BasfNews8 (Fall 2010)

BASFNewsBASFNewsBASFNewsSUMMER 2010

www.basfonline.org

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA

Old Cuba Meets New Miami

See page 12

at 4th Annual Havana Night

#28 BASFNews A:Layout 1 8/17/10 2:17 PM Page 1

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Contents2010 BASF Executive Committee

Fred AbboPrime Homebuilders

Hugo AlvarezAlvarez & Barbara, LLP

Ernie BascuasThe Sherwin-Williams

Company

Noah BreakstoneBTI Developers

Alex CastellanosBB&T

Carlos CastellanosC Squared

Construction, Inc

Danielle CardosoCherry, Bekaert, & Holland, L.L.P

Frank De VaronaYachting Experts

Miguel Diaz de la Portilla, Esq.

Becker & Poliakoff, P.A

Shahin EtessamCD Group LLC. & Greatstone

Development, Inc.

Barbara Ferrer, Esq.Broad and Cassel

Alex GalvezCogent Consulting

Engineering Construction LLC

Luis GarciaAdonel Concrete

Fernando X. GomezBankUnited, FSB

Carolina Herrera, Esq.Lennar Homes, Inc.

Diana IbarriaStandard Pacific Homes

John KiskinisKiskinis

Communications, Inc.

Alex LastraAtlantic & Pacific

Development

Cesar LlanoCentury Homebuilders

Carlos LopezDeWalt Power Tools

Tom C. MurphyCoastal Construction

Group

Stanley B. Price, Esq.Bilzin, Sumberg, Baena,

Price & Axelrod LLP

Jami ReyesJami Reyes & Co.

Frank SilvaFrank Silva, PA

Ben Solomon, Esq.Solomon &

Furshman, LLP

John StormComcast

Note: All BASF Life Directors, Past Presidents and Past First Vice Presidents are also members of the Board of Directors.

BASF Staff

Toni Pacelli-HinkleyExecutive Vice President

Janina GoenagaExecutive & Legislative

Assistant

Lilia MoralesJunior Accountant/

Bookkeeper

Odalys Galiano SaenzDirector of Membership, Events & Sponsorship

Truly BurtonGovernment Affairs Director

for Miami-Dade, Broward andMonroe Counties

Fernando I. MartinezCaribe Homes

President

Marianna E. PerezCity National Bank

of FloridaFirst Vice President

Alberto Milo, Jr.The Urban Development

Group, LLCPresident-Elect

Luis F. Quiñones, Jr.BenTrust Financial

Second Vice President

Ruben BertranVitran Homes Corp.Secretary-Treasurer

Ray CastellanosAuthentic

Construction, LLCAssistant Secretary

Ashley Bosch, Esq.Blok Urban

Development, LLCImmediate Past

President

Carlos E. Gonzalez, Jr.BankUnited, FSB

Immediate Past VicePresident

Lenny MillerPasadena Homes, Inc.

Life Executive Committee Member

Jeff Daley Avatar Communities /

Brookman FelsPresidential Appointee

Richard GomezTGSV Enterprises, Inc.Presidential Appointee

Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

Presidential Appointee

Jose GonzalezFlagler Development

GroupPresidential Appointee

Miriam Rodriguez- Alvarez

Bonded Builders RiskManagement

Ex-Officio

JC CalleiroCEMEX

Ex-Officio

Lani Kahn DrodyLowell Homes, Inc.

Ex-Officio

Robert DuffyFoundation Insurance

Group, LLC.Ex-Officio

Julian David GonzalezC.P.S.

Ex-Officio

Richard M. HortonThe Green Companies

Ex-Officio

Jim WerleWerle Associates, P.L.

Ex-Officio

Luis P. RabellLPR Builders Inc.

Ex-Officio

Toni Pacelli-HinkleyBuilders Association

of South FloridaExecutive Vice President

BASFNews, the quarterly magazine of the Builders Association of South Florida, is published four times per year. For advertising or editorial information, please call 305-556-6300. Send address changes for subscriptions to Builders Association of South Florida: 15225 NW 77th Ave., Miami Lakes, FL 33014.BASFNews is published in the interest of all segments of the home building industry and is distributed tomembers and others associated with the industry. The Builders Association of South Florida, Inc. does not accept responsibility for, or endorse any statement or claims made by advertisers or authors of any articles.Every effort has been made to assure accuracy of information, but authenticity cannot be guaranteed. Advertisers and advertorials in BASFNews do not constitute an offer for sale in states where prohibited by law. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of BASF. Copyright 2010.

BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA15225 NW 77th Ave., Miami Lakes, FL 33014 Phone: 305 556-6300 / Fax: 305 556-6304 / Website: www.basfonline.org

12 COVER STORY: HAVANA NIGHT

BASFNewsBASFNewsBASFNews

2010 BASF Board of Directors

advertising marketing public relationsKISKINIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

4 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGEBASF’s Philanthropy Committee Making A Better Tomorrow

5 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGENow Is The Time To Take Advantage of BASF’s Many Resources

5 CALENDAR OF EVENTS6 LEGISLATIVE UPDATES

BIPAC Advocates Legislative ConcernsVote NO on Amendment 4

8 SPECIAL 2010 ELECTION SECTION 10 SAVE THE DATE

His House Children’s Home Event11 SAVE THE DATE

Sustainable in September: Green WorkshopInstallation Gala Set for Grove Isle

16 MEMBER OPPORTUNITIESComcast Cares Day Extreme Makeover

18 Member OpportunitiesCommercial Builders Council Host Breakfast

19 Mix-N-MingleWorld Cup Watching at the Globe

20 Mix-N-MingleMayor Julio Robaina at Shula’s

21 Mix-N-MingleYachting Experts

22 New Members and Renewals23 Spike Club

Recognizing BASF’s Best!

CAPSTONE SPONSORS

KEYSTONE SPONSORS

COBBLESTONE SPONSORS

MANAGING EDITOR:Toni Pacelli-Hinkley [email protected] Kiskinis [email protected]

EDITOR:Melissa [email protected]

CREATIVE DIRECTOR:John Tombley [email protected]: GTC Media


BASFNews I SUMMER membership benefits available at www.basfonline.org4

As many of us know from our own experiences, and from those of our friendsand acquaintances, these are challengingtimes. We have two choices. We can sitaround and wait for things to get better ordecide to take an active role and help whereever we can to make a positive difference. I am proud to say that this year the BuildersAssociation of South Florida (BASF) is doing all it can to enhance the quality of life in our community.

At our planning session in December, I watched as our board enthusiastically embraced the idea of establishing a Philanthropy Committee that would not only lend its full assistance to our partnerComcast on its successful, community-driven Comcast Cares Day event, but alsotake on a project of its own. Ben Solomonvolunteered to spearhead this new committee and has been relentless in making sure that our members get involvedand not lose sight of the many others whoneed our assistance. To say Ben leads byexample is putting it lightly. He has dedicatedhis time, energy and resources time and

again when needed. In April, Ben and his committee

guaranteed that BASF members, family and friends would be out in full force to participate and support Comcast Cares Daythat benefitted the Edgar J. Hall Special Populations Center in Hialeah. I was just oneof the nearly 70 individuals who representedBASF that Saturday morning. We painted,landscaped and, most importantly, we were together providing a helping hand in our community.

But that was just the beginning! Philanthropy Committee members ShahinEtessam and Ruben Bertran identified anorganization in Miami Gardens that offeredresidential care for abused, neglected and drug exposed children in a campushome-like setting. His House Children’sHome gives children the hope for a better future. About 55 children live at the Homeand another 230 participate in the fostercare programs.

We were all immediately taken by theheartfelt mission of this organization and theboard voted unanimously to assist His House

Children’s Home.We made a donation of $1,500raised at our annual Golf Tournament’s raffle to the charity.

His House Children’s Home asked if wecould help them with some much needed repairs and renovations to one of their cottages, home to 10-12 children. It’s a rewarding project that I am sure will have a lasting effect on these children’s lives. I encourage our members to plan to join me on Saturday, September 11 at His HouseChildren’s Home. I’d also like to thank themembers who have already contributed inadvance of the September 11 event.

I am honored to be part of an organization that is committed to making a better tomorrow. Congratulations to the Philanthropy Committee. They havemade this year so special for so many.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

BASF’S PHILANTHROPY COMMITTEEMAKING A BETTER TOMORROW

2010 BASF PresidentFernando Martinez

Representatives from the Builders Association of South Florida (BASF) presented a check for more than $1,500 to Iris Marrero, Director of Development forHis House Children’s Home.

Above from left to right, BASF’s leadership included: Luis Quiñones (BenTrust Financial), Iris Marrero (His House Children’s Home), Toni Pacelli-Hinkley(Executive VP of BASF), Rob Duffy(Foundation Insurance Group) and ShahinEtessam (Greatstone Development, Inc. and CD Group, LLC).

BASF is a proud sponsor of the

organization’s commitment to providing residential care for abused, neglected and drug exposed children in a campushome-like setting, while restoring their emotional and physical well being in a loving and nurturing environment.

While on site, BASF representatives were able to meet His House resident and Haitian earthquake survivor NadineDevilme with “miracle baby” daughterJenny (below). Baby Jenny was only threemonths old when she was trapped under the earthquake rubble for 5 days before she was rescued.

BASF DONATES MORE THAN $1,500 TO HIS HOUSE CHILDREN’S HOME


CALENDAR OF EVENTSCALENDAR OF EVENTSCALENDAR OF EVENTS

EXECUTIVE VP’S MESSAGE

If you have been following this column thisyear, then you know that I have encouragedBASF members to “Renew Your Resolve” as we transition through our industry’s challenges and make your BASF membershipwork for you. I have also encouraged you to“Resist the Recession” by sharpening yourbusiness development skills and network, network, network at our events, seminars and education sessions. By taking advantageof the discounts designed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and theFlorida Home Builders Association (FHBA) tosave your company money on office supplies,car rentals, GM cars and trucks, etc, you areputting your BASF three-in-one membershipto good use and resisting the recession at the same time! I encourage you to visitwww.nahb.org/ma and www.fhba.com to check out the discounts that are availableto members in good standing.

Speaking of websites, the BASF website is undergoing a transition and being updatedthanks to the work of the CommunicationsCommittee and Kiskinis Communications.However, the current website- www.basfon-line.org - is still functioning and a great resource for checking out photos of ourevents, finding members in our directory, reviewing the BASF calendar, learning aboutthe latest issues, as well as connecting tolinks to NAHB, FHBA, SEBC, IBS and a host of other resources.

One of the best resources is in your hands– the BASFNews! A quick review of this issue makes it evident that BASF is actively

advocating for its membership through its legislative efforts, as well as providing networking opportunities, educational forums and outreach projects that benefit the community and industry overall.

Comcast Cares Day was one of our recentoutreach projects where BASF members andtheir families and friends gathered to spruceup the Edgar J. Hall Special Populations Center at Bucky Dent Park in Hialeah. The special population participants that the centerserves are being taught how to deal with their limited physical and mental abilities tobecome more independent. Learning how to cook and fix healthy foods is an importantelement of their independence. A special acknowledgement goes to Loretta Saulsberryof Whirlpool who has generously donated all of the Whirlpool appliances for their kitchen.Loretta has also donated Whirlpool appliancesfor our next outreach project on September11th, at His House Children’s Home.

As Fernando so aptly points out in his column, His House Children’s Home came to the attention of Philanthropy CommitteeChair, Ben Solomon through Co-Chair, Ruben Bertran and board member, ShahinEtessam. Shahin has already remodeled the kitchen’s cabinets and counter tops, incorporated the Whirlpool appliances and repaired the roof tiles at Cottage 23 at HisHouse in preparation of our remodel blitzplanned for September 11th. There are othermembers working behind the scenes thathave already remodeled the bathrooms, andare working on landscaping. Join them!

Call the BASF officefor more details.

There is an expression thatsums up the benefits of becoming involved in community outreach projects, “By giving, you receive.”Receive a great feeling by getting involvedwith Ben and the others on the PhilanthropyCommittee. Give your material and cash donations, your sweat equity and your support to this worth while and special project. Save September 11th for a day ofservice. Save September 11th for a day ofgiving. Save September 11th as a day thatBASF gives back!

As you will see in our cover story and themany photos that appear throughout thisissue, our signature Havana Night event was atremendous success. The committee, headedby Chairman Luis Quiñones, Jr., has beenmeeting for months to make sure that everydetail was perfect. It’s an event that gets better and better, surpassing our expectationseach year. Thanks again to Luis and the committee for this great event.

Lastly, please don’t forget to mark yourcalendar for our Installation Gala as we welcome Alberto Milo, Jr. as president andLuis Quiñones, Jr. as first vice president onSaturday, November 13 at the Grove Isle Hoteland Spa. It’s at a beautiful facility and it’s agreat way for us to begin the coming year.Make your reservations to attend.

Executive Vice PresidentToni Pacelli-Hinkley

NOW IS THE TIME TO TAKE ADVANTAGEOF BASF’S MANY RESOURCES

BASFNews I SUMMERvisit www.basfonline.org for up to date industry information 5

CALENDAR OF EVENTSSeptember 11 BASF Gives Back! 8 AM His House Children’s HomeSeptember 15 Exec and BOD Meeting, with Gov. Charlie Crist 8 AM Miami City ClubSeptember 15 Green Building Breakfast 9 AM Miami City Club September 22-26 NAHB Fall BOD Meeting New York City, NYOctober 14 Exec Committee Meeting 9:30 AM BASF OfficeOctober 20-21 FHBA Fall Conference Bonita Springs, FLOctober 21 BOD Meeting 4 PM Location TBANovember 11 Exec Meeting 9:30 AM BASF OfficeNovember 13 Installation Gala 6 PM Grove Isle Hotel & SpaNovember 18 BOD Meeting 4 PM Location TBADecember 9 Exec and BOD Meeting 4 PM Farrey’s Lighting and BathDecember 9 BASF Holiday Party 6 PM Farrey’s Lighting and Bath


During the early spring and summermonths, BIPAC’s leadership has been veryactive in supporting elected officials andcandidates running for positions at thelocal, state and national levels.

This election cycle, BIPAC (BASF’s Political Action Commitee), led by ChairAshley Bosch and co-chairs RichardGomez and Alex Galvez, joined forces with BASF law firm members in co-hostinga series of events to support local electedofficials. This strengthened everyone’sfundraising efforts and demonstratedBASF’s strong role as a uniting force among its members and the community.

BIPAC endorsed candidates at the local and state level, as they screened or endorsed candidates for Miami-Dade and Broward County Commission races and State Legislative campaigns.

In cooperation with our state association, the Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA), BASF’s members hadthe opportunity to meet candidates forstatewide office, including Governor, Attorney General and other cabinet posts at the FHBA’s signature event, theSoutheastern Builders Conference (SEBC).

At the Congressional level, BASF works directly with the National Associationof Home Builders (NAHB) staff in reviewingand supporting key South Florida members of Congress. During these uncertain economic times, Congressional

relationships are equally important giventhe national, structural changes occurring in the home building and real estate business for all of us.

BIPAC’s success in forging all of theserelationships reinforces BASF’s long tradition of supporting its members, which becomes even more meaningful during difficult economic times.

The photos you will see in this specialsection show BIPAC at work. We invite youto join the BIPAC and Government Affairsteam going forward to help shape the future of our industry and your place in it!

MIAMI-DADE GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS UPDATE

Miami-Dade and Broward County staff preparing Evaluation and AppraisalReports – Both County Planning and ZoningDepartment staffs are in the process ofpreparing their county “report cards,”known simply as the EAR. The EAR functions as the seven-year report card onthe County’s compliance with its adoptedMaster Plan, the road map to the county’sdevelopment. Miami-Dade’s EAR report willbe issued by county staff in late July, withBroward’s report due about five monthslater. The Miami-Dade County Commissionwill hold a public hearing on this issue inlate October, after which time the report will be sent for approval to the Florida Department of Community Affairs.

Broward’s hearingwill take placeseveral monthslater. Any adjust-ments to theCounty’s MasterPlan, outlined inthe EAR report, will be adoptedover the next year by their respective CountyCommission. All interestedmembers are invited to participate in thiseffort! Contact BASF staffer Truly Burtonfor details at [email protected].


LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Government Affairs Directorfor Miami-Dade, Broward

and Monroe CountiesTruly Burton

BIPAC, BASF's political action committee,was very active this election cycle in raisingfunds for various County Commissioners running for reelection. A good friend to industry, Commissioner Jose (Pepe) Diazwas honored by BIPAC in cooperation withBASF law firm member Greenberg Traurig.

BIPAC - DIAZ RECEPTION

Rick Horton (The Green Companies), Truly Burton(BASF), Al Milo (Urban Development Group), JeanieHernandez (Comcast), Fernando Martinez, BASF2010 President (Caribe Homes) and Richard Gomez(TGSV Enterprises)

Event Co-Host Javier Avino (Greenberg Traurig),Truly Burton (BASF), Commissioner Jose "Pepe" Diaz and Fernando Martinez, BASF 2010 President (Caribe Homes)

BIPAC ADVOCATES LEGISLATIVE CONCERNS A SPECIAL 2010 ELECTION SECTION


visit www.basfonline.org for up to date industry information 7BASFNews I SUMMER

The firm's associate, Javier Avino, andBIPAC partnered in the event, held at thefirm's 27th floor dining room. BIPAC members worked very hard on this and several other fundraising receptions held this spring for incumbent commissioners.

AT GREENBERG TRAURIG

One particularly bad amendment will be onthe statewide ballot, known by its number,Amendment 4. Amendment 4 is nothing butbad news for all cities and towns in Florida: it will wreak complete havoc – if not chaos -to existing and future planning, affecting anynew jobs for the foreseeable future.

This anti-progress amendment, wrappedup in a warm and fuzzy name “HometownDemocracy”, is now being opposed by mostnewspaper editorial boards, cities, counties,and responsible environmental and civicgroups across the state.

Why are these smart Floridians coming out against Amendment 4? Simple: because it would make the Great Recession a permanent condition in our state. This experiment with oureconomy is a bad idea. Here’s why.

� By state law, all counties and cities must prepare and abide by a Comprehensive Development Master Plan. The master plan can be amended every 6 months andunder some specific conditions, more often.

� These plans include public improvements like:

>> A multi-page schedule of capital improve-ments, including widening roads, adding anew park or building new schools, or fire and police stations.

>> Professional recommendations about the

right balance of commercial, residential and industrially designated land. All three types of properties are necessary to ensure a healthy economy: enough land to support adequate jobs, and new businesses and homes for those employees to live in.

� If Amendment 4 passes in November, it would require that voters vote on each and every plan amendment in a master plan – literally requiring a vote on everything - for every city and county comprehensive plan.

� This would result in a permanent recession, even greater job losses and higher taxes. Any plan for a new road or school would take years to obtain. New businesses and industries would never re-locate to Florida if comprehensive plan amendments require a several-years long process and a voter referendum.

� One town in Florida already knows about this disaster: St. Petersberg Beach. A local version of Amendment 4 in St. Petersburg Beach was adopted a few years ago. Oncethe voters of this small beach-front resort realized that “voting on everything” amendment was a disaster, they voted to overturn this bad process. Well, the Amendment 4 supporters are now

challenging THIS vote in court. This smalltown of 5,000 people has now had to raise taxes to pay for its attorney's fees of over $750,000. All for an experiment that went very bad.

� No other state in the Union requires a voteof every citizen on every new project. And,that’s why most thoughtful Floridians havecome out AGAINST this bad proposal.

� If this amendment passes, it would be the death knell to our representative democracy - the form of government that is in our United States Constitution.

� Our economy is NOT an experiment – it is the livelihood for 18 million Floridians. None of us should be willing to take a chance on “comprehensive chaos” and no jobs in our future. ON NOVEMBER 2, VOTE NO ON AMENDMENT 4.

Star Manso (Flagler Development), Javier Avino(Greenberg Traurig) and Alex Galvez (CogentConsulting, Inc.)

Fernando Martinez, BASF 2010 President (CaribeHomes), Javier Avino (Greenberg Traurig), AshleyBosch (Blok Urban Development Group) RicardoFraga (Greenberg Traurig) and Shahin Etessam (CD Group, LLC & Greatstone Development)

VOTE NO ON THIS EXPERIMENT ON OUR ECONOMY: VOTE NO ON AMENDMENT 4.


LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

NAHB LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE

A Special 2010 A Special 2010


Toni Pacelli-Hinkley, (BASF) and NAHB PAC Trustee Sandy Miot(Hawthorne Realty) met with US Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (center) back in April, at one of Miami’s most staple meeting grounds – La Carretarestaurant. Formerly the representative of Florida’s 25th congressional district,Diaz-Balart has been reelected to the House of Representatives without opposition, to represent the 21st congressional district for the 112th Congress.

MARIO DIAZ-BALART Toni Pacelli-Hinkley(BASF) with US Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart and NAHB PAC Trustee Sandy Miot (Hawthorne Realty)

Toni Pacelli-Hinkley (BASF), Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (20th District), Jay Caravia (Sherwin-Williams), Chuck Horn(Horn Builders, Inc.)

Chuck Horn (Horn Builders, Inc.), RepresentativeRon Klein (22nd District), Toni Pacelli-Hinkley(BASF), Jay Caravia (Sherwin-Williams)

Jay Caravia (Sherwin-Williams), Chuck Horn(Horn Builders, Inc.), Representative Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District), Toni Pacelli-Hinkley (BASF)

State Representative David Rivera met with BASF's political action committee members, led by long-time BASF membersSandy Miot and Frank Palen. Rivera, the Republican candidate campaigning to win the now-empty Congressional seat of Mario

Diaz-Balart, is a good friend of the building industry. BASF was lucky enough to have Al Zichella, FHBA President-Elect, join us fromNaples. BASF Board member Fred Abbo and BIPAC Co-Chair RichardGomez, rounded out the luncheon meeting with David Rivera.

DAVID RIVERA

Toni Pacelli-Hinkley and Truly Burton (BASF) with US Congressional Candidate and FloridaRepresentative David Rivera (center)

FHBA President-Elect Al Zichella with USCongressional Candidate and FloridaRepresentative David Rivera and RichardGomez (TGSV Enterprises)

Frank Palen (Xelor), NAHB PAC Trustee SandyMiot (Hawthorne Realty), with US CongressionalCandidate and Florida Representative DavidRivera and Fred Abbo (Prime Group)

A Special 2010

The Builders Association of South Florida represented its membersthis past spring during the 2010 NAHB Legislative Conference inWashington, D.C. Along with other HBA representatives from Florida,BASF’s Executive Vice-President Toni Pacelli-Hinkley took some ofSouth Florida’s most pressing issues to the Hill, including: the current

state of the Housing Economy and its critical role in national economicrecovery, the housing production credit crisis, supporting energyretrofit incentives for consumers in existing homes and continuousopposition to the Merkley Health Care Amendment.


Election Section Election Section


Florida’s Attorney General and gubernato-rial candidate Bill McCollum visited the BASFoffices with Steve Forbes, publisher and editor of Forbes Magazine among other successful business ventures, to addressleaders of various community organizationson the issue of the economy and the impactof a construction industry turnaround on theentire state. McCollum spoke about his vision for moving the state into the nextdecade and how vital a role the constructionindustry would play in the state’s economicengine. Forbes added his point of view on

the global market conditions and the impactthey may have on our country’s economic recovery. Participants had an opportunity to

ask questions on affordable housing trust fund dollars, growth management issues and impact fees.

BILL MCCOLLUM

Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Scott was a special guestat the Builders Association of South Florida’s June board meeting heldat the Globe. Scott, introduced by past president Ashley Bosch,outlined his campaign platform and answered questions on a variety of topics including Amendment #4, healthcare and immigration.

Scott is a businessman, healthcare industry executive, lawyer and

founder of Conservatives for Patients' Rights (CPR), a group that advocates against expanding the U.S. government's role in healthcare.He served in the U.S. Navy and then went into business redevelopingdonut shops while in college. He earned a business degree, law degreeand joined a Dallas firm where he became partner. In 1987, he helpedfound the Columbia Hospital Corporation with two business partners.

RICK SCOTT

Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Rick Scottand Luis F. Quiñones Jr. (BenTrust Financial, Inc.)

Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Rick Scottand Ruben Bertran (Vitran Homes)

Ashley Bosch (Blok Urban Development, LLC)and Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Rick Scott

Ruben Bertran (Vitran Homes), Al Milo (Urban Development Group), Florida AttorneyGeneral Bill McCollum, Steve Forbes (Forbes),Fernando Martinez (Caribe Homes), Jeff Daley(Avatar), Toni Pacelli-Hinkley and Truly Burton(BASF), Rick Horton (The Green Companies)

Diana Ibarria (Standard Pacific Homes), FloridaAttorney General Bill McCollum, Marianna Perez(City National Bank)

Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina, Truly Burton andToni Pacelli-Hinkley (BASF), Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum, Steve Forbes (Forbes)

Al Milo (Urban Development Group), SteveForbes (Forbes), Ruben Bertran (Vitran Homes)Fernando Martinez (Caribe Homes)

Rick Horton (The Green Companies) with FloridaAttorney General Bill McCollum

Election Section



SAVE THE DATE

BASF MAKES A DIFFERENCE AT HIS HOUSE CHILDREN’S HOME

Throughout the years, BASF has partnered with outstanding, established organizations such as Habitat for Humanityand Comcast, who devote endless hours toplanning and executing special projects.

Although these projects have successfullyallowed BASF members to make a change intheir communities, executive committee andboard members Ben Solomon, ShahinEtessam and Ruben Bertran thought it wastime to create a BASF community serviceevent of its own – and so they did!

On Saturday, September 11, BASF leadership is asking members to join them as they lend their support to His House Children’s Home, a Miami Gardens-based organization committed to providing residential care for abused, neglected and drug exposed children in a campus home-like setting.

BASF will be on site to make much

needed repairs and renovationsto Cottage #23, one of the manycottages serving as a home to 10-12 children.

In addition to local orphanand foster children residing atthe children’s home, His Houseis actually the only federally-appointed location in Miami-Dade to take in child refugees of the Haitian earthquake.

More than 400 Haitian orphans havecome through His House during the relocation process, taking residence in similar cottages at His House.

To participate in this special project onSeptember 11, or to make a monetary or in-kind contribution, please contact OdalysSaenz at [email protected] orco-chair Ben Solomon at [email protected] to see you there!

WHAT:Makeover for Cottage #23 –Home to 12 Foster Children

WHEN:September 11, 20108:00 a.m.

WHERE:His House Children’s Home2000 NW 47 AvenueMiami Gardens, Florida33055

WHO: 100 BASF members, family and friends!

BASF Makes a Difference at His House Children’s Home

A sincere THANK YOU to those that have alreadycontributed many needed services and products:APPLIANCES Loretta L. Saulsberry, Whirlpool

BATHROOMS & LIBRARY – BOOK SHELVESManny Valladares, Arch Aluminum

GLASS & WINDOWS Jose Lopez, RC Aluminum

GRAVEL STONES Dan Rodriguez, Larry’s Cap Rock & Stone

KITCHEN CABINETS & GRANITE – PLAYGROUND SHED – ROOF REPAIRShahin Etessam, CD Group & Greatstone Development

KITCHEN FLOORING Lazaro Echeverria, West Side Flooring

LANDSCAPING Lani Kahn Drody, Lowell’s International Realty

PAINT & ELECTRICAL Alex Galvez, Cogent Consulting Engineering Construction

VOLUNTEER LUNCH, T-SHIRTS AND MATERIALSBen Solomon, Esq., Solomon & Furshman, LLP

MONETARY DONATIONSCarolina Herrera and Carlos Gonzalez - Lennar Homes Oscar Barbara - Quantum Homes • Fernando Martinez - Caribe HomesStanley Price, Esq. - Bilzin, Sumberg, Baena, Price & AxelrodMarianna Perez - City National Bank


INSTALLATION GALA Don’t miss this year’s Installation Gala on Saturday,

November 13th welcoming Alberto Milo, Jr. as president and Luis Quiñones, Jr. as first vice presidentof the Builders Association of South Florida at the Grove Isle Hotel and Spa.

Guests will be excited to know that this private island location is home to one of the most elegant resorts in South Florida. Located in lush Coconut Grove, the Grove Isle Hotel has an endless view of Biscayne Bay and has received numerous awards during the years.

Winner of the 2010 Miami New Times’ “Best Restaurant in Coconut Grove” award, Gibraltar – the hotel’s prized restaurant – will be providing catering services for the Gala’s hors d'oeuvres,cocktails and dinner program.

Immediately following, the incoming officers and board will be sworn in,while awards recognizing a number of individuals for their commitment thispast year will also be presented. Among the gala highlights will be the naming of the Builder and Associate of the Year, Presidential Award recipients,Al Singer Spirit of the Industry Award and the Housing Hall of Fame inductees.

For information on the attractive sponsorship packages that are available, or for ticket information, contact Odalys Saenz at 305-556-6300.

SUSTAINABLE IN SEPTEMBER – GREEN WORKSHOP RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER

Mark your calendars! BASF’s GreenBuilding Council will host “Building Sustainable Developments in Today’s Market,” a special breakfast program, onWednesday, September 15 at Miami CityClub (200 S. Biscayne Blvd, Suite 5500,Miami) from 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Florida Governor and U.S. Senate candidate Charlie Crist has been invited to make opening remarks, while Green Building Council ChairmanLuis A. Betalleluz, of the civil engineering firm TheBetaJones Group,will moderate the program. Topics will include: “Cost analysis of recent South

Florida traditional vs. green construction projects;” “Green costs and new technology across various product types;” and “tax and other incentives for sustainable development.”

Participants will be able to discuss the many intricacies of green buildingwith the program’s expert speakers and ask follow-up questions.

Tips about construction materialscosts, government tax incentives, energy efficiency programs and development methods for residential and commercial uses will be shared.

Tickets are $50 for BASF members and $100 for non-members. For more information or to R.S.V.P., contact Odalys Saenz at (305) 556-6300.


SAVE THE DATE



Cuba, complete with charming cigar girlsand exotic conga dancers.

The smell of fresh mint Mojitos and

savory Caribbean cuisine were in the

air, as the clanking sounds of dominos

complemented live Latin beats performed

by Frank Diaz and the Havana Soul.

This year was a more than usual joyous

occasion as BASF board member Ben

Solomon celebrated his birthday. But,

Ben wasn’t the only one in a celebratory

mood – almost all Havana Night’s guests

filled the dance floor as they salsa-twirled,

two-stepped and shook “it” past midnight.

“The BASF is serious about business,”

said Luis Quiñones, Jr., event chairman and

BASF second vice president. “Yet we also

seriously know how to have fun. We are so

proud to offer an award-winning event that

not only provides social networking oppor-

tunities, but also supports a great cause.”

This year’s Havana Night silent auction

collected more than $8,000, with all of the

proceeds going to the charity, His House

Children’s Home.

COVER STORY

HavanaNight:A Great Party for a Great Cause

Event Chairman Luis F. Quiñones (BenTrust Financial) and Ben Solomon (Solomon & Furshman, LLP)

It starts with a quiet elevator ride up to

the ultra-exclusive 55th floor of Wachovia

Center on Biscayne Boulevard. Exiting the

elevator, the always friendly BASF staff

offers a warm greeting while muffled

music and chatter can be heard just

beyond the entrance.

The beautifully embossed doors open

and you enter to find one of the most

lavish lounges in town crowded by more

than 200 people all dressed in Miami’s

signature Guayabera chic style.

Welcome to Havana Night!

Since 2007, the Builders Association of

South Florida has hosted Havana Night at

the Miami City Club in electrifying down-

town Miami. Every summer the anticipation

surrounding Havana Night intensifies, while

the actual outcome amazes anyone who

attends – this past August was no different.

Sitting high above the beautiful Miami

skyline, it seemed a floating time machine

took guests back to the social galas of old



Truly Burton (BASF), Loretta L. Saulsberry(Whirlpool), Layla Caballero (KeShot) andAmanda Maxwell (Whirlpool)

Richard Gallo, Jorge Ramirez, Elizabeth Suarez,Priscilla Jimenez and Jose Lopez all of RC Aluminum

Alex Ojeda, Alex Baste and Orlando Diaz (FirstBank Florida) with Alex Lastra (Atlantic & PacificDevelopment)

Danielle Cardoso (Cherry, Bekaert & Holland) and Hunter Jones

Joey & Christy Roig (Link Construction)

Al & Christina Milo (The Urban Development Group, LLC) Ben Solomon & Cynthia Wolber-Solomon (Solomon &Furshman, LLP) and Dalilah Tromberg with the Havana Cigar Girls wishing Ben a Happy Birthday!

George Skrbin (Association Services Of Florida,AAMC) and Lucee Wolber

Carolina Herrera, Esq. (Lennar) and CarlosDuque, Esq. (Duque & Hammond, PA)

Alex & Sylvie Galvez with Tony & Alena Fernandez, all of Cogent Consulting Engineering Construction, LLC

David Goldfarb (ADA Compliances Specialists, Inc.)


membership benefits available at www.basfonline.org14 BASFNews I SUMMER

Ruben & Lily Bertran (Vitran Homes) and LaylaCaballero (KeShot)

Jorge & Marta Suarez (S & J Plastering)

Alina Gomez, Gabriel Gonzalez, Barbara Almeida,Alan Cao, Mindy Garcia, Alejandra Zamora andAlex Alvarez all of Flagler Development

Harvey Ruvin and Ben Solomon (Solomon & Furshman, LLP)

Jeff Daley (AVATAR) and Carlos E. Gonzalez, Jr.(BankUnited)

Melissa Nobles (Kiskinis Communications) andDanny Gonzalez (Globe Commodity Traders)

Janina Goenaga (BASF), Event Chairman Luis F.Quiñones (BenTrust Financial) and Yendi Bayona

Inna & Misha Mladenovic (m2e Consulting Engineers)

Ryan Albregts, Hector Duval and Dan Rodriguez,all of Larry's Cap Rock & Stone, with the HavanaNight Conga Dancers

Frank & Betty DeVarona (Yachting Experts)

Jorge Martinez and Robert Prieto (United Iron &Aluminum Contractor)

A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR FOURTH ANNUAL HAVANA NIGHT SPONSORS: BenTrust FinancialFlagler Development Group • BankUnited unum • ADA Compliance Specialists, Inc.Solomon & Furshman, LLP • Lennar HomesCEMEX • Becker & Poliakoff • ACADEMICALarry’s Cap Rock & Stone • RC Aluminum

Vitran Homes, LLC • COGENT • The Guayabera Lady Association Services of Florida • UnitedHealthcare

Whirlpool • Cherry, Bekaert & HollandLink Construction • Atlantic &

Pacific Development •

Physicians Offices of Florida City


Alex & Sylvie Galvez (Cogent Consulting Engineering Construction, LLC) on the dancefloor

Jaclyn Bentley (Jaclyn A. Bentley, P.A.) and Aaron Behar (Weiss, Serota, Helfman, Pastoriza,Cole & Boniske, P.L.)

Brenda & Lawrence Popritkin (LawrencePopritkin, P.A.) with friends Kristi Varnnatta and Gina & Tony Conti

Juan Carlos & Belinda Vila (Vila & Son)

Shar & Scott Notowitz, Jeff & Marcela Daley,Aileen Malmquist and Aldo Cavo all of AVATAR

Vincent Castro, Chris Mainquist, Frank Cerrerasand Luis Quiñones, all of BenTrust Financial,with the Havana Night Conga Dancers

Esther Gonzalez (Bayshore), Carlos & Daisy Gonzalez (CYMA) and Arturo Di Mauro

J.C. & Maddy Calleiro, Analise Calleiro, Norbert Nuñez, Aesia Suarez and Carlos Beliezall of CEMEX

Allyson & Phillip Humphries and Carlos & ElviraFernandez all of Larry's Cap Rock & Stone

Cynthia Wolber-Solomon, Harvey & Lisa Ruvinand the Havana Night Conga Dancers

Ben Solomon (Solomon & Furshman, LLP) celebrates his birthday with family and friends

Event Chairman Luis Quiñones & AdrianaQuiñones (BenTrust Financial)




Roxanna, Shahin, Miami Dolphin Mascot, Sonya and Alexander Etessam (CD Group, LLC, & Greatstone Development)

Loretta Saulsberry (Whirlpool Corp.) with HialeahMayor Julio Robaina

On Saturday, April 24, BASF membersjoined more than 500 local Comcast employees and their families and friends to improve the Edgar J. Hall Special Populations Center of Hialeah as part of Comcast’s ninth annual Comcast Cares Day.

The Special Populations Center, home tothe largest Special Olympics delegation inMiami-Dade County and a hub of therapy programs for adults with disabilities within the City of Hialeah, was in desperate need of a makeover.

“Comcast Cares Day is about focusing onthe importance of community, and what itmeans to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors” said Jeanie Hernandez, government and community affairs director for Comcast, and organizer of the event. “We are thankful to have such generous partners who shared their time and their resources with those in need.”

BASF would like to sincerely thank all of its members who participated in the event. It also would like to recognize Loretta Saulsberry (Whirlpool Corp), Ben Solomon(Solomon and Furshman, LLP), J.C. Calleiro(CEMEX) and Ernie Bascuas (Sherwin-Williams) for going above-and-beyond the call of duty – contributing more than $15,000 in appliances, equipment and construction supplies.

COMCAST CARES DAY EXTREME MAKEOVERBASF Edition

MEMBER OPPORTUNITIES

Team BASF volunteers gather together beforeheading out to paint and landscape the center.

Marla Alpizar (Director Hialeah Education andCommunity Services Department), Hialeah MayorJulio Robaina, Toni Pacelli-Hinkley (BASF) andLynda Harrington (Supervisor)

Truly Burton (BASF) and Nick Fernandez (CoralGables Senior High) joined in on the parking stop painting

Julian, Daniel and JC Calleiro (CEMEX USA) withJohn Kiskinis (Kiskinis Communications)

Carolina Herrera, Esq. (Lennar) and CarlosDuque, Esq. (Duque & Hammond, PA)

John Storm (Comcast) shows his skills at hammering

Fernando Martinez (Caribe Homes) and MariaLacayo-Martinez (FCMC Lending Services, Ltd.)painting parking stops in the parking lot



Ben Solomon, Esq. (Solomon and Furshman, LLP) planting new landscaping around the playground

Julian and Daniel Calleiro with the Miami Dolphin Mascot

Odalys and Carolina Saenz Loretta Saulsberry (Whirlpool Corp.) with donated Whirlpool Appliances

Shahin Etessam (CD Group, LLC & Greatstone Development) with Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina

Filemon Lopez (Comcast), Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina, BASF President Fernando Martinez, (back row) with Leila Chang (Hands on Miami) Toni Pacelli-Hinkley (BASF), Rixys Alfonso (Here's Help),Jeanie Hernandez (Comcast), Dave Murphey (Miami Dolphins), Saif Ishoof (City Year)

Fernando Martinez (Caribe Homes), Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina, Ben Solomon, Esq. (Solomon & Furshman, LLP)


$CO–OP


MEMBER OPPORTUNITIES

At the Commercial Builders Council on May 19 at the Miami City Club, BASF presidentFernando Martinez of Caribe Homes welcomed guests gathered to hear expertsdiscuss “Resurrecting Fractured Deals andDistressed Properties.” Sponsored by Greenberg Traurig; Colliers Abood Wood-Fay;Comcast; AVATAR; BTI Developers; Sherwin-Williams and RC Home Showcase, and moderated by Richard Horton of The GreenCompanies, the breakfast crowd learned thatpeople are moving downtown, there’s lots ofcash “out there” and deals can close wheneveryone works together and moves fast.

Miami-Dade County Manager GeorgeBurgess said that South Florida is at an eco-nomic crossroads. Government infrastructurecan fuel private investment, said Burgess, and he thinks now is the time for governmentto invest in building that infrastructure. “We’regetting phenomenally good bids on construc-tion. We’re doing jobs for less money. We canmake things attractive to private investment.”

Michael Cannon, executive director of Integra Realty Resources, agreed that govern-ment and industry need each other. “We need

that exchange of money among entrepreneurs,labor, capital, land and others in the mix,” said Cannon. His data confirm the reducedsuburban space in South Florida and the newmove toward downtown where retail spacegets a fresh start from something unique tothe area—people who remain there after 5p.m. The dramatic improvement Cannon seesin the next 18 months will reflect a shift to energy savings, mixed-use developments,more vertical space and continued foreign in-migration. Financing, when available, willrequire 30-40 percent down.

Cannon’s advice: pay attention to demographics, beware of information overload, and then focus on location, planning,timing, experience and prudence.

Marianna Perez, senior vice president,Commercial Lending at City National Bank saidcommunity banks are working with good borrowers to help work through commercialloans that mature soon in amounts close to$250-billion this year and up to $340-billion in2012. “It’s like triage in the hospital ER,” saidPerez. “We have to determine the situation.”Income producing property is now more

important as collateral. Easy money is gone;terms are back to 30 and 40 percent down forretail and office space. “For mixed-use space,let the apartment side carry the loan.”

Greenberg Traurig’s Paul Berkowitz andJuan Loumiet called attention to fresh April data that show housing starts up, thenreviewed recent deals in which joint venturepartners tried to pass the buck. Berkowitzcautioned those who restructure deals thatwere made at the height of the boom. “Theemphasis then was on speed, lest a competi-tor steal the deal,” said Berkowitz. He offeredsix pieces of critical advice. 1. Know the documents and carefully re-read

if unsure. 2. An old deal will not satisfy everyone today,

so adjust objectives. Adopt a proposal that works for everyone.

3. Government’s idea of development and entitlements may have changed. Or it may be the same. Find out.

4. Find something you can give the seller, landbanker or joint venture partner that allows meeting original objectives.

5. Establish one contact in your organization

CASH AND COOPERATION CAN SAVE DEALSCommercial Builders Council Hosts Topical Breakfast

Michael Cannon (Integra Realty Resources), Marianna Perez (City National Bank), and PaulBerkowitz and Juan Loumiet (Greenberg Traurig)

Richard Morales (BankUnited), Barbara Ferrer (Akerman, Senterfitt), Marianna Perez(City National Bank), and Fernando Gomez and Richard Hummel (BankUnited)

Miriam Rodriguez-Alvarez (Bonded Builders Risk Management), Fernando Martinez (CaribeHomes) and Marianna Perez (City National Bank of Florida)

Miami-Dade County Manager George Burgesswith BASF President Fernando Martinez (Caribe Homes)

Richard Horton (The Green Companies) andMacAdam Glinn (Weiss, Serota, Helfman, Pastiriza, Cole & Boniske)

Lani Kahn Drody (Lowell Homes), Michael Fay(Colliers, Abood, Wood-Fay) and Michael Cannon(Integra Realty Resources)


MIX-N-MINGLE


so that all data, changes and decisions funnel through that contact.

6. Review the impact of taxes on the new arrangement and its parties.You can put lipstick on a pig, according to

Lani Kahn Drody, executive vice president of Lowell Homes and president of Lowell International Realty, by recovering the appealof many distressed assets with a can of paintor a lawnmower. Her advice to lenders whohaven’t taken title yet: “Clean it up, take control and put your best foot forward.” Concentrate on price, financing and a goodexit strategy. “Check market studies and focusgroups, define your market. And resist up-selling. They may walk.”

Michael Fay, president of Colliers AboodWood-Fay, warned of commercial loans totaling near $500 billion that mature in thenext few years. He represents many lenders,

a mix of big banks, some with no money tolend and some with new owners. He said that even in today’s complex environment,workouts are possible when money is available. “We closed 30 deals since January,” said Fay. “All cash. No financing.”Opportunities are coming, added Fay, and creativity counts.

Michael Fay (Colliers, Abood, Wood-Fay) and Fernando Martinez (Caribe Homes)

WORLD CUP ATMOSPHERE FITTING FOR GLOBE CAFÉ & BAR MIXER

The June board meeting held at the Globe Café and Bar, with World Cup gamesshowing on the many television screens

and special drink prices for BASF membersand their guests, was the perfect meetingplace for a mix-n-mingle.

Eric Schigiel, Luis Viva and Julio Rodriguez ofOpustone Granite and Marble Distributors

Loretta Saulsberry on behalf of Whirlpool (center)accepts a certificate of recognition from the Cityof Hialeah, with Ben Solomon, Esq. (Solomon &Furshman, LLP) Ruben Bertran (Vitran Homes),and Marianna Perez (City National Bank)

Ben Solomon and Michael Furshman (Solomon & Furshman, LLP), Luis A. Betalleluz (The BetaJones Group), Neil Sosler (Singer Xenos) and Victor Recondo (Solomon & Furshman, LLP)

Audley Bosch (CIAC), Truly Burton (BASF) andAshley Bosch (Blok Urban Development )

Melissa Diaz, Tony Vias, Yanet Frias and Jose Lopez of RC Aluminum

Loretta L. Saulsberry of Whirlpool and WendyMurray of Association Services of Florida, AAMC

Oscar Barbara (Quantum Homes) andStanley B. Price, Esq. (Bilzin, Sumberg,Baena, Price & Axelrod, LLP)

Alex Castellanos (BB&T) and Robert Duffy (Foundation Insurance Group)

Larry Kahn (Lowell Homes) and Juan Loumiet(Greenberg Traurig)



MIX-N-MINGLE

MAYOR & MEMBERS MINGLE AT SHULA’S Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina was the

featured speaker at BASF’s May board meeting at Don Shula’s Hotel & Golf Clubsponsored by Executive Commitee member,Richard Gomez, TGSV Enterprises. Robainaopened his remarks by thanking BASF for itssupport of the recently held Comcast CaresDay that benefitted the Edgar J. Hall SpecialPopulations Center in Hialeah. He then addressed key issues impacting residents of Miami-Dade County. Robaina voiced his opposition to Amendment #4 and explainedthe negative impact it would have if passed in November. He ended by congratulating

BASF for taking an active role in enhancingthe quality of life in our community.

Following the meeting, some 70 members

and potential members gathered to network and enjoy the tasty hors d’oeuvers providedby Shula’s.

Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina andBASF President Fernando Martinez(Caribe Homes)

Event sponsors Jesus and RichardGomez (TGSV Enterprises)

Ernest York (Insulation Market Place), Rafael Dominguez (ParamountDepot), Dan Rodriguez (Larry's Cap Rock & Stone), Fernando Martinez(Caribe Homes) and Shahin Etessam (CD Group, LLC & Greatstone Development)

Manny Gutierrez (fembi Mortgage Brokers) andMarianna Perez (City National Bank)

Dylan Larson (Miller Legg), Shahin Etessam (CD Group, LLC & Greatstone Development) and Fernando Martinez (Caribe Homes)

Marianna Perez (City National Bank), Marie Almeida (Milner) and Jami Reyes (Jami Reyes Co.)

Shahin Etessam (CD Group LLC and GreatstoneDevelopment), Miriam Rodriguez-Alvarez(Bonded Builders Risk Management) MauricioCayon (CD Group LLC) Ruben Bertran (VitranHomes) and Fernando Martinez (Caribe Homes).

Jaime Byington and Danielle Cardoso (Cherry,Bekaert, and Holland L.L.P), and Silvio Cardoso(EcoSmart)

Mayor of Hialeah Julio Robaina, Silvio Cardoso(EcoSmart) and Hialeah Council President CarlosHernandez

Mary and Manny Benitez, and Erica and AdolfoReyes of American Fasteners Corp.

Richard Gomez (TGSV Enterprises), City of Miami Spring Councilman Dan Espinosa andTruly Burton (BASF)


MIX-N-MINGLE


YACHTING EXPERTS INTERNATIONAL BROKERS A great crowd of BASF members and

guests attended April’s mix-n-mingle hostedby Yachting Experts International Brokers attheir new offices at Monty’s in Coconut Grove.Frank and Betty DeVarona were sure tomake an impression on their guests, with

excellent drink choices and an elaborate display of tasty foods. Taking advantage of the opportunity to get to know one another in this lavish setting, guests “cruised” thehalls during a tour provided by the Yachting Experts team.

BASF would like to thank the DeVarona’sfor their generous hospitality and exquisitepresentation. If you’re interested in purchasinga yacht, or would like to charter one for a day, please call BASF member, Yachting Experts at (786) 228-8928.

Dan Rodriguez (Larry's Cap Rock & Stone) andEddie Toledo (Caesarstone)

Frank DeVarona (Yachting ExpertsInternational Brokers)

Betty and Frank DeVarona (Yachting ExpertsInternational Brokers)

Neil Sosler (Singer Xenos Wealth Management)and Ben Solomon, Esq. (Solomon & Furshman,LLP)

Betty DeVarona (Yachting Experts InternationalBrokers), Luis F. Quiñones Jr. (BenTrust Financial) and Yalennie Vinas (GMG Advertising)

Frank DeVarona (Yachting Experts InternationalBrokers), Yalennie Vinas (GMG Advertising), TonyAbelo (Ocean Promotion) and Barbie Armada(Property Expert International)

Alex Castellanos (BB&T), Ray Castellanos (Authentic Construction) and Truly Burton (BASF)

Frank DeVarona (Yachting Experts InternationalBrokers), Danny Lopez (Yachting and PropertyExperts), Luis Rabell (LPR Builders) and MannyMatos (Yachting and Property Experts)

Alberto Miranda of ValleyCrest Landscape Development and Fernando I. Martinez of Caribe Homes



NEW MEMBERSABC Drywall, Corp.Michael J. Sullivan(954) 971-0065Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

Accurate Pest Control, Inc.Jenny L. Chapter(954) 584-8588Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

American StairsJamil Mikati(772) 286-2082Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

CC Devco, LLCHarold Eisenacher(305) 666-4900Sponsored by: Lani Kahn DrodyLowell Homes

Chuqui Painting dba All StarPaintingJuan Troncoso(305) 303-2206Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

Diego L. Restrepo, P.A.Diego L. Restrepo(305) 447-9430Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Distinctive Kitchens & Baths, Inc.Adam Canter(561) 997-9400Sponsored by: Carolina HerreraLennar Homes

District Management Services, LLCBrian K. Lamb(305) 663-5334Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Electric ConnectionRandy Sjaardema(561) 586-6499Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

Florida Power & Light CompanyManny Rodriguez(305) 552-3443Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

General Stair Corp.Esther M. Garver(305) 769-9900Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

GMG AdvertisingYalennie Vinas(305) 752-2512Sponsored by: Betty DeVaronaYachting Experts

GND Millwork, Corp.Noel Gonzalez(305) 278-6555Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

L. Synalovski C.B.C. Inc.Lisa Synalovski(954) 804-3516Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Larry's Cap Rock & StoneDan Rodriguez(305) 247-0947Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Leza's Plumbing CorporationEric A. Leza(305) 717-1595Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

MAB Construction Systems, LLCMike Bernal(954) 838-7725Sponsored by: Ruben BertranVitran Homes

Merc International RealtyErik Ramirez(786) 447-8583Sponsored by: Shahin EtessamGreatstone Development

Merill LynchScott Notowitz(561) 393-4573Sponsored by: Jeff DaleyAvatar Communities

Merit Floors, Inc.Todd Flegel(305) 887-7571Sponsored by: Carolina HerreraLennar Homes

Powers Schram, LLCStephen Schram(954) 533-5957Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Real Estate Disposition, LLCJoe McGinley(321) 506-5501Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Reprographic Services, Inc.Alex Peysekhovich(305) 859-8282Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Signature Design PavingSteven J. Tornari(954) 975-8646Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

Singer Xenos Wealth ManagementNeil R. Sosler(305) 443-0060Sponsored by: Ben SolomonSolomon & Furshman, LLP

Vila and Son LandscapingAriel Caballero(305) 255-9206Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALSAkerman SenterfittNeisen O. Kasdin(305) 982-5629Sponsored by: Lani Kahn DrodyLowell Homes

Alvarez & Barbara, LLPHugo Alvarez(305) 263-7700Sponsored by: Alex GalvezCogent Consulting

American Fasteners Corp.Manny Benitez(305) 885-1717Sponsored by: Rey MelendiLennar Homes

Artistic Glass & MirrorManuel Hernandez(305) 256-1345Sponsored by: Carlos GonzalezLennar Homes

Atkins Engineers, IncLeonard Atkins(305) 444-6260Sponsored by: Rey MelendiLennar Homes

Atrium Windows & DoorsMarc Dunn(800) 748-8371Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

BBMK Contracting, LLCBryan Meklir(954) 928-3870Sponsored by: Ashley BoschBlok Urban Development

Benson Lighting & FansRic Jolie(305) 235-5841Sponsored by: Richard HortonThe Green Companies

BenTrust FinancialLuis Quiñones(305) 444-8350Sponsored by: Carlos E. Gonzalez, Jr.BankUnited

Blue Fin, IncRandolph Wall(305) 852-2767Sponsored by: Bill DowdRoemer Insurance Agency

BOC Builders, Inc. d/b/a/ C + EConstruction Co.Charles E. Schafstall(305) 852-5100Sponsored by: Lani Kahn DrodyLowell Homes

Bravo Construction & Remodeling, Inc.Pedro Bravo(305) 796-0810Sponsored by: Robert DuffyFoundation Insurance Group

BTI Developers/Breakstone HomesNoah Breakstone(305) 441-2117Sponsored by: Omer GaudetteWhirlpool Trade Relations

Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, LLPScott J. Topolski(561) 241-0414Sponsored by: Armando GoenagaWCI Communities

Can Do Construction of theKeys, Inc.David Daniels(305) 743-4165Sponsored by: Ernesto CastilloCEMEX

Capital American MortgageDeborah Reyes(305) 444-4140Sponsored by: Richard HortonThe Green Companies

Capri Construction Corp.Juan Llauro(305) 252-5775Sponsored by: Carlos E. Gonzalez, Jr.BankUnited

Carreras-Rubio & AssociatesNilda Carreras(305) 223-8839Sponsored by: Oscar BarbaraQuantum Homes

Comcast CableJeanie Hernandez(305) 770-5316Sponsored by: John KiskinisKiskinis Communications

Construction One, Inc.Manuel Ibanez(305) 828-2222Sponsored by: Jean FrandsenGulfstream Insurance Agency, Inc.

Contemporary BuildersEugenio Cosculluela(305) 662-6840Sponsored by: Lani Kahn DrodyLowell Homes

Cornerstone GroupMara Mades(786) 709-2236Sponsored by: Richard HortonThe Green Companies

C.P.S. SecurityJulian David Gonzalez(305) 597-4047

Della Porta, Ward & AssociatesPhilip J. Ward(305) 284-9300Sponsored by: Frank Scimeca. Jr.

Dewalt Power ToolsCarlos Lopez(305) 273-8876Sponsored by: Juan EnriquezThe Paint Spot

Duane Morris L.L.P.Jeffrey Margolis(305) 960-2200Sponsored by: Richard HortonThe Green Companies

EAS Engineering, Inc.Ed Swakon(305) 445-5553Sponsored by: Ron SchwartzGloron & Associates, Inc.

EcoSmart US, LLC.Silvio A. Cardoso(305) 623-7900Sponsored by: Silvio CardosoEcoSmart US, LLC

Ernie Scott ConstructionErnie Scott(305) 258-9779Sponsored by: Randy SchwartzCatalina Caststone Creations, Inc.

First Bank FloridaCarlos DeVarona(305) 577-6000Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Furman InsuranceFrank Furman(954) 943-5050Sponsored by: Omer GaudetteWhirlpool Trade Relations

Hass General Contractors, Inc.Robert Hass(954) 784-1212Sponsored by: Jon RemesRoemer Insurance Group

Hawthorne Realty, Inc.Sandy Miot(954) 389-5557Sponsored by: Robert Krieff

Hollub HomesHarry Hollub(305) 665-4275Sponsored by: Robert Bonnet

Kellog BuildersMichael Kellogg(305) 304-1111Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

KPMG LLPErica Fowler-Johnson(954) 462-4716Sponsored by: Lori FieldsKPMG, LLP

Landko Investments, LLCBarry S. Goldmeier(305) 984-3595Sponsored by: Jessica GonzalezCentury Homebuilders, LLC

Miami Management, Inc.Guillermo Cancio-Bello(305) 378-0130Sponsored by: Carolina HerreraLennar Homes

Minto Communities, Inc.Dirk Neumann(954) 973-4490Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Moen, Inc.Alex F. Hernandez(800) 280-6636Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Morgan Stanley Dean WitterVickie Bartholomew(561) 394-8609Sponsored by: Silvio CardosoEcoSmart US, LLC

Noxon Construction Corp.Alfredo Quintero(305) 445-7923Sponsored by: Joe CriderP.A. Dick, Inc.Phillip Dick(305) 255-9028Sponsored by: Oscar BarbaraQuantum Homes

Pasadena Homes, Inc.Lenny MillerSponsored by: Adolph BergerPasadena Homes, Inc.

Pure Power, LLCLisa Maxwell(954) 830-3466Sponsored by: Thomas DavidThomas M. David, PA

R C. Schultz Construction.Robert Schultz(305) 245-9676Sponsored by: Oscar BarbaraQuantum Homes

Ready WindowsRick Suarez(305) 269-3999Sponsored by: Rey MelendiLennar Homes

Richard & Rice ConstructionCompany, Inc.Murray C. Rice(954) 418-9831Sponsored by: Diana IbarriaStandard Pacific Homes

Robayna & Associates, Inc.Rafael Robayna(305) 823-9316Sponsored by: Bill Safreed

Roemer Insurance AgencyBill Dowd(800) 466-9461Sponsored by: Jessica GonzalezCentury Homebuilders, LLC

Ryder Construction, Inc.Jeffrey A. Ryder(305) 289-8331Sponsored by: Silvio CardosoEcoSmart US, LLC

S.T. Sparks Construction, Inc.Sammy T. Sparks, Jr(305) 853-9363Sponsored by: Richard HortonThe Green Companies

Salinero Enterprises, Inc.Frederick A. Salineros(305) 294-7618Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

Schooley Construction, Inc.Ra Schooley(305) 238-5674Sponsored by: Lani Kahn DrodyLowell Homes

Shear Construction & Management, LLC.Gary Shear(305) 668-4949Sponsored by: Oscar BarbaraQuantum Homes

MEMBERS DOING BUSINESS WITH MEMBERS



Siegfried Rivera Lerner De laTorre & Sobel, PAMichael Clark(305) 442-3334Sponsored by: Rey MelendiLennar Homes

Siravo & Guerrieri, Inc.Daniel Guerrieri(954) 473-5272Sponsored by: John Arbib

South Florida Bay BuildersThomas Fraelich(305) 743-1969Sponsored by: Joe Crider

Stan Bulbin Custom Builders, Inc.Neil Bulbin(305) 662-5638Sponsored by: Oscar BarbaraQuantum Homes

Standard Pacific HomesDiana Ibarria(954) 538-3500Sponsored by: Hal EisenacherCC Devco

Thales Builders CorporationPedro Sanchez(305) 828-7884

Sponsored by: Jessica GonzalezCentury Homebuilders, LLC

The Arnold Creative GroupJay Arnold(305) 444-2744Sponsored by: Richard HortonThe Green Companies

The Porter Allen Co., Inc.Elizabeth Freeman(305) 294-2542Sponsored by: Oscar BarbaraQuantum Homes

The Sherwin-Williams, Co.Jay Caravia(407) 658-6740Sponsored by: Walter CarsonCustom Living Spaces

Ultra Structures, Inc.Sam Khoury(954) 523-2685Sponsored by: Stanley PriceBilzin, Sumberg, Baena, Price &Axelrod, LLP

Urban Capital ManagementAaron Zeigler(305) 372-9117

Sponsored by: Richard HortonThe Green Companies

WAHAB Contracting, Co.Walid Wahab(305) 854-8480Sponsored by: Richard HortonThe Green Companies

Weiss, Serota, Helfman Pastoriza Cole & BoniskeMitch Bierman(305) 854-0800Sponsored by: Silvio CardosoEcoSmart US, LLC

Werle Associates, PLJim Werle(954) 234-7986Sponsored by: Jim CarrCarr Residential

Whirlpool CorporationPeter Smith(561) 383-2818Sponsored by: Rey MelendiLennar Homes

Yachting ExpertsBetty DeVarona(786) 228-8928Sponsored by: Fernando MartinezCaribe Homes

SPIKE CLUB UPDATEStatesman Spike (500 Credits & AboveBill Dowd 764.5Jon Fels 509

Super Spike (250-499 Credits)Jean Frandsen 456Lani Kahn Drody 413.75Oscar Barbara 409.5Sandy Miot 392Luis Rabell 329 Rick Horton 322.5Lew Lautin 282.5Bernie Offenberg 274.5Jeff Spear 262Silvio Cardoso 255.5

Royal Spike (150-249 Credits)Omer Gaudette 236Lenny Miller 225.5John Arbib 217.5 George Berlin 209.5Ron Schwartz 206.5Adolph Berger 198.5David Adler 166.5Susan Highsmith 157.5

Robert Duffy 156.5Mark Levy 154.5

Red Spike (100-149 Credits)Rey Melend 149.5Eduardo Camet 148.5Irv Adler 146.5Marc Dunn 143Harold Eisenacher 139Lonnie Raulerson 138Noah Breakstone 138Frank Robles 129.5Jon Remes 128.5Oscar DiVeroli 126

Green Spike (50-99 Credits)Bill Graham 91Randy Schwartz 90.5Jim Carr 89Barry Pollock 85Deborah A. Reyes 83.5Miriam R. Alvarez 82.5Larry Kahn 80Todd Stephens 78Thomas P. Murphy, Jr. 77.5Stan Krieger 74

Robert Bonnet 66.5Mike Cannon 66.5Jeff Gillispie 65.5Milton Bloom 59.5Carlos E. Gonzalez, Jr. 55.5Andrew Witkin 53.5Charles E. Rogers 53Frank Palen 51.5Patricia Mendoza 51

Life Spike - Navy (25-49 Credits)Leo Schwartzberg 49.5E.E. Hubshman 49Dennis Kleinman 48.5John McQueston 47.5Bob Legg 46.5Javier Fernandez 46.5Robert Green 44Thomas Williams 39.5Albert Cohen 39Ileana Marquez 38Harry Sonenblum 37.5Hank Green 36.5Guillermina Ojeda 36.5Jim Shafer 36.5

Robert Dady 35.5Jose Fernandez 33Ashley Bosch 29Stephen Reimer 26.5Charlotte Floyd 25.5Keith Hurand 25

Spike (6-24 Credits)Elizabeth Freeman 18.5Luis Quinones 18J.C. Calleiro 17Tony Palumbo 15Fernando Martinez 15 Joe Crider 14Steve Solomon 13.5Fred Sanchez 12.5Julian David Gonzalez 12.5Blas E. Garcia 10Ray Castellanos 9John Kiskinis 9Raymond Butler 8.5Shahin Etessam 8Margaret Diaz 8Diana Ibarria 8Stanley Price 7.5Don McCartney 7

Orlando Diaz 7Diana Ibarria 7Carolina Herrera 7Armando Goenaga 6Jessica Gonzalez 6

Tacks (0.5 -5 Credits)Carey Keyes 5 Guelcys Perez 5Joe Avetrani 4Ben Solomon 3Manny Fernandez 3Juan C. Enriquez 3Daniel Follese 3Joseph H. Roth III 2.5Andrew Fields 2.5Tyler Chappell 2Lori Fields 2Luis Garcia 2Carolina Herrera 2Frank Mackle 2Alberto Miranda 2Thomas C. Murphy 2Bernie Navarro 2Guido Perou 2Hiram Rodriguez 2

Raul Sotolongo 2Jason T. Quimby 1.5Carlos Castellaños 1Betty De Varona 1Javier Estrada 1Alex Fernandez 1Marcia Friedman 1Fransisco Garcia 1Bernando Kopel 1Jami Reyes 1Alberto Milo 1Kimberly Prat 1Miguel A. Ruiz 1Kirk Youmans 1Ernesto Castillo 0.5Jay Caravia 0.5Jose Fernandez 0.5Harry Hollub 0.5Perla Lichi 0.5Harris Millman 0.5Alex Naboles 0.5Scott J. Topolski 0.5

RECOGNIZING SOME OF BASF’S BEST!FOR YOUR MONEY: On a special “For Your Money” report, CBS4’s David Sutta interviewed BASF Board MemberBen Solomon, Esq. (Association Law Group) about his proposed solution for troubled condo associations. Thisnew tactic, called “mortgage termination” challenges banks to either foreclose or simply get out of the way –and it’s working! Heralded a brilliant proposition, his approach has been featured in Miami Today and the Daily Business Review. We are proud to have passionate members such as Ben on our team. Congratulations!

MEMBERSHIP DRIVE: Kirk Youmans led Team Lennar in theBASF membership drive bringing in 13 new members and winning a ticket to Havana Night. Congratulations, Kirk!

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COMCAST NEWSMAKERS: Spero Canton (left) interviewsBASF First Vice-President Marianna Perez (City NationalBank of Florida), during a segment of Comcast Newsmakersat the studio in Hialeah in early July. Marianna discussed the role the banking industry plays in today’s housing market, while letting consumers know that BASF’s membership is a great resource for expert advice.



Documents

BasfNews8 (Fall 2010)