LEAP to Host Style Yourself Confident at Dragonfly Thrift Boutique

/in , , /by

In honor of Self Improvement Month, the LEAP organization invites women of all ages to get style tips from fashion pro Bianca Gabay

The Style Yourself Confident event takes place at Dragonfly Thrift Boutique on September 2, 2019 from 11am-6pm. Professional fashion stylist and influencer, Bianca Gabay, will join guests as she offers wardrobe styling hacks and helps style personalized outfits that empower and build confidence. Guests will also have the opportunity to win beauty-related raffle prizes as they enjoy a day of shopping and champagne.

LEAP is one of the only nonprofit agencies in Florida dedicated to helping women transitioning from prison to have access to rehabilitation programming. Services include entrepreneurship, employability skills, and trauma-informed substance abuse classes.

“When someone leaves prison, they have nothing but the clothes on their back. When a LEAP graduate leaves prison, LEAP provides her with the essentials — a warm welcome outside the prison gate, transportation, clothing, toiletries, a cell phone, and employment and housing resources. We empower women to put prison in the past,” said Mahlia Lindquist, Executive Director at LEAP.

2019 marks the 10-year anniversary for LEAP. In honor of this milestone, a series of thematic events are programmed to generate awareness and conversation around the plight of formerly incarcerated women, while increasing interest and support for this one-of-a-kind prison re-entry program.

“I’m delighted to share space with this incredible organization, and offer women unique, fashionable looks at affordable prices,” said Bianca Gabay. “Dressing yourself is a form of self-care, and it can have a transformative impact on you and those around you.”

The Dragonfly Thrift Boutique is a LEAP initiative that offers employment opportunities to LEAP graduates and, therefore, providing them with their first source of post-prison income. All the proceeds from the boutique sales support LEAP’s mission in helping these women transcend their past and get back on their feet through housing, education, and employment.

More information about LEAP can be found at https://leapforladies.org/.

Who: LEAP Organization & Dragonfly Thrift Boutique

What: Elevate Your Image

When: September 2, 2019, 11 AM – 6 PM

Where: Dragonfly Thrift Boutique, 3141 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

RSVP: https://style-yourself-confident-tickets.eventbrite.com

Instagram This:

Style Yourself Confident with @biancagabay on September 2 @dragonflythrift. See u there. #Bossupyourlook #WomenEmpoweringWomen #LEAPMiami

About LEAP

Based in Miami, Florida, LEAP empowers incarcerated women to transcend their past and successfully re-enter society by providing transformational education, entrepreneurial training, and mentorship. Founded in 2008, the organization serves as a model, voice and advocate for the the power of rehabilitation over retribution.

###

 

Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce Announces New Sustainability & Resiliency Task Force

/in , , , /by

Working in close collaboration with the City of Miami Beach, the task force sets to tackle one of the biggest issues facing the community 

Miami Beach, FL. – Miami Beach’s preeminent business organization, the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, has long advocated for integrating environmental stewardship into business. With the launch of the 12-member Sustainability & Resiliency Task Force, the Chamber steps up its commitment demonstrating that a healthy environment and strong economy go hand in hand. Led by Chairman Reinaldo Borges, a visionary architect and widely recognized resilience expert, and Vice Chairman Wayne Pathman, a land-use attorney specializing in sea-level rise mitigation and urban resiliency, the council kicked off the new year with its inaugural meeting on January 14.

“For every dollar we invest in resiliency, we get six dollars back,” said Borges who was also appointed to the City of Miami’s Sea Level Rise Committee. “Through the Chamber’s business leadership network, influence, and advocacy, we are poised to make a big impact in influencing the narrative and motivating the collective into action. Now more than ever, we need to come together to preserve this magnificent, yet fragile, barrier island.”

The council will be devoted to the relationship between sustainability and commerce and will focus on continued dialog between city government, Miami Beach residents, academic professionals, neighborhood associations and local business. A key pillar for the council is education and innovation. It will work to facilitate conversations and learning on risk analysis, economic considerations, insurance risks, new technologies, and infrastructure innovations. The council will also collaborate with the City of Miami Beach in the development of policy recommendations. Lastly, it will craft communication campaigns that keep the public informed and equipped to help maintain a strong and healthy city.

In South Florida, water levels are rising especially quick, projected to be between 6-10 inches more in 2030 than 1992[i]. According to a National Wildlife Federation report[ii], Miami could lose up to $3.5 trillion in assets due to sea level rise by 2070; more than any other city in the country. Rising waters means more extreme flooding which impacts quality of life, drinking water, public infrastructure and, potentially, real estate values. Since South Florida relies almost exclusively on real estate taxes to fund public infrastructure, these values impact the community.

“We are delighted to get to work, and have an important role to play in building a platform whereby innovation and collaboration are fostered and incentivized,” said Pathman who serves as the co-chair of the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber is dedicated to this critical issue and excited to develop solutions that can be implemented in our community and beyond.”

For more information visit http://www.miamibeachchamber.com/.

ABOUT THE MIAMI BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1921 to promote the economic well-being of Miami Beach’s citizens, to improve the quality of life for the entire community, and to communicate the view of the business community on major issues of public policy.

[i] Southeast Florida Climate Compact. “Unified Sea Level Rise Projection.” October 2015. Web. 15 January 2018. <http://www.southeastfloridaclimatecompact.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/2015-Compact-Unified-Sea-Level-Rise-Projection.pdf >

[ii] National Wildlife Federation. “Changing Tides.” 2016. Web. 27 December 2018. <https://www.nwf.org/~/media/PDFs/Global-Warming/Reports/Changing-Tides_FINAL_LOW-RES-081516.ashx>

Just listed: trophy home for the contemporary art collector

/in , /by

Top Producing Agent Marjory Dressler lists Chuck Close’s Setai residence for $4.1M 

Miami Beach, FL – Celebrated American contemporary painter Chuck Close is selling his turnkey Miami Beach condo and including three artworks in the sale. Located at The Setai Miami Beach, a luxury hotel residence, the 25th-floor two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit hits the market just before Miami Art Week, an auspicious time to connect with art collectors and the global jet-set. However, the New York-based artist isn’t going anywhere. He owns two other condos at The Setai which currently function as an atelier and guest quarters.

“I am extremely pleased to be working with Chuck Close on this unique listing, which includes some of the artist’s most notable works,” said agent Marjory Dressler about ‘Kara, 2012,’ ‘Phil / Fingerprint’ and ‘Self-Portrait, Woodblock.’ “The Setai provides the ultimate in resort-style living and represents the best of what Miami Beach has to offer. Incorporating Chuck into the mix is upping the ante.”

The Setai, known for its impeccable aesthetics and five-star service, is also a hotspot during Art Basel Miami Beach. An upper-tier crowd from around the world stays at this opulent hotel property, often booking a condo suite, such as Close’s. However, you don’t need to rent his condo to see his artwork. The Setai is hosting three distinctive exhibitions for Miami Art Week, one of which will focus solely on Close and include nine pieces prominently displayed in the lobby and courtyard for public viewing.

Throughout six decades, Close has etched himself into history with his signature portraitures, which have been shown in preeminent museums and institutions like the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Centre George Pompidou, Museum of Modern Art, The Art Institute of Chicago and Tate Modern. Recently, Close was commissioned to produce 12 large-scale Subway Portraits for what is the largest permanent public art installation in New York’s history. A Yale graduate and Fulbright fellow, he was awarded the prestigious National Medal of Arts by President Bill Clinton. His accomplishments are many, and when paired with his personal story of adversity and resilience, are quite remarkable.

Recently redecorated, the fully furnished 1,316 square foot residence offers stunning, unobstructed floor-to-ceiling views of the Atlantic, Biscayne Bay, and Downtown Miami. It is beautifully designed with rich wood cabinetry and wood floors, large master bath with a deep soaker tub and a top-of-the-line kitchen with Miele and Subzero appliances. To learn more about the property click here.

“I often feel that I’m my most creative when I’m in a space of calm and tranquility. That is what made this home so fitting for me. It’s an environment where you can’t help but feel relaxed,” exclaimed Chuck Close whose real estate portfolio includes properties in Manhattan, Long Island, and Miami Beach.

About Marjory Dressler

Marjory Dressler has been a top producer Miami realtor, for the past 14 years, at Majestic Properties and Gary Hennes Realtors. Being a South Beach pioneer, she watched the extraordinary evolution of Miami in becoming a world-class domestic and international destination. Before moving here, she had a successful photography and digital design business in New York and would come to Miami to do photo shoots. Her real estate specialties are Miami and Miami Beach waterfront properties. To learn more, visit www.dresslermiami.com/.

 

Agape Network to construct new $13 million Health Center

/in , /by

Groundbreaking event to honor the organization’s supporters and patients while showcasing the future of the 6-acre campus

Miami, FL – According to the Greeks, the word Agape means God’s unconditional love for mankind. Founded by Dr. Jose Hernandez in 1983, the Agape Network has applied this ancient philosophy into a modern evidence-based practice successfully transforming the lives of a most underserved community in Miami-Dade County – formerly incarcerated, homeless, mentally ill or at-risk women and their children. Now the faith-based organization, which has restored the lives of nearly half a million, will be more than doubling in size and capacity to better meet mounting demands.

“Fundamental to having a strong and healthy society, is ensuring that all its members are stable and productive,” says U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, a principal supporter of Agape and featured speaker of the groundbreaking ceremony. “We are thankful to be a part of this invaluable organization with such a notable legacy of restoring families with faith, hope, and love,” added Rubio’s wife Jeanette D. Rubio.

Last year Agape served approximately 1,000 women (and women with children) weekly, through both inpatient and outpatient systems of care. However, CEO Claudio Perez said they still have a waiting list. Part of what makes Agape unique is its whole-person care model that integrates evidence-based physical, behavioral and spiritual treatment and incorporates different programs such as gardening, art, music, culinary arts, dance, theater and equine.

Designed by Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, the idyllic Agape Village Health Center will be a place of refuge and recovery. Expansive at 40,000 square feet and with 10 new buildings, the Bermuda-style architecture of the community is welcoming and presents an ambiance of tranquility. Development completion is loosely slated for spring 2020 and will include a new clinic & wellness medical center, educational & vocational center, supported housing and cottages, preschool and daycare center.

“My firm has been a longtime supporter of Agape’s great work in the community, and we are proud to be donating some of our services to design this new and improved Village that is a national model of integrated care,” noted Architect Willy Bermello who is also Chairman of the Agape Network Foundation Board.

The groundbreaking ceremony will take place Nov. 30 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Invitees include city partners like the Department of Children & Families, Department of Corrections, Department of Juvenile Justice and the School Board, the Agape Board of Directors and sponsors such as City National Bank (CNB) and Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay. Bipartisan support for the organization is strong and political leaders from both parties will form the program. Keynoting the ceremony is the honorable U.S. Senator Marco Rubio. Rubio and his wife Jeanette D. Rubio have been deeply involved with the organization and have played a critical role in the development of the new Village.

“Agape’s philosophy of transforming lives and building up communities aligns perfectly with ours at City National Bank,” said CNB President and CEO Jorge Gonzalez.  Wife Melinda Brown-Gonzalez, Agape Board Member, added “witnessing the miracles that happen here on a daily basis has had a huge impact on me, and we are committed to helping Agape expand so that it can restore more women and families.”

While the groundbreaking marks a major milestone, it also serves to launch phase two of the capital campaign formally. The first phase concluded with $1.5 in financial and in kind donations. Fundraising remains a priority and contributions are still needed to complete this big project. Commemorative naming opportunities are available at varying prices. For more information or to receive a sponsorship brief visit www.theagapenetwork.org/expansion or contact CEO Claudio M. Perez at CPerez@hcnetwork.org / 305 694-4040.

About AGAPE NETWORK

Serving Miami-Dade County and located at 22790 SW 112th Avenue, Agape Network is a nationally accredited, integrated, community health center that has provided effective behavioral health, substance use disorder treatment, recovery services, and family reunification for more than 30 years. The non-denominational faith-based organization’s 501(c)(3) mission is to “Restore individuals and families to psychological, social, physical, and spiritual health.” To learn more about Agape Network visit: www.theagapenetwork.org.

###

 

Protejamos Nuestros Hijos del Matoneo y Amenazas Cibernéticas

/in , /by

El mes de octubre se dedica a nivel nacional a observar la Prevención Contra el Bullying (o Matoneo). Kristi House, organización sin finess de lucro, anuncia una campaña para proteger a nuestros hijos – enfocada en darle apoyo y recursos a la comunidad Latina

Miami, Fla. – Cualquier persona que utilice formas de comunicación electrónicas para acosar o amenazar a otra persona está cometiendo un crimen en la Florida (cyberbullying). En el Condado de Miami-Dade, el sistema de escuelas públicas ha definido claramente las reglas y políticas para prevenir el acoso cibernético. Sin embargo, el Departamento de Salud de la Florida indica que uno de cada 7 estudiantes de Bachillerato reportó ser objetos de acoso cibernético en el 2017[i]. En su Reporte Anual, The Youth Risk Behavior Survey Report – la encuesta confidencial que se realiza en todas las escuelas públicas del Estado de la Florida – reveló que el bullying aumentó durante los últimos ocho años de 13.4 a 14.3 por ciento.

El bullying puede ocasionar muchos problemas, entre los cuales se incluyen la depresión, bajo autoestima, desorden psiquiátrico, y suicidio. Existe la esperanza de resolver este problema – ya que los expertos afirman que el matoneo se puede prevenir a través de la educación.

Con la atención que brinda el mes de octubre sobre el problema del bullying, Kristi House presenta su programa de Defensores de la Seguridad Infantil: una iniciativa a largo plazo para proteger a los niños del Condado de Miami-Dade contra varios tipos de abuso, incluyendo abuso físico y sexual, matoneo y amenazas cibernéticas. Fundamentado en investigaciones y creado por la Monique Burr Foundation, el programa de Defensores de la Seguridad Infantil cuenta con el apoyo del Defensor General del Estado de Florida y el Departamento de Educación del Estado de la Florida. Kristi House, designada como la autoridad estatal para abogar por los niños, ofrece programas educativos para las familias mas al riesgo. Según la organización, esa audiencia incluye familias y niños Latinos con bajos recursos y familias y niños inmigrantes.

Ningún niño es inmune a el matoneo, pero los estudios demuestran que las condiciones sociales, económicas y culturales son factores importantes. Como ejemplo, un estudio sobre el odio y matoneo en escuelas K-12 publicado por Education Week y ProPublica, informa que la mayoría de los incidentes que ocurrieron entre enero 2015 y diciembre 2017 en escuelas involucró estudiantes negros y latinos – así como aquellos de religión judía o musulmána. El clima político actual es un factor; y las palabras más frecuentes para infligir daños incluyen insultos racistas y varias versiones de frases discriminatorias como “construye el muro” y “regrésate a tu país.[ii]”

Ya hay mucha actividad en marcha para la campaña de Defensores de la Seguridad Infantil. Las actividades incluyen programas educativos sobre el matoneo escolar y el acoso cibernético en las escuelas públicas y con profesionales que atienden a los niños, talleres y presentaciones en la comunidad y con organizaciones afiliadas, como los departamentos de policía. Además, se está desarrollando un nuevo sitio web en Español con recursos e información para el público. La expansión de la huella física de Kristi House para mejor alcanzar a las poblaciones del sur del Condado de Miami-Dade se está realizando actualmente.

Kristi House invita a todos los miembros de la comunidad a que juntos tomemos la oportunidad de educarnos y actuar de manera responsable para proteger a nuestros niños. Estas son las cinco reglas que debemos considerar:

  1. Saber que esta pasando: Habla con tus niños. Escúchalos. Pregúntales que hacen cuando no están contigo. Conoce bien con quien están y que actividades realizan. Ayúdalos a saber reconocer situaciones peligrosas y evitarlas.
  2. Busca señales de alerta: Enseña a tus niños a manejar conceptos tales como: el espacio personal, establecer límites, respetarse a sí mismos y a otros, reconocer situaciones seguras y de peligro, qué hacer cuando les piden guardar un secreto, y como estar a salvo al navegar el internet.
  3. Toma acción: Si sospechas que un niño está siendo lastimado, confía tu instinto y Toma Acción para protegerlo. Si un niño te cuenta algo acerca de un abuso o intimidación que le ha ocurrido, apláudelos por hacerlo y toma acción inmediata. Reporta los acosos y amenazas a la escuela u organización donde sucedieron.
  4. Háblalo: Habla con otros adultos acerca de lo que has aprendido, para que ellos también estén al tanto y tengan herramientas para tomar acción. Habla con tus niños usando ejemplos a diario para que entiendan la importancia de la seguridad y puedan distinguir entre situaciones normales y las de peligro
  5. Sin vergüenza o culpa: Comunícale a tus niños que sin importar lo sucedido – nunca deben sentir culpa porque los adultos son los responsables de protegerlos. Déjales saber que no importa lo que escuchen, nunca deben sentirse avergonzados de informarte a ti o a otros adultos acerca de las señales de alerta o cualquier cosa que necesiten contarte para su seguridad y la de otros niños. Déjales saber que tienen tu apoyo.

El Programa de Defensores de la Seguridad Infantil es posible gracias a Florida Blue. Para mayor información visitar: www.kristihouse.org

Sobre Kristi House

Kristi House, Inc., el Centro para Abogacía Infantil para el Condado de Miami-Dade, está dedicada a construir y promover un ambiente de bienestar y apoyo para las víctimas de abuso sexual y sus familias. Sus métodos incluyen coordinar las necesidades de las familias con diversos recursos legales, médicos y de salud mental, limitando el número de entrevistas para reducir el trauma asociado con revivir el siniestro, y asegurandose que todos los niños reciban el apoyo que necesitan. Kristi House provee directamente una amplia gama de servicios completos para el cuidado de las víctimas y sus familias – sin costo alguno – incluyendo sesiones de terapia, las cuales son fundamentales para poder enfrentar y recuperarse del trauma generado por incidentes de abuso sexual para la mayoría de las víctimas.

Kristi House esta ubicada en un punto central en el “Distrito de Salud”, vecindario de Miami en el 1265 NW 12 Avenida. Cuenta con tres oficinas satélites en otras partes del Condado de Miami-Dade desde sirven directamente a las comunidades. Fundada en 1995, Kristi House ha brindado servicios a más de 14,750 víctimas de abuso sexual infantil y explotación. Sus servicios incluyen coordinación de casos, terapia, referidos, transporte, abogacía, asistencia de emergencia, así como la educación y entrenamiento preventivo. Para más información visite www.kristihouse.org.

###

[i] Florida Department of Health. Youth Risk Behavior Survey, Duval County 2017. 2017. Web. 24 September 2018.

<http://duval.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/community-health-planning-and-statistics/youth-risk-behavior-survey/_documents/hs-vssb-report-2017.pdf>

[ii] Education Week. Hate in Schools: an in-depth look. 6 August 2018. Web. 25 September 2018. <https://www.edweek.org/ew/projects/hate-in-schools.html>

An Exhibit that Will Awaken Your Inner Child

/in , , , /by

Saludarte Foundation Presents Beloved Venezuelan Author and Award-Winning Illustrator Menena Cottin

Miami, FL (February 26, 2018) – The prolific Menena Cottin has already touched the lives of many through her vivid and compelling narratives for children and adults alike. Her books, which have garnered international attention and praise, have received critical acclaim from The New York Times Book Review, Premios ALAS-BID, School Library Journal’s Best Books for Children and Bologna’s New Horizons Award, to name a few.  Now, the creative genius that is Menena, springs to life in the bilingual (English and Spanish) Seeking the Essence, a multisensory and playful exhibition showcasing the author’s fictional characters and philosophical book themes.

Books like the award-winning “The Black Book of Colors,” which has been translated into 19 languages, engages exhibition participants via a thought-provoking journey around what it means to “see colors” when you’re blind.  An actual tunnel will be constructed to transmit the visceral feelings of colors.  The immersive exhibition, which was first shown in Caracas’ Sala TAC to immense media attention and public success, will be on display at IdeoBox Art Space in Wynwood from April 26 to June 23, 2018.

Presented by non-profit Saludarte Foundation, which creates Pan American and international artistic and cultural programs for socioeconomically challenged audiences, Menena, her books, and exhibition perfectly demonstrate the organization’s core mission of educating and uplifting audiences through art and culture.  Foundation Founder and Chairman Tanya Capriles de Brillembourg says the exhibition, “promises to be an experience of solidarity, learning, culture, but above all, one of curiosity for all who come to see it.” Brillembourg and her team are hosting special presentations for local schools and organizations throughout the exhibition’s 8-week run, for groups like The United Way, The Wow Center Miami and the Learning Experience

On the heels of a busy and highly rewarding 2017, which included author presentations at the International Book Fair of Bogotá (the largest book fair in the hemisphere) as well as the Miami Book Fair, Menena is delighted for her exhibition’s Miami premiere.  Working in close collaboration with Curator Pedro Quintero, the duo will showcase 18 books through conceptual and experiential art transforming the Ideobox Art Space completely.

“The purpose of this exhibit is to make complex concepts simple. We invite participants to think and question, but within the context of simple texts and minimalist aesthetics,” explains the jovial Menena. Her uplifting spirit infectious.  Menena currently resides in Miami, but travels extensively to her native Venezuela where there is a major humanitarian crisis. Menena and her books are revered there, and she is constant with her efforts to support this community that has given her so much.

All are welcome to come and experience Seeking the Essence. Guided tours for groups of 5 or more can be arranged by calling 305-573-4618. Ideobox Gallery is located at 2417 N. Miami Avenue. Gallery hours are from 9am-5pm, M-F.  A public opening reception, with artist talk, guided tour, food and refreshments, is programmed for April 26, 6-9p.m. Special thanks to Fundacion Bancredito, DML Production and Bodega Otazu for their generous contributions in making this possible.

An instagram account, showing the build out of Seeking the Essence along with special sneak peeks of the exhibit and one-on-ones with the artist, will launch on March 1, 2018 @SaludarteFoundation. For more information about Seeking the Essence visit http://www.saludarte.org/.

About Saludarte Foundation

Saludarte Foundation was created in 2003 by Tanya Capriles of Brillembourg with the purpose to connect the Arts and Health for the benefit of children and youth from socio-economic disadvantaged groups. The main objective of Saludarte is to design and implement extensive educational, cultural and social development programs that facilitate inclusive artistic processes, promote positive social change, and integration for people with diverse abilities.

About Menena Cottin

Author, illustrator and designer of more than 30 children’s books published in Venezuela, México, Colombia, Brazil, Perú, Guatemala, Spain, Italy, France, Portugal. She has also published adult storytelling that includes stories, novels, and the autobiographical book “Close the Eyes We’re Going to See” (Dahbar 2013), which also produced the audio-book version (And Then Story Designers, 2016). In the digital media, Menena Cottin, together with her son Alfredo, is the creator of “And Then Story Designers”, an editorial that has produced five digital books, authored by Cottin, including Double Double, winner of Special Mention at the Fair Of the Children’s Book of Bologna 2014. Menena Cottin lives in Miami with her husband. They have two children, two daughters-in-law and five grandchildren.

###

The Bodyshop Experience Bringing an Edgy Spectacular Journey to Wynwood

/in , /by

Miami, FL-The Bodyshop Experience (TBE) is an adventure that turns street dance, busking and graf-art into high art. It’s a dinner show that captures the soul of Miami and the absurdity of the city’s iconic superficiality. TBE will be opening its doors for the first time to press and VIPs at an exclusive sneak preview at 9 p.m. on March 23, 2018 at its new venue, 318 NW 23 Street, Miami, FL 33127, in the Mana Wynwood Complex. Doors will be open officially to the public on March 24, with the show scheduled to run for four consecutive months before the show’s creator scraps it to bring his next artistic vision to the stage.  For tickets to TBE and more information go to www.thebodyshopx.com

Sover Altan, the visionary mastermind behind the Broadway-styled extravaganza hopes that his latest creation will elevate the city’s cultural performing arts scene. He is credited with creating over 35 musical and big stage productions in his native Israel as well as choreographing and directing iconic shows like Peter Pan and Peter Pan as well as “Dancing With the Stars (Israel)” and “So You Think You Can Dance.” Over the years Altan has worked with some of the world’s most renowned choreographers.

It is this long list of accomplishments that impressed developer Moishe Mana prompting him to bring Altan to Miami, adding him to the impressive roster of reputable artists curated by Mana over the years as part of his ongoing effort to put Wynwood on the international map of art and culture.

Atlan, now a resident fixture in Miami’s elite lifestyle arena has once again pulled together an outstanding international team of world renowned choreographers, production specialists and nightclub gurus including, COO Zvika Schwartz, a known nightlife figure in Tel Aviv,  who has owned of the several of the city’s hippest nightclubs and Julia Tassy, a well known production specialist, to help him realize this extraordinary production.

The Bodyshop Experience, which has chosen as its venue a converted industrial car garage in the heart of Mana Wynwood, combines dinner with some of the best performance artists in the world taking to one stage. The mix of talents includes dancers, musicians, animators, sound engineers, graffiti artists, acrobats and more, who will take the guest through a raw and rhythmic explosion of movement and pulsating beats that promises to captivate, provoke and engage the audience like no other show.  It is a  truly unique and interactive show that spotlights the universal grit of everyday urban life turning it into a glimmering production about harmony and dissonance of the the streets of the Americas: their sound, their rhythm, their art and their soul. Add to this the hottest after party in town, what’s not to be liked? TBE is headed for a most successful run. Don’t miss the opportunity to see it first!

####

A Masterpiece Fit For a Picasso, Literally!

/in , , /by

A MASTERPIECE FIT FOR A PICASSO, LITERALLY

Iconic Properties closes record-breaking deal

Miami, FL –The South of Fifth neighborhood is known as the luxury enclave of Miami Beach and is home to some of the most expensive real estate in Florida. One of its most prestigious and well-appointed condominiums, aptly named the Icon, has just closed a record deal.

Perched up high, on the 37th floor of the 41-story tower, a custom 3-bedroom, 2,145 square foot residence, with stunning views of Downtown Miami, Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean has caught the eye of a very prominent Frenchman. The highly captivating custom-built residence was designed by the celebrated homegrown architect Rene Gonzalez and uses an abundance of glass, geometric forms and high-end materials.  The result is an artful, press-worthy design – featured in The Wall Street Journal and WallPaper magazine – and one that captured the heart of Olivier Widmaier-Ruiz Picasso, grandson of Pablo Picasso who considered this unique creation reminiscent of his ancestor’s cubism works.

“Because the property was so uniquely and meticulously designed, we knew it would be perfect for an art and design enthusiast” said Arshan Borhan, who along with his partner Brian Kulju co-own the brokerage Iconic Properties and represented both seller and buyer. “Early on we had interest from a famous European guitarist,” added Kulju.

Picasso, a well-known author, music and television producer and recipient of the Officier des Arts et des Lettres medal by the French government, purchased the property for $3,618,000.  This marks a record high for a non-combined residence in the Icon and a per square foot record high for a non-penthouse unit for the Icon ($1,686 per square foot).

Iconic Properties is managing a few other significant deals as well.  Borhan and Kulju represented a buyer on Palm Island that closed for the least expensive waterfront home since 2013, a testament to their expert negotiation skills.  Iconic Properties is currently offering the best-priced deals at the St. Regis Bal Harbor, Turnberry Ocean and Icon South Beach.

About Iconic Properties

Iconic Properties, established in 2010, is a renowned boutique brokerage specializing in the sales and marketing of premier residential properties from Palm Beach to South Beach.  Founders Brian Kulju and Arshan Borhan have handled millions of dollars of transactions and have represented Fortune 500 CEOs, developers, professional athletes, print and film stars and private equity clients.  The duo has been featured in the Robb Report, Unique Homes, Haute Living and The Real Deal.

###

Zuke Music Wins $10,000 Grand Prize in Babson College’s WIN Lab Miami Pitch Competition

/in , /by


Representatives from Knight Foundation and Akerman LLP judged the grand prize pitch session

Miami, FL — Babson College’s Women Innovating Now (WIN) Lab® celebrated its inaugural cohort’s completion of the eight-month Miami program on Tuesday, April 25, 2017, with over 250 guests at The Jewel Box at the National YoungArts Foundation headquarters. The WIN Lab® expanded into Miami in 2016 with the support of The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and corporate sponsors including Akerman LLP.

WIN Lab Miami’s Director Carolina Pina led the evening’s progression stating, “We are determined to impact the existing growth gap in the city; Miami ranks No. 2 in entrepreneurial activity but No. 38 in growth. By having more scalable businesses run and led by women, we’re hoping investors will be more willing to invest in them so we can also contribute to narrowing the funding gap.”

Matt Haggman, Knight Foundation Miami Program Director, added, “We’re trying to build a community that’s unlike any other. Innovation is built on a diversity of ideas and people.”

Haggman was one of three representatives judging WIN Lab Miami’s grand prize pitch session. For the pitch, three cohort companies who exceptionally leveraged the venture accelerator’s resources were given five minutes each to share their business vision in hopes of winning the grand prize. Haggman was joined by corporate sponsors including Carol Faber, Akerman LLP Partner on the judging panel.

Arielle Cohen’s Zuke Music—a digital networking platform for music industry professionals—took home the evening’s top honor of $10,000. Kelly Pierce’s PIERCE Plan—a NCAA standards tracking software program—landed second place and $5,000. Jessica Do’s Palmpress Coffee—a personal craft coffee maker for hot coffee and cold brew—earned third place and $2,500.

WIN Lab Miami’s finale event brought together a diverse sect of industries, including local media and digital influencers alongside program coaches and supporters, as well as representatives from the New World Symphony and Babson College. WIN Lab’s marketing took a forward-thinking approach to reflect the brand’s DNA: prominent female blogger Pineapple Citizen hosted an Instagram takeover while FIU student vloggers recorded the celebration and interviewed the WINners. The evening illustrated WIN Lab’s ability to facilitate both financial and strategic opportunities for its 22 graduating participants.

The accelerator is currently accepting applications for its second cohort, which remain open until May 12, 2017. WIN LAB Miami applications can be found atwww.thewinlab.org/apply.

During its eight-month engagement, the inaugural WINners raised nearly $2 million in funding. Their accolades and accomplishments include the following:

  • Una Pizca won WIN Lab Miami’s inaugural Demo pitch competition and the Fan Favorite Award, taking home $5,000 worth of legal services.
  • Stow Simple, Palmpress and Cargo42 won Babson’s Regional Rocket Pitch.
  • Apollonix pitched in the SUP-X Startup Showcase and won second place and $15,000 while AlphaTechBlocksk and Zulubots participated at the SUP-X AlphaLab Gear Competition where AlphaTechBlocks won ‘Fan Favorite’.
  • PIERCE Plan took home $11,000 after winning 1st place ($10,000) and People’s Choice Award ($1,000) at the University of Miami Business Plan Competition.
  • Mundo Lanugo won Wells Fargo’s “Hispanicize” Perfect Pitch Competition taking home $5,000.
  • Apollonix, Spacewolff and UX Gofer were selected to participate in the eMerge Startup Showcase in June.
  • Six WIN Lab companies were semifinalists at the Miami Herald Business Plan Challenge; four were finalists.

About the Babson College Women Innovating Now (WIN) Lab®

Created by the Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership (CWEL) at Babson College, the Women Innovating Now (WIN) Lab® provides women entrepreneurs with an inspiring community and a rigorous, experiential process that catalyzes innovative thinking and enables them to successfully launch or transform businesses. Now in its fourth year, WIN Lab has been designated as one of the top two specialty programs for Excellence in Entrepreneurship Education by the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE); earned BostInno’s designation as one of Boston’s “50 on Fire” innovators and visionaries; and was honored by the prestigious Rosoff Awards for diversity.

About Babson College

Babson College is the educator, convener, and thought leader for Entrepreneurship of All Kinds®. The top​-ranked college for entrepreneurship education, Babson is a dynamic living and learning laboratory where students, faculty, and staff work together to address the real-world problems of business and society. We prepare the entrepreneurial leaders our world needs most: those with strong functional knowledge and the skills and vision to navigate change, accommodate ambiguity, surmount complexity, and motivate teams in a common purpose to make a difference in the world, and have an impact on organizations of all sizes  and types. As we have for nearly a half-century, Babson continues to advance Entrepreneurial Thought & Action®​ ​as the most positive force on the planet for generating sustainable economic and social value.

###

All New 2017 Land Rover Discovery Makes South Florida Debut at Brickell City Centre, June 15

/in , /by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Frances Alban / 786-200-4315 / frances@albancommunications.com

All New 2017 Land Rover Discovery Makes South Florida Debut at Brickell City Centre, June 15

Warren Henry Auto Group, along with event partners, welcomed clients, media and South Florida’s influencers to a private reception showcasing the new Discovery

Miami, Fla – (June 19, 2017) Warren Henry Auto Group, South Florida’s premiere auto group, launched the fifth generation Land Rover Discovery SUV surrounded by champagne, cigars, models and top-of the line luxury goods. Held at the newly minted Brickell City Centre, the full-sized, three-row, seven-seat Discovery took center-stage as guests marveled at its new design, handling and technology features. In comparison to its predecessor, the fourth generation launched in 2010, it is lighter, faster and more capable.

“After nearly ten years of planning the design and features, we are more than pleased with the evolution from the LR4 to the all-new Land Rover Discovery”, said Warren Zinn, President and CEO of Warren Henry Auto Group, “and looking forward to endless advances as the brand continues to exceed customer expectations”.

Sponsored by Stitched, Westime, Pubbelly, Score Vodka, Figaro Cigars and Coach, the Discovery launch event was well attended. The crowd was a mix of over 300 VIP clients, media, social media influencers and executive staff. Highlights included a state-of-the-art LED video wall presentation with special announcements by Mark de la Cruz, Manager of Land Rover South Dade and Danny Palenzuela, Manager of Land Rover North Dade including an exciting raffle to enjoy the all-new Discovery for a weekend.

According to Warren Zinn, what’s most exciting about the all-new model is the advanced features.  The 2017 Land Rover Discovery has powered third row seats and tailgate, an in control premium app, and waterproof activity key wrist strap alleviating the need for the customer to carry their conventional key fob.

The All-New Discovery is available at both Land Rover North Dade located at 20800 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33169 and Land Rover South Dade found at 16750 S Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL 33157.

About Warren Henry Auto Group

Over four decades and three generations, Warren Henry Auto Group has built an esteemed reputation through its commitment to service excellence, superior quality, Advantage products and unwavering community support.  Warren Henry Auto Group including a diverse portfolio of vehicle brands including Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lamborghini, Audi, Toyota, Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM. Warren Henry Auto Group’s corporate office is located at 20860 NW 2nd Avenue (Hwy. 441) in Miami, and will be relocating to North Miami’s SoLe Mia development in late-2018. For more information, call 888-856-3113 or visit www.warrenhenryauto.com.

Social Media

Follow us and stay connected;

Twitter: twitter.com/WARRENhenryAUTO

Facebook: www.facebook.com/WarrenHenryAuto

Instagram: www.instagram.com/warrenhenryauto/

###