Wise Guy Legendary humorist Dave Barry and his fellow funnymen weigh in on bar mitzvahs, bagels and more in their Field Guide to the Jewish People ...
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Wise Guy
Legendary humorist Dave Barry and his fellow
funnymen weigh in on bar mitzvahs, bagels and
more in their Field Guide to the Jewish People
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 1
2 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM
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©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are
registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FEATURES
32
FOR THE GREATER GOOD
PHILANTROPHY IS AN
EVERYDAY ACT FOR
PINECREST RESIDENT NEIL
ROLLNICK.
42
IN DAVE WE TRUST
HUMORIST DAVE BARRY
AND FRIENDS UNRAVEL
THE MYSTERIES OF JEWISH
TRADITION.
46
QUEEN OF THE MIAMI RIVER
DEVELOPER LISSETTE
CALDERON BUILDS ON THE
MIAMI RIVER’S POTENTIAL.
ALSO IN LIFESTYLE
6 EDITOR’S LETTER
13 AROUND TOWN
16 A TASTE OF CORAL GABLES
18 BEST BETS/A&E
20 BAR TALK: COLADA CUBAN
CAFE AND GRILL
22 GARDENING
24 THE LISTING
COVER/TOC CREDITS
26 5 QUESTIONS: ANNA Cover: Dave Barry
NORIEGA, ALORÈ EVENT FIRM Location: Glass & Vine,
28 CAMERA READY Coconut Grove
Photo by: Eduardo Schneider
34 DINING: ERBA
36 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE TOC: Bulla Gastrobar is one of
52 SPA TALK: TRUMP NATIONAL the restaurants featured in the
new book A Taste of
DORAL Coral Gables
4 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM
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REALTY2019 5
Editor’sLetter
Funny Business
A
s the title implies,
Lifestyle isn’t competing
for readership with
publications like the Harvard
Business Review. We’re
celebrating the many ways
that people experience life in
our little corner of paradise. In
any given issue, we’re apt to
explore the restaurant scene,
the arts world, local finds, great
getaways, acts of benevolence
and even celebrities passing
through town.
That said, Lifestyle also
distinguishes itself with substantive insights into the people and
issues having an impact on our communities. We’re proud to shed
light on these weighty and, sometimes, challenging topics; it’s part
of the reason why Lifestyle has been honored the past two years
in the prestigious category of “Best Overall” publication by the
Florida Magazine Association.
But if I’m being honest, after a year in which the magazine
tackled its share of serious fare, it felt that, maybe, a few laughs
might do me some good. Everyone on the Lifestyle staff agreed—a
little too enthusiastically so. I could’ve done without the chants of
“Lighten Up, Lighten Up” at our weekly meeting.
Anyway, when the Alper JCC in Miami reached out to me about
its annual Jewish Book Festival—and I saw Dave Barry on the
list of featured authors—it felt like a sign. I’m sure Dave saw it as
more his obligation than my salvation, but the legendary South
Florida humorist and Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist nonetheless
brought his A-game to our interview in Coconut Grove.
Barry is the lone gentile among the trio of renowned comedy
minds responsible for A Field Guide to the Jewish People, the
recently published book he co-authored with Adam Mansbach
and Alan Zweibel. Over the course of an hour, he explained to me
why baking certain types of bagels should be punishable by death,
why there were no desert-dwelling animals at his daughter’s bat
mitzvah, and why Zweibel’s first name means “enormous head.”
And, yes, I laughed out loud. A lot.
But, of course, it wouldn’t be a Lifestyle interview without at
least one sobering question. So, Barry was kind enough to weigh
in on whether he ever finds himself second-guessing his humor in
this age of political correctness.
“If you don’t want to be offended, then don’t read it,” he noted at
the end of his observation. “But don’t tell me that I can’t write it.”
We’re grateful that Dave Barry is still writing—and still making
us all laugh. Enjoy this holiday issue of Lifestyle.
Kevin Kaminski, Group Editor
kkaminski@lmgfl.com
6 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM
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PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 7
CORAL GABLES/PINECREST
LMG PRESIDENT Jeffrey Dinetz
LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER Michelle Simon
GROUP EDITOR Kevin Kaminski
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Melanie Geronemus Smit
EDITORIAL
ASSISTANT EDITOR Keren Moros
COPY EDITOR Jason Davis
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Harvey Bernstein, Clarissa Buch,
Michelle F. Solomon
ART DIRECTORS
Alexander Hernandez
Frank Papandrea
800.611.6631 Evelyn Suarez
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Eduardo Schneider, Evelyn Suarez
ADVERTISING MARKET MANAGERS
LORI CASTLE lcastle@lmgfl.com
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SHARI GLATTER sglatter@lmgfl.com
DEBBY GOLD dgold@lmgfl.com
STEPHANIE JIMENEZ sjimenez@lmgfl.com
DONNA MAIRS dmairs@lmgfl.com
BETH TACHÉ btache@lmgfl.com
STEVEN WOLF swolf@lmgfl.com
STEVE ZEMACH szemach@lmgfl.com
DIGITAL DIRECTOR Cheryl Snyder
MARKET MANAGER/SALES SUPPORT Steve Lederman
DIGITAL ADVERTISING MANAGER Carla Ferreyros
CHAIRMAN Gary Press
PRESIDENT Jeffrey Dinetz
CONTROLLER Dana Fahlbusch
EVENTS & MARKETING MANAGER Olivia Bibbee
OPERATIONS MANAGER Monica St. Omer
LMG HEADQUARTERS
3511 W. Commercial Blvd., Suite 200
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309
954.666.5300 | fax 954.377.9479 | lmgfl.com
© 2019 Coral Gables/Pinecrest Lifestyle. Coral Gables/Pinecrest
Lifestyle magazine is published monthly by Lifestyle Media
Group, all rights reserved. All contents are protected by
copyright and may not be reproduced without written consent
from the publisher. The advertiser is solely responsible for ad
content and holds publisher harmless from any error.
8 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM
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PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 9
©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.
3 TO 6 BEDROOM RESIDENCES • STARTING AT $1.65M
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activity would be unlawful. All images and designs depicted herein are artist’s conceptual renderings, which are based upon preliminary development plans, and are subject to change without notice in the manner provided in the offering
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10 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMPINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 11
12 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM
Around
News from Pinecrest,
Coral Gables & beyond town
Caja breakfast taco
1
The Most Important Meal
Caja Caliente, known for its “Cuban tacos,” sofrito, black beans, bacon and baked eggs served
recently launched what’s being billed as “the only in a cast-iron skillet with toast from Zak the Baker.
Cuban-style brunch in Coral Gables.” Owner and Brunch also features Cuban funk and jazz music
founder Monica “Mika” Leon presents unique menu Saturdays, noon-3 p.m., and Sundays, 11:30 a.m.-3
items, such as Mika’s Disco Volador Pancakes, p.m. as well as $20 bottomless mimosas with freshly
four guava-swirled pancakes with whipped cream squeezed orange juice. Caja Caliente is located at
cheese, condensed milk and homemade guava; 808 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Visit caja-caliente.com.
Salmon Tartare, homemade tostadas topped with
salmon tartare, avocado, caja aioli and a poached
egg; and Shakshuka a lo Cubano, with yucca hash,
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 134
AroundTown
2
Celebrate Art
Miami Art Weeks brings the
world’s best art and artists to
the area, including Redwood
Media Group’s Spectrum
Miami and Red Dot
Miami, two of the area’s
longest-running fairs. Both shows cover more
than 100,000 square feet in Wynwood and feature
acclaimed contemporary art from national and
international galleries, and the work of artists from
around the world and the United States.
The ninth annual Spectrum Miami presents more
than 200 galleries and artists under the curatorial
theme “Ignite,” as well as the new Local Talent
Program and “[Foto Solo],” featuring fine art
photographers. Inspired by the theme “Passion,” Red
Dot Miami’s 14th annual version features more than
75 galleries and 500 artists as well as programs such
as art talks and art labs.
Events are at Mana Wynwood, 2217 NW Fifth Ave.,
Miami. Admission is $25 online and $30 in person
Patrons may enjoy light
HOMES FOR THE HOLIDAYS for one-day passes. Show is Dec. 5-8. Opening night
refreshments, a raffle of a handmade preview party is Dec. 4, 6-10 p.m. Visit spectrum-
The Villagers host its annual quilt with the theme “Biscayne Bay miami.com and reddotmiami.com.
Holiday House Tour, themed Regatta,” and the Attic Treasures
“Inside Out—A South Florida Red Dot Miami
vintage shop. Proceeds support the
Lifestyle.” The historic preservation preservation of the county’s historic
society invites the public to tour three sites.
renovated Pinecrest homes (one The tour is Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
from the 1950s, one from the 1960s Tickets are $40.
and one from the 1980s) and two Visit thevillagersinc.org.
contemporary, custom-built homes.
Members of The Villagers will discuss
3
the homes’ histories and features.
PLANTING FOR THE FUTURE Plan(T) exhibit
Environmental mangrove seedling exhibits, including
artist Xavier drawings from Cortada’s 2004 Miami
Cortada is Mangrove Forest art project at Main
working with Public Library in downtown Miami
Pinecrest Gardens through Jan. 18. In addition, Cortada
on Plan(T), an and his team will give away mangrove
urban mangrove propagules at the Pinecrest Garden
forestation Farmers Market, every Sunday through
project that raises Jan. 12 and at public libraries on Jan. 11.
awareness of the Cortada’s Plan(T) exhibit, featuring a wall
rising sea level. of mangrove seedlings in water-filled cups,
The public campaign urges residents to plant will be on display at the Gardens’ Hibiscus
a saltwater-tolerant mangrove seedling and Gallery through Jan. 18.
a white flag in their yard to start preparing “We can no longer bury our heads in
for future sea-level rise. The mangroves help the sand on this issue,” Cortada says.
to sequester carbon dioxide and grow the “I plan to engage my fellow citizens to
city’s native tree canopy while the white flags reframe the way that they think as they
encourage conversations on sea-level rise. participate in this innovative countywide,
As part of the project, 50 public libraries urban forestation effort to help safeguard
will display project information and vulnerable areas of our city.”
14 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM5
A NIGHT AT THE GARDENS
If you were lucky
scavenger hunts, a
flower installation
and the gardens’
Vine Pergola with an
interactive canopy light
display.
NightGarden runs
through January.
6 MORE TACOS
Coyo Taco,
which opened in
Coral Gables this
summer, hosts
chef collaboration series Miami
Chef Tac-Over, sure to whet
customers’ appetites throughout
South Florida.
Michael Schwartz in January and
chef Jose Mendin in February, with
more partnerships coming in 2020.
The tacos will be available in
Coral Gables during the first week
of the month, Brickell during the
second, Wynwood during the third
and Palm Beach during the fourth.
Visit coyotaco.com.
enough to catch Fairchild is located During the series, Coyo
Fairchild Tropical at 10901 Old Cutler executive chef and partner Scott
Botanic Gardens’ Road, Miami. Visit Linquist teams
NightGarden last fairchildgarden.org. up with well-
year, you’ll have plenty
known South
of reasons to go back
Florida chefs
this year. Three times
to create a new
larger, the dazzling
specialty taco
light experience offers
each month,
new features. Blending
available for a
lighting displays, state-
week at a time
of-the-art holograms and
at several Coyo
shadow sculptures with
Taco locations.
art and entertainment,
In December,
NightGarden features
Linquist
real-time illusions
joins chef
such as a talking tree, Chef Jeremy Ford and Scott Linquist with
7
Brad Kilgore,
snowfall, mazes and their taco creation for November.
followed by chef
DO THE DISTRICT the sustainable ways to achieve color.
Miami Design District Two exhibits also grace the district this month: The
presents several art happenings Extreme Present by Larry Gagosian and Jeffrey Deitch,
this month, including its 2019 which will appear at the Moore Building (191 NE 40th St.)
Design Commission, Pink Beasts Dec. 3-8, and White Cube by Cerith Wyn Evans, coinciding
by London-based Mexican with Art Basel, at the City View Garage, Dec. 3-8.
designer Fernando Laposse. Pink Finally, as part of its performance series—produced
sisal tassels suspended through by Emilio Estefan with maestro Eduardo Marturet of the
trees serve as a visual lead-in for Miami Symphony Orchestra—the district hosts Jennifer
viewers to discover pink, hairy Holliday, the Grammy- and Tony-winning singer and
sloths hanging from trees and actress particularly remembered for her show-stopping
ropes. Dyed with natural dyes performance of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”
made from cochineal insects in during her Broadway run in Dreamgirls. Concert is Dec. 13,
central Mexico, the installation seeks to remind viewers of 6:30 p.m., at the Palm Court (140 NE 39th St.)
8
ROARING ’20S designer in residence. Brito’s theme will
CHRISTMAS pay homage to the 1920s with a blend
Deering Estate recreates of art deco and Egyptian aesthetics,
the sights and sounds including hand-blown glass ornaments
of Christmases past depicting Tutankhamen, Nefertiti and
at the third annual cats at the library Christmas tree.
Mistletoe & Martinis where Event is Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. Tickets
attendees enjoy festive music, as well are $125 for nonmembers. All proceeds
as martinis, hors d’oeuvres and desserts benefit the Deering Estate Foundation.
from local restaurants and caterers. Plus, Deering Estate is located at 16701 SW 72
patrons are welcome to stroll through Ave., Palmetto Bay.
the grounds and historic homes, which Visit deeringestate.org/event/mistletoe-
will be decorated for Christmas with martinis or deeringestate.org/holiday-
decor by Alfredo Brito, Deering Estate’s season for more holiday events.Paola Mendez
(left) signs books
and poses with
readers at Books
& Books
homegrown bites
a culinary appreciation of coral gables, complete with recipes, comes to life in a new book
BY CLARISSA BUCH
W
hen city of Coral Gables. “When I visited we have here to the public,” Valdes
Francesca Fratellino, Beto actually wrote the says. She calls the book “a true group
Valdes recipe on a piece of tablecloth for effort. The city worked with Mitchell
was busy putting the me. That’s how homegrown this book Kaplan of Books & Books, and
final touches on the project has been for the city. It’s been entered into an agreement with local
recently released a labor of love.” publishing company Mango Media.”
cookbook and Valdes was one of the many who Paola Mendez, who runs the
restaurant guide, had a part in creating A Taste of blog Coral Gables Love, was
A Taste of Coral Coral Gables, which debuted in approached to write much of the
Gables, she was short August. At just under 150 pages, the book as she often features local
a recipe from Italian cookbook features more than 70 of restaurants and businesses on her
mainstay Fratellino the city’s most-beloved restaurants, blog. She interviewed chefs, asked
Ristorante. That’s chefs and recipes, including Giorgio them for recipes, and worked with
when she decided Rapicavoli’s Eating House, Cindy photographers, including her sister
to visit the restaurant herself, asking Hutson’s Ortanique on the Mile, and Andrea Mendez, who runs the design
owner Beto DiCarlo to submit an the Biltmore Hotel’s esteemed Palme company Vintage Unicorn.
entry in-person. d’Or run by Michelin-starred chef It took about two years to put
“Restaurants are so busy, so Gregory Pugin. together. In that time, however, some
for them to even answer an email “The book started as a way for the of the restaurants featured in the
is a lot,” says Valdes, business city to support its local restaurants project closed.
development coordinator at the and businesses, as well as highlight all “Restaurants come and go, but we
16 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMlook at this book as a beautiful way to highlight the city in a
A Taste of the City
moment of time,” Valdes says. “It’s a nice way to remember
A recipe from Eating House, featured in
some of the places that have closed, given that each entry
A Taste of Coral Gables.
includes a recipe. It’s a worthwhile investment in the sense
PASTA CARBONARA
that it provides a pretty comprehensive guide to Coral Gables,
(Serves four)
while also offering some recipes from some of the best
restaurants in all of Miami.”
8 ounces Applewood bacon, cut into 1/2-
Shortly after the cookbook debuted, the city, along with
inch pieces
its partners at the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, the
4 ounces Grana Padano, grated
Business Improvement District of Coral Gables, the Florida
4 egg yolks
Restaurant and Lodging Association, and the Coral Gables
4 ounces heavy cream
Community Foundation, hosted an event where readers could
1 pound pasta, preferably fresh
receive a book signed by top chefs in attendance. In turn, all
4 tablespoons black truffle paste
proceeds—about $6,000—were donated to Coral Gables High
1 cup toasted bread crumbs
School’s culinary arts program.
Salt and pepper to taste
“The money is going toward purchasing new stoves for one
of the high school’s classrooms,” Valdes says. “Apparently, Directions
they haven’t had new stoves in 15 years. The money also 1. Warm water in a large pot over high heat.
gives students the ability to participate in culinary arts When the water starts to steam, add salt and
competitions. It’s going a long way to continue to inspire cover the pot.
our hospitality community. Who knows? Maybe one of these 2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter in a large
students will go on to open one of Coral Gables’ next great sauté pan over medium heat. Add the bacon
restaurants.” and cook, stirring occasionally until crisp
A Taste of Coral Gables retails for $39.99 and is available around the edges, 7-10 minutes.
for purchase at Books & Books in Coral Gables and Amazon. 3. Once crisp, add cracked fresh pepper to the
bacon fat, and toast for 30-45 seconds. Add
the heavy cream to the pan, bring to a boil,
reduce the heat, and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
A dish from
Add the Grana Padano and combine until the
Bulla Gastrobar
cheese has melted into the sauce. Set aside.
4. Cook the pasta until al dente (slightly
toothsome), usually 1 minute shy of cooking
time if using boxed pasta. Remove the pasta
from the boiling water, and add to the bacon
sauce. Mix well, adjust the seasoning with salt,
and add the egg yolks to the pasta. Combine
well, and adjust consistency with pasta water if
needed. Finish with the truffle paste, topping
with toasted bread crumbs and additional
grated Grana Padano.
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 17Best
BETS
Jim Gaffigan
PHOTO BY ALEXANDER IZILIAEV
The Grammy nominee and Emmy winner stops at Miami on his latest
tour. Known for his clever and observational takes on fatherhood,
food and other subjects, the comedian has endeared himself to
audiences through his multiple comedy specials, including his latest,
Quality Time, Amazon Prime’s first original comedy special. His
roles in Portlandia, Bob’s Burgers and his own Jim Gaffigan Show
have kept him in the public eye, and he’s recently made a name for
himself in dramatic roles, starring in three films that premiered at the
Sundance Film Festival.
Miami City Ballet: “The Nutcracker” When: Dec. 28, 7 & 9:30 p.m.
George Balanchine’s beloved choreography to Tchaikovsky’s Where: Adrienne Arsht Center
masterpiece comes to life once again during Miami City Ballet’s Tickets: $50-$75
annual performances, featuring costumes by Isabel and Ruben Info: arshtcenter.org
Toledo. A live orchestra joins the dancers as they blend memorable
scenes and gorgeous artistry in their portrayal of favorite characters
in scenes such as “Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy.”
When: Dec. 13-22
Where: Adrienne Arsht Center
Tickets: $30-$125
Info: arshtcenter.org
of ancient and modern
Christmas music such
as English carols,
Gregorian chants and
Renaissance motets—
Oprah’s 2020 Vision
performed by the
renowned Grammy-
The media mogul embarks on the arena tour, “Oprah’s 2020 Vision:
nominated vocal
Your Life in Focus,” her first in five years. Inviting audiences to
ensemble.
make 2020 their year of transformation and triumph, Oprah kicks
When: Dec. 13 & Dec.
off the tour with special guests, sharing her wellness journey and
20, 7:30 p.m.
motivation and featuring interactive exercise and wellness research.
Where: First United
She also sits down for a one-on-one interview with high-profile
Methodist, 536 Coral
guests and celebrities.
Way, Coral Gables
A Seraphic Fire (Dec. 13); St. Philip’s Episcopal,
When: Jan. 4, 9 a.m.
Christmas 1121 Andalusia Ave., Coral
Where: BB&T Center
Tickets: Starting at $90.25
A South Florida tradition for Gables (Dec. 20)
Info: thebbtcenter.com
more than 10 years, the holiday Tickets: $60
concert features a wide variety Info: seraphicfire.org
18 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMother A&e
highlights
▲ THE GREATER MIAMI SYMPHONIC BAND We are more than
The band presents “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year:
Music of the Holidays and Season,” playing uplifting and joyous
JUST our magazines.
Christmas and Hanukkah favorites.
When: Dec. 8, 4 p.m. Through data-driven insights,
Where: Pinecrest Gardens innovative solutions and
Tickets: $15 adults; $5 children community engagement, we will help
Info: pinecrestgardens.org
you solve your toughest business
▲ NIGHT OF LIGHTS challenges and grow your business.
Pinecrest Gardens lights up with holiday cheer in this annual
event during which thousands of lights illuminating the gardens. Innovative & Strategic
Activities include pony rides and mechanical rides every night, Digital
plus Christmas music, story time and visits with Santa Claus on
select nights. Events
When: Dec. 13-Jan. 1, 6-9 p.m.
Where: Pinecrest Gardens
Data Driven, Targeted & ROI
Tickets: $5 online; $7 at the gate Engaged Audiences
Info: pinecrestgardens.org
Trusted Media Partner
▲ REDLAND HERITAGE FESTIVAL AND CRAFT FAIR
Connect to Florida’s roots with historical exhibits—plus, arts and
crafts, exhibit of local artists, tropical plants and food for sale.
Children enjoy a petting zoo and pony rides.
When: Dec. 14-15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Fruit & Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave., Homestead
Tickets: $10
Info: redlandfruitandspice.com
▲ MADONNA
The iconic singer is on her intimate “Madame X” tour, taking
place in theaters throughout the country and stopping at Miami
this month. Besides her popular hits, the tour celebrates the
music of her latest album Madame X, influenced by her time in
Lisbon and celebrating her love of Latin music.
When: Dec. 14-15 & 17-19, 8:30 p.m.
Where: The Fillmore Miami Beach
Tickets: Check website
Info: fillmoremb.com
▲ SALUTE TO VIENNA NEW YEAR’S CONCERT
Honoring Vienna’s traditional New Year concert, this event
features European singers, ballet and ballroom dancers
performing to popular Johann Strauss melodies played by the
Strauss Symphony of America.
When: Dec. 28, 8 p.m.
Where: Adrienne Arsht Center
Tickets: Starting at $29
Info: arshtcenter.org
For more information please contact:
Cheryl Snyder, Digital Marketing Director
csnyder@lmgfl.com | 786.385.6059
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 19BarTalk
Deck the Bar
A CREAMY CHRISTMAS TREAT CELEBRATES
A NEW BAR OPENING
M ove over, coquito. Through
December, Colada Cuban Café
& Grill will sling a seasonal cocktail so
good you won’t miss the egg and coconut
concoction. Made with white rum, fresh
lime juice, a dash of allspice and cinnamon
and a perfectly-cut lime wedge, Colada’s
Havana Holiday Daiquiri offers a
festive twist on the otherwise traditional
drink.
The family-owned and operated
restaurant based in Fort Lauderdale
recently opened a second location in
downtown Miami at the YVE Hotel (146
Biscayne Blvd., Miami), which features a
full bar. Through December, the location
will dish out the native Cuban cocktail,
paying homage to the restaurant’s roots,
one chilled drink at a time.
“At Colada Cuban Café & Grill, we are
known for adding our modern American
twist to classic Cuban dishes, so we
decided to take an authentic Cuban
cocktail and add some holiday seasonal
flare to it,” says Hector Torres, the
restaurant’s director of operations. “The
classic daiquiri takes its name from the
place it was originally created, the little
town of Daiquiri on the southeastern tip of
Cuba.”
As for how the team chose the cocktail’s
aromatic ingredients, Torres says the
rationale was simple: “Cinnamon and
allspice add a dash of holiday [spirit],
giving it a spin of our own during
December.”
For the team at Colada, the holidays
revolve around creating memories
surrounded by family, good Cuban food HAVANA HOLIDAY
and great cocktails, Torres says. “We DAIQUIRI
kept this in mind when coming up with Ingredients
the Havana Holiday Daiquiri,” he adds. 2 ounces Havana Club white rum
“A holiday-inspired drink is meant to 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
be enjoyed with family and friends and 1/2 ounce of allspice and
remind you of the cherished times spent cinnamon simple syrup
together over the years.” Lime wedge for garnish
Because of its sweetness, Torres
suggests pairing the drink with something Directions
savory, such as the restaurant’s mojo pork Pour white rum into glass.
tenderloin or zesty arroz con pollo, which Squeeze lime juice over. Top off
are available daily at both Colada locations. with allspice and cinnamon simple
-—CLARISSA BUCH syrup. Garnish with lime wedge.
20 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMSAIL TO MSC CRUISES’ HOTTEST NEW ISLAND,
OCEAN CAY MSC MARINE RESERVE.
Explore the Caribbean from Miami on one of MSC Cruises’ 4 beautiful ships.
Slip into relaxed bliss on one of Ocean Cay’s 8 pristine beaches. Enjoy activities from paddleboard
yoga and kayaking to a thrilling ride on a WaveRunner. The evening is yours to enjoy thanks to
our late-night stays: Take in a breathtaking sunset, enjoy a beach picnic with a crackling fire,
then dance to the beat of the Bahamian Junkanoo parade. As a grand finale, witness a spectacular
light show at the base of our iconic lighthouse. For the ultimate in VIP treatment, upgrade to the
exclusive MSC Yacht Club with 24-hour butler and concierge service.
Sail from Tampa on the classic MSC Armonia beginning November 2020.
Call 844-301-5033
Visit msccruises.com
Contact your Travel Advisor
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 21Gardening
Grapes, Plums and Pigeons
BY HARVEY BERNSTEIN
C
occoloba, is a large genus of Neotropical trees and environmental conditions. As indicated by the specific
shrubs belonging to the buckwheat family. Two name of the species, diversifolia, pigeon plum leaves
species are found as far north as Southern Florida, have various sizes. The blooming trees attract their own
where they are important and distinctive components of suite of butterflies. The small “plums” are sought after
coastal plant communities. by many birds, most notably the white-crowned pigeon,
Sea grape, Coccoloba uvifera, is a broad-canopied tree Patagioenas leucocephala. The birds also consume sea
commonly growing in sand or very sandy soil behind the grape fruit. Declining populations of this frugivorous wild
first dune line on beaches or in coastal hammocks inland pigeon are extremely habitat and food source sensitive
from mangroves. Sometimes, it can be found along the and are subjected to hunting pressure in the Caribbean.
shore just inland of the high tide line. The species is both In the United States, this elegant bird seems to be highly
salt and drought tolerant. Depending on location, sea grape intolerant of disturbance and occurs only in extreme South
can grow as a medium-tall tree with a mound-like shape or Florida and the Keys.
be wind- sculpted and sand-blasted into a sparser, irregular Both sea grape and pigeon plum are attractive
form. It can also be found as a thicket or tall groundcover and adaptable trees frequently used in South Florida
that helps anchor and stabilize beaches. Its dense branches landscaping. Some think that sea grapes are coarse and
and thick foliage shelter wildlife; it’s an important nectar ungainly; others find a tropical charm in their thick, large
source for several butterfly species. Female trees bear tasty and colorful leaves. They do undergo a messy leaf drop
fruit, a food source for birds and mammals. The fully ripe annually, and stray leaves fall at any time. Their soft fruit
fruit can be eaten by people, too. It makes excellent jam or can also present a problem on pavement, which also
jelly. happens with pigeon plums. Of course, no fruit develops on
Pigeon plum, Coccoloba diversifolia, is a medium- male trees. Both species develop attractively mottled bark.
sized coastal tree in South Florida. It’s less salt-tolerant Pigeon plums can be trimmed into more formal shapes, if
than sea grape and is typically found in coastal hammocks desired, and are nice additions to many different types of
or behind protective dunes. Pigeon plum is narrower gardens. Both species are quite hurricane-resistant.
and smaller leaved, too. Mature trees are irregularly Harvey Bernstein is the horticulturist at Pinecrest
vase-shaped, less subject to being shaped by challenging Gardens.
22 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMSip, sip, hooray!
Join City Furniture at their Sawgrass Showroom for this
December’s design topic: “All is Calm: Stress-Free Holiday Décor.”
Hosted by South Florida’s talented interior designer, Terri Behr,
this free design demonstration includes wine sampling, delicious
bites, 20% off accessories, 10% off furniture and your opportunity
to be photographed in Lifestyle Magazine.
RSVP for this Tamarac/ Sawgrass Showroom event on
December 11 from 6:30-8pm or for other locations by visiting
CityFurniture.com/events
TAMARAC BOCA NORTH MIAMI
Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday
DEC 11 • JAN 15 DEC 11 • JAN 22 DEC 11 • JAN 22
PEMBROKE PINES FT. LAUDERDALE
Wednesday Tuesday
DEC 4 • JAN 8 DEC 3 • JAN 7
December Topic: All is Calm: Stress-Free Holiday Décor
January Topic: Follow Your Art: How to Choose Wall Décor
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 23TheListing
Country
Serenity
A north Pinecrest home is reminiscent
of French abodes
Where: 6520 SW 94 St., Pinecrest
Floor size: 12,219 square feet
Bedrooms/baths: 8 bedrooms/8.5 bathrooms
Details: Stately landscaping adorns this French
chateau-inspired home designed by architect
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ONE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Ramon Pacheco. Sleek lines, white walls and marble
floors create a clean aesthetic, accentuated by high
ceilings, chandeliers, a fireplace, elevator and an
oak-paneled office and library. The elegance extends
to the kitchen with Miele and Sub-Zero appliances
as well as a 450-bottle temperature-controlled wine
cellar. A backyard with a pool, hot tub, fountains,
terrace and summer kitchen is the perfect space for
entertaining and relaxing.
Listing price: $6.25 million
Agent/contact: Michael Martinez, Vice President,
ONE Sotheby’s International Realty; 305.979.9367;
mmartinez@michaelmartinezrealtor.com
24 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMby United HomeCare
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• Meal Preparation Family Caregiver Counseling)
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PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 25FiveQuestions
Anna Noriega
The creative director and owner of Aloré Event
Firm on what makes her business tick—and
holiday party tips
BY KEREN MOROS / LEAD PHOTO BY IVAN APFEL
A nna Noriega doesn’t believe in luck—hates the word,
actually. To her, making it in life is a matter of commitment,
dedication and hard work in pulling what you want from the
universe.
But Noriega admits there was something serendipitous
about her being in the right place at the right time when she
accompanied her friend to a Miami Dolphins cheerleading
audition. A student at the University of Miami, Noriega was
focused on her goal of becoming a neuropsychologist and had no
intention of actually becoming a cheerleader. But she ended up
making the squad and realized she wasn’t someone who turned
down opportunities—plus, she was a Dolphins fan. is a lot of pressure,” Noriega says of her position. “To perform
“All of a sudden, here I was, traveling the world, doing with that pressure comes the constant thirst for knowledge, and
interviews. I was Miss December in the [cheerleader] calendar,” with that comes the ability to always learn and stay ahead of the
Noriega says. “At a young age, I was very much awakened by that trend and continue to evolve.”
whole life.” Lifestyle asked Noriega a few questions about her business
That awakening included an epiphany at—of all places—a and what trends are coming up for the holidays and 2020.
morgue. On her first day of an internship there, she was asked
to remove the nail polish she wore, part of her appearance as an
NFL cheerleader. 1 Among the events and photoshoots Aloré has organized,
what is an accomplishment you’re particularly proud of?
We did a photoshoot for Grace Ormonde Wedding Style a
“I looked at my hands and I said, ‘I can’t do that. … I have
another commitment.’ It hit me that one commitment was, for few years ago. It was a two-page spread. The key was really to
the first time in my life, [taking precedence over] what I thought create a showstopping, unique design. We created a design at
I wanted to do [as a career],” she says. “Right then and there, I the Four Seasons in Miami that included a mirror table with a
got in the car, I went back to my adviser, and I said, ‘I don’t think tabletop display made out of live goldfish. We used well over 300
I want to do this.’ ” goldfish to create an aquarium centerpiece that hoisted over
Noriega ended up majoring in psychology and business $3,000 worth of orchids and florals above it. It was an incredible
administration, and double minoring in dance and marketing, installation, and it took well over 15 staff members a little over
turning her career path toward the marketing and events 12 hours to be able to put together because the fish had to be
industry. In 2005, she became the events manager at Vizcaya acclimated to the water.
Museum and Gardens, and then worked as the director of sales
and marketing at Fisher Island Club. Eventually, she became
regional director of sales and marketing at Jordache Miami Sun 2 You’ve been a speaker at Miami-Dade Public Schools
and have supported their events. What are some of the
ways Aloré works with the school system, and what wisdom
Hotels, but the company’s ventures suffered from the national
economic downturn. That’s when she took a leap and opened her do you impart to students?
own company, which became Aloré Event Firm. Every summer, we have an intern that comes to us from the
Since starting it in 2011, Noriega and her team have made public school system—a junior or a senior. It’s a registered class,
their mark on Miami’s event landscape, planning galas for the and it gives them an opportunity to really see what the industry
American Cancer Society’s Broward chapter, Joe DiMaggio is about. This past summer, we had a great student from Cutler
Children’s Hospital, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, and Bay Senior High School who wasn’t sure if she wanted to do
Baptist Health South Florida’s annual fishing tournament in public relations or events.
Islamorada. They’ve also worked on product launches with One thing that I always advocate for [with students] is that
companies such as Dior and Victoria’s Secret and have been you need to try to learn everything and anything that’s put into
recognized in a wide variety of publications for their stunning your path because you never know where your life is going to
wedding designs. take you. The more tools that you have the better you’ll be able
“For us, it’s really a matter of constantly staying ahead, which to fix or handle whatever it is that life throws at you. It’s OK to
26 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMnot know what you’re going to do right now, so long table that is linenless—whether it’s a rustic farm table
as you feel you have a purpose in doing something. or a funky table. In terms of displays, it’s utilization of
As you continue to push forward, life itself will tell elements of food, fruit and cheese incorporated with
you what direction you need to go in. But the worst easy floral designs that almost look like you picked
thing you can do is just wait for those opportunities to it out of the garden. It’s a very hands-on, communal
come to you. … You’ve got to go out and make those approach that’s created with the idea that you can
opportunities for yourself. literally sit at this table for hours on end and pick up
3
whatever’s there in the middle.
Aloré hosts several DIY design workshops in
the area, such as wreath-making workshops.
What do you imbue in these workshops beyond
learning something new?
People come to these workshops with sense of, “Oh,
5 What are some of your do’s and don’ts for
hosting holiday events?
Definitely do send out invitations, whether it’s through
this is fun, but it’s also so hard,” and then they leave Eventbrite or another third party, so that you can keep
feeling a sense of accomplishment, of relief, of euphoria track of who’s coming.
that really comes from being able to say, “I learned • Don’t overstretch yourself. It’s absolutely
something that I didn’t know how it worked, and it acceptable to do something like a potluck and open
wasn’t that hard.” There’s a sense that they’re able to it up to much more of a team scenario. Through
now continue to further express their own creativity. SignUpGenius, you can create a party list and have
We’re just giving the tools and fundamental techniques. people sign up on it. …
[I tell them], “You’re the designer today, not me.” • Do create some sort of underlying content so that
For us, there’s 100 percent a sense of being able you’re able to have something going on at the party—
to give them those tools that they’re able [to use] whether it’s music or a game or a theme. Definitely
to further elaborate their own thinking and express create some sort of hands-on activity or something fun
elements of design in their own way. I go back to the for guests to do.
saying “There are no rules in art.” There are no rules in • Don’t try to do something on an actual holiday and
design. The design is really there to continue to elevate think that you’re going to get a lot of people to come.
and recreate. There are tools and there are certain If you’re trying to save a little bit on cost, vendors and
parameters that will influence that design. But at the rentals are going to be much higher on the holiday.
end of the day, the creative mind is endless. • I would also say do take risks and try something
different. Because there are no rules anymore, don’t
4 What’s a current design trend that people
can incorporate into their events this holiday
season?
be afraid to experiment. If it’s a holiday party and
you don’t necessarily want to do holiday decor, do
something that’s completely off the beaten path.
A huge trend is a naked table. That basically refers to a
PHOTO BY TRAVIS DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHYCameraReady
CELEBRATING
NATIIVO
Where: La Estacion
at MiamiCentral Station
What: Cervera Real Estate and
Natiivo hosted a networking happy
hour at La Estacion restaurant to
celebrate the launch Natiivo Miami
while enjoying restaurant menu
selections. Powered by Airbnb,
the 50-story development will
feature 605 units, with nearly 200
of them hotel licensed by NGD
Homesharing. It is expcted to open
in late 2022, blocks away from
MiamiCentral Station.
Jennifer Cervera, Jessica Rivera, Tensie Forry, Dianne Saavedra, Laura Preuss-Kuhne, Paulina Inostrosa,
Alicia Lamadrid Paysse and Goritza Draskovich
Lilian Perez, Virginia Aiescudua and Lucy Cavallo Olga Rogers, Cece Limardo and Daniel Lee
Jessica Rivera, Tensie Forry, Dianne Saavedra and Laura Preuss-Kuhne Jesse Ottley and Julie Sharenow
28 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMSOBEWFF.ORG
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Confirmed sponsors as of September 2019 PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 29CameraReady
Beatriz Martinez-Peñalver, Michel Perez, Ana Cristina Chissione and Ana Teresa Knoll Erin Berg Hager and Marlene Berg
AREA STAGE
COMPANY
CELEBRATION
Where: Riviera Theatre
What: Area Stage Company celebrated its 30th
anniversary with more than 200 guests who
enjoyed a silent auction and food from local
restaurants such as Shula’s Grill, Casacuba and
Town Kitchen & Bar. Former alumni sent video
testimonials of their time at ASC, including
Golden Globe winner Oscar Isaac and Preston
Howell, a contestant on The Voice. The evening
also featured performances from the cast of ASC’s
recent production of Matilda The Musical, and a
performance of “Let It Go” from the production
of Frozen Junior by students of the company’s
Inclusion Theatre Project.
Jose Antonio Perez, Luis Arturo Ayala and Roselin
Barrena Brian May, Andrea Cruz May and Giancarlo Rodaz
Dale Blanton and Arthur Whitelaw Suzette & Santiago Fuentes Vanessa Hyden, Corey Vega, Delphine Montevidoni and Ana Kruger
30 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMCameraReady
ORTIZ GOLF
TOURNAMENT
KICKOFF
Where: Balinese mansion in North
Pinecrest
What: Shannon Allen and
Marianna Dubinsky hosted the VIP
Kickoff Party for the 12th annual
David “Big Papi” Ortiz Celebrity
Golf Classic Tournament, held
last month at The Ritz-Carlton Key
Biscayne. Among the more than
100 guests were Ray Allen, Cliff
Floyd, Charles Johnson and Super
Bowl Head Rodney Barreto. Guests
enjoyed light bites from Grown and
cocktails. Photos by Daniel Tonello
Adriana de Moura Angela Birdman, Natalia Sol, Brett Graff, Debbie Taylor and Cynthia Demos
Ron Yacoub, George Lombard, Judy Lombard, Estrellita Sibila and Monica Pardo Jennifer Miranda, Sarah Selem, Estrellita Sibila and Jorge Arauz
April Donelson, Angela Birdman and Brett Graff Shannon Allen and Marianna Dubinsky Danielle & Xavier Hernandez
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 31Neil Rollnick speaks
to colleagues’ children
about his work and
philanthropy on take your
child to work day.
For the Greater Good
How Pinecrest resident and Coral Gables lawyer Neil Rollnick found his way to the Selma Oritt
Foundation
BY MICHELLE F. SOLOMON
F
or Neil Rollnick, random lifelong friend, but it was Oritt’s mother, Selma, who would
acts of kindness aren’t give Rollnick a purpose.
just the small actions “Selma was a visionary,” Rollnick says. “A Russian
of holding a door open for immigrant who traveled through the South selling dresses
someone or allowing a fellow from her car.”
shopper to step ahead in a In the 1930s, ’40s and ’50s, Selma created, built and
supermarket checkout line. expanded a chain of women’s clothing stores called the
Throughout his life, the Diana Shops throughout the South. In Miami in the early
Pinecrest resident followed the 1950s, Selma made investments and began to acquire
golden rule of “making certain what Rollnick says were “large tracts of land” west of the
Neil Rollnick that others also have if you have Miami International Airport. In one of these tracts, she
the ability to give to them.” built Lakeside Memorial Park, the largest Jewish cemetery
“In the Jewish religion there is something known as in Florida. In 1951, she created a charitable foundation,
tzedakah, which is charitable giving—acts of random which became the Selma Oritt Foundation.
kindness,” he says. By this time, Rollnick had finished his studies at the
Still, the law partner at Hinshaw & Culbertson in Coral University of Miami and the University of Miami School of
Gables never dreamed of running a charitable family Law. Selma decided she wanted to engage Rollnick as her
foundation. What took his tzedakah to another level was lawyer.
meeting Michael Oritt. The two were in seventh grade “That was about 1971,” he recalls. “Not long after that,
in the early 1950s at Nautilus Middle School, where they maybe a year later, she called me and said, ‘Neil, I’m tired
both grew up in Miami Beach. Oritt became Rollnick’s of running the foundation, and my son, Michael, doesn’t
32 DECEMBER 2019 | PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COMwant to have anything to do with it. I want you to become Hurricane Dorian, which devastated the Bahamas’ Abaco
the chairman and the president and I want you to run the Islands when it made landfall on Sept. 1, was personal. All
foundation.’ ” agreed that the foundation should contribute to a cause
For almost 50 years, Rollnick has been its chairman of associated with aiding those affected.
the board of directors, and under his direction, the Selma “This hit home to all of us,” Rollnick recalls. “Michael
Oritt Foundation has donated money to children’s causes, and I are boaters. Michael’s family and he lived on a boat
religious groups and health organizations. Where the and traveled extensively, visiting the Bahamas, among
money goes is personal to Rollnick and those on his board, other destinations. My wife, Robin, and our sons, Josh and
made up of “two Rollnicks and three Oritts,” Rollnick says: Ari, spent our vacations in the areas on our boat where the
Oritt, Selma’s son and Rollnick’s best friend; Rollnick’s hurricane hit: Marsh Harbour, Green Turtle Cay, Treasure
son Ari; Rollnick; and Oritt’s two children, Steven and Cay. We would stay there for days at a time. We knew
Meredith. many of the people that worked on the docks or at the
“We’re not the Ford Foundation,” Rollnick says. “This is resorts.”
a small family foundation and we’ve managed to give away The foundation gave a $5,000 donation for Bahamas
ever year between $40,000 to $80,000.” relief to World Central Kitchen, headed by celebrity chef
The foundation doesn’t support large charities but Jose Andres, whose team of volunteers cooked hot meals
instead gives small donations to multiple entities to spread in the Bahamas for those affected by the disaster.
goodwill such as the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, What causes the foundation grants money to
the Jewish Communal Fund in New York and Families is, according to Rollnick, “guided by how we feel.
for Fragile X in Miami, which helps children with the Philanthropy isn’t an issue of writing checks; it is more
syndrome. about daily actions.
The decision of what organizations receive money is “There are so many things we can do from the moment
personal to each board member. Every year, each receives we get out of bed every single morning that make you a
an amount of money to be used at their discretion. There better person and make this world a better place.”
are, however, entities that already have a commitment
from the foundation and those are consistently funded.
For everyone on the Selma Oritt Foundation board,
PINECRESTMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019 33You can also read
