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
MAY 4 - 17, 2011
––––––––––– www.communitynewspapers.com ––––––––––––
Phone: 305-669-7355
Letter from the Chair City National Bank: Growing from Miami Beach Roots BY JASON LOEB
Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber
C
ity National Bank of Florida (CNB) began in this community 65 years ago and, like Miami Beach, the institution embraces change in order to grow and continue serving local residents and businesses. Today, the bank’s bond with Miami Beach has grown deeper than ever through CNB’s ongoing and expanding commitment to give back to the community by supporting organizations that benefit City residents. Founded in 1946, CNB has become the fourth-largest Florida-based bank, as well as one of the state’s best capitalized and most liquid financial institutions. Its three Miami Beach banking centers – Arthur Godfrey Rd., 300 71 St., and Collins Avenue and Fifth Street in South Beach – are among the JORGE GONZALEZ bank’s 26 locations in President & CEO of City Miami-Dade, National Bank of Florida
City National Bank, 475 Arthur Godfrey Road
––––––––––––––––––––––– See
ROOTS, page 4
Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Mission Focused Operations Yields Continued Successful Results
F
or the second year in a row, Mount Sinai Medical Center’s mission-driven operations have brought positive earnings and reinforced the medical center’s strong image as a healthcare leader and community resource. Despite the challenging healthcare and economic environment, the most recent audit conducted by Deloitte and Touche and posted on March 25, 2011, reports nearly $26 million in profit for the medical center in 2010, up from $13.8 million in 2009. According to auditors, Mount Sinai’s strong net revenue performance was primarily driven by an increase in patient volume with an overall increase in inpatient admissions of 5.6 percent over the prior year. The Mount Sinai Heart Institute, a partnership with New York’s Columbia University, continued to produce strong cardiac surgical volume, showing an increase of 8.3 percent. In addition, diagnostic cardiac catheterization procedures increased by 12 percent and angioplasties by 25 percent. The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) data shows that Mount Sinai continues to be the area’s leader in cardiovascular care. Mount Sinai has the best surgical outcomes in South Florida among facilities that perform a high volume of complex cases. In addition, Mount Sinai’s cardiac surgeons perform the most heart valve surgeries in
the state of Florida. Mount Sinai’s emergency room visits increased by 3.8 percent, as compared to 2009, driven by the freestanding emergency room in Aventura which showed a 6.6 percent increase in visits over the prior year. Michael M. Adler, chairman of the Mount Sinai Medical Center Board of Trustees, credits “leadership’s focus on high quality, cost effective care, the breadth and depth of our outstanding medical staff, diligent financial stewardship, and ongoing philanthropic support,” as key reasons for the hospital’s ongoing success. Mount Sinai exercised effective control of its operating expenses while expanding its presence in the community. The medical center’s expenses showed a decrease
–––––––––––––– See
MOUNT SINAI, page 4
I love a good party and June 4th promises to be the biggest bash of the year when the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce hosts its 89th Annual Gala and Silent Auction at the Convention Center beginning at 7:00pm. A LIVE FROM MIAMI BEACH flash-back theme resurrects the black-and-white television days of Miami Beach in the 50s and 60s. The nostalgic decor and entertainment nods to the glamour of this era, but also showcases just how far our playful destination has evolved into a cosmopolitan center. This year, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce will honor Mayor Matti Herrera Bower with the Lifetime Achievement Award, Miami Port Director Bill Johnson with the Excellence in Tourism Award, Dr. Barth A. Green with the Distinguished Service Award, and Film Maker Brett Ratner with the HiTides Outstanding Achievement Award. As Chairman, it is my honor to highlight these individuals for their lifetime dedications to the community. However, these awards are only a small representation of the true impact of their efforts, for each has truly made our community a better place and our residents better citizens though their tireless philanthropic activities across various industries. With an expected 1,200 people in attendance, this event is a prime opportunity to catch up with old and new acquaintances over an evening of fun. But tickets are almost sold out! I would like to invite all those who are interested in attending to contact the Miami Beach Chamber as soon as possible by calling (305) 674-1300 or looking on the website www.miamibeachchamber.com for additional information and sponsorship opportunities. I look forward to seeing you there.
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LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT Grisette Roque Marcos Grisette Roque Marcos is currently the Executive Director of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA). She began her tenure as Executive Director in January 2000. Since then, Roque Marcos has initiated a new approach to doing business, including a revised grant application format and submission method, the publication of an annual program of work, new logo and tagline, a citywide wayfinding, and customer service initiative, as well as the first in a series of open forums for community input. She serves as liaison for county and city cultural and tourism organizations, and is the professional spokesperson and representative for the 7member volunteer board composed of leaders within the hospitality industry. A graduate of the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Public Affairs, and a graduate of the Protocol School of Washington, D.C., the nation’s most respected institution of etiquette training, Roque Marcos also has several years experience in marketing, public relations and finance and, thoroughly understands the importance of observing various protocols, especially when doing business in an increasingly diverse economic and social climate. During her 11 years with the MBVCA, Ms. Roque Marcos served as Interim Director for the City of Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council (CAC) from April 2002 through June 2003. In this role, she was responsible for the planning, designing, and implementation of local cultural arts boards programs and special projects, to include the Fine Arts Board, also a City of Miami Beach board/committee. Ms. Roque Marcos has also held positions as Assistant Director for External Relations at the University of Miami where she
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received the 2000 CASE Special Merit Award for Institutional Relations Project. She was also named one of Top 100 Women to Watch in 2001 by Miami Magazine. In addition to her role with the MBVCA, Ms. Roque Marcos sits on the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Board of Governors; Academy of Hospitality and Tourism Board for Miami Dade County Public Schools; Marketing Committee of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the Village of Biscayne Parks and Recreation Board. Born in Havana, Cuba, Roque Marcos has lived in South Florida for over 40 years. She has resided in Biscayne Park since September 2005 and is the proud wife of Pablo and new mother to Mathias.
Miami Beach News
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MOUNT SINAI,
COMMUNITYENWSPAPERS.COM
from page 1
from $509.7 million in 2009 to $505.4 million in 2010. During this same period, the medical center added two satellite facilities, a Hialeah cardiac and internal medicine practice and a diagnostic center in Coral Gables, giving the community a total of six locations to access Mount Sinai quality care. Philanthropy has always been an important part of Mount Sinai’s history and success, and it was evident in 2010, as donors continued to pledge their support to the medical center. “Mount Sinai was established with the help of visionary community leaders and philanthropists who identified the need for quality healthcare in our community,” said Steven D. Sonenreich, president and C.E.O. of Mount Sinai. “Those same principles hold true today as we remain committed to carrying out our lifesaving mission.” In 2010, Mount Sinai was once again recognized by U.S.News & World Report among the best hospitals in America and also earned the highest level of accreditation possible for the treatment of chest pain from the Society of Chest Pain Centers. Mount Sinai is one of only two hospitals in Miami-Dade and one of three in South Florida to receive the Cycle III with PCI (percutaneous coronary interven-
tion) accreditation. The medical center continues to be a leader in medical research and committed to its teaching program training 160 residents and fellows in 19 medical specialties. Consistent with its mission, Mount Sinai provided nearly $40 million in charity care costs in 2010, compared to $35 million in 2009. Mount Sinai remains dedicated to the health and wellbeing of the South Florida community, demonstrated by its ongoing efforts to make healthcare more accessible, while providing the latest treatment options as a world-class healthcare provider. ABOUT MOUNT SINAI MEDICAL CENTER Founded in 1949, Mount Sinai Medical Center is the largest independent, private, not-for-profit teaching hospital in South Florida. Mount Sinai’s Centers of Excellence combine technology, research and academic, to provide innovative and comprehensive care in cardiology, neurology, oncology and orthopaedics. One of a select few statutory teaching hospitals in the state of Florida, Mount Sinai is the hospital of choice for those who seek the level of expertise and care that only a teaching hospital can offer. The medical center’s commitment to quality has garnered prestigious recognition, including designation in 2010-11 as one of America’s Top Hospitals by U.S.News & World Report.
ROOTS,
May 5 - 18, 2011
from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Broward, Palm Beach, Martin and Orange counties. Long regarded as a leading commercial real estate lender, the bank made a strategic decision to expand its product and service offerings to accommodate a larger cross section of businesses and residents. This diversified approach focuses on four primary banking lines: real estate and private banking, which are historical CNB services, along with corporate and business banking and residential lending. The new services greatly expand the bank’s outreach to more community members. City National Bank also is growing physically, with two new banking centers expected to open within the next year, and additional locations likely. President and CEO Jorge Gonzalez expects these initiatives will enhance the bank’s footprint throughout the region. “Our expansion and diversification strategy is gaining traction and our client and employee retention is exceptional,” Gonzalez noted. “We will continue investing in our people and technology to better serve our clients and community, especially in Miami Beach.” In fact, it is CNB’s Miami Beach roots that have helped spur much of the bank’s success and the decades-long bond between the city and bank remains strong
today. “Like Miami Beach, CNB has grown to be one of the most recognized names in Florida,” Gonzalez said. “Our strategy is to continue building upon the legacy of service for which we are known.” City National Bank is backed by Caja Madrid, a $400 billion, 300-year-old parent company, which enables it to focus on the future. According to Gonzalez, during the last two years while other banks were cutting expenses and trying to raise capital, CNB was positioning itself for growth by investing heavily in technology, new products, new banking centers…and people, because people and client experiences are what separate CNB from other banks. CNB’s bankers know every client and personalize their every banking experience. Decisions are made locally by bankers who know you – one of the primary reasons why CNB is widely considered to provide the best-in-class customer service. As many locally based banks lose their local roots through consolidation, CNB is doing the opposite. By keeping decisions local and personal, the bank remains committed to its core values and continues its emphasis on the “back-to-basics” banking for which City National has always been known. “CNB is what personal banking is meant to be,” Gonzalez noted. “We are large enough to provide clients with what they want and small enough to deliver it the way they want it.” ––––––––––––––––
City National Bank, 446 Collins Ave
May 5 - 18, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Miami Beach Chamber Staff Profile – Wendy Unger Who is Wendy Unger and how does a girl with a passion for Miami Beach find the perfect job? Wendy Unger is one of the two Membership Relations Managers at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. She has been serving in some capacity at the Chamber since 1979. She has been on the Board; an Independent Contractor as Sales Person selling Advertising and Membership; and since 2003 she has been working full time at the office working directly with the members as the “Cosmic Connector.” She does what she can to make membership work for each of the members and the chamber. She helps new and seasoned members meet each other for the purpose of better business and she does this with almost magical perception. In addition, she serves the Chamber as the liaison to the Tourism and Hospitality Council and the Education as Business Council. Education has been her second passion and she is really delighted in the spring when it is time for the Career Shadowing Day and Elayne Weisburd Excellence in Education Awards Projects. What is Wendy’s background and how did her passion for our city grow? Wendy came to Miami Beach in 1955 with her family, but she is 4th of 6 generations of her family to live here in our city. She says she can’t imagine living anywhere else other than right here in the paradise of the Beach. Schooled locally, Wendy is the product of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the University of Miami in Coral Gables. On a personal level, Wendy is a very committed volunteer and was honored several years ago by the City as a “Woman Worth Knowing.” Wendy Unger sits on the Board of the Miami Dade
Wendy Unger –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
County Unit of the American Cancer Society; she is an Outreach Coordinator for F.O.R.C.E. (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered) and she is a Mentor for the students at the University Of Miami School Of Business. She is married to Seth Schapira, daughter of Caryl and Dr. Harold Unger, sister of Dr. Stephen & Beverly Unger, Arthur & Laine Unger, Nancy & Howie Unger-Fink and granddaughter of Joseph & Sylvia Rose. She is the proud grandmother of 15-year-old Brianne Schapira who lives in WinstonSalem North Carolina.
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COMMISSIONER’S CORNER Smoke Free Beaches BY COMMISSIONER JERRY LIBBIN
During the past 6 years that I have had the privilege of serving this community on the Miami Beach City Commission, I have devoted much of my time to protecting our environment and creating a more sustainable community. I was proud to have been selected by the Environmental Coalition Of Miami Beach (ECOMB) recently to receive their prestigious Emerald City Award in recognition of my efforts. In addition to leading the crusade to keep our beaches clean with my “NO LITTER-NO BUTTS” campaign, and the numerous beach clean-ups that I have initiated in the community, I was also recognized for having been the commissioner to put sustainability on the radar screen for our City, when in 2006 I convinced the Commission to make it a priority to conduct a self study of our energy consumption. As a result of my efforts, Amersco was hired to conduct an energy audit of our major buildings and the Commission ultimately agreed to implement 6 major energy conservation projects that are guaranteed to pay for themselves from the savings the city will realize after the improvements. I have also been responsible for authoring tougher litter laws, which were enacted by the full Commission and now we must come together to do something about those pesky cigarette butts on our beaches. Although the County does a fantastic job of grooming the beaches early each morning using sand sifting machines, unfortunately, cigarette butts fall back to the beach along with the sand where they can remain for up to 15 years until the degrade, unless volunteers pick them up. I can tell you that three weeks ago I organized a clean-up with almost 300 students and they picked up thousands of butts, however, if we did this every single day for a year, it wouldn’t make a difference
unless we do something to change behavior. I believe it is time for the Commission to take a stand to protect our beaches and to make them the known as the cleanest beaches in the world. I have proposed that we direct the Administration to establish smoke free zones on all of our beaches. This means that we will permit smoking on the beach in designated areas, ones where we have ash trays. I don’t believe that children need to be exposed to second hand smoke while playing on the beach, nor should they have to be exposed to disgusting germs while playing in the sand and digging up nasty cigarette butts. I certainly understand that we are an international destination, and that many tourists smoke, however, I believe that my proposal is a win-win situation that will permit those who want to smoke to do so in a designated area, while also greatly reducing the harm to our marine life and the environment by having most of the cigarette butts placed in appropriate receptacles. I am asking that the hotel industry work with the city to craft a policy that will permit them to establish their own smoke free zone within their concession areas if they have one, and I am asking my fellow city commissioners to have the courage to enact bold legislation that will protect our citizens, our tourists, the marine life and our environment in general. Miami Dade College recently banned smoking from their entire campus, joining Florida International University, and a host of other institutions of higher education, as they have taken a firm stand to protect others from the harmful effects of second hand smoke and to simultaneously protect the environment. I believe that our City should be just as concerned about the health of our population and the environment, but like hotels themselves which have smoking and non smoking rooms, we have the ability to afford people who smoke an option to do so without negatively impacting others, while simultaneously making our beaches even more spectacular.
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Elaine Weisburd Excellence in Education Awards
Jerry Libbin, Gerarld Schwartz, Elayne Weisburd, Paul Rehage, Dr. Mercy MacDowell, Mayor Matti Herrera Bower, Aletha Player and Jason Loeb –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Friday, April 29th was a day to celebrate Education in Miami Beach. Our community gathered at the Palms Hotel and Spa to award the most passionate and innovative educator/s in Miami Beach. Each year at this time, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce gives an award to an outstanding educator chosen from one of the nominated teachers from each of the schools in Miami Beach Senior High School feeder pattern: Miami Beach Senior High School, Treasure Island Elementary School, North Beach Elementary School, Ruth K. Broad K-8 Center, Nautilus Middle School, South Pointe Elementary School, Fienberg Fisher K-8 Center and Biscayne Elementary School. In the welcoming remarks at the annual luncheon, Mayor Matti Herrera Bower said, “The support of the Miami Beach Chamber’s Education Foundation has been very important in assisting our local schools and students by creating scholarships for them.” Bower continued “We are thankful for these efforts.” Elayne Weisburd was introduced by Mayor Bower, and gave special recognition to Gerald Schwartz, past-chair of the Education Committee, for creating the Elayne Weisburd Excellence in Education Award, which has touched so many lives. Elayne Weisburd said, “It was his [Schwartz] idea to create an award recognizing the important role of the business community to promote education for the future of our Miami Beach students.” Judges from the Community: Chamber Chairman, Jason Loeb, Sudsies Dry Cleaners; Miami Beach Education Foundation Volunteer, Madeleine Romanello, Douglas Elliman, Florida; Dr.
Leslie Rosenfeld, City of Miami Beach; City of Miami Beach Quality of Education Chairman, Karen Rivo, Miami – Dade County Public Schools; Miami Beach Community and Adult Education Center Principal, Shirley Velasco; and Miami Beach Chamber Education as Business Council Chairman Maia Mediavilla, Atlantic Broadband, took time to read the nomination packages, interview the nominees and make the decision for the 2011 winners. This process gave them an opportunity to see the outstanding caliber of teachers our Miami Beach children are exposed to in our schools on a daily basis. The 6 nominees were: Gwendolyn Sue Foote, Nautilus Middle School; Maria Teresa Garrido, South Pointe Elementary School; Danielle Klahr, Fienberg Fisher K-8 Center; Celestino Lopez, Biscayne Elementary School; Jacqueline Lozano, North Beach Elementary School; Carol L. Smith, Treasure Island Elementary School; and the 2 winners were Dr. Mercy MacDowell, Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor K8 Center; and Paul Rehage, Miami Beach Senior High School. Helping to support this annual program were sponsors FPL, Office Depot, Sudsies, the Palms Hotel and Spa and Tremont Towing. Present at this year’s luncheon were Mayor Matti Bower, Special Guest of Honor Elayne Weisburd and her family, and award founder Gerald K. Schwartz, Past Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. Also present were special guests from the school district: Dr. Maria de Armas, Jose Dotres, the Guest Speaker, and Gerald Blumstein from Dr. Karp’s Office.
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Bimini Bay Resort and Marina set to emerge as Miami’s new offshore playground
With the largest marina in the Bahamas, Bimini Bay Resort and Marina has become an established hub for yachting and sport fishing enthusiasts. And now it’s destined to emerge as South Florida’s new “offshore playground” with the Summer opening of its Beach Club and debut of a fast ferry service direct from Miami. The Bahamas Express, which sails at a speed of 32 knots, will operate daily (except Wednesdays) from the Port of Miami and offer round-trip excursions from $99 per person. In less than two hours, Miami residents and visitors will be able to leave the hustle and bustle of the city and arrive in a private, tropical getaway. The white sandy beaches and crystal blue water of Bimini are unmatched throughout the Caribbean. “Bimini has long been Miami’s best kept secret,” said Bill Lee, General Manager of Bimini Bay Resort and Marina. “The Bimini Express will make this island paradise even more accessible to South Floridians.” The Bimini Bay Resort and Marina Beach Club will include dining, shops and numerous other activities. A series of “Endless Summer” events and promotions will begin July 4th weekend. Developed with traditional Bahamian architecture, Bimini Bay Resort and Marina
is comprised of 350 individually-owned existing residences, many of which feature top-of-the-line, luxurious amenities, all within a relaxed and friendly neighborhood setting. Situated on the Northern tip of the island of North Bimini in the heart of what’s known as “The Bone Fishing Capital of the World,” the resort is located on the closest island to the U.S. Mainland, only 48 nautical miles off the coast of South Florida. It features three restaurants, a shopping village, the “Beach Bums” children’s activity center, two outdoor pools, tennis and access to other activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling and boat tours. Bimini Bay Resort and Marina is now managed through RockResorts’ property management collection, Legendary Lodging. RockResorts is a subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN), owner and operator of iconic properties, including Tempo Miami in the 67-story Marquis building in Downtown.Future growth plans for Bimini Bay Resort include the development of a boutique RockResorts hotel, RockResorts branded residences, a RockResorts Spa and environmental and sustainability projects. For reservations or more information about Bimini Bay Resort and Marina, visit www.biminibayresort.com or call 866-3448759.
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Defending Human Rights, one toilet at a time BY JESSE KIRKPATRICK Senior at Miami Beach Senior High School
For the SOIL organization, there is no such thing as “waste”. Sustainable Organic Integrated Livelihoods (SOIL), is an NGO working in Haiti to fulfill several interrelated goals. By establishing a system of composting toilets throughout the island nation, SOIL seeks to improve sanitary conditions and simultaneously offer a free source of fertilizer for the vegetation-deprived nation. Furthermore, the project stimulates the Haitian economy by opening a number of jobs in construction, transportation, and waste processing. On June 6, 2011, Miami Beach and Miami businesses will join the community on an inspirational and selfless endeavor to raise money for this organization. During this one-night, city-wide event, patrons presenting a “Dinner for Haiti” ticket to their servers will enjoy their meals with the assurance that 10% of the check will be donated in support of SOIL. The night will be the culmination of a three-year project through Miami Beach Senior High. Under the direction of David Reese, English teacher, Miami Beach Senior High has mounted a wide-scale campaign advocating the SOIL organization. For the last two years, students in Reese’s Advance Placement English Language class sharpened their persuasive argument skills in reallife contexts by writing and sending SOIL advocacy letters to friends, neighbors, family, and other community members. The purpose of the project was not only to hone writing skills, but also to raise money for the non-profit organization through grassroots activism. Last year, 150 students crafted and distributed letters advocating SOIL. However, this year, Reese’s students have joined with Beach High’s own SOIL chapter to take their advocacy one step further. Over the past few months, students have met with Miami Beach restaurant managers and owners to propose the event and procure donation
pledges. By forging mutually advantageous partnerships, these students offered businesses the opportunity for significant patronage on a typically slow Monday evening. But Reese believes that a sense of moral justice led most restaurants to participate. “People want to do what they can to support their fellow man,” said Reese. “People are essentially good.” Fourteen Miami Beach and Miami restaurants (see full list below) will participate in the June 6 event. The Graspa Restaurant Group, which includes Tiramesu, Spris, and Van Dyke Café, has also made a donation of $400 in support of SOIL. SOIL is an organization that seeks to give Haitians the basic human rights that all people deserve. In the academic words of an English teacher, “the main idea is to make the lives of individuals safer.”
A special thanks to the following participating businesses: • The Café at Books and Books (927 Lincoln Road) • Preston’s Brasserie (1601 Collins Ave.) • Sushi SoBe (1601 Collins Ave.) • Tap Tap (819 5th Street, Miami Beach) • George’s Italian Restaurant (300 72 Street, Miami Beach) • Oh Mexico (1440 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach) • Café Nuvo (412 Espanola Way, Miami Beach) • Havana 1957 (405 Espanola Way, Miami Beach) • Sagafredo (Bal Harbour) • Sagafredo (Espanola Way) • Jumbo Buffett (13699 Biscayne Boulevard) • Pita Spice (1049 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach) • Cantina 71 (216 71 Street, Miami Beach) • East Ocean Chinese Cuisine (325 71 Street, Miami Beach)
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Start Training Now for Miami Beach Gay Pride 2011 BY CHARLOTTE LIBOV
With this year’s Miami Beach Gay Pride Parade & Festival a great success, plans are already underway for next year’s event, so you’d best start getting in shape early for this action-packed, high profile event. First up, Endurance. While it may not seem like you need that much endurance to walk the five or so block parade route, you actually do, when you consider that this year it took 90 minutes to do so. Plus, there were 60 floats, along with marching bands, and even drag queens dancing down Ocean Drive, so you really do have to keep alert! Next, you need to look good. Consider this: We in Miami Beach are known for our scanty clothing every day of the year, but, during Pride, the shirts really come off. That’s not only for the guys – lots of gals in bikini tops were spotted, and even a couple
wearing virtually no top at all! And, don’t forget longevity. One of the parade’s most popular features is the appearance of the “Legacy Couples,” a unique feature of the Miami Beach celebration. “Legacy Couples” are same sex couples that have been together for many years. This year, 50 couples participated, most of them with 30-plus years together, including record holders Bob Truax and Tony Fernandez, with 57 years. So, for that kind of longevity, you have to stay fit. Plus, you will need lots of energy. Don’t forget; it’s not just the parade; there’s a week-plus worth of pre-and-post Pride events. This year’s fun included Unity Coalition’s spectacular Leaders, Legends & Lovlies Ball, Mova Lounge’s First Annual Block Party, and URGE: The Official Saturday Night Party. Not to mention the Lords South Beach Brunch & Pool Party. By the way, kudos to all the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce who were sponsors and supporters of the event,
Legacy Couple Sherry Roberts and Alice Randolph
Miami-Dade County Commissioner Sally Heyman
including Equinox South Beach, Macy’s, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority, Wachovia, W South Beach, Lords South Beach at Nash, Bar 721, NY2O, Atlantic Broadband, Welcome & Bienvenidos Visitors’ Magazine, the Leader, Dee & Co, TD Bank, and the Townhouse. More info: Miami Beach Gay Pride: www.miamibeachgaypride.com/ Getting in Shape for Pride: Andreas Heuser, Equinox South Beach 305-673-1172, www.equinox.com Charlotte Libov’s is a writer and photographer and her work appears in Ocean Drive magazine, Florida Travel + Life and Examiner.com, and she is the South Beach Culture & Events Examiner for Examiner.com. She is also a book author and nationally known women’s health speaker. Reach her at 305-333-8844 or char@libov.com. A horseback rider thrilled the crowd
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ECOMB Hosts one of the most ‘Eco-Chic’ Events of the Season: The 2011 GreenRaiser On Thursday, April 21st, the Environmental Coalition of Miami & the Beaches (ECOMB) held its first Annual GreenRaiser Event at the Sagamore Hotel, Miami Beach. The event, considered a great success and one of the most “eco-chic” events of the season, celebrated Earth Day and served as our organization’s main fundraising effort for the preservation, protection and restoration of our community’s local ecosystem. Guests, who arrived in SWOOP Miami electric transport or Hybrid vehicles, walked down on an Easy Grass green carpet, alongside a brand new Tesla Electric Car, and were welcomed by Elite Models dressed in A rt of Shade ecofashion. Beyond the door, as the eco-power players entered the Sagamore’s Video Garden, decorated with recycled cactus arrangements by Karla Events, guests were served ecofriendly cocktails courtesy of VeeV Açaí Spirits and Société Perrier, and enjoyed bites by Whitewall restaurant while listening to the sweet live Bossa Nova sounds of Rose Max & Ramatis. As the evening progressed, additional guests and ECOMB members joined the celebration with the sounds of D J Sahyo, spinning selections from the “Green Music Alliance,” enjoyed fresh coconut water by Vita Coco, as well as organic fruits and desserts by Whole Foods Market South Beach. At 8:30 pm, after a warm introduction by ECOMB’s Board of Trustees Chairman, M r. Jeffrey D. Forster, the evening’s MC, M r. Jeff Burnside, NBC6 Environmental Reporter, introduced ECOMB’s Executive Director, Luiz Rodrigues, thanked sponsors, hosts, staff, volunteers and commenced ECOMB’s Emerald City Awards presentation. The Emerald City Award, instituted in 2009 by ECOMB’s Board of Trustees, honors our community’s best “green” environmental leaders, friends and visionaries as well as top contributors and promoters of sustainability. This year’s recipients were the Mondrian Hotel, City of Miami Beach Commissioner J e r ry Libbin, City of Miami Beach Commissioner Michael Gongora, as well as one of ECOMB’s original founders, Mrs. Lisa Liotta. VIP guests
then left with a sustainable G3 Give Bag loaded with green goodies and amazing deals from the event’s Silent Auction. We, at ECOMB, highly value the support of those who helped us make this event a success - Michelle Naples, Michelle Acosta, Jane Pryjmak, Valerie Lewis, Zakarin PR, and many others - thus helping us accomplish our mission to educate and raise the environmental awareness of our community members. ECOMB’s vision for the future? To make Miami & the Beaches not only a more sustainable society, but also a better place for all of us to enjoy, share with the world and with future generations! Together, we want to make Miami Beach the new Emerald City By The Sea: the shining green image it deserves!
MICHAEL LAAS (ECOMB’S BOARD MEMBER), EDWARD CANTOS (ECOMB’S BOARD MEMBER), LISA LIOTTA (ONE OF ECOMB’S FOUNDERS), JEFFREY D. FORSTER ((ECOMB’S BOARD CHAIRMAN), LUIZ RODRIGUES ((ECOMB’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR)
Luiz Rodrigues, Executive Director Jeffrey D. Forster, Chairman of the Board Michael Laas, Board Member Edward Cantos,
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH , COMMISSIONER JERRY LIBBIN, JEFFREY D. FORSTER ((ECOMB’S BOARD CHAIRMAN), CITY OF MIAMI BEACH COMMISSIONER MICHAEL GONGORA, LUIZ RODRIGUES ((ECOMB’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR), GABRIOLE VAN BRYCE (DREAM IN GREEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & FORMER ECOMB BOARD MEMBER) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Board Member Michelle D. Naples, Office/Program Manager
ELITE MODELS DRESSED IN ART OF CHADE ECO-FASHION
Master of Ceremonies: Jeff Burnside (NBC 6) Event Co-Chairs: Jeffrey D. Forster and Michael Laas P resenting Sponsors: Adam R. Rose and Peter R. McQuillan from AP Beach
Sponsors: Ameresco, Art of Shade, AUTUMNpr, Creative Creative, Ferretti Group (Mochi Craft), Florida Review Magazine, Green Light Solutions, Green Savings Solutions, Maroone Auto Nation, Miami-Dade County, Mike’s Custom Electric, My Biotiful Bag, National Eagles & Angels Association, Ornare, Sagamore Hotel, Social Miami, Societe Perrier, South Beach Hardgoods, Sudsies, Tesla Motors, The Palms Hotel, The Shore Club, VeeV, Vita Coco, Whole Foods, Your Scrap Matters Hosts: Audi Aple, Tony Cho, Claudio Faria, Jeff Feldman, Eric Hecht, Lisa Liotta, Jonathan, Marchoschamer, Chad Oppenheim, Jerry Powers, Carla Probus, Nikki Novo, Brian Scheinblum, Ashely Turchin,
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He’s Back! Jerry Powers launches new magazine, PLUM MIAMI BY DAISY OLIVERA
www.thedaisycolumn.com The hard-core social set does not let anything interfere with a good party. Even a torrential downpour. The evening of the PLUM Miami magazine launch, close to 2000 of Miami’s most fabulously stylish and influential VIPs dared to endanger their designer duds to get to The Raleigh Hotel and celebrate with CEO Jerry Powers and the PLUM Miami magazine team. After mad dashes from our cars as the buckets of rain started, a few of us, including Lisa Pliner, Thomas Kramer, Lauren Foster and Rick Delgado (PLUM’s Art Director) huddled under a large umbrella. We ended up under the one protecting the Grey Goose vodka bar. Quite fortuitous. The Raleigh terrace was decorated in shades of, yes, plum, and a glowing Lucite dance floor was suspended over the pool. DJ Freestyle got the evening jumping then Miami’s own DJ Irie kept guests on their
feet all night. At 10:45 p.m. there was a dazzling fireworks display synchronized with Katy Perry’s hit, “Firework.” Leading the celebration with Powers was the PLUM team including Editor in Chief Glenn Albin, Managing Editor Eric Newill, Executive Editor Jacquelynn Powers and Fashion Editor Jenny Starr Perez. Other guests included “Undercover” actor Boris Kodjoe; Tim and Yolanda Hardaway; Alonzo and Tracy Mourning; The Collection’s Ken Gorin; mogul Wayne Boich; renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Julio Gallo; Miami Beach Commissioner Michael Gongora; designer Uli Herzner; Southern Wine and Spirit’s Mel Dick and wife Bobbi; Papi underwear founder Alan Zelcer and wife Ruth. Plum Miami is a cutting-edge, glossy, luxury lifestyle magazine focusing on the best of Miami. It’s distributed to an exclusive list of VIPs in South Florida, Los Angeles, Aspen and Martha’s Vineyard; internationally in Saint-Tropez, Milan and Paris. Coming soon, Plum Aspen and Plum Hamptons. For more society coverage go to www.thedaisycolumn.com
JERRY POWERS, LOUIS AGUIRRE, SANDI POWERS
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Cheat the Reaper – Live to See Your Future Mock DUI-Car Crash Teaches Teens Reality of Drinking & Driving
Just days before the senior prom, a live, simulated DUI car crash presentation resulted in one death and several serious injuries. The dramatic program was designed to teach students about the grave consequences of drinking alcohol and/or taking drugs, and then driving a motor vehicle. The 12th annual “Cheat the Reaper” Teen Anti-DUI program was held on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at the Miami Beach Convention Center parking lot, 1900 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, Florida. The award-winning program was enacted in front of approximately 1,000 high school students from Miami Beach and Miami Northwestern. The visuals had a strong emotional impact on the students. School administrators, teachers and students worked together with other community partners to produce this realistic drama complete with make-up, a gallon or so of fake blood, and 2 actual crashed vehicles. “If experience is the best teacher, then the goal is of this program is to substitute an actual experience with a realistic educational experience. We hope that it can be used as a reference for good judgment at the moment when peer pressure may force
Paramedics on scene of Anti-DUI Program • • • • • • BELOW: Pictured (l-r) Aaron Perry, Micah Robbins, Executive Director of Defy it, and Comm. Jerry Libbin and Adrian Lopez Director of Defy it/Sobe Sober and
students to make difficult choices on prom night,” stated Fire Inspector David Mogen, public education coordinator, Miami Beach Fire Department. As part of the re-enactment, every agency that would normally be called upon to respond to this type of incident did what they normally do. The police responded and performed the accident investigation, sobriety test and arrest. Fire rescued, extricated the victims, stabilized them and transported them to the Hospital. Four funeral home attendants examined, carried and loaded the deceased into a black hearse. To create an even more dramatic impact, a mock funeral for the deceased arranged by Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapels, concluded the program. This event was made possible by the coordinated efforts of the following: Miami Beach Fire & Police departments, City of Miami Fire Rescue, Miami-Dade County Public Schools Police Department, City of Miami Beach, Miami Beach Coalition for a Drug Free Community, Miami Beach Senior High School, Miami Northwestern Senior High School, Miami Beach Senior High School PTSA, Drug Free Youth In Town, Tremont Towing, Inc., Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapels, and Vista Convention Services South. Other community partners include Department of Children and Families, J.M.H. Emergency Care Center, Communities in Schools and The NonViolence Program. The City of Miami Beach was proud to honor police, firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical technicians and community partners who serve the country with bravery, heroism and are most deserving of every accolade in view of their dedication in addressing the life safety needs of their communities.
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Pillar reception at the newly renovated Shelborne South Beach
Tamonlyn Hodge and Doris Lewis
Pedro Gomez
Dee White and Diane Gonzalez
Aaron Perry, Senior Vice Chair and Beth Sobol
Harvey Dana and Jadee Guidice Rafael Villa and Ana Fajardo
Bruce Bennett, David Sacks, Dr. Corey Narson and Maria Guadamuz
Christian Infante and Abe Barker
Roger Baluja, Joe Cross and Kurt Beach from City National Bank
Doris Lewis, Mike Thomas, Kathleen Harris Hicks, Jerry Libbin, President & CEO, Lisa Ricci and Tamonlyn Hodge
Dennis Deblois and DeAnne Graham
Jerry Libbin, President & CEO, Nicole Rekant and Joshua Levy
Cristian LaCapra, Erin Ross, Michael Mandich, Jerry Libbin, President & CEO, and Valerie Rasken
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The Raleigh wins the 2011 AMG Miami Beach Polo World Club Raleigh team battle against all odds to defeat defending champions Hublot for the title The seventh annual AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup presented by Nespresso, the world’s largest and most prestigious Beach Polo tournament, culminated on Sunday, April 24 with its closing day of exciting matches and highly anticipated grand finale. A resilient Raleigh team, made up of Bash Kazi, Pelon Escapite and Luis Escobar, fought the 2010 defending champions, Hublot, to take the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup title, with a final score of 10-6, set before a record crowd. Four goals from Mexico’s Pelon Escopite, including three in the final chukker shut the door on a talented Hublot team that trailed throughout the match. Luis Escobar from Costa Rica lead the Raleigh team with five goals on the day. Pelon Escapite was named MVP for the tournament. “They’re a very good team,” confessed Hublot’s Kris Kampsen following the game. “They just out-played us.” Earlier in the day, Grey Goose scored an 8-5 win over AMG-Mercedes, captained by host of America’s Most Wanted, John Walsh, in the Carl Fisher International Cup with Raul “Gringo” Colombres from Argentina taking MVP honors. The Julius Fleischman Memorial Cup went to the Yellow Cab team in a 9-5 win over LAN/Comcast. Brandon Phillips and Argentina’s Maurcio Devrient scored four goals apiece, with Devrient being named MVP. The 9 year-old Chestnut Mare, ridden by Hublot’s Kris Kampsen, was named Best Playing Pony.
Polo players on Miami Beach
Raleigh Team –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “This year’s event was the most successful to-date,” said Bruce Orosz, founder and president of The Polo Life, producers of The AMG Miami Beach World Cup. “We set a record attendance each day as a result of the tremendous buzz that spread throughout Miami Beach during the course of the week. This year’s world-class level of play raised the
bar for years to come and the fierce competition between the players in the arena kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. We thank all of our wonderful sponsors, patrons and everyone behind-the-scenes who helped make this year’s competition such an outstanding success. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year. On the first day of this year’s competition, The Polo Life, LLC, one of the nation’s premier independent producers of Polo events, announced the first annual Chicago Beach Polo championship, taking place from Friday, September 30, 2011 through Sunday, October 2, 2011, on the sands of North Avenue Beach, featuring some of the most highly acclaimed Polo players from around the world. Chicago is the first of many markets planned for professional Beach Polo by Bruce Orosz and The Polo Life organization. For further information, visit www.chicagobeachpolo.com <http://www.chicagobeachpolo.com> More than 10,000 people attend the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup each year and the tournament attracts professional team players from as far as Russia, Switzerland and Malaysia, as well as the very best from South America. For more information on the AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup presented by Nespresso, visit: www.miamipolo.com <http://www.miamipolo.com>. For further information on The Polo Life, visit www.thepololife.com <http://www.thepololife.com>
Women’s Polo Match
Jerry Libbin, President & CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Jerry Libbin was invited to perform the throw-in during the first woman’s Polo Match at the 7th annual AMG Miami Beach Polo World Cup presented by Nespresso with celebrity polo rider Paula Chermont and Sandy Pallot Klein
Jerry Libbin, President & CEO of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce and David Andrews, the Voice of Palm Beach Polo
Meghan Walsh, John Walsh and Brazilian polo player, model Paula Chermont
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Summer in Miami Beach is Looking Bright! BY JEFF LEHMAN Vice Chair, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA)
Here comes the Summer! Sometimes looked upon as the low season, the truth is that the summer season in Miami Beach is a very active and dynamic component of the Tourism Year in Miami Beach. Anchored in part by some tremendous MBVCA supported events, summer 2011 looks to be one of the best yet. For example this July, we will welcome the American Black Film Festival for its 15th year and later in the month, the Swimshow 2012 and Funkshion Fashion Week Miami Beach. Who would have thought that July could have such a Fashion-centric focus? The MBVCA is always trying to bring in events that support our local hospitality community, and the resort tax dollars are well spent in the hot summer months. But the mission of the MBVCA does not begin and end with helping to get great events off the ground, and keeping them coming back. As one of the most fiscally responsible boards in the City, the MBVCA also spends time and sometimes resort tax dollars enhancing the quality of life for residents and tourists alike! For example, the way finding signage that is
now in place throughout the city was a MBVCA project many years ago that many (including our own FDOT) said could not happen. If you’ve noticed the “Shop Miami Beach” flags along Collins Avenue – those too are funded by the MBVCA. Those airport ticket counters with Miami and Miami Beach pictures rolling by creating a “sense of place” at MIA are also part of what we have done – not to mention some of the many Art exhibits that MIA now displays. And now, the MBVCA has embarked on a very “21st Century” project, the identification and production of the next generation of “APP” for smart phones to enhance the mobility, identification and enjoyment of our City by everyone who is here. This project is still in its infancy – but as they say, difficult things take time and the impossible takes a little longer. A recent IT Charette held by the MBVCA brought together Technology Leaders from throughout our community to discuss the “next wave” in making living in or visiting Miami Beach an easier and more fulfilling experience. The staff and Board of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority are a dynamic, progressive group of citizens dedicated to the success of our City. We invite suggestions, participation in our monthly Board Meetings, and creating partnerships that benefit all of us who work and live in Miami Beach.
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When a restaurant’s wine list is overpriced BY MARTIN MENDIOLA
The problem of over priced wine lists seems to be growing, especially in Miami Beach. With a reputation for being a tourist city and restaurants not worrying about customer loyalty nor repeat patronage, the very high marked up wine lists at some restaurants is a clear indication of their beliefs. An indication because locals will not frequent overpriced establishments and tourist go because they do not know better. In all honesty, we have to keep in mind that over priced is a subjective term in reference to restaurant wines. A bottle worth $50 in one restaurant may not be worth $20 at another and vice versa. What is important and we should all understand, is that restaurants price their wines any way they want and there are no rules or regulations. Whatever you hear as to how it is done may or may not be true. Let us start by understanding that most restaurants do not really know what they are paying for a bottle of wine. As far fetched as it may sound that a merchant may not know the cost of its merchandise, in the wine business, this is the norm. Here is how it works and why I dare make this statement. Salesperson comes in and offers this great wine for $10 a bottle, but if you buy three, he gets you a corkscrew. If you buy a case, you get two free bottles and the corkscrew. If you buy three cases, you get three bottles of something else and the corkscrew. If you buy ten cases, you get two free cases plus three bottles of something else plus the corkscrew. When you buy twenty-five cases, you get five free cases plus three bottles of something else plus the corkscrew and a date with the salesperson’s brother or sister. Even if you are able to price almost everything else, how do you price the corkscrew? (Guess you thought I was going to ask how to price the date with the brother or sister) A comment you will often hear from restaurateurs is that they price their wines based on tradition, which is usually about three times wholesale cost. There are several problems and or issues with this statement. Based on the scenario mentioned above, what is cost? More than likely cost to them is the original $10 with an explanation that the additional benefits received are due to financial decisions for the benefit of the restaurant. Sounds reasonable,
except it is no longer cost. The part about the “tradition” method I get a real kick out of is that when the tradition started, restaurants usually had a knowledgeable sommelier standing by to answer your every question and refilling your glass whenever you took a sip. Nowadays, you usually get a person in a tshirt who asks you to order by the numbers, leaves the bottle of wine and disappears. The expenses are not what they used to be, why should the mark up? You will also hear that restaurants require higher margins because of the additional costs. Granted, all a retailer does is put the wine on the shelf while a restaurateur serves it and has the glassware that goes with it. How much more is that worth? Is that worth doubling the price? Just like when you pay $40 for a $20 bottle of wine or $100 for a $50 bottle, how much more do you get for the additional $30? We all know, the server gets a bigger tip. Disregard the storage issue. Retailers as well as restaurants can usually get next day delivery for an additional small fee, something like $1 a bottle. If they need to store because they bought twenty-five cases, it is usually because it was such a great deal it more than covers the storage cost or…… they wanted a date with the salespersons brother or sister. Do not buy the storage reason. The lingering question is, “at what point is a restaurants’ wine list overpriced?” Never; not if you enjoyed your meal, the ambiance and the service, but restaurateurs should keep in mind that a good bottle of wine with a $20 mark up improves the ambiance tremendously.
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Dominating Your Industry on the Internet BY SABRINA LACLE, AMGW
SEO, PPC, Organic, Search Engines, Facebook. Thought you were covered when you finally learned what LOL was in the texting world? Well, the Internet lingo is much more robust and at times, quite confusing. But it is 2011 and many companies and people still don’t know how to use the Internet to grow their business and knowing all that language is important. Enter Todd Paton from Paton Marketing. In the 1990s, Paton was already a selfmade success story. With a stable booming mortgage and real estate company that had nearly 100 employees and five offices between Tampa and Miami, Paton was set. What he didn’t anticipate, as many didn’t, was the bust that would come almost ten years after building up an empire. By 2007, Paton had lost everything and had to start all over again. With no time to waste and a go-getter attitude, Paton thought the next best thing would be related to marketing on the internet. He decided to go learn from the world’s top internet marketers at The Big Seminar. Little did he know that it really was the next big and crucial thing; it was also the wave of the future. After going to the seminar, Paton hired Internet Marketing guru Stephen Pierce to personally train him. After 6 months of intense training, Paton set out to implement what he had just learned by helping a builder in Tampa. Using his new found systems and strategies, Paton sold 15 homes in just 10 days on the internet. Needless to say, he knew that it was time to embark on his new road to success. Paton provides some insight: What is the advice you would give to business owners who want to get started? Don’t spend any time or money marketing your business on the Internet until you’ve performed thorough key word and market research. With all the tools and resources available online, there is no need to assume or guess when developing your marketing model. What should be the ultimate goal when it comes to Marketing your business online? Getting on page 1 of Google organically should be the #1 priority for a business. So how is that achieved?
There are only two ways you can be on page 1 of the search engines, through payper-click or organically. What is pay-per-click? PPC is advertising with search engines. You bid on keywords that are relevant to your target market and then you pay when a visitor clicks on your ad. The benefit of PPC is you are able to quickly get your website in front of your prospects. What is organic? An “organic” listing is where your website appears naturally in the search engine results. Unlike PPC, you can get an unlimited amount of clicks without paying for them. In order to achieve high organic search engine placements, you must build the value of your website (as it relates to the search engines). To accomplish this, you must implement both onsite and offsite SEO techniques. Working with Paton Marketing – how can one get started? Call me at my office and I will be happy to do a free consultation. The other option is you can visit www.gradeyourwebsite.com to first get an idea of how well your website is optimized. Paton Marketing offers a variety of services ranging from SEO Packages, website design, email campaigns and reputation management. To learn about how he can help your business, call 786-454-9862 or email todd@patonmarketing.com.
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LUXURY ON A CURVE Living at Artech means living luxury without end. Exercise your tennis stroke, do laps at the infinity edge pool, take your boat out from the expansive marina or simply saunter along the lushly landscaped waterfront boardwalk. This is more than a home. It’s an experience for the most adventurous and sophisticated lifestyles in Aventura.
ARTECHMIAMI.COM Visit our sales center and model residences 2950 NE 188th Street, Aventura, FL 33180 305.466.2600
Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a purchaser or lessee. Units in this condominium are subject to timeshare estates. The features and amenities depicted herein are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. *This property is financed by ST Residential, LLC
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Why Networking Organizations don’t work! And what you can do about it BY ADAM MAX
I recently invited a small business owner to join me at a Pillar Members networking reception with the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. I was not surprised with her answer: “I tried the chambers – they don’t work!” You know what? She was right. Kinda’ Sorta’ Think back to the last networking event you attended. There was probably at least one person who walked around the room handing out as many business cards as they could. There was most likely a group who spent more time net-DRINK-ing than netWORK-ing. And then there was possibly the group that was so in love with eachother that you had no chance of breaking in as a newcomer. It’s no wonder there are people out there who think chambers don’t work. The truth is that chambers DO work – if you work them correctly. It’s not net-EAT, netDRINK, or net-DRUNK – it’s net-WORK. Business networking is leveraging your business and personal connections to bring you a regular supply of new business. Networking for business growth must be strategic and focused and everything you do will affect the Word-of-Mouth about you; and by extension your business. So how chambers and networking organizations work for you? Here are some simple suggestions. Chose the right network. If you’re trying to meet more small business owners, you’ll generally want to spend time at the chamber of commerce, your local business association or with a Referral Network. If you’re looking to meet representatives from bigger corporations or pillars of your
community in your area, I recommend service clubs, nonprofit groups and volunteer work. Another good way is by attending homeowners’ association meetings. Show up! It never ceases to amaze me how many people pay their hard-earned money to join a networking organization, and then fail to show up at event on a regular basis Take an active role. When interviewing local organizations for the right fit for you and your business be sure to ask about the committees and councils they have. Select a committee or council that appeals to your interest and business goals, and take an active role. Become a leader. Visibility accelerates credibility which leads to profitability. Seek roles on the councils or committees and work your way to more visible roles. Act as a host. There will always be people at events who are new to the organization. They may look a little lost or uncomfortable. Walk over and say hi! Ask them some simple questions and let them talk about themselves. Then introduce them to others you know in the room. Sponsor an event. This will allow you to showcase and display your products/servises, marketing materials, and in some cases allow you to give a short presentation about your business. Invite visitors. Introduce your non-participating relationships to those participating in the networking organization. Chambers DO work but if you want them to work for you, you need to show up, have a long-term relationship- building perspective, and put in a little hard work, because the secret to success without a little hard work – is still a secret! Adam Max is the Director of Training for BNI Miami Dade - the #1 rated franchise of BNI, the world’s largest Business Referral Organization, and a Pillar Board member at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce.
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May 5 - 18, 2011
Audi A5 Cabriolet is a ragtop with style and performance Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR
LET’S TALK CARS It’s difficult to find a good ragtop these days, what with all the new retractable hardtop technology available. But, if you are in the market for a soft-top convertible, check out the Audi A5 Cabriolet and sister sport model S5 Cabriolet. The 2011 Audi A5/S5 Cabriolets are really quite special automobiles because they continue the tradition of carefree driving with the joy of a soft top. And, with an overall length of 182.1 inches, they have an exceptionally roomy interior, even in the back seats, and with the same sophistication as their hardtop counterparts. However, they incorporate a power folding multi-layer acoustic soft top capable of retracting in 17 seconds, even while the car is moving at speeds up to 31 mph. The A5 (our test vehicle) has a refined suspension developed from Audi’s extensive racing experience and it delivers a ride that is both comfortable and capable, with superb
handling and razor-sharp response. It has a low and muscular look, with a high shoulder line and a steeply raked windshield. The Audi singleframe grille dominates the front, while available LED taillights distinguish the rear. With the soft top raised, the A5 Cabriolet maintains its coupe look, while lowering it turns it into another vehicle altogether. The A5 has an ergonomic interior designed around driver and passenger comfort, with high-quality leather and rich materials assembled to yield a luxurious cabin environment. Comfortable sport seats provide ample support and a driver-oriented center console holds a beautifully designed interface, as well as Audi’s third-generation MMI system. The optional seven-inch MMI screen is positioned high on the dash for easy reading and to minimize the amount of time spent looking away from the road. A leatherwrapped steering wheel is standard and the gauges are well designed and easy-to-read. Like the A5 Coupe, the Cabriolet is powered by a potent 2.0 TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine. With a sturdy cast-iron block and efficient aluminum cylinder head, the engine delivers 211 hp and 258 pounds-feet of torque. Direct-injection technology increases engine efficiency and the result is 30 mpg on the highway a 0-60 mph clocking in 6.5 seconds. The S5 Cabriolet comes with a powerful
Audi A5 Cabriolet has a low and muscular look, with a high shoulder line, a steeply raked windshield and signature singleframe grille. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
and efficient 3.0 liter TFSI V-6 all-aluminum engine. It’s supercharged to create 333 hp and 325 pounds-feet of torque. The powerplant incorporates many Audi innovations, including the Audi valvelift system, FSI direct injection, a two-stage intake, dual intercoolers and a drive-by-wire throttle, all helping to deliver 17/26 mpg (city/hwy). Base price on the 2011 Audi A5 Cabriolet
with a manual transmission is $36,500. Add another $1,290 for an automatic transmission with Tiptronic.
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>.
Enhanced Patrol and Enforcement of Code Violations To Take Place Immediately
No person shall be permitted to take any domestic animal into any park whether on leash, in arms or running at large, dogs in particular being excluded from parks, and provision of all City Dog Control Ordinance(s)2 shall apply to any and all park property, except for those areas specifically designated for dogs or other domesticated animals. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to the use of a service animal, which means any dog guide or other animal individually trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.
May 5 - 18, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
New Chair of the Woman’s Business Council The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that DeAnne Connolly Graham of Welcome and Bienvenidos Magazines has been appointed as the Chair of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Women’s Business Council. Ms. Graham also serves as the Chamber’s Vice Chair of the Pillar Trustee Board, and sits on the Real Estate Council and the Tourism & Hospitality Council. Assisting businesses in tapping into the $17+ billion Miami visitor market, DeAnne emphasizes creating quality relationships and business connections through networking and committee involvement. DeAnne provides advertising opportunities with Welcome and Bienvenidos Magazines, as well as recommending other beneficial media and methods depending on the needs of her prospects and clients. Because of her large network of contacts, she totally enjoys being able to connect people to create advantageous and strategic alliances. DeAnne places a high value on integrity in others and expects nothing less from herself. In addition to her many altruistic ventures, she Chairs the Board for the Ayuda Foundation of Miami, a 31 year old nonprofit. DeAnne is preceded as Chair by Michelle Villalobos who reinvigorated the synergy and productivity of the Woman’s Business Council for the past 18 months. Ms. Villalobos is committed to helping professional women achieve success through personal branding, effective marketing, and powerful communication
Michelle Villalobos
Deanne Connolly Graham ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
through her company Mivista Consulting, Inc. - Teaching Individuals & Organizations How To Communicate Effectively. Michelle founded The Semi-Annual Empowered Woman Success Summit last year, which is now Miami’s largest business conference for women. Her client list features top companies such as: Burger King Corporation, Gibraltar Private Bank & Trust, Great Florida Bank, Lexis/Nexis, and one of her favorites: Misha’s cupcakes. Michelle’s popular programs include; You: The Online Brand; Networking ROCKS; Stop Drowning in Business Cards!; Why Women Play Dirty (& What To Do About It); and Communicate Powerfully (Without Being A . . .) The Summit is scheduled all day for May 19th & 20th, 2011, at the Miami Museum of Science. This year’s theme is “Elevate Yourself,” and is designed to help all professional, ambitious women stretch, grow, and elevate themselves beyond where they are today. Entrepreneurs, freelanceers, corporate execs, solopreneurs, career-switchers — ALL woman are welcome. The last summit drew over 700 smart, savvy women. The Woman’s Business Council of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce meets every third Tuesday of the month promptly at 8:30 a.m. in the Chamber Boardroom, 1920 Meridian Avenue, Miami Beach. Guests are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact the Chamber at 305.674.1300.
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