By: Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

Perfect for South Florida skiers, Copper Mountain’s naturally divided terrain allows for family fun that suits the individual abilities and needs of each family member.   Although this world-class resort offers all the powder (21 inches and counting just this week), perks, altitude and thrills of neighboring Colorado mountain resorts such as Breckenridge and Vail, it is extra family friendly in terms of accessibility, amenities, service, ski school, and wallet-friendly prices. In short- Copper Mountain gives you all the fun without the hassle and big ticket pricing. It’s no surprise that Copper has consistently been voted the locals’ favorite ski resort.

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The Board of Trustees of the Barnes Foundation announced that they have named Thomas “Thom” Collins as the new Executive Director and President of the Barnes Foundation. An innovative educator, accomplished art historian, administrator and author, Mr. Collins, a Philadelphia native, has more than 20 years of experience at some of America’s top arts institutions. He comes to the Barnes after serving for five years as director of the Pérez Art Museum Miami, Florida (PAMM). At PAMM, Mr. Collins oversaw construction of the new Herzog & de Meuron-designed building located in downtown Miami, which opened to great acclaim in December 2013. During his tenure, the museum achieved an overwhelming increase in membership, annual giving, attendance, and major gifts, published important exhibition and collection catalogs, added significant works of art to the collection, and began in-house production of critical new digital education tools.

“It will be a privilege to lead the Barnes Foundation in its next chapter,” said Mr. Collins. “With its world-class collection, critically acclaimed new building, award-winning programs, growing membership and engaging array of courses in art and horticulture, the Barnes has become increasingly accessible to a more diverse audience than ever before. I look forward to working with the staff and Trustees to further its mission.”

Prior to joining PAMM, Mr. Collins served for five years as director of the Neuberger Museum of Art in Purchase, New York. Mr. Collins’ tenure at the Neuberger Museum of Art was highlighted by significant growth in attendance and annual giving, and the creation of major endowments for new programming initiatives and capital improvements. He also oversaw the museum’s exhibitions, permanent collection displays, and a far-reaching platform of community-based educational programs for school children and adults in Westchester and Fairfield Counties.

Before heading the Neuberger Museum, Mr. Collins served as director of the Contemporary Museum in Baltimore, Maryland, 2003–2005; chief curator at the Contemporary Arts Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, 2000-2003; associate curator at the Henry Art Gallery in Seattle, Washington, 1998-2000; and Newhall Curatorial Fellow at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, 1994-1997.

Mr. Collins earned his MA in Art History from Northwestern University and his BA with honors in Art History and the History of Religion from Swarthmore College. He currently holds memberships in the Association of Art Museum Directors, the Association of Art Museum Curators, and the College Art Association. For more information visit: www.barnesfoundation.org.

By: Dr. Mary Jo Almeida-Shore
For over 13000 people, who traveled from all parts of the country to gather at the American Airlines Arena on October 24 and 25, Oprah Winfrey’s The Life You Want Weekend was nothing short of transformational. Amid laughter and tears and music, dancing, personal reflections, meditation, testimonials and even exercise, we embarked on a multi-sensory, emotional journey toward fulfillment. The weekend opened on Friday night, October 24, as Oprah entered the stage of a pitch black arena- with the words, “What will you do-with the energy that is you?.” At that moment, to the surprise of the crowd- the silicone wristbands which were given to each guest upon entry, lit up in bright white light- illuminating the giant space- like a sky full of stars.   Next- everything went black and Oprah said, “No matter how dark the night gets, the sun will always rise again.” Read the rest of this entry »

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore 

Not that we would ever think to complain about living in the place where the rest of the world loves to vacation, but, during the “dog days of summer” when our social calendar is fairly open, it becomes necessary to consider venturing out to nearby destinations for a little change of scenery and to recharge before the busy season ahead.  This summer, we got the chance to check out a few terrific resorts in the Keys- just steps away from home.  Each distinct in its unique atmosphere and offerings, all three provided the perfect place to unwind, recharge and create special memories with the family.  Read the rest of this entry »

By: Mary Jo Almeida-Shore 

Miami’s elite gathered at the gorgeous Juvia, in the critically acclaimed Herzog & De Meuron-designed 1111 Building on Lincoln Road on Saturday, April 26, for the Miami Symphony Orchestra’s (MISO) first annual Blues & Brunch. The beauty of the restaurant, with sweeping views of the city and ocean was rivaled only by the chic crowd, who dressed to the nines in hats, fascinators, bow ties, pin stripes and spring finery- as per the invitation.  Yet the most spectacular sensory inspiration came courtesy of MISO’s musicians, who performed throughout the beautiful afternoon, as Champagne and cocktails flowed freely. Guests feasted on a four-course brunch, served family-style. 

The dashing Rafael Diaz-Balart, who serves as MISO’s Chairman of the Board, lauded the efforts of MISO’s Conductor, Eduardo Marturet, praising his extraordinary charisma, vision and talent. “There is no one like him- what he has done for this orchestra and for this city is beyond words.”  Read the rest of this entry »

By:  Dr. Mary Jo Almeida-Shore 

For the 13^th consecutive year, the South Beach Wine and Food Festival (SOBEWFF) attracted thousands upon thousands of foodies to the wine soaked sands of South Beach, to delight in scrumptious bites, sip clever concoctions and rub elbows with fellow foodies, VIPs, and more celebrity chefs than you can shake your spatula at. The celebrations started Thursday, February 20 and ran through Sunday, February 23.   

The Q 

Moët Hennessy’s The Q, kicked off SOBEWFF on Thursday, February 20, attracting carnivores and Champagne aficionados like prime, grilled catnip would Tony the Tiger.  Host, Michael Symon, along with over 20 Sports Illustrated swimsuit models converged in a tent behind the Delano for a night of savoring grilled meats from local and nationally renowned restaurants from around the nation and free-flowing Champagne and cocktails.  Read the rest of this entry »