CBS4 News Magazine

More Americans Than Ever Before Are

Warning: A New Way Scammers Can Access Your Computer

Raising Concerns: Facebook’s New Promote

Drowning In College Debt

Option Doesn’t Sit Well With Some Users

DECEMBER 2012 PINECREST

M O N T H LY

SQUATTERS

THAT WONT GET

OUT

They will move in, change the locks, live in your property and when you try to kick them out, they’ll be the victims!

Automotive pg. 52

|

Home Improvement pg. 58

|

Marketplace pg. 68

CONTENTS December 2012

04 06 10 14

SQUATTERS THAT WON’T GET OUT Unmasking suspected squatters isn’t simple because they are turning up in homes that are up for sale. It used to be that if you bought a house “as is” you got a great deal. A chilling new trend is to buy the house “as is” and that means complete with squatters inside and it’s the buyers’ responsibility to get them out.

Study: More Americans Drowning In College Debt A newly released study shows a record number of households, one in five, now face college debt. On top of that, more middle aged Americans than ever are struggling with college loans, though it may not stem from their own education.

FTC Warns Of Scammers Accessing Your PC Using Your Phone In a recent twist, scam artists are using the phone to try to break into your computer.

Facebook’s New “Promote” Option Raising Concerns When you log into Facebook, you see their slogan, “It’s free and it always will be.” But a new fee based service is causing some concerns for consumers about whether that will remain the case.

DADE SCHOOLS WIN 18 MIAMI TOP EDUCATION PRIZE CO-SIGN LOANS 28 COMPANIES FOR A FEE YOUR OWN 41 FIXING BACK PAIN

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[ 2 ] December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest

VILLAGE PINECREST

COVER STORY

(CBSMiami.com)

SQUATTERS

THAT WONT GET

OUT

Reporting Michele Gillen

It used to be that if you bought a house “as is” you got a great deal. Well, a chilling new trend is to buy the house “as is” and that means complete with squatters inside and it’s the buyers’ responsibility to get them out.

COVER STORY “Unfortunately, the police are ill-equipped to deal with this because if someone just shows a document, a quit claim deed, a lease, the police treat it as a civil matter.”

Christina Malloy is living the nightmare as she buys a condo in Downtown Miami.

For months, CBS4 Investigates has been following her as she purchases and tries to close on a one bedroom apartment; squatters somehow moved in and keep changing the locks and have figured out how to sneak in and out of the building.

“What’s your message to them,” CBS4’s Chief Investigative Michele Gillen asked Malloy.

“Get out because I am coming for you,” Malloy said.

As someone who buys and sells property for a living, Malloy said it’s frightening how often she now comes face to face with squatters.

“I go to open the door and there’s people inside. There’s furniture. There’s beds. There’s personal items,” Malloy said.

And that’s exactly what she finds when she finally gets to see the inside of her unit and videotapes the possessions of the squatter living there; TV hooked up to cable, a place to eat, but no living room furniture. “I absolutely consider them criminals,” said a property manager who is fed up with the problem.

He describes them as out of control in multiple buildings decorating our skyline. He asked that we mask his identity to protect his condo’s reputation.

“Some people who have no rights to this property move in, use the free water, use the free cable, destroy property and for what? So they can live for free,” he said.

For months, CBS4 Investigates has been documenting cases across South Florida where police or banks have been notified that people living in vacant and foreclosed homes or apartments – allegedly – don’t legally belong there.

“They are getting a free ride,” said Miami Commissioner Marc Sarnoff.

Sarnoff said the number of absentee owners coupled with

banks so slow to foreclose is a recipe for disaster.

“Unfortunately, the police are ill-equipped to deal with this because if someone just shows a document, a quit claim deed, a lease, the police treat it as a civil matter. And then you go before a judge that takes time, you have to hire a lawyer and next thing you know you are months, weeks, sometimes almost a year away to get a person out that doesn’t belong in the property,” Sarnoff said.

When police are called, squatters often say they are the victims. And, in some cases, they may be victims of crooks posing as realtors or property owners.

On a recent day, Miami-Dade police were called out to a house in Miami-Dade County to investigate a burglary.

The alleged criminal: a mother of two who says she was duped by a make believe realtor who took her money and disappeared after renting her the house – a foreclosure not available for rent.

“She was just so convincing,” the woman said describing the demeanor of a realtor who turned out to be a fake.

“Did you write a check?” Gillen asked.

“No, I gave her cash,” the woman said. Just hours after this exchange, the woman found herself an efficiency apartment and moved her family out of this house.

“There are some honest victims, usually the ones willing to negotiate with you. They are the ones who say, ‘Do I need to pay’,’” said the property manager.

But countless numbers are conning the system and you never know whose property they might move into next.

“You don’t know what they have behind that door. But who knows if they have a gun. Who knows if they are going to attack you. Who knows what I’m going to find. Will I find a dog, will I find drugs, will I find guns, will I find someone dead? I just don’t know,” said the property manager.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 5 ]

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Study:

More Americans

Drowning in College Debt Reporting Al Sunshine

A newly released study shows a record number of households, one in five, now face college debt. On top of that, more middle aged Americans than ever are struggling with college loans, though it may not stem from their own education. This painful increase in college expenses is often felt the most by the parents supporting their students.

With two kids in college

at the same time, Miami dad Jose Paz has found his family budget is stretched pretty thin.

Even though his daughter Evette has a scholarship, there are all those extra costs.

“It’s hard because everything costs a lot, like books, activity fees. Yes it’s hard, we do a lot of things to cover it,” explained Paz. Evette’s a senior at FIU who appreciates all the sacrifices her family is making to send two kids to college at the same time.

“It’s difficult for them but it means a lot to my brother and me to be able to go to college,” said Evette. “We’re the first ones in the family to do it.”

They’re not alone.

Jean Andes and Mark Hilliard had the best of intentions when it came to saving for their kids’ college but adds, “It’s hard to save when you’re paying the mortgage and your utilities.”

Her kids had to take out college loans and now face $120,000 in debt.

Dad Mark added it all up and found “It cost us about as much to borrow to put our two children through college as it did to buy our house.”

Mark Kantrowitz of Finaid.org said “It’s typically not just

“Financial planners warn parents and students should only borrow what they really need because there’s a tendency to borrow to the loan limit which is not always necessary.” debt for undergraduate degrees, instead, it’s like parent plus loans, from their graduate education and from cosigning on private student loans.”

So called “parent-plus” education loans have doubled in the last decade, with an average balance of $34,000 with more parents than ever are borrowing for their children’s’ educations.

“Before the credit crisis about half of all student loans required cosigners. In the aftermath of the credit crisis and today more than 90% of new private student loans,” said Kantrowitz.

Jean and Mark cosigned for their kids.

They hope to have everything paid off in seven to ten years.

Kantrowitz stressed parents shouldn’t cosign for or take December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 7 ]

out loans that will take longer than ten years to pay off and warned “If they’re borrowing more than that it’s going to eat into their retirement.”

Financial planners warn parents and students should only borrow what they really need because there’s a tendency to borrow to the loan limit which is not always necessary.

America Saves, an initiative of the Consumer Federation of America, and Sallie Mae just released a tip sheet to provide recent graduates with information and tips on how to pay their student loans.

•

•

•

•

•

•

Beware of scams! Some fraudulent companies might claim to offer you easy ways to erase or lower your loan payments.

best fit your budget and personal situation. Proactively planning payments helps save you time and money.

Make payments automatic. Signing up for automatic debit is an easy option that electronically deducts payments from your checking or savings accounts, saving you time, stamps and, most importantly, providing you with peace of mind that you have made your loan repayment on time. Bonus: many servicers may even provide you with a lower interest rate just for signing up.

Make payments each and every month. Resist the option of putting off your payments, as deferment or forbearance typically mean you’ll pay more over the life of the loan. It’s empowering to tackle your payments now.

If you do fall behind, get help. Call your loan servicer to discuss your options – or if they are calling you, answer the phone. A different payment plan or a temporary postponement of payments may give you the extra time you need. If you need help organizing your finances, a licensed nonprofit consumer credit counseling service can offer free budget counseling.

Update your servicer with any changes. If your situation changes, your student loan servicer needs to know about it. Keep your loan servicer updated with any change in mailing address, email and phone numbers. Accurate personal details will help ensure you receive all the information you need about your payment due dates, helping you stay on track no matter what the change in your situation.

Beware of scams! Some fraudulent companies might claim to offer you easy ways to erase or lower your loan payments. If you have any doubt about services being offered, get in touch with your student loan provider.

Build an emergency fund in case of unpredictable circumstances. Aim to save $500 to $1,000 to meet unexpected financial challenges like paying a parking ticket, repairing the brakes on your car or covering dental expenses. Saving even small amounts each month can add up and give you the peace of mind to know you can weather financial emergencies while continuing to pay down your student loan.

To download the tip sheet, go to •

Know how much you owe each month.Keep track of what you spend for one month and create a budget that includes your student loan payment. You may find that you will need to cut out unnecessary items in order to pay down your debt or that you can pay a little extra each month to pay down your debt even faster. Contact your student loan servicer or visit their website to calculate different payment scenarios that

AmericaSaves.org/media/studentloantipsheet.pdf.

For more tips on planning for college or student loan repayment, please visit

CollegeAnswer.com.

For more tips, advice and resources on how to save money and build personal wealth visit

AmericaSaves.org December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 9 ]

FTC Warns Of

ScammerS Accessing Your PC

Using Your Phone MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

“Scammers take advantage of your reasonable concerns about viruses and other threats.

They know that computer users have heard time and again that it’s important to install security software. But the purpose behind their elaborate scheme isn’t to protect your computer; it’s to make money.”

In a recent twist, scam artists are using the phone to try to break into your computer.

They call, claiming to be computer techs associated with well-known companies like Microsoft. They say that they’ve detected viruses or other malware on your computer to trick you into giving them remote access or paying for software you don’t need.

These scammers take advantage of your reasonable concerns about viruses and other threats. They know that computer users have heard time and again that it’s important to install security software. But the purpose behind their elaborate scheme isn’t to protect your computer; it’s to make money.

How Tech Support Scams Work Scammers have been peddling bogus security software for years. They set up fake websites, offer free “security” scans, and send alarming messages to try to convince you that your computer is infected. Then, they try to sell you software to fix the problem. At best, the software is worthless or available elsewhere for free. At worst, it could be malware — software designed to give criminals access to your computer and your personal information.

The latest version of the scam begins with a phone call.

Scammers can get your name and other basic information from public directories. They might even guess what computer software you’re using.

Once they have you on the phone, they often try to gain your trust by pretending to be associated with well-known companies or confusing you with a barrage of technical terms.

They may ask you to go to your computer and perform a series of complex tasks. Sometimes, they target legitimate computer files and claim that they are viruses. Their tactics are designed to scare you into believing they can help fix your “problem.”

Once they’ve gained your trust, they may: • Ask you to give them remote access to your computer and then make changes to your settings that could leave your computer vulnerable • Try to enroll you in a worthless computer maintenance or warranty program • Ask for credit card information so they can bill you for phony services — or services you could get elsewhere for free • Trick you into installing malware that could steal sensitive data, like user names and passwords • Direct you to websites and ask you to enter your credit card number and other personal information December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 11 ]

Regardless of the tactics they use, they have one purpose: to make money. If you get a call from someone who claims to be a tech support person, hang up and call the company yourself on a phone number you know to be genuine. A caller who creates a sense of urgency or uses high-pressure tactics is probably a scam artist.

Don’t give control of your computer to a third party who calls you out of the blue. Also, do not rely on caller ID alone to authenticate a caller; criminals spoof caller ID numbers. They may appear to be calling from a legitimate company or a local number, when they’re not even in the same country as you.

Online search results might not be the best way to find technical support or get a company’s contact information.

Scammers sometimes place online ads to convince you to

If you think you might have downloaded malware from a scam site or allowed a cybercriminal to access your computer, don’t panic.

Instead: • Get rid of malware. Update or download legitimate security software and scan your computer. Delete anything it identifies as a problem.

• Change any passwords that you gave out. If you use these passwords for other accounts, change those accounts, too.

• If you paid for bogus services with a credit card, call your credit card provider and ask to reverse the charges. Check your statements for any other charges you didn’t make, and ask to reverse those, too.

“They pay to boost their ranking in search results so their websites and phone numbers appear above those of legitimate companies.”

call them. They pay to boost their ranking in search results so their websites and phone numbers appear above those of legitimate companies. If you want tech support, look for a company’s contact information on their software package or on your receipt.

Never provide your credit card or financial information to someone who calls and claims to be from tech support.

If a caller pressures you to buy a computer security product or says there is a subscription fee associated with the call, hang up. If you’re concerned about your computer, call your security software company directly and ask for help.

In addition, never give out your password over the phone.

No legitimate organization will call you asking for your password.

Put your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry, and then report illegal sales calls.

If You’ve Responded to a Scam

• If you believe that someone may have accessed your personal or financial information, visit the FTC’s identity theft website. You can minimize your risk of further damage and repair any problems already in place.

File a complaint with the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.

The FTC works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and avoid them.

To file a complaint or get free information on consumer issues, visit ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. Watch a video, How to File a Complaint, at ftc.gov/video to learn more. The FTC enters consumer complaints into the Consumer Sentinel Network, a secure online database and investigative tool used by hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 13 ]

“Those that can afford $7 each time they post something to Facebook get better influence and better reach than those who can’t,”

Photo by lev radin / Shutterstock.com

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Facebook’s New

“Promote” oPtion

Raising Concerns Reporting Al Sunshine

When you log into Facebook, you see their slogan, “It’s free and it always will be.”

But a new fee based service is causing some concerns for consumers about whether that will remain the case.

There is always an endless

stream of status updates and photos when a Facebook user gets to their news feed but there’s a new option to break through Facebook’s clutter which will make your post stand out.

Users are now getting the option of hitting “Promote” when they create a post. Selecting “Promote” launches your post to the top of all your friends’ news feeds.

This new privilege isn’t free.

Social media consultant Patrick O’Malley explained, “If you post something on Facebook, your friends may or may not see it because it may just get lost in all the other posts that they have. So if you want to remain at the top, you can pay Facebook a $7 fee and they will insure that your post stays at the top.”

Paying to use Facebook troubles critics who say this violates the spirit of social media and will create a two-tier system of users.

“Those that can afford $7 each time they post something to Facebook get better influence and better reach than those who can’t,” said David Gerzof Richard, a media consultant

and professor.

Popular sites like Twitter and LinkedIn have also started introducing various pay-to-play options. It’s about the bottom line. They’re all trying to figure out how to make money.

O’Malley said this could start a trend of more fees for social media sites.

He said, “Facebook has got a lot of opportunities to make money, and they lost a lot of money when the stock price dropped.”

There are now a billion Facebook users. The ones we spoke with didn’t express any interest in paying for anything on the site.

Gerzof Richard doesn’t think this change will cause people to abandon the site, however.

“It’s really difficult for anyone to say, ‘That’s it, I am now off of Facebook’, because it has become the standard for staying connected.”

Facebooks’ pay option is not available on its tablet and phone apps.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 15 ]

FORT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami.com)

Online Prices

Fluctuating Minute By Minute Reporting Al Sunshine

Shopping online can be overwhelming for most customers. Now, it turns out there may be a best time to look for your product on websites.

Pembroke Pines shopper

Tony Munoz knows some days he gets better deals online than others.

He believes it’s best in the middle of the week.

“Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursdays seem to be the best,” Munoz said.

While shopping online recently, Amy Shoaff noticed prices for the same item, on the same website changed substantially even throughout the day, “General everyday items fluctuating anywhere from $40 to $300.”

It’s all part of a new trend: Some retailers are changing their online prices hourly, some even by the minute. The goal is to have a product priced so it pops up as the lowest priced item in shopping search engines, or Amazon’s coveted “buy box,” where most consumers look to find the best deals.

Chris Buckingham of the Professional Pricing Society said, “It’s more a battle of getting the right screen position as opposed to trying to sell it as quickly as possible.”

After monitoring prices of several items on a well known shopping website, CBS4 found an iPad selling at midnight for $511. By 6am it dropped to $503. Then at 7am the price sunk to $475, where it remained until 2:30pm and then jumped to $510. By 10 PM, it increased to a high of $529.

That’s a $54 price difference, on the same site, all in one 24-hour period.

Buckingham said, “The suppliers are constantly monitoring

each other.”

There are websites which will monitor prices for items you want and alert you when the price drops, or reaches an amount you’d be willing to pay. If you add an item to your Amazon shopping cart and leave it there; amazon will notify you of price changes.

But Amy has a warning about clicking on the least expensive deal found on search engines “Free shipping, returns, make sure you’re using those things to your advantage because sometimes just price isn’t always the cheapest,” Amy said.

What product’s prices fluctuate the most?

From what CBS4 found its electronics, appliances, clothing, shoes, jewelry and even household staples, like dust pans!

Some experts suggest if you ordered something from a retailer and the price dropped within a reasonable amount of time, contact the business and see if they’ll refund you the difference.

“There are websites which will monitor prices for items you want and alert you when the price drops, or reaches an amount you’d be willing to pay.”

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 17 ]

Miami-Dade Schools

Win Top

EducaTionÂ

prizE

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Miami-Dade County Public Schools has won the prestigiousBroad Prize Award.

The district was one of four finalists for the Broad Prize, the largest education prize in the country.

“Today marks an important day not only for Miami-Dade but for our nation,” said Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho. “Fifteen years from now or less the face of America will be Miami-Dade.”

This was the fifth time Miami-Dade County Public Schools has been a finalist, the most for any school district in America.

“We are no longer the Susan Lucci of public education,” said Carvalho.

The Corona-Norco Unified School District (California), the Houston Independent School District (Texas), and the School District of Palm Beach County (Florida) were the other finalists.

The Broad Prize is given annually to the urban district demonstrating the “greatest overall performance and improvement in student achievement in the nation while reducing income and ethnic achievement gaps.”

As the winner of the award, Miami-Dade will receive $550,000 in college scholarships for its high school seniors.

The three finalist districts will each receive $150,000 in scholarships.

As the nation’s fourth-largest school district, Miami-Dade has nearly 350,000 students, 90 percent of whom are black or Hispanic and 74 percent of whom are low-income.

“It’s really focused on students who can achieve but don’t have the financial means to obtain a four year degree,” said Millie Fornell who is the Chief Innovation Accountability Officer foTOPr Miami-Dade Public Schools.

total prize winnings to $1.2 million in college scholarships for its students since 2006. The district was previously a finalist in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2011.

“It really is recognition for what we do and it affects every teacher, in every classroom and every student in the whole district,” said Sandy Baker Hoover, a teacher at North Miami Middle School.

Among the reasons Miami-Dade won the award: • • • • •

Outperformed peer districts in academic achievement Minority students reached advanced academic levels Improved college-readiness levels 6 percentage points and scores increased 15 SAT score points between 2008 and 2011 Raised graduation rates for minority students

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan joined philanthropist Eli Broad and retired Adm. Michael G. Mullen, former chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, at The Museum of Modern Art to announce the winner, which was selected by a bipartisan jury of 11 prominent leaders from government, business and public service, including two former U.S. secretaries of education.

Miami-Dade’s win comes the fifth time the district was named a finalist for The Broad Prize, bringing the district’s

“It really is recognition for what we do and it affects every teacher, in every classroom and every student in the whole district.”

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 19 ]

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Is It OK

To Flirt At Work?

Reporting Vanessa Borge

It’s an eyebrow raising headline: flirting gets results for women.

According to a new study, it can give women the upper hand when it comes to negotiations.

UC Berkeley professor Laura Kray is the co-author of the study, which looks at the costs and benefits of so-called “feminine charm.”

“To the degree that women are perceived as flirtatious, as opposed to merely friendly, they actually do better in negotiations,” said professor Kray.

She found that flirting signals a sense of power.

One of the experiments was car buying. The women who were just being nice rarely got a discount. If they flirted, men gave the woman a deal, as much as 20-percent off.

Simmons College professor Paula Gutlove teaches MBA students the art of negotiating.

She tells her students women don’t need to flirt to get their way, “it’s manipulative, it’s not honest behavior and it really devalues and demeans women.”

But even in 2012, is it a necessary evil?

“Being in the driver’s seat with a little bit of flirtation, a little bit of playfulness, a little bit of flattery can mitigate obstacles that women face,” explained professor Kray.

Kray argues it may even give women an advantage over men.

“It’s a new way of thinking about how we relate to people that may give women a little bit of an advantage.”

Professor Gutlove disagrees.

“What we want to do is empower women, to bring their talents and capabilities to the table. We don’t want to go back to the 50’s.”

Whether you think it’s a step back or a way to move ahead, flirting remains a fine line to walk at work.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 21 ]

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

The Danger In Wearing

High Heels Reporting Lisa Petrillo

They’re everywhere! On the fashion runways, in the stores, on the streets… women and their high heels! There’s no doubt about it, women love to wear high heels. There’s just something about them. They make us feel sexy. But unfortunately, the more time we spend in our heels can lead to time spent in this orthopedic boot, and these aren’t too sexy!

“The number one cause

of high heel problems is probably pain in the bottom of the foot,” Dr. Kevin Berkowitz told CBS4′s Lisa Petrillo.

Berkowitz, with Miami Beach Foot & Ankle Surgery is now seeing women, mostly between 30 and 55, who’ve messed up the mechanics of their feet and ankles because they lived their lives in high heels.

“It’s not just the height, it’s the narrow nature of the heel now,” explained Dr. Berkowitz. “The higher you go the more stretch there is to the ball of the foot. If you put your foot in that position… in the ballet stance… you’re just going to have compression and pain.”

Berkowitz said it’s simple: as a woman squeezes her foot into an unrealistically narrow toe box, with astronomical heights, the soft tissues such as ligaments and tendons begin to stretch and tear, even rupture, and the mechanics of the ankle are altered. After time, hammertoes and bunions occur… even knee and back pain can often be attributed to high heels.

“At the end of the day it was like this pressure pounding like throbbing pain,” said Maria Duenas, who has had to have foot surgery.

Duenas has been wearing high heels since she was a young teen because she said she wanted to be tall. The result? Bunion surgery two-and-a-half years ago.

Mabel Lezcano, 38, put her first pair of sky high stilettos on at age 15.

“Really bad pain,” Lezcano told Petrillo. “Especially to walk and do regular things.”

“Did you have trouble buying new shoes because of the bunions,” asked Petrillo.

“Oh definitely,” she responded.

Dr. Berkowitz operated on both women. He showed Petrillo Mabel’s X-ray before surgery. It showed her foot deformed due to bunions and hammer toes.

“This is where the fifth metatarcil starts to splay outward and then the shoe puts pressure on both sides in addition to putting pressure on the toe,” explained Berkowitz.

Then Berkowitz showed Petrillo Mabel’s X-ray after her

bunion was removed and hammertoe corrected. Although Berkowitz told us bunions are mostly genetic, he said they are exacerbated by the choice of shoes like today’s super stilettos.

“My advice to women is don’t wear your fabulous shoes to Publix,” advised Berkowitz.

Another foot pain factor is the amount of time spent in high heels.

“If you’re sitting at a desk with your heel on and you’re working at a desk, that’s not terrible. But if you’re on your feet all day, running around doing things and then you’re going to a function after work and you’re in your heels 8 to 12 hours a day over the course of time, your feet are going to suffer,” insisted Berkowitz.

He advises women to change things up. Wear a 2-inch pump one day and 4-inch heels at night, flats or walking shoes the next day.

When Petrillo pulled a few of her own shoes out of a bag for his assessment, “The 5-inch thin stiletto or 5-inch wedge?” she asked Berkowitz.

“The better shoe is this shoe.

The wedge wins all the time,” he declared.

It took Mabel and Maria about 6 to 12 weeks of recovery before they were able to wear comfortable shoes, and about 8-months before they were back in heels again.

Petrillo asked Maria, “In the end was it worth it for you? Having the surgery? Wearing the heels?

Going through the whole thing?”

“Oh yea,” responded Maria with a grin.

“Yeah!”

“You’re not saying to women don’t wear high heels,” Petrillo quizzed Berkowitz.

“No I would never say that,” he told her.

“That’s like telling a woman she doesn’t look good in that dress!”

A tip for parents: Dr. Berkowitz says he does not recommend girls under 16 wear high heels for long periods of time at all. This is because their bones are still developing and forcing the toes into an abnormal position during these growth years will lead to foot problems later on, and at a much younger age.

“If you’re on your feet all day, running around doing things and then you’re going to a function after work and you’re in your heels 8 to 12 hours a day over the course of time, your feet are going to suffer,”

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 23 ]

PINECREST CALENDAR OF EVENTS / DECEMBER 2012

Cirque Du Soleil: Totem  JANUARY 10 - FEBRUARY 05, 2012 cirquedusoleil.com/totem Cirque du Soleil returns to Miami with TOTEM, a new big top production. Written and directed by Robert Lepage, TOTEM premieres on January 10, 2013 for a limited engagement under the blue and yellow Big Top at its new Miami location: next to Sun Life Stadium, Lot 14. Since its world premiere in 2010, TOTEM has visited over 15 different cities in 4 different countries and performed in front of more than 1.5 million spectators.

Iami Jazz Jam DECEMBER 10, 2012 -305/757-1807 www.churchillspub.com The Miami Jazz Jam 10 years and counting with The Fernando Ulibarri Group, Surprise Guests, the Jazz Mafia, and out back on the patio- the most open minded open mic night in town: The Theatre De Underground Hosted by Benny! 9 p.m./$5 18 and over only.

Zoo Lights DECEMBER 14 - 23, 2012 305/255-5551 www.zoomiami.org/ Zoo Miami opens at night for this special holiday event with dozens of bright animal-shaped lights. Enjoy holiday favorites like hot chocolate, holiday songs and more at this family gathering place. 7-10 p.m.

Reggae Night Kulcha Shok Muzik DECEMBER 30, 2012 - 305/673-9372 www.jazid.net Kulcha Shok Muzik presents a night of live, sweet reggae music featuring Inna Sense and Jahfe plus other great bands. LANCE-O is our energetic host for this reggae night.

11 p.m.

MiSo: Golden Sounds Of Hollywood DECEMBER 15, 2012 - 305/275-5666 www.themiso.org Miami Symphony orchestra (MISO) performs a fourth season of great film scores by Hollywood's most famous composers.

N E W Y E A R ’ S C E L E B R AT I O N !

Bayfront Park's New Year's Eve DECEMBER 31, 2012 -305/358-7550 www.bayfrontparkmiami.com It's time to ring in the New Year at Bayfront Park. The pre-show festivities begin at 7 p.m. and the main show starts at 9 p.m. In addition, count down to midnight with Miami's own "Big Orange." At the south end of the park, this New Year's Eve icon will slowly ascend the side of the InterContinental Hotel, reaching the top at midnight in conjunction with a grand display of fireworks shot over beautiful Biscayne Bay.

City of Miami Beach New Years Eve Celebration DECEMBER 31, 2012 - 305/673-7400 www.orangedr.com Enjoy free fireworks at midnight on the beach at Ocean Drive and 8th Street as Miami Beach rings in the New Year. The Orange Drive Music Festival's New Year's Eve Jam on the Sand features live musical performances between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m.

orange Drive Miami Beach Music Festival DECEMBER 31, 2012 - 305/592-5389 www.orangedr.com/ The 2nd annual Orange Drive Miami Beach Music Festival is a three-day entertainment event and hottest New Year's Eve celebration. Taking place on South Beach's Ocean Drive, the festival captures the energy, excitement, sophistication and international flavor prevalent in Miami Beach during New Year's Eve. Tickets on sale at Ticketmaster.

Silent Night: Candlelight Christmas Concerts DECEMBER 12, 2012 - 305/285-9060 www.seraphicfire.org From the traditional opening strains of Adeste Fideles (O Come, All Ye Faithful), Seraphic Fire’s annual a cappella candlelight Christmas concerts are one of the highlights of the cultural season. The world’s most beloved yuletide hymn, Silent Night, will serve as the centerpiece for this year’s Christmas musical celebration. Beautiful Gregorian chant, timeless carols, and glorious motets create a holiday soundscape that transport the listener across time and space. 7:30 p.m.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 25 ]

South Florida Girl’s Band-Aid Drive

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Ignites Hope

In Young Cancer Patients

Reporting Shannon Hori

We first met Bella two years ago, playing hopscotch with her younger sister. Something doctors never thought she would do. Bella was four-years old when she was diagnosed with stage four cancer. She became paralyzed. Her desperate parents, Shannah and Raymond RodriguezTorres, sent out a plea to pray for Bella. Soon after, they say, miracles happened. Bella took steps on her own two feet. And incredibly, scans showed the tumors were gone. But since our first meeting, the tumors have returned. Bella is fighting cancer for a fifth time. The now 9-year old is once again in chemotherapy.

Her one request?

Instead of the boring band-aid, she wanted one with the popular cartoon character “Angry Birds”.

“For a child, something so simple as a child’s Band-Aid, can brighten their day,” said Raymond Rodriguez-Torres. “In the midst of something so challenging, something so simple.”

So Bella’s mom put out the call for fun Band-Aids, for all kids, on the “Pray For Bella” Facebook page.

“I’m not kidding, within two weeks from all over the country boxes and boxes shipped in,” Shannah said.

Bella needed a lot of help to bring in all the boxes of BandAids, about 2500 boxes, into Miami Children’s Hospital. They were sent in from all over the country and the world featuring children’s characters like Barbie and Dora the Explorer.

Now these Band-Aids are being given to other kids, like Ava, who’s also fighting cancer.

“Every time after she has her blood taken from her thumb she wants a Band Aid. Wants Spongebob,” said Ava’s mom Nickelle Crowley.

A simple Band-Aid. Helping ease the pain that can’t be seen.

“The greatest gift is to be able to give. The greatest joy comes from helping others even in the darkest storm,” Raymond said.

“The greatest gift is to be able to give. The greatest joy comes from helping others even in the darkest storm.”

CBS4 News contacted the Better Business Bureau which said it’s important to keep in mind that this is “a fairly new industry,” one that could have “real potential for abuse.”

In fact, there were several complaints online.

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Companies

Co-Sign

Loans For A Fee

Reporting Josh Benson

When former NFL player John Diggs found an apartment after a long search, he knew he had scored a touchdown.

There was just one catch.

“My credit has some challenges,” Diggs admitted, “and the landlord requested that I get a co-signer.”

Diggs didn’t want to burden his family, so he paid a company to co-sign the lease for him.

“I didn’t know these kind of services existed,” said Diggs.

Janna Herron with BankRate.com said the premise is simple; for a fee companies like WeCosign, Insurent, and CoSigner.com will guarantee your lease for a contractual period of time, even if you have bad credit or an unstable source of income.

“If you default, they pay the landlord the rest of the lease,” she said.

With the financial crisis and a shaky job market, experts said these services are in demand.

“We have people that are students, and then we have people that are mid-life age,” said Frank Jakubaitis of WeCosign.

“We’ve also co-signed athletes and lawyers and doctors,” he added.

Fees vary depending on the service. It is usually a percentage of the monthly or annual rent, typically ranging between 6% and 10%.

“You may have to pay some other fees, such as a sign-up fee, a processing fee, a background check fee and those could easily add another $100 to $200,” Herron said.

Even though these services are designed for those with poor credit, applicants still need to qualify.

“They have their own minimum income and credit score requirements and some others will deny you if you have too many outstanding utility bills, too many evictions or a violent criminal record,” Herron warned.

CBS4 News contacted the Better Business Bureau which said it’s important to keep in mind that this is “a fairly new industry,” one that could have “real potential for abuse.” In fact, there were several complaints online.

Herron said don’t be afraid to try friends and family first.

“It’s the option of last resort,” she said.

Diggs was happy to have the option and within days he had his keys in hand.

“It’s a sense of peace, a sense of warmth that I now have my home,” he said. “I’m on my way to re-building and re-establishing my life.”

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 29 ]

MIAMI (CBSMiami.COM)

New Program Connects Students

Entertainment Industry Leaders To

College students aspiring for careers in film and entertainment will soon have a chance to work with industry leaders across South Florida.

The Miami-Dade Film & Entertainment Advisory Board and the Miami-Dade Office of Film & Entertainment launched an internship program that connects film and entertainment majors at local colleges with production and related companies in the industry.

The program is open to companies involved in film production, still photography, camera equipment, audio/ visual, digital media, etc.

Companies interested in participating in the program should fill out an application form online at www.filmiami.org.

“The film and entertainment industry in South Florida has grown tremendously in the past few years and infuses millions of dollars into our local economy. Students are the future of the industry and we want to help them learn the business with local companies contributing to the growth of local industry talent and workforce.

By facilitating this process, the program will improve job creation through training and networking opportunities,” Miami-Dade County Film and Entertainment Liaison, Sandy Lighterman said.

Local colleges and universities interested in receiving information about participating companies should contact the Office of Film & Entertainment at 305-375-3288 or via email atmhoffma@miamidade.gov.

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

New Laser Procedure Helps

Cataract Patients

See Clearly Reporting Cynthia Demos

Picture getting cataract surgery with no cutting of the eye.

This is a major leap in the world of correcting diminishing vision. CBS4’s Cynthia Demos tracked down one of the few South Florida doctors performing laser cataract surgery and some of his patients.

Basil Bain, 59, is a private

yacht

captain so perfect vision for him is essential.

“Early in the morning I have fog in my right eye,” he explained.

Bonnie Belangia, 66, has been dependant on her glasses for decades.

“I’m over it and I understand this procedure is so precise,” she said.

Both patients said they would never have had this surgery when a knife was involved.

“I don’t like needles and I don’t like razor blades,” said Bain.

With laser, things look a lot better.

Dr. Andrew Shatz said the new procedure is more precise and quicker to heal.

“We have the precision to allow us to tell patients if they can have 20/25 or 20/20 vision,” explained Dr. Shatz. “That’s what’s able to be delivered with this type of technology.”

Dr. Shatz added that eventually everyone eventually gets cataracts.

“The earlier it’s done the quicker you recover the longer you enjoy and the better you end up being.”

The recovery time for Bain and Belangia was about 3 weeks. After the allotted amount of time we checked back in with them. Basil was thrilled with the results.

“I cannot tell you how many times that I honestly have said to myself over these years, ‘If only I could see, life would be easier,’ and it has become reality and it’s just a wonderful thing.”

“When I drive down the road I can see the signs that’s for sure. Everything is crystal clear to me and I think it’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my whole lifetime.”

Bonnie agreed.

“I cannot tell you how many times that I honestly have said to myself over these years, ‘If only I could see, life would be easier,’ and it has become reality and it’s just a wonderful thing.”

The new procedure is typically partially covered by insurance.

For more information log on to sighttrust.com

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 33 ]

Best Of MiaMi

Best City Escapes From South Florida

While living in South Florida is pretty close to being as good as it gets, sometimes even South Floridians need a break from the action. These are a few of the best cities you can get to in a day from South Florida.

New York

While technically not a day drive, you can get to the Big Apple very easily from South Florida on the numerous flights to the city so nice they named it twice.

There’s a huge New York/New Jersey presence in South Florida, so if you want to know anything about the area, there’s always someone in South Florida who can help you out. Getting there may take a few hours on a plane, but it’s a trip that you will never forget if you’ve never been there before.

Tampa/St. Petersburg

The city has some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Florida and is also home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Rays. Tampa Bay is a beautiful boat ride that people will never forget.

You can also hit up Busch Gardens or the Seminole Casino just outside of Tampa.

And if you’re adventurous, try some of the nightlife across Tampa including Ybor City.

Plus, Tampa’s just a short drive on I-4 to Orlando.

Orlando, FL

It’s got Disney World, Seaworld, Universal Studios, MGM Studios, and the Citrus Bowl. Those should be enough to entice you to bring the family truckster up to the Big O. If you go during basketball season, you can also get a glimpse of the NBA’s Orlando Magic. It’s truly a place for the entire family, and only a few hours from South Florida.

Naples

The city calls itself the crown jewel of Southwest Florida. It’s nestled on the Gulf of Mexico and only a few miles away from the wilderness of the Everglades. If you like to fish but don’t want to try your hand in Miami, you’ll enjoy some great Gulf fishing. And as with everywhere else in the Southern half of Florida, you’ll find plenty of championship golf courses to satisfy your need to hit the links.

Key West

The drive down to Key West is almost the best part of the escape. The Florida Keys are an experience in and of themselves, but when you get to Key West, you really get a chance to see a little bit, or a lot, of everything. Fantasy Fest will truly give you an eyeful of the nightlife that won’t leave you dragging.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 35 ]

BeST OF MiaMi

Best Brewpubs Serving

Seasonal Beer In South Florida

The fact that south Florida has two seasons, spring and summer, is something that locals and tourists like to boast about to their colder counterparts. Still even with the great weather, residents and visitors crave the comforting tastes of the seasons like pumpkin spice and ciders. Luckily for them, South Florida has a fabulous array of brewpubs that serve great food and offer their own unique seasonal brews. Check out the list below to find an old seasonal favorite or a new comforting delight.

Titanic Restaurant & Brewery (305) 668-1742 www.titanicbrewery.com The Titanic Restaurant & Brewery is no stranger to unique beers.

It provides an extensive list that rotates weekly but the fall is the best time of year to stop in. That’s is when Titanic celebrates Octoberfest. The brewery offers beers like Pumpkin Ale, a Dry Hop India Pale Ale (IPA) which has a bitter taste and a White Cap Wheat beer. Each beer is sure to have you thinking of cold weather and turning leaves.

Big Bear Brewing Company (954) 341-5545 www.bigbearbrewingco.com The Big Bear Brewing Company usually features a seasonal menu of its own. The menu is so spontaneous that it’s even a surprise to the owner.

Big Bear typically features its own Pumpkin Ale, usually available around Halloween. But it also features a Smokey Bear which is a porter with smoked malt. They’re all hearty flavors that any beer lover will enjoy.

The Abbey Brewing Company (305) 538-8110 www.abbeybrewinginc.com/ The Abbey Brewing Company is located in the heart of South Beach and features a fall seasonal menu with your choice of two pumpkin beers. Choose between the strong Pump King beer or the sweeter and lighter Shipyard Pumpkin beer. Either way, you’re choosing a winner. Call ahead or stop by to see what other items are being offered on the fall beer menu. The Pump King beer is 22 ounces, so if you order this, be sure to arrange a sober ride home as well.

Organic Brewery (305) 414-4757 www.organicbreweryhollywood.com Organic Brewery is located on the Hollywood Boardwalk, so the last thing visitors will be thinking of is fall while they’re standing next to the beach. However if you’re in the mood for a seasonal beer, make sure to stop in. Organic Brewery serves different varieties of wheat beers that are sure to please. A wheat beer is made of malted wheat and served in the colder temperatures, so call ahead to find out which wheat beer is in season.

Beer Beer

Beer

Gordon Biersch (786) 425-1130 www.gordonbiersch.com Gordon Biersch also celebrates Oktoberfest with a seasonal menu. Last year, it kicked off the event with live music and free beer tastings. This year, Gordon Biersch is keeping things under wraps but is likely to include favorites like Festbier which is a combination of dark roasted Munich malt and pilsner malt giving the beer a very rich, hoppy flavor. Stop in to try this flavor or one of the other flavors on the Oktoberfest menu and try the food sampler while you’re at it.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 37 ]

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

No-Chip Nail Polish Lasts Longer, But

At What Price?

Reporting Cynthia Demos

A new manicure claims

to last two to three times longer than a traditional manicure but at what cost?

The system is called the nail gel system.

A University of Miami Miller School of Medicine study looked into what kind of damage the fast, long-lasting manicure may cause and it may cause you to second-guess whether you want it.

“We found that after the manicure the nail plate became thinner,” said Dr. Antonella Tosti.

Dr. Tosti is a world reknowned nail expert and author who helped conduct a study of the effects of the new gel nail system.

So how does the no chip nail process work?

A base coat, two coats of polish and a sealer are cured between each layer by uv light. The process that makes it last however also makes it more difficult to remove than a regular manicure.

Pads soaked in acetone are supposed to be wrapped around the nail for 10 to 40 minutes, or more, depending on the brand.

Manicurist Jessica Knepper said beware of manicurists taking shortcuts.

“They’ll try to scrape it off and pry off the nail for speed,” Knepper said. “That is not the proper way to do it.”

Improper removal led to Catherine Mcbride partially losing a nail.

“The nail bed was raw and bleeding,” McBride said.

Four patients in the study had problems after having shallac manicures including weakness, brittleness, and thinning. A 5th subject who had an opi-axium manicure suffered diminishing in 20 percent of her nails.

Manufacturers of CND Shallac and OPI said there is no nail damage when the tech follows the directions. Dr. Tosti says the UM study focused on improper removal!

“People need to know when they get the manicure they go back to the professional using the same brand for the removal otherwise they are going to ruin the nails,” Tosti said.

Consumers say to them the lesson is learned that if you take a short cut you pay the price. Dr. Tosti told CBS4 if the manicure is removed improperly and your nail suffers damage it would take about six months to fully repair.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 39 ]

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Fixing Your Own

Back Pain

Reporting Cynthia Demos

Most of us will suffer from back pain at some point in our lives but what if a method could help you fix your own problem? CBS4’s Cynthia Demos explored the McKenzie method.

Dr. Yoav Suprun on Miami Beach teaches it to his patients.

“It’s a lot about patient empowerment,” he explained.

Dr. Suprun works on Miami Beach and said his goal is to treat you, to teach you and to not have to see you again.

“The special thing about the MacKenzie method is it allows the patient to treat themselves,” he said.

Dr. Suprun teaches his patients to fix their own problem via the McKenzie Method. The book “Treat Your Own Back”

by Robert McKenzie features the McKenzie Method. He’s sold more than 7 million copies.

Dr. Suprun taught Shakira Silverman the method when she was pregnant with her baby, Eli. “He gave me movements that helped abolish the pain,” explained Shakira. She’s a hair stylist who’s on her feet 6 to 8 hours a day. She didn’t want to take medication during her pregnancy so she learned methods like touching her hand to the ground, the belly to the sky method and other ways to

stop any disc from bulging.

CBS4’s own Cynthia Demos, at 8 months pregnant, gave it a try and said she could feel some instant relief.

This method of finding your own treatment also works for most athletes, those who’ve been in an accident, lifted something improperly and the list goes on.

As far as Shakira’s experience with learning the McKenzie method goes she said, “it actually resolved the pain 100 percent.”

Dr. Suprun says his goal is to treat patients about 5 times and send them on their way. That may not be too good for recurring business but he says it’s great for the end result.

“The special thing about the MacKenzie method is it allows the patient to treat themselves.”

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 41 ]

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Miami School’s

New Library

Packs iPads & Battles Hunger Reporting Marybel Rodriguez

With a major renovation now complete, teachers and students at a Miami elementary school saw their new state-of-the-art library for the first time.

Coral Terrace Elementary’s

new library includes 2,000 new books, furniture, carpet and shelves.

The new learning space doesn’t stop with those expected upgrades, however. As part of a technology upgrade, students have access to new iPads.

In addition to providing a quality learning space, the new library also serves as a quality giving space.

In an effort to combat hunger, which impacts a child’s ability to learn, the library houses a food pantry that will provide fresh produce and staple foods to students and families each month.

At the unveiling celebration, each student also received seven new books to take home: The library was remodeled by Target and The Heart of America Foundation as part of the 2012 Target School Library Makeover Program. The food pantry was provided by Target Meals for Minds.

Coral Terrace Elementary is one of 32 elementary schools across the country to receive a library makeover this year as part of the Target School Library Makeover program.

“The library was remodeled

by Target and The Heart of America Foundation as part of the 2012 Target School Library Makeover Program.”

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 43 ]

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Coast Guard Readies

High-Tech

Sentinel Ship For Service

Reporting Marybel Rodriguez

The U.S. Coast Guard’s effort to replace its aging fleet made another milestone.

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter William Flores has sailed on the waters for the first time.

The trip was a victory lap of sorts, as the ship trekked from its port at Coast Guard Sector Miami three miles to a sea buoy then back to port.

The USCGC William Flores is the third of a planned 58 Fast Response Cutters in the Sentinel Class.

Sentinel Class cutters are replacing the agency’s aging Island-class, 110-foot patrol boats.

According to the Coast Guard’s website, the Sentinel Class patrol boat project will deliver vital capability to the Coast Guard, helping to meet the service’s need for additional patrol boats.

On November 3, the USCGC William Flores will be commissioned into service in Tampa.

As with all the Fast Response Cutters, the ship is named after Coast Guard enlisted heroes. In this case, both the ship and the location of its commissioning honors Coast Guard Seaman William “Billy” Flores.

On the night of Jan. 28, 1980, Flores, just 18 at the time, died while assisting his shipmates after their cutter, Blackthorn, collided with a large merchant vessel in the Tampa Bay ship channel. His heroism and sacrifice serve as an example for all Coast Guard members and inspire the ship’s motto of “courage in adversity.”

D a D e l a n D D o D g e C h ry s l e r J e e p p r e s e n t s

2013 DoDge

Viper the new

w w w. D a D e l a n D D C J . C o m

order yours today at Dadeland Dodge Chrysler Jeep

A new logo, a tweaked name, a new look, and a new drivetrain: the 2013 Dodge SRt Viper is reborn, back after a two-year hiatus and Chrysler’s acquisition by Fiat. will it live up to the old one’s reputation for ferocity, performance, and outright speed?

Might it even repair the last Viper’s somewhat blemished build quality?

Based on what we've seen at the official reveal of the 2013 Dodge SRT Viper at the 2012 New York Auto Show, the Viper is poised to bite back with a new level of driving finesse and interior craftsmanship.

The Viper's all-new exterior is both brandnew supercar sheetmetal and an evolution of the former car. Modeled after snakes and the human body, the Viper's sheetmetal is smooth and curvaceous, not creased, and has the familiar very low snout and upkicked tail of the original Viper--as well as some of the same distinctive bulbous look. Stitched leather upholstery, a sculpted, high-tech dash, metal accents, and a general air of fit, finish, and quality that was completely lacking in the justa-notch-above-race-car sparseness found in the 2010 Viper make the 2013 SRT Viper seem a truer supercar, worthier of the title.

The 2013 Viper remains powered by a monstrous V-10 engine, but this time it's reined in by a host of electronic aids and traction control. Under the hood is the familiar, allaluminum pushrod V-10, displacing 8.4 liters and making 640 horsepower and 600 lb-ft. A Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual is still used, but throws are shorter and the final drive ratio is also shorter. Top speed (not yet announced) is achieved now in top gear. For complete power train details contact a Viper expert at 1888-542-5152.

The new Viper should be every bit as fast as the last, yet more friendly to drive on the street.

Also taking the Viper GTS into a new performance (and comfort) realm is a driver-selectable, two-mode suspension system, with Bilstein DampTronic Select shocks--good for both street and track. And electronic stability control is now standard, along with a launch-control

system, with steering-wheel buttons, for the fastest possible launch from a standing start.

Brakes, too, are supercar-caliber four-piston Brembo units with fixed-aluminum calipers and huge vented rotors, at all four corners.

Its interior alone marks it a significant upgrade from previous versions. Chrysler has tapped into the supply network for Ferrari in offering special upholsteries, trims, and accents, as well as high-performance racing seats from Sabelt; and for the first time seat height is adjustable. The auto maker also claims that those up to 6'-7" will be able to fit, thanks to an extended floor pan and bulkhead.

Despite all these improvements--and increased convenience equipment--the Viper weighs about 100 pounds less than the previous version. Directly in front of the driver is a new version of the customizable gauge cluster used in the 2013 Dodge Dart, while infotainment includes Uconnect media centers, integrated SiriusXM Travel Link services, and an available 18-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system. Cruise control will even be offered for the first time.

Dadeland Dodge Chrysler Jeep will update you with more about how the 2013 SRT Viper GTS drives as soon as we can put one on the track and make that determination for ourselves. The bottom line, at this point, however, is that the new 2013 SRT Viper looks every inch the Viper of yore, but translated into full modernity, with a much more driver-friendly attitude and better accommodations. Together, the trifecta may be enough to win buyers not just from Corvette, but from the Italians and Germans as well. For more information on availability and pricing contact Dadeland Dodge Chrysler Jeep, and exclusive Viper dealer, at 1888-542-5152.

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

Study:

More Colleges Reviewing

Applicants’ Social Media Profiles Reporting Al Sunshine

With college applications, teens are finding it’s not just what’s on paper that matters, but also what’s on the web.

For 17-year-old

Emily Caramelli, it’s taken lot more than just cracking the books to get into college.

“I have been doing research on what to write my personal statement about, so I can come off as a cool person to the colleges and they’ll want to accept me,” Caramelli said.

This teen is more than just book smart.

“I definitely know colleges are getting online and looking at your social media because that is out there,” the aspiring college student said.

Caramelli is among the growing number of college-bound students who say their online reputation could be at stake when it comes to applying for college.

“I’ve heard horror stories about someone saying they see them with a drink in their hand and not accepting them.

Because I don’t think that is fair, I don’t want to put myself in that position,” Caramelli said.

A nationwide survey revealed top colleges across the nation admitted to using social networking sites to assess prospective students.

The research done by Kaplan, a company which provides test prep and admissions help to students, asked 320 college admissions officers. They found that 10 percent admitted to using social media for college entrance review.

And companies, such as Experian SafetyWeb, are tapping into the findings.

“Students today have so many obstacles getting into college. Their social media profile shouldn’t be one of those obstacles,” Experian SafetyWeb’s Senior Vice President of Marketing Ken Chaplin said.

Chaplin said there is more to be said when it comes to a student’s online reputation.

Experian SafetyWeb scans millions of sites to see how their clients are represented online. They offer feedback on how students can represent themselves for who they really are.

Experts recommend using a search engine to find out what’s out there.

“Enter some claims you make on your application and

see what comes up,” Chaplin said.

He also recommends checking your profile photo.

“A lot of people have profile photos that are very expressive socially, and talk about who they are. Make sure that’s a photo you want admissions officer wants to see,” Chaplin said.

Chaplin advises students to clean up old posts.

“Go back through your profile and make sure all your posts that are there are ones that you want there,” Chaplin said.

Students should set their accounts to private, so only the people they want seeing their information can see it.

“Set limits to the ability for people to tag you. On your profile, upload photos of you or the like,” Chaplin said.

Caramelli has already taken a lot of these tips into account.

“I try to keep everything online really clean and appropriate. I always try to say: What if my grandmother saw this? How would she feel?”

While not all colleges use social media as a tool for admissions, experts say it’s still wise to manage your online reputation.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 49 ]

Preparing A

Reporting Cynthia Demos

Quick And Healthy Breakfast For Kids

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com)

For many families,

mornings are hectic.

There’s breakfast to consume, teeth to brush, shoes to tie, all before the mad dash to school.

So how do you fit in a healthy breakfast? Registered dietitian Dana Nahai says the key is planning and preparation, because you need to include something from three different food groups: whole grains, proteins and fresh or frozen fruits.

Many parents turn to cereal in the morning, but Nahai says don’t eat it every day.

“Even the organic breakfast cereals have a lot of hidden sugar and sodium in them,” she said.

But making a change doesn’t mean you have to cook when you wake up. Prepare some foods the night before, like oatmeal. Nahai recommends making it with milk and brown

sugar and then putting it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning just reheat it and add some fruit, such as blueberries.

You can also make whole wheat waffles, adding yogurt, fruit and nuts. Another option is to make an apple sandwich. You can spread peanut butter on apple slices, and put it all inside a whole grain pita. Sandwiches are a versatile breakfast option.

“We have taken some deli ham, some mild-flavored mozzarella, placed it in the tortilla and folded it like a crepe,” Nahai said.

While these breakfasts take some preparation, if you do your homework, you can help your child get the best start to his or her day.

December 2012 CBS4 News Magazine Pinecrest [ 51 ]

Automotive M O N T H LY

AUTOMOTIVE

Recycle Your Used Motor Oil New Outlets for Old Oil Make Recycling Easy w w w. E d m u n d s . c o m B y P h i l l i p R ee d , Se n i o r C o n s u m er A d v i c e E d i t o r

One of the hardest parts of changing your own oil is disposing of that pan of hot black goop. But in recent years, this chore has gotten a lot easier, thanks to motor oil recycling programs sponsored by cities, auto parts stores and designated collection sites.

Some cities, such as Long Beach, California, offer curbside pickup for used motor oil and old oil filters. Residents call first to request a pick-up. Then city workers take away the old oil. They also leave replacement containers and plastic bags for filters. In other communities, such as Berkeley, California, recycling centers will pay 16 cents per gallon for oil.

More than 30 percent of motorists change their own oil, generating between 43 and 62 million gallons of used oil annually, according to a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) survey. The EPA says recycling protects public health by keeping used oil, which contains heavy metals and toxins, out of groundwater supplies. It also saves energy. One gallon of re-refined motor oil produces 2.5 quarts of lubricating oil. It takes 42 gallons of crude oil to produce the same amount of new oil, the EPA says.

Most major auto-parts stores have recognized the importance of being the places where do-it-yourselfers can recycle their old oil after a change. Both Pep Boys and AutoZone, two of the nation’s biggest auto parts franchises, accept used motor oil. AutoZone recycled 9.5 million gallons of oil in 2010, according to its Web site.

Despite the increase in recycling locations, getting used oil from here to there can still be a messy affair, particularly if you’re unprepared or lack the right materials. Here are

some tips to make recycling your oil quick and easy: • Before beginning an oil change, check your community’s Web site to see if it offers curbside oil pick-up. If not, check your local auto parts store or the Web site 1.800.recycling.com, which will help you find recycling centers.

• Choose an oil drain pan that can be tightly sealed for easily transporting the used oil to a recycling center.

The center will dump the oil into a large bin and return the drain pan to you for future use.

• Wear plastic gloves while you’re doing the oil change and transferring the old oil into containers. Keep plenty of rags handy for wiping up spills.

• Make sure the oil containers do not have other liquids inside, such as antifreeze, that could contaminate the oil and make it unfit for recycling.

• Put a drop cloth or newspapers under the drain pan while you’re changing your oil. Transfer the oil to containers on this surface.

• Consider using an oil extractor. An extractor minimizes the chances of dripping oil and makes it easier to transfer the old oil to recycling containers.

• Cover your car’s floor mats or trunk with a plastic bag and old newspapers before loading your oil container.

Newspapers will absorb small spills and the plastic bag will prevent the oil from soaking into your floor mats.

• If you spill oil during recycling, use cat litter or an oil absorbent to soak it up. Sawdust will also work to soak up small spills.

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Home

Improvement M O N T H LY

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Safeguard Your Home While Away A rt i c l e b y w w w. l o w e s . c o m

Before traveling for the holidays, safeguard your home and valuables. Taking a few precautions before you leave town will ensure a happy return home.

Before Going Out of Town • Create an up-to-date inventory of valuables, such as TVs, jewelry, computers and other large-ticket items.

Include detailed descriptions, photographs, makes, models and serial numbers.

• Install automatic-light timers to create the illusion that

• Store valuables in a fireproof vault or safe.

• Unplug nonessential devices.

• Keep outdoor electrical cords dry by wrapping connections with tape or plastic.

• Don’t leave holiday gifts out where they can be seen through windows.

someone is home. Set the timers to go on and off at

• Inspect all holiday lights for fraying or damage.

logical times of day.

• Make sure all greenery and decorations don’t obstruct

• Activate motion detectors and alarm systems.

• Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.

• Clean out your refrigerator, and donate or give away any food items that will spoil.

heating vents or fireplaces to reduce the risk of fire.

• Trim shrubbery and trees. Overgrown shrubs provide the perfect cover for would-be intruders.

• Break down large appliance boxes, and place them in

• Turn down your thermostat to save on electricity or gas

dark trash bags or bins when you take them to the curb.

bills.

Leaving them out in the open will advertise what’s inside

• Ask a neighbor to tend to the yard and shovel snow.

your home.

• Lock all doors and windows.

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