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MIAMI-DADE GAY & LESBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

The Reward Yourself

Issue

As the summer continues its sweltering influence on our daily Miami lives, we natives look to the indoor activities that bring a smile (and a bit of relaxation) to our otherwise hectic schedules. This edition of Clarity Magazine reflects on the seasonal rewards that our members provide to help you beat the heat. And, not all the options are indoors, as our cover poolside photo shoot at the Kimpton Epic Hotel reflects.

As is customary after each of our Gala Awards Celebrations, the center photo spread in this issue is a nice reflection of the wonderful evening we had on June 21st. Thank you to all our sponsors, table hosts, gift bag item providers, and attendees that helped make The Emerald Gala a record setting event. Save the date for next year – June 13th – for THE SAPPHIRE GALA.

Have a great summer everyone!

With PRIDE, Steve Adkins

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President’s Message

PolaroidChic

Upcoming Events

Damian PardoAmerican Airlines

Sail Away

R.E.W.A.R.D.

b2 Miami Downtown

Cocktail of the Season

The Emerald Gala - Pics

Perceived Value/Reward

Coregasm!

A More Youthful You

Marketing Tips

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GR EYGO OSE .CO M

A TOAST

TO LIVING WITH PRIDE

AND CELEBRATING

ALL FLAVORS

SIP RESPONSIBLY.www.greygoose.com | facebook.com/greygoose ©2013. GREY GOOSE, THE GEESE DEVICE AND TRADE DRESS ARE TRADEMARKS.IMPORTED BY GREY GOOSE IMPORTING COMPANY, CORAL GABLES, FL.VODKA 40% ALC. BY VOL.; FLAVORED VODKAS EACH 40% ALC. BY VOL.—DISTILLED FROM GRAIN.

July – September ‘14 | CLARITY [ 3

Our facial appearance does not always match our self-perception. We look older than we feel, or even worse, even older than we are. We feel dynamic and energetic, yet we appear weary and fatigued. Fortunately, modern aesthetic medicine offers many effective, non-surgical solutions for those who may not be interested in or yet in need of a surgical approach. These injectable treatments include neuromodulators (botulinum toxins) and dermal/soft tissue fillers.

Neuromodulators, including Botox, Dysport and Xeomin are all botulinum toxins that block signals between motor nerve endings and the small muscles of facial animation. These injectable agents are indicated for treatment of the upper face, to reduce fixed

wrinkles and animation lines of the forehead and brow and around the eyes. Although the direct effects of these products are to reduce wrinkles, it is their indirect effect of lifting and shaping the eyebrows and opening up the eyes that is most desirable to many patients. Despite the common concerns and misperceptions of many, overtreatment or unnatural results are uncommon with these products. On the contrary, the effects are usually fairly subtle yet clearly noticeable, producing a more youthful and refreshed appearance that will last for 3 to 4 months or longer.

Complementary to the neuromodulators are the dermal and soft tissue fillers, including Restylane, Juvederm and Radiesse. Although they may be used to fill wrinkles of the forehead, brow and lateral orbits, these injectable materials are indicated more for filling wrinkles and restoring volume in the cheeks and lips and around the mouth. Common effects of facial aging include sagging as well as loss of soft tissue volume beneath the eyes, in the temples, cheeks and lips, and around the mouth. Ironically, sometimes our successful efforts with diet, nutrition and fitness may result in weight loss and low body fat that may mimic or exacerbate these features of a more aged face. Treatment with fillers can correct these changes and restore a natural and more youthful appearance that can last from several months up to 1 to 2 years.

In the hands of a qualified, experienced and skilled injector, these treatments may allow you to again look as well as you feel.

In today’s world, looking and feeling our best has never been more important. Fortunately, modern advances in medicine, fitness, nutrition and technology continue to facilitate our never-ending quest to attain these goals. Although certain aspects of health and fitness that affect our appearance depend on our own motivation, others are simply beyond our control. Sometimes, no matter how disciplined we are in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, when we look in the mirror, who we see does not reflect the youthful and vigorous person of our self-image.

Turn Back the ClockReward Yourself with a Refreshed and More Youthful Look

Max Polo, M.D. Miami Plastic Surgery 305.595.2969 www.miamiplasticsurgery.com CHAMBER CORPORATE MEMBER

HOTBOX

HOTBOX

Member Testimonial

Member Testimonial

“ In 2005, I started Benefits Design Resources, Inc. which is an independent insurance agency located on Miami Beach that specializes in healthcare, life, disability, vision and dental insurances for businesses and individuals. Soon after launching my business I was introduced to Steve Adkins and the MDGLCC. I was impressed with this chamber and became a member immediately, which I have maintained a membership since originally joining.

The MDGLCC has been a valuable resource for the success of my business and aiding me in developing relationships with other Chamber members and community leaders. I’ve found that this chamber and its members make concerted efforts to do business with other chamber members.”

» Bill Warren Benefits Design Resources, Inc. bwarren@bdrinsurances.com MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

|

GR EYGO OSE .CO M

A TOAST

TO LIVING WITH PRIDE

AND CELEBRATING

ALL FLAVORS

SIP RESPONSIBLY.www.greygoose.com | facebook.com/greygoose ©2013. GREY GOOSE, THE GEESE DEVICE AND TRADE DRESS ARE TRADEMARKS.IMPORTED BY GREY GOOSE IMPORTING COMPANY, CORAL GABLES, FL.VODKA 40% ALC. BY VOL.; FLAVORED VODKAS EACH 40% ALC. BY VOL.—DISTILLED FROM GRAIN.

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— PHILLIP C. GRANT ONCE WROTE —

“A reward cannot be valued if it is not understood.”

Take a moment to consider these words.

We live in a world of diversity. Different lifestyles. Unique interests. Individual choices. Many of us are fortunate to see incentives in our employment, gifts from those we love, returns on our investments.

But what is a reward? One definition states that reward is “something received in recompense for worthy behavior”. If the intent is to recognize and applaud, then how much more important is it that the item has meaning to the individual being praised? So often our efforts to reward others fall short because what is of value to us may not hold the same significance to the recipient.

Knowing one’s self is essential for growth and development. We know when we have reached personal goals or triumphed over specific circumstances. In many of these cases, it is

unrealistic to expect someone else to reward us. We know and understand what is of value to us. We know when our behavior or accomplishments warrant a ‘treat’. So, let’s reward ourselves!

The best reward is one that also invests in you and your future. A day at the spa can offer relaxation and refreshment. Traveling

is often educational and results in new perspectives. A vacation property could provide an opportunity for continual enjoyment of the reward and even a return on the investment.

We are privileged to reside in a geographic area where rewards are all around us. Consider where you are personally and where you have been. Is it time for a reward? What is of value to you? Why not take the road to reward that brings you to the Florida Keys? Real estate activity has increased considerably and there are many opportunities for smart investing. If you hesitate, the moment may pass, along with the opportunity for celebration of your accomplishment. Relax… Restore… Revitalize… and Reap the Rewards!

Holly Hight Island Equity Real Estate 305.852.0400 www.islandequityrealestate.com MDGLCC CORPORATE MEMBER

Perceived Value… Perceived Reward

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You may have heard it whispered about at the coffee shop, you might recall experiencing a new sensation during grade school gym class, or perhaps you have read the mere mentions of this urban myth found in the back corners of your favorite fitness magazines. It is the enticing, the mysterious…the achievable, COREGASM!

That’s right ladies AND gentlemen; we are here to confirm for you the abso-lute existence of this elusive pot of gold

at the end of the rainbow. Since as early as the 1950’s the Coregasm was brought to the attention of biologist Alfred Kinsey during his human sexual-ity research on the “President’s Fitness Challenge” when it was discovered that through abdominal exercises alone, female orgasms could be achieved.

In this present day, with all the talk sur-rounding this subject there is strikingly little information about how to actually develop such musculature to support the claims. Sure, fitness magazines will tell you to do hanging leg lifts or lying down leg pulses, but truly supporting these movements from the pelvic floor and powerhouse cannot be learned through the pages of a magazine, but consistent training of your abdominals…delicious mind candy won’t hurt either!

Let’s go over the benefits: Beyond achieving those pesky stronger orgasms, with a strong pelvic floor and powerhouse you can expect to have better digestion through improved circulation (i.e. Battle the bloat, your jeans always fit). This improved circulation also means longer stronger erections for men, while women tend to feel those benefits by creating a more inviting environment. A strong pelvic floor increases sensation, strength and control

of the lower sphincters and vaginal walls; and for all of those looking to ensure pelvic control (i.e. Bladder retention issues) for their futures, consistent training of the powerhouse is key.

Consisting of the upper and lower abdominals, the inner and outer thighs, the lower back, muscles around the hips, pelvic floor and gluteus muscles, your powerhouse is “the” core concept behind Pilates training and the incredibly dynamic strength and control necessary for stabilizing the trunk of your body and… you know... ;-)

No matter what athletic level you are, no matter your injuries, Pilates is a mind body system of exercise that can help you achieve your goals. In fact, Pilates not only allows you to reward yourself with a stronger body and a clearer mind, but also a stronger, better (more frequent) orgasm.

It’s a gift you can give yourself and let’s face it… you deserve it.

COREGASMThe gift that keeps on giving

Kerri Bender Level IV Instructor Trainer and Co-owner Pilates & Movement Studio of Brickell pilatesmovementbrickell.com MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

3

1

2

4As entrepreneurs and business leaders, we wear many hats. As we try master-ing each task, it’s nice to get insider tips to make life a little easier – rewarding you with more time and better outputs. For many, marketing can be an over-whelming, time-consuming process. Here are four easy tips to simplify your life and maximize your marketing.

SCHEDULE THIRTY MINUTES EVERYDAY TO MARKET YOUR BUSINESSIt’s human nature, especially when we’re busy, to put off working on tasks that look too big or overly complicated. Don’t let your marketing be part of this procrasti-nation black hole. Instead, block off thirty minutes of time every day to focus on marketing your business. There is zero re-ward if you don’t respect your scheduled time – so be strict and ensure you dedi-cate this time to growing your business.

USE AUTOMATION TOOLSMany entrepreneurs think of social media as free marketing. But is social media actually costing you zero dollars?

No. Think about all the time you spend crafting perfectly worded posts or shar-ing stories you think are relevant to your clients. That’s a lot of time, and as you know…time is money!

Upgrade to social media automation! There are numerous no-cost automation platforms that allow you to easily schedule, respond and monitor posts across all social platforms via one dashboard! Hootsuite, Buffer, IFTTT…the list goes on-and-on. Don’t forget to automate your email news-letters as well, saving yourself time and money! With a little research, you’ll find an automation tool right for your business.

REFRESH, REUSE, RECYCLEThe digital age we live in today is all about sharing. But who has time to constantly create content to share on your blog or post on Facebook? The key to creating content is Refresh, Reuse and Recycle! Every blog you write and every infograph-ic you create takes time. Don’t be afraid to dust off those old marketing assets and put them to use when appropriate.

BE RELEVANTThe final and most important tip is to al-ways be relevant in your marketing. Post-ing content that is off topic or irrelevant to your business is not only a waste of time for you, it’s a waste of time for your audience and puts what equity you’ve developed with that audience at risk. Before crafting your next Facebook post, ask yourself: “Will this post bring value to my customers?” If yes – post away. If no, take a step back and reutilizing your time elsewhere.

These four tips will certainly help you maximize your time and lend stronger returns for your business. Still feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be afraid to tap the expertise of a marketing agency to show you the ropes.

FOUR MARKETING TIPS WITH PROMISING REWARDS

Justin Bell, CEO Arc+Arrow Creative Group jbell@arcandarrow.com 310.507.7519 MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

July – September ‘14 | CLARITY [ 7

When you reward yourself with an exciting vacation, why should the flight be any less exciting? The American Airlines 777-300ER reimagines you travel as “life uninterrupted,” providing many of the comforts and features

of everyday life. Fully lie-flat seats in First and Business Class so you can stretch out and get some sleep? Got it. Internet access? Yep, that too. The plane even features mood lighting and a walk-up bar full of snacks if you want to grab a bite in between meals. Currently flying from Miami to London Heathrow, the 777-300ER will start flying from Miami to Sao Paulo in the fall. To help you pass the time on your flight, every seat features an HD-touchscreen monitor, featuring hundreds of movies, TV programs and audio selections that you can enjoy

inflight. And if you’re traveling in First or Business Class, you’ll also have Bose QuietComfort® 15 Acoustic Noise Cancelling® headphones to help you tune into your show and tune out the world. It’s time to enjoy life uninterrupted – even in the sky. You can reward yourself by flying from Miami International Airport on the 777-300ER to London-Heathrow and starting in October to Sao Paulo, Brazil.

American Airlines www.aa.com MDGLCC CORPORATE PARTNER

The trip went quickly with a 3 ½ hour direct hop from Miami to Fort de France with a welcome Ti-Punch served on arrival in Fort de France’s world heritage bay. Caribbean sounds playing in the background, the scene was set for some lovely and loving moments ahead.

You had well prepared your personalized plan and chose a lazy walk around the Village Créole followed by taste of the French aristocracy through Josephine Bonaparte’s family home while your friend went for a two tank dive, listening out for sounds of any whales that may be going by.

That first sail up the coast with the majestic 5 pitons offering in the distance a 3,000 foot wall of a luscious

range of tones of green with the mighty Mt. Pelé in the distance. A definite change from the plains of Florida!

Discover the only AOC outside of France, a label renowned in the wine industry, but here it is for the rum that like wine is made from cane juice and not molasses like everywhere else in the world. Take in the old copper distillation column of Neison, internationally renowned for the quality of its white rum, which with a slice of a small local lime, is the base of the best Ti-Punch!

After a guided visit to the remains of what Lafcadio Hearn called the Town of a Thousand nights, head off via taxi through the rain forest, splash in a waterfall; take

in a buggy ride that ends slowly sipping one of the best “digestifs” that comes from the JM rum factory. Then, gently land on the East Coast where the yacht is waiting for you for dinner.

Over the next 3 days, discover Martinique’s well-kept secret that offers a taste of the Grenadines without the crowd—Treasure Bay, the Islets of Madame, Chancel, and Thierry & Oscar all behind protected reefs. Barbecued lobster (when in season) is served simply on a floating mattress in

Empress Josephine’s bathtub. Dinner ashore at a beautiful honeymoon boutique hotel run by gays. Take in other cultural visits or just relax, snorkel, make love and unwind.

With a last night in a classic Relais Chateaux hotel, yes you do want to come back again and with more time take in the Saints and Marie Galante.

Sail Away on a Breath of French Caribbean Air!You both awoke to the scent of warming croissants wafting through the cabin door…. Nothing like an early morning plunge off the yacht into beautiful blue water at 27°C to prepare your appetite and remind you that yes you did offer yourselves a dream sailing-tour vacation in a part of France in the Caribbean.

Douglas Rapier Douglas Yacht Services & Sailing Tours douglas@yachtservices.fr +596.596.52.14.28 www.douglasyachtservices.fr www.douglassailingtours.fr MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

A Rewarding Flight Awaits

The Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber Of Commerce (MDGLCC) honored

corporate and individual supporters of the Miami-Dade LGBT community at

“The Emerald Gala” – its 13th Annual Gala Awards Celebration on Saturday, June 21,

at the Hilton Miami Downtown Hotel.

» The Emerald Gala «» The Emerald Gala «

AT&T Non Profit of the Year (National Gay and Lesbian Task Force): Steve Adkins, Michael Bath, Russell Roybal, Maria Johnston, Don Sadler, Jorge Richa

Morgan Stanley Business Person of the Year (Craig Smith of Source Events): Craig Smith, Damian Pardo, Rafael Rodriguez

THE 2014 EMERALD GALA was presented by:

THE 2014 HONOREES

OFFICE DEPOT FOUNDATION (Regions Bank Business of the Year Award)

CRAIG SMITH FOUNDER & OWNER OF SOURCE EVENTS

(Morgan Stanley Business Person of the Year Award)

NATIONAL GAY & LESBIAN TASK FORCE (AT&T Non-Profit Organization of the Year Award)

Regions Bank Business of the Year (Office Depot Foundation): Steve Adkins, Mary Wong, Steven Nivet, La Wana Bradford, Jorge Richa

305.234.3846 • oimarketing@originalimpressions.com • www.originalimpressions.com

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July – September ‘14 | CLARITY [ 11

TIME IN THE SUN Visit one of Miami’s famed beaches. Catch up on your favorite authors’ new book or just relax and catch some rays and if you are feeling a little daring try our clothing optional beach and leave all your inhibitions at home.

MEDITATE Reward yourself with five minutes of silence and meditation to clear your mind. When work turns to overdrive, meditation can change your perspective and inspire new thoughts.

SHOPPING They don’t call it retail therapy for nothing. Spend a day at the Bayside Marketplace and splurge on that expensive shoes you always wanted.

NIGHT ON THE TOWN Go out and grab a beer to take the heat off! Biscayne Tavern, located in b2; is a local social hub, perfect place to see and to be seen in the heart of Downtown Miami featuring hand crafted beers and specialty cocktails.

MASSAGE If relaxing at the spa is more of your cup of tea, then you’re in luck! Starting July 1 through August 31, Miami

is celebrating “Miami Spa Month.” Forget your endless to-do list and take a moment to relax your mind and body.

YOGA What could be better than stretching your body and letting go of stress while overlooking the beautiful waters of Biscayne Bay?

‘STAY AND PLAY’ Plan a staycation in your own backyard by making a reservation at a Miami hotel for a girls or guys night on the town or to sneak away for a romantic rendezvous for two.

No matter what your idea of rewarding yourself is, Miami has something for everyone and we promise no tell anyone, what happens in Miami stays in Miami!

Dario Arana b2 Miami Downtown 146 Biscayne Boulevard Miami, FL 33132 305.358.4555 www.b2miamidowntown.com B Hotels & Resorts MDGLCC CORPORATE MEMBER

As adults we live very busy lives, working, taking care of our families, homes, and relationships. Rarely do we stop to take care of ourselves. If you don’t agree, I challenge you to look at your schedule. When was the last time you took time to read, experience life, take a walk, attend a community event, rest, or even dance around the house? Each of these activities is a

simple act of rewarding yourself. Scheduling time to reflect on your achievements and celebrate can lead to several benefits.

These benefits include positive emotion feelings, such as happiness and decreased stress. Happiness has been correlated with better immune function and longer life spans. So the next time you are feeling overwhelmed, stop and write down things you have achieved that day, week, or even month and then celebrate them with a simple R.E.W.A.R.D.

Once you start rewarding yourself, you won’t want to stop. Start today, you deserve it!

R Read

E Experience

W Walk

A Attend

R Rest

D Dance

b2 Miami Downtown REWARD YOURSELFYou don’t have to be a Hollywood star to pamper yourself, staying stunning, feeling fabulous, and figuring out what matters. Everyone deserves to reward themselves guilt-free and what better place to do it than in Miami?

There are quite a few things to do here in Miami; pick your favorite mall for some shopping, visit your favorite museum, relax on the beach or indulge in a massage at the spa, there’s something for everyone in the “hottest city in the south.” Here are some ways to reward yourself this summer for all the hard work you do!

Nicole Waters New Car Sales Manager Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables waters@mbcoralgables.com 305.460.6440 MDGLCC CORPORATE MEMBER

“ We are a young but active and committed member of the MDGLCC. Although we operate the business and live in Fort Lauderdale, we chose MDGLCC as our preferred business organization for its clear focus and commitment to the success of its members. Our passion is to empower lesbian entrepreneurs and to support all GLBT businesses with powerful teachings and trainings on holistic digital and social media marketing. In MDGLCC we have found a home where we can serve while growing our business, meeting wonderful leaders and having fun. We thank the leadership of MDGLCC for allowing us contribute and serve its membership.”

» Carmen D. Ortiz, MBA, PhD, Founder Lesbian Business Project, LLC www.lesbianbusinessproject.com MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

HOTBOXMember Testimonial

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As the saying says, a picture is worth a thousand words. At PolaroidChic, Carolina Bonnelly vividly uses the original 1970s Polaroid camera models, together with instant film, to offer you extraordinary coverage. Carolina Bonnelly is a lomographer, photojournalist, and filmmaker. She was born in the Dominican Republic and has made Miami her home since 1983. She graduated from Florida International University with a B.A. in Liberal Arts and later studied film and photography. In 1997, she founded Bonnelly Productions and Bonnelly Films, dedicated to wedding and documentary filmmaking

with a cinematic and poetic approach. With a passion for reflection photography, she has now embarked on a new journey documenting everyday life through her “imaginary reflector” and iPhone. So far, Carolina’s

work has been shown in three exhibits, including two which showcased her classic instant Polaroid photos.

Why don’t you “reward yourself”

with a chic new portrait, or even a film – for booking information, PolaroidChic.com or BonnellyFilms.com.

Meet Carolina Bonnelly THIS ISSUE’S COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

Cocktail of the SeasonGREY GOOSE® Melon Mule

Bacardi® www.bacardi.com MDGLCC CORPORATE PARTNER

1.5 parts Grey Goose Le Melon

3 parts Ginger Beer

3 lime wedges

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add GREY GOOSE Le Melon and the juice from three lime wedges. Shake well and strain into a copper mug filled with crushed ice. Top with ginger beer and garnish with a lime wedge.

Carolina Bonnelly 305.905.2440 www.bonnellyfilms.com MDGLCC BUSINESS MEMBER

July – September ‘14 | CLARITY [ 13

Tell us a bit about yourself. Have you always lived in Miami?I was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to a

father who was a Harvard-trained pathologist and a mother who earned a Masters in Spanish literature at University of Pittsburgh. Both parents fled from Cuba in 1959 during the Cuban Revolution and settled in Pittsburgh due to opportunities available at the time. Shortly after I was born my family moved to Miami. I consider myself a Miami native. I attended St. Hugh School in Coconut Grove, then Belen Jesuit Preparatory High School, Georgetown University School of Foreign Service and the University of Miami.

The theme of this quarter’s CLARITY is Reward Yourself. What do you do to reward yourself here in Miami-Dade?“Rewarding myself” is always a balance act because there are so many activities I enjoy. I love riding my trail bike throughout the county – sidewalks, side streets, parks, and beaches. I go everywhere and anywhere. It gives you a whole different outlook on Miami. I enjoy spinning at the gym, discovering new restaurants or shops in Little Havana, Wynwood, Midtown or the Upper East Side. I love the beach – playing volleyball, long swims or brisk walks. All activities that help balance a busy work and community schedule.

You have a long history of advocacy on behalf of the LGBT Community. Please tell us how you got started and with which organizations.My “history of advocacy” was a natural extension of an education in service. I attended an “all boys” Jesuit high school, which had as its motto “Men for Others”. In college, I was a brother in a National Service Fraternity (Alpha Phi Omega). As an adult in Miami, I first began volunteering in an organization called “Network,” which I suppose could be considered the original seed organization of the Miami Gay and Lesbian Chamber. Shortly thereafter, I began volunteering weekly on the hotline at Health Crisis Network (today CareResource). The fight against AIDS/HIV though is what clearly motivated my passion for advocacy. I was fortunate to have been offered a variety of leadership roles in these organizations over time which culminated in helping to organize SAVE (Safeguarding American Values for Everyone) in 1993. I remain involved

and support many of the same organizations, and I am still a passionate and grass roots advocate for LGBT equality.

Do you have any political aspirations? What is it about community service that inspires you?No. Many people view community service as a one way street – YOU are GIVING. It’s tedious and somewhat obligatory. Actually, the best kept secret about community service is the more you give, the more you get. When you work with others to improve your community, your life becomes richer in every dimension. You learn, you grow, your circle of influence expands, and there is an organic humility born by recognizing you are lucky enough to be alive and in a condition to give. It’s an honor – particularly when you can see the fruits of your labor over time.

As a wealth management expert, what does MDGLCC bring to the table for you?In my industry, education is the key. I would say my team spends the bulk of our resources on education. Informed financial consumers make for the best clients. MDGLCC brings a platform to educate and dialogue with my community. It provides many avenues (through events, committees, electronic and social media, and this magazine) to try to hold a reasonably educated person’s attention long enough to make an impression. Hopefully one that will lead to a broader conversation where more information can be exchanged and a relationship can begin to form.

Damian Pardo is a Financial Advisor at The Pardo Group in Plantation, FL. The information contained in this interview is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, or its affiliates. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, LLC, member SIPC.

Spotlight Interview with Damian Pardo

A MDGLCC CORPORATE PARTNER MEMBER

The Pardo Group Morgan Stanley Wealth Management 305.466.4806 damian.pardo@ms.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/thepardogroup MDGLCC CORPORATE PARTNER

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MIAMI-DADE GAY & LESBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Clarity Business Magazine is a quarterly publication of the MDGLCC. Each issue has a theme, as well as subsequent information relevant to current interests and activities. Content is provided by members with the unique perspective of the community.

Acceptance of articles is based on availability.

The Voice of LGBT Business & its Allies in Miami-Dade

1130 Washington Avenue 1st Floor North Miami Beach, FL 33139

T: 305.673.4440 F: 305.673.8883 info@gaybizmiami.com www.gaybizmiami.com

Steven N. Adkins, President / CEO

Jorge Richa, Marketing + Programming Director

Scott Bader, Membership Chair + Web Master

Michael Aller, Board Member

Marty Davis, Board Member

George Neary, Board Member

Organizational Listing

MDGLCC

Joe Robertson, EDITOR Clarity Business Magazine & ClarityMag.com Joe@RMCollaborative.com

Tana Martin Llinás, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Photo by Marta Neira

PEFC LOGO

As a community chamber (versus a civic chamber), we encour-age both our gay and gay-friendly family to support those who support us. One of the benefits of membership in MDGLCC is the knowledge that a $7 billion local LGBT market searches our roster of members first when making purchase decisions about goods and services. With a list of over 600 companies comprising our membership, more likely than not you will find what you are looking for.

As corporate America looks to diversify its revenue stream, the LGBT market is increasingly being looked to for growth. The best way we can make the greatest impact is to speak with our pocketbooks and use Chamber Members whenever possible.

HOTBOXCover Story: Rewarding Yourself

LOOKING FOR PROFESSIONAL SPACE?

Upcoming Events3RD QUARTER 2014

Support Our Members Always

Go to GAYBIZMIAMI.COM for updates and details

You can rent space for

events, meetings, etc. at the

LGBT Visitor Center (home of the

Chamber’s office).

CONTACT LORI 305-397-8914

lori@gogaymiami.com

MODELS:

Stephen Naas Pulse Branding snaas@pulsebranding.com

Rick Hill Equality Florida rick@eqfl.org

PHOTOGRAPHER:

Carolina Bonnelly info@bonnellyfilms.com

SHOT ON LOCATION AT:

Epic Hotel 270 Biscayne Blvd. Way Miami, FL 33131 www.EpicHotel.com

MONTHLY “Maximizing Your Membership Benefits” Networking Breakfast “Leveraging gaybizmiami.com to attract new customers and build your brand”

GALLA Luncheons (or) Networker Mixer Gay & Lesbian Tour of South Beach

BIMONTHLY Big Networking Luncheon & Expo Spotlight Mega Mixer

QUARTERLY Support Our Cultural Arts Members MDGLCC – U Educational Seminars Women’s Empowerment Luncheon

YEARLY Gala Awards Celebration State of our Community Luncheon

Health Care ForEvery Kind Of Family

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Use on ads smaller than 8.5x11 inches.

In our lifetimes, we’ll face different healthcare challenges – both for

ourselves and for our children. Fortunately, we have access to Jackson

Health System and specialists who can help us at every step.

And that’s access for every member of your family. Jackson respects the

unique nature of your rights with an open visitation policy. If they’re

family to you, they’re family to us. We can also help you with the

appropriate form to designate a healthcare surrogate if the need arises.

It’s no wonder we’ve been recognized by the

Human Rights Campaign as a “Leader In LGBT

Healthcare Equality” for three years running.

Learn more at

JacksonHealth.org/LGBTLeader.asp.

Jackson Memorial Hospital • Jackson North Medical Center • Jackson South Community HospitalHoltz Children’s Hospital • Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital • Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital

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