills.

In addition to three textbooks, he has also authored numerous scholarly articles, student workbooks, and instructors’ manuals. Brian also has an extensive background in the private sector as President of Schriner and Associates, an organizational development consultant firm, and was a founding member of HMCI, Inc – a firm specializing in medical mediation services and conflict management training.

Schriner resides in Kendall with his wife, Maria Camila.

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ING MARATHON, from page 1 annually held the morning before the marathon, will also have approximately 3,000 runners. The race, expanded from a sellout of 2,100 runners in 2011, will start at Watson Island and end on South Beach.

“There is continued growth of the running industry as well as a trend in our country toward a more active lifestyle and that return to activity includes running,” Scott said. “We are more health conscious today. Corporations are rewarding their employees with wellness centers and offering rebates on their health insurance for leading healthy lifestyles.

“And if you are a runner, the ING Miami Marathon and Half-Marathon® is the race you want to be a part of because it is one of the more scenic courses, if not the most scenic, in the country.”

2012 FACT SHEET Date: Sunday, January 29, 2012 Year Founded: 2003 Start Time: 6:05 AM for wheelchair 6:15 AM for ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon® Participants: 25,000 in marathon and half marathon; 5000 children in the ING Run for Something Better program; and 3,000 runners in the Tropical 5K held one day prior.

Race Ratio: 25/75 (marathon/half marathon) REGISTRATION: MARATHON: $100 through December 8, 2011 $110 December 9, 2011 through January 20, 2012

January 12 - 25, 2012

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$125 Walk up at Expo (if available) Half-Marathon $75 through December 8, 2011 $85 December 9, 2011 through January 20, 2012 $125 Walk up at Expo (If Available) Tiiming: ChronoTrack B-Tag timing system, administered by Splitsecondtiming.com Weather: The average start time temperature is 61° F Start Location: American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33131 Finish Location: Bayfront Park, 301 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL 33131 Race Route: The USATF-certified course and Boston qualifier starts at American Airlines Arena, travels over the MacArthur Causeway to South Beach, through the Venetian Islands, Arts District, Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove, Brickell Avenue, and finishes at Bayfront Park.

ING Cheering Zones & Communitty Fun Zones: The race course comes alive with five areas that provide runners, residents and spectators with entertainment, refreshments and giveaways. Thousands of spectators are expected at the ING Cheering Zone, Omni Center on NE 15th Street and Biscayne Boulevard (Mile 10.5).

Pace Team: The ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon® will provide experienced

pacers to help runners and walkers finish at expected times. Racers can choose from several pace groups: 3:10, 3:20, 3:30, 3:40, 3:50, 4:00, 4:15, 4:30, 5:00, 5:30, 6:00 and 7:00.

COURSE RECORDS: MARATHON Men’s: David Ruto 2:12:22 (2003) Women’s: Hiromi Ominami, 2:34:11 (2006) Half Marathon Men’s: Brian Sell, 1:03:46 (2008) Women’s: Aziza Aliyu 1:15:06 (2011) 2011 WINNERS: MARATHON Men’s: Tesfaye Alemayehu 2:12:57 Women’s: Alena Vinitskaya 2:44:39 or 2:44:38 Half Marathon Men’s: Kumsa Adugna 1:07:04 Women’s: Aziza Aliyu 1:15:06 or 1:15:05 RACE ACCOLADES: “Top 10 U.S. Marathons” USA Today 2009; “Cool Runs” Runner’s World Magazine 2009, “2008 Races to Run” by Runner’s World Magazine; “2008 Top Winter Destination Race” by USA Today; Competitor Sports Southeast “Best Event of the Year and Best Running Race.”

TITLE SPONSOR: ING has been the title sponsor for seven years. ING is a global financial institution of Dutch origin offering banking, investments, life insurance and retirement services to over 85 million residential, corporate and institutional clients in more than 50 countries.

LETTER, from page 1

OTHER EVENTS: Friday, January 27 and Saturday, January 28 – The Nissan Health & Fitness Expo presented by The Miami Herald and El Nuevo Herald is one of the largest health expos in the region (expected attendance of 35,000). The Expo will be held at the Miami Beach Convention Center, and will be open 12 Noon to 7 PM Friday and 10 AM - 6 PM on Saturday.

Saturday, January 28 – Tropical 5K, 7:30 AM Sunday, January 29 – Finish Line Celebration at Bayfront Park for participants, families and friends from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Call 305-278-8668 or visit online at www.ingmiamimarathon.com.

ABOUT US ROAD SPORTS US Road Sports & Entertainment Group is a health and wellness company dedicated to the production of worldclass endurance events. The mission of US Road Sports is to offer an unparalleled participant sports experience that showcases host communities and endures as a deeply valued local asset through events that are a part of the city’s culture, identity and brand. For each participant, US Road Sports strives to offer events that allow participants of all skill levels the opportunity to improve their physical and mental health and accomplish life-altering goals while having fun. US Road Sports provides sponsors and municipalities highly effective exposure to help maximize their presence and message in the community.

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adults, as they experienced first-hand the day-to-day expenses that will soon be upon them. However, they each ultimately found a successful balance within their budgets. Following, their hard work was some play, as Jungle Island hosted a bird show for the attendees and gave them an hour to tour the park.

I think we can all remember our first time out on our own... Slowly, but surely we forged our adult lives, but I

wish I was able to experience a program such as this back then.

Mentorship is so important at every age, but informing these kids now will certainly mold them into savvy adults, both personally and professionally. I really look forward to watching them grow and succeed.

At your service, Jason Loeb Chairman

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

SPOTLIGHT ON...

CHAMBER STAFF – JEANNE WESTPHAL Jeanne Westphal , well known tourism industry and community leader, has joined the marketing team of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce to promote the Chamber’s 90 th Anniversary Gala and Auction next June.

One of the achievements in her long career in tourism included being appointed Tourism Director of the USA in the Carter Administration. She moved to Miami in 1983 to be Tourism Director of Miami Dade County and assisted in the creation of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau.

In 1987 she was one of the founders of the Miami Dade County Public Schools Academy of Hospitality & Tourism program, as a pilot program, at Miami Springs Senior High School.

The program encourages students to select the hospitality industry as a career pathway. It is now in 14 senior high schools in Miami Dade County and more than 100 high schools throughout the USA. She serves on the Academy’s Advisory Board. Most recently Ms. Westphal was Director of the Hospitality Institute Job Training Program of Miami Dade College which assists residents of areas with high unemployment to prepare for jobs in all segments of the tourism industry.

JEANNE WESTPHAL

Ms. Westphal has lived abroad in Colombia and Peru and has travelled extensively throughout the USA and the rest of the world. She is a life member of the Society of American Travel Writers and serves on the WLRN Community Advisory Board.

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January 12 - 25, 2012

How Do You Keep Your Process on Track?

BY DEBORAH SHANE

With the pace of change accelerated for most people, the importance of following a process becomes an important, critical and really effective tool to deal with it.

“The Process Is as Important As the Results It Produces” How does anyone navigate change, be it business or personal? Changing jobs, lifestyle, health, where you live, and the unexpected are all a part of our lives today in a more relentless way than ever before.

Just spoke to an old high school friend, who made a bad decision to practice medicine in the wrong way and just lost her license. A seasoned HR professional was just let go after being at the same company for 16 years. An unexpected visit to the doctor by a childhood friend revealed a serious fight with cancer that she is winning. A 50% drop in business by a well established company who did not keep pace with the trends might have to close its doors.

Change.

The cheese moved.

The situation unexpectedly shifted.

A radical new reality is now in place.

What do you do? You follow a process and move through and with your new reality.

A process offers a set of steps, protocols, principles that go into place in a sensible order. They are designed to restore perspective, functionality, effectiveness, efficiency and well being. Regardless of the situation, defining the process, implementing it and regularly monitoring it can give order and meaning to the results.

Are you following a process, stuck or aimlessly drifting?

I review these areas to make sure my process stays on track.

Making sure that “My Vision” is clear about what I do and what I am supposed to be doing. It makes it easier to stick with it and persevere.

Making sure that “My Mission” is clear about why I am doing what I am doing. It is about making money but helping people is my why.

Constantly reviewing that “The Fundamentals” are in place for doing exceptional work and following the best practices that are available today.

Staying on top of and following “The Trends” forces me to pay attention to change and keep up with it?

Staying focused on serving “My Target Market” to grow my business, build community, engagement and good will.

Nurturing and having “A Mindset and Attitude” that is positive, authentic and kind.

That doctor friend of mine, who lost her license is learning new sales and marketing skills representing a direct selling product and feeling quite re-energized. The seasoned HR professional is building a consulting practice specializing in coaching and training people through career change.

That childhood friend who has been fighting cancer is improving and enjoying picking apples and milking a cow with her family. The established business has rejuvenated their marketing, product delivery and social media engagement.

That’s the beauty of a process. It guides and moves us naturally through change.

Deborah Shane is the Author of Career Transition-make the shift, a media host, speaker and branding consultant and strategist. She hosts a weekly Blog and is in her third year of hosting a weekly business radio show on blogtalkradio.com, which has over 32k downloads. She writes for several national business, career and marketing blogs, and websites including smallbiztrends.com, careerealism.com, BusinessInsider.com,Personalbrandingblog.c om and blogher.com. Deborah delivers smart, no-nonsense ideas and solutions, which make her a popular go-to resource for clients, national media and influential blogs.

Connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Blogtalkradio @Deborah Shane, or on the web at DeborahShane.com, or DeborahShaneToolBox.com.

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

The $outh Florida Gaming Repor t

Compromising Measures

BY ISADORE HAVENICK

After great debate the authors of the resort destination casino bill have reworked the bill in an attempt to address the major concerns of opponents.

Significant changes raised the tax rate proposed for the destination resorts from ten percent (10%) to eighteen percent (18%) while dropping the tax rate charged slot operators at dog and horse tracks in Dade and Broward counties from thirty-five percent (35%) to eighteen percent (18%).

In addition resort casino applicants would need to gain the approval of county residents through a voter referendum.

Existing horse, dog, and jai-alai operators in Dade and Broward counties could continue to operate as slot only casinos or invest an additional 100 million into their facilities and become full gaming operators. There are a myriad of other changes many of which address perceived loopholes in the current parimutuel laws.

Many of the Tallahassee sages feel the bill may be suffering under its own weight, trying to do to much. House leadership has expressed concerns that the bill may never make it to the floor of their chamber.

The 2012 legislative session is just getting ready to kickoff, but many of the prognosticators have already determined the final score of this contest. We will watch this game play out over the next eight weeks.

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January 12 - 25, 2012

PTSA, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Miami Beach High School exterior ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

witness the passion and dedication of our teachers. I have had the opportunity to participate in our school’s summer planning session where I was in awe of how our teachers and administrators worked together on their own time to improve our school.

Our school underwent a major transformation with new administration and a new building under construction from 2006 through 2010. 2011 marks the first “A” for MBSH. Dr. Sidener states “Miami Beach Senior High School has a long history of academic excellence. This community produces outstanding young people and enjoys strong support from parents, the city and local businesses. We are proud to return Beach High to its traditional place as a world-class educational institution. The key is to focus on creating a culture of success where every student is challenged to achieve at his/her potential – whether that means college level study, the International Baccalaureate Programme, Advanced Placement or remedial reading.”

I asked Gwen Zaldivar, Activities Director and MBSH alumnus, what her

reaction was to the news and she replied, “I hesitated to open the email because I was afraid of what it might contain”. Based on FCAT scores only, we were a “B”. This is the second year the state employed a morecomplex grading system for high schools.

Instead of being based solely on how students fared on the FCAT, the state also takes into consideration student outcomes including graduation rates as well as student participation and performance in advanced course work. This is a fairer approach that acknowledges the many areas in which schools can improve, instead of relying solely on one make-or-break test. She continued with, “After so many years of struggling it finally came to fruition under strong leadership and committed teachers.”

Our “A” shows that MBSH is succeeding at preparing our students for college and for the work force. This is great news for our local businesses and for our community.

Why would anyone living on Miami Beach not send their children to our local public high school?

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Taxpayers Association Hears Condo Ombudsman Proposal All residents should support the creation of a condominium ombudsman position because it will benefit everyone, not just condo owners, Commissioner Jerry Libbin told the Miami Beach Taxpayer’s Association the week of January 5th.

“If you are a condo owner who has a problem, there is no end to the line at the building department. If we could take all of the issues relevant to condo owners and create a special line for them, then that line for everyone else would be much shorter,” Libbin told the Miami Beach Taxpayer’s Association. “This is why the creation of such a position would help everyone,” he added.

Libbin made his presentation at the Shelborne hotel, 1801 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. He is seeking support in his bid to collect enough signatures to put his proposal to add the position to a vote at an upcoming election. He needs 4,200 signatures for the proposal to appear on the ballot.

The position is for a full-time city employee, who would be tasked with helping condominium owners with issues brought by members of the city’s building, code compliance and fire departments. The ombudsman would file written reports directly to the City Manager.

The ombudsman would report directly to the City Manager, because “I would want him to have some clout,” said Libbin. The proposal also requires the ombudsman to submit quarter-

Miami Beach Commissioner Jerry Libbin –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ly written reports to the City Commission, which will be useful in identifying problem areas or issues that need to be addressed.

“This is something new for me. I’ve never done a ballot initiative, so I really need your help,” Libbin told the audience.

He asked members to steer him to condo associations who would be willing to have him as a speaker to explain the proposal. He is hoping to “deputize” condo owners at each building who would collect signatures.

Since Libbin is a Miami Beach City

Ray Breslin, President of the Collins Park Neighborhood Association –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Commissioner, he was asked why he didn’t simply bring a measure to add the employee to his fellow Commissioners. He answered that he was afraid that his recommendation might get bogged down in political wrangling. “That is my backup plan if I don’t get the 4,200 signatures I need,” he acknowledged.

At the meeting, several people spoke in favor of the idea, including Ray Breslin, President of the Collins Park Neighborhood Association, who described some of the issues he’s had as a condo owner in trying to

Russell Galbut, Program Chairman of the Miami Beach Taxpayers Association ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– deal efficiently with City Departments.

Libbin did not specify which election he is targeting, but he said he would look for signatures to be collected three months in advance to allow enough time for the City Commission to approve the ballot question, and for the County to certify the signatures and prepare the ballot.

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January 12 - 25, 2012

Art and Culture Council (PRE)view and (RE)view

BY JUDY HOLM Vice-Chair of the Council of Art and Culture, Miami Beach Chamber and Pillar Member

I attended Art Basel Miami Beach (ABMB) 2010 in preparation for my work in Venice at the 2011 Biennale. After a 10-year absence from the area, I could not believe the incredible and wonderful evolution of this city and the entire region, particularly in urban development and cultural innovation and maturation.

Specifically because of my perception of creative opportunities and this aspirational spirit of Miami Beach, I made the decision to relocate from San Francisco.

The importance of art and culture has not only an important image impact on the community, but specifically with the advent of Art Basel Miami Beach, there is a discernible ripple effect on the entire economic growth of the city and its surrounding neighboring cities.

Art Basel is considered by most of the art world to be one of the most prestigious and financially important organizations worldwide. In fact, ABMB has eclipsed the Basel fair as the largest sale of art worldwide. This year, according to ARTLOG, the early estimates are $1 billion of art sold, and 50,000 attendees in the 260 gallery, 2,000-artists’ exhibition.

Additionally, fourteen satellite fairs, all of the important museums and other cultural organizations, countless galleries, murals (!), design showrooms, restaurants, and retailers all presented art and benefitted economically with raised visibility within the ever-growing and prestigious domestic and international base of attendees.

The zenith of this fair, and its related overwhelming positive financial and cultural

impacts have brought unprecedented and inestimable value to Miami and Miami Beach.

The long-term potential of Miami and Miami Beach as a serious cultural center is at a critical stage of development. The local level of dynamism and creativity is intense, but the international interest in the region as a cultural hub is still fragile, and largely linked to the presence of Art Basel. The annual infrastructure of this most venerated exhibition, the continued cultural and related economic growth in our community- fueled by international art collectors, gallerists, and critics, is an exciting element of the cultural organic growth of our community.

As Vice-Chair of Art and Culture for the new council at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, I believe that one of the most important aspects of the group is to communicate, promote and highlight the jewels of our city. The relevancy of art and culture is particularly critical today, as the public education in our schools has eliminated much of the funding, and related programs for our children.

The future of art and culture, as with anything, lies with the future generations. The need to educate and provide access to art and culture is therefore paramount; ultimately with the goal to incite interest and support.

One of the best ways to grow a business, is to attract lifelong “customers.” Creating interest and passion about the myriad of categories in art and culture will help ensure commitment for generations to come.

We will be (PRE)viewing and (RE)viewing several different organizations and events each month, to ensure that our members and the constituency of the Miami Beach News are well informed. Please, let us know if you have any ideas to share, or would like to recommend an organization or event to be featured- and we will let you know what we think!

This council was formed by Miami

CLOCKWISE: Bass Museum of Art. Bass Mummy. New World Symphony entrance.

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Beach Chamber of Commerce Chairman Jason Loeb and President & CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, Jerry Libbin. I am honored and thrilled to spearhead the group with Dr. Brian Schriner, Dean of FIU’s College of Architecture + The Arts, and Alan Randolph, Senior Vice President & Business Development of City National Bank of Florida. The importance of arts and cultural and connection to businesses in Miami Beach was iterated by our Chairman Jason Loeb in his December 14, 2011 Miami Beach News Letter from the Chair introduction of the new council, “The economic forces of these art programs are huge and every business can benefit in some way.” Thank you Chairman Jason Loeb and Jerry Libbin for the tremendous opportunity to be help lead such an important and passionate group!

(PICTURES BY JUDY HOLM)

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

MIAMI BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TO HONOR OUTSTANDING BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS AT UPCOMING CHAMPIONS OF BUSINESS AWARDS LUNCHEON This year’s award recipients are Aletha Player, William Shockett, and Warren Zinn, as well as the winner of a Warren Henry Auto for the 2012 Small Business of the Year On Wednesday, February 1, 2012, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce will host the Champions of Business Awards Luncheon, sponsored by Bank United, and continue it’s tradition of recognizing the accomplishments of outstanding business professionals who help to strengthen the foundation of the community at large.

Aletha Player, from FPL , will receive James McDonnell the annual Outstanding Board of Governor Award for her years of remarkable dedication to the progress and expansion of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. This year’s Past Chair Award recipient is William Shockett , Past Chairman of the Board from ’82’83, given posthumously for his work and commitment to the community throughout his lifetime.

A highlight of the luncheon is the Aaron B. Perry Innovation in Business Award, now in its second year, which gives recognition to the achievements and positive contributions of noticeable altruistic business professionals. The award shines light on a successful business person who has been triumphant in helping an industry progress with their innovative ideas and business tactic while maintaining to participate in philanthropic activities throughout the community. This award is being presented this year to Warren Zinn , Owner of Warren Henry Automobile Group .

And, in its inaugural year, is the much anticipated 2012 Wa r ren Henry Small Business of the Year Award. Over the past three months, members of the community have sent in applications in hopes of being selected for the Chamber’s newest prestigious award.

This award will be given out each year to honor individuals who have dedicated their time to the community while growing their companies to reach outstanding achievements in management and innovation over the past couple of years. The six top finalists have been selected by the Chamber’s Chairman’s Circle mem-

bers and the ballots have been sealed and locked in a safe box for the winner to be announced the day of the event.

Along with receiving the recognition of their peers, the winner will also receive a 13 month lease on a Warren Henry Automobile and 1 year of complimentary advertising with the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. The remaining 5 finalists will receive a 72 hour ride in a Warren Henry Jaguar because similar to the Warren Henry motto, all are “best in class”.

The six finalists are Jason Beukema, Whet Travel, Deanne Connolll y Graham, Welcome & Bienvenidos Magazine, Sheila Duffy-Lehrman, Tr opic Survival, Jeff Greene, 84 West Studios, Bill Hansen, Bill Hansen Catering, and Brian Scheinblum, Cambean Hospitality.

This year’s Champions of Business Award Luncheon will be held at 12:00 pm at the Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach, located at 4525 Collins Avenue and the event is open to the public.

Tickets are available starting at $45 for pillar members, $50 for members and $60 for guests, with sponsorship opportunities available starting at $650.

Additional presenting sponsors of the event include Best Buy For Business and BDI Construction.

For more information on the Champions of Business Awards Luncheon, please contact Valerie Rasken at 305-695-6833 or via email, valerie@miamibeachchamber.com.

ABOUT THE MIAMI BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1921 to promote the economic well-being of Miami Beach’s citizens, to improve the quality of life for the entire community, and to communicate the view of the business community on major issues of public policy.

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January 12 - 25, 2012

7th Annual Taste of the Garden

SAME DAY DELIVERY AVAILABLE We’ll help you find the perfect arrangement or gift.

• Flowers

• Plants

• Birthdays

• Wedding

• Balloons

• Anniversaries

• Gift Baskets • Sympathy (we deliver to funeral homes & hospitals)

Hirni’s Wayside Gardens Florist 9950 SW 57th Avenue • Pinecrest, FL 33156 305.661.6266 • www.hirnisflorist.com Monday thru Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm

q a i

The 7th Annual “Taste of the Garden” a magical outdoor dining experience, will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2012 from 6:30 to 9PM at the newly renovated Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive. The event will showcase 20 of South Florida’s premiere chefs and restaurants presenting their signature dishes.

Tickets, priced at $75 per person in advance and $90 after January 20, include fine wines, live entertainment, and complimentary valet parking. A silent auction offers a fabulous selection of spa and pampering packages, a private air flight, hotel and travel adventures, consultation and services, and restaurant dining certificates.

Tickets can be purchased online at

www.mbgarden.org or telephone 305-6737256 ext 206.

Among the participating restaurants are Essensia in the Palms Hotel, Mercadito, the Café at Books & Books Lincoln Road, Grazie, Shula’s Steak House at the Alexander Hotel, Shake Shack, and Sushi Samba.

Limited to 320 guests, this exclusive Garden soiree raises funds for the Miami Beach Botanical Garden to preserve its urban greenspace, offer free admission, present arts and education programming, and support the Miami Beach Garden Club’s environmental education mission.

For information and reservations, www.mbgarden.org

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Chevy Camaro — a car for kids from 8 to 80 Grant Miller Car Corner Wow! What a car, the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro convertible; everyone looks at it as you drive down the street.

The first thing I did when I took it out for a spin was to put the top down. It only took about 20 seconds, and off I went. The first stop was my son’s baseball practice and when he saw the car, he whipped out his cell phone and texted all his friends.

“This car is unbelievable,” he said.

All of the parents at practice came over to take a look at the Camaro. Most of them had to take a moment to sit behind the wheel and feel the leather seats or touch the dashboard.

Later, after baseball practice was done, one of the players need a ride home. He sat quietly in the passenger seat as I drove him home on the 10-minute ride and he politely said goodbye when I dropped him off at his house. Fifteen minutes later, I got a text from his mother, Maria.

“Thanks Grant,” the text began, “for giving my son a lift home. He was so excited about riding in the car.”

It is strange how riding in a shiny new Chevrolet Camaro can have the same effect on a teenager that it has on an adult 40 years older. I guess the love for a timeless automobile has no age limit.

And the Camaro is a legendary car. The 2012 version is the fifth generation (it was introduced in 1967 as Chevy’s answer to the hot-selling Ford Mustang) and all indications are that it is the best one yet. It’s available with either V-8 or V-6 power and new this year is an improved version of the 3.6-liter Direct Injection V-6 engine. It delivers 323 hp at 6,800 rpm (11 more horses than 2011) and it’s about 20 pounds lighter and delivers an impressive 30 mpg on the highway. A pair of 6.2-liter V-8 engines are offered for the Camaro SS — the 400 hp L99 for automatic transmission cars and the 426 hp LS3 for cars with a manual gearbox. A six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift are available for Camaro.

Camaro is again available in three models – LS, LT and SS – and the high-performance Camaro ZL1 will make its debut

2012 Chevy Camaro is the fifth generation of the legendary car.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

later this year. Advance publicity says it is “the most technologically advanced car ever developed in its segment.”

There’s also a 45th anniversary Special Edition package available for the LT and SS models (my test car). It comes standard in Carbon Flash Metallic (black), with red and silver rally stripes on the hood and deck-lid, 45th Anniversary graphics, special fender badges, new 20-inch wheels in deep silver, a rear spoiler, HID headlights,

body-color roof molding and a specialtrimmed interior.

Base price on the 45th anniversary Special Edition Camaro with V-6 power and an automatic transmission is $36,910.

Grant Miller is the publisher of Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or by addressing email to <Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com>.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

January 12 - 25, 2012

MIAMI BEACH VISITOR AND CONVENTION AUTHORITY ISSUES REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL RFP calls for the Development of a Miami Beach Focused Web â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Based Digital Content Management System (CMS) and Modifiable Database to Support 3rd Party Mobile Applications via an Application Programming Interface (API)

BY GRISETTE ROQUE MARCOS

Executive Director, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA) The Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the development of a Miami Beachfocused web-based digital content management system and modifiable database to support 3rd party mobile applications via an application programming interface. The goal of this RFP is to identify and select a contractor to ultimately create a visitor information website and data aggregation portal, arrange for the website hosting services and develop a modifiable database that houses Miami Beach visitor related content or lists the content source location.

This RFP was developed as a result of the increased use of smart phones and tablets to communicate and acquire information to make decisions as to what to do and see while on-the-go. The ultimate goal is to develop a Miami Beach-specific API.

Through the development of this database, a variety of mobile applications could be developed that can ultimately assist visitors to Miami Beach obtain the information they need to make a timely and informed decision prior to and during their stay in Miami Beach. The MBVCA wants to promote the development of multiple mobile applications (Apps) that can address the needs of different types of visiting experiences, preferences, cultural background, and lifestyles.

The RFP was developed through collaborations with the City of Miami Beach and Florida International University. The RFP was released on Friday, January 13, 2012 and an information session will be held to provide further details about the RFP on Monday, January 30, 2012 at 10:00 AM at the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority, located at 1701 Meridian Avenue, Suite 402A, Miami Beach, Florida 33139.

Additional information will be posted on the MBVCA website, www.miamibeachvca.com. For a copy of the RFP, once released, you may visit our website or contact our offices at 305.673.7050.

Find us on

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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TOP 25 HOTEL MARKETS AVERAGE DAILY ROOM RATE JANUARY – NOVEMBER 2011 $ % CHANGE VS. 2010 1 New York 2. Oahu Island 3. San Francisco 4. MIAMI 5. Boston

BY WILLIAM D. TALBERT III, CDME

HOW’S BUSINESS DEMAND FOR TRAVEL TO GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES REMAINS STRONG ? GREATER MIAMI & THE BEACHES RANKS #4 IN REVENUE PER AVAILABLE ROOM (REV PAR), #4 IN AVERAGE DAILY ROOM RATE (ADR) AND #4 IN HOTEL ROOM M OCCUPANCY FOR JANUARY - NOVEMBER 2011 AMONG THE TOP 25 U.S. MARKETS For the first eleven months of 2011 (January–November), Greater MIAMI and the Beaches showed increases vs. 2010, ranking #4 in Revenue Per Available Room (RevPar) at $114.60, #4 in Hotel Room Occupancy at 76.0% and #4 in Average Daily Room rate (ADR) at $150.83 among the Top 25 Markets in the U.S. Smith Travel Research compares the top markets in the United States based on Occupancy, Average Daily Room Rate (ADR) and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPar).

TOP 25 HOTEL MARKETS REVENUE PER AVAILABLE HOTEL ROOM [REV PAR] JANUARY – NOVEMBER 2011

1. New York 2. Oahu Island 3. San Francisco 4. MIAMI 5. Boston

$

% CHANGE VS. 2010

$195.68 $131.98 $125.42 $114.60 $109.30

+ 6.2% +14.0% +20.6% +14.6% +8.3%

1. New York 2. Oahu Island 3. San Francisco 4. MIAMI 5. Boston

% CHANGE VS. 2010

81.3% 80.8% 80.3% 76.0% 73.2%

+0.2% +3.5% +5.4% +8.0% + 3.7%

SNAPSHOT OF RECENT & UPCOMING MEETINGS… MEETING: American Fence Association Inc. DATE: January 25-27, 2012 VENUE: Miami Beach Convention Center ATTENDANCE: 4,000 MEETING: Kenes/International Pain Congress DATE: February 4-7, 2012 VENUE: Miami Beach Convention Center ATTENDANCE: 1,800

ING MIAMI MARATHON ATTRACTS THOUSANDS Join the massive crowds as the internationally acclaimed ING Miami Marathon takes place J a n u a ry 29, 2012 on the beautiful streets of Miami, South Beach, Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove and Key Biscayne, and ends with a great finish festival at Bayfront Park. The race begins at 6:15 a.m.

For details, visit www.INGMiamimarathon.com.

Get in Shape for the New Year Diet & Nutrition Strength Training and Toning Strength Training for Kids Child Obesity, Diet and Nutrition Nutritional and Motivational Support Weight Loss and Muscle Gain Endurance Physical Fitness for the Elderly Stretch Sessions

954-628-2835

+ 6.0% +10.2% +14.5% +6.2% + 4.5%

MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (MIA) ONE OF TOP U.S. AIRPORTS FOR HEALTHY FOOD Miami International Airport (MIA) ranked #6 among the busiest airports in the U.S. for healthy food options, according to 2011 Airport Food Review by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). PCRM dietitians reviewed restaurant menus at 15 of the busiest U.S. airports from June to November and determined that 82 percent of the restaurants at MIA offer at least one low-fat, high-fiber, cholesterol-free vegetarian entrée for breakfast, lunch or dinner. MIA improved in the study from #8 last year to #6, and continues to benefit from a mix of new and diverse restaurants that have opened in the last year to complement recently completed terminal areas. For more information about the study, go to www.pcrm.org, and for a complete listing of restaurants at MIA, go to www.ShopMiamiAirport.com/directory.aspx.

TOP 25 HOTEL MARKETS AVERAGE DAILY OCCUPANCY JANUARY – NOVEMBER 2011 %

$240.79 $163.36 $156.23 $150.83 $149.32

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

January 12 - 25, 2012

Training for the ING Miami Marathon

BY CHARLOTTE LIBOV

Some people call winter football or basketball season, but with the advent of cooler weather, January seems very much to be running season, especially with the ING Miami Marathon and HalfMarathon coming up in Jan. 29.

With this in mind, I thought I’d turn devote this column to getting ready for marathons, although I do want to add (on behalf of myself and others) that marathons usually include a “walking” component, which is also a great way to stay fit.

This column’s recommendations from Chris Sebelski, who is an assistant professor of physical therapy at St. Louis University.

He penned it as a suggestion for New Year’s, but it seems like perfect timing now.

HERE ARE HIS TRAINING TIPS: • Make sure you’re in good physical shape. Get a complete physical before e you start training, because it’s better to prevent injuries than try to recover from them.

• Set realistic goals. If you haven’t been exercising in awhile, start with a walking/jogging mix. Set reasonable goals.

Some people feel very tired for the first few weeks after exercise, so set a reasonable goal you can stick to. “Think about small steps and celebrate the victories,” he says. (By the way, being inactive seems impossible in our Miami Beach lifestyle, but it is true in other parts of the country, like St. Louis!)

• Anticipate setbacks. Life happens. You may get a cold, get extra busy at work, or suffer an injury. “There will always be off days when you can’t fit in a workout or your time isn’t your best,” he notes. If there’s a day when you still want to run, but have less time, or are feeling not quite as energetic as

usual, recalibrate your goal to one that you can meet.

• Eat Smart. As you start burning more calories, you may find yourself hungry. “Be smart about the type of calories you eat, by including plenty of lean proteins and whole grains.” Also, think hydration, and drink plenty of water.

• Train with a buddy. “Running is hard work, and after the first month or two of diligent training, you may find yourself getting off-track,” he notes. Training with a buddy adds a social aspect and can keep you motivated.

• Utilize Cross Training: Include other forms of exercise in your training program, like hitting the gym to strengthen your core.

“Core training builds strength, which, in turn, helps you breathe as you run, “ Sebelski notes.

For information on the upcoming ING run, visit www.ingmiamimarathon.com.

Chamber member Charlotte Libov is a journalist, professional speaker and the author five health books, including “The Women’s Heart Book,” which was made into a PBS special. She works out at Equinox South Beach. For more information, call Robin Conn at 305-673-1172 or visit www.equinox.com.

(Photos at Ability Explosion’s 5K Run courtesy of Charlotte Libov)

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Rules of Etiquette are changing

BY MARTIN MENDIOLA

Mendiola@USGourmet.US While at a formal dinner party over the holidays, a good friend approached me wondering if I had noticed something wrong with the table settings. I had not; I had only noticed that the tables were beautifully decorated with a Christmas motif. Yet her question still intrigued me, since we both knew our hostess is a perfectionist who would not stand for “something wrong with the table settings”.

When I asked my friend to expand, she said “we know our hostess pays attention to every little detail, yet she has allowed servers to place the cutlery in the wrong places.

Everyone knows that proper etiquette calls for the salad fork to be the first fork to the left, the farthest from the serving plate since it is going to be the first one used, yet in its place they have the fish fork. I also noticed the salad fork is next to the serving plate in the position that belongs to the dinner fork. Something is obviously wrong”.

Her concerns could have been appropriate if our hostess had been adhering to the strict American dining style of a few years back, but today, so many of the rules have changed that even some of the “white glove etiquette school teachers” no longer know what is going on. As we progress to a more relaxed dining atmosphere with the

American and European dining styles continuing to merge, more changes to the dining rules of etiquette can be expected as they have over so many years.

Although the Egyptians had rules for behavior over 5,000 years ago, the term etiquette was first used by the French in the 17th century when small signs and labels called “Etiquettes” were placed around the palaces and gardens telling guests what to do. Etiquette is now defined as “the customs or rules governing behavior regarded as correct or acceptable in social or official life”.

The most interesting juxtaposition is that while most people are intimidated by the concept of etiquette, its purpose is to make us feel comfortable. It levels the playing field by letting everyone know the expected behavior. When you know how to behave “appropriately” by adhering to certain socially accepted rules, your level of confidence should increase exponentially. Few things in life could be simpler.

Occasionally, we get confused and disoriented with the execution of the details, such as when we get to the table and forget something as simple as which is our bread plate and drinking glasses. Luckily, there is an easy way for us to recall and answer this frustrating question. If we hold our hands in front of us with the palms facing each other and make a circle or OK sign with our thumbs and forefingers while the remaining 3 fingers in each hand point upwards, we make a “b” and a “d” in the left and right hands respectively. This means that your bread plate is the

Your neighbohood store-presenting the work of many artists and craftspeople, opening our minds to the possibilities they offer.

Come see our remarkable selection of gifts and handmade jewelry.

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BJ‛s Place

A Gift Emporium 18451 W. Dixie highway N. Miami Bch., FL 33160

305-932-1706 Open Tuesday thru Saturday

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one to your left and your drinking glasses are to the right no matter how close or far the servers placed them.

Another issue many find confusing and the reason for our conversation on that grand night, was how the table should be set. A lot has changed over the years; yesterday’s rules are not totally applicable today. Formal dinners are not as they used to be, cuisines, flavors and textures have evolved. There are no set patterns as to how dishes should be served other than they should progressively complement each other. The norm is to go from lighter to heavier and the placement of the cutlery from the outside in should reflect it.

These are not necessarily bad changes and our rules of etiquette should reflect them as our hostess demonstrated with one of the best and most elaborate meals we had during the holiday season.

NEW LOC ATION KIDS “High Fashion Kids Apparel” Newborn To Pre-teen

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January 12 - 25, 2012

Mount Sinai Medical Center receives continued accreditation for Graduate Medical Education Program Mount Sinai Medical Center of Florida has received a continued accreditation for a five-year cycle from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). ACGME is responsible for the accreditation of all post-MD medical training programs within the United States. The review committee, comprised of up to 15 physicians, commended Mount Sinai for its demonstrated substantial compliance with ACGME’s institutional requirements without citations.

The continued accreditation is a testament to the commitment Mount Sinai has made since 1959 to training tomorrow’s health care providers. As a statutory teaching hospital, Mount Sinai brings together the best and brightest minds in medicine, creating a challenging environment where emerging physicians are trained by faculty who are well versed in the latest medicine based on the most current scientific data.

Each year, Mount Sinai trains more than 160 residents and fellows in 17 medical specialties, at an investment of more than $20 million dollars.

Mount Sinai also enhances its educational programs through unique partnerships with other medical institutions such as New York’s elite Columbia University. The collaboration in the departments of cardiology and urology are the only Ivy-League affiliations of their kind in South Florida.

Doctors and professors from Mount Sinai and Columbia University participate in Grand Rounds, which enhances the teaching experience for fellows, as well as share educational conferences.

In addition to graduate medical education training, Mount Sinai also supports more than 560 students through its allied health professional and undergraduate medical programs, helping students prepare for a range of careers as future nurses, technicians, therapists and pharmacists, among others.

ABOUT MOUNT SINAI MEDICAL CENTER Founded in 1949, Mount Sinai Medical Center is the largest independent, private, not-for-profit teaching hospital in South Florida. Mount Sinai’s Centers of Excellence combine technology, research and academics to provide innovative and comprehensive care in Cardiology, Neurology, Oncology and Orthopaedics.

One of only six statutory teaching hospitals in the state, Mount Sinai is the hospital of choice for those who seek the level of expertise and care that only a teaching hospital can offer. The medical center’s commitment to quality has garnered prestigious recognition, including designation for five consecutive years as one of America’s Top Hospitals for by U.S. News & World Report.

www.communitynewspapers.com

Full service salon for men & women.

Open Tues. - Sat. by appointments and walk-ins.

Bring this ad for -SENIOR SPECIAL-CUT & BLOW $25

Commodore Plaza 2780 N.E. 183 Street, 2nd Floor Aventura, FL 33160 • Tel: 305-760-2104

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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URGE for mobile food ordering hits Miami Beach Every business in Miami (and the world for that matter) is looking for ways to capitalize on the exponentially expanding Smart Phone and applications marketplace.

It is projected that by mid 2012 over 50% of Americans will own a Smart Phone, up from 38% in 2011. We are involved in a technology revolution with opportunities opening that no business model can ignore.

But building a Smart Phone application that consumers will use over the long term has proven difficult for many businesses with over 99% of new applications going unused just one month after being downloaded.

When New York City entrepreneurs Peter and Michael Schatzberg endeavored to launch their next business they decided to venture into the rapidly expanding Smart Phone and application marketplace and launched URGE (www.UrgeSatisfyYours.com) on January 1st, 2012 in Miami. They leveraged their previous restaurant operations / ownership expertise and Corporate background to build a mobile and web platform that allows customers in Miami to order food for delivery to an address (or even to the

beach) using their computer or Smart Phone. The goal of URGE is to provide a great service for Miami locals and tourists alike but also serves to drive significant revenue to URGE affiliated restaurants.

With over 40 participating restaurants as of launch, URGE is on track to have 100 restaurants by the end of Q2’2012.

URGE has partnered with several Miami based businesses including Beach Channel TV, Welcome & Bienvenidos Magazines, MoneyClipDirect, and Paton Marketing in order to create consumer and restaurant awareness programs on a massive scale.

Restaurants can join URGE by calling the sales team at (305) 763-8605 to learn more or to request an on-site demonstration.

URGE can have a restaurant menu setup and online for customer orders in less than 48 hours.

The long-term goal of URGE is to extend beyond food ordering into activities ranging from scooter rentals to bus tours and other Miami based tourist attractions and activities. Eventually, most tourism and food-related businesses will have the opportunity to offer their products / services on the URGE platform where they

would then participate in the massive URGE marketing campaigns.

With participating restaurants stretching from South Beach to Sunny Isles there are food options for everyone almost anywhere in Miami.

URGE is available at www.UrgeSatisfyYours.com where you can place orders for your home, office, or hotel room or where you can download their iPhone or Droid applications. You can also find the URGE app in the iStore or Droid marketplace by entering “Miami food delivery”.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

West Avenue Café

January 12 - 25, 2012

The Best Kosher Restaurant in Miami West Avenue Cafe was awarded a recogni- tradition and modernity. The USCA 2011 tion given by the U.S. Commerce Awards is a program that focuses in qualifyAssociation (USCA) as the best restaurant in ing the quality not quantity, West Avenue all Miami Beach in the category Jewish & Cafe emphasize not only on providing a good service, but a different dining experiKosher.

“Best of Local Business” 2011 is the title ence accompanied by a very pleasant and of the honored award received by this organ- comfortable atmosphere.

The basic concept of West ization headquartered in New Avenue Cafe is perfect, a combiYork, program that identifies, nation of healthy food, to a pubencourages and promotes the lic that demands a good diet exceptional work carried out by under a fresh and dynamic different companies throughout atmosphere. Original salads with the country. At the same time, this homemade dressings, 9oz burgprogram emphasizes the merit ers, Pastas, the best selection of obtained by the commercial sucseafood, Ceviche, Juicy Rib eye cess that manage these businesssteaks and wide variety of chickes, in this case West Avenue Cafe en such as: Chicken Francaise, celebrates his great contribution Portobello Chicken and Oriental to not only Jewish & Kosher, but General Manager Chicken; all this is accompanied also to all the local and foreign with the best selection of wines, audiences warmly received Pablo Lucero –––––––––––––– smoothies and juices. It is a culithroughout South Florida.

West Avenue Cafe has managed to posi- nary success that convinces the taste of the tion itself in just two years, as a different, most reluctant client and simultaneously uniinnovative and sober restaurant with a very fies an entire community of locals and intereclectic culinary option, a perfect blend of national visitors daily at West Avenue Cafe.

West Avenue Cafe and its General Manager Pablo Lucero celebrates this achievement with its public and large staff of professionals, a decent work integrated in a large family of workers that make this restaurant a winner place and seriously committed to the culinary interests of the Jewish and local community.

Multiple sources of information have been gathered and analyzed to choose the winner in each category. West Avenue Cafe obtained the perfect combo: good food, good atmosphere and good service. This is recognition deserved for a restaurant that projects a different proposal in its field Kosher & Jewish, that makes a huge difference with others.

West Avenue Cafe located in 959 West Avenue suite 3, Miami Beach, FL. Tel: 305534-4211 It’s January and by now most people have

made their New Year’s Resolutions. The most popular resolutions are: eating healthier, weight loss, and getting into shape. Alina Nunez from Heal with Angels and Holisitic Health and Wellness Corporation has teamed up with West Avenue Café to present: Healthy & Nutritious Dining. This event will take place on Monday, January 30 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at West Avenue Cafe. It will encompass a 3 course meal including one drink, a thorough explanation of the nutritional value of the foods, and why these specific foods have been chosen. An explanation of the Kosher process and its importance all for $ 75.00 including taxes and gratuities. Seating is limited, so please rsvp by calling 305-5344211 or email dawn@profitproducers.biz.

For more info visit: www.westavenuecafe.com, follow us on twitter and facebook.

January 12 - 25, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

CUSTOMER SERVICE LIKE THIS IS MORE UNCOMMON THAN A $2 BILL MIAMI — The idea had been swimming around in Gary Graves’ head for 25 years.

The lifelong Keys resident wanted to find a way to show the Keys community the economic impact of the commercial fishing business and his company, Keys Fisheries. His idea was simple – pay everyone in $2 bills and watch how the bills popped up throughout the small-town communities throughout the Florida Keys.

The idea was simple. The execution, however, was not. You see, Graves wasn’t talking about a few $2 bills. He wanted to pay his entire payroll and contract fishermen with the currency – a total of $225,000.

“I went to my bank here in the Keys and they said they couldn’t do it” Graves explained. “But I didn’t give up. Since we send crabs to Joe’s Stone Crabs, I called them and they put me in touch with City National Bank (CNB).”

That’s where Graves connected with relationship manager John Costa in the bank’s corporate department. Costa simply asked when Graves wanted the money and set out to fulfill the uncommon client request.

After the call, Costa brought in City National’s Client Service team to procure the special order from the Federal Reserve.

Client Services then worked with CNB’s Operations team and the staff at the Main Banking Center in downtown Miami to negotiate delivery and counting of the 14

large bags of $2 bills that would soon arrive.

Within days the bills were on their way and ready for delivery to Keys Fisheries’ for the company’s next payroll.

That’s when an armored truck pulled up to City National’s Main Banking Center and loaded up 300 pounds worth of $2 and headed for the Keys.

Since then, the impact has been even better than Graves could have imagined.

“It has been amazing,” Graves said. “The bills are showing up everywhere – at the grocery store, the hardware store, the hairdresser. Our goal was to make the community aware that commercial fishing is still a vibrant force. People who have been in the Keys awhile may be aware know but a lot of newer folks don’t know much about commercial fishing except that we have a big seafood festival. These $2 bills are a reminder.”

The bills are also providing some funny stories.

“We had a girl at the grocery store here who wasn’t going to take it because she thought it was counterfeit. She had never seen one before,” Graves recalls with a laugh. “They are still being spread around, and there will be more stories for sure.

“I really appreciate everything the bank did,” Graves continued. “I had been playing with this idea for years. I’m just happy City National could finally help it come true.”

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January 12 - 25, 2012

Women Worth Knowing The Miami Beach Commission for Women is seeking nominations to honor local women for their contributions to the community. The annual award is called â&#x20AC;&#x153; Women Wo rth Knowingâ&#x20AC;?.

Nominees must be a resident of Miami Beach for at least five years or work in a business in the community for at least five years and should be involved in

civic or professional activities that have changed the community. Nominations must be received by January 31, 2012.

For information or to request a nomination form, contact Wanda Ortiz, Aide to Mayor Matti H. Bower @ 305-673-7000 ext. 6487 or wandaortiz@miamibeachfl.gov.

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Assisting Hands Home Care opens its doors in Miami

By Millie Herrera When an aging parent becomes critically ill, has major surgery, or becomes disabled, our lives change. We face extreme emotional anguish and pain to see our loved ones suffer, but we also experience high levels of stress due to the added responsibility of ensuring they are well cared for.

This experience is exactly what motivated Armando Morales to change careers and become one of the three owners of Miami’s first Assisting Hands Home Care in-home caregiving franchise. A native of Puerto Rico, he was a rising corporate executive, on the fast track to senior management in his former corporate position as Director for the Latin American market for a multinational technology company.

“My mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and required round the clock attention after surgery. My sister had to quit her job and move with her family to my parent’s house to take care of her because we could not find qualified, compassionate help to care for her,” said Armando Morales. “It was heartbreaking to see her deteriorate, but it also took a toll on us because we wanted to give her the best care ever, and were having a hard time finding competent professionals to do so. We made sacrifices and struggled, but took good care of

her, and a few years after she passed away, our father became ill, so we had to go through the same process again.”

Demand for these services continues to grow as over 10,000 people reach the age of 65 every day in the United States, according to the US Census Bureau. And as families members move farther apart geographically, it is difficult to find the peace of mind that loved ones are well cared for when they become bedridden, have surgery, or become frail. Most seniors want to continue living at home, even if ill, but family members of seniors live an average of 100 miles and an hour and a half from their loved ones.

“Assisting Hands Home Care gives me the opportunity to give back to my community. We provide non-medical care to adults of any age following hospitalization, surgery, persons with disabilities, hospice patients, anyone who needs assistance, whether temporary or long term,” said Armando. “Our caregivers are our employees, not contractors like some other home care companies. We thoroughly screen and train them, are bonded and insured, and only hire licensed, certified HHAs, CNAs or RNs,” he stressed.

“We have technology in place that requires the caregiver to call us from the patient’s home, and if they do not call within 10 minutes

of their scheduled arrival time, our staff is automatically alerted to determine the reason for the delay. Our staff is available 24-7 and 365 days a year to monitor, respond, and ensure that our patient is receiving the highest quality services we promised,” said Armando. “We help you get a good night’s rest, by taking care of your loved one!”

Assisting Hands Home Care is very flexible

and can provide hourly, day or night care, with no contract ever required. They are a private duty Home Health Agency (HHA Lic 299993911) and accept long term care insurance or private funds as payment methods.

For more information, call 305-274-6471, email amorales@assistinghands.com, or visit www.assistinghands .com/miami.

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Community Association Beat

BY MITCH DRIMMER

I am honored to have been asked to serve as a columnist for Community Newspapers to share important and topical information about South Florida community associations.

My column will specifically address business issues related to condominium and homeowner associations (HOA). Running an association is a complicated and difficult task, often thrust upon well-meaning residents who have volunteered their time to take on the enormous responsibilities of board membership. I also believe that nonboard member owners should understand the issues involved because they may decide to run for the board of directors one day.

Perhaps the most critical issue facing condos and HOA’s today is the delinquency rate among members paying their association maintenance fees, also known as assessments. Some people pay late, and some owners do not pay at all. Since condos and HOA’s are known as a zero dollar business (what they are budgeted to collect is the same as what they are budgeted to spend) it has caused either a reduction of services or even an increase in assessments.

This unfairly affects the owners who have been responsibly paying fees and is a problem that should not be taken lightly.

So what is a community association to do when an owner is paying late or does not pay at all? Usually, the first reaction is for the association’s board of directors or management company to send the file to an attorney. Now while that may seem to be the best idea, and at some point in the life

of a delinquent unit it may be necessary, it does not have to start that way.

The first thing that a board of directors needs to do is to plan a meeting with only one item on the agenda: collections. In this meeting, all options should be put on the table and discussed. The goal of this meeting is to agree to follow the association’s “uniform collection policy,” or to establish such a policy if one does not exist. The single most important paper in the room for this meeting is the governing documents of the association. Highlighted sections discuss how the bylaws address this issue.

Every set of governing documents for all communities contemplate this issue and have parameters by which boards can deal with it. Such topics as when a payment is late, when it is past due, late interest, past due fees, and whether the association can file a lien for unpaid maintenance fees are usually included in the governing documents.

The second most important documents are Florida State Statutes 718 (for condos) and 720 (for homeowner associations). A good understanding of these statutes along with a proper reading of the associations own governing documents will give a board direction in formulating a just and proper uniform collection policy.

In my next column I will get down to the specific issues and present some possible policies that a condo or HOA may adopt to improve association cash flow.

Mitch Drimmer is a licensed community association manager and the Vice President of Association Financial Services, a Miami finance, business process outsourcing, and accredited collection agency specializing in community associations.

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