P u b l i s h e d i n c o o p e r a t i o n w i t h T h e M i a m i B e a c h C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– C o n n e c t i n g L o c a l B u s i n e s s e s s i n c e 1 9 5 8
DECEMBER 14, 2011
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Mount Sinai CEO Steven Sonenreich Named Citizen of the Year by the Miami Beach Chamber Community comes together on gaming issue
Letter from the Chair BY JASON LOEB
Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber
STEVEN D. SONENREICH, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mount Sinai Medical Center
C
iting his commitment to medical excellence and to enhancing the overall health and well-being of the community, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce has named Steven D. Sonenreich, president and chief executive officer of Mount Sinai Medical Center, as its 2012 Citizen of the Year. Presented annually during the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Gala, the Citizen of the Year award recognizes individuals whose selflessness, foresight and guidance have contributed immeasurably to the quality of life in our community. Sonenreich is truly deserving of the award, said Jason Loeb, Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce chairman. –––––––––––––––––––––– See
CITIZEN, page 4
Gaming Forum Panelists: Russell Galbut, Crescent Heights; Lyle Stern, Koniver Stern Group; Isadore Havenick, Magic City Casino; Former Senator Dan Gelber; Representative Erik Fresen. Moderated by Steve Litz, NBC Miami ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY ANA CECILIA VELASCO
A
t the Gaming Forum sponsored by the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, the panelists and the community acknowledged a basic fact: there is much to be learned about any proposed gaming on or near Miami Beach. Mayor Bower set the tone by welcoming everyone to the learning experience. "I will bet that
you will leave here having learned something you did not know" were the Mayor's opening remarks. She went on to emphasize that the community "needs to look at everything and how it will affect you", although she qualified her statement by saying she is philosophically against gaming. Moderated by Steve Litz of NBC Miami, ––––––––––––––––––––––
See
GAMING, page 8
When conducting business, Miami Beach certainly gives us a lot to work with. We have incredible diversity, booming tourism and great minds, all anchored by our famous sun, fun and sand. But now it’s time for the Chamber to get cultured. I’m excited to report that we have added an arts & culture committee to promote and enhance our artistic offerings even further. This new committee is a natural and important expansion in positioning Miami Beach as a truly well-rounded destination. For decades, the world’s most influential artists have sought out the city to serve as the backdrop in which to pursue their projects. The very development of Miami Beach is rooted in art with its unique Art Deco skyline. Today, we’re coming off our tenth year of Art Basel Miami Beach; the New World Symphony moved into a breathtaking new home; and our museums, dance companies, music groups and individual artists are capturing international attention. The economic forces of these arts programs are huge and every business can benefit in some way. The Arts & Culture Committee will not only seek out new opportunities to bring in additional artistic programs, people and initiatives, but ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See
LETTER, page 4
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 15 - 28, 2011
December 15 - 28, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT
MICHAEL MANDICH I was born and raised down here in South Florida before heading to Ann Arbor, MI where I played Football for the The University of Michigan and graduated in 2005. Later in my senior year I thought I would enter the Construction Industry like my dad but I had an opportunity with his business partner Randy Kassewitz at MZM Productions to work in Media and Production. Shortly after my return from college I matriculated my way back to South Florida and more importantly Miami Beach. I jumped at the opportunity to learn how to produce shows on TV and Radio, sell advertising, broadcast the FIU Football games on radio and learn firsthand business experience with the opening of our families restaurant in the Florida Keys, Ziggie & Mad Dog’s. I was able to learn so much in a short period of time with the help of a great group of people. MZM Productions and Accord Productions worked very closely with each other producing the University of Miami Coaches Shows and several DVD’s related to UM. In 6 years we started an events company that manages the Mad Dog Mandich Fishing Classic which is in Miami Beach and Islamorada, Miami Dolphins Touchdown Club and the Doctors Hospital Fishing Tournament. Four years ago we tried to buy The Beach Channel with no luck at first but through a chance run in with their President we were able to come to an agreement and so started my involvement with the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce and serving on The Pillar Board for the last 3 years. We have enjoyed being a part of this great community and being able to showcase the great aspects of the beaches to so many
MICHAEL MANDICH
people. Two years ago my dad was diagnosed with Bile Duct Cancer and with the Miami Dolphins we started the Miami Dolphins Cycling Challenge which raises funds for Sylvester Cancer Center. The Dolphins Cycling Challenge is a tri- county bike ride with 6 different rides that range from 30 Miles to 170 miles over 2 days. Although my dad passed away this year we have raised over $1.6 Million in two years. I sit on the board of this wonderful event and I intend to grow this with the help of the South Florida Community into a world class event for a world class facility. I recently got married this year to Christina and we look forward to many more years in Miami Beach.
Miamii Beach h News
6769 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355 • Fax (305) 662-6980 PUBLISHERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grant & Michael Miller ASSOCIATED PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Amy Donner WRITERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Albie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Celia Canabate, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diane Chasin, Enrique Chau, Sharon Christian, Lori Cohen, Dianne Maddox, Denzil Miles, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller, Georgia Tait, Walter White PROOF DEPARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Vavrek PRODUCTION GRAPHIC ARTISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Ortega, Cristian Ortiz, Catalina Roca, Marie Scheer, Isabel Vavrek PUBLISHER EMERITUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ron Miller We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. If you send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material. Every issue of the Miami Beach is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including advertisements produced by Community Newspapers. Using artwork and/or typography furnished or arranged for/by us, shall be the property of Community Newspapers. MILLER PUBLISHING and COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS are proud to publish the following newspapers: Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Community Newspapers, Coral Gables News-Tribune, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens, Opa-locka Review, Palmetto Bay News, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun, West Park News. See us at www.communitynewspapers.com
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December 15 - 28, 2011
CITIZEN, from page 1
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“Miami Beach is a world-class city and, as such, we are fortunate to have a worldclass medical center right in our community,” Loeb said. “Steve’s leadership, commitment to medical excellence and passion ensure that Mount Sinai will continue to be at the forefront of patient care for years to come. His dedication to our community makes him more than deserving of this award.” Sonenreich has led a dramatic turnaround at Miami Beach’s only hospital. Under his leadership, Mount Sinai has grown as a regional referral center, stabilized its financial outlook, and furthered its mission of quality health care, teaching, research, and community service. “It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award,” Sonenreich said. “This award comes as a result of many people working together to achieve a common goal – providing excellent medical care for our community and making it available to everyone when they need it most. I’m fortunate to work with dedicated employees, an exceptional medical staff, a steadfast board of trustees, and a supportive donor community. It is because of their dedication and commitment that Mount Sinai has made such a positive impact on the community.” During Sonenreich’s tenure as president and CEO, Mount Sinai has achieved a host of accomplishments, most notably creating more locations where patients can access the care and services the hospital provides. He established the region’s only freestanding Emergency Department in Aventura, which has treated nearly 47,000 patients since its opening in 2008. Mount Sinai also expanded its operations in 2010 to include outpatient physician offices in Hialeah and Coral Gables, in addition to its existing
LETTER, from page 1
physician offices in Key Biscayne and Aventura. Sonenreich also has focused on the development of Mount Sinai’s Centers of Excellence. He led the hospital’s affiliation with New York’s Columbia University Medical School, creating Columbia University Divisions of Cardiology and Urology at Mount Sinai. This unique partnership – the only Ivy League collaboration of its kind in South Florida – continues to enhance the medical center’s academic and research infrastructure. In cardiovascular services, the Mount Sinai Heart Institute offers patients the best cardiac surgery and heart attack survival rates in Florida. And, through a generous donation from the Chaplin Family, Sonenreich was able to further enhance Mount Sinai’s neuroscience program. As a result, the hospital is one of only two centers in Miami-Dade County to achieve designation as a Comprehensive Stroke Center. Mount Sinai also has consistently been recognized among the best hospitals in America by U.S. News & World Report under Sonenreich’s leadership. In addition to providing outstanding medical care, Mount Sinai is the largest employer on Miami Beach with 3,000 employees, and a major contributor to the local economy. The medical center’s annual economic impact is estimated at $3.3 billion. Sonenreich will be recognized as Citizen of the Year during the 90th anniversary gala which will take place on Saturday, June 2, 2012, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Past recipients of this award include Governor Reubin Askew, former Miami Dolphins Coach Don Shula, Congressman Claude Pepper, Wayne Huizenga, and Emilio Estefan.
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also to connect companies to the movement. Leading the group is the ultimate trifecta: Brian Schriner, Dean of the College of Architecture + The Arts at Florida International University; Judy Holm, founder of Aspirations public relations and marketing firm and master in promoting the arts; and Alan Randolph, Senior Vice President of City National Bank, who has experience banking the film, fashion and entertainment industries. Each of these arts advocates have already contributed so
much the sector - and their combined passion and extensive contact lists promise to be an even greater force in evolving our arts scene to an arts capital. I encourage my fellow Chamber members to join this budding committee in support of creating a beautiful and refined community of deep cultural and economic impact. At your service, Jason Loeb Chairman
December 15 - 28, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
The $outh Florida Gaming Repor t
Hurry up and wait BY ISADORE HAVENICK
While the “resort destination” casino bill undergoes increased scrutiny and a multitude of proposed changes, the commissioners in Gadsden County are poised to take a leap off the high diving board into the sea of casino sharks. Using a perceived loophole in the language defining casino eligibility the county commissioners have placed the casino versus no casino decision squarely in the laps of Gadsden County residents. This vote is scheduled to take place on January 31, 2012 in conjunction with the republican presidential primary. Gadsden County is located in the pan-
handle region of the state. The population is estimated at 47,000 people, and the county encompasses slightly more than 500 square miles. It was the unanimous vote of the county commission to allow the residents of Gadsden County to determine if a slots casino should be built in their county. This is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg as up to 5 more Florida counties are expected to place a similar measure on their ballots in either January or November of 2012. So while reconstructive surgery takes place on the “resort destination” bill in Tallahassee, counties as far south as Palm Beach are expected to go directly to their residents and ask the casino question. Regardless of the outcome we all expect a series of legal challenges to follow the elections, delaying the openings, if the proponents of gaming are successful at the polls.
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December 15 - 28, 2011
Miami Beach and Basel celebrating 10-year anniversary with partnership agreement BY VERONIKA POZMENTIER
Miami Beach and Basel have shared close ties for a decade through the internationally acclaimed art fair Art Basel Miami Beach. During an official signing ceremony held at Miami Beach City Hall on November 28, 2011 these ties were formalised with a sister city partnership agreement. The foundation of the agreement was laid during Art 42 Basel in June 2011, when Basel-Stadt President Guy Morin and Mayor Matti Herrera Bower signed a Memorandum of Understanding at Basel City Hall. It was then no coincidence that the signing ceremony took place just before Art Basel Miami Beach kicks off this year to celebrate its 10th anniversary. The regular exchanges between the two cultural capitals go back to the first Art Basel Miami Beach in 2002 and since then the two cities have continually intensified their relationship. The cities’ extensive common interests in the cultural field are at the heart of the partnership arrangement. Furthermore, strategic cooperation will also be promoted in the economic, trade, education and research fields. The city partnership model represents a platform for lively exchanges between all actors interested in these areas Through this agreement the City of Basel will join the list of the 10 Miami Beach Sister Cities while the City of Miami Beach will connect with Basel partnership city of Shanghai in China and maybe soon to be partner city of Basel the Russian city of Moscow. Basel-Stadt has also been in a partner-
Mayor Matti Herrera Bower and Hans-Peter Wessels exchange Miami Beach and Basel city flags. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
ship with its American Sister State of Massachussetts since 2002. It is also since 2002 that the phenomenal success of Art Basel Miami Beach the most prestigious art show in the United States has raised the cultural profile of Miami Beach bringing to the city annually an international selection of 260 world leading galleries showcasing more than 2,000 artists followed by art aficionados, art buyers, museums curators and collectors.
Michael Gongora, Jorge M Gonzalez, Christine Waelti, Jerry Libbin, Bill Talbert, Rene Kamm, Annette Schonholzer, Marc Spiegler, Matti Herrera Bower, Hans-Peter Wessels, Veronika Pozmentier, and Michael Bertram. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Mayor Matti Herrera Bower and Hans-Peter Wessels sign the city partnership agreement. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
The 10-year anniversary edition of Art Basel Miami Beach 2011 has set a record breaking with 50,000 attendees discovering and enjoying the city through art and culture. The tremendous economic benefits of the weeklong summit of the art world are obvious with an average $500 million of economic activity each year for the city of Miami Beach and South Florida including revenue from the art sales, hotels and restaurants. Basel is an inspiring partner city and a welcome addition to Miami Beach’s global network.
Veronika Pozmentier is a journalist. She is a Miami Beach Sister Cities International Goodwill Ambassador. As the Miami Beach City Liaison for the City of Basel she has been extensively involved in the 2 year negotiation process of the partnership. She also serves on The Wolfsonian-FIU Visionaries Committee, the Miami Design Preservation League Education and Programs Committee and is a member of the Art Basel Miami Beach Junior Host Committee. (PHOTOS BY ANAELY DELGADO)
December 15 - 28, 2011
BY ELSIE STERLING HOWARD
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Like No Place in the World
Chairman of the Visitor and Convention Authority I am filled with pride when I think about what the world has seen of our beautiful city through the prism of Art Basel this past week. As I read the New York Times and The Miami Herald, as I watched Miami Beach on national news, marveled at how clean and beautiful the cultural campus of our city looked—and as I walked the fair — and saw the world strolling, munching sushi and drinking champagne, browsing through this amazing art fair replete with old masters and emerging artists and celebrities and sophisticates – and kids, on their parents’ shoulders, here to experience what only happens here. In Miami Beach. When I moved to Miami Beach in 1968 this city was a faded facsimile of its glory days of the 20’s, 40’s and the 50’s. And then things got worse. But my husband said that Miami Beach would come back. Not just because the city is beautiful he told me, lots of cities are beautiful, not because of the ocean. Atlantic City has the ocean too. But because it is home to the visionary and the creative, the never-saydie entrepreneurs who could re-purpose anything. He understood that Miami Beach is home to the ‘creative class’ before the term was even imagined. And when I saw Miami Beach through his eyes I could see that there would be a future. Our city is built out of swampland, with trees cleared by elephants. It was a makebelieve place that is now a city like none other, a tiny barrier island that had wooden bridges to the mainland. Miami Beach is now a cultural capital of the world, built by dreamers from Fisher to Capitman. They saw something that others did not see: They saw a great future. For a century Miami Beach has moved forward - as leaders and builders and romantics and entrepreneurs and volunteers and artists and refugees find their place in the sun – or it moved backward, as other leaders argued that things were ‘just fine’. Of course, things are never fine forever. Change must come, brought by leaders and by visionaries, or by outside forces, some natural, some providential and many are avoidable.
What brings Art Basel or Wine & Food or the Marathon or Winter Music Conference or winter party or the seven world famous architects who designed our seven newest parking garages, or Michael Tilson Thomas, Frank Gehry or Edward Villella or Jennifer Lopez or Ricky Martin or me or YOU — is more than sun and sand –more than the hotels, or the convention center or the parks or the youth centers. Yes, the sun is here and there are ocean breezes every day. The world – and the impresarios - want to come here today because we are multi-lingual and welcoming and because culture is made here and because we are wrapped up in fun. We have it all and there is no other city like Miami Beach in the world. But, I strongly suggest that we need to keep improving and we can never afford inertia. Our MBVCA has been proven successful by leading, by thinking creatively, and by working collaboratively, so I can say this from experience, proven true. The world has beaten a path to our door because our door is open. Over this past decade that I have chaired the Miami Beach Visitors and Convention Authority, I can happily say that the MBVCA worked to move forward, to change the global perception of Miami Beach, to bring new visitors and retain returning guests to our city – a place that is so much more than just “the Beaches”. I am also proud to say we have been successful. We have set our aim high, our goals clear and have developed mechanisms for implementation – and we have looked for new ways to position Miami Beach by recruiting and funding worldclass events, by funding thoughtfully, working transparently, honestly and deliberately, and unselfishly. We can point with pride to the multi-billion dollar economic impact, income for businesses and professionals, significant reduced taxes for residents, to an invigorated city — and to boosting civic pride. A little over a decade ago my MBVCA articulated a new vision and outreach strategy to increase tourism and improve the visitor experience. Working selflessly with elected City leaders, Miami Beach administration, with our tourism partners, we put the right heads in beds and generated positive global branding and publicity for Miami Beach. While no one can accurate-
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ly predict storms or tragedies or economic shifts, we knew that we must plan for negative impact. And we have. At the same time we dreamed big. As other destinations have suffered cities that were once hot tourist magnets, on this same Atlantic Ocean, and with beaches just like ours- Miami Beach has flourished. It is not happenstance. Careful planning, strategic vision, and integrity of implementation have played a big part in our current tourism success. We are hot today. But we could be cold tomorrow. Nothing lasts forever. Miami Beach must be forever vigilant against tourism threats and against complacency. We have never been a city that accepts either the status quo or the mediocre. Excess? Perhaps. But it is a surfeit of energy and ideas. Leading edge? Always. This is the city of artists and musicians, and models and inventors. Beauty? Everywhere. Entrepreneurs? A city built by optimists. A little over a decade ago I was asked to serve on the MBVCA. It has been hard work, a real job. I have loved it and it has been a labor of love. Shaping the MBVCA with our members and seeing the impact we have made has made me proud. I believe this Board has earned public trust and respect by the actions of every member – at the table and in public. We have championed civility and integrity. We have acted selflessly, without rhetoric, negative attitudes or enmity. We have funded grants large and small, launched events large and small, and given the same respect and attention to every applicant. The MBVCA must continue on this path, to have positive future impact on Miami Beach tourism – impact that can only be achieved by continuing the methods and actions that have proven to be so successful - and noble I am so proud of the MBVCA’s professional team – particularly of our outstanding professionals: the extraordinary Grisette Marcos, my partner through my entire term of office and who came to work
for us on a leap of faith, without a computer or ledgers or a strategic plan. But we have changed all that together.. We can depend on our thoughtful, multi -talented wizardEileen de la Cuesta, and the indefatigable Harold Rosen, who has served as the MBVCA attorney for over 25 years, volunteering his insight and leadership all the way. This Board – and the many leaders who have served with me these past yearsdeserve the thanks of every resident or Miami Beach and of the elected leadership as well. To serve and to lead is not easy. These leaders have been honest, they have been visionary, they have worked together. Still, while time consuming, work with the MBVCA has almost always been fun. And when I reflect on what we have accomplished these past years I am happy – but I’m not satisfied. Because right now we are at a crossroads. Leadership is more critical than ever to face whatever tourism challenges lie ahead. And don’t think for a moment that we can coast. Art Basel is amazing—and our other events are amazing. But these events and the tourists can go anywhere in the world. Today they want to be here. Today, right now, Miami Beach is THE place to be. We need to keep those visitors coming. Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow. We need to put out the best gilt-edged welcome mat we can find – and we must keep creating new ways to reinvent Miami Beach and make this city viable as a destination to work, play, eat, stay and live. Miami Beach is more than the sum of its parts. Together we have made that true. But we must stay the course together— with mutual respect, integrity with our hopes and dreams focused on what we build for our city – a future. We have built a city on hospitality, welcoming every opportunity to secure our tourism future. Please. Don’t be complacent. And please. Don’t be afraid of the future. Tourism makes this city affordable, livable, exciting and great. Let’s keep it this way.
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GAMING, from page 1 ––––––––– the Miami Beach Convention Center was filled with over two hundred residents of all kinds, long time community activists, and resident business owners representing several generations of Miami Beach natives, including Litz who welcomed everyone to his childhood playground, his father having managed the Convention Center years ago. Litz reminded everyone that the future of the Convention Center was tied to the issue at hand. Scott Savin, COO of Magic City and former President of Gulfstream Park gave an overview of the state of gaming in the region, in an effort to separate fact from fiction. He likened the big casino players arrival to a lightning rod and made it clear that gaming was already in South Florida stating that the road was paved. With the proposed regulatory and development criteria, Genting Group would see 2017 as the earliest operational date. With that being the only public proposal brought by a developer, it was the topic of discussion as opposed to any other speculators. Representative Erik Fresen, sponsor of HB487, stated that the bill clearly gives the locals first approval. If the City has a vote on the books against gaming most likely developers would not even apply was his response when asked about the City of Miami Beach’s stand on gaming which is currently opposed. His comments extended an insight into the particular language in the bill and his intent
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
that the mandatory investment of $2 billion for development ensures that a gaming venue would be a “Fontainebleau rather than a Golden Nugget”. Later in the discussion Fresen asserted the city suggests to developers that “instead building a new convention center they should revitalize the existing convention center, nudge the applicants to have a holistic effect on the Herald site”. He closed by stating that “handcuff the future on the fears of the present.” Former Senator Dan Gelber was adamant that the developers of gaming venues would be compliant at the onset but any gaming would lead to a rebranding of the destination. In comparing Las Vegas and Atlantic City, Gelber stated that the East side of Miami is not a depressed area and the proposed venue would “suck the life out of a good community – you should be very worried”. When asked what would be his approach if the bill passes, Gelber refused to contemplate the option saying “what would I do? I don't want it here, I don't want it there, I don't want it anywhere”. Isadore Havenick, VP of Gov. and Political Affairs for Magic City Casino commented of the historically argued issue to Gelber, “When I was twelve and my father and your father were having the same debate”, his viewpoint was that “being responsible with how you regulate opposed to going to nuclear war”. He went on to attest that due to increased police presence, crime has gone down in the community surrounding Magic City and has increased employment by 500 jobs. Lyle Stern, President of Koniver Stern
Gaming Forum Panelists: Former Senator Dan Gelber; Russell Galbut, Crescent Heights; Isadore Havenick, Magic City Casino; Lyle Stern, Koniver Stern Group
Aaron Perry, Former Senator Dan Gelber, Russell Galbut, Isadore Havenick, Lyle Stern, Wayne Pathman, Stephanie Ruiz and Steve Litz
Former Senator Dan Gelber
December 15 - 28, 2011
Panelists Russell Galbut, Crescent Heights, and Lyle Stern, Koniver Stern Group
Miami residents present at the Miami Beach Convention Center for Gaming Forum –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Group a commercial real estate firm with holdings in Miami Beach and Miami, truly believes in the organic growth and cautioned against “unchecked unfettered and undiscussed impacts on tourism which affects 40 percent of Miami Beach if it passes, the city cannot be put in the position that we cannot negotiate”. He stated that other areas where there is gaming could not be compared, “they will lower their rates as low as they can and will become Sawgrass Mills where they can’t find the exit, also the profits don't stay here - go to Malaysia which is incompatible with who we are and who we want to be.” When asked about the upcoming City resolution, he stated he “would not have liked that the Commission take the opportunity from me to give direction to the legislature“. Russell Galbut, a founding partner of Panelist Representative Crescent Heights and Erik Fresen one of five generations –––––––––––––––– of Miami Beach natives, reminded the attendees that Miami Beach had a dog track on 1st street and was impacted in the 80’s, “we would not be here today if we weren’t adaptable and we cannot allow ourselves to fall behind but should be relentlessly focused on keeping it the best city. In order to do so we need to know with great specifics what is being proposed for Miami Beach and Miami and if what it can bring is more than what we will have without it.” He went on to state that he “is not endorsing
gaming, but endorsing open discussion and everyone’s right to vote. The key is to share information and let everyone vote responsibly in a democratic way. For the Commission to make their own decisions without proper and thorough debate is a disservice, this is the first opportunity to educate and have an open discussion”. He went on to commend the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce for undertaking the Gaming Forum. The Gaming Forum was developed by a committee comprised of Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce leadership: Immediate Past Chairman of the Board and Gaming Committee Chair Aaron Perry, Committee Co-Chair Wayne Pathman, Executive Board member Stephanie Ruiz, Incoming Board Chair Alan Lips, Board Member Lyle Stern, Board Member Scott Savin, Board Member Izzy Havenick, and Board Member Alexander P. Heckler. The committee is in the process of developing additional educational opportunities. The event was open to the public and admission was free. For a copy of the legislative bill please visit: www.miamibeachchamber.com and click on Gaming Forum. For more information on the event please contact 305-674.1300.
ABOUT MIAMI BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1921 to promote the economic well-being of Miami Beach's citizens, to improve the quality of life for the entire community, and to communicate the view of the business community on major issues of public policy. (PHOTOS BY CHARLOTTE LIBOV)
December 15 - 28, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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National Planning Corporation Celebrates 60 Years in Business For the past 60 years, National Planning Corporation (NPC) has developed deep roots in the South Florida community; promoting the belief that long-term financial well-being starts with a strong foundation of protecting their clients’ most precious asset‌.FAMILY. Established in 1951, NPC has been one of the leading agencies of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (a Fortune 500 company) and Park Avenue Securities. Jeffrey E. Newman, along with his son Robert B. Newman and their strong team of financial professionals in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Boca Raton, have continued to build a reputation for excellence with a comprehensive financial approach – from wealth management and business planning to insurance, retirement, and estate planning - that goes beyond the narrow limits of product agenda. “We take into account the way clients’ business and personal lives are interconnected to help them make the most of both,â€? said President, Jeffrey Newman, who joined the firm in 1972. He also added “Guardian has consistently provided its participating policyholders with strong dividend performance over their 150 plus year history with the current dividend being the largest in the company’s history.*â€? It’s with this history and performance that NPC continues to stay strong in the marketplace. “We all go through stages in our lives from college graduation, marriage, becoming parents or having to deal with the loss of a loved one. I’m passionate about what I do because I am able to help clients through those stages in their lives, and realize their goals and dreams,â€? adds Managing Partner Robert Newman. “We also provide our team of professionals an opportunity to build a long- lasting career and be part of our professional family.â€? NPC is an authorized user of The Living Balance SheetÂŽ, a state-of-the-art financial tool. It provides clients with a detailed,
Robert B. Newman and Jeffrey E. Newman
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– holistic view of their financial world at any given time and helps NPC’s team of professionals work with clients to model and address a variety of financial scenarios and outcomes. “Our clients love it because it allows them to see all of their financial holdings in a real-time convenient snapshot,� said Adam Sendzischew, a financial advisor with Park Avenue Securities, who has been with NPC since 2007. With the company’s well–established foundation, no one better understands the importance of building soundly for the long-term – be it a reputation, a relationship, a family legacy or a financial plan that will endure for tomorrow and the years to come. NPC is currently expanding their team of financial advisors in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Boca Raton offices. If you have a passion to help others achieve financial success, have an entrepreneurial mindset and are a person of high integrity, please send your resume to Brooke Brown,
“The Sharpest Fleet in Town� WE CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR NEEDS
(305)-235-8333 • www.onetwotree.com
Marketing& Recruiting Director at brooke_brown@npcfinancial.com. * Dividends are not guaranteed, and may be declared annually by Guardian’s Board of Directors.
The Living Balance Sheet Ž Logo, are registered service marks of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America. The graphics and text used herein are the exclusive property of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America and protected under U.S. and International copyright laws. Š Copyright 2005-2011, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America Securities products/services and advisory services are offered through Park Avenue Securities LLS (PAS), a registered broker-dealer and investment advisor. One Biscayne Tower, Two South Biscayne Blvd., Suite 1740, Miami, FL 33131. (305) 371-6333. PAS is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, New York, New York. PAS member FINRA & SIPIC
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The Orange Bowl Committee and Union Square Agency Announce Orange Drive Miami Beach Music Festival 2011-2012 Leading up to the Discover Orange Bowl game, this South Beach music festival brings together an array of top music performers Orange Drive, jointly developed by Union Square Agency (USSE Corp., Pink OTC Symbol: UCRP) and the Orange Bowl Committee, announce the 2nd annual Orange Drive Miami Beach Music Festival. The festival will consist of a three-day event on the sands of Ocean Drive, bringing together a series of music artists, sponsored activations, a village opened to the public and Orange Bowl related festivities. Taking place between 7th and 9th Street on Ocean Drive; the New Year’s Eve Weekend Festival will kick off December 30th and extend through January 1st welcoming over 100,000 visitors. A lavish and state of the art amphitheater will be constructed and placed on the sand which can hold up to 30,000 party goers each night. Orange Drive offers locals and tourists a unique opportunity to be a part of the largest New Year’s Eve beach festival in the world. With internationally recognized music performers and DJ’s spinning nightly, Orange Drive 2011-2012 is pleased to announce a partial line up for this three-day event which includes; Pete Wentz, Ne-Yo, Jermaine Dupri, Boys II Men, Cee Lo Green, DJ Samantha Ronson and Miami’s very own DJ Irie. The event will be hosted by key note speaker and branding guru Daymond John. Co-hosting the evening with Lana Tailor, Orange Drive Miami Beach Music Festival the festival will be broadcasted live by HD Net. “This year’s lineup will consist of A-list music artists from different genres. Orange Drive Miami Beach Music Festival will return to South Beach this winter bigger and better than ever,” said Gary Cioffi, CEO of Union Square Agency. “Visitors can purchase a three day pass to this one of a kind New Year’s beach festival.” For more information Orange Drive
“This year’s lineup will consist of A-list music artists from different genres. Orange Drive Miami Beach Music Festival will return to South Beach this winter bigger and better than ever.” — Gary Cioffi, CEO of Union Square Agency
Miami Beach Music Festival or for updates please visit www.orangedr.com. Become a fan on Facebook at Orange Drive or follow us on Twitter @OrangeDriveFest for the latest information. ABOUT UNION SQUARE AGENCY: Union Square Agency (USSE Corp., Pink OTC Symbol: UCRP) and its wholly owned subsidiaries Union Square Licensing and Union Square Media, is a NY based company that provides 360 degree strategic marketing and sales solutions. Core strengths include: Intellectual Property Development (focused on integrating sports, entertainment, fashion and lifestyle elements to connect brands, fans and media); Film & Television Production; Brand
Jermaine Dupri –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Strategy; Event Production and Fulfillment; Sponsorship and Event Based Activation; Strategic Consultation; Hospitality Programs; Licensing. www.unionsqagency.com. Safe Harbor of the 1995 Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. Statements that are not historical facts contained in this press release are forward looking statements involving a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which are difficult or impossible to predict, are beyond the control of the Company and may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those implied by such forward looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward looking statements, which speak only as of the date of the statement. ABOUT HDNET HDNet (www.hd.net) is the independent network with unique and provocative content that appeals to men of all ages and is delivered in true high definition. From live con-
certs and events to gritty reality series to Emmy Award-winning news, HDNet delivers exclusive, innovative and original programming with attitude and independence. In Fall 2011, HDNet launched its most aggressive prime-time schedule with original programming seven nights a week. The Super brings to life the gritty, and often unthinkable, reality of low-income residents in Omaha’s Section 8 housing; Drinking Made Easy, hosted by Zane Lamprey, travels across America to discover the unique libations to small towns, metropolitans, and suburban cities alike; CelebriDate follows three contestants as they compete to date one celebrity; and HDNet’s Guys Night In line-up includes Get Out!, Deadline, Girls Gone Wild: The Search for the Hottest Girl In America and The Ferris Wheel, all featuring beautiful women in the sexiest locations around the world. HDNet Fights airs the most complete MMA coverage of any television network, including over 40 live fights every year and the award-winning news program Inside MMA with hosts Kenny Rice and Bas Rutten. Additionally, for over five years, HDNet has proudly presented the multiple award-winning program Dan Rather Reports, bringing viewers tough, fair and cutting-edge journalism from news icon Dan Rather. Through the HDNet Concerts label, HDNet is the only network broadcasting live music events in HD with performances from Widespread Panic, Bush, Ted Nugent and more. HDNet also delivers the world’s largest and most diverse concerts, including premieres from Train, Seal, 311, Sheryl Crowe and others. The Sunday HDNet Concert line-up has featured many of the world’s leading artists from Paul McCartney, Mariah Carey, Eminem, Rolling Stones, U2, The Black Eyed Peas, Sting and Green Day to name a few. Launched in 2001 by Chairman Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available in the U.S. via AT&T Uverse, Charter, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Suddenlink and Verizon FiOS and in Canada via Access Communications, Cogeco, Shaw Cable and Shaw Direct. The HDNet and HDNet Concerts can be followed via Facebook at facebook.com/HDNet, facebook.com/ HDNetConcerts and via Twitter at twitter.com/hdnet, twitter.com/hdnetconcerts Media Contact: Maria Lanao Levy Communications 305.592.5389 X 104 305.592.9443 maria@levyad.com
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BY WILLIAM D. TALBERT III, CDME
HOW’S BUSINESS RECORD ARRIVALS AT “THE NEW MIA” (MIAMI INTERNATIO N A L A IRP O RT) F O R F I R S T T E N M O N T H S OF 2011 Passenger arrivals at Miami International Airport (MIA) increased for the first ten months of 2011 with international passenger arrivals up +8.4% and domestic arrivals up +5.7% when compared to the same ten months last year. Total arrivals increased in the first ten months of 2011 by +7.0%. INTERNATIONAL MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS January – October 2011 7,681,302
January – October 2010 7,085,744
% Change +8.4%
DOMESTIC MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS January – October 2011 8,190,808
January - October 2010 7,746,059
% Change +5.7%
TOTAL MIA PASSENGER ARRIVALS January – October 2011 15,872,110
January – October 2010 14,831,803
% Change +7.0%
MIAMI BEACH AND BASEL, SWITZERLAND OFFICIALLY BECOME SISTER CITIES DURING ART BASEL MIAMI BEACH During the celebration of the 10th Anniversary of Art Basel Miami Beach, the City of Basel, Switzerland and the City of Miami Beach officially became Sister Cities at a ceremony held on Monday, November 28th at Miami Beach City Hall. The proclamation indicates that based on the close links between the origination of the Sister Cities relationship and both Art Basel and Art Basel Miami Beach, both cities will do their best to further prosperity and development of the two art fairs. It also indicates that the two cities will cooperate in the areas of trade, education, research, promotion, and culture and tourism. Sister Cities International is a nonprofit citizen diplomacy network that creates and strengthens partnerships between U.S. and international communities. It strives to build global cooperation at the municipal level, promote cultural understanding and stimulate economic development. GMCVB’S “MIAMI AND BEACHES” APP AVAILABLE FOR ANDROID! GMCVB’s “Miami and Beaches” app is available for Android phones. Helpful for visitors as well as residents, the application is a mini travel guide to our community, providing information on hotels, dining, shopping, transportation and more in Greater Miami and the Beaches. Highlights include a Guided Walking Tour of the Art Deco District, special money-saving offers, and detailed listings and maps for Miami’s beaches, golf courses and shopping malls. Visit http://www.MiamiandBeaches.com/visitors/iphone_app.asp for more information. MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (MIA) DOCU-SERIES SET TO AIR ON TRAVEL CHANNEL Next spring, the gateway to Miami-Dade County will be on center stage for millions of TV viewers across the country when the exciting new Travel Channel docu-series “Miami International Airport” debuts on Travel Chanel. Local production company 2C Media plans to begin filming this month the first of six initial episodes, which will provide a dayin-the-life look at a cast of MIA employees who manages the challenges and successes of serving nearly 100,000 passengers per day at the #2 U.S. airport for international passengers and #1 for international cargo. Travel Channel is available in 96 million U.S. cable homes, and its high-definition simulcast, Travel Channel HDTM is distributed to more than 17 million. The Travel Channel web site, which serves as the network’s entertainment travel hub, averages more than two million unique users monthly and its mobile content platform, Travel Channel GOTM, is a leading provider of quality mobile travel video and audio content. Travel Channel also manages the leading online travel blog, World Hum (www.WorldHum.com).
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ECOMB: One-Stop Shop Recycling Drop-Off Station For Electronic Waste, Batteries, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs and all other recyclables. WHAT: ECOMB HAS JUST MADE IT A LOT EASIER FOR EVERYONE TO RECYCLE! The Environmental Coalition of Miami & the Beaches, ECOMB, in partnership with the City of Miami Beach, eTronic eWaste (www.etronicewaste.com), EcoBatt (www.ecobatt.net) and Smart At Bulbs (www.smartatbulbs.com) is pleased to announce the opening of Miami-Dade County’s first One-Stop Shop Recycling Drop-Off Station for all types of electronic waste, batteries and compact fluorescent light bulbs at its new Miami Beach Center for the Environment. The Center also accepts all other types of Single Stream Recyclables - glass, plastic, metal, paper, cardboard, magazines, junk mail, phone books, etc - for those businesses and residents that do not have a recycling program, thanks to an agreement established between the City of Miami Beach and our local waste haulers: Choice Recycling, General Hauling, Waste Management and WSI. With ECOMB in the “hood”, it’s now easy to be part of the green movement. All you have to do is call ECOMB’s office or stop by to visit us. WHY: Because the average American throws out seven and a half pounds of trash each day! And it all end up at the landfills, where it just sits, compacted, buried, taking up space ... forever. Recycling is important because it helps keep our resources plentiful, not only for us but for our future generations: our children, grandchildren, and so on ...
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YOU HAVE DEFENSES But only if you assert them
WHERE: Miami Beach Center for the Environment 210 Second Street and Collins Court (alley between Washington & Collins Ave.) Miami Beach, Fl 33139 TIME: • GENERAL RECYCLABLES = SINGLE STREAM (glass, plastic, metal, paper, etc): 24 HOURS A DAY • ELECTRONICS, BATTERIES, CFLs: from 10 am to 5 pm, but call first to make arrangements.
ABOUT ECOMB: ECOMB, a 501 (c) (3) founded in 1994, is dedicated to the promotion of environmental sustainability and the preservation of our community’s ecology. ECOMB’s Executive Director Luiz Rodrigues, 305-534-3825 · luiz@ecomb.org ECOMB’s Board of Trustees President Jeffrey Forster · jeff@ecomb.org Educating Community. Change.
People. Engaging our Effecting Environmental
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TITLE & MEDIATION SERVICES A full services law firm Foreclosure Defense Litigation Mortgage Modification Representation Short Sale Assistance Buyer & Seller Representation Independent Closing Agent. FREE CONSULTATION Presentation to your organization, group or association You have rights, but you MUST claim your rights or you will lose your rights. Contact our office for further details
305-256-3002 The law office of Dennis R. Haber P.A. has been providing legal services to our community for over 25 years, however this information is of a general nature and is not intended to answer any individual’s legal questions. Do not rely on information presented herein to address your individual legal concerns. If you have a legal questions, you should consult an attorney experienced in that area of the law. Moreover, the hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you hire an attorney, you should request information about attorney’s qualifications and experiences.
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Mount Sinai Medical Center welcomes back its tiniest patients Preemie Babies Reunite with Doctors and Nurses who cared for them at the Mount Sinai 16th annual ‘Preemie’ Party On Friday, December 2nd, Mount Sinai Medical Center welcomed back more than 100 patients for its 16th annual Preemie Party. This year’s “Superhero” themed celebration reunited babies who defied the odds in the Mount Sinai Abess Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and their parents, with the doctors and nurses who cared for them. “This is probably one of the best days of the year for us,” said Tony Adams, M.D. chief of the NICU at Mount Sinai. “It is very humbling to see so many of these kids come back knowing that, without our help, many of them wouldn’t have made it 10 years ago.” Among the returning patients, who ranged in age from 9 months to 18 years, was Michael Tintori and his parents, Veronica and Sergio Tintori. Michael was born in the Mount Sinai NICU on August 24, 2010 after just 24 weeks in the womb, weighing a mere pound and a half. “He was very little and he went through a lot but he’s a little fighter, “said mother, Veronica Tintori. After six months of much needed care, Michael was able to go home on Valentine’s Day of 2011 - a Valentine’s Day present that his mother says was the best she will ever receive. “We are fully committed to taking care of all the babies in our NICU as we know it can be a very stressful time for the parents,” said Ignacio Zabaleta, M.D., a neonatologist at Mount Sinai. Today, Michael is a healthy and vibrant 11 month old, based on the date that he should have been born. Michael’s parents are so grateful for the care he received that they arranged for his baptism to take place at Mount Sinai and selected Dr. Zabaleta to be Michael’s godfather. “We are from Italy and we had no family here when we went through this with Michael, but now we consider Dr. Zabaleta and his team at Mount Sinai our family. They saved Michael’s life. It felt natural that he should be Michael’s godfather,” said Veronica Tintori. Nursery levels are regulated by the state, which requires that Level III NICUs provide
Wonder Woman face painting at the Mount Sinai Preemie Party 2011
Sergio and Veronica Tintori with son, Michael Tintori. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Dr. Ignacio Zabaleta, Mount Sinai neonatologist, with former patient and godson, Michael Tintori.
the most advanced care and adhere to rigorous state requirements. Mount Sinai’s Abess Level III NICU is proud to provide state-of-the-art care to critically ill newborns, coupled with high caliber maternity and neonatal services. Parents delivering at Mount Sinai can take comfort in knowing that the highest level of neonatal care is available onsite, should the need arise. Mount Sinai NICU’s neonatologists, Jose Antonio Adams, M.D., and Ignacio Zabaleta, M.D., have worked together for more than two decades, taking care of babies from birth to discharge and providing a level of continuity rare in larger NICUs. The Mount Sinai NICU also counts on an experienced nursing team that is committed to high-quality care and excellent outcomes. The annual Mount Sinai Preemie Party is held every December, a symbolic time to reflect on the triumphs of these tiny “superheroes” and to remind everyone that, sometimes, the best gifts come in small packages.
Group photo of all our returning Preemies with Dr. Tony Adams, chief of neonatology at Mount Sinai, and Dr. Ignacio Zabaleta, neonatologist at Mount Sinai –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Barbara Buxton, J.D., LL.M. Florida Attorney
Nursing Home Medicaid • Elder Law & Estate Planning Florida Medicaid Planning & Eligibility Asset Protection • Wills, Trusts, Living Wills Powers of Attorney • Guardianships Probate: Estate Administration
Serving Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties Tel.: 305.932.2293 Miami-Dade County 954.760.7077 Broward County www.buxtonlaw.com
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December 15 - 28, 2011
Italian Brothers Run Worldwide Restaurant Chain from South Beach 2011 Marks 10 Years in South Florida Home to hotels, bathing beauties and heart-pumping nightclubs, is strangely the center of operations for Piola (www.Piola.it), a global chain of Italian restaurants. Brothers Dante and Stefano Carniato often manage their pizza franchise with 32 restaurants in nine countries from a table at Piola Miami Beach, 1625 Alton Road. “South Florida is the logical destination for us. It has everything Piola is about: good food, world-class art and style,” says Dante Carniato, a former schoolteacher, sipping an espresso as he overlooks the bustling South Beach restaurant on a recent Wednesday night. The Carniato brothers first launched Piola in 1987 in Treviso, their hometown in Northern Italy. The goal was to create a restaurant that served simple and healthy Italian food, like the kind they grew up on, in an environment that showcased the country’s culture – it’s music, art and style. That combination soon turned into the recipe for success for the brothers, who first looked to expand in South America, where Piola became iconic for Italian food and style. In 24 years, the Carniatos have opened restaurants in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Honduras, Mexico, Turkey, and the United States, where they have 10 locations (four in Florida). Soon the brothers will celebrate the opening of franchises in Washington D.C., and Toronto. “Piola is about celebrating those elements of life that inspire and move you: food and culture,” says Stefano Carniato, who worked as a waiter before teaming up with Dante to open Piola. The Carniato brothers are not chefs, but they know good food. They borrowed their mother’s cooking style and made it the foundation of their version of Italian cuisine, offering light, fresh and quickly prepared dishes. The focus of the Piola menu is a Neopolitan-style thin brick oven baked pizza. Stop at any of the Piolas – from Houston to Istanbul – and you’ll see more than 40 kinds on the menu. But more than just a pizza restaurant, Piola stands as monument to culture, hosting film premieres, book and magazine events, art exhibits and more in every city where there’s a franchise. In fact, the focus on art is as essential as the food. Piola publishes a magazine that showcases artists featured in its restaurants worldwide. The company also vigorously promotes buying fresh produce from local growers. Earth Day celebrations at its locations in Miami – Miami Beach, Hallandale and Brickell – featured produce from the
Stefano and Dante Carniato, owners of Piola. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Roots In The City garden in Overtown. The parent company manages its 34 franchises (about 1200 employees worldwide) with just five employees. Dante Carniato oversees the marketing and expansion and Stefano focuses on the food and staffing. The Carniatos personally run two of the restaurants: Miami Beach and Hallandale. They also own Pan Fiore, an Italian sandwich shop on Alton Road, and Boteco Miami, a popular Brazilian bar and restaurant on 79th Street in Miami. “We own a chain of Italian restaurants, but we want our customers to know we are about community and celebrating what’s local,” says Stefano Carniato. ABOUT PIOLA Founded in 1986 in Treviso, Italy, Piola combines fun, food, and culture in a unique setting. Our cuisine is rigorously Italian: simple and healthy. Piola’s pizza is thincrust and well cooked. The company has 32 restaurants worldwide. Apart from the original location in Italy, the company has locations in the United States, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Turkey, Canada and Honduras. For information go to www.piola.it (Photo by Yachin Parham, Yachin Photography)
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South Florida Fish Culture BY MARTIN MENDIOLA
Mendiola@USGourmet.US While enjoying one of our fabulous South Florida winter days at a tourist hang out on South Beach, the very young couple next to us did nothing but praise everything around them. They were most appreciative of the weather, the beach, the sand and sun. They marveled at the friendliness of the locals, the cultural diversity of the area, the food, the sangria (obviously a new find for them), the night spots, the many places to go and the many things to see and do. They were ecstatic and thoroughly enjoying all those things that after a few years we regretfully take for granted. Encouraged by the invigorating vibrations we felt, I welcomed them to our paradise and asked where they were from and what were they doing here. “We are newlyweds from a small town outside of Boise, Idaho. Spent 7 days on a cruise and decided to continue our honeymoon for a couple of more days on dry land before heading back. We are not very anxious to go home, this is heaven” they said with a mischievous grin. Realizing this was going to be a day they would not soon forget, we decided to treat them to a bottle of Champagne and toast to their new life, wishing them a long and happy marriage. They quickly accepted; we joined tables and continued to be happy. For a long time this couple will be great ambassadors to our area. As we talked about the many things they had done and enjoyed, food was among their favorites. I figure the buffet on the ship had gotten the best of them, but was surprised when the young bride said, “We have enjoyed great fish, the one we just had here was one of the best I have ever tried”. Believing it had to be one of our fresh local fish, I asked what kind it was, to which almost unanimously they
said “salmon”. I almost told them they had missed out on a great experience by not trying the local species, but decided not to burst their bubble and letting them stay on a high. It was difficult not reminding them that they can probably have salmon any time and any place in Idaho, but almost impossible to get fresh grouper, yellowtail, snapper or dolphin there. When telling this story to a friend who moved to South Florida from Baltimore about five years ago, his comment was “Yeah, right; so tell me again, where do you get fresh grouper, yellowtail, snapper or dolphin down here? I keep telling you; South Florida has no fish culture”. For a few seconds I was dumbfounded and almost agreed with him, but then I realized that we do have a strong “fish culture”, only that it is different. Different than the crab culture in Baltimore and the lobster culture in Boston; and even though we do not have a yellowtail culture per se, there are plenty of places where we can have them. Just ask your favorite restaurateur what is the freshest fish he has and chances are the answer will be grouper, snapper, yellowtail or dolphin. Even iconic restaurants like Joe’s Stone Crab where stone crabs rule, have on their regular menu very good grouper and snapper dishes. The restaurants on North River Drive in Miami specialize on local fresh seafood and many of our smaller mom and pop’s will regularly have the “whole fried snapper or yellowtail” on their menu. For those who are more health conscious, there is no other city in North America that serves more ceviches than we do. Like sushi and sashimi, a ceviche must be made with very fresh fish, and the firmness of the snap-
per makes it one of the best for this dish. Many of the ceviches served in South Florida are made CLOCKWISE: Snapper filte, Ceviche with choclo and sweet potatoes and Yellowtail with local snapper. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “So again, where do you go for fresh fish?” my crab adoring It is comical and even ironic, that a guy Baltimorean friend asked. That is an easy who owns a slurry seal company (Associated question, we have a cousin named Antonio Slurry Seal, Inc.), cannot cook, does not even “Tonito” Franco whose wife Mayra agrees canlike wine and is as far removed from the food not boil water, but makes the best fish ever. “The secret is fresh fish and keeping the oil industry as you can imagine, can make the temperature at 3500”, he tells me every time I best fish. Maybe it takes more than the right compliment him on his cooking. I have a very products and utensils. The fact that we sit hard time believing him, for we have gone in outside his place in the keys, talking and the back room of some of the best restaurants, laughing without a worry or care in the world with the best chefs and have not been able to is what makes it great. Maybe under these match it. Not saying theirs is bad, on the con- conditions even the newlyweds’ salmon could be good. trary, but none can match Tonito’s.
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Chevrolet Sonic: Made in America on global platform Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is quite a nice little subcompact. It’s built on the new General Motors global platform and comes in the form of a sedan or a hatchback. Both models of the new Sonic look good, with sleek styling and an urban design aimed at appealing to upscale younger American consumers. Our test car was the sedan, but I got a look at the five-door hatchback at the recent South Florida International Auto Show and I found it equally appealing, if not more so. Both versions of the Sonic have distinctive design elements, including sharp creases, exposed headlights and other design cues that seem like they belong on a motorcycle (and that’s what they were derived from). Other nice features include excellent fit and finish and standard forged alloy wheels. Three trim levels are offered — LS, LT and LTZ — and standard equipment
includes cloth upholstery, manually adjustable seats, trip computer, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, air conditioning, 60/40 split folding rear seat, OnStar, a fourspeaker AM/FM stereo system with auxiliary jack, a roof spoiler, front floor mats, remote keyless entry, power door locks and 15-inch forged alloy wheels. Hatchbacks come standard with rear washer and wiper. Under the hood, Sonic offers an option of two four-cylinder 138 hp engines — a 1.8 liter naturally aspirated powerplant or a peppy little 1.4 liter turbocharged engine. The standard engine can be mated to either a six-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission, while the turbo is offered only with a six-speed manual gearbox (an automatic transmission option is planned for late 2012 models). On the highway, the new Sonic yields a quiet ride and handles quite nicely. I wouldn’t call it sporty, but it does have a stiff body and pretty good power for a subcompact. Chevy literature notes that Corvette engineers assisted in tuning the MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension, which probably accounts for the responsive handling characteristics. As for safety, the Sonic has antilock brakes (ABS), electronic brake force distri-
Chevrolet Sonic is available as a sedan and a five-door hatchback.
bution (EBD) and panic brake assist; electronic stability control and traction control, a hill-hold feature, 10 airbags (including seat-mounted thorax side-impact, head curtain and knee airbags); a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and 60/40 folding rear seats. Base price on the Sonic is under $15,000, but even with adding all the available options, such as a sunroof, heated seats and
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December 15 - 28, 2011
Light of Creativity Web System launched online Saturday, December 3rd, during the Art Basel Miami Beach week, Light of Creativity launched online the beta version of its Web System and hosted the exhibition “Mining Memories” of the Italian artist Michele Ciacciofera. Michele Ciacciofera is the first person to post his creative life in the Light of Creativity Web. Light of Creativity is a new Web that gives creative people the possibility to be discovered, understood, and remembered. Light of Creativity Web is a place where you can share your creativity with the world and it will someday be your time capsule, that place where you look back and marvel at your progress while revealing your talents to future generations. Artists can show their sketches, chefs can display their daily creations, writers can share their latest chapter additions, builders can post progression of their structures, teenagers can follow their dreams... You are only limited by your own imagination. Creativity Search of the Light of Creativity Web, is a one of a kind search engine that only searches inside the cre-
ative pages created by Light of Creativity Members. Enjoy it at www.lightofcreativity.com Paolo Schellino Light of Creativity, Inc. Founder and CEO Email: paoloschellino@mac.com Phone: +1 305 450 2173
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Yoga, your secret weapon against holiday stress BY CHARLOTTE LIBOV
Recently, I shared some great ways to beat holiday stress, but now I want to offer you a secret weapon –yoga. Okay, I can hear you saying, “What, yoga? Are you nuts? Who has time to commit to doing yoga when I have all these things to do?” I must admit that had me stumped to, so I turned to nationally known Yoga Kate Henley, who is a yoga instructor, busy mother-of-two, and the author of the book The Anywhere, Anytime Chill Guide. (www.ms.mindbody.com). Henley, who has shared her tips on “The Today Show,” Martha Stewart’s radio show and more, offered to share some special stress-busting advice with the Miami Beach News. Yoga is the perfect exercise to reduce holiday stress because it teaches you to relax and take a moment, which are excellent skills for the holiday season. But people do tend to get too busy during the holiday season, and put their yoga practice on hold, much to their detriment. “If you think that you don’t have time for yoga, that’s a big red flag that you need to do yoga,” says Henley. Why is that? Well, the reason is obvious. “On the holidays, we spend a lot of time with your relatives and the people who know us the best. When you practice yoga, you give yourself a forum to reflect. You’re moving your body and you are breathing deeply and when you slow down your mind, you turn down the volume and that’s when you find your deepest wisdom. So you can find the simplest and most constructive way to deal with you’re cousin who drives you crazy talking about politics at the top of his lungs,” she added. And what can you do if you don’t have the time to devote to a class? Do whatever you
can, says Henley. “It’s not the amount of time that you do yoga that’s important, it’s the frequency and the regularity. You have to ask yourself ‘How much time can I commit to? Can I commit to doing the child’s pose for two minutes before I go to bed each night? It may not sound like much, but it will make a difference,” she notes. “You don’t have to get red in the face or break a sweat for yoga to be very powerful. Doing more yoga is better than doing a little, but doing a little is better than nothing,” she said. “Don’t look at yoga you have to do. Yoga isn’t a vitamin or broccoli. Yoga is a gift to yourself, and you’re going to feel much better after you do it,” she added. But how do you find the perfect yoga class. That was the dilemma I faced when I first moved to Miami Beach, and was faced with what seemed like a dizzying choice of all different forms of yoga classes. So I turned to a friend of mine, Paul Toliuszis, my friend, who teaches yoga at Equinox South Beach. “Not every form of yoga is right for every person, and not every teacher jibes with every student. The great thing about Miami Beach is that there are scores of classes, and lots of teachers, so you can sample different classes and find the one you like best,” he noted. So sample yoga for a great holiday stress buster! Chamber member Charlotte Libov is a journalist, professional speaker and the author/coauthor of five health books and who works out at Equinox South Beach. For more information, call 305-673-1172 or visit www.equinox.com.
Yoga Author Kate Henley • • • • • Kate Henley demonstrates the chest opener pose
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Page 31
10 Factors that Impact Broadway-Bound Soul Doctor, The Journey of a Brands Sustainability BY DEBORAH SHANE
The process of creating, establishing and sustaining your brand is a holistic one. Your brand versus your branding are two separate and mutually beneficial and interdependent pieces. Your brand is who you are, what you do and your branding is you in action, how you market yourself. You look at how the top brands (Apple, McDonald’s, Wal-Mart, BMW) all demonstrate common factors that have contributed to their sustainability and innovation. A great site for studying the great brands is Rankingthebrands.com. Here are ten factors that can build brand sustainability, I see represented in all great brands, be it a company, entrepreneur or professional. 1) Value- Delivering consistent value to people’s day and lives by making it better. That’s why people stay and refer others. 2) Consistency-People need to be able to count on the value consistently delivered to them, so that they get what they expect. 3) Innovation-It’s so important to be reframing, refreshing, and reinventing the way you deliver your products and services. Check out www.trendwatching.com for great ideas! 4) User experience-The unified, consistent experience you create for people with your products, services and online presence is crucial. Make that experience easy, friendly and fun. 5) Unexpected Service-Wow customers with unexpected service, not only when something has gone wrong but when people are most satisfied.
6) Customer Loyalty-Show your appreciation to all your customers, but especially the loyal long term ones. They tend to get lost in the effort to find new customers. How can you make them feel special and appreciated? 7) Company Culture-The environment you create for your employees and customers translates to public perception. A strong company and community culture says a whole lot about why a brand is successful. “Success leaves clues.” 9) Get More Personal- Use the new media platforms to give people a glimpse of the real people that make a company happen and succeed like Zappos.com 10) Engagement-Invite feedback, ideas and suggestions to bolster transparency and authenticity. Reward and pass on your success to employees and customers by giving them incentives and premiums. It takes time to establish yourself and your place, but once you do, it’s up to you to stay on top of trends, customer needs and market changes and don’t forget to have fun along the way!
‘Rock-Star’ Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach
SOUL DOCTOR, the exhilarating, riveting and hilarious new Broadway-bound musical, tells the true story of the beloved and controversial father of popular Jewish music, Shlomo Carlebach. Deemed a “CERTIFIABLE HIT” by Larry King and examiner.com, the pre-Broadway premier debuts in South Florida on December 24, with shows first in Miami Beach, then Fort Lauderdale. Steve Margoshes, the legendary composer/orchestrator of such Broadway hits as Elton John’s Aida, The WHO’s Tommy and Smokey Joe’s Café, has woven together 30 of Carlebach’s timeless hit songs into a show that CNN’s Larry King described as “A transformative theatrical experience, with soul-stirring melodies and a story that keeps the crowd roaring with laughter and song all night long!” SOUL DOCTOR takes us on a musical odyssey through the challenges and triumphs of this cultural phenomenon: his childhood escape from Nazi Germany, becoming a rabbinical prodigy in America; discovering Gospel and Soul music during his unlikely friendship with Nina Simone; his meteoric rise as a “Rock Star-Rabbi” in the 1960s, performing with Bob Dylan, Jefferson Airplane and The Grateful Dead; his struggle to reconcile his deep traditional roots with his desire to reach people of all backgrounds in the “free-love generation;” and his personal conflicts trying to keep his family together while traversing the globe as a “Soul Doctor,” bringing joy and song to the lonely, the searching and the brokenhearted. “Shlomo himself was like a great theatrical experience,” said Daniel S. Wise, SOUL DOCTOR’s playwright/producer. “Even if you were in a large crowd, Shlomo’s magnetism and charisma would reach you in the most personal and intimate way, igniting your imagination to discover a new level of joy.” Six-time Tony Award winning Broadway Producer Richard Frankel says, “We produced Hairspray, which became an international mega hit because it had a ‘Life-is-a-joyful-adventure’ quality to it. And I feel the same quality in SOUL DOCTOR, which thrills me and makes me really happy to be associated with it.” Steve Margoshes has incorporated Carlebach’s original hits into a spectacular theatrical score. “His incredibly rich, gorgeous melodies are among the most the-
atrical of all the music I’ve worked on,” he says. “Broadway audiences are going to be taken in and carried away by this incredible and deeply moving story that is joyous and filled with laughter - like the great musical comedies.” SOUL DOCTOR has produced rave reviews www.shlomomusical.com/press.php “See it before it goes to Broadway,” wrote Playbill. “Powerful and touching! A charismatic, enlightening evening that rouses the soul ... A must see!” wrote Bradley J. Troll of the New Orleans Times Picayune. Broadway World calls it “The first major Jewish-themed musical since Fiddler on the Roof.” “This show is already a hit and destined to become a hit on Broadway for many years to come!” raved Larry King. SOUL DOCTOR (www.shlomomusical.com) runs December 24 - January 8 at the Colony Theater, 1040 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. It continues January 10 - 29 at Fort Lauderdale’s Parker Playhouse, 707 NE 8th Street. Individual tickets for the show can be purchased at the Colony Theatre (305.674.1040), Parker Playhouse (954.462.0222) or through Ticketmaster, www.ticketmaster.com.
For group sales, including kosher catered cast parties, call 305-342-2353. Student and senior citizen discounts are available.
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December 15 - 28, 2011
Enjoy your holiday and find parking on Miami Beach During this holiday season, enjoy South Beach as a resident or a visitor. World Class restaurants, shopping and entertainment can be found on Lincoln Road Mall, Ocean Drive and Washington/Collins Avenues. The new municipal garage at 1661 Pennsylvania Avenue just opened this past October. It is located on 17th street with the entrance on Pennsylvania Avenue with 550 spaces. The 17th Street Garage on 640 17th Street has 1460 spaces. The New City Hall Garage has been open a year with 650 spaces and is located at 1755 Meridian Avenue. These municipal
garages are $1 an hour. A little known garage, private but affordable, is in the building between Michigan and Jefferson (entrances) and between 17th Street and Lincoln Lane â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also charging $1 an hour during the week, $10 flat fee on the weekends. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the Anchor Shops Garage on 16th Street between Collins and Washington or the 7th Street Garage at 210 when shopping along Collins and hitting Ocean Drive. Also, 5th and Alton Shops give the first two hours free parking in their garage.
December 15 - 28, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Art Basel Miami Beach 2011 BY JUDY HOLMES Vice-Chair of the Council of Art and Culture, Miami Beach Chamber and Pillar Member
It’s the week after “Art Basel” and for art lovers around the globe it feels like the day after Christmas or Hanukah. All the bright, shiny presents were opened, ripped open, to discover the joys inside. The new toys have been discovered, played with and now put away in the closet. The new sweaters tried on and now folded neatly in their new drawers. The memories of rich meals still heavy in our bellies. The new gym routine can wait a few more days. It’s time to relish the gifts of the past week. Art Basel Miami Beach 2011, or ABMB, concluded the tenth consecutive year. The year-long preparation culminated in an intense myriad of art, performing art, design, jewelry, cars, fashion, music, dancing, food and wine. While the figures of the sale of art are still being compiled, the ripple effect of the frenzied week of art fairs and exhibitions with their competing vernissages is indelible in our minds… I visited Miami Beach last November, specifically to attend ABMB 2010. The trip was comparative research for my pending projects in the forthcoming Venice Biennale. Nothing prepared me for the experience, and how incredibly consuming the week of art has become here. Returning back to San
Judy Holm (center) wearing Custo Barcelona at Art Miami vernissage with models
Art Basel – Conversations Gabriel Orozco and Michelle Kuo
Francisco, I announced to my friends and colleagues that I was relocating to Miami Beach. Yes, relocating. Flash forward to ABMB 2011, and here I am, a proud newcomer to “the beach.” I share with my friends around the world every day (thank you Facebook) how ecstatic I am to be living in this amazing city. And now, the day after ABMB 2011, I am even more delighted than before. The pulse of Miami Beach, already vibrant, races furiously for this week of art and culture. During the past year of preparation, art aficionados train like triathletes. Who’s going to be hot this year? What will surprise us? Who will disappoint? Who’s buying? Who’s gone up, and who’s gone down? How much can we consume of the simultaneous fairs and programs that now compete for our attention… How can we measure the success- from the actual sale of art to publicity, buzz, press, social media tweets and face book postings? ABMB has spawned fourteen collateral fairs, spread across Miami Beach and over to Miami. Here on Miami Beach, the centerpiece is the official show in the convention center, with 260 international galleries representing the most prestigious art on the market today, and more than 2,000 artists. Most serious art collectors and their agents make their deals prior to arriving, and show up privately for a few hours to complete the transactions. Millions of dollars exchange hands quietly, before the frenzy. Rippling out from the epicenter, are not only the fourteen parallel fairs, but countless other exhibitions, galleries, restaurants and hotels- all showcasing some form of art. Art, art, art is everywhere. After my personal experience from 2010, when, as a benefactor to MOCA Miami and the Guggenheims, I had “invitations” to some of the most elite openings and associated parties; I still wanted an even better experience this year. And I got it. Through “Special VIP” sta-
Design sponsor Fiat installation
Prada at Art Basel
ABOVE: Art for a Better World Exhibition, Warhol’s Mac Art of Night, Shelborne Hotel Reopening, Seth Browarnik photography exhibition ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
tus, art collectors, press, and other connected and hip art “people” gain access to the inner sanctum of the VIP Lounge, hosted by the top fair sponsors, from UBS, Cartier and Net Jets to Bally and Ruinart Champagne. Perched on my lovely central spot in the lounge, courtesy of Ruinart, I greeted friends from London, Paris, Berlin, Venice, Milan, New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco. I met new friends. “Wow, amazing” I thought… we’re all here at the same time- gathered for art, art, and more art. From this preview spot, we were all able to compare notes. Notes about the art world and its people. Notes about summers in St. Tropez and Ibiza. Notes about which parties were supposed to be the most fun. And back to art. And so on. The proliferation of art and culture centered in Miami Beach is truly impressive. This beautiful jewel of a city shines with its dynamic and strong pulse, friendly and hospitable inhabitants, fascinating and complex international influence and forward-focus on the importance and practice of art and cul-
ture. Thank you ABMB. Thank you Miami Beach for this warm welcome.
TOP PICKS • Best Show: ABMB • Best Concept and Program: Arts for a Better World • Best Lecture: Art Basel ConversationsKarl Holmqvist poetry reading • Strong Showing: Art Miami, NADA, Design • Most Exciting: Bass Museum/Art Public (Collins Park) • Always Amazing: New World Center • Best Party: Shelborne Hotel/Art of Night • Best Kept Secret: Miami Beach Botanical Garden Special Thanks: Bob Goodman, Aaron Resnick, Dorothy Bakker Lee and Julie Christensen (Ruinart Champagne), Roderick Kukurudz (Arts for a Better World), Sebastien Laboureau (Moonstar Fine Art Advisors), Dream Hotel, The Standard Hotel and Spa. (Photos by Judy Holmes and Nicola Bustreo, Venice Italy)
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 15 - 28, 2011
The Game BY SEBASTIAN FERRERO
Musicians who have talent and appeal to the masses have crawled their way to stardom mostly through hard work and dedication to the careers they have chosen. Many artists with the power of popularity and dedication have made a huge reputation for themselves and can be seen in flashing lights on stage throughout the country if good enough. But one comes to wonder what it takes to achieve these goals with a passion for music that spreads to others. As of now the industry is very overcrowded with people who want to be heard by everyone possible. The truth is you don’t need a major record label to put your music out there to the people. You do need talent and something new to offer to the game. You can always rent studio time or make one of your own to record and mix everything yourself if you have the money. Don’t be afraid to go sell your music off the street corners if you have to, in fact Immortal Technique; an underground rapper from Harlem, New York; did exactly that and made a huge name throughout the music scene. If your goal is to become some sellout artist all over MTV and BET signed to a label that will pocket 90% of your money like most of the artists that come to mind first when you think of record labels in general, then you’re better off forgetting about it and getting a normal job. Not all labels will look out for the artist at all and once their time has passed they are usually discarded. That’s why the music industry needs a lot more
SEBASTIAN FERRERO
originality and dedication to surface. A passionate artist would rise against the competition and elbow his way through anyone standing between the music and the creator. Aspire to be new and you will succeed if you are passionate enough. Either rap about unlawful and degenerate non-sense or find an edge, be enlightened, be radical or whatever; just something new that people can respect and relate to. Sebastian Ferrero is a 17 year old self made unsigned hip-hop artist based in Plantation, FL. He has written over 60 songs and currently has four albums pending release. You can reach Sebastian at 954-476-5761 or go online at Sebastianferrero71@yahoo.com
www.communitynewspapers
December 15 - 28, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Miami Beach AOHT wins State Championship Miami Beach AOHT State Champions: Francheska Salguero, Marko Milovic, Flavia Oliveira (Captain), Nestor Belsol
The Miami-Dade County Public Schools is on a roll! Earlier in the week we received official notice about the Miami Norland AOHT achieving “Model” academy status followed by today’s news about the Miami Beach High School AOHT team of students who placed first in the State in the Lodging Management Championship sponsored through the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association. Congratulations to lead teacher Patricia Gregory and the student team. The student team competed in lodging operations (includes a night audit, room inspection and two case studies in F&B and S&M), hospitality project (includes a banquet event order, invitation, menu, budget and floor plan), and a knowledge bowl. Miami Beach won the overall competition and will now represent the State of Florida in national competition in March. Miami Beach High School continues the legend after winning seven out of nine
championships! Our best wishes to them as they move forward to nationals compete against Guam, Hawaii, and other states. Our sincere congratulations go to the team of newcomers at Miami Sunset who held their own at state level competition. Making up the team from Miami Sunset were: Diana Martinez (Captain), Jilene Sanchez, Alejandra Nogueira, and Valentina Mondragon along with their lead teacher, Millie Perez. The two continuing members of the team are more excited than ever to compete next year and have vowed to begin studying. Again, it is through the support of our Advisory Board members and the community that allow our programs to participate in these experiential activities. For one of the participants, it was the first time she had experienced flying (the competition was held in Panama City Beach). It is great to be a part of a winning team!
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Financial Planning During the Holidays? Are you a spender or a saver during the holidays? To a lesser or greater degree, we are either savers or spenders. The commercialization of the Holiday season is certainly there to constantly remind us to spend as much as we can. May I suggest that you keep your bearings with your financial condition during these frenzied shopping days. What you have minus what you owe equals what is Rick Tonkinson left over. If the left over is a positive number then you are still on track toward financial stability. How do you approach holiday gift giving? In terms of gifts, does the person you are buying for really need another sweater in Miami? Perhaps a gift of letting them know how special they are to you and how they make the world a better place would stay in their heart long after the sweater is worn out. As for saving, I suggest that you can be kind to yourself by improving your financial condition by opening or adding to your IRA as a Holiday present to yourself. There’s more excitement in paying down on those credit cards rather than adding to their balances. There’s no one there to say thank you for doing it, but your peace of mind should not need the compliments of others. The road to financial independence is unfortunately the road that is less traveled, especially in the “spending season”. How will your gift giving give “meaning to the season”? May I respectfully suggest that you look beyond your needs and desires to think of a person less fortunate than you. You do not have to think a lot to realize that your life would be happier if you stopped your routine to provide someone some kindness. Then you will have a real gift that no store or online service can provide. Rick Tonkinson is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Practitioner who started his first job as a paperboy at age 12. Rick Tonkinson and his family focus on the financial planning needs of working people. Tonkinson Financial Inc. is located at 2398 South Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL. 305-858-1628. Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services offered by Tonkinson Financial Inc. are separate and unrelated to Commonwealth.
Happy Holidays! from Tonkinson Financial
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 15 - 28, 2011
Madison Tyler Salon In April 2011, two French natives, Christine and Franck Deckert, settled in Miami. Christine was born in Marseille and Franck in Alsace, both have lived in Cannes in the French Riviera before moving to Miami. Their first investment was the purchase of the Madison Tyler Salon, located on 1035 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor Islands, FL 33154, Phone 305-864-6415 / 305-868-4028. In France, Christine worked as an accountant and Franck worked in the agricultural industry. The couple decided to change their professions to create their own computer company, specializing in the design of websites. One day in 2009, Christine and Franck went on vacation in Miami and fell in love with this beautiful and vibrant city. They both love the United States, and have since made several trips to America. Out of all the cities they ventured too on vacation, they chose to live in Miami. The fabulous climate and the welcoming residents, made them
want to stay. After two years of researching several businesses, Christine and Franck decided to purchase the Madison Tyler Salon. With 15 employees, the hair salon is located right next to the Bal Harbour Shops. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable about the quality of the products used at the salon. Regular training sessions of new hair styling techniques are offered to the Madison Tyler Salon employees, so they are always aware of new trends. You are welcome to visit the Madison Tyler website, www.madison-tyler.com, where you can make online reservations. Christine and Frank are offering a 20% discount with the presentation of this article on any service at their salon. The staff of this unique hair salon speaks English, French and Spanish. The list of services are as follows: • Hair (Color, Haircut, Highlight, Hair Extensions, Keratin Treatment ...)
Interior of Madison Tyler Salon ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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