Miami Beach News 4.6.2011 by Community Newspapers

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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– S u p p o r 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

APRIL 6 - 19, 2011

––––––––––– www.communitynewspapers.com ––––––––––––

Commissioners Libbin and Gongora to be Honored by ECOMB

nvironmental Coalition of Miami & the Beaches (ECOMB) one of Miami-Dade County’s leading non-profits promoting sustainability is pleased to announce that Commissioners Jerry Libbin and Michael Gongora have been selected by their Board of Trustees to receive ECOMB’s 2011 Emerald City Awards. The Award will be given at the GreenRaiser , ECOMB’s annual fundraiser, at the Sagamore Hotel on Thursday, April 21, 2011. A VIP reception, with organic cocktails, green drinks and live Brazilian music by Rose Max & Ramatis, will take place from 6:30 to 8 pm, and the main event from 8 to 10 pm. The Award ceremony will take place at 9 pm. The GreenRaiser will bring a variety of people, products, and practices of susCommissioner tainability to life in Jerry Libbin an exciting evening of music, art, ecofashion, green drinks and more. This event aims to create awareness for Miami and Miami Beach’s environmental issues, as well as serve as the organization’s main Commissioner fundraiser to enable Michael Gongora initiatives to protect –––––––––––––––––––––– See

ECOMB, page 4

MAYOR’S CORNER BY MAYOR MATTI HERRERA BOWER Two of my priorities this year are pension reform and the renovation of the Miami Beach Convention Center. Earlier this year, I asked the city’s Budget Advisory Committee, a group of residents appointed by the Mayor and Commission, to help us tackle the important job of wading through the many options available to the city. Pension reform is a complex issue. We must ensure that our pension systems are both fair to employees and sustainable for the taxpayers in the long term. Any changes we make also have to be negotiated with the unions. The BAC is already familiar with our budget process and existing pension issues. I’ve asked them to take their time and look at the options from every angle, with the help of city staff and any experts they need. After completing a thorough and public process for the rest of the year, the committee will develop recommendations for the Commission to consider as we head into union negotiations in late 2012. We are also slowly moving forward on the Miami Beach Convention Center. We

went through a master planning process with a steering committee of community stakeholders. That plan was presented to the Commission and the public in various meetings and will continue to evolve as we develop a final vision for the project, including its size, configuration and cost. The priority now is to find the funding to make this regionally important project happen. This center is vital to our economic future. With new construction and renovation, this project is estimated to generate more than 12,000 new jobs and $1.6 billion in economic activity. Once the project is completed, we estimate 4000 new jobs ongoing and a $350 million economic output, nearly double that of the last fiscal year. This means more tax revenue for services as well as new business for our economy. If we don’t do something, our aging facility will continue to lose ground to larger, more modern facilities in other states. This expansion will require a combination of funding sources, including increasing the Convention Development Tax, money from Miami-Dade County, and possibly even public-private partnerships. The city supports raising CDT by one percent, but only if it is used for the public purpose of expanding and maintaining the Miami Beach Convention Center. We oppose siphoning off any of that money for private interests, such as sports stadiums.

Phone: 305-669-7355

Letter from the Chair BY JASON LOEB Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber

A lot of people ask me how I’m able to maintain my endless enthusiasm for business. Well, I’ll tell you my secret?.... I sweat the small stuff. No, I don’t panic when problems crop up or become enraged when things don’t go as planned. I focus on the minor details that can make or break a company. The big picture is good, but it’s the brushstrokes that build the overall image. Similarly, adherence to our business strategy lies in ensuring the supporting tactics are in place. Look at your company from every angle - is every procedure, employee and product in line with your strategy? Believe me, one rouge component can break down the entire process. An overly tedious procedure, surly employee or inferior piece of equipment can also hinder the ability of other departments to perform. As a result, what was once a seemingly minor glitch has escalated into a real hinderance, affecting your product, service, or worse, the relationship with your customer. SOME DETAILS TO CONSIDER: Yo u r Te a m : Hire people who share your passion. Once you have your dream team, pay attention to them. Are they getting the tool they need to succeed? What opportunities can you provide your superstars that supports both their and your company’s growth? P r o d u c t s : Don’t be afraid to invest! How can you create an excellent product or service from sub-par equipment? The long-term benefits far exceed the short-term savings. –––––––––––––––––––––––– See

LETTER, page 4

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April 7 - 20, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT Bob Balsam, General Manager of the Miami Beach Convention Center Upon my arrival to the beautiful City of Miami Beach in late 2008, I was named General Manager of the Miami Beach Convention Center by Global Spectrum, proud management company of this spectacular venue. As I transitioned from my previous position with Global Spectrum as Assistant General Manager at the Duke Energy Convention Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, I quickly realized what a tremendous opportunity we had in this world-class destination. Locally, I am extremely fortunate to be a board member for the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, and The Education Fund. These positions allow me the opportunity to work hand in hand with the leaders of Miami Dade County and enhance our local community. Giving back locally, regionally, and nationally is one of my biggest passions, as it is for Global Spectrum, and most recently our team has focused on participating in initiatives such as “Adopt-a-Beach” through ECOMB and the City of Miami Beach, organized internal efforts to donate funds and items to the Miami Beach Fire and Rescue Department, Red Cross and The Education Fund and in April will be participating in Comcast Cares Day and Earth Day 2011. With all that said, the best thing about being in the City of Miami Beach and biggest part of our success here at the MBCC is the professional and personable team we get to work with everyday. The partnerships we have developed with the City of Miami Beach, Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority, Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association, Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, and our Convention Center Advisory Board have propelled the Miami Beach Convention Center to new heights. Their dedication to every event and passion for ensuring each attendee has the best possible experience makes them the heart and soul of everything we do here at the MBCC. As 2011 moves forward Global Spectrum’s focus at the Miami Beach

BOB BALSAM

Convention Center is to bring in new short term business by establishing great incentives for local and regional businesses who host meetings throughout this year at the MBCC. Please take a moment to visit the websites below, learn about the new initiatives, and check out all of our upcoming events at the Miami Beach Convention Center. English Website: www.MiamiBeachConvention.com Spanish Website: es.MiamiBeachConvention.com Global Spectrum: www.Global-Spectrum.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheMiamiBeachCC Facebook: http://on.fb.me/hzETn9 LinkedIN: http://linkd.in/iaU8mf

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MAGIC CITY CASINO CURRENTLY TAKING ENTRIES FOR $100,000 MAGICAL DREAM WEDDING Limited Window of Opportunity for the Wedding of a Lifetime; Entries due April 16 Magic City Casino, Miami’s first casino to offer Las Vegas style slot machines, will collect entries for its $100,000 Magical first-ever Wedding Giveaway until April 16. The winning couple will be determined during the Finals on May 7, and the Magical Wedding is set for November 6. The Grand Prize will consist of a Magical Wedding planned/designed by a Magic City representative, with a budget valued at approximately $100,000. Magic City Casino will sponsor the ceremony, reception and honeymoon for the winning couple. The wedding will include a special performance by Grammy Award winner Jon Secada. “We encourage Miami’s engaged couples to enter the competition to have the wedding of a lifetime,” said Scott Savin, Chief Operating Officer of Magic City Casino. “Most couples do not have the opportunity to have a $100,000 dream wedding, but by entering this competition, the opportunity will become a reality for one lucky couple.” Interested couples must complete an Entry Form no later than April 16, available on the Magic City Casino website (www.magiccitycasino.com) or onsite at the Magic City Casino Players Club desk. Entries must include responses of 100 words or less on the following topics: (a) The couple’s love story and (b) Why the couple hopes to hold their $100,000 Magical Wedding at Magic City Casino.

The application must also include a color photo of the couple. Initial entries will be judged on the following criteria: (a) Originality and creativity used in writing about their love story and why the couple hopes to hold their magical wedding at Magic City Casino, (b) Technical aspects related to how the application was filled out and how well directions were followed and (c) How well the photo reflects the entrant’s response.

Miami Beach News

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ECOMB,

April 7 - 20, 2011

from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

and preserve the local community’s ecosystem and appearance. The Emerald City Award, instituted in 2009 by ECOMB’s Board of Trustees, honors our community’s key “green” environmental leaders, friends and visionaries as well as top contributors and promoters of sustainability. Libbin will be recognized for his tireless and on-going efforts to protect and preserve one of Miami Beach’s most precious environmental and economical resources: our beaches. According to Luiz Rodriguez ECOMB Executive Director, Libbin has taken this issue very close to his heart and spearheaded a variety of initiatives and awareness campaigns to keep our beaches free of litter, such as: seeking stricter enforcement of the City of Miami Beach’s existing littering laws; launching the “Keep Our Beaches Clean! Poster Contest”; organizing the “No Litter No Butts Campaign”; coordinating a variety of beach cleanup projects and, most recently, the launch of the “Adopt a Beach” program. But he has not stopped there: he has also been an essential supporter of other local green initiatives, such as recommending and voting for a complete energy audit of our City’s major buildings, thus reducing our community’s carbon footprint and saving the City of Miami Beach millions of dollars. Libbin has demonstrated creative and productive leadership in his efforts to conserve Miami Beach’s ecosystems. Gongora is being recognized for his vision of a greener and more sustainable Miami Beach by spearheading the creation of the City of Miami Beach’s

LETTER,

Sustainability Committee in 2007. At a time when the word “sustainability” was used almost exclusively by activists in “green” circles, Gongora took the time to learn about existing environmental initiatives and get involved with many ECOMB programs and projects. Gongora took his commitment to sustainability a step further by proposing to the City Commission that the time had come for our City to move towards a greener future. By working very closely with the Commission and various City departments, Gongora, as chair of the Sustainability Committee, discussed, proposed and assisted in the implementation of numerous projects that have placed Miami Beach on the sustainability map. Since its inception, the Committee has recommended the development of the City of Miami Beach Sustainability Master Plan, implemented a single-stream recycling program, established the bicycle sharing project, created a green building ordinance, and many others. Past recipients include former Mayor of Miami Manny Diaz, former City of Miami Beach Commissioner Saul Gross, City of Miami Beach Community Resource and Outreach Team Manager Lynn Bernstein, as well as members of the staff of the City of Miami Beach Public Works Department. ECOMB invites all interested members of the community to join them at the Annual GreenRaiser on April 21, 2011 at the Sagamore Hotel, 1671 Collins Avenue, 33139 Miami Beach. For more information please visit www.ecomb.org.

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Your challenge lies in using these excellent resources efficiently. Processes: Look at the operations of every department. More importantly, look at the communication amongst them - how are they interacting? Each department can do a superior job within their respective function, giving you a lot of great parts to work with. However, they’re no use to your customer if they’re not assembled into a desirable product. Promote: So now you have a great product, but how are you going to make money if no one knows about it? Whatever your

marketing plan, make sure it relays your strategy. The same goes for networking. Connect with the right people, ask the right questions and get involved. Here is where the Chamber comes in! Indeed, the details are tedious, but if you take the time to study and addresses them, it will be well worth it. Don’t believe me? The proof can be found in any of Monet’s great Impressionism works. Those tiny dots on their own are mere dabs of color, but given enough thought and attention, they meld together to form a beautiful, tangible vision.

April 7 - 20, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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April 7 - 20, 2011

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• CARVALHO’S CORNER • Spring 2011 BY ALBERTO M. CARVALHO Superintendent Miami-Dade County Public Schools

“Reality check: Governor’s budget would devastate Florida’s public schools” With the November elections decided, and a new Florida governor and Legislature in place, the time for predictions and promises has passed. Reality has set in, and it is stark. When it comes to public education funding, the reality is downright scary. After billions of dollars in funding cuts to Florida public education since 2007-2008 — $500 million from Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) alone — Florida Gov. Rick Scott now proposes another $3.3 billion cut to public schools statewide. That is 72 percent of his recommended cuts for the entire state budget —despite the Florida Constitution’s mandate to provide, as the state’s “paramount duty,” a “high quality” system of free public education allowing a “high quality” education for every student. The cost to M-DCPS should the Governor’s budget prevail is another $215 million.

FAULTY POLICIES, COSTLY CUTS The reduction would result primarily from three policy recommendations by the Governor: • No replacement funding for federal stimulus dollars running out in June. The impact: $115 million in cuts to M-DCPS; • A reduction of .428 mill in the Required Local Effort, or property taxes supporting public schools, equaling an $83 million hit to M-DCPS; and • Cutting 5 percent in funding to public employees’ retirement funding, thus shifting the cost to the employees and reducing state funding to M-DCPS by $71 million.

REMEDIES To challenge these recommendations, we at Miami-Dade County Public Schools advocate the following: • Federal stabilization stimulus monies should be replaced with state funds. Public education is the state’s “paramount duty” according to the Florida Constitution, and the state should fund it accordingly. The state utilized federal funds for a recurring cost; and • School property taxes (Required Local Effort) should not be reduced at this time.

While the state as well as school districts are experiencing revenue shortfalls, the property tax rates supporting public education should be held constant, hence bolstering M-DCPS’ coffers by $83 million in 2011- 2012. Our bottom line: the state must provide level funding for public schools which would mean replacing the federal stimulus dollars with state monies. Additionally, the state must eliminate penalties related to class-size reduction. While the Constitution mandates class-size limits, it is the Legislature that imposes penalties for non-compliance by school districts, not the Constitution. The state can and should suspend these penalties, especially in these times of fiscal crisis. The state must also address inequities in funding among school districts that have unfairly hurt M-DCPS, Miami-Dade taxpayers, and ultimately Miami-Dade students, and it should consider cuts to ancillary programs to free up funds for core programs.

HOW YOU CAN HELP Democracy needs an informed and active citizenry. So what can you do? Get informed. • Attend or watch school board town hall meetings; several will be scheduled over the next few months leading to tentative adoption of the 2011-2012 fiscal year budget. The first is set for February 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the School Board Auditorium and will be shown live on WLRN and streamed online at www.dadeschools.net. • Contact your legislators and let them know your views. They will assume you agree with their plans and actions unless told otherwise. • Support Miami-Dade County PTAs/ PTSAs and Florida PTA’s effort in the Rally to Tally scheduled for March 24 in Tallahassee, Florida. Buses of concerned advocates will be traveling from across the state to meet legislators. For more information contact Ms. Darla March, Miami-Dade County PTAs/PTSAs, Legislation Chair, at darla.march@bellsouth.net or 305-2788655. • Tell your friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors about the current financial outlook facing the school district and urge them to take action. The current reality may be dark, but it can brighten — only with your help.

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April 7 - 20, 2011

Pillar Reception at Louis Bar and Lounge Abe Barker, Sherry Roberts and Ana Cecilia Velasco, Coo

Above: Michael S. Goldberg, Pillar Chairman, Maxine Hanchard Foote, Peggy Benua and Mark Harrison

Left: Susan Golden, Bruce Townsend and Michelle Wolfe

Abram Finkelstein, Hope Gibbs and Michelle Guerrin

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Chris Holmes and Diana Luna

Michael S. Goldberg, Pillar Chairman and Jason Loeb, Chairman of the Board

Jerry Libbin, President and CEO with Dr. Michael Baum

Brigitte and Vanessa Menkes

Dee White, Louis and Diane Gonzalez

Glenn Costales, Joy V.W. Malakoff, and Juan Rovira

Dr. Todd Narson, Mirielle Enlow and Mike Kiely

Sandra Soven and Andrew Schottenstein

Sebastian Tribout, Sophie Kalifa, and Jack Conrad

April 7 - 20, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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April 7 - 20, 2011

City of Miami Beach â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Celebration of Time & Special Awards Ceremonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Commissioner Jerry Libbin with aide Enid Rodriguez, recipient of the Community Volunteer Award

Julio Blanco recipient of the Employee of the Year Award

Birthday Cake for the City of Miami Beach

Jorge Gonzalez receiving pin for 10 years as City Manager Mayor Matti Herrera Bower and Commissioner Ed Tobin

One Team, One City Awardees Julio Blanco, Employee of the Year Award recipient with Comm. Jerry Libbin 15 years of service to the City of Miami Beach

Customer Service Award Recipient Patricia Reeder

Individuals recognized for 5 years of dedication to the City of Miami Beach Individuals Individuals recognized recognized for 20 for 10 years years of service of dedicated service to the City of PHOTOS BY Miami CHANTAL GLOOR Beach

Individuals recognized for 30 years of dedication to the City of Miami Beach

April 7 - 20, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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April 7 - 20, 2011

MoĂŤt & Chandon president launches Ice Imperial Champagne on Miami Beach BY DAISY OLIVERA

www.thedaisycolumn.com Ooh-la-lah! The president and CEO of French Champagne house MoĂŤt & Chandon, Daniel Lalonde, flew to Miami Beach to host a very exclusive party to introduce their latest venture: MoĂŤt & Chandon Ice Imperial. This new and quite spectacular champagne was formulated specifically to drink over ice. Perfect for our year round heat, nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;est-ce pas? Yes, you put the ice inside your glass. Champagne? On ice? Before all of you die-hard champagne connoisseurs pass out from the horror, not to worry. MoĂŤt & Chandon winemaker Benoit Gouez, explained that he created stronger flavors for this champagne from a blend of pinot noir,, pinot meunier and chardonnay. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s slightly sweeter and fruitier than the clas-

sic MoĂŤt & Chandon Imperial and holds up to being diluted by ice. Pas de problem! Over 100 VIPs attended the invitationonly sunset cocktail party at a gorgeous contemporary home on Hibiscus Island. The all-white setting was the perfect backdrop for the gold and white Ice Imperial bottle and for the glamorous crowd at the party. The glamour quotient was also high with quite a mix of the super chic from other U.S. cities and Europe as well. Also there, Olivia de Longueil, Director of Events Worldwide for MoĂŤt & Chandon; Carol Bell from Brandlink Communications; Jeweler Jackie Abraham and wife Johanna; real estate broker Hello Campos; attorney Maria Beguiristain; the Baroness Sheri de Borchgrave; Malinka Max and George Wallner. I propose that MoĂŤt & Chandon Ice Imperial should be decreed the official bubbly for Miami Beach! For more society coverage go to www.thedaisycolumn.com

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April 7 - 20, 2011

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Are You Young at Heart? Mount Sinai Medical Center has long been a leader in South Florida’s treatment of heart disease. In fact, according to the Agency for Health Care Administration, Mount Sinai performs the highest volume of open heart valve surgeries in the entire state of Florida and provides the best survival rates in the state amongst surgeons who perform a high volume of complex cases. However, cardiovascular disease continues to be the number one cause of death for men and women in the United States. Because more than half the people who die suddenly from cardiovascular disease have no previous symptoms, it is important to determine one’s risk level of developing heart disease as well as which current health characteristics may be putting one at greater risk. Mount Sinai knows that prevention and early detection are essential in the fight against heart disease which is why a free online tool was developed and placed on the homepage of the hospital’s website (www.msmc.com) that will provide users with their 10 year risk of developing heart disease as well as their “heart age”. The Mount Sinai Heart Profiler is an interactive tool that helps people understand their risk of developing heart disease based on their personal risk factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, weight, age, family and medical history, physical activity, and smoking habits. Users will learn their 10-year risk of having a cardiovascular event, such as a

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heart attack, stroke, heart failure or peripheral artery disease. The profiler also will help users determine their “heart age,” which compares their risk of developing cardiovascular disease against someone without any risk factors. The fewer risk factors one has, the closer one’s heart age will be to his/her actual age. At the end of the test, user will be allowed to print out a detailed report of their results. The Mount Sinai Heart Profiler is an educational tool that provides information Mount Sinai hopes users will share with their doctors to help reduce their risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event. To take the Mount Sinai Heart Profiler test, visit the homepage of www.msmc.com and click “Are You Young at Heart?” If you do not already have a doctor to review your results with or would like to seek a second opinion, the Mount Sinai physician referral line can help. Just call 305-674-CARE (2273) or visit www.msmc.com.

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Chamber Testimonial As one who believes that it’s important to share kudos as well as complaints, I would like to heap high praise on Dave Mordis! As a member of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, I was referred to Dave for advice on choosing a new laptop for my business. As I am technologically challenged, Dave was extremely helpful – and patient – literally spending hours on the phone with me over a period of several days, explaining the options every step of the way. It is so rare these days to find someone who is not only so helpful, but also enjoys what he does! Office Depot is lucky to have him on the team! Sharon Kersten, Kersten Communications Chamber Member MIAMI BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:

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

Never Pay Another Expensive Repair Again

Ly Espinol

April 7 - 20, 2011

Life’s a Beach (Marathon) When You Live Here BY CHARLOTTE LIBOV

Living on Miami Beach always provides plenty of great reasons for exercise, whether you’re doing yoga on the beach alone, or joining in with others. Personally, I find that there’s nothing like having a goal to train for, and such opportunities are frequent, thanks to the many marathons/ half-marathons, triathlons, and other events that come our way. One of the most exhilarating activities you can do here is exercise and also raises money for a worthy cause at the same time. The 10th Annual Ocean Drive 5K provided a recent great opportunity. Held on March 19, not only did runners have the opportunity to join in a 5K run, but they also raised money for the Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Cancer Lifeline. This picture-perfect day not only saw contingents of runners, but also teams of walkers, as well as parents with babies in strollers and even dogs getting in on the fun. Did you miss out on that 5K? Well, here’s another chance to get some fresh air, exercise, and do good –all at the same time. The 23rd Annual AIDS 5KWalk will take place on April

3, and you’ll have the opportunity to take in the same gorgeous scenery. The grand marshal, Jai Rodriquez, star of the recent movie Oy Vey, My Son is Gay, and Bravo’s TV Show Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, will kick off at the Miami Beach Convention Center and end with a celebration at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. As of this morning, nearly $116,000 already has been pledged, with the proceeds going to Care Resource, South Florida’s oldest and largest HIV/AIDS community organization. For more info: Tel: 305-751-WALK (9255) or by email at info@careresource.org By the way, congratulations to the winning team of the Ocean Drive 5K! A five-member team from Equinox won the face, and the title of “South Beach’s Fittest Gym.” More info: Andreas Heuser, Equinox South Beach, 305-673-1172, www.equinox.com Charlotte Libov’s writing on Miami Beach appears in many places, including AOL City’s Best Miami and Florida Travel + Life and AOL City’s Best Miami. She is also the author of five books, including “The Woman’s Heart Book,” which was made into the groundbreaking PBS documentary “Women’s Hearts at Risk.” She speaks both nationally and locally on the topic of preventing

April 7 - 20, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Art of Life Event (Art Exhibit / charity benefit for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) Saturday, April 09, 2011 from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Trio On The Bay, 1601 79st Causeway, North Bay Village, Miami, FL 33141 Tickets on sale at http://artoflife2011.eventbrite.com The greatest love of all, is not only to love oneself, but also to have the capacity to extend oneself to help others attain the greatest treasure in the universe : LIFE. Belinda Elkaim and Trish Skrapits jointly present THE ART OF LIFE event, combining Power and Glamour, we hope “MAGIC” will happen, and Jennifer Penrod will gain your support and achieve attainment. Event will be held at Gerry Kelly’s Trio On The Bay. Those who know Gerry would need no further introduction; but for those who are not familiar with Gerry Kelly, we are confident to say you will be impressed by this immaculate upscale venue with breathtaking water views, fine dining and exotic cocktails. Undoubtedly, Trio makes the new landmark for elite nightlife in Miami. As we put together our total dedication to raise funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society ( focused beneficiary Jennifer Penrod ), we ask for YOUR support to attend this event.

EVENT DETAILS: Lloyd Goradesky, published photographer who created the WORLD’S LARGEST PHOTO , will be exhibiting his favorite photography art pieces during the event. Lloyd will also create an ORIGINAL one of a kind piece to be auctioned out to benefit the cause. World renown painter Leonid Afremov, has agreed to paint an ORIGINAL oil on canvas specially for our event, this art piece will be exhibited and auctioned out during our event. Published writer Peter Baksa will be present during the event to meet with anyone who would like to learn more about his new book : POINT OF POWER. $20.00 per person will cover the ENTRY BRACELET to Trio On The Bay, which includes ONE FREE DRINK & APPETIZERS STATION, after party at Trio with LIVE ENTERTAINMENT by Burlesque Dancers and Dj Vertigo of Florida Marlins.

FUND RAISE EFFORT: Live auction items : One hour Champagne & Caviar Sunset Cruise on board private custom Italian yacht valued at $2 million. Sponsored by Peter Baksa and this package will include autographed copies of POINT OF POWER. Original Oil On Canvas by Leonid Afremov. Original photography art by Lloyd Goradesky. Silent auction items : Original GUITAR of Bruce Springstein, personally signed as well. Autographed cuts of the Legendary Ratpack of the 1960s: Sammy Davis Jr, Dean Martin & Frank Sinatra, with photos, framed and matted. Music sheets from 1985 “We Are The World”, autographed by MICHAEL JACKSON, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Quincy Jones, Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie, Tina Turner, John Kahn, Bette Midler, Daryl Hall, Kim Carnes, Harry Belafonte, Steve Perry and Ruth Pointer. Limited Edition Lithography. Superbowl XLV Champions, Green Bay Packers, 16 x 20 autographed photo signed by the 12 members : Aaron Rodgers, Clay Matthews, Greg Jennings, AJ Hawk, Jordy Nelson, BJ Raji, John Starkes, John Kahn and others. 8 x 10 autographed photo of Rolling Stones, signed by Mike Jagger. Framed and Matted. Family portrait by Studio 104, Paul Murray. Together, we are power. Please join us for an AMAZING SATURDAY NIGHT OUT at Trio At The Bay, enjoy the art exhibit and Burlesque show, experience what Trio has to offer, connect and meet other like minded individuals who share the same passion, and understand The Art Of LIfe, is all about give and take, we receive and reciprocate. Hope to have your support. For morre information, contact Belinda Elkaim, Epiphany Events, at Belinda.Elkaim@gmail.com

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April 7 - 20, 2011

25th Annual Career Shadow Day Proclaimed ‘One of the Best BY JESSE KIRKPATRICK Senior at Miami Beach Senior High School

Honesty • Integrity • Values • Respect • Knowledge • Ethics

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As 15 business attired teens crossed Dade Boulevard from Miami Beach Senior High to the 21st Street Recreational Center, they began a day that Wendy Unger, Membership Relations Manager at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, predicted just might change their lives. Thursday, March 24 brought the 25th annual Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Career Shadow Day, an event that offers the city’s youth a unique opportunity to explore the diverse and intriguing career options available to them in the future. “It is an opportunity for students to see what the real world of work looks like,” said Unger. Charmaine Williams, Miami Beach Senior High guidance counselor, was in charge of selecting the participating students, determining their interests, and organizing them the day of the event. The vast majority of the students selected were members of the Future Business Leaders of America organization because of their demonstrated interest in the business world. They were asked to select five career interests from a long list, and Unger later used these selections to connect students with mentors. Each of the 15 students was matched with his own mentor. Because of the maturity of the FBLA members chosen to participate, the 25th Annual Shadow Day was, according to Unger, “One of the best.” “This was really perfect,” said Unger. At the 21st Street Rec Center, fifteen managers and employees across industries awaited, ready to accept their young and eager shadows. Students and mentors immediately began to bond over donuts and muffins sponsored by Tremont Towing. After a brief introduction, mentors took their students off to their respective jobs. Some students, like Wendy Goya, FBLA member and intern at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, were able to experience some out-of-the-box professions that one can only find in a place like South Florida. “The experience taught me that I should choose a career I love, but one that has many alternative routes,” said Goya, who shadowed a magazine photo shoot producer. “This gave me more perspective and direction in life.” Other mentors offered insight into the

political undercurrent of Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County. Karen Aronowitz, president of the United Teachers of Dade, took on a shadow for the day to provide a look into the inner workings of the public education system that students experience every day. “No one ever grows up thinking, ‘I want to run a union when I’m older,’” said Lucia Rynka, FBLA member and Shadow Day participant, “but to be honest, my experience with Ms. Aronowitz has completely changed my mind about my choice of career.” I was matched with George Neary, the well connected and likable Vice President of Cultural Tourism at the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau. On this particular Thursday, his 27th floor office in Downtown was bustling. As a result of the

Jorge Zuluaga, First Class Parking, with Miami Beach Senior High School Student Robyn Garth. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

fire at Miami International Airport and its subsequent shutting down, important attendees of an event scheduled for that night were stranded, unable to fly into Miami. Therefore, I was able to experience the Travel and Tourism industry in “crisis mode”, as an employee put it. This gave me an inside look at the stress level that often pervades the working world. At noon, mentors and students reconvened at Avanti Café. Stories were shared over Chicken Parmesan, as students gained first-hand perspective on each of the professions represented by the mentors in attendance. Students emerged optimistic. “I’m not as worried about my future anymore,” said Goya. “There are jobs out there for me.”

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

SOHO hosts Cuban Crafters Cigar Show

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Cuban Crafters Cigars

Hand Rolled Cigars by Cuban Crafters

Cigars hand rolled to order

SOHO House

Armando Gutierrez, Laurent Fraticelli, General Manager at SOHO House, Jason Loeb, Chairman and Martin Mandiola

Jerry Libbin, Miami Beach Chamber President & CEO, Chantal Gloor, Alfred Karram Jr., Shirley Inoni, and Laurent Fraticelli, GM at SOHO House.

Armando Gutierrez, Raquel Bild Libbin, Jerry Libbin, Miami Beach Chamber President & CEO, and Aaron Perry, Immediate Past Chair Armando Gutierrez, Martin Mandiola, Raquel Bild Libbin and Jerry Libbin, Miami Beach Chamber President & CEO

PHOTOS BY CHANTAL GLOOR

Steve Lara & Willie Montejo.

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April 7 - 20, 2011

Event Funding Key to Increased Tourism in Miami Beach BY EILEEN DE LA CUESTA

Assistant Director, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority Once a year, the bright minds of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA) gather around the table to review and revise their annual grant guidelines for the upcoming fiscal year. This discussion involves how to most effectively attract the largest number of people to this great destination called Miami Beach through the funding of special events that promote tourism. During this process, the team also brainstorms about how to increase the visibility of the MBVCA’s grant programs and to attract new events to the destination. The MBVCA is the funding arm for the City of Miami Beach. Over my nearly 9 years with the MBVCA I have experienced first-hand how the smallest event can become an internationally renowned event by way of an MBVCA grant; despite the award amount. Events have begun their journeys at the MBVCA and through the connections made here; have also developed long-lasting partnerships with other event producers and leaders within the hospitality industry. Our grant program and its process have certainly evolved over the years. We have gone from 7 grant programs to 9 grant programs; developed specific minimum criteria for each of the programs depending on the size of the event and its confirmed room nights, media impressions, and/or viewership numbers; have made all of our applications available on our newly designed website in both a fillable PDF and Word document, and most recently implemented an application process that is

completely paperless. Today our grant requests range from $30,000 to $100,000. During the review process each year, the program’s criteria are evaluated to determine whether they should be maintained and/or to determine whether there is room for improvement within the existing programs and the implementation of new programs. An example is the Film Incentive Grant Program, developed through the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Task Force on Tourism and administered by the MBVCA. This program focuses solely on film productions that increase the destination’s visibility and hotel room nights.

This discussion involves how to most effectively attract the largest number of people to this great destination called Miami Beach through the funding of special events that promote tourism. Another example would be our Special Projects grant program that helps attract events that generate hundreds of thousands of tourists and produce national and international media attention to Miami Beach. Through its grant opportunities and various initiatives, the MBVCA has been successful in attracting new events to the destination to generate tourism year-round. Visit our newly designed website today at www.miamibeachvca.com and become a fan of our Facebook page for up to date information about our organization.

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FOR PEOPLE WITH MEDICARE

CarePlus Health Plans and Miami Beach Medical Group are working together to keep the health in health care. Prevention is our first priority at CarePlus Health Plans, Inc. We believe that keeping our members healthy is better for everyone – So we’re proud to have Miami Beach Medical Group in our network. Together, we’re working to keep the health in health care. Rodolfo Dumenigo, M.D. Miami Beach Medical Group 1200 Alton Road Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-534-0076

To find out more about CarePlus Medicare Advantage Plans, please call:

1-800-220-8704 (TTY: 711)

Keeping the health in health care.

South Florida, Tampa Area, Orlando Area, Treasure & Space Coast & Gulf Coast. A Health plan with a Medicare contract. H1019_MKN40G File & Use 10132010

www.careplushealthplans.com

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Adopt-A-Beach Event at The Palms Hotel

Michael S. Goldberg, Pillar Board with Hamid Luiz Rodrigues, ECOMB’s Executive Director, explaining the Adopt- Commissioner Jerry Libbin, Mayor Matti Herrera Bower, Jorge Gonzalez, City Manager, Commissioner Michael Gongora, and Commissioner Jorge Exposito and Luiz Rodrigues, Ecomb’s Executive Director Abdulhafi, Corporate General Manager at The a-Beach Program to Peggy Benua Palms Hotel & Spa

Debbie Quade and Ray Breslin Chef Frank Jeannetti of Essensia Lori Bakkum, Enid Rodriguez, Kathleen Harris Hicks, Mayor Matti Herrera Bower

Jorge Gonzalez, City Manager and Mayor Matti Herrera Bower

Re-newal Water Pamphlets on the Adopt-a-Beach program

Fred Beckmann and Lynn Burnstein

Above: Mayor Matti Herrera Bower, Jorge Gonzalez, City Manager, Commissioner Michael Gongora, and Commissioner Jorge Exposito Left: Michael Laas, Michelle Naples and Luiz Rodrigues, Ecomb’s Executive Director

PHOTOS BY CHANTAL GLOOR

Palms Hotel and Spa

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April 7 - 20, 2011

Peru, the best food in Latin America BY MARTIN MENDIOLA

Left: Ceviche with choclo sweet potato

US Gourmet Mendiola@USGourmet.US A heated but friendly discussion took place among friends who were trying to establish which Latin American country has the best food. Two of the participants immediately agreed, “without doubt, everyone knows Cuban food is the best in the world”. Then without rhyme or reason, they quickly retracted “the world” and replaced it with “the Universe” emphasizing, “There is nothing to argue about, everyone knows that”. The discussion on Argentina was short, everyone agreed Argentina has great beef, but beef alone does not the best make. The group quickly decided that Argentinean fares are one-dimensional. Our Mexican advocate explained that Mexico is a large country with a tremendous variety of indigenous products and different cooking methods giving it the advantage over everyone else. He commented, “Many products used throughout Latin America, such as corn, are originally from Mexico which again, shows where the essence for a lot of the area’s cuisines come from. Therefore, Mexican food is best” and so he argued. We disagreed and went on to say that because of its diversity and exquisite taste, Peruvian cuisine is one of the best in the world and not just the best in Latin America. With its vast ocean, maze of rivers and Lake Titicaca, fish and seafood have been a staple part of the Peruvian diet since early times. Its indigenous products not only play a major part in Peruvian cuisine, but many have become an integral part of what people eat around the world. Tomatoes and chilies are original from Peru, but migrated to Mexico where Europeans first found them and therefore the misconception as to their place of origin. Between 3700 and 3000 B.C., the Incas were already cultivating more than 300 varieties of potatoes, and as we all know, potatoes have become a major part of the staple diet for

Below: Chef Rodriguez’ ceviche

many. Even further, back in 8000 B.C. preIncas first domesticated certain beans. When Francisco Pizarro, the Spanish conquistador of Peru founded the city of Lima in 1535, these beans acquired the name by which we now know them, Lima Beans. Many cooking methods originating in Peru have evolved and are still in use today. The Incas established the concept of charque or jerky, as we know it. With the need to preserve and store food indefinitely, they also materialized the concept of freeze-drying. The ancient Inca capital of Cuzco, sits in the

Altiplano, a desert at high elevations where the weather is hot, dry during the day, and freezing at night. By squeezing the moisture out of the potatoes with their feet during the day, much like crushing grapes for wine, and leaving them out to dry, the potatoes froze at night and could be stored indefinitely. The influences of different cultures throughout time have helped shape Peruvian cuisine, especially during the 19th century when immigrants from Spain, Africa, France, Italy, Japan and China added their flavors and cooking methods. This eclectic approach to

traditional dishes is what Peruvian cuisine is about today. If there is a Peruvian national dish, it must be ceviche. Sort of like sashimi, only better. During pre-Hispanic times, coastal inhabitants ate their fish macerated in chicha, a fermented drink made from maize. As enhanced by the Spaniards, today’s ceviche is bite size pieces of very fresh white fish (firm so that it will not disintegrate in the limejuice) like snapper or corvina tossed with thinly sliced red onions and limejuice. Many variations have evolved, such as tiraditos, where the fish filet is thinly sliced, flattened and does not include onions. Other recipes use shrimp or other seafood instead of fish, as well as the use of cilantro, celery, red or yellow peppers. In the United States, Chef Douglas Rodriguez has done more to raise ceviche awareness than anyone else has. Known as the Godfather of Nuevo Latino Cuisine, he should also be known as Ceviche’s Ambassador At-Large, for no other person in this country has made more people aware of this wonderful dish. With his The Great Ceviche Book, the many restaurants he has been involved with througout the country where ceviches are an integral part of the menus and the many more he has created, no one else comes close. Not long ago I tried what Chef Rodriguez called the Laughing Bird Shrimp Ceviche. This is an incredible dish, one of the most flavorful we have ever tried. His use of chiplote adobo adds a smokey dimension that makes it unique. This is just one of his many exciting creations. A visit to de Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean restaurant at the Hilton Bentley Hotel, 101 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach will give you the opportunity to try many of his interpretations of this traditional dish. It will also show his unique understanding of the diversity he has found in ceviches and is willing to share with us. Much to the dismay of our friends, it became obvious that Peru has the best food in Latin America.

April 7 - 20, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

A STATE INCOME TAX FOR TEACHERS AND OTHER MUSINGS BY KAREN ARONOWITZ, President, United Teachers of Dade

Apparently, Senator Anitere Flores and Representatives Eric Freson and Carlos Lopez Cantera believe that our teachers are directly responsible for the recession in Florida. And so, in order to balance the budget, they have decided that those responsible for creating the recession because of their astronomical salaries (us?) should get Florida out of the recession by paying a state income tax (us again, along with other pesky public servants like sanitation workers, bus drivers, police officers, firefighters, and the other primarily female workforce (underpaid for over two centuries!) public hospital nurses. This state income tax is being created by taking money from our paychecks and making us fund one of the few benefits that allows teachers to continue on a modest wage (now vanished under the Son of Senate Bill 6, SB 736) and contribute 5% of our pay into the Florida Retirement System. Except that our 5% pay cut will not actually go into the Florida Retirement System but into the general revenue pot to pay for a less draconian cut to education. So the people who earn the least will pay a state income tax to fund what the legislature has the primary responsibility to fund under our state constitution. Now, the best part of this whole mess is that when discussion of the multiplier was brought out in the budget committee (teachers, again, at the bottom of the pile with a 1.6% multiplier) those whose earnings were at the

higher rate of 3%, or 3.1% remained at that multiplier, including our LEGISLATORS! You gotta hand it to Anitere! If there’s a teacher she can kick within kicking distance, she’ll kick! But keep your hands off her retirement! Because she makes a difference for the students and teachers of Miami-Dade County by continuing to cut funding to our public schools! This sure makes a girl wanna go to work with a smile on her face! Speaking of the private sector, send some of those goodies over here. Where’s my golden parachute worth millions received by executives and CEOs for crashing their companies into the ground? Where’s a teacher’s thousands in bonus bucks that middle managers got while their companies were pulled from the quicksand with tax dollars? If we’re talking private sector, send some of our state tax dollars into a teacher’s pocket instead of a relative’s charter school management company (a million in rent for you, a management fee for you, and an unworkable evaluation system for our teachers!) It’s good to have relatives in the ed business, isn’t it, Eric? Well, folks, all of this will make good reading in a Carl Hiassen novel in the future. I’d be laughing, too, at the greed and corruption masquerading as education reform in our state if only the stakes weren’t so high for our kids. But public schools are on the auction block for sale to the highest bidder and Florida legislators are taking away every aspect of teaching and learning that prepares our students for their futures, including vocational courses that lead so many students to high paying jobs. Florida’s children face a grim future when every course is cut out from under them, because it isn’t on the FCAT. BTW, FCAT is now in session. Get ready for tears and tummy aches from children ages seven through seventeen. It’s what passes for education here in the sunshine state.

The United Teachers of Dade represents 32,000 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, office employees, and all school support personnel.

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Mayors of Belize visit Miami Beach

Mayors of Belize at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

On Monday, March 14, 2011, Seven Mayors from Belize accompanied by the Honorary Consul General of Belize in Florida, Janine Sylvestre, visited the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce to meet with the President and CEO of the Chamber, Mr. Jerry Libbin. The Delegation from Belize

included Mayor Nicholas Ruiz, Mayor Aaron Gongora, Mayor Hilberto Campos, Mayor Elsa Paz, Mayor Floyd Lino and Mayor Simeon Lopez. The Delegation of Mayors from Belize were warmly welcomed by the Chamber and a meeting was held to discuss ways of

Mayors of Belize with Commissioner Gongora –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

mutual cooperation between the Chamber of Commerce of Miami Beach and the Chamber of Commerce of Belize. The Mayors and the Consul General were taken on a tour of Miami Beach hosted by the Chamber of Commerce in limo services provided by Worldwide Limousines. The

Delegation also had the opportunity to meet with Commissioner Michael Gongora of Miami Beach at City Hall. The Seven Mayors were visiting Miami Beach while on route to the United Kingdom for a continuation of meetings to promote the country of Belize.

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April 7 - 20, 2011

5th year Miami Beach is Designated Tree City USA We are proud to announce that the City of Miami Beach has again been awarded the prestigious Tree City USA designation. Certification as a Tree City USA for 2010 marked our fifth year anniversary. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. The Tree City USA designation recognizes communities that have proven their commitment to a healthy urban forest and an effective urban forestry program. It honors the efforts of the elected officials, city staff and citizens who work to maintain and enhance the urban forest. To qualify for Tree City USA a city must meet four standards: a tree board or department with responsibility for the care and management of the city’s trees, a tree care ordinance, a community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day Observance and Proclamation. Trees are a vital part of the city’s infrastructure, providing numerous environmental, economic and social benefits. Among the identified benefits of trees are cleaner air, reduced energy usage, less storm water runoff, amelioration of high urban temperatures, higher property values, improved aesthetics, a greater sense of well-being, reduced anxiety levels and lower crime rates. Being designated as a Tree City USA further adds to Miami Beach’s positive image, and proclaims to visitors, convention organizers and prospective businesses that ours is a community that cares about a healthy environment and the quality of life. The designation rewards the various people who have worked so hard to

ensure a vital urban forest, and encourages residents to plant trees and properly care for those they have. The Tree City USA designation also assists the city in obtaining grant money that is allocated for trees or urban forestry programs. Despite declining funds for urban forestry grants, the Urban Forestry program has been awarded three Urban & Community Forestry grants in recent years. The grants assisted with tree planting, the removal and replacement of six hazardous Australian pines, the purchase of a water tanker truck to promote better water use efficiency and survival of newly planted trees, and the trimming of mature mahogany trees on Alton Road. We all should be very proud of this designation not only because it demonstrates our commitment to a healthy urban forest but also because the effort and planning that justify the designation positively contribute to our community’s sustainability efforts, which will ensure that present and future generations will enjoy and benefit from the resources of our beautiful community for many years to come. Look for future Miami Beach Parks and Recreation news and programming in your Recreation Review, call our offices at 305673-7730 or visit our website at www.miamibeachparks.com. To request this material in accessible format, sign language interpreters, information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any citysponsored proceeding, please contact 305604-2489 (voice) or 305-673-7218 (TTY) five days in advance to initiate your request.

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2011 Kia Optima combines style and performance Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS Kia has a winner with its new Optima four-door sedan. It’s stylish and comfortable with a long list of amenities and technology features, and there are three all-new powertrains to choose from, including a turbo and Kia’s first-ever hybrid. This next generation Optima has Kia’s new design language highlighted by a streamlined profile. Based on an all-new midsize platform, it’s longer, wider and lower than its predecessor and has a coupelike profile with a sweeping chrome arc that flows from the A through C pillars. It has a high and pronounced shoulder line that leads to sculpted flanks, while the front has a striking face with Kia’s signature tabbed grille surrounded by projector headlights. Under the hood, there’s a choice of three new Theta II powerplants — a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo or a 2.4-

liter hybrid engine. The 2.4-liter GDI engine produces 200 hp, while upgrading to the available 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine (EX Turbo and SX models) delivers V-6 power with a four-cylinder engine that produces 274 hp, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2011 Optima is available in the four trim levels — LX, EX, EX Turbo and SX: LX — Includes dual exhaust with chrome tips, solar glass, outside mirror turn signal indicators and 16-inch steel wheels fitted with 205/65R16 tires. EX — Has standard fog lights, heated outside mirrors, exterior chrome/bodycolor door handles along with 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/55/R17 tires. EX Turbo — Adds a unique front grille design. SX — Is the performance model; adds HID headlights with auto leveling, LED rear combination lights, unique front grille design, rear lip spoiler, sculpted side sills, aero wiper blades, black front brake calipers and 18-inch black machined finish alloy wheels with P225/45R18 tires. On the inside, the Optima cabin is spacious and comfortable, with many standard convenience features such as a six-way adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar

New Kia Optima is wider and lower than its predecessor and has a streamlined, coupe-like profile.

support, illuminated vanity mirrors with a ticket holder and a trip computer. An available panoramic sunroof provides an openair feeling, while the seats are ergonomically designed and there is plenty of storage space available. At the same time, the Optima is designed as a driver’s car, with the instrument panel contoured toward the driver for a cockpit feel, with precision gauges and controls contributing to an overall sport performance environment. A high console with a short shifter adds to the cockpit feel and paddle shifters

behind the steering wheel allow alternative gear changing. Additional standard interior features include a tilt/telescopic steering column, power door locks, power windows, sun visor extension and a cooling glove box. Base price on the 2011 Kia Optima EX is $22,495. 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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April 7 - 20, 2011

ECOMB: 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 • ELECTRONICS, BATTERIES, 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 Community. Change.

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