CITIZEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION MARCH 15TH AT MOCA GREEN DAY FESTIVAL
APRIL 26TH
DOWNTOWN
MIAMI SHORES
Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Comerce serving Miami Shores, Biscayne Park, El Portal and Little River for over 75 years. Story
CARLA PETERS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
2025 EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT
Wes Pearce, Graber Realty Group
PAST PRESIDENT
Catherine McLaney, The Citadel
TREASURER
Rich Pototsky, CPA, Miami-CFO.com
VICE PRESIDENTS
Kate Baumwell, Kate Baumwell Photography
Gigi Turkel, Core Design Group
Angela Young, St. Rose of Lima Church School
2025 MUNICIPAL BOARD MEMBERS
Angela Dorney, Miami Shores Village
Jonathan E. Groth, Esq, Mayor, Village of Biscayne Park
Omarr C. Nickerson, Ph.D., Mayor, Village of El Portal
2025 GENERAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Andrew Bellinson, Esq., Bellinson Law Firm
Roni Bennett, South Florida People of Color
Robert Bourne, Robert Bourne Real Estate
Victor Bruce, Bruce & Bruce
Diego Caiola, The Florida Marketplace Group
Liangy S. Fernandez-Calli, Resident Member
Julie Isha, Barry University
Kim Flower, Flight Wine Lounge and Shop
Cory Gittner, Mediatech
Jon Harmeling, Chick-fil-A
Robin Hechler, Horace Mann Middle School
Dennis Kleinman, First Equity \Mortgage Banker, Inc.
Maria Leon, Little Stars Dentistry
SunJa Leon, The Nokkha Group
Vanessa Maggi, Maggi Realty Group
Mélida Matos, Doctors Charter School
Margarita Perez, MD, Miami Shores Medical Group
Ralph Perkins, Tropical Chevrolet
Mark Piper, Northwestern
Sara Ryan, Museum of Contemporary Art
Scott Smith, Ph.D., Barry University
Paula Szlufman, Primer Microschools
Christian Ulvert, Edge Communications
Carter Winkle, Ph.D., Barry University
The Egret is designed by Carla Peters, MyWeeThree Design and Gigi Turkel, Core Design Group
Egret Photographer: Kate Baumwell Egret Editorial: Liangy S. Fernandez-Calli
The Egret • March 2025 • 9620 NE Second Avenue Suite 201, Miami Shores, FL, 33138 • 305-754-5466 e-mail: chamberinfo@ miamishores.com • www.miamishores.com • facebook.com/MiamiShores, The Greater Miami Shores’ Egret is the official publication of the Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce, and is published monthly. 7400 copies of the Egret are distributed to homes, apartments, and businesses within the villages of Miami Shores, Biscayne Park, El Portal, Little River and Upper East Side free of charge. Views expressed in this publication are those of the editorial staff and do not necessarily reflect those of the Board of Directors. Information in it is intended for Chamber member organizations as well as the residents of our communities. Please contact the Chamber for more information on membership, advertising, distribution, or content.
2025 CHAMBER TRUSTEE MEMBERS
Ana Apaza Concha, MD
Margarita Perez Caminero, MD CARDIOLOGY
Luis Arias Urdaneta, MD RHEUMATOLOGY
Women in Business: Celebrating Leadership & Success
BY: LIANGY CALLI
“I got my start by giving myself a start.”
- Madame C.J. Walker
March marks Women’s History Month, a time to honor the trailblazers, innovators, and leaders who continue to reshape industries and redefine success. Women are not just making history, they’re rewriting it, forging bold pathways to leadership across every field.
Here in our Village, women in business stand out, not just for their achievements, but for the unwavering support they show one another. From doctors and lawyers to realtors, designers, restaurateurs, hairdressers…the list goes on. They are shaping our community with talent, resilience, and collaboration.
The Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize and celebrate these women’s contributions. At their upcoming event, “Pathways to Leadership”, on Saturday, March 8th, four inspiring women will share their unique journeys - each following a different path but united by determination, passion, and success.
Join us as we listen, learn, and celebrate the power of women in business. Their stories are more than inspiring - they’re a call to action for future generations of leaders.
Caroline Lewis – Climate Advocate & Educator
A leader in environmental education and advocacy, Caroline Lewis is the Founder of the Climate Leadership Engagement Opportunities Institute (CLEO), an organization dedicated to climate literacy, advocacy, and action. Since its founding in 2010, CLEO has created accessible educational programs for diverse communities, ensuring people from all backgrounds understand climate challenges and solutions.
Lewis has a deep-rooted background in education, having held leadership roles at Ransom Everglades Upper School, Cushman High School, and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. She developed the globally recognized Fairchild Challenge, engaging thousands of students in environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives. As the Founding Director of Cushman High School, she shaped a curriculum centered on rigorous academics, civic engagement, and creativity.
Her contributions have been widely recognized. She was named a White House Climate Resilience Champion of Change in 2013, featured in Time Magazine as one of 31 individuals making a difference in the South, and appeared in National Geographic’s From Paris to Pitts-
burgh. She has also served in advisory roles for the White House Summits on Climate and Energy and has been instrumental in shaping local and national climate policies.
Originally from Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, Lewis now calls Miami home, where she continues to inspire climate action and social justice advocacy.
Bobbie Weiner – Entrepreneur, Innovator & Industry Pioneer
A true master of transformation, Bobbie Weiner built a multi-million-dollar empire through her makeup artistry, product development, and entrepreneurial ventures. Known for her work on James Cameron’s Titanic - where she created the haunting frozen faces of the passengers, Weiner quickly became an industry leader in special effects makeup and product innovation.
Her company, Bobbie Weiner Enterprises LLC, started in a San Diego garage nearly three decades ago and has since become a global brand. She is the #1 supplier of camouflage face paint to the U.S. Department of Defense, a product also widely used in the hunting industry. Her “Bloody Mary” line of Halloween and horror special effects makeup is a fan favorite world-
Left to right:
Alejandra Molina, Bobbie Weiner, Caroline Lewis and Yolanda Cash Jackson
wide, earning her partnerships with Universal Studios Orlando and Six Flags Over Texas for themed attractions.
Weiner’s ability to diversify her brand led to the creation of sports fan makeup, which allows fans to show their team spirit at major sporting events. She even partnered with Yum Corp. to develop a Minnesota Vikings face paint kit, sold at Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC.
Beyond makeup, Weiner is a motivational speaker, sharing her journey from self-made entrepreneur to industry mogul. Her comic book series, Tales of Bloody Mary, won “Best Horror Poster” at the National Haunters Convention and expanded her brand into pop culture. In 2020, she introduced Bloody Mary’s Wicked Hand Sanitizer, an FDA-approved product that quickly gained nationwide distribution.
A recipient of multiple Gold Medals for her business achievements and an inductee into the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Hall of Fame, Weiner’s story is one of innovation, perseverance, and creativity.
Yolanda Cash Jackson – Attorney, Lobbyist & Policy Influencer
As a powerhouse in Florida’s legal and political landscape, Yolanda Cash Jackson has spent decades using her expertise to influence policy and create opportunities for under represented communities. A double Gator from the University of Florida (Law Class of 1990), she leverages her legal career to drive change at the highest levels of government.
As a shareholder at Becker, Jackson, she is among the most influential lawyer-lobbyists in Florida’s State Capitol. She is known for her deep connections with political leaders and her ability to turn policy ideas into reality. She has played a pivotal role in funding initiatives for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and advocating for legislation that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Her commitment to community service and civic engagement has earned her seats on prestigious boards, including the University of Florida Foundation, the Levin College of Law’s Law Center Association Board of Trustees, the Orange Bowl Committee, and the Urban League of Broward County. She was named one of The Miami Herald’s top 50 influencers for election coverage, a “Most Effective Lawyer” by the Daily Business Review, and has received numerous national and local awards for her advocacy and leadership.
In 2021, Jackson was inducted into the League of Superheroes by the Children of Inmates, recognizing her extraordinary impact on the lives of vulnerable children. She is also one of only seven shareholders on Becker’s Management Committee, overseeing the firm’s policy, operations, and strategic growth.
A trailblazer in law, policy, and community advocacy, Jackson continues to use her platform to influence state legislation and mentor the next generation of leaders.
Alejandra
– Award-Winning Journalist & Trusted Voice in Media
With a career spanning nearly two decades,
Alejandra Molina has become one of South Florida’s most respected bilingual journalists. As a news anchor for Telemundo 51, she brings breaking news and critical stories to the Spanish-speaking community in Miami and beyond.
Molina’s investigative reporting has earned her multiple Emmy Awards, including recognition for her series En Directo desde Haití, which covered the humanitarian crisis in Haiti. She has also been honored by the Associated Press for her in-depth journalism and commitment to delivering truthful, impactful news.
Before joining Telemundo 51 in 2015, Molina worked for Noticias 41 a las 10:00PM on WJAN América Tevé, where she spent over a decade covering local, national, and international news. Her career began while she was still a college student, focusing on investigative series and political reporting.
A graduate of Florida International University with a degree in Journalism, Molina has built a reputation for telling stories that matter. Whether reporting on natural disasters, political upheavals, or community issues, she remains committed to giving a voice to the voiceless.
Her dedication to journalistic excellence has solidified her place as a leading news anchor, trusted by viewers across Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
These exceptional women exemplify resilience, innovation, and leadership in their respective fields. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we recognize their invaluable contributions and the countless women who continue to break barriers, create opportunities, and inspire future generations.
Molina
UNDERCONTRACT
26,800 Sq. Ft. Lot
Listed at: $2.3M
5 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms
4,600 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $3,299,000
2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms
1,000 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $845,000
5 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
2,800 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $2,299,000
570 NW 54 St. Warehouse
Under Contract This 2400 square foot warehouse which contains four offices is located right at the entrance to I-95 on the extremely busy W 54th St thoroughfare. You have 40,000 cars a day that can see any signage you put on this building. Warehouse is being sold with three separate lots connected as one assemblage for a total of 26,800 square feet each of the lots is worth over $400,000. The warehouse is currently being used by two different long-term tenants in the automotive industry. Not have leases and the current income is $6000 a month. The land is zones commercial as well as automotive and marine. Perfect for a future development site but use the warehouse now.
6520 SW 134th Dr.
For Sale Are you ready to fall in love with this spectacular 4,600 sf 5/4 bilevel masterpiece on a 23,783 private tropical sf lot? This exquisite home has been totally REMODELED w/ no expense spared. Features include an expansive private master suite w/ its own terrace + balcony, master bath + walk-in closet, chef’s kitchen w/ custom cabinetry, 4 custom bathrooms, porcelain tile floors throughout & a courtyard pool with outdoor shower. Located in the tropical enclave of Devonwood, this true oasis is a masterpiece with the most gorgeous pool & deck, NEW impact glass windows & doors, updated electric & plumbing, NEW AC units & NEW roof. Additional features include multiple living areas, separate guest suite & 2 family rooms, perfect for entertaining. Agents bring your buyers who demand only the BEST.
720 NE 62 St. Unit 511
For Sale Stunning 2/2 corner penthouse condo with a spacious PRIVATE ROOFTOP TERRACE (1000+ sq ft) and an extra 187 sq ft wraparound balcony, offering a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The unit is thoughtfully designed with an open layout, high ceilings, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and luxurious bathroom, oversized floor-to-ceiling glass-walled rain shower with pebble stone, laundry closet. Abundant natural light fills every room, creating a warm ambiance.
760 NE 115th St.
For Sale Welcome to the most spectacular pool home in lush Biscayne Park! Beautifully remodeled with no expenses spared, this exquisite 2800 sq. ft. 5BD/3BA features unusually high ceilings, spacious living areas, a huge master suite with large walk-in closet + great views of the pool & a gorgeous chef’s kitchen with custom Italian cabinetry that overlooks the most magical & serene meticulously landscaped backyard. Live the Miami lifestyle and create lifetime memories in your own tropical oasis! Additional features include a fabulous covered outdoor patio with a BBQ, custom bathrooms, private laundry/ utility room + tile floors throughout. Located on one of the neighborhood’s prettiest tree lined streets + just blocks to the popular park on 113th St. & community center where so many amazing events take place.
Pathways to LeadHERship WOMEN
IN BUSINESS
CONNECT | SUPPORT | ENGAGE
SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 2025 | 11:30AM - 2:30PM
BARRY UNIVERSITY | 11300 NE 2nd AVENUE | MIAMI SHORES, FL 33168
GUEST SPEAKERS
Be inspired, and learn the stories of a remarkable panel of Miami busi- nesswomen, who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, innova- tion, and have had a profound impact on our local business community.
Enjoy lunch, libations, shop from local vendors, and mix and mingle with some of the most influential minds driving our local businesses. You’ll leave with promising new connections, new friends and new motivation.
Join us for a fun and educational experience!
Caroline Lewis Founder of the non-pro쏾t CLEO Institute, Author and Educator
Bobbie Weiner "Bloody Mary" Makeup Artist, Owner and President of Bobbie Weiner Enterprises LLC, Author
Yolanda Cash Jackson Lobbyist and Shareholder with the Florida law 쏾rm Becker and Poliakoff
Alejandra Molina News Anchor and Reporter at Telemundo 51 Miami KATE BAUMWELL PHOTOGRAPHY
Moderator, Carla Peters Executive Director, GMSCC
LiVE! School Music; Where Passion Meets Performance of
BY: LIANGY CALLI
Live! School of Music is more than just a music academy—it’s a dynamic hub where young artists transform their passion into performance. As the region’s premier music education center, Live! is dedicated to nurturing creativity, technical excellence, and confidence in musicians ages 9-18.
What sets Live! School of Music apart is its immersive, real-world approach to learning. Students don’t just take lessons; they experience music through performance-based education, industry collaborations, and professional-grade instruction. Partnering with BIMM, Berklee City Music, and Rockschool Grade Books, Live! ensures students receive top-tier training with pathways recognized worldwide.
The school’s Creative Music Industry Program is at the forefront of modern music education. Designed to develop skills in songwriting, production, and live performance, this flagship program gives students hands-on experience with cutting-edge industry techniques. From mastering instruments to composing original music, students gain the expertise necessary for college and beyond.
But at Live!, music isn’t confined to the classroom. Performance is at the core of the curriculum, with students showcasing their talents at local venues, monthly spotlight sessions, and prestigious events across Miami. Many go on to audition for elite programs like Young-Arts and top conservatories.
Beyond education, Live! fosters a vibrant musical community, connecting students with mentors, peers, and industry professionals. As a StepUp-approved program, it also offers scholarship opportunities, ensuring access to quality music education for all aspiring musicians.
Whether rocking out at a festival, recording in a studio, or preparing for a professional career, Live! School of Music is the ultimate launching pad for young artists ready to find their voice and take center stage. Join the movement—where music education meets innovation, and passion turns into performance.
Get out & about with Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce!
BY: CHRISTINE FRANKLIN
Miami Shores is the place to be, with events that bring friends and neighbors together in the best ways possible! The Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami (MOCA), in partnership with South Florida People of Color, hosted The Awkward Dinner, a vibrant celebration of creativity, art, and vision. The spotlight was on the incredible artist Andrea Chong and her groundbreaking work, Between Too Late and Too Early, a piece that pushes the limits of contemporary art and continues to spark inspiration and conversation.
Meanwhile, the monthly Friendly Villagers luncheon at the Miami Shores Country Club was another highlight! This time, a special guest speaker from Pelican Harbor introduced the crowd to Mowgli, a delightful Eastern Screech Owl who’s one of the many feathered ambassadors for the renowned Pelican Harbor Seabird Station. Mowgli’s presence brought an air of magic and wonder, reminding everyone of the vital work being done to preserve and protect our local wildlife.
Miami Shores keeps the energy high with fun-filled events like trivia night at Conscious Brewing. The competition was fierce, but the real prize? Laughter, good vibes, and unforgettable moments shared by all. It was a night of friendly rivalry, hearty chuckles, and plenty of new memories to take home!
In February, Meghan Grimbert of Meghan Grimbert Design hosted a lively social to honor Wes Pearce, the new President of the Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce. Friends, family, and colleagues came together to celebrate the new leadership in style!
And if you were looking to combine fun with a meaningful cause, the annual Kennedy Kids Foundation Match Point for Mental Health Pickleball Tournament at Diadem in Fort Lauderdale was the place to be! The tournament was not only a fantastic opportunity to show off pickleball skills but also a chance to support mental health awareness. All proceeds benefited the Kennedy Kids Foundation, helping to reduce teen suicide and promote mental wellness. The players had a blast while making a real difference on and off the court!
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