Hammocks District detectives aid in recovery of stolen art

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January 2, 2012

Hammocks CAC Cops — CAC chair James Blough (left) honors part of Hammocks District “Art Forgery” team — (l-r) Detectives Miguel Garcia, Evelyn Guas and Manuel Machado — at Nov. 30 meeting. Also pictured is Capt. Herman Organvidez (right).

Reading like a page out of the history of art forgery, a citation honoring a five-member team from Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District praised its role in the arrest of Jorge Alberto Gonzalez for two stolen artworks valued at $1.5 million.

Sgt. David Quintana; Detectives Miguel Garcia, Evelyn Guas, Manuel Machado, and Salvador Perez had worked with the FBI on the case ever since an initial contact through the State Attorney’s office, according to Capt. Herman Organvidez.

The case began on Dec. 2, 2009, when Det. Garcia and Sgt. Quintana arrested Gonzalez at his residence, 7840 SW 89 Ave., for the theft of two paintings, described as stolen from an art dealer named Gustavo Nunez.

“As a result of a search incident, Det. Garcia seized 72 blank certificates of authenticity which appeared to be signed by artist Jose Maria Mijares who died in 2004. At the time of the arrest, Gonzalez also had in his possession a photograph of the deceased artist in the process of making his signature.”

For the Hammocks unit, the case reopened in November 2010 when Det. Garcia followed up on a report dealing with a fraudulent painting for which Maria Davila alleged she had deposited $250,000 into Gonzalez’s bank account.

“Gonzalez gave her a supposed original painting by Cuban artist Amelia Pelaez worth approximately $500,000 as collateral,” the citation states, adding “the painting was later determined to be a forgery.” Davila’s money was never recovered.

For 11 months, Det. Garcia and the four officers visited multiple art galleries, interviewed several art experts and identified “numerous victims that were defrauded by Gonzalez.” As a result, his bank records were subpoenaed and controlled phone calls compiled “an endless amount of evidence” to charge Gonzalez with newly discovered crimes.

After obtaining an arrest warrant on Nov. 3, Det. Garcia entered Gonzalez’s home on Nov. 8 and he and investigators “observed several paintings in plain view…consistent to the ones described by the victims.”

A search warrant issued on Nov.10 revealed “five known stolen paintings, multiple fraudulent paintings, falsified certificates of authenticity, paperwork of previous thefts and sale from Institute De Ciencias Medicas De La Habana, used to authenticate the paintings.

An additional 40 paintings were then seized as “possibly stolen or fraudlent” with the estimated recoveries of five authentic paintings valued at $1.5 million, the citation stated.

“The hard work, dedication and teamwork of these officers resulted in the arrest of an individual who preyed on multiple victims and stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from victims throughout Miami-Dade County,” Capt. Organvidez stated.

‘Art and All That Jazz’ coming to Arts Center

By

Gary Alan Ruse

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January 2, 2012

The Cultural Council Inc. is launching its first annual “Art and All That Jazz” event at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center on Saturday, Jan. 14.

Combining elements of a fine art exhibition and an exciting jazz concert, the program runs from 6 to 10 p.m., with the art displayed in the main lobby and a performance by the Miami Wind Symphony’s new Jazz Ensemble under the direction of conductor Rodester Brandon on the main stage.

The art exhibit will feature fine works in a variety of art media including the watercolors of David Maddern, the photography of John Andersen, the oils of Margarita Vidal and others. Eight artists were selected in all, one from each art medium.

Yolly Buchmann of the Cultural Council said she is looking forward to the new event and the special location.

“The South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center is a marvelous, wonderful setting,” Buchmann said. “Attending events such as an art show, art exhibit, a variety of concerts from classical to jazz, dance troupes, and theatrical presentations will certainly be appealing to the thousands of people who have been wanting for years for a facility such as this magnificent arts center.”

Through the Cultural Council, a nonprofit volunteer organization inspired by the late Miami-Dade County Commissioner Clara Oesterle during the county’s Decade of Progress bond campaign in 1972, Buchmann has organized both “In The Park With Art” and “Jazz Under The Stars” events for the past two decades, at locations such as Coral Reef Park and the Palmetto Bay Village Center. However, this is the first program to take advantage of the new cultural arts center complex.

“People no longer need to drive to Miami Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale or even the Arsht Center downtown to enjoy the treasure of wellrounded artistic presentations,” Buchmann said.

Complimentary refreshments will be provided through the participation of area caterers and restaurants.

Ticket prices are set at $45, $25, $15 (high school/college students are $5 in balcony). Proceeds from this event will benefit the Cultural Council’s Scholarship Fund, which supports area students in the arts.

The SMDCAC is located at 10950 SW 211 St. in Cutler Bay. For ticket or event information, call 786-573-5300 or send email to boxoffice@smdcac.org. To learn more about the Cultural Council, call 305-238-0703, send email to culturalcouncil. miami@gmail.com or visit online at www.culture-council.org.

Art in the Breezeway to begin the new year in a new location

By

Lee Stephens

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January 2, 2012

Artist Miguel Rodez, pictured in front of his inflatable sculpture Velocity, is a featured artist at the January Art in the Breezeway event in Coral Gables.

Art in the Breezeway, Coral Gables’ monthly exhibit of artwork by emerging local artists, is beginning the new year at a new location. On Friday, Jan. 6, 6-10:30 p.m., Art in the Breezeway will make its grand debut in the plaza at the Coral Gables Museum, located at 285 Aragon Ave.

For the past three years, local artists have exhibited their creativity the first Friday of every month while contributing to the next generation of creative young artists. Artists donate art supplies to Ponce de Leon Middle School in exchange for their display space. Mike Thompson, a fourth generation Coral Gables resident, has directed this effort in the name of his late wife, Carole Hughes Thompson, who was an art teacher at Ponce Middle for 32 years.

“Every year we would buy art supplies halfway through the year,” Thompson said. “At that point, Carole was always out of paper, pencils and paints for her lesson plan. So off we went to Rex Art and out came hundreds of dollars from our checking account. This donation program has been extremely successful and now other schools are asking to be a recipient in this program.”

Thompson said that with the help of Arva Moore Parks, Coral Gables Museum curator; Christine Rupp, director, and Caroline Parker-Santiago, program director, relocation has been seamless.

Thompson has invited some of Coral Gables’ most creative artists to the January event. Miguel Rodez, who has been on the board of Miami-Dade County’s Art in Public Places and is responsible for installations on NW 36th Street near Miami International Airport, the Arsht Center and Metrorail, will display his photography, drawings and paintings as well as his famed inflatable sculptures that graced Bayfront Park during Art Basel.

“Someone asked me why I create giant sculptures, and I do not know exactly how to respond other than to say that sometimes size matters,” Rodez said. “In public art, size is essential. It does not work well if the public can’t see it. So, I make it big. I want people to wonder about my sculptures in the way a child looks at an unusual object for the first time and endows it with meaning direct from the imagination.”

Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason will be receiving his official portrait, commissioned and directed by Thompson and painted by local portrait painter Pery Franco. Franco has been a long-time participant in Art in the Breezeway and has helped Thompson distribute art supplies to Ponce Middle School and South Miami K-8 Magnet Arts School.

Cuban-born artist William Brito will be exhibiting his newest series “Cat in the Clock,” and Edgar Hernandez’s pastel of Life in Miami is sure to bring a smile. Other featured artists include Carole Hughes Thompson, Mike Thompson, Pery Franco, Henry Barnes, Sonia Kohler, Terry Jensen, Katrisk Toimil, Dawn Lovell, Rita V. Gaudry, Emilio Hector Rodriguez and many more.

Music at the event will be presented by Hal Roland, who many locals will recognize as the piano player at Christy’s and Seasons 52 in Coral Gables. Roland is well known for performing and recording with some of the biggest names in music, producing the music for Star Search and being the sultry voice of WDNA 88.9FM.

While attending Art in the Breezeway enjoy dinner at one of the area’s fine restaurants, visit Books and Books or take in a movie at the New Cinema. Art in the Breezeway will be accepting donations from the public of new or used art supplies to be donated to local schools.

For more information, contact Mike Thompson at 305-785-6344 or send email to art4ubymike@gmail.com.

Advice for getting through a divorce – My ex and I have different parenting styles. I don’t like that my kids have conflicting rules and expectations.

By

Debbie Martinez

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January 2, 2012

PT-DivorceCoach-DebbieMarti — Debbie Martinez

My ex and I have different parenting styles. I don’t like that my kids have conflicting rules and expectations.

This is a tough one and all I can say is acceptance and consistency. It’s a big pill to swallow (one of many) that you don’t have control of what goes on at your ex’s house, from how the kids are allowed to dress, eat, curfew and language. But here’s some tough love — accept it and get over it or it will eat your insides out. Unless you and your ex are truly co-parenting, you will not be able to change anything that goes on over there. But here is where you do have control. Be consistent in how you parent. You have control over your world with your children when they are with you. Stick to your house rules and when the kids say, “But dad let’s me stay up till two!” You can smile and say, “Our rules are different and when you’re home with me, you need to go by mine.” Remember, kids crave structure and they need a parent, not a friend.

My ex wife sends me 50 emails a day while I’m at work. How do I stop this? No más!

You can send her an email stating that you no longer will be reading any of her emails while at work, let alone responding to them. At the end of the day (with a scotch in hand) you will read her email. If there are more than two, you will not even open them. In addition, if the emails are not civil, you will not respond. If they are of a true urgent nature, she is to write URGENT and you will read it. My guess is that she might not get with the program from the starting gate, but it won’t take her long. If she continues and it becomes intrusive, I would contact your attorney.

At what point can I introduce my boyfriend to my children?

There are a number of factors here. Are they older and accepting of you dating? Are they fearful that someone will replace them? Each child is different and how they feel needs to play into your decision. If this is a steady boyfriend, introduce him. If you’ve only been on two dates with him, you might want to wait awhile. Having dates come through the house like a revolving door could be unsettling and confusing for the kids.

I’m 55 and just getting divorced with three boys in high school. I get sad every time I think of me starting over at my age.

How you think is going to play a very big part in how fast you move on with your new life. Looking to your future with anticipation instead of apprehension is key. It’s definitely sad when something ends, but you can choose to focus on that or you can choose to focus on the beginning of a new and better life. Journal about your feelings, the lessons you have learned through this and then make a list of all the things you want to do, things that excite you. There is so much waiting up ahead. Don’t get caught up in the sadness of the past and miss them.

Debbie Martinez has a Master’s Degree and is a Certified Divorce Life Coach. She is in private practice and has offices in South Miami. For more information, email her at www.thepowerofdivorcecoach.com.

Fashion Q & A with KR Personal Style

By

Kim Rodriguez

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January 2, 2012

Q: Where should I shop for unique, good quality gifts under $100?
Kim: This is easier than you think. There are a millions of websites, but if you like to see and touch as do I, these are my suggestions: if you are heading to Dadeland, visit Arango and the gift and home furnishings department at Nordstroms. At Merrick Park try Neiman’s gift area, William’s Sonoma and L’Occitane En Provence. My personal favorite is Anthropologie, where they have many gift giving items and wonderful vintage glassware. In Coconut Grove, the indoor antique market in Mayfair on the weekends has lots of great finds. For South Beach shoppers there are great stores along Lincoln Road. Two of my favorites are Base and Books and Books. In South Miami try Cream, Margeaux Interiors and Paper Boutique.

Q: Can I wear holiday outfits after the holidays, and if so how?
Kim: Of course. You should never buy anything, ever, for just one occasion. When shopping, always ask yourself “will I wear this again?” Sequins are a classic holiday hit but they can be worn all year round as well. Just pair a sequin top or cardigan with something simple on the bottom like jeans or colored corduroys. Skip the big jewelry, fancy shoes and think simple. Sequin dresses can also be worn all year. For spring or summer, stick with lighter sequin combinations like cream, white, or gold. The tuxedo pant with a satin/silk trim is a bit more festive looking but you can get away with it for the winter months (however not in spring or summer).

Q: I am going on a ski trip followed by a visit to the windy city, what do I pack (I always overdo it)?
Kim: Well at least you are going to the same climate. The ski trip obviously requires ski gear. Some of those layering pieces like turtlenecks and long sleeve tee-shirts can also be worn in the city under cashmere cardigans and coats. Thermal leggings are perfect under pants or use as leggings with a long sweater and coat and good boots. The key is to pack neutral colors like gray and black that will mix and match with everything. The Sorel winter boots style looks hip and trendy for both ski towns and city walking. A parka, if kept simple (and in neutral colors) is perfect for both as well.

Kim Rodriguez is a personal stylist who has worked in the fashion industry in New York and Miami for over 15 years. She can be reached at 305-989-1671, or by email at Kim@KRpersonalstyle.com.

www.facebook.com/KRpersonalstyle.com.

Village resident heads for Colombia with ‘World Teach’

By

Linda Rodriguez Bernfeld

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January 2, 2012

PT-WorldTeach-EmilyEfronson — Emilie Efronson

Village resident Emilie Efronson is raising money to go to Colombia with World Teach for a volunteer teaching assignment. She hopes to depart this month.

“I chose to go to Colombia to teach,” she says. “World Teach, an organization associated with Harvard University, partners with Volunteers Colombia and they will place me in under-resourced schools.”

Efronson applied for acceptance into the program and was brought in as a volunteer teacher. Her first stop is Bogota where she will undergo training for her new assignment.

“I will get training in teaching,” she says. “I speak almost fluent Spanish, but I’ll be getting Spanish lessons as well,”

Efronson must raise $2,500 to help fund the trip. As of mid-December, she had generated just over $600.

“I gave a presentation at the Rotary Club and I should be hearing back from them soon,” she says.

The last time Emilie Efronson was in the news, she was starting out on a 4,000-mile bicycle ride across the United States to raise money for cancer research. She rode a bike from Baltimore to San Francisco.

She successfully completed the 4K For Cancer odyssey and raised more than $10,000 for the trip through donations from family and friends. While she is hesitant to go back to the same people, she says she must raise the money so she can go to Columbia and teach underprivileged children.

“The money goes toward my training and the support resources while I’m there,” she says. “For me, it was a choice between this and Peace Corps.”

One of the reasons she is embarking on this new journey is that after biking across the country she is not ready to settle into a routine that means spending all day inside.

“Coming off a trip like that left me in high energy and I wasn’t ready to go back to school,” she says. “I do want to go back eventually and get a master’s in international public health.”

Efronson attended Johns Hopkins University and graduated last June with a degree in public health. Her plans call for working in international public health in the future, but she is not ready to go to graduate school or to start work just yet.

“This is a good opportunity for me to be abroad for a year,” she says. “I’m going to be teaching 20-25 hours a week. I’m going to have an opportunity to do other things in the community. I’d like to work in either exciting health projects or create something on my own.”

This year abroad will not be easy. She’s going to be in an area that is quite poor and she will have to live on a $200 stipend from Volunteer Columbia.

One of the things she learned from her summer bike trek is that it is possible to achieve your goals.

“I’ve always been a very confident person, one who wants to go out and challenge myself,” she says. “I have learned that so many things in life are mental and you can prevent yourself from doing something so quick.”

Efronson says that on her trip across America she learned that mental strength can get a person through a difficult period; but she also found that the mind can also get you down.

“You can find yourself coming up with all the excuses,” she says. “I pushed through those moments where it was hardest for me mentally. I would say the trip was 80 percent mental and 20 percent physical.”

To help Efronson with her World Teach project, go to, click on the “Donate Now” button and type Emilie Efronson on the “Gift Designated For” line.

‘Quotes of the year’

By

Bari Auerbach

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January 2, 2012

As we all look forward to 2012, it’s time to take a look back at some of 2011’s most memorable quotes from Aventura Marketing Council meetings featuring business and community leaders as well as special guest speakers who were fascinating, motivating and inspirational.

“I’m fully committed to getting county government back on track…Restoring trust in Miami-Dade government can’t be done simply by words – we’re going to do it by deeds proving ‘they do what they say they’re going to do.’” Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez hosted by City of Sunny Isles Beach.

“AT&T has launched a program with Junior Achievement called ‘Aspire’ offering job-shadowing events for students who can still be convinced to stay in school and finish with at least a high school degree. It was once said, ‘Young people are only 25 percent of the population but they’re 100 percent of your future.’” Marshall M. Criser, III, President, AT&T Florida

“You have a right to trial by jury, to confront your accusers in open court and to see the evidence against you. In this country, our courts are the great leveler where all men are created equal.” Marcia Cooke, U.S. District Court Judge at North Dade Justice Center’s Law Day event.

“‘Kudos’ to Aventura’s forward-thinking City Manager and City Commission for having the vision to create the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center as a catalyst for growth.” Sonia Green, Broward Center Vice President.

“You’ve taken a dream from words to actions with this wonderful Anchors Away Foundation…In the process of participating, we glorify and honor the defenseless and invisible in our communities… Because of programs like this, literally and figuratively. they get to be ‘in the sun’” Alberto Carvalho, M-DCPS Superintendent at 5th Anchors Away launch.

“As leaders, it starts with you – so don’t lead a debriefing with ‘we.’ It begins with ‘I’ – I made this mistake during an execution and I can get better.” Author Matthew ‘Whiz’ Buckley hosted by Nutriway.

“When you hire a Guard and Reserve person, you’re getting somebody who has been tested under stressful conditions; shows initiative; is dependable and disciplined; has an innate sense of responsibility; will be drug-free, physically fit and willing to work.”

James G. Rebholz, National Committee for Department and Defense, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve hosted by Memorial Regional Hospital South and Warren Henry Auto Group.

“International business – we only see it growing and South Florida is a fine example of that…Today, the trend is all about ‘going global.’” Ian McCluskey, CEO Thought Leadership International hosted by The McKafka Group.

“A lot of good partnerships and effective strategies have brought violent crime down and our public corruption unit is one of the most aggressive in the state…We want to stand proud and be a wonderful beacon for the rest of the world to see called: Miami-Dade County.” Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle hosted by Bnai Zion Foundation and Holistic Health Care Miami.

“Ten years ago we were attacked and some of our buildings may have crumbled – but our foundation, our very core as Americans will continue to survive.” Aventura Mayor Susan Gottlieb at 9/11 Remembrance.

Dr. Frederick Knoll: Training dentists to ‘make the world smile’

By

Bari Auerbach

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January 2, 2012

When Dr. Frederick Knoll isn’t at his North Miami Beach dental practice helping patients of all ages attain more beautiful, healthy smiles, he devotes a great deal of time to training the next generation of dentists enrolled in a Hialeahbased University of Florida post graduate program for which he serves as Director of Fixed Prosthodontics.

“Most people associate UF with Gators and Gainesville – but the UF College of Dentistry’s Hialeah Dental Clinic actually opened in 1997 offering an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program for mostly internationally educated dentists,” Dr. Knoll explains.

Averaging 200 patients per week, the Hialeah Dental Clinic offers comprehensive oral care to children, adults and senior citizens. Dental residents enrolled in the UF program are actively engaged in all phases of dentistry including “prosthodontics” – one of Dr. Knoll’s specialties. Aprosthodontist is a dental specialist skilled in the replacement of missing teeth and restoration of natural teeth; and trained to deal with restorations of the whole mouth, as well as treating facial deformities.

“During dental school, my experience as a lab technician gave me a unique understanding and skill for restorative dentistry,” said Dr. Knoll – renowned for being trusted by patients and respected by doctors. “Today, I find it extremely rewarding to pass this advanced training on to ‘the future’s best dentists.’”

Striking before and after photos displayed in his North Miami Beach office and the fact that thousands of “Knoll smiles” include patients and many other dentists who travel all the way from other states and countries for comprehensive care highlight Dr. Knoll’s ongoing proactive mission to “make the world smile!”

Dr. Frederick Knoll’s North Miami Beach office is located at 951 Northeast 167th Street. St. 208. For more information or to schedule an appointment, phone: 305-651-0139 or visit knolldds.com. To learn more about the UF Hialeah Dental Clinic and Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program, phone: 305-694- 5400 or follow the link: dental.ufl.edu/offices/admissions/grad/programs_ Advanced_Education_General_Dentistr y_Hialeah.php

Turnberry Isle Miami unmasks spectacular New Years’s Eve celebrations

By

Community Newspapers

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January 2, 2012

From a Masquerade Ball to dinner at Celebrity Chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak restaurant, Turnberry Isle Miami is unmasking a night full of decadence to ring in the New Year. Enjoy your choice of a number of spectacular celebrations. And when it’s time to retreat to bed, stay the night on the resort’s New Year’s Eve Traditions package.

MASQUERADE BALL
During this whimsical celebration, delight in gourmet selections from a lavish reception. Then enjoy a sit-down dinner, dancing. Festivities also include an eightpiece band, balloon drop and a champagne toast at midnight, plus unlimited specialty wines and cocktails. From 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. in the Grand Ballroom at Turnberry Isle ($250 per person, plus tax and gratuity). Black-tie attire. Reservations are required by calling 305-933-6590. Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance.

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER AT BOURBON STEAK
Celebrate the start of 2012 at Celebrity Chef Michael Mina’s BOURBON STEAK restaurant. Threecourse/ first-seating beginning at 6 p.m. is $95, Six-course/second-seating starting at 9 p.m. is $245; plus tax and gratuity. Complimentary glass of champagne each, live band and party favors included. Reservations are required by calling 786-279-6600.

RECOVERY BUFFET AT CASCATA GRILLE
After a late night of jubilation, the delicious buffet at Cascata Grille is sure to hit the spot. From 12 to 3 p.m. $65 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Sunday, Jan. 1. Reservations are required by calling 786- 279-6800.

The resort’s New Year’s Eve Traditions package includes accommodations in a spacious Turnberry Room, two tickets to the Masquerade Ball, and breakfast for two on New Year’s Day at Cascata Grille. To learn more/reservations, call 1-866-612-7739 or visit turnberryislemiami. com. Turnberry Isle Miami is located at 19999 West Country Club Drive in Aventura.

Sell your condo at auction? It just may be your best option

By

Ray Princiotta

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January 2, 2012

Once a popular selling method in California, non-distressed ResidentialAuctions are showing up here in Florida. The recent Auction Sale of two Golden Beach mansions sold in tandem set the local real estate market talking. The sellers decided to auction their properties at an Absolute Auction, which means the properties would be sold to the highest bidder regardless of price. The two properties sold for $12.4 million…the sale was fast, fair and satisfying to all concerned.

If you are interested in selling your real estate at auction, you will need to work with an auctioneer who is a licensed Florida real estate broker. Based on your situation, there are various types of Auctions, the most popular are Absolute, Reserve, and Minimum Bid. Also, there are both Live and Online Auctions as well a hybrid Live and Remote, which is used to facilitate bidders from around the world. Each method produces results that compare with, and in many cases, exceed traditional brokerage methods. The properties are sold AS-IS with no contingencies, and can include all furnishings if desired.

With an Auction, you set the date your property will sell. An Auction generates excitement by sending a clear message that you, the seller, are serious and highly motivated. Remember, motivated doesn’t mean desperate. It means that you want to sell and move on to the next chapter. We all know the feeling of relief when your property goes into contract…and the pressure and anxiety when your home lingers on the market. Every passing month you are carrying the property, and if you have already bought a new home, you are carrying two..Ouch!

Auctions bring Buyers to the point of decision quickly. In preparation for the Auction, the Bidders must bring a Cashier’s Check in order to bid; and the winning Bidder must make a deposit of 10% of the contract price at the signing of the contract. This significant earnest money deposit means the property is far more likely to close. Another major difference between an auction and a traditional brokerage sale is there is no inspection period after the “Purchase and Sale agreement is signed by the Buyer and Seller. Prospective Bidders conduct their due diligence inspections before the auction. So the day of the auction, everybody is set and ready to deal. Live “On-Site” Auctions create spirited bidding, producing higher sale prices. TheAuction will quickly bring the true market price. (The True Market price is the price a buyer is willing to pay for the property on that day.)

As you can see, there are pro’s and con’s to selling your home at Auction. Built in to the Auction experience is the Buyer’s expectation that they will get something at a low price. This may or may not happen. Promoting and advertising the Auction through Target Marketing increases the visibility of the property. A larger audience sees the property and more potential bidders attend the Auction, on-site or on-line.

For the Seller, the speed of the Auction is a major advantage. The home will sell very quickly and the sale will be completed more rapidly than selling through the traditional methods. The waiting and worrying come to a quick conclusion. If you want to or need to sell in a set period of time, an auction may be your best option.

Ray Princiotta is a licensed Florida real estate broker. If you have any questions, contact me – ray@rayonrealestate.com.

Give the gift of a college education

By

Bari Auerbach

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January 2, 2012

This holiday season, children and grandchildren can unwrap one of the greatest gifts with lasting impact: A college education from smart parents and grandparents learning how Wells Fargo Advisors helps families take advantage of flexible, tax-advantaged ways to save and invest for education expenses.

“College costs are skyrocketing, so it’s never too early to start thinking about college funding alternatives such as custodial accounts, educational IRAs and 529 plans – now one of the most popular ways of investing for college,” said Michael Shear, a Managing Director-Investments in the Wells Fargo Advisors’ Aventura branch. “Choosing a 529 plan for college funding is beneficial in terms of tax advantages, flexibility, ease of use and maintenance,” Shear explains. “529 plan assets will likely be accepted at thousands of eligible schools nationwide, including undergrad, graduate, post-grad, and even vocational or trade schools.” 1Key benefits distinguishing 529 plans include:

• There are no federal taxes when earnings are used for qualified expenses2

• Anyone can make contributions, regardless of their income and payments can be tailored to individual budgets

• Substantial contribution amounts allowed may result in significant estate-planning benefits3

“There are many 529 plan choices,” Shear said. “Wells Fargo Advisors can help you select the one that best fits your needs. Whether college is years away – or right around the corner, ‘investing today for their education tomorrow’ is the greatest gift you can give that will last a lifetime.”

Close to home in Aventura, people of all ages can benefit from guidance provided by Wells Fargo Advisors’ team of over 40 experienced financial advisors providing investment services such as portfolio management, advisory and business services, estate investment planning, retirement planning and investment products. For more information about the Wells Fargo Advisors Aventura branch, 19950 West Country Club Drive, phone: 305-935-3800.

Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. 1Schools must be eligible to participate in federal student financial aid programs. 2The availability of such tax or other benefits may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements. 3Wells Fargo Advisors is not a tax or legal advisor. Please consult with your tax or legal advisor regarding specific estate planning benefits you may qualify for. You should consider a 529 plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The plan’s official statement, which contains this and other important information, should be read carefully before investing. Keep in mind that the investment return and principal value of the investment options in a 529 plan will fluctuate such that your shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than your original investment.

‘Resolutions’

By

Bari Auerbach

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January 2, 2012

“Happy New Year??” I suppose it could be if we decide to keep at least some proactive New Year’s resolutions for more than just the first few weeks of 2012…

Coffee Resolution: Just when you resolve to stop being a regular at Starbucks – a study reveals coffee contributes more antioxidants to the diet linked to fighting heart disease and cancer than cranberries, apples or tomatoes. You might have thought about switching to decaf – up until another study showed decaf may cause an increase in harmful LDL cholesterol. If you really don’t care “a hill of beans” what the studies say, just resolve to get your Starbucks gold card so you can accumulate lots of points for free drinks!

Debt Resolution: Just when you resolve to start leaving home without your “overswiped” credit card – you spend enough to earn the honor of having your limit raised. Everyone knows what credit card debt can cost in interest alone – but the chance to get a great post-holiday bargain? That’s priceless!

Healthy Resolution: Whole Foods Market is sure to be even busier after the first of the year when everyone who made a resolution to eat healthier packs the aisles. But wait…Last time you were there, weren’t the aisles already so crowded you could barely navigate through the produce section to get a small bag of grapes priced as much as a fine bottle of wine??

Love Life Resolution: Just when you resolve to make more of an effort to meet Mr. or Ms. Right in 2012, what happens? You invest a significant sum to join one of those “It’s Just Brunch” dating services and quickly realize “Lose Your Lunch” would be a much more apropos name… The only saving grace could be the loss of appetite winds up helping you keep your “lose ten pounds” resolution.

‘Just Keep It!’ While you’re ringing in the New Year, if anyone asks, “What’s your resolution?” you could suggest the universal New Year’s resolution should simply be: “Resolving to keep the ones we make!”

Hammocks District detectives aid in recovery of stolen art

‘Art and All That Jazz’ coming to Arts Center

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