CBS4 Newspaper

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newspaper April 2014

ALSO INSIDE: Could You Be Addicted To Tech?

New Cars Now Come with Deals While You Drive New Hepatitis Drug Out Of Reach For Most Beware of Red Light Cameras: Some South Florida Cities Are Taking Red Light Runners For A Ride

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Contents

Newspaper April 2014

Featured Editorial

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Breaking Down The Bits of Bitcoin

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Addicted To Tech

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Imagine waking up tomorrow and your bank account has twenty-percent more money in it–or perhaps 20-percent of your hard-earned cash is missing? You probably would lose sleep right? Well it is happening right now with a new currency called Bitcoin. Some South Florida business are now accepting it including the Clevelander.

Smart phones, tablets, laptops – with so much technology at our fingertips it’s sometimes difficult to set it aside. Some of your family or friends may seem even addicted to tech.

How often do you wash your hands? You may think just enough, but after seeing the results CBS4 obtained when testing public places for bacteria—you may reconsider. What you think is clean, may actually be covered in sickening bacteria like e-coli, staphorius and much more.

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Cassandra Gonzalez Has All The Ingredients For Success!

Do You Shop Online? Get Ready To Be Punished For Excessive Returns

Some South Florida Cities Take Red Light Runners For a Ride Whether you are in favor of them or not, more and more red light cameras are going up in South Florida. For cities, the state and even the camera manufactures, the record number of cameras has turned into record profits. South Florida’s cameras are the most lucrative in the state. In a CBS4 investigation we learned some drivers are being taken for a ride.

How Dirty Is It?

A grandfather wipes away a tear as his beloved granddaughter, Cassandra Gonzalez tenderly hugs him. Jose Gonzalez is blind and Cassandra willingly serves as his eyes and guide in life. The 17-year old is one of the most loving, unselfish teenagers, you might ever meet

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Deals While You Drive!

You get ads on your TV, the radio, internet and even your smartphone. But the next spot advertisers are targeting just might surprise you, the navigation screen of your car!

Special Section

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Real Estate

Properties Sold in your area

Sponsored By

A warning if you shop online and have a habit of returning items, you may be in for a surprise. More retailers are starting to take notice and some are even punishing repeat offenders.

PRINTED IN THE USA, COPYRIGHT © 2014 BY MARCO G, INC. All rights reserved. The CBS4 News Magazine, a free publication, is published monthly by MARCO G, Inc. Material in this publication must not be stored or reproduced in any form without permission from Marco G. Inc. or WFOR CBS4. Requests for permission should be directed to: info@cbs4newsmagazine.com. CBS4 and/or Marco G. Inc do not assume any liability for products and/or services claimed in advertisements herein. CBS4 and its logo (s) are protected through trademark registration. The use of logos, content and/or artwork in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. For more information please contact 305.477.1699.

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ADDICTED

TO TECH

Smart phones, tablets, laptops – with so much technology at our fingertips it’s sometimes difficult to set it aside. Some of your family or friends may seem even addicted to tech.

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“I

do email, I do messaging, I have an iPhone, I used to have three iPads,” said Michael Oliver who admits he loves his tech.

“Every kid from the age of three years old, there on that iPhone playing every kind of game in the world and doing all kinds of things,” said Ronald Gould.

That was certainly true at the McGoldrick house.

“Once I get home, I’m just like either on the computer or iPad and like just have fun because school stresses me out so much,” said 10-year old Addie McGoldrick.

In fact, it’s not uncommon to find the whole family staring at screens. Addie’s little sister Sylvia with a movie on the laptop, their mom on a notebook, their dad on the phone.

“Like if someone texted me at 1 o’clock in the morning, I’ll wake up and answer it,” said Addie.

Psychologists say that constant attachment to all these devices comes as a cost. They feel that a deep, qualitative connection between people is sacrificed when there’s that sense of immediacy that technology brings into the situation.

Signs of addiction or dependency include spending a disproportionate amount of time on you cell phone, tablet or computer.

Doctors suggest if your family is like the McGoldricks, carve out some time by piling up the devices and setting them aside so you can spend some real ‘face time’ together.

Other suggestions include wearing a watch, so you’re not dependent on using a cell phone to tell time, and don’t use a gadget to pass the time at every opportunity. Experts say it’s okay to be bored sometimes. Also, disable notifications; not every email or text needs a reply right away.

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

“Like if someone texted me at 1 o’clock in the morning, I’ll wake up and answer it”

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How often do you wash your hands?

You may think just enough, but after seeing the results CBS4 obtained when testing public places for bacteria—you may reconsider. What you think is clean, may actually be covered in sickening bacteria like e-coli, staphorius and much more. So CBS4’s Brian Andrews took to the streets to find out…how dirty is it? The surfaces touched by hundreds, even thousands of people every day were tested—and the results may be shocking and can be pretty nasty.

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“T

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Y o u C a n T o u c h f

W e C a n T e

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he main thing is not getting it inside your body because that’s what can make you sick if you consume it,” said Dr. Julie Torruellas-Garcia, a microbiologist at Nova Southeastern University.

First places tested were Miami-Dade Transit, the Metrorail, Metromover, the Government Center Station and the Government Center Food Court. All the places tested have one thing in common—they experience heavy traffic daily.

In order to test, surfaces were swabbed and specimens were sent off to the microbiology lab at Nova.

First place tested were the seats in the Metrorail cars.

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“They tested positive for e-coli which I’m not surprised because we are sitting and considering where e-coli comes from, it kind of makes sense,” said Dr. Torruellas-Garcia.

E-coli is a bacteria that comes from feces.

“The issue with e-coli is ingestion. So if you eat it, if you consume it, if you drink it,” said Dr. Torruellas-Garcia. If ingested, the Doctor said, one could get diarrhea.

The Metromover on the downtown loop was also put to the test for bacteria. The rails were found to have quite a bit of bacteria growth.

The rails tested positive for staphorius— which can cause staph infections.

Also tested were the fare machines at the transit station.

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here was quite a bit of bacteria there and it did test positive for staphorius but again staphorius is a bacteria found on skin,” said Dr. Torruellas-Garcia.

Next up for testing were the pay phones. Perhaps not as popular as they used to be, but still used enough to consider testing.

“If you count, each of these dots represents one bacterium,” said Dr. Torruellas-Garcia. “That was on that phone so I guess there are maybe about 50 there.”

Now it’s one thing for a railing or a seat to be dirty, but many people would agree that where we eat should be the cleanest of all. Next up for testing was the food court at County Hall.

The area visited by perhaps hundreds of people each day, the tables tested positive for both e-coli and staphorius.

The elevators and escalators fared much better than the other places tested seeing as that bacteria can’t grow on metals.

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Even though Miami-Dade transit insists the seats and all interior surfaces of the Metro and Metro Mover cars are cleaned daily, testing showed amounts of e-coli bacteria were present.

As for the food court, the county said they’ll address CBS4’s findings with the building’s janitorial contractor.

“I don’t get grossed out very easily being a microbiologist,” said Dr. Torruellas-Garcia, “but seeing the bacteria that grew at the food court tables was particularly gross.”

Miami-Dade Transit declined our request to talk about the findings on camera, sending us a prepared statement saying they do their best to clean the metro cars each day.

So what can you do to protect yourself from this bacteria?

Dr. Torruellas-Garcia says wash your hands as often as possible and don’t worry about touching metal surfaces. Bacteria doesn’t grow on metal.

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By Michele Gillen

Cassandra Gonzalez

Has All The Ingredients For Success A grandfather wipes away a tear as his beloved granddaughter, Cassandra Gonzalez tenderly hugs him. Jose Gonzalez is blind and Cassandra willingly serves as his eyes and guide in life. The 17-year old is one of the most loving, unselfish teenagers, you might ever meet. She and her grandpa, as she calls him, carry broken hearts. Her grandmother, Victoria, who she long cared for recently died following a heart attack.

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oming home from work and not being able to kiss or hug her, it just hurt me,” Cassandra told CBS4’s Michele Gillen as they sat together outside her Homestead home under a warm February sky.

Cassandra’s pull to her grandparents is so strong because they raised her, rescued her, from when she was a baby.

“Well, this all happened because when I was 11-months old my dad killed my mom,” Cassandra shared.

Cassandra cherishes the few photos she has of her mother who was just 18 years old when she lost her life. There’s one picture of her mom dressed in pink and smiling to the camera at her baby shower. Another is the sonogram showing the first image of Cassandra.

Cassandra was 7-years old when she learned the truth of what had happened when she was a baby and too young to remember. She learned that her father was incarcerated and that the man and woman who raised her were really her grandparents, not her birth parents.

She said she is grateful to them. Even in her teenage years, through their serious illnesses, she rarely left their side. Every free moment after school and on weekends, she worked to help support them.

“I wouldn’t care for having fun or going out because my grandparents are the most important thing to me,” Cassandra revealed.

Through it all, she has studied away in her grandparent’s humble home, making top grades and dreaming of someday having a career in the world of hospitality where she can create dreams for others.

“I love being around people, I love going to hotels, I love helping others,” the teenager explained and said her dream is to someday, somehow, attend FIU’s renowned Chaplin School of Hospitality.

That tickled the imagination of Michele Gillen who thought; why not introduce her to the king of hospitality, a master of culinary cuisine and the Founder and Director of the Food Channel’s South Beach Wine and Food Festival,

“I wouldn’t care for having fun or going out because my grandparents are the most important thing to me”

Lee Brian Schrager.

“Let’s go meet her!” Schrager enthused as he first greeted Gillen in the midst of the festivals Fit and Fun as a Family event at Jungle Island.

Upon learning Cassandra’s story, Schrager organized a feast of a day for the girl who never asks for anything for herself.

“Hi, it’s an honor to meet you!” Cassandra beamed shaking his hand as he gave her a warm embrace.

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Schrager, whose festival has raised 20 million dollars for the School of Hospitality over the past 13 years, offered his guidance and extended a helping hand.

“Do you like to cook?” he asked, a trained chef himself.

“I love cooking!” Cassandra shared with him. “I love hospitality and tourism. I’ve been thinking all my life about going to FIU.” A dream met with a spontaneous invite.

“We just opened up a new teaching program this week with the funds from the festival. We built this beautiful new campus and I will take you for lunch one day and show you around,” Schrager offered as he she shared insight from an amazing career.

“When you love what you do and you do what you love, it’s really not work. And that’s what I have found. I never think of it as going to work. I never call what I do going to work because I love it too much,” revealed Schrager, who has served as Vice President of Corporate Communications and National Events for Southern Wine and Spirits for over a decade.

Also on this adventure, Cassandra’s school outreach counselor and one of her biggest champions, Maria Fey Rivera, who works with the non-profit Communities in Schools of Miami.

“She has gone through so much pain and loss and instead of giving and saying ‘Oh my god my life is horrible’, she gets back up dusts herself off and continues. I’m supposed to be the role model but she’s a role model to me. I mean she has fallen so many times, she just lost the most important part of her life and instead of saying my life is done, that’ s it, she says ‘no’, she gets up and keeps going,” Rivera told Gillen.

With lofty dreams of running restaurants, today Cassandra supports her granddad working at Taco Bell.

With the right education, Schrager encouraged “You are working at Taco bell today? You could be running it in a matter of years! That’s what hard work gets you.”

He also shared a personal reflection. “There is such respect in this industry for young people. I was working when I was 13

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

and 14 years old, fortunately I didn’t have some of the heartaches that you had. But you know what, my parents were very convinced that no one gave them anything and no one was going to give their kids anything. And it was the hard work that really helped me and my brothers do what we are doing today.”

Speaking of family, he explained, “There is a passion in people that work within the hospitality industry that doesn’t exist outside. You will develop a family and that family that you unfortunately don’t have you are going to recreate many times over in your career.”

Counting himself in as “a new mentor” for Cassandra, he escorted her and the team into the venues of celebrity chefs. The DJ spotting Cassandra intoned over loud speakers, “Congratulations Cassandra. She is the CBS4 Super Kid. Cassandra is coming through! Clear the aisle!”

Then it was on to carte blanche access to the festivals dream-makers, the chefs.

Everywhere she was lost in smiles, even while crickets were cooked up by Chef Andrew Zimmern, and hundreds of children in the audience roared.

One by one, Cassandra was embraced by

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top chefs who opened their hearts to her. Upon hearing about her journey and dream, Chef RLI, who counts being Dwyane Wade’s personal chef as one of his greatest joys, was so impressed. His tall frame towered over Cassandra, but his smile melted away her jitters and he let her know that he was willing to help her in any way he could.

“Wonderful. Wonderful. Make sure you get my number. Let’s stay in contact and let me know if I can help you,” Chef RLI offered. His kind encouragement to help left her eyes filled with tears.

“I love baking, I love cooking, I cook for my grandpa all the time,” she recalled for him.

After just an hour and half at the event, her cheeks flush with excitement and bewilderment, Gillen asked Cassandra for a reality check. “We are here an hour and a half and how would you describe what’s going on so far?” inquired Gillen.

“I am shocked. I feel like I am dreaming,” responded a beaming Cassandra.

But the finale still awaited, a personal invitation to the celebrity chef trailer to meet her favorite Chef Rocco DiSpirito. In the thick of his appearances at the festival, he stopped everything to focus on Cassandra, her past and her future. And he made the present, incredibly magical for her.

“Anytime someone young wants to get involved in the

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

culinary arts which I have spent my entire life devoted to, which I love so much, I get very excited for them. And we all feel that,” said DiSpirito.

He had her join him at the dining table.

“I would love to help you in any way I can. In the Italian household food is the currency of love, this is how we express our love for other people. When you feed a person it is an incredibly meaningful gesture it means you care about them. You are willing to invest in them. They have meaning and value in this world. When you do it in a business, it is the same thing,” DiSpirito shared.

Joining the conversation, another culinary legend, Chef Robert Irvine. He was wearing his traditional Superman TShirt. It was quickly clear; he is man with a super-sized heart.

“We get to change people’s lives every day through food.

It’s exciting, when you see a young lady who wants to devote herself to that craft. It is a craft. It is an art. But it comes from your heart. I know Rocco and I know his mom and there is nobody more family oriented than he is. That is for sure,” Irvine explained and graciously continued.

“Food is about fun, family, giving a piece of yourself to someone else. And obviously you do that with you grandpa now. I echo what Rocco says, I am sorry for your losing your grandmother. You can honor that loss through food. It’s an amazing vehicle to remember them.

You can change people’s lives through food.”

DiSpirito added, “I understand you want to go FIU and this festival was created to benefit FIU and hopefully you will be one of the beneficiaries of the 13 years of work that the festival has created. And if you need anything from us just let us know. I brought a copy of my book for you.” DiSpirito then signed his newest best seller “The Pound A Day Diet.”

“Congrats! It was so nice to meet you and best of luck in all your future endeavors.”

For a kid who seemingly never got a break in her young life, she finally got a day full of them.

Following big hugs, Gillen said goodbye with the cheer “to the next chapter!”

Schrager’s words and encouragement echoed. “I hope you are going to come visit us and I will show you around FIU. Remember, you can do anything.”

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

SPA Most people go to the spa to soothe their bodies but now many spas want to help soothe their souls.

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hen Dr. Josefina Miranda is done with her day of healing she heads to the spa for some healing of her own.

“I usually feel more focused,” said Miranda.

Miranda doesn’t just go to the spa to pamper her body, she also goes to enrich her mind and renew her spirit.

“I have more clarity,” said Miranda.

It’s a growing trend that has many people seeking spirituality at the spa instead of houses of worship and it has prompted spas to offer new services to meet those needs, according to the International Spa Association.

The treatments are known as “mindful services” and include special massages which are said to align the body’s energies along with hot oil treatments that help the body and mind integrate.

“They’re really taking away with them a new perspective,” said Dr. Sheila Patel, Medical Directorof the Chopra Center. “They have an opportunity to self reflect.”

Harvard Theology professor Mayra Rivera said that the trend may be a result of a growing number of people who consider

themselves spiritual but not religious.

“For people who are no longer part of religious communities, it is not surprising that there is a need for places where they can find those spaces, those times for a different type of attentiveness,” said Rivera.

However Rabbi Dennis Math said that spirituality is about more than just connecting with yourself and feeling good.

“It’s religious to take care of one’s self and spas can contribute but we have to find that balance of taking care of ourselves and taking care of others as well,” said Math.

He said with spirituality comes a responsibility to other people.

“Synagogues and churches don’t exist just for themselves.

Synagogues and churches have soup kitchens, addiction centers, they do very good work. Spas don’t do those things,” said Math.

“Spas can make you feel good and you have to feel good to help others but I think spirituality comes from contributing.”

A recent Pew Research survey found that 46-million Americans are unaffiliated with an organized religion.

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Breakthrough Hepatitis Drug

Out Of Reach For Most

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Doctors are calling a newly-approved drug a “ revolution” in treating the most common bloodborne infection in the United States. But patient advocates warn how those who need it may not be able to afford it. Sovaldi is a breakthrough drug used in the treatment for hepatitis C. The medication was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in December 2013.

The wholesale price for the recommended once-a-day, 12 week treatment is $84,000.

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hat works out to be $1,000 a pill.

“The thought of dropping one on the floor and not being able to find it, you know, is very scary,” said Dr. Diane Sylvestre.

Health experts call Sovaldi a game-changer.

Most of the people who take this treatment can expect to be cured, said Sylvestre.

In a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the drug produced a sustained virologic response, or cure, in 90% of patients infected with genotype 1, the most common and difficult to treat strain of the liver-destroying virus that causes hepatitis C. Bill Remak was infected with hepatitis C as a child and is thrilled to hear about the approval of the new drug.

“I’ve had two liver transplants and I still have the virus and this offers me the possibility to actually be free of this illness,” said Remak.

By many accounts from the experts, the benefits of Sovaldi are remarkable. When compared to conventional treatment, Sovaldi cuts treatment time in half, has fewer side effects and in some cases eliminates the need to inject interferon, a drug with debilitating side effects.

Even though Sovaldi is made by California based Gilead Sciences, Americans are likely to pay the highest price for the medication.

Prices in Europe will be lower: the cost for treatment in the United Kingdom is about $57,000; in Germany, the wholesale price is $66,000.

In India, while not yet finalized, the prices are expected to be tiered; $2,000 is being considered for 24 weeks of therapy for Genotype 3 for public hospitals, community clinics and NGOs.

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T

he price differences and the wholesale price in the U.S. are upsetting to patient advocates.

“The price is staggering,” said pharmacist Steve Bacon.

“Who can really afford to pay for this and will the insurance companies put it on their formularies,” said pharmacist Fred Mayer, president of the Pharmacists Planning Service, Inc. As many Americans are now painfully aware, many insurers now require patients to shoulder higher costs for specialty drugs.

Sovaldi is a specialty drug, and that could mean big out-of-pocket expenses and co-payments.

Patients may also be forced to try less optimal treatments first, according to Professor David Magnus, Director of the Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics.

“That’s very frustrating for patients: they’ve got insurance.

They’ve got a network that’s agreed to carry the insurance. They have a disease and it’s clear what’s the best treatment, but they might not get it thanks to the exorbitant cost,” said Magnus.

“Very glad my insurance picked it up – man!,” said Tom Espinosa.

For Espinosa, Sovaldi may be his last chance. His liver disease is advanced and currently very active. Dr. Sylvestre, who is Espinosa’s doctor, said she had to jump through hoops and file mounds of paperwork just to get him the drug.

Because the medicine is so expensive, at this point she’ll only prescribe it to patients like Espinosa who have advanced liver disease. If it were cheaper, she said she would absolutely prescribe it to every one of her Hepatitis C patients.

“It’s appalling in many ways, but the cost of many medications is appalling.” said Sylvestre.

With a free market economy, that won’t change anytime soon – no matter how loud the protest.

Baby boomers – Americans born between 1945 and 1965 – are five times as likely to be infected with the virus. Why this is is not completely understood, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many could have gotten infected from contaminated blood and blood products before the widespread screening of the blood supply which began in 1992, the CDC said.

All baby boomers are urged by the CDC to get screened for the hepatitis C virus at least once in their life. Many could be infected and not even know it.

As for specialty drugs, a new report from Express Scripts is sobering: while currently used by 1% of Americans, they account for 25% of all prescription drug costs in the U.S. Experts predict that will soar to 50% in just 5 years.

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

“The price is staggering, who can really afford to pay for this and will the insurance companies put it on their formularies”

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Taste Of The Town Explores The Flavors Of

By Lisa Petrillo

Set on the edge of the Miami River bank, Seasalt and Pepper is Miami’s newest hot spot for the in-crowd looking for a delectable bite.

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t’s a seafood brasserie offering seating for 200 in a postindustrial warehouse space outfitted with incredible style and artwork. Glass garage doors separate the inside from the outside. Co-owner Stephane Dupoux is no stranger to South Florida, in fact, he’s the man behind many past trendy spaces in town.

“I created Nikki Beach, Opium Pearl, Touch, The Living Room and The Strand,” Dupoux said.

But nothing quite looks like this sexy spot.

Sophisticated touches are everywhere and diners need to just glance outside for a moving experience daily.

“One of unique features of the Miami River is it is a working river, and you can see these big old fashioned tankers go by. It’s unique to anywhere in the world,” said Dupoux.

The design of this elegant eatery is what first attracts the

eye, but it’s the food and creative cocktails that has had loyal customers coming back since its opening in late December.

“The concept is based on seafood dishes I have discovered from my traveling around the world,” Dupoux told CBS4’s Lisa Petrillo.

Those seaworthy recipes work to satisfy the palate as Petrillo found out with a taste of the grilled octopus appetizer called La Plancha.

“It’s crunchy and seasoned to perfection,” explained Petrillo.

So is the Meli Melo tartar with tuna salmon, crabmeat, scallops and avocado ice cream.

“The fish and crab is so fresh, it’s super cold and delicious,” said Petrillo.

For more information, visit the restaurant’s website at www.seasaltandpepper.com.

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April 2014

Calendar

of

Events

Miami-Dade & Broward

Spring Garden Festival and Plant Sale

Marking the Millennium: 21st Century Miami Architecture

April 12 – 13, 2014 - 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Fairchild

Through May 25, 2014 Coral Gables Museum, 285 Aragon Avenue

Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road Join in celebrating spring with local foods and the gardens they grow in. Browse vegetables, herbs and handmade products from local vendors; take a stroll through the Edible Garden; sample flavors at the Spring Beer Garden; sit in on lectures about butterflies, and take home some of the thousands of plants on sale from Fairchild’s nursery and local plant vendors. And, since butterflies are important pollinators, expect many cooking demos featuring honey.

Admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, $12 for children 6-17, and free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under.

In Miami, the turn of the millennium was marked by a construction boom like none before it. The tower cranes that filled the skyline spelled out a message that was at once promising and disturbing – growth and change, whether for better or worse. This original exhibition features architectural photography, plans, models and videos representing a selection of post-2000 Greater Miami buildings. Curated by architecture critic and author Beth Dunlop. For more information, call 305-603-8067.

Eggstravaganza Saturday, April 12th, 2014 our biggest festival of the year is here! Eggstravaganza (sponsored by Williamson Automotive). Bring the whole family for a day of egg hunts, interactive games, arts and crafts, strolling characters, wildlife shows, story time, magic shows, face painting, balloon art and more!. Tickets are $5, and advance tickets can be purchased at 305-669-6990.

Mobile Driver License Services April 14, 2014 - 10:30 AM – 3 PM, Coral Gables Branch Library, 3443 Segovia Street Every second Monday of the month, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles offers driver license services at the Coral Gables Branch Library. Residents and employees can renew, replace or change a name or address on a driver license, get an identification card and order specialty license plates.

Customers can also renew vehicle tags and get a vehicle plate when a replacement is needed.

Driving or written tests will not be available at this location.

No appointments.

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An Evening Under The Moon

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL

April 15, 2014 - 5-10pm 2000 N Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 954-556-7667 Admission: $75 per person

Sunday, April 27, 2014 - 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

In a series of monthly events, OCEAN2000 will offer a truly dynamic dining experience under the illumination of a natural full moon. Just imagine sitting on our sweeping veranda, dining al fresco with an unobstructed view of a natural full moon reflecting off the Atlantic Ocean. One of the most romantic dining experiences one does not want to miss! Highlights of the evening include: • Culinary selections from a pre-fix menu created by Executive Chef, Todd Lough. • Premier oceanfront verandah seating. • Oversized telescopes positioned for viewing of the moon. • Table visits from Bea Kobran, astrologer, spiritual healer and intuitive readings. For reservations call 954-5567667. Inside seating is also available for guests wishing to dine from the a la carte menu.

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Pinecrest Gardens is going green at our annual Earth Day Festival. Celebrate the beauty of our planet, with eco-friendly activities for the family. It is a full fun-filled day of entertainment on stage in our outdoor amphitheater, informative workshops and demonstrations on a variety of relevant ecological topics, interactive and environmental educational opportunities, garden tours, delicious food, music, yoga, massages, and so much more! Don’t miss this festival for the whole family in the lush surroundings of South Florida’s most beautiful botanical garden.

Parking is free for all attendents!

Overflow parking access will also be available with the Pinecrest People Mover making continous stops for pick-up and drop-off from 10:00 a.m.

- 7:30 p.m. to Pinecrest Gardens from the following locations: Pinecrest Elementary (10250 Red Road) Palmetto Middle School (7351 SW 128th Street) Miami Palmetto Senior High School (7460 SW 118th Street)

Chocolate Activities For Children ongoing - recurring daily - 3pm schakolad chocolate factory 7740 Nova Dr., Davie, FL 33324 954-472-6155 Admission: $9.50 per child Schakolad Chocolate Factory in Davie is offering activities that are the perfect combination of education, interaction, and of course eating chocolate! The Chocolatiers at Schakolad will take children 6 to 15 years old on a 45 minute journey through the history and production of process of chocolate culminating in their own private tasting. Next, our chocolate connoisseurs will get hands-on with dipping and decorating flavored cake pops as well as writing with chocolate to design a custom chocolate business card. Plus, they will take it all home in a self-created goodie bag. The cost is only $9.50 per child with a minimum of 10 children required. For available dates and registration, visit www.schakolad.com/store20 or call 954-472-6155 at least in advance two days.

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eff Turgeau with the Clevelander explained, “The way we saw it as a better guest experience for our international guests. The impact has been very high. Throughout the course of three days we have generated an additional $100,000 in food and beverage and hotel room revenue.”

If you have never heard of Bitcoin, your not alone.

It’s fairly new and a bit complex. Bitcoin is digital money. Think of it like cash and an app, put together.

You can send Bitcoins to anyone through that app, a webpage, even print a Bitcoin code out and you can deposit it…with an app.

Florida International University economics professor explained it’s growing in popularity.

“Right now we probably have 10,000 venders all over the world who accept Bitcoin and we have 100,000 users.” And who says it’s worth something? “That community says it’s worth something.” Bustamante replied.

Bustamante showed us just what that community thinks it’s worth. $800 dollars.

No $950 dollars. No $624 dollars. As we watched a computer screen the price went up and down. “Within 10 seconds you just lost a dollar if you had one Bitcoin,” he said.

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

As it turns out, Bitcoin is more volatile than the stock market. Any given day Bustamante says the value can go up or down 20%. Remember this is digital money backed by, well, no one. ”Bitcoin exists because we believe it exists,” said CBS4’s David Sutta.

“Absolutely. It’s just like Santa,” Bustamante said.

Santa for 20 and 30 something’s perhaps– that’s the average age of a Bitcoin user.

Moe Levine, a Bitcoin entrepreneur, believes this is a revolution.

“I truly believe that in ten years teachers will show their students paper money as a history example of people used to spend money using paper,” he said. Levine is certainly a Bitcoin believer, using it for just about anything he does. He showed us the advantages of the system.

-First there are no banks involved. So no big bank fees for you or a business selling you goods and services.

-Second you can send money anywhere to anyone. No government can stop the transaction.

- And lastly there is no fraud. None of your personal information is attached. In fact it’s completely anonymous.

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nd millions of dollars are being moved in the system often with an app on their phone. The app, referred to as a digital wallet, is manufactured by a number of companies.

Nicolas Cary is the CEO of one of the more popular wallets called Blockchain.

“Think about how obsolete a lot of things have been in the past. We switched from having photos to go digital and then books went to digital. DVD’s went from VHS and things like that to digital. And now there is no reason to think that money wouldn’t do the same thing.” Cary said.

Buying Bitcoins is as simple a 30 second signup online. You can also sell Bitcoins for good ol’ American dollars just as fast.

If it sounds good to you, imagine what it sounds like to criminals? No banks. Complete anonymity. No regulation for anything. “It seems like it’s the next version of the Swiss Bank account,” Bustamante said with a smile.

“It really is.”

Money laundering. Offshore banking. Selling drugs or teddy bears.

“That’s the beauty of it. We don’t know who’s using it. We have no indication,” Bustamante said. The US Department of Justice has an indication. When they recently took down a secret site called Silk Road that sold just about any illegal drug or item you can imagine the site accepted millions of dollars in just one currency. Bitcoin. The federal agency that oversees financial crimes testified before Congress in November on the issue. The head of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, Jennifer Shasky Calvery, said “We know that it has been exploited by some pretty serious criminal organizations.” Congress is now beginning to look at how to regulate digital currency including Bitcoin.

And here in South Florida, where fraud and scams are often invented, the first arrests ever over Bitcoins took place this month.

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ndercover agents say they approached Michel Espinoza and Pascal Reid to convert large amounts of cash into Bitcoins. They said they took the bait for a fee, despite being told the cash came from stolen credit card numbers. It’s classic money laundering–with a high-tech spin.

Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez-Rundle told CBS4, “I had not ever seen anything like this.” Fernandez Rundle is the first State Attorney in the country to go after illegal Bitcoin users.

“I would imagine this is something that is happening all over the country. I think we are going to be much more watchful of it. Much more mindful of it,” she said.

“It’s just a matter of time before regulation comes into place,” Bustamante contends. With the potential for funding terrorism the completely anonymous feature of the currency may disappear.

FIU Economics professors have begun to discuss Bitcoins in their classes. The digital currency is chock-full of lessons–including the possibility of it soon being regulated.

“If there is any kind of small doubt on the future of Bitcoin, what does it do to it’s value in the future?” he asked his class. A student responds “Decrease it” and the professor agrees. “It’s going to decrease.”

In Bustamante’s economics class not a single student owned Bitcoin–but they have thought about it.

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

ach Leatherman didn’t hesitate when asked if he would buy it. “If I had the money definitely,” he said. Other students were not as sure given the volatility of the currency. You could equate Bitcoin to the beginning of the internet. It could be AOL–a big flop.

Or the next Google. Levine, the Bitcoin entrepreneur, contends “It’s Paypal. Five years ago nobody could understand, or fathom you have your bank account online. That’s it. Bitcoin is Paypal, but without the fees.” Are these smart people or fools that are doing this? “I think they think they are very smart. And so far they have proven to be geniuses in terms of the increase in value of their investment,” said Bustamante. In the end it may be all about timing.

Bustamante says he bought $100 dollars’ worth of Bitcoin in 2010. Over a year it grew just 2 percent and he got out. If he had held out one more year, he would have had more than $600,000. Oops. That said – he’s not getting back in. In fact he tells his mom to stay away because while you could win big, this bubble is likely going to burst.

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A warning if you shop online and have a habit of returning items, you may be in for a surprise.

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More retailers are starting to take notice and some are even punishing repeat offenders.

Many retailers are starting to charge fees on all sorts of merchandise to help offset the cost of returns, which is estimated to be nearly $400 billion in losses each year.

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ike many people, Magda Walczak does a lot of online shopping. And like many people, she also makes a lot of returns.

“About half the things that I actually buy, I end up returning,” Walczak said.

Sometimes Magda returns her online orders at the actual store but lately, she’s run into some trouble.

“Several times the person at the cash register would tell me, ‘You know you don’t have to buy online, you can just come to the store and you can try everything on.’”

Those reminders are just one new tactic some retailers are using to cut down on returns. Some experts also say the next time she makes a return, it could cost her more.

“The days of using your living room as a fitting room are yes, going to be coming to a close,” retail expert Carol Spieckerman said. ”For retailers, returns are an absolute nightmare.”

Some retailers are also hiring outside firms to help keep tabs on customers’ returns.

AgilOne is a company that keeps tabs on 525 million consumers. They flag one-percent of “return-a-holics”, which means they send back

a lot more than they keep.

“We look at returns in relation to the profitability of a customer. So for example, if you return 50 items, that can be really terrible if you only keep one. But of course if you return 50 items and end up buying 200, that’s fantastic,” explained Dominique Levin, of

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AgilOne. ompanies use this date to curb chronic returning.

Some companies won’t send coupons if you’re a frequent returner. Others will only e-mail promotions for certain products.

In addition to charging restocking fees, stores may also start revoking free shipping.

Promotions and coupons may also be a thing of the past for customers who frequently return merchandise.

“Most stores really would rather have you continue to do business with them rather than their competitors. However, what we do see is stores starting to find ways to perhaps spend less money on you or find ways to have you return less,” said Levin.

The good news? You can improve your status with a store by starting to keep more items than you return because customer profiles are refreshed frequently.

Magda said her bottom line is that if an item she orders doesn’t fit or she doesn’t like it, she needs to do what’s right for her.

“I’ll be mindful of taking advantage of the offers that I receive, but I don’t think it’s going to make me shop any less or return any less.”

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

“Most stores really would rather have you continue to do business with them rather than their competitors. However, what we do see is stores starting to find ways to perhaps spend less money on you or find ways to have you return less,”

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Protect Your Children’s Financial Future Now, With A

The Greatest Gift Ever

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By Eliott Rodriguez

Parents do a lot for their kids but do you know how to make your teen a millionaire?

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ichard Tiberius is an artist who lives in Coconut Grove.

The retired University of Miami professor works in his small studio with his daughter Kiry, who’s following in her father’s footsteps. While Kiry is 25-years-old and embarks on her own career as an artist, Dad still worries about his little girl.

“A parent is always protective of their offspring,” said Tiberius. “I think there should be a turning point where they take care of you, but that hasn’t happened to me yet.”

With Dad’s help, Kiry is funding a Roth IRA, an individual retirement account aimed at middle income taxpayers. Financial advisor Charles Sachs recommended it.

“A Roth IRA is a fantastic idea,” said Sachs.

“It’s one of the greatest gifts out there. It’s such a great deal. It’s limited and the government says you can only put up to $5,500 a year into it.”

Here’s why Kiry’s Roth IRA is so valuable: At age 25, if she or her dad puts in 55-hundred dollars a year, and the stock market goes up 7-percent a year, her initial investment will grow to $1.98 million by the time she’s 65.

Open the Roth IRA for a working child at age 16, with the same stock market growth, the account skyrockets to $3.2 million by retirement age. And all the money is tax free.

“It’s a relief because I’m interested in things like painting and teaching yoga and these things are not financially secure,” said Kiry.

Financial security during retirement came up during the State of the Union address when President Obama announced a new type of retirement account called myRA. These retirement accounts would be targeted to low wage earners who do not have access to employer-based retirement plans. A myRA could be opened with as little as $25 and contributions could be as low as $5.

“I call it a Roth IRA on training wheels,” said Sachs. “Eventually taxpayers with a myRA will want to convert it to a Roth IRA.” The new retirement accounts proposed by the White House and the Roth IRA funded by Kiry and her dad are aimed at helping people like Kiry paint a prettier picture of retirement.

“It’s nice to have an insurance policy to feel like I’m going to be okay,” said Kiry.

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

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Real Estate Sponsored By

Listings in this section are based on properties sold in previous months and retrieved from zillow.com. Not all properties sold are listed.

Not responsible for typographical errors and/or omissions. Photographs are for illustration purposes only.

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Content provided by www.Zillow.com

Why Do Short Sales Take So Long?

When buyers hear the term “short sale,” they typically think about distressed sellers and good deals — especially in markets where prices have ticked upwards. But the word “sale” can be misleading. In fact, many real estate agents have renamed “short sales” as “long-and-drawn-out sales.”

Here’s why short sales often take a long time to complete.

Banks and Bureaucracy

Paperwork Gets Lost in the Process

In a short sale, you need the seller’s bank to approve before you can close. Banks require dozens of pages of paperwork to evaluate whether or not to approve a short sale. Since the seller is asking the bank to accept a sale price that’s less than the mortgage amount, the bank needs to verify that a short sale is the right thing to do. Banks want to make sure the seller is indeed unable to stay in the home and can’t afford to pay off the difference between the market value and the bank’s loan amount.

Just as a bank scrutinizes a buyer’s finances in order to approve their loan, the financial institution wants to closely examine the seller’s finances to be sure that it is not giving its money away. With many thousands of dollars at stake, banks don’t want to rush through this process. By comparison, when you’re buying from a person, he or she is more motivated to keep things moving.

Banks require many documents, disclosures and signatures to complete a short sale. Many times they request that they are faxed in. If just one signature or page is missing from a file, the bank will likely hold off on the process until the file is complete. Given that these banks are losing money on short sales, they don’t allocate the same amount of resources they would to the customer service department for paying (and profitable) customers. With limited staff and so much paperwork, things get lost — and then the short sale process drags on.

Two Lenders = Double the Time Many times a short sale seller has two loans.

The larger loan is being shorted while the second, smaller loan — usually a home equity line of credit — is being completely wiped out.

Often, these loans are with two separate banks.

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Each bank has its own system that doesn’t in any way communicate with the other bank’s system. The second bank may approve the short sale but put on a 30-day expiration. If the first bank’s approval comes at day 31, the seller must go back to the second bank and start over. As you can see, this too can drag out the short sale.

How to Expedite a Short Sale: Is it possible to work the system and speed up short sales?

Absolutely.

If you’re selling a home as a short sale, don’t use an agent who doesn’t not have short sale experience. There are so many areas where short sales can get tripped up, so look for an experienced agent who knows how to push through the process.

If you’re a buyer and you found a short sale home you love, determine if the agent is an expert in short sales. If the agent doesn’t have much (or any) short sale experience, expect a long, rocky road.

Short sales are a different animal from traditional home sales — from how they’re priced, how they’re marketed and the lengthy sales timeframe. A savvy short sale agent will know exactly what they’re dealing with and what to expect, and can shorten the process immensely.

This article has been provided by Zillow.com

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

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Real Estate

Sold Properties Miami Dade County

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218 NW 92nd St, Miami Shores, FL 33150 2 Beds / 1 Bath | 1,088 sq. ft. | 9,365 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1940 Sold: 3/7/2014 | $188,000

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1990 NE 197th Ter, North Miami Beach, FL 33179 5 Beds / 4 Bath | 2,491 sq. ft. | 9,089 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1960 Sold: 3/3/2014 | $490,400

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4217 Anne Ct, Miami, FL 33133 4 Beds / 3 Bath | 1,851 sq. ft. | 6,037 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1950 Sold: 3/3/2014 | $775,000

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8735 SW 113th Ct, Miami, FL 33173 3 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 1,825 sq. ft. | 3,600 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1981 Sold: 3/10/2014 | $295,000

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1036 NE 95th St, Miami Shores, FL 33138 2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,926 sq. ft. | 8,928 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1940 Sold: 3/10/2014 | $587,000

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4070 Hardie Ave, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 4 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,615 sq. ft. | 6,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1945 Sold: 3/5/2014 | $850,000

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19667 Turnberry Way, Apt 8D, Miami, FL 33180 2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,887 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1980 Sold: 3/6/2014 | $390,000

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10111 SW 142nd St, Miami, FL 33176 5 Beds / 4 Bath | 4,592 sq. ft. | 0.4 acre Lot | Built in: 1985 Sold: 3/5/2014 | $680,000

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3564 W Fairview St, # B3, Miami, FL 33133 2 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 1,850 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1980 Sold: 3/11/2014 | $915,000

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Sold Properties Broward County

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3612 Bahama Dr, Miramar, FL 33023 3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,926 sq. ft. | 5,993 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1970 Sold: 3/4/2014 | $192,000

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10600 SW 51st St, Davie, FL 33328 4 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,300 sq. ft. | 1 acre Lot | Built in: 1998 Sold: 3/7/2014 | $486,200

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1160 Manor Ct, Weston, FL 33326 5 Beds / 3 Bath | 4,076 sq. ft. | 0.46 acre Lot | Built in: 1990 Sold: 3/11/2014 | $715,000

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3281 Lake Shore Dr, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,950 sq. ft. | 2,373 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1986 Sold: 3/7/2014 | $290,000

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2999 Coral Shores Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,589 sq. ft. | 7,172 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1960 Sold: 3/4/2014 | $560,000

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11099 Canary Island Ct, Plantation, FL 33324 4 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,218 sq. ft. | 0.42 acre Lot | Built in: 2001 Sold: 2/28/2014 | $800,000

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3927 NW 82nd Way, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024 4 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 2,405 sq. ft. | 4,478 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2011 Sold: 3/12/2014 | $395,000

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4642 Saxon Rd, Coconut Creek, FL 33073 4 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 4,207 sq. ft. | 0.28 acre Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 2/25/2014 | $675,000

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14560 Jockey Cir S, Davie, FL 33330 5 Beds / 5 Bath | 6,596 sq. ft. | 0.81 acre Lot | Built in: 2011 Sold: 2/26/2014 | $970,000

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Real Estate

Lu x u ry P ropert i e s

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7292 Fisher Island Dr, # 7292, Miami Beach, FL 33109 4 Beds / 3 Bath | 6,170 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1992 Sold: 3/3/2014 | $13,500,000

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6975 Sunrise Ter, Coral Gables, FL 33133 4 Beds / 5 Bath | 4,484 sq. ft. | 0.61 acre Lot | Built in: 1970 Sold: 2/27/2014 | $5,000,000

Miami Dade County

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17121 Collins Ave, Apt 4601, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160 5 Beds / 7.5 Bath | 6,518 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2009 Sold: 2/19/2014 | $7,070,000

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6945 Granada Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33146 7 Beds / 9 Bath | 7,411 sq. ft. | 1.31 acre Lot | Built in: 1952 Sold: 2/26/2014 | $4,500,000

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535 Ocean Blvd, Golden Beach, FL 33160 4 Beds / 5.5 Bath | 5,662 sq. ft. | 0.53 acre Lot | Built in: 1994 Sold: 2/24/2014 | $6,500,000

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5545 Arbor Ln, Coral Gables, FL 33156 6 Beds / 7 Bath | 10,176 sq. ft. | 1.18 acre Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 3/3/2014 | $4,994,500

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Lu x u ry P ropert i e s

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9106 NW 66th Ln, Parkland, FL 33067 7 Beds / 8.5 Bath | 14,00 sq. ft. | 2 acre Lot | Built in: 2009 Sold: 3/3/2014 | $11,050,000

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24 Seneca Rd, Sea Ranch Lakes, FL 33308 5 Beds / 5.5 Bath | 5,716 sq. ft. | 0.77 acre Lot | Built in: 1995 Sold: 3/12/2014 | $3,735,000

Broward County

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1115 Hillsboro Mile, Hillsboro Beach, FL 33062 3 Beds / 2 Bath | 3,141 sq. ft. | 0.98 acre Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 3/11/2014 | $4,400,000

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3131 NE 27th Ave, Lighthouse Point, FL 33064 5 Beds / 7.5 Bath | 7,258 sq. ft. | 0.27 acre Lot | Built in: 2005 Sold: 2/25/2014 | $3,600,000

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3121 NE 27th Ave, Lighthouse Point, FL 33064 7 Beds / 7.5 Bath | 8,786 sq. ft. | 7,405 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2005 Sold: 3/13/2014 | $3,819,000

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101 S Ft. Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Apt 1501, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 3 Beds / 4 Bath | 2,976 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 3/3/2014 | $2,350,000

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Have You Thanked Your HOA Board Member Lately?

While many owners in Common Interest Development (HOA) communities have unflattering opinions about the board members who govern their neighborhoods, the truth is, they’re generally working to protect your home and investment. Let’s walk through what HOA board members do for the community to get a better idea about the important role they fill. What does the board do?

In most cases, HOA board members are owners who are elected by the other unit owners from within the community. The board’s job is to interpret and enforce the rules as dictated by the community’s bylaws and covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs). Every owner who buys into an HOA-governed community is given a copy of those bylaws and CC&Rs to review.

Even if you don’t take the time to glance through those HOA documents, as a buyer you agree to live within the rules and regulations of the community.

The board hires the management company for the community, approves vendors and payments, penalizes property owners who violate the rules, approves the annual budget, makes legal decisions when necessary, and handles every other function that a governing body needs to do on behalf of the people they are governing – subject to the bylaws and CC&Rs. Boards follow those rules closely because if they allow an exception here or there, it’s likely to create conflicts with other owners who expect the rules to be followed.

Most boards do a good job handling functions that individual unit owners are simply relieved they don’t have to deal with. And contrary to news reports bashing HOA boards, board members typically are unpaid, and they’re rarely stealing money or imposing draconian rules. When those horror stories surface, it’s generally because one or two owners choose to publicly air a grievance, rather than working through the community to make positive changes for everyone.

Unhappy with the board’s work?

My advice for folks who don’t like what their HOA board is doing is to quit whining! Note: I am not a board member in any community, but I attend HOA meetings and see many unreasonable complaints – and for full disclosure, I see some valid ones too.

One of the most important rules in every single HOA is that if the members of the community do not like the decisions of the board, they can vote the board members out. If you don’t like the rules of the community – as enforced by the BOD – talk to your neighbors, campaign in the community, and get yourself elected to the board so you can interpret and enforce the rules.

Most people who object to what’s happening won’t do anything to help the board. They just want to keep complaining. But if you aren’t going to spend your time and effort to help better govern the community, then don’t criticize the folks who are doing it.

The majority of the time, community members should be saying thank you to board members for spending their time doing a thankless job, trying to protect every community member’s biggest asset. I’ve seen HOA board members in a few communities get so fed up with dealing with complaining constituents that they just give up and quit. Then the task of managing and operating the community – paying bills, making decisions and enforcing rules – is not done by anyone for months. Take my word for it, you don’t want to live in one of those communities!

This article has been provided by Zillow.com

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Plan Your Next Trip Using

Social Media

By Lisa Petrillo

Looking for a travel deal for the Spring or Summer?

If so, you may want to check out Twitter and Facebook. Hotels, airlines and cruise lines are turning up the volume on social media channels to help consumers plan, organize and even book their trips.

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hen frequent traveler Christine Kirk books a trip, she typically heads to Twitter looking for recommendations to great spas and restaurants near her hotel.

“It’s just a really convenient way for me to communicate with the hotel,” explained Kirk.

In fact more and more hotels, airlines and cruise lines are using social media to make sure your stay is a good one.

Loews hotels recently launched social reservations where people on Twitter can book rooms during a secure chat conversation with an agent.

Big brands are responding to travelers on a one-on-one level on everything from Facebook to Instagram. They’re following your tags and the money.

According to Rich Beattie of Travel and Leisure, “One study showed that customers who engage with companies on social media spend 20-40% more than customers who don’t.

So, travel companies realize there’s a huge upside now to engaging with customers on a very direct one to one level.”

Carrie Mitchell is the Public Relations Director for a Four

Seasons property. She said their popular Pin-Pack-Go program on Pinterest has proven results.

According to Mitchell, “It works as a collaborative exchange between property and guest, so before they’re coming they create their own boards with the destination they would like to go to so it really helps us with customization.”

At some hotels, you may even find a digital concierge to help customize your stay, or get rewards if you check-in using Foursquare. That’s something to look into as well.

So is there a downside? Beattie said consumers give up some of their privacy in exchange for the tips.

“But that’s what social media is, is sharing. And, if you don’t want to share anything, you shouldn’t share it,” said Beattie.

Meantime, he believes the benefits to travelers are only going to get better.

“Where travelers are on the ground, the opportunity to reach them at that time with specific offers in destination, I think is going to be the next big thing in social media,” said Beattie.

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Some South Florida Cities Take

Red Light Runners For A Ride

By David Sutta

Whether you are in favor of them or not, more and more red light cameras are going up in South Florida. For cities, the state and even the camera manufactures, the record number of cameras has turned into record profits. South Florida’s cameras are the most lucrative in the state. In a CBS4 investigation we learned some drivers are being taken for a ride.

This is not a story about whether red light cameras make our roads safer.

There are studies that argue both sides of that argument.What this story is about is fairness. If two separate drivers make a right turn at a red light, without stopping, a red light camera will catch them.

Here is the unfair part. One driver will get a $158 ticket that could eventually go up to $400.

The other will get nothing.

We wanted to know why.

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CBS4

attended various hearings across South Florida. Driver after driver seemed confused at the hearings. A tape plays in a corner of the room. Each clip showing a driver going through a red light.

One video shows a driver slowly turning right. The driver scratches their head and asks “What exactly is the violation I’m here for?”

A father and son watch the video and begin arguing.

“Let me talk I was driving,” the son yells.

Another woman, who is an attorney, questions that she broke the law.

“I just find that hard to believe.”

They leave the courtroom feeling they have been taken for a ride – all have lost their red light camera hearings.

“The ticket is for $158?” one asks as the magistrate.

No. Since she lost she has to pay an administrative fee.

“The ticket will be for $208.” the clerk informs her.

The attorney who lost her case is angry.

“The deck is definitely stacked against the violators,” said Merna Lucho.

When you think of red light camera violations you probably think of the buffoons blowing through lights, jeopardizing us on the road.

You most probably don’t think of people like Edwin Garcia. In October he turned right at a red light, doing 1 or 2 miles an hour. Garcia, a retired police officer, tried to explain to the hearing officer “I cautiously inched out to see if there were any pedestrians trying to cross.”

Because he didn’t come to a complete stop the red light camera targeted him for a ticket. Then the City of Homestead charged him $125 to contest it.

The hearing officer told Garcia “You have to come to a complete stop.” And with that his case was lost. Homestead charges $125 for their administrative court fee; it can go as high as $250. Garcia’s $158 ticket for crawling through a light is now $283.

More than if he was speeding through a school zone.

Outside the hearing room Garcia shrugged “What defense are you going to put in? They work for the city. They want revenue. It’s a way to collect revenue from the poor people.”

That sentiment was echoed at red light camera hearings across South Florida.

“Some court,” one man yelled as he walked out

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

with his $208 ticket.

Your chances of beating the ticket are extremely slim. After his hearing Juan Garcia questioned “I don’t even know if this is legal.”

If these people were upset losing, they’d be furious about Miami Springs.

“If the vehicle is traveling less than 15 miles

“They want revenue.

It’s a way to collect revenue from the poor people. That sentiment was echoed at red light camera hearings across South Florida.”

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“How can one city ticket you $158 bucks and another not for the same exact right turn? It has to do with three words in the law; careful and prudent.”

per hour and does not violate anyone’s right of or vehicles, it’s rejected,” said Miami Springs police Sergeant Jimmy Deal.

That’s right. Miami Springs won’t ticket a driver turning on red light without stopping as long as they adhere to Florida law which requires them to do it carefully and prudently.

When asked how many right on red tickets he had thrown out Deal replied “Hundreds, thousands easily. All because they didn’t fit our standard.”

Five days a week, Deal sits in front of a computer and reviews thousands of so-called violations.

“This is a rejection,” he said after carefully reviewing an alleged violation.

The screen refreshes with the next violation. “Careful and prudent,” he said as hit the reject button again.

Another video pops up with a driver crawling right through a red light. It would definitely be a ticket in

Homestead, Aventura, North Miami, West Miami and a host of other cities.

“Not here,” said Deal who pointed out that as long as there was not a person or car impacted by the turn, the ticket gets trashed.

And there are other cities in South Florida who do that same thing.

So what gives? This is a state law.

How can one city ticket you $158 bucks and another not for the same exact right turn? It has to do with three words in the law; careful and prudent.

“The statute says reasonable and prudent is that you have to stop at the stop bar, before the stop bar, or after the stop bar. You must come to a complete stop,” said Aventura Police Major William Washa.

In Miami Springs making the turn at under 15 mph and not impacting another driver or pedestrian falls under the definition of “careful and prudent.”

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“E

ach municipality, city is going to have their interpretation,” said Deal.

Last year legislators added text saying no one could be ticketed at a red light as long as they came to a complete stop at some point. Many cities took the language and ran with it. The impact is a record windfall of cash – red light revenue is up 215%.

“No the legislature never intended that. And that’s why they didn’t say you have to come to a complete stop. They had said you had to make a careful and prudent turn,” said state Senator Jeff Brandes.

He would know. Brandes wrote the law.

He believes the cities were looking for a way to make money.

“The cameras were sold as a safety device but ultimately they have become a backdoor tax increase.” he said.

It may be. Since the quote “misinterpretation” cities have had a record windfall of cash.

Brandes, along with Miami Representative Frank Artiles, is pushing legislation to either eliminate the cameras or slash the ticket prices and record profits. Artiles feels something has to change.

“This is a revenue generator. Make no mistake about it. And if this is about safety then they would support my bill,” said Artiles.

Brandes agreed.

“Those funds should go toward safety programs. Toward intersection safety, pedestrian safety, bicyclist safety. It should all be about safety. It shouldn’t be about revenue,” said Brandes.

If you have found this story interesting thus far, here is something fascinating.

When you get a red light camera ticket you have a choice. You can challenge your ticket at City

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Hall and more often than not lose. Or you can take it to your county’s traffic court where the outcome could be dramatically different.

In the county court the interpretation of the law is as Brandes intended.

Careful and prudent – not you must always stop. For two days CBS4 News watched as hundreds of cases were dismissed.

In fact a Miami-Dade judge reviewed the very same camera in Homestead that resulted in $283 tickets for many drivers. It was the same intersection and same rolling stop. The only difference was that it was a hearing put on by the county instead of the City of Homestead. In most cases, the judge dismissed them. As long as no one was impacted by the turn the judge ruled within seconds.

Johnny Hall was one of the lucky ones to get dismissed. In Homestead he would have lost and paid $283 dollars. At county court he was dismissed.

“I guess the city has their own laws and the county has their laws,” said Hall after his hearing.

When informed it was the same law in both courts, State of Florida law, Hall wondered “Then why would I have lost in the City of Homestead and here it was dismissed?”

It’s a good question and one that frustrates the thousands of drivers like Garcia who have and continue to pay millions in right on red ticket fines.

“I don’t think they are fair,” Garcia sighed as he went to pay his ticket.

Next week the legislative session will begin in Tallahassee. Both legislators plan to move forward their reforms forward to fix the problem. Count on CBS4 to follow the developments as they happen.

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The New

A Dream Come True

By Summer Knowles

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“A small piece of chocolate can control your appetite and may even help regulate metabolism”

E

ating chocolate to lose weight sounds like a dream come true for anyone trying to lose a few pounds.

But a diet calling for daily consumption of chocolate does actually exists and claims that its possible to indulge your sweet tooth and still lose weight.

It’s not hard to find people who love the idea.

“Oh I think that’s great,” a man said.

“Sounds like a great idea, sign me up,” a woman said.

Neuroscientist Dr. Will Clower said eating chocolate everyday can help you eat less.

“The amount that they’re hungry for at the plate will drop by a half to a third, and the amount that they’re hungry for, the number of between meal snacks that they have, will drop by about half,” said Clower.

But just like many other diets, there are rules.

The darker the chocolate the better. Those looking to lose weight want to look for at least 70 percent cocoa content or higher. In some stores you may even be able to find 100 percent cocoa.

According to Clower, when you indulge is also important. He suggests nibbling on a treat 20 minutes before and 5 minutes after both lunch and dinner.

Gastroenterologist Dr. Christine Frissora warned that any fad diet can be dangerous if you go overboard, but said that several studies have shown chocolate can be good for your health and help your waistline.

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

“We’re talking about less than a square inch; less than a quarter size piece of chocolate, four times a day, is enough. That’s all we’re talking about”

“A

small piece of chocolate can control your appetite and may even help regulate metabolism,” said Frissora.

Frissora said it’s fine to work chocolate into your daily diet, but no more than 60 calories of the sweet stuff per day.

She said the chocolate should be no larger than the end of your thumb joint.

“We’re talking about less than a square inch; less than a quarter size piece of chocolate, four times a day, is enough. That’s all we’re talking about,” said Frissora.

Frissora also suggested its best not to chew your chocolate, but rather savor it and allow it to melt in your mouth.

She said an even better alternative is to buy dark chocolate calcium supplements available at most drug stores. Frissora said to look for ones that contain vitamin D3.

“Vitamin D3 is the one people want to be taking for their bones, and calcium, you need for bones and for metabolism. Calcium also regulates body fat,” said Frissora.

Twins Adam and Daniel Kaplan said they still prefer the real deal.

“It’s satisfying to the stomach,” said Daniel.

“It’s delicious,” said Adam.

“Helps me concentrate,” said Daniel. “The only better news is if you could tell me ice cream is healthy.”

Frissora said chocolate can also lower your cholesterol and decrease your risk of stroke and heart attack but with the sugar content, diabetics should speak with their doctor first.

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DEALS WHILE YOU

DRIVE

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

By Brian Andrews

You get ads on your TV, the radio, internet and even your smartphone. But the next spot advertisers are targeting just might surprise you, the navigation screen of your car!

A

imee Brittain doesn’t mind sharing her GPS location with advertisers, and likes when coupons pop up on her phone when she’s near a store offering savings.

“It lets me know that, hey, they know I’m going by, they know they want me as a customer. I think it’s a great thing,” said Brittain.

And now new location-based technology can deliver similar promotions through the screen on the dashboard of a car.

“The car is the next frontier in terms of delivering content and advertising to consumers,” said Alistair Goodman with Placecast.

Placecast is one company that delivers ads while you drive.

It uses “Aha” which now comes pre-loaded in new models of Acura, Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Mazda and Subaru.

“In the case of this program, it’s an audio ad that is actually triggered based on your location. If you like the ad, you click the thumbs up and you get a reminder email sent with a coupon on your phone that you can then take into the store,” said Goodman.

Industry experts say we should buckle up for more of these targeted in-car promotions.

“There are a number of app developers that are working on a location based ads that would allow a consumer to opt into offers while they’re driving around and pass a participating location,” said Ron Montoya with Edmunds.com But Montoya says deal or no deal; this could be one more distraction that drivers just don’t need.

“I think for driving it creates too many distraction issues. When you receive an ad, you need to sort of process that information, think about it, see if you want to take it, and then press a button to confirm it so there’s a little bit more thinking involved,” said Montoya.

As for privacy, companies will have access to users movements, but you’ll have some control.

“Many of these are opt in. If you don’t feel comfortable with it you can just opt out of it and just not even deal with it,” said Montoya.

“We make very clear what data will be collected and we don’t resell that data to any other parties,” said Goodman.

Pandora recently announced they’re sending ads to screens in cars too. Right now, they’re not location-based, but plan to ultimately start sending targeted deals to drivers.

“Many of these are opt in. If you don’t feel comfortable with it you can just opt out of it and just not even deal with it”

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Top Volunteer Opportunities For

Animal Lovers In South Florida

South Florida has a vast array of animals that need to be cared for. Some are abused and abandoned while others provide a service to humans. That’s where you come in. As volunteer, you can donate your time and love to an animal in need, enriching their lives while changing your own.

Most volunteer opportunities take up a few hours of your time per week but the experience leaves an impression that lasts a lifetime.

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Miami-Dade County Animal Services

7401 N.W. 74th St. -Miami, FL 33166 (305) 884-1101 www.miamidade.gov/animals/adopt-a-pet.asp Miami-Dade County Animal Services is the natural choice for volunteering. It’s home to strays, lost dogs and cats and relies on volunteers that are 18 years old and up or 15 years old with parental consent for daily maintenance and care. Potential volunteers must submit to a background check, speak fluent English and attend orientation. Volunteers must also comply with the dress code and wear mandatory uniforms, which includes a supplied T-shirt, khaki pants and closed-toe shoes.

Positions include cat socializer, customer service greeters, bathers, pet detectives and more.

With so many options, how can an animal lover refuse?

Humane Society of Broward County

2070 Griffin Road - Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 (954) 989-3977 www.humanebroward.com The Humane Society is always a worthwhile organization to volunteer for no matter where you live. The Human Society of Broward County has a vast volunteer network spanning 500 members and including services like Animal Care and Animal Assisted Therapy where volunteers and their personal pets visit hospitals, nursing homes and hospices to cheer up the sick and dying. The volunteer process requires a six-month commitment, orientation attendance, a one-on-one interview and a $15 fee that includes T-shirt, security badge and background check. Adults 18 and up are welcome to participate and teens 14-17 are welcome with parental consent, however there is a one-year waiting list for teen volunteers. See website for a full list of volunteer opportunities.

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Pelican Harbor Seabird Station

Sawgrass Nature Center

3000 Sportsplex Drive - Coral Springs, FL 33065 (954) 752-9453 - www.sawgrassnaturecenter.org If you have a fondness for the local critters that populate South Florida’s landscape, then this is your opportunity to interact. The Sawgrass Nature Center cares for abandoned and at-risk local wildlife and pets so volunteers will not only have the opportunity to interact with dogs but also squirrels, raccoon and birds.

It’s a great opportunity to learn about the local wildlife and signing up is easy.

Simply provide $25 fee for a one-year membership and t-shirt and you’re on your way to helping the environment one animal at a time.

1279 N.E. 79th St. Causeway Miami, FL 33138 (305) 751-9840 - www.pelicanharbor.org South Florida’s close proximity to the sea means plenty of nautical and avian wildlife are at risk. The Pelican Harbor Seabird Station rehabilitates pelicans, primarily brown pelicans, and then releases them into their natural habitat.

Volunteer work with these wide wingspanned creatures is the stuff that Saturday morning wildlife shows are made of. To sign up, volunteers 16 and up must go to the website and fill out the application. A representative will contact you with volunteer opportunities and ask you to donate three hours per week of your time to help these animals along with other indigenous wildlife, like tortoises and more.

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Good Hope Equestrian Training Center

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

22155 S.W. 147th Ave. - Miami, FL 33170 (305) 258-2838 - www.ghetc.org The Good Hope Equestrian Training Center is open to volunteers 14 and up and provides a service to both horses and humans. This facility gives mentally and physically disabled children the opportunity to ride a horse while teaching the volunteer handlers to care for horse and rider. Everyone is welcome to volunteer, but several times during the year, the facility will take on abused and homeless teens to volunteer as part of their rehabilitation process. No experience with a horse is necessary but volunteers must submit an application including background and medical information and $25 application fee that pays for volunteer supplies and volunteer accident insurance coverage. It’s the perfect opportunity for those looking to enrich the lives of more than just a four-legged friend.

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South Florida Bars

With The Best

Arcade

Games

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Playing in arcade games creates a world filled with fighting, dance and racing games, pinball machines and consoles to name. It all revolves around bringing cash, getting tokens and enjoying the rides.

We have collected the best places in South Florida where you can go to get your game fix.

Foxhole 1218 14th Court - Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 534-3511 - www.foxholebar.com The industrial door surmounted by a red light in a back alley marks the entrance to the Foxhole, the best-kept secret in Miami Beach. The numerous flat-screens, a pool table, an upstairs lounge area decorated with a rack wall of vintage guns and marble all throughout are some of the elements that make it a modern speakeasy. Classic arcade games like Ms. Pac Man and Galaga are available for your playing pleasure. For an evening with friends spent in an alley bar, the Foxhole couldn’t be a better landing.

Blackbird Ordinary 729 S.W. 1st Ave. Miami, FL 33130 (305) 671-3307 - www.blackbirdordinary.com Don’t let the name fool you, the Blackbird Ordinary is anything but ordinary, offering fresh cocktails, live music (including such artists as Questlove) and of course, games. From jenga, to dominoes, to ping-pong tables, this place has a variety of gaming options to squash your boredom. With something for all party tastes, bring all your friends to the Blackbird Ordinary and party down.

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

Happy’s Stork Lounge

Tate’s Gaming Satellite

This is the classic dive bar in a not very preppy location, so bad boys and girls are to be expected as patrons. Decor is stuck to the hippie ’70s era with an old TV in the back and a pool bar and local and imported beers at modest prices.

Following this retro feel, the arcade games belong to the late ’70s and early ’80s. Ms. Pac Man is somewhere in everybody’s memory lane and Happy’s Stork Lounge has one fully functioning machine for this game. For anyone looking for the dive bar experience, this is the place not to miss.

Tate’s Gaming Satellite is a unique location dedicated exclusively to the South Florida gamers. Come, play and participate in tournaments where you also get access to the most updated selection of merchandize including food and beverages to make your visit pleasant and entertaining. Anything you need to know, the staff will tell you and more in this gaming heaven.

1872 79th St. Causeway - Miami Beach, FL 33141 (305) 865-3621 www.facebook.com/Happys-Stork-Lounge

9275 S.W. 40th St. - Miami, FL 33165 (305) 221-1221 www.birdbowl.com

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For Information Call: 305.477.1699

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Gameroom

The Oasis at Sawgrass Mills Mall 2608 Sawgrass Mills Circle - Sunrise, FL 33323 (954) 845-8740 - www.gameroomsawgrass.com Located in one of the widest and most assorted malls in Florida, Gameroom is the place to find one of the widest varieties of arcade games a player could possibly imagine. The presence of large flat-screen TVs allows for friends to spend a good afternoon or watch a game. If games are your thing, what better than planning your birthday party at the Gameroom?

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More

Teen Books Appealing To Adults It’s called “kid-lit” but in this day in age, it’s not just for kids. Now the majority of books written for children and teens are actually being picked up by adults.

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A

my Stender is 31-years old but when it comes to reading, she prefers to embrace her inner child choosing books written for kids half her age.

“The story and the themes behind it are very adult and universal. They are very simplistic but yet very complex, all at the same time,” said Stender.

She’s not alone.

A study found 55 percent of buyers of young adult books are over the age of eighteen.

“I used to talk a lot more with teens about teen books and now I’m sort of talking to everyone about teen books,” said Stender.

Shannon Peterson is the president of the Young Adult Library Services Association. She says gateway books like Harry Potter, Twilight and the Hunger Games first gave adult readers permission to browse the kids section and they haven’t left since.

“I think it’s awesome. I think there’s amazing, amazing books out there for readers as young as eight and I think it’s wonderful that more adults are seeing that and appreciating that,” said Peterson.

Literary agent Kristin Nelson sees this as part of a larger trend today. The blurring of the lines between what appeals to adults versus kids.

“I can listen to the same music that my teenage nieces and nephews listen to. There are adults who play videogames. There’s less of a distinction between, oh this is only for adult readers and this is only for kids,” said Nelson.

Nelson says publishers are paying attention to their expanded audience, and are now actively marketing to adult readers with ads in popular magazines and in movie theaters.

And many big name adult authors have also gotten in the game including John Grisham and David Baldacci.

But with so many adults picking up kids books, is there a concern that authors will start slipping in adult themes?

“They shouldn’t be writing with that audience in mind, because their true audience are the young readers and that’s the only people they need to satisfy with their stories,” said Nelson.

As for Amy, she says she’s found some real literary treasures between the covers of kids’ books and hopes others will give them a try.

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

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Sam Snead ~ Gene Sarazen ~ Byron Nelson ~ Walter Hagan

walk in the footsteps of legends Since 1923

Miami Springs Golf Club

650 Curtiss Parkway ~ Miami Springs, Fl 33166 305.805.5180 ~ www.MiamiSpringsGolfClub.com Minutes from Brickell & the Beaches

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Talking Baby:

Picking The Right

Name N

“Be careful choosing a name from your favorite TV shows or movies, it might have a short shelf life and people will view it negatively a few years from now.”

ew parents-to-be know how hard it can be to choose a name for their baby. It can be tricky, exciting, and downright stressful because some experts say a baby’s name could impact their future.

There is no shortage of opinions when it comes to baby names.

“People should name their children so they’re not embarrassed later on when they have to go to school,” said Linda Robinson.

“It’s sort of your identity marker,” said University of Miami Sociology Professor Michael French. “It hangs out with you for the duration of your life.”

The list of most popular names from 2013 revealed few surprises.

Sophia, Emma, and Olivia took the top spots for baby girls.

Jackson, Aiden, and Liam were the most popular boy names.

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“Studies have shown people with certain names conjure certain stereotypes, either negative or positive can do better or worse at job interviews”

Janet Ozzard from BabyCenter.com said one of the biggest trends they are seeing is people going back to their roots.

“Grandparents are a big influence. People are looking to our own families to pick names.”

Professor French said choosing a name with meaning is always a good idea, but you don’t want to choose something too common. “You may be just one of many Marys or Johns or Michaels. You don’t have your original identity.”

Pop culture also continues to play a big role.

Names like Korie, Phil, and Sadie from the hit TV show“Duck Dynasty” are shooting up double digits in popularity. “Duck Dynasty is about a tight knit family, self-made family, a family working together. Pre-scandal it was a model of a tight knit family,” said Ozzard.

But, French said be careful choosing a name from your favorite TV shows or movies. “It might have a short shelf life and people will view it negatively a few years from now.”

Speaking of celebrity names, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West chose the name North West for their baby girl.

BabyCenter.com says most people thought it was a poor choice. North topped their list of least favorite celebrity baby names. That means we likely won’t be seeing it topping any popular lists any time soon.

That’s could be good news for a future generation according to Professor French.

“Studies have shown people with certain names conjure certain stereotypes, either negative or positive can do better or worse at job interviews.”

For Information Call: 305.477.1699

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