Miami Beach News 1.25.2012

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 25, 2012

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www.communitynewspapers.com

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Elsie Howard’s Love for Miami Beach

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o-one has had a closer or more personal view of Miami Beach’s recent evolution as a destination than Elsie Howard — one of the city’s biggest advocates officially acting on its behalf as Chairperson of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA) for over a decade until term limits ended her tenure this January. “I have worked with Elsie for more than 10 years in 2 separate appointments to the MBVCA. Her creativity, energy and foresight have helped the different Board Members, and our Executive Director’s team work towards transforming the MBVCA into a respected, valued arm of the City of Miami Beach tourism experience. She is always available to advocate for the betterment of our City’s tourism experience. She will be missed” says Jeff Lehman, Vice Chair.

Howard‘s legacy looms over the Authority.

We recently sat down ELSIE STERLING HOWARD with Howard to speak to her about her term with the MBVCA, her love of the work she does and why she thinks Miami Beach is an extraordinary global destination.

HOW DID YOU COME TO SERVE AS CHAIRPERSON OF THE MBVCA? Commissioner Nancy Liebman asked me to serve. I was then a Trustee at the University of Pennsylvania and held other leadership roles – including a wonderful committee for the US Mint and coinage where we launched the new state

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See

ELSIE, page 4

Dr. Rosann Sidener to receive Distinguished Service Award

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his year, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce will honor Dr. Rosann Sidener as the recipient of the Jan Pfeiffer Distinguished Service Award at the 90th Annual Dinner Gala and Silent Auction on Saturday, June 2nd, 2012.

This extravagant event held at the Miami Beach Convention Center attracts more than 1200 of Miami Beach’s most influential business professionals to recognize outstanding members in the community.

The Jan Pfeiffer Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to an individual or company whose extraordinary community involvement has generated extensive contributions to South Florida.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to have such an important leader in our community.” Said immediate Past Chair and Dinner Gala Chairman, Aaron Perry, “Dr. Sidener’s commitment to excellence has elevated Miami Beach Senior High to unprecedented heights including their latest accomplishment of being named an “A” school.”

Dr. Roseann Sidner was appointed principal of Miami Beach Senior High in April 2007, and has brought the school’s academic performance from a letter “D” to a letter “A” by the state of Florida. Dr. Sidener has made Miami Beach Senior High School one of the best schools in Miami-Dade County by introducing new programs such as the International Baccalaureate School in March of 2010 and the Scholars Academy. These initiatives habe given Beach High a new academic standing, along with a new image

Dr. ROSANN SIDENER, MIAMI BEACH SENIOR HIGH PRINCIPAL

after the completion of a lengthy renovation process. To add to the re-branding of Miami Beach Senior High, Dr. Sidener also incorporated uniforms for students.

Dr. Sidener has a passion as an educator, having work in several institutions in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools, with experience ranging from assistant principal and principal in various Miami-Dade communities, from West Kendall to Little Havana, Overtown and Miami Beach.

Sidener is a graduate of the University of Miami Frost School of Music, who began her career as a music teacher, and –––––––––––––––––––––– See

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Phone: 305-669-7355

Letter from the Chair

BY JASON LOEB Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber

I’ve called Miami Beach home since I was a kid, but we natives are rare. In my opinion, Miami’s diversity is what makes it the “Magic City”. Global business is the new norm, but we’ve always been an international player.

That’s why I was so pleased to hear the latest report from the U.S. Travel Association highlighting recent victories in streamlining passenger visa, entry and screening processes.

This news represents the power of organization. Our very own Chamber can take pride and some ownership, as we, along with our sister chambers, have been lobbying passionately to make these changes happen. Starting this year, the State Department will step up its visa reform program, which will include reducing visa processing times in China, Brazil and India; monitoring demand from these countries and responding accordingly; accessing the benefits of waiving lengthy interviews for select parties reapplying for their visas; and pursuing technologies that will further help expedite the entire process.

The new funding and provisions also call for streamlining passenger processing at U.S. Ports of Entry.

Additional Custom and Border Protection officers and staff model analysis will ensure that these ports are appropriately and efficiently manned; the transition to a biographic air exit system will more accurately verify and track foreign nationals; and a pilot program will hopefully soon ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT KEITH MENIN A huge new heated infinity pool is the heart of During the 1930’s Al’s Restaurant on South 5th street was the heart of South Beach society. the new Shelborne and is lined with 10 of South Al, Keith Menin’s Great Grandfather was one of Beach’s most tricked out cabanas available for day rentals each feature baththe first pioneers of South rooms with showers, Plasma Beach and was well known by TV’s and full room service. everyone. Four generations The original diving board has later, 31 year old, Hotelier, been preserved and converted Keith Menin has opened the into a fountain and the origicrown jewel of his new Menin nal towering palm trees surHotels with the new round the pool. Every playShelborne South Beach. ground must have a great The new Shelborne has lawn and the new upper become the nexus of South Shelborne pool deck features Beach social life, making a sprawling lush soft faux Keith Menin a well-liked, lawn that features a large popular man just like Al. sculpture/communal shower.

And while much of Miami This new deck and lawn is Beach was at a standstill post accessed via a deco style bubrecession, Keith was busy ble staircase and catwalk that starting his Menin Hotels was actually a part of the origCompany by renovating his KEITH MENIN inal design for the pool area. first hotel, The Sanctuary, with The entire pool area features a new pool and rooms, He took over and refreshed the classic Bentley Hotel on ambient orange guide lighting inspired by the sunOcean Drive and completed a 20 million dollar sets on the ocean that clicks on at sunset. renovation of the Shelborne South beach. Located directly on the beach the new Shelborne Besides jump-starting the local Miami Beach South Beach is the first ocean front hotel in South economy with an infusion of capital and jobs, Beach to completely open and clear the space Keith was ahead of the curve of the current hotel- between the pool and the beach creating stunning rebuilding boom. Keith is currently working on unobstructed views and locals walk up access to his next hotel the Art Deco Gale Hotel on Collins Lucy’s Cantina Royale. This was common with Avenue and 17th street, which will feature an all the beachfront hotels in South Beach back in the 1940s and it was only in the last 10 years that Italian inspired concept.

Keith Menin comes full circle with the rebirth beachfront hotels created large hedges and fences of the Shelborne Hotel that has been a part of behind their pools.

Standing on the cutting edge of hospitality the family for over 40 years and who at 15 worked at the front desk and as a bell hop to Menin realizes that it takes a thousand minor become its visionary owner in 2012 and leading details to make a great hotel. Although Menin wasn’t born in a hotel room, it helps that he has a dramatic full restoration and rebirth.

Keith has transformed this famous Art Deco the hospitality industry in his blood. Crescent landmark into South Beach’s ultimate modern Heights, the company his family co-founded, is playground and premiere hotel destination that one of the nation’s largest developers and marketers of high-rise, multifamily housing and caters to the locals.

A dramatic new entrance features an Art hotels. “I practically grew up in hotels,” Menin Deco Porte Cochere that recreates the rings of says. His great-grandfather, Al Galbut, was one light on the overhang that previously greeted of the first to develop Miami Beach in the guests 70 years ago updated with pulsating LED 1920s. Menin got his first hotel job when he was 15 at The Shelborne Hotel. When his father lights that change color.

“A great hotel should be a local barometer and died, his uncle Bruce Menin and cousin Russell center for local culture and social scene. This is Galbut became his mentors. During the summer, what today’s travelers are looking for in a hotel. A he worked the front desk, reservations, housesense of the local culture, taste and chance to meet keeping, as bellman and the bar at the the locals” says Keith “And we go out of our way Shelborne. Menin not only worked on the hosto attract locals and offer all kinds of local dis- pitality side, but also got involved in the building of the properties. He spent the next summer counts and specials” There is a swanky lobby cocktail lounge working construction by building a nursing where locals can flirt with guests, 3 unique home. From 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., he did roofing, restaurant choices that will appeal to all palates tiling, plastering and painting. He started out and all feature vegan options- Tanka Sushi, sweeping the site. “I had no life,” says Menin.

Vesper Café, Poolside Café and Lucy’s Cantina “That’s all I did, but by the end of the three Royale Beach Front Pool Bar and Taqueria. months, I knew how to build buildings.”

There is also a chic modern general store called Eventually, Menin decided to follow in the footGuyandGirl in the lobby where you can pick up steps of Russell, who co-founded Crescent a new swimsuit or some organic snacks. And Heights, and enrolled at his alma mater, Cornell the original celebrity magnet basement karaoke University, where he was admitted to the prestiLounge “Studio” has been left untouched to pre- gious hotel and restaurant school. He went fullspeed, graduating in just two and a half years. serve the history and character.

Never Pay Another Expensive Repair Again

Ly Espinol

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

ELSIE, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– quarters. So she knew about my successful leadership roles. The public perception and business of Miami Beach has always been important to me and I had served on several other committees, so I was happy to say yes when the City appointed me to the MBVCA. Because the MBVCA is autonomous and because its role has been so potentially transformative, because the Board members have been so engaged and I could work with the administration on a daily basis, this has been among the most interesting service I’ve done.

WHAT WERE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR TENURE AT THE MBVCA? We are lucky to be in the most amazing city I have ever seen. I think that I was a stickler for organization, communication, and strategy. From the beginning of my tenure we have worked from a strategic plan, with explicit goals and I believe that we helped to launch many extraordinary events - like the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, Art Basel and the ING Marathon.

All of our grants must fit the goals platform that the MBVCA has developed yearly since my first year as the chairman. Our grants process is today clear and defined.

Our Board has annually set goals and measurements and we instituted a review process for all grants. We write and publish an annual program of work that sets forth

SIDENER, from page 1

exactly what we did — if we met our own standards. Staff writes and circulates a weekly email report, and we are open to constant communication. We have looked beyond the traditional and the standard methods of improving the tourist experience—from the signage and wayfinding we championed a decade ago, to customer service training programs and the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Task Force on Tourism. I think we have raised the bar for tourism, for events and for experience and we look for excellence, annual improvement and success.

HOW DO YOU THINK THE AUTHORITY AFFECTS AND ENHANCES THE LIVES OF MIAMI BEACH RESIDENTS? Miami Beach was founded to be a tourist destination and every facet of life here depends on the quality of the visitor’s experience. The City has a global reputation that has been enhanced by the events that the MBVCA strategically funds.

Hotels bring guests who often relocate— buy apartments and homes, shop in stores, use professional services ... The general life-experience is improved. The City looks better. There are more things to do, more restaurants and cultural events.

Improved everything—because significant money accrues to the City from bed taxes— not from the residents. Of course, many residents own those same Miami Beach hotels, and restaurants, and

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then completed her doctorate at Teachers College, Columbia University.

Under the leadership of Dr. Sidener, the Beach High faculty and administration used creative tactics to tackle a diminishing school budget implemented by the State, by creating new programs to enhance each students potential and by preparing them for college level education and the work force. Dr. Sidener fulfills the school’s vision to “develop a culture of success by nurturing life-long learning and values conducive to active participation in the global community.”

Since the award’s inception in 1987,

the Jan Pfeiffer Distinguished Service Award designation has been bestowed upon this community’s leading corporate and civic leaders including Tracy & Alonzo Mourning, and Dr. Barth Green.

This year’s recipient has presented the City of Miami Beach with immeasurable progress in the areas of education, art and culture. The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce is honored to present the Jan Pfeiffer Distinguished Service Award to Dr. Rosann Sidener at the 90th Annual Gala for all of the dedication she has shown to the students and future of this community.

businesses.....and the MBVCA helps to keep all those hotels in business — and therefore, we keep those great entrepreneurs here.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT MIAMI BEACH? Beyond the beauty of the location, I love that the City is edgy and unique, not preplanned and that is it certainly diverse. I love that folks come from somewhere else to live their dreams here. I love the pride of residents. I love the energy of the business people and the can-do creative spirit of developers and hoteliers. I love the sense of amazement that everyone shares when we drive over the causeway and come home. I love that here all things are possible; that most rainstorms only last a short time and that there is no snow.

WHY IS MIAMI BEACH A GREAT PLACE FOR VISITORS? The ocean, the sky, the weather, the fun, the waterways, the boating, fishing, rollerblading and biking. The food. The Hotels— funky to fabulous. The shopping and the clubs. The weather. The humidity (great for the skin). The airport. The people. The people-watching. Culture and ocean breezes. Top notch everything. And everything just a few minutes away. We have it all – and at the same time.

WHY IS MIAMI BEACH A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE? See above — and add great schools – Beach High has an A rating! Interesting houses and interesting people. Miami Beach offers everyone the chance for reinvention — and no winter coats necessary!

HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE FUTURE OF MIAMI BEACH? WHERE DO YOU SEE THE CITY IN 5 YEARS? I believe that our future will depend on

LETTER, from page 1

what the legislature does in regard to gambling. I don’t believe that we can pretend that this destination can survive without thinking about that G word—or about an open Cuba — we need to acknowledge that threats exist – even hurricanes make landfall. Our Convention Center is aging. Many of our hotels are older too. Some parts of the city look dilapidated – or just dated. Events come and go. Tourists come and go. I truly believe that the future of Miami Beach will depend on a reality check —and honestly looking at issues without politics. I believe in a meritocracy — that people of merit will rise to the need of the time. I think that leadership is not a popularity contest. I think that leaders must act for the good of the city. And I think that ignoring danger is foolish. I don’t believe in acting from political ambition. But that is my personal style — I think that to be lucky you have to be ready and prepared. So, stay tuned. I hope for the best – because this beautiful city deserves the best.

HOW DO YOU WANT YOUR TENURE AT THE MBVCA TO BE REMEMBERED, WHAT LEGACY DO YOU LEAVE BEHIND? That I helped restructure a great friend to tourism - the Miami Beach VCA; that we invested our funds wisely; that I mentored our staff effectively; that I wrote our documents clearly; that I communicated honestly; that I was a good partner; that our Board collaborated happily; and that the City and its residents reaped the rewards of a flourishing tourism-based economy.

I love public and community service. I hope the city finds a good use for me in the future because I will always want to do something productive. And I like to work close to home.

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lead to the elimination of duplicate screening for both passengers and baggage. Further travel recommendations aim to implement a PreCheck risk-based screening program, provide airports the option to utilize privatized screeners, and reach the goal to keep checkpoint wait times to a 10-minute average.

This is a national feat, and a huge

milestone for Miami. As a major business hub for South America, Brazil has and remains to be a crucial market for us. Yet, China and India represent a new wave of economic giants also steering the global business arena. It’s no secret that Miami is a desirable destination in which to conduct business. Why shouldn’t we make it easy for our international allies?

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Back to the Future: Miami Beach Senior High School regains its glory Miami Beach Senior High has a long and storied history as the only public high school to serve Miami Beach and the greater island communities. Since 1926, “Beach High”, as it is affectionately known, has produced highly successful alumni in the areas of law, medicine, athletics, and the fine arts.

Starting in the 1990s, the school fell into disrepair and was in desperate need of new buildings. At the same time, the school’s overall academic performance declined, and in 2007, MBSH earned a “D” grade from the state of Florida. Staff and student morale was at an all-time low.

By the end of the 2006-07 school year, buildings were being demolished to make way for construction of a brand new campus.

A new principal was appointed, and expectations were huge. Dr. Rosann Sidener came to Beach High with strong knowledge of the community, having filled the role of Assistant Principal at Nautilus Middle School in her early days as an administrator.

She immediately sprang into action and met with community leaders, teachers, students and parents to assess their needs, assembled a new administrative team, and rolled up her sleeves to get to work. The administrative team crafted a two-week intensive curriculum-planning institute for teachers and trained them in the use of student performance data to drive instruction. Professional development for teachers as well as school wide attendance and discipline initiatives continued throughout the school year, as administrators worked closely with teachers, students and parents to create a culture of success. All this occurred while classes forged ahead in the midst of the noise and dust from the construction project. In one short year, the renewed emphasis on instruction and increased student performance resulted in Beach High earning its first “B” grade. A complete transformation was underway at last. The construction was finally completed in 2010, providing new clean and buildings with state-of-the-art classrooms, including science and business labs as well as studios for film, music and art.

In the past four years, the school has worked diligently to overcome its biggest challenge: a shrinking budget. Beach High has partnered with many local businesses and agencies to provide students with greater resources and opportunities, and to solicit volunteers who serve as mentors and academic tutors. The PTSA plays a key role in the school’s success by providing grants to teachers to fund classroom projects. Dr. Sidener creatively tackled the budget challenges and refused to lower expectations.

She capitalized on the talents of her faculty,

restructured the entire school into interestbased academies, and led Beach High as it earned certification as an International Baccalaureate World School. She expanded student performance in college level courses through the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program, and enrollment in Advanced Placement courses more than doubled.

Two years ago, the state of Florida recognized that FCAT scores alone do not tell the whole story of a high school, and created a more in-depth grading system that takes into account student participation and performance in advanced coursework such as Advanced Placement, IB, Dual Enrollment, and industry certification. High schools are also expected to raise their graduation rates each year and assist the lowest-performing students to graduate on time with their peers. Miami Beach Senior High developed a “graduation task force” comprised of administrators, counselors, and the college advisor, to go the extra mile to personalize the school experience for the at-risk students and help them graduate with their class. In the past two years, the graduation rate at Beach High has increased by twelve percentage points, out-performing many high schools in the state. Now, the entire faculty works tirelessly to make the high school experience more personalized for every student. Each year, the faculty sets new goals for greater achievements and seeks innovative ways to make high school meaningful for all students. Beach High truly believes in a culture of success.

Two weeks ago, Miami Beach Senior High finally earned the “A” it has been striving to achieve. It is the school’s first ever “A” designation. As Principal Sidener explains, “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 glory days, a school renowned as a world-class educational institution.” Dr. Sidener credits the hard work of students and teachers for the school’s success. The key is to focus on creating a culture of success where every student is challenged to achieve his/her potential – whether that means college-level study, the International Baccalaureate Programme, Advanced Placement, industry certification or remedial reading. The entire school community constantly reviews individual student performance data to track progress and make adjustments to the curriculum so all students experience success. It an ongoing process that many people at Beach High describe as a labor of love.

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Panter’s Pointers: Energy Drink Dangers Energy drinks are commonplace in our society. There are new ones popping up on supermarket shelves and at cashier stands across the country. People use them regularly to keep up with the demands of everyday life and most of us equate them to being as safe as coffee. With so many varieties and ease of purchase, it’s easy to forget that energy drink dangers exist.

Aside from promises like “no calories,” “no sugar,” “no caffeine,” and “no crash,” we reach for energy drinks time and time again, because we know they work. Chances are that either you have consumed an energy drink or two at some point or know someone who has. While these beverages may be very popular, energy drink dangers are a very real problem. Over consumption can kill you. Literally.

We know that too much caffeine at any age, particularly in children and teens, can cause damaging physical effects. There have been reports of deaths of people who consumed too much of an energy drink and suffered cardiac arrest. Otherwise healthy people can suddenly find themselves in trouble when energy drinks raise heart rates and blood pressure. Energy drinks have also been found to cause drops in insulin levels.

Also dangerous is the trend of mixing energy drinks with alcohol. This mixture can lead to major health problems. In addition, due to the effects that each of the beverages produce, those who consume energy drinks with alcohol may actually feel sober, when in fact they are intoxicated.

Why the widespread appeal? Energy drinks are legal stimulants that are cleverly marketed. Whether large, small, celebrity endorsed, all natural, or flavored, these are some ways that energy drink companies get our attention. A multitude of ingredients packed with caffeine or other energy producing stimulants are carefully packaged to look as normal as a can of soda. Next time you pick up an energy drink, take a moment to read the ingredients. You may be surprised.

You can read more about the dangers of energy drinks in this NY Times article: HYPERLINK " h t t p : / / w w w. n y t i m e s . c o m / 2 0 11 / 0 2 / 0 1 / h e a l t h / 0 1 b r o d y. h t m l " http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/01/health/01brody.html “Let our Family Help you and your Family.”

“Serving Our Community For More Than 20 Years”

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

305-662-6178 6950 N. Kendall Drive Miami, Florida 33156 Telefax: (305) 662-9472 • 1-800-PANTERLAW www.panterlaw.com

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

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Art and Culture Council (PRE)view Prepare Your Palate!

BY JUDY HOLM Vice Chair of the Arts & Culture Council, Miami Beach Chamber Pillar member

I had the immense pleasure of interviewing Mr. Lee Brian Schrager recently in anticipation of the upcoming South Beach Wine & Food Festival® (SOBEWFF), taking place for its eleventh consecutive year on February 23 to 26, 2012. The Festival is held at some of the most exciting venues in Miami Beach, and over forty unique events will take place during the fourday Festival. Each event has a theme, a particular food or wine concept, and collectively they offer a global perspective on the amazing palates of food and wine.

Schrager, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, is Vice President of Corporate Communications and National Events at Southern Wine & Spirits of America, and Founder and Director of the Festival. He is delightful, passionate and a true visionary. The Festival began as a oneday event and garnered a respectable 7,000 guests. In ten years, the prestigious Festival has grown in scope, size and sophistication.

The event has become “de rigueur” for food and wine aficionados worldwide, last year attracting over 57,000 guests, top chefs, and nearly everyone from the “who’s who” of the culinary and wine world. The events range from large tasting formats to intimate, themed affairs to targeted seminars. Each event represents the best of its respective category – from gourmet foods to grilled cheese.

This Festival is extremely important for the economy of Miami Beach – vastly benefiting the revenues and brand awareness of its many participating restaurants, hotels, markets, food and beverage companies and the many ancillary companies connected to

Alain Ducasse and Lee Schrager

the event.

It is also extremely successful and impressive in fundraising. At the close of last year’s Festival, approximately $14 million has been raised for Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CSHTM). The Festival is produced by Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida in conjunction with the CSHTM, and this partnership is a great example of “win-win.”

To execute an event of this magnitude, it requires precise preparation and exacting logistics. Schrager and his team are assisted by over 1,000 students from the CSHTM, and, according to him, over two-thirds of his staff are recruited from this school.

The students have the opportunity to experience one of the premier Festivals in the country, and apply this invaluable experience to their education. All the while, the level of excellence of the CSHTM students’ performance is honed by working side by side with the Schrager team, whose requisite level of expertise is exceptional to produce such a prestigious and successful affair.

In addition to the event planning aspects of the Festival, the CSHTM culinary students receive the rare opportunity to work alongside and learn from some of the most celebrated chefs in the world. As Schrager noted, one of the keys to the growing success of the Festival is the heightened consumer appreciation of food and wine, and popularity of chefs – with the explosion of cooking shows and visibility of chefs and restaurateurs. These days, the “celebrity chefs” are truly rock stars including Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Eric Ripert, Ferran Adrià, Emeril Lagasse, Thomas Keller and Nobu Matsuhisa- all of whom are involved with the SOBEWFF, amongst many other great chefs.

Students and Festival guests are also fortunate enough to meet and work with some of the world’s most respected wine personalities and taste wines from some of the world’s most renowned wineries.

The charitable aspects of the Festival extend beyond the direct contributions of the Festival proceeds. Two other exciting extensions of the Festival produce important funds for the school- an online auction and a book!

The Online Auction is an exciting vehicle that not only raises money for the charity, but sustains the buzz about the Festival after the event is over. This year the auction runs from January 23 until March 5. When I asked Schrager about the auction, he confirmed its financial significance – last year the proceeds from the auction contributed about $400,000 to the charity.

Schrager commemorated the special tenth anniversary last year with the release of his first book, Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival Cookbook (Clarkson Potter, $35/hardcover). Like the overall Festival, all

Chefs

Lee Schrager with Rachael Ray and Michael Gongora ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– proceeds from the cookbook benefit the together was a memorable experience.

Also, last year the Festival celebrated Alain Florida International University CSHTM. Ducasse, one of the world’s greatest chefs.

BEST RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LEE’S FAVORITES, HIGHLIGHTS NEW EVENTS THIS YEAR: AND RECOMMENDATIONS “Trucks on the Beach”, hosted by Andrew FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT: Zimmern; “Salsa at Sea” brunch hosted by Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink Douglas Rodriguez and Aarón Sanchez; FAVORITE SPECIAL OCCASION (reintroduction of) of Moet Hennessy’s “The RESTAURANT: Q” hosted by Emeril Lagasse and Guy Fieri Azul BEST EVENT FO O R GUESTS WITH FAVORITE WINE: Rose Champagne (he politely declined to LIMITED TIME OR BUDGET: Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting designate a favorite brand) Village- guests may experience and sample FAVORITE US FESTIVAL literally hundreds of wines and foods, plus (other than SOBEWFF): see culinary demonstrations from their Aspen, the “Classic” BEST EXPERIENCES FROM PAST favorite celebrity chefs.

FESTIVALS: For ticket sales, more information about The commemoration of Peter and (the late) Robert Mondavi. The brothers had the festival and online auction, visit become estranged, and bringing them www.sobefest.com

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

Former Bank Lawyer Fights for Miami Homeowners

By Ann Lino Should I pay the mortgage on my home? What about the taxes and condo fees? What’s the worst that can happen if I don’t pay? What’s the best I can hope for?

There are so many people offering advice. Realtors will tell you to sell.

Bankruptcy attorneys will tell you to go bankrupt. Loan modification services will tell you to ask nicely for a loan modification. One attorney who spent years representing banks in foreclosures, Bruce Jacobs, will tell you to negotiate from strength.

Bruce Jacobs is not only a former bank lawyer, he is also a foreclosure defense client. “I didn’t want to go bankrupt or spend the rest of my life paying for this mortgage mess,” said Jacobs. “I had five mortgages on two properties underwater by almost $500,000.00. I stopped paying and put up a fight. Now, I have one property with one mortgage.”

There are plenty of reasons to fight. Banks got a bail out of $7.7 Trillion in almost interest free loans from our taxpayer dollars. They pay out billions in bonuses to Wall Street executives while Main Street is left to fight for themselves. The loan modification programs are disasters, making homeowners run in circles before getting denied or offered a deal that only helps the bank make more money.

Jacobs is part of a national group of dedicated lawyers fighting back against banks. They train at seminars around the country and online to share resources and develop cutting edge strategies in foreclosure defense. Many of the attorneys are former bank lawyers who, like Jacobs, are passionate about fighting for meaningful help for their clients. Jacobs has lectured on foreclosure defense at continuing legal education seminars for other attorneys and realtor offices so homeowners have access to better advice.

“The goal is either a meaningful loan modification with a principal balance reduction, a release from the debt, or to fight to clear the mortgage off the property,” said Jacobs about most of his clients. “There are reasons banks filed ‘robo-signed’ fraudulent documents in foreclosures all over the country. Many have serious paperwork problems which makes proving the right to foreclose in a courtroom difficult.”

To schedule a free consultation with Bruce Jacobs call (855) BANK-LIE (226-5543) or watch their free webinar: “Strategies for an Underwater Mortgage” at www.negotiatefromstrength.com.

“Not paying your mortgage is not a strategic default unless you have a strategy.”

BY WILLIAM D. TALBERT III, CDME

HOW’S BUSINESS RECORD ARRIVALS AT ‘THE NEW MIA’ (MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT) FOR FIRST ELEVEN MONTHS OF 2011 Passenger arrivals at MIAMI International Airport (MIA) increased for the first eleven months of 2011 with international passenger arrivals up +8.5% and domestic arrivals up +5.8% when compared to the same period last year. Total arrivals increased in the first eleven months of 2011 by +7.1%.

INTERNATIONAL MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS Januaryy – November 2011 January - November 2010 8,435,079 7,777,356

% Change +8.5 %

DOMESTIC MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS January – November 2011 Januarry - November 2010 9,034,722 8,539,411

% Change +5.8%

TOTAL MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS January – November 2011 January – November 2010 17,469,851 16,316,767

% Chann ge +7.1%

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 Attendd ance: 1,800 TRAVEL CHANNEL’S “VACATION HUNTERS” SHOW SHOOTING IN MIAMI The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Media Relations team recently assisted Leopard Films USA, producers of hit shows such as “House Hunters International”. The television production team was in Miami shooting a new 30 minute prime-time show called “Vacation Hunters” for the Travel Channel. Each episode of “Vacation Hunters” will feature one set of vacationers touring one destination; they’ll be shown three options for accommodations based on their criteria. The options will range from large all-inclusive resorts, smaller high-end inns or hotels, villas, and even boats. At the end of the show, participants choose the place they like the best and viewers see them enjoying their vacation. The series not only showcases the resorts but the destinations themselves. Travel Channel is the world’s leading travel media brand, and the network is available in nearly 96 million U.S. cable homes. Its Travel Channel HD™ simulcast is distributed to almost 37 million viewers and is carried on every major provider.

ING MIAMI MARATHON ATTRACTS THOUSANDS Join the massive crowds as the internationally acclaimed ING Miami Marathon takes place January 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.

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

2nd Annual 2012 Yacht & Brokerage show kick off party

Last year, Show Management & The Welcome Channel hosted an Official Kick Off Party for the 2011 Yacht & Brokerage Show at Sunset Harbour Yacht Club to celebrate 24 years.

More than 500 VIPS attended the inviteonly soiree featuring an unforgettable evening of luxury including floating champagne lounges aboard two mega yachts, Sotheby’s floating art gallery, passed hors d’oeuvres, five cocktail bars and poolside dancing to Tony Wilson and The Godfather of Soul Band.

This year, Show Management is celebrat-

ing the 2nd Annual Kick Off Party to the 2012 Yacht & Brokerage Show on Wednesday,, Februaryy 15thh at Sunset Harbour Yacht Club bigger and better than ever! 2012 sponsorship opportunities are available on a limited and exclusive basis.

Venue layout provides flexibility in creating the ultimate experience for your brand integration.

Let us work with you to design a custom sponsorship opportunity. Contact Sunset Harbour Yacht Club Rep: Dana@thedanaagency.com, 305-758-1110

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

Founder represents Seraphic Fire at Grammy Awards Patrick Dupré Quigley to Attend Award Ceremony on Behalf of Miami Classical Vocal Ensemble Seraphic Fire founder and artistic director Patrick Dupré Quigley, along with Seraphic Fire chorus master James Bass, will represent the ensemble at the 2012 GRAMMY ceremony on February 12, 2012. Seraphic Fire is nominated for two GRAMMY awards – Best Choral Performance (Brahms: Ein Deutsches Requiem) and Best Small Ensemble Performance (A Seraphic Fire Christmas).

Seraphic Fire, performing regularly at the Miami Beach Community Church, is the only chorus in North and South America to be nominated for a GRAMMY this year.

As the 2012 awards conflict with Seraphic Fire’s performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s B minor Mass, Quigley has invited Scott Allen Jarrett, a nationallyrecognized Bach interpreter, to conduct Seraphic Fire’s performances on February 11th and 12th. Quigley will conduct the opening night of the series on February 10th.

“If there’s anyone who I’d want to hear the B minor Mass conducted by, it would be Scott Allen Jarrett,” says Quigley. “I’ve worked with Scott numerous times, and his sensitivity and attention to detail in the works of Johann Sebastian Bach is unrivaled.” Jarrett, along with Quigley, Bass and Seraphic Fire, is also up for a GRAMMY award this year for his performance as one of the two pianists on Brahms: Ein Deutsches Requiem.

“Because of the time difference, the concert and the Classical Grammys actually occur simultaneously on Sunday,” says Jarrett. “Since a number of us performing on that Sunday are up for the award, we’re

going to all have to make a pact to keep our cell phones off during the intermission.”

Jarrett holds a number of prestigious positions in the music world, including Music Director and Conductor of the Oratorio Singers of Charlotte, Director of Music at Marsh Chapel at Boston University, Artistic Director of the Back Bay Chorale in Boston, and Associate Director of Choral Activities of Boston University.

Jarrett is also on the music staff of the Oregon Bach Festival.

Miami-based Seraphic Fire, now in its 10th season, boasts an international roster of singers, all chosen for their exceptional talent. Seraphic Fire flies these renowned artists to Miami for intensive rehearsals followed by a series of performances at various South Florida locations.

Seraphic Fire will be joined by their sister ensemble, the Firebird Chamber Orchestra, for their performances of Bach’s B minor Mass. The concerts will be held from February 10th– 12th. Dates and locations are listed below. Tickets and information are available at 888-544-FIRE or SeraphicFire.org.

Friday, February 10, 7:30pm All Saints Episcopal Church 333 Tarpon Drive Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Saturday, February 11, 8:00pm First United Methodist Church 536 Coral Way Coral Gables, FL 33134 Sunday, February 12, 4:00pm St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church 100 N.E. Mizner Blvd.

Boca Raton, FL 33432

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

5 former Miami Beach mayors will address Taxpayer Association at Feb. 1 meeting at Shelborne Hotel Five former mayors of Miami Beach will join in a panel discussion on “Miami Beach: Now and Then” at a general meeting of the Miami Beach Taxpayers Association.

The program will take place on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 and is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. start time. As always, it will be held at the Shelborne Hotel, 1801 Collins Avenue.

Admission to the meeting is complimentary and open to all Miami Beah residents and taxpayers.

Mayors wgo have accepted invitations to participate in this wonderful program include Harold Rosen, Norman Ciment, Murray Meyerson, Alex Daoud and Neisen Kasdin.

Other nayors will try and attend as their schedule allows them.

Russell W. Galbut, program chairman of the Miami Beach Taxpayers Association and one of the nation’s foermost condominium developers, will moderate.

Among the topics to be discussed are the following: • The opposition by the current city commission to the extension of casino gambling to Miami Beach.

• Other term limits for commission members.

• Streamlining city departments.

• Whether of not the City of Miami Beach should be a City Manager or Mayoral form of government.

• The burden of government employee pensions on taxpayers.

• How we can make the Miami Beach Convention Center more competitive.

• Improving access to Miami Beach from the mainland and how to ease traffic congestion in the city.

Jared Galbut, president of the association, said “We are excited to have such an esteemed panel for our February meeting and look foward to their insights on current issues affecting Miami Beach Taxpayers.” Refreshments will be served in the completely remodeled Shelborne Hotel, a Miami Beach landmark since its construction in 1940.

Additional information may be secured from Gerald Schwartz, the association’s secretary at 305-792-9711 or by email at mbtainfo@gmail.com.

The Miami Beach Taxpayers Association, a not-for-profit organization, may not endorse candidate but can support or oppose specific measures and issues affecting taxpayers.

Page 11

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.

Dare to be Different!

BJ‛s Place

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

305-932-1706 Open Tuesday thru Saturday

Page 12

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

The $outh Florida Gaming Repor t 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

True or False

BY ISADORE HAVENICK

The Destination Resort Casino bill survived its first hurdle in the senate when it passed the R e g u l a t e d Industries committee by a vote of 6-4.

Along the way an additional fourteen [that’s right countem 14] amendments were added to the bill. In many ways the bill drafters are trying to satisfy everyone in the main stream Florida gaming community with the exception of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The latest version of the bill would allow referendums anywhere in the state for pari-mutuels to become “racinos”. In Dade and

Broward county existing pari-mutuels with slot operations would see their tax rate drop from the current thirtyfive percent down to ten percent. This proposed measure should lead to greater profits and more investment in additional complimentary amenities by the operators.

The add-ons for the pari-mutuels might spark increased anti-gaming activity by Disney, No Casinos, the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and Norman Braman. These are the most vocal of the voices railing against gaming expansion. This is a race that has just started and has a long and arduous path to victory. Some would view it as the Florida equivalent of Alaska’s famed Iditerad. A treacherous course filled with many perils including hungry legislators and lobbyists.

Paton Internet Marketing Recognized by Constant Contact’s Corporate Office As a Pillar Trustee and a proven leader in the community, Todd Paton and Constant Contact have brought highly successful outcomes to Paton Marketing Clients.

Paton Marketing was recently recognized

by Constant Contact as an exemplary business partner.

Paton Internet Marketing is a progressive leader in the field of Search Engine Optimization, Website Development, and Social Media Marketing. For the past four years, Paton Marketing has been on the “cutting edge” of new strategies to bring the latest online marketing innovations to its clients. Ensuring client success means developing Internet visibility, targeted traffic to Websites, and achieving success on the Internet.

Constant Contact’s “Connect, Inform, Grow” strategy has enhanced the design, development, and implementation of the platform for Paton clients.

Paton Marketing is proud to be a Constant Contact Partner and looks forward to a continuing and growing relationship in the years to come.

Todd Paton with Constant Contact Partner

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 13

2012 Nissan Rogue is ideal for active-lifestyle families Grant Miller Car Corner What a week I had running around town in the 2012 Nissan Rogue. This SUV is definitely a keeper.

I raced from my office to our son’s basketball practice and then to his baseball game, battling traffic and fighting to find a place to park (parking at public parks is very tight).

But the Rogue zips through impossible traffic with ease and seems to fit into even the smallest of parking spots. And the optional AroundView onboard cameras are just great!

They really do help you maneuver the vehicle into and out of a tight space.

But what I really like about the Rogue is the storage space. All of the equipment that I regularly haul around — the kids’ basketball and baseball equipment, the lawn chairs – fit neatly into the rear of the Rogue with room to spare. I think the Rogue is just the perfect size vehicle for a family of four, especially if you do a lot of local driving.

The 2012 Rogue comes in two trims, S and

SV – both equipped with a standard 170-hp 2.5liter four-cylinder engine and advanced Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Three option packages are available – Special Edition, Premium Package and SL Package.

And, all models are available in all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive configurations.

Rogue’s exterior has dramatic styling with arched wheelwells and powerful rear shoulder lines. It has available Xenon headlights, a power sliding glass moonroof with dark gray glass, and roof rails with detachable crossbars offered as an accessory. Chrome door handles, body-color bumpers, a rear liftgate with fixed glass and power sideview mirrors are standard. The body also features large front door openings for easy in and out. The new Special Edition model includes front fog lights, privacy glass and unique 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

Rogue is built on Nissan’s proven “C” platform, which provides high body stiffness with extensive use of high-strength steel to help reduce body weight. It has a 105.9-inch wheelbase and is 183.3-inches in overall length for ample rear seat space.

Rogue’s interior measures a large 57.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the secondrow seat folded down. There’s a driver-oriented cockpit, available leather-appointed

Rogue has dramatic styling with arched wheelwells and powerful rear shoulder lines, Xenon headlights and roof rails with detachable crossbars.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– seating surfaces and a six-way power driver’s oversized glove compartment, a large center seat. Heated front seats and mirrors are also console and a washable, removable tray that available, along with a fold-down front pas- fits below the cargo area floor to hold wet or senger seat (standard on SV) – which allows dirty gear and tools. more than 8.5 feet of front-to-rear cargo Pricing on the 2012 Nissan Rogue ranges space for carrying long items. A rear 60/40 from $21,530 to $29,120. split-fold bench seat, oversize glove comGrant Miller is the publisher of Community partment and versatile center console conNewspapers. He may be contacted by calling tribute to Rogue’s functionality.

There are numerous convenient storage 305-662-2277 or by addressing email to and ultra-functionality features, including an <Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com>.

Page 14

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE Combating Identity Theft by protecting

BY KAREN ARONOWITZ, President, United Teachers of Dade

responses that you can use interchangeably as an instant response (a requirement of this brave new world) which allows you to take some time before you answer, while still providing an answer. Try ‘em, you’ll like ‘em!

I’ll get back to you by early next week.

Let me run that suggestion by the team.

I see what you mean. (Ha!ha! It doesn’t mean you agree! – No, this is not part of the response! Don’t press the SEND. . .too late.)

Don’t press that button! You know which one. SEND. How many of us have pressed that button in a moment of anger, a moment that is followed by ten minutes of terror and years of living with words that can never be recalled.

Heck! (OK, not heck, but this is a family paper.) I can’t believe I sent that to my boss, my manager, my sister-in-law, my kid, reply all—the list goes on and on. Some of us have even gone so far as to write a second email requesting that the first email was sent in error, prompting everyone to run to read what they might have skipped.

Ah, me. Life in the connected lane. Are we really saving time? We spend more time mopping up the messes we create with our instant messages than we would have spent cooling down, composing a letter, burning the letter in a can, rewriting the letter and sticking it in a drawer for later because we are out of stamps.

So, in service to my fellow interconnected, intergalatic citizens, I have provided a list of

Let me think that over. (People will puzzle over this one for days.)

I’m going to consult _____on that.

Have you run that by legal?

And finally, the coup de grace: I’m required to report this to _____________________.

I hope this helps! It’s no use replying faster if we end up undoing what can’t be undone and requires more work, or in the case of sisters-in-law, more frequent contact than ever before! Bye for now. I’m off to the post office for a stamp.

The United Teachers of Dade represents 35,000 teachers and school support personnel in MDCPS. The union is committed to being a leader in creating public school reform, fostering a quality public education for all students and elevating the professional status of teachers, paraprofessionals, o f f i c e employees, and all school support personnel.

your personal information

BY JEFF ATWATER

Florida Chief Financial Officer Recent news reports have highlighted an increasing trend of identity theft in Florida. In the first half of 2011, the Federal Trade Commission received more than 20,000 complaints from Floridians claiming their identities were stolen.

Misuse of social security numbers is the most frequent type of identity theft.

Scammers use the numbers to file fraudulent tax refunds, tap into bank accounts, apply for credit cards and even file bogus medical claims. Identity theft is devastating for the individual victim but also impacts each and every Floridian through increased costs.

As Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, I was shocked to learn that current law allows for the release of social security numbers to certain groups whose business is to connect Floridians with their unclaimed property. Without careful and

diligent protection, these social security numbers could end up in the wrong hands.

That’s why I am pursuing legislation during the 2012 Session to eliminate a loophole that provides unclaimed property locators access to personal, confidential information that must be protected. Florida, the state with the most identity theft complaints last year, is the only state in the nation that still provides unclaimed property locators with social security numbers.

For more information about how to protect yourself from identity theft, visit our Your Money Matter$ Web page at www.MyFloridaCFO.com.

Editor’s Note: Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, a statewide elected official and officer of the Florida Cabinet, oversees the Department of Financial Services including the Division of Insurance Fraud.

CFO Atwater’s priorities include fighting financial fraud, abuse, and waste in government, reducing government spending and regulatory burdens that chase away businesses, and providing transparency and accountability in spending.

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 15

Miami Beach Chamber Pillar Dinner Series at Meat Market Bruce Townsend, Ceci Rosell, Frank Rosell, Reinaldo Borges and Alice DahburaBorges

Michael S. Goldberg, Ceci Velasco, Maria Acevedo, William Margolis, and Sebastian Tibrout

Eric Johnson, Leila Ripich and Bill Hansen

Jehan Noon, Edward Dalton, and Michael Glickman

Terri E. Echarte, Michael Palokov and Maria Paulsen

Michael Grieco and Christine Klingspor

Meat Market on Lincoln Road

Alfred Karram Jr., Paola Regnifo and President & CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber, Jerry Libbin

Leila Ripich, Chairman Jason Loeb, Michael S. Goldberg and Madeleine Romanello

Pillar Chairman David Sacks and DeAnne Connolly Graham

Page 16

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

Top Design Firm Gives Miami Beach Chamber Veteran a New Room for the New Year The Miami Beach Chamber selected David Patlak to receive a prestigious veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award for a remarkable service career that earned him over 17 distinguished Military Awards.

As one of nine military families selected from Miami-Dade and Broward counties, the Miami Beach Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award earned Dave a â&#x20AC;&#x153;New Room for the New Yearâ&#x20AC;? courtesy of Design Experts, Giselle Loor & Brett Sugerman of b+g design, one of South Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most highly regarded Interior Design firms as part of the Military Room Makeover Program sponsored by the Dania Beach Design District and Luxe Interiors & Design Magazine.

Dave chose to have his bedroom Dave Patlak, redone, but b+g Recipient of the military design faced chalroom make over program lenges in the remodâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; eling process due to a lack of storage in a small space. b & gâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design solution was to construct a well compartmentalized closet system and to create custom made bedroom furnishings specially designed for the smaller room. A custom padded, sculpted headboard was created to go with the attractive platform bed and base that held built in drawers to provide additional storage. Decorative accents from the Giselle Loor accessory line and a graphic wall cover from Romo were added to liven the room. The b+g team collaborated with their trades (Grafton Furniture, Innerspace, Giovanni Art, Surya, Romo, Ylighting, Myers Construction, K & P Wallcovering) to donate their time, effort, custom furnishings and materials to transform Daveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room into one that combines style and

function that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll enjoy for years to come.

Giselle Loor stated, â&#x20AC;&#x153;b+g is honored to use our talents and skills to make life nicer for the Miami Beach Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Veteran.

Dave has been a pleasure to deal with and for us itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a work of â&#x20AC;&#x153;heartâ&#x20AC;? that we hope heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll enjoy.â&#x20AC;?Dave and his wife are overjoyed with their new room. Dave Patlak said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The room feels like a sanctuary. This gift is helping us to get rid of clutter and to have a fresh start.

We are incredibly thankful to Miami Beach Chamber CEO, Jerry Libbin, the Miami Beach Chamber, Craig Urbine, The Dania Beach Design District and especially to b+g design for their generosity. They created the perfect Miami Beach Resort Retreat for us and even included storage space. We never dreamed what they did could be possible!â&#x20AC;?

Before the room make over.

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Do you or someone you know have â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tinea Cruris/Jock Itchâ&#x20AC;??

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Medical Insurance is not required for study participation.

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After remodeling by b+g design

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ÂżTiene usted o alguien que usted conozca â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tinea Cruris u Hongos Entre Sus Piernas/Muslosâ&#x20AC;??

FXM Research en Miramar estĂĄ buscando hombres y mujeres entre las edades de 12 aĂąos o mĂĄs que sufran de Tinea Cruris/Hongos Entre Sus Piernas/Muslos, para participar en un estudio de investigaciĂłn clĂ­nico que requiere seis [6] visitas.

Seguro MĂŠdico no es requerido para su participaciĂłn en el estudio.

Los participantes que califiquen recibirĂĄn: â&#x20AC;˘ Evaluaciones por un DermatĂłlogo Certificado. â&#x20AC;˘ Los medicamentos bajo investigaciĂłn a no costo. â&#x20AC;˘ CompensaciĂłn por tiempo y transporte hasta $250.00.

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Miramar, FL 33027 â&#x20AC;˘ www.fxmresearch.com

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 17

First Quarterly Pillar Breakfast at the La Gorce Country Club

Keynote Speaker Bruce Turkel

Michael S. Goldberg, Keynote Speaker Bruce Turkel, and Jerry Libbin, President & CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber

Seth Frohlich, Charles Citrin and Russell Galbut,

Andres Rendon from Best Buy for Business Miami Beach Pillar Members at the First Quarterly Breakfast at the La Gorce Country Club

Kevin Winston, Robin Conn, Robert Shaw and Maria Guadamuz

Deborah Shane and Iris Nieves

Michael Grieco, Chris Vanning, Candice Ryan Lederman and Benton Launert

Best Buy For Business Sponsors with Bruce Turkel, Pillar Board Chairman David Sacks and Jerry Libbin, President & CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber

Title Sponsor Best Buy for Business and Jerry Libbin Justin Levy, Paolo Barone, Milana Kuznetsova and Eric Johnson

Ceci Velasco, COO of the Miami Beach Chamber, Dr. Corey Narson, Pillar Board Chairman David Sacks and DeAnne Connolly Graham

Page 18

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

The Rusty Pelican Restaurant flying high again The all-new Rusty Pelican Restaurant in Miami is now open and better than ever!

Working on a very tight time schedule, South Florida-based general contracting firm, U.S. Construction Corp. (USCC) has completed the interior, exterior remodeling, and site improvements of one of South Florida’s most wellknown, iconic landmark restaurants. Alocal institution for over 40 years, The Rusty Pelican is a mainstay for great food, incredible views and the perfect venue for any event.

From the newly redesigned exterior façade, valet drive-up and entryway, to the indoor and outdoor waterfront dining areas, either downstairs at the water’s edge or on the new upstairs dining terrace, the Rusty Pelican will amaze visitors with incredible vistas of Biscayne Bay, The Port of Miami, and Downtown Miami.

The dining rooms and special event facilities have been completely transformed and can accommodate everyone from corporate functions to weddings with a capacity of up to 1300 guests.

Jim McKennon, Chief Operating Officer of Specialty Restaurants Corporation (the owner and operator of the Rusty Pelican), is extremely pleased with the project’s success. “U.S. Construction Corp. did an incredible job on the construction and management of this very challenging and complex project. Our short schedule and complete redesign required bringing a lot of

trades and specialties together in a very condensed timeframe; we couldn’t have pulled off this project without the strong commitment of U.S. Construction Corp. and their dedicated team.”

The construction team overseen by Rafael Reyes, President and CEO of U.S. Construction Corp., completed the $9 million, 32,000 square foot facility on 2 acres of prime bayfront property in record time. “We have earned a great reputation in the restaurant, retail, entertainment and hospitality industries for getting projects completed on-time, and our client list keeps growing!”, said Reyes. “Our extensive fast-track construction experience has enabled us to deliver the most complex projects in the shortest time possible while maintaining the highest quality workmanship”.

From their Coral Gables headquarters, South Florida-based U.S. Construction Corp. is currently working on multiple exciting projects including a brand new market and bakery at Fisher Island—a world-class private island residential community off Miami Beach, Florida.

Recent U.S. Construction Corp. projects include T.G.I. Friday’s, Lord & Taylor, Benihana, Capital Bank, The Counter Burger, Sharp, Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bacardi, Wendy’s, Clubhouse One, Rockefeller Group, University of Miami, and Hard Rock Café.

Aerial view of The Rusty Pelican ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

U.S. Construction Corp. (USCC), founded in 1977, is a highly regarded, nationally recognized general contracting firm. The South Florida-based company has built more than 1,000 projects over the course of its 35-year history. Their highly skilled project management, supervision, craftsmanship and safety

record consistently earns USCC repeat commercial construction business industry-wide including, restaurants, retail, entertainment, hospitality, offices, spas and clubs. For more information on U.S. Construction Corp., please call 305.443.5808 or go to http://www.usconstructioncorp.com.

View of the Miami Beach skyline from the bar ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

IDEAL MEDICAL CENTER FREE TION ORTA TRANSP

Services provided: Family Medicine EKG Pediatrics Podiatry OB/GYN Child Health Check Up Cardiology Immunization Dentistry Free Pharmacy Delivery Laboratory Board Certified Physicians X-Ray

Walk-In’s Welcome We accept most insurances, Medicare & Medicaid Special Discount Programs available for the uninsured Hours of Operation Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm

995 N. Miami Beach Blvd., Suite 100, N. Miami Beach, FL 33162

Tel 305-957-0017 • Fax 305-957-0015

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Jan. 26 - Feb.8, 2012

Sabrina Cohen selected as finalist in America Inspired contest

BY CHARLOTTE LIBOV

Aw a r d - w i n n i n g Chamber member Sabrina Cohen is a finalist in the national America Inspired competition but she only has until January 27 to garner the online votes she needs to win $50,000 for her stem cell foundation.

“I am so honored that Examiner.com chose to include my work in this contest and I am thrilled to be among these outstanding finalists.

I’m excited to seize this opportunity to raise awareness and funds for stem cell research,” said Sabrina, upon learning she was nominated.

I am delighted to say that I wrote the article nominating Sabrina, which was chosen from over 900 entries to be one of the 25 finalists, so this is very much a team effort. But writing about Sabrina was a pleasure because she inspires me every day!

Sabrina is a finalist in the “Overcoming Adversity,” category, which is no surprise to any of us! At only 14, she was in a car crash and, since then, she’s been inspiring us all.

Upon graduating Miami Beach High, the principal awarded her Miami Beach High School’s highest honor - a loving cup engraved in the following: “For Courage in the Face of Adversity,” and Sabrina has not stopped since.

She was running her own public relations company when, in 2006, she heard a presentation on stem cell research, and she was inspired to establish the Sabrina Cohen Foundation for Stem Cell Research, in 2006.

She has received numerous accolades from both the Chamber and the City of Miami Beach. In 2009, the Chamber honored her with the Amethyst Arts & Culture Not for Profit Award” for outstanding ability to achieve success through innovation, service, growth and

Sabrina and President Clinton ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

commitment to the Community.

As of this writing, the City of Miami Beach has proclaimed it “Sabrina Cohen Day,” not once, but twice. By the time this is published, she will have received her third proclamation, this time from Miami Beach Mayor Matti Bower.

These are just a few of the awards she has won.

To vote for Sabrina, just sign up at Examiner.com, click on the America Inspired banner and vote each day. But you only have a little time to do it - the contest ends Jan. 27, so make the time count by helping Sabrina bring this award home to Miami Beach!

Chamber member Charlotte Libov has authored or co-authored five consumer health books and her writing appears frequently throughout the country. She is also the Miami Health Examiner and the South Beach Culture and Events Examiner for Examiner.com. In addition to her writing, she is also a photographer, and she can be reached at char@libov.com or 305-333-8844.

Sabrina and her mother Evelyne with Danny Devito and Rhea Perlman –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 25

Tips and Etiquette for a Cruising Vacation

BY MARTIN MENDIOLA

Mendiola@USGourmet.US After the previous article on how the “Rules of Etiquette are Changing”, a group of friends asked what to do and not do in a cruising vacation. The answer was simple, HAVE FUN… just make sure it is not at the expense of others.

Anyone with good manners, using common sense and courtesy, will be appreciated by their fellow travelers and the ship’s crew. A great time is almost guaranteed when everyone complies.

There are several important issues that should be handled before booking a cruise.

First and foremost is to make sure passports have not expired and all the paperwork is in order. Then check the company and ship’s profile; it will serve no one to go

on a Disney characters cruise if they dislike children. Verify that the length of the cruise meets your needs, the ports of call are acceptable and the price is right for your budget. Take into account the incidentals on board; those little umbrella drinks are expensive and quickly add up.

One suggestion that always works is to save all receipts. The ship’s staff will not make mistakes, but it will be difficult for you to believe and much less remember how much was spent when at the end of the cruise the charge card bill arrives.

It is recommended that passengers arrive early for embarkation so that with leisure they may check in. It is also best since they will have the opportunity before anyone else to explore the ship, getting to find those special places such as the buffet restaurant, lounge and casino where a lot of their time will be spent.

By arriving early, there will be enough time to go up on deck and take pictures before the mandatory safety drill. The soon-

er everyone goes through the drill, the sooner it gets done and everyone can happily get back to their little umbrellas. Do not think you can hide in the cabin; they will come looking for you. All you will accomplish by trying to hide is delay the process and get everyone on board to hate you. Those who delay the safety drill rank at the same level on the passengers’ hated list as those who are rude and obnoxious.

The most important feature you can have on board is a big smile along with a pleasant attitude and sense of humor. Make sure you say thank you a lot and do not whine to other passengers. Know the rules, observe the rules and do so g r a c i o u s l y.

Listen to the announcements and follow instructions. Be generous and congenial with everyone including the staff; remember they all multitask and if the ship sinks your life may be in their hands. Make sure you get staff members to like you better than the other guy… just in case.

Most complaints we hear about cruises are neither about the ship nor the crew, but about other passengers. Among the worst offenders are those who are loud in the halls and slam doors late at night, chaise hogs at the pool, stay in the hot tub for extended stays while others wait to use it, saving seats at a show for people who never arrive while others sit behind columns, and out of control children. Then there is other behavior that may not be as obtrusive but irritating never the less, such as pushing and/or shoving in the elevators, blocking hallways with food trays and sitting on stairs also

ABOVE: Safety drill LEFT: Umbrella drink ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

blocking the limited space.

A major concern for cruise travelers is how to dress, but since cruise ships provide a civilized and elegant environment, it is very difficult to overdress. In other words, whatever you think is good enough, take it a notch above. You will be playing it safe and it will make you feel better.

If all you want to do is get a sun tan, relax and wear nothing more than shorts and t-shirts, look for the appropriate cruise, there are plenty of those and some of the best and most enjoyable I have ever been involved with. Do not push it on regular cruises, it is not appropriate.

While food and eating are a major part of any cruise, the fact that we ran out of space and our friends are not leaving for a while, prevents us from continuing and allows us to save the food section for the next edition.

Page 26

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb.8, 2012

The Re-Emergence and Power of Blogs, Blogging and Bloggers

BY DEBORAH SHANE

Everyone today is a reporter and a content creator. If you have a smart phone with a camera and video, you can catch an event happening and upload it to your social media, YouTube or a media outlet and in 24 hours later generate hundreds, thousands or a million plus views!

Blogs, Blogging and Bloggers have quickly re-emerged as hot media activity for any professional or company that wants to establish their credibility and brand leadership in their industry and space.

THE 2011 TECHNORATI STATE OF THE BLOGOSPHERE REPORTED THAT: 60% are Hobbyist who write about their specific passions and interests.

18% are Professional Part Time/Full Time who monetize their blogs.

13% are Entrepreneurs who share their professional expertise.

8% are Corporate that gives a platform to interact with them 87% of all bloggers use Facebook to promote 73% of hobbyists and 88% of professional bloggers use Twitter to promote WHAT TO WRITE ABOUT Take your core industry and the niche you target and put that in the center. Then list all the content you could write about that relates to that core and start building layers of content around that core.

HOW TO GENERATE IDEAS Personal experiences, ideas, inspirations are all fodder for generating blog article ideas. Keep a little notebook handy in your purse, briefcase or next to your bed. Also use the record or notes feature on your

smart phone, when you think of something.

WRITE IT OR RECORD IT DOWN! SET UP A BLOG CONTENT SCHEDULE FORM Create a monthly plan and form for your blog schedule and the topics you are going to write about. Consider series, how to’s, check lists and the monthly themes for your industry that come up in any Google Search.

MARKETING YOUR BLOG AND ARTICLES The good news is that Google loves blog posts, so really the more you write and the more ‘keyword’ friendly your article titles are, the more activity you will see. Set up some Google Alerts for you and your blog.

Pick 5 key blogs/bloggers and connect with them on social media and request an opportunity to submit a guest post.

Integrate your blog articles with ALL your social media activity.

Less than two years ago Blogs, Blogging and Bloggers were fighting to gain position, recognition and credibility. Now brands are fighting to get the attention of bloggers and are more than willing to compensate them. 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. com 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.

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 27

Condos and HOAs can recover their money after bank foreclosure

BY MITCH DRIMMER, CAM

MThe real estate meltdown has so confounded everyone in the community association industry that opportunities are being missed and money squandered.

MConsider this scenario: At your condo’s board meeting your community association manager is sharing some good news and some bad news.

The good news is that after 3 years the bank has finally foreclosed and taken title to a particular unit and since the mortgage was $150,000 the association has recovered $1,500 in assessments (the lesser of 12 months or one percent, frequently referred to as the statutory cap).

The bad news is that the unit owed $10,400 including $1,500 in attorney fees. After paying the attorney, the total net recovery for the association was zero, and the shortfall to the association was

$8,900. The treasurer asks “what now?” and the manager responds with “our lawyer says that we have to take a writeoff.” Is this really the end of this receivable?

Few ask why there is a write-off, and if they do, they are quickly told that the money is lost forever and becomes another budget entry for the bad debt line item.

Time is short and the meeting agenda must continue onward to other pressing matters.

Can an association get back any of the money it is owed after a bank forecloses and sails into the “safe harbor” of the statutory cap? The answer is yes, but only if the association knows it can and then makes the effort to collect it.

What boards need to know is that when a bank forecloses, takes title and leaves the association with an unpaid debt, the money is still owed to the association and may be recovered. The recovery is not always easy. It may not always

Why and how to pursue association write-offs be fruitful. However, my father always told me that “if you don’t ask, you will never get.” Boards of directors need to ask this simple question: “is there any way that we can go after the former owner and get back the money that is owed to us?”

So now that we know that this money can be recovered, how do we go about reclaiming it? Engaging a collection agency is the best option. Most collection agencies will collect debts for a percent-

age of the total amount owed. So if you are collecting zero, any percentage recovered looks pretty good.

In Florida there are debt collection agencies that have focused on the community association industry and are actively working to collect community association debt owed on a contingency basis exclusively. If you are a member of a board of directors, it’s time that you considered what is owed, and how you can get it back. If you don’t ask, you won’t get.

Mitch Drimmer is a licensed CAM and is the Vice President of Association Financial Services, a specialty finance, business process outsourcing, and accredited collection agency specializing in community associations. For more information, visit www.associationfinancial.com. Or email Mitch at mdrimmer@afslc.com

Page 28

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb.8, 2012

Mount Sinai Medical Center hosts 10th Annual International Alzheimer’s Symposium Medical experts from around the world gathered to discuss the latest breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s disease treatment and diagnosis at the 10th annual Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) Symposium hosted by Mount Sinai Medical Center. The annual symposium, held this year on January 14th and 15th at the Miami Beach Resort, provided a forum for new information and indepth discussions about advances in research related to the clinical diagnosis and progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Guests included international neurological experts from Switzerland, Australia, Canada and Netherlands as well as U.S. cities such as Miami, New York, Chicago, Boston, St. Louis, Charlottesville and San Francisco.

This year’s event emphasized the early stages of AD and presented results from several longitudinal and cross-sectional studies that explored risk factors, diagnosis and progression of Alzheimer’s, mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Attendees explored how these studies lay the groundwork for making an earlier and even more accurate diagnosis of AD. One of the main topics reviewed were guidelines for diagnosing a pre-dementia condition known as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

“People with MCI are at increased risk for

progressing to AD or dementia,” said Dr. Ranjan Duara, Medical Director for the Mount Sinai Wien Center for Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders. “It’s just like when we detect high cholesterol in people’s blood and start treating it whether or not patients have any symptoms. The same concept goes for diagnosis and treating MCI in an effort to prevent the disease from escalating. The earliest possible diagnosis can lead to beneficial pharmacological treatment and non-pharmacological interventions for the patient, and that’s what all these medical experts from around the world are here to discuss.”

A new addition to this year’s symposium was the Early Alzheimer’s Diagnostic Workshop. The workshop explored how newly developed diagnostic tests, such as MRIs, FDG-PET and amyloidal PET Scans, can be used successfully in the early diagnosis and treatment of AD. Keynote speeches were delivered by four distinguished experts. Dennis Dickson, M.D., professor of Alzheimer’s research from the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida spoke about “Atypical Neuropathological Presentations of Alzheimer’s”. Adriano Aguzzi, M.D., Ph.D, professor and chair of the department of pathology at the University of Zurich in

Dr. Ranjan Duara, medical director of the Mount Sinai Wien Center for Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders welcomes the distinguished group of medical experts from around the world to the Mount Sinai 10th Annual Alzheimer’s Symposium.

Switzerland addressed “Prion-like Progression of AD”. John Morris, M.D., professor of neurology from Washington University addressed the audience with a lecture on “Early Diagnosis and Progression of AD Using Information from Clinical Evaluation and Biomarkers”. J. Scott Roberts, Ph.D., director of the genomics, health and society program at the University of Michigan, closed out the program with a discussion on “Disclosing Diagnostic and Risk Information: How, When and to Whom?”.

Unless ways are found to prevent Alzheimer’s or delay its onset, it is projected that 13 million people in the U.S. will have Alzheimer’s disease by 2050. Since the development of criteria for AD twenty-five years ago, major advances in our understanding of the biology and early clinical features of AD have led to improvement in clinical assessments which have enabled clinicians to diagnose an earlier stage of the illness, mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The Mount Sinai Wien Center for Alzheimer’s disease and Memory Disorders along with Dr. Duara will continue to host this annual symposium so physicians from all over the

world will have a forum to present research and discuss ideas that can provide a greater understanding of the clinical diagnosis, progression and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

About Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Wien Center for Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders. Founded in 1986, The Wien Center for Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders was the first center in Florida to become an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC). The Wien Center seeks an end to Alzheimer’s disease and similar disorders through research, diagnosis, education and treatment and is actively conducting more than 21 research studies and clinical trials about Alzheimer’s and other memory disorders. The Wien Center has garnered prestigious recognition by consistently being ranked a medical specialty leader in U.S.News & World Report’s list of America’s Best Hospitals. The Wien Center’s medical specialists have treated more than 5,000 memory disorder patients with a multi-faceted approach, utilizing expertise in diagnostic imaging, psychiatry, neurology genetics and geriatrics.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Page 30

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

Claim victory in the overhead costs battle using online platforms If you plan to make the internet work for you in 2012 and have no plan, you will fail. If you didn’t plan yet, start now because by 2014 53% of total retail sales (online and offline) will be influenced by the Web as consumers increasingly use the Internet to research products before purchasing. (Forrester, March 2010) Within the business community it is mostly understood and agreed that the internet is the best platform to link consumers to suppliers and that online components are vital for the life of any business.

Even so; many businesses still do not understand the internet as they should and therefore are reluctant to proceed aggressively. Fact of the matter is that a majority of business out there still see the online as one additional line on the expense side rather than the income side of the general Ledger.

Grab a pen, I’m about to shed some light into this and save you headache.

The internet makes use of the same business principles you know and practice.

What changes is how you apply the rules to the online and the tools we use to measure the results. Since the company action and visitor reaction is instant the outcome can be measured quickly.

When utilizing the internet across various channels (website, Facebook, blogs, RSS feeds, YouTube, etc.) the foundations of the online components must be developed properly. The first task is designing the online platform as a mechanism to decrease offline overhead costs. In the now ancient times of web 1.0, information is what the consumers expected, web 2.0 introduced social media components and in 2009 we entered into the web 3.0; the interaction age. Consumers ask the business owners to mimic the office interaction in the online platforms. This is an opportunity no business can refuse to capitalize on. While maintaining the physical office requires paying rent, other overhead costs and employees, the virtual office has no rent, opens 24 hours, 365 days, no utilities and no other traditional overhead costs. The physical office will act as an ideas engine, while both offices (physical and virtual) will aggressively promote your service and product reaching more clients and allowing you to reduce overall overhead costs and subsequently increase profit margins and income.

Do you need to be online as consumer demands? Maybe not! But, a Razorfish, 2008 study indicates that 61% of people

rely on user reviews for product information or research online before a purchasing decision is made. In the last 3 years this number has increased to 75%, therefore for those who like to stay in business and grow there is no choice.

IF YOU MUST BE ONLINE START SMALL BUT DO IT RIGHT. First, figure out your story in the online market without constructing a mythical tale. Recognize your identity, what you believe in; what are your unique selling points, what you want to be known for, why should consumers interact with you and how consumers should remember you.

Test it, embrace that and bleed it all over the net, from your website to social media to your office conversations. Have one unified clear message.

Second, study your office overhead costs. Establish your overhead factor percentage (Overhead factor is equal to the entire cost of sale divided by overhead fix costs plus 100%. We discuss overhead factor at length in our Cbil360 blog and in our by weekly 2 hour workshop “DigitalMadeAffordable.com”) and put in place online methods that will allow your online activity to reduce your overhead and thus enable you to be more competitive.

Third, when you enter the virtual space, establish clear objectives supported by headline messages, copy and visitor interaction components. Establish rules for visitor engagement, and engage the user emotionally and genuinely. You can’t only talk to them, have a platform to talk with them.

Fourth, never forget, while you can have a million visits, each visit is unique, each visit represents a potential client who is searching for “What can you do for me?”

Each visitor will become positive or negative “word of mouth” about your company in his/her community.

Fifth, start now. Don’t wait.

64% of consumers have made a first purchase from a brand because of a digital experience such as a website, microsite, mobile coupon, or email. No other medium has so impacted—or altered—the traditional marketing funnel in such a way.

(Razorfish Digital Brand Experience Study, 2009.

It’s a question of survival and every business; small, medium or big shouldn’t underestimate the possible outcome. Jay Ben Avner, www.Cbil360.com

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 31

Luxury property throughout Miami’s coastal communities show sharp increases in price indicators While home values in many parts of the US remain flat, Miami residential real estate is showing active signs of life. According to the just-released Fourth Quarter, 2011 Douglas Elliman Florida Miami Market Report that analyzes regional data on condos and single family homes, price indicators in coastal communities from Aventura and Golden Beach south to Pinecrest, edged higher from the same period last year.

“Once again Miami Beach and South Beach proved favored destinations for buyers relocating or looking for vacation homes,” said Vanessa Grout, President and CEO of Douglas Elliman Florida. ”The average sales price for luxury condos was up nearly 10 percent in both markets and the number of closed sales rose 15.6 percent and 11.1 percent respectively, over the same quarter last year,” she noted.

The Downtown Market boasting several new luxury condo developments, also gained buyers’ attention. The average sales price of condos jumped 18.8 percent over the same period last year with value pricing driving demand. The number of closed sales — 1,566 - was down 11.3 percent from last year’s peak of 1,765.

The picture was slightly less rosy in the North Market where the average price of condos rose only 5.1 percent and closed sales fell by 2.3 percent year-to-year. In the South Market, average condo prices increased 3.7 percent while the number of closed sales fell 10.1 percent.

The average sales prices of single family properties in Miami Beach and the Barrier Islands peaked during the year but ended with just a one percent increase over the 4th quarter of 2010.

There were 311 closed sales with an average sales price of $1,417,846. In the South Beach market where supply is limited, the average sales price rose 95.3 percent to $2,178,231 with

The Douglas Elliman Florida Report: Miami Sales 4Q 2011 13 closed sales. In the Downtown market, average sales prices for single family homes increased 2.8 percent over 1,347 closed sales. The South market showed a 13.3 percent average price gain on 209 closed sales while in the North Market, the average sales price fell 12.8 percent on 36 closed sales.

“Once you differentiate between the distressed and non-distressed markets, you can see indicators of the market’s growing strength after years of decline,” said Grout, “Distressed sales continue to put downward pressure on prices but non-distressed luxury condos are spending fewer days on the market and selling for notably higher prices per square foot than in the same period last year,” she said.

Distressed sales, comprised of foreclosures and short sales, represented a smaller market share compared to the same period last year: A year ago distressed property accounted for 60.4 percent of the market but by the fourth quarter of 2011, it had dropped to a 51.1 percent market share. This was due mainly to lenders bringing fewer foreclosures into the market following the “robo-signer” scandal of 2010. The distressed market also saw a change in focus with foreclosures dropping 47 percent as short sales increased 22.3 percent over the same period.

In the non-distressed market, both condo price indicators and sales rose. The weak US dollar continued to drive demand by

overseas buyers for luxury condos and new developments. Cash transactions surged to 64 percent of deals compared to 61.4 percent last year. However, in the non-distressed single family market, overall price indicators were mixed and the average sales price slipped 0.8 percent to $559,827 for the year. The number of sales increased to 806, up 4.5 percent over the same period last year and the pace of sales quickened too; homes were on the market for an average of 53 days compared to 57 days last year.

The report commissioned by Douglas Elliman Florida and produced by Miller Samuel, a long-trusted industry source, is considered the most comprehensive and timely analysis of the Miami housing market.

KEY TRENDS FOR MIAMI MARKET 4Q 2011 COMPARED TO 4Q 2010 Average Sales Price: $314,995 — Up 11.1% Median Sales Price: $165,000 — Up 10.0 % Average Price per Square Foot: $214 — Up 13.2% Number of Sales (Closed): 4,568 – Down 6.1% Days on Market (from last list date): 72 — Up 1.4% Listing Discount (from last list daate): 8.7% — 10.1 %

Page 32

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

Claim victory in the overhead costs battle using online platforms If you plan to make the internet work for you in 2012 and have no plan, you will fail. If you didn’t plan yet, start now because by 2014 53% of total retail sales (online and offline) will be influenced by the Web as consumers increasingly use the Internet to research products before purchasing. (Forrester, March 2010) Within the business community it is mostly understood and agreed that the internet is the best platform to link consumers to suppliers and that online components are vital for the life of any business.

Even so; many businesses still do not understand the internet as they should and therefore are reluctant to proceed aggressively. Fact of the matter is that a majority of business out there still see the online as one additional line on the expense side rather than the income side of the general Ledger.

Grab a pen, I’m about to shed some light into this and save you headache.

The internet makes use of the same business principles you know and practice.

What changes is how you apply the rules to the online and the tools we use to measure the results. Since the company action and visitor reaction is instant the outcome can be measured quickly.

When utilizing the internet across various channels (website, Facebook, blogs, RSS feeds, YouTube, etc.) the foundations of the online components must be developed properly. The first task is designing the online platform as a mechanism to decrease offline overhead costs. In the now ancient times of web 1.0, information is what the consumers expected, web 2.0 introduced social media components and in 2009 we entered into the web 3.0; the interaction age. Consumers ask the business owners to mimic the office interaction in the online platforms. This is an opportunity no business can refuse to capitalize on. While maintaining the physical office requires paying rent, other overhead costs and employees, the virtual office has no rent, opens 24 hours, 365 days, no utilities and no other traditional overhead costs. The physical office will act as an ideas engine, while both offices (physical and virtual) will aggressively promote your service and product reaching more clients and allowing you to reduce overall overhead costs and subsequently increase profit margins and income.

Do you need to be online as consumer demands? Maybe not! But, a Razorfish, 2008 study indicates that 61% of people

rely on user reviews for product information or research online before a purchasing decision is made. In the last 3 years this number has increased to 75%, therefore for those who like to stay in business and grow there is no choice.

IF YOU MUST BE ONLINE START SMALL BUT DO IT RIGHT. First, figure out your story in the online market without constructing a mythical tale. Recognize your identity, what you believe in; what are your unique selling points, what you want to be known for, why should consumers interact with you and how consumers should remember you.

Test it, embrace that and bleed it all over the net, from your website to social media to your office conversations. Have one unified clear message.

Second, study your office overhead costs. Establish your overhead factor percentage (Overhead factor is equal to the entire cost of sale divided by overhead fix costs plus 100%. We discuss overhead factor at length in our Cbil360 blog and in our by weekly 2 hour workshop “DigitalMadeAffordable.com”) and put in place online methods that will allow your online activity to reduce your overhead and thus enable you to be more competitive.

Third, when you enter the virtual space, establish clear objectives supported by headline messages, copy and visitor interaction components. Establish rules for visitor engagement, and engage the user emotionally and genuinely. You can’t only talk to them, have a platform to talk with them.

Fourth, never forget, while you can have a million visits, each visit is unique, each visit represents a potential client who is searching for “What can you do for me?”

Each visitor will become positive or negative “word of mouth” about your company in his/her community.

Fifth, start now. Don’t wait.

64% of consumers have made a first purchase from a brand because of a digital experience such as a website, microsite, mobile coupon, or email. No other medium has so impacted—or altered—the traditional marketing funnel in such a way.

(Razorfish Digital Brand Experience Study, 2009.

It’s a question of survival and every business; small, medium or big shouldn’t underestimate the possible outcome. Jay Ben Avner, www.Cbil360.com

Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 33

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Analytical Strategist Bachelor in Bus. Admin. & 5 yrs exp. req. Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems And recommending solutions.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 8, 2012

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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ADVERTISING SALES Established Community Newspapers seeks experienced account executives for North Miami Dade territory.

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