Miami Laker 2016 January 1

A LookInside:

n .Former Miami Dolphin andresident Tony Nathan to be hon-ored by Town on January 5.......3

n Miami Lakes Chamber hostsguest speaker Dr. Susana Blancoon January 13...........................5

n News and Notes of interestfrom the Town of Miami Lakes.See pages............... ......6 & 7

n Town, county and FDOTofficials meet to seek solutionsto traffic gridlock..... ................8

n Mater Academy’s JudyMarty named Tax Watch ElitePrincipal of the Year...............11

n Spanish Lake’s chorus andcheerleaders join to spread holi-day joy.....................................17

n Pace High School inducts63 into National Honor Societychapter.................................18

n Community Calendar, 13,School, sports and church news,16-24, Classified ads.........24-27

Vol. 42 No 1 305-817-4078 MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA JANUARY 1, 2016

The original northwest Miami-Dade community newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & surrounding areas

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MIAMI LAKES OPTIMIST CLUB recently concluded its Fall 2015 Flag Football season. Over 200 children participated in the league this season, receiving trophies atthe league's closing ceremony event on Saturday, December 12, at Royal Oaks Park. Congratulations to the 5-7 division champion Panthers (above left), 8-10 divisionchampion Lions (above right), and 11-13 division champion Seahawks. The season was made possible in part by league sponsors Citi Financial, Miami LakesInvestments, MiaCucina, MOP Auto Parts, Nice Car, Inc., Sovereign Real Estate Group, Soy Naturals, The VIP Room Barber Shop, and Youth Speed Revolution. Thesesponsorships exemplify a strong commitment to the community and the Town's youth sports programs. Javier Zapata is the commissioner for the Flag Football pro-gram. Registration for the spring season will begin in February. For more information, call 786-859-6925 or visit http://MIAFlag.com.

Optimist Flag Football program’s closing ceremonies

Main Street Players present ‘RunFor Your Wife’ reading on Jan. 8-9

The Main Street Players, 6766Main Street in Miami Lakes, will

present a staged reading of thehilarious British farce Run For

Your Wife by Ray Cooney. ALondon cab driver, John Smith, isleading a double life, completewith two wives and two resi-dences.

He manages to juggle them suc-cessfully, until he ends up in thehospital following a mugging inci-dent. When he gives the hospitaltwo different addresses and thepolice begin investigating, hiscarefully balanced world spins outof control.

The reading is directed by JohnOlivera, and produced by PattyFernandez. Five out of the sevenactors have appeared in past MainStreet Players productions, and thetheater is pleased to welcome TedDvoracek and Jay Maxwell to thestage for the first time.

Performances are Friday,January 8 and Saturday, January 9at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5, and maybe purchased at the door or onlineat www.mainstreetplayers.com.

MAIN STREET PLAYERS’ cast for Run For Your Wife includes(from left) Ted Dvoracek, Patty Fernandez, Larry Chidsey, LeoLopez, Jay Maxwell, Marilyn Gresh. Not pictured, Roly Del Rio.

Photo credit: John Olivera

A look ahead to what’s in storefor Miami Lakes in 2016

The Miami Laker staffMiami Lakes accomplished a

lot of the goals that council mem-bers set in 2015, including open-ing the new Youth Center knownas “The Spot,” completed a goodportion of storm water drainageprojects, opened up the new firestation, completed the TownCenter zoning district map andconstruction of the Greenwayalong N.W. 77 Court, andachieved a Class Five flood insur-ance rating.

The town also launched thetown’s new mobile application,Lakes Life, for residents to trackdown the town’s local businesses,search for doctors, places to eat orshop, and report potholes andsidewalks that need repairing.

Created by CouncilmemberTony Lama, Lakes Life makes lifeeasy for residents as more than1,200 residents use the app toaccess their government and trackdown the Miami Lakes Moover

buses at the tip of their fingers.Also in 2015, Miami Lakes ini-

tiated the first town TrafficSummit, where town, state andcounty officials gathered to offersolutions to the traffic problems inthe town.

Following the meeting, theMiami Lakes Town Counciladopted a transportation improve-ment plan to incorporate the pro-posed traffic solutions into thetown’s new Strategic Plan.

The year 2015 was capped offwith the town’s 15th anniversaryof incorporation and councilmembers, volunteers and residentsvowed to make 2016 an even bet-ter year.

The town will continue with itscode enforcement and buildingamnesty program which allowsresidents, who have liens placedon their properties, to come intocompliance for reduced costs.After residents complete the pro-

(Please see Page 3)

PAGE 2 JANUARY 1, 2016 THE MIAMI LAKER

THE MIAMI LAKER JANUARY 1, 2016 PAGE 3

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AFTERCHRISTMAS

SALE

New Optimist club house,new parks, more drainage,Charter Review ahead in 2016gram and pay the reduced fees, thetown will remove the liens fromtheir properties.

Before the program started,Town Manager Alex Rey saidliens were placed on about 300homes but most of the residentshave come into compliance sincethe program got underway.

The deadline for the amnestyprogram was extended toDecember 31, 2016, to give allresidents a chance to take advan-tage of the program and have theirliens officially removed.

Also for this year, Miami Lakesis expected to open up a new dogpark, complete construction of theMiami Lakes Optimist club house,and work diligently to turn the Par3 golf course into a passive park.

Miami Lakes is looking todevelop the Miami Lakes DriveBridge Park, where an Interstate75 overpass would be converted toa pedestrian and bike friendlypark, and make the town a golfcart community to help alleviatethe traffic congestion.

The town is planning to contin-ue its Green Energy/PACEInitiative and the Lake WaterQuality Awareness program, andcomplete transportation and stormwater improvements for LakeMartha, Lake Sarah and LakeHilda, and budgeted $878,500 forthe town’s canal bank stabilizationprogram.

Miami Lakes will also continueits tree trimming and tree planting

program after adopting a moreuniform tree planting program toreflect the beautification characterof the town, and lure more busi-nesses to the area with a market-ing plan that includes a partner-ship with the two biggestlandowners in the town.

But Miami Lakes must seekfunding to resume the seniorclasses at the two community cen-ters for the remainder of the cur-rent fiscal year.

Miami-Dade County Commis-sioner Esteban Bovo donated$20,000 to Miami Lakes to under-write the classes for six months,but the town is seeking privatedollars to ensure the programscontinue until the summer.

Also in 2016, town officials arehoping to work with representa-tives of Miami-Dade PublicSchools to find solutions for theovercrowding issue at some of thetown’s schools, including the K-8facilities. Reportedly, the over-population is negatively impactingkids’ education.

The Miami Lakes CharterReview Commission has alreadystarted meeting to examine thetown charter and determine if anychanges are needed to the docu-ment, and 2016 will see threecouncil members seeking reelec-tion and the mayoral seat is up forgrabs as well.

Many residents are calling fornew leadership in the mayoralrace.

(Continued from Page 1)

Miami Lakes to honor Tony Nathanduring Council Meeting on Jan. 5

Former Miami Dolphins run-ning back Tony Nathan takes cen-ter stage next week when hisadopted hometown pays homageto him for his performance on thefield as well as his volunteer workat the Optimist Club.

The Town of Miami Lakes willhonor the Alabama native at theJanuary 5 regular council meetingat Town Hall. Nathan’s personallife story was written in his bookentitled “Touchdown Tony:Running with a Purpose,” whichinspired the 2015 movie“Woodland.”

Councilmember Manny Cidsponsored legislation to celebrateNathan’s accomplishments with aproclamation, saying his rise fromhigh school and college to theNFL can be a benchmark foryoung aspiring athletes.

“Miami Lakes resident andMiami Dolphins great TonyNathan’s story serves as an inspi-ration to our youth,” said Cid.“With hard work and a strong faithin God, all is possible.”

Cid also recommended thatNathan be the first-ever inducteeinto the Miami Lakes Sports Hall

of Fame, which will be housed inthe new Miami Lakes Optimistclubhouse.

Nathan’s story was brought tolife in the movie, which reflectedon the racially-torn and turbulentperiod throughout the 1960s and1970s in Alabama.

But Woodland High School’sfootball team and head coach TonyGeralds created a bond throughtheir faith and became one of thebest teams in the country.

The team’s winning streaks andstate championship victory easedracial tension and brought the citytogether, as people had somethinggood to root for.

Nathan went on to play collegefootball at Alabama under leg-endary coach Bear Bryant, wasdrafted by the Miami Dolphinsand played in two Super Bowlsunder Don Shula, the NFL’s all-time winningest coach.

In his nine NFL seasons, allwith Miami, Nathan rushed for3,542 yards, caught 383 receptionsfor 3,592 yards and 32 touch-downs.

Following his retirement fromfootball, Nathan was the runningbacks coach for the Tampa BayBuccaneers and the San Francisco49ers.

He is currently a bailiff for for-mer Dolphins’ teammate andCounty Court Judge EdwardNewman.

Nathan was inducted into theMiami Dolphins’ Ring of Honorlast year at Sun Life Stadium.

Steve Blake returns home asDetroit defeats Heat 93-92

DETROIT PISTONS GUARD Steve Blake (left), a former MiamiLakes resident and standout at the Optimist Club of MiamiLakes, is joined by Jim Hamilton, longtime Miami Lakes Optimistpresident and Braddock High boy’s basketball coach, WillieDiaz, who coached against Blake when he played at Miami Highand Killian, before the start of last week’s Pistons-Heat game atAmerican Airlines Arena. Guard Reggie Jackson scored 18points and Blake added 12 points, as the Pistons overcame an18-point deficit to defeat the Heat, 93-92. Blake shot four-for-fivefrom three-point range to help his team beat the Heat for thesecond consecutive time this season.


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Town Council settles one Pizzi lawsuit for $460,000By David L. SnellingThe Miami Laker staffThe Miami Lakes Town

Council narrowly approved anagreement to pay Mayor MichaelPizzi’s attorney fees generatedfrom his reinstatement court cases,settling one of his two lawsuitsagainst the town in a legal disputethat has dragged on for eightmonths.

The next step is for both sidesto resolve Pizzi’s legal fees fromhis criminal trial, as his lawyersare seeking $2.5 million in courtcosts.

At a special meeting two weeksago at Town Hall, lawmakers whovoted to pay his legal team$460,000 for his reinstatement set-tlement to avoid additional legalexpenses were CouncilmembersNelson Rodriguez, Ceasar Mestre,Tony Lama and Pizzi, who was theswing vote.

Vice Mayor Tim Daubert andCouncilmembers Frank Mingoand Manny Cid were the opposingvoices, saying taxpayers shouldn’tbe held responsible for the

mayor’s action that led to hisindictment on public corruptioncharges in 2013.

Pizzi was allowed to vote on hissettlement despite some sugges-tions it was a conflict of interestand he should have recused him-self from the dais.

But one of his attorneys, BenKuehne, said based on state lawand Miami-Dade’s Commissionon Ethics, his legal opinion indi-cated otherwise.

“In full compliance withFlorida law and having researchedFlorida law, including the FloridaEthics on Opinion, and havingcommunicated with Miami-DadeCommission on Ethics and PublicTrust, there is not a conflict thatexists affecting your ability tovote,” Kuehne told Pizzi. “AndFlorida law mandates that youmust vote unless there is a clearconflict. Your failure to vote con-stitutes under Florida law an aban-donment of your obligation.”

The settlement agreement wasapproved but not without onecouncil member directly scolding

Pizzi for putting the town in a dif-ficult position.

Daubert blasted the mayor forallowing council members to voteon bogus contracts that were partof the FBI sting that nabbed him in2013.

“One of the reasons I am soupset is that the night this wholething started, we voted on thegrants and you knew the compa-nies were bogus,” Daubert toldPizzi. “You put us in a position tovote on something that was illegal,and you said not a word! That’swhy it’s so hard for me to okay thetown spending the money when itwas all your fault!”

Mingo said residents should nothave to bear the costs for Pizzi’slegal problems he brought uponhimself.

“I don’t believe the taxpayersare responsible,” he said. “I have

to stand with them and I have tovote no on this.”

Regardless that the settlementwas reduced from the original$750,000 Pizzi’s lawyers hadrequested, Cid said he’s still tornon the issue.

“My position from the begin-ning was to bring both lawsuitcases together and come to a solu-tion,” he said.

Other council members saidthey were reluctant to pay for themayor’s court cases but wanted toput an end to the financial bleed-ing.

Mestre, a lawyer, said a recentjudge’s decision rejecting thetown’s request to dismiss the law-suit was a sign of things to come.

“This is a tough pill to swallowbut I have to put my emotionsaside if the attorneys tell you thisis the right thing to do,” saidMestre, who is running for mayorin 2016. “If it was my pay checkpaying for it, I would probably sayfight it and fight it to the end. ButI can’t tell residents that we mustwrite a check for twice theamount. We do need to stop thebleeding.”

Pizzi echoed similar senti-ments.

“It’s time to stop the bleedingand do the best we can to moveforward,” he said.

Rodriguez said he wants toeschew spending more legal feesat taxpayers’ expense.

“I am reluctant to vote for it,”he said. “But my decision is strict-ly a cost-saving measure.”

Lama said he’s not happy abouthis decision but must do what’s inthe best interest of the town. “I’m

inclined to vote for the settlementbut it wasn’t without a significantamount of thought, prayer andconsideration for residents whowere put in this position,” Lamasaid.

Kuehne told council membersnegotiating a settlement was anexample of both parties workingdiligently and not cause taxpayersmore court courts.

“Negotiating the settlement isan example of the success thatresults from excellent lawyers,including those representing thetown led by Town Attorney RaulGastesi and Pizzi’s legal team dis-cussing the mayor’s cases in goodfaith.”

According to Town ManagerAlex Rey, a portion of the$460,000 was taken from thetown’s surplus that was carriedover from last year’s budget, andthe $250,000 Miami Lakes putaside to pay his court fees afterPizzi filed his lawsuits.

He said the town’s municipalservices will not be impacted bythe budget loss. “They would notinterrupt the current delivery ofservices,” Rey said.

In addition to the settlementagreement, lawmakers tapped thelaw firm of Trujillo Vargas Ortizand Gonzalez to represent MiamiLakes in its lawsuit against theinsurance carrier, which refused tocover any of Pizzi’s legal expens-es, to recover the reinstatementcosts and pay his criminal trial fees.

The firm will bill the town at arate of $350 an hour but has agreedto handle the case on a contin-gency basis – no recovery, no fees– except for required expenses.

Line Dancingclasses resume onTuesday, Jan. 5

Miami Lakes is again offeringadult Line Dancing classes twicea week through June on Tuesdaysand Thursdays from at 11:30 a.m.at the Mary Collins CommunityCenter, 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue.

Participants will learn tradi-tional line dances as well as avariety of modern moves.

Space is limited and registra-tion is required. Classes begin onTuesday, January 5.

For more information, contactKristina Labossiere at [email protected] or 305-698-9308.

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Are you a senior who has expe-rienced a fall? Matter of Balance ishere to help.

Participants in the program willlearn exercises to increase strengthand balance in a small group set-ting for eight two-hour sessions,

over a four week period.The workshops will take place

from January 12 to February 4 onTuesdays and Thursdays from 10a.m. to noon at the Roberto AlonsoCommunity Center, 16500 N.W.87 Avenue.

Space is limited and registra-tion is required. Registrationopens on Tuesday, January 5. Formore information, contact KristinaLabossiere at [email protected], or 305-698-9308.

‘Matter of Balance’ course begins January 12Miami Lakes Chamber hostsDr. Susana Blanco as guestspeaker at January 13 lunch

Psychologist and journalist Dr.Susana Blanco, is the guest speak-er for the Miami Lakes Chamberof Commerce membership meet-ing, scheduled for Wednesday,January 13, at Shula’s GrandBallroom inside Don Shula’sHotel.

Blanco earned her Master’sDegree in marriage and familytherapy from the University ofMiami and her doctoral degreefrom the University at Albany,State University of New York. Shecompleted her clinical internshipat Boston Medical Center at theCenter for Multicultural Training,and her post-doctoral training atEdith Nourse Veteran’s Hospitalin Bedford, Massachusetts.

Prior to returning to full-timeclinical work, Blanco was theassistant director of training forCarlos Albizu University’sClinical Psychology DoctoralProgram.

In addition to having worked asa full-time academician at the doc-toral level and conductingresearch, Blanco has co-authoredjournal articles and presented atnational and international confer-ences on various topics.

Blanco focuses on developingand maintaining meaningful, per-sonal and professional relation-

ships through honest, vulnerableand wholehearted presence andcommunication. Blanco believesthis to be the key to success in allareas of life and is passionateabout sharing this perspectivewith others who want to live moreauthentically.

Blanco and her partner, Dr.Alvarez-Jimenez, are the co-own-ers of Thrive PsychologicalAssociates in Miami Lakes.

Networking starts at 11:30 a.m.and lunch will be served at noon.

For more information, callMarta Diaz at 305-556-2212 oremail her at [email protected].

DR. SUSANA BLANCO

Alexis Garcia successfullycompletes ‘Across Cuba’ run

Cuban native Alexis Garciarecently competed his Run AcrossCuba marathon, a 1,000-mile runfrom Punta de Maisi to Cabo deSan Antonio in 35 days to helpraise money to buy kids shoes inhis poverty-stricken homeland.

The Miami Lakes resident andphysical education teacher atMiami Lakes K-8 Center raisedmoney through the DreamchaserFoundation, and parents droppedoff more than 60 pair of sneakersat the school as part of the fund-raiser.

Garcia, 53, ran 30 miles per dayto reach his goal, as he reflected

on his 55-hour experience to cometo the United States on a make-surf boat 23 years ago but neverforgot where he came from or hisroots.

ALEX GARCIA, his wifeMarlene, and coach LisaSmith-Batchen.


News and Notes from the Town of Miami LakesOverflow crowd participates in firstBreanna Vergara 5K Run and Walk

More than 1,800 people partici-pated in the first annual BreannaVergara 5K on December 13 atMiami Lakes Picnic Park Westcommemorating the life of resi-dent and avid dancer BreannaVergara, 11, who fell unexpectedlyto sudden cardiac arrest last year.

Miami Lakes elected officialsand their families participated inthe run and presented the Vergarafamily with a proclamation pro-claiming December 13 as BreannaVergara Day.

With proceeds from the run, theBreanna Vergara Foundation pre-sented Niklaus Children’sHospital with a check for $25,000.Following Breanna’s death, thehospital continued offering freepediatric EKG screenings whichhave already helped to identifychildren at risk for sudden cardiacarrest.

The Foundation has donated atotal of four automatic externaldefibrillators (AED) including onethat was donated to Our Lady ofthe Lakes Catholic Church andSchool at the 5K run. TheFoundation has worked tirelesslypromoting its mission to promote ahealthy, happy, and passionatelifestyle by offering opportunitiesfor children to participate inextracurricular activities whilealso creating awareness of heartscreenings in an effort to identifykids at risk of sudden cardiacarrest.

BREANNA VERGARA DAY was proclaimed by Miami Lakesofficials during the first annual Breanna Vergara 5K run onDecember 13 at Miami Lakes Picnic Park West. Pictured (fromleft) Vice Mayor Tim Daubert, Councilmembers Manny Cid,Ceasar Mestre and Nelson Rodriguez, Mayor Michael Pizzi,Councilmember Tony Lama, and Breanna’s parents Claudia andJesus Vergara.

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Town releases fourth quarterperformance report for 2015

Town of Miami Lakes has beentracking and reporting perform-ance measures as part of an ongo-ing effort to be accountable to res-idents.

The 2014-15 Fourth Quarterperformance reports includes;

• Leisure Services section re-ported record high in summercamp participants.

• Police Targeted Crimes weredown significantly compared tolast fiscal year.

• Number of Building Inspec-tions increased from last fiscalyear by approximately 950 inspec-tions, validating the increase ofeconomic activity in the Town.

• Percentage of street lightsworking in the town was consis-tently higher this fiscal year thanthe previous two fiscal years.

• 1,191,252 sq.ft. of sidewalkflags have been pressure cleanedsurpassing the goal of 1 millionsq. ft.

• Large increase in number ofindoor facility, field and pavilionrentals which can be attributed toimplementation of the onlinereservation system (Etrack-2014),which provides for more efficientand accessible method for makingreservations.

• A 87 percent compliance ratefor the Town Code Awareness ini-tiative to conceal garbage andrecycling containers from the pub-lic eye.

The Fourth QuarterPerformance report may beviewed by www.miamilakes-fl.gov/manager.

Elderly Affairs Committee hostsTechnology Forum for seniors

Miami Lakes Elderly AffairsCommittee will host the first everTechnology Forum for Seniorsfrom 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. onSaturday, January 9, at the MaryCollins Community Center, 15151N.W. 82 Avenue.

Seniors will learn about theadvantages of smartphones andhow to navigate Apple andAndroid products. Participantswill also learn how to use socialmedia apps such as Facebook,Skype and FaceTime.

Seniors will be introduced tothe Town’s mobile app, Lakes

Life, and ride sharing apps likeUber.

The Town and the committeebelieve that staying connected toloved ones and staying engagedwithin their communities is vitalto the continued wellness of seniorcitizens.

Students interested in volun-teering at the Technology Forumto earn community service hoursare asked to contact SpecialEvents and Committees coordina-tor Clarisell De Cardenas at 305-512-7133, or via email at [email protected].

Closing ceremonies held forTown’s Youth Programs

Miami Lakes councilmembersjoined young participants in theclosing ceremonies for YouthArchery, Hook A Kid on Golf, andStart Smart programs onDecember 18 at “The Spot”,Miami Lakes Youth Center.

The youth programs haveproven to be very popular and aimto teach participants the funda-mentals of sports while providingan opportunity to fine tune their

skills.Programs scheduled to being

again in January:Youth and Adult Archery on

January 5, Start Smart on January6, and Hook A Kid on Golf onJanuary 13.

For spring session registration,contact programs coordinatorKristina Labossiere at [email protected], or 305-698-9308.

Miami Lakes Elderly AffairsCommittee announced its nextevent in the 10th annual SeniorGames open to seniors ages 50and up.

The Canasta Tournament willtake place on Friday, January 15,at the Roberto Alonso CommunityCenter, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue,beginning at 2 p.m.

Future games include:

Softball Game on February 10,Track & Field Events on April 9, aBridge Tournament on June 6, anda Basketball Game on August 27.

Participants will receive asnazzy T-shirt and medals will beawarded to winners in each agedivision for the male and femalegroups. Check for future gametimes and locations by visitingwww.miamilakes-fl.gov/calendar.

Canasta Tournament on January 15opens 10th annual Senior Games


News and Notes from the Town of Miami Lakes

Miami Lakes NeighborhoodImprovement Committee (NIC)will host a Community Forum at 7p.m. on Thursday, January 21, inthe Council Chambers at TownHall, 6601 Main Street.

A presentation of the Town’sStrategic Plan will be offered byassistant Town Manager Andrea

Agha. The plan includes strategiesthe Town is pursuing to increasemobility as well as economicdevelopment through the enhance-ment of community hubs andactivity centers for all ages.

The strategic plan also placesemphasis on augmenting theTown’s signature beauty and park

landscapes while striving to ach-ieve environmental sustainability.

Agha will also explain how theTown will work toward nationalrecognition as a “model Town” forcreativity, innovation, and use of

technology.The mission of the NIC is to

recommend, promote, and createprojects and activities that willbeautify and improve all neighbor-hoods in a collaborative and com-

prehensive manner.For more information, contact

Clarisell De Cardenas at 305-364-6100, or [email protected].

Town Council Regular MeetingTuesday, January 5, 6:30 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Youth Activities Task Force MeetingWednesday, January 6, 7:00 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Cultural Affairs Committee MeetingThursday, January 7, 7:00 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Charter Review Commission MeetingMonday, January 11, 6:00 p.m.Miami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Elderly Affairs Committee MeetingWednesday, January 13, 8:30 AMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Education Advisory Board MeetingThursday, January 14, 6:30 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Economic Development Committee MeetingTuesday, January 19, 5:30 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Planning & Zoning Board MeetingTuesday, January 19, 6:00 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Veterans Committee MeetingThursday, January 21, 6:00 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Neighborhood Improvement Committee MeetingThursday, January 21, 6:45 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Charter Review Commission MeetingMonday, January 25, 6:00 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

Public Safety Committee MeetingTuesday, January 26, 6:30 PMMiami Lakes Government Center, 6601 Main Street, Miami Lakes, Fla.

In accordance with the provisions of F. S. Section 286.0105, should any person seek to appealany decision made by the Council with respect to any matter considered at these meetings, suchperson will need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made; which recordincludes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, persons needing specialaccommodation to participate in the proceedings should call Town Hall at (305) 364-6100, nolater than (2) days prior to the proceeding for assistance.

Please be advised that two or more Councilmembers may be in attendance at the aboveevents/meetings.

This Notice dated December 28, 2015at Miami Lakes, Fl.Gina Inguanzo, Town Clerk

TOWN OF MIAMI LAKESNOTICE 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 hosts forum on January 21

Town’s toy drive benefits HisHouse Children’s Home

SPEARHEADED by Councilmember Frank Mingo, Miami Lakeshosted a toy drive benefiting His House Children’s Home.Thanks to local donations, Miami Lakes representatives (fromleft) Mayor Michael Pizzi, Mingo, Youth Activities Task Forcechair Lynn Matos, Vice Mayor Tim Daubert andCouncilmembers Ceasar Mestre and Nelson Rodriguez deliv-ered over 200 gifts to children in need. His House Children’sHome is a private, faith-based non-profit organization dedicatedto restoring joy to the lives of children from newborn to 18 yearsof age.

‘The Spot’ Youth Centerhosts ‘Back-to-School’ events

Middle and high school stu-dents are invited to attend MiamiLakes’ “Back to School” party at“The Spot”, Miami Lakes YouthCenter, at 6 p.m. on Wednesday,January 13.

Students will receive free pizzasponsored by Papa Johns, a freewater bottle, and enjoy a night tohang out before hitting the bookswith the start of a new gradingperiod.

The first Field Trip for middle

and high school students will takeplace at Sky Zone on Saturday,January 9. Transportation will beprovided free leaving the YouthCenter at 10:30 a.m. and returningat 2:15 p.m. Deadline to RSVP isWednesday, January 6, by email-ing [email protected].

For a complete list of programsand events at “The Spot,” visitwww.miamilakes-fl.gov/thespotor call 305-819-7768.

For the ninth year in a row,Miami Lakes has received theTree City USA designation inrecognition for its abundant, beau-tiful tree canopy and exceptionaltree management practices.

The designation is provided byThe Arbor Day Foundation, incooperation with the NationalAssociation of State Foresters andthe U.S. Department of Agricul-

ture Forest Service, to recognizeenvironmental improvement andencourage higher levels of treecare throughout America.

Miami Lakes recently complet-ed a comprehensive Tree Manage-ment Plan which establishes anorganized, proactive tree mainte-nance program to ensure the Towncontinues “Growing Beautifully.”

Town of Miami Lakes receives ninth consecutive Tree City USA designation


Town, county and FDOT officials seek traffic solutionsBy David L. SnellingThe Miami Laker staffMiami Lakes Councilmembers

Tony Lama and Nelson Rodriguez,who initiated the town’s firstTransportation Summit, recentlymet with FDOT and county offi-cials during a lunch meeting toexplore more ways to alleviate thetraffic gridlock throughout the 6.5square-mile city.

Equally frustrated residents saidthe traffic gridlock, during peakhours in the morning and after-noon, along N.W. 67 Avenue to thePalmetto Expressway, MiamiLakes Drive, N.W. 87 Avenue and170 Street, continue to be prob-lems with no solutions in sight.

Following the TransportationSummit in July, the Town Council

adopted a transportation improve-ment plan to incorporate into thetown’s new Strategic Plan to offersome solutions to the trafficplights on the city’s busiest road-ways.

The proposal included trafficsignal priority at intersections uti-lizing technology and more police;improvement of pedestrian con-nections across N.W. 67 Avenuewithin Town Center; pedestrianinfrastructure improvements toensure compliance with theAmericans with Disabilities ACTrequirements for pedestrian facili-ties throughout Miami Lakes;facilitate carpooling of trips fordrop-off and pick-up of schoolchildren; connect the existing andfuture greenways on N.W. 170

Street; N.W. 67 Avenue via N.W.169 Street; and extend N.W. 59Avenue south to Miami LakesDrive.

But the recommendations arejust the tip of the ice berg, as state,county and town officials still havea long way to go to resolve addi-tional traffic problems, especiallythe new mega mall with a themepark that will be built to the northof Miami Lakes.

Miami Lakes residents have tobear the brunt of the traffic grid-lock, stuck for about an hour inbumper-to-bumper congestionwhile trying to get to work in themorning and return home in theafternoon.

After learning about Lama’sand Rodriguez’s lunch meetingwith state and county officials, res-idents offered their own solutionsto the roadway congestion, whichwere posted on the lawmakers’Facebook pages.

“You should consider openingup the I-75 ramp on Miami LakesDrive past N.W. 87 Avenue,” saidMargaret Magic. “The ramp isthere but they never did anything.All traffic trying to get I-75 wouldbe redirected. Lots of people getthe Palmetto just to get to I-75.’

Betty Rubio Leoncio said thetraffic is horrendous going west onMiami Lakes Drive from theMcDonalds to the new MiamiLakes West fire station.

She said the issue can beresolved easily by putting a “NoU-Turn” sign where mostmotorists are making a U-turn andcutting in front of everyonealready in line on Miami LakesDrive heading west.

“That means these driverswould have to go only one blockfurther to then make a U-turn,defeating their purpose of notwaiting the extra four minutes ofstaying in the line to exit thePalmetto and already go west,” shesaid. “We should post one policeofficer where that “No U Turn”sign is. Whoever makes a U-turngets a ticket.”

Rodriguez responded, sayingthe town doesn’t control the roads.

“FDOT, MDX and the countyare the agency’s that we have towork with to find solutions,” hesaid. “Government at its finest. I’llalso invite the town’s police com-mander to review your concernsabout the police.”

Mayra Quintero said traffic onthe west side has gotten worsesince the town and county openedup N.W. 87 Avenue.

“It’s been a nightmare,” shesaid. “Morning and afternoon rush

hours are as bad as the Palmetto.”Lama said a workshop will be

scheduled sometime this year todiscover additional solutions to thetraffic problems.

“There are planned changes tothe flow of traffic as it is today,” hesaid.” We will be having a work-shop next year to share the ideaswith the community.”

Juan C. Fernandez summed itup.

“We need all the help we couldget,” he said.

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Town’s annual Concert in the Parkrescheduled for Saturday, January 30

Miami Lakes Cultural AffairsCommittee will host its annualConcert in the Park at 6:30 p.m. onits new date, Saturday, January 30,at Picnic Park West, 15151 N.W.82 Avenue. The original perform-ance date of November 14 wascanceled due to inclement weather.

The show is free and open tothe public, and will feature thepresence of several food trucks.Attendees are encouraged to bringblankets, picnic baskets, friendsand family for an evening of relax-ing music under the stars.

The jazz concert will featurethe renowned talent of ElectricPiquete, co-founded by Michael

Mut, a longtime town resident.Formed in 2007, Electric Piqueteis a Latin funk band known for itsAfro-Cuban authenticity andinventive takes on Latin and jazzstandards.

They released a Latin jazz sin-gle, a Latin soul single, debuted atthe Virginia Key GrassRootsFestival, played Carnaval on theMile for the sixth straight year,served as the house band at theMiss Carnaval Miami beauty pag-eant for a fourth time, and had asong placed on a special aboutMiami on CNN, all in 2015.

“As a long-time town resident,it’s a pleasure and an honor to

have been asked to play this con-cert at the beautiful Picnic ParkWest,” said Mut.

“We’re looking forward toentertaining the families and folksof Miami Lakes and surroundingareas, and I’m especially excitedabout playing a show so close tohome.”

For more details about theband, visit www.ElectricPiquete.com.

For more information about theCultural Affairs Committee andtheir events or for sponsorships,contact Clarisell De Cardenas [email protected].

Pace High’s STEM Academyfor Computer Technologiesvisits NAP of the Americas

By Rene D. BasultoSpecial to The Miami LakerFourteen students from

Monsignor Edward Pace HighSchool’s STEM AcademyEmerging Computer TechnologiesProgram got to see the pinnacle oftechnology in South Florida whenthey visited Verizon Terremark’sNAP of the Americas data centerand Internet exchange point indowntown Miami in mid-November.

The NAP (Network AccessPoint) functions essentially as theheart of the Internet for LatinAmerica as it connects SouthAmerica and the Caribbean to therest of the world. The students,who study programming, comput-er science, computer graphics, and

web design as part of theirAcademy classes, toured the mas-sive complex and witnessed theintricate systems and technologyat work.

They were joined on the tripnot only by Ricardo Machado,Pace’s director of Technology, butalso by Pace principal AnaGarcia.

Garcia, who was visiting thedata center for the first time, saysshe “wanted to find out about theultimate in technology and seewhat technology could have instore for the future.”

“For this group of kids,” saidMachado, “they were able to seetechnology and what they arestudying in action.”

JOINED BY THEIR PRINCIPAL Ana Garcia (first from left), stu-dents from Pace High School’s STEM Academy EmergingComputer Technologies Program toured the NAP of theAmericas data center in downtown Miami in mid-November.


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As proposed by Board ChairPerla Tabares Hantman, theMiami-Dade School Board unani-mously voted to endorse the 2016Teen Driver Safety Contest, in col-laboration with the Miami-DadeMetropolitan Planning Organiza-tion, the Public Schools Commun-ity Traffic Safety Team and the

Florida Highway Patrol.The contest, now in its eighth

year, includes the annual TeenDriver Safety Public ServiceAnnouncement (PSA) and PosterContest that is open to all Districtsenior high schools.

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and one poster each will be pickedas winners of first, second, andthird-place awards. The winningentries will be showcased for athree-month period on WLRN,one winner per month for each cat-egory, after the televised SchoolBoard meetings.

School Board endorses 2016 Teen Driver Safety Contest Bob Graham’s dance teamearns Superior ratings duringRegional Dance Competition

BOB GRAHAM EDUCATION CENTER’S Dance Team kickedoff the competition season on December 12. They attended theAmerican Dance Alliance Regional Dance Competition that washeld at Reagan Doral High School and performed under theleadership of dance teacher, Mayri Martinez. The team enteredtjree routines – Jazz, Open and Lyrical – along with 5 solos. Theteam was awarded Superior in Open, Lyrical, Jazz and aSweepstakes Award for receiving Superior in all threeCategories.

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Mater Academy’s Judy Marty namedTax Watch Elite Principal of the Year

JUDY MARTY

By David L. SnellingThe Miami Laker staffJudy Marty is the catalyst for

her school’s rise to success.As the principal of Mater

Academy Charter Middle/Highand Performing Arts Academy,she has taken her school to newheights, from a little known facili-ty in Hialeah to a National BlueRibbon Award winner and invita-tions to showcase her students’ tal-ents during statewide competi-tions.

And an independent researchinstitute and government watch-dog organization has been takingnotice and honored Marty for herleadership.

Marty won the 2015-2016Florida Tax Watch Elite Principalof the Year award during a cere-mony held in her honor at herschool, 7901 N.W. 103 Street inHialeah.

The honor is given to principalswhose students exceed expecta-tions in learning gains in high-riskschools, where students’ achieve-ment gains in reading and mathe-matics demonstrated Marty’s“incredible leadership skills ineducation.”

The Florida TaxWatch ElitePrincipal Award, which was cre-ated four years ago, honors twoprincipals statewide from elemen-tary, middle and high schools whohave demonstrated excellent lead-ership skills in turning aroundtheir schools. Marty, who has beenthe principal of Mater Academysince the school opened up in2002, said she had no idea she waseven nominated for the honor. “Iwas surprised,” she told TheMiami Laker. “I said ‘who nomi-nated me?’ I didn’t know anythingabout it.”

Marty said she oversees aschool with 3,400 students fromsixth to 12th grade.

She said she’s has an open doorpolicy and is “very” visible duringthe entire school day, walking the

halls, visiting classrooms, meetingwith teachers, department headsand parents.

“I have expectations for every-body in the school,” she said. “Weare beating the odds.”

Beyond the classrooms, Martyis supporting her student-athleteson the playing fields.

She attends their games and lether students know that she’s in thecrowd cheering them on.

“I am showing them that some-one cares about them,” she said.

Marty’s school will have anopportunity to present itself at ashowcase conference in CentralFlorida in 2016.

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JetStream Federal CreditUnion benefits the EDGE

For the past seven years,JetStream Federal Credit Unionhas partnered with the EDGE forits annual toy drive. All JetStreambranches in South Florida werecollection sites for the campaign.

The EDGE (The EarlyDevelopment of Global Educa-tion) Charitable Foundation annu-ally delivers over 1,000 toys tomigrant families, children victim-ized by domestic abuse, and chil-dren victimized by human traf-ficking in South Florida.

“Our toy drive is one of ourbiggest events for giving back tothe community because of thechildren we serve right here inSouth Florida,” said The EDGEfounder Mercy Hernandez.

“After seven years of this part-nership, the event continues to besuccessful due to the generoussupport of our employees andmembers,” said Mio Serrano,JetStream’s VP of HumanResources, and an executive boardmember of The EDGE.

JETSTREAM’S executive vice president Aaron Small (left) andIT vice president Oscar Gomez (right) display the Credit Union’scontributions to the EDGE’s annual toy drive.

Senior field trips scheduledby Miami Lakes during 2016

Miami Lakes Elderly AffairsCommittee announced the sched-ule of free field trips for residents,55 years and above, for a varietyof fun and cultural activities.

The trips include:January 7, 10 a.m. – Hialeah

Park Racing & CasinoFebruary 4, 10 a.m. – Zoo

MiamiMarch 3, 10 a.m. – Morikami

Japanese GardenApril 7, 10 a.m. – Perez Art

Museum

May to September, time TBA –Marlins baseball field trips.

Transportation will be providedand depart from Town Hall, 6601Main Street. Field trips; locationsand times are subject to change.Space is limited and reservationsopen 7 days prior to each field tripdate (no exceptions).

To reserve bus seating, contactSpecial Events and Committeescoordinator Clarisell De Cardenasat [email protected], or 305-364-6100.



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Published Semi-Monthly1st & 3rd Fridays

News/Advertising Deadline:10 days preceding

Miami Lakes Branch Library hosts January eventsMiami Lakes Branch Library

announced the following programsare available for the public duringJanuary:

For Children and Families:Paws To Read – Certified ther-

apy dogs listen to children readaloud which can help with readingskills at 11 a.m. on Saturday,January 9.

Read the Book, Watch theMovie – Share in stores and enjoythe book based films. Even issponsored by the Miami LakesEducation Advisory Board at 3:30p.m. on Wednesdays, January 6,13, 20 and 27

Reading Ready ToddlerStorytime – Stories, songs andactivities for toddlers and theircaregivers. For ages 18 months to3 years old at 11 a.m. onWednesdays, January 6, 13, 20 and 27.

For Teens:Teen Club - Teens meet to play

video games, watch anime, drawor discuss books at 6 p.m. onTuesdays, January 5, 12 and 26.

For Adults:Go Club of Miami Lakes –

Now everyone can embark on ajourney and uncover the ancientgame of strategy, attack anddefense, the Game of Go. Meetsfrom noon to 5 p.m. on Saturdays,

January 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30.USCIS Information Table –

United States Citizenship andImmigration Service staff will pro-vide information, materials, andanswer general questions regard-ing the citizenship process at 5:30p.m. on Monday, January 25.

Navigating the AffordableCare Act: Health InsuranceInformation and Enrollment –Have questions about theAffordable Care Act, enrolling innew health insurance coverage, orsimply renewing? Visit withCrystal Ochoa for answers andenrollment assistance, 6 p.m. onMondays and Tuesdays, January 4,

5, 11, 12, 29, 25 and 26.Book Discussion Group – This

month’s title is “Fallen Angels” byTracy Chevalier. Meets at 6 p.m.on Tuesday, January 19.

Commissioner Esteban BovoJr.’s Mobile Office CommunityOutreach – An opportunity for thecommunity to speak with theCommissioner and/or his repre-sentative from 1 to 3 p.m. onMonday, January 11.

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Community Outreach – A

member of his staff will be onhand to discuss federal issues orany problem a constituent mayhave with a federal agency at 2:30p.m. on Wednesday, January 27.

Miami Lakes Branch Library islocated at 6699 Windmill GateRoad and is open Monday andTuesday from noon to 8 p.m., andWednesday through Saturday,from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The branchis closed on Sundays. For moreinformation, call 305-822-6520.

MiamiLakes

Meeting & Class Calendar

Town of Miami LakesTown Council Meeting January 5 6:30 pm M.L. Govt. CenterYouth Activities T. F. January 6 7:00 pm M.L. Govt. CenterCultural Affairs Com. January 7 7:00 pm M.L. Govt. CenterCharter Review Com. January 11 6:00 pm M.L. Govt. CenterElderly Affairs Com. January 13 8:30 am M.L. Govt. CenterEducation Adv. Board January 14 6:30 pm M.L. Govt. CenterEconomic Devel. Com. January 19 5:30 pm M.L. Govt. CenterPlanning & Zoning Bd. January 19 6:00 pm M.L. Govt. CenterVeterans Committee January 21 6:00 pm M.L. Govt. CenterNeighborhood Improvement Committee

January 21 6:45 pm M.L. Govt. CenterCharter Review Com. January 25 6:30 pm M.L. Govt. CenterPublic Safety Committee January 26 6:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center

(The following classes are free and open to the public)Tai Chi M/T/W/Th 9:00 am MCCCYoga (for adults) T/Th 7:45 am MCCCLine Dancing T/Th 11:30 am MCCCKnitting/Crocheting Tu/Th 1:35 pm MCCCSewing (Seniors) T/Th 2:00 pm MCCC

(Check www.miamilakes-fl.gov for resumption of other classes)

Homeowners OrganizationsLoch Lomond January 5 7:00 pm MCCCRoyal Palm Estates January 7 7:00 pm MCCCLake Carol January 7 7:30 pm MCCCSilvercrest North January 11 7:00 pm MCCCLoch Ness January 11 7:30 pm MCCCSilvercrest South January 12 7:00 pm MCCCLoch Lomond East January 13 7:00 pm MCCCLake Cynthia January 13 7:30 pm MCCCWindmill Gate January 14 7:00 pm MCCCLoch Andrews January 18 7:00 pm MCCCLoch Isle January 18 7:00 pm MCCCLake Glen Ellen January 19 7:30 pm MCCCLake Katharine Villas January 19 7:30 pm MCCCRoyal Oaks January 20 7:30 pm MCCCSerenity Point January 20 7:00 pm MCCCGramercy Park January 21 7:00 pm MCCCRegatta Pointe January 21 7:00 pm MCCCFountain Park January 25 7:30 pm MCCCLake Elizabeth January 25 7:00 pm MCCCLake Martha January 26 6:30 pm MCCCLoch Lomond West January 26 7:30 pm MCCCVilla Vizcaya January 27 7:30 pm MCCCLake Sandra January 28 7:30 pm MCCC

Miami Lakes Clubs, Professional & Volunteer GroupsM.L. Garden Club BuncoJanuary 6 11:15 am MCCCMLCA Book Discussion January 8 1:00 pm MCCCM.L. Cham. Commerce January 13 11:30 am Shula’s HotelM.L. Garden Club January 25 7:00 pm MCCCM.L. Bridge Club Mondays 11:30 am MCCCMLCA Bridge Thursdays 11:00 am MCCCM.L. Quilting Club Tuesdays 11:15 am MCCCM.L. Kiwanis 2nd/4th Thurs. 6:30 pm Pampered ChefM.L. Toastmasters 1st/3rd Tues.7:00 pm ML Educational CenterM.L. Lions Club 1st/3rd Tues. 7:00 pm Denny’s Hialeah

MCCC is Mary Collins Community Center, 15151 N.W. 82 AvenueRACC is Robert Alonso Community Center, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue

The Town of Miami Lakes, homeowners associations, professional andvolunteer groups have scheduled meetings and classes during January:

M.L. Duplicate Bridge Club electsofficers; encourages new members

MIAMI LAKES DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB held its annualChristmas Holiday game on December 14 and elected officersfor 2016. Pictured (from left) president Dave Oliver, past presi-dent John Williams, secretary Lindy Tino, treasurer Diane Ricke,1st vice president Pat Blomberg, 2nd vice president CarolSeiderman, and club director Joe Phillips.

Miami Lakes Duplicate BridgeClub is one of the longest contin-uous clubs in the community andis looking for new members totake advantage of the club’s benefits.

The club meets and playsevery Monday at 11:45 a.m. at theMary Collins Community Center,15151 N.W. 82 Avenue. Gameslast to approximately 2:45 p.m.and refreshments and beveragesare available before and duringplay.

Annual dues are only $5 andweekly play is only $5.

Persons interested in playingor who have questions are askedto contact Dave Oliver at 305-822-9680, or Carol Seiderman at954-629-7886.



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Optimist’s Heat All-Stars runners-upin Weston’s Knockout Tournament

OPTIMIST CLUB’S Heat All-Star team includes (Back from left)coach Ulysses Vazquez, Faith Vazquez, Alyssa Rodriguez,manager Alex Castroman, Amanda Diaz, Kacey Gonzalez, IbisAbreu, coach Alex Rodriguez and Yanelys Fernandez; (bottom,from left) Ericka Castroman, Brittney Montezano, ArleneCalleiro and Kayleen Romero. (Not pictured: coach AuilioAlfonso, Ashley Alfonso, Emily Torres and Adriana Bueno.

The Miami Lakes OptimistHeat All Stars competed at theNovember Knockout Tournamentin Weston and brought home therunner-up trophy, as a farewellevent for some of the players whoare headed to college.

The girls went 3-1, losing theirfirst game in the final round.

Offensively, they exceededtheir own expectations and led thetournament with the most runsscored. Defensively, they were ontheir game.

“We are all very happy withtheir performance,” said theteam’s manager Alex Castroman.“We want to thank all of our par-ents for their continued support ofthe Miami Lakes Heat Team.

Mater’s Emily Acosta nameda Wendy’s Heisman finalist

Mater Academy CharterSchool student-athlete EmilyAcosta was named a finalist forthe 2015-2016 Wendy’s HighSchool Heisman, a four sport stu-dent-athlete who’s looking for herbest season this school year.

The senior plays basketball,flag football and runs cross coun-try and track for Mater.

For basketball, so far, Emily isaveraging 15 points, six assistsand five steals per game.

Last year, the point guard wasnamed to The Miami Herald All-Dade First Team.

Emily was thrilled to be nameda finalist for the Heisman award,which only inspires her to pushherself more.

“It was an amazing accom-plishment but the road doesn’tend there,” she said. “I looking todo more during my senior year.”

Her cross country teamreached the state tournament lastmonth, where she finished in 10thplace.EMILY ACOSTA

National honor forSAS School forAdvanced Studies

Miami-Dade County PublicSchools’ School for AdvancedStudies (SAS) received nationalrecognition from Niche.com asone of the best schools in thenation.

The school received a schoolgrade of A+ in the following cat-egories: Academics, Student Cul-ture, Teacher Quality, Resourceand Facilities, ExtracurricularActivities, and Educational Out-comes. SAS is also ranked thenumber one Public High Schoolin the State of Florida for the sec-ond year in a row by Niche.

St. Thomas inducts Dolphinsinto Bobcat Sports Hall of Fame

The Miami Dolphins organiza-tion and the 1972 perfect seasonteam were inducted into the St.Thomas University’s BobcatSports Hall of Fame at the recentseventh annual Stone Crab Dinnerfor Athletics at the FernandezFamily Center for Leadership andWellness on the college’s campus.

Former all-pro safety DickAnderson, a member of the 1972Dolphins, the only undefeatedteam in NFL history, accepted theHall of Fame award on behalf ofthe Dolphins organization.

In addition to Anderson, otherformer Dolphin players wereattendance including Larry Ball(1972-74, 1977-78), Mark Duper(1982-92), Roy Foster (1982-90),Jon Giesler (1978-88), BobKuechenberg (1970-84), and EdNewman (1973-84).

The Miami Dolphins wereinducted into the Bobcat SportsHall of Fame in commemorationof the franchise's 50th anniver-

sary.The Dolphins held their train-

ing camp on the campus of St.Thomas University from 1970until 1992.

Led by their legendary coachDon Shula in 23 seasons, theDolphins won 229 regular-seasongames, went to the NFL playoffs14 times, made five Super Bowlappearance and won two SuperBowls, including the 1972 perfectseason.

The Dolphins organization hasbeen a constant partner for STU'sSports Administration program,which has produced thousands ofprofessionals worldwide through-out the sports industry, includingalumnus that have gone on towork for the Dolphins front office.

The Don Shula Scholarshipwas also established and continuesto this day, benefiting St. ThomasUniversity’s student-athletes whomajor in Sports Administration.

your hometown news.305-817-4015


Spanish Lake Elementary chorusand cheerleaders spread holiday joy

THE STUDENT CHORUS at Spanish Lake Elementary spread Christmas cheer with a concert atthe Schott Communities, a center for the deaf and disabled.

The Christmas film “Elf” is fullof memorable lines, among themis “The best way to spreadChristmas cheer is singing loud forall to hear!” The students atSpanish Lake Elementary (SLE)School agreed with the sentimentand decided to go above andbeyond previous years in givingback to the community.

Through the efforts of musicteachers, Diana Garcia, andJackson Bunn, the students werescheduled to perform and entertainat the Schott Communities, a cen-ter for the deaf and disabled.Under the guidance of Ludy

Compagines, the SLE cheerlead-ers would be able to interact withthe patients directly after their per-formance cheering, singing, anddancing,

Schott Communities is a pri-vate, non-profit organizationfounded in 1986 to address theneeds of persons who are deaf orwho are physically or intellectual-ly challenged in South Florida.The agency is an extension of theministry of the Archdiocese ofMiami for this special population.

The students came up with aplan to raise funds needed for thebus and to bring in a small stuffed

animal to share with each Schottstudent at the end of the program.In addition, each Schott studentreceived a handmade card. Thetrue meaning of the holiday sea-son, a time for giving and a timefor spreading joy was celebrated.

In return, the smiles on theSLE’s student’s faces from rejoic-ing in the participation and beingthankful for the opportunity ful-filled to themselves that they hadaccomplished something use-ful…enriching another humanbeing’s life. SLE students decidedto start a new tradition: spreadingjoy!

Mater Lakes Academy’s girl’sJV soccer team completessuccessful holiday toy drive

During the Holiday Season, theMater Lakes Academy Bears girl’sJV soccer team, together with thelaw firm of Grumer & Macaluso,P.A., got into the spirit of givingby donating gifts, toys and volun-teering their time at the annualFamily Holiday Event sponsoredby the Non-Profit Organization“Entre Nosotras” in Goulds,Florida.

This organization providescounseling and assistance to sin-

gle parents and disadvantagedfamilies in South Dade. TheFamily Holiday Event took placeon December 19 and the soccerteam participated in arts andcrafts, and other fun events withthe many kids in attendance. EvenBilly the Marlin and Santa Clauscame out for the kids! The gift col-lection drive was a huge successand gift bags were handed out to66 children.

MATER LAKES ACADEMY’S JV soccer team collected anddonated gifts with the law firm Grumer & Macaluso for disadvan-taged families.

AMANDA MILIAN

BGEC’s AmandaMilian honoredfor her poetry

Bob Graham Education Centerseventh grade student AmandaMilian won first place in theJunior Division for her poemtitled, ‘What If.’

Her award-winning poem wasalso published in the Florida StatePoets Association Book.

Amanda is a student in JackieHernandez’s Language Arts Classand the Bobcat family expressedpride of her for her achievement.


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Pace High inducts 63 into National Honor Society

TWENTY FIVE SOPHOMORES from Monsignor Edward Pace High School pose for a group photoas they and 38 other students are inducted into the school’s chapter of the National Honor Societyat a special ceremony held inside the Spartan Center on December 3.

By Rene D. Basulto,Special to The Miami LakerOver 60 students from

Monsignor Edward Pace HighSchool put on their best suits anddresses to celebrate their inductioninto Pace’s chapter of the NationalHonor Society (NHS) onDecember 3.

The NHS Induction Ceremonyis an annual tradition taking placein the school’s Spartan Centerwhere exceptional students areofficially welcomed into theorganization. Students mustexhibit NHS’ four pillars ofscholastic performance, service,leadership skills, and overall char-acter in order to be invited by afaculty council to join.

Those inducted included 25sophomores, 24 juniors, and 14seniors (one of the largest induc-tion groups in the past severalyears) were welcomed into the

society at the 2015 ceremonyaccompanied by their parents andtheir fellow NHS peers.

The evening began withspeeches from Pace principal AnaGarcia and NHS adviser LuisMayo congratulating both the stu-dents and their parents on theirjourney to this moment. The NHSstudent executive board thenspoke in turn about each of thefour pillars and NHS presidentMaya Lora asked the newinductees to rise and read the NHSinduction pledge together.

Following this, the inducteeswere called up to the stage one-by-one to be presented with theircertificates and to light their indi-vidual candle in a traditional ritualwith their grade level. Afterprayer, the evening concludedwith dinner and dessert for theinductees and their families. Hialeah Miami Lakes High’s Model

UN competition team wins awardsHialeah Miami Lakes Senior

High School’s Model UnitedNations Competition Team com-peted at KnightMUN hosted bythe University of Central Floridaheld in mid-November. TheTrojans once again proved thatthey were a force of diplomacy,debate and resolution.

Jessica Basallo, DanielValentin, Bryan Jardines andDaniel Miro received verbal com-mendations in their respectivecommittees. Senior HeadDelegates Carolina Hernandez andRolando Hernandez received hon-orable mentions in the midst ofsome tough competition. Marina

Cepeda was afforded the highesthonors on the team for her effortsin the joint crisis committee bring-ing home an Outstanding Delegate

Award.The school congratulated the

students on their achievements.

PICTURED (From left) Bryan Jardines, Rolando Hernandez,Carolina Hernandez, Marina Cepeda, Jessica Basallo, andDaniel Valentin together make up HML’s Model United NationsCompetition Team and were recognized for their achievementsat the KnightMUN event at UCF.

www.miamilaker.com


Our Lady of the Lakes Glee Clubperforms at M.L. Festival of Lights

Our Lady of the Lakes CatholicSchool’s Glee Club performed atthe 31st annual Miami LakesFestival of Lights in lateNovember. A total of 73 students,representing kindergarten throughmiddle school grades), participatein this popular school club thatprovides student performanceopportunities throughout the year.

Other Glee Club performanceshave included an annual appear-

ance at the Dade County YouthFair where the group earned firstplace trophies the past two years.The Glee Club has sung theNational Anthem at a MiamiMarlins game and have performedat the Congressional Arts Festivalhosted by Congressman LincolnDiaz Balart, at the annual OurLady of the Lakes Spring Festival,and at Sam Ashe Music Stores.

Our Lady of the Lakes will hold

a Open House from 11 a.m. to 2p.m. on Saturday, January 23, forprospective families to tour theschool and meet teachers fromgrades PreK 2 through 8th grade.OLL offers a Voluntary PreK pro-gram and accepts Step-Up forStudents scholarships.

For more information, visitwww.ollnet.com.

OUR LADY OF THE LAKES Glee Club members (from left) Isabella Cardoso, 12; Olivia Linares,10; and Sophia Linares, 13, sing “Underneath” at the 31st annual Miami Lakes Festival of Lights.

Spanish Lake Elementarystudents reach out to unsungAmerican heroes in Turkey

Spanish Lake Elementary stu-dents from Anne Burke-Stephen’sthird grade class united together tosend items and gifts of love todeployed military personnel inTurkey and their dogs.

Burke-Stephens met a youngserviceman’s wife while shoppingin Babies-R-Us. In conversation,the woman mentioned her hus-band was deployed to Turkey.Each serviceman in this unit has atrained dog helping to protect ourfreedom in the USA and the per-

sonnel’s safety in Turkey. Sharingthis with her students, the classdecided to express their thankswith letters from home to thesebrave military personnel and“yummy” touches (approved giftsfor dogs) for their four-leggedfriends across the globe.

Through this service project,the third graders showed their loveand respect across the miles to themilitary personnel and man’s bestfriend.

SPANISH LAKE ELEMENTARY third grade students andteacher, Anne Burke-Stephen, are pictured with their letters andcards for military personnel and their dogs in Turkey.

Bob GrahamEducation Centerstudent KelsieGonzalez chosenfor USA JumpRope Team

KELSIE GONZALEZ, amember of the the BobcatJumpers Team, has beenselected as a member of thejump rope Team USA. Shewill compete in the 2016International FISAC-IRSFCompetition hosted bySweden. Gonzalez will bejumping in the FemaleSwedish Open Tournamentin all events. The competitionwill take place in July 2016.She is pictured with coachJeffrey Tandlich.


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In Memoriam:Former resident and RealtorJuanita Rosa Taylor, 71

Former longtime Miami Lakesresident and well-known realestate agent Juanita Rosa Taylorpassed away on December 1 inDestin, Florida, where she andher surviving spouse Kent Taylorhad relocated several years ago.

Juanita Taylor was 71.While active with Coldwell

Banker in the Miami Lakes area,Taylor was partners with anotherwell-known local real estate agentVera Cox.

In addition to her husband,Taylor is survived by her sonKelly Taylor and her daughter-in-law Chelsea Taylor. JUANITA ROSA TAYLOR

Bob Graham’s Bobcat Dancerskickoff holidays with annual recital

The Bobcat Dance Team fromBob Graham Education Center(BGEC) kicked off the holidayswith an annual dance recital onDecember 4 titled “ChristmasCelebration.” The performancetook place at Barbara GolemanSenior High.

The Bobcat Dance Team, alongwith the Baby Bobcats, captivated

the audience with a festive showthat included a variety of holidaysongs and styles. The officers ofthe dance team, Sabrina Jorge,Angeline Fielder, Kaylyn Lopez,and Samantha Montes, demon-strated their outstanding techniqueas they performed their solos.

The sixth, seventh, and eighthgrade Bobcat Dancers also had an

opportunity to dazzle the audiencewith their own style and grace.The adorable Baby Bobcats alsoshined and charmed the audiencewith their smiles and dances. Therecital would not have been possi-ble without dance teacher, MayriMartinez, who led another suc-cessful show filled with outstand-ing choreography.

BOB GRAHAM EDUCATION CENTER’S Bobcat Dancers dazzled the audience at the annualdance recital held in Barbara Goleman Senior High’s auditorium.

‘Muffins With Moms’ a bighit for BGEC staff, students,administration and faculty

BOB GRAHAM EDUCATION CENTER administration, faculty,staff and students welcomed moms last month for a “MuffinsWith Moms” breakfast morning to enjoy with their childrenbefore classes began.

RESULTSthe miami laker305-817-4015


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Mater Academy hosts Read-A-ThonOn December 15, the Mater

Academy FBLA Chapter organ-ized the first FBLA Read-a-Thon.The event was attended by over150 elementary school studentsfrom both Mater Elementary andMater Gardens.

The project centered on eightstations where chapter membersread children books such as

Cinderella and The Lion King.Chapter members also dressed upas the characters in the stories andacted out the scenes as they wereread. There was a station for thechildren to decorate pillow casesand one to make book marks.

Soon after the stories were read,the children were pleasantly sur-prised by the appearance of Billy

the Marlin, the Miami Marlin’smascot. The students had anopportunity to take pictures andmeet the mascot. The feedbackfrom the elementary students wasoverwhelmingly positive, describ-ing it as one of the best field tripsthey ever had.

VOLUNTEERS for the Mater Academy Read-a-thon are pictured at the event where over 150 ele-mentary and middle school students attended.

Pace senior Amanda Pratsreceives Barbara L. FryeJournalism scholarship

By Rene D. Basulto,Special to The Miami LakerPace High School senior

Amanda Prats was awarded theBarbara L. Frye JournalismScholarship by the Florida CapitolPress Corps. The $2,000 scholar-ship is given out each year toaspiring student journalists inFlorida colleges and high schools.

Prats, Editor-in-Chief of Pace’sTorch Yearbook for two years,was one of only three high schoolstudents awarded the scholarship.This past summer, she participatedin the James Ansin/Peace SullivanHigh School JournalismWorkshop at the University ofMiami.

“This scholarship is reallygoing to help me pursue an educa-tion in journalism and I’m incred-ibly grateful that I was able toreceive it,” said Prats.

Prats, who has already beenaccepted into Florida International

University, is also applying to therenowned journalism programs ofNorthwestern University, BostonUniversity, the University ofFlorida, and the University ofMiami.

AMANDA PRATS

BGEC Spanish students winHispanic Heritage contest

BOB GRAHAM EDUCATION CENTER Spanish teacher,Barbara Jimenez and two of her students were recognized forwinning the District's Hispanic Heritage Essay Contest. MatteoBorjas (above left), in kindergarten, placed third placeoverall. Lidia Beato (above right), in first grade, placed firstplace overall in the district. The school congratulates Jimenez,for showcasing the talents of these students for their accom-plishments.

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HML Band ends 2015 year with a4th place in State band competition

By R.A. Romero,The Miami Laker staffThe Hialeah Miami Lakes High

School band concluded the 2015year ranked at number 4 in thestate at the final competition of theyear, Florida Marching BandChampionships (FMBC) in St.Petersburg. The band competedagainst 20 other bands in theirclass (1A).

The HML band was named afinalist in the semi-finals atSickles High School before pro-gressing to finals at TropicanaField, frequently referred to as“the dome” for its large stadium.

“I feel incredibly proud of mystudents, instructors, and bandparents. All odds have beenagainst us since the beginning andthese kids have pushed hard sinceJuly to put a high quality show onthe field. They consistently exe-cuted at a high level and nevergave up on our goal of reachingfinals,” said band director, SaraCowley.

The band students also main-tained their grades while dedicat-ing several hours each week in

preparation for competitions. Thismarks the first time HML hasearned a finalist spot the at FMBC.

“It is almost unheard of for aband to make the drastic progressthat our group has,” said Cowley.“In 2012, States were an after-thought as we finished last in allregional competitions.”

In 2013 the band placed secondat regionals, and in 2014 broughthome two first place finishes atregional and first attendance at thestate championships.

“This year was quite historic asthe band jumped 11 places tomake finals and finish fourth,”said Cowley.

HML BAND MEMBERS celebrate their 4th place finish in Stateband competition.

Pace senior Danial Labrousseearns full four-year grant toattend University of Chicago

By Rene D. BasultoSpecial to The Miami LakerPace High School senior

Daniel Labrousse received theQuestBridge National CollegeMatch Scholarship, a guaranteedfull tuition four-year scholarship,to attend the University ofChicago. He is just one of 657high school seniors from acrossthe country awarded the scholar-ship out of 13, 262 applicants.

Scholarship winners arematched with a prestigious partnercollege, including Stanford, Yale,and MIT, for a guaranteed “fullride” scholarships that includestuition, room and board, and otherexpenses.

Labrousse is a part of theSpartan Sword & Shield Honorsprogram and an active member ofthe Pace family. In addition tobeing president of the school’sFBLA (Future Business Leadersof America) chapter, he is a mem-ber of the National Honor Society,the Spartan Ambassador Society,the Spartan AwarenessCommittee, Student Government,Leadership Staff, Mission Club,

and Yearbook. He also plays crosscountry and tennis for the school.

He started the Something toGive charity, which feeds and aidsthe homeless in South Florida,with fellow Pace senior SarinaMuthiah. For their charity workand academic standing, Labrousseand Muthiah were given theExemplary Student award fromthe Miami-Dade Board of CountyCommissioners.

DANIEL LABROUSSE

The 7th annual Miami LakesRocks! Music Festival has beenscheduled for Saturday, February13, at Miami Lakes Optimist Park,6411 N.W. 162 Street.

The popular event, sponsoredby the Town’s Youth ActivitiesTask Force, was created to providean avenue of artistic expressionfor town youth, promoting cultur-al and community spirit.

Auditions are open for collegeage and younger musicians, andare open to bands and individualsthat perform live music.Performers must play a musical

instrument; recorded music willnot be accepted.

Those who wish to audition areencouraged to submit videorecordings of up to 2 songs viaemail to [email protected] by 5 p.m. on Tuesday,January 5. All bands of all genresare encourage to participate.

For more information on theauditions, the festival, or sponsor-ship opportunities, contact LeisureServices manager Katya Lysak [email protected], orcall 305-698-9308.

Auditions for Miami Lakes Rocks!Music Festival close on January 5


Elevate Church6250 Miami Lakes Dr. EastTelephone: 305-823-3888

Sunday Worship.........9:30, 11 & 12:30Friday Youth Nights.....................7 PM

M.L. Congregational Church6701 Miami Lakeway South

Telephone: 305-822-4313Adult Sunday School...................9 AMChildren’s Sunday School.....10:30 AMWorship.................................10:30 AMSpecial Need Service...............4:00 PM

(Every fourth Sunday)

Sunrise Presbyterian Church18400 N.W. 68 Avenue

Telephone: 305-821-5841Worship.................................10:00 AM

(Children’s Church)Servicio en Espanol...............11:30 AM

The Church of the Epiphany15650 Miami Lakeway North

Telephone: 305-558-3961www.episcopalmiamilakes.com

Sunday Eucharist...................10:30 AMChildren’s Sunday School.....10:15 AMAdult Bible Study.......................11 AMMisa en Espanol......................9:00 AMEscuela Dominical................12:15 PM

The Church of Jesus Christof Latter-day Saints8201 N.W. 186 Street

Telephone: 305-829-0049Spanish service.............................9 AMEnglish service.......................12:30 PMTuesday (Spanish).........................7 PMWednesday (English)....................7 PM

Palm Vista Community ChurchMeeting at Miami Lakes Middle

6425 Miami Lakeway NorthTelephone: 305-822-6999

Worship Service.........................10 AM

Temple Tifereth Jacob5901 N.W. 151 Street

Telephone: 305-557-2651Call for Service Schedule

Iglesia Biblica CristianaEspañol Servicios

Telephone: 305-557-1959Sunday service........................4:00 PMWednesday Youth....................7:30 PM

6250 Miami Lakes Drive East

Iglesia El Nuevo Comienzo6701 Miami Lakeway South

Services in SpanishSunday service.......................12:30 PMThursday service.....................8:00 PM

St. Andrews Lutheran Church575 W. 68 Street

Telephone: 305-821-3622Sunday service (English)........9:00 AMSunday service (Spanish).....10:30 AMBible School...............................11 AM

Iglesia CristianaReformada Vida Nueve5941 N.W. 176 St., Bldg. #5

Telephone: 305-244-9425www.icrvidanueve.com

Hialeah Church of ChristTelephone 305-558-1060

(Temporary meeting location)Shula’s Hotel (Davis Cup Room)6842 Main Street, Miami Lakes

Sunday Bible Study.................9:30 AMSunday Worship Service.......10:30 AMSunday Evening Service..........6:00 PMWednesday Bible Study...........7:30 PM

Fulfilled Life ChurchTelephone 786-378-2356

Country Club Middle School18305 N.W. 75 Place

Sunday Service (Eng.)..10:30 AM

Faith Is The Victory FellowshipTelephone: 954-435-1313

www.faithisthevictoryfellowship.comSunday Service.....................10:30 AM

(Cobb Theaters – 6711 Main Street)Theatre 17

Our Lady of the LakesCatholic Church

15801 N.W. 67 AvenueTelephone: 305-558-2202

Sunday services in English9:30, 11 AM and 5:30 PMSunday services in Spanish8 AM, 12:45 PM and 7 PM

Saturday services 8:30 AM, 5 PMDaily services 7 and 8:30 AM

Confessions: Saturdays 3:30 PM

Mother of Our RedeemerCatholic Church

8445 N.W. 186 StreetTelephone: 305-829-6141

Daily services (Spanish) 8:30 AMSaturday (English) 5:30 PMSaturdays (Spanish) 7 PM

Sundays (English) 8 & 10:30 AMSundays (Spanish)

9 AM, 12:30 PM, 7 PM

North Palm Baptist Church7801 N.W. 178 Street

Telephone: 305-558-2032www.NorthpalmBaptist.org

Sunday Bible Study.................9:15 AMSunday Worship....................10:30 AMWednesday Service..................7:00 PM

M.L. United Methodist Church14800 N.W. 67 Avenue

Telephone: 305-821-7274www.miamilakesumc.net

Praise Band & Music.............9:40 AMTraditional Worship Service.10:00 AMAlive-Contemporary Service11:30 AM(Child care and children’s/youthSunday School during both services.)

New Testament Baptist ChurchThe Gathering Place

6601 N.W. 167 StreetTelephone: 305-558-4930

Sunday Service..........................11 AMBible Study ............................9:45 AMWednesday Bible Study...........7:00 PMWednesday Youth Group.........7:00 PM

Orthodox Cathedral ofChrist The Saviour16601 N.W. 77 Court

Telephone: 305-822-0437Home of The Orthodox Book Center

Sat. Vespers.................................6 PMSun. Matins............................8:40 AMSun. Liturgy...............................10 AM

Sunday School & Inquirer Classes

Palm Springs UnitedMethodist Church5700 W. 12 Avenue

Telephone: 305-821-3232Worship Service...................11:00 AM

The Redeemed ChristianChurch of God

Victory Parrish Worship Center16261 N.W. 57 Avenue

Telephone: 786-428-0078Sunday service....................10:00 AMTuesday & Thursday..............7:00 PMFriday service.......................11:00 PM

Voice for JesusCobb Miami Lakes Theatre #11

6711 Main Street305-818-0565

Sunday service......................10:00 AMYouth service.........................10:00 AMChildren services...................10:45 AM

(Nursery provided)

Miami Lakes AreaHouses of Worship

(Editor’s Note: All information provided by individual houses of worship.Confirm service times by telephone.

Miami Herald publisher AlexandraVilloch visits M.L. Educational Ctr.

By Vivian BermudezSpecial to The Miami LakerAlexandra Villoch, the slender

and well-dressed publisher of TheMiami Herald, was quick to makeone thing clear as she addressedThe Harbinger staff recently, “Iam not a journalist, but I run TheMiami Herald.”

And it is true, she never workedas a journalist. Earning a degree inbusiness by the age of 21, Villochhas always been a standout and,while her manicured hands don’tshow it, it was a grueling and longclimb to the top. Wherever shewent, whether it was her first jobat the now out-of-business EasternAirlines, or when she worked asUnited Airlines’ general manager,or beginning a new phase of hercareer at the Herald, she was metwith raised eyebrows and whis-pered grumblings about her sup-posed inexperience, especiallyfrom her male co-workers.

She shared a story from theearly part of her career, when shewas new at Eastern Airlines; theyasked her to fetch coffee and shedid – she was new, the youngest atthe board table, the only woman,and the only one there with anMBA. She got the coffee.However, when she brought itback, it spilled, an event she called“an accident” – an accident thatsent a message. They should gettheir own coffee.

“There would always be the‘What is she doing here? Shedoesn’t know anything,’” Villochsaid as she reflected on herentrance to The Miami Herald.

But her lack of so-called “expe-rience” in the journalism field, andthe sexism that she faced did notdeter her. Instead, Villoch took theapproach she carried all her life.Much like the exuberant student inclass always raising their hand,she was the one raising her handduring meetings, asking for morework, putting herself on the line.

“There is nothing like askingyour boss to take care of one oftheir problems,” she said with asmile. “You want to be the one inthe front row. If you do that, you’llbe a standout.”

She was one in a hundred. Shesucceeded David Landsberg aspublisher of the Herald in 2014.Her position makes the Herald theonly newspaper in the country tohave a female in the top fourranks.

With an average readership ofone million subscription readers,and a website that attracts millionsof hits in web traffic from aroundthe world, and brings the averagedigital reader back to their website18 times a day, Villoch is winningthe fight against the “dying” news-paper industry, doing what she’salways done – learning, observingand evolving.

“What we produce is informa-tion – good, high-quality informa-tion,” she said. “There is a place

for a serious journalism institutionlike ours.”

The Miami Herald was one ofthe first in the industry to goonline. It has embraced and led intechnology. The staff works hard,she said, not just to adapt to tech-nology, but to stay one step ahead.

“[The readers] trust us to filterinformation. They bring us intotheir homes. The trust they have inus is a big responsibility,” she said.

And, she stresses, this moti-vates her and the very dedicatedHerald staff to work hard everyday, to innovate and continue tomake a difference in the communi-ty.

While it’s only been a yearsince she’s was appointed, thenewspaper has covered major sto-ries in that time, like theInnocence Lost series that coveredthe deaths of children in DCF care,prison abuse and the rampant theFor-Profit College scandal. Thesestories have led to real change.

Villoch has also rolled outmajor changes to both the printedition and the digital version ofthe Herald. In the past month, The

Miami Herald has changed.“We continue to tinker,” she

said about the new look. “Youdon’t need to get everythingabsolutely right immediately.”

The change brought aboutanger from some readers. Onereader sent “Go back on the raftyou came in on.” Some would bethrown into a rage, but Villochlaughs it off even as she tells thestory. She’s glad that “They are sopassionate.”

“We all handle things like thatin a different way. I address it withhumor,” she said. And to thatracist email, she simply replied, “Iam sorry to disappoint you, but Iflew in on an airplane.” She stress-es that it is important to respond toinappropriate, racist or off-colorhumor.

“Whatever you stand for, standfor it…otherwise, you devalueyourself and what you believe in.”

With so much weight on hershoulders, she stands straight andtall on the mountain top. It doesn’tfaze her though because her mani-cured hand knows how to throw apunch.

ALEXANDRA VILLOCH, publisher of The Miami Herald, visitsthe journalism students at Miami Lakes Educational Center

After School

Care


Visit our website at www.grahamresidential.com

Luxury Rentals in Miami Lakes• 1 and 2 bedrooms directly on Main Street• Select loft style units • Faux hardwood flooring• Garage available for rent • Washer/dryer in every unit• Sun splashed pool with tanning deck• Shula’s Athletic Club Benefit

• 1 and 2 bedrooms on beautiful Lake Ruth• Great closets • Washer/dryer in every unit

• Resort style pool with gazebo • Gated entry•Mosaic tile backsplashes in kitchen

• Shula’s Athletic Club Benefit

• 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms • Garage available for rent • Private balconies with storage closet • Resort style pool with expansive sundeck • Washer/dryer in every unit • Gated entry• Walking distance to Main Street shops/restaurants• Shula’s Athletic Club Benefit

• 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms and • 2 and 3 bedroom Townhomes

• Stainless Steel Appliances • Granite countertops• Huge closets • On-Site Fitness Studio

• Resort style pool with sundeck • Basketball half court • Bark Park

FFoouunnttaaiinn HHoouussee AAppaarrttmmeennttss

CCrreesscceenntt HHoouussee AAppaarrttmmeennttss

RReessiiddeenncceess aatt LLaakkeehhoouussee

SStt..TTrrooppeezz AAppaarrttmmeennttss

May You and Your Family Enjoy a Healthy and Prosperous New Year!!!

SISTERS SELLING SOUTH FLORIDA

Marie Rebull954-551-7879

Marylynn Sotero305-905-1500

Thinking of Selling, Purchasing or Renting? Reach out to us today!

Estamos aqui para servirles - Esperando su llamada!

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

C L A S S I F I E D A D V E R T I S I N G

• Trimming • Topping• Shaping • Transplanting• Removals • Sodding• Mulch & Hedges • Fertilizing • Rock & Plastic • Weeding

VERY REASONABLE PRICES.

Free estimates/licensed-insured.50 ft. Bucket Truck,

Chipper Dump Truck,Stump Grinder & Bobcat Loader

OVER 30 YEARS IN MIAMI LAKES

JOHN E. BUZZELLA

305-621-4690

305-621-4690REASONABLE TREE SERVICE

AND LANDSCAPING, INC.

ANCHORROOFING

• Tile Roofs• Flat Roofs• Metal Roofs

Call us for an estimate!

305-691-7707ccc 1326710

Over 15 YearsExperience

Currently hiring for:• Dual Therapist Massage/Esthetician

(Part Time - Spa at Shula’s)

• Front Desk Attendant (Part Time - Shula’s Athletic Club)

• Golf Outside Services (Part Time - Shula’s Golf Club)

• Nail Technician (Part Time - Spa at Shula’s)

• Massage Therapist (On Call - Spa at Shula’s)

• Temporary Reservations Agent (Full Time - Shula’s Hotel)

• Personal Trainer (Full Time - Shula’s Athletic Club)

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

or www.grahamresidential.com

EEOE/DFWP

CLEANING

17 years experience cleaning hous-es and apartments. Ref. available. Call 305-725-3589.

HELP WANTED

Pediatric Dentist licensed.Main Street Children’s Dentistry,

Miami Lakes, FL. E-mail: [email protected].

SERVICES

Sprinkler Systems. Installation and repairs. 24 hours. Free estimates. Call 305-300-9414.

TILE INSTALLATION

Tile/Marble Installation. Remodel bathrooms and repairs.

Free Estimates. Call 305-803-6901.

TUTORING

Fl. teacher cert. in Reading & Learning Disability. Call Cathy at 305-632-8384.

results.305-817-4015

The Montessori Children’sHouse in Miami Lakes participat-ed in the Samartian’s PurseChristmas program for the 2015holiday season. The children at theschool packed shoe boxes withgoodies, wrapping them and join-ing with other churches, schools,and organizations to bring a smile

to the faces of children across theglobe. For some of the recipients,this may be the first gift everreceived along with the communi-cation of the Gospel. The shoeboxes had personal notes withinthem to express a message ofhope.

Montessori Children’s House joins inSamartian’s Purse Christmas program


Don’t forget it’s time for all new homeowners to fill out and file their Homestead Exemption forms.

They can be filed from

Wishing you peace, joy, health and prosperitythroughout the coming year.

I look forward to working with you.Let’s make 2016 the best year ever!!

Magaly Rubio,CIPS, CRS, ePro, GRI, TRC

Coldwell Banker Residential Real EstateBroker Associate,

Previews International Agent,Commercial Investment Certified

305-821-0203 • Fax: 954-384-7912magaly,[email protected]

Se Habla Espanol

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

2550 West 84th Street • Hialeah, FL, 33016E-mail: [email protected]

The Team SaumellMartha & Gardenia~

30 CELEBRATING30 YEARS

REAL ESTATE EXCELLENCE

Selling or Buying?Cary Gonzalez sells Miami Lakes

since 1995!

6850 Main StreetMiami Lakes, FL

33014

Cary GonzalezREALTOR-Associate CDPE

(305) 213-2328carygonzalezrealtor

@yahoo.com

Have a Safe and Happy New Year!!

“I am all about results and resolutions.”

Lynn Ancel Matos305-790-7952

[email protected]

U n i q u e R e a l t y

6167 Miami Lakes Drive, Miami Lakes

“JOYOUS NEW YEAR”

R E A L E S T A T EC L A S S I F I E D

FOR RENT3/2.5 Brand new townhome with 2-car garage, gated community, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, wood laminate floors, hurri-cane impact windows, fitness stu-dio, 24 hr. maintenance. From $2480 monthly. Call 305-821-1138.

RESULTSthe miami laker305-817-4015


www.keyes.comEmail: [email protected]

Move in ready Nautica townhouse withoversized lot. Home features 4 bedroms, 2.5bathrooms, large master bedroom, tile floors,laminated kitchen cabinets, large yard, patio,storage room and terrace, 1-car garage.Corner unit. Gated community with pool,clubhouse and fitness center. $320,000.A0002875.

Great lakefront 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom,office/den home on Lake Katharine. 1-cargarage, extended master, updated bathrooms,impact windows and accordion shutters. Thisis a spacious home with a large family roomoverseeing the tranquil lake. This home is amust see. $445,000. A2180429

A great opportunity to own in a prestigiousMiami Lakes gated community. 4,836 sq. ft.under air (per owner). Lakefront propertywith private beach in back. Second masterhas been added up the spiral staircase withits own master bath and large deckoverlooking pool and lake. Large mediaroom and very large dining area. Porcelinfloors, real wood-burning fireplace.$625.000. A2075698.

305-822-98006850 Main Street • Miami Lakes, FL 33014 • Miami Lakes Realty & Welcome Center in the lobby of Don Shula’s Hotel

Amazing opportunity to own an exclusive lotin Lake Katharine. This home is over 2,700sq. ft. with a 2nd story complete master suiteincluding spacious bathroom and a lake viewbalcony. Addictional 3 bedrooms are locateddownstairs. This unique property boastsgorgeous and tranquil lake view with a largeback Yard. Enough room for a pool and aboat. Definitely a must see. Amazingpotential in the hands of the right buyer.$535,000. A2173502

Completely remodeled 2-story town house withhuge bedrooms with one bathroom upstairs,and half bathroom downstairs. Private patio.Walking distance to Main Street, Shula’sAthletic Club, shopping and dining areas. Easyaccess to Palmetto Expressway. Communityincludes pools, tennis courts and 24-hoursecurity. Maintenance includes water andinsurance. $235,000. A2205448

Condo.Townhome Co-op for sale innorthwest Miami-Dade. 2 bedrooms, 2full baths. The 1,33 square-foot homewas built in 1985.$220,000. A2201544.

A great starter home. This single familydetached home has 3 bedrooms, 2bathsrooms, dining room, spacious kitchen,family room, foyer, and converted garage to aden or office. Large lot with side entry. Shingleroof from 2004-2005. $260,000. A2211654.

Single family home for sale in Hialeah.Home features 2 bedrooms with 1 fullbath. The 832 square-foot home wasbuilt in 1994. $210,000. A10002455.

Stunning 2-story single family home in desirableSilvercrest North community of Miami Lakes. Thisspacious home sits on a large corner lot with acircular driveway, new fence and 3-car garage.Interior features open floor plan of 6 bedrooms, 51/2 bathrooms, tastefully updated kitchen andbathrooms (1 bedroom and full bath on 1st floor).Large family room, custom made closets, newwasher/dryer and laundry room cabinetry, newwindow treatments, 2 A/C units. $740,000.A2177087.

Spectacular home with a unique indoor poolin the heart of Palm Springs Lakes. 3,553 sq.ft. of living space and 6,909 sq. ft. under A/C.Home features 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 4bedrooms downstairs including master withJacuzzi. 2nd master upstairs with Jacuzzi. 2cabana bathrooms to the pool and bar area.Excellent home to entertain with surroundsound, lighting, pool table, air hockey table,plenty of space to host, and 3 A/Cs. Room forboats, an RV and 10+ cars. $449,900.A2190949.

Featured Properties

www.southfloridacareerinrealestate.com

Happy New Year 2016In 2016, Let Me Help Reach Your New Home or Next Investment...

From Miami Beach to Miami Springs, from Lehigh Acres to Coral Gables!Serving All Your Real Estate Needs Throughout The State of Florida!

Many Blessings & Prosperity in the New Year!

Vivian MaciasRealtor, CRS, GRI, SFR

Cel: 305-300-4425Off: 305-883-7555

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

WE SELL MIAMI LAKES!“Professional Service, Educational Guidance

And A Proven Track Record.”Arturo Rodriguez, P.A.

305-205-9785Broker-Associate

Maria Victoria Zarate

305-308-9482Realtor-Associate

• Over 33 years of Real Estate Experience• Ranked Miami Lakes Top Producers 2001-2014• The Only Coldwell Banker agents in Miami Lakes

ranked among the Top 100 Professionals in Floridaand Top 1% nationwide.

artrodriguezrealestate.com

Residential Real Estate“Owned and operated by NRT, LLC”

• Top 5% of Realtors Nationwide!• Over 20 years experience in Miami Lakes,

Miami-Dade and South Broward.

Call me for a FREE market analysis!

Arlene S. Wallach, P.A., CRS

Thinking about buying or selling?

Select the Real Estate Professional Committed to Excellence, Professionalism,

Great Service and Honest advice.

www.arlenewallach.com

For Every Real Estate Reason !

Cellular: 305-798-1455 954-252-2950


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

Debbie Lee Wilson, RealtorCall Your Specialist Realtor Since 1988 • 305-788-5008WWW.DEBBIELEEWILSON.COM • [email protected]

Townhouse has a few upgrades, 3bedrooms have wood floors, tile in 2bathrooms. Updated patio in front and inthe back. Built 1981 with 1,687 sq. ft.New A/C and compressor. Roof a fewyears old. Accordian shutters. Formaldining room. Washer/dryer. Parking for 3cars. 24 hour gated security. Tenants aremonth to month.Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Cute l ittle single family home at anaffordable price. 1,328 sq. ft. Tiled floors,full kitchen, dining room. Roof only fewyears new. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1-cargarage. Has a closet can be a 3rdbedroom. 24 hr. security. Club house,Olympic size pool and child play area.Walk to school, school bus pick upinside. Close to I-75 and Dade andBroward. Built in 1987 on an oversize lot.Taxes $1,601. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

For Rent. Royal Oaks Plaza in the heartof Miami Lakes, office fully furnished.Was an attorney’s office. 3 conferencerooms, computers, phones, desks, allready set up to start your business. Closeto 826 Dade and I-75 Broward. Centrallylocated.E-Z to show, text me yur R.E. infofor appointment. Rental $3,750, first, last,1 month security, proof of funds, creditcheck.Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Palm Springs North 2 bd/1ba home,completely remodeled, cute baby room,tile and wood floors, remodeled kitchen,new applilances, central A/C 5 years,huge screen patio, has footing foraddition. Lot is 12,931 sq. ft. with roomfor a pool. Sprinkler system, raingutters, on a cul-de-sac, plenty ofparking. No assoc. fees. Built solid in1968. Roof new after Wilma. Taxes$2,635. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Beautiful sunsets overlooking tranquil lake inRegal Sound. 4/3, 2, 960 sq. ft., true 2-car gar.,spacious kit. wood cabinets, updated counterand breakfast area, lrg. fam. rm., lrg. den canbe 5th bdrm., spectacular mstr. bth. w/romantub overlooking lake, spacious master bedroomwith his/hers walk-in closets, exterior protectedwith hurricane accordian shutters, crownmolding, ti le and wood floors. Located inprestigious Sunset Lakes community with a 5star clubhouse. Call Debbie 305-788-5008..

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

For rent. 1,595 sq. ft., 2-master bedrooms,one on first floor, 2-huge walk-in closets, tile& wood floors, ful l kitchen appliances,washer/dryer in unit, central a/c, nice fencedin grass area and tiled patio with storageroom. $1,700 month, 1st, last and securitydeposit, $50 credit check, $100 associationbackground check, 24-hour gated & rovingsecurity. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

Condo for sale. 3/2, 1,200 sq. ft., second floor.New kitchen and appliances, tile floors, highceilings, almost new roof, just painted inside,front window new, full clubhouse facilities,olympic pool, basketball, racquetball and gym.Completely remodeled and walk to shoppingcenters, bus stops and school. Also close toI75, 826 and Dade and Broward. 24-hour gatedand roving security. Low price, fax informationfor showing.Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

For Sale. Mint condition 2BD/2BA, all largetile floors, updated counter and appliances.Screened patio overlooking wide lake. 24 hr.gated community. Walk to pool, club housewith full amenities. 2 assigned park spaces infront. Credit report $45. Moors doesbackground check $100. $1,600 month, 1st,last and security.Text date and time ofshowing w/ agent information. Call Debbie305-788-5008.

ACM InternationalRealty, Inc.

For rent. 2/2 villa townhouse. All tiled floors,washer/dryer in unit. Patio with storage room,full kitchen with granite counter tops, close topool and guest parking, 24-hour gatedsection with ful l amenities, clubhouse,exercise room. Close to Dade and Broward.$1,700 month 1st, last and security, $50 percouple credit check, association per couple$100 for background check. Call Debbie 305-788-5008.

SOLD

This month’s featured properties

Completely Remodeled.S/S appliances, new floors, win-dows & more. Central location in

heart of Hialeah.Call Emma Alfonso 305-710-3782

Call today for your confidential evaluation if you are thinking of Selling!

Liza E. Mendez,CRB, CRS, CIPS, GRI, CDPE, e-Pro

Broker/Owner – Experience Counts!

305-558-7676www.lizamendez.comwww.pedrorealty.com

Great Investment Opportunity1/1, central Hialeah location,

kitchen & bath remodeled, W/D.Call Martha Machina

305-215-6551

Single family open floor plan.3 bedrooms, 2 are masters with full

baths. Third shares hall bath. 1,765 sq.ft. living area.

Call Maria Dufau 786-202-5885

Bank-owned Foreclosure.Spacious 2 Bed., 3 Bth. unit, newkitchen, bathrooms. Sits right on

bay. Beautiful north views.Call Liza Mendez 305-992-5145

Serving the Miami Lakes community forover 35 years as a full service Realtor!

Vera Cox305-542-1944

[email protected]

305-817-2170

Closing Agent/Attorney

WWiisshhiinngg yyoouu aa VVeerryy HHaappppyy NNeeww YYeeaarr!!Realtor-Commercial and Residential

Serving All Your Real Estate Needs. Local, National and World Wide Markets

BUYING • SELLING • RENTING • INVESTINGCall a Miami Lakes Resident and Professional Realtor Today!

305-801-7890Email: [email protected]

Visit www.JyotiLaungani.com

Jyoti LaunganiYour Trusted Advisor and Real Estate Resource


CHEVROLET

Seven Dealers All In One Location

16600 NW 57th AveSOUTH SIDE OF THE PALMETTO EXPRESSWAY (SR 826)

EXIT 826 AT NW 57TH AVE (RED ROAD)

305-558-1400

Visit Us Online: MiamiLakesAutomall.com Like Us: facebook.com/MiamiLakesAutomall

Neighbor & Miami Lakes Automall GM,Fred Senra, Invites You To ExperienceThe Hometown Difference!

The Miami Lakes AutomallFamily Wishes You a Prosperousand Happy New Year!There are some exciting new changescoming this year! The one thing thatwon’t ever change is our commitmentto provide this community with the bestservice possible!

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Miami Laker 2016 January 1