December/January 2010 by SOMImag

DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011

MAIN STREET HAPPENINGS

Where’s there’s always something going on

LUKE SPOTTED ON SUNSET 13 New parking system in SOMI

HOW SWEET IT WAS 20 New event a sweet success

When the temperature dips, dazzle! As the cold strikes, strike back. In striking new fashions that will keep the weather at bay and the compliments coming. Visit your favorite Simon® mall. Or check simon.com for a Simon mall near you. AMC 24 Sunset Place with IMAX, Barnes & Noble, Casaideas, Color Me Mine, Cool-de-Sac, Dan Marino’s, Gametime, LA Sweets, Niketown, Splitsville Luxury Lanes and Dinner Lounge, Z-Gallerie, Aeropostale, Arden B., Armani Exchange, Banana Republic, dELiA*s, Forever XXI, Gap/Gap Kids, Hollister, Pottery Barn, The Disney Store, Urban Outfitters, Victoria’s Secret, Zumiez and many more specialty retailers. Located at US1 and Red Road/SW 57th Avenue in South Miami. Shopping Line® 305.663.0873.

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NOW IN OUR TH year BEST LOCALS NEW YEAR’S

Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence” 2008, 2009, 2010

Breakfast Weekends 8a - 1p

New Times “Best Neighborhood Bar South” 2008

Lunch & Dinner 7 Days

Happy Hour Specials 7 Days | 4p - 7p

Live DJ Fridays Ocean Drive “Best Restaurant South Miami” 2007

10p - on

Thursdays Best Locals Ladies Night 7301 SW 57th Court | 305.740.8118 www.townkitchenbar.com

FROM THE

PUBLISHER John Edward Smith

desirable place to live, work and play in the center of Miami-Dade County, an urban metropolis. Our “Town Center” district is comprised of the municipality of South Miami, and on the East side of Red Road, the City of Coral Gables to the north, and Miami-Dade County on the south, and features over 200 unique stores, an “urban entertainment center,” our civic spaces, public transit and a renowned medical complex.

From our home to yours… My daughter, Ashley Waters Smith, joins me in wishing you and yours a blessed and joyous holiday season and New Year.

WELCOMING IN A NEW DECADE Before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season immerses us, I wanted to take some time and reflect on the changing dynamic in our South Miami Town Center – “SOMI Town.” Since establishing my image marketing consulting business here in South Miami in 1982 (and where I’ve also live since 1974), I’ve had the opportunity to work with area business and civic leaders in developing our business environment. Over these years, our community has continued to grow and be a very

The building of our town center is a significant “branding” effort that requires a sustainable marketing campaign and other infra-structure improvements that will require support from our municipal, county and state elected officials, commercial property owners, our merchants association, other retail and professional businesses, the chamber of commerce - and you, our shoppers and diners, who walk the tree-lined streets in our “hometown.”

Ideas at the corner of US1 and Red Road. For too many years the vacated space has been an eye-soar at one of the entrances to our town center, reflecting badly on the overall business landscape. While we can be proud of our accomplishments, there are other and equally important initiatives to be undertaken in promoting a cohesive unified image in our business and civic districts - our Town Center. There is a pressing need to work together in realizing this effort, and your input in creating a unified vision for the future is critical – we’ve got much to do together. Over the next few issues I’d like to engage you in a discussion on reaching these goals and creating a vision for the next decade: SOMI 20/20 Vision. All the best in 2011 as we begin a new decade in South Miami!

We can appreciate the recent infrastructure improvements in our town: the municipal parking garage was built and the beautification of Sunset Drive on the west side of US1. New retail and restaurants have opened throughout the area – a good sign of confidence in the potential of our area. The most recent addition of significance is the opening of Casa

Submit your own comments: email to jes_somi@att.net, Subject: Speaking up

what’s on the cover 38TH ANNUAL // Chamber South Art Festival COVER PHOTO // Photography

by Jonathan

DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011 VOLUME VI, NO. 2

DIRECTORY

NEWS

PLAY

year-round farmers’ market starts up

EAT

SHOP

LIVE

LIVE somi market day

SHOP fashion hints

holiday style for ladies and men

this holiday season.

SOMI Shop ‘til you drop & after enjoy dining in SOMI...

EAT sweet tooth indulgence new event a sweet success

on the cultural scene enjoy music, art and theatre

NEWS 32 new destination for dining and entertainment new eateries and boutiques open DIRECTORY

Malled

Join US IN

what’s inside

PLAY

Don’t Get

We’re fun to be with!

patronize our advertisers

somi mag PUBLISHED BY // TCMC, Inc. (Town Center Marketing Concepts) JOHN EDWARD SMITH COMMUNICATIONS

Published six times annually. Print distribution to 17,500 businesses and residents, and in guest rooms/services at area hotels. Published on line at www.somimag.com PUBLISHER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR //

John Edward Smith Creative Design Consultant //

Mia Almaguer SENIOR ART DIRECTOR //

José Roque Graphic Design // Designworks Miami, Inc. // JOHN EDWARD SMITH COMMUNICATIONS

COPY EDITORS // Gregory Guess, Margaret Sotham FASHION CONTRIBUTING EDITOR //

Giancarlo Martell Health & Fitness Contributing Editor //

Scott Baumann CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & ARTICLE RESEARCH //

Barbara Acker, Scott Baumann, Claudia Marquez, Alfredo Riverol, Danielle Rosenfeld, Donna Shelley, Christian Torok. For more information, please contact the Publisher: TCMC, Inc. Postal Box 431597 • Miami, FL 33243-1597 T 305-665-2838 • Email: jes_somi@att.net ©2010 John Edward Smith Communications TCMC, Inc (Town Center Marketing Concepts)

Holiday Caroler figures at ACE Christmas Studio

Happy Holidays from

decemberapril // january // may

PUBLISHER’S RETROSPECTIVE

SHOUTOUT! TOWN CENTER FAVORITES

Sushi Indulgence

Margaret P., Palmetto Bay “When coming to South Miami, I look forward to having the Crab Rangoon sushi roll at Splitsville. I don’t go there to bowl, I go there to satisfy my yearnings for their sushi. It’s simply the best. It’s sweet and spicy, crunchy and smooth, the perfect pairing of taste and texture that calls my name in the night...”

Holiday Fantasies

Pampering while you shop

Mary S., South Miami “Sisse’s mani/pedis at Cream are dreamy and you can pick up holiday gifts from candles to Creed while you dry!” Cream 5820 Sunset Drive Cream is a glamorous apothecary boutique on Sunset Drive. It is the beauty destination of South Miami... a place where you feel the immediate urge to pamper yourself. Check out www.creambeauty.com

Splitsville Luxury Lanes & Dinner Lounge The Shops at Sunset Place | 5701 Sunset Drive Now in its second year, Splitsville has earned the reputation in town for an excellent menu.

Pamela C., Pinecrest “Every year I go to Ace Hardware to see their festive Christmas showcase. It’s such a magical place where I get to shop for specialty decorations.” ACE Hardware Christmas Studio 7825 Red Road Ace owner Dan Hitchcock & wife Ceci have been transforming their retail space into a festive holiday showroom for the past several years. They kick-off with a holiday party for customers in early November.

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

you say it. we print it.

Will C., Palmetto Bay “I like your new ‘sister publication’ the Town Center shopping guide. I picked up two copies at Mario’s Dry Cleaners – one for my glove compartment and one for the house. It’s a good resource to have ready handy. Nice job!” Joan F., Coral Gables

“Sunset Drive at US1 in the afternoon is a nightmare to cross. I had to wait for two light changes to get through, as south bound traffic on US1 blocks the intersection. Can’t this be better policed?!”

Greg D., South Miami

Submit your own comments: email to jes_somi@att.net, Subject: Speak up

“At first, when I saw your business directory was taken out of the magazine, I was disappointed. However, I’ve now seen your new Shopping & Dining Guide. It’s great, and much better than before. I like the history page – interesting to see the railroad photo with the locomotive running along US1.”

If you’re a business owner in SoMi, consider joining the Red Sunset Merchants Association and Chamber South. Go to www.rsmasm.com and www.chambersouth.com for membership information.

If you want to SHOUT OUT about your favorite store, service, person, dessert, or more, or you just want to an Art Night Ambassador. SPEAK and Become let us know about your experiences here in For information, go to www.artnightsouthmiami.com

town and your likes/dislikes, your take on this pub, please Become our friend. Follow our tweets send facebook.com/somimag an email to the publisher at jes_somi@att.net. somimag Visit us on line at www.somimag.com

For advertising information, please contact the publisher at 305.665.2838 or via email at jes_somi@att.net

You can also become a SOMIMAG FAN by logging on to: www.facebook.com/ilikesomimag. Send us a thumbs up!

somimag.com If you’d like to receive the six issues of Volume VI via USPS please send your check or money order in amount of $15.00 (postage & handling) made payable to TCMC, Inc. and mail to Postal Box 431597, Miami, FL 33243-1597. Your copy will be sent to you via First Class Mail.

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Managing Partner Francesco Balli with Coach Shula in the private dining room.

* evening with the coach Coach Don Shula greeted guests at the VIP opening event for his Shula’s 347 Grill on Red Road (formerly Jake’s). Named after his 347 career wins, the coach spent one and a half hours on a receiving line where many had photos taken and memorabilia signed. Former Dolphin greats and elected officials were among the 300 guests in attendance. Photos above (top row): Coach Shula with Mack Cycle’s Mary Jane Mark; Chamber South’s Jeff Flanagan; FNBSM’s Veronica Flores and Fed Bank Exec Juan del Busto. (Middle) Jim “Mad Dog” Mandich with Quarterback Bob Greise; Coral Gables Mayor Don Slesnick addressing the guests. Above background photo: Opening reception Tuesday, November 16th.

honoring VETERANS

South Miami’s newest city manager, Hector Mirabile, himself a retired Colonel with the Florida Army National Guard, conducted a Veterans’ Day observance at City Hall. This is the first time in recent history that the City has marked the November 11 observance with a ceremony. Attending the event were city elected officials, department directors, and many veterans who reside in the city. (Photos courtesy of Maria Garcia)

recognizing ACHIEVEMENT

The City of South Miami hosted a reception to recognize the South Miami K8 Center’s commitment to substance abuse prevention. The school is one of some fifty schools nation-wide which received Red Ribbon Certification by Informed Families. The center is also part of the South Miami Drug-Free Coalition. After guests enjoyed foods provided by Café Bon Jour, Dan Marino’s and Splitsville, the Mayor and City Commission presented the school with a proclamation. Pictured top right are: Principal Anamarie Moreiras, Asst. Principal Maida Court, TRUST Counselor Lissette Riera and PTA President Marilyn Correa-Gonzalez.

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december // january

people in somi HEARING FROM

BARBARA ACKER coordinator //

ISABEL MERRITT owner //

DWAYNE MCQUILLEN gen.mgr. //

The Parade of the Elves

Isabel Fine Home Accessories

Splitsville Luxury Lanes

ADDING JOY, BEAUTY AND FUN IN SOMI Inspiration and enjoyment are two traits that bind together Barbara Acker, Isabel Merritt and Dwayne McQuillen. Respectively, as Parade of the Elves coordinator, owner of Isabel Fine Home Accessories and manager of Splitsville Luxury Lanes, this month’s featured people are responsible for adding large measures of joy, beauty and fun to our town. Native South Miamian, Barbara Acker honed her skills as an events coordinator during her career as a meeting planner for corporations. Thanks to Barbara, the popular local tradition has stepped-off on time and thrilled thousands for 20 of the event’s 28-year history. Isabel Merritt combines the aesthetically-pleasing and the unusual in her small shop on Red Road. Another South Miami “institution,” the shop named “Isabel” has been delighting customers for 18 years. Dwayne McQuillen operates what for some may be a novel idea, a boutique bowling alley, complete with gourmet food in well-appointed surroundings. Splitsville is just a short ride up the escalator in the Shops at Sunset and a long trip from the smoke-filled, somewhat forlorn bowling alleys of yesterday. “We wanted to fix all the negatives associated with a traditional bowling alley. Splitsville is more than just bowling,” said McQuillen. A bill of fare created by Food & Wine magazine’s top menu designer for 2007, Tim Cushman, and sushi by Japanese-trained chefs ensures that an array of healthy, palate-pleasing dishes is available. Leather seating in modern dining alcoves, three pool tables and rentals for private events, make Splitsville a cut above the average. “My customers are so much fun. I have become friends with many of them,” says Merritt about her business in South Miami.

The soul of the store is the owner, reflecting Isabel’s uncanny sense for selecting items that enhance any décor without breaking the bank. From scented candles to serving ware and original works of art, the shop is irresistible. Santa’s Parade of the Elves, initiated by the Red Sunset Merchants Association in 1982 and sponsored by the city for the last 20 years, is one of those events that reinforce the strong sense of community that proves South Miami’s claim of being the “city of pleasant living.” Acker, who had been paid a small stipend by the city until this year’s budget concerns threatened to scuttle the event in the eleventh hour, said it may be her last year as chairman. “The children make it all worthwhile. “When a woman told me that her children were looking forward to participating in the parade with the elf costumes they had designed and created, I had to volunteer.” Barbara Acker’s negotiating skills have attracted classic car clubs from as far away as Jacksonville and from across the Alley in Naples as participants in the parade. The car owners and members of marching bands dine and shop in our downtown and stay in local hotels. Family-friendly bowling in a hip setting, shopping for first class, eye-pleasing home goods and watching local “elves” strut their stuff down Sunset Drive add immeasurably to the quality of life we enjoy in South Miami. Acker, Merritt and McQuillen confirm that customers and parade watchers and participants come from far and near to enjoy what the city has to offer, reminding us of that living and doing business here definitely has its rewards. DONNA SHELLEY

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MAIN STREET HAPPENINGS

In an environment of rush, easy fixes, Blackberries, texting, ipods and more, sociological researchers point to the need for identity – to find a place of belonging. Rather than being lost in a mall of the sameness throughout, people are searching for a “hometown” – someplace unique, with an identity unto its own. South Miami Town Center is that place. We enjoy our trendy boutiques, fine restaurants and treelined streets. And to celebrate our hometown a tradition of special events was created for our “main street.” The longest running event in South Miami is the Chamber South Art Festival. Held on the first weekend in November, this art show is a juried event presenting 130 artists from around the country and ranked in the top 100 fine art shows in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine. Begun in 1971, the weekend event draws thousands to Sunset Drive. An estimated 40,000 attendees were reported for this year’s show, its 39th annual and offering great art, great food and fun for the whole family. In 1983, the Parade of the Elves was established by the Red/Sunset Merchants Association. Sunset Drive is typically filled with over 500 children dressed as Santa’s elves and other holiday fantasies.

Always a popular event with some 5,000 people lining Sunset Drive, this annual tradition is “the best hometown, homegrown parade in Miami-Dade County.” Held on the first Sunday In December, 2010 marks the 28th annual parade. Sponsored by the City of South Miami for two decades, over 80 parade entries include local high school marching bands, Girl Scout and Brownie Troops, church groups, decorated cars and floats. From the first year and for years following, some of the prized returning entries include the South Florida Trail Riders, South Miami High School Band, the Mahi Shriners, with participation from Magic City Mustang Car Club, South Miami Hospital and the First National Bank of South Miami, which does the honor of presenting Santa atop a beautiful float. Santa always didn’t have a float. In the early years, South Miami Mayor Jack Block was Santa riding a tricycle; later parades saw Santa riding in a convertible. Over the course of years, children who were dressed as elves, now dress up their children to participate in this unique “hometown” parade.

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december // january

From Years of The Parade of The Elves

Chamber South Art Festival, November 2010 1984. Comm. Carl Schwait as the lead elf

1984. South Miami Elementary

Safe Streets Halloween was begun in the

charities. Giving back to the community,

mid-1980s in response to the need for a

especially the ones in need, was the main

safe environment for area children to go

focus of the club. Many of the members

trick or treating. With the support of the

donated time as a club in helping build

City of South Miami, Sunset Drive is closed

houses for Habitat for Humanity. Over the

off to provide a pedestrian mall of costumed

course of the years, VolksBlast has raised

characters.

Area merchants are always

over $100,000 for different local charities.

ready to greet the costumed little ones

For the past several years, with support

(and many adults, too) to provide treats.

from the City of South Miami, the event

The merchant association brought back a

has been held on Sunset Drive, with over

haunted house this year, which was created

200 participants and an estimated 10,000

and hosted at Veronica’s Doll House. Other

spectators. The 2011 VolksBlast will be held

fun activities were also in place this year,

on Sunday, January 30.

such as photos on Sunset with Super Mario and a costume contest hosted at Splitsville

The Rotary Club of South Miami proudly

making the 2010 Safe Streets event a most

presents the 27th annual festival during the

memorable time for families. And of course,

last weekend of February on Sunset Drive in

as in years past, there were “haircuts” by

the South Miami Town Center. Always held

clown “Papa Hans,” of FootWorks.

on the last full weekend in February, the

2005. Marching Cobras of SMSr.HS

Rotary Art Festival first began in 1984 as VolksBlast continues to bring VW fans and

a Craftsman Festival presented by the area

devotees to Sunset Drive for their annual

merchant association and Rotary. In 2006,

event. The event was first held in 1998 and

the event moved beyond crafts to provide

hosted at the First National Bank of South

an art show, which proceeds fund Rotary

Miami parking lot. It originated with the

scholarships as well as international and

Palmetto Bugs VW Club of Miami’s desire to

local community service projects.

organize events to help raise funds for local

Over 30,000 attendees are expected for the

2003. South Florida Trail Riders

1985. Santa arrives in a convertible

Rotary Art Festival, February 2008 (Photo by Stan Zeltman)

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VolksBlast, February 2009

February 26 & 27 weekend. In addition to

from October through March. Visitors to

showcasting artists, a “Children’s Alley”

our town center will appreciate local artists

is always a special activity: educational

showcased at our area businesses, and get

and interactive experiences for children

to see what makes SOMI so unique.

are provided free by local nonprofits such as the Miami Children’s Museum,

The annual events produced over these

The Everglades Outpost Wildlife Refuge,

many years would not be possible without

and the Southern Cross Astronomical

the cooperation of the City of South

Society. Every year there is something

Miami, our area businesses, presenting

new--come and see!

sponsors and the volunteers from the local chapters of international service

And over the course of the past twenty-five

organizations.

years other events have been held to attract area residents and visitors alike: Summer Starts Here, Mother’s Day Concert, South Miami Jazz Festival, International Hispanic Concert, and Sundays on Sunset. A new monthly event which doesn’t require closing off vehicular traffic is the SOMI Artwalk held on the second Friday of the month,

JOHN EDWARD SMITH

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decemberapril // january // may

Chamber South’s Chair Carol Alexander, CPA, Chamber President Mary Scott Russell, Festival Presenting Sponsor, FNBSM’s Veronica Birch Flores and artist Paul Marcellini.

* announcing the Festival Poster Artist In the week preceding the 39th Annual Chamber South Art Festival, and fittingly at the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Baptist Health Breast Center hosted the reception to announce the festival poster winner. The photography of Paul Marcellini was selected as this year’s official festival poster. Pictured (top photo) are the two breast cancer surgeons and directors of the center, Robert DerHagopian, M.D. and Gladys Giron, M.D. with chamber officials. Photos above left: artist meets with Claudia Fossi of Fast Frames, and GiaTech’s Greg and Veronica Conterio. Above background photo: Poster unveiling reception, October 21 2010.

a winning TEAM

unveiling THE MANATEE

Recently the South Miami Police Explorers Post 256 was recognized for its service to the community and to the South Miami Drug-Free Coalition. Coalition director Margaret Sotham presented the Post with a $500 contribution from the proceeds of the King Pins Challenge II coalition fund-raiser. Shown here, the Explorers are recognized by the South Miami City Commission. The Post also announced that fourteen of its members were awarded with the President’s Volunteer Service Award, a national honor offered in recognition of volunteer service. Pictured below with advisor Det. Joe Mendez are: (First Row) Yessica Martin, Kassandra Morales, Dailin Roman, David Celis, Alex Oton, Juan Villatoro. (Second Row) Ian Villajuan, Robert Grandes, Josue Zambrana, Cristopher Zambrana, Daniel Hames, Jerome Blain.

The first view of the manatee sculpture came at a well-attended reception hosted at the First National Bank of South Miami on November 12th. In its au natural state, the manatee arrived from a studio in Nebraska for the official unveiling. Over the course of the next few months, manatees will be painted by local artists to be incorporated in the South Miami Manatee Fest. Look for the painted manatees throughout our town center in the months ahead. Pictured above are South Miami Mayor Stoddard, Commissioner Brian Beasley and Manatee Fest producer Heather Bettner doing the honors. Photo right: Mayor Stoddard, sculptor Patrick Cedric, Bettner and Manatee Fest Sponsor FNBSM’s Veronica Flores.

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LUKE Brings Hi-Tech Convenience To our Town Center

For years, the window at Beverlee Kagan Antique Jewelry on Sunset Drive, announced relief for those parking at meters and short on quarters. The new system will spell RELIEF, as the pay stations will offer multiple ways of paying for parking (coins, cash, credit and debit cards).

In the opening scene of the Academy Award winning movie “Cool Hand Luke” (1967), Oscar nominee Paul Newman’s character, Lucas Jackson, in an inebriated state, systematically cut off the heads on rows of parking meters. And so, that’s why the team at Digital Parking Technologies named their state-ofthe-art pay station “LUKE,” as the system effectively cuts off the heads of single pay station meters. The City of South Miami is now going hi-tech with the new solar pay-station system. Thirty-eight pay stations, at a cost of $10,052 each, are being installed throughout our town center, in the South Miami Hospital Zone and at the Bird Road shopping area. While some meters will remain in our specialty retail district on 74th Street, thirty-two stations will be placed at strategic locations on Sunset Drive, 73rd Street and the side streets. While the paystations will be somewhat obvious on the sidewalks, a map of the locations is available on line (www. cityofsouthmiami.net). Existing meter posts will be removed (so much for bicycle parking) and parking space numbers will be permanently imprinted on the ground. Signage will

direct those parking to note the space and proceed to the pay-station. Two companies well-known in the parking system industry were under consideration for the contract. They are: Parkeon, a French company, and Digital Technologies based in Vancouver, BC. As both of these companies have a presence in the South Florida market, familiarity to the user was an important factor in considering the vendor. In considering the significant expenditure of implementing the system, the City of South Miami was able to “piggy-back” on a contract which the City of Fort Lauderdale had secured with Digital. Additionally, Fort Lauderdale had conducted an extensive bid process and review, with a competitive bid process using the same purchasing guidelines as South Miami, which allowed South Miami officials to forego an exhaustive RFP process. Digital Payment Technologies agreed to honor the pricing submitted and awarded by Fort Lauderdale, which is significantly lower than the list price of $15,888 per unit. The review process and RFP evaluation conducted by the City of Fort Lauderdale is some fifty-seven pages long. The rating criteria of four companies consisted of understanding the needs of the city, experience, qualifications, past performance and total cost to the city. According to Alfredo Riverol, CPA, Chief Financial Officer for the City of South Miami, projected increases in revenue reported by other users, account for some 25%- 35%. In its budgeting process, the City of South Miami is opting for the lower number of a 25% increase in revenue. At present, parking revenues for the City are close to $3 million of the annual budget. (This includes meter and violation revenues.) The City of South Miami has allocated some $430,000 in implementation costs of the new system.

Mikhail Morokhovich of Digital Parking Systems presents LUKE to the City Commission.

In addition to the new parking system, new parking rates were implemented by the City Commission effective November 1st, raising the hourly rate from $1.00 to $1.50. This was viewed as being in parity with other municipalities.

Cyclists will no longer have the meter posts to secure their bicycles. However, bike racks are always close by. (They’re the ones that look like washing machine agitators.)

Those now parking in our town center will be able to pay for a space at any conveniently located station; will be able to pay by phone and also extend time by phone (no more rushing out of a restaurant to plug in more quarters); and may also receive an expiration message per text. Informative displays on the pay-station will also provide weather, maps and other community event announcements. And so, welcome LUKE to our sidewalks who will be reaching to the sky for its power.

JOHN EDWARD SMITH

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SUSTAINABLE SOMI AN ENVIRO-SERIES FULL OF EARTH-FRIENDLY SUGGESTIONS

Dutch Market, Amsterdam

Eugene Market, Oregon

Prague, Czech Republic

Wadsworth Market, Middleton, CT

To Market, To Market… The ancient Greek agora, Middle Eastern souks and market days of medieval Europe share the common bond of a communal, open-air mart in which all manner of goods were available. Marketing was once a daily necessity and/or an occasion for enjoying the new harvest, finding trade items from far-away places or the arrival of itinerant crafts persons such as spinners and weavers. Here, most often in the town square, neighbors met, shopped, negotiated and celebrated. The city of South Miami is poised to recapture this essential activity in its new Farmer’s Market. Beginning on December 4th and operating each Saturday from 9a to 2p, the market will run year-round and features homegrown and locally raised organic produce, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and demonstrations to make “going green” an affordable and enjoyable. Presented through the auspices of the City of South Miami, the South Miami Green Task Force and Earth Learning, the market will provide locally grown food and a community gathering place in the parking lot of City Hall. Thanks to a community action group formed by the members of the Green Task Force, the idea for the community market was born. Members Anika Sternberg, Pam Lahiff, Buck Riley, Antoinette Fisher, Lisa Yoss, Gray Read and Daisy Harrell developed a strategy to bring the community together by providing affordable and healthy food choices at a weekly event that would offer a variety of activities while promoting “green” options. With in-kind support from South Miami Hospital, the City of South Miami was able to secure a grant from the Health Foundation of South Florida in the amount of $10,000 for one year. The grant assists consumers who are eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). “The funding from this grant will make purchasing healthy food at the farmer’s market a reality for everyone,” said Gray Read. A principal partner in the farmer’s market endeavor is Earth Learning, an organization with strong greening philosophies and considerable expertise in farmer’s market endeavors. “Earth-Learning is working with the city to build community and generate a thriving local economy,” said Mario Yanez, Earth Learning’s director. Yanez is a teacher and producer of ecological learning events in addition to being an organic farmer. Earth-Learning defines itself as “a learning community that inspires people, ventures, projects and activities dedicated to ecological learning and

sustainability in the Greater Everglades.” To that end, Earth Learning has among its initiatives the Community Foodworks program that uses Permaculture, a system of design and sustainable farming methods based in crop diversity and without the use of chemicals. The Community Foodworks project received a three-year Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program grant from the US Department of Agriculture to support a network of community partners focused on organic farming methods, no matter how small the “farm.” In this case, the farm can be the little plot of herbs and tomatoes being lovingly grown in the backyard. Community Foodworks is working to help urban farmers to produce food for their own consumption and for possible sale at the South Miami Farmer’s Market—which takes care of the food works portion of the program. The “community” portion is designed to empower citizens, create skills and build connections among residents through a network of urban “farms.” Community Foodworks will recruit and train farmers from all walks of life, economic levels and regardless of the greenness of your thumb. The goal is to establish low maintenance, high yield “food forests,” as these little farms are termed in the Permaculture world. One component of the program is to tap under-utilized land for infill agriculture. That abandoned lot you thought was an eyesore has the potential to become the best source for chemical-free, organic veggies in your neighborhood. Permaculture, rather briefly explained, employs farming methods once used before the notion that living could be made better through chemistry. Local gardeners know that we reside in the subtropics and that our growing hardiness zone is 10, which means we have a longer growing season than our northern cousins. Permaculture farming will take advantage of this by cultivating a variety of plants with the goal of realizing a higher output per acre than is produced by modern farming methods. To bring your goods (produce, eggs, dairy, meat, etc.) to market, consult the information on the market’s website at www.southmiamifarmersmarket.com. Here you will be directed to information regarding opportunities to sell prepared foods, handmade crafts, green products and/or services, as well as community groups who wish to inform the public about their organization. David Harper at david@earth-learning.com is the market manager happy to lend assistance. See you on market day! DONNA SHELLEY

Important Websites South Miami Green Task Force: www.greensouthmiami.com South Miami Farmer’s Market: www.southmiamifarmersmarket.com | Earth Learning: www.earth-learning.org

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Annual After Holiday Clearance!

Starts Dec 26, 2011 9:00am

Shoes 30% -70% arrive early!

Apparel 30% -70% limited styles and colors

5724 Sunset Drive South Miami, FL 33143 Open 7 Days | Free Gait Analysis footworksmiami.com | 305.667.9322

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HOLIDAY STYLE The Holidays are here! It’s a time for friends, family, and loved ones to gather around and enjoy the wonderful festivities -- and one another -- as we begin to bid farewell to 2010. Although our little Caribbean jewel of a city seems to have a hard time accepting the cold weather, we still look forward to breezy mornings and chilly nights. With boots and coats surfacing from our closets, this season we bring to you the hottest winter trends straight off the runways of Paris and Milan, with furs, animal prints, boots, military inspirations, and accessories, including chunky stone pieces. We wear our clothing as armor and this season promises to be one decadent affair. The call of the wild reappears this season in a stunning array of designs. Animal prints have mostly been spotted covering shoes and handbags, but the popularity of leopard print seems to have reached its height for Fall 2010. We have never seen so much of it in designer collections before, featured in coats, trousers, blouses, and scarves, even in jewelry. Respected brands like Dolce & Gabbana and Mulberry all featured leopard print in abundance. Every piece of the outfit, accessories, and shoes of any kind, has all been touched by this trend. If Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana opted for a classic chic approach to the leopard print, Dries Van Noten went for its casual beauty, demonstrating the full blossom of the hottest trend. Leopard print isn’t only diverse in size but also in color too! Pair it with big yellow gold hoop earrings and an important cocktail ring (preferably in a tiger-eye or onyx) and this animalistic trend will give your outfit that much-needed edge. Don’t shy away from heavy link necklaces and bracelets; big and bold makes a statement! Jumpsuits are everywhere this season and designers have been banking on this idea extensively. Bottega Veneta’s A/W 2010 collection, which was unveiled during Milan Fashion Week, was very unusual and combined femininity and

modernity. Gorgeous leather jumpsuits along with exquisite fabrics opened the collection in a pseudo-vamp-meets-glam look, which when worn with the right accessories creates a superbly stylized pairing. Chic and ever so extravagant, jumpsuits and rompers have made their way from the 60s and 70s to the modern day. Because Miami really never gets very cold, jumpsuits and rompers are a sexy yet refined way to dress for cool days, and a simple pashmina wrap should suffice on those chilly nights. Statement pieces are a must for this look, especially a beautiful hand-carved or big stone bracelet and necklace combo.

“ ”

The call of the wild reappears this season in a stunning array of designs.

Cocktail dresses were in plenty this season. They are womanly and cute though not so complicated in design, and who doesn’t like the simplicity sometimes? Teddy-bear coats arrived as perfect wardrobe staples for winter as well as the fantastic suede and leather knee- and thigh-high boots the models were strutting in down the runway. A hot trend pairing, sexy boots and a cocktail dress always look their best when worn with the right accessories, such as chunky bangles, stacked bracelets, long chandelier-style earrings, and big cocktail rings. Cover up with a leather bomber jacket or your favorite cropped fur and you’re ready for a night out on the town. Cartier brought the trend to life, but this season the feel for tri-color sets is hot. Whether it’s a single piece with tri coloration or individuals, nothing screams uber-chic like this trend. Thick, chunky, twisted, braided, flat, textured -- any which way the trio is paired in bracelets, rings, and neck-

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laces, it’s a must-have for this fall/winter season. For men, Fall brings rains and temperature that encourage us to trade our summer clothing habits of tees, summer slacks, and sandals for some fresh new wardrobe looks. You’ll want to check out these men’s fashion trends for fall and winter. This autumn menswear trends build on some of last year’s best looks and bring the world a few new ideas as well. Renewed military style, new cuts of suits, and velvet cloth are some of the main flourishes to dominate the minds of male fashionistas. The military man is back again! This time, it is deriving inspiration from the 40s and 50s with great coats, aviator jackets, and aviator boots with shearling. Burberry Prorsum and Neil Barrett are some of the boldest representatives of this trend. This season’s men’s suits have moved away from the ’skinny boy’ look to a new cut that can appeal to a military officer. It’s a style that accents masculinity through three key silhouette elements: broad shoulders, a slim waist, slim trousers. A man in velvet is a new trend, although it has been a fabric of choice for a good many fashion-forward gentlemen for some time now. Couple velvet jackets with trousers of different cloth or velvet slacks with some other jacket for the hottest (and warmest) look when the cool winds blow this winter. With this, we bid you a farewell and await the dawning of 2011 with ever-present elegance and in an ever-so-chic manner. Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season. Don’t forget your bowties!

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EXPERIENCE WELCOME TO

OUR WORLD Authentic Mediterranean Lebanese Food, Flavorfully Prepared and Served in a Fun and Delightful Atmosphere. Enjoy our Al Fresco Dining, Smoke a Hookah and Appreciate our Belly Dancers on the weekends.

Authentic Mediterranean Lebanese Kitchen

Open Seven Days for Lunch & Dinner Wine List of an Excellent Selection of USA (California), French, Italian and Lebanese Wines. Low Carb Menu Options Ethnic Belly Dancers On Weekend Nights

5701 Sunset Drive at the Entrance to The Shops at Sunset Place

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HOW SWEET IT WAS... It all started with some fifty entries in the “Miami’s Top Cupcake Challenge,” celebrity judging of fifteen finalists, and ended the next week with twenty-five area eateries providing all-you-can-eat desserts and treats to benefit local charities at the inaugural “How Sweet It Is” event at The Shops at Sunset Place.

Indulge your sweet tooth! Celebrity Judges deliberate their choices for the winning entry.

Hollywood resident, Luz Perez, takes home the winning title with her Miami Mojo creation

Join us at The at Sunset Place for an amazing evening prelude TheShops Cupcake Challenge was the perfect Miami’s Top Cupcake Challenge. From

of delicious featuring lavish displays all-you-can-eat to the following week’s of “How Sweet Itdesserts, Is” event the over fifty entries submitted, fifteen local tastings live entertainment and a kid zone with family-friendly activities. and beautifully staged in the open air courtyard finalist contestants came out to compete at The entertainment area near the new CASA IDEAS. Shops at Sunset Place on Saturday, November 13. Flan, piña coladas and nutella were just some The family-friendly premier event “How Sweet of the key ingredients used to create the mouthIt Is” was held in the evening of Thursday, watering cupcakes but were no competition November 18th and benefitted local charities. against a mojito-inspired creation. Area restaurants, THURSDAY, NOVEMBERvendors 18, 2010 and caterers transformed the mall into a paradise of tasty Final entries were judged by a celebrity panel of 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM treats and gourmet delights. The event featured Kathy Martin, Miami Herald Food Editor; Marybel THE SHOPS AT SUNSET PLACE (1st level by Niketown) lavish displays of all-you-can-eat desserts, live Rodriguez, CBS4 anchor/reporter; Diana Diaz, 5701 SUNSET DRIVE, SOUTH MIAMI entertainment presented by Dance School, Co-Anchor WSVN Today in Florida; Jewel TicketsLiving $20 (Children 10 andDance under are free) the Dolls Factory, and solo Figueras, Miami Fashion and Style Examiner A portion of event proceeds will benefit local charities performances by Miami’s Sammy Arriaga. A blogger and Letty Alvarez, baker and owner of more information or to purchase call (305) kid’s zone with funtickets, activities such663-0482 as cookie LA Sweets. The winning selection wasFor chosen or visit www.TheShopsAtSunsetPlace.com decorating, trail-mix creation station was a based on taste, creativity and presentation, and great attraction. the title of “Miami’s Top Cupcake” went to Luz Perez for her original cupcake concept, Miami Town Center restaurants and eateries Mojo, a rum-infused vanilla cupcake topped participating in this inaugural event were: with sweet minted-lime frosting and dusted Crepemaker Sunset Place, Sugar Heaven, with a crystallized sugar garnish. Dan Marino’s Fine Food & Spirits, LA Sweets, Outback Steakhouse, Old Lisbon Restaurant, Sunset Café & Gelato, Marhaba Mediterranean Restaurant, Segafredo South Miami, Town Kitchen & Bar and The Irish Times.

Sampling at Edible Arrangements

Old Lisbon’s Carlos Silva serving up a coconut custard

“How Sweet It Is” was sponsored in part by Baptist Medical Plazas, St. Thomas University, Winn Dixie and SoMiMAG. Benefitting charities were: National Academy Foundation, A Safe Haven, Simon Youth Foundation and Transition. JOHN EDWARD SMITH

Miami’s rising star Sammy Arriaga performing on stage.

Segafredo cocktail bar

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UN PROSECCHINO PER PIACERE! Some wines are used to being the center of attention, to receiving constant adulation and knowing nods from experts… and some are just as happy providing lots of pleasure, flying under the radar and not emptying anyone’s wallet in the process. Prosecco, the most famous sparkling wine export from Italy is such a wine. Great as an aperitif or a refreshing libation after a hot day, it costs a fraction of the price of other sparkling wines and is often replacing more traditional sparklers at celebrations and events. Prosecco, a virtual unknown not too long ago, has become a household name and is poised to give the higher-priced and more pedigreed sparklers a run for their money. Over the past few years more and better Proseccos have appeared at shops and restaurants, and many of those available this holiday season are truly surprising for their affordability and quality. Prosecco takes its name from the primary grape used to produce it, the prosecco grape, which grows in the Veneto region of Italy, and produces particularly great wines in the area between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. Prosecco is not produced using the ‘traditional’ method employed for Champagne and other so-called serious sparkling wines, but rather using the tank or Charmat method, a quicker, less expensive technique that yields wines that are fruity, fresh and clean. While the traditional method requires that the second fermentation (the one that produces the bubbles) occur inside the bottle, in the Charmat method wine undergoes this fermentation in a closed tank, yielding a similar bubbly feel in a fraction of the time. While Champagne and wines like it are known for their nutty complexity, the way Prosecco is made emphasizes the wine’s fruity, refreshing qualities. For many, this less complicated style is appealing, making the wine a great aperitif and companion to

light meals, always unobtrusive and enjoyable to a majority of drinkers. In Italy, Prosecco is often consumed for its own sake (no special occasion needed) and is popularly used as an aperitif or as a pick-me-up after a long day at work. Stopping by at a bar and asking for a ‘Prosecchino’ is a great way to unwind and leave the stresses of the workday behind. In the US, Prosecco has been steadily rising to prominence because of its drinkability and affordability. Although most Proseccos are technically dry, they usually contain a higher amount of residual sweetness than rival sparklers like Champagne or Cava. This tiny bit of extra sweetness makes the wines go down very smoothly, a profile that appeals to a large number of drinkers. (Not to spook the I-don’t-do-sweet-wine crowd, these wines are not sweet, they are just a little less dry.) If you prefer wines on the drier side, look for the word ‘Brut’ on the label. Also, Prosecco usually contains a refreshing amount of acidity, which makes it a good food wine that can accompany a meal from beginning to end. Affordability is another important factor, the top shelf Proseccos being around $25 dollars, with many delicious ones found in the $10 - $14 range. Prosecco will likely feature prominently at many holiday gatherings this season. It pairs very well with Thanksgiving and other holiday fare, and is a perfect sparkler to have as the world welcomes 2011 in just a few week’s time. Many fine retailers and restaurants in SoMi carry a variety of these wines, so pop those corks and enjoy the bubbly everyone will be talking about this holiday season!

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chef’s TABLE CHEF Philippe Jacquet RESTAURANT Café Pastis FACTS Chef Philippe is from Marseille.

SOMI kitchens

Before opening his popular restaurant 12 years ago, he worked with renowned New York chef Daniel Boulud.

ter Chefs Recipes from our Town Cen

RATATOUILLE BRAISED DUCK LEGS & Ingredients for Ratatoulle 1 red pepper 1 tomato 1/2 onion 1/2 eggplant 2 zucchini Salt, pepper. Garlic

1/4 inch each. • Dice all the vegetables about cook onion and pepper until soft. • In a hot skillet with olive oil, first to and garlic. toma hini, zucc and lant eggp • Add tables are soft. vege the all until ly • Let it cook slow

Directions for duck

(medium heat). Season the Heat the oil in a large skillet the duck, skin side first, until legs with salt and pepper. Add t five minutes. Turn the abou for n brow en gold is skin the tes. minu three her anot for cook duck and t. skille the from • Remove the oli and fat . Add garlic, fresh herbs and wine minutes. • Let it cook and reduce for five boil. a to it • Add the stock, bringing for two hours. • Reduce heat, cover, and let cook and tender. • Remove duck once it’s cooked on to your taste. seas and • Bring the sauce to a boil duck legs, the

Serving On a large plate, place the on the duck. s on top ratatouille and sauce with olive Add fresh basil. Et voila… Bon Appetit!

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Serves: 2 Ingredients for Braised Duck Legs 4 duck legs 2 garlic cloves 2 tbs olive oil Salt, Pepper (to taste) Black olives (15) 2 cups of cabernet 2 cups of duck or veal stock Fresh thyme & basil Directions for Ratatouille

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The AmericanFine Once a year the nation’s best winemakers ship their liquid treasures to South Florida to be judged amongst the country’s finest palates. The American Fine Wine Competition (AFWC) is the largest American-only wine challenge in the world. Every February following the competition, the AFWC staff hosts a four-course Gala dinner paired with the delicious candidates for the public to indulge. “The competition and Gala were created to bring awareness of limited-production, family-owned wines that not everyone would typically have the opportunity to taste,” said co-founder Shari Gherman. Shari, along with wine-connoisseur-couple Monty & Sara Preiser, founded the AFWC in 2007 and have raised over $350,000 to support local charities.

The founders travel across the U.S. hunting for delectable finds, personally inviting winemakers to submit medal-worthy wines, and unlike any wine competition, it does not charge the participants a penny. While mainly focused on California wines, the AFWC also honors incredible wine-producing states like Washington, Virginia, Oregon, Ohio, New York, and New Mexico. In fact, the 2010 Best of Show White was a Ferrante Pinot Grigio from Ohio. Of the 20 AFWC judges, all with extensive credentials and major influence in the wine industry, three are an integral part of the local SOMI community: Professor Chip Cassidy, Chef Jan Jorgensen, and wine connoisseur Patrick Sullivan. Chip Cassidy is a prized wine professor at Florida International University’s School of Hospitality Management and is the wine buyer for one of the state’s top wine shops, Crown Wine & Spirits. He has judged more than 100 wine competitions globally. Jan Jorgensen, recognized for his talent in

Wine

Competition Judges tasting panel.

The judges spend two days evaluating more than 600 wines “blind,” meaning they are only told the grape varietal and price range (NOT the brand name, vintage, or region grown). The judges begin by swirling the crystal glass to force the wine’s bouquet upward, and then peep their noses into the glass to draw in the aromatic profile. Then it’s time to taste! A good-sized sip is taken, and while keeping the wine in the mouth, air is sucked in through the lips to gently aerate the wine inside the mouth. While one may look like a fish making odd swishing noises, this process allows the wines secondary flavor characteristics to release and reach the back of the throat before spitting out the wine. While most of us would happily swallow these delicacies until we had a nice buzz going, the judges’ skills must remain intact while sampling hundreds of whites, reds, rosés, ports, and late-harvest dessert wines. In fact, scientists have found that while taste buds can distinguish five flavors (sweet, sour, bitter, salty, savory/“umami”), the nose can discern 10,000 aromas! The judges individually score the wines, and then as a group, determine whether a wine should be awarded a gold, silver, bronze or no medal. A unanimous gold is considered a double-gold and is entered into the Best of Class section; Best of Class winners then compete for Best of Show Red and White. Now that the wines have been honored, let the celebrations begin! All wines, regardless of their accolades, will be featured in the huge gala, beginning with a

Author with Chip Cassidy Writer Daniele Rosenfeld (right) and guest at Two Chef’s

creating wine-friendly dishes, has been a restaurateur for 30 years and is the owner and chef of the esteemed Two Chefs Restaurant in South Miami (featured in SOMImag’s Oct/Nov 2010 issue Dining in SOMI). Patrick Sullivan has worked in all facets of the wine industry, from consulting with boutique-wine suppliers to being the Wine Editor of DINE Magazine to his current position as general manager of SOMI’s favorite neighborhood pub, The Irish Times.

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Sparkling & Hors d’oeuvres Reception and followed by a 4-course dinner prepared by respected local chefs. The hundreds of wines are served by volunteers called Wine Angels, half wine professionals and half culinary students. One-by-one the Angels twist the corkscrew, pull up the cork and pour luscious boutique wines into crystal glasses for hundreds of South Florida wine lovers while Alan Kalter (announcer for the David Letterman Show) hosts this high-profile event. Live entertainment will include saxophone player Dayve Stewart and the Vibe (currently on tour with jazz artist Al Green) and world-famous artist Michael Israel, who will be painting original artworks live to be auctioned off. And if there wasn’t enough luxury streaming through the room, attendees can enter in a drawing to win a Lexus IS filled with thousands of dollars worth of diamonds. Marhaba Shrimp

Had enough wine? Didn’t think so. The event also features a silent auction of wine bottles signed by the winemakers with 100 percent of the proceeds going to local charities: the University of Miami Diabetes Research Institute and the Sun Sentinel Children’s Fund. In addition, the McCormick Foundation will be matching 50 percent of all Sun Sentinel’s donations. Two Chefs Restaurant is also a par-

ticipant in the AFWC’s yearlong charity efforts. Every Fall, the AFWC presents the Gold Medal Wine Tour, which is a series of multi-course dinners paired with Gold-medal wines where the proceeds are also donated to local charities. Chef Jorgensen served a beautiful fivecourse dinner this year, matching wild harvest sea scallops with a lemony-vanilla Phelps Creeks Celilo Chardonnay, chorizo in a duckling confit paired with a rich Castello di Amorosa Merlot, and a lemon soufflé coupled with Napa bubbles! But don’t wait until the Fall to taste these medal-winners. This past year, Gala attendees were so impressed with the wine quality, they ordered cases to be shipped directly to their homes and left many of the wineries sold-out in a matter of weeks. Co-founder Monty Preiser said, “The AFWC is a competition that the judges and those who attend the Gala truly enjoy due to the quality and our choosing not to use inferior wines.” Patrick Sullivan

For a winemaker, wine is more than just alcohol; producing wine is a way of life that incorporates heart, character, and tradition with the use of nature’s raw materials and classic techniques to transform a grape into something hypnotically delicious. Each bottle is as unique as the families who craft it. Come celebrate America’s finest wines at the AFWC Gala this February for a delicious dinner, medal-winning wines, and incredible entertainment. Daniele Rosenfeld

Mark your calendars! AFWC Gala Dinner Saturday, Feb 12, 2011 6:00p – 11:00p Hyatt Regency Pier 66 Resort, 2301 SE 17 Street, Ft. Lauderdale Ticket: $200/pp For tickets and information visit www.americanfinewinecompetition. com or call 561-504-VINE (8463). Jan Jorgensen

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(Standing) Attorney and past Chamber Chair Jeffrey Flanagan, SoMiMAG Publisher John Edward Smith, State Representative Dwight Bullard, Cutler Bay Mayor Paul Vrooman and Pinecrest Vice-Mayor Joe Corradino. (Seated) Chamber President Mary Scott Russell, staff member Tammy Maye and Mia Corradino.

* big easy chamber gala On a beautiful full moon light evening on Saturday, October 23, Chamber South hosted its annual Chairman’s Gala at Grove Isle with a decidedly New Orleans flare “Lassez le bon temps rouler.” The gala recognized the outgoing Chair Veronica Birch Flores and installed its new Chair, Carol Alexander and Board. Top Photos: Paul Voorman presenting awards to Joe Corradino and Ricardo Forbes. Installing new chair Carol Alexander and board member Ricardo Forbes. Carol Alexander presenting an appreciation gift to outgoing chair Veronica Flores. Above background photo: Patio reception under the full moon.

herding at MARINO’S

Dan Marino’s at The Shops at Sunset Place played host on Friday, November 19th to a live broadcast of Colin Cowherd sports talk radio show “The Herd” on ESPN. The dining room and bar areas were filled with sports fans for this live two-hour event.

vampires in SOMI A couple of thousand screaming teens descended on The Shops at Sunset Place on October 6 for a chance to meet the stars of the Vampire Diaries, Paul Wesley and Ian Somerhalder. The meet and greet took place at Hot Topic at the Shops and coincidentally occurred on the day of the full moon. Wesley and Somerhalder participated in a live Q&A and signed autographs for fans. Attendees were also treated to a live concert performance by alternative pop/ rock band Sounds Under Radio, whose track“All You Wanted” can be heard on The Original Television Soundtrack: The Vampire Diaries <http://thevampirediariessoundtrack.com/>.

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DAILY • 11AM – 3PM

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CULTURE ^

Upcoming artist exhibitions at the gallery are: December, Jayne Vander Woude and January, Humberto Benitez. Vander Woude, a former school teacher, was a winner of the 2009 South Miami Art Festival. Her painting shown here is “Orchid Stages of Life” an oil on linen

Making Music in SOMI

AT THE WIRTZ GALLERY

A project undertaken by South Miami’s Mark Richman is bringing students from the South Miami Middle School Music ProFelipe Herrer, David Hernandez, gram to perform on WednesLisley Cardoso and Michele Bueno day and Sunday evenings at performing at Trattoria Sole. area restaurants around town. This is a great opportunity for the students to showcase their talent and gain confidence in performances for the public. While performing, students are also raising money to keep their music program going. Area restaurants participating are Deli Lane, Cavas Wine Café, Marhaba, Town Kitchen & Bar and Trattoria Sole. Jonathan Ryan

is indicative of her nature paintings. Humberto Benitez is well-known in the Miami community. 2010 has been a phenomenal year for him. He was commissioned by Oceania Cruise Lines to create multiple large works for their new luxury ship “Marina” which will arrive in Miami in January 2011. He is also one of the artists chosen for the South Miami Manatee Fest.

Kristen Kasmai, 7th grade; Camila Gonzalez, 8th grade; Justin Telleri, 7th grade and Natalie Dharrie, 8th grade.

AT THE LOWE

The Lowe Art Museum is located on campus at the University of Miami. Now through January 16, the museum will exhibit the Harmon and Harriet Kelley Collection of African American Art: Works on Paper. This exhibit of sixty-nine works will feature selections from one of the premier collections of African American art and provides a rare opportunity for the public to view master graphics spanning three centuries. The works include drawings, etchings, lithographs, watercolors, pastels, acrylics, gouaches, and screen prints by noted artists. For additional information, visit the Lowe on line at www6.miami.edu/lowe.

MEXICAN CULTURAL CENTER ^

The Mexican Consulate offices are located in our town center. Attached to the Consulate is the Instituto Cultural de México en Miami, which presents a variety of programs during the year, showcasing the richness and diversity of the Mexican culture. Check out the Cultural center’s October and November programs and exhibitions. The Cultural Center is located near the South Miami Metrorail Station at 5975 Sunset Drive. Hours: Monday – Friday, 9a-2p, 3p-6p. Tel: 305.268.4910.

The AREA STAGE COMPANY is presenting for one night (December 11) the comedy “Christmas with the Nuts” with A Pair of Nuts. On December 17, “Broadway Bound” an evening of musical theatre; on December 18, Carlos y Marta: “Navidad que vuelve” Spanish Christmas Carols. In January, “Confessions of a JEWISH SHIKSA: Dancing on Hitler’s Grave” (Jan. 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 23, 30) and “Chicago” (Jan. 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30). The AREA STAGE COMPANY at the Riviera Theater is located at 1560 South Dixie Hwy. For ticket information call 305.666.2078 or on line at www.areastagecompany.com.

AREA GALLERIES Artzee Boutique 1430 S. Dixie Hwy. Suite 107 305.740.5453

La Galleria delTeatro 1560 S. Dixie Hwy. 305.666.2078

Lowe Art Museum University of Miami 1301 Stanford Drive 305.284.3535

Mexican Cultural Center 5975 Sunset Drive 305.268.4910

Sunset Gallery & Framing 5864 Sunset Drive 305.667.0925

The Wirtz Gallery First National Bank of South Miami 5750 Sunset Drive 305.662.5414

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At The FALLS

at LAST!

Front row: Jennifer R. Gonzalez, Teller Manager ; Veronica Birch Flores, Executive Vice President; Back row: Idelsi Tourino, Assistant Branch Manager; Claudia A. Cancio, Senior Vice President ; Ained Lassus, Relationship Banking Manager .

First National Bank of South Miami is proud to announce the opening of our Falls office. The Falls 8941 SW 136 Street Miami, FL 33176 305.278.5700

South Miami Office 5750 Sunset Drive South Miami, FL 33143 305.667.5511

www.fnbsm.com

Kendall Office 7887 North Kendall Drive Miami, FL 33156 305.412.5511

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decemberapril // january // may

‘Tis the Season

to be Stressed-Out!

“Making a list and checking it twice – and then making another list and trying to get it all done.” Wait, that’s not how it goes….. I know this doesn’t sound as nice as the classic tune, but it’s the truth for the majority of Americans during the holidays. With all the parties, gift buying, travel, and family associated with this time of year, it is understandably a stressful time. So what is the best way to deal with these stresses? As with any other time in your life, the body functions best with adequate sleep, nourishment and exercise. Keeping the balance of these three items will help you keep the balance with other aspects of your life (including your sanity)! Getting less than the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep only serves to decrease your energy levels during the day, meaning you get less done, which of course, leads to stress. Sleep deprivation, along with the other stresses of the holiday season can lead to more serious problems such as depression. It’s a cycle that is hard to break once it starts. Another way to relieve stress is to make a list of everything you plan to get done through the New Year, and then number these priorities in order of importance. Prioritizing your precious free time over the holidays will help you devote adequate time for family, friends, parties, and ‘me’ time. One de-stressing item on your list may be to give back to the community, by volunteering time or money to those less fortunate. Keeping your holiday tasks in order will also help you get the sleep you need throughout the season. They are impossible to avoid, but at least try to minimize the sugary sweets of the holidays. The average person consumes 5 lbs. of sugar every month and that number can double during the holidays. Sugar highs and lows affect mood and well-being more than most people realize. Concentrate on eating correctly

during this season, with small, frequent and healthy meals and you’ll be much better equipped to deal with stress. Of course you’ll need to have a few treats in there, but be aware of how much they can affect your mood and don’t make a full meal out of your treats! Exercise is essential, especially during the times of higher stress. Any time our muscles are exerted our body produces natural stimulants called endorphins. Working out not only serves as a stress release, but the ‘post workout high’ you experience after a tough weight training or cardiovascular session will help you deal with family, traffic and preparations of the season. Don’t sit around and wait for ‘resolutions’, the time to think about exercise is now, and get a head start on feeling great in 2011.

SCOTT BAUMANN is SoMiMAG’s Contributing Editor for Health and Fitness and the general manager of the Fitness Together Personal Training studios in South Miami and Coconut Grove. Email scott@fitnesstogethermiami. com , call 305.298.3838 or visit www.fitnesstogethermiami.com.

* working out around somi FITNESS TOGETHER 5829 SW 73 Street .Suite 2 | 305.446.3665 | www.fitnesstogethermiami.com LA FITNESS 5701 Sunset Drive | 305.665.7846 | www.lafitness.com M CYCLE 6114 South Dixie Highway. | 305.665.1618 | www.mcyclegym.com Metropolis Fitness & Spa 1430 Madruga Avenue | 305.772.6009 | www.metropolisfitnessandspa.com Miami Fitness Boot Camp 6832 SW 81 Street | 305.741.0560 | www.fitbodybootcamp.com/bootcamp/miami-fit-body-boot-camp.html Myra & Company / Connect Movement Center 7313 SW 59 Court | 305.661.2381 | www.miamispa.com PEAK 360 5858 SW 68th Street | 305.975.9694 | www.peak360fitness.com PHYSIO-CORE 1565 Sunset South Dixie Highway | 305.668.9108 | www.physiocore.com SOUTH MIAMI BOOT CAMP 5800 SW 68 Street | 305.613.9920 | www.edsbootcamp.com

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RE/MAX’s Brenda Bly and Lauren Hartog with endangered species artist Alex Yanis. Artist Jorge Rodez (left) with Christy & Giancarlo Martell at Giancarlo Design on Sunset Drive.

* artwalk in town SOMIartwalk© is in full gear on the second Friday of the month, from now until March. Some twenty businesses throughout our town center open their doors and host artists, while offering strollers some libations and refreshments. Throughout the sidewalks in town other emerging artists have the opportunity to showcase their work. Photos (top) Shop owners Rosanna Villasuso and Isabel Merritt at the Red Road art night venues. Ernie Capers and troupe performing at 57th Court across from Town Kitchen & Bar. Artnight strollers on Sunset Drive outside of Sunset Gallery & Framing. Photo above left: Exhibiting at The Wirtz Gallery in the First National Bank of South Miami. www.artnightsouthmiami.com Above background photo: Sidewalk art at Deli Lane/Sunset Tavern.

boogies AT THANKGIVING

upcoming EVENTS

Parade of the Elves Sunday, December 5 On Sunset Drive, 2-4p SOMIartwalk© Friday, December 10, 6-9p throughout our town center VolksBlast (VW Show) Sunday, January 30 on Sunset Drive, 10a – 5p SOMIartwalk© Friday, January 14, 6-9p throughout our town center

The place to party in SOMI on the day before Thanksgiving is at Boogies. Bougainvillea’s threw their 6th annual PreThanksgiving block party on Wednesday, November 24. Inside and out, Boogies was packed with revelers getting ready for the long Thanksgiving weekend. Outdoors partyers enjoyed the sounds of the Mike Romey and the Rejects, and Colbert, while inside DJ Mikee D spun discs ‘til 5a. Owners Loic Delvat, Cesar Rincon & Nick Lecat taking in the party.

Rotary Art Festival Saturday & Sunday, February 26 & 27 on Sunset Drive, 10a – 5p

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NEWS

decemberapril // january // may

somi mag

what’s NEW in somi town Welcome to town from the SoMiMAG Publisher

SOMI SO-NEW EATERIES

Lady Marmalade L O U N G E

On the east side of Red Road is Barrio Latino (formerly the site of former Beverly Hills Café). In magnificently appointed inside and outside dining areas, the restaurant offers Latin American, South American, Argentinean, Cuban cuisine and a Latin fusion menu to both lunch and dinner guests, seven days a week.

C A F É

Monika Tahoun

With flavors of Moulin Rouge at their bar, a full menu and live entertainment, Lady Marmalade has now opened in the former 72nd Bar+Grill location on Sunset Drive. A dream of owner Monika Tahoun for years, the dream was beginning to become a nightmare when a first location chosen in SOMI for the lounge/cafe was blocked by the South Miami City Commission, due to some zoning issues. For Monika, she wanted to create a restaurant, where diners don’t just eat and leave, but eat and stay around to enjoy entertainment. Appealing to a 30+age group, Lady Marmalade will have live cabaret entertainment and DJs. There will also be a VIP area for private parties. At Lady Marmalade, guests will enjoy appetizers, salads, burgers, pasta, soups, and six entrees. Additionally, there’s a pastry chef to entice. At the bar, ten signature cocktails created especially for Lady Marmalade are inspired by the Moulin Rouge movie. A sampling is: ”Satine,”apricot brandy mixed with cream of milk with a hint of gin or maybe you are in a mood for something stronger like “ToulouseLautrec’s Poison,” a shot of Absinthe blended with lemon juice and cold sweet chamomile tea. Lady Marmalade is open seven days a week, starting at 4p and Management team: Marcin Grabowski, closing “when the last person leaves.” 5861 Sunset Drive | 305.669.3133

1559 Sunset Drive | 305.669.4447 On the southwest corner of 73 Street and 59 Avenue, is Pastazzi. It’s a casual “fast-food-like” establishment, where the object is to “pick your pasta, pick your sauce.” There’s a variety of lasagnas, ravioli, cannelloni and salads. Dishes are prepared with 100% natural ingredients and no preservatives. Pastazzi is open seven days from 11a-10p. Indoor and outdoor casual seating; no bar service. 5900 SW 73 Street 305.665.111 or 1.888.74 PASTA Empire Lounge & Pizzeria recently opened in the historic building on the corner of US1 & Sunset Drive (former site of Origin). The pizzeria offers up a wide menu of pizza and pasta dishes, salads soups and burgers. Also on the menu are hot & cold submarine sandwiches, wraps and desserts. All selections are very reasonably priced. They also have a full-service bar.

Co-Owner/Bar Manager; Max Heymann, Exec. Chef; Willard Martin, Pastry Chef and Francesco Munez, General Manager.

5920 South Dixie Hwy. | 305.662.1331 And coming soon in the former Qdoba site across from The Shops at Sunset Place is OMG! Burgers.

MAKING FASHION STATEMENTS IN TOWN NOELLA ROSE

“So Pretty” is the boutique designed by owner Vina Richard. Vina returns to Miami after 21 years. Married to a French diplomat, and with extensive travelling, she has opened eleven shops over the world. Some of the more exotic locations have been Kenya, South Africa and the French Caribbean. At Si Belle, shoppers will appreciate a collection of Italian and French casual wear at “reasonable recession prices.”

On the “Sunset East” side of our town center is the jewelry design house of Noella Kacem. Originally from France, she has stores in Sante Fe and Key West. At Noella Rose, shoppers will find custom, one-of-akind pieces incorporating semi-precious and precious stones from around the world. The design house offers a wide-price range from $15 to over $1000, “a little of everything to meet every customer’s needs” says Eileen Ricigliano, manager and designer as well.

While Maud may be new to Sunset Drive, the boutique is not new to the area. In fact, since 1961, Shirley Small has provided shoppers with classic, not trendy clothes from her boutique on South Dixie Hwy across from UM. And speaking of classic, on theirwallisablackrotarydial telephone and sale tags are hand written. With daughter Bru, who is now owner, the two work side-by-side, offering an affordable price range for all ages. Of their move to Sunset Drive, Bru said: “South Miami seems more like home.’’

5780 Sunset Drive | 305.669.6144

1559 1/2 Sunset Drive | 305.665.1336

5829 Sunset Drive | 305.665.3765 Do you have business news to share with our readership? Please send your information to the publisher at jes_somi@att.net.

now online at somimag.com

NEWS

celebrating ANNIVERSARIES From the retail sidewalk to the boardroom and residences. After 18 years in South Miami in streetlevel retail spaces, men’s clothier Mani Pastrana has moved his casual and men’s clothing business to the boardroom and to the home. Now located in a second level showroom at the Red/Sunset Building, Mani Pastrana offers by appointment personal service at the showroom, or at your office or home. Sirvanti-Tailor Made offers custom suits, “off the rack” suits, sport jackets, pants and tuxedos. Mani also has custom-made shirts and Guayaberas made of Egyptian cottons and linens. 6915 Red Road | Ste. 203 | 305.665.7353

Morning Call celebrated its 5th in November. Guests enjoyed baked delicacies and an infamous Haitian punch. Owner Christina Marzouka, friends, relatives and long-time customers joined in. And on hand were neighbor business owners Carlos & Jose of Garden Gate and Ceci from Sunset Gallery. Splitsville Luxury Lane & Dinner Lounge observed their 2nd with a day of discounted bowling and eats. Since opening two years ago, Splitsville has gained the reputation for great Morning Call Splitsville birthday parties, corporate events, late evening ambiance and food. They also host local charity events – like the King Pins Challenge. The Green House This is the little house that could. From a very small store, owners Marilou Dibildox and Loreto Doucet, and ably assisted by Glen Hernandez, they have instilled an appreciation in “going green.” On Sunday, Nov. 21, they celebrated their 1st with a Citrus Special afternoon, selling trees and serving up citrus cupcakes. Yogen Früz Franchise owner Roberto Puzo is observing his 1st year in business at this very popular after dinner ( and The Green House Yogen Früz anytime during the day) spot. Yogen Früz provides delicious and nutritious frozen desserts, just what you need to live a healthy and active lifestyle.

LVS CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAYS Our salon is always evolving to bring our clients the best in the industry.

The holiday season is swirling all around us. At LVS Salon Group it’s one of the most exciting times for us. The salon is buzzing with excitement…clients are getting ready for office parties, family gatherings and vacations,. Our professional hair staff is ready to color, highlight and create beautiful updo’s for any occasion. Our nail techs have been busy “Shellacing “ clients nails and primping perfect toes to show off with their dazzling party shoes. You might say, “we’re the elves of South Miami.” We’re stocked up and ready to go with great gift giving ideas for every

person on your list. LVS features our premier candle line, Voluspa with scents such as White Current Quince, Warm Perique Tabac and Figue de Bourdeaux. Gift sets include diffusers, soaps, room sprays and candles all elegantly packaged and ready for a bow. Another featured item is beautiful jewelry from Venice, Italy. Each necklace is one of a kind and handcrafted from unique Murano glass beads. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to find out the dates for our fun in-salon trunk shows throughout the holidays which include clothing, jewelry and art.

Still undecided? LVS Salon Gift Cards are a great way to say “Happy Holidays”, and you receive a bonus reward card for yourself or as an additional gift. Purchase a gift card for $25, $50 or $100 and receive a reward card for $5, $10 or $25. Let’s enjoy the season together at LVS Salon Group. Get beautiful, finish your holiday shopping and ring in the New Year! Susanne Palmacci Creative Director