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November 2014

The bizarre rise of the miami real estate market

06 10

dANGERS OF DIGITAL STALKING

South Florida Teenager Tackles Difficult Issue Of Being Transgender

When technology allows people to control and intimidate others, or even harass them, it can be devastating. That’s why experts are warning about a growing form of domestic violence called “digital stalking.”

A new book that tackles the topic of transgender children is co-authored by a teenager from South Florida who has first-hand experience with the often misunderstood issue. The teenager is sharing her life with the world by releasing a children’s book about her evolution from boy to girl.

It was just a few years ago we were talking about Downtown Miami’s demise. Developers had overbuilt, the economy was tanking and more than 20,000 condos sat unsold. Today many of the condos still sit empty, but they are being sold at top dollar. The bizarre ups and downs of downtown real estate market are odd to say the least. What has happened around it is even stranger.

Uber & Lyft Could Be Bad News

Adopt a Family 4 the Holidays

With ride-sharing apps Uber and Lyft coming to South Florida this summer, many raved about it’s arrival but what about the other side of the argument like why Uber may be a terrible idea for you.

In these tough times, more and more families are struggling to cover basic expenses. That struggle makes money for holiday gifts and a special holiday dinner out of reach for so many families. You can help. Our holiday program, Adopt a Family 4 the Holidays, is in its 22nd year and continues to be our pride and joy.

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[ 6 ] November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest

2 2 | Health

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34 | Eye On Pinecrest

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38 | Real Estate

Don’t Give Up on Selling Your Home! Does Your Home Have Too Much Personality? Recently Sold Properties in Pinecrest Recently Sold Luxury Properties in Miami-Dade What Is ‘Risk’ in Real Estate?

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66 | Marketplace

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Insider Tips On Store Markdowns Foods In Your Pantry May Be Mislabeled Money-Saving Tips Water Only, The New Green Clean Miami-Dade Animal Services Now Offering Lower Prices On Some Services

74 | Automotive Remixed for 2014: New Chrysler 300S Consumers Digest names Seven Chrysler Group Vehicles ‘Best Buys’ for 2014

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The

Miami REAL ESTATE MARKET of the

That developers and realtors canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop talking about.

It was just a few years ago we were talking about Downtown Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s demise. Developers had overbuilt, the economy was tanking and more than 20,000 condos sat unsold. Today many of the condos still sit empty, but they are being sold at top dollar. The bizarre ups and downs of downtown real estate market are odd to say the least. What has happened around it is even stranger.

n Friday afternoon, a boat pushes off from Bayside. Much like any other tourist day trip it’s packed with people clutching cameras. Except the tour guide is nothing what you expect. “It’s going to be two hours of nonstop, overwhelming, hopefully useful information,” he tells the crowd over an overhead speaker. Peter Zalewski, a fast talking realtor, isn’t pointing out Miami’s cultural landmarks; he’s pointing out condo construction. “Pre-construction is mostly a smoke and mirror market. You have no idea of what’s trading other than what the developer tells you,” Zalewski says. He starts explaining that’s where he comes in. What the developer says and what is happening are often two different things. He’s there for them to fill the gaps on downtown Miami’s real estate craze with real stats and information. Zalewski has been known to think out of the box. Years ago he pitched foreclosures from a bus. He hawked distressed condos from a cleverly named website, condovultures.com. Now he’s hauling buyers and realtors around by boat and selling condos you can’t even see. He points to the skyline and tells his captive audience, “Right now currently there is 17,890 condos planned right over here where we are showing you.” His two-hour tour travels up and down Biscayne Bay. Bikini clad boaters pass by. The skyline looks great against a blue sky. Zalewski points out what has been, what is and what will be.

“Developers put up 22,200 units during the last boom. 40 years prior they built 11,500 units,” he explains. He then quickly shifts from a history lesson to a discussion about the hottest neighborhood in the Miami

market currently, Edgewater. Just north of the downtown corridor, there is really no substantial reason why it’s up and coming. But developers and realtors can’t stop talking about it. Developer incentives may play a part in it. The industry created buzz is fueling price hikes and big purchases. Zalewski fills the crowds in on the latest Edgewater gossip. “A Russian oligarch has recently acquired an entire block,” he says. As the tour moves south, he points out something a bit less speculative; the cranes near Brickell, Miami’s historically financial district. “Brickell Citi Center is a $1.05 billion dollar project.” he says. He explains the history of who’s behind the

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 9 ]

project and how much of a game changer it will be. According to Zalewski, 35,000 new condos are proposed east of I-95. That includes everything from a blueprint to what’s actually being built. “How do you know what the developers are telling you is real?” he asks CBS4’s David Sutta. Sutta nods his head. A few seconds later he concludes it’s a trick question. “The answer is you don’t know. You have no idea.” It made us wonder just who buys condos that aren’t even built. We found the answer inside the Miami Beach Convention Center in August. Rows of developers were pitching their projects as part of a pre-construction show. Juan Carlos Caceres was pitching one of them. “Have you guys heard of Centro?” he asks as someone stops to look at materials laid out on his table. He starts pitching all the selling points of his project. “You are going to get concrete floors,” he tells them. The buyer leans in with even more interest. Centro, will open up around 2016 in the center of downtown Miami. It starts at $293,000 for a luxury loft. The buyer doesn’t flinch. Caceres touts some of the other benefits, “He built the building without any parking. Great amenities. Wonderful views.” The buyer stops him right there, asking him to repeat the part about the parking; a 500-square-foot box, with concrete floors, without parking. Caceres explains it’s actually a great benefit. “A lot of people don’t want to drive. They don’t want to have a car payment. They don’t want to have an insurance payment,” he says. This type of pitch you would usually hear in New York. But South Florida loves its cars. Surely we wouldn’t give that up, for a concrete box? Sutta asks Caceres about it. He smiles back, “We are about 81-percent sold.” It’s confusing times for Miami real estate. Historically, Miami has been known for its expansive homes in the south. Coral Gables, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead provided large single family homes at relatively cheap prices. Residents went north and west for economically priced condos and apartments. So who’s buying these high level condos in the east? Fernando Arencibia a realtor with Remax didn’t even hesitate to answer. “These high level condos are being purchased by foreign buyers.”

“Without a doubt?” Sutta asked him. “Without a doubt. A majority of the deals are cash. They are really not being built for us, per say. But it is built to satisfy all the demand from all the buyers from Latin America, from Europe, and they are coming from the east,” he said. Outside of the United States, buyers are used to paying for their homes just like you would for a can of soda. There are no mortgages typically. If there is financing it’s a very small amount; less than 50 percent. It’s perfect for developers and banks that are skittish to get back into the condo financing market. The pre-construction show has condo after condo project; each more glamorous than the last. Each promising more luxury than you could ever imagine. Armani inspired living spaces, exotic finishes, with a staff that will take care of the groceries. It’s real estate’s version of lifestyles of the rich and famous. Although you don’t have to necessarily be famous. In the exhibition hall there are only a small amount of buyers in the crowd. A majority of the looky-loos are realtors like Arencibia. “We are here to catchup, find all the information. Also quite frankly, to check out the competition,” he explains. The buildings are going up so fast the realtors are having trouble keeping track of it all. This preconstruction boom makes it appear as if downtown’s once dead real estate scene is thriving. Zalewski has a perfect explanation for the bizarreness of it all. “In New York they trade stocks. In Chicago they trade commodities. In Miami we trade condos. This is really a very large condo trading pit,” he says. In other words, like all trades, we are on an upswing. “Make no mistake this is trading pit. People come here to buy and trade condos. They don’t come here to buy and live the American dream with a family of four and dog,” Zalewski says. We’re told a majority of these foreign buyers have no plans to live in the units. Most rent it out. In fact in recent months downtown condo rents have been climbing. That’s fueled even more investors to jump in. So if we are a stock market of condos, does that mean eventually this bubble will burst? Experienced realtors didn’t want to say yes on camera. But they did warn investors are playing a risky game. Once all these pre-construction condos come to market in 2016 the bubble may pop, again.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 11 ]

tHE

DanGErs OF DiGital

stalkinG When technology allows people to control and intimidate others, or even harass them, it can be devastating. that’s why experts are warning about a growing form of domestic violence called “digital stalking.”

By vanessa Borge

ental health professionals say it’s such a new problem that some people could be in a digitally abusive relationship and not even realize it. “My ex-husband even sent constant emails to a previous job that I had. A very good job I had and I lost my job because of this,” explained “Lisa” to CBS4’s Vanessa Borge. “Lisa” who didn’t want her real name used, is a victim of high-tech harassment. It’s a problem psychiatrist Gail Saltz said is growing. “Now, sadly people are using digital technology to exert their power, their influence, control 24/7.” But digital stalking goes beyond constant phone calls and text messages. Christina Pera said her ex-husband’s electronic communication is relentless. “I get all of this online. It’s through Facebook. It’s through Twitter and emails,” explained Christina. Christina’s ex-husband has verbally attacked her on an online chat room as well. She translated some of what he wrote. “He’s saying to me he is going to work with the police and never pay child support and wants to put me in jail,” she said. At the National Domestic Violence Hotline many callers report their partner’s smartphone and social media surveillance is increasing. “Things that range from constantly checking to what they’re posting on social media, asking for passwords, to more extreme cases as where partners create fake identifies on Facebook to see if they can get their partner to engage with someone else, and then accusing them of cheating and flirting inappropriately,” explained Katie Ray-Jones from the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Somy Ali is the founder of No More Tears,

a South Florida based non-profit that helps victims of domestic abuse, including Christina and “Lisa.” “I would say 98% of the victims we have rescued have been harassed, threatened, lots of profanities used against them,” said Somy. A cybercrime specialist warns digital stalkers can escalate their surveillance by using apps which monitor their partner’s location through their phone’s GPS or they install key logging software that records what they type on a computer. Dr. Gail Saltz said what’s even more troubling is that digital stalking can turn dangerous. “People of all ages are vulnerable to the use of digital technology to basically be abusive and that abuse that starts in that way can often lead to, directly to physical abuse.” Christina was a victim of physical abuse. She was able to escape but said her world has collapsed because she can’t escape her ex-husband’s online abuse. “Now I’m afraid of the whole world because the digital harassment is there, there’s nowhere to go. I feel like a hamster with nowhere to go. I’m trapped,” explained Christina. Social media is popular, but Somy warns to not take social media threats lightly. “These threats on social media, and on the internet, and on Facebook, and on Instagram, and on Twitter, they can lead to deaths.” The head of the National Domestic Violence Hotline said it’s difficult to estimate exactly how many people digital stalking affects because some victims don’t even recognize it. If you feel your safety is in jeopardy though you should immediately contact local police.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 13 ]

South Florida Teenager Tackles Difficult Issue Of

Being Transgender

A new book that tackles the topic of transgender children is co-authored by a teenager from South Florida who has first-hand experience with the often misunderstood issue.

“I

wanted everyone to look at me and say wow what a beautiful little girl,” said Jazz Jennings. At a first look, Jazz appears to be like many 13-year-old girls. Her room is filled with pink and purple accents and mermaids, but pictures of her lining the stairs reveal a more complicated past as a boy. “That was the age when I felt like I was different and I knew that something was going on,” Jazz said. Jazz’s parents quickly noticed a difference in their child too. Although physically and genetically born a male, Jazz would always pull dresses, high heels and dolls from the closets. Jazz insisted he was a girl at two-years-old. “We thought it was a phase, but a phase goes away and this was not going away,” said Jazz’s mother, Jeanette Jennings. “So we took her into a specialist and they confirmed, in fact, that she had gender identity disorder.” The condition is also called gender dysphoria. “I was shocked, I was sick to my stomach. I don’t want my child to be diagnosed with something. But we didn’t know what to do. We wanted to do right by her. We just cared that she was happy,” explained Jeanette Jennings. Jeanette and her husband made the decision when their son was five-years-old to let him live privately and publicly as a girl named Jazz. “I’m wearing pink, I have a big bow in my hair. I have longer hair and I don’t know I just seem happier,” Jazz explained to CBS4 Anchor Irika Sargent. Researchers at UCLA’s School of Law estimated 700,000 Americans identify as transgender. The numbers of young “trans” children are not as clear. Doctors who specialize in transgender issues at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles tell CBS News more trans people are coming out at an earlier age.

Jazz and her family agree it’s not without major challenges. “We have a birth certificate that says she’s male, but according to law, we cannot change that until she has surgery,” said Jeanette Jennings. At times, Jazz has been banned from using girl’s bathrooms or playing on the girl’s soccer team. “I was devastated,” said Jazz. “It made me feel like an outcast.” Jazz’s parents fought the US Soccer Federation for two years until they allowed her to play on the girl’s team. That also led to changes for all trans players in the organization. She still gets bullied by other children at school. “Kids are mean. There’s no doubt about it,” Jeanette added. Jazz’s escape is her room filled with mermaids and her backyard pool where she becomes one. Jeneatte says she’s met many transgender children who are fascinated with mermaids because from the waist down, they don’t have to worry about whether they have male or female parts. “They’ve been my favorite creatures for as long as I can remember,” said Jazz. This confidence is now translated onto the pages of a book. The teenager is sharing her life with the world by releasing a children’s book about her evolution from boy to girl. “We feel this message is universal,” said co-author Jessica Herthel. “It’s about speaking your truth and not being ashamed about what makes you different.” Jazz considers herself an activist, appearing at universities and national conferences, and with each year she lives as a girl, she plans on speaking louder. “You just have to be proud of who you are and have confidence because you are beautiful no matter what,” Jazz said.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 15 ]

Fighting Back Against

‘Food Shaming’ Phenomenon

Despite everyone’s tendency to indulge occasionally, women are experiencing a new phenomenon referred to as “Food Shaming.” Many women say they’re met with insulting comments by strangers if they eat a high calorie food in public. Some experts consider it a form of bullying.

“I

have heard of this and I find this unbelievable,” said nutrition professor Joan Salge Blake. “This is like harassment. First of all, eating is not a moral issue.” Salge Blake added that if this happened to a child, it would be considered bullying. Consider the recent headline harassment of 18-year old Kendall Jenner who’s been strutting the fashion runways from New York to Milan. An Australian tabloid ran a headline that read, “You’re too fat for runway.” This type of pressure can cause a woman to distort her eating habits, which might have been good to begin with. “All things in moderation are perfectly fine,” added Salge Blake. Britni De La Cretaz is the director of Hollaback, a group committed to ending street harassment of all kinds. She believes more women are speaking up about this kind of behavior. “Street harassment is caused because there is a belief in our society that women’s bodies are public property.” Food shaming can be found in a variety of comments. “Whether it’s a comment that they might lose their figure, or that they shouldn’t be eating that in general, or they don’t need that,” De La Cretaz said. De La Cretaz said women who don’t fit into society’s idealized standard of beauty are often the targets of these taunts. One post recently came into the Hollaback

web site and read: “I was in South Station in the afternoon with my dad eating a vanilla soft serve and a 50 plus man walked by looking me up and down and said, ‘You’ve got to be kidding.’” Most often these comments are delivered by men, sometimes in a group, who think this is harmless humor. But because so many women already struggle with diet and body image, the consequences can be very real. “It does pile on, and that’s where young people are particularly vulnerable to eating disorders, vulnerable to feeling judged, and feeling like they are on the outside looking in,” said Ted Kyle of the Obesity Action Coalition. “This kind of stigma, this kind of pressure, this kind of bias effects both men and women but it effects women most severely,” Kyle added. Hollaback says victims should try to project strength even as it happens. “Use strong body language and act confident, even if you don’t. We say ‘fake it, til you make it,’” explained De La Cretaz.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 17 ]

Uber & Lyft Could Be Bad News With ride-sharing apps Uber and Lyft coming to South Florida this summer, many raved about it’s arrival but what about the other side of the argument like why Uber may be a terrible idea for you.

year ago, Miami-Dade cab drivers protested in front of county hall. They made lots of noise over terrible working conditions, terrible pay, and terrible hours. They explained it adds up to a terrible customer experience. Politicians were puzzled how to fix it. Miami-Dade’s tourism chief Bill Talbert pleaded with commissioners to do something. “Basically, in terms of this ground transportation, it’s broken. It needs to be fixed. We’re mad as hell and we are not going to take it anymore.” he told them. The response was a series of new policies to police the cab drivers. The changes did nothing to improve the driver’s situation. The cab owners, who mostly rent out their permits to drivers, called it a victory. Fast forward to June when ride sharing company Lyft decided to open shop in Miami. The company essentially decided to ignore the county’s policies and threats of tickets. A few weeks later Uber, Lyft’s competitor, opened up in

Miami as well. Cab drivers immediately began jumping ship. Both ride-sharing companies sport a spiffy app that shows you how far your ride is away, who the driver is, and how much your trip will cost you. Cab drivers like Miguel Lantigua now drive their own car and give Uber 20 percent of whatever the app steers their way. In the first few weeks of driving Lantigua said his income skyrocketed while his workday shortened. “This is like a network now. This is more like Facebook and Twitter of transportation. This is changing the way of transportation. That is what this is doing,” Lantigua said. Happier drivers, clean newer cards, a sleek app. What’s not to love? It’s enough for many people to look past the fact Uber and Lyft is operating in Miami-Dade without a license. Uber argues they can work here without a license because their a ride-sharing app, not a taxi company.

“This type of service didnt exist when the rules were written. So there is no concept of the ability to offer this type of service.” said Billy Guernier with Uber. Miami-Dade disagrees and has been slapping Uber and Lyft drivers with thousand dollar tickets when they catch them. With unmarked cars it’s not easy. About a month ago Uber expanded into Broward County, without a license again. John Camillo, who operates Broward largest cab company Yellow Cab, feels insulted. Camillo invited CBS4’s David Sutta to his operation to explain. He showed them around the property and pointed to stickers on his fleet of cars. The permits he was pointing at allow his cars to operate at the air and sea port. “How much does this cost you to do this?” Sutta asked him. Camillo didn’t even hesitate with an answer. “We pay in fees and taxes in Broward County around $2.4 million a year,” said Camillo. That’s a lot of money. Money that Uber is not paying at all. Sutta asked, “John, do you have a problem with that?” He fired back by saying, “I think that that’s a problem. Don’t you?” Camillo continued, “We have worked within a regulated environment for 54 years and we have complied with and tried to give the best product we could. I think that somebody because they have a phone app, which I’ve shown you we have had one for almost 4 1/2 years now, come in and operate illegally. I have a problem with that.” Camillo asked Sutta to pull out his phone and download his app which allows you to order a cab in Broward County. It’s definitely not as sleek as his competition but the fundamentals are there.

“You can’t destroy a well regulated industry because somebody has a phone app,” said Camillo. Sutta argued the other side by saying, “This is free market. This is competition. This is good.” Camillo didn’t miss a beat.

“Well if there is a free market and competition than what you are going to do is remove the rate regulations.” He made an important point. When you order up a cab ride, the rates are pre-set by the county. With Uber it’s based on supply and demand. Now-a-days, Uber may be a cheaper ride. Tomorrow it may not. There are horror stories in other cities with Uber like $30 rides suddenly becoming $180 because demand is high. There is another word for that and it’s called gouging. Regulation is often considered a dirty word when it comes to innovation. Basically, it can stifle it. John was quick to point out regulation benefits customers too. “Do they want to eat in a restaurant that hasn’t been inspected by the health department? Do they want to sleep in a hotel that isn’t inspected by the fire department? Do they want to ride in a car that doesn’t have good tires or brakes? Or a driver that has been

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 19 ]

vetted,” Camillo asked. Camillo showed them a line of cars going through an inspection. His 700 taxis and sedans cars go through biweekly inspections. He points out how his companies regulation, when done right, improves service. Each of his cabs are outfitted with cameras to capture bad driving habits. He took them into a classroom and begins playing footage back. “This is a driver who was seen on video driving through a light that was red,”Camillo explained. He showed more examples. The cameras captured speeding, following too closely, and eating while driving. This means the driver ends up in a classroom when they are caught. Camillo took them to a building at the corner of the depot. Inside were a handful of drivers taking a course. Broward’s Yellow Cab said they spend $400,000 on their Drive-Cam program. It’s stark contrast from what is occurring just a few miles South in Miami-Dade. Sutta asked “John there is no law that’s saying you have to do this?” He responds “No. We do it because this is our social responsibility. This responsibility for our drivers and our passengers and the people who operate on the road with them.” Sutta and the crew walked into the cashier department. In Miami-Dade drivers rent their cars and permits with cash. It’s the only form of payment allowed in many companies. Many drivers suspect it’s to cheat taxes. But in Broward’s Yellow Cab office there is no cash. They accept credit and debit cards for rental fees. Camillo explains it’s just safer for them. It also means a better chance everything is being run on the books. On the road the drivers still take cash. It’s important because according to Yellow Cab many of their local passengers, who are not tourists, don’t have credit cards.

“An overwhelming vast majority of a passengers don’t have a smart phone.” Camillo explains. John went on and on explaining how cab companies can get it right. It made the crew wonder why Miami-Dade has it so bad. Why can’t Miami-Dade do it like Broward’s Yellow Cab is doing it? We wouldn’t even need Uber or Lyft. Camillo replied, “Well I can’t answer for Miami-Dade. I can just answer for Yellow Cab here in Broward.” In short it appears to be a taxi company issue. Dade’s cab companies are taking the cash while drivers and the cars are not getting much innovation or re-investment. Uber competition with its newer cars, technology, credit cards, may force Miami-Dade cab companies or politicians to change that. John has a different proposal for Broward County which is don’t compete but join forces with Uber. “We’ve invited Uber to come. They have a product called Uber Taxi. And I’ve asked them to come and do their Uber Taxi and Uber Black car in our cars. And they haven’t called me back,” said Camillo. Sutta asked Uber’s General Manager why they hadn’t responded. “I’m not aware of any conversations with taxi companies in Broward county. We are open to talking to anybody,” said Guernier. While everyone is available to talk, and clearly not talking, Uber continues it’s rogue operation challenging the law. “We are pro-innovation. We are pro-regulation that makes sense, and that protects innovation. So we are open to helping craft those regulations in Broward just like we are working on in Miami-Dade,” Guernier explained. Meanwhile, Camillo believes rules and regulation serve a purpose. “I believe they do serve a purpose. If there is a need to change rules and regulations there is a process for that. But the process is not to work illegally and say give me what I want or we are going to work illegally. That’s not the American way,” Camillo said. Uber told CBS4 they are talking to politicians, trying to craft new rules for them to operate legally in South Florida. In other cities where Uber has been around for a while, more and more critics are appearing even Uber’s drivers. They claim they are underpaid and overworked. It may sound familiar. Broward County, like Miami-Dade, has begun issuing tickets to Uber drivers. At last count more than 30 drivers had been cited.

DIY Tattoos: Trend Or Trouble?

Chances are you probably know someone with a tattoo: stats show one in five adults has one. Now, personal body art is getting really personal as more people choose to ink themselves or have someone else do it for them right at home. While “DIY tattoos” allow for ultimate creativity, critics say the trend can be really risky.

rom head to toe, Robin Marquis loves her tattoos. She inked some herself and also had friends do some for her at home. “I think having the experience of having a tattoo at home is really awesome!” Marquis said. The National Tattoo Association says those “at home experiences” are a growing trend, a trend that gives them growing concerns. “It’s a trade that needs to be taught and if you’re not taught properly you’re not going to be doing proper work,” said Sailor Bill Johnson from the National Tattoo Association. The association says it’s becoming easier to get a tattoo outside a licensed and inspected shop. Just go online and you’ll find directions on how to tattoo with a sewing needle. There are even YouTube videos that show how

to make your own tattoo gun. Complete DIY kits can also be purchased on the web, containing needles, ink possibly even an electronic tattoo machine. No experience necessary. “Are they clean? Are they keeping things sterile? Are they using the proper procedures? Are they using the proper ink,” Johnson asked. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration takes complaints about tattoo ink related infections, but doesn’t track how many infections are related specifically to “do it yourself tattoos”. However, a report of an infection from contaminated ink sparked a recent recall of some online kits. Using unsterile equipment can be dangerous, especially to people with compromised immune systems. “If the infection spreads systemically into the bloodstream it could become a life threatening situation. It could also threaten the limb if the infection is very deep-seated in the soft tissue,” said Dr. Amesh Adalja, MD Infectious Disease Specialist. Adalja warns that with any tattoo you need to know there are risks involved. “You’re breaching your skin, you’re breaching a part of your immune system to apply this tattoo, so everything needs to be sterile,” Adalja said. Nicole West creates and sells home tattoo kits. She got a certification for infection control and tries to help “do it yourselfers” as safely as possible. She equipped her kits with medical gloves, sterile needles and ink, alcohol wipes and information on how to prevent diseases. “I decided to start making these kits because I know people who stick and poke using random, you know, objects around the house not necessarily the best thing for creating a tattoo,” West said. Marquis says she feels safe and has never had a problem with any of her “do it at home” tattoos. And each one is a reminder of a special time in her life. “Having my community members, my family, my partners use my body as a canvas I think is a unique thing that you don’t get from being in a studio with a tattoo artist you may not know,” Marquis said. The National Tattoo Association says tattooing is not just about having sterile equipment but proper training, which it says comes with experience and oversight. For more information about home tattoos and do it yourself tattoos see the FDA’s website.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 21 ]

Take a look at some of the kind words from some of our past adopters: “It was overwhelmingly a warm and extremely moving experience. It was so wonderful to be able to reach out to so many lovely and deserving families. A truly humbling experience….”

ach year, during the holidays Neighbors 4 Neighbors matches hundreds of families with caring businesses, churches, groups and individuals who help make the holidays a little brighter. Working with numerous social service agencies, organizations and schools that serve children and families in Dade, Broward and Monroe counties, families are identified, and matched with an appropriate “adopter”. What makes this program different than others is the personal experience that the adopters and the families get to have. Being able to meet the family you are helping, getting to know them and seeing that they are not much different from you, brings a value that is unmatched by any other holiday program. Many long lasting bonds have been created through this program. Not all families we bring hope too are matched through our site. Through Operation Elf, a sub program of Adopt A Family, many partners host toy drives, gift card drives and make cash donations directly on our site. Through those collections we are able to serve even more families. To become an adopter, host a gift card or toy drive log on to our website at www.aaf.neighbors4neighbors.org

- PATTY, BAPTIST HEALTH “Very rewarding. When I approached my extended family they welcomed the opportunity to help someone without a second thought!!!! It was very gratifying to see how much “stuff’ we accumulated to give this family. We wanted to overwhelm them with gifts, and i feel we did make a good impression and hopefully a nice memory that there are people out there who care. One of my co-workers jumped into the project and brought stuff for the children and mom, it was a total surprise that she did that. There are a lot of good people in the world. It was truly a Christmas spirit experience!!!!!!!” - ADOPTER “The process of adopting a family was extremely easy. The only difficult thing was actually deciding on a family to adopt because they were all in need of help. I am so pleased to be a part of this program and hope to keep coming back year after year!” - ADOPTER “We are very blessed and find it difficult to make sure our children appreciate all they have. This opens their eyes to how thankful they should be and how nice it is to give rather than receive.” - ADOPTER

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 23 ]

H e a lt h

What Has The Affordable Care Act Accomplished A Year Later?

By Shawn Thomas

The next Open Enrollment for the Affordable Care Act (also known as “Obamacare”) will begin on November 15, 2014. But with almost a year under its belt, has the Affordable Care Act impact as many people as it originally set out to?

ccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, before the Affordable Care Act was put in place in late 2013, the number of uninsured Americans was around 42 million people or about 13.4 percent of the U.S. population in all age groups. This year isn’t finished, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has revealed some key facts about the uninsured with data collected from the first quarter of 2014.

[ 22 ] November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest

With Obamacare in place, 41 million people, or 13.1 percent of the population, were uninsured in the first three months of 2014, according to the CDC. The number of individuals uninsured has, without a doubt, dropped — if even by a relatively small percentage. The Affordable Care Act also seems to know what goals it has met, with stats on the White House’s website stating that 105 million Americans are no longer worried about having lifetime dollar limits on their coverage and that more than 17.6 million children with pre-existing conditions are no longer being denied coverage. With these facts in mind, many Americans will be making important decisions about their healthcare during November’s Open Enrollment for Obamacare. During Open Enrollment individuals can apply for a 2015 Marketplace plan, keep your current plan, or pick a new one under the Affordable Care Act.

There are four key dates to remember: November 15, 2014. Open Enrollment begins. Apply for, keep, or change coverage. December 15, 2014. Enroll by the 15th if new coverage that will begin on January 1, 2015 is wanted. If a plan is changing or being switched, enroll by the 15th to avoid a lapse in coverage. December 31, 2014. Coverage ends for 2014 plans. Coverage for 2015 plans can start as soon as January 1st. February 15, 2015. This is the last day to apply for 2015 coverage before the end of Open Enrollment.

For more information regarding enrollment in the Affordable Care Act, visit www.hhs.gov/healthcare/rights

www.cbsmiami.com

Exercise Your Way To Better Sex There’s a new way of exercising that is backed by Harvard doctors to improve your sex life. It’s called Thrust and it was created here in South Florida.

t’s a new exercise regime that is created to not just get you in better shape, but to make you better in bed. According to Este Benitah, it actually works. “My libido is awesome, yeah it’s improved a lot,” said Benitah, who just had a baby six weeks ago. “I got to try it through my whole pregnancy. I bounced right back.” Two weeks after her third baby was born, Benitah is pictured in a bikini holding the new infant. She credits Thrust. “Sex wise it was incredible! I think it’s what got me pregnant and got me through the pregnancy,” Benitah exclaimed. She was one of the people to test Thrust, before, during and after her pregnancy. She’s even one of the models in the video. Thrusts creator is biologist, Olympic trainer and entrepreneur Mike Faddis. “So how on earth does this make your sex life better?” asked CBS4’s Cynthia Demos. “The Thrust program targets specific muscle and muscle groups and exercises that are proven to improve form and function,” explained Faddis. It’s a combination of yoga, Pilates, and resistance training. It focuses on the lower body and increasing blood flow in the pelvic area. In the first phase, there’s weight loss which the doctor said balances hormones and increases libido. There is a lot of stretching and kegel exercises along the way. Thrust is even backed by Harvard doctors. “It’s been shown scientifically to perform sexual function,” said Dr. John Martin, a graduate of Harvard Medical School. He believes mixing a solid workout with specific exercise to enhance your sex life is novel. “Combining the two makes for a happier person,” said Martin. Este said she’s happier and so is her husband. “Yeah he says I’m more confident.” Being confident leads to more intimacy, which in your relationship can help you hit the reset button. This workout is officially out in November.

Go to www.thrust180.com for more information November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 23 ]

Health / www.cbsmiami.com

The Dish On Dining Out & Your Diet

By Brian Andrews

Trying to stick to your diet can be tough when dining out. With so many tempting items on the menu, will power is important to sticking with your plan. Cornell University Researchers said if you do fall off the diet wagon while dining out, you can blame slick marketing techniques and time tested sales gimmicks.

ornell Professor of Marketing Brian Wansink said it all starts with the menu. “Our choices are largely engineered by the layout of the menu and how things are described in the menu,” said Wansink. Some restaurants use flashy graphics, large posters of dishes, even table side electronic tablets to show you what you could be ordering. “Any vivid colors will draw your eye to it,” said Wansink. “The first thing your eye sees when you look at a menu, whether it’s in a box, or in red’s or yellow’s, bold or icons, tremendously raises the likelihood that you are going to select that item versus the one right next to it.” Professor Wansink said delectable dish descriptions like crunchy, creamy, or zesty, are probably dishes dieters should avoid. “If those descriptive words sound incredibly evocative and luscious, they’re probably code words for things that are fat,” said Wansink. Researchers said visual variety causes us to eat more, so often, restaurants design their plate and food presentation with as many colors as possible. Wansink said restaurant décor is also a factor. “What we find is that if it’s way to light and bright then you eat too fast and too much,” said Wansink. “If it’s sort of dark and quiet, you’ll also eat a whole lot, because you stick around longer, end up eating more.” Researchers said some restaurants are even experimenting with scents in the dining room, spritzing and spraying bottles of fragrances that smell like a grill or certain sauces and spices. “Floral scents can cause some people to eat a

little more, but, largely, they cause a lot of people to say I’m really not hungry anymore,” said Professor Wansink. So here’s his advice if you’re on a diet and eating out. First, pick a table that’s not too dark and not too bright. “So what you’ll do is eat a more reasonable amount, in a more reasonable time period,” said Wansink. Also, select a table that isn’t near a television. When you’re focused on a game or program, it’s easier to forget about your diet goals. He suggests practicing the “rule of 2’s” when hitting a buffet, only selecting two items for your plate, instead of many. “Restaurants kind of find things that work,” said Wansink. “They don’t know why, but they sort of just go with the flow.”

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 25 ]

Health / www.cbsmiami.com

Eye Vitamins Could Better Vision In The Long Run

owever, Optometrists say some vitamins marketed as beneficial for eyes do play a role in reducing your risk for macular degeneration. Publix Supermarkets, for example, stocks more than 15 different brands of eye vitamins. Target also has more than a dozen options. Bascom Palmer Eye Institute Optometrist Dr. Mark Dunbar said recent research shows they do work. “There’s some good data to suggest that eye vitamins lower the risk of vision loss from age-related macular degeneration,” said Dr. Dunbar. “Taking one won’t make your eyes more blue or green. They don’t offer any effects on the front of the eye; it’s all in the back of your eye.” Dr. Dunbar said eye vitamins on the market today

More than half of all Americans take some type of a daily vitamin or nutritional supplement, even though recent research says a multivitamin has little if any long term health benefit. Brian Andrews provide nutritional support to your retina. “They may allow better contrast sensitivity. They also may improve patients who are really sensitive to glare and sunlight,” said Dr. Dunbar. Dr. Dunbar said that if you choose to take an eye vitamin, it’s always a good idea to ask your doctor first. He said eye vitamins with Lutein and Zeaxanthin appear to provide the most benefit. “Those are the protective pigments in the eye,” said Dr. Dunbar. He also advises a yearly eye exam is very important. If you don’t have vision insurance, there are several programs available through the MiamiDade County Optometric Association, including the Dr. Bruce Heiken Memorial Fund, that can help families with children who cannot afford an eye exam.

Report: Glaucoma Linked To Some Allergy Medications For some, living in South Florida is synonymous with living with allergies, and now new reports indicates that some medications could possibly lead to blindness. Dustin Jacobs is one of those South Floridians living with allergies. “You wake up in the morning and you have the headache and the drainage issues and congestion… not fun,” Jacobs said. “Living in South Florida often means living with allergies.” Jacobs said he went to the doctors and said, “I’m tired of this can you do something to help me?” Jacobs was provided with a nose spray, but the 28-year-old had no idea that the prescription allergy medication could possibly lead to glaucoma. Glaucoma is when pressure builds up in the eye so much that you lose peripheral vision and in extreme

cases you may go blind, CBS4’s Cynthia Demos reported. Fortunately Jacobs is not in the dark anymore because he wears glasses. Optometrist Dr. Barry Kay interviewed Jacobs about medicines he was taking. “It came up in history,” Kay said. “It came up that the allergy medicine he was taking was a potential threat. He was totally unaware.” Jacob’s eyes checked out, but Kay said he’ll continue to monitor his eyes in the future. The probability with glaucoma can increase with age. If taking allergy medications consumers need to look out for prescription nose sprays with steroids. They may be OK, but it’s always best to monitor your eyes just in case, Demos reported.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 27 ]

Health / www.cbsmiami.com

Separating Nightmare Myths From Reality By Brian Andrews

A local sleep lab separated myth from reality when it comes to bad dreams.

et’s begin with why there are some nightmares we all seem to have in common. Like the one where you’re being chased and your legs feel like rubber, or the one where you’re late for class and haven’t studied for a test. There’s also the old I’m naked in front of everyone dream.“There’s some themes, and we’re not sure why, but they do recur,” said Dr. Daniel Shade, of the Allegheny Health Network Sleep Institute. “Mostly, they’re fear based or an expectation you haven’t quite met.” At the Allegheny Health Network’s Sleep Institute, patients can stay over and have their sleep studied.

So what can trigger nightmares? 1. Spicy Food Can eating spicy food before bed really cause nightmares? The answer is, yes. “A jalapeño pizza, something spicy, that’s probably not good. It’s going to interrupt your sleep in general,” says Dr. Shade. He said actually any type of food kicks up your metabolism, which can make your brain more active.

2. Cold Room Does sleeping in a cold room cause nightmares? Dr. Shade said he’s not sure if temperature really affects your dreams. “A little bit cooler temperature tends to help a lot of people sleep better,” said Dr. Shade. But he says a room that’s too cold or too hot for that matter is never good for sleep.

3. TV Shows What about seeing something on television that disturbs you? We all know that can cause a bad dream. So if you think something will bother you, what can do you? Let’s say clowns freak you out and snakes do, too. Dr. Shade said practice thinking about those things differently.

“That’s image rehearsal, and what you can do and one of the treatments for chronic nightmares is to picture whatever is happening that is bad and put it in a different light,” said Dr. Shade, “Actually rearrange it the way that you want it to be in your brain.” He also said just telling yourself you will not have a bad dream can help.

4. Alcohol What about alcohol, does that affect your dreams? Dr. Shade said yes. After a few drinks, you’ll dream less when you first go to bed. “People will start to have vivid dreams later on. That may disrupt sleep and may have even more nightmares,” said Dr. Shade. He said having a fever can affect dreaming, as well as some medicine like blood pressure pills. The doctor also said if you get to a point where you’re sleep deprived, that could cause bad dreams. He said exercise, going to bed at the same time, and not having a television, computer or cell phone in the bedroom will lead to better sleep. Finally, is it true faces you see in dreams are ones you’ve seen in your awake life? He says not necessarily. “One of the goals of sleep is to strengthen some memories,” said Dr. Shade. Those are memories you’ll need, like your address. “And another goal of sleep is to get rid of connections that you no longer need,” said Dr. Shade. “So a face you may have recognized, it may have been one you’ve seen, it’s just tucked away somewhere or it may be nothing.” For some people, nightmares can become a real problem. They suffer from chronic nightmares and it makes them stressed and anxious far after the dream is over. For those people, going to a place like the Sleep Institute may really help.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 29 ]

Health / www.cbsmiami.com

Is Coffee Better With Butter? Many of us have coffee with butter in the morning but the butter is usually on our toast, not in our coffee. Yet that is the new trend, blending butter and coffee together into a magic mixture. It’s supposed to taste good, cut cravings, and boost energy and brain power. Advocates say it’s all about the kind of fat in the drink. By Vanessa Borge

olks are drinking coffee with unsalted butter and a special oil for the health benefits. “People are feeling more energy, increased brain power, less cravings, weight’s coming off that they had trouble losing, and I think it’s all because of the healthy fat in the butter,” said registered dietitian Cassie Bjork. Bjork drinks a big cup every morning. She’s the registered dietitian and health coach who founded HealthySimpleLife.com. “It tastes great. It’s not that much different than having coffee with cream in it,” Bjork said. The recipe is relatively simple. It calls for two cups of hot coffee, two tablespoons of unsalted, grass-fed butter and one-to-two tablespoons of MCT oil. The frothy results taste like a rich latte and are surprisingly filling. “When you have that butter, that good healthy fat, that’s why you feel increase in energy, and your brain power,” Bjork said. She says healthy fats help the body run cleaner, and the brain run better. MCT oil is basically the best part of coconut oil, which has become so popular. And grass-fed butter has a better micronutrient profile. “So when we’re having the fat from the MCT oil and the butter in the coffee, we’re giving our body the healthy fat that it needs,” Bjork said. But does it need 440 calories, and 51-grams of fat? “It could be a positive if you were trading a

cup of coffee with 2 oz. of butter in it for having two buttered croissants and a cup of coffee with cream and sugar. Overall, that would be a positive, calorically,” Dr.Kannan Mutharasan said. Other than that, Dr.Kannan Mutharasan doesn’t have much good to say about butter and coffee mixture. He’s a cardiologist who says the fat will keep you full, but doubts any other benefits. “At this moment, from what I know medically, I would not recommend it for anyone,” Mutharasan said. “Because there is no evidence to suggest that taking in saturated fats is any better for you than unsaturated fats.” Opinions, so far, are mixed among those who have tried the so-called “Bulletproof Coffee.” That’s because it started with something called the Bulletproof Diet, that’s been marketed online. And not surprisingly, the bulletproof coffee web site sells branded versions of the coffee and the oil you need to make it.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 31 ]

E ye on Pinecres t

Pinecrest Gardens to host Philip Haas’s FOUR SEASONS Internationally-renowned contemporary artist and filmmaker Philip Haas will display his acclaimed FOUR SEASONS installation November 16th to April 6, 2015 in Pinecrest Gardens’ lush botanical sanctuary.

onsisting of four 15-foot-tall busts, Haas’s FOUR SEASONS bring 16th-century Renaissance portraiture by Italian artist Giuseppe Arcimboldo into modern times through a transformation of scale, material and dimensionality. While Arcimboldo’s paintings present each subject in profile, Haas’s unconventional twist on the classical form allows visitors the opportunity to walk around the sculptures, to see the subjects from all sides, and from many different and surprising vantage points. Each work represents an individual season and is distinctly unusual and extravagant. AUTUMN is comprised of fall vegetables, ripe grapes and leaves turning color. Weathered bark and verdant moss make up WINTER’s stoic bust, which sits on top of a cloak of straw. SPRING evokes rebirth and vibrancy with a face consisting of rose-colored petals and hair brimming with elaborate flowers. SUMMER’s hue is a variety of sun-kissed yellows; its face and headdress sprout onions, garlic, corn, peas, a multiplicity of fruit, and a cucumber nose. The sculptures are made of pigmented and painted fiberglass, supported by interior steel frames. “I started the FOUR SEASONS project wanting to bring Arcimboldo’s Renaissance painted nature imagery into the 21st-century physical world. I can’t think of a better venue than Pinecrest Gardens to inaugurate the Florida tour of this work, where the sculptures will arrive in the one of the oldest outposts of the New World, having fled their earlier homes as paintings in European museums, to now rest, and blend in, for an extended period amid the lush tropical flora, rock formations and historic water features,” said Haas.

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In marrying sculpture, painting, film, and architecture, Philip Haas has created a contemporary visual vocabulary all his own. He describes his process as “sculpting by thinking”. His groundbreaking artwork has been featured by museums, including the National Gallery of Art (Washington DC), the Kimbell Art Museum (Fort Worth, Texas), Dulwich Picture Gallery (United Kingdom), and Centre Georges Pompidou (Paris). In the public realm, his work has been exhibited in the Piazza del Duomo (Milan) and the Gardens of Versailles (France). His feature films include ANGELS & INSECTS, THE MUSIC OF CHANCE and UP AT THE VILLA. He is the recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship, as well as other awards. He has taught in the visual arts and creative writing programs at Princeton University. He lives and works in New York and London. FOUR SEASONS by Philip Haas is the latest commission of Pinecrest Garden’s art program.

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www.pinecrest-fl.gov

Cindy Lerner Mayor clerner@pinecrest-fl.gov

Joseph M. Corradino Vice Mayor jcorradino@pinecrest-fl.gov

Jeff Cutler Councilmember - Seat 2 jcutler@pinecrest-fl.gov

James E. McDonald

Pinecrest’s First Traffic Calming Circle Pinecrest’s Village Council and staff participated in a dedication ceremony for the Village’s first traffic calming circle at SW 104th Street and SW 60th Avenue. The Village Council approved the traffic calming circle in response to residents’ concerns over the speed of traffic in the area. The circle also helps reduce car emissions by allowing traffic to cruise through the intersection instead of stopping and going, which increases car emissions. Staff is evaluating the effects of the circle on traffic and is considering recommending the construction of additional traffic calming circles along 60th Avenue at SW 111th and 116th streets.

National Public Lands Day Pinecrest celebrated National Public Lands Day, Saturday, September 27th in two Village parks with volunteers that ranged from children as young as 12 years old to adults who volunteer with the Tremendous Miami, an organization dedicated to preserving trees in Miami-Dade County. Treemendous Miami volunteers planted an additional 90 plants in the all-native-species project on the eastern side of Coral Pine Park to continue

Councilmember - Seat 3 jmcdonald@pinecrest-fl.gov

Bob Ross Councilmember - Seat 1 bross@pinecrest-fl.gov

Yocelyn Galiano Gomez Village Manager ygaliano@pinecrest-fl.gov

Guido H. Inguanzo, Jr., CMC Village Clerk ginguanzo@pinecrest-fl.gov

Mitchell Bierman Village Attorney attorney@pinecrest-fl.gov

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 35 ]

E ye on Pinecres t

Events Village of Pinecrest

to beautify and maintain this extraordinary installation, favored by butterflies and birds alike. This exotic-tonative transformation section was started in March of 2013 and has grown beyond expectations. Girl Scouts and other Pinecrest residents came out to the Pinecrest Community Center’s butterfly garden and cleaned up the flower beds and planted pesticide-free flowering plants that encourage bees and butterflies to pollinate. To further commemorate this special day, the Mayor Cindy Lerner proclaimed September 27, 2014 National Public Lands Day.

Citizens’ Crime Watch Awards Citizens’ Crime Watch of Miami-Dade County held its 39th Annual Awards Ceremony in September. The event recognizes police officers and community residents who are involved in crime watch within the communities they serve and live. Pinecrest Crime Prevention Sergeant Michael Gorsline was the recipient of the Crime Watch Officer of the Year award for municipalities and Pinecrest resident Susan Randall won the Crime Watch Chairperson of the year award. “The more eyes and ears we have working together the less chance there is of falling victim to a crime,” said Sergeant Gorsline. There are 16 Neighborhood Watch groups in Pinecrest. Each one helps residents deter crime in their blocks. Neighbors exchange information such as, emails, phone numbers and landscaper and pool servicer information so that each member is accessible and familiar with his or her neighbor. Getting started is easy. The first step is to get organized by calling Sergeant Gorsline at 305-234-2100.

For more information:

CARMEN BY Georges Bizet--Concert Version Saturday, November 8, 8:00 p.m. Spanish heat, seduction and gypsy passion are brought to life when Miami Lyric Opera performs a concert version (orchestra and singers on stage together) of Bizet's Carmen for one night only in the Banyan Bowl, Saturday, November 8th at 8 p.m. Joining Erica PappillionPosey as Carmen on stage will be Philip Alongi, Tenor, "Clarion top notes and striking physicality" quotes the Miami Herald and Giancarlo Brunet, Baritone..."his commanding performance has a sure sense of theater" David Fleshler, South Florida Classical Review,and a glorious cast of principals, chorus and full orchestra from The Miami Lyric Opera company. Experience Bizet's riveting drama of love and jealousy that is filled with operas most renowned, recognizable and alluring melodies.

Fiddler on the Roof Thursday, November 13th through Sunday, November 16th. Winner of nine Tony Awards and with a record-setting Broadway run, Fiddler has become an American classic. Scheduled for a Broadway revival in 2015, spend an evening with Tevye, the loquacious father of five daughters, as he fights to maintain his family and their traditions. He must cope both with his strong-willed daughters—as each one’s choice of husband moves further from tradition—and with the edict of a tyrannical and unjust Tsar. Thursday-Saturday performances are at 8:00 and Sunday’s performance is at 7:30. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and $20 for students with a valid student ID. Group rates are available.

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[ 36 ] November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest

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Calendar November 2014

Family Friday at the Gardens: Despicable Me 2 Friday, November 7, 8:00 p.m. When Gru, the world's most superbad turned super-dad has been recruited by a team of officials to stop lethal muscle and a host of Gru's own, he has to fight back with new gadgetry, cars, and more minion madness.This animated feature stars Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig and Benjamin Bratt. Flashlight tours begin about 7:00 p.m., the movie begins about 8:00 p.m. Arrive early and snack on the best hotdogs and popcorn in town. General admission is $5, children under 2 enter free.

Live Like Bella Nights of Lights Wednesday, November 26 -Saturday, January 3 Select Nights 6-9 p.m. Our third annual holiday light festival is coming this month. Join us when we throw the switch and light up the night the night before Thanksgiving, November 26th at 6:00 p.m. This brilliant and beautiful festival featuring over 60 different larger than life light installations will be open select nights at the Gardens for visitors from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. through January 3rd. Many of the evenings we will be featuring entertainment for children including Santa, storytelling, pony rides, music and more. Celebrate the season in our tropical winter wonderland at Live Like Bella Nights of Lights. General admission is $5, children under 2 years old enter free.

AIRIELAB, 2014-2015 Friday, October 24 - Thursday, January 8 South Florida is home to the only subtropical wilderness area in the country, and Artists in Residence in Everglades (AIRIE) is the only program bringing artists to the Everglades. AIRIE’s purpose is to inform, connect, and support artists, writers and musicians who wish to be ambassadors for the Everglades by providing month-long residencies in the park. AIRIELAB is the unique concept of exhibiting works from the Artist in Residence permanent

collection alongside temporary installations from current AIRIE fellows. Sunday, November 2 at 4:00 p.m. Prudence Gill will give a talk in the AIRIELAB, which will exhibit select pieces from the AIRIE Flight exhibition.

Gardening with Craig: Container Vegetable Gardening Wednesday, November 12, 10:00 a.m. Join Pinecrest Gardens Horticulturist Craig Morell in the Hibiscus Room/ Gardens Gallery for a handson workshop, “Container Vegetable Gardening”- Learn all the methods needed to grow your own organic vegetables, build the garden during the class and take the container vegetable garden home with you! Enjoy the benefits of the freshest-possible vegetables, grown at home. There is a workshop fee of $10 per person, and class size is limited to 10 people, so register early by calling 305669-6990. Coffee and non-vegetable snacks will be served.

COMING NEXT MONTH

Holiday Festival

presented by First Bank Florida Saturday, December 6, 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ring in the Holiday Season at the First Bank Florida Holiday Festival. It’s a fun-filled day featuring music and merriment with performances that include the Nutcracker, Greater Miami Youth Symphony and Jazz Band and the South Florida Boys Choir. There are puppeteers, storytellers, arts and crafts, unique crafts for sale, a model train display, a candy land café, delicious food, Santa, and the lighting of the holiday tree. General Admission is $5.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 37 ]

Re al Estate

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Nelly Yager Gambirazio Realtor® Associate

305.987.3503

Don’t Give Up on Selling Your Home! Fall is Still Prime Season for Sellers The fall months are no longer a real estate dead zone, and there is still plenty of action happening after Labor Day through Christmas.

all officially began Sept. 23, but that doesn’t mean you should scrap plans for selling your home this year. In fact, October, November and December can actually be good months to sell. Now is the time to plan for it if you’ve even considered putting your home on the market. For decades, the conventional thinking was that if you missed the spring selling season, you missed the boat. Once summer rolls around and school starts shortly after that, families are more settled, the thinking went, and therefore less inclined to pick up and move (unless a job change or other circumstance forced them). Also, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s and the January cold snaps follow the start of school. In the past, no one wanted to take time to drive around looking at homes when all of this was happening. Things have changed. Today’s buyers aren’t necessarily timing a home purchase or sale around school schedules because people tend to settle down later in life and live longer. The result is urban expansion; more single, first-time and millennial buyers as well as baby boomers looking to buy (and sell). Also, a lot of home shopping, at least initially, happens online and via apps. Buyers don’t have to take time out of their busy schedules to drive around — they can just sit down with a tablet on the couch.

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As a result of the Internet, our hectic schedules and mobile lifestyles, the fall months are no longer a real estate dead zone. True, spring is still the busiest time overall. But there’s plenty of action happening after Labor Day through Christmas, enough to make it worth your while to put up the ‘For Sale’ sign. Here’s why.

Buyers are still out there As mentioned, buyers never stop looking. A serious buyer is looking at new homes online 24/7, even through the holidays. If the right home appears, they’re ready to move. In fact, it could be that buyers in the early winter months are even more motivated than buyers in warmer months because there is less going on. They have fewer distractions and are laser focused on finding a home.

There’s less competition A lot of people still buy into the old thinking that real estate slows to a crawl by October and virtually stops from Thanksgiving until, say, Valentine’s Day. As a consequence, many potential sellers figure there’s no reason to go on the market during these months. So they wait for spring. And that’s good news for you, because less inventory on the market = less competition for you.

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for sale

Even January can be a good time to sell By now you’re probably thinking about all the disruptions to your life that selling a home during the holidays might cause. For instance, you’re in the middle of wrapping Christmas gifts when your agent calls. She wants you to leave the house right away so she can bring a motivated buyer by for another look. If the potential for disruptions concerns you, put your home on the market in January. Inventory will still be very tight, and there will still be buyers out there looking. In fact, with the holidays over, there may even be more buyers out in January than in December. Also, January buyers may be more motivated. They’ve started doing their taxes and realize they need to buy. Or they’ve set a New Year’s resolution to buy a home within the next 12 months.

Ultimately, as we enter the final quarter of 2014, there will no doubt be plenty of motivated buyers in the market, searching for just the right home at a time when there’s less inventory. Doesn’t that sound like a good time to sell?

Listings in this section are based on properties sold in previous months and retrieved from www.zillow.com. Not all properties sold are listed. Not responsible for typographical errors and/or omissions. Photographs are for illustration purposes only.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 39 ]

Real Estate / Content Provided by www.zillow.com

Does Your Home Have Too Much Personality? Many sellers love their homes. They’ve made some of their most important memories there, and their home is literally where their heart is. When these homeowners took on improvements, from painting rooms to kitchen and bath renovations, they likely did it with the idea of adding “personality.” And then, when it’s time to sell, those same homeowners sit across the dining room table from their real estate agent and wonder why, after three months, their home hasn’t sold.

hat went wrong? Usually, it’s because the home has too much personality. The problem with personality is that buyers see you, and not themselves, in the home you’re hoping to sell. If you’re serious about selling your home and you want to achieve the highest value, you need to make the home as neutral as possible. Here’s how.

Remove family photos, heirlooms, diplomas and personal items Buyers don’t want to feel like they’re walking through someone else’s house. They want to feel that they’re walking through a home that could potentially be theirs. The more neutral the home, the easier it will be for them to imagine themselves there. As proud as you may be of your college degree or of little Susie’s first footprints, they don’t need to be on display when your home is for sale. The process of putting these items away may bring up emotions, but that’s part of the process. Cost to do this: $0.

Repaint rooms with personality You may have taken some time to choose the deep red color for your dining room, the heavy oak paneling in the family room or Johnnie’s jungle wallpaper. While these were personal choices for you and may have served your time there well, they may be off-putting to a potential buyer for any number of reasons. Before you sell, paint these rooms a neutral color and take down the heavy paneling. These are not big or expensive

projects, but the return can be huge. Cost to do this: less than $1,000 depending on the size and number of rooms.

Show the rooms as they should be used The room off the kitchen is unmistakably the dining room. But if you use it as a home office, it throws a buyer off. Likewise, if you’ve used a small bedroom as your child’s toy room/your closet spillover, the same thing will happen. In the visual age of the Internet, Instagram and Facebook, people need to visualize what each room is. Some people simply don’t have the imagination. No matter how obvious it is that the dining room is the dining room or the third room upstairs is the third bedroom, the buyer needs to see it used that way, not the way you use it. Cost to do this: $0.

Detach yourself emotionally Ultimately, when you go to sell, it’s time to stop thinking of your property as your home. Instead, think of it as an investment, and you need to get the best return on your investment possible. To do this, you must turn your home into a product on the market. This means you must emotionally detach from the home you love. If you’re not ready to do that, you may not be ready to sell yet. You may not want to take out the personality you added, and that you love. That’s OK, but be aware it will probably result in a smaller pool of interested buyers and a lower sales price. And the more neutral you can make the home, the wider the base of potential buyers you’ll have.

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Re al Estate Recently Sold Properties in Pinecrest

7700 Palmetto Ct, Pinecrest, FL 33156

7365 SW 109th Ter, Pinecrest, FL 33156

5 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,125 sq. ft. | 0.63 acre Lot | Built in: 1968 Sold: 10/6/2014 | $750,000

4 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,300 sq. ft. | 0.37 acre Lot | Built in: 1968 Sold: 10/6/2014 | $800,000

7220 SW 129th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156

7901 SW 129th Ter, Pinecrest, FL 33156

3 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 3,503 sq. ft. | 0.4 acre Lot | Built in: 1960 Sold: 10/2/2014 | $800,000

3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,400 sq. ft. | 0.89 acre Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 9/29/2014 | $812,500

6105 SW 112th St Pinecrest, FL 33156

12000 SW 69th Pl, Pinecrest, FL 33156

4 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,492 sq. ft. | 0.7 acre Lot | Built in: 1956 Sold: 9/30/2014 | $815,000

6 Beds / 4 Bath | 3,817 sq. ft. | 0.57 acre Lot | Built in: 1964 Sold: 9/29/2014 | $1,052,500

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6253 SW 128th St, Pinecrest, FL 33129

6120 Moss Ranch Rd, Pinecrest, FL 33156

5 Beds / 4 Bath | 4,903 sq. ft. | 1.33 acre Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 9/29/2014 | $1,300,000

4 Beds / 5.5 Bath | 4,891 sq. ft. | 0.89 acre Lot | Built in: 1952 Sold: 10/15/2014 | $1,450,000

l so

10325 SW 62nd Ave Pinecrest, FL 33156 5 Beds / 4 Bath | 5,010 sq. ft. 0.86 acre Lot | Built in: 1950 Sold: 10/6/2014 | $1,265,000

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 43 ]

Re al Estate Recently Sold Luxury Properties in miami-dade

317 Ocean Blvd Golden Beach, FL 33160

150 S Hibiscus Dr Miami Beach, FL 33139

6 Beds / 8 Bath | 9,395 sq. ft. | 0.89 acre Lot | Built in: 2002 Sold: 10/2/2014 | $22,500,000

5 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 5,039 sq. ft. | 10,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1940 Sold: 10/3/2014 | $5,200,000

9601 SW 60th Ct Miami, FL 33156

260 S Parkway Golden Beach, FL 33160

7 Beds / 6.5 Bath | 9,226 sq. ft. | 0.84 acre Lot | Built in: 2007 Sold: 9/30/2014 | $4,800,000

5 Beds / 6 Bath | 6,245 sq. ft. | 10,476 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 10/14/2014 | $4,800,000

2755 N Bay Rd Miami Beach, FL 33140

4425 Island Rd Miami, FL 33137

7 Beds / 7 Bath | 6,376 sq. ft. | 0.8 acre Lot | Built in: 1933 Sold: 10/1/2014 | $4,000,000

4 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,226 sq. ft. | 0.36 acre Lot | Built in: 1962 Sold: 10/8/2014 | $3,800,000

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5642 Lagorce Dr Miami Beach, FL 33140

5768 Pine Tree Dr Miami Beach, FL 33140

5 Beds / 5.5 Bath | 4,206 sq. ft. | 0.35 acre Lot | Built in: 1935 Sold: 10/1/2014 | $3,400,000

5 Beds / 7.5 Bath | 5,109 sq. ft. | 7,750 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1925 Sold: 10/3/2014 | $2,200,000

4110 Woodridge Rd Miami, FL 33133

4140 Battersea Rd Coconut Grove, FL 33133

6 Beds / 5.5 Bath | 5,083 sq. ft. | 9,590 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2007 Sold: 9/29/2014 | $2,150,000

4 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 2,772 sq. ft. | 0.26 acre Lot | Built in: 1949 Sold: 10/7/2014 | $2,100,000

3260 Chase Ave Miami Beach, FL 33140

5808 NE 4th Ct Miami, FL 33137

3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 2,328 sq. ft. | 9,034 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1948 Sold: 9/30/2014 | $2,043,500

3 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,075 sq. ft. | 0.33 acre Lot | Built in: 1926 Sold: 10/2/2014 | $1,600,000

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 45 ]

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What Is ‘Risk’ in Real Estate? You’ve undoubtedly heard about reducing your “risk” in real estate, but have you ever really thought about what that means? The risks are significant, and even though they are clearly identifiable, few home buyers do anything to understand and reduce their risk. Here’s some guidance based on the example of two different people buying a used car and how their experiences relate to real estate. Buying a used car

isky Robert, a dice rolling Las Vegan, decides it’s time to buy a car. He drives to the nearest dealership, where he meets a very nice used-car salesperson. The salesperson shows Robert several cars on the lot, tells him about the great quality of each car and how the car he proposes for Robert was only driven by a grandma to church. Robert likes that tidbit about grandma and test-drives the car and likes it. The sales guy quotes the fair price, they haggle a little, Robert takes the dealership financing and he’s got a new used car. And that’s risky behavior!

There is a better way Due Diligence Diane, a sensible Seattleite, starts her shopping online. She looks at Kelley Blue Book and Consumer Reports for the best value deals, car reliability information and pricing. She decides which car she wants and how much she’d like to pay before even leaving her home. She’s not going to get talked into a car model she knows nothing about, and worse, from a salesperson who gets the biggest commission if he can get her to buy the dud that’s been sitting on the lot for 180 days.

Diane also checks the Better Business Bureau website to find a used-car dealership with a good rating. Also, she looks at car financing options and rates from local lenders, so she can compare those to what the dealership is offering. She still hasn’t left her house, but she is now armed with a bevy of valuable information that will help her make a smart and safer purchase. Then Diane goes to one of the BBB-accredited dealerships and test-drives one of the cars that she already knows is reliable. This salesperson too says the car was only driven to church by a grandma, so Diane demands a vehicle history report that will prove or disprove that claim. Diane also takes the car to her trusted personal mechanic for a quick look, requires that the dealer make it a certified used automobile and requests to see the prior owner’s maintenance records. She haggles on price a little and laughs and then rejects the dealership’s financing offer; instead taking a lower interest rate loan from the local credit union. She then buys the right car for her. Now Robert and Diane both bought cars today, but one of them significantly reduced risk, probably bought a much better car, at a better price, with better financing and from a reputable dealership.

The real estate connection Most real estate buyers, probably 95 percent, are doppelgangers who follow Risky Robert’s behavior when purchasing property. Many times this occurs because people simply do not buy real estate often, so they “don’t know what they don’t know.” They look for houses, have a home inspection done, maybe breeze through the contract, accept the only loan financing offer they’ve received and don’t even look at the title policy, escrow or homeowners’ association documents before closing on their purchase. That’s risk — being the Risky Robert in the room and not taking every single prudent precaution that you can to mitigate the chances of something going wrong.

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Home Improvement

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Tool Storage Buying Guide When it comes to choosing tools, many people invest time into deciding what tool best suits their needs. They work to keep them operating safely and effectively. Quite often, however, people overlook the importance of tool storage. Properly stored tools are less prone to damage and easier to locate when you need them. Use our guide to help you decide which storage system is right for you.

Types of Tool Storage You can find tool storage in many sizes and configurations: Hooks and Wall Hangers Hooks and hangers are wall-mounted storage options that keep tools within easy reach of work benches and other work areas. Pegboard-mounted hooks and hangers offer a highly configurable solution that you can expand or rearrange as needed.

Tool Bags Tool bags are durable fabric or leather bags for storing and carrying tools. The bags are lightweight and feature handles, shoulder straps or both for easy portability. Zipper closures protect the tools and keep them contained, while an open-mouth design allows easy access and visibility. Look for internal and external pockets and loops as well as trays to keep the tools and other items where they belong and to make them easy to find. You also can find bags with wheels and telescoping handles to make transport easier. Similar to bags, some tool organizers fit over fivegallon buckets, turning the buckets into tool totes.

Tool Boxes Tool boxes or cases are available in steel as well as plastic, polypropylene and structural foam. Drawers on some tool boxes let you lay out and organize your tools for ready access. Some tool boxes include trays and organizers you can remove and take with you. Cantilever tool boxes have trays or bins that spread outward when you open them, giving you a clearer view of your tools. Look for large capacities and lockable lids for security. Wheeled tool boxes are also available, making it easier to get heavier tool collections to your worksite.

Tool Cabinets and Chests Tool chests and cabinets give you increased storage capacity over tool boxes. These steel storage solutions have drawers in different depths and configurations, allowing you store and organize a variety of tools. Some include liners to help protect the drawers as well as your tools. Many offer heavy duty, lockable casters so you can roll them where you need them or secure them in place. Keyed locks are available on some models, as are power strips with surge protectors. You can also find versions that include built-in lights, clocks or electronics like MP3 and CD players. Some toolboxes and tool chest drawer liners have a built-in corrosion inhibitor to further protect your tools.

Truck Tool Boxes Truck tool boxes are for storing and transporting tools on a truck. Some can also function as standalone storage. These storage solutions typically have steel or aluminum construction and either single or double lids that lock. Truck tool boxes are available in a variety of sizes and styles, so make sure you find a model that will fit your vehicle. November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 51 ]

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Quick Tips To Clean Surfaces in Your Home This collection of quick tips will help

Mold-Resistant Paints

you make better choices about how

Mold-resistant paints contain agents that can inhibit the growth of mildew on the surfaces to which they are applied, making them an excellent choice for painting humid areas like the bathroom or the basement. • Make sure you remove any existing mold before you apply a new coat of paint. Mold can eat through paint, so clean the initial surface thoroughly before painting. • Prevent moisture in your bathroom by installing a bathroom fan. Run it for 10 to 15 minutes after showering to prevent mold from growing on the walls. Even the most moldresistant paint will not work if you fail to remove moisture problems.

to clean the surfaces in your home most effectively to prevent dangerous bacteria, mold and mildew from growing. Wipe Out Bacteria With Antibacterial Wipes Not only are antibacterial wipes affordable and convenient, they are effective. Sponges and rags can spread germs around the surfaces you mean to clean, while antibacterial wipes can knock out bacteria on non-porous surfaces, including salmonella and E. coli. • For bigger spills, use a soapy sponge or towel to remove the bulk of the material, and then follow up with an antibacterial wipe to disinfect. • You can kill up to 99.9% of common household germs using antibacterial wipes. • For more effective disinfecting action, allow the surface to sit for a few minutes before drying.

Frequently Forgotten Places to Clean It is easy to overlook certain items and areas in our homes that can be breeding grounds for bacteria, such as the light switches, door handles and the remote control. When you clean any room, a good practice is to go through the room with a disinfecting wipe and swipe the areas you might have missed the first time around. Don't forget about your laundry basket and hamper, which can be a breeding ground for germs. Disinfect these areas regularly. Also, your computer keyboard and the under-side of your garbage can are areas that need disinfecting. Don't forget to wipe them down when you are cleaning.

Best Practices for Dusting and Mopping Keeping up with dust seems to be a never-ending job, but it is essential to the overall health of your home, especially if you or a family member suffers from respiratory problems like asthma. One of the most important changes you can make to help your home is to stop using a dry dust rag or a dry mop to deal with dust. This ineffective practice scatters dust particles around without removing them. Using a damp mop or rag will catch more dust and keep it away longer. Also, don't forget your ceiling fan as a source of dust, and look underneath your furniture for the elusive dust bunnies hiding there. • Toss a throw rug at your entrance, and encourage people to remove their shoes before coming in your home to prevent unnecessary dust and dirt from coming in. • Use the beater bar on your vacuum to kick up the dust that is hidden in your carpet. • Bathe and groom pets often to prevent pet dander adding to the dust levels in your home. • Wash bedding and blankets weekly to keep dust mites in your bedroom at bay.

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Home Improvement

Clear a Clogged Drain As the pool of water collects around the drain, you get a sinking feeling in your stomach. You dread another costly visit from the plumber. However, clogged drains are usually easy enough to correct on your own. An average homeowner should be able to clear most clogs in two hours or less, depending on the severity of the clog. This article explains a number of simple ways to unclog drains and how to avoid clogged drains in the future. Cleaning Strainers and Stoppers Many clogs collect around the strainer or stopper in the sink or bathtub. To unclog the drain, all you may need to do is remove the strainer and clean it. Here are a few tips: If there is a strainer over the clogged drain, you should remove any screws holding the strainer in place and then pry the strainer up with the tip of a standard screwdriver. When the strainer is loose, remove and wash away anything that has collected around the strainer. Clean around the top of the drain. Stoppers need to be cleaned on a regular basis since hair tends to twist around their base. First remove the sink stopper. Some stoppers are removed by turning them with your fingers. Others require that you unscrew a pivot rod that is connected to the opener. This rod should be located under the base of the sink. If you need to use pliers to remove the stopper, make sure to pad them so you won't chip the chrome finish. Once the stopper is removed, clean it and wipe out the base of the drain opening.

Using the Plunger One of the most trusted tools for unclogging drains, the plunger, can usually clear the blockage if

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it's not too far into the main drain. Follow these tips to make plunging more effective: Block the overflow holes, other drains in adjacent sinks, or any other openings by stuffing wet rags into the holes. If water is not already present in the basin, run two to three inches of water over the drain hole. The water helps to force the obstruction out of the way and lets you know when you succeed in pushing the clog out. Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly to the rim of the plunger. The petroleum jelly helps to create a tighter seal, thereby producing greater suction. Force the plunger handle down powerfully numerous times. After plunging for a minute or two, stop to test whether water will drain from the sink. Try plunging again if the drain is still sluggish. When clear, run hot water to flush away any remaining particles from the clog.

Cleaning the Trap If a plunger won't clear the clog, you'll need to clean the trap under the sink as follows:

Step 1 Make sure you have a bucket in place to catch waste water. Step 2 Check to see if there is a clean-out plug in the trap; it will be a square or hexagonal plug in the base of the bend. If so, remove the plug and push a straightened coat hanger or bottle brush around the bends of the trap to remove debris.

Step 3 If the trap does not have a clean-out plug, remove the trap by loosening two couplings that hold the trap in place. If you have chrome pipe fittings, you'll need to pad the water pump pliers to protect the finish. Penetrating oil may help to loosen a stubborn trap joint. Step 4 Hold the trap over the bucket and insert a straightened coat hanger or bottle brush into the trap. Force the hanger or bottle brush around the curves and push out debris.

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Step 5 Wash the trap with hot, soapy water. Step 6 Before reconnecting, check the trap for wear or corrosion. The metal or plastic material may begin to thin and start to leak. If you notice wear, replace the trap. When you reassemble the trap after cleaning, you many need to reseal the threads. Use pipe joint compound or Teflon tape. Using a Sewer Snake If the trap is clear and the drain still clogs, the blockage is further into the sink's drain pipe or the main drain. To clear these drains, you'll need a plumber's auger or, as it is more commonly called, a sewer snake. Use as follows:

Step 1 With the trap removed, insert the snake into the sink drain line and push in until you meet the obstruction. Step 2 When the tip of the snake is against the clog, try to hook the clog by twisting the snake's handle clockwise.

Step 3 When the debris is solidly hooked, twist and push the clog back and forth until you break up the clog. Flush the pipe with cold water.

Step 4 Once the clog is gone, reassemble the sink's trap. When you reassemble the trap after cleaning, you need to reseal the threads. Use pipe joint compound or Teflon tape. Run water for a few minutes to make sure the clog is completely flushed and the trap is not leaking where it has been reconnected. Clearing With Chemical Drain Cleaners If the methods above fail, the next logical step is to use a chemical drain cleaner. Fast-acting chemical drain cleaners usually contain a high concentration of lye or sulfuric acid to burn through all sorts of tough clogs quickly and thoroughly. When using a chemical drain opener, make sure to read and follow all of the directions and warnings on the bottle. After following the directions on the bottle, remember to run plenty of water to flush the chemicals out of your pipes.

Unclogging the Main Drain

you'll need to clean out the main drain line or the sewer.

Step 1 To clean out the main drain line, find the clean-out plugs located on the large drain pipes. Look for these plugs on the vertical pipes in your basement or crawl space. In some houses these drains may be located in a garage or pantry closet, or there may be access to these plugs outdoors along the foundations of your house. Usually these pipes will be vertical, but occasionally a plug may be located on a horizontal pipe. Step 2 When you find a steel or plastic cap for the pipes with a square fitting at the top, remove the fitting with a wrench. Be sure to have a waste bucket in place when opening up the drain.

Step 3 Use a plumber's snake to break up any clogs. Make sure to insert the auger in both directions of the pipe. You can also use a powerful stream of water from your garden hose to break up any debris. Step 4 Replace the steel cap of the drain pipe. Preventing Clogged Drains Pour grease into cans and throw them in the garbage. If you empty grease into the sink, the grease collects along the sides of the pipe and then food particles stick to the pipes, eventually contributing to a clog. Also too much grease can eventually cause sewer blockages since the bacteria in sewage systems cannot readily break down grease. When you are grinding up food in a disposal, run plenty of cold water to flush food particles down the pipe. Using too little water can contribute to the particles collecting along the sides of the pipe. Don't empty coffee grounds in the sink. Pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain once a week to melt away any fat or grease that may have collected.

Tips for the Bathroom Clean the pop-up stoppers in sinks frequently. Hair often collects here and causes clogs. Never flush heavy paper products down the drain. Excess paper can clog the toilet and/or the whole sewer system.

If more than one sink, bathtub or toilet is clogged,

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Home Improvement

Tips to Babyproof Your Home Learn how to babyproof your home to keep your growing baby safe. From storing unnecessary items to plugging sockets, this list of tips will help you make sure your little one is safe at home. you're sure are safe. While you always have to keep an eye on your baby, you'll appreciate having a few areas in your home that are extrasecure, so you can have free hands to fold laundry or put away dishes. Use baby gates, door locks and knob covers to control access to unsafe areas and keep your baby safe in the places that are childproof. Smart areas to ensure are super-safe for your baby are living rooms and nurseries. • Install stove knob covers and a stove guard to prevent burns. Never hold your child while you're cooking. Turn pot handles toward the back of your stove.

• Less is more when you're babyproofing your home. The feng shui approach will give your tiny tot lots of room to crawl, cruise and explore open space in a walker, and you'll prevent obstacles that could cause a reckless toddler to trip. Consider whether or not you truly need the coffee table in your living room, or do you use it as a place to collect mail and dirty dishes? If it isn't really useful, get rid of it or store it until your child is older. • Use safety plugs and outlet covers to keep unused outlets out of reach and store unused appliances. • Corral your kid within in areas that

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• Keep knives, dishes, heavy objects, breakable items and other off-limits materials secure using cabinet and drawer latches. • Curious babies will pull on cords. Secure cords out of reach for items that a baby might pull down on top of him or herself. Avoid tablecloths on tables, as babies will pull those down as well. • Use corner and edge guards to keep little heads from getting bruised. When babies start to pull up and cruise furniture, you’ll be glad you covered hearths, coffee tables and other corners. • Install baby gates to block stairways at the bottom and the top. Choose your gate carefully: Gates that mount with hardware

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ALWAYS KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR BABY

are appropriate for the top of stairs. Pressuremounted gates are appropriate for doorways. • Secure windows with window guards, window stops and safety netting. Cut looped cords for blinds or drapes to prevent choking hazards. Prevent falls from decks and other ledges by securing openings in railings wider than 4 inches with Plexiglass. • Anchor flat-screen TVs or other furniture that could fall over on a baby who's pulling up. • Poisonproof your bathroom, kitchen and any other area where you store household chemicals. Use cabinet and drawer locks to prevent curious kids from exploring these areas, or secure a baby gate in place to prevent babies from entering at all. • Get a soft cover for your bathtub spout to prevent your baby from bumping his or her head. Place nonslip mats in and next to the bath to prevent toddlers from slipping and to keep you steady when you're putting baby in (and lifting baby out of) the tub. • To prevent hot-water burns, set your water heater no higher than 120 degrees. • Prevent slips while carrying your baby by putting nonslip pads under area rugs. • Check for lead paint. If you have areas of paint inside or outside your home that are flaking or peeling, contact a professional for removal. • Check the batteries in your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher and firstaid kit handy for any emergency.

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Storage Shed Buying Guide Is your garage so full of lawn equipment, holiday decorations and miscellaneous items that you have to park your car in the driveway? Or maybe you have so much stuff stored in the attic that your ceilings are starting to sag. If this sounds like your home, a stylish storage shed, garden shed or backyard barn is just the spaceexpanding solution you need.

Outdoor Storage and Beyond You already know these barns are great storage solutions for everything from mowers to motorcycles, but here are a few other uses you might not have considered: Playhouse: You can order windows, partitions and porches to add to most barns. Use your imagination to make a garden shed the perfect playhouse for children of all ages. Hobby or Craft Hut: No matter what your hobby is, you're sure to find a barn or garden shed that's just the right size for your needs. Just think, you could have a room to spread out all your materials and a private work space all your own. Private Getaway: Don't limit yourself to the backyard. Spacious design, high durability and easy assembly make these sheds and barns excellent choices for shelters at your favorite getaway. You can even order a custom loft to increase your storage area.

Material Choices for Your Outdoor Storage Metal: Whether galvanized steel or aluminum, storage sheds are usually coated with a tough, baked enamel finish. These sheds come in a variety of colors and offer years of maintenance-free service. Vinyl: Vinyl sheds are built with double-wall vinyl panels to resist dents. The panels are made to

exact standards for a snug fit and solid construction. Many come with paintable steel doors for extra security and long service life. Best of all, the entire structure can endure practically all weather extremes and is virtually maintenance-free. Wood: Wooden barns are the most familiar and offer a traditional look to match any setting. Soliddimensional lumber framing, multiple designs and stylish siding options make these barns seem more like small houses than storage buildings.

Outdoor Storage Accessories If you can think of something you need or want in your barn, chances are it's available as an accessory. Here are a few examples: Ramps: A sturdy set of ramps is a must for moving wheeled power equipment or hand trucks into or out of your shed. Windows and Skylights: Natural light increases visibility and makes the space more userfriendly. In most cases, you can even order shutters and window boxes to accompany your windows and further enhance the aesthetics of your barn. Lofts: Increase the usable space in your barn with a loft. The loft is designed to allow you to park the mower underneath and still give you a solid storage platform overhead. Shelves: Organize your tools and materials on handy shelves designed by the manufacturer specifically for your shed. Work Benches: If you plan to use the barn as a gardening or hobby shop, a good workbench is an essential. All of our barns and sheds come with easy-tofollow, step-by-step assembly instructions.

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Marketplace

Insider Tips On Store Markdowns

there that you can save money on,” said James. For example at Macy’s when it comes to marking down merchandise, James said, “They’re supposed to be done by Tuesday morning, making Tuesday’s and even Wednesday morning a great day to go in.” Over at Old Navy, James said employees advise shopping on Wednesday’s for the best bargains. In his research he found employees tell customers that “by Tuesday evening we have to have all of our new mark downs done we add all the new stuff to the clearance section.” At Target it depends on what you’re buying. According to James, “They don’t do all their clearance markdowns on one day, they break it up.” For instance Mondays are best for electronics

Does it feel like every time a store has a sale, you’re the last one in on it? With clearance racks cleared out, before you even have a chance to browse? Well pull out a calendar! There are ways to maximize savings and get first dibs just by shopping on the right day.

ifty percent, 60 percent, 70 percent off or more! Discounts like that are a big deal! “I have a family of five, three children, myself, my husband, I look for any bargain that I can find,” said shopper Susan Barclay. And knowing which day a store does its markdowns, leaves you with more merchandise to choose from. “If I knew in advance I would probably take advantage of it,” said shopper Doreen Bongiovanni. Lauren Rivera agreed, “If I knew what days they marked merchandise down I would be more inclined to go shopping.” Well Kyle James knows. The founder of RatherBeShopping.com says many retail chains are just like the rest of us, they operate on a schedule. “It’s amazing how open employees were with the information. If you plan your trip accordingly you can really get in there and shop the clearance racks, the new mark downs, when they actually have stuff

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markdowns, Tuesday’s are best for women’s clothing, Wednesday is a winner in the lawn and garden department. On Thursday’s housewares get marked down and on Friday hardware gets discounted. James said the days that JC Penney does its markdowns is pretty easy to remember, the first and third Friday’s of the month. At Kohl’s it’s the second and fourth Saturday’s. And the GAP? James said “Every two weeks on a Monday. An employee told me that can change from store to store but it’s almost always on a Monday.” Just figure out which Monday and plan accordingly. “The key is just to be polite, yourself and just say ‘hey, I notice there is not a lot here on the clearance today, what day is a good day to come in?” In his research, James found that Anthropologie, Babies”R”Us, CVS, Ross and Joann Fabrics also mark down items on a schedule. Some schedules may differ from region to region.

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Some Foods In Your Pantry May Be Mislabeled Turns out nearly 10 percent of all food is either mislabeled, diluted or misrepresented. By Cynthia Demos

ating healthy these days is not the easiest thing. “It’s time consuming really,” said Jackie Wohlgemuth. “It really is,” said Laura Cardenas. When Cardenas and Wohlgemuth go shopping the two constantly ask questions. Cardenas asks, “If it’s organic, where it’s from, where its coming?” And nothing goes into their bag before they read the label. “We want to be healthier.We are young and we want to look this age when we are forty and I know it starts in your diet,” said Cardenas. But how do you know what’s on the label is actually what you are getting? Scientists at the National Center For Food Protection and Defense in Minneapolis say you don’t. “We have lost control of the supply chain,” said Dr. Amy Kircher of the National Center for Food Protection and Defense. Among the foods researches said are most commonly misrepresented are spices which are often filled with heavier and cheaper substitutes that aren’t included on the label Olive oil has also been found to contain cheaper oils some aren’t even food-grade oils. Lemon juice is often diluted with water. When it comes to fish, at times cheaper species are passed off as more expensive species. On several occasions researchers found what was

“When it comes to fish, at times cheaper species are passed off as more expensive species.” labeled as tuna to actually be escolar. “Escolar is just naturally a product that causes gastro-intestinal problems in people,” said Kircher. “So when you substitute it there is a public health risk.” Experts said consumers can better protect themselves by knowing a little bit about the food they buy, what it should look like, and being aware of the types of food most commonly mislabeled.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 67 ]

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Money-Saving Tips So You Don’t Drown In Debt Having a baby changed everything for James and Elizabeth Valle, especially when it comes to spending money. “He’s definitely the conservative one,” Elizabeth said about her husband. “He’s good at saving money and he’s definitely helped me because I’m not as good at it.” The Valles, who live in Cutler Bay, are both teachers living on a budget.

hey’re making ends meet and putting money away by following some simple money-saving steps recommended by Miami Financial Advisor Charles Sachs. Young couples can start saving that million bucks by cutting up their credit cards. “First and foremost is credit card debt,” Sachs said. “If you have any of that you have to get rid of that immediately.” Thanks to her husband, Elizabeth rarely uses plastic. “We have been able to pay off our credit cards and we only have them for emergency purposes if we don’t have the cash to pay for it we don’t use the credit card,” she said.

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Another simple tip: when it comes to lunch, brown bag it. “If you’re spending 10 dollars a day for lunch and you can make it for 2 dollars a day that’s 8 dollars a day you’re saving and that adds up really fast,” said Sachs. The Valles are already on board the brown bag express. “I definitely take my lunch to work. I brown bag it. I’m a teacher so we have to be more frugal,” Elizabeth said. A big expense can be the family car. Sachs says don’t lease, buy a car and keep it longer. “Go on Consumer Reports, find a car likely to last 10-15 years and drive that until it drops,” he said. Couples can also save by couponing and finding discounts. The Valles use an app called Shop Savvy that highlights sales at local stores and compares prices at different retailers to give shoppers the best deal. The Valles hope their small sacrifices will put their son Benjamin through college debt free. “We’re middle class, not wealthy by any means but we live comfortably, we don’t have to worry about money and it’s because of the things we’re discussing,” James said.

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Water Only, The New Green Clean What do you use to get your home clean? Would you try only using water and a cloth to remove dirt and germs? Blogger Becky Rapinchuk is known as “The Clean Mama.” She’s been using natural cleaning products in her home for quite some time. Now a growing number of cleaning tools are aimed at taking the ‘green clean’ one step further. Products on the market, many made with microfiber, are designed to work with water – without need for chemical cleaners.

“F

or just every day wiping down the counters, cleaning surfaces, water and a microfiber cloth is sufficient,” said Rapinchuk. John Owen, a senior household analyst for Mintel, said their research shows 37-percent of adults would be interested in using microfiber and water to clean dirt, grease and bacteria. He added that 12-percent already use microfiber products on a daily basis. “Young adults, those who are sort of in their 20’s and 30s say, are more than twice as likely and we think that’s an indication that the market is growing and that there’s a generational shift going on,” said Owen. A shift that has companies which make cleaning products taking notice. Owens said those manufacturers are responding to consumer concerns about ingredients in their products. “People are increasingly equating a clean home with a healthy home and a healthy family. But at the same time there’s also concern about the cleaning product ingredients. So for these consumers, they still want their homes clean, but they’re looking for

alternatives,” said Owen. But are alternatives designed to work without chemicals effective? Microbiologist Dr. Michael Schmidt said microfiber, which is small than a human hair, is good at trapping dust and more. “It’s this frizzy end at the end of this very small fiber that facilitates the pickup of bacteria and viruses from surfaces,” said Schmidt. For situations when a family member is sick, or when it comes to cleaning the kitchen after working with raw food, Schmidt had this advice. “Use a disinfectant and good old elbow grease to make certain that that material is gone,” said Schmidt. “I’m okay with that when it’s quicker and the mess is actually cleaned up.” Schmidt points out that while microfiber can trap germs, it doesn’t kill the bugs. So it is important to clean any cloths you may use to get rid of bacteria and viruses.

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Miami-Dade Animal Services Now Offering Lower Prices On Some Services Miami-Dade County Animal Services is now offering some vaccinations and microchips at lower prices.

eginning October 1, 2014, pet microchips and 3-year rabies vaccinations are be available for $15.00 each. In addition to the rabies vaccines, new low-cost comprehensive wellness vaccine packages are being offered including some for low income families. For dogs, the packages contain the legally required rabies vaccine, along with the combination vaccine DHPP which provides protection against Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus and Parainfluenza, as well as the Bordetella vaccine which prevents kennel coughâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;all highly contagious and sometimes fatal diseases in dogs. The packages for cats also include the legally required rabies vaccine along with Feline Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia and Chlamydophilaia, all viruses which can prove fatal in cats.

For more information go to www.miamidade.gov/animals.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 73 ]

Automotive

here are about 260 million cars on America's roads. Why is your 3-, 4- or 5-year-old machine so special? It's because, for the car business, these are unusual times.

The changing car market According to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 10.6 million new vehicles were sold or leased in the United States in 2012 (the latest year for which the bureau has reports), while 35.5 million used vehicles swapped hands. That 10.6 million new-car market was a big down year for the industry -- down from 13.5 million units in 2011, 16.5 million in 2010 and more than 17 million in both 2009 and 2008. Used-car sales also dropped between 2008 and 2012, but only about half as much on a percentage basis. Car sales have recovered somewhat since 2012. Bill McKinney, Director of South Florida's Buy Back Program, project that 2014 new-car sales are likely to come in around 12.9 million units, and, according to program statistics, just under 37 million used cars swapped hands last year. "The used-car market has always dwarfed the new-car market in unit sales, and many, if not most, dealers make more money on their used-car sales than they do on new cars. But when new-car sales are down, dealers have fewer used-car trade-ins to sell" says McKinney.

YOUR DEALERSHIP WANTS YOUR CAR BACK. Consumer demand is strong for used cars, but supplies are limited. As a result, auto dealers badly need trade-ins and are willing to pay top dollar. Often the notice comes as a flier in the mail, but you might get a friendly phone call from the salesman who sold you a new car a few years ago. The dealership is paying top dollar for tradeins, you're told, and now is the perfect time for you to sell your vehicle. In sum, your new-car dealer really wants your used car. [ 74 ] November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest

So with 2009 new-vehicle sales representing about 60% of what they were in 2008, up to 40% fewer used cars were being traded in. Those declines have meant there are a lot fewer of the prime, low-mileage, late-model used cars around to sell in dealer lots. In particular, with gasoline prices higher this year, there aren't a lot of late-model small used cars such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Ford Focus around, and demand for them is up. "Strong consumer demand for small used cars is driving prices up," Jonathan Banks, a senior analyst with the National Automobile Dealers Association Used Car Guide, said in a news release. "The NADA Guide increase in trade-in values for June should come as no surprise because it reflects a shortage of

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both new and used cars entering the market." In May, NADA projected trade-in values for small cars to rise 18% during the first half of 2014, compared with the first half of 2013. The differences in value can be startling. Even in one month, values for used small cars have skyrocketed. For instance, the NADA Used Car Guide had the tradein value of a 2009 Kia Rio at $6,400 in May and by June had raised that to $7,500. That's a 17% rise in just one month. "You're not getting that kind of return on your savings account. Even the value of something as old as the 2005 Subaru Impreza RS is rising, up from $6,650 in May to $7,575 in June" McKinney tells us. Values are up so sharply for some cars that it's tempting to trade in a car that's only about a year old. For instance, a new 2010 Honda Civic DX coupe carried a $15,455 sticker price (plus taxes, license and delivery). Today that same car has a NADA trade-in value of $14,075. That's a drop of only $1,380 over a year. "A lot of lessees and buyers will find they're on the right side of their leases or loans," Banks told MSN Money. "If they trade in their cars, they'll find they have some money for a down payment." It's all about supply and demand. Dealers want your car, and are willing to pay more than its worth, because they have buyers for solid late-model used cars lined up, and there simply aren't enough cars for them out there. And they may as well try to get your car now, before it's worth even more next month. But selling, or even trading-in, your car is not about just walking into any dealer and handing over the keys. For more information on selling/trading your vehicle contact South Florida's Buy-Back Program headquarters at 888-542-5153.

“A lot of lessees and buyers will find they’re on the right side of their leases or loans,” Banks told MSN Money. “If they trade in their cars, they’ll find they have some money for a down payment.”

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Remixed for 2014: New Chrysler 300S

Delivers An Added Dose of ‘Imported From Detroit’ Style With Exclusive Beats By Dr. Dre Sound New 2014 Chrysler 300S combines an even more “blacked out” look and new Ambassador Blue sport interior, with benchmark levels of quality, technology and craftsmanship that could only be born in the Motor City

ward-winning Pentastar V-6 features a best-in-class 31 miles per gallon (mpg) highway label, with 300 horsepower, state-ofthe-art ZF eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shifters, sport mode and sport-tuned exhaust As the driver’s 300, Chrysler 300S with available 363 horsepower HEMI® V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology features an exclusive performancetuned suspension and brakes, along with sport mode and paddle-shifters Best-in-class all-wheel-drive (AWD) V-6 fuel economy: Chrysler's intelligent AWD system features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and frontaxle disconnect for 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway Exclusive Beats by Dr. Dre audio sound system provides Chrysler 300S with the studio-quality sound experience the way the artist intended Chrysler 300 remains the most luxurious vehicle in its class and provides best-in-class rear-seat volume for the comfort and roominess expected in a world-class flagship sedan November 15, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. The Chrysler 300 is the flagship of “Imported From Detroit” style. And for the Spring of 2014, the Chrysler 300S has been updated with even more “blacked out” design elements, a new

Ambassador Blue sport interior to complement its world-class ride and handling, exclusive Beats by Dr. Dre audio system and state-of-the-art technology features – all to offer customers a combination of quality, distinct style and craftsmanship that could only be born in the Motor City. "Chrysler brand's S-models continue to be among the most sought after lineup of vehicles with their modern and athletic style – and for 2014, the new Chrysler 300S redefines 'S' for 'Stance,' with an even more imposing presence,” said Al Gardner, President and CEO — Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Adding to its legacy, including being crowned 'Best Chrysler in Decades' by a leading automotive consumer group, this new generation 300S is where world-class tailoring meets world-class quality, materials and technology. In addition to its standard, and almost iPad size, touchscreen display,

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 77 ]

AUTOMOTIVE

Beats by Dre sound, available AWD, 20-inch black pocket wheels and Piano Black trims, the new Chrysler 300S now comes with exquisitely tailored dark blue leather seats. We call it Ambassador Blue. It's one more way to suit up our 'Imported from Detroit' Stance." New 2014 Chrysler 300S Hinting that this Chrysler flagship was born for those seeking “blacked out” style, the new 2014 Chrysler 300S model features a monochromatic look with specially appointed body-color door handles and fascia inserts. New Gloss Black belt molding, daylight opening surrounds and tail lamp bezels are paired with Gloss Black headlamp bezels for a toughened look. A new Black Chrome grille surround features sculpted horizontal grille blades in the same unique finish, while front and rear Chrysler wing badges in Liquid Chrome with black “Chrysler” center logo exude an industrial appearance. Emphasizing the Chrysler 300S model’s iconic silhouette is the availability of a Gloss Black painted roof. A new 20-inch wheel design (19-inch with AWD) features a sculptural appearance and Hyper Black finish that hints at this flagship’s world-class ride and handling capabilities. For a serious look, new “straight shade” Dark Ceramic Gray clear coat joins the exterior color pallet. The interior of the new 2014 Chrysler 300S model continues the athletic-luxury theme with 12-way power driver and passenger sport seats, featuring black, or all-new Ambassador Blue Nappa leather with silver accent stitching. For added detail, the center console armrest and door armrests are color matched to the seats and feature French seamed stitching in silver. Exclusive use of Piano Black on interior center stack, instrument panel, steering wheel, gauge cluster and door panel elements provide a uniquely lacquered and highly detailed appearance. This enthusiast-

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designed interior also features matte carbon hydrographic accents and die-cast steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The award-winning Uconnect 8.4 system with the segment’s largest touchscreen is at the center of the new Chrysler 300S model’s interior. Included in this Chrysler flagship sedan is the segment-exclusive, Beats by Dr. Dre. audio system, with 10-speakers and a 12-channel amplifier that integrates the heart of the Beats proprietary equalizer algorithm. Beats by Dr. Dre founders, Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, worked side-by-side with the engineering team at Chrysler to design and tune this Chrysler 300 to deliver the high-definition sound required in professional recording studios. Power and performance Unique to the Chrysler 300S model is the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with a cold-air induction system and sport-tuned exhaust system – enabling the aluminum mill to produce 300 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque. For even more driving performance, this 300 model includes the segment-exclusive eight-speed automatic transmission with sport mode to fully optimize the steeringwheel-mounted paddle shifters and shifting speed of the transmission. Completing the package are 20-inch all-season performance tires (19-inch with AWD), paired with a touringtuned suspension with 25 percent quicker steering and 20 percent heavier on-center feel than the entry-level 300 model. For customers who seek more performance, the Chrysler 300S rear-wheel and all-wheel drive models are available with the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology, 370 horsepower and driverselectable sport mode. To maximize the power and torque

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of this legendary power plant, a firmer performance-tuned suspension and larger performance-disc brake system is exclusive on HEMI-powered rear-wheel drive models. World-class eight-speed automatic transmission Once limited to premium import vehicles costing twice as much, the segment-exclusive ZF eight-speed automatic transmission expands the worldclass power and fuel efficiency of the 2014 Chrysler 300S, and offers class-leading fuel efficiency with respect to: Best-in-class highway fuel economy (31 mpg highway) Best-in-class V-6 all-wheel-drive (AWD) fuel economy (18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway) Best-in-class combined fuel economy (23 mpg with RWD, 21 with AWD) Unsurpassed city fuel economy (19 mpg RWD, 18 mpg AWD) Overall unsurpassed fuel economy in its class (19 mpg city and 31 mpg highway with RWD) Quicker shifts are possible on the Chrysler 300S as a result of a sport mode. When the driver chooses to let the transmission shift in sport mode, gear changes are quicker and revs are held higher for even more performance-oriented acceleration and higher shift dynamics. For even more control, the driver can also use a pair of die-cast, steering-wheel-mounted paddle controls and view gear selection through a full-color Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) in the instrument cluster. The segmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most advanced AWD system From winding through twisty stretches of coastal road, to escaping away to a snow-covered ski resort, the 2014 Chrysler 300S AWD model has a commanding design presence and the power and all-weather capability to carve through some of the worst precipitation Mother Nature can dish out. With the aluminum 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivering best-in-class city and highway fuel economy (18/27 mpg), or legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with 370 horsepower with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology, the Chrysler 300 with intelligent AWD features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and frontaxle-disconnect system to improve real-world fuel economy. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. Chrysler 300â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AWD system seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive and AWD with no driver intervention. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling inherent in rear-wheeldrive vehicles.

November 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 79 ]

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Consumers Digest names Seven Chrysler Group Vehicles ‘Best Buys’ for 2014

even Chrysler Group vehicles, representing each vehicle brand, have earned a spot on Consumers Digest’s list of 2014 Best Buys.

Vehicles chosen as “Best Buys” deliver the most value for the money in their respective segments; value is determined by purchase price and ownership costs as well as comfort, performance and utility among other factors, according to Consumers Digest. Chrysler 300 The 2014 Chrysler 300 lineup delivers world-class craftsmanship, technology and value wrapped in ‘Imported from Detroit’ style. Chrysler 300 remains the most luxurious vehicle in its class and provides best-in-class rear-seat volume along with the comfort and roominess expected in a world-class flagship sedan. Chrysler Town & Country The world-class interior of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan is beautifully crafted with high-quality materials that are soft to the touch, and offers tech-savvy entertainment features and smart storage and seating options including Stow ‘n Go® seating with one-touch fold-down function, dual DVD entertainment system, navigation and SIRIUSXM satellite radio with Travel Link making the Chrysler Town & Country the ultimate family vehicle. Dodge Grand Caravan Dodge Grand Caravan, America’s most affordable minivan, is celebrating its 30th birthday in 2014 with special 30th Anniversary models and unique content. The Grand Caravan offer industry-exclusive Super Stow ‘n Go seating that can be easily operated with one hand, allowing users to convert from carrying seven to hauling cargo in a matter of seconds. Dodge Durango The new 2014 Dodge Durango takes everything that customers love about Durango and adds the latest advancements in technology to enhance its design, capability and functionality. With a new standard eightspeed automatic transmission that improves fuel economy up to 15 percent with the available HEMI V-8 engine and delivers up to 25 miles per gallon highway with the standard Pentastar

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V-6 engine, new LED exterior lighting and the Dodge brand’s signature racetrack taillamps, new available 8.4-inch Uconnect Touchscreen, a new customizable TFT gauge cluster and an available high-definition dual-screen Blu-ray entertainment system, the 2014 Dodge Durango reaches even higher levels of sophistication. Jeep Grand Cherokee Jeep Grand Cherokee completely redefines the premium SUV, delivering an unprecedented combination of best-inclass fuel economy and driving range, available clean-diesel technology, legendary benchmark capability, world-class craftsmanship, and a host of advanced user-friendly technology and safety features. For 2014, Grand Cherokee offers a new EcoDiesel engine with best-in-class 30 mpg highway and an unmatched driving range of more than 730 miles. Ram 1500 The most recognizable pickup on the road - delivers best-in-class fuel economy of 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway with a truckload of pioneering, fuel-saving systems including a fuel efficient and powerful 3.6-liter V-6 engine and first-in-segment technologies: TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulsewidth modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension. Fiat 500 Reminiscent of the original 500 or "Cinquecento" born in 1957, the new Fiat 500 builds on the vehicle's global popularity. Since its initial launch on July 4, 2007 more than 1,000,000 Fiat 500 vehicles have been sold in more than 100 countries around the world. In addition to success on the sales front, the Fiat 500 has earned more than 80 international awards, including being named the 2008 European Car of the Year, 2009 World Car Design of the Year and Best New Engine of 2010 (Fiat MultiAir® Turbo). In the U.S., the 2012 Fiat 500 was named "Best Buy" in the subcompact category by Consumers Digest and was deemed a "Top Safety Pick" by the influential Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).