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THE SILENT KILLER South Florida averages a heroin overdose every 2 hours. In many cases, the heroin is laced with a powerful synthetic opioid, which is 50 times more potent than heroin.

the art of organization MIAMI — There are few better examples of the marriage between organization and art than Closet Factorys’ design for this wall unit. Closet Factory had a vision: displaying their vast collection of art and art books around two large paintings. Collaborating with the clients and using the two paintings as centerpieces, we designed a 20 ft. by 20 ft. wall unit largely comprised of equally sized square cubbies. A rather pedantic design, admittedly, however, with the use of our imagination, we were able to transform the unit and breathe life into it with little touches. We varied the thickness of certain shelves. We installed a rolling ladder so books and objects higher up wouldn’t just be eye candy — they could be accessed and felt, adding substance to the otherwise visually stunning result. Of course, we had a little help. Closet Factory was lucky: our clients had spent years carefully curating their collection and had accumulated a number of interesting objects. With a minimal, clean design, we were able to appreciate the aesthetic value of the wall unit’s contents itself. The unobtrusive wall unit keeps the focus on the art and acts as a vessel, rather than a centerpiece. After all, there are two magnificent paintings. What goes into a unit can be just as important as the design of the system. As great as a design is, if you stuff it full of clothes or bring in clashing elements, it loses the identity of what it’s trying to convey. Curation is important. By designing around the art collection, Closet Factory designed a wall unit that was actually custom — it was built for their art collection — and was able to transcend expectations. No easy feat when priceless pieces are at play.

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About CBS4 NEWS MAGAZINE The CBS4 Magazine is printed and mailed targeting South Florida’s most affluent residents in the region. The CBS4 Magazine delivers award winning journalism you won’t find anywhere else! Our content focuses on local business and community news which include: Health, Real Estate, Consumer News, Automotive and Entertainment. REAL. LOCAL. NEWS. DELIVERED! Editorial team NEWS DIRECTOR Liz Roldan lroldan@cbs.com ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR Nick Bourne nbourne@cbs.com Managing Editor Alissa Merlo amerlo@cbs.com Executive producer Miguel Fernandez mfernandez@wfor.cbs.com Jorge Gonzalez jgonzalez1@cbs.com Alex Hernandez ahernandez@wfor.cbs.com ANCHORS Vanessa Borge vborge@cbs.com Rick Folbaum rfolbaum@cbs.com Walter Makaula wmakaula@cbs.com Lauren Pastrana lpastrana@cbs.com Eliott Rodriguez erodriguez@cbs.com Marybel Rodriguez marybel.rodriguez@wfor.cbs.com Rudabeh Shahbazi rshahbazi@cbs.com WEATHER NEWS Lissette Gonzalez lgonzalez@wfor.cbs.com Craig Setzer csetzer@wfor.cbs.com REPORTERS Carey Codd cdcodd@wfor.cbs.com Peter D’Oench peter.doench@cbs.com Silva Harapetian sharapetian@cbs.com Tiani Jones tjones@cbs.com Joan Murray jmurray@wfor.cbs.com Gary Nelson gnelson@wfor.cbs.com Oralia Ortega oortega@cbs.com Donna Rapado drapado@cbs.com Ted Scouten tscouten@cbs.com LIFESTYLE / ENTERTAINMENT REPORTER Lisa Petrillo lpetrillo@wfor.cbs.com executive producer, special projects & investigations Cari Hernandez chernandez@cbs.com CBS4 INVESTIGATES Jim DeFede jdefede@wfor.cbs.com Michele Gillen mgillen@cbs.com Jasmine Kripalani jkripalani@cbs.com David Sutta dsutta@cbs.com SPORTS Jim Berry jberry@wfor.cbs.com Mike Cugno mcugno@cbs.com Steve “Goldie” Goldstein sgoldstein@cbs.com Leo Gomez gomezl@wfor.cbs.com

4 Winter 2017 | cbsmiami.com

C O N TA C T U S TRAFFIC Vanessa Borge vborge@cbs.com WEB JOURNALISTS Lisa Cilli lcilli@wfor.cbs.com David Dwork ddwork@cbs.com John MacLauchlan jmaclauchlan@cbs.com Giovanna Maselli gmaselli1@cbs.com magazine production general information Victoria Zayas | Director of Client Relations victoria@cbs4newsmagazine.com 786-565-4556 ADVERTISING sales Tony Gambirazio | Director of Sales tonyg@cbs4newsmagazine.com 786-565-4506 Creative Tammy Kukic Art Director tammy@cbs4newsmagazine.com Newsroom direct number 305-639-4500 Website Please visit www.cbsmiami.com for more information PRINTED IN THE USA, COPYRIGHT © 2017 BY MARCO G, INC. All rights reserved. The CBS4 News Magazine, a free publication, published quarterly 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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Contents W i n t e r 2 0 17

COVER THE SILENT KILLER: SOUTH FLORIDA’S HEROIN EPIDEMIC 12

HEALTH

LIFE

REAL ESTATE

HOME

AUTO

New FDA Approved Treatment For Parkinson’s Disease 22

SECRETS OF Online Shopping Discrimination 40

3 Things TO DO When Your Neighbors List Their Home for Sale 62

Instant Kitchen Updates 74

For Buying or Selling, It Pays To Know USED CAR MILESTONES 112

Beer Offers Surprising Health Benefits FOR REAL 32

6 Winter 2017 | cbsmiami.com

STUDY SHOWS Sleep & Smartphones Don’t Mix 52

What to Do If You Can’t Make Your Mortgage Payment

Reduce AllergenS In Your Home 90

How To Photograph Your Car for Sale 116

OUR IDEA OF LUXURY The new Volvo S90 redefines luxury with elegant Scandinavian design and semiautonomous technology as standard. Motortrend calls it “…a uniquely appealing luxury sedan, and not just because it’s different, but because it’s good at being different.”

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Flesh-Eating Screwworms Infect Florida Keys Deer Population

By James Amalino

he federally endangered Key deer, found only in the Florida Keys, has come under attack from a particularly nasty parasitic pest.

Cochliomyia hominivorax, more commonly known as the New World screwworm, is threatening the Key deer, a subspecies of white-tailed deer that live solely on the islands from Little Pine Key to Sugarloaf Key and a few small surrounding islands. The screwworm, or fly larvae, feeds on animal tissue and according to Dan Clark, Manager of the Florida

Keys Wildlife Refuges Complex, more than 50 Key deer were discovered infected by the screwworm recently, and in such bad condition, they had to be euthanized. Images of the infected deer showed gruesome open wounds, covered in maggots, and deteriorating flesh. Now several agencies are fighting back using the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), which works by releasing a large number of sterile screwworms into the wild with the intent of decreasing the insect population. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Florida

Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, as well as partnering agencies, are implementing an aggressive eradication effort in order not only to protect the Key deer, but also to protect human health, Florida’s livestock industry, and other animals including pets should the pest spread,” the Florida Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services said in a statement to the media. The SIT method has been used since the 1950’s and according to the media release, “there have been no known negative effects to people, animals or the environment.” A stretch of land in Central America between Panama and Colombia, known as the Darien Gap, has been used since that time as a permanent sterile fly barrier zone to control the screwworm fly and keep it from reproducing.

at mile marker 91 south. Animals traveling north will be given health checks at a station located at mile marker 106 to ensure that they do not have screwworm. This checkpoint will ensure that the screwworm does not travel north and infest other areas of Florida. Residents with warm-blooded animals, like pets and livestock, are urged to watch them carefully and report any potential cases to 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352). Non-Florida residents can call (850) 410-3800. Visitors to the area should ensure any pets that are with them are also checked in order to prevent the spread of this infestation.

“The United States currently maintains a barrier zone in the Darien Gap located in Panama, and this technique is used around the United States and across the globe. SIT is the scientifically proven lynchpin in eradication efforts,” their statement added. From aircraft, large quantities of sterilized male screwworm flies are regularly released into the barrier zone to control fly migration. Since the National Key Deer Refuge was established in 1957, placing the animal under the protection of the Endangered Species Act, the Key deer population has risen from roughly 50 to 1,000. In October SIT was implemented in Big Pine and No Name keys. Other response efforts include trapping the flies to determine the extent of the infestation and disease surveillance to look for additional cases in animals. New World screwworms are fly larvae (maggots) that infest warm-blooded animals, including people. They most often enter through an open wound and feed on the animal’s living flesh. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has established an Animal Health Check Zone

FEATURE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 9

Researchers Find Seat Belts Pose

Safety Hazard For Older Drivers

eat belts are meant to protect us in car crashes, but for some drivers, they can be harmful. Drivers aged 85 and older are nine times more likely per mile driven to be hurt in a crash. Chest injuries are most common and they’re linked to the seat belt. “I remember sitting there and my body was flipping back and forth,” said Pam Sohn. Sohn ended up in a neck brace after a Jeep backed into her car. Her seatbelt kept her in the seat, but researchers believe it may have contributed to her concussion and back injuries. “I probably would’ve went through the window or something the way I was moving around had I not had it on, yeah,” Sohn said. “But it didn’t do what I thought it would.” The seat belt Sohn and the rest of us use wasn’t designed for the 60-yearold’s 5’4” frame. Professor John Bolte, who works at the Ohio State University College of Medicine, would like to see that change. “If a car can drive today without a person controlling it, why can’t we have a safety system that can better respond to saving someone?” Bolte said. Bolte is using crash tests to study the amount of force needed to protect those with more fragile frames, like smaller and older drivers.

The goal is to have seat belts that one day automatically adjust to the person they’re protecting. “It’s going to take a lot more force to stop me from going into the steering wheel than it would a grandfather or grandmother,” Bolte said. “So that force against my thorax is not going to cause a rib fracture in me, potentially, but it is perhaps too much force for someone that is a little older.” Crash tests show how seat belts save lives – with nearly 14,000 people saved in 2015. But when it comes to older drivers in particular, seat belts are also blamed for a higher rate of potentially serious – even deadly – chest injuries as older drivers tend to be more easily injured in a crash. Researchers say everyone should wear their seatbelt regardless of age or size. The seat belt should rest on your shoulder, as the area is much strong than your ribs and gives 10 to 12 inches between you and the air bag.

Drivers aged 85 and older are nine times more likely per mile driven to be hurt in a crash. Chest injuries are most common and they’re linked to the seat belt.

FEATURE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 11

THE SILENT KILLER South Florida averages a heroin overdose every 2 hours. In many cases, the heroin is laced with a powerful synthetic opioid, which is 50 times more potent than heroin.

By Lauren Pastrana • lpastrana@cbs.com

n any given day in South Florida, paramedics will field at least a handful of overdose calls. When first responders arrive, they often find people passed out with a needle nearby.

Local leaders say the crisis has reached epidemic proportions, putting first responders’ lives at risk and a strain on community resources.

In September, Miami Police tweeted a picture of a two month old baby found in a car with two unconscious adults. Investigators immediately suspected they “OD’d on heroin” and the baby was taken in to protective custody. Scenes like that have popped up all over the country in recent months.

CBS 4 News rode along with a Miami Fire Captain to see just how dire the situation is on our streets. On this particular Wednesday morning, Captain Archie Vazquez said they were already on their ninth overdose call of the day. Those nine are just a small sample of the roughly 4,800 overdoses each year in South Florida. The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Wifredo Ferrer says we are at crisis level. “We are talking about an average overdose in South Florida every 2 hours at a rate of 12 victims a day,” Ferrer explain. Capt. Vazquez sees it firsthand. “They’re coming from all walks of life. Everywhere. Not just one particular demographic of people,” Capt. Vazquez said. According to the latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heroin use more than doubled in the past decade among young people ages 18 to 25. In many cases, the heroin is laced with a powerful synthetic opioid called fentanyl, which is 50 times more potent than heroin. “(It’s) a lot stronger. Makes patients go into severe respiratory distress and could lead to cardiac arrest,” Capt. Vazquez said. “So definitely more manpower, more units to respond. Greater increase in call volume and call times. It’s an incredible amount of stress on us.” With every call, first responders are putting their own lives in danger. The needles and the substance inside them can be deadly.

“Law enforcement officers, if they touch fentanyl or inhale it, they can die on the scene,” Ferrer said. “That’s how serious this is.” To combat this growing epidemic, firefighters and paramedics are now driving around Miami with boxes of a drug called Narcan, an opiate antidote. “Last year we spent $21,000 on it,” Capt. Vazquez said. This year, he says they’ve spent more than $150,000 on the opiate reversal medication. The problem is causing a financial strain and possible delays that could affect you. “If somebody calls rescue and all our units are on overdoses, it could delay,” explained Capt. Vazquez. “But we do an exceptional job. Not only responding, but clearing calls and making units available. But it does create a problem. Especially in the afternoon.” “There is one thing that has become very clear,” Ferrer said. “The unacceptable rise of heroin and opiate abuse has gotten to such a level that we all realize that no one can battle themselves.” Combatting the epidemic Experts say it will take a mix of law enforcement, medical and judicial resources to combat this epidemic. “It’s killing the people in our community every day,” said Ana Moreno, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the co-founder of Family Recovery Specialists in Miami. Moreno says in just one day, she received three calls of patients overdosing on heroin. Two of them did not survive. “I am terrified as to the number of phone calls that we’re getting about heroin overdoses and just seeing how many people on a daily basis are overdosing and how many people are dying,” she told CBS 4’s Lauren Pastrana.

FEATURE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 13

“It’s a ‘silent killer’ because people get this drug they go back to their room, the shoot up, they die. Behind dumpsters, shoot up, they die,” said Don Maines, a Special Advisor at BSO.

knock out a 13,000 lb. elephant.

Maines says the situation is just as dire in Broward.

Last year alone, 80 people died from heroin overdoses in Broward up from 11 in 2013. There were 82 deaths in Miami-Dade and 108 in Palm Beach. The Broward medical examiner believes 53 recent deaths are tied to the extremely potent carfentanil.

“This crisis is at epidemic proportions,” he said. “We had 41 overdoses in Broward county alone last week. We have a 244% increase in overdoses. This is not stopping.”

“A dose as small as a poppy seed could be a lethal dose,” Hall said.

Experts believes the uptick in heroin use correlates to the shuttering of pill mills across Florida and the rest of the country.

“The Broward County Medical Examiner’s office has up to 165 additional cases which will still be under investigation, some of which could also be carfentanil related. So this is just the tip of the iceberg perhaps,” Hall explained.

“Statistics show 4 out of 5 current heroin users began with prescription pain medication,” Moreno said. “At the closing of the clinics and the ease of getting the pills, people have been left with this dependency and this addiction to opiates.”

The synthetics are coming from China and Mexico, and sold on the dark net and delivered in non-descript boxes.

But where illegal prescription pills are relatively expensive - anywhere from $20 to $100 dollars a pop- a baggie of heroin can sell for $10 or $15 on the street.

“This is a major international problem. It’s a pandemic across the United States affecting every state and almost every county in the nation according to the CDC. Yet, even on the global scale our best strategies are often at the community level.”

“Now we have this cheap fentanyl synthetic heroin. It is so cheap,” Maines added.

Recovery is possible

More Potent Synthetics

The so-called “Silent Killer” can ruin lives, but recovery is possible.

Fentanyl is a synthetic drug typically 50 times more potent than heroin, but experts say certain strains can be twice as strong as that. Just a tiny amount can be lethal. Jim Hall is an epidemiologist at Nova Southeastern University and Broward County’s leading expert on drug trends. “This is the most major drug problem in our lifetime, with it being more dangerous, addictive and deadly than any other drug period that we’ve seen over the last century,” Hall told Pastrana. Investigators are also seeing an explosion in the use of carfentanil, an even stronger drug, potent enough to

For Daniel Lopez-Calleja, recovery started about a dozen years ago. “Literally, about 12 years ago. I was homeless. 100% homeless going to homeless shelter. Scavenging for food and money and drugs,” Lopez-Calleja told Pastrana. What started out as a suburban Miami teen experimenting with alcohol and pot, quickly turned into an addict with a soft spot for some hardcore drugs. “At the end, my two drugs of choice, basically speedballing, injecting cocaine and heroin,” he said. Daniel was in an out of rehab and says he didn’t just burn bridges, he blew them up.

“I exploded the relationships with everyone around me very quickly,” Lopez-Calleja said. “It took that for them to realize we need to get this guy as far away from our family as we really can.” He says it got to the point where he was so sick, he wound up back in treatment, but this time, something was different. “The people they were bringing in were my age,” he said. “So for one of the first times I decided to listen and I started to talk to some of the individuals my age. (They) had similar drug problems.”

not going to have you in my life.” Getting help For more information to help those dealing with addiction, visit: www.familyrecoveryspecialists.com www.drugfree.org www.drugabuse.gov

Seeing people who looked and talked like him, helped him realize he could relate to people who “live clean”. “If I was going to open my own treatment center, it would be full of guys that look and talk exactly like me. Kept it real, spoke their mind and didn’t sugar coat stuff. That would be my approach,” he said. At one point in his recovery, Daniel worked with Moreno and her colleagues at Family Recovery Specialists in Miami. “Recovery is possible. That I do tell people,” Moreno said. “I want them to have hope. Please have hope. This can be treated.” Daniel agrees. He is now in peak physical form and is the owner of Crossfit Soul, a gym where he helps others achieve their fitness goals. “We definitely believe in a mind, body, soul, all in one package,” he told Pastrana. While he admits staying clean is no longer a daily struggle, he says the recovery and treatment were definitely hard work. He added, “I’ve made it known that it is the number one most important thing in my life. I don’t use drugs and alcohol. And I walk around and I talk about it all the time. Everyone around me knows that’s consistent with my lifestyle. And if it’s not consistent with yours, I’m

FEATURE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 15

Benches Drawing Curious Stares Give Invaluable Service BY Giovanna Maselli • gmaselli1@cbs.com

ozens of cities across the country are installing colorful benches in their parks that do more than just draw curious stares.

The environmentally friendly benches are free phone charging stations and can be WiFi hotspots and they don’t use any electricity. The benches are already in cities throughout Florida including Doral, Coral Gables, Sunny Isles, West Palm Beach, Stuart, Sarasota, and Ocala. They are also in 20 other cities throughout the U.S. The distinct benches are causing double-takes in Washington, DC and that’s exactly what Parks and Recreation Director Keith Anderson wants.

“The goal here is to get people outside, to enjoy our parks, stay longer,” said Anderson. The Soofa benches, named after the Boston company that makes them, use a square solar panel in the middle to power two phone chargers on the front and the WiFi signal, which is free and doesn’t come with a password. “Cities are really excited about it,” said Soofa CEO Sandra Richter. “We’ve been bringing Soofa benches into low-income neighborhoods… low-income schools. We’re slowly but surely beginning to ship them overseas.” In fact, the seven-foot benches, which are bolted to the ground, are already in five countries and 65 cities – among them Canada, Costa Rica, Germany, and Saudi Arabia.

FEATURE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 17

Florida Farmers In Crisis Over

Citrus Greening Disease

lorida’s nearly $11-billion-dollar citrus industry faces a growing danger from disease. A tree-killing bacteria is wiping out the state’s famous orange groves. Now, 90 percent are infected, and next year’s orange harvest could be one of the lowest on record.

Steve Johnson has walked and worked his family’s citrus groves since he was a boy. “It’s not just a job or a business, it’s a way of life,” said citrus farmer Steve Johnson. A way of life is in crisis because of the tiny bug that carries a disease from China known as “greening’ that appeared in the U.S. in 2005. It’s an increasing threat to Florida’s entire citrus industry especially when profits are razor-thin for growers like Johnson. “It’s just an emotional time…I’m the fourth generation in my family of this and to give that up would really hurt,” said Johnson. Florida produces more oranges than any country in the world, except Brazil but production is plummeting. Consider this, in 2004, the state of Florida produced 240 million boxes of oranges. This season, that number is going to drop to 70 million and it’s because of greening. That’s why researchers are looking at every possible option to try to combat it. “These fruits are smaller and they’re lopsided,” said Michael Rogers, an entomologist with the University of Florida’s Citrus Education Program.“Growers are still harvesting fruit but they aren’t harvesting as much fruit as they used to. They’re spending three times the money to get that crop and the crop is much smaller.” Researchers are feeling desperate and are trying out groves where mesh netting shields the trees from infection. It’s effective but expensive. Many farmers are having a hard time keeping up. There are 130,000 acres of ‘ghost orchards’ abandoned and left to the weeds.

FEATURE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 19

The New Lennar Foundation Medical Center Is Now Open The spectacular new Lennar Foundation Medical Center is now open in Coral Gables, welcoming patients to an unmatched setting where they receive an unmatched quality of care. For residents of South Miami-Dade, the superior medical services of the University of Miami Health System are now offered under one roof, conveniently located on the University of Miami campus. Patients can see physicians from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, the University of Miami Health System Sports Medicine Institute, women’s and men’s centers, Comprehensive Diabetes Center, cardiology, neurology, otolaryngology, primary care, and more.

The Lennar Foundation Medical Center is revolutionizing how personalized health care is delivered. Each space in the center is intuitively planned, imaginatively designed and instinctively positioned to treat, heal, enhance and soothe you, while awakening your senses. The Lennar Foundation Medical Center is located at 5555 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, on the University of Miami campus. For more information, visit www.humanbeingwell.com. For appointments, call 305-689-5555.

As part of an academic medical center, The Lennar Foundation Medical Center offers the most advanced, personalized care available -anywhere. Many surgical procedures that in the past involved a stay in the hospital are now minimally invasive and are performed in state-of-the-art operating rooms, allowing patients to go home the same day. The center has been designed to provide a relaxing, healing, streamlined experience. Patients and their families are welcomed by floor-to-ceiling windows, a reflection garden on the roof, performances by students from the Frost School of Music, valet parking or free self-parking next door, a Walgreens pharmacy, and soon a healthy café. A flock of ibises, made of hand-blown glass, flies in the shape of the “U” in the building’s atrium, representing UHealth’s dedication to making you – and keeping you – well. EXOS Performance, which is new to South Florida, will provide prevention programs, work-related and executive medicine programs to help participants achieve their maximum performance. EXOS will use nutrition, exercise, stretching, and advanced active recovery to help everyone lead healthier lives.

State-of-the-art ambulatory care

Hand-blown glass ibises soar thru the lobby

A personalized patient approach make up The Lennar Foundation Medical Center

Truck Headlights

DON’T Shine In Latest Tests

ick up trucks may be among the biggest vehicles on the road, but a new round of testing found they don’t shine when it comes to their headlights.

Over his lifetime, Tom Evans has owned nearly a dozen trucks. He said the headlights on his latest, a Ram 1500, are not like any of the others. “It’s supposed to be more direct beam, spotlight effect. These seem to be diffused out a little bit,” said Evans. The lights on Evans’ truck got a ‘marginal’ in the latest round of testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety which evaluated the lights on the 11 most popular trucks on the road. The testing involved the amount of light a truck provided as it traveled straight and on curves. The Honda Ridgeline was the only truck to earn a ‘Good’ rating, the Chevrolet Colorado was at the bottom of the list for clear visibility.

“Some headlights even properly aimed aren’t going to provide a wide enough distribution of light across the road to allow drivers to see what they need to,” said Matthew Brumbelow, a senior research engineer at the institute. Researchers say poorly designed headlights can also create dangerous conditions for drivers in oncoming traffic. For example, headlights that cause glare may temporarily blind drivers. The IIHS also factored in the truck’s high beams, LED lights and reflectors in their evaluations. Evans said after getting his truck, he did make an alteration. “I supplement it with running lights or fog lights which are actually closer to the ground which will light up the ground in front of the vehicle,” he said. The IIHS said most automakers are already trying out new technology to make improvements. Earlier this year the group tested mid-size cars and SUVs and found most of those vehicles also had poorly rated headlights.

FEATURE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 21

health

New FDA Approved Treatment For Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disease

ormer U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno died recently at the age of 78 from complications of Parkinson’s disease.

Doctors say people with advanced Parkinson’s can become completely debilitated. But now an FDA approved treatment is giving some of them hope to be able to lead normal lives again. Jack Mckeon, a 65-year-old naval officer, has advanced Parkinson’s disease but since he’s been receiving the treatment, his symptoms are not as obvious. “I couldn’t walk. I couldn’t do anything on my own,” said McKeon. “I lost my ability to be productive and I was very depressed about that.” Last May, doctors inserted a tube in McKeon’s small intestine that connects to an outside pump. The pump is attached to a cassette with two medications which are continuously delivered for up to 16 hours per day. Dr. Paul Wright said patients using the treatment called “Duopa” no longer have to worry bout taking pills at the right time. “The pump allows dopamine to be infused in a consistent manner and be absorbed in a consistent manner, so that means the patient is on all the time and there is no wearing off,” said Wright.

McKeon said he was up and dancing with his wife a half an hour after the procedure. “We hadn’t danced in eight years, we were spinning in the hallways, it was amazing,” said McKeon. McKeon said it was a night and day difference when he took his granddaughter to a school event after getting the pump. “I had gone to that event last year and I had to be helped to a chair, be helped to my car,” said McKeon. “This year I went. I didn’t need any help at all. I held her hand. We ran across the street. These are big things.” McKeon said that’s the way he hopes she will remember him, as being independent and able to enjoy doing things with his family. Doctors say side effects of the treatment are similar to taking the oral medications used to treat it.

“I had gone to that event last year and I had to be helped to a chair, be helped to my car,” said McKeon. “This year I went. I didn’t need any help at all. I held her hand. We ran across the street. These are big things.” Jack Mckeon

HEALTH cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 23

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Customer serviCe redeFined

or anyone who has ever wanted more from a pharmacy such as personalized advice on products, supplements or on which medications are best, Key Pharmacy is where to go. Located on Key Biscayne, the New York style boutique pharmacy has been redefining customer service for 35 years and continues providing catered attention, such as being on a first name basis with most of its customers. For this and many other distinguishing reasons Key Pharmacy has been awarded Retailer of the Year, Professional Services and Business of the Year by the Key Biscayne Chamber of Commerce. “I’m passionate about seeing customers happy. I get satisfaction in knowing that when I do my job, and someone trusts me with their prescription, at the end of the day they are satisfied with the job that I did.”- Rafael, Pharmacy Representative

Fekkai, Mustela, California Baby, Nuxe, L’Occitane, Mavala, Deborah Lippmann, Ahava, StriVectin, Bliss, Clarins, Solgar, Metagenics, Metabolic Maintenance, Biocidin, Thorne Research, Gastrazyme, Boron and Bach to name a few. In the event that a specific product isn’t carried in-store, it can be special ordered. “Customers can expect to see some of the most unique fine line of products in South Florida and experience the best customer service around.” - Rafael, Pharmacy Representative Visit Key Pharmacy at 614 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149. It’s open seven days a week and delivers to residents of Key Biscayne, Brickell and Coconut Grove at no cost. www.thekeypharmacy.com.

Key Pharmacy accepts most insurance companies and has an expertly trained staff of pharmacists that can fill both traditional and compounding prescriptions. Customers can consult with an in-house integrative pharmacist who is specialized in reading medical labs and is able to advise on complementary therapies that are natural, enhance care and replete vitamin loss due to medications prescribed. This is done in the efforts to steer customers towards healthier and natural options that aren’t habit-forming. For customers interested in weight loss, the integrative pharmacist works alongside a nutritionist to create customized dietary plans. A full-time cosmetician is also available to assist customers with any questions, requests or suggestions needed. Known for having the finest upscale merchandise, Key Pharmacy carries the latest and most exclusive selections from Shisedo, Orlane, Smashbox, Avène, Bronzo Sensualé, Sun Bum, St. Tropez, Coola, Art of Shaving, Klorane, Living Proof, Rene Furterer, business spotlight | Winter 2017 25

Lauren’s List:

Hidden Factors That

Affect Your Weight By Lauren Pastrana • lpastrana@cbs.com

hen we want to lose weight, we often consider two things: diet and exercise. But there’s much more to it.

Today’s “Lauren’s List” shows you the hidden factors around you that could push that number on the scale one way or the other.

The Thermostat Our delightfully warm and cozy homes and offices might be partly responsible for our less-delightful expanding waistlines, say researchers in a study published in the journal Cell. The scientists found that regular exposure to mildly cold weather-as would have been normal in the days before programmable thermostats-helps the human body regulate a healthy weight. The chilly air seems to increase metabolism by making the body work harder to cope with the changing conditions. Some proponents of “cold therapy” take daily ice baths or “shiver walks” but you don’t have to be that extreme to see results, say the researchers. Just lowering your thermostat by a few degrees or turning the shower briefly to cold can help. Here’s more on the science of how being cold is good for weight loss. Your Altitude There’s a reason that Colorado is the both the slimmest and the steepest state in the nation. The altitude at which you live is strongly correlated with your weight, with each gain in altitude corresponding with a drop in weight,

according to a study done by the U.S. Air Force. Amount Of Antibiotics The more antibiotics a person takes during their lifetime, particularly during early childhood, the greater their risk of becoming obese, according to an NYU study. Researchers speculate that it has to do with killing healthy gut bacteria, decimating your microbiome along with the bad bugs, as good bacteria has been shown to help prevent weight gain. Owning A Pet Owning a pet, particularly a dog, slashes the human companion’s risk of obesity, says the American Heart Association. Why? Dogs need to be walked daily and are often quite persistent, encouraging their owners to walk as well. But it’s not just the extra exercise, especially since 40 percent of dog owners confess to not walking their dog on a regular basis. The researchers add that petting an animal greatly reduces stress and depression, two other known risk factors for weight gain. Of course, every body type is different, so tell me the factors you know affect your weight. Chat with me on Facebook (www.facebook. com/laurenpastrananews) or Twitter (@ LaurenPastrana). Send ideas for future Lauren’s Lists to lpastrana@cbs.com.

HEALTH cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 27

SaY GOODBYE to MuFFin

TOPS and LOvE HanDLES

CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared treatment that uses controlled cooling to eliminate fat without surgery or downtime. And with 95% customer satisfaction, you’ll love the results of CoolSculpting every time you look in the mirror.1

And now it’s colder, faster and more efficient! My Derma Clinic Medical Aesthetics is one of the very few practices in the area to offer this newest upgrade to the Coolsculpting technology. Sessions are only 35 minutes instead of 1 hour per area treated. The design of the new treatment cup allows for more tissue to be treated with better patient comfort. Quickly treat those trouble spots: upper arms, muffin tops, abs, and inner/outer thighs.

My Derma Clinic Medical Aesthetics 8517 SW 136th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156

305.253.4772

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Call today to schedule your FREE consultation M. Margaret Haley, Owner/Esthetician Christy Estrada, CoolSculpt Tech/Esthetician Dr. Constantine Kitsos, Supervising Medical Director

FEAR NO MIRROR® Reference: 1. Data on file. Results and patient experience may vary. While CoolSculpting is safe, some rare side effects may occur. As with any medical procedure, only your CoolSculpting provider can help you decide if CoolSculpting is right for you. In the U.S., the CoolSculpting procedure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in the submental area, thigh, abdomen and flank. Outside the U.S., the CoolSculpting procedure for non-invasive fat reduction is available worldwide. ZELTIQ, CoolSculpting, the CoolSculpting logo, the Snowflake design, and Fear No Mirror are registered trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. © 2016 IC1964-A THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIM-

BURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

Healthy Teeth, Healthy Heart? Experts say that your oral health could clue you in to the condition of your heart — so listen up! Here’s what you should know about the links between your teeth, gums, and ticker.

ou brush, floss, and follow all your dentist’s commandments for healthy teeth and gums (kudos!). But did you know that those mouth-healthy habits may ultimately keep your heart healthy, too? Research has found a surprising number of links between the state of your mouth and your heart. In fact, we now know that people who develop gum disease (either gingivitis, a milder form that results in inflammation and infection of the gums, or periodontitis, which develops when the inflammation and infection spread below the gum line) are nearly twice at risk for heart disease. And in one study of 320 adults — half with heart disease — researchers found that these participants were also more likely to have gum disease, bleeding gums, and tooth loss. What’s the connection? Researchers are still figuring that out. Can Gum Disease Give You a Heart Attack? “There is a very logical reason why the two may be connected,” says Peter M. Spalding, DDS, associate professor in the department of growth and development at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in Lincoln. Experts are starting to understand that the underlying mechanism of cardiovascular disease is related to inflammation, he says. Some types of bacteria normally occur in your mouth, but if you’re not properly flossing and brushing

By Marie Suszynski

to remove plaque (that white film caused by bacteria that stick to your teeth after you eat), your risk for gum disease increases. And once gum disease has developed, you create an environment for bacteria that do not normally grow in your mouth, Dr. Spalding says. What’s more, because gum disease causes your gums to bleed, bacteria can move into your bloodstream, setting up an inflammatory process in the blood vessels, he adds. How is this related to your heart? The bacteria may increase your risk for heart disease by contributing to the formation of clots or further plaque build-up in your arteries that can interfere with blood flow to the heart. However, it will take long-term clinical trials to more directly identify gum disease as a cause of heart disease. “We’re not going to have the answers to these questions for quite some time,” Spalding says. Meanwhile, researchers are also uncovering possible links between gum disease and stroke, osteoporosis, diabetes, respiratory disease, and even preterm babies.

Important Steps for Your Teeth (and Heart) According to the American Academy of Periodontology, half of all people over age 55 have gum disease. Gum disease is also the main reason people 35 and older lose their teeth. Your risk for gum disease increases as you get older, but staying on top of your dental health should start in childhood. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help you keep gum disease at bay. If you happen to notice any of these symptoms, let your dentist know immediately — they could be warning signs of gum disease. • Sour taste in the mouth • Persistent bad breath • Bleeding gums • Swollen, tender gums • Loose teeth • Sensitive teeth • Pain when chewing And remember: Preventing gum disease — or treating it with deep cleanings, medication, or surgery — may just help you prevent heart problems down the road. For more information and to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zaileen Juma, DMD, contact Welleby Family Dental at 954.748.7100 or wellebyfamilysmiles@gmail.com.

ELLEBY

F a m i l y

D e n t a l

business spotlight | Winter 2017 29

FDA-Approved Weight Loss Balloon Helping South Floridians

Beat The Bulge

By Rudabeh Shahbazi • rshahbazi@cbs.com

recently FDA-approved weight loss balloon is helping South Floridians beat the bulge. Carine Carballeira is nearing the end of her

The procedure costs $8,500 and works like an endoscopy. A balloon is inserted through a patient’s mouth, then placed in their stomach and filled with saline. That tricks the stomach into thinking it is full, even though it is actually consuming less.

treatment.

“It’s been one roller coaster, but it’s been a great one,” she said. As a teenager, Carballeira said she never had to think about her weight. “I always had that perfect body that people used to tell me, ‘How do you look this way? You don’t work out, you eat everything you can,’” she said. That all changed at 19, when Caraballeira claims a birth control shot caused her to gain 100 pounds in less than a year, bringing with it depression and a series of medical problems. “I was going blind,” said the 26-year-old insurance agent from Miami. “I had to go through surgery. I have a shunt now.” Doctors told her she had to lose weight rapidly for the sake of her health. Carballeira said she tried “every single diet in the book,” but struggled to see any lasting results.

The balloon then stays inside for six months. “Carine is an excellent patient, because she understood that she had to put in the work,” said Dr. Amaryllis Pascual, the South Florida internist monitoring her progress. Dr. Pascual provides regular assistance and support to ORBERA patients for an entire year after the procedure, which is included in the overall cost. She said the ideal candidate must be clinically obese – meaning a body mass index of at least 30 – and have to be willing to put in the work, exercising and eating right. Carballeira is one of 20 patients that she has monitored. And out of those 20, Dr. Pascual said 18 have seen significant weight loss results. As for Carballeira, she has already lost 40 pounds, which is just above average for ORBERA patients. Her balloon is set to come out later this month.

Conventional weight loss surgeries were also out of the question because of the shunt in her intestines. That’s when she turned to a relatively new, non-invasive procedure in the U.S. called the ORBERA balloon.

Despite battling nausea and discomfort in the beginning, she said the results are worth it. “At the end of the day you do have a foreign object in your stomach that doesn’t belong there so it takes a while to adjust to it,” said Carballeira.

HEALTH cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 31

Beer Offers Surprising Health Benefits

ere’s a fun sentence that the average person never figured they’d read: drink a pint or two a beer a day and help prevent a stroke. Wait, what? According to a study of 80,000 people conducted by Pennsylvania State University, via Telegraph, researchers have found that ‘a pint or two a day could help reduce the risk of having a stroke or developing cardiovascular disease.’ Whilst using ambiguous language, it’s still enough to equivocate for consuming the ale. The research maintained that moderate daily alcohol intake, specifically beer, helps slow the decline of ‘good cholesterol’ and it was more evident in those having a moderate intake of booze rather than none at all.

Beyond that, Telegraph found some other surprising health benefits of moderate intake of beer. Beer… … lowers risk of kidney stones … protects from heart attacks … reduces the risk of strokes … strengthens bones … decreases chance of diabetes … reduces risk of Alzheimer’s … can cure insomnia … can stop cataracts … might cure cancer … could help lose weight As always, though, these are the benefits it can have in moderation.

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Regaining Youthful

Energy & Balance

for Men and Women

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) for Men Andropause: Male Menopause In a world where science and medicine keep advancing at unprecedented speed, the discovery that men too suffer from hormonal inbalances comes as no surprise. Andropause, also known as male menopause, begins affecting men in their mid-20’s as testosterone levels start decreasing. The condition is far from Hollywood’s depiction of a man being struck with a sudden mid-life crisis, and then becoming the proud owner of a red convertible. Rather, it’s a gradual loss of approximately 1-2% of testosterone a year, leaving the average untreated 70-year-old with only 10% of his original amount. As unsettling as this discovery may be, science has also produced an effective solution: Bio-identical Hormone Replacement (BHRT).

Signs and Symptoms of Andropause Andropause can present itself through a number of different physical and mental afflictions. From an inability to concentrate at work to the loss of sleep, declining testosterone levels can run a toll on the male body. Some of the most common physical symptoms include: • Weight gain • Hair loss • Muscle loss • Poor circulation • Erectile dysfunction •Chronic fatigue Mental symptoms are also a large denominator in men with andropause. For many, these can be more challenging as they result in: • Loss of sex drive

• Irritability • Lack of focus • Memory loss • Sleep disturbances • Depression It’s long been said that all of these symptoms are part of the “normal” aging process, but they no longer need to be. While there is still no way of slowing down time, the effects of it can be. BHRT candidates Men suffering from low levels of testosterone may benefit greatly from bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Using the most innovative technology, Dr. Cabrera begins treatment by identically replicating the patient’s hormones in order to create a seamless cohesion

with already existing molecule structures. The hormones are administered in a safe and effective manner through topical, injectable or pellet therapies. All men 25 years and over should take a proactive approach in their well-being and schedule a complimentary consultation today. Dr.

Cabrera, an BHRT expert is ready to give back to his patients the vigor they haven’t felt in years. Simply dial 954-561-3175 and live a revitalized life! “Being in considerably good shape for a 40 year old, the idea of testosterone therapy wasn’t realistic until my wife brought up our intimate life,

or lack of. I realized then I hadn’t noticed the subtle changes that had taken place and decided to take action. After BHRT, I’m a new man and full of energy. She can barely keep up!” –Alex Cardenache

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Woman Regaining Youthful Energy and Hormonal Balance As true as the fact that some things get better with time, is the reality that as women age, unglamorous mental and physical changes also take place. Inevitable as aging is, the loss of beauty, decrease in health and lack of happiness need not follow. This decline usually begins at the onset of menopause when ovaries take longer to produce progesterone and estrogen, which in turn results in an erratic menstrual cycle that ultimately ceases to function all together. Even after this takes effect, other areas of the body continue producing estradiol, testosterone and a few other chemicals that cause troubling effects such as: • Night sweats and hot flashes • Memory loss • Decreased motivation • Weight gain/slower metabolism • Depression • Insomnia • Diminished libido These symptoms typically occur when women enter menopause, but they can also manifest in younger women after ovarian removal surgery. Regardless of the cause, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy helps women regain their youthful energy and live a life of hormonal balance. Testosterone’s Role in Helping Women Commonly thought to be a hormone found only in men, testosterone is produced and also depended on by women. With just a 30% decrease, a woman’s metabolism slows down,

there is a loss in muscle tone and many sexual side effects occur. Fortunately, the team at Genesis Health Institute knows how to accurately determine the supplements that counteract these symptoms in every patient. BHRT: A Modern Medical Technology Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) was introduced several decades ago and has been extensively studied, tried and tested ever since. Today it’s one of the safest and most effective procedures helping women live up to their healthiest potential with convenient ease. The process begins with a comprehensive consultation by a professional team member and includes a health and longevity assessment to determine which blend of hormones will yield the greatest results. With the use of modern medical technology, Dr. Cabrera replicates the patient’s unique hormone molecular structure and produces bio-identical hormones that are administered topically or by pellet therapy. The therapy consists of thorough consultations and lab monitoring that makes for the most complete and comprehensive approach. When choosing an BHRT clinic, patients should seek a private, modern facility with professionally trained BHRT experts that place health above the bottom line. Of the myriad of BHRT treatment regimens available, there will be at least one, if not several options, that can work for a patient. However, if there are

additional existing medical conditions, those treatment processes may conflict with BHRT and render it ineffective. Therefore, complete honesty during consultation is imperative for BHRT practitioners to accurately find the most effective course of treatment. All woman 30 years and over should take a proactive approach in their well-being and schedule a complimentary consultation today. Dr. Cabrera, an BHRT expert, is ready to give back to his patients the energy they haven’t felt in years. Simply dial 954-561-3175 and live a revitalized life! “At first I wasn’t sure what was going on with me or my body. I constantly felt tired and the everyday routine of work and taking care of my family became exhausting. One day over coffee I mentioned this to a friend and she instantly recognized the symptoms. She recommended a visit with Dr. Cabrera and after the appointment and following treatment my life changed drastically. We now meet for spinning.” –Jackie Sotolongo Give us a call today at 954-561-3175 or visit www.ghinstitute.com to find out more or to schedule a complimentary consultation with our patient coordinator regarding bio-identical hormone replacement therapies (BHRT).

business spotlight | Winter 2017 35

We Specialize In Giving You

A Beautiful Smile For more than 20 years, Gables Dentistry and Dr. Jesus De Valle has been providing comprehensive dental care for the entire family in the Coral Gables FL area. Cosmetic Family Dentist Dr Jesus Del Valle applies a common sense and conservative treatment planning approach in all phases of restorative and cosmetic dentistry.We offer excellence in dental care through a combination of years of practical experience and enthusiasm for innovation and technology. As one of our patients, you can take advantage of numerous treatment options and care plans specifically designed with your needs and goals in mind.

• Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry • Oral Surgery

• Preventive Care: Checkups, cleanings, and x-rays • Restorative Care: Periodontal treatment, dental implants, root canals • Cosmetic Care: Crowns, veneers, teeth whitening • Children’s Dentistry: A lifetime of good dental health starts early

• Implants • Cosmetic Dentistry • Invisalign • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery • Children’s & Pediatric Dentistry • Preventive Care • Checkups • Cleanings • X-Rays • Restorative Care • Periodontal Treatment • Root Canals • Cosmetic Care • Crowns • Veneers • Teeth Whitening

We are conveniently located in the Minorca Building at 2030 Douglas Road, Suite 213, Coral Gables, FL 33134. Contact our office today to find out how we can help you create the smile you deserve for a lifetime! Call us at 305-442-1094 for a free consultation, or visit us at www.delvalledental.com.

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305.442.1094

We Accept Most Insurances & Offer Financing Conveniently Located in Coral Gables

Dr. Del Valle has been providing dental care and great smiles for over 25 years

hablamos español | www.delvalledental.com

The Minorca Building | 2030 Douglas Rd | Suite 213 | Coral Gables, FL 33134

What is hospice? Hospice is a comprehensive program of medical care and support for people nearing the end of life. The OpusCare philosophy is based on several ideas: • No one should die alone or in pain. • Life-limiting illnesses can cause emotional and spiritual distress Dr Ismael Roque-Velasco as well as physical pain, all of which President / CEO deserve quality professional attention OpusCare of South Florida and compassionate care. • A serious illness affects the entire family, not just the person who is ill. Those affected need and deserve ongoing support before and after a loved one’s death. Hospice provides pain management and appropriate palliative care, care that focuses on the patient’s comfort, when curative medical treatments no longer enhance quality of life. Hospice strives to meet the patient’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs and provides support for the entire family during the illness and for at least one year after a patient’s death. Most hospice care is provided at home, where people most want to be when they are ill. Hospice care can also be provided in a nursing or residential facility and in certain circumstances, in a hospital or hospice management residence. Hospice also provides medications, medical equipment and supplies necessary to promote comfort at home or in other hospice settings. Hospice does not mean giving up hope. The focus shifts toward helping the patient achieve the maximum quality of life by focusing on their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

Hospice Care vs Standard Medical Care Some differences between hospice care and medical care are: • Hospice looks at all of the patient’s and their family’s needs. A coordinated team of hospice professionals, assisted by volunteers, work to meet the patient’s and family’s emotional and spiritual needs, as well as the patient’s physical needs. • An emphasis is put on controlling pain and symptoms through the most advanced techniques available as well as on emotional and spiritual support tailored to the needs of the patient and their family. • Hospice recognizes that a serious illness affects not only affects the person who is ill, but the entire family as well. The family and patient is the “unit of care” for hospice professionals. At times, other family members may actually need more attention than the patient.

Who pays for hospice care? Hospice palliative care is covered 100% by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, with no out-of-pocket costs to the patient or family. Costs covered related to the terminal illness, including the services of the Hospice team, medications, medical equipment and supplies. Contact Hospice Care of South florida to learn more on how they can you and your loved ones in your time of need.

For more information on OpusCare of South Florida, please call the 24-hour phone line at (305) 591-1606 or visit www.opuscare.org

“ We can’t change the destination, but we can affect the journey ”

OpusCare is the only community-based Palliative and Hospice care company in Miami-Dade County that is family-owned and operated.

Our goal is to positively impact one person's life everyday. From our family to yours, we treat every patient as if they were a part of our family. We specialize in meeting the end-of-life needs for the patient and their family when they need it the most. Our comprehensive caring approach is unique, providing a specific plan of care that meets the particular family's spiritual and emotional needs. OpusCare of South Florida is a non-profit covered 100% by Medicare and Medicaid under and all-inclusive rate with no out of pocket costs to the patient or family when related to the hospice admission diagnosis.

For more information, give us a call or visit our website:

24 Hour Phone Line: (305) 591-1606 W W W. O P U S C A R E . O R G

Dentistry Worth Smiling About

r. Gloria Ospina from Gables Perfect Smile is not only enhancing lives but also transforming the concept of modern dentistry. With a stylish and progressive office located in the heart of Coral Gables, the doctor and her team remain at the forefront of dental technology by continuously training, getting certified in the latest techniques and using the most advanced equipment available.

Florida since 1994, has earned a fellowship with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, as well as completed the advanced 20/20 Oral Plastic Surgery course using Waterlase MD technology. Dr. Ospina is a skilled architect who designs individualized treatment plans to restore optimum function and appearance to any smile. Her specialty training makes her an expert in all areas of restorative dentistry including bridges, crowns, dental implants, dentures, full mouth reconstruction, TMJ disorders and veneers.

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ospina places a strong focus on implants, laser and esthetic dentistry. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s had her own private practice in Miami,

Having a mutual passion for surgery as well as esthetics, Dr. Ospina implements an original

approach at Gables Perfect Smile and sees patients from initial consultation all the way to the end of their treatment. She works alongside a specialist and fuses regular dentistry and surgery. This results in an added convenience for patients who only have to visit one location, fewer times, with a doctor and a team that have comprehensive knowledge over the entire treatment and its progress. For patients who prefer additional privacy or need added flexibility, Gables Perfect Smile can accommodate and open the office exclusively for them, as well as stay open after regular business hours. Dr. Ospina has also received a patent for her Gummy Smile Treatment. This allows her and her team to perform complete smile makeovers using a unique process that accelerates healing and is practically painless. In combining several cosmetic dentistry and restorative options, as well as using Invisalign and teeth whitening treatments, patients are assured an experience and results like none other. That is why MicroDental Laboratories recognized Dr. Ospina’s commitment and passion for beautiful, healthy smiles and honored her as the 2016 Macstudio Model Search Miami Region Winner. “My goal is to understand your expectations, that is why I listen and get to know you better in order to fully understand and address the steps that will lead to your perfect smile.” Dr. Gloria Ospina To schedule your consultation call 305.443.8225 or visit www.GablesPerfectSmile.com. Gables Perfect Smile is located in The Ponce Tower at 1805 Ponce De Leon Blvd Suite 401 Coral Gables, FL 33134.

business spotlight | Winter 2017 39

life

Secrets Of

Online Shopping Discrimination

ost people think you can usually find a better deal when you shop online.

But the price you see can be different than what other people see. The type of computer you use, your online search history, even your zip code have all been used by online retailers to determine what price you pay. In a study conducted by researchers at Northeastern University in Boston, nine out of 16 online retailers and travel websites tested showed different prices or differ-

ence results for the same searches. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I always assumed all the prices would always be the same,â&#x20AC;? said Liz Owens. Owens, a busy mother of two, does a lot of her shopping online and was initially skeptical when she was told the prices she sees are not always what everyone else sees until she participated in a test. Owens, along with six other people, were provided a list of items and had to look them up on the same websites and at the same time.

For most of the items, everyone’s search resulted in the same price. However, it didn’t happen every time.

researchers at Northeastern University collected online shopping search results from more than 300 people.

When Owens looked up a night’s stay at the Caribe Royale Hotel in Orlando on Travelocity on her laptop, she was shown a price of $132 per night. The same search on Travelocity at the same time on a mobile phone came up with a price of $119.

Based on their findings, Wilson said they found cases of “price discrimination” and “price steering”.

A spokesperson for the travel website said it sometime does offer lower prices for people who use smartphones. A similar finding was discovered when participants searched Rosetta Stone’s online language software. Those in the group who searched on a desktop computer were shown a price of $249 for Levels 1-5 of Mandarin Chinese. Those who used a mobile device were offered the same products for $189 – a $60 difference. “I think that is shocking,” Owens said when seeing the price difference. “We did the search at the exact same time and I got a much higher price.” However, it wasn’t always a case of desktop versus mobile. Sometimes it was where a participant was logged on from that made a difference in price.

Price steering is when two users receive different product results or the same products in different order for the same search. Price discrimination occurs when two users receive different prices for the same search results. Wilson tested 16 online retailers and travel sites and found on nine of those sites customers saw different results and or prices

The price you see can be different than what other people see. The type of computer you use, your online search history, even your zip code have all been used by online retailers to determine what price you pay.

When Owens priced a GE 7-foot Christmas tree on HomeDepot.com with free home delivery anywhere in the U.S., her price was $399. When the same item was priced on the site from Boston and Minneapolis the price shown was $438.

When you log onto a website, companies can see your search history, your clicks, the type of computer and browser you use, and even determine your location. All of this, according to Wilson, can be used to personalize prices online. Wilson said price discrimination is becoming more prevalent and sophisticated, although; he added it can be very difficult for online shoppers to detect. “This is a real challenge for us and for consumers because companies are always experimenting with different strategies and algorithms,” he explained.

What can you do to figure out if the price you see is the lowest price? There’s no perfect solution, but here’s a start.

Home Depot said sometimes it does offer different online customers different prices based on the region where they log-on from. The company said it can figure out one’s location from a computer’s IP address. Researchers found 9 of 16 online retailers use “price steering” or “price discrimination” “You as a consumer are just looking at a website and really have no idea why it’s showing you what it’s showing you,” said Christo Wilson, who along with his team of

When looking for the best deal look it up on your desktop and using your mobile phone. If you think shopping in “private” or “incognito” mode is going to hide your information from online retailers, it doesn’t. Computer security expert says to hide your identity when shopping online use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). You can download some VPN services for free. Better ones will cost around $20-30 a year.

LIFE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 41

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HIGH TECH “SMART” PRODUCTS For Your Kitchen

he smart appliance trend that started in the living room is now moving into the kitchen.

There are new devices that measure your food and even do most of the cooking for you. “You look at ovens, the technology hasn’t changed in 50-plus years,” Matt Van Horn said. Van Horn is the co-creator of the June Oven. It uses sensors, scales and cameras to determine what you’re cooking. Place something inside and the convection oven’s computer figures out how to best prepare it – be it baking, broiling or roasting. You can even monitor your food from your smartphone. “We’re in essence teaching this oven to think like a chef, by using the camera, we’ve got a weight scale in there,” Van Horn said. The Drop Scale uses similar technology. Sensors help determine when you’ve entered enough of an ingredient based on weight. Chef Jessica Entzels has been testing it for a year. “I haven’t used a measuring cup definitely in that entire year,” she said. A new Samsung refrigerator has cameras inside. At the grocery store, shoppers can

use their smartphone to see if they’re out of milk. There’s also a built-in tablet where you can look up recipes. If you want to go hands free, Alexa, Siri and other voice recognition devices have the answers. Marcus Gosling helps design kitchen products. “There’s some really smart, forward-thinking companies saying, well how can we make seamless experiences in the kitchen” he said. Gosling said the ideal recipe mixes tradition with technology. The June Oven sells for nearly $1,500. The tech company behind it is now taking preorders and is expecting to starting shipping at the end of this year.

A new Samsung refrigerator has cameras inside. At the grocery store, shoppers can use their smartphone to see if they’re out of milk.

LIFE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 45

Study:

Unborn Babies Exposed To Secondhand Smoke May Have Lower Self-Control BY Giovanna Maselli • gmaselli1@cbs.com

new study has found a link between secondhand smoke exposure in pregnant women and developmental delays in their children.

The study- conducted by Florida International University – found that pre-natal exposure to cigarette smoke showed lower levels of selfcontrol in children and adolescents. According to researchers, low-self control is one of the strongest known causes of delinquent and criminal behavior. The more frequently a non-smoking expectant mother reported being around smokers, the lower the trajectory for development of self-control for her child between the ages of 4 and 15. That same connection was found even after accounting for other factors including maternal IQ, maternal self-control, maternal education and family income. Their conclusions were made after a 15-year study in which researchers collected information from more than 750 non-smoking mothers and their children. The study

was funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. One of the authors of the study, FIU Criminal Justice Professor Ryan Meldrum, says he hopes his research will raise greater awareness about the dangers of secondhand smoke during pregnancy. “First, it draws greater attention to the consequences of maternal exposure to secondhand smoke during pregnancy that go beyond health concerns by linking such exposure to factors like low self-control that are relevant to broader discussions of antisocial behavior,” said Meldrum. “Second, it highlights the fact that differences in self-control between individuals are not due simply to socialization that takes places within families and peer groups during adolescence.” Meldrum says he’d like to see policymakers try to find new ways to reduce expectant mothers’ exposure to secondhand smoke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have, for years, documented the health consequences of secondhand smoke.

LIFE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 47

Taste Of The Town

Fiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;lia Offers Lighter Approach To Italian Favorites

Lisa Petrillo • lpetrillo@wfor.cbs.com

rom grilling up prawns flown in from South Africa, molding the made-on-premises pizza dough for their Putanesca Pizza or hand mixing the dressing for the ultimate Caesar salad, it’s all happening at the new Fi’lia inside the SLS Brickell. The name means daughter in Italian with a dropped “g”. At the helm is renowned James Beard award winning Chef Michael Schwartz. “It’s just stuff that I like to cook and I like to eat,” said Schwartz. “It represents a lighter approach to Italian food.” The ‘feel’ of Fi’lia is relaxed and organic. It was designed by award winning interior designer Phillipe Starck who created all of the spaces in the hotel. During the recent opening party for the hotel, CBS4’s Lisa Petrillo asked Starck how Miami inspires him. “Miami is a cross of all of the cultures, all of the people and all of their energies,” said Starck. “The result is creativity.” Speaking of creativity, there are citrus trees and an herb garden at every table. Chef Schwartz started the Petrillo’s tasting at his table side Caesar station where the classic salad is made and presented at your table. “We start out with this griddle and grill the croutons to order and start with garlic butter on it,” said Schwartz. He then works anchovies in a wooden bowl, adding in garlic and an egg yolk. He then emulsified it by hand to create a dressing. “And then we toss,” he said as he added it to the salad. Scwartz then finished it off with fresh grated cheese and those home made toasted croutons. The result was a Caesar salad worth waiting for. “This is a real Caesar salad,” said Petrillo after tasting it, “Caesar himself would be happy.” Next up were grilled prawns. “I like to say prawns are the new octopus. You now how everyone has octopus on their menus? I’m doing prawns. We simply split grill it, finish it with garlic, parsley and a big piece of lemon to squeeze on it,” explained Schwartz. “This is sweet and savory and just the amount of bite. It’s to die for,” said Petrillo. Finally Pizza Putanesca with sausage, cheese and veggies. “The crust is thin. I love the sausage, it has has a kick to it and the cheese gives it a texture of smoothness. This is a dynamite pizza” Petrillo said. Fi’lia, located at 1300 South Miami Avenue, is open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

LIFE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 49

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martphones play a major role in our everyday lives. However, a new study suggests the amount of time you spend on your phones could affect the quality of your sleep. Like many of us, Jenna Wycoff can’t go long without staring at her smartphone. She checks her apps at least once every couple of minutes.

exposes you to blue light. Blue light is alerting and can inhibit your sleep and fragment your sleep throughout the rest of the night,” said Dr. Kingman Strohl with the University Hospitals Cleveland Medicine. Doctors say getting enough quality sleep is critical for your physical and mental health. Poor sleep is linked to increased risk of obesity, diabetes and depression.

A new study suggests that habit could affect your quality of sleep.

“Poor sleep and inadequate sleep gives you sleepiness the next day, it decreases your quality of life, reduces your ability to control impulses,” Strohl said.

Researchers studied more than 650 adults, tracking how much time they spent on their smartphones and their sleeping habits over a month.

Wycoff says her smartphone habits have certainly thrown off her regular bedtime.

They found extended screen time was linked with poor sleep quality and less sleep – especially for those who used smartphones right before going to bed. Sleep doctors say that may be for a few reasons. “Maybe if you don’t sleep well you look at your phone more often. But the other alternative is looking at your phone

“I go to bed later because I’m staring at stuff on my phone!” she said. Doctors say trading the smartphone for a book to unwind before bed could help ensure a better night’s rest. Patients who took part in this study installed an app on their smart phone that recorded the amount of time their screens were turned on.

LIFE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 53

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Living Large: A Piece Of Paradise Reached Only By Boat, Helicopter By Lisa Petrillo • lpetrillo@wfor.cbs.com

hey call it a true piece of paradise that’s “a world apart.” It’s Palazzo del Sol at the exclusive residences at Fisher Island off Miami Beach.

It’s the newest building built on the island in eight years. The only access to it is by boat or helicopter. Director of Sales Dora Puig gave CBS4’s Lisa Petrillo a look inside. “You’ve now entered our largest apartment. It’s just under 10,000 square feet. It’s a seven-bedroom home. Everything you touch and see is Italian,” said Puig. The over-sized living room with white washed oak barn wood floors gives the huge room warmth and style. “This is a slab of limestone in greyhound. It makes it look like the desert,” said Puig pointing out the elegant walls. Decorated bookcases separate the main room from the super stylized billiard room with elegant ceiling fixtures. The kitchen again is all-Italian with custom-made 8-foot-tall floors to fit with the 10-foot-high ceilings. The dining room is fit for royalty – European style and elegant. Just outside the kitchen is the breakfast nook which can double as a second dining room.

ships come into Miami Beach,” said Puig. Back inside to pure serenity. “Welcome to our gorgeous master suite,” said Puig. The master has a beautifully designed sitting area with a turquoise rug picking up the colors from the water. While the four-poster bed is trimmed in leather with wood walls. The master bath is all white marble with floating double sinks and an Italian-designed bathtub. All this luxury for a price tag of?

It leads outside to some great views.

“This unit is priced at $19,700,000,” Puig said.

“These views are so spectacular. This is the money shot,” said Petrillo, awestruck by the views.

Here’s a perk: With a purchase of every unit, as a gift from the developer, a 25,000.00 Dutch-made golf cart so you can arrive in style.

“The Port of Miami is to the left. This is where Biscayne Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, all of the cruise

Happy House Hunting!

LIFE cbsmiami.com | Winter 2017 55

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ith only ten dollars and a baby on the way, Lino and Raquel Alvarez were forced out of Cuba and to Miami where they knew no one. Lino, an optician by trade, immediately began looking for work and was very fortunate when a local optometrist gave him an opportunity. Through much effort and dedication he was able to purchase the business and make International Opticians an industry standard for quality and service. 48 years later, his son in law and VP Ron Pelletier continues upholding the same values that place International Opticians far ahead of the curve. Having an onsite full-service lab ready to grind a Rx into the lenses and then cut, edge, tint, coat and insert the lenses into the frame, could alone define this standard, but it’s just one of several components. Having a fully licensed staff that all have between 15-30 years experience be in control of the production, is another component.

Armani, patients can feel at ease knowing that they are receiving an unsurpassed level of assurance. The laid-back environment also eases any pressure to buy, as there is no selling. Doctors take pride in the service they provide and only prescribe what’s needed, as well as the opticians who don’t receive any commission on the help they offer. In large part, this is what makes International Opticians a leader, and overall, how they set a standard above the rest. “We are proud to carry many designer lines without the luxe prices.” -Ron Pelletier International Opticians is located at 2264 SW 22nd St, Miami FL 33145. For more information call 305-854-6191 or visit www.internationalopticians.com.

“There’s immense value in having professionals take care of all the work in-house rather than outsourcing. It eliminates the middlemen and number of mistakes made while significantly reducing time spent in shipping. Patients receive their eyeglasses in one to three days instead of weeks, and although rare, if a mistake should arise it can also be taken care of immediately.” – Ron Pelletier In addition, International Opticians offers a one-year warranty as opposed to having the customer deal with numerous manufacturers warranty. With 1,000 frames to choose from and top designer lines such as Silhouette, Celine, Tom Ford, Fendi, Ray Ban, Gucci and Giorgio

business spotlight | Winter 2017 57

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Real Estate

3 Things TO DO

When Your Neighbors List Their Home for Sale The sign just went up next door. How does your neighborâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impending sale affect you? BY Brendon DeSimone

Content provided by zillow.com

ost people think their real estate concerns end once they’ve closed on and moved into their new homes. But given the constant access to information and the changing nature of society today, smart homeowners know that their real estate awareness should continue after the closing.

Valley neighborhood, an open house visitor made a somewhat obvious beeline for the back of the house. He immediately got on the phone, and was clearly communicating with someone about where he was standing, and giving orders to move left and right. It turned out this visitor lived in the home behind, and was checking to see the neighbor’s view into his home.

When a neighbor’s house goes on the market, there can be some important implications for you. Here are some tips for staying real estate aware.

The open house is your chance to check your home’s paint job from the neighbor’s yard or simply to see your home from a different perspective.

Document important disclosure items

Know and learn the market in real time

For the most part, good fences make good neighbors. But sometimes the folks on the other side of the fence don’t cooperate, and unresolved neighbor conflicts tend to arise when one of the homes goes on the market.

Typical sellers claim and save their home online, but also keep searches going after the fact. Why? To keep tabs on the market, see the comps and have a real-time sense of what’s happening nearby.

Have a property line dispute or an issue with a broken fence and want to make sure that the new buyer knows about it? While sellers in most states have a duty to disclose issues to potential buyers, not all areas require this. Do your new neighbor-to-be a favor and alert the seller’s agent to anything the buyer needs to know about your neighbor’s property. See things differently Open houses allow buyers to spend some time exploring a home, but these events also present you with a chance to see your home from your neighbor’s perspective. Once, at a busy open house in San Francisco’s Noe

Just like when you were a buyer, knowing about the area and types of homes in the market is a good move for any homeowner. Take a neighboring home for sale as an opportunity to see what the market bears. You can also learn about the latest trends in home design. Speaking to a real estate agent can help inform you of changes to property taxes, or how assessments are changing in your town. A smart real estate agent, working their listing, will be an incredible resource to would-be clients down the road. Leverage their experience when your neighbor sells. Take note when your neighbor goes to sell their home. It’s not just a time to nose around, but to document, inspect or learn from the home sale. Some homes get listed once in a lifetime. Take advantage of the opportunity.

REAL ESTATE | Winter 2017 63

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A benefit to consumers? SOUTH FLORIDA - For years potential home buyers have depended on their financial institutions for their portfolio based lending when it comes to the purchase or refinance of their home. This traditional process, often lasting over 120 days, would result in the customer being declined, mostly due to bank required credit overlays. Newly released mortgage programs, including government backed programs from Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA and VA, allow these same consumers, many of whom have a credit score as low as 600 and a down payment as little as 5%, to bypass their financial institutions and go directly to the source for a loan up to five million dollars.

“M

ost consumers are not aware direct jumbo loan and government mortgage programs are even available.” says John Barry, Mortgage Lending Director at the Government Loan Assistance Program. With real estate prices seemingly leveling off and interest rates at an all-time low, consumers are looking to re-enter the market but are doing so with caution. John Barry adds “Our last study shows approximately 9 out of every 10 individuals who are declined for a mortgage or a refinance from their current banks actually qualify for one

of our programs.” In most Metropolitan areas, such as South Florida, the banks responsible for the large number of consumers being declined for a mortgage program are usually the largest: • • • • • • •

Bank of America Chase Wells Fargo HSBC Suntrust Bank United BB&T

When asked what would be the greatest benefit for a consumer to seek out these newly released

mortgage programs Barry replied “It’s simple, getting approved. Our mortgage programs are specifically designed to approve individuals, many with imperfect credit scores and limited down payments, to secure a low-fixed rate loan of any amount up to 5 million dollars”. In addition, the Government Loan Assistance Program offers a complimentary telephone pre-qualification process. For more information contact the Government Loan Assistance Program at 1-855-566-4277(HARP).

business spotlight | Winter 2017 67

What to Do If You

Can’t Make Your Mortgage Payment Whatever you do, don’t skip a payment and think no one will notice.

BY Elizabeth Weiss Content provided by zillow.com

Living paycheck to paycheck is not uncommon for many homeowners. And sometimes, when you find yourself in a bind and you’re struggling to make the next mortgage payment, you may be tempted to try to skip a payment, thinking you can repay it later once you get back on track. But a passive approach to a financial issue — particularly one involving something as impactful as your

mortgage — is not advisable. Being proactive and straightforward with your creditors is far more prudent in a personal financial crisis. The power of honesty “The first and most important thing I always tell clients concerning delinquent mortgage payments is to contact their lender/servicer, in writing, to advise them of the hardship and inability to make payments,” says Cydney Bulger, attorney with The Bulger Firm in Jacksonville, Florida.

Openly admitting your inability to pay your mortgage is probably one of the last things you want to do, but being forthright about your situation will serve you far better in the long run.

The Hardest Hit Fund (HHF) was developed in 2010 for homeowners who struggle to make their monthly mortgage payments in an effort to prevent foreclosure and stabilize neighborhoods.

Don’t wait too long

Not all states participate in the HHF, but those that do focus on helping two groups of people stay in their homes: unemployed homeowners who are looking for new work, and homeowners who owe more on their mortgage than their home is worth.

The longer you wait to make your financial struggle known and the harder you attempt to work the system, the less favorably your personal financial crisis is likely to work out. “The farther the issues go, the less affordable a modified loan can be,” warns Bryant H. Dunivan, Jr., a real estate and consumer protection attorney in Florida. Don’t assume that you have no options — you won’t know if your bank or servicer will work with you unless you ask. Educate yourself For homeowners who have already missed a mortgage payment, Dunivan recommends making the most of rules restricting dual tracking, by seeking loan assistance as soon as possible. Dual tracking is when a mortgage servicer forecloses on a property while simultaneously considering a loan modification. Created by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in 2013, the rule restricting dual tracking prohibits the practice in the 120-day period after a default. Dunivan explains that this rule has “… allowed for a lot more protecting for homeowners going into, or already in, foreclosure.” Violations of this rule, “… may subject the servicer to damages, and may give a borrower leverage in a foreclosure lawsuit,” he adds. Pursue all possible options “There may be some state programs that make mortgage payments for people,” says Dunivan.

But don’t expect miracles “Calling your bank gets the ball rolling on any potential loan modification option,” says Dunivan. But banks may or may not offer leniency, even if you’re honest about your situation. And if your situation is more serious and your ability to pay back the loan is truly compromised, “it’s a typical handoff system where once you meet certain criteria, you are put into foreclosure and then a series of automated messages are sent out by mail.” Be proactive Failure to act can lead lenders to believe that you don’t care about your financial obligations. “Now, more than ever [post-2007 housing crash], lenders are willing to work with delinquent homeowners, but if the homeowners fail to advise them of the problem, [lenders] don’t know that they need help, and assume the worst,” says Bulger. If you wait too long to ask for help, you could eventually discover that it’s too late. If foreclosure is inevitable, consider reaching out to an attorney who specializes in helping people through — or, if you have a good case, fighting — the foreclosure process.

REAL ESTATE | Winter 2017 69

94% Of Individuals

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“

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My wife and I were solicited by our current

lender, Wells Fargo, to refinance our current home loan with them. We submitted all the paper work and shortly there after we were turned down. We talked with Suntrust, who we do our personal banking with, and again we were turned down. We called the Government Loan Assistance Program and they were able to get us approved the same day. We are now saving over $750.00 per month.

”

-- James B. Coral Gables, FL.

Specifically those who have recently been turned down by one of the following financial institutions: New government backed mortgage programs such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHA now allow consumers to bypass their financial institutions and go directly to the source for a new mortgage or refinance. These programs were specifically designed to help consumers with an imperfect credit history secure a fixed rate as low as 3.5% by bypassing their financial institutions and calling Government Loan Assistance at 1-855-566-HARP (4277). Call Government Loan Assistance today and take advantage of the following: • • • • •

Fixed rates as low as 3.5% 15 and 30 year fixed rate programs All credit applications accepted Same day credit approval process All loans are government backed

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Avoid the credit restrictions and overlays from your financial institution and call the Government Loan Assistance Program at 1-855-566-HARP (4277), today. Government Loan Assistance Program 1-855-566-HARP (4277) *Terms and Conditions Apply – The payment on a $250,000 15 year fixed rate refinance loan in Florida at 3.5% rate and 70% loan-to-value (LTV) primary residence single family home is $1787.21 with .128 in points due at closing and $3837 in fees, minimum credit score of 740, and verifiable income for the borrowers. The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is 3.580%. This loan may not be available in all states, and not all consumers will qualify for these monthly payment terms. Rates mentioned in any advertising are based on a sampling of available rates from our lender network. Specific rates and terms offered to our applicants may vary. Rates are subject to change daily without notice.

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Instant Kitchen Updates

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Company’s coming soon and there’s no time for a big kitchen redo. Don’t stress. A few quick updates will have your kitchen looking more stylish and inviting for guests. Replace the kitchen faucet, install a new light fixture, switch out cabinet hardware, add a rug or window treatment and paint the cabinets or walls.

Replace the Faucet

Dress a Window

Replacing the faucet is a quick and affordable way to make your kitchen look and work better. And installation is a relatively straightforward DIY job, even for a beginner. Look for a striking faucet that’s easy to use. This model features a Venetian bronze finish and a pull-down spout that eases cleanup.

Add a little wow to your kitchen window by hanging a new window treatment. A quick-install Roman shade like this one adds color and pattern to your kitchen while making it easy to control the amount of light and privacy.

Hang a Pendant It’s about time you replaced that old centered-on-the-ceiling flush-mount kitchen light fixture with something more stylish and practical. This nickel-finish mini pendant provides task lighting over an island or sink, as well as pleasing retro-contemporary style. Switch Out Cabinet Hardware Swapping out cabinet knobs and pulls for new hardware is one of the quickest and easiest kitchen refreshes, yet it makes a surprisingly big impact. Just remember: Unless you want to drill new holes (and cover up the old ones), check to make sure the new hardware fits the existing holes on your cabinets.

Paint the Cabinets Get the look of brand-new cabinets for a fraction of the cost—paint the existing units. With Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations, you can apply a fresh color and finish in about a week—no stripping, sanding or priming. Choose from several colors, including this deep-brown Kona. Or use oil-enriched Valspar Cabinet Enamel, which leaves a smooth factory finish on existing cabinets with little to no prep work. Paint the Walls Freshen your kitchen quickly by painting the walls. Don’t be afraid to mix cabinetry colors to complement the walls and tie in distinctive room elements. Give your kitchen a quick refresh with paint, hardware and other quick updates.

Lay Down a Rug Perk up your old kitchen floor with color, pattern and texture by adding a small rug or runner. Kitchen rugs soften hard floors and are easy on the eyes—and budget.

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GENERAL CONTRACTING

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Caring for

Regular cleaning and caring for your hardwood floor will help protect your investment. Learn how to prevent scratches, keep dirt from building up, and what to do when. Content provided by lowes.com

Get in a Routine The best way to clean hardwood floors is to follow a schedule:

floor. Durable, urethane-based polishes have fast dry times, no waxy buildup and a protective wear layer to fill in microscratches and even out the appearance of the floor.

1. Daily

Additional Tips

Dust: This is one of the most underestimated and easy steps in the process. Dust daily to keep dust and dirt off the floor. This will prevent scratching and essentially extend the beauty and life of your floor. Daily dust-mopping will also significantly reduce allergens in the home. More effective than traditional methods, a microfiber material uses a static charge to attract more dust and allergens. These smaller fibers reach into floor pores to lift dirt more effectively.

Avoid using water and vinegar, soap-based cleaners, wax or steam cleaners on your hardwood floor. Vinegar and water will dull the floor’s finish over time, while soap or wax will leave a residue. Steam cleaners put heat and excessive water on your floor, which can lead to cupping and long-term damage.

2. Weekly Clean: There’s a right way to clean floors, and there’s a wrong way. Too much liquid can damage floors, while the wrong formula may not work. Look for pH-neutral, nontoxic and biodegradable formulas to clean effectively and keep your home and environment safe. Vinegar, for example, can eat away at finish, even when diluted with water. Use a washable microfiber pad, which will remove bacteria and keep waste out of landfills.

Use a natural, rubber rug underlayment with a waffle pattern in the entry ways or high-traffic areas; use felt floor protectors on furniture and avoid high heels. Regularly dust and clean your hardwood floor to keep it looking like new. Use the proper tools to clean your floor: a mop paired with a machine-washable, microfiber pad for dusting and cleaning. Avoid string mops that put excessive amounts of water on the floor, which can be damaging, and push dirt around, instead of picking up and removing dirt. Wipe up all spills immediately to avoid permanent stains.

3. Quarterly Keep pet nails trimmed. Polish: Use water-based polishes to restore luster and shine every two to three months. These polishes won’t leave a residue or emit harmful toxins, plus they’ll prevent over-cleaning and stripping of your

Maintain a comfortable environment and temperature — no extremes in humidity.

HOME | Winter 2017 79

A r T i S T i C F LO O r i N G

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Paint a Faux-Brick Wall You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need real bricks for the look of a painted brick wall. Just apply the same painting technique to any faux brick surface. Content provided by lowes.com

Instructions This technique can be used on a real brick surface, the brick pattern used on some poured concrete foundations, or as shown here, on faux brick hardboard panels. Before painting panels, caulk the seams without leaving caulk on the surface and fill any nail holes.

Skill Level Beginner Estimated Time 1 weekend

Step 1: Thoroughly wash the faux brick surface and let it dry completely. Use masking tape and drop cloths to protect any areas you don’t want to paint. Also, remove or cover any outlet and switch plates. Good to Know: You’ll need plenty of ventilation for this project. To save time, position a fan to dry the wall after cleaning and painting. Step 2: Apply a base coat and let dry overnight.

Estimated Cost $$$$$$ TOOls • 120-grit sanding sponge • Painter’s tape • 2 large sponges • Paint mixing container Materials • Embossed red brick wall panels • SFloetrol paint conditioner • HGTV Home by SherwinWilliams paint, satin: Thunder Clap, Pussywillow

Good to Know: A roller with a short nap will handle the shallow embossing on a brick panel. For a brick-pattern poured concrete wall, you may need to use a roller cover with a 1/2-inch nap or longer. Step 3: Mix three parts of the top-coat paint to three parts Floetrol conditioner, and one part water. (For a single 4-foot x 8-foot section, each part can equal 1/4 cup.) Prepare a large sponge by soaking it in water and wringing it out until it’s moist but not dripping. Step 4: Starting at the top of the wall, sponge on the paint mixture in broad, circular motions for a slightly mottled look. If necessary, remove some of the paint with the back of the sponge. Remove all of the painter’s tape, and allow the top coat to dry overnight. Good to Know: As one sponge becomes saturated with paint, switch to the second moistened sponge. Have a helper clean the first one before the paint has a chance to harden on the outside. Step 5: Sand the surface with a 120-grit sanding sponge just enough to reveal some of the original brick color for a distressed look. Then wipe the surface clean. Good to Know: To capture the painted brick look on a small scale, cut the faux brick panels to fit the back of a bookshelf.

HOME | Winter 2017 83

Landscaping with

Mulch Neatly mulched beds improve the appearance of any landscape. But beyond its appearance, a layer of mulch provides many other benefits. Mulch can protect a plantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s root system, add nutrients to the soil and slow the erosion of topsoil. Content provided by lowes.com

When to Mulch When the weather gets warm, we’re always in a hurry to get our landscape looking its best, so we pile on the mulch. Don’t put mulch down too early in the spring. Give the soil a chance to warm. Mulching too early will actually slow down the warming process. Normally, mid- to late spring is the best time to put down mulch. Seedlings can work their way through a thin layer of mulch, but too deep a layer could be impenetrable. Let your plants get off to a good start first. You can always add more mulch after the plants are established. You may need to apply additional mulch in the summer to retain moisture and in the winter to insulate from cold. If your garden has a layer of winter mulch, pull it away gradually as the temperatures warm. If you remove it all at once, the tender, new growth underneath could be affected by a late-season cold snap. How Much Mulch

mulch layer rather than in the ground. The resulting shallow root system is susceptible to cold and drought damage. Where and How to Mulch From an appearance perspective, consider the size and style of the area you’re putting the mulch in. For example, pine bark nuggets may be too large for a bed of annuals but perfect for an area around trees or shrubs. Pathways, slopes and areas prone to flooding or high wind need special consideration. Consider using a heavier or larger material here. There are mulch products manufactured specifaclly not to float away. The area needs to be weed-free before mulching. In general, the bigger the pieces or chunks, the deeper the layer needs to be. Smaller-sized mulches will work their way into the soil more quickly. If you wish, you can work most organic mulches into the soil at season’s end to improve the soil.

One reason we apply mulch is to control and kill weeds. It can do the same to your desired plants, so don’t pile too much on them. Knowing how much mulch to use can be tricky. A 1- to 2-inch layer of fine mulch should be sufficient, while a coarser material should be 3 to 4 inches deep. Too much of either type can suffocate your plants. In areas where you simply want to keep anything from growing, you can lay it on as thick as you like.

There are several products to consider when mulching: Work gloves prevent wear on your hands. Since mulch is light compared to other materials — like soil — a largercapacity wheelbarrow (8 to 10 cubic feet) saves time when transporting mulch to your garden or flower beds. A bow rake is great for spreading mulch evenly.

Coverage will vary greatly based on what type of mulch you use and how deeply you layer it.

During wet seasons, you may notice that there are more bugs than normal in your mulch, but these insects don’t tend to cause problems.

To prevent stems and bark from rotting, pull mulch away from woody stems and tree trunks 1 to 2 inches. Also, if mulch is touching the plants, pests — such as mice and slugs — can find a great hiding place and a free lunch. A pre-shaped mulch tree ring is an option to place around trunks. Mulch that’s too deep will stimulate root growth in the

Insects and Mulch

Termites might be attracted to the wood in compost, but they like larger pieces of wood. They don’t like finely shredded mulch or bark nuggets, and mulches made from cypress, cedar or eucalyptus are not as popular with the termite set. Shredded rubber mulch or other inorganic mulches like stone or crushed rock are excellent alternatives if you find your mulch is popular with insects.

HOME | Winter 2017 85

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WHY IMPACT WINDOWS ARE THE OBVIOUS CHOICE

iving a walk or short drive away from the beach is considered paradise. But when hurricane season hits, precaution needs to be enforced.

During a storm or windy event, one of the first things to fail any structure are the windows. Those that are non-impact can shatter very easily, allowing for wind to make its way inside and wreak havoc. Not only are interior spaces destroyed, with enough pressure build-up, the roof can be separated in moments. These windows are fragile and pose a very serious threat. Impact windows are the safety measure all homes and buildings need to take. They are effectively designed to withstand flying debris common during severe storms. This prevents any harm or disaster from taking place to either the property or people inside of it. Installing impact windows can also lower insurance premiums by 45%, as they’re not only a defense against harsh weather, but also to unwelcomed intruders. More than just a preventative step, impact windows also increase property value and lower energy costs. They come in several lamination options and provide superior insulating capabilities. In addition to an effectively climate controlled environment, they block 99 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays. This creates an overall healthier environment and prevents furnishings from fading. Another key advantage they provide is noise reduction. In a world that is getting increasingly

louder, the insulation acts as a noise-cancelling barrier allowing for soothe and calm interiors. There are several obvious reasons and advantages of why impact windows should be everyone’s solution. There’s also one reason that isn’t as obvious, but perhaps the strongest incentive. It’s for their quality. Impact windows are manufactured to resist storms, and by default, the test of time. Built stronger, they last longer and provide many more years of optimal performance. At Ready Window all impact windows are approved by Miami-Dade, Florida Building and the International Building Code. With 25 years of experience in South Florida, they know just how serious a storm can be, and how to prevent all unnecessary damage. Don’t take a risk and visit www. readywindow.com today. Serving S. Florida for 30 years, from residential to high rise, from home owner customers to high end construction companies. For more information contact Ready Window at 305-269-3999.

“Take a hands-on approach to window shopping. Come visit us and get a better feel for the product your buying and our company. Our doors are always open to you.” -Ricardo Suarez, President of Ready Window

business spotlight | Winter 2017 87

Choosing a Showerhead

An invigorating shower can get the day off to a smart start. Learn about the different types of showerheads and determine which one will work best in your bathroom. Content provided by lowes.com

Types of Showerheads

Other Considerations

There are three types of showerheads:

Energy Savings For energy savings, look for showerheads that have a WaterSense label to save water and money. These lowflow showerheads use less water than a standard model. According to government standards, no showerhead can have a water flow rate greater than 2.5 gallons per minute at a standardized pressure of 80 psi (pounds per square inch). Low-flow showerheads use even less than that, which translates to lower energy costs to the consumer. Not every home has water pressure as high as 80 psi. Levels substantially lower than that can make a dramatic difference in the effectiveness of the shower. If it feels as if you never can get the shampoo rinsed out of your hair properly, look for a model designed specifically for low water pressure use.

Fixed Showerheads They’re mounted permanently to the wall of the shower unit. Some fixed showerheads are mounted in such a way that the height can be adjusted. Hand-held Showerheads These are connected to the wall by a flexible tube or hose, allowing a range of motion. Hand-held showerheads most often hang on a fixed-mount bracket, which can hang low or high on the wall depending on your needs. They’re also useful for bathing children and pets, and they make cleaning the shower and tub easy. Showerheads with Hand Showers If you can’t decide whether you want a fixed or handheld showerhead, consider a 2-in-1 unit where the handheld unit is attached to the fixed showerhead. Materials and Finishes Materials Most showerheads are made of metal, solid brass or plastic with a chrome or colored finish. Finishes Fixed and handheld showerheads come in a variety of finishes to complement the other hardware and faucets in your bathroom. The most popular colors and finishes include: Oil-rubbed bronze Brushed or polished chrome Brushed or polished nickel Copper Polished or antique brass White Off-white

Some showerheads also come with a cut-off valve that allows you to stop the flow of water while bathing, which greatly reduces the amount of water used in every shower. Spray Patterns Look for a unit in which the spray pattern is easily adjustable. Most showerheads offer three different spray patterns including: A wide coverage that feels like a drenching rain and is ideal for everyday use. A drenching spray pattern that’s good for rinsing shampoo from your hair. A targeted pattern producing a sharp spray that’s ideal for sore muscles. Other Features Would you like to sing along to music while taking your shower? Consider a showerhead with a built-in wireless speaker. It can stream your music playlist or even get you caught up on the morning news. This showerhead synchronizes with your Bluetooth® enabled devices (tablets, laptops or smart phones) and can last for seven hours before you need to recharge the removable sound capsule.

HOME | Winter 2017 89

Reduce

Allergens In Your Home

Dealing with allergies and other conditions that are triggered by allergens can be difficult. Take these simple steps to minimize the allergens in your home. Content provided by lowes.com

Replace Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Filters Not only will changing your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) filters help eliminate allergens from your home, but it will improve the lifespan of your HVAC system. It’s one of the simplest changes you can make to improve your home’s health. When you shop for HVAC filters, look for a model that is designed to capture microscopic particles including bacteria, mold spores and pollen. Pleated filters increase the amount of surface area where these particles can be electrostatically captured. Another simple tip that can improve your HVAC filter’s performance is have smokers smoke outside. Smoking indoors creates air particle levels that are several times higher than non-smoking homes. Use a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filter on Your Vacuum Controlling the dust in your home can be crucial to preventing allergens from accumulating, and vacuuming twice a week is the simplest, most effective way of controlling irritating dust. You can maximize the effectiveness of your vacuum cleaner if you use a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. HEPA filters are able to trap 99.97% of the particles that are .3 microns and larger, which means you will catch far more allergens like pet dander, dust or pollen than you would with a standard filter. Don’t be fooled by generic filters that are labeled as “HEPA-type” filters. A true HEPA filter will have a serial number and display HEPA test results on the package.

Air Purifiers If some of your family members struggle with respiratory problems like asthma, you may want the additional assurance of an air purifier to keep your air clean. Tabletop air purifiers are less expensive options, and they can be transported from room to room as needed. However, whole-room air purification units have larger filters and collecting plates, so they do a better job of cleaning the air. Make sure that the unit you choose fits your room’s dimensions. A smaller unit in a large room will not be effective. Also, avoid models that generate ozone as part of the cleaning operation. As you shop, look for a higher clean-air delivery rate (CADR) number. The higher the number, the stronger the air-cleaning power of your unit.

HOME | Winter 2017 91

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Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide

A vacuum cleaner is a necessity for keeping your floors tidy, but the variety of models can be confusing. Learn how to find the best vacuum for your home. Content provided by lowes.com

Types of Vacuum Cleaners

Upright Vacuums

There are several common types of vacuum cleaners:

Upright vacuums are full-size models with wide cleaning paths â&#x20AC;&#x201D; up to 15 inches â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and corded power. The cleaning head is directly attached to the housing for the motor and dustbin. Upright vacuums have a motorized, rotating brush, making them well suited for lifting dirt out of carpets. Most can adapt to hard floors as well. Many uprights come with extensions and attachments to

Upright Canister Stick Handheld Robotic

clean under furniture, reach tight crevices, vacuum stairs or dust window treatments. Upright vacuums are more compact than most canister models and, since they store upright, they take up less floor space.

also find some that connect to a vehicle accessory power outlet. Some models can handle wet vacuuming and some have a motorized brush to give you extra cleaning capability.

Canister Vacuums

Robotic Vacuums

Canister vacuums are another type of full-size, corded vacuum. The motor and dirt bin are contained in a wheeled housing — the canister — that connects to the cleaning head with a hose. The design makes them easy to maneuver, since you can vacuum with the cleaning head rather than needing to move the entire machine around a room. Canister vacuums have cleaning paths comparable to those of uprights and similar available attachments. They work well on hard floors and many include a powered, rotating brush that makes them good for vacuuming carpet. They’re also effective for vacuuming stairs and reaching underneath furniture.

Robotic vacuums do the cleaning for you. These small, self-propelled devices are great for quick, daily cleaning. They can keep small living spaces tidy and complement manual vacuuming, lessening your reliance on fullscale cleaning with larger models. Robotic vacuums are cordless and small enough to clean under furniture. Features that allow the devices to dodge obstacles are standard and some models can avoid drop-offs (such as stairs). You can find robotic vacuums designed for hard floors as well as models that have a rotating brush or agitator to clean carpets as well. Look for side brushes that push dirt from edges of the room into the path of the vacuum. Programmable models let you create a cleaning schedule. Some come with a remote control and some have Wi-Fi connectivity that lets you activate or program them from a mobile device. Recharging docks and an auto-recharge function increase convenience. Many selfcharging models can resume cleaning after a recharge. Accessories included with some robotic vacuums let you block off areas or allow access to adjoining rooms. Some of these vacuums record visual reference points to help them navigate through your home.

Stick Vacuums Stick vacuums have a design that is similar to that of uprights, but these models are smaller and have smaller cleaning paths. They’re a good choice if you don’t want to handle a heavier, full-size vacuum. They can work well for small houses and apartments, or as a quick cleaning option for an upstairs or downstairs. Some stick vacuums use suction alone to clean, making them well suited for hard floors, but some include a motorized brush for cleaning carpets. Attachments — such as tools for dusting or cleaning crevices — are included with some models. They don’t have the power or capacity of full-size vacuums, but their compact design makes them easier to handle and store. Most stick vacuums are cordless, but corded models are available, giving you unlimited run time. Handheld Vacuums As the name suggests, handheld vacuums are small, lightweight and highly portable. Most are cordless, giving you the freedom to quickly handle spot-cleaning jobs. Handheld vacuums can tackle tasks such as cleaning up dry spills on a countertop, pet hair on upholstery, dust on blinds or dirt on vehicle floor mats. Corded models are also available, giving you long-running power. You can

Good to Know: Some robotic vacuums can handle mopping. You can also find dedicated robotic moppers. Features and Specifications Cordless vacuums let you move from room to room without stopping to change electrical outlets. Models with higher volt (V) specifications are more powerful and tend to run longer before needing a recharge. Fastcharging options reduce downtime. Corded vacuums give you unlimited run time. While they don’t have the full portability of cordless models, they tend to offer more cleaning power. Models with higher amperage (amps) ratings are more powerful. Extended cord length lets you clean more floor space without

HOME | Winter 2017 95

needing to move the plug. A retractable cord winds into the vacuum at the press of a button or foot pedal.

of the filters. Some models improve the cyclones to separate even more debris from the air.

HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filtration efficiently removes allergens like pet dander and dust — 99.97 percent of particles 0.3 microns in diameter and larger — from the vacuum exhaust.

Cleaning head height options let you configure the vacuum to different floor types. Manual adjustment allows you to raise or lower the cleaning head as needed for hard floors and different types of carpet. Vacuums with automatic height adjustment detect the surface and adjust the cleaning head accordingly.

Bagged vacuums tend to hold more dirt and dust. The bag material filters much of the dust from the vacuum exhaust and the vacuum may have additional filters to further clean the air. Since you dispose of the used bags, these models reduce your contact with dirt and dust — especially help ful if allergies are a concern. Bagless vacuums collect debris in a bin or cup, relying on filters to clean dust from the exhaust. To empty the vacuum, you dump the debris out of the bin. You don’t need to find or purchase bags for these models, but they usually have more filters to clean or replace. Bagless vacuums with cyclonic action force air into a cylindrical or cone-shaped chamber — the cyclone — to spin dirt and dust particles into the collection bin. The process helps maintain suction by reducing the debris that clog the filters (or the filter material of a vacuum bag) and decrease airflow. Multi-cyclonic models use additional, smaller cyclones to keep finer particles out

A roller brush on / off feature lets you disengage the motorized brush on hard floors to prevent scattering the dirt and dust. This feature can also help prevent rugs from getting tangled in the vacuum. Variable suction lets you adjust the vacuum to clean more delicate furnishings such as upholstery and window treatments. Included tools and attachments, such as dusting brushes, handheld roller brushes, crevice tools and extension pieces, let you take on a variety of cleaning tasks. A headlight illuminates the area you’re vacuuming — helpful for cleaning under a couch, in a dark corner or in a hallway. Edge-cleaning features help you get rid of dirt and dust

in the hard-to-reach areas along walls.

upright or canister vacuum to make the most of your efforts.

Self-propelled models reduce the effort of vacuuming. Convertible models — such as uprights, which can function as canister vacuums, and stick vacuums, which can operate as handhelds — let you transform the vacuum to fit the cleaning task. Indicator lights let you know when it’s time to empty the vacuum.

Good to Know Cordless vacuum battery types include nickel cadmium (NiCd or NiCad), nickel metal hydride (NiMH) and lithium ion (Li-ion). A NiCd battery holds a charge longer in storage and can take more charge and discharge cycles than a NiMH battery, but a NiMH battery is lighter and holds a greater charge than a NiCd battery of the same size. A Li-ion battery is smaller and lighter than a similar voltage battery of either type. It also holds a charge longer than either type in storage. Considerations When looking at available models and features, consider these factors and tips: Room and home size: A full-size upright or canister vacuum can help you clean large areas more quickly. Multiple levels: Consider keeping a full-size vacuum on your main floor and using a stick vacuum for regular, light cleaning on other levels, reducing the number trips up and down the stairs with the larger vacuum. Floor types: Make sure the vacuum you choose can easily and effectively handle all of the types of flooring in your home. Furniture: Consider a model designed to simplify steering and maneuvering around obstacles. Pets: Look for tools and features designed to collect pet hair without clogging the vacuum. Allergies: Look for vacuums designed to better contain dust, pollen, pet dander and other allergens. Cleaning schedule: A stick vacuum or robotic vacuum handles daily cleaning with little effort, but if you don’t have time to vacuum regularly, consider a more powerful

Other Floor Care and Vacuuming Options Shampooers are for deep carpet cleaning. They heat water and mix it with detergent, creating a solution you spray on the carpet. Brushes dislodge dirt and the machine vacuums up the dirty water. Models similar in appearance to an upright or canister vacuum are effective for cleaning entire rooms and often include handheld tools for upholstery or carpeted stairs. Smaller models are designed for spot cleaning carpets or upholstery. Steam mops are similar in design to a stick vacuum. They use steam and a mopping pad to clean and sanitize hard floors. Some include tools and accessories to clean carpets or countertops and you can configure some to steam drapes or garments. You can also find steam cleaners that clean and sanitize windows and other surfaces in addition to floors. Floor sweepers are good for quick, light jobs. Many models work on both carpet and hard floors. They don’t have the cleaning or collection capabilities of a vacuum, but they’re much lighter and smaller. You can find cordless models with motor-driven brushes or manual models with brushes that turn as you push the device. Shop vacuums are designed for use in garages or workshops and also work well for vacuuming vehicle interiors. Most feature a wheeled canister for collecting debris and hose-end tools. Handheld models are also available for quick cleanups. Shop vacuums typically have wet and dry cleaning capabilities and some can operate as a blower. Some benchtop power tools have ports that allow you to use a shop vacuum for dust collection.

Good to Know: Follow the vacuum or floor-cleaning tool manufacturer’s instructions for use, maintenance and safety. Make sure the machine is appropriate for the type of cleaning you need to do.

HOME | Winter 2017 97

ABC Fire Extinguisher Guide: Types and Uses

A fire extinguisher saves lives and property if used properly against small fires. Follow these tips for selecting and using a fire extinguisher. Content provided by lowes.com

Understanding Fire Extinguisher Types Optimize your fire fighting success by pairing the correct extinguisher with its associated fire type.

Select the largest size extinguisher you and your family members can lift and operate. Of course, once you have your new fire extinguisher(s) home, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement, mounting and proper use.

Type A: Combustible Materials Using a Fire Extinguisher Wood Paper Cloth Rubber Plastic Type B: Combustible Liquids Flammable liquids Grease Paints and Stains Alcohol Gasses Type C: Electrical Short circuits Overloaded outlets

Selecting an Extinguisher Fire extinguishers come in two types: Rechargeable and Disposable. Rechargeable extinguishers may be reused after service. Disposable extinguishers must be replaced after the pin is pulled. Experts recommend storing at least one fire extinguisher on each floor of your home. So, it’s probably makes sense to store Type A Extinguishers close to living areas. But what about the kitchen or garage, where it’s likely that a mix of flammable materials and sources combine? Combination A-B-C Fire Extinguishers are available for general use and work wonderfully in home applications.

For safe operation of most household fire extinguishers, remember the word PASS! P – PULL the pin A – AIM low, at the base of the fire S – SQUEEZE the lever slowly and evenly S – SWEEP the nozzle from side to side Fire safety professionals offer these additional tips: Keep the room’s exit to your back, so you can get out quickly if needed. If the room you’re working in fills with smoke or the fire becomes hard to control, leave immediately. Check your home’s fire extinguishers monthly to ensure their pressure meter reads green or full. Replace or recharge extinguishers immediately after use. Always evacuate the premises and dial 911. Never re-enter your home until the fire department says it is safe. Let the professionals determine if the fire is truly extinguished – something dangerous could be out of view waiting to reignite.

HOME | Winter 2017 99

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HOME | Winter 2017 101

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he all-new 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia won the “Driver’s Choice” award for “Best New Luxury Car” as it secured 55 percent of the category’s votes, in a field of 10 new cars and SUVs, thanks to nearly 1,000 user-submitted ballots on The Car Connection, a car review and research website. “Our readers have voted and with the Alfa Romeo Giulia’s win for ‘Best New Luxury Car,’ it’s clear that readers, drivers and shoppers are keen to get behind the wheel,” said Marty Padgett, editorial director of Internet Brands Automotive, parent company of The Car Connection, Motor Authority and Green Car Reports. As the first of a new generation of vehicles built on an all-new platform, the 2017 Giulia embodies Alfa Romeo’s La meccanica delle emozioni (the mechanics of emotion), delivering race-inspired performance, advanced technologies, seductive Italian style and an exhilarating driving experience to the premium mid-size sedan segment. Alfa Romeo’s passion for Italian style, craftsmanship and performance carries throughout the entire lineup. Giulia Quadrifoglio stands as the “halo” model with its 2.9L bi-turbo V-6 engine producing a class-leading 505 horsepower and 443 lb.-ft. of torque. The Giulia and Giulia Ti models feature an all-new, all-aluminum, 2.0-liter, direct-injection turbo engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission delivering a class-leading, standard

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AUTO | Winter 2017 111

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How To Photograph Your Car for Sale

Better Car Photos Mean A Faster Sale By Ronald Montoya Content provided by edmunds.com

Many people who have browsed online private-party listings for used cars have run into this. A car catches your attention. You click on the link to see more photos, but there is only one image, with the car not fully in the frame. Or worse, there are a number of photos, but they are blurry and were taken at night with a lowquality cell phone camera. Poor photos make your car less appealing to a buyer, prolong the selling process and lead to customers who aren’t exactly sure what they’re getting. You don’t have to be an expert photographer to create an effective

used-car listing. You just need to know what to focus on and when to take the picture. The following tips will show you how to photograph your car, which creates a better used car listing and in turn sells your car much more quickly. There are two important points we need to make before you even start. First, wash the car. Make sure it’s nice and clean, and the wheels and tires are shiny. And second, roll up the windows. It gives the car a smooth, solid look.

Use the Right Camera These days, the most convenient option is to pull a smartphone out of your pocket and use it to take photos of your car. And if you’ve purchased a smartphone in the last few years, it should suffice. But we all know someone who has held onto a phone for way too long. Grainy photos shot on an iPhone 3G or old Blackberry aren’t going to cut it. Instead, use a point-and-shoot digital camera, even if it is a few years old. The image will be superior to any taken on an old cell phone. The Golden Hour Where and when you take your photos can make all the difference in your shots. Don’t go out on your lunch break and snap photos of the car in a parking lot. The light is too harsh at midday and your photos will look washed out. Similarly, don’t take photos at night, because a camera’s flash is a poor substitute for the sun. In photography, the “golden hour” is when the sun rises and when it is about to set. Photos taken at this time are less likely to be overexposed, and the light has a warm look that enhances the colors in the photo. The Golden Hour Calculator can help you determine the perfect time in your area. If your schedule doesn’t allow you to take photos during the golden hour, your best bet is between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. Cloudy mornings work well, too. The location of your photo shoot can also help the car stand out among the crowded online listings. Try to find an isolated location or parking lot. This allows your car to be the focal point in the photos. The Edmunds offices are a few miles from the beach, so we often use it as a location. If you are landlocked, a nearby park is a good choice. In a pinch an empty parking lot will suffice. Quantity and Variety The more photos your listing has, the more likely it is that your car will sell. If the online listing is free, upload the maximum number of photos the site allows. With sites that charge for listings, it’s worth the extra cost to have more photos in the ad. You don’t have to spring for the top package, either. Something that gives you about 10 photos should be sufficient. Take photos of the car at eye level. There’s no need to get creative with fancy high and low angles. Start out in front of the car and make your way around it, snapping a photo from every angle. You may not use

them all in the ad, but you can sort that out later. Make sure you get the basic car-selling angles covered. This includes the front, back, side profile and wheels. Turn the wheels left slightly so that you can take a photo of the tire tread. Finally, open up the hood and take a photo of the engine. Inside the car, make sure you take a photo of the seats, paying close attention to the driver seat, which tends to get more wear. Sit in the back of the car and recline the front seats to take photos of the front section of the interior. You’ll want to show the stereo and instrument cluster, the shifter (to show whether the car is an automatic or manual) and the condition of the steering wheel. Be sure to snap a photo of the odometer so that prospective buyers can see that the mileage reading shown is consistent with what you have said in your ad. If your car has any special selling points or features (for example if it’s a convertible), show them. Photograph it with the top both up and down. If it’s a big SUV with folding seats, fold them down to show off the storage space. Be Honest If the car has any imperfections, don’t try to angle the shots to hide them. In fact, you should take a photo of any dents or scratches on the car. Be up front about them. The same goes for any curbed wheels. A buyer is going to see the car eventually, and it is best to be able to say, “I had a photo of this in the ad,” rather than “Oops, I forgot about that.” Being honest with the imperfections can help with your negotiations. A prospective buyer is likely to offer you a lower amount if he inspects the car and finds a dent that wasn’t shown in the ad. But if you had a photo of that dent in the ad, you can hold your ground and say that you were up front about the damage and have priced the car accordingly. Too Good To Be True? A final word of caution comes from Edmunds.com staff photographer Kurt Niebuhr: If your photos look too well-produced, they may make people suspicious. Potential buyers might think you used stock photos and will be less likely to reply to the ad. Honest images, not glamour shots, are what you’re after.

AUTO | Winter 2017 117

content provided by media.chrysler.com

2017 Jeep® Grand Cherokee 4x4 Earns Five-star Overall Safety Rating

he 2017 Jeep® Grand Cherokee 4x4 has earned a five-star overall safety rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Five stars is the highest single rating in NHTSA’s vehicle-evaluation program. The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4’s five-star rating reflects performance in NHTSA tests that simulate: • A frontal collision with another vehicle • A side impact with another vehicle • A side impact with a pole

The technology affords greater object-detection precision because camera and radar must agree before Full-speed Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation will deploy. If camera and radar agree that a frontal impact with another vehicle appears imminent, the system pre-fills the Grand Cherokee’s brakes and transmits audible and visual warnings urging the driver to react. If there is no driver response, the system triggers a brief brake application as a tactile alert.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 earned top marks – five stars, the highest possible rating – in each test.

If the driver remains unresponsive and frontal collision risk remains, the Grand Cherokee’s brakes are applied to slow the vehicle before impact. The system may bring the vehicle to full stop if an imminent frontal collision is detected at speeds below 25 mph.

The 2017 Grand Cherokee comes with more than 70 available safety and security features. Among its standard-equipment items are:

Sensor-fusion technology was once reserved for luxurysegment vehicles. Today, FCA US makes it available across six vehicle segments – from small SUV to minivan.

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NHTSA acknowledges AEB as a preferred technology, though its benefits are not factored into the agency’s ratings. This marks the fourth consecutive year the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 has earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA. For more information about the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee contact Dadeland Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, located at 16501 South Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL 33157 or call (305) 278-9994, or visit them at www.dadelanddodgechryslerjeep.net

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