Tell me about your current job and your past history that makes you the perfect person to be a Miami insider.

I moved to Miami when I was 11 years old so I think I am almost a native. I have been Executive Director of the Arts & Business Council of Miami for over 23 years. In this role I create working partnerships between the corporate and cultural communities. We have programs that help business professionals connect with their creative side and make meaningful use of their skills and their free time. I work with over 500 arts groups and hundreds of artists in Miami Dade and am a passionate fan of the arts in our community.

What do you love about Miami in the Fall?
The cultural season gets into full swing in the fall. I also love football which starts in the fall and love the Miami Dolphins (most years). The weather cools off and hurricane season ends.

What are some of your favorite neighborhoods?
South Beach on the bay side, Design District, Mimo and Miracle Mile in Coral Gables.
For eating? Lincoln Road, Coral Gables
Museums? Miami Beach, Downtown

What is your favorite place to shop in the city?
Museum gift shops have the best and most unique items for sale. Your purchase supports the arts. Many museums carry the work of local artists. You can find a list of all the museums in Miami-Dade at www.MiamiDadeArts.org and click on find an arts group.

What inspires you about Miami?
The diversity of the people and places, the sunshine, the warm and inviting atmosphere and of course our world class cultural community including over 1,000 arts groups.

Do you have an insider tip for tourists visiting Miami for the first time?
Explore. Go to the different neighborhoods for different experiences. Visit our museums, take an Art Deco walk or historic walking tour with Dr. George. Check the Weekend Section of the Miami Herald and go to a festival or special event. Miami has more festivals than days in the year! Visit the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau website www.gmcvb.com for a great calendar of events and programs and great promotions such as Miami Spice month at some of our best restaurants.

Are you a regular somewhere?
The Adrienne Arsht Center, museums, theatres and festivals.

Do you have a secret spot in the city (to unwind, get away, people watch, read a book, escape) and why?
Maurice Gibb Park in South Beach is a quiet little park right on the bay. Perfect for a small picnic with friends, walking the dog or just watching the sunset over beautiful downtown Miami.

What are your favorite
Restaurants – Joe Allen, Solea at the W, Dynamo Café at Wolfsonian, Garcias on the River, Sr. Martinez
Museums – Miami has a great variety of museums and I love them all. Some of my favorites Wolfsonian, Bass Museum, Lowes Art Museum, Deering Estate. Looking forward to our new museum park opening in a few years in downtown Miami.
shopping places – Lincoln Road, Bakery Center Art Space, Museum gift shops
favorite events:
Art Basel, Coconut Grove Arts Festival, Miami Book Fair, Summer Shorts, Miami Hispanic Theatre Festival