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Visual Memoirs Project asks Residents to Share Their Personal Stories of Miami Beach BY GRISETTE ROQUE MARCOS Executive Director Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority The Miami Design Preservation League and Close-Up Productions are in the production phase of the Visual Memoirs Project, a compilation of filmed interviews with members of the Miami Beach community who will share their personal memories of Miami Beach. The project, which is funded by the Miami Beach Visitors and Convention Authority, demonstrates why Miami Beach is like no other city in the world. The city’s rich history, diverse culture and community loyalty provide the perfect platform for unique stories.
“There is no better way to get the colorful history of Miami Beach than to hear it from the people who helped create it,” said Miami Design Preservation League Programs and Outreach Coordinator Judith Frankel. “Through perspectives of all different people who lived and worked here, the project will reveal a real story behind life in Miami Beach these past decades.” A short documentary from six to eight minutes in length will be culled from a compilation of the interviews. These interviews will be catalogued and housed at the Miami Design Preservation League. The interview process entails professional interviewers asking the volunteer subjects a series of questions, established by their age, to elicit their experiences in Miami Beach. Topics range from Miami Beach High, restaurants, youth experiences, celebrity encounters and quality of life to segregation, to architectural changes, historic preservation and entertainment. Vintage photographs, music and video will be incorporated in the documentary to help bring the stories to life. “We are in the process of seeking additional
Letter from the Chair BY JASON LOEB Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber 2011 was a momentous year for the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. We successfully installed many new initiatives and experienced incredible growth in both membership and monies raised to support our visions. However, as fun as it is to reflect on past accomplishments, the New Year is about looking ahead. Now is the perfect time to craft your personal and professional plans that will take you and your business to an even greater level. Once everything is in place internally, it’s time to start letting people know about your business externally. The power of connections are amazing - I attribute nearly all my new clients to relationship building. While many people understand the importance of networking, a majority don’t do it very well, equating it to event attendance and handing out business cards to as many people as possible. While reach is certainly important, I can’t stress enough that success is in the quality of these relationship.
funds from the public to grow this project to its full potential,” said Frankel. “There are so many great stories out there and we want to make sure we don’t miss any of them!” Some of the those already interviewed include Henry Rosen, attorney and former Mayor of Miami Beach; Aristotle Aries, former Director of Public Works, who has memories back to the time of Carl Fisher, and Enid Pinkney, a woman whose family was kept from living on Miami Beach due to a law against African American residency during the 1970s. More volunteers with stories to tell are needed and interviews take place at the subject’s convenience. To volunteer, or for more information about the project, please contact Judith Frankel at Judith@mdpl.org. ABOUT MIAMI BEACH With an average year-round temperature of 75 degrees, Miami Beach has an unrivaled reputation for culinary offerings, nightlife, culture, fashion, and luxurious hotels. Also a popular destination among travelers, Miami Beach was
First, look at your network and determine if you are getting anything out of it. If not, you need to determine whether it is the network itself or if it’s a matter of you and your own involvement. Sometimes the relationship simply isn’t a fit - and that’s ok, just gently sever your ties and find an organization that you can identify with. If it’s the latter, remember that any good relationship is reciprocal. It’s about instilling goodwill on behalf of your clients and enjoying the benefits of their goodwill in return. People like doing business with others that they like and trust. But you can’t find and determine who these valuable contacts are by simply handing out your business card with a one-liner about what you do. Active involvement with an organization allows you to really get to know the people within. Getting involved is easy - find an aspect that engages you. The Miami Beach Chamber has 13 councils covering a range of business sectors and niches from tourism, to global business, to emerging leadership, to arts & culture and beyond. Every one of these sub-committees presents a perfect opportunity to not only connect with fellow members, but develop a relationship and a better understanding of their respective strengths and goals, thereby putting you in a stronger position to effectively help one another. This is the spirit of our Chamber. On behalf of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, we wish you a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2012. I believe; however, that each of these joys are magnified with a strong support system and I look forward to working together.
recently ranked by Trip Advisor as number one on its Top Winter Sun Vacation Rental Getaway Destinations for 2011 list and was included on both the Top 25 Beaches in the World and Top 25 Destinations in the U.S. lists. Boasting seven miles of breathtaking beaches, Miami Beach is easily accessible from the Port of Miami and Miami International Airport. The City of Miami Beach has just been named one of the top cities worldwide for ‘walkability’ and is equally easy to navigate by bike or by boat. Home to unique museums, to the New World Symphony and Miami City Ballet, to over 17,000 luxury, boutique and resort hotel rooms, 195 of public parks and to the Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach is a destination for all seasons. Miami Beach is like no other place in the world!
Visit MiamiBeachGuest.com o r MiamiBeachINCARD.com for more information or contact Grisette Marcos at Groquemarcos@miamibeachvca.com.
MIAMI BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
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LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT
MICHAEL C. GRIECO, Esq. Michael C. Grieco, Esq. is Vice-Chair of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Pillar Board and an attorney here in Miami Beach. Mr. Grieco has been living in South Florida for 15 years and has been a lawyer for 12 of those. After attending American University in Washington D.C., Mr. Grieco attended University of Miami School of Law, graduating in 1999. Immediately upon graduation Michael began his legal career at the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office. Over his 6-year career as a prosecutor, Michael participated in over 50 jury trials and held assignments as both a Gang Strike Force Assistant State Attorney and a Felony Division Chief. After leaving the office and working for a couple boutique litigation firms, Mr. Grieco opened up his law firm here in Miami Beach in 2006. Since opening his firm he has been appointed to the Miami Beach Community Relations Board, the Miami Children’s Hospital Young Ambassador Executive Board, and the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Pillar Board. Mr. Grieco is also a member of the Miami-Dade Chapter of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, the Miami Beach Bar Association, and South Florida Concierge Association. Michael is a member of both the Florida and New York Bar Associations, and is also licensed to practice in multiple Federal jurisdictions including Southern Florida and Eastern Michigan. The Grieco Law Center focuses on defending those accused of, or charged with, a State or Federal felony, misdemeanor or DUI. Most, but not all of Mr. Grieco’s clients are charged with non-violent offenses and/or are first-time offenders. Many of those cases include whitecollar crime as well as narcotics offenses.
MICHAEL GRIECO, ESQ.
Several of those clients mentioned are business professionals, or their family members, who are looking for legal representation with personal attention. Michael is known for being available at all hours and having empathy towards those that are experiencing fear, anxiety and embarrassment stemming from their arrest or the arrest of a loved one. Mr. Grieco has represented the actor Mickey Rourke, as well as several professional athletes, physicians, attorneys, police officers, and local businessmen and women. Michael and his cases have been profiled by both television and print media outlets over the years, but his firm goes to great lengths in protecting his clients’ identities and accusations. The Grieco Law Center can be found at: Portofino Towers Office Suite 500 South Pointe Drive, #230 Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 857-0034
Miamii Beach h News
6769 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355 • Fax (305) 662-6980 PUBLISHERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grant & Michael Miller ASSOCIATED PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Amy Donner WRITERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Albie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Celia Canabate, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diane Chasin, Enrique Chau, Sharon Christian, Lori Cohen, Dianne Maddox, Denzil Miles, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller, Georgia Tait, Walter White PROOF DEPARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Vavrek PRODUCTION GRAPHIC ARTISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Ortega, Cristian Ortiz, Catalina Roca, Marie Scheer, Isabel Vavrek PUBLISHER EMERITUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ron Miller We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. If you send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material. Every issue of the Miami Beach is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including advertisements produced by Community Newspapers. Using artwork and/or typography furnished or arranged for/by us, shall be the property of Community Newspapers. MILLER PUBLISHING and COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS are proud to publish the following newspapers: Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Community Newspapers, Coral Gables News-Tribune, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens, Opa-locka Review, Palmetto Bay News, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun, West Park News. See us at www.communitynewspapers.com
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Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
The $outh Florida Gaming Repor t The Die is Cast
BY ISADORE HAVENICK
Apparently no one on the Miami Beach Commission feels there should be casino gaming in or near Miami Beach. By Unanimous vote the city commissioners decided to send a resolution to Tallahassee that would urge the Florida Legislature to “reject any and all expansions of gambling, including legislation to legalize “Destination Casinos” in Florida.” On the same day the owners of the Florida Panthers hockey team in concert with Broward County commissioners made it known that they think their location near the Sawgrass Mills Mall would be an ideal spot for a resort destination casino. These divergent actions certainly make one scratch their
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head. Does Broward County want crime and prostitution to descend upon them like a plague of locusts? How could the Panther’s owners embrace a project like this? Hockey and Hold-em, Blue lines and black jack, what are they thinking? Perhaps they have a vision of increased jobs. The average poker dealer makes close to fifty-thousand dollars a year. Casino jobs on the whole average out close to forty-thousand dollars a year. The Hard Rock seems to be doing ok. I bet [I’m not sure I can do that in Miami Beach] one or two Miami Beach residents might have even made their way to a concert or two at the Hard Rock and survived! How is the Fillmore doing these days? Time will tell if closing and locking the door on casino gaming was a smart decision, but perhaps leaving the door open a crack so a little fresh air could get in might have been a smarter choice.
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Need a New Years Resolution? Consider Finding a Financial Advisor BY WILLIAM D. TALBERT III, CDME
HOW’S BUSINESS 18TH CONSECUTIVE MONTH OF JOB INCREASES— RECORD LEI$URE AND HO$PITALITY JOB$ IN GREATER MIAMI AND THE E BEACHES DURING MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2011 Greater MIAMI’s Leisure and Hospitality Industry JOBS reached a RECORD high for November with an increase of +2.4% in November 2011 compared to the same period in 2010. This is the 18th consecutive month of increased employment in Greater MIAMI’s Leisure and Hospitality industry. In November 2011, a RECORD 110,600 people were employed in Greater MIAMI’s Leisure and Hospitality sector compared to 108,000 for November 2010. GREATER MIAMI LEISURE AND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY JOB$ November 2011 110,600 jobs
November 2010 108,000 jobs
% Change + 2.4%
ORANGE BOWL FUN & FESTIVITIES The Orange Bowl has had a long and illustrious history in Miami. In 1935, Bucknell, champion of the smaller Eastern colleges, was the first team invited to the Orange Bowl Classic, which had been called the Palm Festival for the previous two years. The Bison defense held Miami to just four first downs and 28 yards total offense en route to the inaugural 26-0 victory. Fast forward seventy-six years and we have two conference champions, No. 15 Clemson and No. 23 West Virginia, who will meet in the 78th Discover Orange Bowl on January 4, 2012 at Sun Life Stadium. Kickoff is slated for 8 p.m. Events surrounding the games include team airport arrivals, team welcome receptions, coaches’ outings (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), a pre-game party, beach parties, the Game Day Fan Zone and more. The Orange Drive Miami Beach Music Festival takes place December 30, 2011 to January 1, 2012 along Ocean Drive between 7th and 9th streets and will feature some of the most popular performers today including Cee-Lo Green, Ne-Yo, Pete Wentz and the Black Cards, DJ Irie and Jermaine Dupri. The festival’s entertainment village will buzz with attractions and activities. Tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster. For details, visit www.OrangeDr.com. MIAMI-DADE GAY & LESBIAN CHAMBER’S “TASTE OF MIAMI” The 3rd Annual Taste of Miami event benefitting the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce’s (MDGLCC) Foundation Scholarship Fund and the LGBT Visitor Center will take place on Saturday, January 14, 2012 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Miami Beach Convention Center. Join the MDGLCC Foundation and enjoy tastes from some of Miami’s finest restaurants including City Hall and Seasons 52 among others, sip signature cocktails, spend time with friends AND support the MDGLCC Foundation Scholarship Fund and the LGBT Visitor Center. Individual Tickets are $75 in advance and $100 at the door. For tickets and information, visit www.GoGayMiami.com. THE ORIGINAL MIAMI BEACH ANTIQUE SHOW 12 at Miami Beach The Original Miami Beach Antique Show is February 2-6, 201 Convention Center. This high-end art, antique and jewelry show is considered one of the most prestigious antiques events in the country for serious and casual collectors. As the world’s largest indoor antique show, it has 900 antique dealers from 22 different countries. The show opens at noon daily. Come out on Saturday, February 4th for a free appraisal. Also, enter to win a men’s or women’s Rolex watch by visiting www.MiamiBeachAntiqueShows.com.
I wantt too startt shoppingg forr a financial advisor.. Whatt shouldd I bee lookingg for? Someone you can trust and feel comfortable with. A person who has several years of experience in both good and bad times. A well educated person. Someone who really listens to both the husband and the wife. Someone who provides objective advise to you and who is legally and morally obligated to serve your best interest at all times. Someone who does not have a sales quota of investment products to sell to you. Rick Tonkinson Someone who has malpractice insurance for your protection. Someone who is regulated and supervised by FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority). Someone who is not a sales rep but an actual money manager. How w manyy financiall advisorss shouldd I interview? The more the better, but make sure you ask the same questions to each one. Ask for their credentials, experience, investment process, references and code of ethics. I suggest that you talk to each advisor one on one. Consider talking to at least 3 advisors before you decide. Theree aree a lott off credentialss thatt advisorss use.. Aree theyy alll thee same? No. Each credential has a different level of course content and time requirement to attain the credential. Some credentials focus on life insurance such as the Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF) and a Charter Life Underwriter (CLU). The CLU is more of a Masters Degree in the area of insurance. Some credentials focus on mutual funds such as a Certified Funds Specialist (CFS). The credential that focuses on comprehensive financial planning is the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). It is more of a Masters Degree in personal financial planning. Ask the advisor for details of their skills and education. Rick Tonkinson is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Practitioner who started his first job as a paperboy at age 12. Rick Tonkinson and his family focus on the financial planning needs of working people. Tonkinson Financial Inc. is located at 2398 South Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL. 305-858-1628. Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services offered by Tonkinson Financial Inc. are separate and unrelated to Commonwealth.
Happy New Year! from Tonkinson Financial
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Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
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Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
Mount Sinai Toy Drive Brings Holiday Cheer
Mia Hess, Mount Sinai C.A.R.E.S. Team Leader, helps load the 200+ plus toys donated by Mount Sinai employees for delivery to Toys for Tots. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Honesty • Integrity • Values • Respect • Knowledge • Ethics
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Mount Sinai Medical Center employees donated new, unwrapped toys for the hospital’s annual Toy Drive. The initiative, led by the Mount Sinai C.A.R.E.S. team (Community Activities Reflecting Employee Service), generated over 200 toys collected for Toys for Tots to benefit deserving children of all ages. Members of the C.A.R.E.S. team gathered all the toys and delivered them to Toys for Tots office in Hialeah, Florida on December 16th. With a long-standing tradition of supporting and serving the communities in which the institution has a presence, Mount Sinai selected Toys for
Tots in Hialeah because the hospital now has a full service, bilingual office providing care in the areas of cardiology, endocrinology, urology, neurology and internal medicine located at 2150 W. 68th Street in Hialeah, Florida. In addition to the annual Toy Drive, the Mount Sinai C.A.R.E.S. team provides school supplies for underprivileged children, donates clothing to the homeless, participates in community fundraising events, provides holiday meals for the elderly and much more! Mount Sinai’s 3,000-plus employees continuously demonstrate that they truly care about their community.
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Miami Beach Chamber & BNI Holiday Party at the Mandarin Oriental
Pillar Board Chairman David E. Sacks and Chairman of the Board Jason Loeb
Botran Liquor Sponsor
Jeff Feldman, Brooke Brown and Pillar Board Chairman Robert Manrique and Eduardo Molko, Warren Henry David E. Sacks Auto
Rising Star James Anderson receiving a 72 hour Jaguar Lease from Warren Henry Auto
Stephanie Ruiz and Peggy Benua
Miami Beach Chamber & BNI guests at the Holiday Party
Michael Grieco, Betty Roffwarg, Richard Hersch and Eric Johnson Michael S. Goldberg, Eric Johnson, Ceci Velasco, COO of the Miami Beach Chamber and Jeff Stay, BNI
Dean Neiger, Sophie Kalifa, Sebastien Tribout
Santa Claus and Jerry Libbin, President & CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber
Todd Goodwin, Marisa Matluck and Sid Hoeltzell
Benton Launerts, Michelle Guerrin and Chad Lipson
See more photos next page
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Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
Miami Beach Chamber & BNI Holiday Party at the Mandarin Oriental Miami Beach Chamber Members at the Holiday Party
Complimentary treatments at the Holiday Party Sponsored by the Spa at the Mandarin Oriental
Vanessa Dadaglio, Alfred Karram, Jr. and Madeleine Romanello
Jeff Stay, Marcelo, Michelle Villalobos and Jennifer Bonnet
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Fostering the Conditions for Florida’s Economic Success Since I took office almost a year ago, a few fault system which will be presented to the core missions and values drive my decisions Legislature. To address a new Worker’s as your Chief Financial Officer. You deserve Compensation fraud scheme that is putting a government that protects your hard-earned pressure on rates and crippling the business dollars and that is why my key initiatives community, I called for a work group to continue to focus on transparency and make recommendations for combating workaccountability, finance and economy, and ers’ compensation premium fraud. fraud and consumer protection. As I host business roundtaWith the next legislative sesbles across the state, a top sion beginning in January, my concern has been the burden2012 legislative agenda will some regulations that stifle focus on four core themes that business growth. I am asking support these initiatives: transthe Legislature to repeal or parency in contracts and governrework laws that do not add ment spending, protecting convalue to Florida’s consumers sumers, fighting fraud, and or businesses, starting with reducing regulatory burdens on some I have identified in my Florida’s businesses. own agency. Further, Florida Honoring my commitment to must streamline its informagovernment transparency, several tion technology services, and Jeff Atwater, of my proposed reforms are I am pursuing a modern IT CFO, Florida Department aimed at strengthening accountastructure to accomplish this of Financial Services bility in state contracting. This goal. ––––––––––––––––– effort includes expanded powers In this challenging ecoto monitor state agency procurements for nomic climate, we have a deep responsibilicompliance as well as authority to review and ty to create the conditions that will bring approve or reject state contracts prior to exe- down costs for Florida’s families and busicution. To ensure that tax dollars are being nesses. I’m confident the Legislature is spent wisely, my aim is to increase competi- equally committed to fostering economic tion in the state bidding process. success and reducing financial burdens on Recent news reports have highlighted Florida’s businesses and families, and I look increasing trends in identity theft in Florida. forward to working with them toward these As a consumer protection measure, I will important goals. work to close a loophole that allows certain Editor’s Note: Chief Financial Officer groups to obtain social security information from the Department of Financial Services’ Jeff Atwater, a statewide elected official and officer of the Florida Cabinet, oversees the Bureau of Unclaimed Property. In an effort to curb the increase of PIP Department of Financial Services. CFO fraud and give Floridians the relief they Atwater’s priorities include fighting finandeserve on their auto insurance rates, my cial fraud, abuse, and waste in government, appointed Insurance Consumer Advocate reducing government spending and regulatoconvened a working group to gather and ry burdens that chase away businesses, and develop ideas to address the fraud and other providing transparency and accountability in potential alternatives to Florida’s current no- spending.
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Mercedes-Benz CLS Coupe redesigned for 2012 Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR
LET’S TALK CARS The Mercedes CLS coupe is my favorite in the German manufacturer’s lengthy lineup of luxury vehicles; it’s just a special automobile, even if I continue to disagree with their classification of a four-door automobile as a coupe. But, the 2012 CLS represents the first major redesign of this beautiful car since it came on the market in 2004, and Mercedes literature claims that it “established an entirely new market segment — the four-door coupe, which combines the emotional appeal and dynamic design of a coupe with the comfort and functionality of a sedan.” I guess I’ll have to accept that, even though just about any dictionary defines a coupe as a two-door vehicle. For 2012, the CLS line consists of three models — all powered by new biturbo directinjection V-8 engines and, for the first time, offer 4MATIC all-wheel-drive. Pricing starts at $71,300 for the CLS550, $73,800 for the CLS550 4MATIC and $94,900 for the high
performance CLS63 AMG. Add another $875 for delivery charges. The distinctive body lines of the CLS have been accentuated by its new design. Overall, the new CLS is about 1.2 inches longer and wider, and it fits right between the S-Classbased CL and the E-Class two-door, forming a family of Mercedes “coupes” that makes efficient use of existing chassis and powertrain layouts, while preserving their individual identities. With its new 4.6-liter direct-injection twinturbo V-8, the new CLS550 gets 26 percent better fuel mileage (17/26 mpg), while still producing 402 hp and 443 pounds-feet of torque. The CLS550 is equipped with new electrically assisted power steering, AIRMATIC air suspension and a revised sevenspeed automatic transmission. The 5.5-liter version of the new directinjection V-8 engine in the 2012 CLS63 AMG is rated at 518 hp and 516 pounds-feet of torque. An optional AMG Performance Package hikes the output to 550 hp and 590 pounds-feet of torque. Even with its highperformance, the CLS63 AMG is 26 percent more fuel efficient (16/hwy), thanks in part to an innovative ECO stop-start system. Whenever the AMG model stops in “D” or “N” with the brake pedal depressed in “Controlled Efficiency” transmission mode, the engine is automatically turned off to save
2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Coupe is about 1.2 inches longer and wider, and new design accentuates distinctive body lines. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
fuel. As soon as the driver releases the brake, the engine computer decides which piston is in the best position for first ignition, and the direct fuel injection and multi-spark systems work with a starter motor to re-start the engine almost instantly. The CLS63 AMG features a seven-speed MCT (multi-clutch technology) sport transmission with an innovative startup clutch that replaces the conventional torque converter.
Providing the direct feedback of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic, the MCT transmission offers impressive versatility and faster shift times.
Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.
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Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
ECOMB: Full service salon for men & women. Open Tues. - Sat. by appointments and walk-ins. Bring this ad for -SENIOR SPECIAL-CUT & BLOW $25
Commodore Plaza 2780 N.E. 183 Street, 2nd Floor Aventura, FL 33160 • Tel: 305-760-2104
One-Stop Shop Recycling Drop-Off Station For Electronic Waste, Batteries, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs and all other recyclables. WHAT: ECOMB HAS JUST MADE IT A LOT EASIER FOR EVERYONE TO RECYCLE! The Environmental Coalition of Miami & the Beaches, ECOMB, in partnership with the City of Miami Beach, eTronic eWaste (www.etronicewaste.com), EcoBatt (www.ecobatt.net) and Smart At Bulbs (www.smartatbulbs.com) is pleased to announce the opening of Miami-Dade County’s first One-Stop Shop Recycling Drop-Off Station for all types of electronic waste, batteries and compact fluorescent light bulbs at its new Miami Beach Center for the Environment. The Center also accepts all other types of Single Stream Recyclables - glass, plastic, metal, paper, cardboard, magazines, junk mail, phone books, etc - for those businesses and residents that do not have a recycling program, thanks to an agreement established between the City of Miami Beach and our local waste haulers: Choice Recycling, General Hauling, Waste Management and WSI. With ECOMB in the “hood”, it’s now easy to be part of the green movement. All you have to do is call ECOMB’s office or stop by to visit us. WHY: Because the average American throws out seven and a half pounds of trash each day! And it all end up at the landfills, where it just sits, compacted, buried, taking up space ... forever. Recycling is important because it helps keep our resources plentiful, not only for us but for our future generations: our children,
grandchildren, and so on ... WHERE: Miami Beach Center for the Environment 210 Second Street and Collins Court (alley between Washington & Collins Ave.) Miami Beach, Fl 33139 TIME: • GENERAL RECYCLABLES = SINGLE STREAM (glass, plastic, metal, paper, etc): 24 HOURS A DAY BATTERIES, • ELECTRONICS, CFLs: from 10 am to 5 pm, but call first to make arrangements. ABOUT ECOMB: ECOMB, a 501 (c) (3) founded in 1994, is dedicated to the promotion of environmental sustainability and the preservation of our community’s ecology. ECOMB’s Executive Director Luiz Rodrigues · Phone: 305-534-3825 · luiz@ecomb.org ECOMB’s Board of Trustees President Jeffrey Forster · jeff@ecomb.org Educating People. Engaging our Community. Effecting Environmental Change.
Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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High School students come out on top at the Miami Beach Chamber’s City National Bank Real Money Business Boot Camp In partnership with communities in schools On Friday, December 16, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce and City National Bank hosted a Real Money Business Bootcamp at Jungle Island in partnership with Communities in Schools. The event brought together 70 students from Miami Beach Senior High and Miami Northwestern to help future leaders understand the importance of saving and smart spending. With the help of station sponsors, students traveled around to different areas to participate in a real-life simulation and learned to their own financial decisions. Students learned to make choices towards a career path as they leave for college as well as the financial implications of paying for their education, housing, transportation, entertainment, fitness, and insurance, and the skills to manage their credit and banking accounts.
“We are delighted to partner with the Miami Beach Chamber for this important educational event,” City National President and CEO Jorge Gonzalez said. “Community is vital to us, and we take immense pride in helping to educate future community leaders on the responsibilities and management of their financial futures.” The Bootcamp began with fitness guru, Michael Moore, from Hiperfit, and 18 Best Buy volunteers escorting the students off the bus at 8:30 a.m. After a welcome and special treat from Jungle Island, students entered into the Real Money Business Bootcamp in the Garden Out Post section of the jungle. The students each started with a set amount of income and spent 1015 minutes at each station making sure to end up with a balanced budget. The differFinance and Accounting Station sponsored by City National Bank
ent stations included the Florida International University Career Station, The Continental Group Realty Housing Station, Warren Henry Auto Station, Best Buy Entertainment Station, Florida International University College Skills Station, Hiperfit Fitness Station, City National Bank Account Station, State Farm Insurance Section, and City National Bank Credit Station. Based on their appreciation for education and their eagerness to excel, the students were given “bonus money” to spend throughout the day. The experience and education provided by the station volunteers helped each student come out ahead of the game. Throughout the next month, the student will be asked to complete a one-page essay about their experience. The top three winners will be chosen to receive scholarship
money, which will be provided thanks to sponsor donations. “The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce is proud to participate in this educational initiative,” Jason Loeb, Chairman of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, said. “We believe that by supporting these initiatives, we are contributing in the development of our business community and our city.” The leadership of the Chamber through its 501(c)3 Miami Beach Education Foundation along with City National Bank look forward to working with the community in the future, hosting this event biannually. This is a program that brings together the strengths and resources of the community to support the needs of public education in Miami Beach, which is the mission of the Chamber’s foundation.
Miami Beach Senior High and Miami Northwestern Senior High Students at Jungle Island
PHOTOS BY CHANTAL GLOOR
The City National Bank team The Best Buy station with High School Students
Jungle Island Host of Real Money Business Boot Camp
See more photos next page
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
Miami Beach Chamber hosts Real Money Business Boot Camp
The Continental Group, Inc. housing station
The Warren Henry Auto Team
Balancing Budgets High School Student Project- a team Balancing Budgets- students working on their projects member works closely with a student
City National Bank credit station
State Farm- Insurance Station at Real Money Business Boot Camp
Best Buy- Entertainment Station at Real Money Business Boot Camp
FIU Skills Station
Jungle Island Bird Show
FIU Career Station Students opening ceremony
Miami North Western Senior High Students Hiperfit
Miami Beach Senior High Students
PHOTOS BY CHANTAL GLOOR
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Make New Year’s Resolutions You’ll Keep BY CHARLOTTE LIBOV The topic of New Year’s resolutions is such a loaded one. We’ve all welcomed the New Year filled with good intentions only to see them crumble before the first few weeks were out. If you’re like me, you find this frustrating, so I decided to find some psychological ammunition to apply to the topic, and, in doing so, I turned to E.J. Masicampo, who is a Wake Forest University psychology professor. Recently, Mascampo, who has a doctorate in social psychology, published a study on the topic in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, so I asked him for some tips. Make a Plan The key for sticking to New Year’s Resolutions is to make a plan. “Once a plan is made, we can stop thinking about that one goal. This frees our minds to focus on other tasks,” he notes. A successful plan encompasses the following, he says: • The plan specifies exactly what you are going to do and in what situation (where and when) • Is under your control and not dependent on someone else’s actions • Includes specific opportunities to meet the goal in situations likely to occur • Focuse on what you are motivated to accomplish Most importantly, he says, “You have to picture yourself carrying out your plan. That’s where the power of the plan lies, in imagining yourself to completing the task.” In doing so, he says, you will give your mind a head start in turning your intention into a habit. “It’s all about making a habit out of a goal. A plan is like creating a habit ahead of time, before you have actually done anything.” For example, if you plan to go to a specific restaurant, imagine yourself ordering a salad instead of a cheeseburger and onion plans. “The plan gives you a cue to act. If you commit to the plan, all you have to do is wait for the cue. When the situation arises, you just do it because you already know what to do,” Masicampo says. (Of course, this had better be a hefty salad to compete with our Miami Beach cheeseburgers, but I digress!) TIPS FROM EQUINOX’S PHILIP GRAY Of course, I also wanted to ask my personal health guru, Philip Gray, the group fitness manager at Equinox South Beach. Last year, my New Year’s Resolution was to join Equinox, and I’m very proud to say that doing so helped me finally I regain my waistline, which I credit to Gray’s Group Power class. (Hello, waistline!) In addition to being an award-winning athlete, Gray also designs women’s active wear, so he’d better look good! Right before I met him, he’d taken off 30 pounds, so he knows that losing eight is not easy. Therefore, I was eager to hear what he had to say
E. J. Masicampo, Ph.D., Wake Forest University –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– on the subject of New Year’s resolutions. “ When it comes to sticking to New Year’s resolutions, the most important thing is to set realistic goals. Follow your instincts, not what you read in magazines,” he says. But, he added, New Year’s is a great time to rework your fitness plan and build in some challenges. “If you are accustomed to working out twice a week, make a pledge to work out three times a week. If you usually are on the treadmill for a half-hour, make it 45 minutes. Add some additional weights to your training routine; that sort of thing,” he said. As for losing weight –and keeping it off – Gray stoked up on fruits and vegetables, then halve the portions of the other foods. “Eat as much fruits and vegetables as you want, but, for the rest, portion control is the key. He’s also a fan of whole foods, not supplements and his advice is born out in studies, which consistently find that the health benefits of, say, an apple, cannot be duplicated in supplement form. In addition, I can’t help but pass along his advice to my other Chamber friends, who I often see at networkers, where imbibing cocktails are half the fun. “Cocktails are filled with calories,” he notes. Gray’s choice, and mine now too, is a Greyhound, which is blend of grapefruit juice and vodka. By the way, I will be starting off the New Year by spreading my message to the Coconut Grove Women’s Club on Thursday Jan. 5 from noon to 2 p.m. So I hope that any Miami Beach News readers who are also women’s club members will come and hear my talk, and please also tell your friends. I also welcome the opportunity to bring my lifesaving message to your group of organization, so feel free to contact me at char@libov.com. And here’s to a happy, healthy New Year!
Chamber member Charlotte Libov is a journalist, professional speaker and the author five health books, including “The Women’s Heart Book,” which was made into a PBS special. She works out at Equinox South Beach. For more information, call 305-673-1172 or visit www.equinox.com.
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Women Meet Constance Collins over Breakfast
BY ANA CECILIA VELASCO
Constance Collins founder and President of The Sundari Foundation, Inc. will be interviewed by leaders of the Women’s Business Council (WBC) of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, January 24th in a very unique format called “Breakfast with a View” at the elegant La Gorce Country Club on Miami Beach. This event is a long running series by the WBC based on the popular show “The View” and is designed to bring notable women in the community into an intimate forum to get the ‘inside’ track on what has been their journey. Three dynamic women will serve as interviewers, Ellen Brazer an award winning author of Jewish historical fiction: “Clouds Across the Sun” and “Hearts of Fire” and a partner in Brazer Construction Group, DeAnne Connolly Graham the Director of Sales and Marketing for Welcome and Bienvenidos Visitor Magazines, and Rona Rose-Witek Director of New Business Development for Tropic Survival Advertising and Marketing. The WBC overwhelmingly requested Constance as a speaker due to her tireless efforts to support the women of this community and give them the tools to succeed with their talents and skill development while assisting with badly needed resources. Contrary to many Community Based Organization directors whose background generally is centered on Social Work, Constance has been a successful business woman with a background in finance, real estate and law. As a chief operating and financial officer, general counsel, and cofounder of a full service real estate investment advisory firm, Urban Investments Advisors, LLC (and its predecessor Starwood Urban Investments) and real estate holding company, Starwood Urban, LLC, and its subsidiaries, she was responsible for the management and operation of a national commercial real estate
investment portfolio, overseeing growth and value-added strategies, development, financing, accounting, and reporting for portfolio revenues, until the successful disposition of those investments in 2005. By applying those business principles to a critical area of need by creating a women’s shelter, she has managed to develop a holistic approach and created a sanctuary while empowering women and providing a safe haven for their children with the added gain of preparing them for the working world. The Sundari Foundation established the Lotus House Women’s Shelter in 2006 to provide shelter, sanctuary and support to women who are homeless, whether due to domestic violence, untreated medical or mental health issues, disabilities, loss of employment or other economic reasons. They provide free housing to over 110 women and children daily for up to a year, with three meals a day, and wrap around support services, such as counseling, computer classes, job training and placement, access to medical and mental health services, educational workshops, tutoring, and legal referrals, as a well as a host of enrichment activities such as creative writing, dance, music, art classes, and so much more. Lotus House received the Neighborhood Builder Award of the 2011 Neighborhood Excellence Initiative of Bank of America and the Leave a Legacy 2010 Donor Next Door award presented by the Health Foundation of South Florida, and was recognized as “Best of Miami Shelter” by New Times, 2010.
Constance Collins follows the first speaker of this year’s series Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. This event is open to the public with a cost of $25 for Miami Beach Chamber members and $30 for non-members. To reserve space, please contact the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce at 305.674.1300 or via web at www.miamibeachchamber.com on the event calendar.
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Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
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‘What’s the Plan?’
BY JEFF LEHMAN
Vice Chair, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA) The value of strategic planning can’t be understated. In the business world, in civic growth and quality of life issues, really even sometimes in relationships, it is so important to remember the end-goal. Here in Miami Beach, we have experienced some remarkable growth over the past several years. Some aspects have been tremendous (think Art Basel, Lincoln Road, South Beach Wine and Food); others not as much (Urban Beach Week, the City Building Department, North Beach Commercial Development). Where is the difference between the über-successful and the mediocre? Some of the answer lies in successful planning. Never an easy thing to do in our small city because of varying priorities, it is crucial for good leaders to operate with transparency and involvement of stakeholders. At the end of the day, though, a strong leadership with a vision for what is best for the City is required to get anything done. In the past 10 to 20 years, Miami Beach was coming from such a sad state that many changes were welcome if they only solved the immediate problem; in addition, the competition for all positive events was not as strong, nor the need to manage growth as apparent. That last item – managing growth, has led many to unilaterally fight any and all growth ideas for the Beach. This is short sighted. Growth happens, change is coming, whether we like it or not. I think back to a recent example – the opportunity for Cirque du Soleil to revitalize the Jackie Gleason Theatre – which would have had a tremendous positive impact on both the Theatre and the Arts and Culture programs
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Pet Tips Brought to You by Pet Supermarket
Holiday Dangers for Your Dog The holiday season is a time for visiting family, enjoying special meals and giving gifts to human and canine friends. But holiday food and décor can also pose extra dangers for your dog. Avoid a trip to the veterinarian by following these tips. Holiday dangers: • Holiday food can be harmful to dogs. Don't overindulge Fido with turkey skin, ham fat or other fatty foods, which could lead to stomach upset and pancreatitis.Turkey bones can puncture intestines and should be avoided as well. • Reduce temptation for your dog. Avoid leaving food on an unsupervised table and keep a secure lid on the garbage can full of scraps. • Some holiday plants cause toxicity or upset stomachs. Keep Poinsettias, holly, mistletoe and hibiscus out of reach • Got a box of chocolates? Keep them away from your dog. Dark chocolate is especially harmful. • Sugarless candy with Xylitol is also very toxic for
dogs and can cause liver failure. • Don't leave gifts that might include candy under the tree or on a bed. • Never give your dog beverages with alcohol, which could cause respiratory and cardiac distress. • Keep lit menorahs and holiday candles out of reach. • Water in a Christmas tree stand can have harmful preservatives, pine needles and bacteria. • Holiday decorations, including ornaments, tinsel, garland, lights and other small items can pose choking or electrical hazards. A houseful of visitors, loud noises and extra food can all cause a stressful situation for your doggie. Give him quiet space if he needs it and follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable holiday. Just don't forget to tell grandpa to ignore the begging doggy eyes under the table. This holiday give your dog healthy treats and interactive toys from Pet Supermarket.
Keeping Your Cat off the Christmas Tree
in Miami Beach – as an example of how a “no-growth” mantra can end up with less than stellar results. We are now looking at several aspects of our fine City that are in a state of change, one way or another. The Convention Center has been a stalled project for 10 years, North Beach has not met its potential, and it is still a Draconian process to pull a permit to put up a fence or paint a building in Miami Beach. The leading question to me is still: What’s the Plan? If there is a Master Plan for the next decade of Miami Beach, I haven’t seen it. If there are several, from the City government to the GMCVB to the Chamber of Commerce to the Hotel Association, they should be merged and defined. Such a plan allows us to measure the new ideas, new people, and new opportunities that flood us on a regular basis against some sort of criteria. As we ask ourselves (and others ask us) about the value of certain things to our community, we need to ask ourselves, “What’s the Plan?”
It can be quite a challenge to keep a Christmas tree upright when you have a cat swatting at ornaments or jumping on branches. But it's possible to keep your tree free of "clinging cat" ornaments. Use these tips for a cat-friendly holiday tree. • First, get a cat repellent spray like Keep Off. Using it around the tree will keep your cat from getting too close. Make sure the spray is for indoor use. • Consider getting an artificial tree. Real Christmas trees can bring hazards into your home, including toxic sap, sharp pine needles and harmful preservatives in the tree water. • If you get a real tree, put it up and leave undecorated for a couple of days. This will give kitty a chance to get used to the tree and accept it. • Secure the tree so it doesn't tip over. Anchor the top to the ceiling with fishing line.
• Lighting and other string-like objects are attractive to cats. Consider leaving them off. Otherwise, use sparingly and twist the cords around branches tightly. • Garland, tinsel or icicles can cause choking and intestinal blockage if swallowed by a kitty. • Artificial snow is toxic to your cat. • Avoid hanging breakable ornaments on lower branches. Plastic ornaments or homemade decorations are safer there. • Careful with ribbons on gifts placed under the tree. They're attractive to your kitty and can be harmful if ingested. To distract your cat from the tempting tree, give her an early Christmas gift. A new catnip toy, interactive toy or scratching post is sure to keep her busy. Look for all the cat distractions you'll need at your nearest Pet Supermarket.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce – January 2012 Calendar WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11, 20121 GALLA (Gay & Lesbian Lawyer’s Assn.) Luncheon – Downtown – January 11, 2012 MDGLCC/GALLA presents its monthly networking program tailored for attorneys, judges and legal professionals held on the middle Wednesday of each month. Guest speaker: TBD. Truluck’s Restaurant at 777 Brickell Avenue, 305-579-0035. Parking on adjacent structure. Registration 11:30am with luncheon/networking from noon to 1:00 pm. Cost: MDGLCC members ($35), Potential Members ($50, $10 applied to new MDGLCC membership). Includes seated style lunch limited to 30 persons. RSVP requested: 305-673-4440 or mdglcc@bellsouth.net. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2012 Sandpipers Networking Event- Beach Location - January 11, 2012 - MDGLCC presents its monthly networking program held on the middle Wednesday of each month. This month’s location is Escopazzo Restaurant, 1311 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-532-8770. 5:00pm cocktail networking event and business card exchange with drawing for prizes. Cash bar and free hors d’oeuvres - limited to 50 persons. Free admission. Please bring a friend. RSVP requested: 305-673-4440 or mdglcc@bellsouth.net SATURDAY, JANUARY 14, 2012 “Taste of Miami” Fundraiser – Miami Beach Convention Center – January 14, 2012 – 7 – 10 pm - Showcasing the mouthwatering morsels and luscious libations of MDGLCC member food and beverage establishments, “Taste of Miami” will be presented as a stand alone event this year with proceeds benefitting the MDGLCC Foundation’s Scholarship Program and the
LGBT Visitor Center. Individual tickets are $75 in advance at $100 at the door. Host Committee tickets are $450 and include six individual tickets, plus recognition in the event program. Sponsorships are available from $500 to $5,000.
For tickets or sponsorship information, contact Cindy Brown, executive director of the LGBT Visitor Center, at 305-397-8914 or cindy@gogaymiami.com.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012 Business Builders Luncheon – Downtown – January 26, 2012 - MDGLCC presents its monthly networking program held on the last Thursday of each month. City Hall The Restaurant, 2004 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-764-3130. Registration 11:30am with luncheon/networking from noon to 1:00 pm. Cost: MDGLCC members ($30), Potential Members ($40, $10 applied to new MDGLCC membership). Includes seated style lunch limited to 25 persons. Please bring a friend. RSVP requested: 305-6734440 or mdglcc@bellsouth.net. SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 2012 Gay & Lesbian Walking Tours of South Beach – South Beach – January 28, 2012. The MDGLCC, Greater Miami Convention Visitor Bureau, and the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL), present a ninety-minute guided Gay & Lesbian Walking Tour of South Florida. Tour start at 5:00pm and depart from the MDPL Art Deco Welcome Center at Ocean Dr. and 10th St. Miami Beach. Reservations are not required. Tickets are $20, and can be purchased at MDPL’s Art Deco Welcome Center at Ocean Dr. and 10th St. FREE to MDPL and MDGLCC members. RSVP to 305-673-4440 or mdglcc@bellsouth.net.
Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
BY MARTIN MENDIOLA
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
‘Tis the Season for Pork
Mendiola@USGourmet.US As the holiday season approaches and we start hearing Christmas carols and jingles, pork becomes a major topic of discussion among my family and friends. All of us are expected to know exactly where to get the freshest and tastiest pigs as we prepare to improve our favorite cooking method and marinating concoction. This seems to be a yearly mental exercise, for most of us neither buy nor cook them. Once we start getting in the groove for the holidays, the invitation to Emilio and Liliana Calleja’s Christmas party seals the fact that the season is here. We know that we will have the opportunity to get together with old friends, make new ones and taste one of the best “lechon asados” of the year.
Emilio and his Caja China (a stainless steel lined box where you burn the charcoal on top, is used to roast pork and made famous by Bobby Flay on the Food Channel), have established a reputation for roasting a tasty pig. Many of us will use it as the standard to measure others for the rest of the upcoming year. The word “lechon”, which is extensively used throughout Spanish speaking countries in reference to roasted pork, originated from the Spanish term leche (milk) referring to a suckling pig. The term pork generally means a young pig under a year old; most pigs slaughtered around the world, are now between 6 and 9 months old. While small suckling pigs have placed towns like Segovia, Spain and Mealhada, Portugal (where they are respectively called “cochinillo” and “leitão assado”) on the map, in most Latin American countries, medium-sized adult pigs are used for roasting. In a town like Guavate, Puerto Rico, “lechon asado” is the only reason for its existence and medium to large size pigs are used. The difference in flavors is partly due to their size and weight, but it is easy to conclude that they are both delicious. No one country or culture has an exclusive on pigs. It is one of the most consumed meats in the world with evidence that they were domesticated as early as 5000 BC. There is a lot of truth to the old saying that everything but
the pigs squeal can be used. Pigs are bred primarily for their meat, while trimmings and lesser cuts are used for sausages. Their skins can and have been used for leather in making shields and shoes, bones for tools and weapons, hair for furniture and bristles for brushes. In today’s market place, most pork products are cured and sold in the form of ham and bacon. No restaurant can boast to appreciate the versatility of pigs more than St. John Restaurant in London, England which was once ranked # 14 in the world. Chef/owner Fegus Henderson whom Anthony Bourdain has in so many words called the most revolutionary food innovator of our time, has found the “true glories of pork” in the many dishes and menu items found at his restaurant. Many of the recipes from the restaurant are found in Chef Henderson’s book called “Nose to Tail Eating – A Kind of British Cooking: St. John Cookbook” where he literally shows us how
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to cook almost every part of a pig. Since I could not find a recipe for the nose in the book, we are going to refer to it as from ears (Pea and Pig’s Ear Soup) to tail (Crispy Pig Tail). Though available year-round, for some reason, fresh pork is more plentiful and at lower prices from October to February. Maybe they know… this is the season for pork. Have a Happy and Healthy New Year.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
Miami Marine Stadium to be reborn hundreds of boats-would surround the stage to create one of the most unique entertaintment environments to be found anywhere. Performers at the Marine Stadium included The Who, Ray Charles, Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops, Jimmy Buffett, and many more. The Stadium was shuttered after Hurricane Andrew in 1992 (it was never damaged) and has set vacant ever since.
1975 Champion Spark Plug Regatta –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Once destined for the wrecking ball, the legendary Miami Marine Stadium is now on a path to restoration. Visitors and residents alike may have access to what may be the greatest outdoor entertainment venue in tn the United States. Friends of Miami Marine Stadium (www.marinestadium.org), a not for profit organization will be presenting shortly to the City of Miami a plan to restore the Stadium.
THE PAST The Miami Marine Stadiumis a 6,500 seat grandstand, was built in 1963 and located on Virginia Key. It is an iconic Landmark which sits is part of the Marine Stadium Basin which was designed for boat racing and dredged out at when the Stadium was built. The stadium was designed by architect Hilario Candela, a young, 28 year old, Cuban architect, educated at Georgia Tech. The initial cost of the Stadium and Basin, was $2 million. When it was built, the origami like folded plate roof was the largest span of cantilevered concrete in the world. During its years of operation (1963-1992), the Stadium hosted many events such as powerboat races, symphony and rock con-
certs, Easter services, presidential appearances, talk shows and countless numbers of community events. Performers would play on a floating stage anchored just a few feet from the Marine Stadium. Dozens—sometimes
THE PRESENT In 2008, The Friends of Miami Marine Stadium was organized to actively promote retention and restoration of this remarkable building. Since that time, much progress has been made. In October of 2008, the Miami Marine Stadium was designated historic by the City’s Historic Preservation Board. The City’s Master Plan for Virginia Key, approved in July of 2010 makes the Marine Stadium one of the key components of the
plan. The Stadium is also a key priority for Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado. Meanwhile, the Stadium has generated significant national interest. The Marine Stadium was named to the National Trust For Historic Preservation’s “11 Most Endangered List” (2009) and the World Monuments Fund Watch List (2010). Jimmy Buffett cut a video endorsement and the Miami Herald has written six editorials in support of restoration.
THE FUTURE Given the challenging economic situation for government, Friends of Miami Marine Stadium is committed to restore and operate the Stadium without any funding from the City of Miami. The estimated $30 million restora-
Marine Stadium rendering ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Marine Stadium, present day
tion cost will be funded through the sale of Historic Tax credits, $3 million from a Historic Preservation Bond fund of Miami Dade County, and a capital campaign. Plans are now being prepared to present to the City of Miami. The Miami Marine Stadium will be a tremendous asset to Miami-a wonderful amenity for residents and an economic generator capable of hosting one of a kind events and spectacles. To learn more and join the email list, go to the website www.marinestadium.org
Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 11, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Mercedes-Benz CLS Coupe redesigned for 2012 Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR
LET’S TALK CARS The Mercedes CLS coupe is my favorite in the German manufacturer’s lengthy lineup of luxury vehicles; it’s just a special automobile, even if I continue to disagree with their classification of a four-door automobile as a coupe. But, the 2012 CLS represents the first major redesign of this beautiful car since it came on the market in 2004, and Mercedes literature claims that it “established an entirely new market segment — the four-door coupe, which combines the emotional appeal and dynamic design of a coupe with the comfort and functionality of a sedan.” I guess I’ll have to accept that, even though just about any dictionary defines a coupe as a two-door vehicle. For 2012, the CLS line consists of three models — all powered by new biturbo directinjection V-8 engines and, for the first time, offer 4MATIC all-wheel-drive. Pricing starts at $71,300 for the CLS550, $73,800 for the CLS550 4MATIC and $94,900 for the high
performance CLS63 AMG. Add another $875 for delivery charges. The distinctive body lines of the CLS have been accentuated by its new design. Overall, the new CLS is about 1.2 inches longer and wider, and it fits right between the S-Classbased CL and the E-Class two-door, forming a family of Mercedes “coupes” that makes efficient use of existing chassis and powertrain layouts, while preserving their individual identities. With its new 4.6-liter direct-injection twinturbo V-8, the new CLS550 gets 26 percent better fuel mileage (17/26 mpg), while still producing 402 hp and 443 pounds-feet of torque. The CLS550 is equipped with new electrically assisted power steering, AIRMATIC air suspension and a revised sevenspeed automatic transmission. The 5.5-liter version of the new directinjection V-8 engine in the 2012 CLS63 AMG is rated at 518 hp and 516 pounds-feet of torque. An optional AMG Performance Package hikes the output to 550 hp and 590 pounds-feet of torque. Even with its highperformance, the CLS63 AMG is 26 percent more fuel efficient (16/hwy), thanks in part to an innovative ECO stop-start system. Whenever the AMG model stops in “D” or “N” with the brake pedal depressed in “Controlled Efficiency” transmission mode, the engine is automatically turned off to save
2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Coupe is about 1.2 inches longer and wider, and new design accentuates distinctive body lines. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
fuel. As soon as the driver releases the brake, the engine computer decides which piston is in the best position for first ignition, and the direct fuel injection and multi-spark systems work with a starter motor to re-start the engine almost instantly. The CLS63 AMG features a seven-speed MCT (multi-clutch technology) sport transmission with an innovative startup clutch that replaces the conventional torque converter.
Providing the direct feedback of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic, the MCT transmission offers impressive versatility and faster shift times.
Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.
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