The weather did not deter over 800 guests from joining the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce in celebrating the 36th annual Sand In My Shoes Award Program honoring Tony Argiz from MBAF.  While the evening’s festivities had to be slightly altered to bring the opening cocktail reception in from the patio, the rain subsided in time to get everyone inside without needing umbrellas.

 

The success of the night was due in large part to the relationships fostered over the years with our recipient, Tony Argiz.  Dozens of companies and individuals signed up to be Honorary Host Committee sponsors within days of announcing Tony as the winner. 

 

Tony’s impact in the community has been felt for over 30 years, and all those that know him, know that he has never backed down from a challenge or an opportunity to help others, be it through his involvement in organizations like United Way, FIU, the Archbishop’s Charity and Development Drive and our own Chamber.  Nor will his contributions to the arts and culture of our society, including PAMM, the Adrian Arsht Center and the Orange Bowl, be soon forgotten. 

 

Ana Navarro

 

The night's Mistress of Ceremony, Ana Navarro, a nationally recognized journalist with CNN, Telemundo and The View, spoke of her personal relationship with Tony and how much he has meant to her in her career. 

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Dr. Penny Shaffer, Market President of Florida Blue, presented the Sand In My Shoes Award to Mr. Argiz and his acceptance speech was filled with gratitude to all those in attendance and all those that have helped him along the way. 

 

Tony Argiz

 

“Tonight was the third record-breaking Sand In My Shoes Award dinner in a row,” said Alfred Sanchez, president and CEO of the Chamber.  “Tony and all his friends and family helped raise well over $800,000 to support the Chamber programs that work to ensure Miami is a great place to live, work and play.  The Chamber thanks the planning committee, the Honorary Hosts, sponsors, guests and our amazing staff for making this such a memorable night in recognition of one of Miami’s most beloved community leaders.”

 

Congratulations to Tony Argiz! 

 

More photos here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/miamichamber/albums/72157703393786392

 

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Past Miami Chamber Chair Gene Schaefer with GMCVB President Bill Talbert

 

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MDCC President Eduardo Padron with Tony Argiz and David Armstrong, President, St. Thomas University

 

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AJC’s Brian Siegal and FIU President Mark Rosenberg

 

La Familia Argiz
La Familia Argiz
Sand In My Shoes
Tony Argiz with Armando Codina
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Olga Ramudo with Felipe Basulto and Lombardo Perez Jr. photobombing
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Tony Argiz with Marlon Hill
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Penny Shaffer with the Honorable Carlos Gimenez
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President Alfred Sanchez loves selfies

 

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Chairman Carlos Orta takes the stage

 

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Chucho Valdes performs
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Packed house!

 

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