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Old School Real Estate

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In an age of litigation, privacy breaches and identity theft, the residential real estate world is no longer the friendly place it once was. In fact, as of two years ago when new Federal regulations went into effect, buyers and sellers are not even allowed to be at the closing table together to exchange keys and a smile. That is why this story is so remarkable.

Marty and Pearl lived in Tree Tops, a hidden 6-home community in Pinecrest just south of Kendall Drive. Non-remarkable, except that they were the designers of the community and moved in to their dream house in 1980, a mere 38 years ago! 91-year old Marty had finally been convinced by his kids to move to a place with less maintenance requirements. The treehouse-like home had 24’ soaring ceilings and more than its share of stairs. Suffice it to say, Marty and Pearl were attached to their home and really nervous about making a move.

Shortly after putting their home on the market with me, Marty took the initiative to place his own ad in the Pinecrest Tribune to sell his house “with” me. The title of his ad was ‘Once in a Lifetime’. It was this ad and Marty’s persistent, bubbly personality that let me know this was not going to be your typical real estate transaction.

Happiness attracts happiness. And sure enough, that is exactly what happened here. Jack and Tomasa walked in for a showing one day and I immediately got the feeling this was a match made in heaven. I soon learned that Jack and Tomasa not only liked the home but knew one of the other homeowners in the community.

A purchase contract was signed after a short negotiation period and then the old-school aspects of this sale started to reveal themselves.

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Marty and Pearl organized a meet-and-greet with the other community residents and Jack and Tomasa invited Marty & Pearl to a few lunches here and there. They negotiated some furniture items to stay. The buyers allowed the sellers to take some built-ins and appliances that they would be throwing out anyway. In short, they were being friendly humans toward each other, instead of paranoid strangers.

Although they still couldn’t be at closing together, they did something much more important. They became friends.

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I was proud to be a supportive part in this old-school lesson to all us “younger folk.” Too often, we wake to be defensive and protective instead of welcoming. These senior buyers and sellers got it right. Real estate can be pleasant, friendly and productive. Here’s to more ‘Once in a Lifetime’ real estate deals for all of us!


LISTING: Cutler Bay 3BR/3BA Ranch with Pool

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Home on the hill. Loving owner for 28 years! Reported as 1718-sf, but LARGER THAN TAX ROLL!

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Enter to warm, inviting living room that wraps to open kitchen w/breakfast bar.

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Recently updated kitchen w/wood cabinets, granite counters & stainless steel appliances overlooks pool paradise.

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Cozy family room with door to great patio. Stacked bedrooms. One with ensuite cabana bath & the other amply sized. Huge master BR suite is converted garage.

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Updated master bath w/whirlpool, private commode, dual sinks, large open shower. Master has its own mini-split AC unit! Utility room with washer/dryer & loads of storage space.

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Lushly landscaped backyard bliss with hideaway hut, inviting kidney-shaped pool, deep covered patio. This is where you can relax or party! 2008 metal roof. Accordion shutters. Newer AC units. Quiet comfort!

See all the photos at: https://photos.google.com/u/1/album/AF1QipPQOkez37IcAPNHX7TouTEjJMvbFc0BGoduTxQ

19815 SW 88th Court
Cutler Bay, FL  33157
MLS # 
A10439736
Listing price $364,922

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LISTING: Classy North Palmetto Bay 5BR/3BA Ranch

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Lovingly owned since 1984. Excellently maintained ranch with so much charm.

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Impact glass. Enter to entertainment space in a large living room that meets a formal dining room area.

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Huge kitchen w/2012+ stainless steel appliances.

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Flows to breakfast area & family room combo with French doors to screened pool patio.

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Legal garage conversion to maid qtrs/guest room ensuite bedroom. Good utility space boasts laundry, workbench and lots of storage behind bi-fold doors. Separate wine/storage room.

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Oversized bedrooms stacked together in a classic style. BRs share a cabana bath. Master suite has a huge sitting/dressing room, walk-in closet & more. Lots of light.

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Backyard to remember, under deep screen patio. Lots of love. In the heart of Palmetto Bay & close to your heart. Close to Coral Reef Park.

See all the photos at: https://photos.google.com/u/1/album/AF1QipPTBds0qyUisCRFV1GbIWjADirlaMWoMidyYjE

15401 SW 82nd Avenue
Palmetto Bay, FL  33157
MLS # 
A10438099
Listing price $547,922

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50 Years of Heritage House

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For half a century, the Tendrich family has been making boys and men look good at their clothing store, Heritage House. On March 23, they celebrated 50 years in business by doing what they do every day. “We had a bit of fun chatting with our customers about it, but it was a regular day for us,” explained Jack Tendrich. “We just got a little bit older.”

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It is with humor, work ethics and dedication that they’ve amassed a stellar reputation. “It’s sort of frightening to know I started this 50 years ago,” remembered Howard Tendrich. “The only thing that has changed in those years is style. People dressed up more back then. Today people wear lots of styles and as long as their happy, its great. But one things is still true… Nehyru jackets are out.”

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Manager Charles Merrill has been at the store a scant 42 years. “I love coming to work here. It couldn’t be a better place,” explained Merrill. “The whole Tendrich family is terrific and the customers are amazing.”

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And who says you can’t each an old dog a new trick? In 1998 Heritage House started selling online. Today it makes up 30% of their overall business.

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But if you want the full effect of this institution, you must visit in person at 12105 South Dixie Highway. You can also call Heritage House at 305-232-1776 or 888-784-8269. Their website is www.boyssuits.com.

UM Sports Hall of Fame 50th Annual Induction Banquet

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Rabid Miami Hurricane fans are nothing new. UMSHoF President Tracy Kerdyk explained, “For the past 50 years we have been inducting our Hall of Famers at the annual banquet.  We invite Hurricane fans from all over to come join us as we celebrate these great athletes."

The University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame will hold the 50th Annual UMSHoF Induction Banquet on Thursday, April 19th at Jungle Island in Miami. Tickets for the 50th Annual UMSHoF Induction Banquet are $125 each, or a table of ten for $1250  In addition, a SUPER TABLE of ten can be purchased for $1750, which includes preferred seating and a 1/2 page advertisement in the banquet program. For information please contact the UMSHoF at 305-284-2775 or go to UMSportsHallofFame.com

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The nine members of the Class of 2018 are: baseball's Yonder Alonso, basketball's Chanivia Broussard and John Salmons, golf's Tina Miller Lloyd, football's Frank Gore, Devin Hester and Coach Larry Coker, track and field's Dominique Darden and Britney Butcher, the first ever soccer inductee.

 “We are honored to induct an incredible class into The UM Sports Hall of Fame Class in 2018," said Director of Athletics Blake James.  "These Canes represented excellence during their time at Miami and well-after they left Coral Gables.  On behalf of everyone in our Department and UM fans around the world, let me congratulate each member of the class and thank them for their contributions to The U."

14th Annual Deering Seafood Festival

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While the Deering Seafood Festival gets bigger and better each year, this year marked a major milestone. Using new attendance and crowd size software, over 9500 attendees were able to enjoy Deering Estate on what was a beautiful and temperate March 25th. “This is well beyond our wildest dreams. With nearly 300 volunteers working to keep us going all day, this was a real homerun,” said Deering Estate Foundation Executive Director Mary Pettit.

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This year was presented by Tom Thumb Food Stores and featured celebrity chef demonstrations all day long, where attendees could learn how to cook from the best local chefs around.

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Of course, there were amazing food vendors including Golden Rule Seafood (in their 13th year) and Sports Grill (a vendor for all 14 festivals). Popo’s Seafood, Tacos & Tattoos, Rodbenders Raw Bar & Grille, Catering by Les, Don Cameron, Devon Seafood + Steak, Paella Party, and Fancy Loaf (Antigua & Barbuda Association of South Florida) rounded out the food choices and desserts were served up by Gringa Flan, Chill’N Nitrogen Ice Cream and Wendy’s Chocolates.

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The festivals Lil’ Shrimp Discovery Kids Zone was a huge hit. That was where kids could get up close and personal with South Florida wildlife and also learn about our environment, ecology, preservation and other earthy goodness.

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The beer and spirits flowed and if that wasn’t enough, a traveling band called Bahamian Junkanoo Review parades around with stilt walkers and colorful music and costume. A main stage also provided great music throughout the day. The Caribbean Crew Steel Drum Band set the island theme and then Blackstar rocked out to close the festival.

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The revenue from the Deering Seafood Festival goes to the Deering Estate Foundation, which provides an amazing array of programs on the grounds throughout the year.

8th Anniversary of The Comedy Inn

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Live, local and good laughs. If you want world-class comedy, it can be found at Palmetto Bay’s The Comedy Inn.

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But you have to be an inn-sider to know what’s coming up. Run like a secret society, The Comedy Inn is keenly crafted by founder Mike Levine, the son of the family who has owned the Quality Inn hotel at 14501 S. Dixie Highway since 1972.

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It started eight years ago with a raised triangle of plywood and a mic in the corner of the rarely used hotel conference room. “Those are memories of when my Dad said I was crazy,” explained Mike Levine. “It’s been such an awesome ride over the past eight years. Some of the best comedians in the world have touched our stage.” Indeed, nationally-recognized jokers such as Carlos Mencia have graced the now fully-professional stage.

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You’d never expect a good comedy club to be out here in the suburbs, but it’s no accident. Levine says, “When you focus on taking care of the comics, they take care of you and the audience.” Besides being instrumental in developing local comedians, Levine and The Comedy Inn have a reputation for providing audiences and the performers an amazing venue and environment for comedy. “We’ve recorded comedy shows for Amazon and Netflix, as well as recording albums in English and Spanish.”

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Fittingly, on 4/20, The Comedy Inn threw itself an eighth anniversary party.  The intimate room hosted all local comedians, including the ever-improving MC David Stebbins. Yours truly brought 12 friends to the anniversary show and we all laughed like crazy. I’m proud to have found this inn-credible place so early in its existence. I inn-courage you to become an inn-sider by getting on their mailing list (it’s the only way to find out about their shows).

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Shows are approximately monthly. There is no drink minimum and you’ll love the experience. Full info can be found at www.comedyinn.com. They also are on Facebook and Inn-stagram.

Howard Drive Elementary Ladybug Release

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“They’re all over me,” exclaimed students of Howard Drive. It was the annual tradition of releasing ladybugs in Palmetto Bay in advance of Earth Day.

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Students met on the benches outside the front of the school donning ladybug construction paper cut-outs around their necks and each class then provided facts about ladybugs. Did you know a ladybug’s color fades as they age? A ladybug may consume 5,000 plant-destroying aphids in its life and ladybugs are completely harmless to humans.

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No, "lady" in the name does not mean all of the bugs are female. Here's the backstory, courtesy of the Lost Ladybug Project: "During the Middle Ages in Europe, swarms of aphids were destroying crops. The farmers prayed to the Virgin Mary for help — and help came in the form of ladybugs that devoured the plant‐destroying pests and saved the crops. The grateful farmers named these insects 'Our Lady’s beetles,' a name which had endured to present day."

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Teacher Nayibe Padilla explained, “This is an amazing experience for the kids. They are able to release ladybugs into the wild and learn about all the good things they do for the environment.”

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Each class was handed a container with hundreds of ladybugs and sent to various locations on school grounds to let the kids release them. “This is one of my favorite activities every single year,” said Councilwoman Karyn Cunningham. “During Earth Week we visit every one of the elementary schools and spread the joy of education in this fun way.”

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Mayor Eugene Flinn added, “When the adults got up to speak I could see the kids got antsy. So, I was quick to say that what the students were doing was great and then we got to spreading them around.”


Business Networking at Dadeland Mall and Earl’s Kitchen

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If you’re into networking and wine, you’re won’t want to miss ‘Wine on Wednesday’, a new big event concept by Dadeland Mall and Earl’s Kitchen. “It’s about bringing the community together and having fun,” explained Earl’s General Manager Lauren Barr. “On each second Wednesday of the month (5pm-7pm), we’re pouring unlimited wine and inviting business-oriented people to mix and mingle.”

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Beginning May 9th, you can bring your business card and $20 to the second-floor atrium and outdoor balcony outside of Earl’s Kitchen + Bar to enjoy this event. You’ll get a wine glass and nametag and they’ll even be some small bites. The rest of the networking is up to you.

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Dadeland Mall Director of Marketing, Lourdes Rodriguez explains this was the brainchild of the mall and Earl’s to enhance their involvement in the community. “This is a first of its kind in Miami event. We’re much more than a mall and this is just one of the ways we can showcase this.”

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“We believe this will benefit everyone, Earl’s, the mall and all the tremendous business people in the area,” explains Barr. The organizers expect more than 150 people to be at the first event.

CITE Traffic Safety Initiative in Palmetto Bay

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Speeders Beware! Palmetto Bay Has its Limits. Too many residents have reached their limit with drivers who speed and ignore stop signs and we are responsive to the need to maintain safety in our Village.

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Palmetto Bay’s Mayor Eugene Flinn and Councilman David Singer held a Traffic Safety Town Hall meeting on March 12 and then, along with Police Major Serralta, worked to launch a traffic initiative in May called The Comprehensive Improvised Traffic Enforcement Initiative (CITE). "When it comes to driving in The Village, a heavy foot isn't taken lightly with police," explained Serralta.

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Using their own records and residents' input, officials have assigned officers at known trouble spots during both morning and evening rush hours where speeding and blown stop sign violations frequently occur. “There was enough blatant disregard for our traffic safely laws captured on video by our residents that we knew we had to do something,” explained Mayor Eugene Flinn.

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“We want to address the drivers who are in Palmetto Bay and let them know, in no uncertain terms, that we want safe streets for our kids and for the public at large,” said Flinn. “We know no one wants to get cited, so if people are aware of CITE, we expect behavior will change before citations are necessary.”

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Initial feedback from residents has been quite favorable. So, if you want to be part of the Palmetto Bay community, please drive safely.

Little Hoolie’s is Moving

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Nobody puts Baby in a corner! Located in the corner of the Briar Bay Shopping Center across from The Falls, Little Hoolie’s Sports Bar & Grill has been the place to enjoy adult beverages, shoot pool, watch sports on 30 TVs and listen to some great local bands for 18 years.

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Originally, it was Jay Love who owned both Hooligan’s Pub & Oyster Bar (in Pinecrest’s Dadeland Plaza Shopping Center) and Little Hoolie’s Sports Bar & Grill. Then, in 2000, Chris Valle bought Little Hoolie’s and the rest, they say, is (ongoing) history.

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Little Hoolie’s is beloved by both patrons and local bands. I, and so many others, know that it’s a special place with a fantastic staff, good prices and passion to be the best. Manager Steve Spanka remarked, “Friday nights are our big nights. We pack them in and the bands are great, everything from hard rock to R&B.”

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Among many successful bands who rocked Little Hoolie’s over the years is Mr. Nice Guy. MNG Guitarist Tom Hall recalled, “We were there from the beginning and I remember that placed so packed the fire marshal came and shut it down. Joe is an excellent manager who really knows how to run a bar.” John Quinn, MNG’s keyboardist, recalled, “Little Hoolie’s is where we were born. Back then, the band played pretty much for beer. We’ve come a long way and we love Little Hoolie’s for what they did for us.”

Back where it all began in 2000, Mr. Nice Guy performed at Little Hoolies in 2012 to celebrate their anniversary.

About 11 years ago, Big Hoolie’s closed and a string of other bars failed thereafter. Now, it seems, it’s time for the Little one to ascend. In the final days of May, Little Hoolie’s will close its doors in the Briar Bay Shopping Center and about two weeks later open up right where Big Hoolie’s used to be. Spanka says, “Pending inspections and permits, we should soft open in early June in the much larger space. We’re excited! It’s going to be bigger and better.”

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In a fitting manner, Mr. Nice Guy, who has grown their base to tens of thousands of raving fans, have their own 3-day Caribbean cruise and now open for some pretty famous bands is slated to be the first booked band at the new Little Hoolie’s Sports Bar & Grill on June 29th.

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So, if your nostalgic, hustle in for a final beer or two at their current location. And soon visit them at 9555 S Dixie Hwy in Pinecrest’s Dadeland Plaza Shopping Center. For exact timing of the move, check out www.littlehoolies.com.

Bread for the World

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Bread for the World is a non-partisan, Christian citizens' movement in the United States trying to end hunger. Each year, Bread for the World invites churches to take up a nationwide Offering of Letters to Congress on an issue that is important to hungry people.

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This year, the main issue is the farm bill. Bread for the World believes the final legislation must include the following provisions: authorize local and regional procurement; improve food aid quality and measure nutrition outcomes; allow flexibility in resource allocation; end the monetization requirement; allocate resources according to global needs; and reduce the impact of agricultural preference on food aid programs.

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For the past 25 years, Miami’s Bread for the World efforts are run from St. Louis Church (7270 SW 120th Street in Pinecrest). There, Pinecrest Councilman James McDonald and Community Activist Peter England are among several passionate Bread for the World parishioners. They rally the community to hand-write letters to each of their members of Congress as well as to their Senators. “We generate about 1500 letters a year,” explained England. “Having them hand-written creates real impact when they are.” McDonald added, “We write more letters than any other parish in the entire United States. And, this is a vitally important program that helps against hunger.”

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Father Paul Vuturo remarked, “Church is good at charity work that helps people already in need. This is more of a work of justice so that we don’t have so many people in need.”

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Even the children understand their importance. 11-year old Veronica Gonzalez wrote several letters, “I’m writing letters to encourage our Congress people to help end hunger.”

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Bread for the World has mobilized individuals, churches and other organizations to advocate for programs that have helped to reduce hunger both domestically and internationally. Their goal is to eliminate hunger by 2030. You can find out more at www.bread.org.

Invisalign at Rothenberg & Ross Orthodontics

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Let’s get something straight. When you walk into Rothenberg & Ross Orthodontics, you’re treated like one of the family.

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Since 1974, Dr. Leonard Rothenberg has built a practice centered on his passion for community and family. In July of 2014, Dr. Greg Ross joined Dr. Rothenberg in the practice. It was a matter of destiny. As a child, Dr. Ross was a patient of Rothenberg. Not only did Rothenberg do his braces, but also mentored Ross through dental school, orthodontic residency and even provided guidance beyond dental education.

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I was so impressed with the treatment that both of my kids got when they were in braces that I went back this year for myself. I wanted to correct teeth that were starting to move out of place. I was fitted with Invisalign by Dr. Ross. These are clear plastic plates that fit perfectly around your teeth and using a series of plates you change every two weeks, they move your teeth slowly into place over (typically) a year.

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All I can say is “WOW!” Just short of half way through my treatment, I see a big difference. And  the best part is it is hard for anyone else to know you are in the middle of having adult “braces”. I just think this huge tech shift in orthodontics, coupled with the great experience at Rothenberg & Ross makes this a no-brainer.

If you’d like to know more about Rothenberg & Ross Orthodontics, they are located at 7901 SW 67th Avenue in South Miami and can be reached at 305-598-8970 and <www.rothenbergandrossorthodontics.com>

iBus Palmetto Bay

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Going to the Metrorail? Headed downtown? In an effort to ease traffic congestion in Palmetto Bay, an exciting new alternative began Monday, June 11th. During morning and evening rush hours, a FREE Park & Ride will operate at Holy Rosary - St. Richard's Catholic Church (SW 77th Avenue and 152 Street) to and from the Dadeland South Metrorail station.

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Two of the new iBus shuttles will run continuously from 6:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., and from 4 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. To make the ride as quick as possible, the iBus will use the Miami-Dade County Transitway, avoiding lots of traffic and red lights.

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The Village, along with County Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava, kicked off the new service with coffee, donuts and even handed out 20 free one-day Metrorail passes to the first riders during the first week.

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I rode on the first bus with a few early risers and excited commuters. Bonnee Binker was on the bus challenging her adult son Brian to use the I-Bus to get to work. “I live on the norther end of Cutler Bay and work in Coral Gables so I usually sit in traffic for more than an hour,” explained Brian. “I was excited to know Palmetto Bay wanted to help. Today, it looks like this might cut my commute in half or more. The only real solution to traffic is getting cars off the road.”

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Erin was with her mom Heather as they checked out her new routine for getting to the New World School of the Arts in Downtown Miami. They were thrilled to have a free and fast way to commute to school.

On board was Councilwoman Karyn Cunningham, Mayor Eugene Flinn and County Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava. “I did get the legislation passed to allow the iBus onto the Transitway and I am so happy we can now offer this to frustrated commuters, explained Cava.

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Our trip took 15-minutes door-to-door. During the very first week ridership exceeded the prior I-Bus daily average of riders. The mere fact that the iBus can now pick up and deliver outside the Village boundaries makes it orders of magnitude more valuable.

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The Village recognized resident and activist Peter England who put together the initial meeting with Holy Rosary-St. Richard.

LISTING: Mangowood 5BR/3BA Family Pool Home

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AVAILABLE for SALE, for LEASE or for LEASE-PURCHASE!

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 # 
A10485905
Listing price $604,922

MLS # A10485887
Listing price $3900/month


Café in Pinecrest Community Center

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The Pinecrest Community Center, on Killian Drive right next to Pinecrest Gardens, offers an ever-increasing array of great classes and physical spaces. Until now, you could get almost anything there, except a bite to eat.

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A concession area was part of the master plan and subsequent construction plans approved by Village Council between 2014 and 2016. That vision is about to become reality with the opening of Elia Pinecrest, a 70-seat café that will offer light fare Mediterranean food with Greek influence, slated to soft open around the end of June. The grand opening will be mid-July.

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Elia means olive in Greek and the Greek owner explained, “I’m very, very excited! The moment I saw the place, it came into my mind that this was a great fit,” explained restauranteur Dimitris Harvalis. “We make everything fresh. Salads with dressing created on-site. It’s light, healthy and refreshing food with high nutritional value. We’ll will be serving breakfast items, wraps, sandwiches, bowls, smoothies and desserts.”

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They will also include vegetarian options and a kid’s menu. There’s even plans to offer catering for kids’ parties and delivery into the community. Another Elia exists across from the Frost Science Museum and has been community-oriented since it opened 6 years ago.

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“We’re excited about the near-completion of the expansion of our community center which now will include this great new amenity,” remarked Pinecrest Mayor Joe Corradino. “Together with the new café, these gathering spots are part of what makes the Pinecrest Gardens complex the hub of our community.”

Lexus Heart

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I’ll be the first to tell you that Lexus of Kendall isn’t always my favorite place. At times, the wait times in their service department can be a bit long and I’ve had a few moments of frustration with certain repairs.

Recently, I (unfortunately) had two occasions to go to the service department for flat tires. The first time I got screwed and the second time I got nailed. In each case, the offending sharp object pierced into the radial portion of the tire, meaning the tires had to get replaced, rather than being patched.

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My service advisor Isaac and service manager Judy have always shown me they cared for me as a customer, but today they blew me away. Suffice it to say, I’ve recently had some pretty rough personal waters and they knew that when I brought in my car for its second flat tire in 10 days, I was close to losing it.

Upon driving up, the Lexus service team cheerfully took in my car and Isaac arranged for a loaner while they looked into how to resolve the flat. Five hours later, I received a call that the tire had to be replaced and that it was ready to be picked up. Usually, they call to tell me what they found and how I want to proceed, so this was odd. I asked, “What do I owe you?” The answer was “not a thing.”

Knowing how many things were going on in my life, Lexus of Kendall had paid for a brand-new tire, including installation! As I mentioned, I was blown away. How often does a car service center care beyond the car?

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I certainly don’t expect they’ll do this for just anyone on any particular day, but on this day, I was blessed. Compassion lives in the most surprising places. Thank you Lexus of Kendall for your kind and incredible gesture.

Romanza Rises

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After Palmetto Bay’s Trattoria Romanza abruptly closed on April 27, 2017, I and so many others actually found ourselves craving the delicious cuisine Fernando Cortez and his wife Ana Maria served up nightly.

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Rejoice, and imagine the joy I felt when I heard that Romanza was back. Yes, you’ll travel a bit further to get your favorite dish, but it’s well worth it. I jumped in my car for the first weekend and I wasn’t disappointed.

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It’s the same great menu (and pricing) with the same great staff that we’ve come to know and love. The only thing missing at the time of opening was a liquor license, which should be coming any day now.

It was fun and relaxing to know that this great eatery was back. I shared dinner with some old friends and we remarked how comforting it all was.

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Owner and chef Fernando Cortez confided in me, “We have a relentless focus on our food. Despite quickly rising costs, we refuse to compromise or cut corners. You get the same quality and portion size we’ve always served. Our primary job is to always deliver great food at value prices.”

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So, if you’re ready for some ready for some great Italian, head over near Miami-Dade College Kendall, 10521 SW 109th Court to be exact.

LISTING: Palmetto Bay 4BR/2BA with Generator

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Come home to this tranquil mid-block, great flow home with sun-drenched rooms, fabulous modern flooring and fresh paint. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths 2643-sf on a 14,976 lot.

PHOTOS COMING SOON

There is nothing left to be desired. Bring your toothbrush to this super-clean Jennings home. Stacked bedroom plan. Updated custom real-wood kitchen with a massive pantry. Plenty of room for all your home cooking.

All PVC pipes! 2011 concrete tile roof. 2016 AC. Full shutters, some are even powered Rolladen. In short, this house is in great shape and lovingly cared for.

 Separate laundry room. Master bedroom with large walk-in closet overlooks pool. Large screened pool w/inviting spa welcomes you on a hot, sunny day.

Great size yard. Truly beautiful landscaping. Liquid-cooled 25kW generator w/direct gas line. Side-entry oversized 2c garage. You are near everything, yet on a quiet street. Coral Reef elementary, Southwood middle, Palmetto HS. Move-in ready. Come join the fabulous Palmetto Bay lifestyle.

See all the photos at: https://photos.app.goo.gl/gJ1QnkjH1zYfjaLi6

8320 SW 164th Street
Palmetto Bay, FL  33157
MLS # 
A10490908
Listing price $599,922

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Pete’s Barber Shop Shows Heart

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If you live in the Pinecrest area, you already know about Pete’s Barber Shop in the Suniland Shopping Center. It's been the place to get an honest haircut for more than 60 years. Local businesses like Pete’s make up our sense of community and give South Florida its character.

 2011 photo of some of the stylists

2011 photo of some of the stylists

Over the years, I have been a regular at Pete’s, as have so many others. In many families, Pete’s Barber Shop is a multi-generational experience. Case in point, I get my haircut with my son about every 5 weeks and we are greeted warmly each time.

 Andrew Feldman (from 2011) and stylist Raudel Garcia

Andrew Feldman (from 2011) and stylist Raudel Garcia

Sometimes routine in this fast-paced world doesn’t get the credit it deserves and sometimes the importance of community is lost as well. Thankfully, this is not one of those times.

When Ronnie Buck (my stylist) and the rest of the shop heard that my son had recently been diagnosed with cancer, there was an instant rush of support and love from Pete’s Barber Shop.

As you know, patients on chemotherapy almost always lose their hair in ugly clumps. So, when Ronnie heard about this (and my plan to also shave my head in support), he took it upon himself to offer private haircuts wherever we wanted them.

After some discussion, we decided it was better to be at Pete’s where we always got our hair cut. Ronnie came in on his day off specifically to take care of my son. The rest of the stylists were supportive, as were the patrons who understood the gravity of the special haircut.

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The haircut became an event, rather than a dark emotional moment. It was pure love as Ronnie offered to cut Andrew’s hair any way he wanted. Andrew asked for some shapes to be cut into his locks and even had a brief (and very long) mohawk before the real buzz cut. In the face of difficult times, these 45-minutes are something we’ll fondly remember.

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Rather than tears, there were laughs. Rather than shame or shyness, there was sharing. In short, it was a community haircut of love and support. And it is a day I, and Andrew, will never forget. I thank Pete’s Barber Shop from the bottom of my heart.

 Ronnie Buck and Andrew Feldman

Ronnie Buck and Andrew Feldman

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