Miami Laker 2013 September 6 by MiamiLaker

Five candidates qualified for vacant mayoral seat; three candidates qualified for Council Seat 4 See story and photos on Pages 10, 11 and 12

The original northwest Miami-Dade community newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & surrounding areas Vol. 39 No 17

305-817-4078

MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

Miami Lakes sets Special Election Oct. 1 with early voting Sept. 28..See Page 4

10-year-old ‘Betsy Moo’ gets Council workshop discusses budget new look in garden setting prior to two September public hearings

“BETSY MOO,” one of the first “We Love Cow” sculptures in Miami Lakes, received a make-over with an updated garden setting at the Miami Lakes Library thanks to members of the Miami Lakes Garden Club. (See story on Page 5.)

Miami Lakes holds Back-toSchool Book Bag Giveaway

TOWN OFFICIALS including Mayor Ceasar Mestre, Vice Mayor Manny Cid and Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez welcomed the start of the new school year with a Back-to-School Book Bag Giveaway on August 17 at Miami Lakes Government Center. Over 100 children received new back packs filled with school supplies donated by Boy Scout Troop 49. The book bags were sponsored by the 100 Best Communities for Young People grant. The event featured information on the free community programs offered through the Community and Leisure Services Department, Just Run, and the Boy Scouts.

A Look Inside:

Miami Laker staff report In a prelude to the town’s budget hearings, Miami Lakes has scheduled a budget workshop for 6 p.m., Thursday, September 5, at Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street. Town Manager Alex Rey, the mayor and councilmembers will discuss and suggest changes to the proposed $15.3 million spending plan for the 2013-2014 fiscal year to prepare for the two budget hearings, set for Thursday, September 12, and Tuesday, September 24, at 5:30 p.m. In July , lawmakers tentatively kept the existing 2.3518 rate for property taxes for the third consecutive year, which is $2.3518 per $1,000 of assessed property value. The rate is projected to generate about $5.6 in property tax revenue for the proposed budget. During the two budget hearings, councilmembers can reduce the rate but can’t increase it. Rey made some significant

budget changes from his proposed budget that was presented to the council in July. For electrical franchise fees, the revenue derived from FPL that was received in August was $1.5 million, or $125,000 lower than the budgeted amount, offset by the higher than budget receipts for advalorem delinquent account payments from $40,000 to $210,000, an increase of $170,000. As of result, the town also lowered the expected receipts for next year, however, Rey increased Miami Lakes estimated collections for ad-valorem delinquent accounts to $125,000. Miami Lakes will have to spend an estimated $52,000 for the October 1 special election to pick a new mayor and councilmember. Rey has suggested reducing the costs for branding and strategic planning from $45,000 to $30,000 and postpone funding for some initiatives until the 2014-2015 fiscal year to offset the election costs.

For merit and cost of living increases, Rey has recommended that $50,000 to be carried over for next year be allocated for salary increases for town staff which have not received a raise in four years. In addition, Miami Lakes has budgeted $900,000 for field renovations as part of the master plan for Miami Lakes Optimist Park, which includes a transfer from the general fund in 2015-16 and 201617. For town wide beautification initiatives, the proposed budget includes about $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 a public works storage yard, the proposed spending plan

(Please see Page 2)

M.L. Middle School’s Project Citizen scores more state and national honors

MIAMI LAKES MIDDLE SCHOOL’S Project Citizen state and national champions include students (from left) Felix Garcia, Aileen Martinez, Rebecca Vega, Juliette Camejo, Armanda Moreno and Derlis Leyva. (See story on Page 5.)

n Town of Miami Lakes adds new website and social media pages........................................6

n News and notes of interest from the Town of Miami Lakes. See Pages...................... 8 and 9

n Despite first loss, HML’s football coach Kenon Hawhorne is optimistic for the season.....18

n Main Street Players present The Marvelous Wonderettes starting September 27..............6

n M. Lakes Chamber and Bar Association schedule two candidate forums............................11

n Barbara Goleman names 2006 alumnus Ariel Criberio as new head football coach..........19

n Miami Lakes Educational Center receives donation of backpacks and supplies........22

n Community Calendar, 15, School, sports and church news, 18-27; Classified ads.........28-31

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SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

Manager’s budget maintains services; emphasis on town wide beautification (Continued from Page 1) includes the funding for a site for storage, pending the transfer of the property from FDOT at N.W. 154 Street and 92 Avenue ($308,000). For school crossing guards, the town’s police budget includes funding in the amount of $98,000 for the school crossing 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. For the fund balance, the proposed spending plan doesn’t include any transfer for operating or capital expenses. It will maintain the available unprogrammed fund balance at about $4 million. Regarding a carry over from the current fiscal year of $192,000, which is less than one percent of the town’s budget, and given that

Miami Lakes still needs to close the current fiscal year, Rey does not recommend reprogramming the carry-over funds at this point. The town has a beginning fund balance of $3.9 million, in which 15 percent ($2.2 million) is required to remain in reserve; and an additional $500,000 is in reserve for possible hurricane related disallowance for the next fiscal year. The preliminary general fund budget builds on the vision for the town’s future while remaining committed to providing core municipal government functions. The main emphasis of the new proposed budget will be to invest in beautifying the town, consistent with the vision developed during the branding effort. The new spending plan funds the construction of an additional three entrance features, and sets

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aside funding to begin the implementation of the beautification master plan initiatives. During the current budget cycle, Miami Lakes accomplished most of its major goals, including funding for renovating Mary Collins Community Center, a new youth center and new clubhouse for Miami Lakes Optimist Club, drainage and resurfacing improvements in Downtown near Main Street and Lake Patricia, transportation improvements with the start of construction for four lanes on N.W. 154 Street, a side walk replacement program, the acquisition of two new buses, completed the new Government Center building developed a brand for the town, and the town is in the final stages of completing a town-wide beautification plan. The police budget is estimated at $6.8 million for the next fiscal year. The largest increase in 20132014 expenses are related to the police budget as a result of increased insurance expenses and retirement contributions amounting to $325,400 more in the next fiscal year.

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On Monday, August 19, the Miami Lakes Bridge club participated in an American Bridge Club League (ABCL) District 9 Silver Point duplicate bridge game. The North/South team came in the number one position with players Debra Fream and Pat Bloomberg with a 60 percent game. The East/West team made up of Betty Battles and Eugenia Weaver came in first with 59 percent game. Also earning points were Helen Schor and Rosalyn Lipson who tied with Donald Russell and Dorothy Sheffman for second place for the North/South team, and Carol Seiderman and Ulla Woolhiser who came in second for the East/West team. The Miami Lakes Bridge club congratulated the winners for their success. The Miami Lakes Bridge club meets every Monday at 11:45 a.m. at the Mary Collins Community Center located at 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue. advertising

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THE MIAMI LAKER

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

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SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

Council approves special election set for October 1 By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff The Town of Miami Lakes has scheduled a special election to select a new mayor following the arrest of Michael Pizzi on a charge of public corruption last month as part of an FBI sting. At a special meeting in August, acting Mayor Ceasar Mestre and councilmembers unanimously

voted for the October 1 special election, which was the only date Miami-Dade Elections Department offered that wouldn’t violate the town’s charter. According to the charter document which created the 6.5 squaremile town, if an elected official is removed from office with 6 months or more remaining on his/her term, a special election

must be held within 90 days. Had the election been conducted during November’s Gubernatorial race, Miami Lakes would have violated its own charter by two days. Qualifying period for the special election started on Monday, August 26 and concluded on Friday, August 30. Any sitting councilmember who plans to run for mayor had to resign their post 10 days before the qualifying period started, which is effective the date of the special election. Councilmember Nelson Hernandez resigned last month to run for the mayoral seat and three candidates – Frank Mingo, Lorenzo Cobiella and Star Rodriguez are seeking his vacant seat. According to Town Manager Alex Rey, the town’s stand alone election will cost about $52,000, in addition to $3,200 for the one day

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of early voting on September 28. He said the town will pay for the election-related costs in next fiscal year’s budget. Also during the special meeting, lawmakers rescinded a contract with Citrin Financial for health insurance and awarded the agreement to A and A Insurance Incorporated. Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez suggested the move because he learned representatives

of the latter company weren’t allowed to speak when the original contract was granted during a regular town council meeting. It was believed suspended Mayor Michael Pizzi, who was arrested on public corruption charges last month, pre-selected Citrin before the vote occurred and did not give A and A an opportunity to address lawmakers on the type of insurance service it can offer Miami Lakes.

Lakes Orthodontics officially opens Park Centre location

LAKES ORTHODONTICS held a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open its new Park Centre Shopping Center location in August. Pictured (top, from left) Lakes Orthodontics manager, Alex Crespi and Miami Lakes Councilmember Manny Cid; (bottom, from left) Councilmember Nelson Hernandez, Lakes Orthodontics staff members Maggie Ramirez, Samantha Alonso, Dr. Carmen Briceño Crespi, Veronica Reed and Councilmember Tim Daubert.

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THE MIAMI LAKER

ML Middle School’s Project Citizen scores another state and national honor By Roselind Romero The Miami Laker staff Miami Lakes Middle School’s Department chair of Social Studies, Lisa DeYarza, has once again led her students to success at the District, State and National Project Citizen competition, hosted by the Center for Civic Education. This is the sixth consecutive state championship the Miami Lakes Middle students have won. The school continued forward after state competitions and was honored with a Superior Achievement at the national level. The purpose of Project Citizen is to engage students in the legislative process by creating and defending public policy solutions to a problem identified in their community. It is a first-hand approach to competently pursue changes that would benefit the community and a lesson in monitoring and influencing matters of concern in the legislative process. Students then take part in simulated public hearings in which they present the results of their work. Their research begins as early as September and runs through the competitions in late Spring. Students learn to sift through policies and actively attempt to have government officials consider and adopt their solutions. “When the students get asked ‘how often do you call officials?’ they know the answer is ‘until the mailbox is full’,” said DeYarza with a smile.

Last year, DeYarza and the project team finished in first place for their project “Warning: Illegal Passing of School Buses.” This year the students tackled the misconduct faced in school hallways between classes. The project was titled “Civility in the Hallways.” The students conducted indepth research on solutions for the issues of misconduct, even that of the effect of music on emotion which led to one of the many facets of their solution – playing genre-specific music between class changes. The state Project Citizen Showcase offers two categories of awards, one for best oral hearings, and the other for top portfolios. Miami Lakes Middle’s “Civility in the Hallways” project was named the top portfolio, and winner of the Best Middle School Oral Hearing out of 11 participating Florida schools. “I want them to be good citizens,” said DeYarza. “Let’s do something! Why gripe? Do it. Fix the problem. That is what Project Citizen encourages.” Dorcas Perez from the Town of Miami Lakes wrote the grants needed for Project Citizen costs, and had Lowe’s come on board for a donation to the students. The funds Perez raised, along with those of the students and help from the PTA were able to cover costs for competition expenses, the final competition being held in May in Washington, D.C. “In the words of John Donne,

‘no man is an island’ and I know that very well,” said DeYarza. “Beth Martinez has been instrumental in assisting our law program. Many thanks to The Graham Companies and what they stand for. School Board chair Perla Tabares Hantman and Superintendent Alberto Carvalho have both also been a huge help. “There is no way I can do this alone,” she said. “The community and most importantly the amazing parents who give their time and support to this program are essential. This is a good lesson in civics. You are never alone when completing tasks.” The students also placed first in Miami-Dade County for the Model UN competition at Miami Dade College. The words of poet William Butler Yeats, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire,” are painted above DeYarza’s classroom desk, a fitting quote for the creative thinking and practical application students learn throughout the school year. Miami Lakes Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez has invited DeYarza and her winning students to attend a Town Council meeting on September 10 for recognition of their efforts and successes.

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

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‘Betsy Moo’ the Library cow, gets a new garden setting thanks to M.L. Garden Club “Betsy Moo,” one of the first “We Love Cows” sculptures in Miami Lakes, is now residing in a beautiful new garden setting at the Miami Lakes Branch Library. Betsy’s updated ambiance is thanks to the community beautification efforts of the Miami Lakes Garden Club which wanted to celebrate her 10th anniversary with surroundings befitting her colorful paintings. “We Love Cows” was one of the original programs initiated by the town’s Cultural Affairs Committee under the first chairman Bob Spano. Betsy was donated to the town by former MiamiDade County Commissioner Natacha Seijas and the colorful artwork was the creativity of artist Alberto Meza, an instructor in Humanities at Miami Dade College. During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Garden Club president Dottie Wix said, “Our membership is made up of amateur gardeners who aspire to making our world more beautiful and productive. We involve ourselves in all aspects of the ‘art of gardening’ by participating in flower shows, plant exchanges, and tours of gardens and parks. “One of our major goals is to

‘encourage civic beauty’ by supporting continuing improvements and beautification around Miami Lakes. “Betsy offered us the perfect opportunity to demonstrate our involvement with the town and our pursuit of beautification. Every time I had driven by the library, I couldn’t help but notice how Betsy looked so alone and unadorned. That is no longer true. Thanks to the assistance of Nancy and Jordan of Landscape Lovers, Betsy has been beautified in her luscious new surroundings.”

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Girl Scout Membership Rally set for Sept. 7 in Miami Lakes The Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida will hold its North MiamiDade Rally and 5th annual Membership Rally and Family Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 7, at Miami Lakes United Methodist Church,

14800 N.W. 67 Avenue. The event is free and the public is welcome. There will be booths, crafts, games, Girl Scout memorabilia, camping skill training and more, along with membership for new troops.

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SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

Town adds new website and social media pages The Town of Miami Lakes has a new website with features that town officials say make it more user-friendly. The previous website had been in place for almost 10 years, and it was time for a redesign. “It is important to have different avenues of communications to reach out to our residents, businesses, and visitors,” said Mayor

Ceasar Mestre. The new website – www. miamilakes-fl.gov – makes finding information much easier and makes more information available directly on the home page through Quick Links. There is also a Report a Problem section, where residents can report issues to the town, such as potholes that need fixing, violations of the town code, or

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stormwater problems. Town Council meetings now stream live on the town’s website so residents can watch council meetings as they happen on their computers, tablets, or smart phones from anywhere in the world. “Since my first day on the council, I have been committed to creating an unprecedented level of transparency in our government,” said Vice Mayor Manny Cid. “The first step was broadcasting our council meetings live on the town’s website. Transparency and openness shall ultimately promote accountability and straighten the

relationship between our residents and the Town Council,” he said. The town has also launched new social media pages on Twitter and Facebook. The town’s official Twitter page is www.twitter/com/ miamilakesnews (with a Twitter handle of @miamilakesnews), while the official Facebook page is www.facebook.com/townofmiamilakes. “I made a commitment to improve communications with our residents and to harness technology to achieve that end,” said Councilmember Tony Lama. “We have a council that is keenly aware of the benefits of social media and

they all supported the idea. We are all very proud of the progress we have made.” The social media pages will be used to communicate information, updates, news, and events with residents, businesses, visitors and the general public. “We have a lot of great programs and opportunities happening in the town,” said Mestre. “We are constantly looking for ways to make sure that citizens are getting information about these events in ways that are convenient for them.”

Main Street Players present The Marvelous Wonderettes starting Sept. 27

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Coming to the Main Street Playhouse starting September 27, a must-take musical trip down memory lane, with Roger Bean’s The Marvelous Wonderettes, as 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. Opening September 27, and running through October 13, 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 Z. Heller. Performances are Friday 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. Tickets are $25 for adults, $18 for seniors/students. The Main Street Playhouse is located at 6766 Main Street, across from Johnny Rockets. Additional information and tickets can be found at www.mainstreetplayers.com, or at 305-558-3737.

THE MIAMI LAKER

Re/Max Unique adds Jose Armada Jr. Re/Max Unique Realty of Miami Lakes broker-owner Eddie Rodriguez announced the addition of Jose Armada Jr. to the local staff. Armada is a longtime resident of Miami Lakes and specializes in short sales, investment properties,

luxury homes, vacation homes and rentals in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Re/Max Unique Realty is located at 6167 Miami Lakes Drive East in the Lake Katharine Shopping Center. For more information, call 305-822-7444.

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tion. In July and August, many countywide residents and firefighters protested the county’s decision outside the libraries and fire stations. Gimenez and his staff took note and revised the $4 billion spending plan for 2013-2014. Miami-Dade Commissioner Esteban Bovo Jr., presented a proposal to help mitigate library services impacts to affected areas in his District 13. After the Miami-Dade School Board unanimously approved directing Superintendent Alberto Carvalho to partner with the county to identify school libraries and media centers the community may use in areas affected by proposed county library closures, Bovo urged Gimenez and his staff to work closely with Carvalho to identify the facilities in his district. Carvalho announced that five school libraries will be open to serve the public including Miami Lakes Educational Center on Mondays through Thursdays from 3:30 to 9:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 3:30 to 8 p.m. The public will have access to on-site books, periodicals, the internet and other educational resources.

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Grove, Concord, Country Walk, Edison, Fairlawn, Hialeah Gardens, Lakes of the Meadows, Lemon City, North Central, OpaLocka, South Shore, Sunset, Tamiami, Verrick Park and West Flagler. The Miami Lakes Library Branch, 6699 Windmill Gate Road, which was not scheduled to close, will have the same hours of operation from Monday through Saturday. However, the county was forced to lay off 169 library staff members to shun a 5.37 percent property tax increase, with the Main Library feeling the brunt of the budget crunch with 23 of 39 employees losing their jobs. Gimenez was under a lot of pressure to not raise property taxes but his amended proposed budget to cut library and fire rescue services was also greeted by opposi-

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60 MINUTES CLEANERS

New hours for PSN North Library; Miami Lakes branch stays the same By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Miami-Dade County Mayor Gimenez found a solution to keep open the libraries that were originally placed on the chopping for the next fiscal year, but only for fewer hours and limited days throughout the week. And library employees will still be laid off for the county to hold the line on property taxes. Palm Springs North Library was initially scheduled for closure, but under Gimenez’s proposal, the facility at 17601 N.W. 78 Avenue will be open for 16 hours a week instead of 40, on Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wednesday and Thursday, from 2 to 6 p.m. The library will be closed Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Other libraries that will share the same schedule are Coconut

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SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

News and Notes from the Town of Miami Lakes Annual Health & Wellness Fair set for Saturday, Sept. 21 at Royal Oaks Com. Center 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.

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.

Councilmember Rodriguez welcomes new BGEC principal

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

Town of Miami Lakes Notice of Public Hearing NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Council will hold a public hearing on Thursday, September 12, 2013, at 5:30 p.m. at Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, FL 33014, to consider the following ordinances on first 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. 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. 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. 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

COUNCILMEMBER NELSON RODRIGUEZ visited Bob Graham Education Center on August 28 to meet with new principal Yecenia Martinez-Lopez. During the morning announcements, he welcomed Martinez-Lopez to Miami Lakes and invited faculty, staff and students to attend the next council meeting. “Strong schools make strong communities and I would like to cultivate an effective and open relationship with the leadership of all schools within our community,” Rodriguez said.

Seniors basketball tournament set for Saturday, September 28 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. Sponsorships are encouraged and those interested are asked to contact Special Events and Committees coordinator Clarisell De Cardenas at decardenasc@ miamilakes-fl.gov.

THE MIAMI LAKER

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

PAGE 9

Just Run Program registration scheduled Tuesday, Sept. 17 News and Notes of interest Miami Lakes’ Youth Activities gram leader Oscar Amuz at 305- program is open to elementary and Force announced registration 469-0895, or by downloading the middle school students, ages 5 from the Town of Miami Lakes Task will open on Tuesday, September application from the front page of through 14, and is free. The pro-

Miami Lakes promotes Lake Quality Awareness campaign At a ceremony on Lake Hilda beach, in the presence of dozens of residents, Mayor Ceasar Mestre proclaimed August as Lake Quality Awareness Month. “It is clear to me how our lakes contribute to the quality of life in our community,” Mestre said. “If we created a little more awareness with this proclamation, then our efforts here were well spent.” The Lake Quality Awareness Month initiative was brought forward by the Neighborhood Improvement Committee in an effort to educate the community on the importance of maintaining the lakes. Professor Leonard J. Scinto of Florida International University’s Department of Earth and Environment, recommends the following best management practices in order to maintain the lakes

in the best possible condition – maximize the use of native wetland plants, plant shade tolerant grass along the shore line, and minimize the use of nitrous and phosphorus rich fertilizers. “Following these best practices should be an on-going effort and we will continue to remind everyone of the importance of our lakes and that we all play a role in keeping our town and lakes beautiful and safe,” said Councilmember Tony Lama, chair of the Neighborhood Improvement Committee. A brochure has been developed with tips and information on the best management practices for lakes. The brochure is available for download at www.miamilakesfl.gov, or by calling 305-364-6100 to request a copy.

17, for this year’s Just Run® Miami Lakes Program. The registration will be from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Mary Collins Community Center, 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue. Registration packets are available in advance by calling pro-

the town’s website at www.miamilakes-fl.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

gram begins 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.

TOWN OF MIAMI LAKES NOTICE IS HEREWITH GIVEN that meetings of the Town Council of the Town of Miami Lakes, Florida, and its committees, have been scheduled for the following dates, times and locations:

Neighborhood Improvement Committee Tuesday, September 3, 7:00 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Youth Activities Task Force Wednesday, September 4, 7:00 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Veteran’s Committee Meeting Thursday, September 5, 5:30 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Town Council Budget Workshop Thursday, September 5, 6:00 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting Thursday, September 5, 7:00 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Town Council Regular Meeting Tuesday, September 10, 6:30 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, FL Elderly Affairs Committee Meeting Wednesday, September 11, 8:30 AM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Town Council First Budget Meeting Thursday, September 12, 5:30 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

MAYOR CEASAR MESTRE is joined by Vice Mayor Manny Cid (left) and Councilmember Tony Lama (right) during the ceremony proclaiming August as Lake Quality Awareness Month in Miami Lakes.

Cong. Diaz-Balart visits Town Hall

Education Advisory Board Thursday, September 19, 6:00 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Town Council Second Budget Meeting Tuesday, September 24, 5:30 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Economic Development Committee Tuesday, September 24, 5:30 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla. Public Safety Committee Monday, September 30, 6:30 PM Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, FL In accordance with the provisions of F. S. Section 286.0105, should any person seek to appeal any decision made by the Council with respect to any matter considered at these meetings, such person will need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, persons needing special accommodation to participate in the proceedings should call Town Hall at (305) 364-6100, no later than (2) days prior to the proceeding for assistance. Please be advised that two or more Councilmembers may be in attendance at Committee meetings.

CONGRESSMAN MARIO DIAZ-BALART was presented with the Town of Miami Lakes Seal during his visit to Town Hall in August. Mayor Ceasar Mestre (left), Councilmember Tony Lama and Town Manager Alex Rey (on the right) met with Diaz-Balart and gave him a tour of the newly constructed Government Center.

This Notice dated August 30, 2013 at Miami Lakes, Fl. Majorie Tejeda-Castillo, Town Clerk

PAGE 10

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

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By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Eight candidates have qualified to run in the mayoral race and for Council Seat 4 during next month’s special election following the arrest of Michael Pizzi on public corruption charges, and another spot was left vacant after a sitting councilman stepped down to run for mayor. The mayoral candidates include Councilmember Nelson Hernandez, who resigned last month to seek the top position, Miami Lakes’ founding mayor Wayne Slaton, dentist Dr. David Bennett who ran twice for the Town Council, real estate broker Edwin Romero and high school teacher Luis Espinosa. The candidate who receives the most votes will be elected to serve out the rest of Pizzi’s term, which ends in 2016. Vying for Hernandez’s vacant seat are political novices attorney Lorenzo Cobiella; Frank Mingo, who’s employed by a supplychain management company; and realtor associate Star Rodriguez. With the abrupt removal of Pizzi, who was suspended by Florida Governor Rick Scott on August 6, all the candidates have a short time to campaign for the October 1 special election. Nelson Hernandez, a Miami native, was elected to the council in 2010 and created his 5-Point Plan to help address significant town-wide issues such as Fiscal Responsibility, Public Safety, Infrastructure, Accessibility and Beautification. He said he gave it much thought and talked with his family and friends before he finally decided to run for mayor. “As mayor I will keep working with my colleagues on the Council

to carry out the 5-Point Plan I presented since being elected in 2010,” he said. “Now I am ready to serve as your next mayor of Miami Lakes. Together we’ll put our town back on the right track.” If elected, Hernandez wants to ensure property taxes remain low, provide additional tax relief to residents by tapping into outside sources of revenue, continue to combat crime and keep the crime rate at all-time low, and work diligently with the county to ensure the N.W. 87th Avenue Expansion Project is completed expeditiously. Wayne Slaton, 63, was the town’s founding mayor from 2001 to 2008 and lost to Pizzi in last year’s election following a fouryear hiatus. During Miami Lakes’ ordeal, Slaton said he can offer a better solution with both unmatched experience and proven leadership that is honest, trustworthy and “town” focused. Slaton, a Miami native, said he plans to restore the 5-year strategic plan to get Miami Lakes back on track if he’s elected. As mayor, he helped develop the town’s first two strategic plans that included core values, goals, operating principles, vision and mission statements based on feedback from residents on what Miami Lakes should resemble in the next 5 to 10 years. Slaton said the plans to keep elected officials, town staff and residents on the same page during his two terms as mayor. “This is a great town, but our standards have been slipping,” he said. “Things are not getting done, done right, or in a timely manner,” he said. “Special interests have too much influence and the citizens too little. Each of us should have

(Please see Page 11)

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THE MIAMI LAKER

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

PAGE 11

...to fill vacant mayoral position (Continued from Page 10) the end goal, but how we get there is the difference. We have a great future and I will get us back on the right track because it’s my mission to bring out the very best in Miami Lakes.” David Bennett said he’s calling for transparency by possibly making public records available on the town’s website. The 55-year-old Chicago native

Miami Lakes Chamber and Bar Association schedule candidate forums this month The Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce is hosting a mayoral debate for the five candidates seeking to replace Michael Pizzi during the organization’s regular luncheon meeting on Wednesday, September 4. Pizzi was suspended from political office following his arrest on public corruption charges which prompted the October 1 special election. Candidates include Councilmember Nelson Hernandez, who resigned his post to run for mayor, founding Miami Lakes Mayor Wayne Slaton, local activist Dr. David Bennett, real estate broker Edwin Romero and educator Luis Espinosa will have an opportunity to present their political platforms during the luncheon at Shula’s Hotel. The September 4 luncheon was originally scheduled to hear Miami-Dade Property Appraiser Carlos Lopez-Cantera. He will be rescheduled to speak most likely at the November luncheon. The Chamber is hosting the mayoral debate as a service to the community with the express purpose of educating the town regarding the mayoral candidates. Networking starts at 11:30 a.m. with lunch at 12 noon. Bar Association hosts candidate’s forum The Miami Lakes Bar Association will host a mayoral and town council candidates forum from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, September 19, at Shula’s Hotel on Main Street. Each candidate will be asked to make brief statements for three minutes or less, answer prepared questions from a neutral moderator and answer spontaneous questions from audience members. The event is free and no reservations are required. The Miami Lakes Bar Association is a not-for-profit, non-partisan organization of members of the Florida Bar. The group does not endorse any political or judicial candidate. For more information on the event, call Ameil Padron-Fragetta at 305-557-6060 during business hours.

also 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. “I bring to our residents a deep desire to make our community the best place to live,” Bennett said. Bennett was a member of the Miami Lakes Ad Hoc Veterans Memorial Committee and Veterans Memorial Standing Committee. 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, a 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.” 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.

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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.”

(Please see Page 12)

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SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

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THE MIAMI LAKER

Three candidates file for vacant Seat 4 (Continued from Page 11) In a three-person race, candidates Cobiella, Mingo and Rodriguez are seeking to replace Hernandez and fill the remainder of his term, which expires next year. 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

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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 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. Frank Mingo, 53, said Miami Lakes flirting with the idea of annexing Palm Springs North essentially sealed his decision to run. “That was the straw that broke the camel’s back,” said Mingo, a supply chain manager for Oliva Cigar Corporation. Mingo said it would cost Miami Lakes a lot of money to bring the unincorporated community’s code up to par with the town’s living standards. He said he wants to protect Miami Lakes from any annexation movement, head the effort to cre-

ate a 30-acre public park, create transparency by placing all municipal contracts online and keep taxes low and be a steward of public funds. Mingo has been a resident in Miami Lakes since 1986 and knows the community “very” well. He served on the Miami Lakes Economic Development Committee, president of Silvercrest North Homeowners Association and he sponsored the town’s Veterans Day Parade. Star Rodriguez said the Town Council needs a woman back on the dais and her track record makes her the perfect candidate. She was a member of the Miami Lakes Education Advisory Committee, which helped the town’s schools dramatically improve their marks, and served on the PTA boards for Miami Lakes K-8 Center, Miami Lakes Education Center and Miami Lakes Middle School. She also was a board member for the Educational Excellence School Advisory Council (EESAC). The 48-year-old Hialeah native has been serving the education community since she moved to Miami Lakes in 1998. Now she wants to make a bigger impact on the town as a councilmember. “I can make a big difference on the Town Council because I know this community very well and I am not politically-connected,” said Rodriguez, a realtor associate with Coldwell Banker.

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THE MIAMI LAKER

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

PAGE 13

Words United IV recruits South Florida teen poets By Roselind Romero The Miami Laker staff Five renowned poets gathered once again at the Main Street Playhouse on August 25 for a spoken word performance, the fourth time they visited, thus the name "Words United IV." The performers plan to visit Miami Lakes again in February 2014. Main Street Players officials Dennis and Clara Lyzniak had only words of praise for the poets. The artists included Asia, Lizz

Straight, Bluz, G(eorge Yamazawa), and Bertrand "Da Younsta" Boyd II. Many of the poets have been named participants and champions of spoken word events such as HBO Def Poetry, BET's Lyric Cafe, LEAF Festival, World Poetry Slam, and the Southern Fried Poetry Slam. The poets hail from different states though all spoke the narrative of the struggles and triumphs faced in life done in a manner

WORDS UNITED IV poets sit with Ring the Bell Management owner, Mike Pavlov following two back-to-back spoken word performances at the Main Street Playhouse. Pictured (bottom, from left) Asia, Pavlov and Bluz; (top, from left) Bertrand Boyd II, George Yamazawa, and Lizz Straight. (Photo by Dennis Lyzniak)

Chaminade-Madonna College hosts Bunco Party on Saturday, September 14 Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory is hosting a Bunco Party in the high school’s cafeteria on Saturday, September 14. Food and beverages will be serve starting at 6 p.m. with Bunco beginning at 7 p.m. Entrance fee is $20 (pre-sale) and $25 at the door which includes the game, food and

refreshments. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. All funds raised will contribute to the success of the ChaminadeMadonna “Back to the 80’s” Gala on Saturday, October 19. For more information, or to RSVP. visit www.cmlionsden .org/bunco.

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which was engaging to watch and disarmingly vulnerable. Personal biographies and individual websites for the poets can be found at www.RingTheBell Management.com. The artists were brought together by agent Mike Pavlov, head of Ring the Bell Management, which is based in South Florida and coordinates regional and national showcases for artists to perform. Ring the Bell Management's roster has included national champions and Emmy-winning poets. Pavlov, a Miami Lakes native and FIU graduate, has worked with household names such as Adam Sandler, Jon Stewart, Carlos Mencia, and George Carlin. He is currently working on a project for South Florida high schools spawned from the work done on Louder than a Bomb, an award winning spoken word documentary featuring teenage poet powerhouses The Steinmenauts, Nova Venerable, Nate Marshall, and Adam Gottlieb. "I think it's going to be a massive event once it takes off," said Pavlov. Pavlov hopes to have 10 South Florida high schools participate for the 2014-2015 Louder than a Bomb project which will bring together teenage poets for spoken word performances. The project will continue to pave the way in

establishing South Florida as a hotbed of powerful and diverse poetry. Though still in the early stages, recruiting for the project is underway. Miami Lakes high schools are eligible to participate and are encouraged to contact Mike Pavlov at Ring the Bell Management for further information either by telephone at 305-

450-5221 or by e-mail at pavdogent@aol.com. More information on the Louder than a Bomb documentary can be found at www.louderthanabombfilm.com. hometown

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PAGE 14

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

In Memoriam:

Korean War veteran Jerry Schneider By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Jerry Schneider, a long time Miami Lakes resident who served his country in the military and was a member of a town committee to honor veterans, died after a long illness. He was 82. Schneider passed on August 11 at Veterans Affairs Hospital in

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Miami, according to his wife Jan Schneider. Jerry Schneider was born in Brooklyn, New York and in 1951 joined the U.S. Army working as a demolition expert. In fact, while on duty in the Korean War, his unit dropped behind enemy lines and soldiers were hit. Schneider was the only solider who survived out of his entire unit, his wife said. After he was honorably discharged from the Army, Schneider moved to Miami in 1955, where he met his first wife and they had several children. He later met Jan Schneider in 1972 and they got married in 1992 after they moved to Miami Lakes. After Miami Lakes incorporat-

ed in 2000, Schneider was appointed to serve on the Elderly Affairs Committee and Veteran Affairs Committee. His wife said he loved to participate in the annual Miami Lakes Veteran’s Day Parade. ‘He really looked forward each year to being in the parade,” said Jan Schneider. She said her husband was an affectionate person who people loved to call “daddy” and “grandpa.” “He was very well loved in the town,” she said. “Everybody was sad after he passed away.” Jerry Schneider is survived by his wife, one son, two daughters, several step children and a host of grandchildren.

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Rep. Eddy Gonzalez honored for his Home Rule support The Florida League of Cities honored Rep. Eddy Gonzalez (RHialeah Gardens) with a 2013 Defender of Home Rule Award at its 87th Annual Conference in Orlando. “I am honored to receive this award,” said Gonzalez. “This organization has supported me from the time I was a city councilman. I will continue to support the League, and the 401 cities it represents, in its efforts to protect home rule powers.” The prestigious award was presented to Gonzalez for his tireless efforts to advance the League’s legislative agenda and protect the home rule powers of Florida’s cities during the 2013 legislative session. Recipients of the Defender of Home Rule Award are legislators who consistently voted and advocated on behalf of the League and its members.

THE MIAMI LAKER

The Station Scene by Cristina Armand, Public Information Officer Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department

Concussion risks and tips in recreational activities As the school year ramps up, it is just not back to the books, but for some kids, it’s also back to sports. Many children get injured from playing sports. The most dangerous injury your child can sustain while playing a sport is a traumatic brain injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost half a million emergency department visits are made annually for children between the ages of 0-14 for traumatic brain injuries. These rates are higher for males than for females. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury and results in a temporary loss of brain function. It is caused by a bump or a blow to the head. When a person gets a head injury, the brain can move around inside the skull and this can lead to bruising of the brain, tearing of blood vessels, and injury to the nerves. These type of injuries need time and rest to heal properly. Most concussions are mild and a person can fully recover from it. It seems like over the last couple of years, we have heard about the rise in concussion rates in high school football players, but a child can get a concussion from any type of recreational activity. It can occur from a fall, car accident, bicycle accident, falling on roller skates, or fighting. It is very important to know the signs and symptoms of a concussion. Be aware of the following if your child receives any type of

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bump or blow to the head: • Appear to be stunned or dazed and feel dizzy or lightheaded. • Have trouble remembering what happened right before or after the injury • Feel nauseous or start to vomit. • Get a headache or feel pressure in their head. • Become sensitive to light or have blurred vision. • Start to say things that do not make sense or their speech becomes slurred. • Problems balancing or with coordination. • Feel overly tired. If you believe your child has a concussion, you should seek medical attention right away. Your doctor will be able to determine how serious the concussion is and will advise you of when your child is ready to resume normal activity, including sports. While your child is healing, they should not play. If a child returns to normal activity before

their doctor’s clearance and the brain is not fully healed, they risk the chance of having repeat concussions. A repeat concussion can be very serious and can cause permanent brain damage. If the child plays sports, advise the coach and make them aware of any past concussions your child has had. To protect your child and prevent a concussion, remember the following: • Tell your child to follow the coach’s rules for safety. • Teach your child to practice good sportsmanship at all times. • Have them wear the proper protective equipment. It should be in good condition and fit properly. • Wear a helmet. They cannot prevent a concussion, so teach your child to try to avoid hits to the head. If children are aware and know how to protect themselves, then recreational activities can be a delight for them as well as parents.

Miami Lakes Branch Library schedules children and adult events during September Miami Lakes Branch Library has the following programs available for the public during September: For Children: Family Game Day! – Come to the library and enjoy time with your family playing board games. For all ages. Meets at 3 p.m. on Saturdays, September 7 and 21. Reading Ready Toddler Storytime – Stories, songs and activities for toddlers and their caregivers. For ages 18 months to 3 years old. Registration required. Meets at 11 a.m. on Thursdays, September 5 and 19. Paws 2 Read - Certified therapy dogs listen as children read aloud and practice their reading skills. For all ages at 11 a.m. on Saturday September 14. Viva Florida 500! And Hispanic Heritage Month Storytime – Stories, songs, and activities for toddlers and their caregivers. Call the branch for more information. For ages 19 months to 3-years-old at 11 a.m. on Thursday, September 26. For Teens: Teen Club: Games and More - Teens ages 12-19 meet to play video games, watch anime, draw, or discuss books. Meets at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, September 3. Teen Club: Beware of the Book and More! - Fight the

power and join the staff for the banned/challenged book event followed by video games, anime, drawing or discussing books. For ages 12-19 at 6 p.m. . on Tuesday, September 10. For Adults: Hispanic Book Club – A book discussion club for readers of Spanish literature. Discussions are held in Spanish. Meets at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, September 4. Book Discussion Group – Monthly meetings to discuss books of interest. Contact the branch to find out the book’s title. Meets at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 17. Commissioner Esteban Bovo Jr. Community Outreach – A staff member of Commissioner Bovo’s office will visit the library to discuss District 13 issues, at 1 p.m. on Monday, September 9. Congressman Mario DiazBalart Community Outreach – A member of Congressman DiazBalart’s staff will visit the library to discuss federal issues or any problem a constituent may have with a federal agency. Outreach is available from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25. Miami Lakes Branch Library is located at 6699 Windmill Gate Road. For operating hours, registration and more information, call 305-822-6520.

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SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

PAGE 15

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

Town of Miami Lakes

Neighborhood Improvement Committee September 3 7:00 pm M.L. Govt. Center Youth Activities Task Force September 4 7:00 pm M.L. Govt. Center Veteran’s Committee September 5 5:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center Town Council Budget Workshop September 5 6:00 pm M.L. Govt. Center Cultural Affairs Com. September 5 7:00 pm M.L. Govt. Center Town Council Regular Meeting 6:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center September 10 Elderly Affairs Com. September 11 8:30 am M.L. Govt. Center Town Council First Budget Meeting September 12 5:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center Education Advisory Board September 19 6:00 pm M.L. Govt. Center Town Council Second Budget Meeting September 24 5:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center Economic Development Committee September 24 5:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center Public Safety Committee September 30 6:30 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 Knitting/Crocheting Tues./Thurs. 1:35 pm MCCC 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 4:30 pm ROCC Jazz 1 Tuesdays 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

Loch Lomond Lake Carol Lake Hilda Loch Ness Loch Lomond East Silver Crest South Lake Cynthia Cypress Villas Windmill Gate Loch Andrews Loch Isle Lake Glen Ellen Lake Katharine Villas Royal Oaks Serenity Point Regatta Pointe Gramercy Park Lake Martha Loch Lomond West Villa Vizcaya Lake Sandra The Anchorage

September 3 September 3 September 9 September 9 September 10 September 10 September 11 September 12 September 12 September 16 September 16 September 17 September 17 September 18 September 18 September 19 September 19 September 24 September 24 September 25 September 26 September 26

7:00 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 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

Miami Lakes Clubs, Professional & Volunteer Groups

M.L. Garden Club buncoSeptember 4 11:30 am MCCC M.L. Cham. Comm. September 4 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 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

Foreclosure assistance scheduled for Sept. 12 The Cuban American Bar Association ProBono Project, in collaboration with State Rep. Manny Diaz and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Esteban Bovo Jr., is offering free legal assistance with foreclosures and loan modifications, at 6 p.m. on Thursday, September 12, at Palm

Springs North Elementary School, 17615 N.W. 82 Avenue. CABA Pro Bono is committed to providing legal services to low and moderate income single-family occupant homeowners facing foreclosure. These types of services are expensive, however Diaz and

Bovo are sponsoring them for free to residents who are struggling and need help. The organization offers counsel and advice and court representation to homeowners. For more information, call 305646-0046.

We get letters:

Suspended mayor proclaims innocence; thanks supporters (Editor’s Note: The following unsolicited statement was provided to The Miami Laker by Michael Pizzi who was suspended as Miami Lakes Mayor in early August following his arrest by FBI agents on charges of public corruption.) I want to thank all of the Miami Lakes residents who have shown me a large outpouring of support and love during what has been a very difficult period for me and my family. On a positive note, this has shown me how caring and compassionate the people are in this town, and how many really good friends I have. I want all Miami Lakes residents to know that I am proud of all of our accomplishments in this great town and that I never, ever committed any crimes or did anything to betray their trust. I expect to be exonerated as soon as possible. Any action I ever took as Mayor was out of love for this City and to benefit our residents. At some point I supported an

opportunity to obtain assistance in creating jobs in Miami Lakes in a program that had zero costs to our tax payers. This was consistent with all of our economic development and job creation programs in our town. It was also better than situations where we paid for grant applications and got nothing. As I see 87th avenue getting ready to open and hospitals being built, I am so proud of how we have moved our town forward during my period as Mayor. I consider all of you part of my extended family. Finally, I have decided not to run in the October Special Election because I am already your Mayor. I have been duly elected by almost 70 percent of the vote. As soon as I am exonerated, I will be returning as your Mayor to continue all of the great projects that are now moving forward. Please keep me and my family in your prayers, as I pray for all of you every day. God Bless you and God Bless our great community.

Loch Lomond Homeowners Association continues its neighborhood improvement with new kid’s safety signs

Registration Deadline: Friday (9/6) by 11 a.m. Visit www.dadechristian.org to register!

LOCH LOMOND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION recently unveiled its newly installed “Please Drive Slowly...We Love Children” signs that are part of its neighborhood improvement plan. The signs are being installed at key locations throughout the neighborhood to remind motorists that “children are at play.” Pictured (from left) HOA member Alberto Paret, Town liaison Mirtha Mendez, young Giovanni Padron, member Armando Mendez, and HOA president Robert Meador. Other officers include vice president Wayne Rinehart, vice president Rick Levenson, secretary Javier Vazquez and treasurer Alex Varga.

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PAGE 18

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

Dade Christian on road to repeat state championship run By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff The last time Dade Christian’s football team was on the field, the players’ resilient performance merited a standing ovation from the flash-bulb popping crowd following the state championship game. The cheers reached a crescendo, as the team hoisted the trophy but the opposing team got the bigger plaudit and accolade. The Crusaders lost the championship game 28-10 after leading the first two quarters, but the team

was praised for reaching the biggest stage in high school football after it was devastated by injuries during the regular season and playoffs. In fact, most players were forced to play both sides of the ball to offset the depleted team. The road to the state championship game was a difficult journey for the Crusaders but they hope to travel down a less bumpier road during the upcoming season. In their season opener on August 30, Dade Christian defeated North Broward 21-7.

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Despite loss to Miami High, HML’s Kenon Lawhorne optimistic for season By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Hialeah Miami Lakes’ seasonopening loss to Miami High (1913) in overtime was a learning experience for a young Trojans team, as the players were searching for their identity on the football field. The arduous task for the sophomore-dominated team is to win more games this season, especially in a new and considerably competitive district after competing as

an independent school for the past three seasons. But the Trojans played under a similar circumstance under head coach Kenon Lawhorne, who guided another young team to a winning record in 2007, and he's hoping history can repeat itself despite the setback. "We have enough talent to win games this year," Lawhorne said. "They are still learning how to get better. We are still young and the freshmen who played last year, we

Optimist Club’s Bulls win Pony Division basketball title

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MIAMI LAKES OPTIMIST CLUB’S BULLS won the boys’ Pony Division Championship during the Summer Basketball League, defeating the Thunder to capture the title. Pictured (back, from left) Stefan Valdes, Eddie Santana, Daniel Guido, Ryan Carrasquillo and Matt Lorenzo; (front, from left) Harold Bominquoz, Erick Marrero, Nathan Gelibert and Darries Rodriguez. Not pictured: Alex Fernandez, Andrea Accosta and Michael Miguez.

are hoping some of the coaching will pay dividends this year." North Miami and Hialeah are the second and third test for Hialeah Miami Lakes, as the Pioneers and Trojans face off at 7 p.m. on Friday, September 6, at North Miami Stadium. Then, the Trojans and Thoroughbreds clash in an early season showdown on Thursday, September 12, at Milander Stadium, where the two non-district rivals leave every ounce of energy, adrenaline and momentum on the field each year under a playoff atmosphere. Next week’s match up adds another chapter to their storied rivalry and it might help the Trojans find their roles before the district games commence the following week against Mater Academy. Like HML, North Miami hasn’t recorded a winning season in recent years and is hoping to turn its program around in 2013. The Pioneers got off to a good start by defeating American, 3-0, last week and they are looking to improve to 2-0 for the first time in five years. A victory for the Trojans gives them the momentum needed for Hialeah. “The players are hyped for this one,” Lawhorne said. Despite the loss to the Stingarees, the offense demonstrated it can compete against some upper-echelon teams in Miami-Dade. Junior quarterback Keanu Norman played well, throwing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Isaiah Small to tie the game but threw a costly interception in overtime that set up Miami High’s winning drive.

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THE MIAMI LAKER

Barbara Goleman’s new head football coach, Ariel Criberio, is alumni from Class of 2006 Ariel Criberio is hoping to lead the Goleman Gators to victory during his first year as head football coach. The Gators have already played against the West Broward Bobcats for a preseason game, and Naples Golden Gate for the beginning of the season. “We have more players than ever and we are expecting a great season for varsity and for JV,” said Criberio. Criberio is a former Goleman graduate from the class of 2006, and then attended the University of Miami for his bachelor’s degree. “He has a fire in him and he is very energized. He dots all his i’s and crosses all his t’s. He has it under control,” said assistant coach John Murillo. Though Criberio is the new head football coach, he is not new to the Goleman team. While a student, Criberio was on the Goleman JV and varsity football teams throughout high school, and quickly returned to Goleman after he received his degree. He was previously an assistant coach when first joining the staff, and was named head coach this year. “The program at Goleman has made me mature as a player and as

NEWLY APPOINTED Goleman head football coach Ariel Criberio is a Goleman alumnus from class of 2006. a man. I’m very grateful for it and now I get to see how it changes others,” Criberio said. The Gators varsity team has a total of 11 games this season and will face Ronald Reagan High School on Friday, September 6. The JV team faces Westland High School on Wednesday, September 18.

2nd annual ‘b fore pink’ golf tourney scheduled on Sept. 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 in South Florida. 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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M. Lakes resident Lindsey Precht named to USA team for softball tourney in Holland Miami Lakes native Lindsey Precht has been invited to represent the United States in a friendly international softball tournament in Holland in June 2014. She is one of 14 collegiate players to receive the prestigious honor. Precht, a Roland Gomez Scholarship award-winner, is a junior at Williams College. After suffering two serious injuries during the 2013 season, one of which ended her season in April, she will be the catcher and first baseman for the Ephs in 2014. Coming off a such a heartbreaking season, the invitation to represent her country is a tremendous privilege. She currently has a GoFundMe page (www.gofund me.com/2wrt5c) to help raise money for the trip costs as NCAA rules prohibit programs from paying athletes.

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.

LINDSEY PRECHT is greeted by her Williams College teammates during a recent game.

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THE MIAMI LAKER

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Shula’s Golf Club is hosting Corey for St. Jude tournament on Monday, 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. 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 has had two brain surgeries, numerous eye surgeries, been revived from death, been a paraplegic, had chemotherapy, radiation, and many cutting edge treatments to ensure and enhance his quality of life. Corey is now 21 and cancer free. He is confined to a wheelchair, has use of only his right arm, and is accompanied by his service dog, Nutmeg. 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.

Pace High’s football season off to great start with two wins By Katherine Palacio Special to The Miami Laker The Pace Spartans football team is off to a great start. They kicked off the season with a defeat against Hialeah-Miami Lakes Trojans 40-0 and then triumphed over Ronald Reagan High on August 29 with a 31-12 win. Head Coach Mario Smith has made it a goal for the team to work on camaraderie and sportsmanship, in addition to practicing crucial skills such as tackling. As a trainer and former professional athlete, Smith understands the importance of training and timing and instills his values in the team.

Historically, the Spartans have seen many student athletes awarded thousands in scholarships to play for major college teams, followed by drafts to professional teams, such as the NFL’s Broncos and Steelers. This year’s team roster consists of several seniors who have had years of practice and are seen as strong leaders by the younger players. Smith is confident that this season will continue with several wins, and students are already eager to watch the school’s homecoming game against IMG Academy on October 4.

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THE MIAMI LAKER

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PAGE 21

Miami-Dade School Board endorses Spanish Lake Elementary Hantman’s proposals for fall events staff celebrates ‘A’ grade teach students important safety skills to be practiced during the week of the event. Ethical Governance Day is scheduled for observation on October 22 at each senior high school in the District, sponsored by the Miami-Dade County Commission on Ethics and Public Trust. “The Ethics Commission is committed to public education, training and community outreach, including educational programs for students," said Hantman. The Ethics Commission is inviting various public agencies, professional associations and private businesses to participate in the program. On "Ethical Governance Day" civic and community leaders, elected officials, academic and political professionals, attorneys and other public servants will serve as guest speakers in American Government classrooms across the District. Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15, and runs through to October 15. The obser-

The Miami-Dade County School Board unanimously approved three items sponsored by chairman Perla Tabares Hantman at a meeting in early August. The Board is endorsing International Walk Our Children to School Day, Ethical Governance Day and Hispanic Heritage Month all taking place within September and October. The Walk Our Children to School Day initiative promotes safe walking and bicycling to school. "Whether it is walking to school or riding a bicycle, student safety must always be in the forefront of everything we do," said Hantman. The Board voted to encourage all elementary schools in the District to participate in Walk Our Children to School Day festivities scheduled for the week of October 7 as well as implementing the "WalkSafe" pedestrian safety curriculum. WalkSafe was developed by the University of Miami, Miami School of Medicine, to

Sports Society hosts annual Bob Graham Golf Classic at Shula’s on Saturday, Oct. 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 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.

vance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week as a way of recognizing the many contributions of Hispanics to American history and was later expanded in 1988 to cover a 30 day period. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988. "During the month-long observance, our nation celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of Americans of Hispanic decent whose forefathers came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America," said Hantman. The date of September 15 was chosen as the starting date for the observance because it is the anniversary of the independence of five Central American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their respective days of independence in September.

SPANISH LAKE ELEMENTARY administration (from left) assistant principals Anita Marti, Lizette Estevez and Kathy Bustamente and principal Jacqueline Arias-Gonzalez, welcome a new school year while celebrating the "A" grade earned for the 2012-2013 school year. "We will do whatever it takes to support you in your classrooms to enable you to reach for the stars and provide the best education to our students," said Arias-Gonzalez in an encouraging letter sent to SLE faculty and staff. "This will be a marvelous school year!"

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THE MIAMI LAKER

ML Educational Center receives supplies donation Miami Lakes Educational Center (MLEC) received a charitable donation from Southern Wine and Spirits of Florida on August 15. Southern Wine and Spirits of Florida representatives Maria Gomez and Lisa Goldberg visited the school the morning the donations were dropped off. The Southern Wine and Spirits corporation annually has staff nominate local schools and then vote on the school which will receive donations. This school

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year, MLEC had the pleasure of receiving the donations at a gathering including the school faculty, administration, students, Southern Wine and Spirits representatives and school board representative, Ana Lara, on behalf of School Board chair Perla Tabares Hantman. A total of 200 backpacks filled with school supplies including

pens, pencils, paper, antibacterial bottles, folders, dividers, and index cards were donated. Of the donations, 50 backpacks will be given to each grade level and the Student Government will decide how to distribute them to students. "This is a wonderful representation of schools and community working together. This was a great donation," said school principal

James Parker. The Southern Wine and Spirits of Florida corporation greatly values the importance of community support and educational excellence. The company frequently partners with organizations to volunteer time and donate funds to the community. "We are happy to donate to the community," said Gomez.

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MIAMI LAKES EDUCATIONAL CENTER students received 200 backpacks provided by Southern Wine and Spirits. Pictured (on left) Maria Gomez, Southern Wine Imports assistant manager, and (on right) Ana Lara representing School Board chair Perla Tabares Hantman, MLEC principal James Parker, and Lisa Goldberg, Southern Wine’s art director.

Miami Dade College hosts 9/11 memorial Miami Dade College’s North Campus will remember the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks with a special ceremony at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, September 11. The college, which previously received two steel artifacts from the World Trade Center, will reveal their new permanent homes.

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“The dedication’s theme – solemnity, reflection, and poignancy – is very befitting of the honor bestowed upon our campus with two steel artifacts from the World Trade Center,” said José A. Vicente, North Campus president. “These memorials will provide our students and the community with a place to reflect upon the horrific events of September 11, and also serve to educate future generations. They are a piece of history, a remembrance of all those who perished.” The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey donated the two steel beams to MDC in 2011.

The college is the only higher-education institution in Florida to have received their relics from the World Trade Center. The North Campus is an appropriate site for these memorials, given the campus is the home of the School of Justice, which serves as the premier provider of public safety education in the community. More than 80 percent of Miami-Dade County’s first responders are graduates of MDC. The September 11 event will take place at the Campus Rotunda near Building 4000, 11380 N.W. 27 Avenue.

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THE MIAMI LAKER

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

PAGE 23

M-D Public Schools offer extended after-school snacks New this school year, MiamiDade County Public School's (MDCPS) Department of Food and Nutrition is providing an expanded after-school snack service, the Snack Plus program, at selected schools. This program is available through the Department of Health Child Care Food Program. Students participating in schools with the Snack Plus program will receive a nutritious, well-balanced snack with components from all major food groups including fruits and vegetables at the end of the school day.

M-DCPS continues to serve free breakfast for all students every day at all schools in the District. To apply for free or reducedprice lunch, households must complete a 2013-2014 Family Meal application either online at http://nutrition.dadeschools.net or by returning a paper application to the school where the youngest child attends. Complete only one application per household. All schools mailed paper applications to all homes with a letter addressed to parents or guardians

on the first day of school. The information provided on the application will be used for the purpose of determining eligibility and may be verified at any time during the year. Students may pre-pay for lunch online at www.PayPams.com or in

the school cafeteria with a check or cash. Full price for elementary school lunch is $2.23, middle and senior high school is $2.50. Reduced price lunch for all grade levels is 40 cents. Miami Lakes area schools that offer the Snack Plus program

Hope for Autism Community Team looks for continued BGEC support The local community team “Hope for Autism" has expressed its appreciation to new Bob Graham Education Center principal Yecenia Martinez for the invaluable support and commitment she is showing for all student populations, including students with autism. The beautification of the school is remarkable as well as the step forward to the integration of this special community of children on the autism spectrum.

include: Joella C. Good Elementary, Bob Graham Education Center, Hialeah Gardens Elementary, Hialeah Gardens Middle, Miami Lakes K-8 Center, Palm Springs North Elementary, and Spanish Lake Elementary.

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The group is every optimistic and is looking forward to a wonderful relationship between parents, teachers and administrators. The organization believes in “No child should be left behind” and all together, everyone can help change in a positive way the lives of many affected by autism. "The only disability in life is a bad attitude,” said Marianela Alvarez, Hope for Autism Community Team Captain.

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PAGE 24

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

Mater Gardens Academy unveils Stingray Way On Tuesday August 20, all of the students of Mater Gardens Academy gathered together to celebrate the unveiling of a new street sign in honor of the school's mascot. Principal Lourdes Isla along with Carlos Fleites representing the Miami-Dade County Board of Commissioners unveiled the change from N.W. 178 Lane to Stingray Way. The proposal for the street name change came last school year

and was announced to students for their vote on a new name. Stingray Way was chosen. The unveiling ceremony began with speeches made by Isla and National Junior Honor Society president Alyssa Castro. "With Mater Gardens pride we will inspire students, maintain a quality educational program and provide a positive and caring school environment that will foster individual excellence and lifelong

learning for our students," said Castro. The street sign, covered with a drape featuring the words "Mater Gardens", was pulled for the grand reveal following the speeches. The

students, staff and faculty erupted into cheers and applause. School counselor Frank Castillo said the new street name "gives a sense of pride and ownership to our students."

Mater Gardens Academy is a K8 learning center located at 9010 N.W. Stingray Way (formerly 178 Lane). For more information, call 305-512-9775 or visit http://matergardens.com.

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MATER GARDENS ACADEMY students join in the unveiling of the new Stingray Way street sign on the former N.W. 178 Lane.

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Miami-Dade County School Board chair Perla Tabares Hantman served as a panelist on transportation safety at the Safe Routes to Schools National Conference in Sacramento, California, in mid-August. The conference was sponsored by the National Center for Safe Routes to School and the Safe Routes to School National Partnership and attracted 600 participants from around the nation. Hantman was featured on a panel titled “Maximizing Opportunities for Safe and Active Transportation” where she spoke about the successful Safe Routes to School program in Miami-Dade

County. During her tenure on the School Board, Hantman has been a champion of initiatives dealing with student safety. “Miami-Dade County Public Schools is committed to establishing a Safe Routes to School program for all schools in the District to make it as safe as possible for students to walk or bicycle to school every day,” Hantman said. Since 2007, the School Board has endorsed and submitted more than 75 Federal Safe Routes to School program applications, resulting in over $10.6 million in awarded funds.

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Artistic Dance Center opens new studio at Hialeah Gardens location Miami Lakes resident Elizabeth Acuña Nuevo, the owner and director of Artistic Dance Center in Doral, announced the opening of her second studio in Hialeah Gardens designed to serve Hialeah, Palm Springs North and Miami Lakes. “Last year we celebrated our 10th anniversary in Doral. Now we’re thrilled to be opening another studio,” said Nuevo. The Hialeah Gardens location is based in the former site of Ballet Ouvert at 8051 West 24 Avenue. “It was an excellent opportunity for us to come into a space that was already designed for ballet. Many of the former students were pleased to stay on board and call Artistic Dance Center their new home,” Nuevo added. Artistic Dance Center has been the recipient of the “Best School” award by the American Dance Competition (an International Ballet Competition) for six consecutive years. “Our philosophy is not only to teach the technical skills needed to become a successful dancer, but also to teach the life skills needed to become a successful person,” Nuevo said. “Even our youngest students learn skills such as perseverance, dedication, commitment and discipline.”

ARTISTIC DANCE CENTER students perform during a recent open house at the new Hialeah Gardens studio. Artistic Dance Center provides dance instruction for students, ages 3 and up, in ballet, jazz, hiphop, flamenco, tumbling and aerial silk training. Additionally, it offers adult ballet classes, private lessons and an intensive ballet program. The school holds annual student performances, as well as

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company productions such as the “Nutcracker.” Registration is ongoing for the 2013-2014 season. For more information, call 305-826-0959, or visit www.artisticdancecenter.com. Mention this Miami Laker article and registration fees will be waived.

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

PAGE 25

Miami-Dade County Public Schools will implement Common Core Standards Florida is one of the 45 states adopting the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and assessing these standards over the next two years. The standards were put together using public input from the parents, teachers, students and education professionals, business leaders and lawmakers. The new standards will require students to master fewer education standards at a higher cognitive level. They will emphasize critical thinking and problem solving. The rigorous standards will prepare students and allow them to compete in a global economy. MiamiDade County Public Schools has been implementing the CCSS in grades K-12 for the past two years. This school year, the school district is offering a blended curriculum in grades K-12, blending both the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards (NGSSS) and the CCSS in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics. Students will be assessed in ELA and math in the Spring of 2014 on the NGSSS via the FCAT 2.0 and End Of Course (EOC) examinations. In the 2014-2015 school year,

M-DCPS will be strictly implementing the CCSS. The school district is awaiting word from the Florida Department of Education on the assessment that will be used. For a sample of what students will be working on this year, topics for parents to discuss with their child's teacher and how they can help their child learn at home, visit https://pta.org/content.cfm?ItemN umber=2909. Guides are available by grade level in both English and Spanish.

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PAGE 26

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

Adult religious education classes underway at Christ the Saviour Christ the Saviour Orthodox Cathedral has resume its adult religious education classes which are designed for anyone who wants to learn about the Bible or the history of Christianity. The semester’s theme is “Genesis: Creation and Revelation” with Father Joseph Lucas leading the Bible Study. The classes began on August 28 and are held every Wednesday at 7 p.m. and on Thursday at 11 a.m. Father Lucas will also be leading the Adult Study which began on August 31 and will be held every Saturday at 5 p.m. This is a general class that introduces students to the history and theology of the Orthodox Catholic Church and is followed by Vespers (evening prayers) at 6 p.m. Christ the Saviour Cathedral is located at 16601 N.W. 77 Court in Miami Lakes. For more information, call 305-822-0437, or visit www.OrthodoxMiami.org. or email Father Lucas at joseph.lucas@yahoo.com.

THE MIAMI LAKER

Miami Dancity announces competition awards Miami Lakes-based Miami Dancity Studios competition team enjoyed a variety of successes at the recent Starbound Nationals Dance Competition in Orlando. The studio’s team, which includes three separate companies, all attended the event at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort. The dancers participated in several master classes, and several prequalifying dancers participated in the National Competition’s opening number for the Grand Showcase at the end of the week. MDS dancers swept up award after award in each of the five different age divisions. Several junior petite and junior division dancers placed in the top ten overall spots in their age division. Dancer Taylor Lopez was awarded first place overall national soloist in the junior petite division. Amanda Lorenzo won the title of junior first place overall national soloist. Junior dancers Claudia Travieso and Diana Cao were first and second runners-up for title awards, and both also placed a runners-up for the Miss Star of Hope award, which donates 100 percent of its proceeds to can-

cer research. Teen dancers Lyzzette Medina and Sophia de la Rosa also placed in the top ten overall soloist spots. Senior dancer Sashalie Rios took home the coveted first place overall senior soloist position throughout the entire competition. The MDS precompany achieved their first national overall award with their jazz dance “Labels.” Junior company dancers

placed fifth overall with their contemporary group dance “Mine.” Company dancers in the senior division placed seventh overall with their small group “Damages,” and company dancers in the junior division placed first overall with their small group “Birds of Prey.” Several of the performances were called back to the Finals Showcase at the end of the week where the top studios competed

for the grand championship awards in each age division. MDS Showcase results included a sixth place for company senior dancers “Primitive Faith,” and a second place for “Damages,” a third place for production dancers “The Voice,” a fourth place for company junior dancers “Birds of Prey,” and Showcase Champions “In The Red.”

Miami Dade College hosting annual International Students program A group of international students hailing from various parts of the world has just arrived in South Florida for a year they will never forget. As part of Miami-Dade College's (MDC) International Education Exchange Program, these pupils will learn all about U.S. democracy, customs, culture, and develop leadership skills they will take back to their home countries. The program, part of the Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) Initiative

through the U.S. Department of State, will provide, free of charge, an academic year of study for 27 underrepresented, underserved and non-elite students from developing countries. The students will take courses in applied engineering, business management and administration, early childhood education, information technology, media and tourism, and hospitality management. The syllabus also includes intensive English-Language training and supplementary English language instruction as needed.

This is the fourth consecutive year that MDC has participated in this program, and the first time it will be offered at two campuses – Kendall and Wolfson. Upon successful completion of the year of study, participants will earn a certificate of program completion and other academic certificates if completed during the program period. The students' ages – from 19 to 48 – are as varied as their countries of origin – from Colombia to the Ivory Coast to Turkey.

TWENTY SEVEN International Education Exchange Program students have arrived in South Florida to participate in year-long studies at Miami Dade College’s Kendall and Wolfson campuses.

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THE MIAMI LAKER

Echoes of the Heart Reflections on Life and Community Living By Dr. Jeffrey E. Frantz, Miami Lakes Congregational Church (Contact Dr. Frantz on the web at www.mlcchurch.com.) The new excitement for bilingual education. Increasingly, in recent years, school districts around the country are tapping into the benefits to the brain of bilingual education. In our greater Miami context, of course, bilingualism is everywhere. In the idiom of us locals, it is called Spanglish. In the years ahead, it will be interesting to see how South Florida plugs in to what may soon be a national trend in advocacy for bi-lingual education programs. Interestingly enough, the state of Utah is apparently leading the way in these programs. A recent TIME Magazine article relates how all over Utah, elementaryschool students are joking, studying, singing and fluently speaking in languages not their own: French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and, soon, Portuguese. Utah's statewide program is the most ambitious total-immersion language education program ever implemented in the United States. To date, it includes 20,000 children in 100 schools, or 20 percent of the schools in the state with nearly 95 percent of the school districts participating through 12th grade. Competition for enrollment in the bi-lingual program is great and, presently, students are chosen by lottery. The students selected take half their subjects each day in the new language and the other

half in English. The gifts of the bi-lingual brain. In recent years research is showing that bi-lingual education creates a more nimble brain, a mind better at reasoning, multitasking, at grasping and reconciling conflicting ideas. As studies show and TIME affirms: Multicognitive faculties last longer, delaying the onset of dementia and even full-blown Alzheimer's disease (sometimes by as much as four or five years). While this doesn't necessarily mean the bi-lingual brain is more intelligent, it does seem to be more flexible and resourceful. The implications here are significant. Indeed, monolingualism, says Gregg Roberts, a language-immersion specialist with the Utah state office of education, is the illiteracy of the 21st century. From a scientific point of view, apparently the bi-lingual brain ends up being wired differently, with more connections and a greater capacity to make connections as well. This translates into enhanced ability to multi-task, to be sure, to say nothing of conserving energy (i.e., reducing stress) in the process. With parents becoming more aware of these benefits, school systems around the country are paying attention. Already, educators from 22 other states have visited Utah with the hope of starting their own bi-lingual program. What an opportunity for South Florida! What all of this

means for us here in South Florida is that, quite possibly, we might have a leg up on the rest of the country. We might be the best incubator our nation has for tapping into the brain-potential of our children. Already, we are amazingly bi-lingual. I don't have details on the extent of bi-lingual education in our Miami-Dade County schools (in Broward County, too) but my guess is, it is significant. Still, we can always build on what we are already doing and even add new languages in the process. This year, our pre-school here at the church, The Growing Place, has added language instruction in both Spanish and Mandarin Chinese (on a very part time basis) as part of our pre-school curriculum. Early on, parents are excited about the prospects and there is a buzz about the impact this will have, over time, on our preschoolers. Forever, many of us Americans have envied the advantages Europeans and others have over us with languages. Being bi-lingual, even poly-lingual in many parts of the word has become common place. On the surface, this new excitement about bi-lingual education would seem to be a win-win for all of us. Giving birth to a more brainy culture can only make us better, to say nothing of opening wider the doors of Americans everywhere to a deeper experience of the international community.

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SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

Miami Lakes Area Houses of Worship 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

AMERICAN MONTESSORI SOCIETY “Within our own specially prepared environment a child’s abilities and skills are more quickly and easily developed”

BEGIN IN PRE-SCHOOL Reading - Geography - Mathematics - Science Ballet - Piano - Spanish - Bible www.miamilakesmontessorichildrenshouse.com

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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 27

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.

PAGE 28

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

M-D elementary schools recesses go high tech Recess, as we commonly know it, is getting a makeover this fall for the digital age. The innovative program with its varied exercise stations will motivate students and teachers to embrace physical activity as a lifelong habit. As part of a grant-funded project, the Miami-Dade County Public School District's Office of Physical Education and Health Literacy developed a technologybased, indoor fitness trail for elementary school recess. In addition to the usual stepping posts or chin-up bars, this "trial" set up throughout schools will have Quick Response (QR) codes featuring videos of different exercises and activities that students will be able to access with a QR reader app on an iPad. Each elementary school will receive two iPads and five QR codes each month. Miami-Dade county Public Schools is the first school system nationwide to fully implement this innovative program as a district-wide recess initiative. All students in grades K-5 receive recess either twice a week for 20 minutes each time or three times a week for 15 minutes each time. For more information contact District Director, Dr. Jayne D. Greenberg at 305-995-1963.

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PERSONALS Honda 1988 GL1500 motorbike to giveaway to a responsible person at no charge due to my son’s sudden death. If interested, contact tomdaniel25@hotmail.com.

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For a full description of responsibilities or to apply online, visit us at www.donshulahotel.com, www.miamilakes.com, or www.grahamresidential.com

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Jeffrey Donner

(305) 822-9081

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

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R E A L E S TAT E C L A S S I F I E D

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

Visit our website at www.grahamresidential.com 8340 Commerce Way, Miami Lakes, Florida Call for information on Move-In Specials!

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R E A L E S TAT E CLASSIFIED Celebrating 40 Years of Success

RE/MAX dominates the real estate industry. From it’s earliest days in the 1970s, RE/MAX’s success has been based on reputation for attracting the industry’s top performers with a business model that provides high commission, valuable resources and training.

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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.

Arlene S. Wallach, P.A., CRS For Every Real Estate Reason !

Thinking about buying or selling? • Top 5% of Realtors Nationwide! • Over 20 years experience in Miami Lakes, Miami-Dade and South Broward.

Nobody in the world sells more real estate than RE/MAX. According to the August RE/MAX National Housing Report, the housing recovery appears to be in full swing across the country. July home sales were 17.0% higher than last July. As home prices recover in 2013, more homeowners will achieve positive equity and the number of foreclosures should be reduced.

Select the Real Estate Professional Committed to Excellence, Professionalism, Great Service and Honest advice.

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PAGE 29

FREE Estimates No Job Is Too Small!

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We are dedicated Realtors® that provide the best real estate service available in town. See why RE/MAX is recognized as one of the leading international real estate franchises with more than 90,000 sales associates, and a global reach to more than 90 countries. Call us today!

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RE/MAX Realty 1

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Realtor-Associate

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PAGE 30

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

“Our family helping families since 1989” Team Rebull is well-known throughout all of Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Team Rebull has earned the respect of hundreds of gratified clients. Team Rebull always providing quality customer service going above and beyond. We work hard for your referrals – Waiting to hear from you! Hablamos Español y estamos listo para servirles.

ColdwellBanker

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ra. e m a C . e if L $25,000 25,000 25,000 Win $ 25 000 in Our “

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305-308-2901• 954-551-7879 305-770-4820

To Buy, Rent or Sell, Call

The Team Saumell Martha & Gardenia Celebrating Our 28th year Anniversary ~ Se Habla Espanol

305-308-9621 Office: 305-825-4999

2550 West 84th Street • Hialeah, FL, 33016 E-mail: miamirealty@yahoo.com

Rolling Oaks. $1,399,000 Stunning 2.25 acre estate built in 2008. 5BR/5+BA, 6 Car Garage, 3 horse stalls. Designer touches & upgrades. MLS#A1758079 The Chenore Real Estate Group 954434-0501/954-775-5425

Dadeland Forest Estates. $649,500 Gorgeous 4BR/3BA pool home nestled on a beautiful tree line cul-de-sac. Spacious family rm, breakfast area. MLS#A1767094 Jyoti Laungani 305-821-4700/305801-7890

Country Club Of Miami Est. $575,000 Dynamic home. Ideal locale comes with this shuttered residence. 5BR/3 full and 2 half baths. MLS#A1817624 Lobato, Carlos 305-821-4700/305-804-1651

Embassy Lakes. $539,000 Immaculately maintained 5BR/4+BA lakeside home. Enormous Master downstairs. Roof/A/C recently replaced. Paver drive MLS#A1808694 Ben Schulman 954-4340501/954-270-5527

Viscaya Sunset Lakes. $498,800 5BR/4BA pool home. Upgraded kit w/42” wood cabs & granite counters. Coffered ceilings, neutral tile & wood floors. MLS#F1245334 Bobbie Mogull 954-4340501/954-217-1010

Embassy Lakes. $449,000 New S-tile roof on this 4BR/3BA pool home. Huge 23’x17’ master suite & 11X12’ walk-in closet. New dual zone A/C. MLS#F1245557 Richard Ferris 954-434-0501/954914-9466

Doral Isles North Section. $425,000 A perfect setting. Impressive 5BR/3BA home. Walk-in closets, pantry. Garage, patio. Clubhouse. MLS#A1790008 Marina Diaz, PA 305-821-4700/786-202-3816

Monarch Lakes. $425,000 Absolutely Stunning Sky Lake Villas. $255,000 3/2 plus study/office. 4BR/2+BA corner lot home. Patio deck, beautiful Updated kitchen w/granite countertop & wooden pool and much more. MLS#A1827937 Mandy Rebull cabinets. Modern bath & california closets. 305-821-4700/305-308-2901 MLS#A1818965 Edmy Gomez 305-821-4700/305303-6161

LUXURY OFFICE FOR RENT

6500 Cow Pen Road, Suite 302, Miami Lakes

Weston. $210,000 3BR/2BA villa with updated Veneti. $175,000 Two separate homes located kitchen and a beautiful lakeview. MLS#A1817709 on this lot in Miami Gardens. Both are 2BD/1BA. Newer home built in 2006. MLS#A1774932 Edmy Gomez 305-821-4700/305-303-6161 Jacqueline Herrera 305-821-4700/786-442-7849

Beverly Park. $93,000 Ideal opportunity. Inviting 2-bedroom dollhouse with special touches. Central heat/air. MLS#A1680462 Juan Fernandez 305-8214700/786-859-5183

Doral. $140,000 Completely remodeled 2BR/2BA condo on 2nd floor in the heart of Doral. Community swimming pool and more. MLS#A1793320 Jyoti Laungani 305-821-4700/305-801-7890

Miramar. $82,000 Enviably enticing residence. Enjoy Fulfordale. $60,000 Single 1BR/1BA home with an easy-going future in this fenced 2-bedroom a big lot. Patio. Lots of potential. MLS#A1716402 home. Central heat/air. MLS#A1823011 Ondina Ruiz Edmy Gomez 305-821-4700/305-303-6161 305-821-4700/786-286-8809

Residential \ Commerical \ Mortgage \ Rentals Corporate Relocation \ Closing Services

F L O R I D A M O V E S.CO M

Administered by American Home Shield

© 2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International, the Previews International logo and “Dedicated to Luxury Real Estate” are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. * According to Nielsen and comScore Media Metrix, Coldwell Banker branded websites had the highest number of unique visitors among all national real estate franchise brands for full-year 2012.

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.

Call Javier Vazquez for details at 305-525-2510

THE MIAMI LAKER

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

PAGE 31

Debbie Lee Wilson, Realtor Call Your Specialist Realtor Since 1988 • 305-788-5008 ACM International Realty, Inc.

WWW.DEBBIELEEWILSON.COM • WILDEBB1@GMAIL.COM

THINKING OF SELLING • BUYING • RENTING • FORCLOSURE • or SHORT SALE? I can help as I have helped many other home owners!

D SOL Tiffany Cove. Beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bath, upgraded kitchen, granite counter top, French doors in all rooms. 4th bedroom built-in office. Tile floors, walk-in closets, just painted. 1,510 sq. ft. 2-car garage. Washer/dryer. Low HOA $322 quarterly. Easy to show. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Very tropical, new 3-year roof, spacious living room and screened patio. Updated bath. Full updated kitchen, top line appls. + Granite counter. Lots of parking. Fenced back yard w/fruit tree. No association. Park your RV or boat, a pleasure to show. A SHORT SALE, 3rd party approval needed. Lender may reduce commission, commission shall be split 50/50. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Townhouse For Rent. 2 bedroom, 2 bath. 24-hour security. All tiled, washer/dryer, kitchen updated. Den can be office or baby room. 2 parking spaces in front, lots of guest parking. Cable and Club House facility included. $4,285 to move in. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Brian Special Waterfront, mint condition, roof 2005 Dade County code, Malibu low voltage lights outside, solid oak plank on stairs & 2nd flr., kit 2004, new appl., granite counter, Accordian shutters, custom bar, 3 bdrm., 2 updated bth., lrg. mstr. on 1st floor, Roman tub, walk-in closets. A pleasure to show. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Carol’s Special. Very spacious corner villa, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, huge master bedroom, formal large family and living room. Larger than tax roll. Garage converted. Roof replaced 2002, tiles replaced 2013. 24-hour security, close to I75 and 826 and shopping center. HOA $69 month includes painting and lawn. Priced right, straight sale, conventional or cash only. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

D SOL Key West-style home. PSN lakefront, A Tropical Paradise! You will not want to water ski and jet ski in 3 lakes. 4 leave this beautiful home with lush plants and flowers that surround the gatedbedroom, 2 bath, 2,112 sq. ft. living childproof pool. Sea wall holds the ski boat area. Private beach. Keep your RV or and lift, and the jet ski lift. After a full day's boat at the dock. Ski boat included. fun, park your boat at the dock and relax Association fee $120. Call to see. Call under the tiki hut. Four bedrooms, 3 upstairs, with loft, three bathrooms. New Debbie 305-788-5008. hurricane approved roof, impact windows and French doors. Serious buyers with proof of funds. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Great house and great price. Wood and tile floors. Full kitchen appliances. Large 4 bedrooms and updated 2 1/2 baths, one bedroom on first floor. Plenty of closets. Roof front replaced 2011, back in 2012. New A/C and water heater. Nice fenced back yard. Washer/dryer, 2car garage. 24-hour security. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Maribal Special for rent. 2 bedrooms, 2 updated baths. Den can be office. Wood floors, wood kitchen, updated counter top, updated appliances and top line washer/dryer in kitchen. Lots of windows and blinds. Just painted. New central A/C w/heater (3 years), fenced-in patio w/storage room. 24-hour gated security. 2 parking spaces. $1,400 month, credit check $40, rapid association approval w/$45 processing fee. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Featured Properties

This spacious and impeccable home has 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, tile throughout, formal living room, family room, large terrace, huge lot with enough room to build a pool, spacious driveway and much more. A1717533

Spacious split floor plan home is sought after Lake Patricia, Miami Lakes. Home features 4 bedrooms/2 bathrooms, large covered terrace on an oversize lot. Plenty of room for a pool. Great family neighborhood. A1832965

Beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bath custom built home with charm & character. Owned by original owner. Large family room, wet bar, master suite with large bath and walk-in closets, screened patio with no pool, 24 hr. guard gated community with roving security. A1787903

Great 3 bedrooms, 2 baths pool home with updated kitchen and original bathrooms. Split floor plan. Living room, dining room, family room all with wood floors. Pool with a nice size yard. Great family community. A1743242

www.keyes.com Email: keyes276@keyes.com

PSN lake and large salt water pool home. Jetski, waterski, or just fish and relax, perfect for BBQ and watcing the games. 4 bedrooms/2 baths, updated bathroom.Tax roll is wrong, lot is 9,885 sq. ft. overlooking wide lake. Real wood cabinets and granite counter and new top of line appliances. Stove is gas and owned, waterheater and dryer are gas and leased. A large storage room can be 5th bedroom with walk-in closet. Roof and central A/C replaced new after Wilma. All tile floors. EZ to show.Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Executive 3 bedroom, 2 bath pool home. Contains renovated kitchen, resort style deluxe master bath, splendid pool with raised jacuzzi, pavered driveway & backyard area with huge fruit trees, 24 hr guard gated security. A1806879

Custom built spacious 4 beds, 3.5 baths corner lakeview home with custom BBQ area & large pool. Great layout with open kitchen, living, dining, and family room. All rooms are large. Master suite has a double sink, bathtub and separate shower. High ceilings and 2 car garage. This home is a must see. A1775962

Beautiful 5/3 and half spacious home in Royal Oaks Miami Lakes with pool and Jacuzzi. 2 car garage and is now being used as a bedroom. Motivated seller!!! A1811097

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. A1704079

Stunning single family 3 bedrooms, 3 baths home located in Westbrooke at Avalon. Very spacious with over 1,700 sq. ft. and features large rooms and kitchen. Tile floors throughout. A1832535

Beautiful Miami Lakes well-maintained pool home, fully upgraded kitchen, stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, spacious 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, located in a great community. A1833954

305-822-9800

www.southfloridacareerinrealestate.com

6850 Main Street • Miami Lakes, FL 33014 • Miami Lakes Realty & Welcome Center in the lobby of Don Shula’s Hotel

PAGE 32

SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

THE MIAMI LAKER

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