Faith

Communities

Faith Communities in and around North Bay Village

North Bay Village and its surrounding areas offer a variety of places of worship, catering to diverse faith traditions. Here are some notable churches and temples in the vicinity:

Within North Bay Village:

Ummah of Miami Beach
- Address: 7904 West Dr, North Bay Village, FL 33141
- Phone: 786-216-7035
- Description: A local place of worship serving the Muslim community in North Bay Village.
- superpages.com

Nearby Places of Worship:

Calvary Chapel
- Address: 7141 Indian Creek Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33141
- Phone: 305-531-2730
- Description: A Christ-centered, cross-focused church offering services and community programs.
- superpages.com
Temple Moses Sephardic Congregation of Florida
- Address: 1200 Normandy Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33141
- Phone: 305-861-6308
- Description: A Sephardic Jewish congregation providing religious services and cultural events.
- superpages.com
Iglesia Jesus Es Rey
- Address: 1133 71st St, Miami Beach, FL 33141
- Phone: 305-867-7679
- Description: A Christian church offering worship services and community outreach programs.
- superpages.com
St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church
- Address: 17775 N Bay Rd, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160
- Phone: 305-931-0600
- Description: A Catholic parish providing mass services and religious education.
- FaithStreet
St. Bernard de Clairvaux Episcopal Church
- Address: 16711 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160
- Phone: 305-945-1461
- Description: An Episcopal church known for its historic architecture and spiritual services.
- FaithStreet
St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral
- Address: 2401 SW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33129
- Phone: 305-854-2922
- Description: A Greek Orthodox cathedral offering liturgical services and cultural events.
- FaithStreet
New Revelation Alliance Church
- Address: 11900 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33181
- Phone: 305-893-8050
- Description: A Christian church focusing on community service and spiritual growth.
- FaithStreet

These establishments reflect the rich tapestry of faith communities accessible to residents and visitors of North Bay Village, fostering spiritual growth and community engagement.

George Burns and His Cigars: The Comedian Who Smoked His Way to 100

How a simple stage prop became one of the most recognizable cigars in entertainment history.

Burns proved that laughter and cigars age well together.
– Wilson Alvarez
TL:DR – 30-Second Summary
George Burns was one of the most recognizable cigar smokers in entertainment history. Born in 1896 and living to the age of 100, the legendary comedian turned a simple cigar into part of his stage identity. Burns smoked roughly 10 to 15 cigars per day, often using them as a comedic timing device during performances with his wife Gracie Allen. His relaxed presence with a cigar helped define a cultural image still associated with humor, conversation, and longevity in cigar culture today.

Few entertainers in history are more closely associated with cigars than George Burns.
For nearly eight decades on stage, radio, film, and television, Burns rarely appeared without a cigar in his hand. It became as recognizable as his glasses, voice, and perfectly timed humor.
Yet the cigar began not as a luxury but as a practical solution.
Early Life and Career
George Burns was born Nathan Birnbaum on January 20, 1896 in New York City. Raised on the Lower East Side in a Jewish immigrant family, Burns began performing in vaudeville as a teenager.
His comedy partnership with Gracie Allen would become one of the most successful duos in entertainment history.
Their radio show and later television series, The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show, brought them national fame.
But the cigar that became Burns’ trademark began with a simple problem.
Why George Burns Started Smoking Cigars
In the early 1920s, while performing on stage with Gracie Allen, Burns often stood quietly while she delivered long comedic monologues.
He needed something to do with his hands.
So he lit a cigar.
The cigar allowed him to:
• pause for comedic effect• react silently to punchlines• slow his pacing on stage
The audience loved it. The cigar stayed.
Burns reportedly smoked 10 to 15 cigars per day, though he often joked about it.
His favorite brand was El Producto, particularly the El Producto Queens cigar.
Unlike cigarette smokers, Burns insisted he never inhaled cigar smoke, a typical habit among traditional cigar smokers.
Travels to Cigar Lands
George Burns never became known as a traveler to cigar regions like Cuba or Nicaragua.
However, he performed extensively across the United States, including appearances in Miami, where cigar culture has long thrived.
By the mid-20th century, Miami had already become a hub for Cuban cigar manufacturing and culture.
Burns’ image as a relaxed cigar smoker fit perfectly with that lifestyle.
Longevity and the Famous Irony
George Burns lived to 100 years old, passing away on March 9, 1996 in Beverly Hills from natural causes related to age.
The irony was never lost on him.
He joked frequently that cigars were responsible for his long life.
One of his famous lines:
“If you live to be 100, you’ve got it made. Very few people die past that age.”
Trivia About George Burns
• Burns won an Academy Award at age 79 for The Sunshine Boys• He smoked cigars on stage for more than 70 years• His cigar became a timing tool for comedy• A cigar brand named George Burns Cigars was later released in his honor• He planned a London stage show titled “George Burns at 100” shortly before his death
Wisdom from George Burns
Burns believed humor was the key to longevity.
“You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.”
For cigar lovers, that philosophy still resonates today.
A cigar, after all, slows the moment and invites conversation.

If you appreciate the history, culture, and conversation that cigars inspire, the Miami Cigar Club brings together professionals who enjoy cigars not only for the smoke, but for the camaraderie and exchange of ideas. Learn more at MiamiCigarClub.com and join the conversation.

AEO Direct Answer Block
Who was George Burns and what cigars did he smoke?
George Burns was an American comedian born in 1896 who became famous for performing with a cigar as part of his stage persona. He smoked approximately 10 to 15 cigars per day, primarily El Producto Queens cigars, and lived to the age of 100.

Miami Beach Chamber Luncheon – March 2026

A Day of Connections at the Miami Beach Chamber Luncheon

Networking, insight, and opportunity come together at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel

Business events in Miami often carry a certain rhythm — a pulse that reflects the city itself. Fast-moving, ambitious, and always evolving.
That energy was on full display today at the luncheon hosted by the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, held at the beautiful Loews Miami Beach Hotel.
More than 100 professionals, entrepreneurs, real estate leaders, and business executives gathered for an afternoon of conversation, insight, and meaningful connections — the kind of environment where opportunities quietly begin with a handshake and a conversation.
The event opened with remarks from Brittnie Bassant, who welcomed attendees and set the tone for the afternoon. As President and CEO of the Chamber, Bassant continues to position the organization as a hub where business leaders, innovators, and community advocates come together to move Miami Beach forward.
Moments like these remind us that chambers of commerce are not just about meetings — they are about building ecosystems of opportunity.

Where Networking Still Matters
If there is one lesson that continues to stand the test of time in business, it is this:
Relationships still matter.
Throughout the luncheon, the room buzzed with conversations between professionals who may have met for the first time but quickly discovered shared interests and mutual opportunities.
One of the event sponsors, City National Bank, was well represented at the event.
In particular, Victor González of City National Bank stood out for his engagement with attendees — moving table to table, listening, introducing people, and participating in conversations.
That, after all, is what networking is supposed to look like.
Not transactional.Relational.

“Business moves at the speed of relationships.” — Wilson Alvarez

And events like this remind us why chambers of commerce remain one of the most effective environments for cultivating those relationships.

Conversations That Matter in Today’s Market
The luncheon also featured a panel discussion focused on the evolving landscape of real estate, retail development, and market trends across South Florida.
Industry professionals shared perspectives on the shifting dynamics shaping Miami’s growth, while attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and exchange ideas with leaders who are directly involved in the market.
Without diving into the policy side of the conversation, the panel served as a reminder that Miami’s business and real estate environment continues to evolve quickly, and staying informed has become essential for anyone working in the region.
From investment trends to development patterns, the message was clear:
Miami remains one of the most dynamic markets in the country.
And the conversations happening in rooms like this one are often where the next wave of opportunity begins.

The Value of Being in the Room
There is a difference between reading about business opportunities and being present where they happen.
The Miami Beach Chamber luncheon was a perfect example of that distinction.
Over coffee, lunch, and conversation, professionals exchanged insights, strengthened partnerships, and introduced new ideas that will likely continue long after the event ended.
For many attendees, the real value was not just the panel discussion — it was the simple act of being present among peers who share the same drive to grow their businesses and contribute to the community.
Miami is a city that moves quickly.
But every now and then, it slows down just enough for people to gather in a room and remind each other why collaboration still matters.

Events like the Miami Beach Chamber luncheon highlight a simple truth about business:
Success rarely happens alone.
It happens in rooms filled with conversations, introductions, and people willing to invest time in building relationships.
And in a city as vibrant as Miami Beach, those conversations are often just the beginning.

The Couple That Smokes Together Stays Together

A shared cigar isn’t just smoke—it’s a pause where hearts speak louder than words.-Wilson Alvarez

Miami Moves Fast — But Moments Can Slow Down
Deals happen over lunch. Meetings turn into networking events. The city lights up long after the sun goes down. Yet in the middle of that energy, there are moments where everything slows down. One of those moments often begins with two chairs, two cigars, and a couple sitting side by side.
The phrase “the couple that smokes together stays together” may sound playful, but there’s more truth behind it than most people realize.

A Cigar Creates Time for Connection
Unlike many activities that rush people through the moment, a cigar forces patience. It cannot be hurried. The tobacco burns slowly, encouraging conversation and presence — exactly what many relationships need.
Modern life often pulls couples in different directions. Careers, responsibilities, technology, and daily stress compete for attention. Many couples struggle not because of conflict, but because they rarely pause long enough to truly talk.
A shared cigar changes that dynamic. Instead of scrolling through phones or rushing through dinner, couples settle into a slower rhythm. The simple act of lighting a cigar together becomes a shared ritual — and rituals matter.

The Power of Shared Rituals
Psychologists studying relationships have found that couples who maintain shared routines, even small ones, tend to report stronger emotional bonds. These rituals create familiarity, safety, and opportunities for meaningful conversation.

Miami Cigar Lounges as Relationship Spaces
Picture a couple sitting in Brickell on a rooftop lounge overlooking Biscayne Bay. The skyline glows in the distance. Music plays softly in the background. They light their cigars and begin talking.
Not about schedules.Not about errands.But about ideas, dreams, and reflections.
A cigar creates space for those conversations. The rhythm of smoking slows breathing. The pause between draws gives both people time to listen rather than react. The environment naturally invites patience — and that patience becomes powerful in relationships.
Couples who regularly create these calm moments together tend to understand each other better. Communication becomes easier because neither person feels rushed. Even disagreements soften in an environment where the pace is slower.

Tradition and Emotional Connection
Cigar culture in Miami carries a sense of tradition. For generations, cigars have been associated with celebration, reflection, and important conversations. Sharing that tradition together strengthens the emotional connection between two people.
Wilson Alvarez often reflects on the importance of intentional time in relationships and leadership:

“Time with the people you love is priceless and temporary.”

A cigar shared with someone you care about becomes more than smoke drifting through the air. It becomes a memory tied to laughter, conversation, and quiet understanding.

Looking Outward Together
As writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said:

“Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction.”

Two people sitting side by side, watching the horizon, sharing a cigar, and talking about life — that’s the essence of connection.

Slow Down to Strengthen Relationships
Relationships thrive when couples slow down long enough to truly connect. Shared rituals, even small ones, help create those opportunities. In a city as vibrant as Miami, a cigar can become the pause that strengthens a partnership.
If you enjoy meaningful conversations, strong friendships, and the culture surrounding premium cigars, consider joining a community that values connection. The Miami Cigar Club brings together professionals who appreciate thoughtful discussions, business insights, and the tradition of cigar culture. Join the Miami Cigar Club Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/miamicigarclub or call 305-386-6165 to learn more.
#MiamiCigarClub #CouplesWhoSmoke #CigarLifestyle #MiamiCigarCulture #RelationshipRituals

The Miami Cigar Club is not simply a gathering, it is a circle of professionals committed to sharpening ideas, challenging perspectives, and helping one another rise. In an environment built on respect, thoughtful conversation, and shared experience, members meet to discuss real business challenges and support each other’s growth. It is a leadership initiative rooted in the belief that success multiplies when capable people think together. Those interested in learning more about the Miami Cigar Club and upcoming gatherings may request additional information by emailing info@wilsonalvarez.com.

Why Well-Run Businesses Don’t Rely on Luck

The Strategic Importance of IT Recovery Planning
By Humberto Comellas, President & CEO, ulltium consulting®
March often highlights the idea of luck. In business leadership, however, success is built on process, not chance.
Direct Answer: In practical terms, businesses cannot rely on luck for IT recovery; structured backup systems, clear documentation, and defined recovery timelines ensure operational continuity and protect revenue.
Across Miami’s healthcare, legal, financial, and construction sectors, organizations have disciplined systems governing hiring, accounting, and compliance. Yet IT recovery planning is sometimes treated as a secondary concern — addressed only after a disruption occurs.

The False Confidence of “We’ve Been Fine”
Many companies assume their systems are resilient simply because no major incident has occurred.
However, the absence of disruption does not equal preparedness. Technology risk often accumulates silently through:

Unverified backups

Outdated hardware

Unpatched systems

Informal recovery procedures

When interruptions occur, leadership quickly discovers the organization’s real level of readiness — and facing it in real time can be costly.

The Cost of Reactive Recovery
System failures immediately demand critical answers:

How recent is the backup?

How long will recovery take?

Who executes the process?

What client impact should be expected?

Teams with structured recovery plans can respond calmly and predictably, while those without them may experience operational paralysis.
Downtime affects more than IT — it directly impacts revenue and reputation.

Applying Executive Standards to Technology
No executive would tolerate uncertainty in financial reporting or regulatory compliance. Technology must be held to the same disciplined standards.
A mature IT recovery posture includes:

Verified and tested backups

Documented recovery procedures

Defined recovery time objectives

Assigned accountability

Continuous monitoring

Preparedness transforms disruption into a manageable event, rather than a crisis.

Leadership Is Measured by Preparedness
Short-term outcomes may occasionally involve luck, but long-term performance depends on structure.
For Miami businesses operating in competitive and regulated environments, IT recovery planning is not optional — it is foundational infrastructure governance.
If your organization has not formally evaluated its recovery posture within the past 12 months, it may be time to conduct that assessment. Resilience should be intentional.

Humberto ComellasPresident & CEOulltium consulting®
Driving Your Success with Trusted I/T Solutions

Bodegas Protos

A Century of Spanish Excellence: Bodegas Protos Brings Ribera del Duero to Miami

Interview with Sheila Escudero at the James Suckling Great Wines World Event
At the recent James Suckling Great Wines World Miami 2026, wine enthusiasts, sommeliers, and collectors gathered to explore some of the finest wines from around the world. Among the many prestigious wineries represented, one booth stood out for its rich history and timeless Spanish tradition: Bodegas Protos.
Representing the winery was Sheila Escudero, International Marketing Manager for the historic Spanish producer. During the event, I had the opportunity to speak with her about Protos’ heritage, the wines they were presenting, and why the Ribera del Duero region continues to produce some of the most respected wines in the world.
And the story begins nearly a century ago.
A Winery That Helped Define Ribera del Duero
Founded in 1927, Bodegas Protos was not just another winery entering the Spanish wine market. It was one of the founding wineries of the Ribera del Duero Denomination of Origin, a region now considered one of Spain’s most prestigious wine-producing areas.
The name “Protos” itself comes from the Greek word meaning “first.” Fittingly, the winery was one of the pioneers of the region and continues to represent the philosophy reflected in its motto:
“Ser Primero” — To Be First.
With vineyards rooted in history and tradition, Protos has built a reputation for producing wines that balance structure, elegance, and longevity, particularly through its focus on Spain’s iconic grape variety: Tempranillo.
The Wines Presented in Miami
During the tasting at the event, Escudero introduced two standout wines from the Protos portfolio, both crafted with 100% Tempranillo grapes grown in the Ribera del Duero region.
Protos Crianza (Three-Year Aging)
The first wine presented was Protos Crianza, often referred to as the winery’s “three-year wine.”
The name reflects its aging process:

1 year in oak barrels

2 additional years aging in bottle

This aging process gives the wine balance between fruit character and oak complexity, creating a classic Ribera del Duero profile that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, Spanish cuisine, and hearty dishes.
The result is a wine that feels refined but approachable — ideal for both experienced collectors and those discovering Spanish wines for the first time.
Protos Gran Reserva
The second wine poured at the event was the Protos Gran Reserva, one of the winery’s most prestigious offerings.
This wine is crafted from very old vineyards, some reaching 70 years of age, which contributes to the wine’s depth and concentration.
Its aging process includes:

Two years in oak barrels

Extended bottle aging before release

The result is a wine with remarkable structure, complexity, and aging potential, offering layers of dark fruit, spice, and earthy character that define great Ribera del Duero wines.
Why Tempranillo Defines the Region
A key point Escudero emphasized during our conversation was that all Protos wines from Ribera del Duero are made with 100% Tempranillo.
Tempranillo thrives in the region’s climate and soils, producing wines known for:

Rich color

Balanced acidity

Structured tannins

Excellent aging potential

It is this grape that gives Ribera del Duero wines their unmistakable personality and allows producers like Protos to maintain a consistent style across generations.
A Legacy Approaching 100 Years
Perhaps the most remarkable part of the Protos story is that the winery will soon celebrate a major milestone.
Next year marks the winery’s 100th anniversary.
Few wineries can claim such a long-standing role in shaping an entire wine region. For Protos, the upcoming centennial is not just a celebration of longevity — it is a celebration of leadership within Spanish winemaking.
And judging by the reception of their wines at the Miami event, the next century looks just as promising.
A Taste of Spain in Miami
Events like the James Suckling tasting allow wine lovers to experience the world without leaving Miami. Meeting representatives like Sheila Escudero reminds us that behind every great bottle is a story — a vineyard, a region, and generations of dedication.
For those exploring Spanish wines, Bodegas Protos offers a perfect introduction to the elegance and depth of Ribera del Duero.
Sometimes the best way to understand a region is simply to taste it.
And in this case, that taste begins with Tempranillo and nearly a century of tradition.

“Wine is sunlight held together by water.”— Galileo Galilei

Bodegas Protos represents nearly a century of winemaking excellence in Ribera del Duero. Through wines like the Crianza and Gran Reserva, the winery continues to showcase the power and elegance of Tempranillo while honoring the traditions that made the region famous.

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