JULY 25 - AUG. 7, 2013
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Phone: 305-669-7355
Miami Beach Commission Selects South Beach ACE Letter from the Chair for Convention Center Renovation and Redevelopment
T
BY ALAN A. LIPS
BY DANIEL WHALEN
he Miami Beach City Commission burned the midnight oil at their July 17, 2013 meeting, continuing late into the night, all leading up to the moment that many feel was decades in the making— the selection of a development team for the Convention Center project; finally, after a full meeting, the Commission voted to award the project to South Beach ACE in a 5 to 2 vote, with Commissioners Tobin and Wolfson dissenting. This project, the largest and most important public development deal in the City’s nearly 100 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
See
ACE, page 4
TISHMAN SOUTH BEACH ACE AERIAL PLAN
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Mount Sinai Medical Center Honors the Wallack Family for their Generosity
n June, Mount Sinai Medical Center honored Florence and the late Irving Wallack, and paid tribute to their son David for his generosity to the medical center. The event celebrated the Wallack family’s commitment to healthcare in the Miami Beach community with a dedication on the pedestal of a sculpture that stands outside the medical center’s emergency room. The Wallacks are among South Beach’s most respected families, having helped shape the city’s hotel industry and the Ocean Drive landscape. It began
Mango’s owner David Wallack, Mango’s COO Josh Wallack and family
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WALLACK, page 4
Well everyone…it has been a long process and the selection by our City Commission has been made. Tishman (ACE) will be our partner in rebuilding our convention center and developing something that we were missing for a long time…a real convention center district. This freshly renovated convention center district is the economic driver that our great city has been craving for many years. Today this large area of property is in need of help. Once completed, the high end conventions from all over the world will be fighting for calendar space in the greatest destination in the world…yes, Miami Beach. These conventions bring top notch executives who will stay in our hotels at premium rates, eat in our restaurants, shop in our stores and quietly and respectfully enjoy all that our world class destination has to offer. This drives more tourist tax dollars to the city with expanded benefits to everyone. So now we need to come together as a community to move this process forward. The next step is getting the referendum passed in November. The referendum language is expected to be available shortly. Stay tuned for more info as it becomes available. Outside of the convention center excitement, the Chamber is in the middle of planning for many great upcoming events. On July 25th, we will be having a joint networker between our Pillars and the Chairmans Roundtables of the Aventura Marketing Council at Gallery Art in Aventura. For those art
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LETTER, page 4
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LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT GEORGE NEARY
George Neary comes to us from Hartford, Connecticut where his interests in history and preservation originated. He chose Miami Beach as home after being introduced to the Tropics when he was a former Peace Corps Volunteer serving in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines from 1973-75. He taught high school history and international studies while enjoying the tropical climate. His next venture would be marked by a stark contrast in weather while working in New York for 20 years. In New York, he worked for AFS International/Intercultural Programs whose mission was to foster world peace by sending American students and teachers to 70 countries all around the world and hosting International students in the United States. He then worked as Director of US Marketing and Sales, leading a staff of 30 and creating TV commercials valued in the millions of dollars with the support of celebrity spokesperson, Clarence Clemons!
George moved to Miami Beach to manage Flamingo Terrace Enterprises with Linda Borst Kolko, a dear friend from his days in the Peace Corps, and Bill Kirk and they formed a business triumvirate to oversee the re-introduction of this L Murray Dixon masterpiece. He began to volunteer and became a trained docent at the Bass Museum and a volunteer at the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL). The first person he met was the then Executive Director, Nancy Liebman who became his mentor and friend to this day. His first big project was Art Deco Weekend 1992 working with Dennis Whilhelm and the Presidents of Art Deco Societies around the World that were visiting Miami Beach. That’s where the very seed of tourism began! Nancy Liebman resigned from her position at MDPL in 1992 to run for Commission. With his dedication and volunteer time, George was a natural fit to run
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the organization. He was appointed as the new Executive Director by Bernard Zyscovich, the chair for the organization at the time. Working closely with Betty Gutierrez, who was the Chair, and the support of an active board, they were able to successfully designate the now world famous Historic Art Deco District. The move would protect the famed one mile square district from immediate demolition, making it a part of city government. This would ensure that founder Barbara Baer Capitman’s dream would finally be realized. There would be other successes working with Michael Kinerk and Matti Bower, long time chairs overseeing 8 Art Deco Weekends and creating more historic districts for Miami Beach. Due to the combined hard work of George and the MDPL Board and the world success of Art Deco weekend, Miami Beach became a worldwide phenomenon and the number 1 tourist destination. In 1998 the Greater Miami Convention & Visitor’s Bureau hired George to oversee their heritage and cultural tourism efforts. During his tenure at the Bureau, he was awarded the Employee of the Year. The Bureau created the award winning Heritage guide- a 134-page booklet that showcases Miami as the amazing destination it has become. Additionally, he became one of the Board members of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the signature preservation organization in the United States with more than 250,000 members. He was invited to become a member of the boards of the Dade Heritage Trust and The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation. He was awarded the Henrietta Harris award –The Dade Heritage Trust’s highest award-for his efforts in historic preservation. He has been the Chair of the advisory board of the Design and Architecture Senior High School (DASH) for 5 years and a mentor for 10 more. His also oversees the Bureau’s gay & lesbian marketing efforts to promote Miami as the premier LGBT destination. He has traveled throughout the United States internationally showcasing Miami/Miami Beach. He was part of the delegation to Antwerp,
GEORGE NEARY Belgium that secured the OutGames, bringing this high profile event to our community. He works at LGBT trade shows to highlight Greater Miami, using the Bureau’s distinctive diversity guide and the Columbia Fun Map. George serves on the Board of the Miami Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and The Gay Pride Committee (who plan the largest LGBT event in MiamiDade, attracting more than 80,000 attendees this past year.) He was a founding Board member of Miami Beach’s Mayor Matti Bower’s LGBT business committee for 2 years. He was awarded the President’s award from the Miami-Dade Gay Chamber, the organization’s highest award. He has also been a member of the Miami Beach Chamber since 1993, first with the Preservation League and now The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. He has worked with the Miami Beach Chamber on career shadowing for many years, helped developed The Museum Mile, a Chamber/Bureau cultural program involving Miami Beach’s 5 museums; and holds the very first Miami Beach Chamber INcard ever issued.
Miami Beach News
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PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grant and Michael Miller ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Amy Donner WRITERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Albie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Lori Cohen, Diane Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller, Georgia Tait, Walter White PROOF DEPARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Vavrek PRODUCTION GRAPHIC ARTISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Denise Cebrero, Isabel Ortega, Cristian Ortiz PUBLISHER EMERITUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ron Miller Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens Tribune, Palmetto Bay News, Opa Locka News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun, West Park News. We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. Please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.
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LETTER, from page 1
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enthusiasts, this will be an exciting venue to see one of the largest modern contemporary art collections in South Florida. On Aug. 26th, we have our Champions of Business Lunch at the St. Regis in Bal Harbour with more than 300 people in attendance. We are also planning our annual Real Estate Lunch for October. Our title sponsor will be McKafka Development Group, a local real estate developer, who will bring an
exciting outlook to our 4th annual event that sells out each year. In addition, we have our routine networking events and meetings each week. Our Chamber has the best staff, each are ready and willing to help our members at any time. Make an appointment with them to see how to you can use our Chamber resources to accomplish your goals. I challenge you to get involved and experience the power of membership. At your service, Alan A. Lips
Barbara Buxton, J.D., LL.M. Florida Attorney
Nursing Home Medicaid • Elder Law & Estate Planning Florida Medicaid Planning & Eligibility Asset Protection • Wills, Trusts, Living Wills Powers of Attorney • Guardianships Probate: Estate Administration
Serving Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties Tel.: 305.932.2293 Miami-Dade County 954.760.7077 Broward County www.buxtonlaw.com
ACE, from page 1
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year history, will completely redesign, and renovate the parcel of land bordered by Meridian Avenue, Dade Boulevard, Washington Avenue and 17th Street. The bidding process, which began with submissions from a number of bidding teams, was narrowed to two teams back in December. Since then, both teams have presented to the commission and the Miami Beach community numerous times, in addition to complying with and negotiating the necessary plans, budgets, proposals and contracts for consideration. To be sure, both teams are superbly qualified to execute this project, only further complicating the Commission’s final decision. The best news for Miami Beach is not necessarily which team was chosen, but that a team has been chosen and the project can move forward. This necessary upgrade to the City’s Convention Center stands to boost the City’s economy dramatically, attracting lucrative conventions such as Microsoft, which made the decision a decade ago not to return to Miami Beach until the Center was upgraded. For more than a decade, citizens and business people in the Miami Beach community have been calling for upgrades to
WALLACK, from page 1 –– when Irving and Florence Wallack moved from New York to Miami Beach in the 1950s and opened hotels, first at 852 Collins Avenue and then at 900 Ocean Drive. It continued into the 1970s when Irving innovated Miami Beach’s first co-op conversion of apartments on South Beach. David Wallack took up his parents’ mantle of innovation and established the Eastern Sun, Florida’s first commercial-sized adult congregate living facility. He continued on the path of innovative entrepreneurship when he decided to relocate the Eastern Sun and turn the space into what is now known as Mango’s Tropical Café, a world famous South Beach landmark drawing more than a million patrons a year. Today, David’s son, Josh, is the chief operating officer of Mango’s. In addition, the restaurant is part of Mount Sinai’s community partnership program, which consists of area businesses that help raise the much-needed funds to support South Florida’s largest private, independent notfor-profit teaching hospital. By participating in this program, David and Josh give their patrons an opportunity to join them in supporting Mount Sinai’s mission to provide quality healthcare to the community.
the Miami Beach Convention Center. After thorough vetting from the City Attorney’s office, a number of regular and special commission meetings, Mayor Bower and the Commissioners focused their final discussion on the numbers, addressing questions regarding the budget, financing, income, retail and timeline. Ultimately, it was a motion to accept the South Beach ACE team that prompted the final vote. Now that the Commission has voted to award the project to the South Beach ACE group, the next step in the process is a November 5th ballot referendum question to obtain public approval for the lease of public property. In the meantime, the South Beach ACE group will begin to finalize their plans and budgets, thus far in a conceptual stage, and work with the City of Miami Beach to finalize the deal and the details. South Beach ACE is led by Tishman Hotel and Realty, Miami developer Robert Wennett and acclaimed architect Rem Koolhaas. South Beach ACE is collectively responsible for the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, the Miracle Mile revitalization in Coral Gables and Lincoln Road’s 1111 building.
“Mount Sinai is our hospital – it’s our community’s hospital,” said David. “And we are proud to be a partner in this innovative program.” As a result of the Wallack family’s generosity, David and Josh are corporate members of the Society of Mount Sinai, which includes the medical center’s most generous philanthropic supporters. The Wallack Family Foundation is also part of the Founders of Mount Sinai, the medical center foundations’ most time-honored organization. “If he were here today,” Sonenreich said, “Irving Wallack would surely be proud of his son and his grandson for all they have accomplished and for their commitment to healthcare in our community.” There to honor and thank the Wallack family at the dedication ceremony were Mark H. Hildebrandt, vice chairman of the Mount Sinai Board of Trustees; Bonnie Schaefer, president of the Mount Sinai Foundation; and Steve Sonenreich, Mount Sinai’s president and CEO. The sculpture is prominently displayed within the Mount Sinai campus. The inscription on the northern side of the pedestal reads as follows - Dedicated to Florence & Irving Wallack by David Wallack and Family. The inscription on the southern side of the pedestal reads - Dedicated by Mango’s Tropical Café South Beach.
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Epicure with Love Cocktails to Chill By
BY MICHAEL LOVE Specialty Chef Epicure Gourmet Market & Café
Looking for something refreshing and delicious when entertaining on the weekends? I am so tired of the same summer drinks, flavored margaritas, peach vodka and other sweet drinks that make me thirstier after I drink them. What I want in a summer cocktail is something with a little bite, a bit of acidity to pucker my lips and a smooth cool finish. Fresh juices are always the best and I would strongly suggest that you not make any cocktails with canned juice, ever. Before we get to the “Cocktails To Chill By,” there are a few mixology tips that will go a long way towards making you the hit of the party. Tip One: When making a pitcher of drinks, do not add ice. If the pitcher contains alcohol, then put it in the freezer. It won’t freeze due to the alcohol and you won’t be watering it down with ice melting. When serving, you can pour it over ice. Tip Two: The best way to make a cocktail is one at a time in a shaker. Make sure shaker is filled to the top with ice. Then pour the main alcohol ingredient such as vodka, tequila, rum, etc. This will “flavor” the ice and cause a slight melting which will perfectly dilute the strong alcohol taste. Add your mixer last, shake like a banshee and then either strain into a martini glass or pour directly into a rocks glass. Tip Three: As mentioned above, always always, always use fresh fruit juice over the canned or bottled juices. With the exception of tomato juice, which is fine for Bloody Mary drinks. GIN AND GRAPEFRUIT This cocktail is Michele’s favorite summer drink and uses the best gin ever created. The liqueur (elderflower) balanced by the acidity of fresh grapefruit juice creates
the perfect cocktail for Sunday brunch as well as a Saturday night party-starter. Make a pitcher and pour over ice or you can strain into chilled martini glasses. Makes one martini. 1 1/2 ounces Hendricks gin 1/2 ounce St. Germaine liqueur 5 ounces grapefruit juice THE ULTIMATE BLOODY MARY The worst part of a bloody Mary is the ice melting and diluting the tomato flavor. My bloody has peppery clam-flavored tomato ice cubes that melt flavor instead of water. The splash of vinegar gives it a nice bite instead of using lemon or lime. And don’t forget the white horseradish. Makes one cocktail. 8 ounces Clamato juice Freshly ground black pepper 1 1/2 ounces pepper vodka 1/4 teaspoon celery salt 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon of salsa (mild or spicy) 1 heaping teaspoon white horseradish 4 ounces tomato juice Pour the Clamato carefully into an ice cube tray and top with freshly ground black pepper. Place in freezer. Take a frosted mug or large glass and fill with Clamato-cubes. Combine the rest of the ingredients in a large shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into mug.
DRINK RESPONSIBLY. Michael Love is the Specialty Chef at Epicure Gourmet Market and Café and the creator of “Epicure with Love,” an all-natural gourmet line of food including soups, prepared entrées, Giant cookies, and Xtreme brownies. Michael is also available for private and group cooking instruction and can be hired for dinner parties and events. Michael@epicuremarket.com www.lovecancook.com @lovecancook
www.communitynewspapers.com
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BY WILLIAM D. TALBERT III, CDME
HOW’S BUSINESS RECORD AIRPORT ARRIVALS RECORD ARRIVALS AT MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (MIA) FOR THE MONTH OF MAY 2013 International passenger arrivals for the month of May 2013 at Miami International Airport (MIA) increased by 6.9% and domestic Passenger arrivals increased by 0.5%. Total passenger arrivals at Miami International Airport (MIA) increased in the month of May 2013 by 3.4%.
INTERNATIONAL MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS May 2013
May 2012
797,709
746,236
% Change vs. 2012 +6.9%
DOMESTIC MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS May 2013 878,668
May 2012 874,569
% Change vs. 2012 +0.5%
TOTAL MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS May 2013 1,676,377
May 2012 1,620,805
% Change vs. 2012 +3.4%
MIAMI SPA MONTH RUNS THROUGH AUGUST GMCVB’s 6th annual Miami Spa Month runs through August 31st. Greater Miami and the Beaches is renowned for luxury spas that are ranked among the “Best Spas in America,” and are the favorites of spa connoisseurs throughout the world. During July and August 2013, make time to pamper yourself and enjoy special treatments for $99 at Miami’s premier spas. Visit MiamiSpaMonth.com for details. MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (MIA) NEWS – MIA NAMED ONE OF AMERICA’S MOST LUXURIOUS AIRPORTS FOR A LAYOVER Miami International Airport provides one of “America’s most luxurious airport layovers,” according to CNN Travel. MIA made the list of six top airports because of its award-winning art program, restaurants and shops. GMCVB’S NEW DIGITAL LIBRARY LAUNCHED The brand new GMCVB Digital Library has launched, and includes over 10,000 images, video clips, and marketing materials available for use by GMCVB partners. The new library can be accessed from the press, travel trade, meeting planners and partner areas of the Miami and Beaches website, or directly at GMCVBDigitalLibrary.com. To use the Digital Library, visit the website and create an account. A GMCVB online administrator will approve new accounts and assist with requests. For partnership information, call 305-539-3076.
Go Green...
RECYCLE!
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Chamber Internships Offer Valuable Experience
BY LEILA MAURICE
Miami Beach Chamber Intern
Miami Beach is a coastal resort city in Miami-Dade County, Florida, United States. It was incorporated on March 26, 1915. In 1979, Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Art Deco District is the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world and comprises hundreds of hotels, apartments and other structures erected between 1923 and 1943. In 1921, a small group of civic leaders formed the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce to promote the city as a place to visit, work and play. Through eras of boom and bust, the Chamber continued to play a crucial role in the development of “America ‘s Riviera.” While Miami Beach has changed considerably since the organization’s first meeting in 1921, the Chamber has always been there to help meet the needs of its hometown. Boasting more than 1,100 members and growing by the day, the Miami Beach Chamber is poised to continue its mission of advancing the economic, industrial, professional, cultural, civic, health, and educational welfare of the Greater Miami Beach Area. The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce was formed 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. THE INTERNSHIP The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce’s longstanding presence in the City of Miami Beach, coupled with the city’s desirable climate, vibrant culture and unique economy, make the Chamber a wonderful place for both local and international interns to gain valuable work experience. The Chamber of Commerce of Miami Beach welcomes interns from all corners of the world and from right here in Miami Beach to promote its mission. The diverse body of interns allows for a multicultural experience and promotes cultural, economic and intellectual exchange.
Interns at the Chamber of Commerce have the opportunity to work in a variety of fields, including marketing, communications, event planning and execution, finance, business development, design and much more. Furthermore, the networking opportunities at the Chamber are unparalleled for a young adult seeking to break into the Miami job market after graduation or gain valuable business connections. Finally, the Chamber staff is present at all times to guide and nurture the interns throughout their experience, allowing them to gain increasing autonomy over their projects. A few interns shared their motivations for pursuing an internship at the Chamber and the knowledge they gained from the experience: Romain Boillon – 2013 “I chose Miami Beach because it’s a well renowned city. I want to discover the States because I study languages and it’s perfect because there are a lot of people who speak multiple languages. I really like the multiculturalism, it’s very captivating. I am here at the Chamber because I have acquaintances who have advised me to do my internship here, and I will certainly thank them for doing so.” Nicole Ogando – 2013 “I am in Miami Beach for college and I like this town. I chose the chamber because it’s a good opportunity to experience how a business runs. This internship has benefited me because I can be more organized in my own work and develop my own systems. “ Leila Maurice – 2013 “I chose Miami Beach because I love this place, the climate is similar to that of my home – Martinique, and because I wish to improve my English. I chose the Chamber because it’s an important center of business in the Miami area that can give me lot of experience. I have learned that the members of the Chamber are very nice and a wonderful networking community. I am incredibly grateful to the Chamber for giving me this opportunity.” Wendy Wassouf – 2013 “I am here first of all to improve my English.
I found it’s a city that can teach me a lot about professional and personal development. Plus, people recommended Miami Beach to me. I was looking for an internship that would put me in touch with the business community, and that is why I chose the Chamber.” Melchior Fagniez – 2013 “Miami Beach … it’s a prestigious destination, where in times of global crisis, the economy is thriving thanks to tourism. So why did I choose the Chamber of Commerce? Because it is an organization that brings together all sectors of activity in Miami Beach.” Sandy Aronson – 2013 “I live in Miami Beach and I love this town. I chose the Chamber because it seemed like a really great opportunity to be able to connect with professionals in Miami Beach. I have learned office work and event-planning skills. I even planned my own event; it was very exciting and rewarding.” Spencer Bomstein – 2013 “I chose Miami Beach because it is a very interesting place with a lot of culture. In my opinion, the Chamber is a great experience and for a résumé it’s very nice. It’s an important organization in Miami. For my part, it’s a good internship; I benefit from the relation
between the interns, and we can share our culture. It’s a great connection.” Ethan Katz- 2013 “As a lifelong Miami beach resident, I saw the chamber of commerce as a great place to earn insight in to what makes our local businesses thrive. Just like the city itself, the office features people of all different nationalities, making this internship an experience that is truly broadening my knowledge of global cultures.” Astrid Conconne – 2012 “I chose to go to Miami because it’s an amazing example of the tourism industry for Caribbean students like me. Miami is also a good destination for professional opportunities when you speak French. It was a wonderful experience. The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce is simply the best opportunity to introduce yourself to the business industry of Miami, and all when I was just 20. You can meet very experienced people and prove your competence everyday. Thanks to the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce I significantly improved my English. I also made a number of professional contacts. This year I will graduate with my B.A. in Business in Martinique, and I hope to come back soon to Miami to continue my professional development with the Chamber.”
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South Beach Welcomes a New Watering Hole at the Lord Balfour Hotel
A new handsome bar debuts in the South of Fifth neighborhood in Miami Beach. A bit of Britain invades the South Beach scene, as Lord Balfour takes on its original moniker with a playful design and English inspired bar menu. Handcrafted cocktails mix the goodness of freshly muddled ingredients along with infusions of tea that play upon the British theme from a Tower of London to Buckingham Palace to Downing Street. A Picadilly Circus is a paradoxical remedy, blending the benefits of green tea with lemon juice and mint, a concoction that stands up to its rum base while seltzer provides a hint of effervescence. Tower of London gets the sweet and spice of the tropics with a complimentary mix of aged rum, coconut reduction, and mixed fruit
juice that meets a splash of lime and dusting of nutmeg. A few hearty brews sourced from the UK round out Balfour’s bar menu, from the English Old Ale, Theakston’s Old Peculier to more recognizable names such as Sam Smith’s IPA. Just as in the boldly flavored drinks, an overall witty design is just as irreverent as the UK Prime Minister’s character himself. You’ll be greeted with expressions Lord Balfour is most famous for highlighted on a backlit origami scroll makes a dramatic mark as a canopy in the hotel’s lobby. Enjoy a spot at the bar or you may end up lingering on the cushy seating on the expansive shaded veranda while taking in Ocean Drive. It won’t cost you a King’s Ransom to have
a few drinks as specialty cocktails start at $12, and two for one specials take place from 5:00 pm -7:00 pm daily Monday – Thursday. Lord Balfour is located at 350 Ocean Drive. Rates start at $199. For more information on Lord Balfour, or to make a reservation, please visit www.lordbalfourmiami.com or call 305-673-0401. ABOUT LORD BALFOUR The Lord Balfour is a boutique hotel of 64 rooms and suites on Ocean Drive, South of Fifth Street, in a neighborhood better known as “SoFi” to the South Beach locals. Sitting steps away from warm, turquoise waters and white sandy beach, the hotel is located in the heart of the Art Deco district and near the city’s ever growing arts and
culture scene. The Lord Balfour makes a wink to the Brits, and delivers a distinctive experience and chic vintage style that merges with a thoroughly modern setting. The expansive veranda provides the perfect place to people watch while enjoying a refreshing tea-infused cocktail from the lobby bar. The interior landscaped courtyard, fringed with palms, provides a tranquil retreat to enjoy a morning coffee or refreshing beverage. Lord Balfour is located at 350 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida. Phone: 305.673.0401 Fax: 305.674.9634 www.lordbalfourmiami.com indie boutique hotels and resorts™
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Hot and Spicy:
Miami Beach Restaurants open and ready for Miami Spice Months
It’s baaaccck. The popular Miami Spice restaurant promotion comes back for an encore this year, bringing delicious eats and new restaurants – plus old favorites – to the shores of Miami Beach. Miami Spice showcases the best of Miami and Miami Beach cuisine and features some of the most talked about eateries in the city and their renowned chefs. “The city looks forward to Miami Spice every year,” says Jeff Lehman, Chair, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority. “It’s a great opportunity for residents and visitors to sample our great restaurants without breaking the bank. Miami Spice is fun and tasty.” During August and September, Miami Beach’s top restaurants offer three-course
meals (Lunches $19 or $23, Dinners $33 or $39) featuring signature dishes created by well-known chefs. Back August 1September 30, 2013, Miami Spice is a foodie’s dream come true with discoveries and delicious dishes around every corner. In addition to incredible food at remarkable prices, Miami Spice participants can check out events and special offers at a list of countless restaurants. Participating Miami Beach restaurants include BLT Steak at the Betsy Hotel, Altamare, 1500° at the Eden Roc, CATCH, The Dutch, Florida Cookery, The Forge, Khong River House, Meat Market, RED-The Steakhouse, Smith & Wollensky, Villa Azur and Scarpetta among many others.
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Full Service Pain Management Care
Accepting New Patients Minimal Waiting Times No Long Lines Kiley Reynolds, D.O. Interventional Pain Management Physician Board Certified and Fellowship Trained
American Board of Anesthesiology
8200 SW 117th Avenue, Suite 312, Miami, FL 33183
www.superiorpainsolutions.com Ph: 305.595.7246 Fax: 305 595 7242
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Lorenzo-Bomnin Chevrolet rolls out New Showroom, facility and car line By Jesse Scheckner Drive by Lorenzo-Bomnin Chevrolet, located at 8455 S. Dixie Hwy. and one thing is immediately evident: drastic improvements are being made. Although construction for the dealership is still roughly two months away from completion, the two-time GM Mark of Excellence award-winning business, led by partners Lorenzo Llerena and Arnaldo Bomnin, already looks better than ever. The new facility is 34,000 sq. feet in its entirety, with a 4,300 sq. foot showroom and a massive 15,400 sq. foot air conditioningready garage stocked with high end, state of the art equipment. The new main building houses 28 personnel offices, a general office, and has a repositioned storefront that places the showroom in direct view of US1complete with all of the latest Chevrolet- approved designs. It is the most up to date Chevrolet facility in South Florida and the only one being rebuilt from scratch. “The visibility of the design is great, and we now have a lot more exposure from US1 into the showroom,” says Llerena. It’s great for Chevrolet, for the area and for us as deal-
ers. I think it’s a win-win for everybody.” Originally built as a gas station during the 1940’s, the property was later repurposed as a car dealership. Its small size made it impossible to provide many modest amenities, however. Among the things Llerena and Bomnin are most excited about is the opportunity to reward their customers’ loyalty with a much more accommodating setting that includes a new customer lounge outfitted with a large flat screen television and a dedicated internet room equipped with free wi-fi. Customers bringing in their vehicles for service are provided with free carwashes and there is a point-accumulation reward system for repeat visitors. “We’re very excited that we are able to offer customers much better conditions now,” he says. “They were very loyal to us in the old facility and we’re thrilled to offer them a much improved environment.” All of this remodeling coincides with the largest product revamp in General Motors’ history, with almost 70 percent of their 2014 vehicles being gorgeously redesigned including the Silverado, Colorado, Tahoe, Suburban, Malibu, Impala and the Corvette, of
which they are the number one dealer in the entire southeast region of the United States, year to date. The new rollout also will include the debut of the Chevy SS (Sports Sedan), which boasts a sedan exterior with a Corvette engine. Both Llerena and Bomnin are first generation (l-r) Lorenzo Llerena and Arnaldo Bomnin proudly stand in Cuban immigrants their beautiful new showroom who came to the U.S. during the 1990’s with no family or money. Neither of better way is there to do it than with an Amerthem spoke English when they arrived and it ican brand that is so iconic?” he says. “We was through sheer will, determination and both came to this country with absolutely strategic planning that they got to where they nothing at all and I feel extremely privileged are today as the only 100 percent Hispanic- and grateful to this nation for the opportunity it has given us.” owned Chevrolet dealership in the region. “The way I see it, my partner and I are the For more information, call 305-740-7475 or realization of the American dream, and what visit <www.lorenzobomninchevrolet.com>.
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2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is bigger, has more power Grant Miller CAR CORNER The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe (LWB) impressed me as a leisure commuter vehicle and shuttle transport for the kids. The ride is comfortable and the cabin is whisper quiet at all speeds, while the acceleration is smooth and there is very little turbo lag. The new Santa Fe with the long wheelbase differs from its sibling Sport model by adding a third row of seating to make room for seven adults. The Sport went on sale last year and offered a bold design, highoutput powertrains with Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and a host of features to please consumers who wanted functionality, versatility and comfort. The latest thirdgeneration Santa Fe (LWB) raises the bar even higher with impressive performance, attractive styling, a high-quality interior and a laundry list of standard features. Hyundai engineers designed the Santa Fe Sport and the larger three-row Santa Fe together, with the side-window shape of the
larger vehicle differentiating the two, denoting the increased passenger and cargo room behind the third-row seat. The Santa Fe (LWB) also gets its own bodyside character lines from the B-pillar back, a unique grille design, 18-inch Euroflange alloy wheels, chrome-tipped dual exhaust and a flush-mounted tow hitch design. The smaller Sport is offered in Base and 2.0T trims. Standard features on the Base include 17-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt-andtelescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system and a six-speaker audio system. The 2.0T adds a turbocharged engine, 19-inch wheels, keyless ignition/entry, heated front seats and an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat. The larger Santa Fe (LWB) model is available in GLS and Limited trims and has much the same base equipment as the base Sport model, but has more power with a V6 engine. It also comes with 18-inch wheels and sliding second- and third-row seats for easy access. The Limited model replaces the second-row bench seat with captain’s chairs, but reduces the seating capacity to six. It includes the Sport 2.0T features and adds a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic
Hyundai Santa Fe (LWB) has distinctive body character lines and side window shape, unique grille design and 18-inch alloy wheels. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
climate control, leather upholstery, heated second-row seats and a power passenger seat. Options for the bigger Santa Fe include a navigation system, panoramic sunroof and a premium sound system. For power, the Sport comes with either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder (190 hp and 181 pound-feet of torque) or (in the 2.0T) a more powerful, turbocharged 2.0-liter four (264 hp and 269 pound-feet). The larger Santa Fe has a 3.3-liter V-6 (290 hp and 252 pound-feet) and can tow as much as
5,000 pounds. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard across the line and all Santa Fe models have front-wheel drive as standard; all-wheel drive is optional. Pricing on the 2013 Sport and Santa Fe models ranges from $24,700 to $34,850. Grant Miller is the publisher of Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or by addressing email to <Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com>.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Dept. earns Water Conservation Award BY JENNIFER L. MESSEMER
Audubon Florida presented the MiamiDade Water and Sewer Department (WASD) its annual Excellence in Water Conservation Award recently during a Miami-Dade County Commission meeting. The award celebrates outstanding dedication to caring for Florida’s water resources and promoting water conservation for the environment. “One of the most important things we can do for the Everglades is to conserve water,” said Eric Draper, executive director of Audubon Florida. “Miami-Dade County’s water conservation program, ‘Use Less,’ exemplifies this commitment to water conservation through quantifiable results.” Miami-Dade County’s reduction of water usage as a result of conservation has been outstanding. Residents and visitors in Miami-Dade County have helped conserve an estimated 10 million gallons per day, exceeding the water savings goal by 39
percent since the implementation of the 20year water conservation plan in 2007. Miami-Dade County’s program also sets longer term goals. By 2017, the county projects they will save 14.25 million gallons of water per day. “We are conscious of needing to be good stewards of one of our most precious natural resources — water,” said WASD director John Renfrow. “Not only do we have to provide safe, potable drinking water to more than 2.3 million customers and visitors each day, but we have to ensure that there is water available for future generations.” That’s where WASD’s conservation programs and the public can continue to help “use less.” The department offers free high efficiency showerheads when residents exchange them for older models, as well as high efficiency toilet rebates and landscape irrigation evaluations. For more information on these and other WASD programs, visit <www.miamidade.gov/water> or call 3-1-1.
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The A, B, C’s on Hemorrhoids: Aggravating, Bothersome but Curable!
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pain as well. While everyone has hemorrhoids, we typically do not start referring to them as such until they start causing problems.
What causes Hemorrhoids? Pregnancy, lack of dietary fiber, heavy lifting and constipation are common hemorrhoid triggers. We are all at risk. Hemorrhoids don’t discriminate – we can all get them!
What Are The Symptoms? Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the hemorrhoidal changes. Internal hemorrhoids typically cause issues which include swelling, prolapse, itching and bleeding, but they typically do not cause pain. External hemorrhoids, which are covered by very sensitive skin, can be painful, as can conditions including anal fissures (a tear in the anal lining). Bleeding, whether found on the toilet tissue or found in the toilet bowl, is what most often brings patients to their doctors for evaluation and treatment.
o you have hemorrhoids. You’re not alone. Most adults in this country eventually develop hemorrhoids - half of us have them by age 50 and three quarters of us will have issues at some point during our lifetime! It is now estimated that over 25 million Americans are affected. All races, both sexes, and all ages are susceptible.
What Are Hemorrhoids? They are simply cushions of tissue containing blood vessels that occur in the last couple of inches of the rectum. In affected patients, these cushions become loose, and the vessels enlarge, causing problems which include swelling and bleeding. Other problems which may occur include itching, prolapse, and even leakage of stool, and they are often associated with conditions causing
Do you need to treat hemorrhoids? Diagnosis is an important first step in treatment. Often, patients present with bleeding, which can also be found in more serious conditions of the colon and rectum. For this reason, many patients need other diagnostic
tests, such as a colonoscopy, in order to make certain that the bleeding is simply coming from their hemorrhoids as opposed to one of these other conditions. When other conditions have been ruled out, hemorrhoid treatment may begin. If left untreated, hemorrhoids can come and go but reoccurrence is likely to continue until the underlying problem is treated. What is the most effective treatment? There are several methods of hemorrhoid treatment available today. These methods range from surgery, which is very painful, to infrared coagulation to ultroid, both have higher complication rates and longer recuperation time. The non-surgical CRH O’Regan System, utilizing a technique known as band ligation, offers a painless, effective, and safe alternative to these surgical options. How does it work? By using a disposable plastic device, the doctor uses soft suction to draw hemorrhoid tissue into the ligator and then slips a tiny
rubber band around the tissue. With its blood supply cut off, the hemorrhoid slowly shrivels up and falls off. Most patients will require three treatments and will often start seeing their symptoms disappear right away. Where can you get rubber banding? Dr. Leon Egozi in Miami Beach, Aventura and Sunny Isles offers the gold-standard in hemorrhoid care, the CRH O’Regan System. It is a single-use, non-surgical device that treats all grades of hemorrhoids easily and painlessly by rubber band ligation. This simple procedure is performed in the office and is effective in treating 99.1% of patients with symptomatic hemorrhoid disease. No prep or sedation is needed, and patients typically return to work the same day. Should I be worried? No!Hemorrhoids are annoying, uncomfortable, and often embarrassing, but never serious. Book an appointment for your hemorrhoids and get treated today. Call Dr. Leon Egozi’s office at 305-504-2110 and start feeling better today!
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
ATTENTION PARENTS: Lauren goes to Vanderbilt at a $39,030.00 Discount! What DOES SHE KNOW that 22,000 Florida families DON’T?
Learn how to get your child into the college they want at a DISCOUNTED price you can afford! Peter Ratzan — a long-time Floridian, former teacher and a certified college funding advisor — will be hosting “Trends in College: What Every Family Should Know About Planning and Paying for College Today.” During this free workshop, Ratzan will offer tips and advice for parents of college bound teens. Topics include: • How to research and assemble the perfect college list — with great schools that meet your child’s academic and social needs AND have money to give. • Why our state universities can cost more than the so-called pricey private colleges (even if you have Bright Futures and the Florida Pre-Paid program). • How Financial Aid Is Calculated and Why The Advice of Your Financial Advisor or CPA May Cost You Thousands In College Scholarships. • How to Avoid Financial Aid Scams and dubious ‘loan’ options and instead optimize your chances for legitimate scholarships and grants. • What You Can Do to reduce your out-of-pocket costs and pay for college on a tax-favored basis, if you did not receive enough financial aid. • MORE
July 31, 2013 at 6:30 pm at Pinecrest Community Center, 5855 SW 111th St. If you are the parent of a high school student, the time to start planning is NOW! The workshop is free and sales-pitch free, but not attending could cost you thousands.
Reserve your seat by visiting www.LearnCollegeFunding.com Space is limited!
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State-of-the-Art Hair Transplant Procedure Now in Aventura “Neograft at NeoGenesis Hair Institute is absolutely the easiest and most effective hair replacement procedure available; I’m ecstatic with my results and will recommend this to everyone who needs hair replacement.” NeoGenesis Hair Institute in Aventura is now offering a three tiered system for hair replacement therapy which includes the NeoGraft hair replacement system as well as photo-regeneration and nutrient supplementation for maximum results. NeoGraft is a relatively new automated device which facilitates the extraction of hair follicles and assists in implanting them in the desired area. It is a minimally invasive procedure where individual hair follicular units are extracted from the back of the scalp via the NeoGraft machine. The grafts are then placed into the recipient site with very little manipulation to those grafts. Unlike the traditional strip method, which requires a block of hair bearing scalp to be cut out and then sliced down into individual follicular units, our grafts are essentially perfect the way they are. This is a minimally invasive hair transplant method which requires very little downtime, minimal discomfort, and no stitches or linear scar. Scientific data support up to 95% survival of hair follicles—among the highest in the industry! The latest techniques in hairline design is incorporated by Board Certified physicians to ensure your transplant will look as natural as possible. Photo-regeneration of the scalp tissue facilitates hair growth of the newly transplanted follicles in two main ways using a red wavelength light and green wavelength light. Studies show that the red wavelength light combats oxygen deficiency—one of the main culprits of hair loss. The red light is effective for hair regrowth because it stimulates energy production of the follicle. The green light increases oxygen availability to the folli-
cles by breaking down harmful chemical byproducts that can ultimately cause loss or death of a follicle. The combined effect of these two lights has been shown to improve hair density and decreases the amount of hair shedding or loss. The final tier of the treatment involves the Viviscal Professional Hair Growth System, a scientifically formulated system of hair products and supplements. The Shampoo and Leave-in Conditioner are scientifically designed for those concerned with thinning, fragile and delicate hair. These products moisturize hair leaving it fuller and healthier by infusing the hair with essential vitamins and marine nutrients. The Viviscal Professional Supplements compliment the hair products by nourishing the thinning hair and promoting existing hair growth from within. These supplements are 100% drug free, contain Active Ingredients, and provide essential nutrients needed to nourish thinning hair, promote hair growth, increase hair density and diameter, and help the body metabolize nutrients which are building blocks of protein, an essential nutrient for growth of healthy hair. This is a dietary supplement specifically formulated with marine complex. In the hands of an artistic and knowledgeable, board certified, two-physician team Medical Directors Andrew P. Amunategui, MD and Marc G. Apple, MD of NeoGenesis Hair Institute of Aventura, using their revolutionary “triple combination” approach, provide a unique and unsurpassed state-of-the-art solution to hair loss in men and women now available locally in Aventura. Please see or advertisement with summer promotions in today’s issue of the Aventura News. For more information please call NeoGenesis Hair Institute at (305) 933-1003. We are conveniently located at 21355 East Dixie Highway, Ste. 109, Aventura, FL.
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Local Attorney’s Pro Bono Program Helps Homeowners By Gloria Burns As the epicenter of the housing market implosion and ground zero for foreclosures, Florida has an abundance of homeowners who are at a great disadvantage when foreclosure threatens. Miami courts are now fast tracking foreclosures for trial to clear the huge backlog of cases. Many homeowners wrongfully lose their homes to foreclosure because they are not able to hire trial lawyers who can protect them. Former Bank Lawyer, Bruce Jacobs, of
Bruce Jacobs and Associates, decided to help homeowners in this predicament and launched a Pro-Bono Foreclosure Project to help needy homeowners set for trial on Miami’ rocket docket. One such homeowner, Stephen Belle, moved here from Grenada using his savings after working years on a cruise ship, to buy a home. As he waited in court with a friend, Stephen thought of how the loss of his job would cause him to lose everything he had worked for and prayed. He was prepared to represent himself in a foreclosure preceding against a bank attorney. This was certainly not on a level playing field but he had little choice. His prayers were answered when out of the blue, he was approached by Bruce Jacobs. Jacobs was in court to help with another pro bono case that was postponed and decided to see who else might need help. After litigating for 2 ½ hours, Jacobs negotiated a successful conclusion and saved Belle’s home. “Banks are using robo-witnesses and
breaking the rules,” states Jacobs. Jacobs’ goal is to make sure even the most needy have a fighting chance to save their home. After seeing the list of people set for trial on March 14th, Jacobs went through the court files, found people he thought he could help, like Belle, and reached out. “It was like a gift from above,” said attorney Mark Fladdell, who suffers from multiplesclerosis. “I was literally staring at my file about to give up defending the foreclosure when Bruce called offering to go to trial for me on the 14th.”
"No Bank should take someone’s home unless they follow the rules and prove their case” said Jacobs. “Most Judges will follow the law if there is a lawyer pointing out that the law is not being followed.” Jacobs fights banks every day and is also the host of “Mortgage Wars with Bruce Jacobs”, a weekly radio program that airs Wednesdays, 5 p.m., on 880 AM the Biz, WZAB in Miami. It is the most informative hour on foreclosures on talk radio. Bruce Jacobs & Associates is based in downtown Miami and defends foreclosures throughout Florida. Jacobs is part of “Max Gardner’s Army” and trains at seminars online and around the country on cutting edge foreclosure strategies and tactics. Jacobs is a former bank lawyer and Miami-Dade County prosecutor who spent years representing banks in foreclosures.
For a FREE consultation with Bruce Jacobs & Associates, call (305) 444-2242
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Ann Arbor, Michigan is Much More Than Wolverine Territory BY DEBBIE MARTINEZ
When you think of Ann Arbor you think of the University of Michigan but there is so much more afoot on the streets of this university town. Whether you are a Wolverine alum, parent of an incoming student or just traveling in the vicinity of Ann Arbor, one must stop and explore this vibrant and eclectic Midwestern community. ìDoing Life Differentî is the slogan on the Ann Arbor Convention and Visitors Bureau website and yes, they do, and it is so refreshing. To spend time here was a breath of fresh air, literally. I came to realize how proud the people of Ann Arbor are of their community, how much they value sustainability and the environment and their entrepreneurial spirit is contagious. First stop on my tour was Blimpy Burger, which is a landmark burger pit stop. Don’t let the size of the establishment fool you. Small in comparison to other burger haunts but offering a seat in Ann Arbor history, it serves up its famous burgers in a sundry of ways and sizes. The only way to not feel guilty after indulging in a fully loaded burger, fried onion rings and veggies was to go shopping. FYI, a woman can justify anything, so off to Main Street I went. Exploring downtown with its outdoor dining, sidewalk cafes and unique shops was a lesson in self-control. So many shops, so little time. Wandering down one of the side streets, I found myself in front of an old bookstore called West Side Book Shop that dates back to 1888. Venturing in, I made my way through the labyrinth of books to a room where the sound of typewriter keys broke the heavy silence. ìSo sorry,î I whispered, as eyes looked my way. A smile crossed his face and for the next hour, as I sat on a small wooden stool, he shared his bookshop stories. How an eleven-year-old girl walked in requesting a typewriter because she wanted to write a TV pilot and how she had saved up her allowance all summer to buy one. We shared our thoughts on many things and as I sat there looking at the prints that lined the old cream-colored walls, the sound of the keys, as he resumed his typing, lulled me back to a different time. ìThank you,î I said, as my time was drawing to a close with my newfound friend. ìAnytime,î he answered and waved as I crossed the threshold of his little room. ìThe energy in a bookshop is so magical,î I thought, as the sound of the tiny bell above the door announced my departure. Next, my travels brought me to a fabulously fun store called Rock, Paper, Scissors. Cupcake Station, where you can choose from 21 varieties of cupcakes (Hint to Moms of University of Michigan students) and Michigan Theater, a grand old theatre, built in 1928 with its opulent gold staircase, was the perfect venue for their showing of The Great
Gatsby, rounded out my walkabout. Making my way back into the center of town, the music from one of the bistros lured me into lingering just a bit longer than my watch told me I should. A short drive away in Chelsea is the Purple Rose Theater. Founded in 1991 by Chelsea native and actor, Jeff Daniels, the theater is his vision of a company that develops acting opportunities for Michigan theatre professionals. Sitting in this intimate theater I wondered what the acting would be like as 33 Variations began. I only have two words to describe what I witnessed for the next couple of hoursÖ.Broadway quality. The acting was superb and the story was very moving. This coupled with dinner at Conor O’Neill’s Irish Pub made for a memorable evening. Enter through the doors of an Irish pub. Literally. This pub was designed and built in Ireland. The menu is authentic Irish fare with the flour to make their bread being imported from Ireland. I ordered, what else? Corn beef and cabbage and tasted some of their Sheperd’s Pie along with the best bread pudding I have ever had. Ever. As I savored the last bite, I noticed this Irish saying painted on the wall, ìYou’ll never plough a field by turning it over in your mind.î Food for thought. Returning to my accommodations at the Hilton Garden Inn, I stopped for a bit by the fire-pit to recapture my first day in Ann Arbor. Having never been to Michigan, I was of no opinion but after being here for just one day, I have a very strong opinion of a place that truly does do life differently. I am excited for what unexpected surprises tomorrow will bring. Up and out to the breakfast bar at the hotel early the next morning. What a great selection and it couldn’t be a better start to a day than eating breakfast by the fireplace and stopping off at the coffee cart on the way back to my room. Motawi Tile was my first stop and what a learning experience. I had no idea how tiles were made and found the tour quite interesting. I got to see first hand people working at different stages of the tile making process. Each tile is handmade and the selection and design of Nawal Motawi’s tiles are very impressive. Her tiles are made with local clays and glazes using her own recipes for colors.
There was a stop at well-known Zingerman’s Deli and Morgan and York, both specialty food stores that have everything imaginable for the discerning palate. They both ship so you are not limited to experiencing their fare when only in Ann Arbor. Lunch was held at Mark’s Carts. Now, this is a man with that entrepreneurial spirit that seems to reign supreme in Ann Arbor. He owns Downtown Home and Garden, which is not your run of the mill garden store. He then decided that at night, when the store closed down, he would turn his little parking area into a community gathering place and Bam! The Beer Garden, self-described as a living room complete with TV, drinks and fire-pit, was born. I guess he felt that he had more time on his hands, so he took a very small, cement covered area on the side of his store and turned it into Mark’s Carts, eight food carts with different styles of food. Passing by all the carts, I could feel my stress level going up as I couldn’t decide what to get, it all looked and smelled so good! The afternoon activities included a visit to The Brinery, where I was treated to one of David Klibenberger’s workshops on fermenting. His store is one of many of the area’s local shops and specializes in brinefermented sauerkraut, kimchi and pickles, which are hand mixed, no machines allowed. This is a guy that lives his passion and it shows in his eyes and in his enthusiasm as he instructed us city slickers. Microbreweries, and there are multitudes, were next on the circuit. Arbor Brewing Company, Original Gravity Brewing, Grizzly Peak Brewing Company and Wolverine State Brewing are just a few that make up an important part of the food scene in Ann Arbor. Pacing yourself is an art that you need to acquire sooner than later. Don’t ask me how I know this. Evening was settling in as I made my way to a very, very interesting restaurant, The Raven. Dimly lit with a gothic feel, I was escorted to my table where I was promptly brought a sandwich. Not just any sandwich. This was a smokey peanut butter, morbier cheese and date jam on toasted walnut bread that was from a Buddhist bakery. I hesitantly took a bite, sat there for a second and took another bite with a fabulous glass of wine
that was their recommendation. As I ate in the glow of a nearby oversized, standing chandelier, I was silently wondering how I could politely ask for one to go. The dimming of the night sky ushered me into the Performance Network Theater to see the Michigan premiere of Katori Hall’s play The Mountaintop. This is a play about Martin Luther King’s last night on this earth. Not being a history buff I had my reservations as to my enjoyment level, all of which were quickly dispelled when the lights went up. I spent the next hour and a half glued to my set and wishing I could see an encore performance. Dawn broke with me on the treadmill at the hotel. Let me digress for a moment here. I am not a foodie. My days are spent eating bland chicken with salads. This is not due to dieting but because I’ve never really cared about food, so when I tell you that the restaurants in Ann Arbor captivated my palate, I’m dead serious, hence, the hour on the treadmill. In my repertoire of restaurants, there was The Grange, The Earle that offered French and Italian Country cooking, Vinology with its fine wine tastings, Mani Osteria Bar where you are treated to a sundry of ìsharing platesî and Frita Batidos which offers Cuban food like you will never have in Miami. The crisped plantains were exceptional. Now, back to the day at hand. Antiquing in Ypsilanti brought me face to face with the most mesmerizing stain glass I’ve ever seen at Materials Unlimited. Roaming Schmidt’s Antiques and Salt City Antiques made for a full afternoon. Kayaking on the Huron River brought me to a place of peacefulness I hadn’t felt in a long time. As I kayaked down the river, I couldn’t help but think how lucky I was to stumble across such an amazing place as Ann Arbor. Who knew? My last night in town was a flurry of nightlife. I started out at The Ark, which is an intimate 400 seat club that presents performers from a wide range of genres. My last stop found me at the red door of The Last Word where I felt like I was walking into a 1920’s speakeasy. Dim lighting and dark wood paneling with bookcases lent itself to a cozy, intimate feel. Taking my seat at the bar and striking up a banter with the bartender, I was transported back to a place where ìeveryone knows your name.î As the music played soft enough not to drone out my thoughts, I said a silent thank you for such a memorable way to end my stay in a place where time took a vacation. For more information visit www.visitannarbor.org or for a full list of websites of places mentioned in this article, visit my website www.debbiemmartinez.com and click on Travel then Ann Arbor. Debbie Martinez is a Miami Dade resident and Travel Editor for the Miami’s Community Newspapers. She can be reached at debbiemartinez1@mac.com
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