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This Month in Miami Beach History:
Miami Beach Botanical Garden’s Renewal – A November Transformation
In November 2011, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden reopened its gates to the public after a significant renovation that transformed it into a lush, sustainable oasis in the heart of the city. Originally established in 1962, the garden had served as a green space for decades, but its redesign brought fresh life and purpose to the area. Landscape architect Raymond Jungles led this revitalization, incorporating native Florida plants, water-conserving features, and a layout that encourages visitors to experience Miami Beach’s unique natural beauty up close.
As we mark this November milestone, we celebrate the garden’s evolution from a modest public space into an essential part of Miami Beach’s identity. Now a beloved spot for residents and tourists alike, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden serves not only as a space for relaxation and recreation but as a center for environmental education, cultural events, and community connection.
1. A Green Renewal with Environmental Impact
The garden’s redesign was driven by a vision to create a sustainable landscape that would thrive in Miami Beach’s subtropical climate. Raymond Jungles’s approach emphasized native plants, drought-resistant vegetation, and the use of natural materials to minimize environmental impact. The garden’s water features, shaded walkways, and native flora all contribute to an eco-friendly design that conserves water, provides habitats for local wildlife, and encourages sustainable practices.
This focus on sustainability reflects Miami Beach’s commitment to green initiatives, reinforcing the city’s appeal to environmentally conscious residents and businesses. Today, the garden stands as a model for eco-friendly urban spaces, inspiring visitors and local enterprises to adopt green practices.
2. A Hub for Community and Cultural Events
Since its reopening, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden has become a vibrant hub for cultural and community activities. It regularly hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and public gatherings, drawing both locals and visitors. From yoga sessions to plant markets and educational programs, the garden offers diverse programming that caters to a wide range of interests. This approach aligns with Miami Beach’s vision of creating inclusive spaces that enhance community engagement and cultural appreciation.
For local businesses, the garden’s events attract new audiences, increasing foot traffic in the area and providing opportunities for partnerships. Businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors, in particular, benefit from the steady stream of visitors seeking unique experiences within the city.
3. An Educational Resource for Sustainable Living
The garden’s educational initiatives are a cornerstone of its mission. It provides interactive programs on sustainable gardening, native plant species, and environmental conservation, making it an invaluable resource for students, families, and eco-conscious visitors. The garden’s layout itself serves as a living classroom, showcasing plants that flourish in Miami Beach’s climate and promoting biodiversity.
Local schools and organizations frequently collaborate with the garden to offer hands-on learning experiences, reinforcing Miami Beach’s role as a community committed to environmental education. This outreach effort contributes to a growing awareness of ecological issues and sustainable practices within the Miami Beach community.
The November 2011 reopening of the Miami Beach Botanical Garden represents more than just a physical transformation; it symbolizes Miami Beach’s dedication to preserving green spaces, promoting environmental education, and fostering a community-centered approach to city planning. As the garden continues to bloom, it reminds us that investments in sustainable design and public spaces yield lasting benefits, strengthening Miami Beach’s identity as a forward-thinking, eco-conscious city.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and also coincides with Hispanic Heritage month, therefore for our October business spotlight, we are highlighting Dr. Juan C. Paramo. Dr. Juan C. Paramo is an attending surgeon in Surgical Oncology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center Comprehensive Cancer Center. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Paramo is an expert surgeon in the treatment of complex cases of breast cancer, thyroid cancer, melanoma, as well as sarcomas of the soft tissues.
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Pagio’s & Associates, LLC: Pioneers of Change
Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture. While we celebrate Hispanic and Latino communities throughout the year, from September 15 to October 15, we give extra recognition to the many contributions made to the history and culture of the United States, including important advocacy work, vibrant art, popular and traditional foods, and much more. The theme for 2024 is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, this business spotlight focuses on Pagio’s & Associates, a Hispanic-owned business.
Once upon a time, in the vibrant city of Lima, Peru, two sisters named Paola and Giovanna Guerra, dreamed of a future filled with opportunity and success. Despite facing obstacles and challenges along the way, their determination never wavered. With a shared passion for numbers and a deep sense of ambition, they decided to embark on a new adventure together. In 2008, Paola and Giovanna made a bold decision to leave their homeland and pursue their dreams in Miami Beach, Florida. With nothing but a suitcase with a few possessions and full of hopes and aspirations, they set out to establish their own accounting firm. The journey was not easy, as they encountered language barriers and cultural differences, but their strong bond and unwavering belief in each other propelled them forward. Founded in 2009, their business blossomed from a humble endeavor into a thriving hub for immigration, tax, and accounting services.
With over 15 years of experience and counting, together they have developed clientele who can trust them to provide exceptional service. “Opening a business as a Hispanic entrepreneur can be daunting, but our strong sense of community and family support helps us navigate through the toughest challenges with grace and perseverance,” states Paola. Their mission is to meet the current and future needs of their clients and help them to cultivate long-term success. They strive to provide incomparable services while maintaining the highest levels of integrity and professionalism, and to respect their staff and those they serve as professionals and individuals. Their ultimate goal is to maintain an environment that encourages giving back to their community. Through hard work and perseverance, Paola’s and Giovana’s accounting firm began to flourish.Their dedication to providing top-notch services and building lasting relationships with clients earned them a stellar reputation in the business community. As the years went by, their client base grew, and their business expanded beyond their wildest dreams. They specialize in divorces, marriages, pre-nuptial agreements, notarizations, power of attorney, wills, travel permits and translations.
Now, sixteen years later, Paola’s and Giovanna’s accounting firm stands as a testament to their tenacity and resilience. From humble beginnings in Peru to a thriving business in Miami Beach, they have proven that with sisterly love and steadfast resolve, anything is possible. With a dedicated team of 11, they expanded to a second office in Sunny Isles Beach in 2021, continuing to serve their community with integrity and expertise. Their story inspires others to reach for the stars and never give up on their dreams. As the sun sets over the sandy shores of Miami Beach, Paola and Giovanna look back on their journey with gratitude and pride. Together, they have built a legacy that will stand the test of time, showing the world that two Hispanic sisters from Peru can conquer any challenge, achieve greatness, and give back to the country that gave them this opportunity.
A Sparkling Gem in the Heart of South Beach: Chandelier Shelley
Black Business Month is celebrated in the month of August, and it is a time to acknowledge and celebrate Black-owned businesses. Creating a diverse economy is how Miami Beach maintains a dynamic and resilient community, and why it is important to share the accomplishments of Chandelier Shelley and other Black business owners and entrepreneurs and their contribution to the economy of Miami Beach.
Cory and Ashley Nelson opened Chandelier Shelley, in the heart of South Beach, in January 2024. By embracing the symbolic meaning of what a chandelier represents: abundance, enlightenment, and beauty, Chandelier Shelley’s design mesmerizes and draws patrons into a trendy and chic bar and lounge, in the lobby of The Hotel Shelly, a popular South Beach boutique hotel.
“Hospitality has been our passion for years. We have opened restaurants and eateries, in New York, and creating innovative and creative dining experiences comes naturally to us”, says Cory. “Our move to Miami Beach, is an extension of our appetite to transform culinary experiences, and we love the idea of opening a light and luxurious bar/lounge concept in one of the best vacation destinations in the world.”
The Nelsons’ journey to Miami Beach had its peaks and valleys, and the chandelier and quest to be unique concept drove the voyage. Inspired by their travels and desire to create a space that is more than aesthetic appealing but is a place they want to spend time, the young couple installed sixteen (16) chandeliers, that captivate diners with sparkling and intricately detailed crystals surrounding an elegantly designed lounge. The result is a beautiful space that is warm, relaxing, inviting and sophisticated.
“When I saw how the chandeliers added a dash of drama and created a welcoming atmosphere, I knew we created something special,” shared Cory. “Prior to the transformation of the space, like every entrepreneur, we had doubts, but now we are excited to join the illuminating and iconic South Beach libation scene.”
Serving a host of unique and innovative potions that mix traditional liqueurs with a variety of flavors such as elderflower, mint, lemon-lime, pumpkin spice, caramel, Reese’s Peanut Butter and expresso, coupled with cool music, Chandelier Shelley has become one of the highest rated bar and lounge in South Beach. Honored as the top Miami Beach expresso martini, the Nelsons have created a new vibe on the beach.
Check out Chandelier Shelley at 844 Collins Avenue and follow them on Instagram @chandeliershelley!
THE IMPORTANCE OF A BUSINESS TAX RECEIPT: WHY YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO IGNORE IT!
As a business owner, there are many important documents you need to keep track of to ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations. One of the most critical documents is the business tax receipt (BTR).
A BTR, formerly known as an Occupational License, confirms that a business has paid its taxes in full for a specific period. The BTR serves as proof that the business has complied with its tax obligations and is up to date with its tax payments.
Maintaining a valid BTR is crucial for several reasons:
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- Compliance with Tax Laws – a BTR is proof that your business has met its tax obligations, which helps to ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations. Without a valid BTR, you may be subject to fines, penalties, and even audits from the tax authorities.
- Bank Account Opening - many banks and financial institutions require a valid BTR as part of the process for opening a business bank account. Without a valid BTR, you may not be able to open an account or may face restrictions on your business accounting activities.
- Government Contracts - when bidding for government contracts, a BTR is often required as part of the bidding process. This ensures that the government can verify your business compliance with tax laws and regulations before awarding the contract.
- Supplier and Vendor Requirements - many suppliers and vendors require a valid BTR, before they will do business with your business, to ensure your business is financially stable and compliant with tax laws.
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How to obtain a Business Tax Receipt in the City of Miami Beach?
The City of Miami Beach Finance Department provides clear steps, expectations and a thorough explanation of BTR requirements that are user friendly. A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) and Certificate of Use (CU) may be necessary prior to occupancy of any commercial, industrial, or office location. If you are doing interior remodeling or alterations that require a permit, you will need to complete the work and obtain all final inspections prior to applying for the CO and/or CU. Then the business may apply for the BTR, which is proof of payment of the business tax and is required before a business opens or starts.
CO applications are reviewed by the Building Department, CU applications are reviewed by the Planning Department, and BTR applications are reviewed by the Finance Department Customer Service Center team. The BTR and CU application process emulates how other municipalities and counties administer their business licenses.
All businesses wishing to operate in the City of Miami Beach must first obtain a CU
To apply for a CU online, please follow the instructions below:
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- Go to: http://www.mbselfservice.com (note: application reviews may result in a request for additional information/documentation).
- Request a Fire Inspection via Citizen Self Service Portal (CSS) at http://www.mbselfservice.com.
- Once the Fire Inspection is approved, the CU will be automatically issued, and business may apply for your
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To apply for a BTR please follow these instructions:
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- Go to the Citizen Self Service Portal (CSS) at: http://www.mbselfservice.com
- The following is required for a BTR application to be reviewed:
- Valid CU
- Florida Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM)* approval
- Valid Lease/Recorded Warranty Deed
- Articles of Incorporation
- Federal Identification Number (FEIN)
- Fictitious Name (if applicable)
- Additional documentation may be required based on business type.
*DERM approval is required for all businesses, except professionals, home-based businesses, short-term rentals, and mobile car washes. For more information on how to apply to get a DERM inspection for your CU, click here
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Applications meeting all the above requirements, upon verification, will be approved and issued a BTR immediately. All BTRs must be renewed, annual, by September 30th of each year.
To apply online for a BTR, please visit our Citizen’s Self Service.
For an on-line directory of current Business Tax Receipts please click here.
If you would like to apply in person, but need an application click here.
Applicants with questions may contact the City of Miami Beach at 305.673.7420 or mbhelp@miamibeachfl.gov.
UNITY in CommUNITY!
Pride Month is a month-long celebration that recognizes the LGBTQ+ community and their contributions to society. It is a time to acknowledge the challenges faced by this community and to stand in solidarity with their fight for equality, acceptance, and human rights. Pride Month is a joyful and colorful display of love, unity, and resilience, with events and activities that promote inclusivity, educate the public, and celebrate the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities. In honor of Pride Month, we sat down with Herb Sosa, the Executive Director of Unity Coalition to learn more about how the organization is assisting the LCBTQ community in Miami Beach.
Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to call Miami Beach your home:
I was born in Miami to Cuban exile parents who met/married here. My journey so far has taken me from living in Palm Springs, Hialeah, North, Kendall, and Little Havana to where I call home – Miami Beach.
Professionally, I was the creative director of Burdines department stores for many years, and I designed across Florida and later nationwide with Federated stores. I then opened my own company for branding & design and later started Ba=BaLU Shops – a collection of Cuban-themed boutiques. Voted one of Condé Nast magazine’s top 10 destinations in the world! I have always had a passion for architecture, history, and social conscience. As executive director of Miami Design Preservation League and Art Deco Weekend, president of Dade Heritage Trust, and chairing the Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board, I have led a lifelong commitment to my community and its legacy and a passion for making things better. This led to both establishing an online monthly bilingual publication – AMBIENTE digital magazine, since 2003 and co-founding Unity Coalition|Colación Unida – a Florida nonprofit dedicated to the leadership of Latinx/Hispanic & Indigenous LGBTQI+ communities, with programming across South Florida and Colombia, since 2002.
What is Unity Coalition?
Unity Coalition is an organization for the Latinx|Hispanic & Indigenous LGBTQ+ community, advancing Equality & Fairness, through Education, Leadership and Awareness, since 2002, With programming in Miami Beach & Bogotá. Most of our programming has been created and focuses on the ever-changing and evolving needs of our community. We are proud to also have a truly diverse and professional board of directors, advisors and volunteers that listen, respond, and lead with actions and solutions to the many challenges we face. Some great examples of this came during the global pandemic of 2019. We recognized that one. Of course, we are thrilled to call Miami Beach home since 2001, and much of our programming has roots right here.
What is your annual fundraiser? - Our (14) annual Celebrate ORGULLO Hispanic & Indigenous PRIDE Festival, held every October, was an initiative created in unison with Mayor Matti Herrera-Bower to shed light on Miami Beach's diverse population and cultural heritage, and brings Art, Music, Theater and Pride events for 15 days, across South Florida. In 2022 the Celebrate ORGULLO Festival was named #4 of TripSaavy's 13 unique LGBT Events around the world!
What are some of your 2024 initiatives?
1. TRANSART Conference & Artists Showcase: Showcasing the talent, vision and possibilities within the transgender community, the 10th annual TRANSART brings together a collection of talents, individuals & artistic genres to create awareness, nurture aspiring artists and enlighten the public.
3. MicroGIVING Incubator FUND: This fund proudly brings MicroGiving to the South Florida LGBTQ+ community, with focus on what individuals need RIGHT NOW, and the opportunity to help you get one step closer to stability, prosperity, giving back and fulfilling your dreams – over $72,000 given out to date. Applications available online, year-round, for Seed Funding & Mentoring, and offered as a onetime award in the following categories: Personal Well-Being & Needs Based; -Educational Development; -Start Ups, -Visioning and Community Building.
For mor information, please visit www.unitycoalition.org
Meet Victoria Pelletier: Corporate Executive and Public Speaker
June marks the start of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. A time dedicated to the celebration and commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other identities. It seeks to honors LGBTQ+ history and the challenges the community. Pride Month honors the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City. The riots began on June 28, when police officers raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club located in Greenwich Village, which led to days of protests and violent clashes with law enforcement. In honor of Miami Beach Pride month, we are pleased to feature Victoria Pelletier, a LGBTQ+ activist and Miami Beach entrepreneur.
Victoria is a rare, impactful speaker, who you hear once, and remember fondly. A Canadian native, she has overcome her share of challenges from an early age. Born to a drug-addicted and abusive teenage mother, Victoria was blessed to be adopted by loving parents. Her supportive family allowed her to be herself and express herself freely. She came out as bisexual in her teens and later married in her twenties. Married to her wife of eleven years, she gave birth to their two children; during the second pregnancy, her wife was diagnosed with cancer and many years later, she passed away from a reoccurrence. Victoria subsequently met her husband, who is equally proud of her openness, passion, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.
Challenge, however, did not impede Victoria’s business acumen. She was a Chief Operating Officer at the age of 24, and has attained senior executive roles, in a highly competitive B2B environment. At IBM, she was a trailblazing leader - one of only 30 Out LGBTQ+ executives worldwide. Victoria has navigated the corporate world, and its many peaks and valleys, mergers, acquisitions, reorganizations, restructures, and more…. witnessing the impact of these business trials on careers, families and livelihoods.
“My challenges or obstacles have not been easy, and I have developed a multi-step process to a healthier way to be resilient and move forward. I think resilience is both innate as well as learned,” shares Victoria. “Being resilient is like building a muscle. I now enjoy spending my time speaking, sharing and coaching my community and helping others overcome or navigate their challenges.”
An inspiring speaker, for over 20 years, Victoria leveraged her natural talent to open a professional public speaking and coaching business 12 years ago. Some of her favorite Keynote titles include:
- Unstoppable: Creating a Life of No Excuses
- Influence Unleased: Forging a Lasting Legacy Through Personal Branding
- Embracing the Now: Empowered Employees and the Evolution of Whole Human Leadership
- Healthy Resilience: Navigating Adversity & Challenge to Shift from Survival to Thriving
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion- A Culture of Strategic Intentionality
“Victoria is a prolific speaker, her personal stories carry so much strength, and she leaves her audience breathless and wanting more,” shares Nkechi Nwafor-Robinson, an executive, after hearing one of Victoria’s speeches.
Wanting to further embed her insight and experience, Victoria is also a published author of three books including:
- The Power of Whole Human Leadership; Managing Modern Workers Toward Purpose and Profit
- Influence Unleashed: Forging a Lasting Legacy Through Personal Branding
- Unstoppable: Stories of Change Makers Who Dare to Make a Difference
Victoria’s business guidance is “if you have a great idea that has potential market opportunity and are passionate about it, go for it! Follow your passion, even if that means keeping your day job until it is financially viable to transition fully into your own business. Entrepreneurs should not attempt to perform all business functions and instead understand their skills, surround themselves with others who have the skills that they do not have, delegate or outsource the skills that they are not proficient in, and where funding is a challenge, employ a barter system with other entrepreneurs you can collaborate and share their skills and vice versa. Lastly, but certainly not least, overcome your fear when starting your own business or reinventing yourself…One of Victoria’s favorite quotes: “Everything you've ever wanted lives on the other side of fear.” - George Addair
For more information on Victoria Pelletier, please visit: https://victoria-pelletier.com/
