Festivals Association conference attracts industry leaders

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The Greater Miami Festivals & Events Association Annual Conference is set for June 8, at the Hyatt Regency Miami. This year’s theme, “Decadence, 10 years of taking events to the next level,” promises to be an event for anyone in the events planning, visitor and hospitality industries and is always a spectacular conference. Chairing the event is Briana Dimascio who is working hand and hand with longtime conference coordinator Debbie Magenheimer and Executive Director Amanda MacMaster. Amanda, who has a long history with the association serving on the board, etc, took over the position in 2022 from Robbie DiPietro, who stills volunteers her time. These women and a hard-working committee promise another magical conference this year attracting those involved in producing a broad range of community celebrations including major arts, film, literary and culinary events, parades, street festivals, fairs, youth sporting competitions, and historic, environmental, national and ethnic awareness events. By the way, for those in the industry who are not already members, now is a perfect time to join as registration comes with annual membership. And for more info visit the web site www.festivalsmiami.org.

On the topic of great women leaders, our South Florida community has countless amazing women who are making an impact in so many ways. A recent guest on Gloria’s Gab LIVE video podcast, Michelle Villalobos, is an international speaker, author and entrepreneur whose inner journey came to light in a beautiful way. On May 18 Michelle presented her new book, But I Want to Fly!, at Books & Books in Coral Gables. “An Adventure Book for Dreamers of All Ages,” this book touched those in attendance as she regaled the inspiring story of Vee, the heroine who was in a dark place and emerges after listening to her heart. Finding her passion and changing course, she realizes her dream. In addition to a beautiful book, “But I Want to Fly! is also a piece of art with incredible illustrations. In fact, the original paintings from the book by Germany-based artist, Kiki Kalahari, were on display that night. To view our interview with Michelle, go to https://communitynewspapers.com/videos-2/glorias-gab-host-gloria-burns-welcomes-michelle-villalobos-founder-of-superstar-activator/

For the book, go to www.ButIWantToFly.com

Among the guests that night was Pat San Pedro, an entrepreneur, author, and cancer survivor who is planning a retreat this fall that promises to be amazing. Check it out: www.LivingLifeAgainRetreat.com 

In other nonprofit news, A Safe Haven for Newborns’ Annual Golf Tournament at Trump National Resort was one for the books. Thunderstorms and rain delayed play for a few hours but everyone got in nine holes or more. Food trucks, open bar and a BBQ awards dinner completed the day with a raffle and auction for some great sports memorabilia. Kudos to event chair Chelsea Oakley, who took over from Gina Perez and beautifully handled all the challenges of that rainy day. ASHFN Founder and CEO Nick Silverio was delighted to have so many volunteers and longtime supporters like Coastal Construction participating once again. Coming up next for ASHFN is the annual gala set for October 28. Save the date! Visit https://asafehavenfornewborns.com/

Finally, love and prayers go out to the family of Tania Stern, president of the Coral Gables Jr. Woman’s Club (’85-’86) and Cabaret General Chairman who raised countless dollars over decades for the CGWC’s free children’s dental clinic. She was one of the kindest, most generous, loving, hardworking, creative, funny and brilliant people I have ever known. She passed away after battling ALS and was courageous to the end. Tania was my best friend, a second mother to my girls, a great wife and mother to four amazing children and grandmother to seven. Her passing leaves a hole in the hearts of the countless people who loved her. May she rest in peace.

Until next time, share your talents, count your blessings and not your challenges, and make a difference.

 

 

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A graduate of the University of Florida with a major in Spanish, Burns has an extensive background in advertising, marketing and reciprocal trade, travel , non profit consulting and management. Before joining Miami's Community Newspapers as a columnist and marketing specialist, Gloria was the Executive Director of the Jr. Orange Bowl Committee (6 yrs.) and first Executive Director of the Coral Gables Community Foundation (14 yrs.) and the Pinecrest Community Foundation (1 ½ yrs) . Burns' volunteer activities led her to become a columnist for Community Newspapers writing Gloria’s Gab, that focuses on the non-profit activity, and a host of an online show, Gloria's Gab LIVE. Gloria serves the board of the Rotary Club of Coral Gables as Civic and Charity Chair, and is involved in the club's International Committee. She is an active Life Member of the Jr. Orange Bowl Committee and is Secretary of the Merrick Festival. She serves on the board of directors of the Coral Gables Woman' Club as Publicity Chair and also coordinates the club's monthly fundraiser for various charities with Gringo Bingo at Clutch Burger. In addition, Gloria participates in numerous other charitable events and is a member of the Business Forum Group, Profit Inc., the Greater Miami Festival & Events Association and the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. In other volunteer activity, Gloria helps Miami Christian School with fund-raising and PR; is an Ambassador and volunteers for events for A Safe Haven for Newborns. She is an active member of the Music Ministry at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church where she enjoys singing in the choir every weekend.