SFG Magazine | March / April 2013 | Social Fashion Gourmet by Social Florida's Guide

or places we’re written about and adore. We’re so proud of our fashion coverage as well. From bringing attention to local designers manufacturing right here in the America, to our multi-location fashion feature, you can find a hot look for every fashion personality in our pages.

e are so excited to continue to evolve the SFG brand. In the future, we’ll be focusing more on social events, fashion features and gourmet goodies, so each issue is sure to have something for everyone. With so many restaurants in the city, a comment we hear from our readers time and time again is, “Where would you go?” We heard you loud and clear! We’ve redesigned our restaurant guide to include only SFG recommended venues: places we’ve reviewed and loved,

There are also plenty of features on some of Miami’s most influential movers and shakers- with a twist of course! We’ve featured those giving back in some way, making sure that our city becomes an even better place to live while they work hard to rise to the top. We’re so grateful for the support and encouragement we’ve received from our readers. We hope that the changes we’ve made show how much we were listening and how much we care! Cheers!

Alexis Weinberg CEO

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CEO: Alexis Weinberg Assistant to the CEO: Manuel Ramos General Director AWP Group: William Rey Office Manager: Silvia Chowdhury Managing Editor: Arlyene Marie Ponce

Writers: Arlyene Marie Ponce Francesca Cruz Ivette Danica Marquez Maria Salas Web Designer: Omer Haviv Webmaster: Sergio Sanchez

Art Director: Claudio Monzoni www.cmn.mx Director of Photography: Gabriel Bancora Videographer: Levi Matthews III Contributing Photographers: Betty Alvarez Levi Matthews III

Contributors: Salim Rubiales, Vida Online TV.Com Photographer: Max Reed AWP GROUP Miami Beach, Florida 305-359-3675 info@socialfloridasguide.com

COVER Location: The Betsy Hotel Photographer: Levi Matthews III

Social Florida’s Guide is a registered trademark, free bimonthly publication, produced and edited by AWP Group. The advertisements published here are the responsibility of its authors and not necessarily of the publication. All rights reserved.

FEATURED CONTENT 14

Behind The Betsy Interview with Jonathan Plutzik

Women of Tomorrow Making a Difference Today 18

Celebrate 25 Years

Michelle Aguirre Miss Florida USA

The Actorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre

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INSIDE CONTENT FASHION 6 Fashion Feature 22 Hot on the Market 30 Wrist Royalty 32 Made in Miami 36 Miss Florida USA HEALTH & WELLNESS

TRAVEL & LEISURE

45 Instant Inspiration

46 Biltmore Spa & Terra Dolce

48 Titan of Tightening

76 Miami Skyline

52 Eternal Youth

78 Featured Events

LIFESTYLE

NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

14 The Betsy 28 St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day 54 Vida Miami TV 88 Upcoming Events

18 Women of Tomorrow 24 Miracle Theatre 42 Michael Capponi 50 Christina Ward DRINKING & DINING 56 The Guide 59 Featured Recipe 63 Villa by Barton G 65 Dining Trends 67 Peruse Like A Pro 75 Featured Cocktail

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LOCATION: ASTOR SUITE, HOTEL ASTOR, MIAMI BEACH ZELLA MACHADO SWIMWEAR: Katie De Luca: Candace ($190) Gia Acevedo: Doutzen ($220) Nancy Sayegh: Rochelle ($150) VENISSAC: Sebastian Hart- Bali Print ($115) Jeans Linen Light Grey ($115) BLOOMINGDALE’S AVENTURA & MAXIMILIAN FURS: Ladies Shoes, Purses, Furs

Photography: Max Reed Lighting Assistants: Jake Pierce, Ernesto Prieto Stylists: Chingya Ni, Luccia Lowenthal MUA: Vee Marie Marquez Assistant: Carolina Mendez Production Coordinator: Arlyene Marie Ponce

COATS TO COAST

ZELLA MACHADO SWIMWEAR: Katie De Luca- Nahla top, Kaskade bottom Gia Acevedo- Veronik top/bottom Nancy Sayegh- Kaskade top, Nahla bottom VENISSAC: Sebastian Hart- Deuville Seers Stripe ($115) Cotton Stretch White Pants ($115) BLOOMINGDALEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AVENTURA & MAXIMILIAN FURS: Ladies Shoes, Purses, Furs

CAR COLLECTOR: Dirk De Groen, of Dirk’s Garage) 1970s BMW Cabrio ZELLA MACHADO SWIMWEAR: Gia Acevedo: Rebecka ($190) Nancy Sayegh: Larissa bottom ($90) Fiona top ($100) VENISSAC: Sebastian Hart: Natural Linen Jacket ($225), Linen pants ($115) Puple Ibiza shirt ($115) BLOOMINGDALE’S AVENTURA & MAXIMILIAN FURS: Ladies Shoes, Purses, Furs

By Arlyene Marie Ponce

BEHIND THE BETSY

INTERVIEW WITH JONATHAN PLUTZIK WHILE SEARCHING FOR PLACES TO SHOOT OUR COVER WITH MISS FLORIDA, WE LEARNED MORE ABOUT THE RICH HISTORY OF THE BETSY HOTEL AND HOW THEY ARE PIONEERING A PATH TO THE FUTURE. FROM UNIQUE CULTURAL INITIATIVES TO AN ELEGANT AMBIANCE FOR ALL, THIS SOUTH BEACH STAPLE IS NOTHING SHORT OF EXTRAORDINARY. WE SAT DOWN WITH THE BETSY’S OWNER, JONATHAN PLUTZIK, TO FIND OUT HOW HE MANAGED TO RESTORE NOT ONLY THE HOTEL’S EXTERIOR BUT ITS HEART AS WELL.

SFG: Jonathan, before acquiring The Betsy in 2005, your background didn’t include hospitality. What made you take the leap?

The Betsi Deck Chaise Lounges

Jonathan Plutzik: I had retired from investment banking 2002 and while preparing to sell our video game company in 2005, was spending my time working more and more in philanthropy. We had this idea that we could create a high-end luxury hotel that reflected our interests and values. We were spending time in Miami involved in another project, and came upon the Betsy Ross, as it was called then. The building’s architecture reflected our view that so many of the great hotels in the world have global colonial influences in their architecture,

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whether that be Spanish, Portuguese, English, etc (With its imposing colonial façade, The Betsy stands out among the pastel Art Deco properties on Ocean Drive).. We saw this as an incredibly exciting space – with light inside and out – day or night. The rest is history. SFG: Renovating in 2007 was a major undertaking. How did you decide what to upgrade and what to restore? JP: Our vision was to create a luxury boutique hotel that had a commitment to philanthropy, arts, and culture, and the only way to meet that objective was to do a comprehensive renovation. Of course, we

needed to preserve many of the design elements that made the Betsy stand out – our terrazzo floors are original, and our façade is just as we found it (but refreshed). Underneath the new front desk is the original desk from the old hotel. Our commitment to linking past and present led us toward preserving all we could of historic Betsy even while we were future directed in terms of comfort, utility, and ‘green’ conscience. SFG: My favorite part of the hotel has to be the beautiful rooftop where this edition’s cover with Miss Florida USA was shot. What do you love most about The Betsy? JP: In each of our spaces, including the roof, we tried to create a sense for our guests that they were ‘coming home’. So whether you’re in the lobby, a guest room, the terrace, or the roof deck, our spaces are meant to make you feel relaxed. There is also the smell of good food coming from the restaurant, great artwork on the walls, beautiful music in the air, and the ambience created by all of the books. What I love most about Betsy, and I’m so pleased when others tell me they appreciate it as well, is the way the things come together to make guests feel ‘at home’. SFG: A big part of why The Betsy is unique stem from your support

of the arts. What inspired you to reach out and support all these organizations? JP: I have a family that is deeply involved in the arts, both as practitioners and ardent supporters. As most people know by now, my father was a poet and I grew up knowing about the lives of artists and the importance of the work they do. I also understood the need for people to come together as partners – bringing their talents and interests to the table – each doing just a little something – with the result of that sharing making the world a better place. This is what we’ve tried to do at Betsy. During our first year, we reached out to the arts (and philanthropy) community to see what they needed. Many came back to us looking for a place to gather. So, in these last four years, we estimate that we have hosted thousands of charitable visitors through our doors. It’s been our privilege and we look forward to more partnerships moving forward. The pleasure (seriously) has been all ours! SFG: The Betsy runs so many initiatives from your room libraries to the Art Deco Jazz Festival, can you tell us a little more about your favorites?

JP: I’m really proud of all we do at The Betsy, from hosting poets and writers year-round in The Writer’s Room to having live music two nights a week to our special events like our recent events around Martin Luther King Day 2013. I guess it is fair to say I am most proud of things we do that most actively engage the community. Engagement, for us, though, is not measured only by numbers, we are equally proud of having (let’s say) a dozen thought leaders come into our conference center to discuss important ideas at a salon, as we are in welcoming 400 Miamians to hear Thomas L. Friedman speak. (Friedman was a VIP guest speaker for Betsy in 2011.)

BLT Steak Restaurant The Betsy Exterior

SFG: Due to your leadership, The Betsy really has become a cultural hub in what usually is a touristy wasteland. What have you found most rewarding about your work? JP: A couple of years ago, as part of our long-term association with the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus, we erected a Yoko Ono Wish Tree in

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Betsy Pools Thomas Friedman with Jonathan Plutzik Lummus Park (directly across the street from the hotel). Within just a few months, 5,000 international visitors placed personal wishes on the tree. On any given day one could look across the street and see people of all ages standing around the tree, sharing ideas as they were placing wishes. It’s a thrill to see – over and over again- the power of the arts in bringing people together. It’s one of the most rewarding aspects of our Betsy work. SFG: You have pioneered so many projects with The Betsy, what’s next for Miami’s cultural and social hub? JP: We have big ideas for the future. As we deepen the luxury hotel experience for global guests, we are also redoubling our commitment to relevant programming in the arts, culture, and philanthropy. Included on our list are new residency programs for writers in special genres, an intercultural collaborations program, exciting programming in the realms of new music and ideas, and new initiatives for veterans and their families. We are also deepening

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programs with current partners such as the Dranoff International 2 Piano Competition, O, Miami, the Jewish American and Holocaust Literature Association, as well as enriched collaboration with the Miami Dade County Public Schools, Florida International University, the James S. and John L. Knight Foundation, and the University of Miami Miller Center. SFG: I really love that The Betsy feels so authentic. A great testament to that is how well the locals have received The Betsy since you took over. How did you avoid the tourist trap? JP: Authenticity was critical for us. Superficiality was never an option. I was pleased when I invited my sister, Deborah Briggs, to work with me on the project and she accepted the invitation; with a quarter century in nonprofit leadership, a doctorate in the arts, and her own past as a successful performer, she has been able to connect with a broad cross section of the community and to do the work that we collectively feel is important. We operate in an atmosphere of mutual support. Our very capable and distinguished General Manager, Jeff Lehman, always reminds me, that the hotel business is one where excellence is key and authenticity is prized. Indeed, we engage our staff at Betsy – from entry level to leadership -- in our community-conscious work. Our staff’s ability to care for guests with true joy – is what makes the Betsy a

successful ‘home away from home’. Once again, authenticity is at its core. SFG: The Betsy has helped foster the growth of so many young people. You have been very successful in so many different aspects of business. What is your advice to future entrepreneurs? JP: One of our core book selections in Betsy Room Libraries is by author and businessman Dov Seidman, who wrote a book called ‘HOW – Why HOW we do anything means EVERYTHING’. Betsy culture is well aligned with Seidman’s work which provides a perfect framework for entrepreneurs, of all ages, who set out to fulfill their dreams: Do the right thing. I’m proud to report that the Betsy Philanthropy, Arts, and Culture Program brought Dov Seidman to Miami on April 1, 2013 to present a speech at FIU with President Mark Rosenberg; he also made a special presentation with Alberto Carvahlo to over 300 principals in the MDCPS system. We provided a copy of Dov’s book to everyone attending these events – as we believe it can provide a blueprint for a new way of working that will make the world a better place. SFG: What is the best advice you have ever received? JP: Best advice. Here is a quote by John Quincy Adams that Dov Seidman also often uses. “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more & become more, you are a leader.” The most important element (to me) of that quote concerns the notion of ‘action’. What you do really matters. Do what is right ... is probably the most important advice I ever received, and can offer those seeking leadership.

I THINK BEING A TEENAGER TODAY IS JUST LIKE IT WAS WHEN I WAS A TEENAGER. IT’S A RISKY TIME WHEN YOU’RE FACED WITH LOTS OF TEMPTATIONS AND HAVE JUST ENOUGH FREEDOM TO MAKE BAD CHOICES. By Arlyene Marie Ponce

ounded in Miami in 1997, The Women of Tomorrow Mentor and Scholarship Program helps at-risk public high school girls by pairing them with highly accomplished female mentors. Each year 131 high schools participate in this program. 2,500 at-risk girls lives are changed as they go through monthly mentoring sessions lead by over 350 successful female mentors. The girls are placed into small groups and are exposed to opportunities that would have otherwise not been available to them including personal and professional training, and education on goal setting and achievement.

Women of Tomorrow MAKING A DIFFERENCE TODAY The program’s results are outstanding: girls participating in the program have a high school graduation rate of 92% and 91% go on to enroll in higher education. The Women of Tomorrow Mentor and Scholarship Program continues their support by offering scholarships. To date, they have awarded over $3 million in scholarships to 1000 deserving women for higher education costs. The Women of Tomorrow Mentor and Scholarship was founded by Jennifer Valoppi during her time as the main news anchor at WTVJ NBC 6 in Miami. Jennifer saw that a big part of the problem were the attitudes women had about themselves. We sat down with the accomplished journalist, author and mentor to learn more. SFG: It took a lot of courage to go out and say, “The research was clear – the real problem with true equality for women is not so much that

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men think that women are inferior, but that women agreed. And the women who do make it to the top like being the only ones there and don’t do anything to help other women along.” I know a lot of women, myself included, feel the same way. Did you ever worry that such honesty would backfire? JV: I’ve been a journalist my entire life. The truth is the truth and often it’s not politically appealing. So, I never gave it any thought. SFG: Studies have shown that while men tend to help each other in the workplace, it is often not that case with women. Have you found that addressing the problem head on has opened the doors for other women to discuss our competitiveness with each other? JV: Absolutely. And once that door is open and the realization comes to the forefront, I find that women are much more helpful and receptive

to each other. Sometimes we simply learn negative patterns and once those patterns are put into perspective you have the ability to change the behavior you don’t like. SFG: Founding anything takes a lot of time and effort, it is clear you really dedicated yourself to “Women of Tomorrow.” What made you so passionate about this cause? JV: I’m one of those people who actually believes that small groups of people can and do change the world. I started WOT when I was on television and that afforded me a certain amount of clout. I love the idea of using power for noble purposes and that’s something I want to encourage all women to do. The more we see

women using their power for good, whether it’s in business or social issues, the more I believe the world will become a more balanced place. SFG: When young girls go through your mentorship program, what do you feel is most important for them to take away from their experience?

MARISA TOCCIN DON BROWNE & JENNIFER VALOPPI

JV: That the present is not the future. The future is made every day with your deeds, dreams, hard work and intentions. We truly live in a country where you can come from anywhere and be anything. We take

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for granted things like education. Yet throughout the centuries and even today, there are those who won’t allow women to be educated, because they know education is power. And most importantly, there are so many dedicated and caring women out there mentoring these young women to help them create the best lives they can, and it is the responsibility of the girls to honor those efforts and live up to their potential and pay it forward to others. SFG: Can you share a time where a woman helped you along your path to success? JV: Professionally I was mostly surrounded by men and there just weren’t a lot of women around to mentor me. But on a personal level, my grandmother taught me that the human spirit is capable of much, much more than we think it is and that’s probably the best career advice I ever had.

THE PROGRAM’S RESULTS ARE OUTSTANDING: GIRLS PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM HAVE A HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION RATE OF 92% AND 91% GO ON TO ENROLL IN HIGHER EDUCATION

SFG: The world has changed so much in the 16 years since “Women of Tomorrow” was founded. Yet the issues you took on are still quite relevant to young women today. Are there any areas where you feel improvement has been made? Are there any new issues that face women today that you could not have seen coming almost 20 years ago? JV: I think being a teenager today is just like it was when I was a teenager. It’s a risky time when

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you’re faced with lots of temptations and have just enough freedom to make bad choices. As young women have taken on stronger roles, they have also increasingly become involved in more violent behaviors and gangs. The stakes are high. But with each young woman who makes good choices, she increases the likelihood that her children will do the same. SFG: The effect of positive role models has proven time and time again. Amy Poehler’s character in “Parks & Recreation” has a “Wall of Inspirational Women.” Ironic that a comedy would bring me to the profound realization that I had never taken the time to choose female role models to look toward for inspiration. Who would make your “Wall of Inspirational Women?” JV: Oh geez, there’s so many, from Oprah to Joan of Arc to Harriett Beecher Stowe, Betty Friedan and Rosa Parks. There’s Mother Theresa, all the Suffragettes, whose efforts led to women getting the right to vote only around 100 years ago, my grandmother and Malala Yousufza, that amazing child who was shot in the head last year by the Taliban for advocating women’s education – along with all the ordinary women out there who live their lives with dignity, always attempting to do the right thing, when it’s easier to do something else. Now you’ve got me thinking. Maybe I’ll make a wall like that in my office

Hot on the Market

GIVE BACK YOUR WAY By Arlyene Marie Ponce

here are many theories on the art of gift giving. Useful or beautiful? To spoil or show your sentiment? Why not give a gift that gives back? While donating to charity in lieu of a gift has become a popular option amongst celebrities, the wealthy and altruistic types alike, it’s certainly not something you’d do unless told. Purchase these pristine

pieces from Joan B. Hornig’s jewelry line and then choose where the profits will be donated. These pieces bring joy to the recipient when gifted and again when they choose where the donated profits will go. Of course, we can’t forget to mention the good the charity can spread with the donated funds. At its core, it’s an elegant way to give the gift of good-will. Oh, did we mention they’re a celeb favorite?

Joan Hornig Lapis Necklace

Joan Horning Earrings

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HOT ON MARKET

WHEN ASKED ABOUT HER UNIQUE BUSINESS MODEL, JOAN HAD THIS TO SAY: “PEOPLE ASK, ‘WHY WOULDN’T YOU WANT TO KEEP THE MONEY?’ THEY THINK SUCCESS IS MEASURED BY WHAT YOU PUT IN YOUR POCKET.

Joan Hornig Petrified Wood Necklace

Joan Hornig Cuff

How did this ingenious idea come about? Founder Joan B. Hornig made jewelry as a hobby and when a friend happened to compliment a piece she replied, “Thanks, I made it.” Little did she know how that one comment would lead to a call to merchandise manager at Bergdorf Goodman and ultimately a new business. Joan set out a goal to be able to give back by the age of 50, a couple years shy of her goal, she was able to turn a business opportunity into an

inspiration of charity. The Joan B. Hornig Foundation has donated close a million dollars to charities of your choice. When asked about her unique business model, Joan had this to say: “People ask, ‘Why wouldn’t you want to keep the money?’ They think success is measured by what you put in your pocket. I get to create beautiful things that make a difference for people. There isn’t anyone who’s been made richer by this experience than me.”

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BEHIND THE CURTAIN

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF THEATRE By Arlyene Marie Ponce

THE AGE OF HI-SPEED INTERNET, 3D MOVIES AND ENTERTAINMENT ON DEMAND, IT MIGHT SURPRISE YOU TO KNOW THAT LOCAL THEATRE IS NOT ONLY SURVIVING: IT’S THRIVING. THE ACTOR’S PLAYHOUSE AT THE MIRACLE THEATRE KNOWN FOR PRODUCING QUALITY SHOWS FOR AUDIENCES OF ALL AGES. THE COMPANY HAS ALSO BEEN CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED FOR BOTH DRAMATIC AND MUSICAL THEATRE, RECEIVING 75 CARBONELL AWARDS FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING EFFORTS IN REGIONAL THEATRE. THE ACTOR’S PLAYHOUSE AT THE MIRACLE THEATRE IS CELEBRATING THEIR 25TH ANNIVERSARY THIS APRIL AND WE HAD A CHANCE TO

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SIT DOWN WITH EXECUTIVE PRODUCING DIRECTOR BARBARA S. STEIN TO LEARN HOW LANDMARK SUCCESS IS CREATED. SFG: How did you first become interested in theatre and the arts? Barbara S. Stein: I was always interested in the arts, but became especially engaged in musical theatre when living in Philadelphia with husband Dr. Larry Stein, the founder of Actors’ Playhouse.

NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

from left to right

LES MISERABLES AUGUST OSAGE COUNTY HAIRSPRAY

actors to guide the artistic end of the business, David Arisco who has been our Artistic Director for 25 years and Earl Maulding, our children’s theatre and educational director for 25 years. Nothing could stop the trio from growing and creating the highest quality of theatre programming for the community. A reality TV show could make a fortune by being a “Fly on the wall” at the Miracle Theatre! As for myself, I am very goal oriented and creative, and without ever planning for our success, seemed to achieve it with the support of a great team effort and community of supporters. SFG: Restoring the Miracle Theatre in 1995 was a massive undertaking. What inspired you to take the leap and expand?

SFG: When you think back to 1988, did you ever imagine the kind of success and impact you have now? Barbara S. Stein: Back in 1988 we were wondering how we could continue carrying the financial aspects of the theatre to get to tomorrow, let alone today. With fortitude and positive action and thinking, we figured out what the community wanted in a new theatre company. Along the way we engaged two outstanding

Barbara S. Stein: Hurricane Andrew destroyed our Kendall facility in 1992. New landlords of the Kendall Mall wanted our real estate, which had sixteen years remaining on its lease. A potential buy out inspired us to seek other facility locations. We approached the Wometco Company, owners of the Miracle Theatre, who sent us to the City of Coral Gables to discuss options to partner in renovating and restoring the old movie house into a performing arts center. Timing was in our favor because there was a need in downtown Coral Gables for redevelopment. The foot traffic

from theatre patrons would become the catalyst for redevelopment and business prosperity in addition to quality of life cultural enrichment for residents and local businesses. A longterm partnership was formed and the outcome of the project has since made its mark on the city. SFG: The $8 million project ended debt-free and The Actor’s Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre is now a model for other non-profit organizations. What is your secret to success? Barbara S. Stein: My secret to success is perseverance, honesty, relationship building, follow-through, and hard work. SFG: Throughout your 25 year history with The Actor’s Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre you have participated in, contributed to and founded countless charitable initiatives. Why is giving back so important to you? Barbara S. Stein: I have always believed in giving back to the community. I was raised in Miami and I love our vibrant diverse community. I share great pride in what we stand for and who we are as a community. I am thrilled to be a vital part of its development. I especially am thrilled to positively inspire and motivate so many young people through the initiatives I have developed through the performing arts. I truly believe

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BEHIND THE CURTAIN

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF THEATRE

that theatre spurs dialogue about life situations among us, motivates positive attitudes, and helps us appreciate and understand our multicultural community. SFG: What has been your most rewarding moment so far? Barbara S. Stein: I will never forget the moment I walked on stage on November 17, 1995, the opening night of the Miracle Theatre as a performing arts center, and the entire audience gave a standing applause. That overwhelmed me and was totally unexpected. I couldn’t even cry because I had to acknowledge the many donors who contributed to the capital building. It will always be an important moment in my life.

SFG: When you came to Miracle Mile is 1995, The Actor’s Playhouse played a major role in the revitalization of this community. 18 years later, many are saying Coral Gables is going through another renaissance. What do you hope will change in the future and what do you hope will stay the same? Barbara S. Stein: I think the changes now will lead to more positive changes in the future. A new streetscape will improve the downtown and will definitely increase business among retailers and restaurants. This year the City is renovating our historic marquee, which will also improve the image of the theatre. SFG: You are a high-powered businesswoman with a packed schedule, yet you always have a smile

on your face. What do you on your free time that keeps you so upbeat? Barbara S. Stein: Thank you for the compliment of being high-powered. I think of myself as a humble individual doing her job. I have always been a positive person, and my smile is my trademark. I wake up each morning like “Mary Sunshine”. I attribute my attitude to first, my parents, whose guidance and love motivated me through my youth, my husband Larry, who is always by my side, and our children Elaine and Stephanie. If I were ever known for an outstanding accomplishment, I would say I am most proud of raising two independent, compassionate, and very smart young women, who in their own right will make for a better world.

IN THE HEIGHTS

BARBARA & LARRY STEIN

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It’s clear from speaking with Barbara, that her passion for excellence isn’t just a business tactic but a way of life. Oscar Wilde once said, “I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.” Take some time to enjoy this intricate art at its finest by

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attending one of the Miracle Theatre’s upcoming shows. Currently playing on their mainstage is In the Heights, a 4 time Tony Award-winning musical. Known as “the next chapter of the American Story on Stage,” In the Heights promises an inspirational performance about finding your place and chasing your dreams. Catch In the Heights

at The Actor’s Playhouse in the Miracle Theatre from March 6th until April 7th, 2013. You can also support this amazing non-profit by attending their 25th Anniversary Gala Bash on April 7th at the Intercontinental Miami. For show times, tickets and more information visit www.actorsplayhouse.org or call 305-444-9293.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY TRIVIA

WITH ST. PATRICK’S DAY AROUND THE CORNER WE THOUGHT WE’D SHARE SOME FUN FACTS ABOUT THIS IRISH HOLIDAY. WE CAN’T GUARANTEE THESE WILL KEEP THE PINCHES AWAY BUT WE CAN HOPE!

By Arlyene Marie Ponce

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The Chicago River is dyed green every St. Patrick’s Day to kick off the weekend celebration.

he real St. Patrick wasn’t even Irish. He was born in Britain around 390 A.D. and arrived in Ireland at the age of 16 after he was kidnapped and sent over as a slave. »»Blue, not green is actually the color of St. Patrick. Many believe that green became associated with the holiday in the 19th century because in Irish legends green was worn by fairies and immortals. »»So how did the pinching tradition start? It is believed to originate in America in the 1700’s. It was believed that wearing green made you invisible to leprechauns, who would pinch anyone they could see.

»»For over 40 years, Chicago celebrated St. Patrick’s Day by dying the Chicago River green. Many cities have tried and failed to replicate this form of celebration. The dye used to turn the river green is actually orange. Many Chicagoans attribute a little leprechaun magic to their river’s enchanting transformation each year. »»Although St. Patrick’s Day is a national holiday in Ireland, the very first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in Boston in 1737. »»Shamrocks aren’t Irish. These clover species can be found all over Europe.

»»There are more Americans of Irish descent that there are Irish in Ireland. »»St. Patrick is also credited with establishing the Leap Day tradition of women proposing to men. Legend has it that St. Bridget complained that women were tired of waiting for men to propose and when she asked St. Patrick to marry her, he turned her down. »»19 Presidents are of Irish descent, including our founding father George Washington. »»President Truman was the first President to attend a St. Patrick’s Day parade in 1948.

WE LEAVE YOU WITH OUR FAVORITE IRISH TOAST : “MAY YOUR BLESSINGS OUTNUMBER, THE SHAMROCKS THAT GROW, AND MAY TROUBLE AVOID YOU WHEREVER YOU GO.”

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WITH A RICH HISTORY AND LONG-STANDING TRADITIONS OF EXCELLENCE, BREGUET TIMEPIECES ARE THE EPITOME OF LUXURY. LOUIS XVI AND HIS QUEEN, MARIE-ANTOINETTE WERE EARLY FANS OF BREGUET’S WORK. SPENDING MOST OF HIS LIFE IN PARIS, BREGUET FOUNDER A. L. BREGUET IS KNOWN FOR A VARIETY OF TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS.

WRIST ROYALTY BREGUET WATCHES By Arlyene Marie Ponce

tarting in 1780 with the invention of the perpétuelle, or automatic watch, Breguet was poised to be a leader in his field. In 1810, Breguet conceived of the world’s very first wristwatch for queen of Naples, Caroline Murat. His enormous contributions to horology

have garnered Breguet many awarded. Appointed to the Board of Longitude and as chronometer-maker to the navy, he entered the Academy of Sciences and received the Legion of Honour from the hands of Louis XVIII himself. Even today Breguet continues to make history. Their Type XXII

piece was the first to function at a frequency of 10 Hz, arguably making it the most precise watch in history. Each piece is painstakingly hand-engraved, numbered and detailed. Time might be an illusion to some but at Breguet it is an art.

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FaSHioN

MADE IN MIAMI

LOCAL DESIGNERS SHINE

By Arlyene Marie Ponce

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For unique apparel made exclusively in the USA check out Kusuri Enterprises. Designer Lauren Bitar fused her love of comics, fashion and life into cutting edge fashion built for fun.

INTERVIEW

[ KUSURI ENTERPRISES ]

SFG: Tell us about your line. LB: Kusuri Enterprises is a fashion label with the message to live your own life. People are wasting their lives away watching other people live their lives instead of living their own. Either by watching countless hours of reality television or reading tabloids, people are losing touch with whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really happening and getting sucked up into a fantasy world. Kusuri relays this message with a comic/story that goes with each collection. SFG: What inspired the line? LB: Kusuri is inspired by Japanese street fashion and the bright colors I grew up with living in Miami. There are a lot of PVC pieces and the signature icon of the brand is the angel wings that attach to

jackets and raincoats. Because of the influence from Japan, the story behind the line is influenced by anime: in our world, demons are trying to take over by keeping everyone stupid. These demons pose as reality TV stars and pop culture celebs. However, a global pharmaceutical firm named Kusuri Enterprises is actually a front for enlightened beings who have promised remain on earth until they can save everyone. The wings on the clothes are actually inspired by the little wings they each have on their backs. This brand is for the woman who is not afraid to inject some color in her wardrobe and likes edgier fashion. Going along with the story, our product is not for blending in, though it is functional and comfortable. You can find Kusuri Enterprises at www.kusuri.co to purchase and for a list of locations. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/kusurienterprises

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

MADE IN MIAMI

LOCAL DESIGNERS SHINE SIXTWENTY SWIMWEAR

Named after the first day of summer, SixTwenty Swimwear is hot, hot, hot! Miami embraced the heat wave and SixTwenty’s first year has been a sizzling success. Their July 4th collection, both pretty and patriotic, completely sold out. SixTwenty will be adding a little sunshine to the upcoming film “Pain and Gain,” starring Dwayne Johnson and Mark Wahlberg. Designer Irene Gonzalez credits SixTwenty’s success on the clever design of her line. Starting with mix and match separates, in 12 colors and 7 styles, her line allows every woman an opportunity to look great in her shape. Flirty ruffles add volume to petite-framed women and tube tops hug curves while offering hidden support. Along with online ordering,

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2013

SixTwenty is available in several boutiques throughout Miami. With another summer quickly approaching, SixTwenty Swimwear is poised and ready to take the heat! You can currently find SixTwenty Swimwear pieces at: The Closet Boutiques, Oh la la Boutiques, Bloom Boutiques and Isa Boutiques.

By Arlyene Marie Ponce

SFG SITS DOWN WITH

MISS FLORIDA USA

MICHELLE AGUIRRE

CovER SToRY

SFG | 16TH EDITION

2013

photo credit: benizo.com

HOMETOWN HOTTIE AND MISS FLORIDA USA, MICHELLE AGUIRRE, SAT DOWN WITH US TO DISCUSS HER PATH TO THE CROWN, CHARITIES SHE SUPPORTS AND HOW SHE’S PREPARING TO COMPETE FOR MISS USA THIS SUMMER.

SFG: What first got you started in pageants? Michelle Aguirre: I was searching for a prom dress when I encountered a designer who introduced me to pageants. At first the thought of pageants was ridiculous to me and something I was not interested in. I gave it some thought and considered that I had nothing to lose so why not enter a local pageant. I ended up placing 3rd runner up at my first pageant. A year later I won the title of Miss Florida USA 2013. SFG: What does being Miss Florida USA mean to you?

the most beautiful woman in the state of Florida, but a role model and an inspiration to women and young ladies. Not only intelligence and beauty, but personality is what takes the crown. SFG: What are you doing to prepare for the Miss USA competition? MA: Right now I am physically training, going to the gym every other day. Mentally preparing myself by knowing that I will be next to 50 other beautiful women across the country but there’s only Michelle Aguirre. Between mock interviews, walking/ stage presence and styling, I am a busy state title holder getting ready to get the job of Miss USA.

SFG: What local charities are you involved with? MA: I have worked with Susan G Komen race for the cure, ACS Making strides against Breast cancer, Best buddies and American Cancer Society’s Relay for life where we just recently raised $150,000. SFG: How do you make a difference in your community? MA: I make a difference in my community by trying to inspire young ladies to be the best they can be and not try to be like others in any way possible. I work with various charities within my community.

MA: To me it means not only being 2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

CovER SToRY

SFG: What was the most exciting moment in your career so far? MA: I have had many exciting moments as Miss Florida USA, but the most exciting has been the moment when my local charity fundraiser hit their goal which was $150,000. It was just so satisfying knowing I helped make that for a good cause, knowing it’s going to find a cure for a disease we all hate. I MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN MY COMMUNITY BY TRYING TO INSPIRE YOUNG LADIES TO BE THE BEST THEY CAN BE AND NOT TRY TO BE LIKE OTHERS IN ANY WAY POSSIBLE

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MA: As Miss USA I would take on the foundations the Miss Universe organization supports, which are breast and ovarian cancer and continue to work with the Best Buddies organization. SFG: What do you love about Miami? MA: I love the sunny weather!! Even if it’s rainy or cold the weather will turn out to be sunny and beautiful throughout the day. I love having the beaches there whenever I want.

SFG: What about the scariest? SFG: What do you have about Miami? MA: The scariest was probably going on an airboat ride with the Miss Florida Seminole family. Having alligators about 2 feet away from me was so scary! SFG: If you win Miss USA, what issues do you hope to bring attention to?

MA: I don’t hate anything. Maybe the traffic. SFG: How do you keep so fit? MA: I’m exercising every other day and watching what I eat. The key is water, water, water!

SFG | 16TH EDITION

2013

NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

MICHAEL CAPPONI By Francesca Cruz

PROMOTER, DEVELOPER AND HUMANITARIAN—A DYNAMIC COMBINATION THAT IS MIAMI’S MICHAEL CAPPONI

orn to jetsetters Danoushka and Giuseppe Capponi, who in his bachelor days and by the virtue of owning nightclubs The Golden Gate and Scotch in Belgium, hobnobbed with 60s iconic beauties Catherine Deneuve, Brigitte Bardot & the cool cats of that time: Alain Delon, Sean Connery and Jean-Paul Belmondo [yes, pull out your smart phones and take a lesson in coolness]. Michael remembers being a kid and “taking photos around the age of 6 on a stage surrounded my showgirls”. Ah yes— did I forget to mention in the 30s his maternal grandfather, Jean Omer, was also a nightclub owner and executive producer to controversial entertainer Josephine Baker? This is what Michael Capponi knows best—it’s in his blood. Welcome to his world. It’s never an odd occurrence to see Belgium born Michael Jean Francois Capponi dressed to the Miami nines, meaning: causal-chicwhat’s-Porfirio-Rubirosa-got-on-me, style with a leggy blonde draped on

one arm while attending a crème de la realm of shaman quality. It’s been crème soiree in this town. Or at least a long time since he was a kid on a that’s what you’d imagine the life of a skateboard adrift in the South Beach once prominent club promoter turned of the late eighties gathering the best developer who has since become looking people he could find to attend an altruistic entrepreneur would be the club du jour he was promoting. like, and to a certain extent it has He lived like a rock star in the 90s been. In person he—well yes, dresses and partied with the likes of Madonna handsomely casual, is charming in and Stallone until the night, and all an unpretentious the temptations associated HIS FOUNDATION ACTS with it, had him hit rock manner, and has “AS A TRAMPOLINE finally come full bottom. It’s a story of a kid, GIVING TEMPORARY circle feeling navigating through the cutSUPPORT BY PAYING FOR throat world of business and comfortable in his HOUSING, SCHOOLS AND nightclubs, coming into too own skin. He fidgets PROGRAMS THAT TEACH much too soon, crashing and with the lights for BASIC TRAINING SO THEY burning, finding redemption several minutes— [THE HAITIANS ON THE and starting anew--this wanting perhaps the ISLAND] CAN BECOME time with tithing and feeling perfect ambiance to SELF SUFFICIENT ONCE accountable for those less open up to, before MORE.” finally enjoying the fortunate as a motivating twilight of the day. factor. Giving back to him is When he talks about travel, or his about duty as he explains, “if you have newest archeological find one senses spare time, money or means to help, the fire in the belly so symbolic of you should, in whatever capacity you those born under the warrior sign of can. It’s about making this planet a Aries. He discusses the importance better place.” He spends a large part of giving back, and he does it in a of his time doing just that. He founded soft-spoken once warrior, now in the the Foundation Haiti Empowerment

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

MICHAEL CAPPONI

Mission after the catastrophic earthquake that leveled the island some years back. His foundation acts “as a trampoline giving temporary support by paying for housing, schools and programs that teach basic training so they [the Haitians on the island] can become self sufficient once more.” There was never a cathartic moment or epiphany of sorts for him about his humanitarian endeavors. There is no guile in his delivery—it’s genuine and warm. He tells me that if you ask his mom, “she’d tell you that at 15 years old I was bringing homeless people to our house, and asking them

Michael Capponi & Donna Karan in Haiti

SFG | 16TH EDITION

2013

to move in with us.” His penchant for fighting for the underdog and taking a stand for inequality brought him to The Miami Rescue Mission, where aside from serving over 1500 needy a turkey dinner for the past 7 years as part of The Great Thanksgiving Big Banquet, his construction company also recently expanded the center donating their construction services. He recounts that when the homeless go to the center they are encouraged to check into a 16-month program for rehabilitation. It gives them a new wardrobe, a second chance, and the tools to return to society. A smile washes over his face when he describes how great it is “to go there and see ex-homeless guys, now in suites, working there. Their whole lives have changed.” As our chat wines down he stretches his newly lean body out and repositions himself on the couch in his home with a view of the bay at nightfall. His cat Bella cozies up for affection and joins us for my last question. How would you describe how your life panned out, I ask him, to that kid on the skateboard of two decades ago? He takes a long pause, looks as if to the heavens and delivers the following: “Kid you are going to skate your way into the end of Government Cut, and then you are going to drown, you are going to drown so deep that you are then going to learn how to swim underwater.” Touché Mr. Capponi, touché!

By Arlyene Marie Ponce

INSTANT INSTANT INSPIRATION INSPIRATION: SMALL INSTANT INSTANT INSTANT CHANGES, SMALL CHANGES, BIG RESULTS INSPIRATION: INSPIRATION: INSPIRATION: BIG RESULTS SMALL SMALL SMALL CHANGES, CHANGES, CHANGES, BIG RESULTS BIG RESULTS BIG RESULTS

ou’re sitting in front of your keyboard staring blankly, hoping for some flash of inspiration. You Google inspiration and find out it’s “The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something.” Sounds pretty simple until you realize that there is no set process, no guarantee that what worked before will work again, and that everyone has a different opinion on what that mystical process actually is. There are a million little things you can do to increase your inspiration, but who has time for that? Your best chance of adding some extra inspiration to your life is to find tools that work for many areas of your life. Exercise: This is first on the list for so many reasons. New studies have confirmed that exercise not only gives you more energy and more productivity, but it can actually make you smarter! Early research in mice has shown that exercising

helps slow down a process called neurogenesis, which means you will be making more brain cells for longer compared to your sedentary counterparts. If you absolutely have no time to spare, bring some sneakers and take a walk on your lunch break. 30 minutes of lowintensity exercise has been proven to provide the same energy and productivity benefits as more moderate forms of exercise with less fatigue. Sleep: Not getting enough sleep is linked to excess weight gain, mental fogginess, forgetfulness, higher levels of stress hormones and an overall case of the Mondays. Prioritizing sleep will give you the energy and focus you need to get more done in a much shorter period of time. Remove the dread: Complete your most dreaded task first thing. By putting off the dreaded task, you actually take longer on easier

tasks and have less mental focus while performing them. Remove the dread and free your mind to become inspired. Write it down: Not only do planners get more accomplished, but moving that mental to-do list to a physical location frees up mental energy to concentrate on the creative process rather than the dry-cleaning. Time Yourself: Using timers increases your productivity in so many ways. Timers ensure you are accurately estimating the amount of time it takes to complete tasks. They also help you focus on the task at hand, helping you eliminate distractions. Timers are also excellent for dreaded tasks. Often we exaggerate the time and effort it takes to complete a task. Using a timer helps keep you honest and keeps you from feeling bogged down by imaginary stressors.

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

By Arlyene Marie Ponce

THE BILTMORE SPA & TERRA DOLCE LOCAL LOTIONS AT A LANDMARK LOCATION

THE BILTMORE HOTEL IS NOT ONLY RICH WITH HISTORY, THIS BEAUTIFUL LANDMARK OVERFLOWS WITH BEAUTY AS WELL. FROM HAND-PAINTED FRESCOS ON BARREL-VAULTED CEILINGS TO INTRICATE LEADED GLASS FIXTURES, THE BILTMORE IS NOTHING SHORT OF STUNNING.

ne marvels at the beautiful Mediterranean architecture on the way to enjoy a massage at the Biltmore Spa. Once inside the spa, the elaborate décor of the hotel seamlessly melts away into a Zeninspired oasis. Rock pools, water walls, orchids and a graceful bamboo bridge provide the perfect environment for relaxation. This state-of-the-art spa is located on the seventh floor of the hotel with panoramic views from floor to ceiling

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windows. Inside the elite facilities you will find a relaxation lounge with full-length chaise lounges where you can read to the sounds of their calming water feature. Guests will marvel at their spacious men’s and women’s locker rooms which feature both steam and sauna rooms. Choosing from their wide array of services will be the most difficult part of your visit. With 12 treatment rooms, including wet rooms with hydrotherapy and Vichy showers, guests can indulge in massages, facials, salon services and more. Our

TRAVEL & LEISURE

recommendation? The therapeutic deep tissue massage with Terra Dolce oils. We were blown away by the soothing treatment that literally melted away all our stress. During the expert rub-down, a rich and aromatic oil was used. Our therapist explained that for this treatment, they used a product called Serenity Oil. The room filled with the delicate aroma of lavender and as the green tea extract seeped into our pores we were hooked. When we found out this magical oil was locally produced, we had to find out more. The Terra Dolce line is in its third year of production and it’s already won an industry award. As the only skincare line certified by the department of agriculture, and recognized as Fresh from Florida, we knew Terra Dolce was unique. More than just a name: Terra Dolce isn’t just named ‘sweet earth,’ they’ve made it their mission to be sweet to the earth as well. Terra Dolce is produced in a 100% wind-powered, carbon neutral facility certified by the EPA. Their products are created by hand in America using artisanal methods and never tested on animals. Certified “cruelty free” by PETA, Terra Dolce products are also vegan and free of parabens, sulfate and gluten. If that isn’t enough, with every purchase of Terra Dolce, a tree is planted. Talk about guilt-free indulgence! We sat down with the creator of Terra Dolce, Alison Cripps to learn more about this innovative line.

SFG: What inspired you to create the Terra Dolce line? Alison Cripps: Soft breezes whispering through tree tops, the sun illuminating a small plant or entire countryside in the early morning and late summer afternoon, the fresh air just after a rain storm… the “Sweet Earth” is all around us. My passions are researching ingredients, creating and dreaming. Working in a spa environment, I wanted to make products that focus on the beauty of nature and spa, connecting the element of a relaxing home, through inspiring aromatherapy blends based on our sweet earth (Terra Dolce). Terra Dolce products are playful, earthy and sophisticated : a charming gift for all to enjoy. SFG: Your company is clearly committed to providing a ecofriendly product. What makes you so passionate about the environment? AC: Terra Dolce, the Sweet Earth, has a deep rooted meaning in many languages. I feel there is a strong correlation between the sweet earth and Mother Earth. We plant a tree for every product purchased and utilize recyclable packaging and soy ink printing. When we started our company, part of our mission was “to make a difference” in our own small way. In our personal lives, we strive for growth, evolution, environmental consciousness and sustainability. Our mission is to further embody that as part of our business. We love what

we do. It may seem small, but it’s a long race and we have only just begun. SFG: Your products are locally sourced as well. How did you decide that Florida was the right place to source all of your ingredients? AC: If you look back at the history of ancient beauty rituals from Greece, Rome, India and even the middle east, there is a common practice expressed: Nature. Pure ingredients. Many of which were locally sourced. Because we live in Florida, we opened our eyes to the beauty around us and the natural resources we could cultivate into our brand. The Floridian is a blend of locally sourced plant extracts, oils and minerals, whipped into a tropical destination simply expressed as fresh “from Florida”. We are fortunate to work with local orchards, farms and distilleries that are approved by the Dept of Agriculture, and are the only beauty brand currently approved to use this seal. Beauty is all around us, and we have partnered with several other states in creating lines using freshly grown ingredients from here in the USA.

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

By Arlyene Marie Ponce

Ricardo Wilson

TITAN OF TIGHTENING

SFG | 16TH EDITION

2013

WHEN WE FIRST CAUGHT UP WITH RICARDO WILSON, THIS TALENTED CHEF WAS HELPING YOU BURN CALORIES OFF WITH HIS NEW GYM, PUNCH! SINCE WE SPOKE, THIS TITAN OF TIGHTENING HAS TAKING HIS TALENT FOR CALORIE TORCHING TO THE NEXT LEVEL.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SFG: Why did you decide to get involved in Punch Boxing for Fitness? Ricardo Wilson: I have been in boxing and combat sports since I was a preteen. With Punch’s founder Frank Calta as my mentor, it only made sense to bring the concept down here to Miami! SFG: What type of services do you offer? RW: We offer group classes that mirror a fighter’s workout without the fight! Bag work, pad work and bodyweight training in every class! We specialize in metabolic workouts. SFG: Why is boxing such an effective workout? RW: Boxing involves your whole body, and it is interval training that stimulates fast twitch muscle fibers which jumpstart your body into fat burning mode! SFG: What are some of your favorite health tips? RW: Best diet tip in the world... ground breaking... I don’t know if I should share this... but if you want to lose weight eat less than you burn! Ok time for a serious answer: train hard, eat smart, sleep well and read my newsletters! February was about rest and recovery, and March is all about healthy eating. Do not think that overtraining is the key to success in health

To learn more about PUNCH, and to register for Ricardo’s informative emails head to www. punchboxingforfitness. com/Register-Miami. html or check them out on facebook at facebook.com/ punchmiami

and fitness. Your body needs rest. Also, do not eat too late at night. A simple rule of thumb is to get your big meals in before sundown. SFG: What if I am a total beginner? RW: If you have never boxed before don’t worry: we have you covered. We work with many beginners and bring them up to speed quickly. With our attention to detail, mitt work and number system we will have you looking like a veteran boxer in no time! SFG: You’ve become involved with the fight against bullying. Tell me more. RW: I think it is important to get our community involved with anti-bully groups. Our kids now are ruined by social media, video games and inactivity. This is a perfect scenario for bullies. I work with schools to get the kids into education and safety with our program here at PUNCH. SFG: What’s next for Punch? RW: Next for PUNCH, we’re looking to open in South Miami! Here’s a deal for your readers: Start looking for a place to open a PUNCH in South Miami. If I choose your location, I will give you a free membership! Also, look out for our partnership with S-1! We are working with the league hand in hand and we are an official sponsor!

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

IT’S IMPORTANT TO BE GENUINE WITH PEOPLE AND REPRESENT A BRAND YOU CAN BE PROUD OF. WHEN THESE TWO THINGS ARE IN PLACE, THE REST COMES NATURALLY.

n a short time, this Miami native has made a name for herself by helping make a name for others. From marketing fine dining restaurants to donating her time to worthy charities, Christina Ward has used her talents wisely. Humble and kind, don’t let her sweet demeanor fool you: Christina Ward is a force to be reckoned with. When she was nominated as “Woman of the Year” from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Christina was shocked and honored and used her nomination to bring awareness to the worthy cause. As the South Florida Ambassador for Women for Women International, Ward uses her title to highlight the amazing contributions of others. In 2012 when Christina was featured as one of Brickell Magazine’s “Top 20 Professionals Under 40,” she spent her interview talking about charitable causes rather than herself. We sat down with this prodigious professional to find out what got her started, how she keeps going and what she’s tackling next.

MARKETING MAVEN CHRISTINA WARD By Arlyene Marie Ponce

SFG: How did you get started in marketing? CW: In 2008, I was promoted to Private Dining Director of Coral Gables Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine bar. After having spent almost 15 years serving tables in the restaurant business, this opportunity was a huge chance for me to excel. I had absolutely no sales or marketing experience but I was determined to learn and be great at what I was about to do. So I studied sales, read books on marketing,

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2013

attended every conference possible and made as many friends in the industry as I could. My efforts worked and in my first year I increased Fleming’s private dining sales by 45%. In my networking efforts I met many wonderful people in the world of philanthropy and they completely changed my path, purpose, and passion for my career. I helped produce an event for The Children’s Cancer Fund and saw how I could quietly be of great community service in the back

Arlyene Marie Ponce, Christina Ward Christina Ward and Susan Tilson

ground. Little did I know that I would be returning years later, serving as an annual speaker about my Father’s battle with a rare cancer. I met great people from The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and they quickly nominated me to run for “Woman of the Year”. I didn’t win but I learned how powerful my resources were and how I could use my restaurant and career as a tool to do great things. SFG: You’ve been recognized for so many professional awards as well as philanthropic honors, how do you do it all? CW: I haven’t done it alone. I’m fortunate to have had many great people around me to help me along in my path. Anything I’ve ever been recognized for is celebrated as a group. I believe in strong teams. SFG: Marketing is all about people skills, what are your essential tools for building relationships? CW: It’s important to be genuine with people and represent a brand you can be proud of. When these two things are in place, the rest comes naturally. It’s important to have sincere conversations and look to find ways of making each relationship mutually beneficial. SFG: You’ve spent almost 20 years in the restaurant business, why and what has it taught you?

CW: I’ve always loved this business and I’ve been fortunate to grow within the industry. Hospitality is an art. A restaurant is not just about good food or good service. Guests pay for an experience. Every single detail counts from when they make a reservation to when they are given a gracious goodbye as they are leaving. Guests count on you to make their dining experience an unforgettable occasion. To me, it’s honor to do that.

brands in front of great women that come together to network, have fun, shop, and best of all: we select a few charities each event to bring awareness to. We give the non-profits the focus and hope to promote their good works. We collect high heel shoes at the door each time that we donate to Dress for Success’ “getting women back on their feet in style.” We have been fortunate to attract many luxury partners that donate great raffle items for our guests.

SFG: What is your next move? CW: I’m excited to announce that I’ve accepted a position as the Corporate Sponsorship Sales Manager for The Clevelander, Essex House, and Clevelander Marlins Park. I’ll be using my cobranding experience to create new and interesting partnership opportunities within each property. I’m excited to take my many years of hospitality to the hotel world. I have the chance to take everything I’ve learned in restaurants, branding, and partnerships to a new level. I’m the first person to be selected for this position with The Clevelander. The possibilities are endless!

SFG: Who is your inspiration? CW: Muhammad Yunis the creator of the micro-credit loan. With no more than a handshake to seal the deal he completely changed Bangladesh by bringing millions out of poverty. Also, Zaynab Salbi the founder of Women for Women International of which I am the South Florida Ambassador. Zaynab set out to help a few Bosnian women after war had devastated their communities. She was persistent, dedicated, and loyal to her cause. Hundreds of thousands of abused women have now been helped in some of the most war-torn countries. This one woman has saved the lives of so many and has provided them the tools through microcredit loans and woman’s rights education for them to rebuild their communities. They are both an inspiration as to how we can create a better world with trust and dedication.

SFG: What is High Heels and Handshakes? CW: It’s evolved many times and it is always growing. Our focus is in giving budding entrepreneurs an opportunity to showcase their

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

ETERNAL YOUTH

TURNING BACK THE HANDS OF TIME By: Ivette Danica Marquez I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO CHAT WITH DR. MERCEDES P. SCHAAFSMA, CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER OF THE MIAMI ANTI-AGING INSTITUTE, ABOUT HER SPECIALTY--ANTI-AGING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE. SHE CANDIDLY DISCUSSED HER PRACTICE, HER PASSION AND HERSELF WITH THE OPENNESS OF A LIFELONG FRIEND. DR. SCHAAFSMA’S WORK ALLOWS HER PATIENTS A LONGER AND HEALTHIER LIFE FULL OF ENERGY AND VERY POSSIBLY, COPIOUS AMOUNTS OF SEXINESS. “LIVE LONGER AND FEEL BETTER”, SHE TELLS ME.

“THAT’S THE GOAL OF ANTI-AGING MEDICINE.”

Dr. Mercedes P. Schaafsma, D.O., P.A., Chief Medical Officer The Institute of Anti-aging and Metabolic Medicine

r. Schaafsma is specific, clinical and generous with her explanations without apparent judgment or petulance. All traits worthy of noting since they have escaped many of my personal physicians. With a lengthy list of diplomas and certifications, she would impress the most learned of medical doctors. The doctor candidly conceded that she became a bio-identical hormone specialist because she could not find a satisfactory solution to her own menopausal discomfort. This osteopath, microbiologist, and clinician is passionate about finding tailored, medical solutions for her patients. She rather sees the challenge as a mind puzzle and specializes in using bio-identical hormones and nutritional profiles as her game pieces. The goal, as the doctor explains it, is not to make her patients younger per se. It is to make their bodies metabolically optimized through the application of scientific investigations. The youthful look, energy and spring in their

step is just a welcomed byproduct. Of Dr. Schaafsma’ s patients, approximately 70 percent are candidates for bio-identical hormone replacement therapy or BHRT, her specialty. The remaining come to her to find solutions to serious autoimmune and chronic diseases such as cancer, Crohn’s disease, and osteoarthritis, to name a few. Those looking for BHRT are roughly a 60 percent to 40 percent ratio of women to men. Most cases are comprised of menopausal, perimenopausal and andropausal patients. Treatments depend on current or previous use of hormones as well as other factors and can include creams, patches, or oral administration of hormones and nutraceuticals. It’s never too late to come see the good doctor. Dr. Schaafsma tells me she has patients in their 90’s whose lives have been substantially improved by her approach to regenerative medicine. Patients with osteoporosis

THE INSTITUTE OF ANTI-AGING AND METABOLIC MEDICINE 10691 N. KENDALL DR., SUITE 202, MIAMI, FL 33176 MIAMIBIOIDENTICALHORMONES.COM ▪ 305-479-2636

SFG | 16TH EDITION

2013

and senility are cases in point. When dealing with Alzheimer’s disease, for instance, she can test for the gene’s weakness. If the patient is already exhibiting signs of Alzheimer’s, Dr. Schaafsma can use this information to help prevent the progression of the disease by working with the resulting genetic pathway. The potential patient is sent three, extensive questionnaires before stepping in the office. After the initial consultation, the lab work is ordered and the questionnaires collected. With the precision of a jeweler setting a pavé diamond ring, the doctor analyzes the patient’s profile to produce a multiple tier plan to balance the body’s systems. Many insurance companies cover most, if not all, of the lab expenses. When asked to impart a final message to our readers, Dr. Schaafsma stated, “You don’t have to put up with it”, referring to the discomfort and loss of libido. “I don’t plan to stop my hormones, ever!”

Cynthia Olavarria, Christian Carabias and Priscila Perales

Dedicated to the few exclusive people who dares to experience the ultimate extreme sport. We invite thrill seeking adventurous celebrities to experience the most accelerating adrenaline rush on the planet. Come join us, if you dare to live the thrill of a lifetime.

Salim Rubiales, tandem master Carlos Cribas and Paulo Quevedo

SFG | 16TH EDITION

2013

SFG

CO RA L GA B L E S

BLU

CRAVE

ITALIAN / CORAL GABLES 33143

AMERICAN / CORAL GABLES 33146

305-666-9285

305-444-4595

7201 Southwest 59th Ave.

4250 Salzedo Street.

ORTANIQUE ON THE MILE

PALME D’OR

CARIBBEAN / CORAL GABLES 33134

FRENCH / CORAL GABLES 33134

305-446-5695

305-913-3201

278 Miracle Mile.

1200 Anastasia Ave. (Biltmore Hotel)

PASCALS

SEASONS 52

FRENCH / CORAL GABLES 33134

AMERICAN / CORAL GABLES 33134

305-444-2024

305-442-8552

2611 Ponce De Leon Blvd.

321 Miracle Mile.

SFG RESTAURANT GUIDE | 16TH EDITION

2013

RECIPE

RIBS A LA COKE® INGREDIENTS

PREPARATION 4 pieces boneless pork loin country style ribs ½ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 16oz. bottle Coca Cola® 1 onion

SPRINKLE SALT AND GARLIC ON RIBS. POUR THE COCA-COLA AND COOK UNCOVERED FOR 45 MINUTES AT MEDIUM HEAT. JUST BEFORE REMOVING FROM THE FIRE, SAUTÉ ONION FOR ONE MINUTE.

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

SFG

CO CON UT GR OV E / B R I C K E LL / D O WN T O WN

GEORGE’S IN THE GROVE

LA BOTTEGA

FRENCH / COCONUT GROVE 33133

SPANISH / COCONUT GROVE 33133

305-444-7878

305-444-3493

3145 Conmmodore Plz.

3540 Main Hwy.

VILLA MAYFAIR

AZUL

MEDITERRANEAN / COCONUT GROVE 33133

EUROPEAN / BRICKELL 33131

305-774-1500

305-913-8358

2901 Florida Ave.

500 Brickell Key Dr. (Mandarin Oriental Hotel)

EDGE STEAK & BAR

NEMESIS

STEAKHOUSE / BRICKELL 33131

ECLECTIC / DOWNTOWN 33136

305-381-3190

305-415-9911

1435 Brickell Ave. Four Seasons Hotel.

1035 N miami Ave.

SFG RESTAURANT GUIDE | 16TH EDITION

2013

SFG

BRICKE LL / D O W N T O W N / WY NWOO D / DE S I GN DI S TR I C T

TRULUCKS

TUYO

SEAFOOD / DOWNTOWN 33131

AMERICAN-LATIN / DOWNTOWN 33132

305-579-0035

305-237-3200

777 Brickell Ave.

415 NE 2nd Ave.

WYNWOOD KITCHEN

EGG & DART

LATIN AMERICAN / DESIGN DISTRICT 33127

MEDITERRANEAN / DESIGN DISTRICT 33127

305-722-8959

786-431-1022

2550 NW 2nd Ave.

4029 N Miami Ave .

JEAN PAULS

MANDOLIN AEGEAN BISTRO

AMERICAN / WYNWOOD 33137

MEDITERRANEAN / DESIGN DISTRICT 33137

305-573-7373

305-576-6066

2426 NE 2nd Ave.

4312 NE 2nd Ave.

SFG RESTAURANT GUIDE | 16TH EDITION

2013

REVIEW

THE VILLA BY BARTON G BY MARIA SALAS

ELEGANT AND SPELLBINDING, HARBORING A STORY OF TRAGEDY AND REVIVAL, THE VILLA BY BARTON G CAPTURES AN ESSENCE OF HISTORIC OPULENCE WITHIN ITS WALLS. FORMERLY THE HOME OF THE LATE DESIGNER GIANNI VERSACE, IT WAS REBRANDED IN 2010 BY RENOWNED RESTAURATEUR BARTON G. WEISS, CONTINUING ITS PRESENCE IN SOUTH BEACH AS A LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL, EVENT SPACE AND SOPHISTICATED RESTAURANT.

he pebble mosaicked walls and marble floors in the lavish Dining Room set the stage for the extraordinary dinner guests experience when they step inside. Service is beyond stellar, and seamlessly blends with the impressive surroundings. Basking in the ambiance, we sipped champagne as we perused the menu. For the first course, we chose the Truffled Asparagus Salad, delicately made with white and green asparagus and crimson petite lettuce. The seasonal morel mushrooms provided an earthy undertone to the dish while the savory ricotta flan and

shaved truffles balanced the flavors. The Duck Confit Crepe A L’Orange was a colorful palate pleaser, tickling the taste buds with sour ginger, candied kumquat, and pistachio streusel, in a playful arrangement of chocolate drops and compressed pineapple. Other appetizers included the Flash Marinated Snapper Ceviche, combining Key White Shrimp, Key Lime, and Mango with citrusy splendor in a jalapeno kick; and a Vodka Cured Salmon topped with mustard caviar, dill pearls and golden pumpernickel. The Bread Crusted Diver Scallop & Anise Glazed Veal Cheek was a

tantalizing entrée, igniting a burst of flavors from both land and sea. Bathed in a golden raisin caper broth, the tender meat and the delectable toasted oak cake enveloped all the senses. The Maro Grouper, a special of the evening, sat atop a bed of black forbidden rice simmered in a burgundy beet reduction. The dish combined the mild and distinct flavor of the popular fish with the richness of seared foie gras. No meal is complete without its sweet surrender and the desserts were as impressive as each previous course. The Chocolate-Praline Mousseline, a decadent layered temptation of valrhona ganache, hazelnut mousse and salted caramel made my heart skip a beat, and the Key Lime Fantasy was just as grand, uniting Chantilly and salted graham with sweet lime custard in melodious harmony.

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

SFG

DESIG N D I S T R I CT / MI AMI B E AC H

MERCADITO

SUGARCANE RAW BAR GRILL

MEXICAN / DESIGN DISTRICT 33137

ECLECTIC / DESIGN DISTRICT 33137

786-369-0430

786-369-0353

3252 NE 1st Ave.

3250 NE 1st Ave.

BEST FRIENDS

1500 DEGREES

ITALIAN / DESIGN DISTRICT 33137

AMERICAN / MIAMI BEACH 33140

786-439-3999

305-674-5594

4770 Biscayne Blvd.

4525 Collins Ave. W 41st .

ASIA DE CUBA

BAZAAR

ASIAN / MIAMI BEACH 33139

STYLE / MIAMI BEACH 33139

305-514-1940

305-455-2999

1100 West Ave.(The Mondrian Hotel)

1701 Collins Ave.

SFG RESTAURANT GUIDE | 16TH EDITION

2013

DRINKING & DINNING

BY ARLYENE MARIE PONCE

rom gastro-pubs to late night noodle bars, the eating elite in Miami are always looking for the next trend. While the culinary scene in Miami is often adventurous, it usually falls behind the cuttingedge chefs of New York and Los Angeles. Chef’s tables are nothing new, though they’re definitely garnering much more attention these days. From Yardbird’s delectable ‘Midnight Chef Series’ dinners to the InterContinental’s ‘Table 40,’ local diners are aching for more personal experiences with the chef’s preparing their meal. Enter Romeo’s Café: this tiny restaurant has been quietly serving since 2008. With often stellar reviews on Zagat and Yelp, we decided to check the place out for ourselves. Upon entering, you notice a cozy 28-seat dining room with very minimal lighting. While reviewers had mixed feelings on the ambiance,

DINING TRENDS CHEF’S TABLES we found the dimly lit dining room intimate and romantic. Service was quick, charming and extremely accommodating. Now onto the most important aspect: the food. Chef Romeo himself comes to every table to inquire about allergies, likes and dislikes before customizing dishes just for you- or so we were told. What we found was that Chef Romeo has been using a very small repertoire of dishes on repeat pretty much since they opened. From subpar salmon carpaccio to over-salted sirloin, the dishes were certainly not worth the hefty price tag. For Florida foodies wanting to experience a chef’s creativity first-hand, few restaurants fit the bill. The logistics of creating a completely unique menu for each diner are extremely unpractical and lead to disappointing dishes like the ones we experienced at Romeo’s

Café. Our suggestion? Seek out special nights where an renown chef will be preparing an off-the-menu experience for multiple diners like the ‘Midnight Chef Series’ dinners at Yardbird. This is a great way to immerse yourself in creative cuisine without all the hiccups that can come with untested recipes or pre-prepped plates. Yardbird’s sister concept ‘Khong River House’ is following their successful chef series model with one of their own. Just like at Yardbird’s Midnight Chef Series, diners can expect to see a collaboration with the eateries’ head chef and a distinguished guest chef. Prices are more than reasonable and include a cocktail and multiple courses. While family-style dining isn’t necessarily romantic, being surrounded by good company and amazing food will be more than enough to set the mood.

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

SFG

MIA M I B E A CH

CASA TUA

CECCONIS

ITALIAN / MIAMI BEACH 33139

ITALIAN / MIAMI BEACH 33140

305-673-1010

786-507-7902

1700 James Ave.

4385 Collins Ave.

HAKKASAN

HAVEN

CHINNESE / MIAMI BEACH 33140

ECLECTIC / MIAMI BEACH 33139

786-276-1388

305-987-8885

4441 Collins Ave. (Fontainebleau)

1237 Lincoln Rd.

JUVIA

LA GLOUTONNERIE

ASIAN FUSION / MIAMI BEACH 33139

MEXICAN / MIAMI BEACH 33139

305-763-8272

305-503-3811

111 Lincoln Rd.

81 Washington Ave.

SFG RESTAURANT GUIDE | 16TH EDITION

2013

DRINKING & DINNING

BY ARLYENE MARIE PONCE

FARMER’S MARKETS PERUSE LIKE A PRO

his is a great time of year to take advantage of all the amazing produce found in our local farmer’s markets. It doesn’t get any better than buying ingredients that are fresh, seasonal and right from the source. Whether you are new to the market or have been going for a while, our tips and tricks will have perusing like a pro in no time!

KNOWING WHAT IS IN SEASON WILL ENSURE YOU ARE GETTING THE TASTIEST AND LEAST EXPENSIVE PRODUCE AT THE MARKET.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING The best time to shop depends on your needs. Shop like a Chef and get to the market right as it opens to get your pick of the best items and snag popular produce before they sell out. Looking for a bargain? Head to the market right before it closes for delicious discounts. Many vendors don’t want to pack everything back up again or have leftover items that are ready to eat, making the end of the market a great time to save. This doesn’t mean it’s time to haggle, farmer’s work hard to bring quality produce to your table. Expect farmer’s to offer discounts if you buy more or are interested in the last of something.

BYOB Bring your own bags. While many vendors will provide bags for your purchases they are usually flimsy paper or plastic that won’t hold up well under the weight of substantial purchases. Bring canvas bags, reusable plastic bags or even a backpack for hands-free shopping.

DO YOUR RESEARCH Knowing what is in season will ensure you are getting the tastiest and least expensive produce at the

market. Make sure to specifically check out what’s in season for your area, not just a general list. Florida’s sunny weather and warm climate mean that we can enjoy certain fresh fruits and vegetables long after the rest of the country has switched to frozen. It’s also a great idea to bring receipts from your last couple trips to the grocery store with you to the market. Not all produce is less expensive at the farmer’s market, bringing your receipts will make it easy to determine what’s a steal and what’s not.

SHOW ME THE MONEY Bring cash. While some vendors may take cards, not all of them will. Bringing cash also makes it easier to get better deal at the end of the day. Don’t forget to also bring plenty of small bills and change to make your shopping easier and faster.

TAKE A LAP Not all farmers are created equal. Make sure to do a full lap around the market before you buy anything. This allows you to see everything that is available before making a purchase you might regret.

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

SFG

MIA M I B E A CH

MACCHIALINA

NOBU

ITALIAN / MIAMI BEACH 33139

JAPANESE / MIAMI BEACH 33139

305-532-7555

305-695-3232

820 Alton Rd.

1901 Collins Ave. (The Shore Club)

OLA

PRIME 112

PAN LATIN / MIAMI BEACH 33139

STEAKHOUSE / MIAMI BEACH 33139

305-695-9125

305-532-8112

1745 James Ave.

112 Ocean Dr.

PUBBELLY

QUATTRO

AMERICAN / MIAMI BEACH 33139

ITALIAN / MIAMI BEACH 33139

305-532-7555

305-531-4833

1418 20th St.

1014 Lincoln Rd.

SFG RESTAURANT GUIDE | 16TH EDITION

2013

SFG

MIA M I B E A CH / N OR T H B AY VI L LAG E

SU RFSI D E / BAL H ARBO U R

SHOJI

ALTAMARE

JAPANESE / MIAMI BEACH 33139

SEAFOOD / MIAMI BEACH 33139

305-532-4245

305-532-3061

100 Collins Ave.

1233 Lincoln Rd.

THE FORGE

CAFÉ RAGAZZI

AMERICAN / MIAMI BEACH 33140

ITALIAN / SURFSIDE 33154

305-538-8533

305-866-4495

432 41 St.

9500 Harding Ave.

OGGI

LA GOULUE

ITALIAN / NORTH BAY VILLAGE 33141

FRENCH / BAL HARBOUR 33154

305-866-1238

305-865-2181

1666 - 79 St. Causeway, North Bay Village

9700 Collins Ave.

SFG RESTAURANT GUIDE | 16TH EDITION

2013

SFG

BA L H A R B OUR / S U N N Y I S L E S

N O RTH M I AM I / FLO RI D A K EY S

CANE A SUCRE

PETIT ROUGE

BAKERY AND SANDWICHES / NORTH MIAMI 33161

FRENCH / NORTH MIAMI 33161

305-891-0123

305-892-7676

899 NE 125 St.

12409 Biscayne Blvd.

THE PALM

TIMO

STEAKHOUSE / BAY HARBOR 33154

ITALIAN / SUNNY ISLES BEACH 33160

305-868-7256

305-936-1008

9650 E Bay Harbor Dr.

17624 Collins Ave.

TASTERS GRILLE

CHEF MICHAELS

AMERICAN / FLORIDA KEYS 33036

SEAFOOD / FLORIDA KEYS 33036

305-853-1177

305-664-0640

91252 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier

81671 Overseas Highway

SFG RESTAURANT GUIDE | 16TH EDITION

2013

SFG

NIGHT LIFE

The Mayfa ir Roof top Bar

The Local

Hotel Bar | Coconut Grove

Bar | Coral Gables

305-441-0000

305-648-5697

3000 Florida Ave.

150 Giralda Ave.

RECOMMENDED

Bamboo Club | Miami Beach

mynt

Baoli V ita

Club | Miami Beach

Lounge | Miami Beach

305-695-4771 550 Washington Ave.

305-532-0727

305-538-7855

1921 Collins Ave.

1906 Collins Ave.

wall

se t

Arkadi a

Club | Miami Beach

at the Fonta inebleau Club | Miami Beach

305-938-3131

305-531-2800

305-538-2000

2201 Collins Ave. (The W Hotel)

320 Lincoln Rd.

4441 Collins Ave.

Haven South Beach

C Lounge

Lounge

Cigar Lounge & Club | North Miami

| Miami Beach

Beach

305-987-8885

305-354-9300

1237 Lincoln Rd.

3945 N.E. 163rd St.

SFG

FDR Lounge at the Delano mansion Hotel Bar | Miami Beach

Club | Miami Beach

305-672-2000

305-695-8411

1685 Collins Ave.

1235 Washington Ave.

SFG | 16TH EDITION

2013

RECOMMENDED

liv Club | Miami Beach

305-674-4680 4441 Collins Ave.

DRINK

SPAIN IN FLAMES INGREDIENTS

PREPARATION

2 OZ. OF COGNAC 2OZ. OF SPARKLING CIDER

MIX INGREDIENTS IN A PITCHER AND SERVE ON COCKTAIL GLASSES

ICE CUBES

2013

SFG | 16TH EDITION

Bayside Marketplace Photography by Gabriel Bรกncora

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Betty Alvarez

THE WORLD IS AGLOW WITH CASIMIRO FOUNDATION GALA AT

SOFITEL HOTEL

Emilie Baird, Ted Caplow, Juan Casimiro, Luigi Boria, Yesit Campo

Corey & Sandy Heller, Maureen & Tom Shea

Eric, Taylor & Claudette Davis Mayor of Doral, Luigi Boria

Marilene Cheng, Marly Meza

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

2013

Quiyabi Colombian Group

Gloria Burns, Marly Meza

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Betty Alvarez

SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK RECEPTION TO BENEFIT

DFS Miami

Sonia Jacobson, Jeff Brock, Lori Halpern-Brock

Gailen David, Holly & Carlos Delgado

Juana Martinez, Raquel Diaz, Dominick Columbro Ronnieka Solomon

Aileen & Luis Fundora

Sonia Jacobson, Jennifer Heegaard

Shireen Sandoval, Trina Robinson

2013

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Betty Alvarez

OVERTURE TO OVERTOWN AT

the Betsy Hotel

Andre Milic, Tracy Carswell, Alexandra Pitigoi

Chris Corbin, Candice Shaw , Robert Young

Deborah Plutzik-Briggs and Superintendent Alberto Carvalho.

Dr. Maricarmen Perez-Blanco, Luis Lopez-Blazquez

Marie Izquierdo, Superintendent Alberto Carvalho

Kara Zeder, Marcelo Laniado, Lena Lowell

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

2013

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Levi Matthews III

MIAMI INT’L ART FAIR

aboard SeaFair

Dimio Perez, Karina Mathews, Floyd, Marilyn Santiago

Vivienne DGÇÖAscola

Ismar, Andy Royston, Jaime Ferreyros, Polomar, Orieta

Maria Rios, Paul Cezar

Monica Rengifo, Hoffman (Spanish Artist)

Frank Hyder

Dr. Cliff Cunningham

Mark Helliar

2013

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Gabriel Bรกncora

ART & WINE AT

Cuba Ocho Research Center

Time to celebrate

Juliana & Raquel Torrent

Lesly Guillen, Alina Sanchez

Maribel Reyes, Maria Gort

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

2013

Juliana Torrent, Alex Dehghani

Rafael Lweng

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Gabriel Bรกncora

RIDE 2 REVIVE AT Gulfstream

Park

Having Fun

Taking a ride

Maor & Zehavit Amar

K Loor, Chaim Silber

Police Volunteers

Joe & Adrianna Zeudoni

Sarina Villanueva, Norih Levy, Ayden Jahhour

Event sponsors

2013

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Gabriel Bรกncora

GALA IN

the Garden Fairchild

Aldo Busot, Michael Patty, Bobby Castellano

Co-Chairs Swanee DiMare & Frances Sevilla Sacasa

Joshua Salman, Laurie Jennings, Paul DiMare

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

2013

Phillis Oeters, Tony Argiz, Carolina Argiz, Sheldon Roy Pam Garrison

Director of Fairchild Carl Lewis & his wife Suzanne

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Gabriel Báncora

HA Design Studio PRE-OPENING COCKTAIL BY HECTOR ARELLANO

Hector Arellano, Irina Alvarez, Alexis Weinberg, Sam Azar, Malcolm Petel

German Rojas, Ivan Ramirez

Korin Castro, Cassia Martins

Manny & Friends

Marcela Tabares, Cristina Doldan

Malcolm Petel, Jonatan Baños, Sam Azar

Yesenia Penton, Lilly Osorio, Marcela Tabares 2013

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Gabriel Bรกncora

miss florida USA AT DOMA POLO

Melissa Hornung, Javier Herrera, Javier Herrera, Juan Arcila

Miss Haiti, Sarodj Bertin

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

2013

Lorena Rojas

Paola Cobas, Maria Fernanda Molinari

Carlos Arrechea

Ana Carolina, Liliana Moyano

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Photography by Gabriel Bรกncora

Week Kick Off Party at Mondrian Hotel

15TH ANNIVERSARY OF MIAMI FASHION

Alexandra Rodriguez

Damaris Aguiar

David Ackerman, Julian Chang

Kimberley Shenker

Samy Gicherman

Tiffany & Co Auction Item

2013

SFG SOCIAL | 16TH EDITION

Photo credit: www.ojodigital.com

Photo credit: telegraph.co.uk

MARCH EVENTS

LES MISÉRABLES (3/1/2013-3/3/2013) www.arshtcenter.org Based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, LES MISÉRABLES is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. The magnificent score of LES MISÉRABLES includes the classic songs “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “Stars,” “Bring Him Home,” “Do You Hear the People Sing?,” “One Day More,” “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables,” “Master Of The House” and many more. Ziff Ballet Opera House 1300 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL. 33132 305-949-6722

LADY GAGA

DISNEY ON ICE: DARE TO DREAM

(3/16/2013) www.thebbtcenter.com

(3/27/2013 – 3/31/2013) http://www.aaarena.com

Born this way ball tour: Lady Gaga The BB&T Center 2555 NW 136 Ave Ft. Lauderdale, FL. 33323

Experience Disney’s hilarious hair-raising escapade, Tangled; as Rapunzel, her unlikely companion, Flynn, and Maximus, embark on an uproarious journey that takes adventure to new lengths! American Airlines Arena 601 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL. 33132 786-777-1000

954-835-7000

SFG EVENTS | 16TH EDITION

2013

MIAMI CITY BALLET PRESENTS PROGRAM III (3/8/2013 - 3/10/2013) www.arshtcenter.org Program III features a new work by Alexei Ratmansky, one of the world’s most innovative and sought-after choreographers. His Symphonic Dances is a dramatic, fast paced work set to the powerful Sergei Rachmaninoff score of the same name. It enters the repertory season following its one-nightonly World Premiere performance at the company’s gala on March1, 2012. Also in the program are three George Balanchine favorites: the dark and turbulent La Valse, sweet and innocent The Steadfast Tin Soldier, and thrilling duet Tschaikovsky Pas de Deux. Ziff Ballet Opera House 1300 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL. 33132 305-949-6722

RICARDO ARJONA (03/09/2012) www.aaarena.com Guatemalan singer/songwriter Ricardo Arjona returns to AmericanAirlines Arena with his Metamorfosis World Tour on Saturday, March 9th at 8:30 pm. Arjona is one of the more respected Latin artists, mostly for his social conscience and his integrity in writing and performing songs.

Photo credit: Last_Savior Deviant art

Don’t miss this opportunity to see him live! American Airlines Arena 601 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL. 33132 786-777-1000

MIAMI HEAT SCHEDULE www.aaarena.com

FLORIDA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Photo credit: http://images.coveralia.com

3/30/2013 | 4/14/2013

3/01/13 Memphis Grizzlies vs Miami Heat 3/06/13 Orlando Magic vs Miami Heat

A fairy tale’s spell is set to embark upon Miami’s Cauley Square Historic Village when the Florida Renaissance Festival returns on March 30 to April 14, 2013. While entering the magical kingdom of the Florida Renaissance Festival, patrons will experience the Days of Yore, indulge in entertainment fun from the renaissance period, satisfy their medieval palate with authentic food fare and drinks followed by rides, and games of skill and chance.

3/08/13 Philadelphia 76ers vs Miami Heat

Miami’s Cauley Square Historic Vilage 22400 Old Dixie Highway Miami, FL. 33170 305-258-3543

American Airlines Arena 601 Biscayne Blvd. Miami FL. 33132 786-777-1000

3/10/13 Indiana Pacers vs Miami Heat 3/12/13 Atlanta Hawks vs Miami Heat 3/22/13 Detroit Pistons vs Miami Heat

2013

SFG EVENTS | 16TH EDITION

APRIL EVENTS

Photo credit: Fairchildgarden.org

SUNDAY SOUNDS AT FAIRCHILD April 14, 2013 1:00 PM http://www.fairchildgarden.org

Enjoy live music performed by students of University of Miami’s Frost School of Music on select Sundays through April 28 in the Glasshouse Café. Concerts are free with price of admission and last 45 minutes to an hour.

LIFE FOR CUBA

www.jlkc.com 04/05/2013 8:00 PM Be part of the help! Let’s provide more than one hundred thousand bibles. James L Knight Center 400 SE 2 Avenue Miami FL. 33131

Glasshouse Café 10901 Old Cutler Road Coral Gables, FL. 33156

TAYLOR SWIFT Photo credit: AmericanAirlinesArena.com

April 10, 2013 7:00 PM http://www.aaarena.com The Red Tour Concert. American Airlines Arena 601 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL. 33132 786-777-1000

SFG EVENTS | 16TH EDITION

2013

AIDS WALK MIAMI 4/28/2013 8am

The 25th Annual AIDS Walk Miami registration opens at the Miami Beach Convention Center (Hall D) 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, Fl 33139. Map it 8:30am AIDS Walk Miami Opening Ceremonies and Invocation begins in Hall D at the Miami Beach Convention Center. 9am AIDS Walk Miami begins promptly at 9:00 AM Rain or Shine! 9:30am - Noon The Walk is followed by an exciting post-walk celebration located at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens. Set on this lush 2.6 acre garden in the heart of South Beach with suprise live performance sponsored by MTV Staying Alive Foundation, live DJ music, complimentary massages from Educating Hands School of Massage, visit with our sponsors, complimentary beverages, goodies and so much more.

Photo credit: AmericanAirlinesArena.com

Photo credit: http://blog.livedesignonline.com

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESSERT 04/02/2013 - 04/07/2013 ZIFF BALLET OPERA HOUSE http://www.arshtcenter.org

This spectacular show tells the uplifting story of a trio of friends on a road trip of a lifetime, who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship in the middle of the Australian outback and end up finding more than they could ever have dreamed. The Adrienne Arsht Center 1300 Biscayne

4000 MILES

MIAMI HEAT SCHEDULE www.aaarena.com

4/14/2013 7:00 PM http://www.gablestage.org

Photo credit: observer.com

GableStage at The Biltmore Hotel - Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premiere Theatre 4000 Miles by Amy Herzog is a beautifully rendered portrait of the relationship between an old-style lefty grandmother and her newstyle lefty grandson. After suffering a major loss while he was on a cross-country bike trip, 21 year-old Leo seeks solace from his feisty 91 year-old grandmother in her West Village apartment. Over the course of a single month, these unlikely roommates infuriate, bewilder, and ultimately reach each other. 4000 Miles won the 2012 Obie Award for Best New American Play. The Biltmore Hotel 1200 Anastasia Avenue Coral Gables, FL 33134

4/02/13 New York Knicks vs. Miami Heat 8:00 PM 4/06/13 Philadelphia 76ers vs. Miami Heat 7:30 PM 4/09/13 Milwaukee Bucks vs. Miami Heat 7:30 PM 4/12/13 Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat 7:30 PM 4/14/13 Chicago Bulls vs. Miami Heat 1:00 PM 4/17/13 Orlando Magic vs. Miami Heat 8:00 PM American Airlines Arena 601 Biscayne Blvd. Miami FL. 33132 786-777-1000

2013

SFG EVENTS | 16TH EDITION

Emergency 911 HOSPITALS Jackson Memorial 305-585-1111 Mercy 305-854-4400 Mt. Sinai 305-674-2121 South Miami 786-662-4000 TAXIS

IMPORTANT

PHONE NUMBERS

GETTING AROUND Free Rides: Free transportation on South Beach- Swoop Miami is a service that will pick you up in a 6-passenger electric golf cart and take you anywhere you need to go within South Beach. Just call or send a text message to 305-409-6636 and they will arrive within 15 minutes. Note that you may have to share the ride with other passengers. 305-409-6636

Easy Parking: Register your car with PaybyPhone, save 20% on parking and add more minutes by text or e-mail www.paybyphone.com

SFG | 16TH EDITION

Best Yellow Taxi 305-445-4444 Central Cab 305-532-5555 Coral Gables Taxi 305-444-2828 Yellow Cab 305-444-4444 THEATERS Adrienne Arsht Center 305-949-6722 Fillmore Miami Beach 305-673-7300 James L. Knight Center 305-416-5970 New World Symphony 305-673-3331 AIRPORTS Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International 866-435-9355 Miami International 305-876-7000 AIRLINES Aeromexico 800-237-6639 American Airlines 800-433-7300 Avianca 800-284-2622 Delta 800-221-1212 JetBlue 800-538-2583 Southwest 800-435-9792 US Airways 800-428-4322 PORTS Port Everglades (Ft. Lauderdale) Port of Miami

954-523-3404 305-371-7678