We are a few weeks away from the Chamber’s biggest event of the year – the 95th Annual Chamber Gala (read Gala cover story for more information on event). I’d be remiss if I didn’t speak about our Lifetime Achievement Honoree, Tibor Hollo. Highly-regarded by his peers, Tibor is a pioneer and one of Miami’s true visionaries. Over 60 years ago, he forged a path for the future by constructing the very first high-rise building and being one of the first to establish the “live, work, and play” model that many millennials love today. His vision now is truly taking shape on a large scale, as evidenced by the growth and excitement permeating the areas in and surrounding our beautiful city.
Although his business activities are largely-devoted to commercial and residential developments as well as management, he is also an active participant in over 40 civic, fraternal, and religious organizations and has earned numerous awards and accolades over the years. The U.S. Congress recognized and honored him as an Outstanding Floridian in 1981 and again in 2005. The Simon Wiesenthal Center recognized Tibor and his wife, Sheila, in 2005. He was the first recipient of the prestigious City of Miami Visionary Award in 1990 and, in 2007, he was honored by the House of Representatives for his contribution to Miami’s growth. At the request of The Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Florida, a flag was flown over the United States Capitol in Washington D.C. in his honor. In 2012, the South Florida Business Journal named him as one of the 100 Power Leaders, as well as a Miami Ultimate CEO. Florida International University (FIU) honored Tibor with the South Florida Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the 2012 Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame Awards. I can’t think of a more deserving individual to recognize at our Gala with our lifetime achievement award.
On another note, once again we will be working with BidPal, an interactive wireless automated silent auction bidding process, to help feature dozens and dozens of silent auction items before and during the evening of the event. The service is exciting because anyone can bid from the convenience of their smart phone. Items include unique pieces of art, dining experiences at some of this city’s most exclusive restaurants, useful business packages and much more.
To bid and browse our diverse selection of items, register at www.bidpal.net/mbchamber starting on May 22. To donate to the silent auction, purchase tickets/tables and/or for more information on the Gala- please feel free to contact the Miami Beach Chamber at 305 674 1300 for more information.
Hope to see you at the Loews Miami Beach,
Jerry Libbin
Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce
