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A Very Mangowood Christmas 2017

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Like in so many years past, here is how the Mangowood of Palmetto Bay celebrated the holidays on their neighborhood streets...


ofo Bicycle Sharing

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Want to commute and leave your car behind? Just want to take a Sunday spin through the neighborhood? Well, bicycle sharing just got a whole lot cooler!

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No matter why you want a bike, all you need to do is pull out your smartphone and use the ofo app to find a nearby bicycle (or just spot a bright, yellow ofo bike first and then claim it as your next ride).

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Scan the QR code on the bike’s license to unlock it and you're ready to go. Once you complete your ride (to anywhere you like!), park the bicycle in a legal location, lock it, and tap “Trip complete” in the app. That’s it! You’ll get billed $1 per hour.

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Recently, ofo dropped dozens of bikes throughout South Miami as they expand into the United States from their native China. I haven’t seen many people using them yet, but they seem to be in all the spots you’d want to use a bike.

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The company was started by Peking University students in 2014 when they saw an opportunity to leverage smart technology to improve cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation. The bike sharing was so immediately popular there that five more campuses joined within just three months. Today the service is open to anyone in over 180 major cities with a smartphone.

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I suspect University of Miami students will be the first to really see the benefits, but hope more catch on. By the way, you're first ride is free. Hope to see you on one of these sweet rides soon!

Palmetto Bay Holiday Boat Parade and Canned Food Drive

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You can’t get much more South Florida than heading down a canal with Christmas lights wrapped around your small boat in December.

Rainer Schael (standing)

Rainer Schael (standing)

Throw in the fact that the parade stops along the route to collect canned food for the less fortunate and you have yourself a heartwarming event.

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The boat parade is the brainchild of Palmetto Bay resident Rainer Schael and his boat buddies. Started eight years ago, they combined their love of the great outdoors, the holidays and giving back to the community.

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I took part in this year’s festivities with boat captain Ray Bettencourt. The parade started at the Coral Reef Park boat launch and ran its way south on the C-100 canal. Hundreds of spectators had parties and provided cans along the way.

VIDEO STORY

Palmetto Bay Irma Debris Removal Continues

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Much of the debris from Hurricane Irma was brought to Coral Reef Park and chipped. The result was two massive 50-foot high mountains of mulch that shut down a parking area and lessened use of the park. In addition, many of the downed branches and trunks of the park’s trees remained in place.

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Well, after months of work the mounds and debris are fading away. Palmetto Bay Village Manager reports, “We are about two weeks away from project completion. In addition to removing all the debris, the entire park will be back to pre-Irma conditions. We’re even giving a fresh coat of paint to our bathroom facilities and repairing the awning on our concession building.” The Village also reports that the forthcoming FEMA funds, plus the built-in surplus on the budget will pay for everything.

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VIDEO

LISTING: Mangowood 5BR/3BA Family Pool Home

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Nothing beats the wholesome family neighborhood of Mangowood. Enjoy quiet tree-lined streets where you know your neighbors.

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There’s a reason why Santa and the Easter Bunny have a parade here each year!

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2013 metal roof caps this fully updated home. Master bedroom split from other bedrooms.

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Separate-entry in-law wing (with kitchenette). Tastefully refreshed baths. Updated granite and natural wood galley kitchen serves as the centerpiece to great entertaining.

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Great flow inside and out. Newer AC unit. Newer appliances throughout. Inside laundry area. Intercom & alarm systems.

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Screened pool & extended brick patio. Backyard has new fence, a storage shed, play-set for the kids, 2 avocado & 2 mango trees. Steps from Coral Reef Park. Good schools. $40/yr voluntary HOA keeps neighbors together year-round.

See all the photos here: https://plus.google.com/photos/113412211363938768946/albums/6506651677070749905

8335 SW 149th Drive (Mangowood)
Palmetto Bay, FL 33158
MLS # A10385694
Listing price $629,922

New Whole Foods Store Opens

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On January 10th, Whole Foods had their Dadeland store grand opening, with specials that ran seven days. The store is located next to Target at 104th Street and US-1.

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 “We are so very pleased to offer a brand new large format store for our local community,” explained Store Team Leader Adrienne Hutchings. “We strive to satisfy and delight our customers and the response we have received so far has surpassed expectations.”

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The new store serves as a relocation from the previous Pinecrest location and brings a more expansive shopping experience to the community. 

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14th Annual Super Bowl Poker Tournament

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On Super Bowl Sunday (prior to the game), some special students from Palmetto High School will put on the 14th annual poker tournament to support people with disabilities, which has grown to well over 100 participants annually.

Jay & Brian Morrison with Max & Jesse Lehman at last year’s tournament

Jay & Brian Morrison with Max & Jesse Lehman at last year’s tournament

Hosted by Congregation Bet Shira (SW 120th Street and 77th Avenue), the 3-hour Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament includes food and drink, raffles and lots of good conversation. Entry costs $20 and all players and volunteers receive five hours of community service credit.

The Poker Tournament benefits The Advocacy Network on Disabilities, formerly known as CCDH.  <www.advocacynetwork.org>.  Since 1975, the Advocacy Network has been Miami-Dade’s lead agency that coordinates and arranges services for individuals with developmental and other disabilities.

Annually, the tournament raises north of $5000. If you’d like to play, work or donate, please go to http://www.anodpokertournament.myevent.com/ where you can find out how.

LISTING: Mid-Palmetto Bay 4BR/2BA Family Pool Home

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Clean, quiet & calming. When it comes to peaceful living, this all impact glass, perfect layout ranch has it all. 4 bedroom, 2 bath @ 2584-sf Meticulously maintained by owner since 1991.

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Newer roof. Entry foyer sets the tone for entertaining. Formal living and dining rooms open to each other.

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Family room overlooks screened pool and large backyard filled with trees. 2006 kitchen with stainless, granite and all-wood cabinets.

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Updated baths & more. Huge master bedroom has walk-in closet and loads of natural light.

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Large covered patio w/bar area & breezy fans for that perfect lazy afternoon or party evening.

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New wood fencing. Beautiful landscaping creates tranquility on an already quiet block. Circular and standard driveway accommodates many cars. Room for boat. Close to Southwood Middle, shopping, etc. Bring toothbrush!

See all the photos here:  https://get.google.com/albumarchive/113412211363938768946/album/AF1QipMqGI9M0T9Cnqhm7HphA0mqXLfku3va57Wv3Dk?source=pwa

8280 SW 164th Street
Palmetto Bay, FL 33157
MLS # 
A10288070
Listing price $629,922

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3rd Annual Jonathan's Day

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On January 21, Palmetto Bay residents and friends met one another at Coral Reef Park as part of Palmetto Bay’s Unique Abilities Fair to learn about available community resources to help kids with unique abilities.

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Championed locally by Councilwoman Larissa Siegel Lara and supported by the entire Village, along with many businesses and organizations, the day was a fun success.

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The event is named Jonathan’s Day after Jonathan Mizrachi, a 13-year old with autism who lives in the area. The day had lots of fun games, food, a 2K Fun Run/Walk and even a petting zoo.

Jonathan Mizrachi (center) during last year's event.

Jonathan Mizrachi (center) during last year's event.

Unfortunately, this year, Jonathan was sick with the flu and didn’t attend, but his father Jason Mizrachi certainly had a lot to say, “As a parent of an autistic child, you have a choice. You can put them in a bubble and put them away or you can let them experience life.”

Miami-Dade School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho on right, with Mayor Eugene Flinn and CBS4's Mike Cugno

Miami-Dade School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho on right, with Mayor Eugene Flinn and CBS4's Mike Cugno

Miami-Dade School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho added, “We need to support additional funding at all levels so we can elevate the dignity and the humanity of our children with special abilities.”

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CBS4 sports anchor Mike Cugno acted at as the emcee for the second year in a row.

Bridging the Palmetto Bay 87th Avenue Divide

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Who knew that a potential bridge could polarize a community in so many ways? On January 25, Miami-Dade County’s Transportation Planning Organization voted unanimously to kill a bridge that would have extended Galloway Road (87th Avenue) from SW 164th Street to 163rd Terrace over a canal. The County had originally told Palmetto Bay it planned to build the $1.9 million bridge in an effort to reduce traffic elsewhere in the Village.

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Over the past year, as the potential bridge was discussed, debate broke out among residents. Residents south of the canal mostly were in favor, since Waze and other traffic apps were guiding drivers onto their tertiary streets. Those north of the canal opposed it because it would bring traffic to their relatively quiet streets. Other dividing lines included political affiliation. To many, it felt like the County was forcing the bridge on Palmetto Bay even though the Village Council had united to oppose it. The bridge also rubbed people with differing opinion about the pending public transportation changes on the Transitway the wrong way.

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There’s no doubt that Dade County traffic has exploded over recent years and people patience is running thin. As a Realtor, I can confidently say that a high percentage of people who put their homes up for sale in Palmetto Bay are leaving citing traffic as their #1 reason.

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The County held several public meetings to present their plan and collect input from citizens. On August 30th, nearly 350 people showed up at the Palmetto Golf Course to mostly oppose it. Throughout, the County projected saving as much as 40% on commute times through the area, but just recently admitted they had ignored the potential effect of apps such as Waze. Some government officials called it “the bridge to nowhere” because if completed it would have taken cars no further than 22 blocks further north where 87th Avenue dead-ends.

It was Palmetto Bay resident Jodi Atkison who seemed to put things in historical perspective. “The original idea of bridging 87th Avenue was first put into the Master Plan for the area 40 years ago,” explained Atkinson. “Since then, we have had an explosion in population that they could never have anticipated and smartphone apps like Waze. A 40-year old plan is just plain outdated.”

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So now the bridge is dead. Mayor Eugene Flinn said “Councilman Singer and I, along with the remainder of the Council, continue to work together on this issue of village-wide importance and we are working for the best solutions for all. My goal is to have cut through traffic on a viable transit way and to restore all our neighborhoods, north and south, to neighborhoods rather than cut-through roads.”

County Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava who championed against the bridge is now focused on more germane solutions. “In the end, the project would have destroyed more neighborhoods and ultimately just spread the problem,” she said. “The [Department of Transportation] is trying to fix the symptom and not the disease of too many people driving alone in their cars.”

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"I'm so relieved this has been stopped. My home is my life and my neighborhood is so precious to me. We joined together and preserved peace and that's how everything is supposed to work in democracy," said north of the canal resident Ineska Stojsic.

It is thought that much of the traffic in Palmetto Bay is created by explosive growth of communities to the south trying to get downtown for work while trying to avoid the US-1 gridlock. Cutler Bay Mayor Peggy Bell, who was in favor of the project, continued to advocate for more people using bicycles and public transportation. "It is what it is, we lick our wounds and we go home and we do everything we can to get everyone on the rail which is what we advocate and we certainly agree 100 percent on that," Bell said.

Councilman David Singer added, “I think the Village needs to work expeditiously with those residents that are suffering with the overwhelming issues of traffic. We can’t use a one size fits all promise.” To that end, he points out a new $100,000 traffic study from Marlin Engineering is expected within the next 30 days. The Village is hoping that the solutions detailed in the report will be presented to Miami-Dade County so they can work cooperatively towards traffic relief.

South Floridian's Quest for Guinness Book of World Records

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Surprises are the zest of life. And Jon Eggert Gudmundsson is about to provide some zest here in South Florida. Jon is a 50-year old Iceland native living in Cutler Bay who is about to do something extraordinary that will land him in the Guinness Book of World Records.

It’s not enough that Jon has both walked (2006) and cycled (2016) the perimeter of the entire country of his homeland of Iceland. Now, he’s planning to smash the current record by 1000 miles for the world’s longest triathlon (set in 2014 by Norma Bastidas).

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Considering his age and body frame, you certainly wouldn’t expect him to start, let alone finish, this challenge. Yet, the moment you speak to Jon, it’s clear his spirit and energy will drive his success. Without any fanfare, Jon started his triathlon quest on February 9, 2018. He expects to finish in August.

Traditionally, a standard triathlon would be done with swimming first (1,500 m [1,650 yd]), then biking (40 km [24.9 mi]) and finally running (10 km [6.2 mi]). Jon’s plan is to run 810 miles first, then do 3800 cycling miles and finish with 120 miles of swimming in the pool at Palmetto Bay’s LA Fitness. His biking and running routes will be the same each day, taking him through Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay. You can look at his route and see the mileage rack up each day at tinyurl.com/triathlonjon.

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To document his endurance feat, Jon must prove his mileage to the Guinness Book of World Records with satellite tracking and video. He looks a bit cyborg with a GoPro strapped to his forehead, but his laugh will tell you he’s all human. To that end, Jon has decided his triathlon record should do good for others.

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He is dedicating his efforts to Wheel Heroes, a non-profit who assists kids that are unable to ride bikes due to mental or physical disabilities by designing, custom-ordering and delivering bicycles for their needs (www.facebook.com/wheelheroes). “I hope that I can help raise funds and awareness for Wheel Heroes,” says Gudmundsson in a thick Icelandic accent. “That would be really awesome.”

Jon invites people or groups to join him on any day. You can keep up with his progress and ask to run, bike or swim alongside of him at www.facebook.com/jon.e.gudmundsson.

14th Annual Poker Tournament

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On Super Bowl Sunday, some special students from Palmetto High School put on the 14th annual poker tournament to support people with disabilities. The event drew well over 100 participants.

Tournament organizers: [L-R] Pedro Rodriguez, Jaikob Frank, Jay Morrison, Jesse Lehman, Eli Graff, Zach Wiener

Tournament organizers: [L-R] Pedro Rodriguez, Jaikob Frank, Jay Morrison, Jesse Lehman, Eli Graff, Zach Wiener

Hosted at Congregation Bet Shira, the 3-hour Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament included food and drink, raffles and lots of good conversation. Through the $20 entry fee and other donations, the event raised over $5800. Players and volunteers also received five hours of community service credits.

The Poker Tournament benefits The Advocacy Network on Disabilities, formerly known as CCDH (www.advocacynetwork.org).  Since 1975, the Advocacy Network has been Miami-Dade’s lead agency that coordinates and arranges services for individuals with developmental and other disabilities.

If you were not able to make it but would still like to donate, please go to www.anodpokertournament.myevent.com where you can find out how.

Bowl with Hurricanes Legends

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Hurricanes great and University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame member Albert Bentley will serve as host of the UMSHoF's 7th annual Celebrity Bowling Tournament, on Monday, February 26, from 6-9 p.m. at Splitsville in the Shops at Sunset Place in South Miami.

Part of the bowling greats from last year's tournament

Part of the bowling greats from last year's tournament

"I'm looking forward to hosting the upcoming UMSHoF Bowling tournament this year," said Bentley, who scored the winning touchdown in the 1984 Orange Bowl game that secured Miami's First National Championship.  "It's always a good thing to get together with Canes fans to support the Hall of Fame and the charities they contribute to."  This year, a portion of the proceeds from the event will go to the Heidi Hewes Chapter of the Women's Cancer Association at the University of Miami.  

Canes fans can bowl with some of their favorite former Canes all-stars in a relaxing evening of family fun, food and Hurricanes camaraderie.  Other Hurricane greats who have attended past bowling tournaments include Reggie Wayne, Charles Johnson, Clinton Portis, Santana Moss, Bubba Franks, Brett Romberg, KC Jones, Randal Hill, Eric Brown, Tracy Kerdyk, Darrin Smith and Heisman Trophy winner Gino Torretta.

Teams start at $500 for four bowlers, regular sponsor lanes are $1200 and premium sponsor lanes are $1700. Individual bowlers are $150 each. Social tickets can be purchased for $75 for adults (T-shirt included) and $25 for children under 12.

For more information on teams and sponsorships, go to CanesBowling.com or contact UMSHoF Executive Director John Routh at 305-284-2775.

Philly Grub in Pinecrest

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Besides the Liberty Bell, Rocky and the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles, the next City of Brotherly Love thing you most likely think about is food. Cheesesteaks, soft pretzels and Italian water ice are the Philly fan favorites that make the mouth water.

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As a native Philadelphian, I can tell you I miss eating a good cheesesteak and I certainly know how to rank them. Enter Philly Grub, a three-location restaurant, who opened their latest place in Pinecrest a few months ago.

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Nestled in the Pinecrest Shops (SW 124th Street and US-1) right next to Chill-N, Philly Grub has an unassuming storefront, which is why I, and others, missed seeing it for a while.

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Inside Jennifer McCool, one of the managing partners, happily oversees the grub served up. “I can call myself an expert since I lived in Philly and as a kid my dad used to bring home cheesesteaks every Friday,” gushes McCool. “My first job was in a cheesesteak shop. It’s in my blood!” Dean Claro is the main sub artist behind the traditional cheesesteak grill who will quickly whip up your culinary requests.

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No matter what people tell you, I know the real secret to a perfect cheesesteak starts with the roll. Philly Grub imports their rolls direct from Philadelphia’s Amoroso Bakery.

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Since 1904, this family-owned bakery has defined how steaks and hoagies are made. The fresh shaved sirloin-blend steak made every morning rounds out the quality ingredients. The fresh cheeses, onions, peppers and other ingredients are all authentically Philly.

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Dennis Mello is a local who loves visiting Philly Grub. “The cheesesteaks are outstanding,” remarks Mello. “I’m a regular here and the onions and when everything is mixed together, it just makes a great sandwich.”

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The general enthusiasm of the staff makes this sandwich shop feel special when you walk in. From the warm greeting to the hot steaks off the grill, it’s just like being in a Philly shop. Both my kids, Andrew and Emma Feldman did some taste testing. “There’s no better steak outside of Philadelphia,” claimed Andrew. Emma gave her nod too, “I love that they have steaks and soft pretzels here.”

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The ongoing cheesesteak debate is whiz or no whiz. This refers to the cheddar cheese sauce that many put on the steak. Alternatively, you can choose provolone or American cheese. I like the provolone best. So, try all three and let me know.

Even the food prices, which end in either 95 or 76, are a nod to Philly. They are the Interstates which run through the heart of the city. In addition to cheese and chicken steaks, Philly Grub loads up a several types of Italian-style hoagies as well. All sandwiches are under $9. The sides include the standard fries and tots (both quite good), but don’t forget to try a soft pretzel as the icing to your Philly experience. Finish with Italian water ice to claim your total Philadelphia meal.

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Philly Grub is located at 8269 SW 124th Street. You can order food at orderphillygrub.com or by calling 786-250-5390. They are open Monday to Saturday 11:30a-8:00p and Sundays 12n-5p. Through March 5th, tell them MiamiHal sent you and receive 10% off your bill.

Farm Share Feeds Needy Families

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On February 17th, Florida Senator Jose Rodriguez pitched in with Farm Share at St. Richard’s Holy Rosary Church in Palmetto Bay to feed 500 hungry families. Established in 1991, Farm Share is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, dedicated to recovering, sorting, packing and distributing nutritious food for people in need, free of charge.

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For most of the morning, around 20 people stood in line to register and received food. “Farm Share is a fantastic organization that receives State funding and we are happy to support a group that makes sure food does not go to waste,” explained Senator Jose Rodriguez. “We’re here in South Dade today to distribute food with them. I think it’s important that my office gets involved and helps coordinate partnerships and distribution locations.”

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The Senator really tipped his hat in support of the volunteers that get up so early all year long to make food giveaways like this so successful.

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In the last year, Farm Share has helped feed 10.5 million families by handing out 52-million tons of food.

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A family that did not want to be identified by name explained, “It is programs like this that help us so much. We are blessed this morning.” Farm Share Communications Director Gussie Flynn added, “Our whole process is about recovering food from local farmers and feeding hungry people at zero charge. So, it is especially rewarding to see happy people here.”

If you’d like to help the organization you can head over to http://farmshare.org to learn more.


Howard Drive Elementary Fun Fair 2018

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On Saturday, February 24th, the PTA threw their annual Fun Fair at Howard Drive Elementary. This year, with the Parkland mass shooting still fresh on mind, the raised funds were designated to the hardening of the school’s safety features.

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“Today was a super successful day for our annual fundraiser,” explained PTA President Laura Metka. “We had over 500 attendees, consisting of not only school families but those in the surrounding communities.”

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Besides the somewhat generic and obligatory bounce house rides, Howard Drive customizes their fair by having each class do a unique booth with an overall matching a theme. This year’s theme was U.S. States. Metka added, “So the kids learned about a particular State fact and won a prize. Then, larger prizes were awarded for those that completed the most challenges.”

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The silent auction went very well. With the sponsorships alone, the school met their goal of $10,000. Overall, the fair raised nearly $20,000.

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School principal Deanna Dalby thanked everyone, “The community support is always phenomenal and this is a wonderful event for our school, our kids and our families. The PTA has done an amazing job yet again!”

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Bowling Tournamnet Supports UM

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On February 26, UM supporters, families and guests got their chance to rub elbows with Miami Hurricane greats in the UMSHoF's 7th annual Celebrity Bowling Tournament.

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 “Last year was my first time participating and it went so well,” explained event host and Hurricane hero Albert Bentley. “This tournament supports all the University sports programs and gives kids opportunity.

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For that, I’m here all day long.” Bentley was excited to spend the evening among UM sports legends that came before and after him.

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UM graduate Wendy Allen, part of the Triplets Team, had on her own turnover chain while she bowled with three generations of her family and so many Hurricane Hall of Fame players. “We’re here to beat everyone in the place! …and to raise some important funds.”

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“It’s a great way to celebrate the accomplishments so many UM players have made over the years,” added UM Athletic Director Blake James. “The Hall of Fame does such a great job bringing everyone together from the school, the community, fans and all these Hall of Famers.

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For more information on teams and sponsorships for next year, go to <CanesBowling.com> or contact UMSHoF Executive Director John Routh at 305-284-2775.

Teen Fights for No Texting While Driving

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I've written about 18-year old Mark Werwitzer before. Mark took up the cause to change Florida law when it comes to texting while driving. 46 states think texting and driving is so dangerous it’s banned completely. Yet in Florida, where texting while driving became illegal in 2013, it’s only a secondary offense, meaning a driver must be pulled over for something else first.

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Mark has been fighting for two YEARS to get a bill voted on that seems to be a no-brainer. Yet, despite the challenges our politicians seem to be creating for him, this savvy and energetic teen presses on.

Here is his latest letter (from Facebook)

Friends,
I need your help please. Senate Bill 90, this year's bill to make texting while driving a primary offense, is in need of your support. There are only 8 days left in session, and SB 90 has not been scheduled its last committee hearing yet. If the bill is not given a hearing or allowed onto the floor, Senate Bill 90 will not become law. Please send an email to Senator Bradley, the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, and Senator Negron, who is the President of the Senate. Please use your own words to encourage them to place SB 90 by Perry & Garcia on their next committee agenda, or withdraw it from committee. Let them know why you support changes to the texting while driving law. This bill is in its final stretch, these last days will make or break the proposed bill.

Remember, be positive and polite. You will get more flies with honey rather than vinegar. I know that we are adults and this goes without saying, but please do not attack the Senator's personally and please treat them with respect. Talk about the importance of the issue to you.

Sending these legislators an email will send a strong message that this issue is a priority for everyone.

Thank you very much for you assistance. I have attached a sample email that I sent to the Senate President a few days ago, if you need encouragement on what to write.

Email for Senator Bradley: bradley.rob@flsenate.gov
Email for Senator Negron: Negron.Joe@Flsenate.gov

So, please consider taking action and making our Florida roads safer. God knows we need it!

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LISTING: Redland-Area Acre Compound 4BR/3BA

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MUCH LARGER THAN TAX ROLL! Custom-built home done above building standards! Loved and cared for by same family since new in 1974. Secure and serene. Live on this amazing acre compound with fruit trees and lots of extras.

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Large storage shed, garage with A/C and set up as gym/workshop, air-conditioned shed used as office, monster-size tiki, greenhouse w/irrigation, special room with sauna and hot tub, fencing and gate security.

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Oversized rooms with a great layout. Good flow and light throughout. Mid-home dining/family room has two hurricane-rated skylights.

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Approx 6 year old roof. ~2012 AC units. Whole-home alarm system. Newer stainless steel kitchen appliances. Newer washer & dryer.

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Kept clean and ready for your updated decorating touches.

See all the photos at: https://plus.google.com/photos/113412211363938768946/albums/6533541067609202625

17890 SW 264th Street
Miami, FL  33031
MLS # 
A10435011
Listing price $459,922

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Back to Nature at Deering Estate

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If you're looking to relax and reconnect with nature, Deering Estate's Nite Hike & Campfire is a surprisingly good way to unwind. On scheduled nights, they'll open up the locked gates to allow in a select few lucky adventurers.

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Just before dusk, the group heads down to the water to look for peaceful manatee and schools of fish that tend to use the lagoon as their playground. Then, as the sun creates wonderful hues as it sets, it’s off to the more natural areas of Deering Estate's 444-acres.  On the night I attended, Jared was our expert guide, with Christine in tow. Humble and knowledgeable, Jared explained everything we saw and pointed out the things most people would easily miss.

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As we unlocked the gate that allowed us access to some of the usually hidden acres at Deering Estate the moths start appearing, including the huge Pharaoh moth. We learn about the Gumbo Limbo trees that can survive without leaves since it's bark can photosynthesize. It is also a natural antiseptic.

Jared walks us down a path to look at spider-webs and marvel at the nature Charles Deering left. He reveals that the path was actually the old railroad path with a few stakes still poking out of the ground. 

The evening discovery included facts about the canal system and native and invasive plant species. "The cycle of life is always evolving," explained Jared. "Hurricane Irma did significant damage to our canopy, so now ground cover plants are flourishing. This will reverse as our trees regain their leaves and the ground once again becomes heavily shaded."

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Man-made structures were not so evolved. The raised “boardwalk path” was completely destroyed that used to take visitors over the swampy areas of Deering Estate. We are entranced with new nature knowledge and make our turn back at Cutler Creek.

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We listened for great horned owls and eastern screech-owls along the way, but it wasn’t until we were beside a crackling campfire enjoying complementary s’mores that Jared literally called the owls to us. Defending their territory, they dove from all directions to give us a glimpse of their beauty.

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April 11 and May 9 are the next two dates for this fun event (runs 7:00p - 9:30p). $15 per person; Free for Deering Estate Foundation Members. Call the Deering Estate Ticket Office at 305-235-1668 ext. 233 to reserve your spot.

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