Select Page

Communities

Widgetized Area

This panel is active and ready for you to add some widgets via the WP Admin

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:

  1. 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:

  1. 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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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.

How to Challenge Unfair Assessments from Your HOA or Condo Association

How to Challenge Unfair Assessments from Your HOA or Condo Association

0

A fair assessment protects a community. An unfair one threatens it.”
– Erik Perez

TL:DR – Unfair HOA or condominium assessments can create sudden financial pressure for Florida homeowners. But the law provides clear rights and protections. You can request documentation, challenge the charge, and dispute assessments that were not properly approved or justified. Perez Mayoral, P.A. helps homeowners push back when associations go too far.
When an Assessment Doesn’t Feel Right
Most homeowners understand that assessments are part of shared living. They help maintain the property, keep amenities functional, and ensure the community stays safe and well-managed. But sometimes that system breaks down.
You may receive a notice that seems unusually high. You may not understand why the money is needed. Or you may suspect that the board didn’t follow the proper procedures before issuing it.
If something feels off, that feeling is worth paying attention to. In Florida, assessments must be reasonable, transparent, and tied to legitimate community needs. When they are not, you have the right to challenge them.
What Makes an Assessment Unfair?
Not all assessments are improper, but certain warning signs should immediately catch your attention. Many homeowners experience issues such as:
• Sudden, unexplained increases• Lack of required notice before approval• No access to the records supporting the amount• Assessments used for projects never discussed or approved• Charges that appear to target specific homeowners• Emergency assessments declared without true emergencies
Florida law is clear: assessments must be based on legitimate expenses, approved correctly, and supported by financial records.
If your board cannot clearly explain the purpose and calculation of an assessment, that is a red flag worth addressing.
Your Rights Under Florida Law
Homeowners have more rights than most realize. Under the Florida Homeowners’ Association Act (Chapter 720) and Florida Condominium Act (Chapter 718), you are entitled to:
• Review financial records related to the assessment• Receive proper notice before a vote or approval• Question how funds are being allocated• Dispute assessments that were not legally authorized• Seek legal remedies if the board acted outside its authority
These statutes were written to protect homeowners from financial strain caused by poor governance or improper board actions. You do not have to accept an assessment simply because it appeared in your mailbox.
How to Challenge an Unfair Assessment
Challenging an assessment does not need to be confrontational. It begins with a simple request for clarity. Here’s the general process:
Step 1: Request Documentation
You have the right to see the records that justify the assessment. This includes budgets, contractor estimates, invoices, and reserve studies. If the board avoids providing them, that alone signals a potential violation.
Step 2: Compare the Assessment to Legal Requirements
Florida law dictates how assessments must be approved. If the board skipped a required vote or failed to notify owners, the assessment may be invalid.
Step 3: Put Your Objection in Writing
Formal communication creates a record of your challenge and forces the board to respond appropriately.
Step 4: Seek Legal Guidance
When a board refuses to comply or continues to enforce an improper charge, it is time for professional support. This not only protects your rights but prevents escalation into liens or foreclosure risks.
Perez Mayoral, P.A. regularly helps homeowners challenge unlawful assessments and ensures associations follow the law—not their personal preferences.
Why These Issues Matter
An assessment may seem like a simple financial request, but for many families, retirees, and single-income households, it can be a major burden. Improper assessments can create stress, disrupt financial planning, and even threaten long-term stability.
More importantly, unfair assessments break trust. When boards operate without transparency, the community loses confidence in its leadership. Challenging an assessment is not just about one charge. It is about protecting your rights and the integrity of your home.

“In matters of truth and justice, there is no difference between large and small problems.” — Albert Einstein

This quote reflects the heart of the issue. An assessment may seem like a small administrative decision, but when mishandled, it becomes a matter of fairness, accountability, and legal protection.
You do not have to accept an assessment that feels excessive, unexplained, or improperly approved. Florida law gives every homeowner strong protections. Use them. When an association oversteps, you have every right to push back.
If you’ve received an assessment that doesn’t seem lawful or fair, Perez Mayoral, P.A. can help you challenge it. Protect your home and your financial well-being.
305.928.1077eperez@pmlawfla.com

Read More
Annual Customer Appreciation at Jensen’s Liquors

Annual Customer Appreciation at Jensen’s Liquors

0

Annual Customer Appreciation at Jensen’s Liquors #1
A Miami Tradition of Gratitude, Community, and Exceptional Wine

TL;DR
Jensen’s Liquors #1 celebrated its annual customer appreciation event today, showcasing Eddie Cruz’s unmatched hospitality and the vibrant Miami community he has cultivated for years. With wine tastings led by Ojalá Wines, enthusiastic vendors, and a steady flow of loyal customers, the event reflected exactly why Jensen’s remains one of Miami’s most beloved liquor destinations: exceptional service, genuine relationships, and a tradition that grows stronger year after year.
Few places in Miami can pack this much warmth into one early evening. It was December 11th, 2025, the day of the annual customer appreciation event at Jensen’s Liquors #1 on SW 27th Avenue and 16th Street.  It felt less like a store gathering and more like a neighborhood reunion—one built on loyalty, hospitality, and decades of relationships.
A Tradition Rooted in Gratitude
From the moment you walked in, the focus keyphrase — Jensen’s Liquors customer appreciation event — came to life. The aisles were busy, not chaotic. Familiar faces were everywhere, and the atmosphere had that unmistakable Little Havana energy: lively, warm, and full of heart.
And at the center of it all was owner Eddie Cruz, greeting guests with the kind of genuine warmth you can’t manufacture. Eddie doesn’t just run a liquor store—he cultivates a community. Watching him welcome long-time customers made it clear: these relationships weren’t built overnight. They were built bottle by bottle, thank-you by thank-you, year after year.
Why Customers Keep Coming Back
Customers return to Jensen’s Liquors because owner Eddie Cruz creates personal, lasting relationships grounded in trust, gratitude, and exceptional customer service.
Eddie’s approach is simple: treat every customer like family. That philosophy was on full display today as regular shoppers stepped in to buy their usual items—only to stay a little longer, chat, and celebrate with Eddie. Even during the festivities, the store never stopped moving. Business continued, and so did the conversations.
It’s rare to see a store busy with both celebration and commerce, yet completely balanced. That’s what true customer loyalty looks like.
Ojalá Wines: Handcrafted Passion in Every Bottle
One of the highlights of today’s event was the presence of Ace Cruz, proudly representing Ojalá Wines. He shared the story behind the brand with enthusiasm that matched the quality inside every bottle.
Ojalá Wines stands out because of its heart:

Hand-selected grapes from biodiverse regions in California’s Central Coast

A commitment to handcrafted wine-making

Sustainable growing practices rooted in environmental stewardship

A socially conscious mission supporting at-risk youth

And above all—quality wines at an everyday price

Ace guided guests through tastings of their Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and White Zinfandel, explaining how each vintage is aged, blended, and cared for. The wines were smooth, memorable, and accessible—exactly what the Ojalá brand stands for.
Their philosophy aligns perfectly with today’s event: keep it simple, keep it excellent, and keep it meaningful.
Industry Roots That Run Deep: Pete Fernandez & Bartender In A Box
Another familiar face at today’s celebration was Pete Fernandez, a long-time business friend of both Eddie Cruz and the entire Jensen’s Liquors family. Pete has been connected to Jensen’s since 1992, back when he first worked with Bacardi USA—a partnership built on trust, consistency, and years of collaboration.
Today, Pete brings new energy as Co-Founder of Bartender In A Box, an exciting brand launching across the United States. He shared his enthusiasm about its national rollout, and guests could feel the momentum behind it. Pete’s journey mirrors the spirit of Jensen’s: relationships matter, authenticity matters, and longevity is earned—not given.
His presence today was a reminder that Jensen’s is more than a store—it’s an industry hub where long-time partners evolve, grow, and return to celebrate together.
A Celebration of Community
This event wasn’t just about wine or the holiday season—it was about saying thank you. Jensen’s Liquors has hosted this annual celebration for years, but today felt particularly special. Maybe it was the holiday spirit. Maybe it was Ace’s energy and Ojalá’s tastings. Maybe it was the constant flow of loyal customers who stopped by simply because this is their place.
But more than anything, it was the unmistakable feeling that Jensen’s Liquors is part of the fabric of Miami life.
Quote That Captures the Day

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

Eddie embodies this truth every day. And today, surrounded by customers who feel like family, it showed more than ever.
The heart of a business is not its inventory—it’s its people. And Eddie Cruz proves that when you invest in relationships, customers become community.
If you haven’t visited Jensen’s Liquors #1, now is the perfect time. Stop by, meet Eddie, explore Ojalá Wines, learn about Bartender In A Box, and experience the kind of customer service that keeps Miami coming back year after year.
Eddie Cruz can be reached at 305-442-0804

Read More
HB 657: A New Approach to Florida HOA Governance and Dispute Resolution

HB 657: A New Approach to Florida HOA Governance and Dispute Resolution

0

 

A Comprehensive Look at Florida’s Proposed HOA Reforms and What They Mean for Homeowners

Florida may be on the verge of one of the most significant updates to HOA governance in years. HB 657, introduced by Representative JC Porras, proposes major revisions to Chapter 720 that could reshape how homeowners’ associations operate and how disputes are resolved. The bill modernizes association governance, expands homeowners’ access to relief, and—most notably—creates the first-ever statutory process that allows communities to formally terminate an HOA.
HB 657 signals a shift in how Florida views community-association oversight. Its goal is clear: make association governance more transparent, more efficient, and more aligned with the needs of homeowners across the state.

A New Community Association Court Program
One of the most impactful features of HB 657 is the creation of the Community Association Court Program. This program would allow judicial circuits to establish dedicated divisions focused exclusively on disputes arising under Chapters 718 (condominiums), 719 (cooperatives), and 720 (homeowners’ associations).
This is a major change for homeowners. Instead of having their disputes assigned to judges with varying levels of association-law experience, cases could be heard by judges who regularly handle these matters. The goal is simple and meaningful: more consistency, more efficiency, and clearer rulings for all parties involved.

Expanded Arbitration Options for Faster Resolutions
HB 657 also updates the current arbitration process by allowing the use of private arbitrators, as long as they are certified by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
This expansion could help relieve the backlog within the existing state-run arbitration system. With more arbitrators available, homeowners may finally see:
• Faster case resolutions• More accessible dispute mechanisms• Reduced legal bottlenecks
By increasing arbitrator availability, the bill aims to give homeowners a more reliable path to relief when conflicts with their associations arise.

Mandatory Adoption of Kaufman Language
Another important element of HB 657 is its requirement to implement Kaufman language into HOA governing documents. Kaufman language ensures that when the legislature updates the HOA statute, those changes automatically apply to the association—unless otherwise stated.
Under the bill:
• All new associations formed on or after July 1, 2026, must include Kaufman language in their declarations.• Existing associations must hold a vote on January 1, 2027, allowing owners to decide whether to adopt this language going forward.
This change would help ensure that governing documents stay aligned with consumer-protection updates, reducing confusion and reinforcing legal consistency statewide.

A First-Ever HOA Termination Procedure
HB 657 introduces a formal, structured process for terminating an HOA, something Florida law has never clearly defined under Chapter 720.
The proposed termination process includes:
• A petition signed by 20% of all owners• A required association meeting within 60 days• A two-thirds vote to approve termination• A supervised wind-down process overseen by the court
For communities that are no longer functioning effectively—or where association governance has become strained—this provides an organized path forward. Homeowners who previously felt “stuck” may finally have a legal mechanism to dissolve an association that no longer serves its purpose.

What HB 657 Means for Florida Homeowners
Taken together, these reforms represent a major evolution in Florida’s community-association landscape. HB 657 strengthens dispute-resolution options, introduces clearer judicial pathways, modernizes governing documents, and gives homeowners exceptional new tools to protect their interests.
As the bill moves through the legislative process, its potential impact will continue to grow. Perez Mayoral, P.A. will monitor its progress closely to help homeowners and associations understand their rights and responsibilities under these proposed changes.
HB 657 is more than a policy update—it’s a blueprint for a more balanced and transparent future in HOA governance.
If you have questions about how HB 657 could affect your community or your rights as a homeowner, our team is ready to help. Contact Perez Mayoral, P.A. today to discuss your situation and receive clear guidance tailored to your association’s needs.
Phone: 305.928.1077Email: eperez@pmlawfla.com

Read More
Cigars and Chess: Strategy, Patience, and the Mind of a Leader

Cigars and Chess: Strategy, Patience, and the Mind of a Leader

0

Great leaders think like chess players and act with the patience of a slow-burning cigar.-Wilson Avarez

A Moment of Strategy in Miami
In Miami’s cigar lounges, a quiet chess game paired with a well-aged cigar reveals an important truth about leadership, patience, and strategy.
There is something uniquely powerful about sitting down for a game of chess with a cigar in hand. In a fast-moving city like Miami, where ambition and entrepreneurship drive daily life, moments like these create space for deeper thinking.

Why Chess and Cigars Complement Each Other
Both activities reward discipline, but they do so in different ways.
Chess sharpens strategic thinking, while a cigar naturally slows the pace, allowing ideas to develop more clearly. Together, they create a balance between action and reflection.

Chess: Thinking Several Moves Ahead
Chess is not about speed—it’s about foresight.
Every move carries consequences, and each decision influences multiple future outcomes. Players must anticipate responses, protect their strategy, and adapt as the board evolves.
Success comes from a series of thoughtful decisions rather than a single brilliant move.

Leadership Lessons from the Chessboard
Leadership operates in much the same way.
A decision made today can affect an organization long into the future. Strong leaders evaluate options carefully, thinking several steps ahead before taking action.
Patience and awareness often determine long-term success.

The Cigar’s Role: Slowing Down the Mind
A cigar introduces a different rhythm to the experience.
Unlike fast-paced habits, it demands time and attention. This slower pace creates space for reflection, allowing leaders to process ideas more deliberately.
As the cigar burns, the mind settles into a more focused and thoughtful state.

Conversation, Culture, and Clarity
Across Miami, professionals often gather around chessboards in cigar lounges and patios. These environments naturally bring together strategy, conversation, and relaxation.
During these moments, new ideas emerge. A simple move on the board may spark a fresh business perspective, while a conversation can lead to unexpected insights.

Humility, Growth, and Awareness
Chess teaches humility in a way few activities can.
Even experienced players make mistakes, and one small oversight can change the entire outcome. Leadership reflects this same reality—experience does not eliminate the need for careful thinking.
As Wilson Alvarez often says:

“Movement creates clarity.”

Each move reveals new possibilities, requiring constant reassessment and awareness.

The Takeaway: Slow Down to Think Better
The lesson is simple.
Chess sharpens the mind, while a cigar slows the moment. Together, they create a powerful environment where leaders can practice patience, strategy, and thoughtful decision-making.
In a fast-paced world, slowing down may be one of the most valuable leadership skills available.

If you enjoy thoughtful conversation, strategic thinking, and meaningful gatherings among professionals, consider becoming part of the Miami cigar community. Connect with leaders and entrepreneurs by joining the Miami Cigar Club Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/miamicigarclub
For more information about gatherings and membership opportunities, contact Wilson Alvarez Consulting Group, Inc. at 305-386-6165.
#MiamiCigarClub #CigarsAndChess #MiamiLeadership #BusinessStrategy #MiamiBusinessCommunity

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.

Read More
Why Great Ideas Still Begin Around a Table

Why Great Ideas Still Begin Around a Table

0

Some of the most meaningful business breakthroughs begin not in conference rooms, but in relaxed conversations where professionals exchange honest perspectives.

The strongest ideas often begin as simple conversations among thoughtful people.– Wilson Alvarez

Great ideas still begin around a table because real conversation encourages reflection, perspective, and collaboration. When professionals gather in environments designed for thoughtful dialogue, creativity expands and better decisions emerge.
Throughout history, some of the most powerful ideas have begun around a simple table. Before there were conference centers, digital meetings, and virtual collaboration tools, professionals gathered face to face to exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and solve problems together.
While technology has dramatically improved communication, it has also changed the way people interact. Emails replace conversations. Messages replace meetings. Quick responses often replace thoughtful reflection. Yet many professionals are beginning to recognize that speed does not always produce better thinking.
In fact, some of the most valuable insights still come from conversations that unfold slowly.
When people gather around a table, something important happens. The conversation becomes human again. Body language, tone of voice, and shared attention all contribute to the quality of the discussion. Ideas can be explored fully rather than summarized in short digital exchanges.
These moments of thoughtful dialogue often create the environment where creativity thrives.
Across industries, leaders are rediscovering that innovation frequently begins through open conversation. A simple idea shared casually can spark a larger discussion. One perspective may challenge another. A different experience may reveal an opportunity that had not been considered before.
This process is difficult to replicate in rushed meetings or formal presentations. Creativity requires space to breathe.
Historically, cultures around the world understood this principle well. Communities developed rituals and traditions that encouraged conversation and reflection. Among Native American tribes, the ceremonial passing of the peace pipe represented a shared commitment to listen respectfully and speak thoughtfully.
The symbolism behind that tradition emphasized that conversation was not simply about speaking. It was about understanding one another and considering perspectives carefully before reaching conclusions.
Today, professionals are rediscovering the value of that same mindset.
In cities like Miami, where entrepreneurship and innovation are constantly evolving, professionals benefit greatly from environments that encourage thoughtful discussion. When individuals from different industries sit together and exchange ideas, they bring unique perspectives that can lead to unexpected solutions.
The table becomes more than furniture. It becomes a platform for insight.
Some of the most productive conversations occur when people step away from formal agendas. Without the pressure of presentations or scheduled talking points, professionals can explore ideas more freely. Questions become more thoughtful. Listening becomes more intentional.
Over time, these conversations create a culture of collaboration rather than competition.
As Wilson Alvarez often reminds professionals, “Movement creates clarity.”
That statement reflects the power of discussion itself. When ideas move between people through conversation, clarity begins to emerge. Perspectives sharpen. Solutions become visible. What once felt complicated often becomes simpler through collective thinking.
The lesson is clear. Great ideas rarely appear in isolation. They grow through conversation, reflection, and shared experience.
When professionals gather intentionally, listen openly, and explore ideas together, the table becomes the birthplace of innovation.
If you appreciate thoughtful conversation, meaningful collaboration, and professional insight, consider becoming part of the Miami cigar community. Join other professionals who value dialogue and connection by joining the Miami Cigar Club Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/miamicigarclub
For more information about gatherings and membership opportunities, contact Wilson Alvarez Consulting Group, Inc. by calling 305 386 6165.
#MiamiCigarClub #BusinessIdeas #LeadershipConversations #MiamiBusiness #ProfessionalDialogue

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.

Read More