BEWARE: Hottest New Exercise Trend Could be Dangerous For Your Health
PINECREST
welcome to
OBAMACARE LAW OF THE
LAND
Keep An Eye On Your Neighborhood
Can You Trust Your Broker?
Local Section Inside!
He May Be Keeping A Secret
Real Estate pg. 34 - Home Improvement pg. 62 - Marketplace pg. 68
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Pinecrest Februar y 2014
Welcome to Obamacare, Law of The Land The much maligned Affordable Care Act went into full effect across the country. The law fundamentally shifts parts of the health care industry and open the door for millions of uninsured Americans to finally afford health care. But not every American will benefit from the ACA.
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Sell By Dates Up For Debate
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The most confusing numbers at the grocery store are not the prices but the “sell by” dates on just about everything. In fact, “Sell By,” “Use By,” and “Best By,” are two little words that carry a lot of weight with shoppers at the store, but what's the difference?
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Special Sections
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Eye On Pinecrest Latest News & events in your neighborhood
Don't Panic! Symptom Checkers Available Online In Case You Can't Reach The Doctor Feeling sick? Many people turn to the internet to diagnose themselves, but that can be dangerous. Now doctors are coming up with an online remedy that's available in case you can't make it to the doctor.
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This is a Christmas tale that will melt your heart and break it as well. A new found family of CBS4 Super Kids gathered to meet for the first time to celebrate the holidays and treasure of a girl. As child advocates, teachers and community leaders will tell you, Deborah Perez is an inspirational young woman who is a pied piper for children all year round.
Can You Trust Your Broker? Those who use an outside source for financial help should know that their professionals could have an important secret. A history of complaints could have been wiped clean.
CBS4 News Super Kids: Deborah Perez
"Am I Pretty or Ugly?" Teens Are Letting Social Media Decide It’s a troubling trend among teenage girls, posting videos asking the public to determine their beauty. On YouTube there are hundreds of thousands of videos from girls asking “Am I pretty or ugly?” It’s not just the videos, but the feedback from people online that’s alarming.
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Real Estate
Properties Sold in your area
Sponsored By
62
Home Improvement
68
Marketplace
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[ 4 ] February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest
“Sell By”
DatesDeBate Up For
The most confusing numbers at the grocery store are not the prices but the “sell by” dates on just about everything.
By Brian Andrews
CBSMIAMI.COM
I
n fact, “Sell By,” “Use By,” and “Best By,” are two little words that carry a lot of weight with shoppers at the store. “If it’s yogurt or milk I definitely pay attention to that date,” a shopper told CBS4’s Brian Andrews. Dr. Tiffiani Onifade is the state of Florida’s Director of Food Safety. “The manufacturer puts this date on there because it is about when they believe it will have the best quality,” said Onifade.
“I think it’s surprising how little the labels actually mean. Primarily the dates are their best guess on when that food is still going to be at its peak quality” That date may be causing each of us to trash more than $2,000 dollars worth of perfectly good food every year.
“Ninetypercent of consumers are throwing food away on that date because they don’t understand,” said Emily Broad Leib, Director of Harvard’s Food Law and Policy Clinic. Recently, Leib’s group co-authored a study on how these confusing labels lead to food waste. “I think it’s surprising how little the labels actually mean. Primarily the dates are their best guess on when that food is still going to be at its peak quality,” said Leib. That’s food quality not food safety. However, Florida law calls for date labels on food that has a recommended shelf life of fewer than 90 days. Milk for example, is required by retailers to remove it from store shelves after the “sell by” date has passed. “Shelf stable foods such as
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 7 ]
CBSMIAMI.COM
We’re more concerned about pathogenic bacteria, those are the ones that make you sick” vinegar, cereal, crackers, those kind of things, if they taste good to you they are still good,” said Leib. After that “best by” date, some foods may smell or taste bad. “There’s a yuck factor but it’s not going to make you sick,” explained Elizabeth Scott of Simmons College. “The likelihood of you getting sick or not is to do with the kind of food you’re eating, the way you handle it and the risks that are taken with the food,” said Scott. Risks such as storing or cooking the food improperly. “We’re more concerned about pathogenic bacteria,” Scott said. “Those are the ones that
make you sick.” Doctor Onifade insisted that common sense can keep food out of that danger zone. “You want to cook food to proper temperatures and after you cook the food, you want to refrigerate it.” In the meantime, there’s a move to make date labels more useful. “We are really hoping we can get a change that would require a reliable uniform coherent system and make it really clear for the foods where this is a quality issue not safety. It’s totally quality,” said Onifade. Until that happens, take the date with a grain of salt.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 9 ]
Can you
TrusT
your
broker? Those who use an outside source for financial help should know that their professionals could have an important secret. A history of complaints could have been wiped clean.
CBSMIAMI.COM
A
study has shaken up the financial industry, which revealed that in an alarmingly high percentage of cases, brokers have gotten investor complaints removed from their publicly accessible records. Experts gave details and tips on how to pick the right professional. When a new trading day opens, people want their investments in the right hands. That’s why Damon Petraglia thoroughly checked out his financial advisor. “It’s very important for me to have somebody reliable and capable,” said Petraglia. However, Petraglia is no average investor,
“I don’t think very many people knew about this, It is the security industry’s dirty little secret” he’s a private investor. People hire him to check out their stock brokers. It’s easy to get background information on any federally licensed financial professional on the “financial industry regulatory authority” or FINRA’s website. These public records list licenses a broker holds and where they’ve worked but what you may not see even surprised Petraglia. “I don’t think very many people knew about this,” said Petraglia. “It is the security industry’s dirty little secret.”
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 11 ]
T
he secret, revealed in a new study which said stock brokers are able to keep complaints filed against them a secret in many cases. Brokers have the right to request a complaint be “expunged” from their record if they feel it was false. Federal guidelines say expungement is an “extraordinary relief” but this study found between mid-May 2009 to 2011. When cases were resolved by settlements, arbitrators approved brokers requests to remove complaints from their records nearly 97 percent of the time. “This is a major problem that must be fixed,” said Petraglia. If a broker’s record is wiped clean, there is no way investors, regulators or future employers can find out. The study found one broker requested expungement 40 times and arbitration panels granted it 35 times. The group behind the study said sometimes investors are given a settlement trade-off. “There will be a provision that says in exchange for that money the customer has to agree not to oppose the expungement request and it just basically just wipes it under the carpet,” said Petraglia. FINRA is taking action and said the study “underlines and emphasizes serious concerns.” The agency sent notices to arbitrators, reminding them about “the extraordinary nature of expungement relief.” But what if a broker was wrongly accused or a financial issue just wasn’t their fault?
“If you picked a bad broker, you could lose the entire investment”
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 13 ]
CBSMIAMI.COM
“We closely guard our reputations so if there’s something where we have complaints against us that are unwarranted or unfounded we want to protect our reputation,” said Ed Gjertsen. Gjertsen of the Financial Planning Association said just because an adviser went through arbitration doesn’t mean they’re a bad broker. If someone is concerned about their financial professional, they should ask about their record. “I think what the study showed us is that there’s probably a lot more due diligence that the average investor has to do. Whether it’s engaging with an advisor and asking them the
direct question of saying ‘Hey have you ever been involved in arbitration?’” said Gjertsen. Investor and investigator Petraglia said he thinks his financial shake up should be a financial wake up to everyone. “If you picked a bad broker, you could lose the entire investment,” said Petraglia. A court must also approve a broker’s expungement request before it becomes final. FINRA is reviewing its rules and may consider future changes as well. Several U.S. Senators have also taken a closer look at the system. One wrote a letter to the SEC demanding big changes.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 15 ]
Don’t Panic!
‘Symptom
Checkers’ are
Available
CBSMIAMI.COM
In Case You
Can’t Reach
Doctor!
the
Feeling sick? Many people turn to the internet to diagnose themselves, but that can be dangerous. Now doctors are coming up with an online remedy.
W
hen Beth Feldman woke up with a red swollen eyelid her first thought was to call the doctor. But when she couldn’t get an appointment right away she said she decided to do a little symptom searching online. “It’s good to just look and see if it’s not too serious, I’m going to see if I can just take care of this at home,” said Feldman. It used to be that physicians worried about patients playing doctor online. “When you go online to self-diagnose, you’re going to websites and using your limited medical knowledge to look at a big list of differential diagnoses and you’re immediately going to go to the worst possible situations,” said Dr. Dan Feiten. But now many are having a change of heart, thanks to “symptom checkers,” created by the medical community itself, and integrated into doctor and hospital websites. “Parents go online to our website to find out whether they need to make an appointment or what should they in the meantime,” said Dr. Feiten. Proponents said these new symptom checkers can cut down on office calls and unnecessary trips to the emergency room, as well as save people money on co-pays.
It won’t give you a long list of scary possibilities, but will help you determine what to do next. “It’s based on the medical literature. It’s based on national guidelines from American Academy of Pediatrics, the CDC, other organizations,” said Barton Schmitt, medical director of the pediatric call center at a children’s hospital. But not all medical websites are created equal. It’s important to check the source before taking any advice. “Professional organizations like the American College of Physicians or reputable patient and consumer groups should generally be trusted more than information that’s coming from an organization that the patient has never heard of,” said Dr. Christine Laine, VP of the American College of Physicians. But there is no substitute for an actual doctor’s visit where a physician can actually see how sick you are and also ask questions and notice things you may not think are related and weren’t part of your Internet search. Computers can’t replace doctors, at least not yet. Doctors advise people to steer clear of websites that have a vested interest in their treatment.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 17 ]
CBSMIAMI.COM
Broken Heart Syndrome Really Does
H
Exist!
ow many times have you heard someone say they’re so sad about something that they have a broken heart? More often than not, they don’t really have a broken heart but it can actually happen. Broken heart syndrome is a serious medical condition caused by sadness. When Janet Ghise’s 14-year-old dog, Maggie died unexpectedly at a kennel while she was on vacation, she was devastated. “She was just the nicest dog,” said Ghise. So upset, she nearly died of a broken heart. “I said to my husband, ‘I’m going to the doctor’s, to the cardiologist, to see if he can fix my broken heart.’ It’s exactly what I said,” Ghise said. Luckily, she just happened to have a doctor’s appointment a few days later. “To tell you the truth, I was really short of breath, but I didn’t put any weight on it. I thought, well, this is because I’m upset,” she said. “She walked into the office, and she just did not look well,” said Dr. Jeffrey Friedel, a cardiologist. “She was very pale; she was breaking out in a cold sweat. She was short of breath, and she was complaining of a lot of chest pressure.” He sent her to the hospital where a heart cath showed the problem, an actual illness called broken heart syndrome. “The heart becomes severely weakened in a very characteristic shape, and it’s usually in response to an intensely stressful event,” said Dr. Friedel. “They can be in heart failure, they can be in shock; and in the worst case scenario, they can present in full cardiac arrest.” The symptoms, EKG, and blood tests can be just like a heart attack. But it’s not. “With broken heart syndrome, there’s no blockage to explain this extent of heart damage,” Dr. Friedel said. It’s seen after the death of a loved one, after an argument, after extreme emotional turmoil. “There’s this intense surge of stress hormones that basically damage the heart,” Dr. Friedel said.
What clinches the diagnosis is a distinctive appearance on the cath, a stagnant bulge in the lower part of the heart. “There’s a whole section of the heart that has essentially ballooned outward and is not moving,” said Dr. Friedel. “And that’s clearly abnormal.” It’s generally an unexpected diagnosis. Dr. Friedel sees fewer than 10 cases a year. It’s more common in women. “Usually, we’re expecting to find a blockage that we can fix, and get the heart to recover. So, yeah, it’s always a surprise,” he said. “Ten, 20 years ago, we never diagnosed it, we just didn’t know about it.” Broken heart syndrome can be treated with medicines to strengthen pumping, lower the
blood pressure, and slow the pulse. The vast majority of patients do well. “The heart was healing, and it’s almost back to normal function,” said Ghise. “I’m feeling good.”
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 19 ]
“Am I pretty or ugly?” Teens Are Letting
Social Media Decide By Cynthia Demos
It’s a troubling trend among teenage girls, posting videos asking the public to determine their beauty. On YouTube there are hundreds of thousands of videos from girls asking “Am I pretty or ugly?” It’s not just the videos, but the feedback from people online that’s alarming.
S
ome area teens said it’s a daily struggle to feel pretty in today’s society, but none of those girls said that they have posted a video of their own. “My initial reaction is you know I’ve never actually seen this before but I’m thinking they almost set themselves up for negative feedback,” said Ethan Protzel, a junior in high school. And that’s exactly what most feedback is, negative. Many students said they’re shocked but
understand the motivation behind the videos. Young teens across the country, mostly girls, receive actual critiques on ways to improve their appearance. With comments ranging from suggestions to lose weight or have surgery to getting a new haircut. “I think it’s really sad that this is what it’s come to and I also think it’s very understandable that this is what it’s come to, because it’s the pressure of everyday life,” said senior Anna Unterreiner. “If you look good then you’re
“I think it’s really sad that this is what it’s come to and I also think it’s very understandable that this is what it’s come to, because it’s the pressure of everyday life”
popular and looks is what this society is more and more based upon.” And it starts at a very young age. Most of the subjects in the videos note how classmates call them pretty or ugly. So in an age where social media is almost a natural way to communicate these teens seek outside opinions for validation. “And the instant nature to be able to post something without thinking,” said Sarah Strohmeyer. “You don’t think through things before you just spout off. And I think that’s the problem. There’s no filter.” “It’s that vicious cycle,” added Protzel. “We have an insecure person who calls someone ugly or fat and then that person becomes insecure.” It begs the question, what can be done to
change this stigma of looks above all else? Well administrators say it starts with building self-esteem at a young age so teens don’t learn these attention seeking behaviors. “That’s really what this is all about,” said Strohmeyer. “They’re seeking attention and so what are the ways we can give positive attention for appropriate things and not just focus on looks.” Counselors said parents need to monitor their kids’ online activity. They say it’s also important to stress inner beauty and have an open conversation with your kids about any pressures they may feel that make them self-conscious.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 21 ]
Eye On Pinecrest The latest news and events in your neighborhood
Content provided by The Village of Pinecrest
Village of Pinecrest and Florida International Partner to Develop App The Village of Pinecrest has partnered with the Florida International University School of Computing and Information Sciences to develop an app for Pinecrest Gardens. Four seniors in the Computer Science program will be working with the Village’s Information Technology Manager, Gabriela Wilson, who will act as their mentor, to develop an app that will provide iPhone and Android users with an interactive app that will guide them through daily activities offered at Pinecrest Gardens’ 14 acres of native forested wetland, tropical hardwood hammock and native cypress slough hammock. The opportunity to work with students is a win-win situation as students will gain hands-on experience and Pinecrest Gardens will have an app developed at no cost. “It is a great opportunity for both entities to collaborate and for me to pass on valuable knowledge and experience that can only be gained through hands on projects,” said Wilson, who has been working in the technology industry for over a decade and holds a Master’s of Science degree in Information Technology. The app will include tabs that feature functions that will allow users to plan their trip, learn about educational programs, buy tickets for performing arts events and learn about volunteer opportunities.
www.Pinecrest-FL.gov Cindy Lerner Mayor clerner@pinecrest-fl.gov
Neighborhood Crime Watch Program Jeff Cutler The Neighborhood Crime Watch Program was designed to create an alliance between the Pinecrest Police Department and the community to enhance neighborhood security, heighten resident’s observation of daily events and encourage neighbors to meet and help each other have a safer community.
Vice Mayor - Seat 2 jcutler@pinecrest-fl.gov
Joseph M. Corradino Councilmember - Seat 4
Getting started is easy. One must first get organized. If interested in participating in the program call Sergeant Michael Gorsline at 305-234-2100, who is a crime prevention specialist, and will schedule an initial meeting for all those who would like to participate from the same and surrounding blocks. Information, such as, emails, phone numbers and landscaper and pool servicer information will be collected from all participants and will be input to a spreadsheet for each person to have. This will help neighbors be more vigilant of each other’s houses.
jcorradino@pinecrest-fl.gov
James E. McDonald Councilmember - Seat 3 jmcdonald@pinecrest-fl.gov
Bob Ross “If something looks suspicious or sounds suspicious call the police department. We are here to help keep you safe,” said Sergeant Gorsline, who said thieves many time use power tools to break through impact resistant glass. “The more eyes and ears we have working together the less chance there is of falling victim to a crime.”
Councilmember - Seat 1 bross@pinecrest-fl.gov
Yocelyn Galiano Gomez Village Manager
To kick-off the group’s participation in the Neighborhood Crime Watch Program, a Block Party will be scheduled. The Village of Pinecrest will provide hamburgers, hotdogs, tables and canopies. Participants are free to bring whatever they would like, as well.
ygaliano@pinecrest-fl.gov
Guido H. Inguanzo, Jr., CMC Village Clerk
ginguanzo@pinecrest-fl.gov
Mitchell Bierman Village Attorney
attorney@pinecrest-fl.gov
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 23 ]
Eye On Pinecrest
Pinecrest Awarded Gold Medal for Its Participation in Let’s Move!
A gold medal was awarded to the Village of Pinecrest for the completing the fifth step of a five-step Let’s Move! initiative that increases play spaces for children, promotes physical activity and makes outdoor recreational facilities easily accessible. To receive the gold medal Pinecrest mapped all play spaces, completed an assessment of all play spaces, developed an action plan and at least three proven policies, programs, or initiatives from the action plan were launched to increase access to physical activity. Play spaces are any place children and youth can play and be physically active. Play spaces include publicly accessible playgrounds, indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, skate parks, parks, fields, trails, and greenways. Let’s Move! is a comprehensive initiative that was launched by First Lady Michelle Obama in 2010 and is dedicated to solving the problem of childhood obesity within a generation, so that children born today will grow up healthier and able to pursue their dreams. As part of this initiative,Let’s Move! Cities, Towns and Counties, calls upon local elected officials to adopt long-term, sustainable and holistic approaches to addressing childhood obesity. Pinecrest parks include Coral Pine Park, Evelyn Greer Park, Flagler Grove Park, Red Road Linear Park, Suniland Park and Veterans Wayside Park. For more information about Pinecrest parks and recreational activities go to www.pinecrest-fl.gov/parks or call 305-284-0900.
Content provided by The Village of Pinecrest
Pinecrest Community Events Family Friday TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES Friday, February 7, 8:00 p.m.
Farmers Market: Fresh Produce & More SundayS 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Best Market in South Florida" Miami New Times Pinecrest Gardens Farmers' Market operates Sundays from 9:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. every week. You'll find the season's best bounty of fruits, vegetables, honey, flowers, meats, cheese and specialty products throughout the year. The market represents a convergence of top local sustainable and organic farmers and food purveyors from the Miami area, Redlands, Homestead, Clewiston and Ft. Pierce. We are committed to the artisan food community and to fostering the values of that community at the Gardens' Farmers' Market. We envision the marketplace as a vibrant gathering of local farmers, artisan producers and independently owned and operated small local food businesses and to the customers they serve.
“Red hot...He (Diogo) is one of the most recognized and accomplished Brazilian musicians.” - Saturday, February 15, 8:00 p.m. In Brazil, it’s summertime, and right about now, the party masses of Carnival are rocking with sounds that pound through the neighborhoods, roll across the mountaintops, shoot up the Gulf Stream like El Niño, and slam into Pinecrest Gardens like a tsunami wave. If you like Funk, Afro Beat and Brazilian music, this is the right band for you. Batuke is a mix of Brazilian rhythms like Samba and Afro-Brazilian, with a raw 70’s Funk, creating a “groovy” atmosphere wherever the band plays. Tickets are $20 & $25.
The Movie is the live-action, feature film adaptation of the cult comic book and the popular animated television show. After prolonged exposure to radiation, four teenage turtles--Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo, and Donatello--have mutated into ninjas and have begun living in the sewers of a large city. Remember that the gates open at 6:30 p.m., Flashlight Tours run 7:00-7:45 and we serve up the best hot dogs and popcorn in town. The film begins at 8:00 p.m. Admission $5, children under two enter free.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 25 ]
Eye On Pinecrest
Siempre Flamenco presented by First Bank Florida Saturday, February 22, 8:00 p.m. On stage for one night only, experience the mesmerizing, raw and passionate music and dance of Siempre Flamenco featuring Celia Fonta and Paco Fonta. “Celia kicks up her heels, and propels herself across the stage with a rapid-fire cascade of footwork.” Husband Paco Fonta, is heralded as “one of the best Flamenco guitarists in the world”. This performance will transport you to another world when this extraordinary troop of 8 musicians, singers and dancers bring the magic and allure of Spain to the Banyan Bowl for one night only! Tickets are $20 & $25. Select your seat, call 877496-8499.
Gardens Gallery presents: A Cognac Poster Retrospective Friday, February 1- February 28 In celebration of Pinecrest’s Sister City Status with the City of Cognac, France--and the Village of Pinecrest’s official Cognac Day on February 15, the Gardens Gallery will present an exhibition of the most notable and historic Cognac Vintage Posters. Take a walk through the Gallery and experience a retrospective of some of the finest poster-art the world has known. Gallery hours are daily 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Additionally, you can learn something about cognac production and history depicted in poster art while learning a little about the City of Cognac and their relationship with the Village of Pinecrest. Finally, in honor of Cognac Day, the Gardens will be open to the public with FREE admission on Saturday, February 15th. You just might happen upon a mime, or crepe maker,or hear some French music coming from the Banyan Bowl.
Cult Film Friday presents... MONTY PYTHON’S THE MEANING OF LIFE Friday, February 21, 8:00 p.m. The Meaning of Life is without a doubt the most outrageous of the Monty Python feature films; it also happens to be one of the funniest. Life’s questions are “answered” in a series of colorful vignettes, beginning with a pre-credits sequence at a staid London insurance company which transforms before our eyes into a pirate ship! Join us for snacks and a lovely walk through the park when our gates open at 6:30. Make a night of it in one of South Florida’s most beautiful botanical settings. General admissions, $5.
Content provided by The Village of Pinecrest
DAVID CHESKY’S “THE MICE WAR” A Children’s Opera Experience presented by Orchestra Miami Sunday February 9, 4:00 p.m. Three-time Grammy nominee David Chesky has earned great respect for his fresh and unique approach to musical compositions, which span the jazz and classical genres. The Mice War is an Opera for kids that teaches them about the absurdity of war and acceptance of cultural diversity while exposing them to classical music. Performed by nine professional musicians from Orchestra Miami and three Young Artists from the Florida Grand Opera, conducted by Orchestra Miami Artistic Director, Elaine Rinaldi. Tickets are $10 Adults General Admission and $5 for Children 2 and over. For tickets call 305-274-2103.
Sunday Chamber Serenade FLORIDA GRAND OPERA YOUNG ARTISTS Sunday, February 23, 6:00 p.m. Founded in 1984, Florida Grand Opera’s Young Artist Studio has gained worldwide recognition as one of the leading operatic training programs in the United States. The program provides talented young singers and coach/accompanists with an opportunity to refine the skills developed during formal music education, targeting those areas necessary to develop a successful career in opera. Join us in an operatic recital with some of your favorite arias and art songs. This concert is FREE to the public.
Greater Miami Symphonic Band Sousa Style Family Concert Sunday, February 16, 3:00 p.m. Bring the entire family to a Sousa Style Family Concert, Sunday, February 16th at 3:00 p.m. As in the day of John Philip Sousa’s fabled bands, this concert will have music for everyone to enjoy including show tunes, overtures, and of course, Marches!!! The whole family will enjoy an afternoon concert in the beautiful Banyan Bowl right here at the Gardens. The Greater Miami Symphonic Band began in 1979, and has grown to 85 members strong. The Band performs publicly on a regular basis at various indoor and outdoor locations, giving Miami audiences an opportunity to hear all the beauty and diversity of the symphonic band repertoire. Get in the spirit and join us at this wonderful Sunday afternoon.
Connect With Us: Register for our E-mail Subscription Service: www.pinecrest-fl.gov Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pinecrestfl Follow us on Twitter - @pinecrestfl Contact us at 305.234.2121
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 27 ]
By Michele Gillen
Deborah Perez
Becomes Inspiration For Other Children This is a Christmas tale that will melt your heart and break it as well. A new found family of CBS4 Super Kids gathered to meet for the first time to celebrate the holidays and treasure of a girl. As child advocates, teachers and community leaders will tell you, Deborah Perez is an inspirational young woman who is a pied piper for children all year round.
B
ut Deborah’s smile and dedication to helping children through MiamiDade’s Big Brothers/Big Sisters program belies a childhood that was dark. Growing up, there were many years where there was no Christmas, no joy. In fact, not even the basics as she and her 3 siblings were left home alone. “Sometimes without water, without electricity,” Deborah recalled while sitting down with CBS4 Chief Investigative Reporter Michele Gillen. “A lot of times it was really scary,” she reflected. At the age of 10 years old, she said, she was removed by the state of Florida from her family. But instead of being sent to live in foster care and be split up from her brother and sisters, a true life Santa Claus stepped forward to rescue the children from a potential dark abyss. The children were only told he was their “grandfather.” An elderly man who had never been married or had his own children, he devoted his life to Deborah and her siblings. “My grandfather is one of the most remarkable persons I have ever met, in my entire life,” she told Gillen. But she was scarred by so many secrets, she said, it took yet another stranger to help her rebuild her life. That stranger, a Big Sister from Miami-Dade Big Brothers/Big Sisters is a woman Deborah absolutely treasures today. When she stepped into a young Deborah’s life, “For once in my life I had somebody who was by my side, who was consistent, not coming and going, and just experiencing all the things I did as a child,” said Deborah. She described her ‘Big Sister’ as nothing less than a guardian angel. But even with all that caring, adolescence was tough as she had to move neighborhoods, swapping Kendall for Little Havana and had to change schools. She now regrets acting out but realizes it was a chapter that finally led to her finding her path and inner strength. She explained she simply ‘woke up’ the day she learned that the kind stranger who raised
“For once in my life I had somebody who was by my side, who was consistent, not coming and going, and just experiencing all the things I did as a child”
her, was not her biological grandfather but just a good man who wanted to make a difference in her life. And he did and that moment she knew she had to make him proud. “That really changed me. It was pivotal that moment when I found out that my grandfather really was not my biological grandfather. I shared the news with my ‘Big Sister’. In that moment I was so amazed that somebody could stop what they were doing and so late in life give up everything, sacrifice
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 29 ]
CBSMIAMI.COM
everything he had just to insure that we were safe, that we could live to see another day, that there was a tomorrow. So in the moment, that was when I really decided that I cannot live my life like this and something has to change. I need to be better at school. Be more involved, I need to come out of the closet as far as secrets go and share and to experience the world,” recounted Deborah. “I couldn’t give up. Giving up was not an option. I had to make it.” Indeed, she turned her life and grades around. She would graduate from Booker T. Washington High School with honors. She was elected to be President of her Student Government. Ultimately, she was courted to go to the University of Miami by none other than
President Donna Shalala. Now her greatest dream has come true working for Big Brothers/Big Sisters and running their continuing education program, helping give other children’s dreams flight. “I really found out what my passion was, that education is what I wanted to be in,” she exclaimed. “I want to be a professor one day and be at a University level and help students transition from academics into the community. I hope to be a part of that change.” Putting on her elf’s hat, CBS4’s Michele Gillen delighted in thinking up how she could have Deborah tap into the Christmas and family she never had. It didn’t take long to realize how valuable a Super Kid Christmas reunion would be.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 31 ]
One by one they turned out to meet Deborah and feel a part of holiday sweetness that many never experienced. “I’m excited to meet them and excited to see how we can work together,” Deborah told Gillen. Super Kid Brandon Burke flew in from his Congressional internship in the nation’s capital as he was working in the office of Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Shultz. She was the mentor CBS4 News had surprised him with and she has opened doors and her heart to him. Michael Williams of Florida Memorial University arrived and shared his dreams of greatness and inventions. He is excited to continue his relationship with mentor Barrington Irving who was the one man in the world he told Gillen he hoped to someday meet. And Zelda of Mast Academy came bearing her famous smile and stories of making change for others. She had just aced a tough calculus test but would not miss the reunion. But the most appreciated guest announced himself with a chant of ”Ho-Ho-Ho” and Santa emerged. As the party and gift giving unfolded and the CBS4 Super Kids took the first step of being family, Deborah offered these words to all. “It makes me honored to be part of this Super Kid community, each of us is doing individual things.” The gift of this holiday? “How can we work together to make the world a better place.” Santa smiled. He has no doubt they will.
“I really found out what my passion was, that education is what I wanted to be in,” she exclaimed. “I want to be a professor one day and be at a University level and help students transition from academics into the community. ”
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 33 ]
&
By Rhiannon Ally
Flavored, Fortified
FIZZY
WATER Is It All Safe?
CBSMIAMI.COM
When it comes to drinking water, it is no longer just a choice between bottled or tap – there is flavored, fizzy and even vitamin-infused water. But some people are questioning whether all of the choices are safe.
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any people like the idea of some pizzazz in their water, rather than plain old tap or bottled water. So they go with water with a carbonated kick, itself a classic going back centuries. They also might try the more recent innovations of flavored water or water with claims of health benefits. But there may be some less-than-welcome aspects to those alternative water beverages. Some turned out to be loaded with sugar. One flavored water contained 32 grams, almost as much as a can of soda, and packs a 120-calorie punch in 20 ounces. “Different studies, depending on what you look at, estimate that if you consume one of these waters every day, you can go on to have anywhere from a 20-to 50-pound weight gain for a year,” said Dr. Ellen Gutkin. In addition to obesity, another agreement is high-fructose sweetener which has also been linked to diabetes and liver disease. Dr. Gutkin also advised looking out for preservatives, sodium, and triglycerides by reading labels carefully and she suggested a rule of thumb. “If it sounds like it comes from a chemistry lab, it’s probably not a healthy water,”
said Gutkin. But once you start drinking the waters, it may not be so easy to stop. Consumers of the drinks can actually get hooked. “We’re absolutely fooling our taste buds into craving, and almost requiring, in some cases, a flavoring or a particular sensation when it comes to carbonation,” said endocrinologist Dr. Joseph Pinzone. “It is allowing them to form habits which actually affect the brain and how we crave things.” But experts said if you still crave a flavor, a good alternative is to add it to regular water yourself. “You can squeeze a lemon, squeeze an orange, limes, the alternatives are endless, and you would know what is in it,” said Gutkin. The bottom line, according to experts, is not to give up on regular water and to drink special waters in moderation. “If you’re drinking any single drink once or in small amounts, it’s unlikely to have major health risks to you,” said Pinzone. Doctors advise that we need about eight cups of fluid a day to stay hydrated. That includes water and food, which accounts for about 25 percent of our daily liquid intake.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 35 ]
Real Estate Sponsored By
Listings in this section are based on properties sold in the previous months and retrieved from zillow.com. Not all properties sold are listed. Not responsible for typographical errors and/or omissions. Photographs are for illustration purposes only.
Content provided by www.Zillow.com
The 7 Steps to
Buying a Home
You’ve finally found the home you love. Now what? Though every market is different, you can expect to follow these seven steps, from offer to closing.
1. Making an offer
If you’re sure the home you love is right for you, it’s time to make your move. This means writing up a formal purchase offer and signing a real estate contract. Even though it’s early in the buying process, you still must sign a legally binding contract. With your signature, you’re committing to moving ahead with the seller. Keep in mind you can add contingencies to many real estate contracts. For example, most real estate buying offers will be contingent on a property inspection, as well as disclosure review, loan approval, appraisal and other matters. Such contingencies enable buyers to opt out of the contract if unexpected problems or concerns pop up. 2. Disclosures
In most states, sellers are legally required to provide buyers with disclosure documents, a preliminary title report, copies of city reports and any specific local documents. In California, for example, an earthquake hazards report or a geological survey is required as part of the disclosures. In some areas of the South, especially near the Gulf Coast, buyers usually receive flood maps and reports relevant to the property being considered.
In addition, sellers must disclose any known issues that might affect the property’s value or habitability. Usually, in a transfer disclosure statement, sellers must answer a series of “yes” or “no” questions about the property, the neighborhood and their experience there. If there have been leaky windows, violations from the city, work done without permits or plans for a major nearby development, the seller must disclose them. If there are significant issues, the seller’s agent would likely have brought them up before the contract signing. But if something is disclosed here that is a negative factor for you, it is your “out” of the contract. 3. The appraisal
Most buyers put a certain amount of money down toward the purchase price. The balance will come in the form of a bank loan (usually). But a bank isn’t going to hand over that money without due diligence. An appraisal is the financial institution’s way of making sure the contract price is the right price. So the lender sends out a third-party appraiser, which the buyer pays for, to confirm that the contract price is in line with the neighborhood’s comparable sales. If it’s not, the bank can deny the loan or change the terms.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 37 ]
Real Estate
Content provided by www.Zillow.com
4. inspecTions
As part of the real estate contract, you have the right to a property inspection. The most common is a “general” property inspection, in which the inspector checks the home from the foundation to the roof and investigates all major systems and components. As the buyer, you should follow along with the inspector to learn more about the property. For example, you’ll want to know about the components (such as the water heater) and have a plan in place for maintenance. After the general property inspection, the inspector may suggest having a specialist come out. This could be a roofer, electrician, HVAC specialist or even an engineer. Listen to the inspector and have any recommended follow-up inspections. Remember: This is your one chance to approve the property from top to bottom. If issues arise, you may be able to negotiate a fix or credit with the seller. If something major arises and it’s not what you signed up for, you can exit the contract via your inspection contingency. 5. loan approval or coMMiTMenT
In addition to making certain the property appraises at no less than the contract price, the bank will want to fully approve your credit, debt and income history. The bank will also want to approve the property’s preliminary title report to make sure there are no liens recorded against the property that might affect its value. The bank can take up to 30 days to complete its review, which should result in a loan commitment or full loan approval. Once that’s completed to the bank’s satisfaction, you’re guaranteed a loan, and you’re one step closer to closing. 6. final walk-Through
Just before closing, you should walk back through the property to make sure it’s in the condition it was when you last saw it. Make sure the seller didn’t remove any fixtures, make modifications or leave behind garbage or debris. You also want to be sure any fixes you negotiated with the seller have been completed.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 39 ]
Real Estate
Recently Sold Properties in Pinecrest
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8600 SW 67th AveAPT 928, Pinecrest, FL 33143
7701 SW 117th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156
12851 SW 72nd Ave, Pinecrest, FL 33156
2 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 960 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1966 Sold: 11/12/2013 | $194,000
5 Beds / 4 Bath | 5,799 sq. ft. | 0.72 acre Lot | Built in: 1952 Sold: 12/10/2013 | $450,000
4 Beds / 2 Bath | 2,961 sq. ft. | 0.36 acre Lot | Built in: 1961 Sold: 12/26/2013 | $670,000
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5975 SW 102nd St, Pinecrest, FL 33156
9665 SW 69th Ct, Pinecrest, FL 33156
11620 SW 70th Ave, Pinecrest, FL 33156
5 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,435 sq. ft. | 0.69 acre Lot | Built in: 1968 Sold: 12/3/2013 | $675,000
4 Beds / 2 Bath | 2,676 sq. ft. | 0.39 acre Lot | Built in: 1960 Sold: 12/6/2013 | $688,000
4 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,885 sq. ft. | 0.5 acre Lot | Built in: 1955 Sold: 12/27/2013 | $735,000
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5800 SW 107th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156
9921 SW 71st Ave, Pinecrest, FL 33156
10440 SW 71st Ave, Pinecrest, FL 33156
4 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,778 sq. ft. | 0.68 acre Lot | Built in: 1955 Sold: 12/18/2013 | $745,000
4 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,645 sq. ft. | 0.37 acre Lot | Built in: 1972 Sold: 12/23/2013 | $777,000
4 Beds / 2 Bath | 2,932 sq. ft. | 0.44 acre Lot | Built in: 1968 Sold: 12/13/2013 | $790,000
Listings provided by www.Zillow.com
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12200 SW 71st Ct, Pinecrest, FL 33156
12640 SW 77th Ave, Pinecrest, FL 33156
10100 SW 75th Pl, Pinecrest, FL 33156
5 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 4,048 sq. ft. | 0.34 acre Lot | Built in: 1970 Sold: 12/27/2013 | $875,000
4 Beds / 3 Bath | 4,543 sq. ft. | 0.51 acre Lot | Built in: 2000 Sold: 12/2/2013 | $960,000
4 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 3,389 sq. ft. | 5,188 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2007 Sold: 12/23/2013 | $1,020,000
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13401 SW 57th Ct, Pinecrest, FL 33156
9101 SW 62nd Ct, Pinecrest, FL 33156
5987 SW 91st St, Pinecrest, FL 33156
5 Beds / 4 Bath | 3,393 sq. ft. | 0.35 acre Lot | Built in: 1977 Sold: 12/9/2013 | $1,050,000
6 Beds / 4 Bath | 5,524 sq. ft. | 1.05 acre Lot | Built in: 1951 Sold: 12/16/2013 | $1,160,000
5 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,429 sq. ft. | 1.1 acre Lot | Built in: 1947 Sold: 12/26/2013 | $1,165,000
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6784 SW 97th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156
12801 SW 82nd Ave, Pinecrest, FL 33156
12314 Rock Garden Ln, Pinecrest, FL 33156
6 Beds / 5 Bath | 5,160 sq. ft. | 094 acre Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 12/18/2013 | $1,215,000
5 Beds / 5 Bath | 4,679 sq. ft. | 0.4 acre Lot | Built in: 2000 Sold: 12/2/2013 | $1,275,000
5 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 4,242 sq. ft. | 0.96 acre Lot | Built in: 1955 Sold: 12/16/2013 | $1,325,000
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 41 ]
Real Estate
L ux u ry P roPerties
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9705 Collins Ave, Unit 2402N, Bal Harbour, FL 33154
1000 S Pointe Dr, Apt 3101, Miami Beach, FL 33139
590 Reinante Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33156
3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 3,424 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2011 Sold: 12/23/2013 | $7,350,000
3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 3,365 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2002 Sold: 12/24/2013 | $6,325,000
5 Beds / 6.5 Bath | 7,749 sq. ft. | 0.55 acre Lot | Built in: 2005 Sold: 12/24/2013 | $5,300,000
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10 Edgewater Dr, # 12A, Coral Gables, FL 33133
7600 Fisher Island Dr, #7643, Fisher Island, FL 33109
597 Hibiscus Ln, Miami, FL 33137
5 Beds / 8 Bath | 6,800 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1997 Sold: 12/27/2013 | $4,750,000
3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 2,861 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2001 Sold: 12/23/2013 | $3,500,000
4 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 3,962 sq. ft. | 0.31 acre Lot | Built in: 1949 Sold: 12/24/2013 | $2,725,000
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1100 Biscayne Blvd, Unit 6101, Miami, FL 33132
3632 Stewart Ave, Miami, FL 33133
4906 SW 88th St, Coral Gables, FL 33156
4 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 3,729 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2010 Sold: 12/24/2013 | $2,675,000
5 Beds / 5 Bath | 5,080 sq. ft. | 0.55 acre Lot | Built in: 1925 Sold: 12/23/2013 | $2,650,000
6 Beds / 7.5 Bath | 4,837 sq. ft. | 1.59 acre Lot | Built in: 1947 Sold: 12/27/2013 | $2,550,000
Listings provided by www.Zillow.com
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12990 Biscayne Island Ter, North Miami, FL 33181
100 S Pointe Dr, Apt 1102, Miami Beach, FL 33139
901 Brickell Key Blvd, Apt 2104, Miami, FL 33131
4 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 4,428 sq. ft. | 0.29 acre Lot | Built in: 1959 Sold: 12/26/2013 | $1,750,000
1 Beds / 1.5 Bath | 1,201 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2002 Sold: 12/27/2013 | $1,725,000
3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 2,591 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2005 Sold: 12/23/2013 | $1,687,500
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7910 SW 52nd Ave, Miami, FL 33143
3737 Collins Ave, # S-703, Miami Beach, FL 33140
4395 Ingraham Hwy, Miami, FL 33133
6 Beds / 5.5 Bath | 4,489 sq. ft. | 0.29 acre Lot | Built in: 2002 Sold: 12/23/2013 | $1,660,000
2 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 1,621 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 12/23/2013 | $1,525,000
3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 3,590 sq. ft. | 0.36 acre Lot | Built in: 1951 Sold: 12/27/2013 | $1,500,000
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9275 SW 97th Ter, Miami, FL 33176
10205 Collins Ave, Apt 702, Bal Harbour, FL 33154
1525 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
5 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 6,323 sq. ft. | 0.77 acre Lot | Built in: 2000 Sold: 12/27/2013 | $1,350,000
2 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 2,325 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1975 Sold: 12/26/2013 | $1,325,000
4 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 2,649 sq. ft. | 7,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1923 Sold: 12/24/2013 | $1,275,000
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 43 ]
Real Estate
Content provided by www.Zillow.com
7. The closing
Depending on the market, the closing may happen at an attorney’s office or with an escrow officer at a title company. In some jurisdictions, the buyer and seller don’t ever meet. Each goes in to sign their closing papers separately. In others, the buyers and sellers sign the closing documents together. Also, thanks to current technologies, some closings can now happen remotely using wire transfers and overnight delivery of documents. Regardless of how a closing happens, if you’re a buyer and getting a loan, plan on signing dozens of documents at closing. You’ll need to show photo ID, as your signature will be notarized. Prior to the closing, your real estate agent, attorney or escrow officer should send over a closing statement to review. The statement details your final closing costs and the money you need to bring to the closing. The funds can be wired in or paid with a cashier’s check on closing day. Be sure to ask for the statement early, so there aren’t any last-minute surprises. This article has been provided by www.Zillow.com
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 45 ]
CBSMIAMI.COM
By Lisa Petrillo
Flash Sale & Discount Sites
Sell Their Own Brands Flash sale and discount websites are hot shopping destinations for consumers who want to find bargains on luxury and designer goods but we found some of these sites are now selling their own trademarked brands, many advertising an original and then a discounted price ,but in many cases the merchandise isn’t available anywhere else.
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hopper Lora Tusinski said she’s saved hundreds of dollars on designer items on flash sale sites and when a “Barrow and Grove” sweater caught her eye, she ordered it right away from “Gilt.com” What Lora didn’t know was “Barrow and Grove” is actually a private label owned by Gilt. “When I bought the item, no, I didn’t have any idea,” said Tusinski. Lora’s sweater is one of hundreds of products popular flash sale and discount websites are now creating. A review of federal records reveals: Rue La La, One Kings Lane, Zulily, Ideeli and Gilt all applied for registered trademarks for items that range from clothing, to jewelry, to home goods. Experts say some online sale and discount sites are now selling exclusive private label merchandise because they make more money selling their own products. Now that the economy is improving people are paying more for luxury goods, so there’s less inventory for discount and sale sites. Gilt filed the most trademarks in our review of the flash sale and discount sites, said: “with six years of sales history, we know exactly what our members are looking for and our private label merchandise serves our more intent-based shoppers.” Those in the e-tail biz said these sites closely watch what shoppers buy. Not all sites make it clear they’re the makers behind some of the products they sell and that original price you see next to the discount is
what retailers value the item at, even if it might not have ever been sold at full price. To make sure your online shopping experience is positive,
experts say when ordering a new brand, try to research similar items for sale to make sure the one you want is competitively priced, check out online reviews and know the site’s return policy, since some will only issue you a credit. Lora said now that she knows about this new private label trend, she’s willing to give other items a try. Retail insiders point out that many department stores have been selling their own private labels for years and sometimes those aren’t advertised as store brands.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 47 ]
“If the numbers are accurate, it would mean roughly nine million Americans who didn’t have health insurance this time last year now have coverage”
welcome to
obama
care Law of the
Photo credit: spirit of america / Shutterstock.com
land
CBSMIAMI.COM
As of last month, the much maligned Affordable Care Act went into full effect across the country. The law fundamentally shifts parts of the health care industry and open the door for millions of uninsured Americans to finally afford health care.
A
ccording to government numbers, roughly two million have enrolled in health insurance plans by using the federally run healthcare. gov website and state healthcare exchange websites. The government said another 3.9 million Americans benefited from the expansion of Medicaid and CHIP and an additional 3 million stayed on their parents’ health insurance. If the numbers are accurate, it would mean roughly nine million Americans who didn’t have health insurance this time last year now have coverage. Original forecasts from the government aimed for 3.3 million enrollees through the federal and state exchanges. However, when the federal website was rolled out in early October it was a disaster and few if any signed up for the new coverage. The White House began working on the site and said it was up and running properly on November 30. But, not every American will receive benefits from the Affordable Care Act. States, most of them controlled by Republican legislatures or governors, that refused to expand Medicaid will leave millions without access to affordable health care and don’t qualify for federal subsidies because they should have been under Medicaid. In Florida the number is over 500,000 who
“That said, millions of Americans may have to find new insurance if their old plans don’t meet minimum requirements” will fall into the state-imposed doughnut hole. For most Americans, they will not notice any difference in their health care from last year to this year. Eighty percent of Americans get their insurance through their employers and those programs will not be impacted much by the ACA’s provisions. That said, millions of Americans may have to find new insurance if their old plans don’t meet minimum requirements. Those “essential” requirements, according to the Washington Post, include: ambulatory patient services; emergency services; hospitalization; maternity and newborn care; mental health and substance use disorder services; prescription drugs; rehab and habilitative services and devices; lab services, preventive and wellness services along with chronic disease management; and pediatric services.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 49 ]
CBSMIAMI.COM
T
he exact cost of the insurance will vary by state, region, number of plans available, and Medicaid coverage. But, preexisting conditions will no longer matters as the ACA makes it illegal to deny coverage based on preexisting conditions. Citizens looking to buy health insurance must do it by the 15th of each month through March 31. After that, no policies can be purchased until next October when enrollment opens up again. If a person signs up before the 15th of a month, the coverage will begin on the first day of the next month. While the ACA does mandate everyone buy health insurance, citizens can still choose not to purchase any insurance. If they don’t, a $95 tax will be levied, but no liens can be placed on homes or have IRS agents come to your home. The worst that can happen is the IRS takes it out of your tax refund or adds it to your tax bill. In addition, if you can’t find a plan that costs less than 8 percent of your income, you are exempted from the requirement to purchase health insurance.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 51 ]
TASTE OF THE TOWN
CBSMIAMI.COM
By Lisa Petrillo
The District
Located in the heart of Miami’s Buena Vista neighborhood, the newest spot in town is The District Miami set in a warm atmosphere with brick walls, leather couches, fun artwork and some industrial touches. The New York meets Miami eatery is actually touted as a cultural taste of the America’s.
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t the helm, is Chef Horacio Rivadero who feels like his food is internationally inspired. “We like to call it Pan American. It’s a fusion of different flavors of different places from South America, North American and Central America. We make our own twist,” said Horacio. And that “twist” Chef speaks about is truly all about blending flavors. Chef Horacio prepares his corvina ceviche with grapefruit juices and thin sliced onions. The delicate flavors are not lost on CBS4’s Lisa Petrillo. “The grapefruit juice gives it tang then the corvina absorbs the juices, then the onion–it’s a wonderful blend and it’s really good,” said Petrillo.
From his small plates to the bigger entrees, Chef says the way to try it all–is to share. “You can go around the table and order different dishes with a group of people. It’s much more fun,” said Chef. Horacio’s signature Pan Afro Braised Cuban Pork topped with collard greens and a creole pepper salad takes six hours to make. One bite of this dish and guests are transported to another country. “I’m taken to another country. I’m in South America somewhere,” said Petrillo Petrillo’s favorite dish is the tuna tacos with a pinch of guacamole inside. The shells, which are gluten-free, are made of malanga. “It’s refreshing. The citrusy flavor gives it that feel and guacamole has the softness. It’s perfect,” said Petrillo.
www.thedistrictmiami.com February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 53 ]
By Brian Andrews
CBSMIAMI.COM
Most people like getting their hands on the latest and newest technology, but for some, letting go of the old is hard to do.
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icole Wakelin is delights in trying out new technology and owning the latest gadgets but she, like many, has trouble getting rid of the old. “I have everything from phones that I haven’t used in five years that are still in a pile, various versions of the iPads that also sit in a pile that don’t get used,” said Nicole. Nicole says her gadgets have grown on her— and she’s attached. “It’s hard to part with it. You know, it means so much when you buy it,” said Nicole. Dr. Christina Villarreal is a behavior therapist who specializes in hoarding. She says gadget hoarding is becoming more prevalent. “Gadget hoarding is a form of hoarding disorder, which is a person having persistent difficulty with parting with their possessions, regardless of their value,” said Dr. Villareal. For serious hoarders, staying current can be a financial drain. “I’ve definitely seen patients who struggled with feeling the need to accrue electronic devices, in spite of their ability to afford them. It’s definitely becoming an increased area of concern for many people,” Dr. Villareal said. But is keeping a collection of dated devices a sign you need help? “Holding onto old cellphones or old laptops isn’t necessarily hoarding or a problem, as long as it’s not affecting a person’s work life, home life, relationships, and ability to function,” said Dr. Villareal. Nicole said she’s not that far gone and points out a practical reason for holding on to old electronics. “We haven’t gotten rid of them because there’s that sense, ‘What if something happened that I needed this as a backup?’” Nicole said. However, she does admit some emotional attachment to her collection of gadgets, something Dr. Villareal believes is
not uncommon. “Some people hold onto electronic devices because they used them during a special time in their life. Maybe they had cellphones from college, uh pagers that they used in particular work settings,” said Villareal. Whether the motivation is sensible or sentimental, if you’ve got gadgets galore, consumer guru Andrea Woroch has some advice. “Consider selling them so you can help pay for some monthly expenses like your cable or electricity bill,” said Woroch. Woroch says letting go of the gadgets could lead to some serious cash back in your pocket. Nicole knows her gadget stash could probably bring in some spare cash, but she’s holding onto it—at least for now. “Gadgets are probably my big weakness. I try not to hoard anything else,” said Nicole.
“Gadget hoarding is a form of hoarding disorder, which is a person having persistent difficulty with parting with their possessions, regardless of their value”
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 55 ]
CBSMIAMI.COM
By Vanessa Borge
Hottest New
Exercise Trend
Dangerous Could Be
To Your Health One of the hottest fitness trends in the country has instructors turning up the heat, leaving gym-goers drenched. The trend puts participants in rooms that range from a toasty 82-degrees to a nearly oppressive 95-degrees, more than 20-degrees warmer than recommended.
CBSMIAMI.COM
It
started with hot yoga and then it spread. People like Jen Ellenberg swear by classes like hot cycling. “When you take a heated spinning class you feel like you get so much more out of it. You sweat, your blood is pumping, it’s amazing,” said Ellenburg. Advocates, like ‘The Sweat Shoppe’ owner Mimi Benz, claim the higher temperatures lead to a better workout. “Obviously your heart rate’s going to increase because it’s a heated environment which yields more of a caloric burn,” said Benz. However, experts from the American College of Sports Medicine caution that turning up the heat may not be a good idea. “Taking exercise programs and putting them into a gym in a hot environment to me is kind of a scary proposition,” explained Dr. Walter Thompson, PHD. Thompson helped develop the college’s guidelines for fitness centers. Those guidelines recommend that fitness room temperatures be kept at 72-degrees. “Well, the interesting question is, what kind of physiological reaction do people have in the heat?” said Thompson. “And that is an increased body temperature, an increased heart rate, and increased blood pressure.” Those reactions can lead to medical emergencies and dangerous complications but supporters argued that preparation is the key to any athletic endeavor. “You put on a pair of shoes and run 26-miles and you’re out of shape, you put yourself into danger, don’t you? You’ve got to be in shape whenever you do any kind of exercise and you need to control your own personal effort,” said Hot Yoga And Pilates, owner King Rollings. Some gyms do train instructors to watch for the signs of heat related problems but Dr. Thompson said that isn’t enough. “The question is whether or not the average gym goer, the average client in a gym should participate in these heated environments, and my answer still is no,” said Dr. Thompson. Ellenberg said that the heat does take some getting used to, but she has no plans to cool down. “I’m addicted to the feeling of sweating. It makes you feel so pure,” she said. Doctors said that anybody with a heart condition should get the okay from their physician before starting a hot exercise regimen.
February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 57 ]
Special Advertisement
Talking Baby: Should Pregnant Women Drink
Alcohol & Caffeine? It seems like the rules of pregnancy are constantly changing, so navigating through them can be tricky for moms-to-be. One of the big questions is regarding caffeine and alcohol. Should pregnant women abstain, or is a little bit ok?
C
affeine is the fuel that runs families across the country. An estimated 400 million cups of coffee are consumed in the U.S every day. Valerie Schimel, who is a mom of three, loves her coffee. Schimel and her husband tried to get pregnant for a long time, so when it finally happened, she kicked her coffee addiction. “I went overboard, being cautious about everything,” she told CBS4’s Rhiannon Ally. Previous studies suggested any amounts of caffeine could cause harm. But, Dr. Gene Burkett with the UM School of Medicine says new research suggests a small amount is ok. “There’s no data to suggest if you have one cup of coffee there will be problems.” Dr. Burkett said. The problem is many women won’t stop at just one cup. Dr. Burkett said anything more than that can cause serious problems like early miscarriage, hypertension, and rapid pulse. Dr. Burkett said that’s because caffeine, along with any other beverages, crosses the placenta, and that includes alcohol. One new study in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Journal revealed there is no association between alcohol consumption before 15 weeks of gestation and small for gestational age, reduced birth weight, preeclampsia, or spontaneous preterm birth. It’s a controversial and personal issue. Many
[ 60 ] February 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest
women admitted to Ally off camera that they consumed alcohol while pregnant, but most agreed it’s best to pass. Dr. Burkett agrees. He says even the smallest amount can make its way into a babies system and the consequences could be severe, like subtle learning disabilities to severe mental retardation.
CBSMIAMI.COM
“Even the smallest amount can make its way into a baby’s system and the consequences could be severe”
Home Improvement
Countertop Buying Guide
Finding the perfect countertop shouldn’t be a challenge. That’s why we’ve assembled some points to consider when finding the surface that’s right for your home and budget.
Content provided by www.Lowes.com
Laminate Countertops Laminate countertops consist of sheeting glued to plywood or particleboard substrate. The result is a beautiful, affordable countertop that’s quite durable. Laminate countertops resist water, are the easiest surface to clean and maintain and come in hundreds of color and style options. And, because they’re easy to install, our installation specialists will help you quickly so you’re back to your routine with minimal downtime. If you do choose laminate countertops, keep in mind that they are not suitable for cutting and sometimes have visible seams and edges. Laminate countertops are the least heat resistant, so be sure to use a trivet. soLid surfaCe Countertops Solid surface countertops are made of nonporous, acrylic material for a visually seamless appearance. They are available in a range of colors and patterns, including some ecofriendly options, and offer the option of an integral sink and backsplash. Solid surface countertops resist water, bacteria and stains, providing a low-maintenance option for your home. Do use caution with you solid surface countertops. They are susceptible to scratching and less heat-resistant than quartz or granite.
Granite Countertops Granite countertops are crafted from beautiful, durable, natural stone. Visually rich and dynamic, granite countertops are highly heat-resistant and can stand up to stains and bacteria when properly sealed. And, thanks
to their ultra smooth texture, granite is phenomenal for baking preparations. Granite countertops do have visible seams. To maintain your granite, seal it yearly to ensure bacteria resistance. Use caution around stress points as the stone can split. Quartz Countertops Quartz is another non-porous, natural stone countertop option that is the most durable option available. Like granite, quartz resists heat, water, bacteria and stains, but is easier to maintain. Quartz countertops have more consistent colors and patterns and are very easy to clean. With quartz, there are fewer shades to choose from and you will have to contend with visible seams, but with so many other benefits, quartz is a wonderful choice for countertops that last. ComBininG Countertop surfaCes For a truly customized cooking experience, a combination of different countertops can be designed for specific kitchen tasks. For example, stone surfaces work nicely near the range for placement of hot pots and pans, while solid surfaces are perfect for use around the sink for easy cleaning. Because of special exceptions, combinations of countertops could be the most expensive option. Speak with a kitchen project specialist about your budget or needs to find the perfect countertop options for your kitchen. This article was provided by www.Lowes.com.
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Home Improvement
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