The Greater Miami Chamber honored the winners of the 2nd Annual Technology Leaders of the Year Awards during a luncheon at the Hilton Downtown Miami. The awards highlight individuals/organizations with extraordinary technological hands-on experience whose management of technology resources and/or technological innovations have made outstanding contribution to their organization and the community. Awards were given to: South Florida Technology Alliance; Steven Berwick; Linda Lecht; Hugo Perez; and Demian Bellumio. Keynote - Roldolpho Cardenuto of HP. Sponsored by Telefonica USA Inc. and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida.

On April 10, 2008 the Greater Miami Chamber held the first Reward Reception at the fabulous Miami Seaquarium. Among the many rewards given, tickets to a Miami Heat game and a Dolphin Wade Courtesy of the Miami Seaquarium were also given as door prizes.

On April 9, 2008 the Non-Profit Business Committee of the Greater Miami Chamber held this panel discussion at the Four Seasons Hotel Miami. Panel was moderated by Peter England, Director of Government Relations at Camillus House. Panel members included: For Profit - David Hollander, Partner at Morrison Brown, Argiz & Farra, LLP and David Lebenstein, Senior Managing Director and Director, Not-for-Profit Division at Colliers ABR; Nonprofit - Jeremy Baker, Director of Finance and Administration at Florida Association of Volunteer Action in the Caribbean and the Americas (FAVACA) and Pat Byrnes, Director of Development at HospiceCare of Southeast Florida, Inc. Event was sponsored by the Four Seasons Hotel Miami.

On March 27, 2008 the Greater Miami Chamber Consular Corps and Foreign Trade Officers hosted the Honorable Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Congresswoman, 18th District of Florida, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Held at the Four Seasons Hotel Miami the reception was sponsored by Baptist Health International Center of Miami and The Jay Malina International Trade Consortium of Miami-Dade County Florida.

March 28 & 29, 2008 the Greater Miami Chamber Youth Leadership Miami Future Executive Program held its Opening Conference for the 2007-2008 year. The Opening Conference was made possible by Presenting Sponsor - Wachovia and supporting sponsors - The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation; Dade Community Foundation; Bank of America; BankAtlantic; and Hands On Miami. The Greater Miami Chamber also thanks its Partners Florida International University Continuing and Professional Studies and the South Florida Progress Foundation.

On March 28, 2008 Greater Miami Chamber members were offered the opportunity to visit the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station, U.S. Southern Command facility and enjoyed lunch at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Miami Branch. The event was sponsored by Commissioner Jose "Pepe" Diaz, District 12, Miami-Dade County; Miami-Dade Defense Alliance; and the Federal Reserve.

On March 27, 2008 the total resource campaign was kicked-off during a luncheon at the Hilton Downtown Miami.

The Greater Miami Chamber salutes South Florida's minority business community and celebrates our region's rich diversity and spirit of entrepreneurship. The Greater Miami Chamber recognized 100 finalists and presented 11 awards to top minority businesses during a luncheon on March 18, 2008.

A Presentation by Ricardo B. Salinas, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Grupo Salinas held during the March 5th, 2008 Board of Governors and Trustees Luncheon. Also at this luncheon, “Planning Ahead: Americas Linkage 2008” presented by Olga Ramudo, Greater Miami Chamber Chairman of the Global Business Initiatives Committee, and President and CEO of Express Travel.

The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce held a Trustee Reception at Barry University and on February 28, 2008.

On February 12, the International Business Development Group hosted "The Search for Management Talent: What Do Firms Really Want?" at Regions Bank in Coral Gables. The program was an open conversation with senior executives and corporate human resource professionals who discussed the employment market for managerial talent, both locally and globally; skill sets that are in high demand in the marketplace, and hiring and promotion trends. The briefing was moderated by Dr. Jerry Haar of Florida International University. Participating panelists included: Maria del Busto, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd; German Herrera, Egon Zehnder International; Lorena Keough, Ken Clark International; and Dominique Virchaux, Korn/Ferry International.

Held February 12, 2008 at the Radisson Hotel Miami, Sherwood M. “Woody” Weiser was honored. The award is presented to outstanding community leaders who have made significant contributions to the South Florida region, demonstrating through their involvement, love and dedication to our community as the best possible place in which to live and work. Program was presented by FPL.

A presentation by Marvin O’Quinn President/CEO of Jackson Health System held during the February 6th, 2008 Board of Governors & Trustees Luncheon at Jungle Island.

The January 9th Board of Governors & Trustees Luncheon at Jungle Island featured a presentation on "It Takes Connections: Linking Schools, Business and Community to Elevate Miami" by Dr. Rudolph A. Crew, superintendent, Miami-Dade County Public Schools; and Manuel A. Diaz, mayor, City of Miami. The luncheon also featured an education fair where mentoring organizations displayed tables and demonstrated how businesses can get involved in education.

A Presentation by Dan McGinnis Vice President of Business Development at SUEZ Energy North America, Inc. held during the December 5, 2008 Board of Governors and Trustees Luncheon. Also at this luncheon, "Building Better Communities Bond Program-Three Years Later" presented by George M. Burgess, County Manager, Miami-Dade County and "Miami begins with me" by William D. Talbert III, President/CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. Attendees also enjoyed a Caribbean Cruise giveaway for two compliments of Celebrity Cruises.

On November 20, the Greater Miami Chamber Transportation & Infrastructure Committee held a special VIP preview of Miami International Airport’s new South Terminal. Guests viewed the 1.7-million-square-foot, five-level expansion that features: a renovated Concourse H and new Concourse J; 28 gates serving 19 airlines; dazzling architecture; and South Florida-themed artwork. A presentation update on MIA and the status of capital improvements by the MIA Director Jose Abreu preceded the tour.

This album contains pictures from the Small Business Committee’s Business to Business Information Sharing Group meeting held November 20, 2007 in the Ray Goode – Ryder Conference Center. Members from the Black Business Initiatives, Creative Industries, NotforProfit and Small Business Committees were in attendance. “Bringing Chamber Businesses Together” was this month’s topic.

On November 15, 2007 the Good Morning Miami Breakfast Series featured a stellar program that discussed the transformation of downtown Miami. Distinguished mayors shared their secrets of creating a vibrant downtown. The panel featured Bill Hudnut, senior resident fellow of the Urban Land Institute and former mayor of Indianapolis; Glenda Hood, former Florida Secretary of State and former mayor of Orlando; and Anthony Williams, CEO of Primum Public Realty Trust and former mayor of Washington D.C. The event was sponsored by: Bronze -- AT&T; Bilzin Sumberg; Miami Parking Authority; One Flagler; and Skanska USA Building Inc.; Supporting Sponsors -- Akerman Senterfitt; Axiss Advertising; Churchill’s Barber Shop; Foram Group; Macy's Florida; Downtown Development Authority of the City of Miami; Rockefeller Group Development Corporation; The Staubach Company; Wealth Capital Management, Inc.; and Zyscovich Inc.

The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce presented the first annual International Business Leadership Awards on November 15, 2007. The awards program honored companies and individuals engaged in international business and activities that support international business development in Florida. The awards program was made possible by the following sponsors: American Airlines; WorldCity; Grant Thornton; UPS; WTDC; Axiss Advertising and Design; Baptist Health International Center of Miami; Chevron; Don Q; Florida Translations; InterContinental Hotels Group; and Terremark Worldwide.

November 14 – 16, 2007, the Greater Miami Chamber presented the Americas Linkage Conference held at the Radisson Miami. The conference provided opportunities for business leaders and professionals to share best practices in areas relevant to international business – both locally and abroad. The conference also provided opportunities to meet Latin American and Caribbean business executives interested in doing business in Florida. Additionally the first International Business Leadership Awards were presented. The program was sponsored by: American Airlines; WorldCity; Grant Thornton; UPS; WTDC; Axiss Advertising and Design; Baptist Health International Center of Miami; Chevron; Don Q; Florida Translations; InterContinental Hotels Group; and Terremark Worldwide. The supporting organizations were: AACCLA; Brazil-Tampa Chamber of Commerce; Broward County Florida; Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce; Enterprise Florida; Florida Chamber of Commerce; US Commercial Service; and Vision Broward.

On November 8, 2007, the Greater Miami Chamber presented the Business Innovation Institute Part 2: Women CEOs at the Helm of the Business Innovation Institute held at Regions Bank in Coral Gables. Participants enjoyed a panel discussion featuring Lisa Gibbs of the Miami Herald; Lissette Calderon of NEO Concepts, LLC; Marilyn Ounjian of CareersUSA; and Marie Gill of M. Gill & Associates. Program sponsored by D&B and Regions Bank.

A Presentation by Dr. Eduardo J. Padron, President of Miami-Dade College held during the November 7, 2007 Board of Governors and Trustees Luncheon. Also at this Luncheon, the Miami-Dade County Charter Review by Victor Diaz, Chairman of the Miami-Dade County Charter Review Task Force. Attendees also enjoyed the Chamber Centennial Celebration for 100 Years of Progress and a Caribbean Cruise giveaway for two compliments of Celebrity Cruises.

This Album contains pictures from the 2007-2008 Leadership Miami Opening Conference held on October 26, 2007.

The Honorable Karen Harbert, Assistant Secretary for Policy and International Affairs, U.S. Dept. of Energy during a Roundtable Discussion with members and community leaders of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce on October 26, 2007. Ms. Harbert discussed the current initiatives being undertaken at the Department of Energy and identified the ways innovation and market driven solutions will assist our growing energy needs in the future, domestically and globally. Ms. Harbert also discussed the Department's efforts in Renewable Energy and environmental responsibility.

This album contains pictures from our 1st Trustee Reception on October 23, 2007 which was sponsored by the Mandarin Oriental Miami.

The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the University of Miami Center for Hemispheric Policy, was honored to host President George W. Bush in October 2007 as he designated Miami to deliver a speech on free trade. The Greater Miami Chamber has played an active role in free trade initiatives through the Chamber's Advocacy Group, working on the passage of the DR-CAFTA Free Trade Agreement. In Miami, the President spoke to an audience of 600 guests and representatives of the business and university community. Prior to the President's speech, the Chamber and University hosted a panel discussion on free trade led by Ambassador Charles E. Cobb, Chair, Florida FTAA, Inc. Panelists included: Jorge L. Arrizurieta, Host Committee Chair, IABD, Miami 2008; Brian C. Dean, Exec. Director, Florida FTAA, Inc.; Simon Ferro, Former U.S. Ambassador to Panama; Susan Purcell, Director, Center for Hemispheric Policy, University of Miami; Jose Villamil, CEO, The Washington Economics Group.

A presentation by Anders Gyllenhaal, Executive Director of The Miami Herald held during the Wednesday, October 3, 2007 Board of Governors & Trustees Luncheon. Also at this luncheon “Toward a 21st Century Public Higher Education System?” presented by Dr. Mark Rosenberg, Chancellor of the State University System of Florida and a Chamber Centennial Moment was given by SunTrust Bank.

Held September 27, 2007, new members, prospects and members of the Greater Miami Chamber were briefed on opportunities for involvement by Chairman Hank Klein, see an encore presentation of the Goals video, hear the results from the member survey by Lisa Mozloom, Managing Director, Sr. VP. Of Continuing & Professional Studies at GolinHarris, join and learn about the Chamber’s many committees making a difference in our community and open doors to new business connections and opportunities by showcasing their company’s product/services with table top displays during our Business Expo. Sponsored by: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida; Radisson Hotel Miami; and WIOD 610 NewsRadio.

On September 26, 2007, the Greater Miami Chamber Creative Industries Committee presented Creative Networking 3.0 – Branded Entertainment: Seeing Beyond The :30 Commercial at Christabelle’s Quarter in Coconut Grove. Attendees enjoyed a panel discussion featuring Massimo Martinotti of MIA Films and President of Florida AICP; Daniel Marrero – Partner of Creative on Deman; and Leo Zanutto – Managing Director of FiRe US Hispanic. Program was sponsored by Christabelle’s Quarter Restaurant; Miami Dade Mayor’s Office of Film & Entertainment; Nationwide Financial Network; Ruden McCloseky Smith Schuster & Russell P.A.; AICP ( Association of Independent Commercial Producers); AdFed of Greater Miami; Greater Miami Convention & Visitor’s Bureau; Multivision; Produ.com & P& C Magazine.

This album contains pictures from the New World Center Committee meeting held on September 12, 2007 at the Ray Goode Conference Center of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce with guest speaker – Commissioner Marc Sarnoff of the City of Miami.

A Presentation by Curtis Gray, President of the Homestead-Miami Speedway with featured guests Indy Series Driver Helio Castroneves & Nextel Cup NASCAR Driver Juan Pablo Montoya held during the Wednesday September 5, 2007 Board of Governors and Trustees Luncheon. Also at this luncheon, “The Florida Economy and the Budget Outlook during the upcoming Special Session”, a Presentation by Antonio Villamil, CEO of the Washington Economics Group.

On August 22, 2007, the Greater Miami Chamber recognized campaign volunteers for their outstanding performance in the 2007 Membership Campaign – Centennial Membership Challenge “A campaign to build a legacy for the next 100 years!” during the awards breakfast held in the Ray Goode – Ryder Conference Center. Top producers were awarded spectacular prizes courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines; Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines; Baptist Executive Health & Wellness Program; Air Tran Airways; Continental Airlines; Doral Golf Resort & Spa, a Marriott Resort; Conrad Miami; The Biltmore Hotel; Sofitel Miami; Hyatt Regency; Courtyard Marriott; Southwest Airlines; Chispa Restaurant & Bar; and The University of Miami.

On August 7, 2007, the Greater Miami Chamber presented Part I: Team Work & Leadership of the Business Innovation Institute held at the newly renovated Dolphins Stadium clubhouse. Participants enjoyed a tour of the new club level, a panel discussion featuring delancyhill, P.A.; EAC Consulting, Inc.; and Victoria & Associates Career Services, Inc., a Miami Dolphins autograph session and a chance to meet Dolphin Enterprises CEO Joe Bailey. Program sponsored by Regions Bank.

A presentation by Admiral James G. Stavridis of the United States Southern Command held during the Wednesday, August 1, 2007 Board of Governors & Trustees Luncheon. The Military Service Person of the Year Awards was also presented and sponsored by Miami-Dade Defense Alliance. A Chamber Centennial Moment was given by The Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald.

The Greater Miami Chamber hosted the Honorable Alex Sink, Chief Financial Officer of the State of Florida for a special member luncheon held in August 2007. CFO Sink spoke to the Chamber membership about the role of CFO in Florida, the financial outlook for the state and the impact Miami and especially the Miami business community has on the economy.

A Presentation by William D. Talbert III, President and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau during the Wednesday, July 11, 2007 Board of Governors & Trustees Luncheon. Also at this luncheon, “ Ready for Hurricane Season 2007 “, a Presentation by Katherine Fernandez Rundle, State Attorney at the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, Miami-Dade County, and from Citizens Property Insurance, Christine Turner, Director of Communications & Legislative Affairs. A Chamber Centennial Moment was given by The New World School of the Arts.

This album contains pictures from the second day of the 2007 Goals Conference, June 2, 2007. During day two of the conference attendees enjoyed a luncheon with Congressman Kendrick B. Meek sponsored by AT&T Florida, Cushman & Wakefield of Florida, Florida East Coast Industries, and Swire Properties, and an award sponsored by Becker & Poliakoff. Also the Salute to Miami Leaders Reception and Dinner sponsored by Baptist Health South Florida, Burger King Corporation, Comcast Business Services, General Motors, Gunster, Yoakley & Stewart, P.A., Miami Parking Authority, Wachovia and Real Estate Works.

This album contains pictures from the Good To Great Awards Luncheon on June 1, 2007 which kicked-off the 2007 Goals Conference held at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. The Good To Great Award is a regional award recognizing South Florida-based businesses that have transitioned from solid to great performance. The day’s event sponsors: Bank United; Grant Thornton; Florida Atlantic University; Florida International University; Nova Southeastern University; Dutton Press, Inc; South Florida Business Journal; and Burger King.

A presentation by Vernon W. Hill, Founder and Chairman of Commerce Bank held during the Wednesday, May 2, 2007 Board of Governors & Trustees Luncheon. Attendees also enjoyed the Technology Leader of the Year Awards presented by Commerce Bank and a Chamber Centennial Moment presented by Terremark.

The Healthcare & Bioscience Committee presented the awards on Friday, April 27, at the Radisson Hotel Miami. Honoring the individuals, institutions and programs whose actions have made an extraordinary impact in the South Florida health care community. Founding Sponsor is AXA Advisors. Sponsors also include: Presenting -- AvMed Health Plans, Baptist Health South Florida, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Hogan & Hartson LLP, Mercy Hospital and Miami Children’s Hospital; Supporting -- Jackson Memorial Foundation, Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami and South Florida Hospital News.

The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce hosted its Fourth Annual Chamber Classic Golf Tournament at Don Shula’s Golf Club in Miami Lakes on April 13, 2007. Our members enjoyed a great game of golf while making business connections with each other. Tournament Presented by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida.

Innovative views on how to fix America's flawed health care system. A presentation by Mike McCallister, President and CEO of Humana Inc. held during the April 4, 2007 Board of Governors & Trustees luncheon at Parrot Jungle. Attendees also enjoyed a salute to Dean William Hipp of the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami and a Chamber Centennial Moment by Bank of America.