DEPARTMENTS. A menorah lighting, tree lighting and a wild wing ribbon cutting walk into a bar... Not really, but what did happen is revealed.

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1 January 2014 UP & OUT Wish You Were Here UPCOMINGS Activities & Happenings UPFRONT New, Now & Noteworthy Home Décor Tips: A New Look for the New Year Aventura Bal Harbour Bay Harbor Islands Biscayne Park Eastern Shores Golden Beach Highland Lakes Miami Shores North Miami North Miami Beach Ojus Skylake Sunny Isles Beach Surfside + Hallandale Beach (special Uptown neighbor)

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3 January Happy 2014! DEPARTMENTS 5 UPFRONT Fresh fruits and vegetables right from the farm are now available every Sunday at the new Aventura Green Market. Find out the time and place here. 8 UPCOMING Interior designer Robin Lechner says there is no better time for a fresh look than at the new year. Here she explains the easiest and most effective ways to renew and refresh the interior of your home. 18 UP & OUT A menorah lighting, tree lighting and a wild wing ribbon cutting walk into a bar... Not really, but what did happen is revealed. 22 UPDATE Once a mangrove jungle on the edge of Biscayne Bay, Aventura s beginning was an adventure for a group of visionaries who thought a vertical community with a golf course and on the bay couldn t lose. They were right. by Seth Bramson. Managing Director Alan Rifkin mfar99@hotmail.com Editor Martha Sternberg marthasternberg@comcast.net Art Director Joanna Gazzaneo joanna.gazzaneo@gmail.com Historian Seth H. Bramson Photographer DeJean Dessous Distribution Baron Express, Inc UPTOWN SOUTH FLORIDA MEDIA NE 29 th Place, Suite 200 Aventura, FL UPTOWN SOUTH FLORIDA MEDIA, not-for-profit. UPTOWN SOUTH FLORIDA magazine is published monthly. All rights reserved. The entire content of UPTOWN SOUTH FLORIDA magazine may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. UPTOWN SOUTH FLORIDA magazine reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse material. UPTOWN is comprised of Northeast Miami-Dade County: Aventura Bal Harbour Bay Harbor Islands Biscayne Park Eastern Shores Golden Beach Highland Lakes Miami Shores North Miami North Miami Beach Ojus Skylake Sunny Isles Beach Surfside + Hallandale Beach (special Uptown neighbor) UPTOWN south florida magazine January

4 UP front Approaching Holiday Season Means Increased DUI Patrols, Arrests By Kevin Warmbrandt, Esq. new, now & noteworthy Kevin J. Warmbrandt, Esq., a former prosecutor with experience handling DUI, criminal defense and the defense of all traffic offenses, has served Miami Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties for 25 years. As the winter holiday season approaches, police in South Florida will be stepping up their DUI enforcement activity. If you plan on going out drinking, the best way to ensure you don t get ensnared in these police efforts is to take a cab, use a designated driver or make other arrangements to get home. To pull you over for a suspected DUI, the police first must have a reasonable suspicion you are violating the law or committing a traffic infraction. In fact, minor traffic violations are one of the most common ways the police find and stop impaired drivers. Speeding, weaving in and out of lanes of traffic, running a stop sign or red light are some examples police look for to spot potentially impaired or drunk drivers. Once being pulled over, the police officer will begin to assess whether a driver is impaired. This will include the officer s observations of certain signs of impairment such as bloodshot eyes, the odor of alcoholic beverage, slurred speech, unsteadiness and the display of other visible signs of impairment. The officer may also request roadside or field sobriety exercises such as a balance exercise, touching a finger to the nose, walking a line (even imaginary) heel to toe and following a pen with the eyes. It is at this point the officer decides if there is probable cause to arrest the driver. If so, the driver will be placed under arrest. In Florida, a DUI conviction comes with steep penalties for even first time offenders. Among these are probation, a court ordered license suspension, fines and surcharges exceeding $1,000, performing community service and completing DUI school. To be sure, in this case a driver s insurance rates will increase significantly. WHAT TO DO IF PULLED OVER FOR DUI If you are pulled over and being investigated for a suspected DUI or other charge, it is important you are courteous to the police officer. Understanding the difficulty of remaining calm, even at roadside it is not necessary to answer any of the officer s questions, especially if the officer asks if you had anything to drink. It s up to the investigating officer to collect the evidence he or she needs to determine if you should be arrested. You should exit your vehicle if asked but you don t have to consent to a search of the vehicle. If asked to submit to the field sobriety exercises or a breath test you are not legally required to submit. However, a refusal to submit to a breath test will result in an administrative suspension of your driver s license for a year. If you have been charged with a DUI, you should contact an experienced DUI defense attorney as soon as possible, In Florida, you have only 10 days from the date of arrest to act in order to fight the suspension and keep it off your record or seek a permit of eligibility to drive. An experienced attorney can begin immediately to work for you to determine the strengths and legality of the evidence against you. Whatever choices you make during this festive time of year, the last thing you need is for anyone to judge you for that choice, therefore use caution and common sense when you know you will be drinking. Have a safe and happy holiday. Kevin J. Warmbrandt can be reached at or kjwlaw41@aol.com. 4 UPTOWN south florida magazine

5 UP COMING activities & happenings MOCA gets grant for Nollywood project MOCA interim director and chief curator Alex Gartenfeld accepts a 2013 Knight Arts Grant from Knight Foundation President Alberto Ibarguen, left, and Matt Haggman, Program Director/Miami. Green Market in Aventura at Last The City of Aventura is proud to sponsor its first season of weekly green markets. The Aventura Green Market is held every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Founders Park South, 3105 NE 190 th St. With local vendors selling delicious fresh fruits, vegetables, healthy foods, and even jewelry and crafts, the Aventura Green Market encourages and maintains a community s healthy lifestyle. For more information, please contact the Community Services Department at or The Museum of Contemporary Art received a Knight Arts Challenge grant for their Nollywood project to expose South Florida audiences to global art centers through a film festival focused on cinema in Nigeria, home to one of the largest film industries in the world. The grant is part of $2.72 million that was disbursed to 49 local arts organizations and projects that represent a blend of art and technology that celebrates South Florida s uniqueness. Together, the 2013 winners will infuse South Florida s neighborhoods with creativity. The Museum of Contemporary Art is at 770 NE 125 th St. in North Miami. Phone: , UPTOWN south florida magazine January

6 UP COMING BIOTECH Wellness Center: Finding A Balance Between Health And Beauty comprehensive center for A regenerative medicine, beauty and wellness, Biotech Wellness Center strives to complement advanced medical equipment with current and safe medical and aesthetic therapies. All services are overseen by Dr. Trini Vega, a board certified specialist in internal medicine and practicing throughout Miami-Dade County. Medically supervised weight loss HCG therapies are available using anti-aging and regenerative medicine including: bioidentical hormone therapies and nutritional intravenous supplementation therapies. Leg, vein and hair removal treatment include state of the art cosmetic laser treatments and advanced pulsated light to improve the appearance of the skin. Treatments include laser permanent hair reduction, wrinkles and scar treatment. Biotech Wellness Center is located in the Waterway Shops in Aventura at 3575 NE 207 th St., Unit B3. For more information call or visit activities & happenings Holiday Lights at Enchanted Place Light up North Miami For more than 19 years, the Holiday Lights at Enchanted Place have dazzled and awed South Floridians during the holiday season. Located on NE 137 th Terrace off of 16 th Avenue in North Miami, this amazing neighborhood light display is a must-see holiday tradition for all. Experience the spectacular holiday display as you drive through the streets, while volunteers have a merry good time handing out candy and collecting essential donations that support Care Resource in the fight against HIV/AIDS. You might even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus! This event runs during the month of December from 6 PM to 11:30 PM. There is no charge but donations are welcome. For more information about Care Resource, visit 6 UPTOWN south florida magazine

7 UP COMING DelrayART Opens on Harding Artist Joe Davis recently opened DelrayART at 9482 Harding Avenue, a Miami-Dade version of his original gallery in Delray Beach. We show a small group of artists and photographers whose work refl ects a contemporary sensibility on coastal themes, water, beach and the ocean, he said. Surfside residents commissioned several pieces from him, so he set up his new gallery near them. Call Joe at or visit Cafe Ragazzi Celebrates 20 Years Congratulations to the owners and staff of Cafe Ragazzi on the celebration of their 20 th anniversary at 9500 Harding Avenue. The milestone event was marked with a special red carpet event attended by a huge crowd of Surfsiders and guests. Chef Lauretta Russomanno Chief Culinary Specialist Bloomingdale s Aventura Mall, Biscayne Boulevard, Aventura. For more information call Tuscany al Verano Book Signing Saturday, December 21, 1 pm Come meet Verano Petri for a Tuscany al Verano book signing, culinary demonstration and tasting and to hear his amazing saga of growing up in war torn Italy and then making his way across the Atlantic to find the American Dream. Hilda Lopez Saturday, December 28, 1 pm Watch Hilda Lopez create her delectable cupcakes from scratch just for you! You crave it, she bakes it and makes your day sweeter one bite at a time! Chef Demetrios Pyliotis Saturday, January 4, 1 pm Come join Chef Pyliotis from Poseidon on South Beach for a culinary demonstration as he melds activities & happenings Bloomingdale s Kitchen Happenings Culinary Demonstrations at The Main Course Kitchen on 3. native flavors to produce Grecian works of culinary art! Xavier Bonnafous Saturday, January 11, 1 pm Associate Prepared Foods Chef at Whole Foods Market shares the secrets of his Culinarymania during a culinary demonstration and tasting! Chef Letty Alvarez Saturday, January 18, 1 pm See Letty Alvarez Cupcake Chef and Owner of LA Sweets as she bakes up her extraordinary cupcakes! Randee Kessler Saturday, January 25, 1 pm Randee Kessler, Lifestyle Coach will present a lecture, culinary demonstration and tasting for a balanced start to the New Year! Expires 03/31/14 UPTOWN south florida magazine January

8 UP COMING activities & happenings Home DÉcor Tips: A New Look For A New Year By Robin Lechner, Interior Designer Robin Lechner is the founder and principal of Robin Lechner Designs. One of the easiest and most effective ways to renew and refresh the interior of your home and transform an entire design scheme is changing the color of walls and ceilings. Because it covers such a large surface area, no interior design element affects the mood and atmosphere of a room more than paint. And although it s one of the least expensive elements of home design, people find color selection one of the most difficult choices. Yet color is just the beginning of the journey -- metallics, suedes, stenciling, and other finishes and effects can be achieved with a paint brush or roller. you ll be using the room before making a decision. Choose The Right Finish: A matte finish is understated and softens a space. Add a texture like suede, and the room takes on a warm and calm feel. Texture also gives a wall depth. The light is absorbed and scattered rather than reflected. Matte and egg shell finishes are preferred for walls that have flaws and are not completely smooth. Gloss and metallic paint finishes create visual focus and heighten mood. They accentuate details and are perfect to highlight a focal point like a fireplace mantel or accent wall. It s wonderful in kitchens for added shimmer to complement the sheen of lacquer cabinetry, stainless steel, and tile. Be Inspired: Color inspiration can come from anywhere or anything. It can be found in a favorite toss pillow, part of a rug pattern, a piece of art, or from nature. Your primary color choice will serve as a launch pad for adding fabrics, furnishings, accessories, and other accent colors. Try Before You Buy: Lighting affects colors. Paint will look different at various times of day and under natural and artificial light. Buy pint sized cans in a few different shades, and paint two coats on each wall, allowing the paint to dry. Check how the paint looks under the conditions that Use High Quality Paint: The better the quality, the finer and smoother the finish, and the more saturated the color will appear. Wall Coverings: Another option for wall treatment is wallpaper. It s my favorite element to include in a home s design scheme. Paper gives a room depth, texture, and a feeling of movement. Try a dramatic pattern on the walls (and always the ceiling) of a powder room. A mural or grasscloth ups the elegance and sophistication of a dining room. A pattern with texture and shimmer is warm and welcoming in an entry hall and a floral is romantic and cozy in a bedroom. It s not necessary to paper all walls in a room. Experiment with papering one wall behind a bed, a fireplace wall in a library, or a single wall in a bathroom. Robin Lechner Designs is a full service interior design firm serving South Florida, New York and the Hamptons. Robin Lechner can be reached at Mention this article to receive a complimentary 30-minute phone consultation. 8 UPTOWN south florida magazine

9 UP front FROZEN YOGURT VS. ICE CREAM The Great Debate Unraveled new, now & noteworthy When comparing fro-yo to ice cream, there are some stark contrasts between the two. Ounce for ounce, apples to apples, yogurt has less calories and fat. So what s the big freakin difference? The Skinny on Yogurt Fro-yo has ice cream licked when it comes to nutritional benefits. Let s first talk composition. Fro-yo is mostly made from milk (solids and fats) and yogurt culture as compared to ice cream, which is typically made from heavy cream. Yogurt is also lower in fat and calories. In addition, fro-yo has another significant benefit over ice cream probiotics. Probiotics are a beneficial form of bacteria. They are found in yogurt and other fermented products and aid in the digestion of food. Although it is questionable as to which yogurts have probiotics (some may not survive the freezing process), some South Florida stores such as Menchie s Frozen Yogurt offer only yogurt that has been awarded the Live and Active Culture Seal by the National Yogurt Association. The difference between ice cream and frozen yogurt? (1 cup serving of vanilla flavored dessert)** *Add calories per cup to flavored ice cream and for each 1-2 ounces of many mix-ins in yogurt **Source info: labels and frozen yogurt information for soft serve. These values can vary greatly with flavor and brand. + Daily value=1000 mg calcium Chart provided by Children s Hospital Colorado Menchie s Frozen Yogurt Aventura located in the newly renovated Town Center Aventura (Publix & Party City Shopping Center) is at the forefront of the fro-yo revival. Menchie s offers its own Private Label Collection of flavors made from milk that is rbst-free and the entire line is certified kosher and carries the Live and Active Culture Seal by the National Yogurt Association. A Hot Climate Calls for a Cool Healthy Treat With the speed of a hurricane sweeping across the Atlantic, the fro-yo obsession has taken South Florida by storm. Having grown up in New York, lived in L.A. for more than 15 years and Aventura for the past 5 years, Chris Hess, owner of Menchie s Frozen Yogurt Aventura says, South Florida rivals perhaps only L.A. when it comes to health-obsessed, nutrition-conscious people. That combined with a yearround climate that is conducive to bikinis, board shorts and other clothing that leaves little to the imagination; the chance to offer a healthy alternative to ice cream seemed like a no-brainer. Here to Stay Growing from a mere $25 million in sales in the 80 s to an estimated $2.5 billion in 2012 there is no doubt frozen yogurt is here to stay. That is good news for South Floridians. If you have not yet sampled the new generation of frozen yogurt you just might be in for a surprise. 03/31/14 UPTOWN south florida magazine January

10 UP front CARPE DIEM Barbara Greenspan Shaiman is an educator, entrepreneur and social entrepreneur. By Barbara Greenspan Shaiman Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them. James Baldwin, writer and civil rights activist We don t typically use the word character to describe a 6 year old. But at what age is it apparent that a child possesses qualities of character? At what point do you say, Oh, darn, I forgot to teach them character? 12? 20? Babies aren t born having an opinion about anything at all. They re a tabula rasa, just waiting for input from us. With the goal of wanting our children to thrive in a competitive society, we push to develop them academically, athletically, even musically. But so often we forget to develop their hearts. Why not include character-building, such as making sure their teeth are straight and their homework is done? As parents and concerned citizens, we know if the next generation is to reach its potential to improve our society, we have to participate actively in the learning process. new, now & noteworthy It is as true as it is cliché: Children learn by example. As my mother always said, If you don t do it, don t say it. We must teach compassion by showing it. We have to take advantage of every opportunity to discuss values, ethics, and making wise choices with our children from childhood throughout adulthood. With young children, encourage them when they show character. Many families create reward charts for completing chores where their children are incentivized for completing household tasks. Why not create a Character Chart as well? Reward children for being kind to their siblings, resolving conflicts, being courteous or calling or visiting their grandparents. Character doesn t just happen. It needs to be modeled, reinforced, and rewarded. We have to engage our children in conversation and have real dialogues about moral dilemmas so that when they are faced with a problem they re comfortable coming to us for advice. Give Them Roots It is important that we help young people understand where they came from, and to feel that they are a part of a legacy bigger than themselves. Think about the people and events in your family history that have influenced you. Have you done enough to share this information with the next generation? You never know what aspect of your family s history will spark their interest. Maybe there was an event or a tragedy in your 10 UPTOWN south florida magazine

11 UP FRONT new, now & noteworthy family that will motivate them to take action. They may also be inspired by the actions of heroic and courageous members of your family, and feel driven to make their own mark. Don t wait to share your family history with your children. If you are lucky to have elderly relatives who are still living, record or videotape oral histories. Have them explain the context of family photos, and describe the characteristics and values of other family members. If this isn t possible, do a research project to find out about your family s background. Or take a trip with your family to trace their roots and learn firsthand about their lives. This is a great way to discuss what your family stands for, and to pass on values from one generation to the next. Make Your Own Traditions In our busy, frenetic lives, simply finding time to be with your family is a true challenge; let alone finding time to do service. Don t separate the two. Like so many endeavors, the process can begin at home. Home is our center, and often a source of strength. Begin at home. Some families have regular meetings to discuss everything from schedule conflicts to moral and ethical dilemmas. One family I know has mandatory Sunday dinners where each family member has the floor for at least ten minutes, rebuttals optional. Another family calls meetings to make major decisions. In this way, everyone is heard, whether his or her suggestion is acted upon or not. At the very least, this exercise teaches that it s important to allow individuals to have their say. Everyone s voice matters. Doing Service as a Family There are several ways for the family to be together in service to others. Is there someone in town who has suffered a fire, death, or other traumatic event and could use some help? Make a meal and deliver it to them while they heal. Or mow their lawn, take out their trash, or run errands for them. Your example as parents, neighbors, and friends could make a lasting impression on your children about what it means to belong to a community -- to demonstrate caring and respect for others. Barbara Greenspan Shaiman is an educator, entrepreneur and social entrepreneur. She is the founder of Champions of Caring and UPTOWN south florida magazine January

12 UP front new, now & noteworthy Miami Israel Bonds Women Event Features Looking for Lilith Art with Purpose The Miami Israel Bonds Women s Division kicked off its 2014 campaign with a Pre-Art Basel event, Looking for Lilith. It featured the art of Sheila Elias at her North Miami studio, in celebration of women and to support of the State of Israel, by investing in Israel bonds. Artist and event hostess Sheila Elias addresses guests at Pre-Art Basel event at her studio The event attracted a high-end crowd of 200 attendees who enjoyed a fabulous evening celebrating a talented artist and the Israel Bonds Women s Division Kickoff event. Curator R. Gonella said, Elias showcases various parts of the female psyche through effects of the media. This retrospective invites the viewer to experience power, struggle, exultation, and determination, all characterized through distinctly feminine personalities. Executed with grace, the exhibition focuses on challenging male superiority, not through negativity, but through the celebration of women. In combination with Elias fabulous art, the event décor featured stunning floral arrangements provided by event sponsors Chase Bagnell and partner, John Eckhardt, CEO/Design Director of Creative Collection 12 UPTOWN south florida magazine

13 UP front Leslie Loewenthal, Loewenthal Agency PR/ Marketing, Sheila Elias, Sheila Elias Studio and event hostess, Sponsor John Eckhardt,CEO/ Design Director Creative Collection by Petal Pushers and Events by Petal Pushers, Melanie Weinstein professional liaison, Israel Bonds Women s Division and Israel Bonds Miami Women s Division Chairwoman Suki J. Gross by Petal Pushers and Events by Petal Pushers, who excel in creating magnificent design environments and extraordinary special events that feature stunning custom silk and live floral arrangements, trees and fine accessories. Israel Bonds Women s Division facilitates a connection between Jewish women and the modern State of Israel. By offering opportunities that both strengthen financial portfolios and also benefit Israel s economy, the Women s Division is uniquely positioned to provide women with the means to achieve financial goals in a significant, yet personal way. new, now & noteworthy Miami Israel Bonds Campaign is led by Sheryl Tepper Weitman, Executive Director; Lyon (Lenny) Roth, General Chairman; Suki J. Gross, Women s Division Chairwoman and Brenda Bracha Vargas, Young Investor s Division Chairwoman. Melanie Weinstein, Registered Representative, is the professional liaison for the Women s Division initiative and, in conjunction with the chairwoman and committee coordinates all Women s Division events and activities. Suki J. Gross said, As Miami Israel Bonds Women s Division chairperson, I have definite goals in mind to raise both money and awareness for our beloved State of Israel, so that it continues to flourish and enhance all of our lives with its abundant achievements and advances in Technology, Medicine, and Science. My desire is to have Melanie Weinstein & Suki J. Gross. women of all ages join together in this effort. We currently have two campaigns doing this important work; The Women s Division and The Young Investors Society. The Women s Division is generally thought of as the Elder part of our community, but my vision for future of these groups, is to see them mingling, learning, and bonding as we blend some of our efforts to work together to create the same powerful bond that the people of Israel share in recognizing and strengthening the good for all involved and with people of all faiths. NORTH MIAMI BEACH MON - $.65 WINGS (4-CLOSE) WED - KIDS EAT FREE (4-9PM) & ON WED - TRIVIA (8-10PM) DELIVERY: CALL OR ONLINE AT UPTOWN south florida magazine January

14 UP DATE Founded in 1967 in Colombia, South America, UAC has evolved into a global leader in international education. For more than 45 years, UAC has established its reputation for international leadership and entrepreneurial training and is proud of its more than 50,000 successful alumni throughout the world. The university has campuses in North Miami and Colombia. The North Miami campus at Biscayne Blvd. opened in August, 2012 with the goal of offering education in research and developing leaders and entrepreneurs who work in a global marketplace. Faculty use multicultural and multinational teaching methods and research to create a unique global education system. For professionals and students who are excited about learning, UAC offers a one-of-a-kind global education experience. Undergraduate and graduate programs are offered in computer information systems and management. The School of Professional and Continuing Education offers courses and certificate programs in a variety of disciplines designed to help working professionals and executives reach their goals. As part of the school s commitment to educating global leaders, UAC leverages then & now Education in Global Leadership Starts in North Miami By Vanessa Vázquez its connections across the globe with education missions. Students see first-hand the way business is conducted in other countries, as well as broader cultural and decision making customs. Global teaching at UAC is not only learned from local professionals with hands-on experience in their fields, but also by learning from global professionals in foreign institutions. The truly global perspective comes from interaction with professionals, culture and professors with a unique perspective to our own. Global Course structure, organized by UAC School of Global Management, takes students to other countries around the world for dynamic learning and internship experiences turning them into true global citizens with a solid outlook on management. Since its foundation, UAC has been committed to pioneering many educational processes and providing the highest level of education and professionalism. With ambitious projects in the areas of academics, culture, social involvement, and community, the university has highlighted great contributions, not only to the Caribbean region, but also to Colombia. To learn more, visit or call UPTOWN south florida magazine

15 UP COMING UPTOWN Chamber Happenings activities & happenings Aventura/Sunny Isles Beach Chamber of Commerce Start the year off with the ASIB monthly breakfast at Mo s Bagels & Deli and join the nicest people in Aventura. From 8 to 9:30 a.m., enjoy a bagel, a schmear, some danish and coffee and network with other area professionals. Free for members, $5 for potential members. Mo s Bagels & Deli is at 2780 NE 187 th St. in Aventura. Bring plenty of business cards. For more information call Jon Rogoff at UPTOWN Business Monthly Networker Come network and promote your Uptown business. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. at Lexus of North Miami, Biscayne Blvd. Parking is available in the rear on the second floor employeeparking area. Cost: FREE for members of ANY Chambers of Commerce. $10 for non-chamber members. For more information, send to Uptown business network coordinator Adam Weizer, adam@servistree.com Sunny Isles Beach La Terrazza Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting. Join the Aventura/Sunny Isles Beach Chamber of Commerce from 6 to 8 p.m. at the grand opening and ribbon cutting of La Terrazza Restaurant at Collins Ave. in Sunny Isles Beach. Now under new ownership and management, enjoy hors d oeuvres and a complimentary drink. Free for members, $5 for potential members. Contact Jon Rogoff at North Miami Beach Happy & Healthy New Year Health Fair from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the McDonald Center, NE 19 th Ave. Rooms 1,2,3. Call for more information. North Miami The North Miami Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly membership luncheon from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Miami Shores Country Club, Biscayne Blvd., Miami Shores. The guest speaker will be the police officer of the year. Cost: $25. To RSVP contact Ron Welsandt at UPTOWN south florida magazine January

16 Hello Everyone, Here is what we are currently working on at the ASIB Chamber of Commerce: BIZZBASH EXPO: Wednesday, January 29, 2014 Three major business organizations in Northeast Miami Dade County have come together to present a BizzBash Expo FREE to the general public. The Greater North Miami Chamber of Commerce, Greater North Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce and Aventura/Sunny Isles Beach Chamber of Commerce are co-sponsoring a BizzBash Expo to be held on Wednesday, January 29 th, 2014 at Florida International University Kovens Conference Center, Biscayne Boulevard in North Dade. The hours are from 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM. BizzBash Expo will feature over 100 local businesses showcasing their products. The event will have entertainment, food samplings, health screenings, bloodmobile, fabulous raffle prizes and giveaways. We are expecting a large turnout for this FREE event!! We encourage everyone to bring their family, friends and business associates! This is an excellent way to get to know the businesses in our community! Be part of BizzBash Expo...Businesses can call any of the Chamber offices for more information regarding expo tables and sponsorships that are still available. Greater North Miami Chamber Greater North Miami Beach Chamber Aventura/Sunny Isles Beach Chamber or visit Also, Event Name: Condo College Certification Course 101 Date/Time: Wednesday, January 29, 2014, 11AM-4:30PM (Immediately prior to the BizzBash Expo at Kovens Center) Audience: Condominium Unit Owners in Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Bal Harbor, Hallandale Beach, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach and North Miami. Description of event: College level training for current and future board members, and interested unit owners, who want to learn about: THE LAWS, ACCOUNTING, RISK MANAGEMENT AND INSURANCE, ENGINEERING AND GENERAL MANAGEMENT for Condominium Associations. This event will introduce unit owners to the condo college program that has been created to satisfy State Certification requirements. For more information and to reserve space in the class, please call Robin at or robin@floridianmanagement.com The fee is $45 and includes lunch and refreshments at breaks. Also, The ASIB Chamber of Commerce is launching a new community-building service called Chamber for Good which allows local charities to raise their visibility within the community and also provides businesses and philanthropic individuals an easy way to become aware of local charitable needs, causes and events. It is the ultimate community building tool! Bringing individuals, organizations and businesses together to achieve great things is a key focus of the chamber. The Chamber for Good system provides a clearinghouse that serves to connect all local charitable organizations and causes with the individuals and organizations within our community that are eager to support local needs. Chamber for Good makes it EASY to Give Local. This tool allows us to harness the goodness of our residents and businesses and really strengthen our community in a way that we haven t been able to before. Also, The ASIB Chamber has created a new membership category, The Good Citizen... Please see the full page information on the Good Citizen Membership and join today. The ASIB Chamber and other Chambers are essential to the success of all our communities. Les Winston President Aventura Sunny Isles Beach Chamber of Commerce 16 UPTOWN south florida magazine For other information about the Aventura Sunny Isles Beach Chamber of Commerce, visit asibchamber.org

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18 UP & OUT wish you were here Tis the Season A menorah candle lighting and Christmas tree lighting ceremony was held in North Miami Beach on NE 19 Avenue near City Hall. Mayor George Vallejo was joined by several city council members, chamber of commerce members and area residents. WING CLIPPING A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the grand opening of Buffalo Wild Wings in Aventura Town Center. Mayor Susan Gottlieb and Commissioner Howard Weinberg joined restaurant owner Seth de Kanter, Aventura-Sunny Isles Beach Chamber president Les Winston and other chamber members at the festivities. 18 UPTOWN south florida magazine

19 UP & OUT wish you were here MONTHLY MUNCH The Aventura Sunny Isles Beach Chamber of Commerce recently held its monthly lunch at Novecento, Biscayne Blvd. in Aventura s Town Center. The speaker was Ilan Sredni on business technology support. The event is held at noon on the second Wednesday of the month and is a great opportunity to network with business professionals. UPTOWN south florida magazine January

20 UP & OUT wish you were here CHAMBER CHOW The Aventura Sunny Isles Beach Chamber of Commerce recently held its monthly lunch at Novecento, Biscayne Blvd. in Aventura s Town Center. More than 50 professionals were in attendance. The speakers were Marc Rabinowitz and James Weinstein from Aventura Insurance Group on How the New Health Care Laws Affect You. The event held at noon on the second Wednesday of the month features a guest speaker, a delicious meal and is a great opportunity to network with business professionals. 20 UPTOWN south florida magazine