Miami Lakes Special Election Early voting on September 28 Election day is October 1
The original northwest Miami-Dade community newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & surrounding areas Vol. 39 No 18
305-817-4078
MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
Eight candidates seek voter approval on Oct. 1
MAYORAL CANDIDATE WAYNE SLATON
MAYORAL CANDIDATE NELSON HERNANDEZ
MAYORAL CANDIDATE DAVID BENNETT
MAYORAL CANDIDATE EDWIN ROMERO
The Marvelous Wonderettes opens September 27
Software expert Tony Lama visits M.L. Chamber on October 2....See Page 4
Candidate Information for Special Election October 1 Five candidates have qualified to run for the open Mayoral seat and three candidates have qualified to run for the open Council Seat 4 in the Miami Lakes Special Election scheduled for October 1, with early voting on September 28 at Miami Lakes Branch Library. Profiles on the mayoral candidates to complete the term of Michael Pizzi who was suspended on public corruption charges, include the original Miami Lakes mayor Wayne Slaton (see Page 10), Councilmember Nelson Hernandez (see Page 11), civic activist Dr. David Bennett, and educators Edwin Romero and Luis Espinosa (see Page 12.) Profiles on the Seat 4 council candidates to complete the term of Nelson Hernandez, who resigned to run for the mayor’s position, include businessman Frank Mingo, lawyer Lorenzo Cobiella, and Realtor Star Rodriguez (see Page 13). The Miami Laker will have complete election results in the October 4 issue.
MAYORAL CANDIDATE LUIS ESPINOSA COUNCIL CANDIDATE FRANK MINGO
THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES presented by the Main Street Players opens at the Main Street Playhouse on Friday, September 27. The cast features (from left) Carolina Pozo, Brianna Mackey, Gaby Tortoledo and Emily Barona. (Photo by Dennis Lyzniak) (See story on Page 5.)
COUNCIL CANDIDATE STAR RODRIGUEZ
COUNCIL CANDIDATE LORENZO COBIELLA
n Town Council maintains low tax rate; final budget hearing set for September 24......................2
n News and notes of interest from the Town of Miami Lakes. See Pages.........................6, 7, 8
n A healthy and happy Sharon Tripp celebrates 100 years on September 20.........................15
n National Academy Foundation names Goleman High academies as models............25
n Miss Teen Miami Lakes, Jackie Garcia-Casals, heads for Miss Florida Teen USA............4
n Fall is in the air and Miami Lakes Pumpkin Patch prepares to open October 4.....................9
n Local anglers wet their lines in fishing tournaments hosted by Dade Christian and Pace...18, 20
A Look Inside:
n Community Calendar, 15, School, sports and church news, 18-28; Classified ads.........29-31
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SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Council keeps same tax rate; final hearing Sept. 24 By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Miami Lakes councilmembers tentatively kept the same rate for property taxes for the next fiscal year and adopted a $15.3 million budget during the September 12 first budget hearing, which gives them control over the town committee’s expenditures, including eliminating a quarterly news letter that the groups contributed to publish and distribute to area residents. The proposed 2.3518 tax rate would generate about $5.7 million in revenue for 2013-2014, which is
$2.318 per $1,000 of assessed property value, but residents may pay slightly more because of an increase in property values. Lawmakers decided to tighten the town’s belt and prudently spend the taxpayer’s money on significant municipal services that have been neglected for several years. Town Manager Alex Rey said the tax rate, which was used the two previous fiscal years, is about 4.27 percent above the state’s roll back rate of 2.245. The largest expenditure increase is $325,000 in the police
budget which totals $6.8 million. Miami Lakes has been using Miami-Dade police for patrol and specialized services since incorporation in 2000, which town officials and residents attributed to keeping the crime rate at an alltime low. Since Rey released the proposed budget in July, three of the town’s committees have requested an increase in their budgets to meet the rising costs of organizing events and programs. Rey said the Public Safety Committee and Veteran Affairs Committee, which haven’t received funding in the past, each requested $2,000, while the Education Advisory Board asked for an additional $500. John Rodriguez, chairman of the Public Safety Advisory Committee, said the money is needed for a police appreciation event and (Community Emergency Response Team) C.E.R.T. training. The Veteran Affairs Committee needs a budget for a dedication ceremony, flag retirement event, the purchase of a tree with a plaque to commemorate veterans who died and a patriotism photo contest. Rey said the funding increase requests bring the total budget for all of the committees to about $150,900 for 2013-2014. Lawmakers approved the spending increases from the town’s contingency reserves but imposed a restriction on shifting around money initially earmarked for one event or activity to another. Councilmembers agreed the committees must report any line
item changes less than $700 to Rey for his approval, and any other amount that exceeds it must be approved by lawmakers. “I understand we need for the committees to have some leeway but any line item changes of $700 or more should come in front of the council for approval,” said acting Mayor Ceasar Mestre. In addition, Vice Mayor Manny Cid suggested a performance measure as a mechanism to evaluate the expenses to determine if Miami Lakes should continue funding unsuccessful programs and events. But Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez said any regulations might deter residents from volunteering. “We never had a problem with them blowing the money in the past because it’s their tax dollars, they are penny pitchers as well,” Rodriguez said. “I would hate to impose regulations on the committees that are so tight that they don’t want to volunteer anymore.” The restriction was recommended after lawmakers learned that some of the committees’ budgets paid for the quarterly news flyer called Lakes Living, which costs $4,000 to print and mail out. Much of the publication was dedicated to suspended Mayor Michael Pizzi. At the behest of Councilmember Tim Daubert, lawmakers cut the funding for the publication and earmarked it for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which is currently funded by the Mayor’s Foundation. “I don’t think the news letter should go out,” Daubert said. “We can use that money for the Imagination Library.” With $60,000 left in health care savings and other money carried over to next year, councilmembers approved Rey’s recommendation to use the bulk of the money for raises and bonuses for town staff
members, as part of Cost of Living adjustments for government employees. Rey said his staff hasn’t received a pay hike in four years. Cid recommended some of the health care savings should be allocated for expanding health insurance benefits for town staff. The vice mayor also suggested using $1,500 to send some members of town’s Economic Development Committee to the annual International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Convention to help attract new businesses. Cid said the event attracts many brokers and entrepreneurs who are conceivably seeking new places to take their businesses. “You show them a map of your city and the vacant land and spaces,” said Cid. “When I am there, people are asking me why isn’t your city here cause we heard great things about it?” Lawmakers approved both of his recommendations. Miami Lakes will have a beautification face-lift for next year, which has been delayed for several years without any explanation. Councilmembers approved town wide beautification initiatives totaling $300,000 for entry features and an intersection beautification program, and $2 million over two years ($1 million for next year) for road resurfacing and drainage improvements in the Lake Martha and Lake Sarah neighborhoods. For school crossing guards, the town’s police budget includes funding in the amount of $98,000 for the guard program and Rey is suggesting to remove the cost from the county contract and allow Miami Lakes to start its own program which includes recruiting town residents for the job. The final budget hearing is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, September 24 at Town Hall, 6100 Main Street.
THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
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SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
M.L. Chamber hosts software expert Tony Lama at October 2 luncheon Besides being a Miami Lakes Councilmember, Tony Lama is also a software specialist. Lama will share his knowledge and expertise as the guest speaker for the Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce membership luncheon, scheduled for October 2 at Don Shula’s Hotel. As a seasoned veteran in the contact center and software industry, Lama serves as global evangelist for Aspect Social at Aspect Software. He has over 15 years of unified communications and contact center experience with specific expertise in the application of
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technology to business challenges and processes. He is a two-time Presidents Club award winner and also a two-time winner of the Aspect Excellence award. Lama serves as chief messenger and global sales manager for the Aspect Social solution. Aspect Social is a social customer care solution that goes beyond listening to what consumers are saying about a company over social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. It provides a way of measuring customer care efforts over social media to ensure the clients are meeting their business objectives. The chamber luncheon will be an educational session where Lama will share important data on the evolution of technologies, customer behavior and the evolution and adoption of social media as a customer care channel. The Chamber networking starts at 11:30 a.m. followed by lunch at 12 noon and Lama’s speech. Deadline to reserve is Friday, September 27, at 2:00 p.m. Lunch admission is $30 for members and their guests with reservations, $35 for members and their guests who do not reserve before deadline (walk-ins), and $35 for non members (cash only). For more information on this or any other Miami Lakes Chamber event, contact Marta Diaz at 305556-2212 or email mdiaz@miami lakeschamber.com.
Miss Miami Lakes Teen, Jackie Garcia-Casals, heads for Miss Florida Teen USA competition on October 6 Jackie Garcia-Casals is proudly representing the Town of Miami Lakes at the Miss Florida Teen USA competition on October 6. Casals, 18, is very active in her community, participating in many philanthropical events with organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Relay for Life, The Children's Trust, and Amigos for Kids. She was crowned Miss Miami Lakes Teen at the second annual Miss Miami Lakes USA pageant that took place on March 24, at Shula's Hotel and hopes to win the title of Miss Florida Teen. Casals has a passion for the arts such as acting and dancing which
is why her professional goal is to become a talent producer in the hopes of discovering the next big star. She loves representing the town that molded her into the young lady she is today and appreciates her town's support this October. Casals will be competing for the crown of Miss Florida Teen USA on local ABC the first weekend of October. Miss Florida Teen USA is the qualifier for Miss Teen USA. Florida is the televised preliminary state pageant in the Miss USA system with over 5 million viewers statewide and internationally.
MISS MIAMI LAKES TEEN JACKIE GARCIA-CASALS
THE MIAMI LAKER
Main St. Players’ The Marvelous Wonderettes opens September 27 at Main St. Playhouse Next week marks the opening of Roger Bean’s The Marvelous Wonderettes, presented by the Main Street Players. The show is described by New York veteran director Carla Zackson Heller as a “super fun, all singing, all dancing, oldies show with sweet harmonies, cute girls and rock around the clock!” The Marvelous Wonderettes opens on Friday, September 27, at the Main Street Playhouse, 6766 Main Street in Miami Lakes, and continues through October 13. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m., and Thursday, October 3, at 8 p.m., with tickets available online or at the door, if available, for $25 for adults and $18 for seniors/students. The show takes the audience to the 1958 Springfield High School prom with the Wonderettes, four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts. As the audience learns about their lives and loves, they will be treated to the girls performing such classic ‘50s and ‘60s songs as “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” “Stupid Cupid,” “Lipstick on Your Collar,” “Hold me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,” “It’s My Party”, and over 20 other classic hits. A decade later, at the Springfield High School Class of ‘48 10-year reunion, The Marvelous Wonderettes take to the stage with “Heatwave.” During the reunion, the audience will learn about each girl and the different roads they have traveled since graduation. The hits continue with “It’s in His Kiss,” “Wedding Bell Blues”, “You Don’t Own Me,” “Son of a Preacher Man,” “Leading of the Pack,” “Rescue Me,” and “Respect,” among many other hits. This family friendly show stars Main Street Players Carolina Pozo (as Cindy Lou), Brianna Mackey (as Missy), Emily Barona (as Betty Jean), and Gaby Tortoledo (as Suzy), and is being directed by Carla Heller. The Main Street Playhouse is located at 6766 Main Street, across from Johnny Rockets. Additional information can be found at www.mainstreetplayers.com, or at 305-558-3737.
Overeaters Anonymous convention at Shula’s Hotel Overeaters Anonymous, a 12step program dedicated to offer support and solutions to those with eating disorders, is holding its annual convention on September 28 at Shula’s Hotel in Miami Lakes. For more information, contact Teresita at teresita@rickscabinettree.com, or Jessica at jschmit7@ gmail.com.
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
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Farewell to old Miami Lakes Optimist Clubhouse
THIRTY-SEVEN YEARS of Miami Lakes Optimist Club history succumbed to an excavator in late August as the aging clubhouse was demolished to make way for a new state-of-the-art building to be constructed by the Town of Miami Lakes. Hurricane Wilma swept over the clubhouse in 2005 and it was deemed unrepairable. The new clubhouse and gymnasium is part of a master plan to renovate Miami Lakes Optimist Park.
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SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Senior Games continue with basketball tourney on Sept. 28; event includes other games on Dade Christian School grounds Miami Lakes’ Elderly Affairs Committee will host the senior basketball competition at Dade Christian School on Saturday, September 28, starting at 9 a.m. The last segment of the 2013 Senior Games will include Free Throw and Three Point basketball competition and a Bean Bag contest. Anyone over the age of 50 is invited to participate. All participants will receive a free 2013 Senior Games commemorative Tshirt, medal and the opportunity to have a fun Saturday morning.
Registration will start at 8 a.m. at Dade Christian, 6601 N.W. 167 Street, and a light breakfast will be served. Registration forms are available at the Mary Collins Community Center, Royal Oaks Park Community Center, and Town Hall, or by calling 305-3646100. For more information, contact Special Events and Committees coordinator Clarisell De Cardenas at decardenasc@miamilakes-fl. gov.
News from the Town of Miami Lakes
Govt. Center receives LEED Gold The Town of Miami Lakes Government Center received Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification and plaque on September 12 from the U.S. Green Building Council. The LEED certification is seen as a mark of achievement in green building as the U.S. Green Building Council uses the LEED certification system to rate a building’s sustainability. The certification process awards points in seven categories – sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental
quality, innovation in design, and regional priority credits. The certification is the result of efforts by the design team of KVC Constructors and town staff. The team focused on the functionality and operations of the public building for resident services and employee performances. Sustainable features include highly efficient HVAC systems, low lighting levels with work spaces equipped with lighting controls, use of daylighting, and significant water-saving measures within the building and across the
site. This also includes the use of FSC certified wood to encourage environmentally responsible forest management. During construction, the contractor was able to divert 78 percent of construction waste away from landfills. “I would like to thank a few key leaders in this initiative including the architect, LEED consultant, and the contractor, who went beyond their contractual duties to provide a high-performing sustainable facility,” said Mayor Ceasar Mestre, at the plaque’s unveiling.
MIAMI LAKES OFFICIALS unveil their LEED Gold certification plaque at the town’s new Government Center. Pictured (from left) Community and Leisure Services director Tony Lopez, Councilmembers Tim Daubert and Nelson Hernandez, Mayor Ceasar Mestre, Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez, Town Manager Alex Rey, and Building Official Eliezer Palacio.
Registration for Just Run Program is now underway; program begins on October 2 Miami Lakes’ Youth Activities Task Force announced registration is now open for this year’s Just Run® Miami Lakes Program. Registration packets are available by calling program leader Oscar Amuz at 305-469-0895, or by downloading the application from the front page of the town’s website at www.miamilakesfl.gov. The Just Run® Miami Lakes program, in its 4th year, is a fun program that promotes fitness, healthy eating, good citizenship, and pride in accomplishment. The program is open to elementary and middle school students, ages 5 through 14, and is free. The program will begin on Wednesday, October 2, and will be held every Monday and Wednesday from 4 to 5 p.m. at Miami Lakes Picnic Park West, 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue.
Vice Mayor Manny Cid named vice chair of Florida League of Cities Legislative Policy Committee Florida League of Cities president P.C. Wu, who is also the Council president of the City of Pensacola, appointed Miami Lakes Vice Mayor Manny Cid as the vice chair of the League’s Growth Management and Economic Development Legislative Policy Committee. The committee addresses policies specific to municipal concerns with community redevelopment, economic development, special districts, foreclosures and affordable housing, charter schools and growth management. "It is an honor to be named vice chair of a statewide growth management and economic development committee," Cid said. "Growth management and economic development are very important issues for Miami Lakes and Miami Dade as a whole."
THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
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News and Notes from the Town of Miami Lakes Town Council honors former Commander Richard Amion After three years of demonstrating excellence in community policing and public service, Major Richard Amion is leaving the Town of Miami Lakes Police Department to work for MiamiDade County Police Department’s Professional Compliance Bureau. Amion will most be remembered for reducing the town’s police budget while implementing several crime initiatives such as Operation Crime Free, Operation Safe Summer, and Operation Spring Break. Under Amion, the town’s police department has significantly reduced the crime rate, and has continued to keep record lows. “The Town of Miami Lakes was a great assignment for me and was definitely memorable,” said Amion. “The staff and community has been nothing short of spectacular and both share a vision to better this community that I have never seen before. They have a
passion and a desire to provide the best service delivery possible. “Miami Lakes does not need an ‘All-America City Award’ to be considered a great city – just look around at the community. Treelined streets, free community programs, restaurants, a movie theatre, new community centers, new roads, and a strategic plan to ensure that the ‘bar’ is raised even higher. Residents should all be proud of the community they live in and if they don’t live in the town, they should be proud of the services the town provides to the community, because it is by far one of the best.” “Service to others is a hallmark of the American character, and central to how we meet our challenges,” said Mayor Ceasar Mestre. “It is important that we honor the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to protect our safety.”
MIAMI LAKES TOWN COUNCIL congratulates Miami-Dade Police Major Richard Amion for his three years of service as town commander. Pictured (from left) Councilmember Tim Daubert, Vice Mayor Manny Cid, Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez, Acting Major Gene Dieppa, Amion, Councilmember Nelson Hernandez, Town Manager Alex Rey, and Mayor Ceasar Mestre.
Postal Service denies Zip Code review; approves use of Miami Lakes name in address lines With the help of Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart, the Town of Miami Lakes was able to receive a response from the United States Postal Service regarding the Zip Code Boundary Review. According to Vice Mayor Manny Cid who initiated the review request, the USPS response said, “Although the (Zip Code) realignment was not feasible, we were able to update the National Address Management System in order to accommodate the city’s request for identity by authorizing the use of Miami Lakes as an acceptable place name with Zip Codes 33014, 33016 and 33018. In other words, residents in those Zip codes can use either Hialeah or Miami Lakes as the city in their mailing address without causing any issues or delays.
Alternate place names are nationally recognized last line mailing addresses, and this type of share Zip Code arrangement is common throughout the country.” “The Town will be submitting an appeal to the manager of delivery at USPS Headquarters,” said Cid. “Our residents continue to pay potentially higher automobile insurance premiums through no fault of their own. Additionally, at a time when the postal service is considering direct mail talks with the Castro regime (a state sponsor of terrorism), it is unacceptable and ludicrous that a municipality not be granted a Zip Code boundary adjustment. USPS should focus on serving the residents of Miami Lakes, and not appeasing a repressive regime.”
TOWN OF MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT PURSANT TO RESOLUTION NO. 13-1125 DULY ADOPTED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA, (THE “TOWN”), A SPECIAL ELECTION HAS BEEN CALLED AND ORDERED TO BE HELD WITHIN THE TOWN ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2013, BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 7:00 A.M. THRU 7:00 P.M. TO FILL THE VACANCY OF THE SEAT OF THE MAYOR AND TO FILL THE VACANCY OF COUNCILMEMBER SEAT 4. EARLY VOTING WILL BE HELD SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2013, AT THE MIAMI LAKES PUBLIC LIBRARY, 6699 WINDMILL GATE ROAD, MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA, 33014, BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 7:00 A.M. THRU 7:00 P.M. Additional information is available on the Town’s website www.miamilakes-fl.gov, or you may contact the Office of the Town Clerk, clerk@miamilakes-fl.gov, during regular office hours, Monday thru Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, FL 33014. Marjorie Tejeda-Castillo, CMC Town Clerk
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SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Town Council actions taken at September 10 meeting By David Snelling The Miami Laker staff During their September 10 regular Town Council meeting, Miami Lakes councilmembers approved an ordinance on second reading, a host of resolutions and new business items, as the town wrapped up its business for the current fiscal year and began preparing for 2013-2014. Lawmakers gave their final approval on an ordinance to rewrite stage two of the town’s land development code, which aims to update the commercial and industrial zoning districts and the land uses allowed in those districts. Some of the changes including requirements in the business and industrial districts regarding fireresistive construction when building height exceeds 55 feet, and requirements regarding fire protection facilities, have been removed from the industrial districts because they are obsolete and addressed in the South Florida Building Code; certain distances in which businesses are allowed to sell alcohol, 1,500 feet from another alcohol use or within 2,500 feet of a religious facility or school; and regulations for mobile car washes, including permission from property owners where the car washing takes place and requiring a background check of the owner/operator.
In other Town Council news: • Councilmembers approved a resolution requesting the county mayor to direct Miami-Dade Public Works Department to place a school zone surrounding the perimeter of Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School, at N.W. 67 Avenue and Miami Lakeway North. Speeding has become a dangerous problem to the children attending the school and their safety is jeopardized by the lack of a school zone. • Councilmembers awarded two separate contracts to Tropic Landscaping and Lawn Maintenance for tree and palm purchases, installation and relocation, and South Florida Maintenance for tree removal services for a period not to exceed 48 months as long as budgeted funds are available for the services. The contracts will allow the Town the ability to continue its tree planting and replacement program immediately once funds are made available. • Lawmakers approved a resolution to ratify the agreement with Gomez Technology Solutions which was awarded in July. The three-year contract is worth $130,000 with funding from the fiscal year 2013 general fund budget and for future fiscal years. • Councilmembers approved a resolution to ratify the contract
with ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance and Green Source Landscape and Sports Turf which councilmembers awarded in July. Each contract runs for 60 months. The ValleyCrest contract for Miami Lakes Optimist Park shall not exceed an amount of $2,719,982.00, with funding in the amount provided within the fiscal year 2013 general fund budget and provided for in the General Fund budget for future fiscal years. The Green Source contract for Royal Oaks Park shall not exceed an amount of $1,625,255.00, with funding in the amount provided within the fiscal year 2013 general fund budget and provided for in the General Fund budget for future fiscal years. • Councilmembers approved a resolution to authorize the town manager to apply for a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation Florida Highway Beautification Council Program. A solicitation is available from the agency’s Beautification Council Grant Program for projects to improve urban environments along highways in the State of Florida. The Town intends to apply for monies for a tree planting project. The application must include a Resolution from the Town Council in support of the application. The grant project amount is not to exceed $200,000 with 50 percent
Town of Miami Lakes Notice of Public Hearing NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, September 24, 2013, at 5:30 p.m. at Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, FL 33014, to consider the following ordinances on second reading: AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE MILLAGE RATE OF THE TOWN FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2013 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2014, PURSUANT TO SECTION 200.065, FLORIDA STATUES; PROVIDING FOR NOTICE; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
of the project cost not to exceed $100,000 requested from grant funding. The Town’s matching requirement of 50 percent of the project cost in an amount not to exceed $100,000 will be allocated from Town beautification and capital funds towards design, implementation and maintenance of the project. • Lawmakers appointed County Court Judge Nuria Saenz and School Board Chairwoman Perla Tabares-Hantman to the county canvassing board for the town’s October 1 special election to pick a new mayor and councilmember. New Business: • Lawmakers approved Mayor Ceasar Mestre’s recommendation to create an ordinance, and if it is approved, to place it on November’s general election ballot to allow residents to decide if they should decide to increase the size of the town through annexation instead of the Town Council, per town charter. If such a proposal to annex some unincorporated land goes on the ballot, the ordinance would require approval by at least 50 percent plus one of registered voters. In addition, councilmembers approved another one of Mestre’s suggestion for the town to hire one assistant for the mayor to reduce the town’s budget costs. In a related issue, lawmakers approved Councilmember Tony Lama’s recommendation for the town to hire a public information officer to deal with the media. The individual would report to the town manager and no longer be tied to the office of the mayor. • Lawmakers approved Lama’s recommendation to create a measure to change the town’s council rules and procedures for the meeting agendas. Items to be placed on the agenda must be submitted by a councilmember to the town manager by 5 p.m. on Monday, the
week prior to the regular council meeting. Lama said after much discussion with staff, the town manager and town attorney and staff don’t have enough time to review all items on an agenda. • Lawmakers approved Vice Mayor Manny Cid’s recommendation to direct town staff to take steps to have the town council and special meetings broadcast live by securing a channel or time slot. Cid said it can be accomplished by contacting Comcast and it will not cost taxpayers because of the Miami Lakes Cable Television and Open Video System ordinance. Cid said the channel would also show profiles and interviews with elected officials and town staff, and some segments should include the work of the town’s committees. Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez said the show should also include future mayoral debates. • Councilmembers also approved Cid’s recommendation to post all of the town’s working municipal contracts on the town’s website. He said in 2012, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater launched the Florida Accountability Contract Tracking System (FACTS) website. “The FACTS site allows Floridians to scrutinize state budgets, payments and contracts and hold their government accountable for how every dollar is spent,” Cid said. “Obviously the Town does not have the resources to create an extensive site, but we have the flexibility within our IT contract 'work order support' to accomplish this goal,” he said. “We would simply create a page within our website, URL: www.miamilakesfl.gov/Transparency possibly creating access to a dropbox system that allows the public to view our contracts and payments.”
Participants Wanted!!!
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA, APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE BUDGET FOR THE TOWN OF MIAMI LAKES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2013-14; PROVIDING FOR EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS; PROVIDING FOR AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR CARRYOVER OF FUNDS; PROVIDING FOR THE INCORPORATION OF THE ADOPTED CAPITAL BUDGET AS THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT ELEMENT OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Lakes Research is currently seeking men and women ages 18 and older, who have been diagnosed with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML).
Copies of the proposed ordinances are available for public inspection at Town Hall, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Florida, 33014. Interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing or provide written comments on the proposed ordinances to the Town Clerk.
Study Related Medical Exams, Laboratory Tests and Medications
Pursuant to Section 286.0105, Florida Statues, if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Town Council, with respect to any matter considered at such hearing or meeting, the person will need a record of the proceedings and, for such purposes, that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; such record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. ADA Assistance: Anyone needing special assistance at the Town Council hearing due to a disability should contact the Town Clerk, Town of Miami Lakes, 305-364-6100, at least two days prior thereto. Marjorie Tejeda-Castillo, CMC Town Clerk
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THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
PAGE 9
Fall is in the air and Pumpkin Patch ready to open
ML Garden Club holds plant and seed exchange on September 23 Miami Lakes Garden Club is hosting a “Plants and Seeds Exchange” at 7 p.m. on Monday, September 23, at Mary Collins Community Center, 15151 Montrose Road. Members and their guests will brings plants and/or seeds for the exchange and participate in learning how to successfully grow them in a home garden. The public is invited free of charge. For more information about the event or membership in the Garden Club, email miamilakesgardenclub1965@gmail.com
this year and the annual Fall Festival beginning at 4 p.m. • Fall Festival will be on Saturday, October 26 from 4 to 7 p.m. with pony rides, face painting, inflatables, a petting zoo, a new maze and the movie at 7 p.m. Admission to the festival and movie is free. Individual tickets or a convenient and economical wristband will be on sale for the
activities. Food and soft drinks will be available for purchase. • Year-Round Kidz Rock. The Wednesday after school program runs from 4 to 5:30 p.m. This year there is a new Bible science exploration station alongside crafts, team building games and snack. The program is for children from grades kindergarten through 5th grade, and is free.
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restaurant, and a group photo for the classroom. Call 305-821-7274 to schedule. • Outdoor Movie Nights will be on Saturday, October 5; Friday, October 18; Saturday, October 19; and Saturday, October 26, at 7 p.m. Movies are free. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase. • Flanigan’s Dinner, Magic Show and Movie, will be at 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 19, featuring great food, a super magic act by Cesar Dominco, and the movie. Advance purchase price for adults is $12 (ages 13 and up) and $6 for children (ages 12 and under). Tickets on the day of the event will be $14 for adults and $7 for children. Tickets will be available at the Pumpkin Patch retail counter or by calling the church office, 305-821-7274. • Craft Show will be held on Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. with more crafters
67th Ave.
• A Picnic-in-the-Patch and Bonfire is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, from 5 to 8 p.m. A pumpkin carving contest is set for 5 p.m. with prizes, and supervised games followed by a bonfire complete with s’mores. Guests may bring their own food, or purchase a hamburger or hotdog along with drinks and chips. Bring a blanket to sit on but leave alcoholic beverages at home. • School Field Trips will be held every weekday morning from 9 a.m. to noon beginning on Monday, October 7. In addition to science exploration and a pumpkin catapult, the Patch is adding a maze with activities designed to entertain and educate children up through 4th grade. Cost is $6 per child and includes all the interactive activities, songs, refreshments (cookies and lemonade or water), a little pumpkin for each child, a goodie bag which includes a coin for a free kids meal at Flanigan’s
82nd Ave.
Two and a half truckloads of pumpkins are winding their way south as Miami Lakes United Methodist Church prepares to open its 16th annual Pumpkin Patch on Friday, October 4. The Patch will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. One truckload contains over 2000 pumpkins and weighs over 43,000 pounds. The first truckload arrives on October 4, the second comes in on October 11, and a half-load arrives on Monday, October 23. Students needing volunteer hours are invited to help with the unloading of each load by calling 305-8217274, or emailing pr@miamilakesumc.net. The Patch will feature pumpkins of all sizes along with decorative gourds of all shapes, along with retail items and Joni’s famous “pumpkin bread.” A variety of special events have been planned for this year’s Pumpkin Patch:
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PAGE 10
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Five candidates seek to finish unexpired mayor’s term By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff As Miami Lakes is still reeling from the arrest of suspended Mayor Michael Pizzi on public corruption charges, five candidates who are seeking to finish the rest of his four-year term promise to put the town back on track by first regaining the public’s trust and subsequently execute their political platforms that would make residents proud again. During the October 1 special election, voters will place much credence in one aspirant to lead the 6.5 square-mile town down a different path, as former Mayor Wayne Slaton, Councilmember Nelson Hernandez, Dr. David Bennett and political neophytes Edwin Romero and Luis Espinosa have stepped up to the plate to bring back honest government and focus on the town’s goals and objectives. But it may be a tough task to convince residents to flock to the polls and vote because a local group of people are fed up with government corruption and launched a campaign of their own. Some residents have been circulating a petition to create a refer-
endum to abolish the local bureaucracy and place the community back under Miami-Dade County, though their efforts seem impossible. Wayne Slaton, 61, was the catalyst for the 1990’s incorporation movement that lasted for six years, and he was elected the town’s first mayor in 2001 and reelected in 2004. He decided not to run for reelection in 2008 and resurfaced last year to challenge Pizzi but lost the race by a large margin. Following Pizzi’s arrest, residents may have voted for the wrong candidate to lead Miami Lakes and Slaton contends he’s the perfect candidate because he has more than 30 years of experience in community and civic services. Slaton, an electrical contractor, has lived in Miami Lakes for 40 years and served as president of the Miami Lakes Civic Association for 18 years. He also served as chairman of the Miami Lakes Parks Committee, Street Lighting Committee, president and vice president of one of the Miami Lakes homeowners associations for more than 10 years, served as chairman of the
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WAYNE SLATON Miami-Dade Police District One Citizens Advisory Committee, Miami-Dade Blasting Task Force, Miami-Dade Opa-locka Airport Noise Abatement Committee, Our Lady of the Lakes Habitat f or Humanity Home Building Teams and chairman of the Miami Lakes Municipal Advisory Committee. The Miami native was also a member on the now defunct Miami Lakes Community Council where he served a chairman. Slaton said he moved to Miami Lakes because he was attracted to the unique way the area looked with so many trees, irrigated swales, lakes and parks and how it was being developed and maintained through a master planned community with homeowner associations enforcing higher living standards. “Just one year out of college, I remember standing in line to put my name on a pre-construction townhouse and within six months, I was a property owner and taxpayer,” said Slaton. “Being an original owner, I got involved in
the resident transition and formation for improving and preserving my neighborhood, then the surrounding community and eventually the entire town of Miami Lakes.” Slaton is knocking on doors and presenting his political platform and has learned that a lot of residents are still shaken up by the recent scandal. “The issues that spurred the incorporation movement of which I was involved have become more and more apparent over the last few years, culminating in the recent scandal of our town,” he said. Slaton said residents are fed up with government officials misleading them and their pleas falling on deaf ears. They want a mayor who will work for them. “Residents are tired of misleading and self-serving politicians that seem more involved with the special interests than with the citizens’ best interest,” he said. “They tell me they don’t like the change in the path the town has taken lately. Though taxes are low, taxpayers’ money is being wasted on tourist videos we don’t need and annexation efforts we don’t want.” Slaton also said residents are furious over how they were misled on the charter change doing away with the residential districts. “Things are not getting done in a timely manner, standards are slipping and they don’t feel safe as they used to feel in Miami Lakes,” he said. Slaton said he’s running for elected office again to restore the town’s five-year Strategic Plan, which he calls the residents’ plan, with operating principles, core values and goals that are implemented with unyielding respect for all. “The plan that is the very foun-
dation of our town should protect our children, residents and businesses,” he said. “Provide good and timely maintenance at a reasonable and efficient price. Provide the service that our residents want and deserve, new capital improvements that the citizens want, when we have the money to pay for them. We must operate our government, the bidding and procurement process, our building, zoning and code compliance in a fair, friendly and helpful manner, without political interference.” Slaton said Miami Lakes needs to put the brakes on government wasteful spending all year long. “Every person who works for this town should be a public servant with a philosophy of “How may I help you” and never, “It’s not my job,” Slaton said. “In a small town that is as new as Miami Lakes, it is important that the mayor has a history of involvement, a knowledge of why we became a town, what our town should and should not be, and how we are going to get there. I believe my record of 25 years of voluntary community services and 12 years of elected public service demonstrates my candidacy as the best qualified for the mayoral seat.” Slaton said residents should vote for him because Miami Lakes will have a great future with him back at the helm. “I will get us back on the right track, moving forward,” he said. “It’s my mission to bring out the very best in Miami Lakes. Now, more than ever I ask for your vote and your help in restoring Miami Lakes for the people.” Slaton has been married to Margaret for 35 years and they have an 18-year-old daughter Grace, who’s a freshmen at Florida State University.
(Please see Page 11)
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THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
PAGE 11
Hernandez resigns Council seat to campaign for mayor (Continued from Page 10) Nelson Hernandez, 27, is executive director of the Florida Hispanic Foundation, a nonprofit organization (affiliated with the Florida Hispanic Legislative Caucus) which provides college scholarships to high school students. Hernandez was the youngest person elected to the Town Council in 2010 and was a member of the town’s Economic Development Committee for five years. He was also a member of the town’s Youth Activities Task Force and worked for State Senator Rene Garcia and other members of the South Florida State Legislative Delegation. “In that capacity, working in conjunction with the Governor’s Budget Office, I analyzed and advised on health care financial models,” Hernandez said. Hernandez is also a founding member and past president of the Hialeah-Miami Lakes Republican Club, which was created in 2011. His family moved to Miami Lakes 11 years ago and he loved the community from the moment he saw it. “Growing up, my father took an active role by coaching my soccer and baseball teams at the Miami Lakes Optimist Club,” Hernandez said. “My family raised me in
NELSON HERNANDEZ Miami Lakes because of its people and their values. Individuals like the president of the Loch Ness Homeowners Association, Sergio Campos. He is selflessly dedicated to serving his neighbors. People like him ensure that Miami Lakes is a great place to end your day and spend your weekends. I have always loved living in this community and it would be an honor to represent Miami Lakes as its new mayor.” Hernandez said the town is a “very” special place where residents can live, work and play in a safe and beautiful environment. “In working with South Florida’s State Legislative Dele-
gation and learning about the various communities that they represent, it confirms that our town is truly unique,” said Hernandez. He said Miami Lakes is a tightknit community, where neighbors and friends are considered family members and engage in community activities. “Families like the Russo and Lam families unite to organize a block party during Halloween so that children can enjoy the night like our parents’ generation used to do,” he said. Hernandez said in light of the vacant mayoral seat, and as a senior member of the Town Council, he felt a calling and responsibility to come forward and run for mayor. He said he received so many phone calls and emails from residents urging him to run. “The answer became crystal clear,” he said. “Town residents elected me to lead their government and the former mayor not only betrayed us, he embarrassed our community. As an elected official and community leader, it’s my duty to come forward and offer my service as mayor to this community, and if I am elected, I will work quickly to restore a transparent, civil and ethical environment at Town Hall.” If elected mayor, Hernandez would like to continue his 5-Point
Plan that has been a success and keep the property tax rate low while operating a small budget. His 5-Point Plan that helps address significant town-wide issues includes Fiscal Responsibility, Public Safety, Infrastructure, Accessibility and Beautification. While on the campaign trail knocking on doors, Hernandez has been hearing from residents that they want an ethical and transparent local government. “They are enthusiastic about my candidacy for mayor and the prospect of having an energetic leader in the town who shares their values – integrity, civility and humility,” Hernandez said. “Town residents want honest and hardworking leaders who they can trust to work coherently with other members of the Town Council.”
If elected, Hernandez said he plans on keeping his open door policy available by cellphone, email, Facebook and Twitter and meetings at his Town Hall office. “We live in a time where having an open door is no longer enough,” he said. Hernandez said residents should vote for him because he has experience on the state level, three years as a councilmember and a strong background in finance. “Miami Lakes deserves ethical and visionary leadership working on implementing forward-thinking policies,” he said. “That is my pledge to town residents.” Hernandez is in a relationship with Yara Lorenzo and looking forward to starting a family someday.
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PAGE 12
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Bennett, Romero, Espinosa also seek mayor’s seat (Continued from Page 11) David Bennett, 55, is no stranger to running for elected office. He made two unsuccessful bids for a Town Council seat in 2008 and 2012, and as a community activist, Bennett became the government’s most vocal critic even pushing as far as filing a lawsuit against the town to force elected officials’ e-mail contact lists to be public records to expose possible corruption. The Chicago native wants to conduct an audit to determine if Miami Lakes is actually fiscally strong. Bennett, who has lived in Miami Lakes for the past 12 years, also wants to push keeping the town safe, promote traffic control and efficiency and keep taxes low while improving efficiency. Bennett was a member of the Miami Lakes Ad Hoc Veterans
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DAVID BENNETT Memorial Committee, Veterans Memorial Standing Committee and a condo board member for Costa del Sol Condo. Bennett, director of clinical operations for Concierge Dentistry of Florida in Doral, says Miami Lakes represents the best of both worlds. “It’s a small slice of paradise, with a small town feel while being assessable to large city amenities,” he said. The mayoral candidate said Miami Lakes offers the best quality of living he and his family have been seeking for years. “The tree-lined streets of Miami Lakes are a welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of greater Miami,” Bennett said. “Few communities can boast such a pleasant place to live, play and work that Miami Lakes offers. My wife and I fell in love with our community the first time we set eyes upon it.” Despite losing two races for the Town Council, Bennett is confident voters will elect him to a
higher office because his desire and passion to change Miami Lakes burn more than ever. “I have a real desire to change things for the better in Miami Lakes,” he said. “I have been a concerned citizen and activist for many years, I truly think that if we are going to improve Miami Lakes we can’t continue to elect career politicians.” Like his two previous campaigns for political office, Bennett is knocking on residents’ doors and presenting his platform. He said they are “very” concerned about the rash of break-ins that have plagued the town for some time now. If elected, Bennett said he would push for more foot/bike police patrols in the area, create a citizen crime watch group to be enhanced by external internet based monitoring safety systems. “Many are frustrated with rush hour traffic congestion,” said Bennett, who plans to have an open door policy for residents, via phone, office visits and coffee at Einstein Bagels or Latin America Cafe. “Many feel betrayed by the previous administration and want change away from politics as usual.” Bennett said Miami Lakes residents should vote for him simply because he brings a deep desire to make the town the best to live for residents. “I have eight years of experience with the Town of Miami Lakes government and I have watched closely what has occurred in the past from outside the bubble, so I have a very good under-
standing of the issues facing the community,” he said. “Miami Lakes doesn’t need career politicians as mayor, it needs a truly
concerned citizen that knows the issues affecting us and has the desire and ability to make our town a better place to live.”
Edwin Romero, who had political aspirations for years, decided now was the right time to run for mayor. “First and foremost I love Miami Lakes,” Romero said. “And the current administration needs a new leader. I am here to rescue Miami Lakes, and as mayor, I will lead the town of Miami Lakes into a healthy and prosperous future.” Romero, an 37-year-old MBA graduate from the University of Miami, believes strongly in education. “We, as a community, have a vested interest in the future of our children,” he said, “Our children are our most valuable asset, and I will personally work with MiamiDade Public Schools Office of Intergovernmental Affairs to help our students succeed.”
EDWIN ROMERO Romero added: “Crime in Miami Lakes is high. I will work with our police force to make our community safer. And as mayor of Miami Lakes, I will send a clear message to offenders that our city will not tolerate crime.”
Luis Espinosa said he has been considering a run for political office since he retired as a lieutenant from the Hialeah Fire Department. “I think Miami Lakes is looking for fresh faces in politics,” said the 25-year Miami Lakes resident. Espinosa, 51, said he would like to suggest some ideas for the Par 3 golf course and cater to the elderly and initiate an emergency response program in the aftermath of a natural disaster. “Our administration has been doing a good job of keeping our taxes low and providing great services,” said the Health Science teacher. “But Miami Lakes needs new and fresh faces.”
LUIS ESPINOSA (Editor’s Note: Romero and Espinosa did not respond to a Questionnaire request to outline their campaign goals. The information above was obtained from their campaign materials.)
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THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
PAGE 13
Mingo, Rodriguez, Cobiella seek vacant Seat 4 By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Following the resignation of Miami Lakes Councilmember Nelson Hernandez, who’s making a bid for the mayoral seat, three new politicos qualified to gain a foothold in government even if it’s for a short period of time. In the political fray for Seat 4 are Frank Mingo, a supply chain manager for Oliva Cigar Corporation, attorney Lorenzo Cobiella and realtor-associate Star Rodriguez. The winner of the October 1 special election will fill the remainder of Hernandez’s fouryear term, which expires next year. Albeit the residents are new to the political stage, they all have experience in community and civic service throughout the years and are ready to take their knowledge to the next plateau. Frank Mingo, 53, served on the Miami Lakes Economic Development Committee and Miami Lakes Police Department Review Committee. He also served as president of the Silvercrest North Homeowners Association, and he sponsored the Miami Lakes Veterans Day Parade. Mingo has lived in Miami Lakes since 1986 because he and his family love its small home town feeling. The supply manager for Oliva Cigar, which is headquartered in Miami Lakes, said Miami Lakes means everything to his family. “In a word, it means ‘Home’,” he said. “We live, work, shop, eat and play in Miami Lakes. Our life revolves around Miami Lakes.” Mingo said Miami Lakes flirting with the idea of proposing to annex unincorporated Palm Springs North essentially sealed his decision to run for elected office for the first time. He’s also pushing to keep property taxes low if elected. “I am pushing to restore trans-
parency and ethics in our local government to move Miami Lakes forward and back on track. Those are my priorities,” he said. An open and transparent government is also one of Mingo’s goals and objectives, especially on procurement projects. He said Miami Lakes must place all contracts and vendors on the town’s website for the public to view, and he’s pushing for voters to approve any boundary MINGO changes instead of elected officials. “Due to the recent attempts to annex the Miami Gardens Drive area, I believe the town charter should be amended in November to require Miami Lakes voter approval of any changes to our municipal boundaries,” Mingo said. As part of his campaign, Mingo is using every resource available to reach residents and present his political platform. He’s knocking on residents’ doors, mailing out campaign flyers and literature, talking to residents around Miami Lakes’ businesses and shopping centers and using Social Media. Mingo said Miami Lakes residents should vote for him because he’s been on the opposite side of suspended Mayor Michael Pizzi for years. “With me, voters will have a clear break from our recent negative experience,” he said. “I know why we incorporated in the first place, and I have a plan to maintain our good quality of life for the present and future.” Mingo is married to Carmenchu and they have two grown children. Star Rodriguez, 48, grew up in Hialeah and moved to Miami Lakes in 1998.
She’s a member of the Miami Lakes Education Advisory Board, served on the Educational Excellence School Advisory and PTA and PTSA executive boards for Miami Lakes K-8 Center, Miami Lakes Middle School, Miami Lakes Educational Center, Ben Shepard Elementary and Jose Marti MAST 6-123 Academy. Rodriguez, who is associated with Coldwell B a n k e r Residential Real Estate, said she and her family moved to Miami Lakes to provide a better quality of education and a RODRIGUEZ safe and nurturing environment for their oldest child. “We enrolled in kindergarten at what was then Miami Lakes Elementary School and began to enjoy a quality of life offered by this town,” she said. As parents, we are invested in the success of our local schools, and the opportunities it offers to our children. My husband and I feel that having top rated schools, parks to play in, safe streets and a thriving metropolis just moments away is the very best we can offer our children.” Rodriguez said she decided to run for elected office to place a woman back on the Town Council and give residents a councilmember who’s not beholden to any special groups. “I felt I could offer residents a voice that more closely resembled
their own,” she said. “They deserve someone who will view the issues from their perspective and vote accordingly and without personal gain.” If elected, Rodriguez said she’s pushing for a planning process to include residents’ feedback to get the town working collectively like a close-knit family. Besides knocking on residents’ doors, Rodriguez is reaching them by phone calls and using Social Media such as Facebook and Twitter. Rodriguez said she plans to keep an open door policy if elected. She will be available by phone and emails. Rodriguez said she’s the perfect candidate because she has been working behind the scene for years. Now she’s ready to be the residents’ voice on the Town Council. Rodriguez is married to David Rodriguez and they have three children. Lorenzo Cobiella, 34, said he decided to answer his calling of running for elected office. He said caring for Miami Lakes is his passion and he didn’t like the direction of the town. Cobiella, a member of the town’s Planning and Zoning Board, said he wants to protect the town from over development, which is out of character for Miami Lakes, and be a champion for senior citizens. “It’s part of what I do as an attorney and I care about the senior citizens,” said Cobiella, who served on the Miami Lakes Elderly Affairs Committee. “We want to
cater to their needs and get the senior center open for their benefits to enjoy and conduct health screenings. We want to address their needs.” Cobiella has been living in Miami Lakes since 2007 but grew up in the COBIELLA area. He attended Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School and Pace High school. Cobiella has been involved in the youth programs at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church, Habitat for Humanity and food and toy drives during the Holiday season. He moved his law practice from Brickell to Miami Lakes at the Elias Law Firm.
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SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Two debates for Special Election candidates set for Sept. 19 Two debates for Miami Lakes Special Election mayoral and council candidates have been scheduled for Thursday, September 19. Katy Sorenson, CEO of The
Good Government Initiative, will moderate the first debate scheduled for noon at the town’s Government Center, 6601 Main Street. As a public information service, the town will provide the
venue for the debate, and webcast the debate live on the town’s website: www.miamilakes-fl.gov. The Good Government Initiative at the University of Miami is a program to educate
elected officials at the state and local level in the important issues of governance. Sorenson’s commitment to civic activism began in 1965 after attending a civil rights demonstration, and it continued
throughout her career as an elected official. Questions for the debate may be emailed to The Good Government Initiative at info@goodgov.net. The second debate will be hosted by the Miami Lakes Bar Association from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, September 19, in the Davis Cup Room at Shula’s Hotel on Main Street. Candidates will make short statements and answer questions posed by a moderator and by members of the public.
Menchie’s raises Race for the Cure funds on Sept. 28 Menchie’s of Miami Lakes, 7309 Miami Lakes Drive, is joining with the Baptist Health System to support the 18th annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure scheduled for October 19. Menchie’s announced that 20 percent of customer purchases on Saturday, September 28, will be dedicated to the Race for the Cure through the Baptist Health System, one of the major sponsors of the annual event. The Menchie’s fundraiser does not apply to the purchase of gift cards and cannot be combined with any other offer. For more information, call 305-557-5755.
Election Day is Tuesday, October 1st
“In 2010, when the voters of Miami Lakes elected me to our Town Council, I felt blessed and dedicated myself to serving this community. I now hope that you will give me the opportunity to serve as your next Mayor of Miami Lakes. Together, we will keep our town on the right track.” —Nelson Hernandez, Town Councilman and Candidate for Mayor
NELSON’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF MIAMI LAKES Fiscal Responsibility • Public Safety • Infrastructure & Beautification • Accessibility
www.VoteNelsonHernandez.com Political advertisement paid for and approved by Nelson Hernandez for Mayor of Miami Lakes
THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
PAGE 15
Healthy and happy Sharon Tripp marks 100 years on September 20 By Roselind Romero The Miami Laker staff Sharon Tripp's lifetime spans from the time Democratic president Woodrow Wilson attempted to segregate and dismissed federal government positions for blacks, and includes the inauguration of the first black president in the United States, and his re-election. She celebrates her 100th birthday on September 20. Tripp joins the ranks of other centenarians around the globe whom have witnessed the changing world in their lifetime. Tripp has lived in South Florida for most of her adult life though she was born in Springfield, Ohio in 1913. She was born Sarah Hoss, but after meeting her husband, Guy Elton Tripp, at the Ohio Masonic Home in Springfield where they both worked, he began calling her Sharon and the name has stuck to this day. Tripp and her husband moved from Ohio and were married in Miami in 1939. Tripp worked as a registered nurse in Ohio, having graduated from training at the Springfield City Hospital in 1934 and dabbled in private care nursing while living in Florida before working in accounting and administrative work. The Tripps raised two sons, Russell and Bill, and lived in what is now Little Havana. They moved around South Florida from the 1930's until the 1980's, until settling in the Moors where Tripp has lived for the last 30 years following the passing of her husband in 1984. Her son, Russell, has lived
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with her since 1996 and her youngest son visits from his home in California. She has been active in the choir of a variety of Methodist churches across South Florida, most recently the Miami Lakes United Methodist Church where she also served as the financial secretary for much of 1989 through 2010. After many decades, Tripp can still clearly remember being a teenager during the Great Depression. Her father was a grocer at the time and made it his responsibility to feed as many people as he could during those difficult times. "As long as my dad was around, the neighborhood had something to eat," said Tripp. "I remember bagging flour and nuts
for people, getting the right amount for everyone to have some." Tripp has seen many things improve in her lifetime, however, she believes there is always room for growth. "I just think people ought to treat people equally. I didn't understand that when I first moved to Florida, the inequality," said Tripp. A birthday celebration is planned for Tripp the weekend of her birthday where relatives from Chicago, California, Virginia, Naples, Sarasota and New York will gather in her honor. Tripp spends much of her time these days tending to her garden of African Violets and the only teenager in her home, her dog, Corky.
Town Council recognizes award-winning Project Citizen Mayor Ceasar Mestre and the Town Council, along with Senator Rene Garcia, recognized the students of the Miami Lakes Middle School Law Magnet Studies program during the Council meeting on Tuesday, September 10. The students won the Division, State and National titles in the Project Citizen competition, most recently receiving the Superior Achievement at the national competition.
Led by lead teacher Lisa DeYarza, Project Citizen is a program implemented across the nation and world. The purpose of the program is to engage students in the legislative process by having them identify a community problem and propose a public policy solution. This marks the sixth consecutive state championship the Miami Lakes Middle School students have won under the guidance of DeYarza.
MIAMI LAKES MIDDLE SCHOOL Project Citizen students receive recognition for their state and national competition achievements from the Town Council and Senator Rene Garcia. Joining the students in the front row is lead teacher Lisa DeYarza. Pictured (back, from left) Garcia, Councilmember Tim Daubert, Vice Mayor Manny Cid, Miami Lakes Middle principal Dr. Manuel Sanchez III, Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez, Councilmember Nelson Hernandez, and Mayor Ceasar Mestre.
Senior Health/Wellness Fair on Sept. 21 at Royal Oaks Park Miami Lakes’ Elderly Affairs Committee will host its annual Health and Wellness Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, at the Royal Oaks Park Community Center, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue. The free community event will feature vendors providing useful information to the senior community concerning health related
issues as well as free refreshments and door prizes. Free bus transportation will be available by calling 305-364-6100 at least 48 hours in advance to reserve a pick up. For more information, contact Special Events and Committees coordinator Clarisell De Cardenas at decardenasc@miamilakes-fl.gov.
SHARON TRIPP, an active member of Miami Lakes United Methodist Church, celebrates her 100th birthday on September 20. She is joined at her Moors home by her son, Russell, and her dog Corky.
Miami Lakes
Meeting & Class Calendar The Town of Miami Lakes, M. L. Civic Association, homeowners associations, professional and volunteer groups have scheduled meetings and classes during September and early October:
Town of Miami Lakes
Town Council Second Budget Meeting September 24 5:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center Cultural Affairs Com. October 3 7:00 pm M.L. Govt. Center(Following classes are free for Miami Lakes residents) Yoga Mon./Wed. 7:30 am MCCC Yoga (Fee Course) Tues./Thurs. 7:30 am MCCC Line Dancing Tues./Thurs. 11:30 am MCCC Tai Chi M/Tu/W/Th 9:00 am MCCC Painting I Fridays 9:00 am MCCC Painting II Fridays 12:30 pm MCCC Table Tennis (adults) Wednesdays 12:30 pm MCCC Quilting Tuesdays 11:15 am MCCC Arts & Crafts Mondays Noon MCCC 1:35 pm MCCC Knitting/Crocheting Tues./Thurs. Senior Computer (Span,) Mon./Wed. 9:00 am ROCC Senior Computer (Eng.) Tues./Thurs. 9:00 am ROCC Ballet 1 Mondays 4:30 pm ROCC Ballet 2 Mondays 5:30 pm ROCC Ballet 3 Wednesdays 4:30 pm ROCC Ballet 4 Wednesdays 5:30 pm ROCC Martial Arts (tots) Mon./Wed. 4:30 pm ROCC Martial Arts (beginners) Mon./Wed. 5:30 pm ROCC Martial Arts (intermed.) Tues./Thurs. 4:30 & 5:30 pm ROCC Jazz 1 Tuesdays 4:30 pm ROCC Jazz 2 Tuesdays 5:30 pm ROCC Jazz 3 Thursdays 4:30 pm ROCC Jazz 4 Thursdays 5:30 pm ROCC Sewing Tues./Thurs. 2:00 pm ROCC Spanish (for adults) M/Tu/W/Th 6:00 pm ROCC
Homeowners Organizations
Royal Oaks Serenity Point Regatta Pointe Gramercy Park Lake Martha Loch Lomond West Villa Vizcaya Lake Sandra The Anchorage Royal Palm Estates
September 18 September 18 September 19 September 19 September 24 September 24 September 25 September 26 September 26 October 3
7:30 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 6:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC
Miami Lakes Clubs, Professional & Volunteer Groups
M.L. Garden Club buncoOctober 2 11:30 am MCCC M.L. Cham. Comm. October 2 11:30 am Shula’s Hotel M.L. Bridge Club Mondays 11:30 am MCCC M.L. Kiwanis 2nd/4th Thurs. 6:30 pm Pampered Chef M.L. Toastmasters 1st/3rd Tues.7:00 pm ML Educational Center M.L. Lions Club 1st/3rd Tues. 7:00 pm Denny’s Hialeah MCCC is Mary Collins Community Center, 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue ROCC is Royal Oaks Park Community Center, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue
PAGE 16
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
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THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
PAGE 17
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PAGE 18
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Dade Christian’s first annual fishing tournament attracts over 160 anglers
JUNIOR ANGLERS in the Dade Christian School Inshore/Offshore Family Classic Fishing Tournament were all awarded medallions in honor of their participation. Dr. E.A. Montadas Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Clinic
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By Jennifer Martinez Special to The Miami Laker Dade Christian School hosted its first annual Crusader Inshore/ Offshore Family Classic Fishing Tournament on September 6-7. Undeterred by a dash of inclement weather on Saturday morning, the tournament, sponsored by Flanigan’s Restaurants, Media Mart and Hopkin’s Carter, to name a few, was a tremendous success. The event was a benefit for the FACE Foundation (Foundation for the Advancement of Community and Education), and successfully achieved its primary goal to introduce more Junior Anglers to the sport of fishing as a way to reinforce family values and bring schools in the community together. Over 160 anglers joined the event on personal boats, chartered vessels, and even two of the “Reward” party boats which were both full to capacity. Fish that were represented in the tournament weigh-in, hosted by renown marine artist Carey Chen, varied from such eligible species like Grouper, Snapper, Dolphin, Kingfish, Blackfin Tuna, to Hammerhead Shark, African Pompano, Sailfish, Amberjack, a Marlin, and even a Trumpet fish made an appearance. The captain’s meeting and awards ceremony was held at Shake A Leg Miami hosted by Harry and Suzy Horgan. All schools in Miami-Dade and Broward counties were invited to participate in hopes of winning the All School Perpetual Trophy. Winning schools were Dade Christian in the Offshore Division and Leewood K-8 Center in the Inshore category.
TEAM PERFECT CATCH captured the Unguided Offshore Division title in the Dade Christian Family Classic Fishing Tournament. Pictured are Miami Lakes residents (from left) Joe Fernandez, Craig Konchak, Robert Gutierrez and Khris Rodriguez, along with Junior Anglers Grace Fernandez (7), Rebecca Rodriguez (9), and Nicholas Gutierrez (10). Winning team for the Guided Offshore Division was G.L. Reid Construction and Team Perfect Catch won the Unguided Offshore Division. The Inshore Division was won by Captain Bob Lewis and the Kids Fishing Team, and the Head Boat Division was won by Jose Diaz and Jose Diaz Jr. Tournament directors Ali Rodriguez, Jen Martinez, Rhonda McNeal and Craig Konchak were astounded by the community’s participation and are looking forward to hosting the event next year.
MIAMI LAKES K-8 CENTER second-grader Grace Fernandez won an award for boating the heaviest Dolphin in the Dade Christian Family Classic Fishing Tournament.
Kevin Fernandez named to Dean’s List at Notre Dame Kevin Fernandez, a resident of Royal Oaks in Miami Lakes, has been named to the Dean's List in the University of Notre Dame's College of Arts and Letters for outstanding scholarship during the Spring 2013 semester. Students who achieve the Dean's honors at Notre Dame represent the top 30 percent of students in their college. This is the fourth consecutive semester that Fernandez, a rising junior, has received this distinction. Fernandez graduated from Monsignor Edward Pace High School in 2011 and is studying Political Science with a minor in Constitutional Studies.
THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
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PAGE 19
PAGE 20
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Over 150 anglers wet lines in Spartan Tournament
PACE HIGH SCHOOL teacher Philip Li and Wayne Louk, who fished with Captain Brian William, sport their double header on Red Fish during the recent Spartan Fishing Tournament.
More than 150 anglers and guests descended upon La Siesta Resort and Marina in Islamorada for the fifth annual Spartan Fishing Tournament held on August 23-24. Organized through Monsignor Edward Pace High School’s Anglers Club, the tournament raised funds for the high school’s Spartans-4-Spartans Program, which helps students that encounter extreme financial hardship in their junior and senior years at Pace. On Friday, family, friends, students and alumni gathered for the first official event of the tournament – the welcome reception and captain's meeting, where anglers reviewed rules and regulations of the tournament. Then, bright and early on Saturday morning, the 31 in-shore, off-shore, guided and non-guided boats left the marina. Hours later, the tournament festivities concluded with a barbecue
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luncheon and award ceremony where the first place winners received trophies designed, donated and presented by renown marine artist David Wirth. Tournament Results: Inshore Division: 1st place team - "87" with Capt. Nestor Alvisa (213 points) 2nd place team - Li & Louk with Capt. Brian William (152 points) 3rd place team - Trotta & Brooks with Capt. Mike Hutchinson (134 points) Offshore Division: 1st place team - Nickolas Valdes "Quality Aircraft Parts" (498 points) 2nd place team - Rouco, Torres, Perez, with Capt. Ron Varona (289 points) 3rd place team - Harke with Capt. Michael Biggie (144 points) Individual: Top Junior Angler - Valdes (96 points) Top Female Angler - Michelle
Corey for St. Jude tournament set at Shula’s on September 30 Shula’s Golf Club is hosting the 11th annual Corey for St. Jude Benefit Golf Tournament on Monday, September 30, to benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The event kicks off with a 10 a.m. registration, grilled steak sandwiches at 11 a.m., and a shotgun start at noon followed by a silent auction and banquet/awards ceremony at Shula’s Golf Club. The event has raised over $380,000 for the children of St. Jude. Corey Sticco, son of Shula’s Golf Club superintendent, Tim Sticco, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1997 at the age of 7. His parents, Tim and Dana, searched for the top surgeons in the world to secure the best outcome for their son.
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MUSICAL THEATER PUPPET THEATER (Teatro de Títeres)
Montoya with Capt. Dave Denkert (team Hell’s Bay Boatworks) (101 points) Top Un-Guided Angler - Jose Valdes (132 points) Biggest Fish (TTI Blakemore Award) - Gary Parson (34" Snook) Smallest Fish - Rainer Schael (3.5" Ramora) The top female and top unguided awards were provided by Pelagic and Rapala. All other awards were provided by Trophyland USA. The fifth annual Spartan Fishing Tournament was made possible through the support and sponsorship of Quality Aircraft Parts Inc., David Wirth, Ray Dass, the Harke family, the Robins family, the Resende family, Hell’s Bay Boatworks, Miami-Dade Firefighters, and RS Environmental Consulting. For information about the annual fishing tournament, visit www.paceanglersclub.com.
Corey received his treatments at one of the world’s most prestigious facilities for pediatric cancer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Corey is now 21 and cancer free. He would not be where he is today without the treatment and care provided by St. Jude Children’s Hospital. His desire to give back to St. Jude led to the creation of Corey for St. Jude benefit golf tournament and the family at Shula’s Golf Club has come together to assist him in his endeavor. For tournament registration, sponsorship information of any questions, contact Shula’s director of golf Kenny Fill at 305-8208170, or by email to kenny.fill@ donshulahotel.com.
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THE MIAMI LAKER
Panama Mutiny’s 12-U team opens fall season with a win Miami Lakes Optimist’s Panama Mutiny began the fall season by entering and winning a 12Under Tournament playing against older kicks. The Mutiny dropped the first pool game to 12-Under Ft. Lauderdale Lighting (last year’s 11AAA Premiere League champions), and the second game to Slam’s Hoffman baseball team. However, the Mutiny recov-
ered in the elimination game by beating the Weston Ratters 12Under squad. Then the Mutiny faced the Lighting and won the rematch. The Mutiny advanced to the championship game against Slam’s Hoffman and won in dramatic fashion to clinch its first ever 12-Under tournament without having played in a single 11Under tournament.
MIAMI LAKES OPTIMIST’S Panama Mutiny includes (bottom, from left) Jayme Villafane, Jake Alfaro, Armando Becerra, Adrian Vega, Dylan Vega and Oscar Colindres; (middle, from left) Zack Esquenazi, Ryan Del Corro, Erik Tovar, Andrew Lopez and Marcus Franco; (back, from left) trainer Tony Lugo, assistant coach Matt Villafane, head coach Elbert Alfaro, Player Development director Guillermo Becerra, and assistant coach and International Scout Oscar Colindres.
Sports Society hosts Graham Golf Classic on October 26 The Sports Society is hosting the Bob Graham Golf Classic scheduled for Saturday, October 26, at Shula’s Golf Club, 7601 Miami Lakes Drive. A shotgun start is set for 1 p.m. The Sports Society is a nonprofit organization comprised of community leaders and educators who recognize and honor local girls and women in sports and promote opportunities for females in sports. Each year, the organization awards the Dorothy B. Shula and Patricia C. Graham scholarships to girls and women in amateur and professional sports. A dedicated Miami-Dade County Public Schools educator for more than five decades, Sports Society president and Miami
LET’S HEAR FROM YOU! Got a story idea about your family, school, church, organization or even a neighbor? Email us at miamilaker1@aol.com, or call 305-817-4078.
Lakes resident Dr. Marge Wessel is one of the organization’s founding members. For more information on the golf tournament, call Wessel at 305-828-6419.
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
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USA Water Polo names Mario Muxo as an Academic All-American Miami Lakes resident Mario Muxo, 16, was awarded the Outstanding Academic AllAmerican for his achievements in the water and in the classroom by the non-profit organization, USA Water Polo. USA Water Polo, recognized by the United States Olympic Committee as the National Governing Body for water polo in the U.S., awards Academic AllAmerican and Outstanding Academic All-American certificates to qualifying water polo students nationwide. Student athletes need a 3.6 GPA on a scale of 4.0 to qualify as an Academic All-American and those that received a 4.0 GPA are honored as Outstanding Academic All-Americans. A total of 622 outstanding achievers nationwide were awarded. Muxo was one of eight to be recognized in the state of Florida. Muxo, a junior at Christopher Columbus Senior High School (CCHS) who boasts a 4.3 weighted GPA, represented the Gulliver Riptides Water Polo Team which attended the Junior Olympic Tournament in California this past July. Muxo, in the 16 and under bracket, averaged 1 goal, 2 assists and 2 steals per game. He also participated in a water polo Olympic development program. At CCHS, Muxo completed his sophomore year with his water polo team, finishing in first place at the Greater Miami Athletic Conference (GMAC) and third place at districts. Muxo intends to pursue water polo and his academics at a Division 1 university following his 2015 graduation.
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PAGE 22
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Shula’s 14th annual Golf Scramble and Steak Dinner scheduled for October 5 Don Shula's Golf Club is hosting the 14th Annual Golf Scramble and Steak Dinner on Saturday, October 5. The event is open to all golfers, who will get a chance to play the newly renovated Senator course. This event is a four-person scramble with a choice of steak or seafood dinner to follow. Players are welcome to enter as foursomes or be paired with other entrants. Prizes will be awarded to the top
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three teams, the last place team, and to other special event winners including "long drive" and "closest to the pin" contests. The tournament begins with a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start though registration and range balls will be available beginning promptly at 11 a.m. Dinner will follow immediately after the tournament ends. The cost per golfer is $80 and includes golfing, cigars, on-course refreshments and dinner. Additional guests may join for dinner for an additional fee. Entry fees may be paid in cash, credit card or check made payable to Shula's Golf Club. The event is located at 7601 Miami Lakes Drive. Dinner will be held at Shula's Steak 2 restaurant, located at 6842 Main St. inside Shula's Hotel. Both venues will offer complimentary valet parking for attendees. Space is limited. For more information or to register contact Dave Gergely at 305-821-1150 ext. 3305 or email dave.sports@donshulahotel.com.
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Pace, Dade Christian only two area schools to post wins last weekend Monsignor Pace High School was one of only two local area football teams to record wins this past weekend as the Spartans trounced Inlet Grove of Riviera Beach 69-0. Sparked by three passing and three running touchdowns, two interception returns for scores, a kickoff return for a score and a punt return for a touchdown, the Spartans were far ahead by halftime, the second half was regulated by a running clock. Pace remains undefeated at 3-0 for the season. Dade Christian racked up 291 yards on the ground as the Crusaders defeated Somerset Academy 33-13. Not so successful were Goleman, Hialeah Miami Lakes
and American Senior High. Southridge blew out Goleman, while Hialeah trounced rival Hialeah Miami Lakes and South Dade rallied to beat American. Southridge beat Goleman, 47-0, keeping the Gators (0-3) winless as they prepare for district play. Southridge rushed for a total of 237 yards on 18 carries, while the Spartans held Goleman to 61 yards rushing. Hialeah clobbered Hialeah Miami Lakes, 49-0, as senior running back Henry Bussey rushed for a total of 209 yards and a touchdown and hauled in a touchdown catch to cap his stellar performance. The Thoroughbreds scored on all five of their first-half possessions, as quarterback Alin Edouard
threw for 91 first-half yards and three scores and ran for a touchdown. American appeared to be headed to victory but South Dade rallied from a 15-point deficit to defeat the Patriots, 39-35. American cornerback Jeremiah Dinson recovered a fumble and returned it for a touchdown to give his team a 35-20 lead at the half. But the Buccaneers engineered a come-from-behind victory, which was ignited by quarterback Kahil Render, who threw 14-of-18 passes for two touchdowns. South Dade’s defense shut down American’s offense in the second half, not allowing a touchdown or a field goal.
Pace men’s, women’s cross country teams participate in Youth Fair 5K Monsignor Edward Pace men's and women's cross country teams participated in the Dade County Youth Fair Cross Country 5K Invitational Race on Thursday, September 12, at Larry & Penny Thompson Park. On the women's team, sophomores Juliette Dubon, and Naja Murphy both recorded personal best results while junior Natalie Fernandez recorded her season best. The men's team saw Spartans’ lead runner for the second consecutive week, senior Peter Paul Grooten, lead his team to a 12th place team finish out of 40. The team, coached by Johann
Odermatt, also includes seniors Chad Fowler and Gregory Louis, junior Chris Ventura, sophomore Daniel Labrousse and freshmen Omar Padilla, Matthew Figueroa, Andrew Sanchez and Andres
Reyes. Pace's cross country teams will be making their way to Boca Raton to complete in the 40th annual Spanish River Invitational.
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Spanish Lake’s EESAC supplies AV classroom technology equipment Thanks to funds from Spanish Lake Elementary’s Educational Excellence School Advisory Council (EESAC), many classrooms have been outfitted with much needed AV classroom equipment, writing and technology equipment. The EESAC committee makes decisions which affects instruction and the delivery of educational programs at schools regarding implementation of the School Performance Excellence Plan. It consists of teachers, parents, students, and educational support employees. The organization functions to bring together stakeholders and involve them with decisions that affect instruction. Due to EESAC’s cooperation and teamwork in funding the much needed AV equipment, writing and technology equipment, the high standards and expectations set for each SLE student is easily fostered.
STUDENTS AND STAFF display the classroom equipment provided with the help of the Spanish Lake Elementary EESAC committee. (Top, from left) Laronn Montgomery, Mercy Sabates, Media Specialist Adrian Lora, and EESAC chair, Martha Vargas; (bottom, from left) Savannah Leonetti, Tiffany Morales, and Senayah Powell.
Women’s Breast Health golf tourney set for September 27 The golfing community has been invited to participate in the Women’s Breast Health Initiative’s (WBHI) 2nd annual “b fore pink” breast cancer golf tournament scheduled for Friday, September 27, at Don Shula’s Golf Club in Miami Lakes. The event features great golf, fabulous food, delectable drinks, exciting entertainment, and a silent auction. Proceeds from the event will help WBHI help uninsured and underserved women benefit from early detection before they turn pink. WBHI, a 501(c)(3) non-profit Florida corporation, is comprised of thousands of volunteers. WBHI focuses on the importance of
breast health using a proactive, preventative and unique approach against breast cancer. The organization provides free breast health awareness, education, mammograms and referrals to uninsured and underserved individuals by going door-to-door in neighborhood outreach. Since 2006, WBHI has knocked on more than 55,000 doors. This year, more than 1,100 volunteers will knock on an additional 10,000 doors. For information about donating a silent auction item, or to reserve for the golf tournament, contact Stephanie Hoogenbergen at 305825-4081, or reach her at stephanie@flbreasthealth.com.
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PAGE 23
Ana Casariego new principal at Mother of Our Redeemer Mother of Our Redeemer Catholic School (MOR) has welcomed a new principal as Ana Casariego joins the teaching team as their new leader. Casariego has more than 15 years of experience in the educational field with experience in various schools as a Lead Teacher and as a principal of Our Lady of the Divine Providence Catholic School for 4 years. She has a Master's degree in Education Administration from St. Thomas University. The MOR children are back in school and ready for a new year of learning. They got off to a great start by focusing on making a difference with acts of charity for family and the needed community. MOR children recognized their moms at a "Mufffins for Mom" event. Teachers, students and their moms, celebrated "Mother's Day" on Friday, September 6, as part of the celebration of the feast of Our Lady of Charity. Moms were invited to join their children at the school's auditorium to hear the students sing and offer them special gifts of love. Kids
For More Information Call 305-827-8767
presented their moms with a special arts and craft project and a delicious muffin, thus "Muffins for Mom." Continuing the charity activities, the MOR school community donated school supplies to send to Honduras where hundreds of school age children look forward to receiving new school supplies from MOR each year. Casariego, teachers and PALS (the school's parent team), have other charity activities and events planned for this school year as a way to give back to the community. Mother of Our Redeemer Catholic School and Church are located at 8445 N.W. 186 St., and serves families with elementary and middle school children from Pre-K to 8th grade with an enriched catholic education. For more information, call 305-8293988. hometown
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PAGE 24
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
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THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
PAGE 25
National Academy Foundation names Goleman High academies as models By Roselind Romero The Miami Laker staff Barbara Goleman has a lot to celebrate. The National Academy Foundation named the academies of Finance and Hospitality and Tourism at Goleman as model academies and the school has seen a variety of areas increase in benchmark successes, not including the advances their Cambridge program has made after only two years since its induction. The academies work with hotels, credit unions, State Farm, and car dealerships which sponsor the program through paid and unpaid seasonal internship positions to participating NAF students and through grants and scholarships. They are currently looking for the community to become involved in partnering with academic programs such as NAF to broaden the horizons by which students receive hands-on vocational experience. "We were honored to be named as a NAF model academy in the U.S. for Hospitality and Tourism, and Finance. It's been a very good
year," said NAF instructor Laura Diaz-Rodriguez. Principal Joaquin Hernandez, intrigued by the constant comparisons made of U.S. students to the excellence of students abroad, researched how Goleman fared to international achievements in similar benchmarks. He happily found that Goleman is not only comparable to international excellence, but surpasses certain areas as well. “What makes a school is the greatness of the people within the school. I have never worked with such a focused group of staff members,” said Hernandez. “We have a group of extremely dedicated people that are determined to help students succeed, staff that stays after hours to ensure great education.” The school jumped from 2 to 15 percent of level 5's in advanced placement exams, and decreased from 32 to 12 percent of level 1's. Students in vocational-based courses available are also tested, and certified, in software programs like Photoshop, Flash, Quickbooks, and Dream Weaver. “We have ordinary students
Alberto Carvalho honored at Hispanic Heritage Awards Miami-Dade County Public Schools Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho was joined by actress Eva Longoria, chef José Andrés, actor, director, and producer Diego Luna and several other distinguished individuals at the Hispanic Heritage Awards on September 5 in Washington, D.C. Carvalho and the acclaimed group of honorees were feted at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for their contributions to Hispanic cultural pride and accomplishments. Carvalho was recognized with the Education Award, presented by Target, which had been named the presenting sponsor of the ceremony. The other 2013 Hispanic Heritage honorees include: Longoria for the Community Service Award; Andrés for the Design Award presented by Capital One; Luna for the Inspira
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Award; Los Tigres Del Norte, a musical group, for the Legend Award; Actress Lucero León for the Vision Award; Race Car Driver Juan Pablo Montoya for the Sports Award; Voto Latino president Maria Teresa Kumar for the Leadership Award; and the non-profit National Math and Science Initiative for the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Award. The Hispanic Heritage Awards is the signature event of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation and serves as the kick-off to their award-winning mission to inspire, identify, prepare, and position Hispanic leaders in the classroom, community and workforce to meet America's priorities. The Hispanic Heritage Awards were established in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan to commemorate the creation of Hispanic Heritage Month.
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doing extraordinary things, doing them not knowing that they ‘can’t’ and so, they do,” said Hernandez. The school boasts 16 students with perfect 4.0 unweighted averages and are in what they call "the perfect storm" of motivated students, determined educators and involved parents leading to the many successes of the 2012-2013 school year, and, already, for the current school year. “I like to think of the education system as a triangle, at the top teachers teach, then students study, and then there is parental involvement,” said Hernandez. Goleman is also sure to foster a good relationship with MiamiDade College (MDC) and keep the avenues of communication open for students to easily take advantage of post-secondary opportunities. The Cambridge program saw 100 percent of students enrolled in two advanced placement courses and 78 percent involved in dual enrollment courses at MDC with the hopes to complete their associate degrees by the time they graduate high school. Language Arts teacher Sara Yanes has seen the ambition of the students in her ninth grade classroom just a couple months into the new school year.
BARBARA GOLEMAN HIGH SCHOOL NAF instructors, (from left) Judith Jackson, Amaris Salvador, and Laura DiazRodriguez, proudly hold up the banners that distinguish their program as a model program. “They're very enthusiastic. They're ninth graders and they're already thinking about college. They want to be very involved with their school, and their parents are very involved. They're a great group of kids,” said Yanes. Youth Basketball League Camp Cambridge program partici• 8 Weeks Long • Saturday Games Only pant, junior Gabriella Sallai, • Jersey & Award Included In League Fees though longing for the leisure of • Individuals Are $150 • Teams Are Welcome her freshman year, is looking to • All Games Are Inside • Ages 5 -16 the future. • Game Times 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. “I know in college, we're going Any questions or additional information, to be working on what we're learncontact league coordinator: ing here,” said Sallai. “I’ve andre@miami basketball.net or learned a lot doing it in a hands-on www.miamibasketball.net way. And because I'm an overYouth and Adult Sports - Soccer, achiever I’ll probably challenge Kickball, and Flag Football myself in college too.”
Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School
“Give your child the gift of a Catholic Education.”
Accredited PK3 through Eighth Grade
PK3• PK4 • VPK Certified Free After-Care • Catholic Education and Family Values • High Academic Standards • Mathletics and Accelerated Reading Programs • Experienced Faculty – Certified by State of Florida • Multi-cultural Family Atmosphere • Psychologist on Campus • Computer Lab, iPads-Apple TV’s – Applications for new SMARTboards, Broadcasting Club students available at • Music Program, Recorder Ensemble, the school office. Glee Club • Spanish • Art Education, Meet the Masters, Gallery Night • Athletic Programs for grades 3 to 8, Cheerleading, Danceline • Student Leadership Program, NJHS, Student Council • HSA, Dads’ Club, Family Involvement Welcome Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School is fully accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference.
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6600 Miami Lakeway North, Miami Lakes www.ollnet.com Under the auspices of the Archdiocese of Miami, Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Schools admission policy states that no individual shall be subject to discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin.
PAGE 26
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Second year of Academies proves successful at Monsignor Pace High By Katherine Palacio Special to The Miami Laker Monsignor Edward Pace High School rolls into its second year of the Academies program, and students are already reaping the benefits. The academies, geared towards enhancing necessary skills for specific vocations, consist of the following four areas: Emerging Computer Technology, Mass Communications, Visual and Performing Arts, and Health Science/Emergency Medical Sciences.
Students, now in the academy second year courses, are getting hands-on experience in their particular areas of interest. The Dance Track, which falls under the Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, now has 48 members. The performance team, “Starlettes," placed first in the National Dance Alliance Competition for their second consecutive year, in addition to earning the title of NDA Junior Grand Champion for the overall highest score of the competition.
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The academy now has an official honor society, Nu Delta Alpha, and the lead teacher, Karina Saud, is making plans to have the academy members attend the “So You Think You Can Dance” tour this upcoming winter. Christina Cruz, lead teacher for the Broadcast Track under the Academy for Mass Communications, has already had students submit news packages to contests, and one of her student members won first place a college competition at St. Thomas University. Saud and Marcel Navarro, the lead teacher for the Art Track, are both planning student showcases for the end of the school year. Cristina Pla-Guzman, lead teacher for the Theatre Track, has also seen a dramatic increase in student enrollment in her theatre courses, and they are currently planning their annual spring production. Only one month into the school year, and the academies have raised the bar on expectations for students.
PACE HIGH SCHOOL’S performance team, the “Starlettes," placed first in the National Dance Alliance Competition for the second year and earned the title of NDA Junior Grand Champion for the overall highest score of the competition.
OLL’s cross country team competes at St. Agnes event On August 29, 55 cross country runners represented Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School at the St. Agnes Invitational in Key Biscayne to kick off the season. All 55 runners finished strong and several Cheetahs were in the top 10 and received medals. In the Primary Boys division (1 mile run), Adam Magoulas (4th grade) finished first overall, and Joshua Kunkel (2nd grade) finished 5th overall. The Primary
Boys team also finished 3rd overall in the meet. In the Cheetahs Primary Girls team, Daphney Lagroue (2nd grade) finished 6th overall. In the Junior Varsity boys division (1.5 miles), Magoulas finished 4th overall, and Michael Sanchez (5th grade) finished 7th overall. In the Junior Varsity girls division, Danielle Martinez (5th grade) finished 6th overall.
THE TOP FIVE Primary Boys runners from Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School who clinched 3rd place team honors at the St. Agnes Invitational include (from left) Adam Magoulas, Joshua Kunkel, Jason Ravelo, Christian Becerra, and Brandon Ravelo.
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THE MIAMI LAKER
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
American High students spend Whilly Bermudez authors June visiting European history inspirational children’s book By Christine Rowan Special to The Miami Laker American Senior High School’s club, Globetrotters, ventured across the pond in mid June, visiting some of the most historical sights in three of Europe’s acclaimed cities. Five teachers chaperoned 12 students for a 10 day global excursion starting in London, traveling on to Paris, and ending in Barcelona, Spain. Students arrived via British Airways to London’s Heathrow International Airport. Greeted by an educational touring director, Anja Henkel, and other student groups from Los Angeles and Chicago, the Globetrotters were immediately whisked away into an adventure of a lifetime. London, first known as Britannia, offered everyone an opportunity to visit remains as old as the Roman Empire and as new as the London Eye, the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel. Through the convenience of the hop-on hop-off open bus original tour, the group experienced the sights of Big Ben, Parliament, Buckingham Palace and the famous “Changing of the Guards.” Only a quick jaunt across the Tower Bridge brought them to the ancient fortress of the Tower of London, where they visited the crown jewels, listened to bloody tales from the tower’s Yeoman, and discovered where prisoners lamented and exotic animals roamed. Paris, the City of Lights, enamored the travelers at night where they ascended more than 274
meters to the third level of the Eiffel Tower. This experience was the apex as the elevator doors opened and their sights were filled with sparkling lights as far as the eye could see. Daylight gave the Globetrotters a journey back in time by visiting the art and culture preserved by the Grande Louvre. There the Venus de Milo, The Victory, and the Mona Lisa, three fine ladies of history, became a reality. The Cathedral of Notre Dame gave life to Victor Hugo’s French Gothic novel the Hunchback of Notre Dame, where a statue of Charlemagne greeted the visitors and gargoyles kept a watchful eye. On their third and final leg, traveling by sleeping car, they arrived in the magnificent city of Barcelona, Spain. The scents from the Mediterranean Sea welcomed them with a feeling of a bit like “home.” This old city showed them the sight of the 1992 Olympic Games, the on-going construction of the Basilica of the Sacred Family, St Joseph’s Market, Guell Park, and a two hour bicycle ride through the busy city and calm of the sea. By the end of the trip, the students were ready for a safe return home, but with them they took more than a key chain of the Eiffel tour or a pretty scarf from Paris. These travelers walked through history and became a part of the past, present and, most encouraging, the future of the world. They plan on creating a video to educate future Globetrotters of the "Do's and Don'ts" of European travel, and to share stories of their adventures.
Many people think it is about time that a children's book was published that has the ability to skillfully instill positive and inspirational values. Whilly Bermudez has stepped-up to the plate with his latest book entitled, "WB & The 10 Good Things." Bermudez authored the illustrated book for children ages 5-8. This is a "feelgood" book that parents will enjoy sharing with their kids. With all of the negative images and stereotypes shown in all media, this new children's book is a breath of fresh air. The author has a writing style that makes the child feel as though they are part of the story. Parents have marveled over their experience of reading "WB & The 10 Good Things" to their kids. This book holds the secret of instilling, in a subtle manner, a very profound message. Bermudez strategically uses a "grandfather figure," to be the character in the story that develops the message. "WB & The 10 Good Things" uses a "sweater" as a mechanism to transform a little boy into a super hero. The main character, WB, is oblivious to the moral opportunities that abound all around him. Once he puts on the sweater his grandfather gave him, he becomes a superhero with the ability to fully understand the good in everyone, and how doing good should be done just for its own sake. In a world where people show contempt for superheroes of compassion, WB must make the deci-
sion to not be influenced by the negativity of others, as the kids at school make fun of him. His lesson is learned when the magical sweater is damaged, and he fears he has lost his superhero powers, only to learn that the sweater really had no magical powers, that the magic came from within. Bermudez has scheduled a book-signing event befitting a superhero. Parents and kids are invited to visit Shula's Athletic Club, at 15150 Bull Run Road on October 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children will have a chance to meet the real life "WB," and get a signed copy of the book. Activities will also be featured like rock climbing and face painting. It should comes as no surprise that the author has had his share of super-hero type accomplishments. Bermudez is a successful American entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is also an author with a tremendous hunger to help others, supporting various causes and donating to them throughout the year. He is the founder of "Ignite Social Help," a global movement set in motion to help heal and inspire others in the world through the broadcast of inspirational posts and updates via social media, a novel approach to spreading hope and understanding. More information about the book and the book-signing event are available at www.wbkidsonline.com/. (Bermudez is director of Sales and Marketing for Shula's Athletic Club.)
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New Testament Baptist Church hosts weekly grief support meetings New Testament Baptist Church (NTBC) is hosting a weekly support group for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The counseling is sponsored by the Lay Counseling Ministry of NTBC. The counseling sessions begin September 18 and run through December 18. Meetings are on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the conference room. The cost is $10 per person and includes the workbook and handouts. NTBC hopes to help those grieving to successfully journey from mourning to joy by finding help, discovering hope and experiencing healing. For more information contact Pastor Don McNeal at 305-8278765 or email dmcneal@newtestbaptist.org.
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THE GLOBETROTTERS of American High School visited historical spots in three European cities during the summer. 6001 N.W. 153 Street, Suite #178 Miami Lakes , Fl 33014
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**NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS** Montessori Christian Center of Miami Lakes, Inc. admits students of any race, color, national and ethenic origin in administration of its admission policies, education policies, and other school administrative priograms, to all the rights, privilages, programs generally accorded or made available to the studens at the school.
“Lest the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.” (PS127)
PAGE 28
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
Miami Lakes Area Houses of Worship
Echoes of the Heart Reflections on Life and Community Living
Miami Lakes Baptist Church
Faith Is The Victory Fellowship
6250 Miami Lakes Dr. East Telephone: 305-823-3888 Sunday Worship......10:00 & 11:30 AM Midweek Service Wed.................7 PM
Telephone: 954-435-1313 www.faithisthevictoryfellowship.com Sunday Service.....................10:30 AM (Cobb Theaters – 6711 Main Street) Theatre 17
M.L. Congregational Church 6701 Miami Lakeway South Telephone: 305-822-4313 Adult Sunday School...................9 AM Children’s Sunday School.....10:30 AM Worship.................................10:30 AM
Sunrise Presbyterian Church 18400 N.W. 68 Avenue Telephone: 305-821-5841 Sunday School (all ages)........9:00 AM Worship.................................10:00 AM Spanish Worship...................11:30 AM
St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church 15650 Miami Lakeway North Telephone: 305-558-3961 Sunday Eucharist........................10 AM Children’s Sunday School..........10 AM Adult Bible Study.......................11 AM
San Francisco de Asis (Iglesia Episcopal) 15650 Miami Lakeway North Telephone: 305-558-3961 Misa en Espanol...................12:15 PM Escuela Dominical................12:15 PM
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 8201 N.W. 186 Street Telephone: 305-829-0049 Spanish service.............................9 AM English service.......................12:30 PM Tuesday (Spanish).........................7 PM Wednesday (English)....................7 PM
Palm Vista Community Church Meeting at Miami Lakes Middle 6425 Miami Lakeway North Telephone: 305-822-6999 Worship Service.........................10 AM
Temple Tifereth Jacob 5901 N.W. 151 Street Telephone: 305-557-2651 Call for Service Schedule
Iglesia Biblica Cristiana Español Servicios Telephone: 305-557-1959 Sunday service........................4:00 PM Wednesday Youth....................7:30 PM 6250 Miami Lakes Drive East
El Nuevo Comienzo 6701 Miami Lakeway South Services in Spanish Sunday service.........................2:00 PM Thursday service.....................7:00 PM
St. Andrews Lutheran Church 575 W. 68 Street Telephone: 305-821-3622 Sunday service (English)........9:00 AM Sunday service (Spanish).....10:30 AM Bible School...............................11 AM
Iglesia Cristiana Reformada Vida Nueve 5941 N.W. 176 St., Bldg. #5 Telephone: 305-244-9425 www.icrvidanueve.com
Hialeah Church of Christ Telephone 305-558-1060 (Temporary meeting location) Shula’s Hotel (Davis Cup Room) 6842 Main Street, Miami Lakes Sunday Bible Study.................9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service.......10:30 AM Sunday Evening Service..........6:00 PM Wednesday Bible Study...........7:30 PM
Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church 15801 N.W. 67 Avenue Telephone: 305-558-2202 Sunday services in English 9:30, 11 AM and 5:30 PM Sunday services in Spanish 8 AM, 12:45 PM and 7 PM Saturday services 8:30 AM, 5 PM Daily services 7 and 8:30 AM Confessions: Saturdays 3:30 PM
Mother of Our Redeemer Catholic Church 8445 N.W. 186 Street Telephone: 305-829-6141 Daily services (Spanish) 8:30 AM Saturday (English) 5:30 PM Saturdays (Spanish) 7 PM Sundays (English) 8 & 10:30 AM Sundays (Spanish) 9 AM, 12:30 PM, 7 PM
North Palm Baptist Church 7801 N.W. 178 Street Telephone: 305-558-2032 www.NorthpalmBaptist.org Sunday Bible Study.................9:15 AM Sunday Worship....................10:30 AM Wednesday Service..................7:00 PM
M.L. United Methodist Church 14800 N.W. 67 Avenue Telephone: 305-821-7274 www.miamilakesumc.net Contemporary services..........9:40 AM Traditional ServicesWorship10:00 AM Wednesday: Kids Bible Study....................4:30 PM Wed. Bible Study....................6:30 PM
New Testament Baptist Church The Gathering Place 6601 N.W. 167 Street Telephone: 305-558-4930 Sunday Service..........................11 AM Bible Study ............................9:45 AM Wednesday Bible Study...........7:00 PM Wednesday Youth Group.........7:00 PM
Orthodox Cathedral of Christ The Saviour 16601 N.W. 77 Court Telephone: 305-822-0437 Home of The Orthodox Book Center Sat. Vespers.................................6 PM Sun. Matins............................8:40 AM Sun. Liturgy...............................10 AM Sunday School & Inquirer Classes
Palm Springs United Methodist Church 5700 W. 12 Avenue Telephone: 305-821-3232 Worship Service...................11:00 AM
The Redeemed Christian Church of God Victory Parrish Worship Center 16261 N.W. 57 Avenue Telephone: 786-428-0078 Sunday service....................10:00 AM Tuesday & Thursday..............7:00 PM Friday service.......................11:00 PM
Voice for Jesus Cobb Miami Lakes Theatre #11 6711 Main Street 305-818-0565 Sunday service......................10:00 AM Youth service.........................10:00 AM Children services...................10:45 AM (Nursery provided)
(Editor’s Note: All information provided by individual houses of worship. Confirm service times by telephone.
By Dr. Jeffrey E. Frantz, Miami Lakes Congregational Church (Contact Dr. Frantz on the web at www.mlcchurch.com.) The key to child-rearing: Trusting the love. On all levels of our culture – as a community and as a nation – we have a lot at stake with our children. With this in mind, their education ought to be among our highest priorities as a nation. They are the bearers of our traditions, our way of life; they are the channels through whom our common futures will be shaped and defined. With our children, on a personal level, there are no words to express the depths and reaches of our emotions and feelings. They have come from us. The imprint of all that we are is in them and being passed on through them. And yet, there's more.
School Board approves several Hantman initiatives The Miami-Dade School Board unanimously approved two agenda items proposed by chair Perla Tabares Hantman endorsing October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month throughout Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) and National Teen Driver Safety Week on October 20-26. There were an estimated 230,480 new cases of breast cancer among U.S. women in 2011. Among these, 15,330, were Florida women alone, of which 2,690 would succumb to the disease. Florida ranks second in the nation for breast cancer deaths. "October is dedicated to highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment of breast cancer to improve survival rates," said Hantman. To help raise awareness, information will be made available to employees through the Districts Employee Wellness Program. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 11 percent of all drivers involved in fatal car crashes in the U.S. were between the ages of 15 to 20. Some of the common risk factors faulted were nighttime driving, text messaging while driving, alcohol-impaired driving, and driving with multiple passengers in the vehicle. "I am proud to bring forward an initiative that encourages teenagers to change risky driving behaviors at the high school age level and help save lives across the country," said Hantman.
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Our children are more than all of this; more than all our passionate love for them, more than our lofty hopes for their future. In every one of our children, there is a mystery that transcends us. There is a mystery of life that is birthed in them from the beginning of creation. If we are paying attention and are discerning, it is a mystery that humbles us. And part of what this means, as people of faith and people of the spirit, is that in the grand scheme of our lives, our children do not belong to us; they belong to God. We may sense this on some level; but, still, it doesn't always wear well with us. The Lebanese-born poet and philosopher, Khalil Gibran, reminds us: Your children are not your children. They come through you but not from you. And though they are with you, they belong not to you. You may house their bodies, but not their souls. For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow. Letting go. There's a part of us parents that always wants to hold our children tight, to protect them in every conceivable way – to never let them go. Letting our children go, of course, is never easy, no matter how many birthdays they've had. Whether we're dropping them off at pre-school, first grade, high school, or college, it's tough. Letting them go hurts. It makes us anxious and troubles our long nights with worry and fear. And yet, it is one of the most important things we can do as loving parents. I read somewhere that babies should come into our lives with a sign on them that reads: Love at your own risk. And so it is.
After Care
One of the keys to parenting, therefore, is to find a balance between the deep love of our children that wants to take care of their every need … and the quiet trust that's willing to let them go in the faith and hope that, in God's care, they will find their way. Trusting the love. This sort of trust doesn't always come easily – trust on the shoulders of love. But it is a critical element; trust and love go together. From birth on, we love our children with all we have and then, simply put, we trust the love. To all parents, it is important to say: Believe in yourselves; trust your best instincts. And remember: when we love children with big love, and then trust the love, they won't want to disappoint us. They won't want to let us down; and they will want to do everything they can to make us proud of them. In the big picture of our lives, what this means is – not only we can trust the love, but we can also trust the mystery of life. While we can never fully understand the mystery, we can trust it. We can also grow to trust it in ourselves and in our children. When we progress to where we can embrace life with this depth of trust, our lives are suddenly more stress free. Why? Because we are not forever trying to control every last detail of our lives. Trying to control everything is hard work; it's a lose-lose situation doomed to failure. But then when we wake up one day and choose to give ourselves to the spirit in trust, good things begin to happen. A mature trust takes us to a new level of living to where we grow to trust ourselves and our children. And suddenly an enormous burden is taken from our shoulders.
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THE MIAMI LAKER
Pace High’s grandparents’ mass showcases importance of families By Maya Lora Special to The Miami Laker Monsignor Edward Pace High School hosted a grandparents' mass and breakfast to give students a wonderful opportunity to spend the morning with some of the most vital people in their lives. The mood in the air on August 10 was easily identified as heartwarming as the families sat, prayed, and ate together. The Pace Chapel was the best place imaginable to hold this event as it unites different generations since Pace is, in itself, one giant family. Pace has a reputation for being family-orientated, and one can feel the love this school gives off the second a student walks through the white gates; this powerful feeling can be found on every corner, up every staircase, and in every single classroom. The amazing family that Pace has become over its remarkable 52 years is wellearned and reigns true in every aspect of school life. The Ulmo family is a living testament to this reputation – each member of this family is bonded to Pace by a very special tradition. How do I know that? I happen to be a part of this family. I'm the first of the second generation to be attending the school that my family has loved since my own mother, Vanessa, attended. My grandparents, Vernon and Alicia Ulmo, have five children, and each one of them walked the Pace halls – Vanessa (class of 1994), Adrian (1997), Andrew (2004), Viviana (2007), and the baby of this generation, Amaryllis (2010). Pace filled each one of them with joy and made their high school experience something they will never forget; it gave them friends and memories to last a lifetime. My mother transferred to Pace her sophomore year, and the move created a tradition that still carries on today and I hope will carry on to my own children many years from now - spending their own high school years within the gates of the beautiful and unforgettable Pace campus. Why do families like mine keep making their way back to Pace after so many years? Is it the magnificent education with top-notch honors programs and teachers who take an interest in learning every student's name, background, and story? Is it the tons of clubs and activities available to each student so that nobody is left without something enjoyable to do? Is it the family atmosphere Pace has become famous for? The answer is simple: It is every single one of those things. Brilliant education and opportunities, rich and varied extracurricular activities, and a family atmosphere are why so many families find themselves attending Pace generation after generation.
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
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305-621-4690 THE ULMO FAMILY and Pace alumni (from left) Adrian, Class of ’97, Viviana, Class of ’07, Andrew, Class of ’04, Amy, Class of ’10 and Vanessa, Class of ‘94, intend to continue their family tradition of attending Monsignor Edward Pace High School. The family aura of Pace makes in their graduation caps. Just like the lovely grandpareveryone feel comfortable at school; everyone knows everyone ents' mass and breakfast, there are else, the teachers love their stu- many events to make every family dents, and it's easy to find your who is a part of Pace's community place in the school and the world. feel right at home. Every single Nobody wants to go to a school one of my family members where they are a number on a list, regards Pace as one of the most sitting in a desk at the corner of a amazing things they ever experiroom; everyone wants to go to a enced, and even though I'm only in school where the teacher knows my sophomore year, I definitely exactly who they are and where understand what they're talking they can make friends in a place about. "What I remember most fondly that they adore. It is so rewarding to walk down is what I call a sense of family; it the hallways and have teachers really is personal for me. The legaand staff ask how my family is. cy that the school has left in my There are so many teachers and life and in the life of my family faculty members who remember could not have been realized at students they had years ago and any other high school," said are curious about who they have Vanessa Lora, proud Pace alumni. become long after they've walked
S. Florida Youth Symphony hosts musical ‘Petting Zoo’
PAGE 29
REASONABLE TREE SERVICE AND LANDSCAPING, INC. • Trimming • Shaping • Removals • Mulch & Hedges • Rock & Plastic
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VERY REASONABLE PRICES. Free estimates/licensed-insured. 50 ft. Bucket Truck, Chipper Dump Truck, Stump Grinder & Bobcat Loader OVER
30 YEARS IN MIAMI LAKES JOHN E. BUZZELLA
305-621-4690
COMPUTER REPAIRS
get RESULTS! the
305-817-4015
miami laker
Best Prices!
• Residential/Commercial • All Plumbing Repairs • Drain & Sewer Cleaning & Repair • Camera/Video Leak Detection
Emergency Plumbing & Drain Service Call Us For FREE ESTIMATE
786-281-6355 State Licensed and Insured
Over 15 Years Experience
Certified (Computer Technician) 1. Is your computer giving you errors? 2. Has your computer “slowed” down/bogged down in speed while processing? 3. Do you need to learn anything about computing? 4. Problems with shutdown or Startup? 5. Want to set up wireless network or just upgrade? I can get rid of computer errors-speed it back up to faster than it was at brand new!
ANYTHING you need with a PC.
FREE ESTIMATE
Jeffrey Donner
(305) 822-9081
ANCHOR ROOFING • Tile Roofs • Flat Roofs • Metal Roofs Call us for an estimate!
305-691-7707 ccc 1326710
Currently hiring for: • Room Attendant (Shula’s Hotel) • Fitness Sales Manager (Athletic Club) • Pilates Instructor (Athletic Club) • Fitness Instructors (On Call, Athletic Club) • Basketball Referee (On Call, Athletic Club) • Leasing Agent (Graham Residential) Responsible for assisting customers with leasing process, resident services, and any additional duties as requested. Previous sales experience in any field a must. (Part Time including Saturdays.)
SOUTH FLORIDA GIRL SCOUTS were treated to an “Instrument Petting Zoo” during their recent rally at Miami Lakes United Methodist Church. The event was presented by the South Florida Youth Symphony. Scouts were able to hold and experience musical instruments for the first time in their lives, and re-experience them from former years as well. For more information, call the SFYS at 305-238-2729.
For a full description of responsibilities or to apply online, visit us at www.donshulahotel.com, www.miamilakes.com, or www.grahamresidential.com
EEOE/DFWP
PAGE 30
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ROY L. TAYLOR PAINTING ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Quality Professional Work Interior & Exterior Pressure Cleaning Roof Painting Carpentry Chattahoochee Sealing Driveway Sealing
R
E A L
5881-5901 NW 151 Street 14505 Commerce Way 6001 NW 153 Street 15291-15327 NW 60 Avenue
Serving Miami Lakes And The
ROSA NELL HAMMER
Broker/Associate
ALLAN PELAEZ Broker/Associate
Surrounding Areas For Over 50 Years!
(305) 898-9315
(786) 301-9520
MIAMI LAKES
MIAMI LAKES
Brokers Welcome!
CC#14459
We Will Create A Lease Deal To Fit Your Budget
305-827-8373 #104
What if your realtor is also your neighbor?
Niurka Mejias, Realtor Short Sale Specialist/REO Certified GRG, Real Estate Company 14100 NW Palmetto Frontage Road, #101 Miami Lakes, FL 33016
786-506-0602 Cell Email: nmejias2000@hotmail.com
Ask Your Neighbor! I am a residential and commercial Realtor.
THE MIAMI LAKER CLASSIFIED ADS PERSONAL CLASSIFIED RATES: $5.00 per line, 3 line minimum ($15.00) Bold headlines and boxes count as two lines. Personal classifieds must be paid in advance. No phone orders, please! Phone
Street City
L A S S I F I E D
Your Hometown Realtors
Suites from 200-8,000 sq. ft. From $13.00 - $20.00 per sq. ft. Full Service 14411 Commerce Way
C
S T A T E
Electricity, Janitorial, Maintenance Included!
Licensed - Insured
Name
E
OWNER WILL BEAT ANY DEAL IN THE LAKES!
FREE Estimates No Job Is Too Small!
(305) 772-3316 (954) 435-2697
THE MIAMI LAKER
Zip Code
Please run my ad for
issue(s)
Payment enclosed (Amount) $ Category: Total characters in one line total 24. Letters, all spaces, and punctuations (periods, commas, etc.) count as one character. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY
14341 Glencairn Rd. - REDUCED $639,000
16101 E. Troon Cr. - $649,000
Great home for entertaining and for a large family. Custom built 4/3 single story home on Lake Elizabeth. Marble entrance, stamped concrete circular driveway. Huge family room. two A/C's, 2 car garage, wood and bamboo floors. Tree lined gated community west of the Palmetto.
Great home in Loch Lomond. 4/3 plus den/cigar room, large family room with skyight & built-in entertaining center. Updated kitchen with center island & top-of-the-line Viking appliances. Roof is only 3-years old. Refinished salt water swimming pool with spa & Aqualink smart system. Never used outdoor kitchen. New electrical system and A/C.
PALM SPRINGS ESTATES DING PEN
PALM SPRINGS NORTH
D SOL
8817 NW 175 Street - $379,000
7820 NW 185 Street - $365,000
Great home in a quiet neighborhood near Miami Lakes. This 4/2.5 priced to sell gem has great curb appeal. Circular driveway and nice landscaping. Inside property features a spacious living area with vaulted ceilings and high hats, formal dining room and family room. Master bedroom has 2 walk-in closets. NEW energy efficient A/C. You will also love the private and tropical backyard. Wood fence all around, nice kidney shape pool, palm trees, covered patio & interlocking pavers. Hurry this house won’t last. NO HOA
Best priced lake front property in PSN. 2/2 plus office which can be turned into one additional bedroom and bath. Too many extras to list, boater’s paradise. Property has a sandy beach, wood deck and boat ramp. Huge backyard with plenty of room for pool. Interior features include: Remodeled & spacious kitchen with maple wood cabinets, huge master bedroom with jacuzzi, dual sinks & separate shower. Crown molding, tiled throughout, family room & high impact windows. great home for entertaining. Breathtaking views.
9124 Collins Ave., #204 - $340,000 Fully furnished unit in a very small, cozy and private building in Surfside. 2/2 unit, amenities include pool and party room. Steps away from the beach. Near Publix and Bal Harbor Shops.
Miami Lakes Realty & Welcome Center • In The Lobby of Don Shula’s Hotel
6850 Main Street Miami Lakes, FL 33014 • (305) 822-9800
Brand New Luxury Rentals in Miami Lakes
• 1, 2 and 3 Bedroom Apartments from $1,400 • 2 and 3 Bedroom Townhomes from $2,000 • Granite countertops, laminate wood flooring, stainless appliances, incredible closets, in-unit laundry • Townhomes have direct access garages • Gated entry, on-site fitness studio, pool, half basketball court, bark park and 1.5 acre lake • Schools: Bob Graham Education Center (K-8), and Barbara Goleman Senior High School
The Residences at Lakehouse (305) 821-1138
MAIL TO THE MIAMI LAKER 15450 NEW BARN ROAD, SUITE 103 MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA 33014
SURFSIDE
Visit our website at www.grahamresidential.com 8340 Commerce Way, Miami Lakes, Florida Call for information on Move-In Specials!
THE MIAMI LAKER
“Professional Service, Educational Guidance & A Proven Track Record.” Arturo Rodriguez, P.A. 305-205-9785 Broker-Associate
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
PAGE 31
R E A L E S TAT E CLASSIFIED
Maria Victoria Zarate 305-308-9482 Realtor-Associate
Residential Real Estate “Owned and operated by NRT, LLC”
• Over 31 years of Real Estate Experience • Ranked Miami Lakes Top Producers 2001-2012 • The Only Coldwell Banker agents in Miami Lakes ranked among the Top 100 Professionals in Florida and Top 1% nationwide.
LUXURY OFFICE FOR RENT
6500 Cow Pen Road, Suite 302, Miami Lakes Space available includes Executive Office and work area with three stations. Shared space includes reception, conference room, kitchenette, and copy room. Negotiable rent based on space required.
Nobody In The World Sells More Real Estate Than RE/MAX For all your real estate needs, contact your local real estate firm, with over 15-plus years in the business.
In The Heart of Miami 3095 N.W. 7 Street. Freestanding medical building with 14 parking spaces. $999,900. Jose Armada Jr., 305-525-1207
The Moors 6320 N.W. 174 Terrace. Fannie Mae Homepath eligible. 3 bedroom, 2 bath. $193,000. Vicky Bosch, 786-302-6988
7900 N.W. 179 Street, Miami 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2,350 sq. ft. living area. New kitchen. Pool/Hot Tub/Sauna. Zoe Gonzalez, 305-335-4800
Miami Lakes, 6343 Gage Place. Beautiful 3 bedroom/2 bath newer home. Fannie Mae approved for Homepath. $315,000. Shelley McKenzie, 786-260-5316
Sunset Pines in Miami, 6921 S.W. 83 Place. Cute 3 bedroom/1 bath in desirable area of Miami. $224,900. Yraima Morales, 305-803-4453
Hialeah, 7730 West 12 Avenue. Fannie Mae Homepath renovation approved. 5 bedroom/3.5 bath house. $268,500. Jackie Peguero, 786-267-0717
Call Javier Vazquez for details at 305-525-2510
Coming soon Miami Lakes, 9041 N.W. 162 Terrace. Great 4 bedroom/2 bath, 2-car garage, near Royal Oaks Park. Ruben Perez, 305-970-0155
Claremont-Miramar 15100 S.W. 51 Street. Great 3 bedroom/2.5 bath, 2-car garage house. $319,900. Raquel Platt, 954-243-9597
The Hemisphere Ocean front condo. large 1 bedroom/1/5 bath, fully furnished. Beautiful ocean view. Minimum rental length-6 months. Eddie Rodriguez, Broker-Owner. 786-529-7444
Tuscan Lake Villas Foreclosure Two master bedrooms, yard, 3% down payment. Mercy Sierra, 305-608-0185
Residential lot on S.W. 135 Avenue; Commercial lot in Miami Lakes; 30 acres in Redlands, others available. Juan Sastre, 305-333-7320. Eddie Rodriguez, Broker/Owner RE/MAX Unique Realty Lake Katherine Shopping Center 6167 Miami Lakes Dr. East, Miami Lakes, FL 33014
305.822.7444
Website: www.wesellfloridanow.com
RE/MAX Realty 1 4100 NE 2nd Avenue, Suite 310 Miami, FL 33137
305.822.8216 *Copyright© 2013 RE/MAX, LLC. All rights reserved.
PAGE 32
SEPTEMBER 20, 2013
THE MIAMI LAKER
CHEVROLET
SEVEN DEALERS IN ONE LOCATION! Mike Lowell & Miami Lakes Automall GM Fred Senra Invite You To Join The Team And Experience The Hometown Difference!
INTRODUCING OUR NEW
ZIPP LUBE SERVICE
17.95
$
• OIL & FILTER CHANGE • TIRE ROTATION • SAFTEY INSPECTION Excludes synthetic oil and diesel engines. Some makes and models may be slightly more. Limited to 5 quarts of standard oil. Expires 9/30/13
300 Hometown
$
Discount! “Mr. Alex Oharriz and Mr. Camacho were very professional. We will highly recommend Miami Lakes Auto Mall to all of our family and friends.” – Baralt family.
FOR MIAMI LAKES RESIDENTS Discount off any new or used car purchase from Miami Lakes Automall after price negotiation. Must provide proof of residence in Miami Lakes. Must present ad. Limit one per purchase. See dealer for complete details.
Visit Us Online: MiamiLakesAutomall.com Like Us:
facebook.com/MiamiLakesAutomall
th 1 6600 NW 57 Ave SOUTH SIDE OF THE PALMETTO EXPRESSWAY (SR 826) EXIT 826 AT NW 57TH AVE (RED ROAD)
1-866-782-8208