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Miles Away... Worlds Apart
Alan Sakowitz, a whistleblower of a Madoff-like Ponzi scheme masterminded by Scott Rothstein, fraudster extraordinaire, tells the story of his decision to turn in Rothstein regardless of the possible dangerous ramifications of such a decision. The saga of Rothstein's rise and fall which included a Warren Yacht, two Bugattis, Governor Crist, the former Versace mansion, The Eagles, and even the murder of a law partner, is the stuff that Hollywood movies are made from.
Instead of the mere accounting of such a scandal, Sakowitz uses the Rothstein scheme as a cautionary tale in stark contrast to the stories of humble, ethical individuals living within Sakowitz's neighborhood in North Miami Beach, Florida. Sakowitz's neighbors are people who have spent their lives trying to assist others, not line their pockets, and through these stories Sakowitz creates a sharp dichotomy between the greed, of a Rothstein and its mainstream culture of consumption and the charity, kindness and selflessness of a principle-oriented community. Indeed, Sakowitz speaks to the symptoms of a culture that could create a Scott Rothstein, and, though acknowledging that the easy way out is not simple to dismiss, offers remedies to the growing ills of our entitlement society. The answer, Sakowitz says, lies in thinking first of others, and how one's actions should benefit the lives of friends, not one's short-term gratifications.
Instead of the mere accounting of such a scandal, Sakowitz uses the Rothstein scheme as a cautionary tale in stark contrast to the stories of humble, ethical individuals living within Sakowitz's neighborhood in North Miami Beach, Florida. Sakowitz's neighbors are people who have spent their lives trying to assist others, not line their pockets, and through these stories Sakowitz creates a sharp dichotomy between the greed, of a Rothstein and its mainstream culture of consumption and the charity, kindness and selflessness of a principle-oriented community. Indeed, Sakowitz speaks to the symptoms of a culture that could create a Scott Rothstein, and, though acknowledging that the easy way out is not simple to dismiss, offers remedies to the growing ills of our entitlement society. The answer, Sakowitz says, lies in thinking first of others, and how one's actions should benefit the lives of friends, not one's short-term gratifications.
- GenresNonfictionLawTrue Crime
223 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2010
3 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Alan Sakowitz
1 book98 followersBy profession Alan Sakowitz is an attorney and real estate developer. By chance he became an author after being the whistleblower in South Florida’s largest fraud ever. His goal in writing Miles Away… Worlds Apart was not to write a history book about the over-the-top, opulent lifestyle of fraudster Scott Rothstein, but instead to use that way of life to suggest a better, more meaningful way to live. He wanted to show that other people are important and the choices we make influence others, especially our children.
Sakowitz could not ignore the fact that so many people closed their eyes because the benefits to them were too great to do otherwise or that so many decent people became complicit. To Sakowitz, it seemed the facts of the massive Rothstein Ponzi scheme needed to be presented in a simple way so they could be viewed without the trapping of unreasonable rewards. That way, each person could train himself in advance how he wants to respond before he reaches his next fork in the road.
On a professional level, Alan Sakowitz is president of Pointe Development Company, a real estate development company located in Bay Harbor Islands, Florida, where he combines his real estate background and legal training. His company is a recognized leader in joint venturing, and is always open to considering worthwhile projects anywhere in the country from brokers, banks, developers, and principals. Sakowitz has taught courses in law and lectured on a variety of topics, and he is a seasoned negotiator and business consultant.
Sakowitz, a life-long resident of Miami-Dade County, lives with his wife Leah and their five children in the North Miami Beach area, the neighborhood proudly featured in Miles Away . . . Worlds Apart.
Sakowitz could not ignore the fact that so many people closed their eyes because the benefits to them were too great to do otherwise or that so many decent people became complicit. To Sakowitz, it seemed the facts of the massive Rothstein Ponzi scheme needed to be presented in a simple way so they could be viewed without the trapping of unreasonable rewards. That way, each person could train himself in advance how he wants to respond before he reaches his next fork in the road.
On a professional level, Alan Sakowitz is president of Pointe Development Company, a real estate development company located in Bay Harbor Islands, Florida, where he combines his real estate background and legal training. His company is a recognized leader in joint venturing, and is always open to considering worthwhile projects anywhere in the country from brokers, banks, developers, and principals. Sakowitz has taught courses in law and lectured on a variety of topics, and he is a seasoned negotiator and business consultant.
Sakowitz, a life-long resident of Miami-Dade County, lives with his wife Leah and their five children in the North Miami Beach area, the neighborhood proudly featured in Miles Away . . . Worlds Apart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
November 7, 2010
Miles Away...Worlds Apart (Alan Sakowitz)
A true story of a courageous man who uncovered the biggest financial fraud in Southern Florida.
Alan Sakowitz tells how (he) uncovers the scheme of noted Florida Attorney Scott Rothstein. Told with a compassionate voice Mr. Sakowitz shows how family, faith, compassion, caring for others and doing the right thing will prevail. He also points how others may have seen the devious side of Scott Rothstein, yet chose to ignore and do nothing. He risks his career, safety and life to bring justice to his community. In the end Rothstein's Greed and lack of concern for others is his downfall.
I really enjoyed the stories from Alan's community. It was enlightening and refreshing to read of the good deeds and selflessness that the people in this community have for one another. Personal responsibility, leadership, faith in community and caring for others is the message of this book. I was left feeling satisfied. I intend to visit www.EmpoweringLessons.com for updates on this. Thanks for sharing this web Alan!
A true story of a courageous man who uncovered the biggest financial fraud in Southern Florida.
Alan Sakowitz tells how (he) uncovers the scheme of noted Florida Attorney Scott Rothstein. Told with a compassionate voice Mr. Sakowitz shows how family, faith, compassion, caring for others and doing the right thing will prevail. He also points how others may have seen the devious side of Scott Rothstein, yet chose to ignore and do nothing. He risks his career, safety and life to bring justice to his community. In the end Rothstein's Greed and lack of concern for others is his downfall.
I really enjoyed the stories from Alan's community. It was enlightening and refreshing to read of the good deeds and selflessness that the people in this community have for one another. Personal responsibility, leadership, faith in community and caring for others is the message of this book. I was left feeling satisfied. I intend to visit www.EmpoweringLessons.com for updates on this. Thanks for sharing this web Alan!
December 6, 2010
This story has all the makings of a crime fiction novel but it's completely real. Alan Sakowitz blew the whistle on a well-connected, prominent South Florida lawyer who was running a huge Ponzi scheme. For those unfamiliar with a Ponzi scheme, it's an investment scam that, in the end, cheats people out of millions or even billions of dollars.
With Miles Away... Worlds Apart, Sakowitz tells us how he was introduced to this Ponzi scheme and how he immediately spotted the red flags. But this book is about so much more than a lawyer and a scam. Sakowitz weaves in stories of his neighborhood and his friends, giving examples of what it's like to live life on the opposite spectrum of someone running a scam. Sakowitz's deep faith and his desire to help those around him is a true inspiration.
Regardless of your own religious/spiritual beliefs, I think it's impossible to walk away from this book without being touched by the beauty that drives Alan Sakowitz's faith.
With Miles Away... Worlds Apart, Sakowitz tells us how he was introduced to this Ponzi scheme and how he immediately spotted the red flags. But this book is about so much more than a lawyer and a scam. Sakowitz weaves in stories of his neighborhood and his friends, giving examples of what it's like to live life on the opposite spectrum of someone running a scam. Sakowitz's deep faith and his desire to help those around him is a true inspiration.
Regardless of your own religious/spiritual beliefs, I think it's impossible to walk away from this book without being touched by the beauty that drives Alan Sakowitz's faith.
December 12, 2010
We have an ambitious tripleheader today, three novels each different, each has a decidedly different flavor, and each is the type of novel that one can take and use for different reasons. Our first novel this morning has its roots in a Ponzi scheme, but that isn’t what I want to focus on, instead I want to focus on the main message Alan Sakowitz is trying to deliver, or at least, I think he is. Here is the synopsis of the novel and I think you may possible see where I am going with this:
“Alan Sakowitz, a whistleblower of a Madoff-like Ponzi scheme masterminded by Scott Rothstein, fraudster extraordinaire, tells the story of his decision to turn in Rothstein regardless of the possible dangerous ramifications of such a decision. The saga of Rothstein's rise and fall which included a Warren Yacht, two Bugattis, Governor Crist, the former Versace mansion, The Eagles, and even the murder of a law partner, is the stuff that Hollywood movies are made from.
Instead of the mere accounting of such a scandal, Sakowitz uses the Rothstein scheme as a cautionary tale in stark contrast to the stories of humble, ethical individuals living within Sakowitz's neighborhood in North Miami Beach, Florida. Sakowitz's neighbors are people who have spent their lives trying to assist others, not line their pockets, and through these stories Sakowitz creates a sharp dichotomy between the greed, of a Rothstein and its mainstream culture of consumption and the charity, kindness and selflessness of a principle-oriented community. Indeed, Sakowitz speaks to the symptoms of a culture that could create a Scott Rothstein, and, though acknowledging that the easy way out is not simple to dismiss, offers remedies to the growing ills of our entitlement society. The answer, Sakowitz says, lies in thinking first of others, and how one's actions should benefit the lives of friends, not one's short-term gratifications. “
I have featured other novels that involved Ponzi schemes, even one novel that was named Ponzied, so I would prefer to stay away from that aspect of the story here. It is that time of year that we are, or at least hope that some of are, thinking of our fellow man and how fortunate we are and possibly looking back on all the positive things that have happened to us this year. I took this book and the other two I am posting today chapter by chapter. I did not consume this all at one time. Is the book that boring? No, I needed at times to reflect on what Alan Sakowitz has done and what he is proposing. He is making an attempt to enrich lives, to help us possibly focus on things in our lives we may at times overlook and think too small to matter, to see life as it could be, the simplicity and joy of it. That, my friends, was something I just didn’t wanted to blow by.
No one is ever going to accuse me of being a deep thinker. Miles Away..Worlds Apart has many levels to it and I was taken in by it, and plan to do just what Alan Sakowitz suggests, share the book with people. I already have a list at home of those family members that want to read it, and are willing to wait their turn, good stuff. Don’t pass on this because it appears to be just another Ponzi scheme, lawyer book, bad news, people get burned type thing. Alan Sakowitz has a real message he is trying to impart that has worth and value, give it a shot. Here are a couple of links the author has set up :
www.EmpoweringLessons.com
If you have an inspiring story, send it to him: stories@EmpoweringLessons.com
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January 23, 2011
You know that old adage, “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is”? This book both reinforces and undermines the adage.
It is very true that the investment scheme introduced to author and attorney Alan Sakowitz seemed too good to be true – and it was. The other side of the coin is that the stories he told of people and kindnesses in his community seemed too good to be true but were not – just good people taking care of other people to the best of their ability.
Mr. Sakowitz was introduced to an investment plan run by attorney Scott Rothstein. The dollar amounts involved had a whole lot more zeros on the right than I will ever know – we're talking big bucks here, where figures of several million dollars were discussed as casually as if they were deciding to buy today's Starbucks coffee.
I had to re-read part of the first few pages where the investment plan was first explained. The details are important but so far out of my comfort zone and knowledge base that I struggled a bit.
While deciding whether to invest, Sakowitz kept running into red flags, things that just didn't seem very legitimate to him. He shifted from the viewpoint of deciding whether this was a good investment to how to find if it was truly as illegal as it seemed to becoming a whistleblower. That whole story was fascinating. It was sometimes hard to tell the good guys from the bad guys, and people who had the knowledge to make a proper good decision jumped on the bandwagon anyway. “The Steipler said that once a person makes up his mind, he will not allow the facts to change his decision. A person will simply ignore any facts that disprove or draw into question his decision.” There was a lot of that going on. There was also a lot of buying a “good” reputation.
Interspersed with this story were stories about the good deeds done by people in his Orthodox Jewish community, a community only miles away but worlds apart. Initially, I didn't care for these stories; they seemed a bit like proselytizing to me but I think that is because the author's faith is so much of who he is. There were quotes and examples from his rabbi, several parables. However, as I got used to the author's writing style, I appreciated them. It was as if all the bad things happening in Rothstein's world would remind the author of something good in a saner world. To me, it was like he was telling his Rothstein story and then segueing to a “hey, did I ever tell you about...” story. This book is a good read for anyone who wants to read about some of the kind and generous things people do. And it is a must-read for any investors who want to do the right thing as well as avoid scams.
I received a copy of this book from the author. It was an unsolicited gift, and much appreciated.
It is very true that the investment scheme introduced to author and attorney Alan Sakowitz seemed too good to be true – and it was. The other side of the coin is that the stories he told of people and kindnesses in his community seemed too good to be true but were not – just good people taking care of other people to the best of their ability.
Mr. Sakowitz was introduced to an investment plan run by attorney Scott Rothstein. The dollar amounts involved had a whole lot more zeros on the right than I will ever know – we're talking big bucks here, where figures of several million dollars were discussed as casually as if they were deciding to buy today's Starbucks coffee.
I had to re-read part of the first few pages where the investment plan was first explained. The details are important but so far out of my comfort zone and knowledge base that I struggled a bit.
While deciding whether to invest, Sakowitz kept running into red flags, things that just didn't seem very legitimate to him. He shifted from the viewpoint of deciding whether this was a good investment to how to find if it was truly as illegal as it seemed to becoming a whistleblower. That whole story was fascinating. It was sometimes hard to tell the good guys from the bad guys, and people who had the knowledge to make a proper good decision jumped on the bandwagon anyway. “The Steipler said that once a person makes up his mind, he will not allow the facts to change his decision. A person will simply ignore any facts that disprove or draw into question his decision.” There was a lot of that going on. There was also a lot of buying a “good” reputation.
Interspersed with this story were stories about the good deeds done by people in his Orthodox Jewish community, a community only miles away but worlds apart. Initially, I didn't care for these stories; they seemed a bit like proselytizing to me but I think that is because the author's faith is so much of who he is. There were quotes and examples from his rabbi, several parables. However, as I got used to the author's writing style, I appreciated them. It was as if all the bad things happening in Rothstein's world would remind the author of something good in a saner world. To me, it was like he was telling his Rothstein story and then segueing to a “hey, did I ever tell you about...” story. This book is a good read for anyone who wants to read about some of the kind and generous things people do. And it is a must-read for any investors who want to do the right thing as well as avoid scams.
I received a copy of this book from the author. It was an unsolicited gift, and much appreciated.
September 12, 2010
Miles Away…Worlds Apart by Alan Sakowitz is a true novel about an every day person who bumps into what he considers an intolerable situation. I found it interesting enough to keep reading it on and off for three days.
The novel successfully presents the reader with lessons and insight about life and people. From the many varied ways that Rothstein tried to draw Sakowitz into the fold, to the ever changing answers to the author’s questions, the insights give the reader a guide to use in their own lives.
Lessons about what the author went through included his thought and feelings at the time. In addition the author shows us insight he has gained through his faith and community. Using these lessons and applying them to corruption is one of the best parts of the book. At the same time all of this is done within the confines of what at times is a frightening story.
The reader is led through the maze of corruption to show how people can choose to use what they know to be the type of person they want to be. Sakowitz thrills us through looking at the people who just do not care and are deeply involved. These people go from the governor to police to athletes to leaders of local non-profits. He resists involving his friends in this web with thoughtfulness and grace.
The choice of being the best person we can be is illustrated by the fact he does not just walk away. We all choose the person we want to be when we decide what the next step is with information we have.
Some people choose to protect the people they may or may not know as well. From the beginning the author had suspicions about what he was told. The reader starts learning terminology from the beginning. The concept of conflict of interest is introduced early in the story.
The reader is introduced to the concept of kindness and real caring with descriptions about all of the freely respectfully given services available to people in the author’s community. Descriptions and little vignettes tell about the extensive efforts made to meet members of the communities needs. Meeting needs while preserving dignity is important in this story. The corrupt community and the author’s community were even adjacent.
This belief in community is what led the author to become a whistle blower.
The danger an everyday person puts himself into, for his community and people he does and does not know, is breathtaking to this reader. I literally could not leave this book alone.
The novel successfully presents the reader with lessons and insight about life and people. From the many varied ways that Rothstein tried to draw Sakowitz into the fold, to the ever changing answers to the author’s questions, the insights give the reader a guide to use in their own lives.
Lessons about what the author went through included his thought and feelings at the time. In addition the author shows us insight he has gained through his faith and community. Using these lessons and applying them to corruption is one of the best parts of the book. At the same time all of this is done within the confines of what at times is a frightening story.
The reader is led through the maze of corruption to show how people can choose to use what they know to be the type of person they want to be. Sakowitz thrills us through looking at the people who just do not care and are deeply involved. These people go from the governor to police to athletes to leaders of local non-profits. He resists involving his friends in this web with thoughtfulness and grace.
The choice of being the best person we can be is illustrated by the fact he does not just walk away. We all choose the person we want to be when we decide what the next step is with information we have.
Some people choose to protect the people they may or may not know as well. From the beginning the author had suspicions about what he was told. The reader starts learning terminology from the beginning. The concept of conflict of interest is introduced early in the story.
The reader is introduced to the concept of kindness and real caring with descriptions about all of the freely respectfully given services available to people in the author’s community. Descriptions and little vignettes tell about the extensive efforts made to meet members of the communities needs. Meeting needs while preserving dignity is important in this story. The corrupt community and the author’s community were even adjacent.
This belief in community is what led the author to become a whistle blower.
The danger an everyday person puts himself into, for his community and people he does and does not know, is breathtaking to this reader. I literally could not leave this book alone.
November 5, 2010
In his stunning book MILES AWAY....WORLDS APART, Alan Sakowitz has achieved an even great feat then his already impressive act as the whistleblower of the S. Florida Ponzi Scheme fraudster, Scott Rothstein. Mr. Sakowitz has written what is an amazingly uplifting as well as cautionary tale that everyone from 13 to 113 years old should make haste to read. As the books discription reads, "The answer, Sakowitz says, lies in thinking first of others, and how one's actions should benefit the lives of friends, not one's short-term gratifications.", Mr. Sakowitz shows how the very basic act of kindness to our friends and even those we don't know- enriches us far more then a swindler, with millions of ill-gotten gains. Mr. Sakowitz' stories of the "regular" folks around him who have taken that extra step to help others are in turns touching, facinating and ultimately unforgetable as well as a expertly painted written picture of the indominatable spririt of true human goodness and nature.
Mr. Sakowitz's account of his role in the takedown of Rothstein makes for very high drama- and the style of writing keeps the reader turning the page in eager anticipation of what will happen next. The inclusion of stories of those who represent the very opposite of the Scott Rothsteins of the world make what could have been a very sad account on the state of our financial nation into a VERY highly readable, educational and most important, heart-affirming treasure of a book.
Rick
Creator/Moderator- THE JAMES MASON COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
August 17, 2010
This book is based on morals and ethics. Who has them and who doesn't is the interesting part of this fast action financial thriller. Would you be able to tell a story being told as it was being told? There are many they can't and believe every word out of someone's mouth to be true. This is who they look for and that is the person that wants to pull the lever to the one arm bandit. I guess once you start reading this book "Miles Away ...Worlds Apart" by Alan Sakowitz and figuring out what is going, the scams and deception, then you want to see where they mess up to get caught. They are very good at what they do.
A lawyer no less crooked form the start and why is that such a surprise. This story will have you turning the pages if anything to see when they get caught. You know no scam is perfect and you may earn what to look out for if you have never encountered a person who lives by scamming people. You will enjoy this one. This would be a good discussion for your book club or for the lawyer in your family.
A lawyer no less crooked form the start and why is that such a surprise. This story will have you turning the pages if anything to see when they get caught. You know no scam is perfect and you may earn what to look out for if you have never encountered a person who lives by scamming people. You will enjoy this one. This would be a good discussion for your book club or for the lawyer in your family.
January 2, 2011
I just finished reading Miles Away…Worlds Apart by Alan Sakowitz. I guess I can say that this is first reads book, even though technically I wasn’t selected as a winner in the drawing. But because I had entered, the author contacted me to see if I’d still be interested in receiving a free copy. This was definitely unexpected. It’s not unusual to be contacted with information about ordering a copy of an author’s book or provided with a discount code, but offering to give away a copy for free? And I’m sure Mr. Sakowitz didn’t send this offer to just me, either. So, I was a bit surprised, but I took him up on his offer. After reading the book, and gaining insight as to the type of person the author is, I’m not surprised at all.
This book tells the story of Scott Rothstein, an attorney in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, who was involved in very large-scale fraudulent investor scheme (Ponzi scheme). Basically, he would find investors and pay them with money from future investors and so on. Eventually, the money would run out. It wasn’t this simple though. So many people were involved in this, from those who were tracking down investors to the banks that turned a blind eye to suspicious activity.
Alan Sakowitz, also an attorney, was contacted to be a potential investor. After learning a bit more about this investment, (or lack of learning, as Rothstein refused to disclose information, hiding behind the excuse of confidentiality), Mr. Sakowitz concluded that it must be a scam. All clues pointed towards a Ponzi scheme, money laundering, or a combination. He couldn’t just do nothing and allow others to be hurt or affected by this scam. The problem was that Rothstein had “low friends in high places,” and seemed to be well-connected. Mr. Sakowitz was very cautious about who he needed to go to because it would potentially put his life, and the lives of his wife and children, at risk. He decided to go to the FBI. To sum up, Rothstein was busted and is in jail.
I usually don’t read a lot of non-fiction, preferring instead to read for mostly entertainment. However, I really enjoyed this book. My favorite parts were the stories the author incorporated about his own home community in Miami Beach. His neighbors and community took care of each other and genuinely showed concern and love for each other. This was such a contrast between Rothstein’s world, which was only “miles away, but worlds apart.” There were definitely lessons to be learned from this book, but I’ll allow the inscription from Mr. Sakowitz to sum up. The inscription in the copy of the book I received says, "Enjoy the read. Then spread the messages of the book. That is leadership, community, family and other people are important. Together we will make a difference."
This book tells the story of Scott Rothstein, an attorney in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, who was involved in very large-scale fraudulent investor scheme (Ponzi scheme). Basically, he would find investors and pay them with money from future investors and so on. Eventually, the money would run out. It wasn’t this simple though. So many people were involved in this, from those who were tracking down investors to the banks that turned a blind eye to suspicious activity.
Alan Sakowitz, also an attorney, was contacted to be a potential investor. After learning a bit more about this investment, (or lack of learning, as Rothstein refused to disclose information, hiding behind the excuse of confidentiality), Mr. Sakowitz concluded that it must be a scam. All clues pointed towards a Ponzi scheme, money laundering, or a combination. He couldn’t just do nothing and allow others to be hurt or affected by this scam. The problem was that Rothstein had “low friends in high places,” and seemed to be well-connected. Mr. Sakowitz was very cautious about who he needed to go to because it would potentially put his life, and the lives of his wife and children, at risk. He decided to go to the FBI. To sum up, Rothstein was busted and is in jail.
I usually don’t read a lot of non-fiction, preferring instead to read for mostly entertainment. However, I really enjoyed this book. My favorite parts were the stories the author incorporated about his own home community in Miami Beach. His neighbors and community took care of each other and genuinely showed concern and love for each other. This was such a contrast between Rothstein’s world, which was only “miles away, but worlds apart.” There were definitely lessons to be learned from this book, but I’ll allow the inscription from Mr. Sakowitz to sum up. The inscription in the copy of the book I received says, "Enjoy the read. Then spread the messages of the book. That is leadership, community, family and other people are important. Together we will make a difference."
October 22, 2010
I received this book as a goodreads giveaway winner.
This book was actually quite different from what I expected. I guess I was expecting more of an insider perspective to the whistle-blower part of the story, rather than an outside potential investor who realizes that what he's being presented with is simply too good to be true and actually does something about it. Nevertheless, it was an interesting book that had a lot of really inspiring stories.
The book kind of jumps back and forth a lot between what was going on in the world of Scott Rothstein, high powered lawyer who is using fake settlement agreements to create a giant Ponzi scheme and maintaining an air of legitimacy by using the Ponzi dollars to support everyone in the community from backwardly bribing the police, to politicians, banks, and dozens of charities, and what was happening in Sakowitz's Jewish community in North Miami. Sakowitz's stories about his neighbors (most of whom are so not interested in public attention that they didn't even allow him to use their real names) are actually some of the more interesting parts of the book.
I think the books message, living faithfully, putting others ahead of yourself, showing deep concern about the dignity of other people, letting God take the credit for the things he uses you for, and placing yourself in situations where making the right choice is easier, is fairly universal. Thanks goodreads and Alan for choosing me to receive this book!
This book was actually quite different from what I expected. I guess I was expecting more of an insider perspective to the whistle-blower part of the story, rather than an outside potential investor who realizes that what he's being presented with is simply too good to be true and actually does something about it. Nevertheless, it was an interesting book that had a lot of really inspiring stories.
The book kind of jumps back and forth a lot between what was going on in the world of Scott Rothstein, high powered lawyer who is using fake settlement agreements to create a giant Ponzi scheme and maintaining an air of legitimacy by using the Ponzi dollars to support everyone in the community from backwardly bribing the police, to politicians, banks, and dozens of charities, and what was happening in Sakowitz's Jewish community in North Miami. Sakowitz's stories about his neighbors (most of whom are so not interested in public attention that they didn't even allow him to use their real names) are actually some of the more interesting parts of the book.
I think the books message, living faithfully, putting others ahead of yourself, showing deep concern about the dignity of other people, letting God take the credit for the things he uses you for, and placing yourself in situations where making the right choice is easier, is fairly universal. Thanks goodreads and Alan for choosing me to receive this book!
October 11, 2010
This book's title is perfect. Alan describes how his life and the lives of his neighbors are vastly different from the life of Scott Rothstein. To show this Alan has used stories from his neighborhood and from his own family. This isn't just a book about how he brought Rothstein down. Alan wanted to convey a message in hopes that at least one person can be persuaded to choose a better and more meaningful way to live. Alan does this job incredibly. This book is well written. For me it was hard to understand how someone could fall for Rothstein's scam but I guess some people only see what they want to see. I think because of Alan's faith, family, and friends he was able to see through the scam and find the strength to turn him in.
My favorite story was A Welcome Call on page 52. David Barman lived in Alan's community and is an attorney also. One afternoon Alan received a phone call from him. Not because he wanted anything but to just see how he was doing. This is what David did every Friday afternoon. He makes a point to call two friends that he doesn't normally run into during the week. This is priceless and made me think when was the last time I called someone just to see how they were doing.
One thing that I didn't like about this book or maybe I just didn't understand it. Whenever Alan mentions God he spells it G-d. I don't understand why he does this and it annoyed me. Why couldn't you just add the "o"?
My favorite story was A Welcome Call on page 52. David Barman lived in Alan's community and is an attorney also. One afternoon Alan received a phone call from him. Not because he wanted anything but to just see how he was doing. This is what David did every Friday afternoon. He makes a point to call two friends that he doesn't normally run into during the week. This is priceless and made me think when was the last time I called someone just to see how they were doing.
One thing that I didn't like about this book or maybe I just didn't understand it. Whenever Alan mentions God he spells it G-d. I don't understand why he does this and it annoyed me. Why couldn't you just add the "o"?
October 24, 2010
Review of "Miles Apart … Worlds Apart"
Alan Sakowitz‘s book,
'Miles Apart … Worlds Apart", gives an unexpected look of two parallel views that are so vastly different that they give a definite stark black and white view of each world. A book of good versus evil and the freedom of man’s choice are self evident.
Scott Rothstein uses his right of freedom of choice to cheat his fellow man and Alan Sakowitz chooses to fight the evil being done. Sakowitz’s description of his Jewish community left this reader with a memory of a time when communities met on their front porches and church or synagogue was the place not only for worship; but to hear news of a neighbor’s fortune or misfortune and the action taken to help or congratulate by all. A reminder of how much more important the community built on solid ground is today especially since in these times we tend to be self absorbed.
In contrast he tells the story of how Scott Rothstein represents the embodiment of self absorption and the evil of his behavior that is destructive to others with no concern as to what harm may be inflicted. A world built on shifting sands. Although Rothstein’s evil is at the level of High Corporation. This same greed and evil can be seen every day at a far more common level of the lives of the common man.
A true philosophical view of good versus evil and the freedom of choice is wonderfully presented in Alan Sakowitz‘s book, Miles Apart … Worlds Apart.
Alan Sakowitz‘s book,
'Miles Apart … Worlds Apart", gives an unexpected look of two parallel views that are so vastly different that they give a definite stark black and white view of each world. A book of good versus evil and the freedom of man’s choice are self evident.
Scott Rothstein uses his right of freedom of choice to cheat his fellow man and Alan Sakowitz chooses to fight the evil being done. Sakowitz’s description of his Jewish community left this reader with a memory of a time when communities met on their front porches and church or synagogue was the place not only for worship; but to hear news of a neighbor’s fortune or misfortune and the action taken to help or congratulate by all. A reminder of how much more important the community built on solid ground is today especially since in these times we tend to be self absorbed.
In contrast he tells the story of how Scott Rothstein represents the embodiment of self absorption and the evil of his behavior that is destructive to others with no concern as to what harm may be inflicted. A world built on shifting sands. Although Rothstein’s evil is at the level of High Corporation. This same greed and evil can be seen every day at a far more common level of the lives of the common man.
A true philosophical view of good versus evil and the freedom of choice is wonderfully presented in Alan Sakowitz‘s book, Miles Apart … Worlds Apart.
March 19, 2011
Outstanding read! By the time I reached page seven, the paralegal in me was screaming in outrage. This tale continues to spin in a whirl of deception and intrigue, fraud, politics, power - and perhaps, even murder. Miles Away … Worlds Apart is the story of one of the largest financial frauds in South Florida’s history, perpetrated by Scott Rothstein, the author of a Ponzi scheme that drew hundreds of investors into a massive vortex in his search for an unending source of money and power.
As Rothstein’s foul deeds begin to unravel around him, Mr. Sakowitz provides the reader with the splendid contrasting conduct of people who live according to moral standards. Where Rothstein wallows in greed and deception, Alan Sakowitz shows us the importance of family, community, good leadership, personal responsibility and integrity.
I close the final page feeling a little better for having read this book. I have examined my own life and resolved to live more for others than for myself, to delight in my family and in my community, and to show by example that a life filled with kindness, goodness, and generosity can be a life offered with joy and purpose. For this message, Alan Sakowitz, I humbly thank you.
As Rothstein’s foul deeds begin to unravel around him, Mr. Sakowitz provides the reader with the splendid contrasting conduct of people who live according to moral standards. Where Rothstein wallows in greed and deception, Alan Sakowitz shows us the importance of family, community, good leadership, personal responsibility and integrity.
I close the final page feeling a little better for having read this book. I have examined my own life and resolved to live more for others than for myself, to delight in my family and in my community, and to show by example that a life filled with kindness, goodness, and generosity can be a life offered with joy and purpose. For this message, Alan Sakowitz, I humbly thank you.
September 29, 2010
“Miles Away…Worlds Apart” by Alan Sarkowitz is a riveting story about people evil people and good people. The true account of a ruthless con man that didn’t care about anything but himself and what he could get, the whistle blower that finally puts an end to the ruthlessness of “businessman” Scott Rothstein. The business that Rothstein invites Sarkowitz to join is actually a gigantic Ponzi scheme and some of the people involved include may be surprising, including police and the governor. The attraction of big money, yachts and expensive cars was appealing to everyone and acted as a smoke screen to the truth.
When the author first decided to walk away from the Rothstein’s invitation to join the business – it seemed like that was enough to do. But good won over evil as Sakowitz made the decision to turn in the criminal Rothstein.
“Miles Away… Worlds Apart” also tells the story of the people that live in Sakowitz’s Florida neighborhood. Good, caring people that try to help others. This is a sharp contrast to the evil, uncaring, greedy Rothstein.
I would defiantly recommend this book to everyone since anyone can fall victim to the Rothsteins of this world.
When the author first decided to walk away from the Rothstein’s invitation to join the business – it seemed like that was enough to do. But good won over evil as Sakowitz made the decision to turn in the criminal Rothstein.
“Miles Away… Worlds Apart” also tells the story of the people that live in Sakowitz’s Florida neighborhood. Good, caring people that try to help others. This is a sharp contrast to the evil, uncaring, greedy Rothstein.
I would defiantly recommend this book to everyone since anyone can fall victim to the Rothsteins of this world.
November 16, 2010
Miles Away Worlds Apart is a truly riveting story about people good and evil This is a true account of a ruthless con man that didn,t care about anything or anyone but himself and what he could get. The whistle blower who finally put an end to the ruthlessness of businessman Scott Rothstein and the business Rothstein invited Sarkowitz to joinn was nothing but a gigantic Ponzi scheme. This story was told with a compassionate voice, and caring for others and doing the right thing will prevail. He also points out how others may have seen the devious side of Mr R othstein, yet chose to ignore it and do nothing. He risked his career , safety and life to bring justice to his community. It was a really enlightening and refreashing to read of the goodness and selflessness that the people in this community had for one another. I believe that personal responsibility , leadership, faith in community and caring for others is the message of this book. I also believe we should do onto others as we would want done unto us. Itruly enjoyed this book it sends a beautiful message, Thank you for sharing Alan .
January 11, 2011
"There's the law and then there's doing what right."
Alan Sakowitz did what was right by bringing Scott Rothstein and his fraudulent practices down.
This part of the book, the financial drama, is told from a more outsider perspective, since Alan only had a few meetings with Scott Rothstein before the red flags became known to him. Then Alan spends time throughout the rest of the narrative contrasting Rothstein’s corrupt world with his own community and showing through specific examples how the people of his community help each other out of kindness and dignity for the human spirit.
To be perfectly honest, I'm not a big fan of organized religion of any kind, but the philosophy behind the teachings Alan presents are really wonderful and uplifting and prove that if each and every one of us shows deep concern about others and choose the good side of our nature, we could kill the greed and self absorbed behaviors that are destructive.
Thank you Alan for reaching out and allowing me this opportunity to read and review your book.
Alan Sakowitz did what was right by bringing Scott Rothstein and his fraudulent practices down.
This part of the book, the financial drama, is told from a more outsider perspective, since Alan only had a few meetings with Scott Rothstein before the red flags became known to him. Then Alan spends time throughout the rest of the narrative contrasting Rothstein’s corrupt world with his own community and showing through specific examples how the people of his community help each other out of kindness and dignity for the human spirit.
To be perfectly honest, I'm not a big fan of organized religion of any kind, but the philosophy behind the teachings Alan presents are really wonderful and uplifting and prove that if each and every one of us shows deep concern about others and choose the good side of our nature, we could kill the greed and self absorbed behaviors that are destructive.
Thank you Alan for reaching out and allowing me this opportunity to read and review your book.
September 29, 2010
The book “Miles Away…Worlds Apart” by Alan Sarkowitz is a real account of the unscrupulous world of fraud, greed and a massive Ponzi scheme run by Scott Rothstein in South Florida. Even the Governor became entangled in Rothstein’s web of lies. When Alan Sarkowitz realized the business deal Rothstein was trying to get him involved in was in fact a Ponzi, he couldn’t just walk away. Instead, he decided to turn in Rothstein. I felt like I was on this journey with Sarkowitz as the whistle blower shared his feelings and thoughts about Rothstein and his evil dealings. The author showed the good in people, in himself and in the kindness of his community, who were people that cared about others. Defiantly a good read that teaches the reader about life choices while giving us a look at a way of life that hopefully none of us will ever encounter – the world of an uncaring and unscrupulous con man.
August 12, 2010
Truth is stranger than fiction and this book is proof of that simple fact. "Miles Away...Worlds Apart" by Alan Sakowitz relays the events of a fraudulant scheme on a massice scale and the whistleblower that helped end it all. It's a true life account that reads like fiction...full of action and suspense. But that's not the only thing you'll notice here. The author aims to show the reader a way to approach life and it's shady occurances in such a way as to better prepare you for similiar circumstance should you ever encounter them. Certainly a set of skills to add to anyone's life journey, the author makes it accessable to all through his easy flowing writing style. A good read for those interested in learning more about the events that transpired, as well as for those that like a action packed tale to good to be true yet still is.
September 23, 2010
This book reads like a true legal thriller that could easily have been written by John Grisham. The only difference is that this is all based on true events and the characters are real which makes this all the more interesting. The author does a great job in telling his tale of greed, murder and betrayl all centered around the financial world. He also makes you think about the decisions that define you as a person and if you would have chosen a different path how that would change your life and have an impact on the people you care about. It makes you consider that if you were in his position would you have the courage to do what he did. This is a great read from cover to cover, I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the financial world and the corruption that takes place on a daily basis. It was a great way to spend a weekend.
September 29, 2010
This book hit home to me since I a close relative was once taken in by a similar con artist. Naturally, it was at a much smaller level than Rothstein’s but nonetheless – I know for a fact how easy it was to want to believe what the con man is saying is true. To me “Miles Away…Worlds Apart” by Alan Sakowitz defines the line between good and evil. On one hand is the greedy, evil Scott Rothstein and his massive Ponzi scheme and on the other is Sakowitz who decided the right thing to do was blow the whistle on Rothstein to put an end to his fraudulent greed. Good is also beautifully shown by the kind of people Sakowitz’s neighbors are. They are caring and helpful people, the complete opposite of Rothstein. I very interesting book that I would recommend to anyone interested in the world of fraud and corruption and the power of good versus evil.
September 21, 2010
This was a bit too deistic for my tastes. The author can write anything he wants, especially if he basis his life on religious philosophy because hey, it's his book! But I kinda got lost in the claim of being so canonical, then bashing the main character (the villain Rothstein) repeatedly, then fluffing up the religious community the author lives in, then more bashing....seemed kinda hypocritical and like the story would have been better if there wasn't so much opinion and the facts were plainly stated. I was just disappointed and wished for something with less gossip and more facts.
January 26, 2011
I thought this was an amazing book. Totally inspiring and one which everyone should own and have in their library. This is also a book I think every school should have and make part of their curriculum. Sakowitz seems to be a stand up guy looking to use his book and experience as a tool to help promote decency in people and show them a better quality of life.
September 11, 2010
Finished this in one day as it was a very interesting read. Thanks Alan for the copy, I enjoyed it.
December 17, 2014
In Miles Away... Worlds Apart, Alan Sakowitz tells the story of the biggest financial fraud in South Florida history, from his unique perspective of a whistleblower. Throughout the book Sakowitz compares his close-knit neighborhood to the Scott Rothstein's greed.
Sakowitz takes us through the narrative of the events leading to the arrest of Scott Rothstein. He was contacted through a broker to invest in structured settlements offered by Rothstein. The investment was to but a stream of payments from an employment dispute and deliver a lump sum payment to Rothstein's client.
Conversion of structured settlements is completely legitimate, but usually subject to regulation and judicial oversight. A victim may prefer a big lump sum instead of installment payments made over time. Certainly, the capital source in the middle is going to want some reward for exchanging cash today for future payments.
Rothstein was offering a huge reward for investors willing to be the capital source. In one example he was offering a $900,000 settlement, payable over three months for an investment of $660,000. Why would any plaintiff be willing to take $660,000 today when they could have the entire $900,000 at the end of 90 days?
For an investor, that is an incredible return. Even more incredible given the assurances from Rothstein that payments are guaranteed. Sakowitz found the returns and Rothstein's showmanship to be intoxicating, but was suspicious. The intoxication was enough for Sakowitz to have three meetings with Rothstein.
When asked about volume, Rothstein said he was settling 3,000 cases per year, all without actually filing a lawsuit. The smallest of his payouts was $500,000. When asked to speak to the attorneys handling the cases, Rothstein claimed he was personally handling all of the cases.
The biggest red flag for me was Rothstein acting as a seller of the settlements and the attorney for plaintiffs at the same time. There is a terrible conflict between trying to get the best financial deal for his clients at the same time he is trying to offer an enticing return for "investors." A real attorney would have advised his clients to get a better deal in structuring a settlement.
With all the red flags, it's easy to see why someone would think that the investment was a fraud and not get involved. It's a bigger step to call the authorities and make the assertion. Even being 90% sure that it was fraud, that leaves a 10% chance that you're wrongly accusing an innocent man, damaging both of your reputations.
Why did Sakowitz call the FBI? He tells interleaves stories from his close-knit community telling stories of charity and self-sacrifice for the benefit of others. He writes about his parents as role models and wanting to set a fine example for others.
Rothstein's walls were plastered with hundreds of awards and plaques from charitable causes, plus photos of Scott with the governor of Florida, the Broward County Sheriff, the Fort Lauderdale chief of police, other politicians, famous athletes and entertainers. Given Rothstein's connection to the political establishment, the predicament becomes who do you call to tell you found the fraud. The Fort Lauderdale Police Department would be a bad a choice. It turns out that when Rothstein fled the country, he had a police escort to his plane from a lieutenant in the FLPD. After eliminating all of the other government organizations appearing on Rothstein's wall of shake-n-smile, he turned to the FBI. I found it interesting to hear how Sakowitz felt a sense a relief after making the call.
I was drawn to the story for a few reasons. Sakowitz runs Pointe Development Company, a real estate company. Like me, he is an attorney by training, working in the real estate industry. As a compliance professional, I am fascinated by the mechanics of fraud and Ponzi schemes. Sakowitz was kind enough to send me a copy of the book to review.
Although the book provided great information and perspective on the Rothstein fraud, I was hoping for more. Sakowitz provides plenty of information about his own background to show why he turned in Rothstein. He does not provide equivalent information to show how Rothstein went bad.
Most people do not wake up one morning and decide to perpetrate a fraud on his clients, friends, business partners and anyone who walks through his office door. Clearly greed was a factor. He must have seen an opportunity to sell a settlement for his own benefit. It's not clear that Rothstein felt the pressure to be a mover and a shaker or what the pressure was that made him initially step over the line. Clearly his extravagant lifestyle created the pressure to keep the scheme going. We certainly could guess at the rationalization Rothstein used to justify his crimes. Perhaps he thought he was supporting the political system, endowing charities and creating jobs.
I would have liked to read more about Sakowitz's thought process in deciding to report Rothstein to the authorities. Walking away is easy when you suspect a fraud. You merely risk passing on an investment. Reporting a fraud does put you at risk. If you're wrong, you risk the personal and professional repercussions. If you accuse a person like Rothstein, who showed off a gun strapped to his ankle, you risk physical harm.
In the end, Rothstein was an evil man, blatantly stealing money. Sakowitz was a good man, who saw through the greed, and took the extra step to try and stop the evil man. That alone is makes a compelling story.
Sakowitz takes us through the narrative of the events leading to the arrest of Scott Rothstein. He was contacted through a broker to invest in structured settlements offered by Rothstein. The investment was to but a stream of payments from an employment dispute and deliver a lump sum payment to Rothstein's client.
Conversion of structured settlements is completely legitimate, but usually subject to regulation and judicial oversight. A victim may prefer a big lump sum instead of installment payments made over time. Certainly, the capital source in the middle is going to want some reward for exchanging cash today for future payments.
Rothstein was offering a huge reward for investors willing to be the capital source. In one example he was offering a $900,000 settlement, payable over three months for an investment of $660,000. Why would any plaintiff be willing to take $660,000 today when they could have the entire $900,000 at the end of 90 days?
For an investor, that is an incredible return. Even more incredible given the assurances from Rothstein that payments are guaranteed. Sakowitz found the returns and Rothstein's showmanship to be intoxicating, but was suspicious. The intoxication was enough for Sakowitz to have three meetings with Rothstein.
When asked about volume, Rothstein said he was settling 3,000 cases per year, all without actually filing a lawsuit. The smallest of his payouts was $500,000. When asked to speak to the attorneys handling the cases, Rothstein claimed he was personally handling all of the cases.
The biggest red flag for me was Rothstein acting as a seller of the settlements and the attorney for plaintiffs at the same time. There is a terrible conflict between trying to get the best financial deal for his clients at the same time he is trying to offer an enticing return for "investors." A real attorney would have advised his clients to get a better deal in structuring a settlement.
With all the red flags, it's easy to see why someone would think that the investment was a fraud and not get involved. It's a bigger step to call the authorities and make the assertion. Even being 90% sure that it was fraud, that leaves a 10% chance that you're wrongly accusing an innocent man, damaging both of your reputations.
Why did Sakowitz call the FBI? He tells interleaves stories from his close-knit community telling stories of charity and self-sacrifice for the benefit of others. He writes about his parents as role models and wanting to set a fine example for others.
Rothstein's walls were plastered with hundreds of awards and plaques from charitable causes, plus photos of Scott with the governor of Florida, the Broward County Sheriff, the Fort Lauderdale chief of police, other politicians, famous athletes and entertainers. Given Rothstein's connection to the political establishment, the predicament becomes who do you call to tell you found the fraud. The Fort Lauderdale Police Department would be a bad a choice. It turns out that when Rothstein fled the country, he had a police escort to his plane from a lieutenant in the FLPD. After eliminating all of the other government organizations appearing on Rothstein's wall of shake-n-smile, he turned to the FBI. I found it interesting to hear how Sakowitz felt a sense a relief after making the call.
I was drawn to the story for a few reasons. Sakowitz runs Pointe Development Company, a real estate company. Like me, he is an attorney by training, working in the real estate industry. As a compliance professional, I am fascinated by the mechanics of fraud and Ponzi schemes. Sakowitz was kind enough to send me a copy of the book to review.
Although the book provided great information and perspective on the Rothstein fraud, I was hoping for more. Sakowitz provides plenty of information about his own background to show why he turned in Rothstein. He does not provide equivalent information to show how Rothstein went bad.
Most people do not wake up one morning and decide to perpetrate a fraud on his clients, friends, business partners and anyone who walks through his office door. Clearly greed was a factor. He must have seen an opportunity to sell a settlement for his own benefit. It's not clear that Rothstein felt the pressure to be a mover and a shaker or what the pressure was that made him initially step over the line. Clearly his extravagant lifestyle created the pressure to keep the scheme going. We certainly could guess at the rationalization Rothstein used to justify his crimes. Perhaps he thought he was supporting the political system, endowing charities and creating jobs.
I would have liked to read more about Sakowitz's thought process in deciding to report Rothstein to the authorities. Walking away is easy when you suspect a fraud. You merely risk passing on an investment. Reporting a fraud does put you at risk. If you're wrong, you risk the personal and professional repercussions. If you accuse a person like Rothstein, who showed off a gun strapped to his ankle, you risk physical harm.
In the end, Rothstein was an evil man, blatantly stealing money. Sakowitz was a good man, who saw through the greed, and took the extra step to try and stop the evil man. That alone is makes a compelling story.
October 25, 2010
It's guys like Scott Rothstein that give attorneys a bad name. And it's guys like Alan Sakowitz that prove that humanity is, at its heart, good.
I recently finished "Miles Away, Worlds Apart" by Alan Sakowitz, an attorney and real estate investor whose path crossed with Scott Rothstein, an attorney and one time Ponzi scheme artist. Billed by some as a "criminal thriller," I found it to be more of cautionary tale, a combination memoir and homage to the good people in Sakowitz's life compared to the tragic flamboyance that he found in Scott Rothstein.
Sakowitz first met Rothstein when he was invited to participate in an investment in what was billed as "structured settlements," a scheme that would return investment of at least 20 percent, often more, in as short a time as three months. The structured settlements turned out to actually be pre-settlement funding or financing, and the promised return on investment would often be astronomical, even unbelievable. Investors, upon committing to secrecy, were investing large amounts of money and receiving large returns. Rothstein was a respected member of the bar, a partner in a reputable and growing law firm, politically well connected, and philanthropically generous. His sales pitch was convincing, and people were trusting him with their money to the tune of over $1.2 billion dollars.
But, as has been astutely noted elsewhere, "if it's too good to be true, it probably is," and so thought Sakowitz. A veteran real estate investor and attorney, he began to do his due diligence on the scheme, and red flags began to pop up everywhere. The more he researched, the more questionable the investment seemed, and the less the numbers would add up. Finally, he concluded that what was going on had to be illegal, and he called the FBI.
The rest is history. Rothstein fled to Morocco just in front of an FBI warrant to search his law offices, one of a few countries that does not have an extradition treaty to the United States. He returned later, upon pleading from his partners, and turned himself into the FBI to cooperate in their investigation. Disbard for life, he was later sentenced to 50 years in prison, and is serving his time in a federal detention center in Miami.
That's the Rothstein story, but it's not half of the book. What makes Sakowitz's book interesting and worth reading is the dichotomous nature in which he has written it. Instead of weaving a tale about Rothstein's corruption, hubris, and crimes, which he does do, Sakowitz also intersperes the account with anecdotes about the selfless individuals that have added value and meaning to Sakowitz's life. His stories include those of his parents, rabbis, community members, individuals he admires from afar, and others who he has seen selflessly give of themselves to others. It is intended as a contrast to Rothstein's selfishness, and it is an intimate and touching portrait of many of the unsung heroes of our world. All too often we hear and read about the people and egos who thrust themselves into our consciousness in the news and media, and it is refreshing to hear the stories of those who quietly go about doing good without any hope or expectation of reward. Although I do not share Sakowitz's faith, as a person of faith myself, I found much in Sakowitz's book in common with people in my own life, and I was inspired by the thought that there are people out there doing good for good's sake alone.
Scott Rothstein was a selfish fool, and his greed hurt a lot of people. But fortunately, there are good people out there, too and in Sakowitz's account we see a few of them. They are unsung, usually, and only quietly going about doing good. But it is their actions and choices that give me hope that in the end we can choose the good side of our nature--what Sakowitz calls the "right side" of our hearts--over the bad.
I recently finished "Miles Away, Worlds Apart" by Alan Sakowitz, an attorney and real estate investor whose path crossed with Scott Rothstein, an attorney and one time Ponzi scheme artist. Billed by some as a "criminal thriller," I found it to be more of cautionary tale, a combination memoir and homage to the good people in Sakowitz's life compared to the tragic flamboyance that he found in Scott Rothstein.
Sakowitz first met Rothstein when he was invited to participate in an investment in what was billed as "structured settlements," a scheme that would return investment of at least 20 percent, often more, in as short a time as three months. The structured settlements turned out to actually be pre-settlement funding or financing, and the promised return on investment would often be astronomical, even unbelievable. Investors, upon committing to secrecy, were investing large amounts of money and receiving large returns. Rothstein was a respected member of the bar, a partner in a reputable and growing law firm, politically well connected, and philanthropically generous. His sales pitch was convincing, and people were trusting him with their money to the tune of over $1.2 billion dollars.
But, as has been astutely noted elsewhere, "if it's too good to be true, it probably is," and so thought Sakowitz. A veteran real estate investor and attorney, he began to do his due diligence on the scheme, and red flags began to pop up everywhere. The more he researched, the more questionable the investment seemed, and the less the numbers would add up. Finally, he concluded that what was going on had to be illegal, and he called the FBI.
The rest is history. Rothstein fled to Morocco just in front of an FBI warrant to search his law offices, one of a few countries that does not have an extradition treaty to the United States. He returned later, upon pleading from his partners, and turned himself into the FBI to cooperate in their investigation. Disbard for life, he was later sentenced to 50 years in prison, and is serving his time in a federal detention center in Miami.
That's the Rothstein story, but it's not half of the book. What makes Sakowitz's book interesting and worth reading is the dichotomous nature in which he has written it. Instead of weaving a tale about Rothstein's corruption, hubris, and crimes, which he does do, Sakowitz also intersperes the account with anecdotes about the selfless individuals that have added value and meaning to Sakowitz's life. His stories include those of his parents, rabbis, community members, individuals he admires from afar, and others who he has seen selflessly give of themselves to others. It is intended as a contrast to Rothstein's selfishness, and it is an intimate and touching portrait of many of the unsung heroes of our world. All too often we hear and read about the people and egos who thrust themselves into our consciousness in the news and media, and it is refreshing to hear the stories of those who quietly go about doing good without any hope or expectation of reward. Although I do not share Sakowitz's faith, as a person of faith myself, I found much in Sakowitz's book in common with people in my own life, and I was inspired by the thought that there are people out there doing good for good's sake alone.
Scott Rothstein was a selfish fool, and his greed hurt a lot of people. But fortunately, there are good people out there, too and in Sakowitz's account we see a few of them. They are unsung, usually, and only quietly going about doing good. But it is their actions and choices that give me hope that in the end we can choose the good side of our nature--what Sakowitz calls the "right side" of our hearts--over the bad.
November 9, 2010
Before I begin, I guess I better post two things. 1) Most of you who follow my reviews, or read my reviews every now and again, know that I post spoilers and give my opinion. 2) You also know that I usually only read fiction.
So this review is going to be a bit different. First, the book is non-fiction. Second, I'm not posting spoilers - I'm urging you to get out there, get the book, and read it! It's very possible that I would probably have never read this book, because it is non-fiction. I haven't read non-fiction since I graduated high school over 15 years ago. With that said, I will forever thank Alan Sakowitz for asking me if I'd like a copy to read and review. This book will hit the heart of you - "on the right side."
The title, "Miles Away ... Worlds Apart" fits the book exactly. I don't think Alan could've have given it a better title. Not only do you get the selfish, egotiscical, greedy, manipulative world of Scott Rothstein, you get the mirror opposite of Alan's world - filled with heartfelt stories of the selfless, decent, compassionate people who are his family, his friends, and his community.
After reading the book, the one saying that keeps coming to mind is: where there's smoke, there's fire. I sincerely sort-of feel bad for the investors that got sucked in by Rothstein's image. And the reason I state "sort-of" is because, like Alan, those red flags should have been setting off alarms by the dozen. If they chose to ignore the warnings completely, then they kind of deserve to be in the position they are now. They had the choice to walk away. They didn't.
Alan, I commend you. Not only did you take those red flag warnings to heart, you chose not to brush it aside like I'll bet others did; out of sight, out of mind. No, you chose to do the selfless, decent thing: you chose to blow Rothstein's scheme right out of the water. You protected countless others who might have been sucked in if Rothstein had a chance at them. I'll bet there are hundreds of people out there who are proud of you. I know I am. And there's another reason for that as well...
Those of you who know me personally know that I have a hard time reading anything that includes religion. I am Roman Catholic. That will never change, no matter if anyone argued until they were blue in the face. I have a hard time reading books that push other religions; as if stating that I'm completely in the wrong and this is the way it should be. But Alan didn't do that. Not one iota. With the wonderful stories that he included in his book, he didn't press upon his religion. Any mention of it was more like for the benefit of the reader, so that the reader better understands his religion. What he did press upon, was humanity; on kindness, selflessness, compassion, decency. Plain and simple. No matter the religion, people all over the world should be like this. Acts of kindness, of decency, should be done because a person is in need. There shouldn't be an ulterior motive. It shouldn't be because it makes you feel good. It should be all about the person who needs it. Any acts of kindness I've done, any that I know I'll do in the future, have nothing to do with me and how I feel. If someone asked, would I admit that those acts made me feel good? Of course I'll admit it - I'm not a liar. But I didn't do it for me. To know that, whatever help I gave, was appreciated, to know that person will be okay, that's more than enough for me. I don't need anything in return. I don't even need a smile, or a thank you. Because, in my heart, I know I did the right thing, the decent thing, and that's all I need.
When my children are older (as we are French, my children haven't started taking English classes as of yet) I will have them read Alan's book. I know they will learn from it. I know I did.
So this review is going to be a bit different. First, the book is non-fiction. Second, I'm not posting spoilers - I'm urging you to get out there, get the book, and read it! It's very possible that I would probably have never read this book, because it is non-fiction. I haven't read non-fiction since I graduated high school over 15 years ago. With that said, I will forever thank Alan Sakowitz for asking me if I'd like a copy to read and review. This book will hit the heart of you - "on the right side."
The title, "Miles Away ... Worlds Apart" fits the book exactly. I don't think Alan could've have given it a better title. Not only do you get the selfish, egotiscical, greedy, manipulative world of Scott Rothstein, you get the mirror opposite of Alan's world - filled with heartfelt stories of the selfless, decent, compassionate people who are his family, his friends, and his community.
After reading the book, the one saying that keeps coming to mind is: where there's smoke, there's fire. I sincerely sort-of feel bad for the investors that got sucked in by Rothstein's image. And the reason I state "sort-of" is because, like Alan, those red flags should have been setting off alarms by the dozen. If they chose to ignore the warnings completely, then they kind of deserve to be in the position they are now. They had the choice to walk away. They didn't.
Alan, I commend you. Not only did you take those red flag warnings to heart, you chose not to brush it aside like I'll bet others did; out of sight, out of mind. No, you chose to do the selfless, decent thing: you chose to blow Rothstein's scheme right out of the water. You protected countless others who might have been sucked in if Rothstein had a chance at them. I'll bet there are hundreds of people out there who are proud of you. I know I am. And there's another reason for that as well...
Those of you who know me personally know that I have a hard time reading anything that includes religion. I am Roman Catholic. That will never change, no matter if anyone argued until they were blue in the face. I have a hard time reading books that push other religions; as if stating that I'm completely in the wrong and this is the way it should be. But Alan didn't do that. Not one iota. With the wonderful stories that he included in his book, he didn't press upon his religion. Any mention of it was more like for the benefit of the reader, so that the reader better understands his religion. What he did press upon, was humanity; on kindness, selflessness, compassion, decency. Plain and simple. No matter the religion, people all over the world should be like this. Acts of kindness, of decency, should be done because a person is in need. There shouldn't be an ulterior motive. It shouldn't be because it makes you feel good. It should be all about the person who needs it. Any acts of kindness I've done, any that I know I'll do in the future, have nothing to do with me and how I feel. If someone asked, would I admit that those acts made me feel good? Of course I'll admit it - I'm not a liar. But I didn't do it for me. To know that, whatever help I gave, was appreciated, to know that person will be okay, that's more than enough for me. I don't need anything in return. I don't even need a smile, or a thank you. Because, in my heart, I know I did the right thing, the decent thing, and that's all I need.
When my children are older (as we are French, my children haven't started taking English classes as of yet) I will have them read Alan's book. I know they will learn from it. I know I did.
December 3, 2010
Alan Sakowitz is a deeply religious man. Scott Rothstein should have known that before his first meeting with Alan. It is what, in fact, brought down Rothstein’s empire and his entire Ponzi scheme. Alan suspected that he was being offered an unlawful investment in that first meeting, and it was confirmed in their next two meetings. If Mr. Sakowitz was anyone else, he may not have taken the next steps of risking his own welfare and life (and that of his family) by reporting what he knew. But, Alan is Jewish and lives in a close orthodox Jewish neighborhood. His conscience, his strong belief in the good of man, moved him to become the whistleblower and expose Rothstein. This, in 2009, on the heels of the Bernie Madoff scandal, was a major story of the year. Sakowitz’ book works on multiple levels.
First, it details the steps of discovery and then, reporting of the crime. While Sakowitz is an attorney, details are covered in a way that the layman can understand. Where needed, Alan adds footnotes and captions. The reader can easily sympathize with the pervading fear he felt after he made the first call to the FBI. Because the amount of wealth Rothstein had accumulated, he spread incredible amounts of it around to buy loyalty amongst politicians, law enforcers and others who, without the financial incentive, might have maintained their own integrity.
Second, Alan balances the evildoings of the Rothstein operation in Miami with stories of Sakowitz’ friends and neighbors in their North Miami Beach community, a community that is but a few miles away from Rothstein’s empire, but worlds away in terms of their approach to life. The citizens are very supportive of each other, and each story demonstrates the lengths to which common citizens will put their neighbors’ best interests above their own. Instead of greed and avarice, these Jewish neighbors make a point of practicing what they preach, sharing love and good deeds daily.
Third, the reader will find that the simple fact of reading this book will tend to make them a better person. It is said that all of us have the capacity for both good and evil. The difference with Sakowitz (and his neighbors) and Rothstein is that Sakowitz makes is a daily practice to focus on the good he can do while Rothstein focused on the wealth he could obtain at any cost. Sakowitz even emphathizes with Rothstein, understanding that it was a character flaw, a weakness, that lead Rothstein down this path. And Alan even understood the unhappiness that pervaded Rothstein's life. It would be difficult to read this without reflecting on your own life and your relative ability to balance those forces in your own life. Even if you’ve lead a good life, you know you can do better.
Finally, I have numerous Jewish friends. While we’ve never talked religion (we tend to be engaged in business or in our mutual efforts with the non-profits for which we volunteer), I thank Alan for helping me better understand their lives and the forces that guide them. You’ll want to do more than read this book. You’ll want to share it.
First, it details the steps of discovery and then, reporting of the crime. While Sakowitz is an attorney, details are covered in a way that the layman can understand. Where needed, Alan adds footnotes and captions. The reader can easily sympathize with the pervading fear he felt after he made the first call to the FBI. Because the amount of wealth Rothstein had accumulated, he spread incredible amounts of it around to buy loyalty amongst politicians, law enforcers and others who, without the financial incentive, might have maintained their own integrity.
Second, Alan balances the evildoings of the Rothstein operation in Miami with stories of Sakowitz’ friends and neighbors in their North Miami Beach community, a community that is but a few miles away from Rothstein’s empire, but worlds away in terms of their approach to life. The citizens are very supportive of each other, and each story demonstrates the lengths to which common citizens will put their neighbors’ best interests above their own. Instead of greed and avarice, these Jewish neighbors make a point of practicing what they preach, sharing love and good deeds daily.
Third, the reader will find that the simple fact of reading this book will tend to make them a better person. It is said that all of us have the capacity for both good and evil. The difference with Sakowitz (and his neighbors) and Rothstein is that Sakowitz makes is a daily practice to focus on the good he can do while Rothstein focused on the wealth he could obtain at any cost. Sakowitz even emphathizes with Rothstein, understanding that it was a character flaw, a weakness, that lead Rothstein down this path. And Alan even understood the unhappiness that pervaded Rothstein's life. It would be difficult to read this without reflecting on your own life and your relative ability to balance those forces in your own life. Even if you’ve lead a good life, you know you can do better.
Finally, I have numerous Jewish friends. While we’ve never talked religion (we tend to be engaged in business or in our mutual efforts with the non-profits for which we volunteer), I thank Alan for helping me better understand their lives and the forces that guide them. You’ll want to do more than read this book. You’ll want to share it.
October 19, 2010
I received a free copy of the book from the author.
Author Alan Sakowitz perceives a moral decay in the United States. But, unlike the common social conservative focus on sex, Sakowitz is concerned about greed, about get rich quick, and about undeserved entitlement.
Sakowitz draws from his experience encountering a Ponzi scheme run by Scott Rothstein. While Sakowitz did not invest, he was one of the first, if not the first, to draw authorities' attention to it. Setting Rothstein as the symbol of what is wrong with contemporary American culture, Sakowitz intersperses the story of the scheme's unraveling with anecdotes of sacrifice in his own Orthodox Jewish community. As he progresses, much the way a cleric would in a sermon, he expands from the original narrative into implications and onward into solutions. In this continuation, he expands into such areas as social security, welfare, and charity.
The question one should ask at this point is, "is it convincing?", to which I must respond, "somewhat."
Sakowitz's argument on the contemporary culture of greed is self-evident in light of the banking crisis and the current mortgage meltdown. Though that makes it no less worth reading as Rothstein's activities occured post Madoff, reminding people not to relax just because one bad person has been caught. Indeed, his deliberation on the nature of investment and risk is well worth reading for the neophyte.
Where it stumbles, in my opinion, is how the alternative anecdotes focus on the author's individual community. From the perspective of write what you know, the focus makes perfect sense. This is what Sakowitz knows and, in no uncertain terms, the stories from his community provide positive examples of how one should live their life, regardless of culture, political orientation, or religious denomination, but it falters in two areas. First is Sakowitz's membership in the community itself. As a member, the author communicates the stories from a first person plural, "we", perspective. While I don't doubt the stories Sakowitz tells, the writing sometimes comes across as aggressively promotional. These stories would have been much better told from an outsider's perspective. Though I yield that it is unlikely anyone outside the community would draw attention to them. An unfortunate Catch-22.
Secondly, parables (and I think in certain respects that is what Sakowitz is going for) try to generalize their characters to make them accessible to their target audience. In the case of Miles Away ... Worlds Apart, is the target audience the entire American population? Then I fear these stories cum parables may, unfortunately, be found somewhat inaccessible. Even worse, some potential recipients may be outright hostile, not because of the message, but because of a cultural divide.
In short (too late, I know) the book provides a positive message that is worth hearing, but the telling may isolate it from a broader appeal.
Author Alan Sakowitz perceives a moral decay in the United States. But, unlike the common social conservative focus on sex, Sakowitz is concerned about greed, about get rich quick, and about undeserved entitlement.
Sakowitz draws from his experience encountering a Ponzi scheme run by Scott Rothstein. While Sakowitz did not invest, he was one of the first, if not the first, to draw authorities' attention to it. Setting Rothstein as the symbol of what is wrong with contemporary American culture, Sakowitz intersperses the story of the scheme's unraveling with anecdotes of sacrifice in his own Orthodox Jewish community. As he progresses, much the way a cleric would in a sermon, he expands from the original narrative into implications and onward into solutions. In this continuation, he expands into such areas as social security, welfare, and charity.
The question one should ask at this point is, "is it convincing?", to which I must respond, "somewhat."
Sakowitz's argument on the contemporary culture of greed is self-evident in light of the banking crisis and the current mortgage meltdown. Though that makes it no less worth reading as Rothstein's activities occured post Madoff, reminding people not to relax just because one bad person has been caught. Indeed, his deliberation on the nature of investment and risk is well worth reading for the neophyte.
Where it stumbles, in my opinion, is how the alternative anecdotes focus on the author's individual community. From the perspective of write what you know, the focus makes perfect sense. This is what Sakowitz knows and, in no uncertain terms, the stories from his community provide positive examples of how one should live their life, regardless of culture, political orientation, or religious denomination, but it falters in two areas. First is Sakowitz's membership in the community itself. As a member, the author communicates the stories from a first person plural, "we", perspective. While I don't doubt the stories Sakowitz tells, the writing sometimes comes across as aggressively promotional. These stories would have been much better told from an outsider's perspective. Though I yield that it is unlikely anyone outside the community would draw attention to them. An unfortunate Catch-22.
Secondly, parables (and I think in certain respects that is what Sakowitz is going for) try to generalize their characters to make them accessible to their target audience. In the case of Miles Away ... Worlds Apart, is the target audience the entire American population? Then I fear these stories cum parables may, unfortunately, be found somewhat inaccessible. Even worse, some potential recipients may be outright hostile, not because of the message, but because of a cultural divide.
In short (too late, I know) the book provides a positive message that is worth hearing, but the telling may isolate it from a broader appeal.
December 24, 2010
Alan Sakowitz takes the readers of his true-crime novel, “Miles Away...Worlds Apart” on journey through a huge Ponzi Scheme that took place in North Miami Beach, Florida. However, this scheme included more than just scheming people out of millions of dollars. The Schemer, Rothstein, was a heavy weight and had his hands in the pockets of multiple high profile names such as, Arnold Schwarzenegger and The Eagles. Rothstein fabricated a saintly persona and preached about how charitable he was to anyone who was willing to listen. Sakowitz, an attorney, realtor, and an investor with copious amounts of years experience under his belt and a respected reputation made a decision that no one---especially, some forty something year old, duplicitous hedonist---was going to pull the wool over his eyes.
Sakowitz realized after a few meetings with Rothstein that things “weren’t kosher,” and so Sakowitz decided to do some investigating on his own. Sakowitz used stories of: valiancy, insight, righteousness, commonsense, and inspiration from his community and fate to give him the faith and guidance into a poker game he hadn’t realized he entered into until after his chips---that he wasn’t willing to give up---were already in.
Personally, the style of writing Sakowitz used to write this story was a style I had never seen before. Although, I liked it because it was right to the point, and that’s the way I like things. Sakowitz describes: the setting, the person, his own personal thoughts and get right to the story; occasionally, he adds the ingredient of small tale, speech, or sermon he learned, saw, or heard, and that is what makes the book eccentric---in a good way. Also. I liked that he added small footnotes in the bottom on certain pages to explain to the reader what certain words, or phrases mean. Especially, legal terms that many young readers may not be familiar with.
The stories within the story that Sakowitz provided were probably my favorite parts of the book. I loved the first story Sakowitz told by Rabbi Shapiro. When I heard that I preached it to about seven people that day because I consider that to be one of the wisest question and answer I’ve ever heard, and I know I will carry that lesson with me until the day my heart leaves this earth. I would like to dedicate this review to Rabbi Shapiro because he lifted my heart and opened my eyes wider, and I appreciate Sakowitz for spreading the word in his book. I see it made an impression on him too.
When rating this book, I couldn’t quite figure out what to rate it because the story itself is a great story that unequivocally needs to be told, but the writing itself might be too simple for an avid reader. Nevertheless, I suggest this to anyone who: likes to read (in general), is not fussy when it comes to style of writing (like me), likes to see justice being served and likes honesty/truth/courage.
Sakowitz realized after a few meetings with Rothstein that things “weren’t kosher,” and so Sakowitz decided to do some investigating on his own. Sakowitz used stories of: valiancy, insight, righteousness, commonsense, and inspiration from his community and fate to give him the faith and guidance into a poker game he hadn’t realized he entered into until after his chips---that he wasn’t willing to give up---were already in.
Personally, the style of writing Sakowitz used to write this story was a style I had never seen before. Although, I liked it because it was right to the point, and that’s the way I like things. Sakowitz describes: the setting, the person, his own personal thoughts and get right to the story; occasionally, he adds the ingredient of small tale, speech, or sermon he learned, saw, or heard, and that is what makes the book eccentric---in a good way. Also. I liked that he added small footnotes in the bottom on certain pages to explain to the reader what certain words, or phrases mean. Especially, legal terms that many young readers may not be familiar with.
The stories within the story that Sakowitz provided were probably my favorite parts of the book. I loved the first story Sakowitz told by Rabbi Shapiro. When I heard that I preached it to about seven people that day because I consider that to be one of the wisest question and answer I’ve ever heard, and I know I will carry that lesson with me until the day my heart leaves this earth. I would like to dedicate this review to Rabbi Shapiro because he lifted my heart and opened my eyes wider, and I appreciate Sakowitz for spreading the word in his book. I see it made an impression on him too.
When rating this book, I couldn’t quite figure out what to rate it because the story itself is a great story that unequivocally needs to be told, but the writing itself might be too simple for an avid reader. Nevertheless, I suggest this to anyone who: likes to read (in general), is not fussy when it comes to style of writing (like me), likes to see justice being served and likes honesty/truth/courage.
August 12, 2010
Using as a backdrop the Ponzi scheme by a one of the most powerful lawyers in Florida, the author Alan Sakowitz in "Miles Away... Worlds Apart" teaches a reader an important lesson in life. If you know who your friends are and what is important to you, making the right decision becomes much easier, not painless and not always obvious. But having a set of core values that you either have been taught by your family, your culture or your religion, even your community, will make you a better person and prevent you from falling into traps such as quick rich schemes and fraudsters that promise you all the money in the world.
I was not familiar with the Ponzi scheme exercised by Rothstein and his "colleagues", but maybe all of this got overshadowed by the even bigger Ponzi scheme of Madoff. Maybe this also never made the national news, even though it should have.
Sakowitz in this book describes how an individual investor with a head straight on his shoulders never looses sight of what is important in life, seeking guidance from the wise words of his Rabbi, the close ties with his family and becomes a whistle-blower that brings down Rothstein and his scheme. The story is worth telling again and again, if to prove nothing else that the saying if it is too good to be true ...
The book starts off the with first meeting with Rothstein and walks the reader through the subsequent meetings and nicely shows the evasion tactics used by all good fraudsters when questions are being asked or doubts are raised. I wish and hope someone would write a similar book about Madoff because realizing the tricks these people use, one can much better understand how a Ponzi scheme works and why people continue to fall for it.
Let me be clear, while this book is thrilling to read and should interest everyone that likes fast paced thrillers, this is not a fiction book and it is not a thriller. But the author manages to capture a great newsstory in a book and make financial fraud an interesting mind game to dissect as seen through the eyes of a potential victim. Throughout the book the author frequently cites the sources for his mindset, his religion and his family. These are the important building blocks that allow him to question and keep question the offered scam deal and in the end turn into a whistle blower. The lesson this book teaches, in my opinion, is the fact that the values we teach our children are the most important gift we can make.
I was not familiar with the Ponzi scheme exercised by Rothstein and his "colleagues", but maybe all of this got overshadowed by the even bigger Ponzi scheme of Madoff. Maybe this also never made the national news, even though it should have.
Sakowitz in this book describes how an individual investor with a head straight on his shoulders never looses sight of what is important in life, seeking guidance from the wise words of his Rabbi, the close ties with his family and becomes a whistle-blower that brings down Rothstein and his scheme. The story is worth telling again and again, if to prove nothing else that the saying if it is too good to be true ...
The book starts off the with first meeting with Rothstein and walks the reader through the subsequent meetings and nicely shows the evasion tactics used by all good fraudsters when questions are being asked or doubts are raised. I wish and hope someone would write a similar book about Madoff because realizing the tricks these people use, one can much better understand how a Ponzi scheme works and why people continue to fall for it.
Let me be clear, while this book is thrilling to read and should interest everyone that likes fast paced thrillers, this is not a fiction book and it is not a thriller. But the author manages to capture a great newsstory in a book and make financial fraud an interesting mind game to dissect as seen through the eyes of a potential victim. Throughout the book the author frequently cites the sources for his mindset, his religion and his family. These are the important building blocks that allow him to question and keep question the offered scam deal and in the end turn into a whistle blower. The lesson this book teaches, in my opinion, is the fact that the values we teach our children are the most important gift we can make.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2010
The day was August 4, 2009 . Real estate developer and attorney Alan Sakowitz receives a phone call from a fellow real estate broker. The broker tells Mr. Sakowitz about a law firm that has some funded settlement agreements and wondered if he would be interested in purchasing them. Mr. Sakowitz agrees to meet with the law firm and see if the investment is a good deal.
The law firm in charge of the hedge funds is Rothstein, Rosenfeldt, and Adler, P.A. or RRA . Mr. Sakowitz and his associate go to meet the chairman, Scott Rothstein. Right from the beginning, Mr. Sakowitz sensed things were not on the up and up with Mr. Rothstein. Despite the high praise Mr. Rothstein had received from many highly prominent people in the community.
Through several more conversations with Mr. Rothstein; Mr. Sakowitz knew he could not let Mr. Rothstein scheme another person. Mr. Sakowitz turned to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which eventually led to the conviction of Mr. Rothstein. Mr. Rothstein had led one of the biggest Ponzi scheme involving 1.4 billion dollars.
To admit, when I started reading this book, I did not know anything about Scott Rothstein. I did some research on Mr. Rothstein and was appalled like Mr. Sakowitz was that someone could scheme so many people for their own personal gain.
While, I did find Mr. Sakowitz’s involvement in helping to bring Mr. Rothstein to justice interesting, the parts of the book that Mr. Sakowitz inserted about his community and some of the people in it sometimes read and felt like a testament for redemption. What I did like the most was that being an attorney, Mr. Sakowitz was able to explain things to me, who had no legal background. If you do like cheering for the good guy and seeing the bad guy lose than you will like Miles Away…Worlds Apart.
The moral of this book I would say is…”If it seems to good to be true, then it probably is.”
The law firm in charge of the hedge funds is Rothstein, Rosenfeldt, and Adler, P.A. or RRA . Mr. Sakowitz and his associate go to meet the chairman, Scott Rothstein. Right from the beginning, Mr. Sakowitz sensed things were not on the up and up with Mr. Rothstein. Despite the high praise Mr. Rothstein had received from many highly prominent people in the community.
Through several more conversations with Mr. Rothstein; Mr. Sakowitz knew he could not let Mr. Rothstein scheme another person. Mr. Sakowitz turned to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which eventually led to the conviction of Mr. Rothstein. Mr. Rothstein had led one of the biggest Ponzi scheme involving 1.4 billion dollars.
To admit, when I started reading this book, I did not know anything about Scott Rothstein. I did some research on Mr. Rothstein and was appalled like Mr. Sakowitz was that someone could scheme so many people for their own personal gain.
While, I did find Mr. Sakowitz’s involvement in helping to bring Mr. Rothstein to justice interesting, the parts of the book that Mr. Sakowitz inserted about his community and some of the people in it sometimes read and felt like a testament for redemption. What I did like the most was that being an attorney, Mr. Sakowitz was able to explain things to me, who had no legal background. If you do like cheering for the good guy and seeing the bad guy lose than you will like Miles Away…Worlds Apart.
The moral of this book I would say is…”If it seems to good to be true, then it probably is.”
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