SW the Magazine Winter 2015

The Magazine Nov/Dec 2015

FALL ISSUE

IN OUR BACKYARD

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Questions:

Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason

FEATURES: SILVIA PLANAS PRAT MIAMI IS KIND -­ AUTISM RESTAURANT REVIEWS: ESQUIRE EATS STEVEN BEFERA

A VIEW OF THE CITY

MIAMI: THE NEXT SILICON VALLEY ?

Special: CAMACOL: 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY

Marie Javier

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Ramón Miniño PHOTOGRAPHY ramonminino.com

GASTRONOMY: A SEAFOOD WONDER

Casablanca on the Bay 1717 N. Bayshore Drive Miami, Florida 33132 Phone: 305-371-4930 www.casablancaonthebay.com 4

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CONTENTS

NOVEMBER 2015

34 FEATURES

ART

AROUND TOWN

07

36

46

Letter From The Editor Welcome to SW The Magazine

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Community Profile: 6 Questions Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason

24

38

MBA Program

By Ernesto Gonzalez

LEGAL 20

HEALTH & FAMILY 26 22

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7 Culturas productivas para tu hogar feliz By: Coach Suz Amaro Love In Colors By: Letty Vandrell

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CAMACOL 50th Anniversary Gala

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In Our Backyard

Events Merrick Manor’s Groundbreaking

TRAVEL

BUSINESS

56

27

STYLE

Business Directory

15

28

Sonesta Hotel Coconut Grove Miami

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Miami: The Next Silicon Valley

By Brian Martinez

Discovering Dream Locations The Northern Coast of Spain

Ad Listings

Breast Cancer

By Dra. Mary Jo Villar

Coral Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival

Immigration Attorney Marie Javier

Immigration Talk With Mayra Joli

42

Art is His Passion

COVER PROFILE 12

Autism Speaks 4th Annual Gala

Roy Rodriguez

EDUCATION 35

48

B&W Photograher Ralph Ventura

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Miami Women Who Rock

By Emily Zubizarreta

Nathalie Garcia

Miami is Kind Foundation

By Silvia Planas Prats

An Artist and Her Work

Make-Up Beauty Tips

By Gabriel I. Noda

FOOD 52

Nuestra Cocina Recetas de Erny Delgado

53

Esquire Eats

By Steven P. Befera, Esq.

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Your Future Starts with the Right Education!

Ask to speak with an FNU Admissions Advisor Today!

Hialeah Campus (305) 821-3333 South Campus (305) 226-9999 Training Center (305) 231-3326 Online Learning Campus (305) 821-3333

www.fnu.edu 6

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Select the program that's right for you: · Master Degrees · Bachelor Degrees · Associate Degrees · Diplomas and Certificates · Continuing Education Credit · Online Learning Programs Available Florida National University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate and master degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia, 30033-4097 or call 404.679.4500 for questions about the accreditation of Florida National University.

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who have completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at http://www.fnu.edu/gainful-employment-disclosure REV. 8/30/2012

FROM

THE EDITOR Are we ready for celebrations? My favorite time of the year is approaching; ‘Tis the season to get ready for great parties, fabulous fundraising events and celebrating the years successes with our families. It’s the time when we all gather, with our families and friends, to be grateful for one another, share memories, and get prepared for a new beginning. Yes, I am speaking about Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.

In the spirit of celebration, our Around Town Social section highlights four magnanimous events; all for great causes. Miami Women Who Rock hosted their annual Luncheon “50 shades of pink,” celebrating the lives and achievements of inspirational women, and breast cancer survivors alike, who made a difference in our community.

The Autism Speaks Foundation, along with this year event chairwoman, Susan Machado, transported us to an evening of exotic Arabian grandeur, a Blue Night in Cairo, with Puzzle Pieces of Our Community.

Ms. Betty Gradera surprised us once again with a delightful night at the Biltmore Hotel in celebration of CAMACOL’s 50-year anniversary, recognizing distinguished businesspeople for their outstanding work and participation in the community. Lastly, as part of the Hispanic Heritage month, our Cuban Picasso, Emilio Sauma, gave us a sense of community with two days of entertainment, food, and fun by the Annual Hispanic Cultural Foundation event in the city of Coral Gables.

In our Profile section, we feature a candid conversation with Coral Gables Mayor, Jim Cason, who shared with us notable improvements to the city, and invited us to celebrations in commemoration to 90 years of the City Beautiful. Immigration attorney Marie Javier, dressed in pink on our cover in support of breast cancer awareness, talks to us about her unbridled passion for serving people, and her love for her career. Silvia Pratts outlines her mission to give back to the community through the Miami is Kind Foundation.

In celebration of Hispanic heritage month, we share with you the talent of three extraordinary artists, featured in our Art and Entertainment section. Their work will transport you to a beautiful metropolis, ignite in you a love for color, and inspire your imagination and appreciation for women.

I truly hope you enjoy this issue, for is it filled with great community happenings, business and technology information, helpful tips, and magnificent travel and entertainment experiences, all given to us by the pulse of Miami: the people!

Until next, All my Love

Alexa

Photo by: Ramón Miniño

Follow us

ON THE COVER Immigration Attorney Marie Javier

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BARINAS & ASSOCIATES, INC

Services

Barinas & Associates, Inc. was founded over 12 years ago by Baron BB Barinas, IRS Enrolled Agent. Our company has been providing accounting and tax preparation services to over 5000 individuals and 400 businesses annually, both nationally and internationally.

The office is located in Virginia Gardens, next to Miami Springs and Doral and very close to Sweetwater. Our staff has worked hard to provide quality service and it shows.

Contact Us

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(JJV\U[PUN 0UKP]PK\HS 0UJVTL ;H_ :THSS )\ZPULZZ IVVRRLLWPUN 7H`YVSS ;H_ 7YLWHYH[PVU ,SLJ[YVUPJ -PSPUN HUK 9HWPK 9LM\UKZ 0;05 7YLWHYH[PVU (\KP[ 9LWYLZLU[H[PVU ;H_ 7SHUUPUN

5> :[YLL[ 4PHTP -3 ;LS! ,THPS! Z\WWVY['IHYPUHZHZZVJPH[LZ JVT >LI! ^^^ IHYPUHZHZZVJPH[LZ JVT

The Magazine Editor-in-Chief: Alexa Lantigua

Creative Art Director: Ray Raposo

Associate Art Director: Johanna JimĂŠnez

Writers: Brian Martinez , Technology & Business ĘŽ Letty Vandrell, Education ĘŽ Suz Amaro ,CoachĘŽ Gigi Fernandez, Fashion Style ĘŽ Gabriel Noda , Make-Up ĘŽ Mayra Joli, Law ĘŽ Ray Raposo,Travel ĘŽ Omar Carlo, Health & Fitness ĘŽ Erny Delgado, Food ĘŽ Steven Befera, Restaurant Review

Contributing Writers: Ernesto Gonzalez, EducationĘŽEmily Zubizarreta , Events ĘŽ Susan Machado, Events ĘŽ Eduardo HernĂĄndez Mendoza, Digital Media

Photographers: Ramon MiniĂąo, Ray Raposo

Contributing Photographers: Jon Selvey, Eduardo HernĂĄndez Mendoza Humberto Morchano

Digital Department: Ray Raposo

Published by: SW The Magazine SW The Magazine 1000 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 104, Coral Gables, Florida 33134 7HOHSKRQH ȧ ,QIR#6:WKH0DJ FRP SW The Magazine’s liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction.

SW The Magazine and it’s contributors do not assume liability for any products or services advertised herein.

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Fashion/ Product/ VIP Event / Pregnancy / Portraits / Boudoir / Wedding www.pickypics.net Mia / Mex / Ccs

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Contributors Gabriel I. Noda Is a well recognized legend in the world of fashion and beauty. He is the Founder and CEO of Gabriel Productions International. A Certified Esthetician, Make-up artist, Educator, Speaker and contributing make-up expert in many magazines. Voted “The best Makeup Artist of South Florida� by Miami Metro Magazine, Best Brides Choice Award by Wedding Wire.

Noda is an award winning beauty expert with more than 30 years of experience in Television, Film, Commercial and Theater.

Beatriz “Betty� Gradera is the Corporate Relations Director and Events Manager of the Latin Chamber of Commerce of USA - CAMACOL. She has been working with The Latin Chamber of Commerce of USA - CAMACOL for the past twenty years. Betty is in charge of maintaining and establishing a solid business relationship with the chamber’s corporate clients, to help develop new business and assist them with marketing strategies for the promotion and growth of their products and services.

Steven Paul Befera, a/k/a “Pappa� is a Miami attorney, food lover and wine collector.

Having traveled the world in search of delectable treats and the wine to pair them with, he provides us his insights into the South Florida dining scene. In this issue he reviews his visit to the Wynwood Kitchen & Bar.

Emily Zubizarreta is the Founder of Miami Women Who Rock. Emily has an International background with top multinational Fortune 500 companies. She specializes in training, leadership development, marketing,

Susan Machado is a Commodity Manager at American Airlines. A.A. has enabled her to expose the company to help those less fortunate in the community. She has worked with the March of Dimes, serving four years as Steering committee chair and she is the Gala committee chair for Autism Speaks 2015.

sales, advertising business and technology.

Emily was one of the first Hispanic Women to infiltrate Walll Street, where she trained MBA’s at Goldman Sachs in presentation and sales skills. In the 90’s, she was instrumental in launching MTV for Latin America.

Emely went on to launch 10 other networks including Nickelodeon, E! Entertainment, and HBO Latin America

Eduardo Hernåndez Mendoza is a VenezuHODQ HQWUHSUHQHXU ZLWK RIˉFHV LQ 9HQH]XHOD DQG the USA. He is an International Coach, consultant and advisor and with Kairos Coach Consulting and Exotic Photographer and Image Strategist with Pickypics here in Miami, Fl.

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Profile

Immigration Attorney

Marie Javier

“We need a quote here from the article to make design more interesting”

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“Lo importante en la vida para mantenerse motivado es tener metas que te llenen y personas extraordinarias que compartan tus ideas y tus causas.”

Immigration Attorney

Marie Javier

POR: JOHANNA JIMENEZ

“Desde pequeña siempre me interesé por ayudar a la los demás.” Dice Marie Javier

después de haberle preguntado por su Carrera en derecho. De ahí parte su pasión por su trabajo . Gracias a su familia, tuvo la oportunidad de imigrar a los Estados Unidos y radicarse en Puerto Rico donde se formó como abogado.

“Mi pasión por la rama de imigración nace de ver la injusticia que se comente día a día con los imigrantes. Frecuentemente tuve la oportunidad de observar estas injusticias mientras vivía en Puerto Rico. Siempre me pregunté qué podría hacer para cambiar la situación y fue entonces, que decidí practicar inmigración.

Mi práctica comenzó en la isla, donde tuve la dicha de ayudar a cientos de imigrantes de mi país de origen, Republica Dominicana, a legalizar su situación migratoria para poder ganarse la vida de una forma digna.” ¿ CUÁNDO DECIDES REGRESAR A TU PAÍS? Muchas veces vemos el problema y no su origen. La migración en mi país se origina de la necesidad que tiene todo imigrante de tener una mejor vida. Lo triste, es que muchos ariesgan sus vidas para cruzar el canal de la mona, con la idea de mejoría. La realidad es que sin status migratorio, como en cualquier parte del mundo, en los Estados Unidos no se llega

muy lejos. Fue entonces cuando me regreso a mi país para ayudar y educar através de mi bufete de abogados y cápsulas de inmigración en la televisión Dominicana.

Organizé una colaboración entre mi bufete en los Estados Unidos y República Dominicana donde todavía asesoro a muchos de mis clientes. ¿ POR QUÉ ESCOGES A MIAMI? En busca de nuevos retos. Una persona siempre debe innovar cuando la vida se vuelve monotona.

Miami, y ahora mi trabajo en telemundo, me ha dado la oportunidad de la experimentar con la diversidad de casos interesantes. ¿ QUÉ TE MOTIVA? Me gusta dividir mi tiempo entre mi trabajo y ayudar a diferentes causas. Trato de compartir con mis amigos y a la vez hacerlo en eventos que sirven de ayuda a la comunidad. En estos momentos apoyo a la fundación de Autism Speaks y me interesa mucho todo lo que tiene que ver con la mujer como es el tema del Cáncer de Mama.

Ahora estoy trabajando con The Dhagali Foundation una fundacion que se dedica a ayudar victimas de abuso fisico y sexual a sanar sus traumas por medio del arte. Lo importante en la vida para mantenerse motivado es tener metas que te llenen y personas extraordinarias que compartan tus ideas y tus causas.

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Beauty And Style

Maquillaje para

fiestas

BY GABRIEL I. NODA

MAQUILLAJE DE NOCHE El Maquillaje de noche se caracteriza en poner más énfazis en los ojos. Se puede ir desde un maquillaje de ojos natural y labios fuertes, a un dramático y glamoroso Smoky look. Todo depende de tu evento y de que tan formal sea.

En esta temporada está muy de moda iluminar el rostro para lograr un efecto de frescura. Para empezar, lo esencial es comenzar con la preparación de la piel y lograremos así que el maquillaje tenga mucho más duración.

PARA PREPARAR LA PIEL Prepara tu piel con un tónico de hierbas naturales como “Essential Toner” para piel combinada de Gabriel Productions.

Para balancear la piel y permitir una rápida absorción del siguiente paso el humectante para hidratar tu rostro.

Termina con una crema de ojos hidratante “Forever Perfect” con cafeína para eliminar las ojeras.

ANTES DE TU MAQUILLAJE aplica un “Primer” como el “CAMERA READY” de Gabriel Productions que es un suero de Vitamina C , que te ayudará a dar el efecto de desenfocado para eliminar la apariencia de poros y lineas. Se aplica antes de la base para también igualar la

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textura de tu piel. Aplica un Concealer o ya que son el marco de tus ojos. Puedes iluminar tu rostro con un Gel “STAR GLOW” corrector de ojeras cremoso. aplicándolo sobre los pómulos, el centro ESCOGE TU BASE de acuerdo a la de la nariz, y el cupido borde de tus labios. cobertura que deseas. Si quieres lucir Luego aplica un color oscuro Contour natural, puedes usar una base líquida debajo de tus pómulos y lograrás un rostro sin aceite, pero si quieres más cobertura perfecto. y esconder todas tus imperfecciones usa PARA TUS LABIOS si te gusta, puedes la crema-polvo “INVISIBLE FINISH” con utilizar un color de labios natural claro acabado matte de mucha duración aunque como también, puedes utilizar una pintura sudes. Seguido con polvo transparente de labios oscuro, ya que está muy de moda y por esta temporada se usan los Vino, para sellar tu maquillaje. marsala y morados.

MAQUILLAJE DE OJOS Comienza a definir tus ojos con un lápiz negro suave completo en el párpado superior y hasta la mitad en el párpado inferior para que se vean extendidos hacia afuera.

APLICA UNA SOMBRA OSCURA sobre el parpado móvil y disfumina con un movimiento de lado a lado. Si quieres un look natural usa sombras café y si quieres un poco más dramático usa sombras grises o negra. Para un rápido y sencillo Smoky Eyes, comienza a construir la intensidad comenzando cerca de las pestañas y seguido con un movimiento de lado a lado difuminando hasta la cuenca del ojo.

Puedes ser Atrevida y Divertete y usa -Aplica un color piel en el resto del ojo colores con brillos que te harán lucir iluminando el lagrimal interno y el punto radiante en estas fiestas. más alto de las cejas, luego si deseas puedes aplicar tus pestañas postizas que Y recuerda, ¡un buen maquillaje acentúa tu queden bien al borde de tu ojo, seguido belleza interior! por mascara. Presta atención a tus cejas

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Make-­up: Gabriel Noda

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En las Redes

Tus  fotos  en  tus  Redes  Sociales Hoy es tan fåcil comunicar lo que deseamos al exterior a travÊs de las redes sociales, que esto puede convertirse en una maravillosa experiencia o en una eterna pesadilla. Cada vez que subimos una fotografía a nuestras redes, estamos enviando un mensaje que no siempre muestra lo que deseamos. En una JU£ˉFD FDGD GHWDOOH FXHQWD HO FRORU HO £QJXOR GH OD WRPD \ KDVWD ORV HOHPHQWRV GH OD FRPSRVLFL¾Q 3RU HMHPSOR XQ ȢVHOˉHȣ normalmente se hace con la cåmara de un telÊfono inteligente.

Entonces la distancia entre el lente y tu rostro es tan corta que eres susceptible a captar muchas imperfecciones.

TRUCOS PARA HACERLO MEJOR: 1. PRQ WX URVWUR IUHQWH D OD IXHQWH GH OX] HYLWD HO ËŠDVK FRORFD HO

telĂŠfono a la altura de tus ojos, cuida lo que se ve detrĂĄs de ti. %XVFD SRVHV QDWXUDOHV \ GÂŤMDWH ËŠXÂŻU 8QD YH] ORJUDGD OD WRPD puedes editarla, guardarla.

3. Ahora suelta el celular para que descances la vista y tu manera de verla.

4. RevĂ­sala unos minutos despuĂŠs y si te gusta, voila, estĂĄ lista para subirla a tus redes.

Recuerda que los “likesâ€? que mĂĄs importan son los tuyos no los GH ORV GHPÂŁV DO ˉQ \ DO FDER QR HVWÂŁV D SUXHED GH QDGLH QL HQ medio de un casting. Hasta la prĂłxima!

Eduardo HernĂĄndez Mendoza Imagen Strategist & Marketing Consultant ,QVWDJUDP #HGXDUGRKHUQDQGH]P www.pickypics.net

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Immigration Talk

Conditional

Permanent

Residence

BY MAYRA JOLI

CONDITIONAL PERMANENT RESIDENCE If a person is the spouse of a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident and the marriage occurred less than two years before the alien spouse is admitted as a U.S. permanent resident, the permanent resident status is conditional. The alien spouse is given conditional resident status on the day he or she is lawfully admitted to the United States on an immigrant visa, or receives an adjustment of status were he or she to stay in the U.S.

REMOVAL

OF CONDITIONS ON PERMANENT RESIDENCE

Immigration laws presume that marriages that occurred less than 2 years before the alien spouse was admitted as a U.S. LPR are marriages entered into solely for the purposes of acquiring immigration benefits. The petitioning citizen or resident and the conditional resident must prove that they did not get married to evade the immigration laws of the U.S.

apply to remove the conditions in time, the alien spouse could lose conditional resident status and be removed from the U.S. 2. If the conditional resident has been battered or abused by his U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, the alien may apply to remove the conditions on his permanent residency at any time after he or she becomes a conditional resident, but before removal from the U.S. 3. If the marriage becomes not viable, that is, the couple is separated or no longer shares a household, the petition to remove the conditions of residence shall not be denied provided that the conditional resident can show that the marriage was entered into in good faith and with a genuine desire for a marital relationship and not solely for immigration purposes.

MUST SHOW:

4. If the couple is divorced, the alien may also apply to remove the conditions on his or her permanent residence at any time after he or she becomes a conditional resident, but before he or she is removed from the U.S.

1. A U.S. citizen or a permanent resident and his spouse must apply together to remove the conditions on the spouse’s residence. They should apply during the 90 days before the spouse’s second anniversary as a conditional resident. Usually, the expiration date on the alien spouse’s green card is also the date of his second anniversary as a conditional resident. If they do not

5. If the alien spouse’s child received conditional resident status within 90 days after the alien spouse did, then the child may be included in the alien’s application to remove the conditions on permanent residence. However, the child must file a separate application if the child received conditional resident status more than 90 after the alien spouse did.

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PRร XIMAMENTE Laboratorio Buena Salud Aumenta Servicios en Sweetwater

Nuestro laboratorio principal en Sweetwater estรก abierto mientras se encuentra en proceso de renovaciรณn

Visite el Centro de Servicio Mรกs Cercano a Ud. 300 SW 107th Ave. Suite 209 Sweetwater, FL 33174 Tel: 786-427-6760

2140 W. 68th St. Suite 401-B Hialeah, FL 33016 Tel: 786-618-9667

7000 SW 62nd Ave. Suite 205 Miami, FL 33143 Tel: 786-216-7554

7150 W. 20th Ave. Suite 610 Hialeah, FL 33010 Tel: 786-703-6907

9595 North Kendall Dr. Suite 211 Miami, FL 33176 Tel: 786-294-0195

8501 SW 124th Ave. Suite 207 Miami, FL 33188 Tel: 786-558-7369

7000 W. 12th Ave. #15 Hialeah, FL 33014 Tel: 786-502-4953

7887 North Kendall Dr. Suite 215 Miami, FL 33156 Tel: 786-360-3029

7330 SW 62nd Pl. Suite 320-A South Miami, FL 33143 Tel: 786-517-9121

COMPROMETIDOS AL BIENESTAR DE LA COMUNIDAD HISPANA

305 554 9790 or

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Family

Simple Life Tips from

Coach Suz 7 Culturas productivas para tu hogar feliz

BY SUZ AMARO

En el mes de la gratitud pensemos en como tener una familia más productiva y feliz , pilar emocional vital para todo ser humano.

Cada familia, empresa, nación tiene sus propias culturas.

Reconocerlas y que no sean por ser, sino diseñadas con amor es clave en un hogar productivo y feliz.

Como acompañante de culturas productivas quiero conquistarte de que te tomes un tiempo de repensar estas culturas en tu hogar y como decimos en vivesmart construyas la mejor versión que puedas del rincón del mundo más preciado para ti: tu hogar!

1. Tengan su misión, visión, valores

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ȧ +DFHU XQ HMHUFLFLR \ FRORFDUOR HQ XQ OXJDU 9LVXDO para la familia vital SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

2. Tengan metas – por año por miembro- En el pasillo de las habitaciones

ȧ D PHWDV FRPR IDPLOLD ȧ D PHWDV GH FDGD XQR

3. Tengan Visuales con palabras positivas

ȧ &RPSUD FXDGULWRV SDUD HO ED³R FXDUWR de televisión con mensajes positivos como SOnrie- Amor- Paz- Relax

4. Crear un momento de familia que se repitan todos los años

ȧ &RPR XQD WUDGLFLµQ DQLYHUVDULR ȧ 6HOHFFLRQDV OXJDUHV SDUD ORV SUµ[LPRV 7 años

5. Celebren mucho los logros

ȧ &DGD ORJUR GH FDGD LQWHJUDQWH 0X\ comunicativamente

6. Ten Rituales tuyos de tu familia

ȧ &RPR GHVSHGLUVH FDGD QRFKH VDOXGDUVH con beso cada mañana, abrazos de familia, almuerzos un domingo al mes

7. Muchas fotos de momentos felices

ȧ 0XFKDV IRWRV FRORFDGDV GH PRPHQWRV de felicidad reactiva la energía de felicidad Espero te animes a hacer más productivas y felices tus culturas de tu hogar Con Amor, Suz Amaro Experta en culturas productivas y felices

Love in

Color

BY LETTY VENDRELL

T

Will you engage and give vulnerable children a new photographic memory?

here are corresponding times in one’s life when But HOPE lives and we can love in color.

the human brain takes a snapshot of a moment and it lives in your memory forever. Scientifically and theoretically, it’s called a photographic moment or memory- and it lives into perpetuity in living color. According to theories, an individual is capable of remembering scenes, events, and detailed precise images. These are engraved into the human psyche, and subsequently into the heart and soul.

Every nuance is captive in the recesses of your mind. These photographic memories find permanent residence, and its internal reality radiate in our external expressions.

My first encounter with extreme poverty was such a moment. The experience left a marked photographic image: the people, the smells, the architecture, and the colors, are forever engraved and indelible on my mind, my heart, and consequently, my life. But here is one challenging and sobering thought: Not all exchanges are made to stick. And it’s what we do with these haunting images that matter most.

Today, across three counties, almost four thousand children are removed from their homes as a result of abuse, abandonment and neglect; young little ones who should be laughing, playing, and daydreaming, suffering from deprivation, exclusion, and vulnerability. They are relegated to become parentified latchkey kids. We can only conclude that their photographic memories are bleak and oppressive.

Furthermore, according to data statistics in a recent Wall Street Journal article capturing unwanted children and child welfare institutions, U.S. Adoption has plummeted. Today, it’s at a three-decade low. Most disheartening are experts who state, “Adoption and foster care agencies say hundreds of thousands of children need homes.” This social problem is increasingly pervasive, and its incumbent bureaucracies so daunting and complex that American families are giving up.

How can there exist such a debilitating social problem in an era of unprecedented prosperity?

Agencies like The Dhagali Foundation, deliver broad paradigms of support and voice concerns as they implement art, dance, and music programs in efforts to bring about joy, healing, relief and identity for children in need, extending un-paralleled levels of compassion and love of community-bringing about beauty from ashes.

How can we stand by as a nation and not realize our capacity and responsibility to act on behalf of vulnerable children right in our back yard? This is a central question for policymakers, communities, and individuals. And we above all nations are

especially equipped to put down these societal evils, to extend our reach and our resources so that these young victims are filled with memories of love in color. Do we really believe that we are a force to be reckoned with? Our lives are not lived as an isolated entity in a quarantined vacuum, but rather, as a link in the chain of world history. Yes, society-shaking, worldchanging, history-making link!

Do you dare to love in color? Will you engage and give vulnerable children a new photographic memory? There exists a vast amount of human and material resources. Your next step? Get involved with The Dhagali Foundation, and help build strong beginnings and protect children.

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Family

Miami Is Kind Foundation “Let’s put Autism and developmental disabilities to work”

By Silvia Planas Prats

L

etting go of her career at DuPont from Barcelona, in Spain and

moving to Miami FL was not easy, but Silvia knows it was the most important decision of her life. Marc is now an adorable 12 year old boy that just happens to have autism. He loves riding his bike, dancing to Michael Jackson and baking.

He’s come a long way with the help of the Miami-Dade County Public School system.

But Silvia soon questioned what does the future hold for Marc and young adults with autism and other developmental disabilities (DD)? The challenge begins after they turn 22. She quickly realized that employment opportunities looked bleak. “Companies seldom hire adults with Autism/DD. I will not sit and wait for companies to change their hiring policies.

Instead, I have created solution.

I’m a true believer that hard work determines who we are as individuals in society and that every member of society—including adults with autism,

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Photo credit: Marcel Lecoursoff

“Miami Is Kind employs young adults with Autism and other disabilities while creating delicious traditional treats!”

DD —should have the chance to excel and contribute.”

Silvia decided to take this employment challenge head on, and opened Miami Is Kind, an industrial bakery determined to be the first factory for professionals with autism, DD in South Florida.

Miami Is Kind will employ bakers, packers, warehouse operators, customer service reps and dispatchers that have autism or other disabilities. Silvia knows that with adequate instruction, a properly structured workplace, and an enjoyable learning atmosphere, young adults with autism, DD can excel at a workplace and can make the companies they work for profitable.

“It will be a social revolution that will give job opportunities and hope to so many young adults with autism and other DD in Miami.

Through our success, we will inspire other companies to follow similar paths and allow society to appreciate their capabilities.”

“Miami Is Kind’s vision is to help individuals with autism, DD strive for independent living, fulfilling their dreams and personal choices with their salaries” The program serves all socio cultural backgrounds and ethnicities and all the colors of the spectrum. Each individual will be assigned tasks that better match their interest and skills. Some contribute to the packing and shipping parts of the Business program, while others might support selling or marketing and others will bake.

Miami Is Kind Foundation employs two bakers, sells online to all the U.S. at http://www.miamiiskind.org/ and as of October 2015 is based at Joanna’s Marketplace 8247 South Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL 33143.

The first product line is Gluten Free deliciously healthy Macaroons in a variety of flavors and packaging sizes. They are sweet but not too sweet.

Let almonds and sweet potato surprise you! If you’d like supporting Miami Is Kind Mission you can subscribe in the “how can you help” section in their website and you will receive monthly some European Style pillow boxes of Macaroons at your doorstep. You can also buy in “products” section any of your favorite Macaroon’s flavor. They are delicious for all the family, for on the go snaking and they are the perfect gift.

SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

25

Health

Doctor’s View BY: DRA. MARY JO VILLAR ONCÓLOGA LEON MEDICAL CENTERS

El cáncer de seno es la segunda causa principal de muerte

en las mujeres después del cáncer de pulmón.

Las mamografías deben hacerse una vez al año, sobre todo si existe un alto riesgo de cáncer de mama, por biopsias previas anormales o la historia familiar. También debemos entender que el ultrasonido solo o la prueba de resonancia magnética (MRI) de la mama no son iguales a la mamografía.

completa. Si una mujer decide hacerse una lumpectomía, necesitará radioterapia. La radioterapia es diferente a la quimioterapia. La radioterapia no provoca la caída del cabello. Es un tratamiento local solo a la mama.

Lo maravilloso de la mamografía es que puede detectar a tiempo una lesión no palpable, por lo general en forma de calcificaciones sospechosas, que son formas muy tempranas de cáncer de seno denominadas carcinoma ductal in situ.

POR LO GENERAL una mujer que tiene una mastectomía no necesita radioterapia excepto en casos muy especiales o enfermedad avanzada. La quimioterapia se reserva para aquellas mujeres que tienen cáncer de mama agresivo, con los ganglios linfáticos comprometidos.

EL TRATAMIENTO para el cáncer de mama puede ser muy efectivo si éste se detecta en sus primeras etapas.

También es importante recordar que si usted siente una lesión en un seno debe informar de inmediato a su médico.

Recuerde que del 15 al 20% de las lesiones en los senos no son detectadas por la mamografía. Por suerte hoy tenemos muchas opciones de tratamiento.

SI SE LE DIAGNOSTICA un cáncer de mama en etapa 1, usted tiene del 85 al 90% de supervivencia. El tratamiento generalmente consiste en una cirugía, que puede ser una lumpectomía (extirpación del tumor) o una mastectomía (extirpación del seno). Ambas opciones de tratamiento quirúrgico requieren un muestreo de los ganglios linfáticos.

Nuestros cirujanos tratan de ser conservadores y, de ser posible, prefieren hacer un muestreo de los ganglios linfáticos en lugar de una disección axilar completa. Si el ganglio centinela (primer ganglio linfático) es negativo, el cirujano se detiene allí. El muestreo de los ganglios centinela causa menos impacto en términos de linfedema o hinchazón del brazo que el que provoca una disección axilar 26

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El cáncer de mama es la neoplasia maligna más frecuente en las mujeres LA QUIMIOTERAPIA también se ofrece a aquellas mujeres que no pueden recibir la terapia hormonal debido a que sus receptores para el estrógeno y la progesterona son negativos.

La quimioterapia puede ser aterradora para la mayoría de las mujeres, pero hemos logrado muchos avances en el tratamiento y ahora es muy tolerable. Cada día la quimioterapia se perfecciona más y se ha vuelto más específica y con menos efectos tóxicos.

Cada mujer es especial e individual, y no hay dos casos iguales.

Si usted ha sido diagnosticada con cáncer de mama, no dude en hablar con su Médico. Todos estamos aquí para ayudarle en este difícil período de su vida. Queremos que usted sea una sobreviviente de cáncer de seno. Recuerde que la clave para sobrevivir al cáncer de mama es la detección temprana.

BUSINESS CONNECTION DIRECTORY Casa Glamour by Guizandi

LANGUAGES SOLUTIONS ALT LANGUAGE SOLUTIONS

www.casaglamourbyGuizandi.com We cater to women, from petite to plus, and provide each and every one with the opportunity to realize their apparel dreams. Our collections offer many different and affordable designs, styles and sizes for those special occasions where glamour is a must. You can rent or buy your dress.

In addition, we always alter the dress to your complete satisfaction. As the owner and fashion designer of Casa Glamour by guizandi, I am accessible and ready to work with you in selecting a dress of your preference to your liking. Please contact me via our Contact Us section or via e-mail at FDVDJODPRXU#DWW QHW 7KDQN \RX 7DQLD *XL]DQGL

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION Benn, Haro & Isaacs, PLLC 1580 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway, Suite 130 Sunrise, FL 33323 Tel: 954-315-4694 ZZZ DFFLGHQWODZ\HUˊ FRP ZLOOLDP#DFFLGHQWODZ\HUˊ FRP Our attorneys have a combined thirty years of experience in Florida workers’ compensation law. Several of our attorneys have previously represented insurance companies in workers’ compensation claims.

We know their tactics and their mind-set. Your employer and their insurance company have an attorney working for them, and so should you.

Our dedicated team of trial attorneys is prepared to take your case to trial, if necessary. Hablamos Español

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Suite 104 Coral Gables, Fl 33134 Tel: 305 320 4075 ,QIR#$OWLQF %L] www.ALTINC.Biz Our interpreters are available in a variety of languages and dialects to serve our clients in many areas from EXVLQHVV PHHWLQJV WR WKH OHJDO ˉHOG WKURXJKRXW WKH VWDWH of Florida.

Ray Raposo Design &Photography www.Rayraposodesign.com 5D\UDSRVR#PH FRP Tel: 305-778-3921

Ray Raposo works for both Design Studios and Ad agencies teaming up with the best talented individuals, from other Art Directors & Designers, to Illustrators, Copywriters, Photographers and Models, Directors & Actors, Production, Media Printers, PR Reps, We Gurus and Branding. He uses that experience to team with talented creative to assure that every project is a total success. Creating Advertising & Design that not only is engaging and looks great, but more importantly, works.

ADONAI

Design & Construction, Inc. Clara T. Garcia Lic.#060660 2307 S. Douglas Road Suite 501 Miami, Fl 33145 Ph: 786-399-0139 3URMHFW#DGRQDLGF FRP www.adonaidc.com Adonai Design & Construction, Inc. specializes in several Commercial and Residential segments, New Constructions or Renovations, Interior/ Exterior works. Whether the project is for a public or private sector, Adonai Design & Construction, Inc. group provides services for Design-Building Contracting LQ SODQQLQJ FRQVXOWLQJ HQJLQHHULQJ FRQVWUXFWLRQ PDQDJHPHQW URRˉQJ ZDWHU SURRˉQJ WR VHUYLFHV IRU RIˉFH EXLOGLQJV KRWHOV UHVWDXUDQWV DQG FRQdominium/multi-family residential in South Florida. .

SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

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Sonesta Coconut Grove Miami 2889 McFarlane Road Coconut Grove, Fl 33133 305.529.2828 main www.sonesta/coconutgrove.com

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An elevated experience above the bay Miami offers endless opportunities for business or pleasure and one of its favorite neighborhoods is the bayside community of Coconut Grove. The Sonesta Coconut Grove Miami is known for its chic and contemporary allure benefitting Coconut Grove’s trendy vibe. Enter our doors and be swept up in the fresh tropical ambiance, captivating artwork, and stunning views from every vantage point.

You are just minutes from downtown Miami’s Business district (Brickell avenue), Port of Miami, South Beach, Coral Gables, University of Miami and the pristine beaches of Key Biscayne. Stroll to CocoWalk’s dining and nightlife, or gather your group a sailing expedition - after all, this is one of the finest sailing destinations in the world.

Generously sized guest rooms showcase sweeping vistas of Biscayne Bay or Coconut Grove, stylish

décor, and offer the ease of complimentary Wi-fi. Suites feature large living and dining areas suited for entertainment or intimate meetings. Even if you arrive on business, the Sonesta Coconut Grove Miami has exceptional ways to help you relax and enjoy your time.

The Cuisine On the 8th floor of the hotel, Panorama Restaurant & Sky Lounge treats diners to an award-winning fusion of traditional and contemporary cuisine. Enjoy in the fresh air along with endless bay views at the end of the work day, feel free to indulge in a Mojito by the poolside at Sonesta Coconut Grove Miami.

2889 McFarlane Road, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 www.sonesta.com/coconutgrove 305.529.2828

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29

Community Profile

IN OUR BACKYARD

6

QUESTIONS:

“We know there is a clear connection between our actions and decisions today and the quality of life for future generations. ”

Coral Gables Mayor

Jim Cason

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SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

Community Profile

Mayor  James  Cason

has built a legacy of success as the third-term Mayor of the City of Coral Gables.

Mayor Cason is a former career diplomat who served in Latin America and other locations abroad, and today he answers six questions for SW Magazine.

SW: Mayor Cason, you have had a successful 43 year diplomatic career and speak five languages. How do you believe this experience has helped you as Mayor of one of the most important cities in South Florida?

A: As a diplomat I spent decades engaging people, seeking compromise among individuals and groups, and administering governmental bureaucracies. In my ˉUVW WHUP DV 0D\RU ZH ZHUH DEOH WR ORZHU WKH PLOODJH UDWH WZLFH UHˉQDQFH city debt, and initiate pension reform.

These efforts continued through my second administration and currently due to the hard work of our city commission and capable administrators Coral Gables enjoys D VWURQJ ˉQDQFLDO SRVLWLRQ 7KURXJK careful management of funds and policy decisions, we have built up our reserves to 25 percent of the City’s operating budget, which is a highly regarded standard in the industry.

#1

SW: In 2013 in China Coral Gables took the silver award for the most livable small city in the world. In your view what makes the City earn this distinction? $ 2XU JRDO LV WR WDNH ˉUVW SODFH DW WKH QH[W event. In a competition held in Xiamen, China in December 2013 the City was QDPHG RQH RI WKH WRS ˉYH PRVW OLYDEOH communities in the world in its population category. In addition we have received other recognitions such as one of the “Top ten cities to Live Well in America� by Forbes magazine, “Most Walkable Suburbs in the Country� by the Wall Street Journal, among other recognitions. Most recently we were selected as the Nation’s top Foodie City by Livability.com. The City has been winning awards for 30 years. But like all great cities, we are a work in progress and must continue to evolve.

#2

SW: The City’s iconic Miracle Mile and Giralda Avenue are slated for a makeover.

How do you see the public and private sectors working in conjunction on these high profile projects?

#3

A: City has been working very closely with all stakeholders during the planning stages. Residents, business owners, retail and restaurant operators, the Business Improvement District (BID) and the chamber of commerce have had input on these projects. The project received the go-ahead from the city commission last August. ,Q 1RYHPEHU WKH ˉUP RI &RRSHU 5REHUWVRQ 3DUWQHUV ZDV FKRVH E\ WKH FLW\ commission to design the Miracle Mile and Giralda Avenue Streetscapes.

The Miracle Mile Streetscape will widen sidewalks, plant trees, create garden areas, add outdoor dining along newly landscaped curbs and install better lighting and new public art works. The Giralda Avenue Project includes a complete reconstruction of the block from Galiano Street on the East to Ponce de Leon Boulevard on the West. The goal is to enliven the City’s central commercial core during evenings and weekends and attract additional private investments.

Continues on next page Photography by: Eduardo Hernandez Mendoza

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#4 SW: In your view what makes Coral Gables attractive to businesses and investors?

A: Our businesses are the lifeblood of our community. They create jobs which in turn doubles our daytime population, and they inject our local economy with dollars. In fact, the City’s economy has been rapidly growing, with the sum of gross VDOHV QHDUO\ GRXEOLQJ RYHU WKH SDVW ˉYH \HDUV IURP $3.7 billion in 2009 to $6.4 billion in 2014.

#5

SW: As more development comes to Coral Gables, how do you see the balancing of a most livable city recognition with the complex issues brought on by new development?

A: As the City continues to grow we must ensure it does so in a way that is smart and sustainable, which entails planning for what lies ahead. We know there is a clear connection between our actions and decisions today and the quality of life for future generations. Our Sustainability Master Plan outlines a roadmap to guide our decisions over the next decade. The plan will help chart options to conserve energy and water, reduce waste, enhance land-use and transportation, prepare for the impacts of climate change, make our &LW\Č V ËŠHHW PRUH JUHHQ DQG LQFUHDVH SXEOLF RXWUHDFK In addition to the Miracle Mile and Giralda Streetscapes, the City has other projects that will enhance our quality of life, the vitality of our commercial sectors, and boost our reputation as a business-friendly city. This summer city staff hosted a series of public workshops to gain community input on &LW\ VHUYLFHV DQG WR KHOS GHˉQH WKH IXWXUH RI WKH 1RUWK 3RQFH DQG 86 corridor neighborhoods, two of the City’s vibrant mixed-use areas.

Becoming a sustainable community also requires having an effective transportation network. It’s a main consideration when choosing a place to live. This means providing our community with safe and effective alternatives to motorized vehicles. To further this goal, the City’s Bike Master Plan will add 27 miles of new or improved bike lanes throughout the City.

SW: Coral Gables celebrates its 90th anniversary this year. How do you see the future of your City in the coming decades?

A: We are marking this milestone with a year-long celebration of entertainment and educational events in honor of our visionary founder George Merrick, and the creative minds who built our uniquely beautiful city. $V , PHQWLRQHG ZH KDYH YHU\ VSHFLˉF SODQV WR FRQWLQXH WR LPSURYH WKH TXDOLW\ RI OLIH IRU our residents and future residents. This includes among other things, reliable options to transportation issues.

In the coming decades, Coral Gables will be impacted by sea level rise. In response to this issue, the City recently joined the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Compact, which includes 25 other municipalities in Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties to research, create, and implement adaptation and mitigation strategies for climate change and sea level rise. The Compact has become widely recognized as one of the Nation’s leading examples of regional-scale climate action.

Looking forward Coral Gables will continue to become a thriving hub of international commerce and one of the most beautiful places to live.

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#6

Education

Programa de Maestría en Administración de Negocios (MBA)

BY ERNESTO GONZÁLEZ

N

o pierda la oportunidad de desarrollar sus habilidades en administración de negocios a través de un ambiente práctico de discusión, análisis y enriquecimiento profesional en nuestro Programa de Maestría en Administración de Negocios (MBA) en Florida National University. Este programa está diseñado para proveer a estudiantes de cualquier licenciatura una oportunidad para continuar al nivel de Maestría y a los estudiantes con experiencia laboral una oportunidad para desarrollar su profesión con un alto nivel educativo en Administración de Negocios. Cada curso refuerza el conocimiento del estudiante y las habilidades en comunicación e identificación, análisis and solución de problemas.

El programa tiene 36 créditos (24 créditos obligatorios/ 9 créditos en un área de concentración especificaAdministración General, Marketing, Finanzas, Administración Publica y Liderazgo, y Administración de Servicios de Salud), y finaliza con un Curso integrador (Capstone). Los participantes tienen la opción de cursar el programa en solo 12 meses (presencial, hibrido u online) siendo a su vez flexible para aquellos que necesitan extender su culminación por razones laborales o personales.

Los participantes, como parte de su último curso integrador, dirigirán una compañía virtual a través del uso del programa de simulación Capsim™ el cual provee una evaluación del conocimiento adquirido en el programa de maestría así como una base para el futuro desarrollo de la profesión.

El contenido es desarrollado bajo un concepto de intensa y fructífera interacción entre los participantes, así como entre los participantes y sus instructores (quienes poseen experiencia en su campo de enseñanza). Este concepto es uno de nuestros puntos fuertes. Siendo este programa de modalidad ejecutiva, la discusión (tanto presencial como virtual) como medio de análisis y generación de conocimiento para la solución de problemas ofrece a los participantes motivación y aprendizaje.

Si desea más información con respecto a nuestro Programa de Maestría en Administración de Negocios (MBA) no dude en contactarnos: Ernesto Gonzalez, Ph.D. Business Department Head Florida National University

Los cursos potencian el desarrollo del pensamiento y análisis crítico a través de casos de estudios de la biblioteca de la Universidad de Harvard, juegos de simulaciones de negocios, y ejercicios de análisis de problemas reales del contexto y experiencia laboral de los participantes los cuales comparten entre ellos.

SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

33

Technology

Miami:

The Next Silicon Valley?

BY BRIAN MARTINEZ

T

his October, Miami Dade College’s downtown Miami Wolfson Campus played host to Amazon’s AWSome day (AWS = Amazon Web Services), a technology workshop aimed at encouraging students, faculty, and area IT professionals to learn about Amazon Web Services. Amazon executives and other seasoned adherents of AWS addressed the importance of “cloud” computing in our lives today, while introducing their campus audience to the vast features and varied services that AWS offers. Amazon’s cadre of keen “Solution Architects” led instructional overviews of creating, managing, and scaling virtual servers in Amazon’s cloud environment. And yet, to many of those attending, the most interesting part of the AWSome Day experience may have been the actual presence of this colossal industry leader, at Miami Dade

Dr. Babic, Dr. Jose Vicente Wolfson Campus President, and Mauricio Ferrazza, MAGIC Program Founder and President

College (MDC), in the first place.

Apparently impressed, students and faculty sat around tables, at the Chapman conference center, hastily scrawling notes on paper, or pressing the shutter button on their smartphones to capture data from the presentations. The soft clatter of keys being pressed could be heard throughout, as students began to take a more interactive role in learning about cloud computing with Amazon AWS. Meanwhile, at a table in the center of the room, there was a man in a sharp gray suit, earnestly surveying the audience as well as the overall ambience of the event.

Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus in downtown

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He’s the mastermind behind all this: Dr. Djuradj Babic, Director of the College of Engineering and Technology at Miami Dade College.

Combining a rich background in software engineering and computer science, with a fervent passion for learning and academia, Dr. Babic is poised to position Miami Dade College as a major contributor to the local technology industry.

Soon after the inception of engineering studies, the growth of baccalaureate programs for technology at Miami Dade College has accelerated rapidly. The success of the Electronics Engineering program paved the way for additional courses of study in technology. Formulating these programs from the ground up can be a daunting challenge, but it also affords unique opportunities for the administration and faculty.

“The inside of the College of Engineering and Technology (EnTec) at the Wolfson Campus” Miami Dade College boasts the title of being the largest public college in the country, in terms of student enrollment. Holding that title invites a certain level of scrutiny; this well-known (and well-regarded) institution of higher learning plays an integral role in shaping the future of Miami and South Florida, after all. In that respect, Miami Dade College is far from stagnant. Recent initiatives to elevate Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) curricula nationwide serve to highlight how critical these fields are to our country’s future economic prosperity. MDC’s College of Engineering and Technology is succinctly responding to those demands for enriched STEM programs with a decidedly targeted approach.

PARTNERSHIPS WITH IT INDUSTRY LEADERS

Under Dr. Babic’s direction, MDC has aggressively, and consistently, pursued partnerships with IT industry leaders, for the purposes of expanding the technology programs at the College, and to offer training and certification programs, as well as internship and externship opportunities to students. Dr. Babic explained that the evolution of MDC’s novel partnership with Amazon will directly benefit students in multiple branches of technology. The diverse and expansive array of services Amazon offers in cloud computing truly makes them a winner that MDC can align with, while

sharing a common goal of growing career driven education at the College.

The announcement of efforts to include industry leading certification into the existing curriculum was met with a rallying cry from students and faculty alike.

The tremendous support of everyone at Miami Dade College has been a catalyst for the development of these baccalaureate programs for technology. Dr. Babic firmly believes that, collaborating with local and national industry partners will help Miami Dade College make a greater favorable impact on the South Florida economy and the College’s graduates.

Future students at the College will be able to pursue baccalaureate degrees in Data Analytics and CyberSecurity, due in part to the industry relationships being forged today.

Miami Dade College is raising the bar, with a strong intuition and decisive action, and actively participates in the One Community One Goal initiative set forth by the community’s foremost development organization, The Beacon Council. A prompt expansion of education programs related to technology, coupled with developing significant industry partnerships at the College, convey clear evidence of this renowned institution’s dedication to its students, and to the burgeoning city of Miami.

SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

35

Art & Entertainment

Nathalie Garcia

An Artist and Her Work

“Within her artwork, one witnesses the intense emotions of different life phases as a human being...”

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Art & Entertainment

Some of Nathalie Garcia’s works have titles such as: Enigma, The Centipede’s Dilema, Gitana, and Hidden in the Shadows.

B

orn in Cuba, Cuidad de la Habana, Nathalie lived in Saint Louis MO for a few years before moving to Miami in 2004. Even though painting has been a part of her whole life, she was concentrated on her business career as a Business Systems Analyst all this

time. However, she couldn’t hide her passion for art anymore, and decided to pursue her artist career as her second profession.

Within her artwork, one witnesses the intense emotions of different life phases as a human being; these include passions hidden within our soul, cause and effect of life circumstances as we experience change and growth. The art of expressing curiosity, energy and vibes, faith and emotions. At the end, what matters is what’s inside of you. “Only when the art is able to express the colors hidden within our soul, an artist will find its true nature”.

ERA15Art abstract paintings expresses the part of life that one cannot see, but feel; the things that are not visible to the naked eye; it means change, spiritual growth, prosperity, enlightenment, being true to ones nature and those around us, making the impossible possible.

Nathalie Garcia www.era15art.com SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

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Art & Entertainment

) > 7OV[VNYHWOLY 9HSWO =LU[\YH

“

Most of us will never write a great novel, but all of us will live one,” says Ralph Ventura,

explaining why he photographs. “I do it to capture the novel of my life.” Born in Havana and raised in Chicago and Miami, Ralph Ventura is a fine-art and documentary photographer who has exhibited his work in the Museum of the City of New York, the Coral Gables Museum, various galleries throughout Miami and the Bakehouse Art Complex, where he was a resident artist for three years and is now an associate artist.

Ventura’s works are intentionally focused. “I work in black and white,” he says. “With color photography you see a picture, but with black and white you see into the picture” it “captures the soul” of an image, he adds.

Ventura’s works up until now have been mostly street and documentary style photography, many shot in New York and in Chicago. “I love New York and Chicago because they are pedestrian cities with photos waiting to be discovered around almost every corner.”

His more recent work, called PhotoNoir, is more

December during Art Basel as part of the Made In Miami

abstract in style. PhotoNoir was part of a solo show

exhibition by the Miami Photo Salon. The opening reception

at the TA Project Gallery in the Bird Road Art District

is November 28, 2015 at 7PM. The studio is located at 2122

in September. Four photos from the series will be on

West 62nd Street in Hialeah.

display again at the Del Castillo Art Studio through

Selected photos are also available on his website: RalphVentura.com.

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Art & Entertainment

SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

39

Roy Rodríguez

Art is his Passion.

B

orn in Cuba in 1967, he discovered his passion for art at an early age.

He started his art

studies at “Casa de la Cultura” in Havana, Cuba

where he later exhibited at the age of seventeen. He was accepted in San Alejandro School of Art in Havana but later that year he left the country.

He arrived in Miami, Fl in 1985 and continued studies in different art fields. However, Roy is adamant that he is a self-taught individual who has been schooled in the techniques of the great contemporary masters.

He seeks his own aesthetic vocabulary and imagination in the use of color and texture to create a sultry palette.

Using his childhood memories of Cuba, Roy Rodriguez passionately projects the hedonistic reality of his native island utilizing vibrant colors and exploring the

Artist Statement There is something that fascinates me about colors and I love

exotic.

to use it on my canvas. I’m always searching for a rich and His works have been exhibited in galleries and cultural

translucent texture, obtained through various material and

events and have been featured in various television

tools that has allowed me to enjoy my mixed medias, acrylics

programs and magazines. Roy Rodriguez is an active

and oils paintings in the pursuit of achieving my subject

community leader and a contributor to fund-raising

matter of the woman figure.

events. He currently resides in Doral, FL. I describe my artwork as contemporary.

Non Profit Organizations: Italo’s Way Foundation, The Cuba Corps, March of Dimes, Big Brothers Big Sisters.

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SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

For more information please check my website at www.RoyRodriguezart.com

SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

41

Around Town Social

The Gables Hispanic Cultural Foundation, Inc.

GABLES HISPANIC

Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival hosted its 6th annual Coral Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival, a two-day event that took place in the heart of the city of Coral Gables.

This family friendly event featured food, music, artwork, live entertainment andperformances in celebration of the Hispanic culture that is the spirit of South Florida. With local and international artists, musicians, designers of finehandmade goods, and a children’s pavilion with activities for the little ones, there was something for everyone to enjoy at the Hispanic Cultural Festival.

This year, the Gables Hispanic Cultural Foundation was proud to honor an international icon of Hispanic art, masterartist Amelia Pelaez. A truly innovative and progressive Cuban artist whosework left a deep impression in the art world, she remains one of the most momentous and prominent artist of our time. Her critically acclaimed masterpiece, “Blue Angel”, was licensed and the cultural heritage and social welfare of families, children, and featured on the Hispanic Cultural Festival youth in Miami Dade County. The Foundation continuously seeks poster in honor of her legacy and commitment to develop groups and partner with community agencies and the to art. art community with the intention of instilling a great sense of cultural pride and provide needed resources to families.

CULTURAL FESTIVAL

The Gables Hispanic Cultural Foundation, Inc.

was created exclusively for charitable and educational purposes. Some of their foremost values include designing and hosting programs and activities designed to enhance

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The Foundation’s mission transcends bringing artists and cultures together; they also provide educational tools and resources for schools around Miami Dade County and partner with similarly aligned foundations and charities to further their goals of enhancing social welfare through art, music, food, fun, and the celebration of our Hispanic heritage.

SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

43

Around Town Social

CAMACOL th

50 Anniversary Gala

BY BEATRIZ “BETTY” GRADERA

The Latin Chamber of Commerce of USA CAMACOL, celebrated its 50th anniversary with a gala dinner on Friday, September 25th, at the Biltmore Hotel, in Coral Gables, Fla. The gala featured guest speaker the Ho norable Carlos Gimenez, Mayor of Miami Dade County and it presented awards and recognitions to six businesspersons and business entities for their outstanding achievements in the community. The honorees were; Mr. Julio Mendez, from Leon Medical Centers, Mrs. Remedios Diaz Oliver, from All American Containers, Mr. Joe Chi, from China Latin America Trade Center, Commissioner Marc Sarnoff, from Florida Film and TV Center, Sam’s Club, and Publix Super Markets.

Also recognized were; Miami Dade County, Port Miami, the City of Miami, the Miami Police Department, Greater Miami Conventions and Visitors Bureau, Tomas Garcia Fuste, and Marta Flores, for their continued support to CAMACOL throughout the decades.On that night, the new board of directors for the 2015 – 2017 term were also sworn in, including the chamber’s new president Mr. Nelson Tarke Jr. “We are ecstatic to be celebrating CAMACOL’s golden anniversary,” said Betty Gradera, Corporate Relations Director and Events Manager at CAMACOL, who has been part of CAMACOL for twenty years. “It is humbling to be a part of an organization that has such loyal members who have kept it running for 50 years.”

Event’s Master of Ceremony, Juan Mendieta, Director of Communications for Miami Dade College

About CAMACOL: The Latin Chamber of Commerce of the United States, CAMACOL is the largest Hispanic business organization in the State of Florida and one of the most influential minority business groups in the United States. For five decades, CAMACOL’s mission is to foster the entrepreneurial spirit of Florida’s Hispanic and minority communities, and as such, it conducts programs to strengthen local business activity, promote economic development, facilitate international commerce, and serve the civic needs of the community and state.

For more information, visit www.camacol.org All CAMACOL Photography by Adolfo Ruiz

CAMACOL Borad Members 2015 - 2017 44 SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

Joe Chi – China Latin America Trade Center.

Exporter of the Year (Honoree)

Representatives of Publix Stores Inc. – Company of the Year (Honoree)

Fausto Diaz-Oliver, Remedios Diaz-Oliver, (Honoree) Lilliam and Gus Machado

City of Miami Commissioner Wifredo Gort

Commissioner City of Miami Hon. Marc Sarnoff (Honoree), Mayor of Miami Dade County Hon. Carlos Gimenez (Main Speaker), Board Members: Carolina Rendeiro, Martha de la Nelson Tarke Jr. President of CAMACOL, and Mario O. Gutierrez, Peña, Olga Ramudo, and Patricia Arias, Managing Past President of CAMACOL Director of CAMACOL SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

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Around Town Social

Miami Women Who Rock Fifty Shades of Pink’ Awards at the Coral Gables Country Club

BY EMILY ZUBIZARRETA

In support of Breast Health Awareness, the Miami Women Who Rock

(MWWR) “Fifty Shades of Pink” Annual Awards Luncheon was held at the Coral Gables Country Club, to benefit the Women’s Breast Health Initiative (WBHI) and to honor 10 exceptional and diverse women for their strength, resilience, heart, compassion and commitment to their families and the Miami community. WBHI saves lives by connecting at-risk women with early detection measures necessary to fight breast cancer. Founded in 2006 by one of MWWR’s 2014 notable honorees, Andrea Ivory, WHBI has served more than 67,000 households in three South Florida counties. This targeted approach is responsible for saving lives, one woman at a time.

Among the honorees were Gloria Barbier, Linda Burrowes, C.L. Conroy, Maria Freed, Pilar Montes, Elena Linares, Detra Shaw-Wilder and Norma Trabanco. In addition, MWWR presented a “Lifetime Achievement Award” to famous Cuban Song Writer and Latin Grammy Artist, Concha Valdes Miranda. Congratulations to all those inspiring and exceptional women.

About MMWR: Miami Women Who Rock (MWWR) was established in 2007 by Emily Zubizarreta. MMWR’s mission is to support, cultivate and promote a dynamic, powerful and resourceful health driven women’s network, through fund-raising and other programs that serve, 46

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Emily Zubizarreta and Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado present a “Lifetime Achievement Award” to famous Cuban Song Writer and Latin Grammy Artist, Concha Valdes Miranda, who’s also in the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame. educate and empower women from all walks of life.

The ‘Fifty Shades of Pink’ Awards Luncheon is the embodiment of MWWR’s global vision with local missions. Their events “are where heels and hearts meet to benefit imperative women’s health initiatives.” Miami Women Who Rock” missions are Global but our efforts are local.

Global Women Who Rock (“GWWR”), is a women’s network that promotes health and wellness causes and initiatives for women in local communities, thought the U.S. and globally. Since 2008, we have been partnering with local businesses that believe as we do, in giving back to the communities where we live, learn, work and play.

Founder of Woman’s Breast and Heart Initiative and Community Health Leader, Andrea Ivory

Event attendees at their tables during luncheon

Honoree Deputy Mayor Alina T Hudak, center, is surrounded by Michelle Sotolongo, Damarys Isler, Margie Gallinal, Jennifer Moon, Geri BonzonEmily Zubizarreta presenting the Rock Ambassador Keenan, Ed Hudak, Alina Hudak, Bea Hoynack, Paulette Acevedo and Award to Alina T. Hudak NBC 6’s Pam Giganti

Mistress of Ceremonies Deborah Magdalena, Honoree Elena Linares and Emily Zubizarreta

Honoree C.L. Conroy being presented the Trailblazer Award by Gaea Garrity SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

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Around Town Social

A Night of Food, Fun & Philanthropy to Benefit

AUTISM SPEAKS

BY SUSAN MACHADO

The South Florida Chapter of Autism Speaks hosted its 4th Annual Puzzle Pieces of Our Community Gala on Saturday, October 17th at the InterContinental Miami Hotel’s Versailles Ballroom.

As this year’s Event Chair, it was my pleasure to welcome all of our guests to an unforgettable evening filled with excitement and hope for the future. The evening was like no other, with first class entertainment reminiscent of a bygone era in the Middle East that included a warm welcome

by King Tut the Camel. Light it Up Blue is a global initiative that takes place in more than 80 countries and our world event committee selected Egypt and its iconic pyramids in Cairo as the theme for tonight’s evening.

At a time when 1 in 68 children and a staggering 1 in 42 boys are being diagnosed with autism, the mission of Autism Speaks is more vital than ever. We gathered at this event as a community to express our deepest gratitude and celebrate those individuals and corporations who have helped to further the work of Autism Speaks.

Among the honorees were the Honorable MiamiDade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez and Juan N. 48

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The Velazquez Family introducing their son and Youth Ambassador Alonso Velazquez

Cento, Regional President of Latin American and Caribbean Division of FedEx Express.

The event was hosted by Ron Magill, Zoo Miami Communication and Media Relations Director, and journalist Alex de Armas from WSVN-TV 7. An inspiring and poignant speech was delivered by the Mission Ambassador, Alonso Velazquez, a determined and talented sophomore at Florida Atlantic University.

As a person on the autism spectrum, he is a staunch advocate of people with autism and other disabilities.

He actively participates in Autism Speaks events and helps to create awareness on his university campus and abroad.

Entertainment was provided by Grupo Treo, Venezuelan, Cuban and Puerto Rican artist who reside in the U.S.. Guests at the event were also treated to a delightful display of belly-dancing and Middle East inspired performances courtesy of the Azhar Dance Ensemble from the Mid East Performing Arts Academy.

King Tut the Camel and 2015 PUZZLE PIECES COMMUNITY GALA Chair Susan Machado

Suzy Machado, Gus Machado, Jr., Alonso Velazques Mission Ambassador, Liliam Machado, Gus Machado, Marie Javier, Editor Alexa Lantigua and Susan Machado

Left: Susan MachadoChairman of Autism Speaks Gala, Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez

Pierre Hachar Jr., Esq. , Marie Javier, Esq. and Suzy Ann Machado, Nicolas Tevez, Esq. from The Hachar Law Firm, P.A.

Right: Zoo Miami’s Ron Magill & children hosting during silent auction

Hit artists, Grupo Treo... just some of the evening’s entertainment

Sponsor Marie Javier’s table and guests SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

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Around Town Social

Coral Gables City Major Jim Cason, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, Mark A. Trowbridge, Astor Companies President Henry Torres and Astor Executives and Merrick Manor Residences Groundbreaking

Henry Torres (President of Astor Companies) and Roza Radkiewicz (Sales and Contract Director of Astor Companies).

Alexa Lantigua, SW the Magazine, Adrea Escalona and Guest, Telemundo’s Suelta la Sopa and Felipe Diehl

Merrick Manor’s

Left to Right: Neil Verdeja (Chief Operating Office at BenTrust Insurance Group), Liz Torres, Carmelo DeStefano, Deborah Castro and Vince Castro (Chief Marketing Officer and Partner at BenTrust)

Vince Castro, Nilda Torres, Anya Penate and Neil Verdeja (Chief Operating Office at BenTrust Insurance Group)

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Groundbreaking

The Astor Companies hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the much-anticipated project, Merrick Manor Residences, in the heart of Coral Gables. The 10-story residential project, with 227 units and close to 20,000 square feet of retail space, will be designed in a contemporary Mediterranean villa style. The event commenced with VIP’s from the community that included City of Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce President Mark Trowbridge, TV personalities such as Felipe Diehl, Telemundo’s Suelta la Sopa Andrea Escalona and Astor’s executives, whom greeted and guided the audience with interesting information about this magnificent project.

PICTURES BY: HUMBERTO MORCHANO

;P[HU .SHZZ (S\TPU\T 33* ‹ > :[YLL[ /PHSLHO -3 ‹ 7OVUL! -H_! ‹ , THPS! PUMV'[P[HUN_H JVT ‹ >LIZP[L! ^^^ [P[HUN_H JVT

Call to Reserve Your Ad Space Today: 7HOHSKRQH ȧ ,QIR#6:WKH0DJ FRP SW The Magazine www.SWtheMag.com

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Nuestra Cocina

Nuestra  Cocina BY:  CHEF  ERNY  DELGADO

Hoy les traigo un delicioso arroz frito hecho a base de arroz cocido y salteado con huevos, vegetales y salsa.

El arroz frito japonĂŠs tradicionalmente se prepara sobre un “hibachiâ€?, superficie de asado plana y abierta, pero se puede hacer igualmente en un wok o sartĂŠn grande. Sigue los siguientes pasos para aprender a hacer este platillo. Nuestro segundo paso serĂĄ buscan todos nuestros ingredientes:

Arroz Frito:

ȧ WD]DV GH DUUR] IU¯o blanco o integral ȧ KXHYRV UHYXHOWRV \ SLFDGRV ȧ WD]D GH JXLVDQWHV ȧ FXFKDUDGDV GH ]DQDKRULD finamente picada ȧ WD]D GH FHEROOD SLFDGD ȧ 2WURV YHJHWDOHV FRPR PD¯] edamame y pimientos al gusto ȧ FXFKDUDGDV GH PDQWHTXLOOD ȧ FXFKDUDGDV GH VDOVD GH VR\D R de ostras ȧ FXFKDUDGLWD GH DFHLWH GH sÊsamo ȧ 6DO \ SLPLHQWD DO JXVWR ȧ &DUQH R WRIX RSFLRQDO

ȧ 2WURV FRQGLPHQWRV DO JXVWR

1. Cocina 4 tazas de arroz. El arroz jazmĂ­n puede darle un poco mĂĄs de sabor autĂŠntico y textura a un arroz frito japonĂŠs casero.

2. Refrigera el arroz. El arroz frĂ­o se frĂ­e mejor que el caliente.

3. Pica los vegetales. Como el arroz frito se cocina muy rĂĄpido a fuego alto, es mejor preparar todos los vegetales con tiempo. P 4. Revuelve los huevos. Revuelve previamente los 2 huevos en una sartĂŠn pequeĂąa a fuego medio, 52

Restaurant Reviews luego sĂĄcalos del fuego y pĂ­calos en trozos pequeĂąos. TendrĂĄs que agregarlos al arroz frito casi al final del proceso, pero es mĂĄs fĂĄcil si haces este paso antes de empezar a cocinar los demĂĄs ingredientes.

5. Cocina toda carne que quieras incluir.

Puedes echarle al arroz frito una gran diversidad de fuentes proteicas, tales como pollo, lomo de cerdo, jamĂłn, res o camarones. Lo mejor es cocinar la carne con anticipaciĂłn para asegurarse de que llegue a la temperatura interna correcta antes de combinarla con el arroz frito.

6. Calienta el sartĂŠn. La superficie para cocinar tiene que estar muy caliente antes de empezar.

7. AĂąade la mantequilla. Si bien algunas recetas sugieren usar aceite, la mayorĂ­a de los restaurantes hibachi usa mantequilla y muchas personas que han experimentado con aceites diferentes en casa opinan que la mantequilla da el arroz mĂĄs autĂŠntico en cuanto al sabor.

Calienta la mantequilla hasta que se derrita, pero antes de que se dore.

8. Saltea la cebolla, la zanahoria y ajo.

Esparce los vegetales en la sartĂŠn para que se cocinen de manera uniforme.

Sigue salteĂĄndolos varios minutos hasta que la cebolla empiece a verse traslĂşcida.

9. AĂąade los demĂĄs vegetales.

10. Esparce el arroz sobre los vegetales.

Echa el arroz frĂ­o sobre los vegetales en cocciĂłn, luego empieza a mezclarlos con el arroz de manera uniforme. Sigue

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cocinando a fuego alto o medio alto.

11. Dora el arroz y los vegetales. CocĂ­nalos hasta que el arroz se dore de manera uniforme.

AsegĂşrate de revolver con frecuencia y trata de que la mezcla no se aglutine demasiado.

12. AĂąade la proteĂ­na y las especias.

13. RocĂ­ale aceite de sĂŠsamo y salsas.

14. Divide el arroz en porciones. Sirve el arroz frito en tazones o en platos. PodrĂ­as decorar el platillo con semillas de sĂŠsamo tostado o cebolletas y servirlo con alguna salsa como la de soya o yum yum.

15. SĂ­rvelo mientras estĂŠ caliente. Sirve el arroz mientras todavĂ­a estĂŠ caliente. Si es necesario recalentar el arroz que sobre, asegĂşrate de hacerlo en la sartĂŠn o el wok, no en el horno microondas.

Es muy bueno que tengas en cuenta estos consejos: El “gomoku meshiâ€? es un tipo de arroz frito japonĂŠs.

Para prepararlo, se agrega pollo, zanahoria, tofu frito, champiĂąones y bardana finamente picados al arroz y se cocina con salsa de soya, sake y azĂşcar.

El “chahanâ€? es un tipo de arroz frito chino que se ha alterado ligeramente para acoplarse mĂĄs a los gustos japoneses.

A veces se le agrega katsuobushi (atĂşn ahumado, seco y fermentado) para que tenga un sabor distintivo. Use un morde para montar este arroz esto ayudara a que su mesa quede mas elegante y con una presentaciĂłn de primera.

Restaurant Reviews

Esquire

Eats

BY: STEVEN P. BEFERA, A/K/A “PAPA”

Review Subject: Wynwood Kitchen & Bar www.wynwoodkitchenandbar.com

The Wynwood section of town (Miami) has undergone significant gentrification over the past ten years. More restaurants, bars, cafes, art galleries, and even retail stores are popping up every month. For our inaugural restaurant review, Esquire Eats dove into the fray to sample the fare at one of the new landmarks in the neighborhood.

In the heart of the Wynwood Art District, at the corner of N.W. 2nd Avenue and 25th Street, the Wynwood Kitchen & Bar (WKB) has become a popular spot for those seeking dining alternatives to restaurants in the more established areas ofBrickell, Coral Gables and South Beach.

THE FOOD Chef Miguel Aguilar has assembled a widely varied menu that runs thegamut from gazpacho to duck breast, to fingerling-chorizo hash (with a quail egg), just to name a few. The food is served tapas/family style with varying sized plates reasonably priced. The menu features hot and cold soups and starters, grilled skewers (baby octopus included), large plates (vegans areaccommodated), and a good selection of creatively conceived vegetable sides. Our group of four diners ordered Hummus, Hamachi Ceviche, and the Chicken Empanadas to start. The hummus had a disappointing watery texture and the pita bread wedges on the plate were a bit stale. The large plate of entrees ordered included the “48-hour Crispy Pork” with white cheddar chipotle grits and pickled peppers (the 48 hours refers to the marinating time).

The pork chop was juicy and tasteful, not greasy. The grits were smooth and spicy. The dish came together very well.

We also sampled the Sea Scallops, which were huge, and pan-seared to perfection (these were my personal favorites). The scallops were served with crispy polenta garnished with tomatoes and feta cheese. These tasteful accents proved to be a good compliment to the succulent flesh of the scallops.

THE AMBIANCE The ambiance of the Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is best described as artsy-eclectic. There is an inside bar with stools and seating for diners inside and out. A tent covers part of the outside seating. There is poster and graffiti art on the walls and some interesting sculptures.

Plastic chairs outside and artificial “Astroturf” grass in the back with pedestrian access to the Art District makes it clear the owners intend this to be an informal gathering place for good food, drinks and conversation.

THE WINE We brought our own wine. The corkage fee was a reasonable $20.00 perbottle. As for the wine list, well, it was disappointing. If you are an aficionado, bring your own. With the scallops, we would recommend a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. The pork pairs well with a Rioja/Tempranillo, a good Argentine Malbec, or your favorite Cabernet Sauvignon.

There are a lot of spices on the menu, so a Zinfandel might be good to bring along as well.

One gavel =

Our rating system at Esquire Eats considers four discrete subject areas which are food, service, atmosphere and price. We use a “gavel system” (see key below).

Prices are shown on the scale from $ (e.g., an inexpensive mom and pop place in Little Havana) to $$$$ (e.g., a “see and be seen” high end joint on SoBe).

THE DESSERT We went with the special dessert of the evening…a molten chocolate cake with vanilla bean ice cream. The cake was supper “chocolaty” and the texture was granular. While I am not a chocolate fanatic, the small nibble I managed to taste among the dueling spoons was rich and warm. The ladies in the group absolutely loved it.

THE PEOPLE The diners are a diverse crowd of young and old (mostly younger) who all seemed to being enjoying a good time the night of our visit.

Dismissed with Prejudice

Two gavels =

Dismissed with Leave to Amend

Three gavels =

Motion Granted for Diners

Four gavels =

Verdict for Diners

The Wynwood Kitchen & Bar: Food: Service: Atmosphere: Price:

$$

Final Judgment:

Recommended

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55

Travel

DISCOVERING DREAM LOCATIONS

The Northern Coast of

Spain

S

cenic landscapes, blue seas, regional foods, religious landmarks, and tremendous historical heritage, you’ll ˉQG WKDW DQG VR PXFK PRUH DV \RX YLVLW WKH FLWLHV DQG towns of Spain’s Northern Coastline.

After taking a train from Madrid to the tip of Northern Spain, we arrive at La Coruña in Galicia. This port city is the birthplace of my paternal Grandparents. The Tower of Hercules, is an ancient Roman lighthouse in La Coruña, it’s the oldest known still-functioning Roman lighthouse in the world; the rectangular tower sits alone on a windy and hilly peninsula. The city’s main square is the Maria Pita Plaza, named after the heroine of a battle against English Florcesin 1589.

We took a day train trip to the other outstanding city in the province, Santiago de Compostela. It is a beautiful town which welcomes thousands of pilgrims every year. The city’s cathedral is the destination of a famous medieval pilgrimage route, the Way of St James (in Spanish the Camino de Santiago). It is recognized through legend as the final resting-place of the Apostle James - the first of the Twelve Apostles to suffer martyrdom at the hands of Herod. When we visited the massive Baroque cathedrals, numerous priests were holding mass in several languages.

From La Coruña we drove east to the lovely city of Oviedo. Just south of the coast, it is the capital city of

Orzán Cove Beachront, La Coruña

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BY RAY RAPOSO

the Principality of Asturias. The city has many medieval churches in a historic part of town, and many modern apartments in the surrounding area. We stayed in an incredibly modern building that houses the Ayre Hotel as well as Congress and a large shopping mall. Once the site of a soccer stadium, this alien looking white structure is surrounded by greenery, parks and colorful

The the 30 foot giant spider “Maman” by Louse Bourgeois outside of architect Frank Gehry’s designed Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain mid century apartment neighborhood.

From Oviedo we continue to drive east on some very modern and very lightly travelled expressways to the Coruña’s Maria Pita Monument

Panoramic view of Sardinero Beach on the eastern coast of Santander

® Ray Raposo Palacio de la Magdalena, Santander

San Salvador Cathedral, Oviedo

La Torre de Hercules, La Coruña Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela Santander’s Monument

San Nicolás Church, Bilbao Ayre Hotel, Oviedo

Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

Traditional dress, Oviedo

coastal area of Llanes. We stopped at a little village called Naves from which my maternal grandfather’s family was from and named after. It was once voted the prettiest town in Asturias. Just 12 miles south of the coast, we witness the “Picos de Europa”, a tall range of mountain peaks which also boast the largest national park and some incredible caves. Snow covers the tips in winter.

We continue east to the port city of Santander, the capital of Cantabria. We stayed by the beautiful beach

cove El Sardinero on the northeastern part of the city by the peninsula de la Magdalena and it’s lovely palace.

Our last stop on this part of the trip was in Bilbao, the center of Basque country. The jewel one must witness is the Guggenheim Museum. This Frank Gehry 1997 designed architectural wonder of limestone, glass, and titanium was once hailed as “the greatest building of our time” and sits along the curvy Nervión River.

An outstanding trip and visit to my family’s birthplace!

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Music

Miami’s Music Scene Is Experiencing

BY BRAD STEELE RAPOSO

Rapid Growth

As any Miami resident can tell you, this city has everything you’re looking for. From breathtaking beaches to an unmatched late night party scene, Miami is a city unlike any other. And the world has begun to also notice Miami as a unique music capital of the world.

Boasting a rapidly growing music scene, the 305 is now a major player for hosting major music events.

Each spring, Miami hosts Miami Music Week and the Winter Music Conference, which boasts downtown’s Ultra Music Festival, home to thousands of electronic music fans and headline acts. During Miami Music Week, South Beach plays host to dozens of unique concerts at hotels and rooftops, garnering attention from local residents to international tourists to witness music artists from all kinds of genres performing shows.

Miami is as diverse a city as you will find and the amount of music acts coming to perform during Miami Music Week is just as diverse.

In the fall, Miami has developed yet another growing music and arts festival, Wynwood’s III Points Music Festival. Thousands of music lovers attended this year’s three-day event to witness local and international acts. From progressive-rock, to funk music and rap, III Points Music Festival provides exposure to Miami’s unique brand of tastes. Five glorious stages surrounded by unique lighting and handcrafted artwork, this festival has grown each year in attendance and size. Acts like Miami’s Psychic Mirrors and Deaf Poet’s, memorized the crowds showcasing their fine musical talents.

Just this year, iHeartRadio’s Fiesta Latina has been moved from Los Angeles to Miami.

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This winter, the American Airlines Arena downtown will play host for unique blend of latin music styles, from Miami’s homegrown talent Pitbull, to well known international superstars like Jennifer Lopez and Don Omar, catering to latin music lovers. iHeartRadio’s Fiesta Latina 2015 will take place on

iHeartRadio’s Latin Fiesta at the AAA November 7th.

Whatever your taste in music is, the amount of attention the Miami Music Scene receives keeps growing.

® Ray Raposo

In Our Next Issue:

DISCOVERING DREAM LOCATIONS In Our Next Issue: Brussels, Bruge, Amsterdam & Lisse Scenic navigable canals, incredible architecture, historical landmarks, and a garden paradise of tulips.

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