Business, Gifts, Home and Family, Products

Top 5 Interesting Diamond Jewelry Facts

Did you know that…?

  1. This year, the most popular design of engagement rings is the solitaire diamond ring, featuring colorless, round brilliant diamond center stones.
  2. The average carat weight of diamonds used in 2012 engagement rings is.38 ctw.
  3. Traditionally, engagement rings were the ones adorned with diamonds while wedding rings were left simple and unadorned. However, in the past couple of years there has been a growing demand for wedding rings set with a multitude of diamonds and other precious gemstones.
  4. When it comes to alternative engagement jewelry, diamond stud earrings are the most popular type, favored by customers who are interested in more affordable alternative engagement jewelry.
  5. Chinese jewelry retailers and vendors believe that engagement rings and wedding bands that feature a culetless diamond are bad luck. The Chinese are convinced that diamonds are imbued with good luck but that that good luck will leak out of a diamond that is missing its culet (its lower portion) resulting in a stone instilled with bad luck.
  6. Contrary to popular belief, diamond jewelry encrusted with natural fancy colored diamonds can, at times, be more valuable than diamond jewelry pieces set with colorless diamonds. Historically speaking, fancy colored diamonds were thought to be inferior to colorless diamonds. However, in recent years, gemologists and jewelers alike have reaffirmed the rarity and value of these natural fancy colored diamonds.
  7. Reportedly, the most popular type of diamond jewelry amongst men is diamond stud earrings. The most popular style of diamond jewelry with women is, unsurprisingly, diamond engagement rings.

For the best collection of fine diamond jewelry visit BarclaysJewelers.com located in the heart of the Miami Jewelry District.

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Business, Events, News and Society, Press Release, Schools

The Miami-Dade Expressway Authority Free Workshops for Minority Business Owners

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The Miami-Dade Expressway Authority Hosts Free Workshop for Business Owners

MIAMI, Fla., April 23, 2012 – The Miami-Dade Expressway Authority (MDX) will host its 9th Annual Small, Local & Minority Business Enterprise Workshop Thursday, May 17, from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Miami Airport Convention Center. The value-packed agenda teaches local businesses how to develop and market themselves to governments and corporations. This year’s theme – “More than Roadways” – highlights MDX’s continued commitment to the local economy and will feature keynote speaker, Julia E. Hubble, author of Tackling the Titans: How to Sell to the Fortune 500.

MDX’s contractors will be present to connect with attendees and provide insight into doing business with their organization. The workshop is the largest component of the MDX For Business Program, which includes a series of trainings to small and local businesses at discounted costs, as well as the newly developed Career Enhancement Program for those currently unemployed

For registration and more information on MDX For Business, visit www.mdxway.com.

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Miami, Travel and Leisure

South Beach Miami

Miami is known for its beautiful beaches and exciting nightlife, and nowhere is that more apparent than South Beach. South Beach Miami is filled with beautiful people, gorgeous beaches, and nightlife that is second to none. With a variety of the world’s most luxurious hotels to choose from, South Beach Fl has a lot of great options for accommodation. Additionally, South Beach has plenty of activities to offer visitors. There’s shopping at luxury boutiques and designer stores, dining at upscale restaurants, relaxing on the beach or at the spa, partying the night away at a chic nightclub, or taking part in some intense water sports. The area is also great for a relaxing stroll, as South Beach Miami is famous for its Art Deco architecture. No matter what visitors want to do, South Beach has it.

Beaches

No trip to South Beach Miami would be complete without a visit to the gorgeous beaches. The main beach is obviously South Beach, stretching from South Pointe Park to Collins Park. This area is walkable to a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, and is great for everyone from college students to adults with children. The beach itself is very wide, and there’s a 1.6 mile path that runs along the beach that’s great for rollerblading, biking, walking, or jogging.

Water Sports

Not only is it a great place to be a beach bum, South Beach is also a great place to take part in a variety of water sports. There are a number of areas in South Beach where visitors can go snorkeling, parasailing, water skiing, surfing, kayaking, and much more. If it can be done in or around the water, chances are good that it can be done in South Beach Miami.

Miami’s  South Beach Travel Guide & Tips

Learn about the hot spots to visit in South Beach Florida. Americas #1 vacation and party destination.
This short travel guide features the key locations to visit. From Lincoln road to Ocean drive it’s all outlined here. Find out where to go and what to see on your next visit to Miami.

Dining

Miami is a very multi-cultural city, and nowhere is it more evident than in the food. Many of the restaurants in the area take their cues from the locals and their Latin American roots. South Beach also has a variety of restaurants that offer excellent fusion food, such as French-Latin American, or Japanese-Latin American. The food isn’t just Latin American or fusion, though. Miami has a fantastic international food scene, and it’s easy to find nearly any ethnic cuisine in South Beach Fl. Since Miami is right on the ocean, it’s also a great place to get excellent, fresh seafood.

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Business, News and Society, Press Release

M3 Studios, Film/Television Studio In Miami, Florida

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M3 Studios, Film/Television Studio In Miami, Florida, Renovates New Wing/Studio Providing A Unique One Stop For All Production Needs
Approaching the tenth anniversary, M3 Studios undergoes renovations and a new website

M3 Studios has built a reputation as one of the most prominent up-and-coming Studios, Soundstage, Television, and Film facilities in the South Florida area. Hundreds of productions have been completed at M3 Studios including: “Al File De La Ley” shot by Grupo Prisa (Plural USA) for Univision, Queen Latifah starred film “Cook Out II,” music videos for: Rick Ross, Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan, and Chris Brown, for example. Just minutes from the Miami International Airport, 15-minute ride from some of the most pristine beaches in the world and downtown Miami at 4000 Northwest 36th Avenue Miami, FL 33142.

To continue providing exceptional production needs, a newly renovated wing/studio has been added with a full-production hall containing: conference rooms, offices equipped with phone lines, printing station, and desks, make-up rooms, dressing rooms, kitchen, and talent waiting area, as well as a green room for shoots, strategically placed to provide one place to shoot, produce, edit, and master. Raul Rodriguez, founder of M3 Studios, commented, “The plan is to have everything in-house, even a set of executive suites for our clients to stay a week, a month, a year, however long they need to complete their project.” In addition, Flex Office space is available for all production companies shooting in South Florida. Moreover, productions have the ability to shoot on-location using the built-in type sets.

In 2011, M3 Studios brought in powerhouse company, First Class Alliance, a Lifestyle and Entertainment Marketing Agency located in Miami, to assist with all Marketing and Public Relations initiatives. With this partnership, First Class Alliance was able to assist in launching a new website with unique features including: an extensive studio history section, list of productions shot and produced on-site, film industry information (such as trends, new equipment, and new films), and a free downloadable calendar detailing local South Florida area events. Rodriguez proclaimed, “It was time to re-launch a website to provide up-to-date information regarding everything M3.”
“I want to bring the film and TV industry back to Miami,” Rodriguez said, “I want to keep production here because it is an end destination where people can work and play within minutes of each other. There is a need for the industry in Miami and plenty of room for growth.” M3 Studios has plenty of open availability for productions and production company office space. To request a studio or office space, please call the office at 305.796.0372.

M3 Studios:
This versatile film/television studio offers something unlike other competitors with 7 Sound Stages/CYC Wall and over 122,000 sq. ft. of fully air-conditioned, Internet wired, and phone system installed studios, full-service production staff and equipment, editing suites, office/conference rooms, and a full-service limo company on-site. All stages are networked to a full multi-camera production control room that is capable of live or taped television production, fiber link to communicate through servers to other computers in the complex, and have acoustic sound walls and ceilings. Moreover, the lot has numerous on location type settings adding versatility to the facility. For more information on M3 Studios or to tour the facility, please contact: 305-796-0372 or e-mail Sales@M3StudiosMiami.com. Make sure to check out the website: www.M3StudiosMiami.com

First Class Alliance (FCA):
First Class Alliance (FCA) is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Marketing Agency specializing in digital marketing, entertainment marketing, and brand partnerships for corporate brands and the entertainment industry worldwide.  FCA offers a unique blend of premier consulting services for clients looking to engage with their target audience and create memorable experiences that translate into sales and profits. To learn more about FCA please visit, www.firstclassalliance.com or email info@firstclassalliance.com

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Car Rental, Miami Beach, Travel and Leisure

Miami Beach Choices for Car Rentals

Miami Beach Choices for Car Rentals

Because it is such a wonderful vacation destination there are many choices for car rentals in Miami Beach.  The major chains such as Enterprise, Thrifty, Alamo, Avis, Hertz, and Budget are all available.  Smaller companies such as Miami Beach Rent A Car and Miami Rent A Car also provide quality vehicles and great service for all your car rental needs.  These companies offer discounted rates, some starting as low as ten dollars a day.  Since the area is so popular to tourists and businessmen, be sure to get a reservation in advance by either contacting the company directly or by going through a third party company such as Orbitz, Kayak, or Expedia.

And why not treat yourself?  A rental car does not have to mean an economy car, especially in Miami Beach.  Why not check out a Luxury car and drive the car of your dreams!  Even if it is only for a few days, it will be worth the extra few dollars to rent a nice Lamborghini, Porsche or Aston Martin.  Miami Beach is a perfect place for luxury car rentals.  Enjoy the feel of a new Ferrari or Jaguar as you drive along the beach.

Many companies offer car rentals right at the airport so there is no need for a taxi or bus service.  Most companies offer a pick-up service that will bring your rental car to you. Even while enjoying this convenience, be sure to take the opportunity to try out a vehicle that you might actually purchase one day. A few days or even a week of a car rental will teach you more about the car than a short test drive from the dealership, and you’ll find everything imaginable if you’re looking for car rentals in Miami Beach.   Enjoy your trip to Miami Beach and enjoy putting miles on someone else’s car!

choices for car rentals

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Car Rental, Sport Cars

Exotic Cars- Is the Dream of every Sport Car lover

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My dreams were also extraordinary.

Infrequently, I fantasize big and reach for the stars. Though I had to work extremely hard, my dream was to buy an unusual and luxury automobile.

Last year, I got a new automobile. Originally, I had set my heart on a Ferrari, but my other half failed to agree with my idea and claimed:” It is a bit ‘over budget.” Luckily, the producers of exotic and luxury cars are others that are built with the same frame, at a cost-effective cost. As an example, the Audi R8 Spider has the same engine as the Murcielago Lamborghini, Maserati, which uses a Ferrari engine in its cars. The Maserati GranTurismo is another one of my dream autos; I adore the style of Italian automobiles.

Luckily, they offer many features, for example, the Ferrari one 3rd of the price! Don’t get me wrong, I want the driver of the Ferrari 430 I have dreamed about for so many years to have a fabulous vehicle. A week ago, I ultimately saw an indication from heaven, which inspired me to ask to have one of those automobiles.

I saw TV stories in which they revealed that a merchant of high-end cars is opening a showroom less than thirty miles from home. Right away, I jumped on the company’s site and started to explore. Luckily, I discovered precisely what number of these autos would basically cost. I didn’t have much cash to buy a Ferrari. Hence, I determined to purchase a used Exotic and High-end car from that shop.

I was ready to buy Maserati quickly. It came in the price at less than $ eighty thousand U.S.

Bucks, which works superbly in my budget. Now may be the time to go to the new dealer! Now I Had the opportunity to drive the GranTurismo; I fell head over heels in love with the automobile. Only I say folk are silly to buy autos at a price like that.

These autos are made in Italy, so the standard of the individual keys and Swatch of fabric was superb. Typically, producers of high-end cars aren’t debatable in price, as the demand is terribly robust, and it’s very hard to purchase a new Ferrari with that much cash. Therefore, an Exotic and Expensive car is now my best mate.

I’ll take it anywhere I need. I like to purchase my vehicle. For more in-depth information Miami Exotic Autos Rental Miami Exotic Vehicles Rental – Big selections of exotic and luxury rental vehicles in Miami. Drive your dream vehicle today!

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Transportation

Things To Consider When Moving To Another State

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Things To Consider When Moving To Another State

Changing locations is tricky business.  There are so many things to think about to make moving as smooth as possible.  It may be less of a hassle when you just have to move houses within the city.  You do not have to look for new schools for the kids and think about state taxes.  But the difficulty begins when you need to transfer to a totally new state.

Aside from the adjustment that you yourself has to make, you also have to consider how your family can cope with all the changes.  Say you are currently living in Miami, Florida and you have to transfer to the other end of the country, say Berkeley, California.  Before you can start with the detailed plans, you have to browse through Berkeley real estate sites to get a good idea on potential residential areas.  You also have to consider your budget, its proximity to business centers and many more.

But when planning is done right, your impending move might not become so overwhelming.  The key is to get all the significant information to help you come up with a good moving out plan.  Here are some things that you need to consider when moving to another state.  You may want to note these helpful guidelines to make your transfer hassle-free and systematic.

Find Affordable Places

When your reason for moving out is personal, you will have the opportunity to look for places that fall within your budget.  Find towns and cities where the cost of living is within your means.  You may want to check sites like www.oaklandrealestate.org where you will be able to look for houses with your desired price range.

Also consider the average salary that you will earn and how far you can stretch it out.  If your job sent you for relocation then your transfer may be a little easier since your company may help you with your settlement.

Hire Reliable Moving Companies

The effort in getting your stuff transferred from one place to another is no joke, especially when moving across the country.  Before selecting a moving company, sort your possessions thoroughly.  Get rid of all the things that you do not need by giving them away or by organizing a garage sale.  Aside from saving money you will not deal with needless stuff in your new place.

When you are ready to contact a moving company, do a background check first.  Read reviews from other people.  Also check the contract and ask about insurance before signing.

Know State Taxes Information

The state income tax can have a great impact when you relocate to a new state.  Property tax and sales tax will also vary and you should have a know-how on how to deal with these.  Just weigh the real pros and cons first as you evaluate the tax tables and this might help you in making your decisions.

Look for Schools for the Kids

You can start doing this by doing research online.  There are helpful sites that can give factual information about the school’s environment, student-teacher ratio as well as enrollment by gender, cultural background and the like.

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Pets & Animals

German Shepherd Puppies Capturing Hearts All Over

So you’re looking for a puppy. With so many breeds to choose from, it doesn’t help that each little puppy face is so cute. You’ve managed to narrow it down to some key factors you’d like in your pet. You’d prefer a larger breed; one that is loyal, protective, yet doesn’t bark constantly; and you’d like them to be smart. There’s nothing worse than trying to house break a stubborn dog that takes forever to learn. What you have just described is the German Shepherd.

Many view the German Shepherd as an aggressive police dog. This breed only shows aggression when trained and handled poorly. Their intelligence, bravery and faithfulness are what makes them excellent police dogs, as well as family companions. They have a high learning capacity and love to be close to those in the family. This breed loves, and needs, to be around people.

Because they are larger dogs, they will need some room to move around, so smaller apartments would be a struggle unless sufficient exercise is given. Because of their high intelligence and muscular form, the need for mental and physical exercise on a daily basis is very important. Not only will this keep them happy and health, it will also help in keeping them from any doggie mischief. When training, the need for firm but calm commands will show them that the owner is the pack leader, not them.

When looking at a German Shepherd puppy, it’s hard to believe that the little balls of fur will grow to be about 22-26 inches high and weigh 77-85 pounds. Because of their size, and heredity, diseases like hip and elbow dyspepsia, blood disorders, epilepsy, skin trouble and flea allergies are some of the possible health issues.

On a daily basis, other than exercise, the only grooming needed is a brushing to help with their shedding. Baths should only be given when needed, to help keep their skin healthy and reduce the chance of oil depletion. Check their ears to make sure they’re clean and give their claws a trim and that’s about all that’s really needed as far as grooming goes.

So the German Shepherd sounds like a winner and their little dark eyes, bushy tail and droopy ears, make them hard to resist. Now is the time to find the perfect little bundle to bring home. Finding them isn’t that difficult. You can find a German Shepherd for sale in Miami, up to Michigan, all the way to California. Check breeder boards, the AKC, your veterinarian and even online. This breed will definitely make a great addition to any active household

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Car Rental, Florida Travel, Miami

7 Tips for Saving Money on a Car Rental in Miami

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The daily rate is only part of what a Miami car rental costs. Taxes, airport fees, insurance, tolls, fuel and parking can add as much again, and most of that is avoidable if you decide before you reach the counter.

These seven tips cover where the money actually goes. Fees and laws were checked in October 2026.

1. Compare the total, not the daily rate

A $35 a day car and a $45 a day car can end up costing the same. Before you book, open the price breakdown and look for:

  • Florida rental car surcharge. $2 per day, charged on the first 30 days of every rental in the state.
  • Sales tax. 7 percent in Miami-Dade County.
  • Airport charges. Rentals at the airport usually carry a customer facility charge, which pays for the rental car building, and a concession recovery fee.
  • Vehicle license and waste tire and battery fees. Small daily amounts that most companies pass along.

Search results often show the base rate first. The figure that matters is the one on the final screen, just before you pay.

2. Price a pickup away from the airport

The airport’s Rental Car Center is the most convenient place to rent and often not the cheapest, because of the airport charges above. Check two alternatives:

  • Neighborhood branches of the national brands, in places such as downtown, Miami Beach or Coral Gables.
  • Local independent agencies near the airport, such as Miami Rent A Car, many of which pick customers up for free. Our guide to independent car rental agencies in Miami lists several.

Do the whole sum. A cheaper rental that needs a $30 ride each way is not cheaper. If you do rent at the airport, the MIA Rental Car Center guide explains pickup and return.

3. Do not pay for insurance twice

Coverage sold at the counter can add a large share to the bill. You may already have some of it:

  • Your own auto policy often extends to a rental car in the United States.
  • Many credit cards include collision damage coverage when you pay for the rental with that card and decline the company’s waiver.
  • Travel insurance sometimes includes rental car damage.

Call your insurer and your card issuer before the trip and ask exactly what is covered, what is excluded and whether the coverage is primary or secondary. If you have none of the above, such as many international visitors, buying coverage is the sensible choice. Decide at home, not at the counter.

4. Handle tolls on purpose

Miami’s expressways are cashless, and every rental company bills tolls in its own way. Some charge a fee only on the days you use a toll. Others sell an unlimited plan that is charged for every day of the rental, used or not.

For a short trip with mostly local driving, the unlimited plan rarely pays off. Our guide to rental car tolls in Miami compares the major companies and shows how to use your own SunPass or E-ZPass.

5. Bring the car back full

Refueling charges are among the easiest fees to avoid.

  • Skip the prepaid fuel option unless you are sure you will return the tank nearly empty.
  • Fill up a few miles from the airport. Stations closest to it tend to charge the most.
  • Keep the receipt and photograph the fuel gauge when you park.

6. Book early, then check again

Rental prices move with demand. Winter, spring break, holiday weekends and big events push them up.

  • Reserve as soon as your dates are set, and choose a rate you can cancel for free.
  • Look again a week or two before the trip and rebook if the price has dropped.
  • Check the weekly rate. Five or six days can cost more than seven.
  • Rent the size you need. A compact is cheaper to rent, fuel and park.
  • Watch the extras: additional driver fees, one-way fees, and the daily surcharge for drivers under 25.

7. Rent only for the days you need a car

In Miami Beach, parking alone can cost more than the car. If part of your stay is in South Beach, downtown or Brickell, you may not need a car on those days.

A common plan is to go car-free for the city days and rent for one or two days to see the Everglades or the Keys.

Frequently asked questions

Is it cheaper to rent a car at Miami airport or off airport?

Off-airport locations often have lower totals because they do not carry the same airport charges. Compare the full price for your dates and include the cost of getting there.

What taxes and fees apply to a Miami car rental?

Every rental carries Florida’s $2 per day rental surcharge and 7 percent sales tax in Miami-Dade County. Airport rentals add a customer facility charge and a concession recovery fee, and most companies add small vehicle license and tire and battery fees.

Do I need the rental company’s insurance in Florida?

Not if your own auto policy or credit card already covers the rental. Confirm before you travel. If you have no other coverage, buy it.

How can I avoid the under-25 fee?

You usually cannot, but the amount differs by company. Compare a few, including local agencies. See what to know about renting a car in Miami.

The bottom line

Compare totals, price a pickup away from the airport, know your insurance before you travel, and make a plan for tolls, fuel and parking. Those four decisions account for most of the difference between a cheap Miami rental and an expensive one.

Fees and tax rates were checked against Florida statutes and county sources in October 2026. Rental companies set their own charges, so read your rental agreement.

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Cars, Maintenance

Miami Auto Repair Services

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Miami Auto Repair
Your car is your pride and joy. It gets you and your loved ones to where you need to be, and it does it without complaining. Unfortunately, in these tough economic times it can be hard to find the money you need to keep your car or truck in good running condition. Tune ups, oil changes, new tires and all of the other things that need to be taken care of or replaced on your vehicle all cost money. Sometimes the cost seems to high, but if you wait until something on your car or truck breaks the cost will be even higher. That is why it is so important to have a auto repair shop that you can depend on, not only for the big expensive issues, but also for the everyday maintenance that needs to be done.

If you do not already have a auto service place that you know and trust, finding the right repair service for you and your car can be stressful and time consuming. There are several things you can do to make the search easier, though. The best way to find trustworthy and reliable Miami auto repair services is by asking your friends and family about the shops that they have used. Once you have had a few shops recommended to you, with a little bit of time and research you will be able to find out which one is right for you.

Take the time to call around to the shops that you are looking into and find out whether or not they are licensed and ask about their mechanics’ certifications. Tell them about your car and if you are having a problem, tell them about that as well. Get price quotes on the repairs you need or quotes on regular maintenance so that you know how much you will need for different issues.

After you have spoken with your potential repair services, you should have a good idea about which of them will be able to help you maintain your car or truck, at the best price for you. If you are still unsure, speak with friends and family again or even use the internet to see what other people have said about the shops you are looking into. This way, you should know where you will take your car, before you ever need to take it there.

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