Happy holidays Miami Beach…we have made it past Thanksgiving and we are officially inseason again. Actually not anymore! It is now just a continuation of our season since we have become a year-round destination. What an accomplishment when you think back on all of the tourismbased businesses that were just getting into position for the business pickup in November and December. Well Miami Beach, we have arrived. I meet people from all around the country and the world every day. The sentiments are always the same; visitors now see Miami Beach and South Florida not only as a tourist destination and a weekend of fun, but a place to live and a place to experience arts and culture, fine dining, world class hotels, and of course the greatest beaches.
“How sweet it is,” Jackie Gleason used to say and how right he was! We are all fortunate to be part of this great Miami Beach community. We are in the midst of a renaissance of arts and culture and the world is here to take part as we celebrate another great week of Art Basel. Who imagined that we would take art to the sand with the “Untitled” Art Fair at 12th and Ocean, thanks to our very own MBCC Arts and Culture Council. I hope that every resident and visitor has the opportunity to not only experience these world class venues, but embrace them. Visit our intimate local museums and fabulous galleries, and expose yourself and your children to the warmth and excitement of our community’s hidden treasures.
As for Chamber excitement, we began a membership drive on Oct. 1st with a goal of 100 new members in 3 months. It is with great pleasure and pride that I can report to you that we are currently at 123 new members. Thank you sincerely to all of those members and friends of the chamber who committed to making this drive a success. And welcome to all of our newest members. You are in for a great ride! And if you haven’t yet joined, I challenge you to come to an event, to learn more about the amazing benefits and possibilities and to experience the power of membership!
At your service,
Alan A. Lips
