Miami Laker 2015 December 18 by MiamiLaker

Like and Follow Us Online

TheMiamiLaker

@TheMiamiLaker

@themiamilaker

www.miamilaker.com

The original northwest Miami-Dade community newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & surrounding areas Vol. 41 No 24

305-817-4078

MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA

DECEMBER 18, 2015

Houses of worship seasonal services and messages......See Pages 18-20

Ceasar Mestre, Wayne Slaton join mayoral race By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Two candidates who are seeking the Miami Lakes mayoral seat for next year are already familiar faces on the Town Council. Councilmember Ceasar Mestre

and former mayor Wayne Slaton have thrown their hats in the ring to run for mayor in the town’s November 8, 2016 general election. Last month, Councilmembers Manny Cid, Tony Lama and

We wish our readers and advertisers a Very Merry Christmas and Joyful Holiday Season. The Miami Laker staff Roselind, Quintin, David, Maria, Yvonne, and Roger

OLL playground benefits from Give Miami Day

OUR LADY OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC SCHOOL’S L’il Cheetahs are pictured enjoying a new playground thanks to the generosity of the school’s Give Miami Day donors. Pictured are (bottom, from left) Nicolas Mendez, Sebastian Perez, Christian Encinosa, Adrian Ochoa, Sofia Arguedas and David Barcena; (top, from left) Nicolas Ochoa, Talyah Limousin, Ava Hernandez, Valerie Valle and Lola Ygarza.

A Look Inside:

Nelson Rodriguez each filed paper work to run for reelection for their at-large seats. Since Mestre is running for mayor, he will vacate his seat with two years left on his term, which may be filled during the 2016 election as well. Mayor Michael Pizzi told The Miami Laker he’s not ready to make a decision on whether he’s running again in 2016. “I’m just focusing on spending the Christmas holidays with my family,” he said. Slaton, who served as the catalyst during Miami Lakes’ incorporation movement, was the town’s first mayor in 2001 and won reelection in 2004. He decided not to run in 2008 and unsuccessfully challenged Mayor Michael Pizzi in 2012. Following Pizzi’s arrest on public corruption charges and subsequent suspension from political office, Slaton was elected mayor during a special election in 2013. Pizzi regained his seat following his acquittal and reinstatement lawsuits that forced Slaton to give up the mayoral seat early this year. During a press conference at Town Hall flanked by council members, Slaton said he wouldn’t appeal the court’s decision to reinstate Pizzi but would run for mayor again in 2016. “I acquiesced to the court’s decision so the town could move forward,” Slaton told The Miami Laker during a phone interview. “I told them at that time, I am not going anywhere.” Slaton, who was chairman of the Miami Lakes Municipal Advisory Committee (MAC), a group of residents who worked with county officials to proceed with incorporation, said he’s running to make sure Miami Lakes maintains the highest standards. “That is the No. 1 thing,” he said. Slaton, owner of an electrical company, said he’s seeking to bring back a friendly government for residents, which he said was “the core value of the incorporation movement.”

(Please see Page 3)

CEASAR MESTRE

WAYNE SLATON

M. Lakes Bookmark Design winner is Sofia Palomino

SOFIA PALOMINO, 11, was the winner of the Bookmark Design contest for the Miami Lakes Branch Library. She was also the grand prize winner for the county overall in the ages 9 to 12 category. She competed with children from across the county to have her design featured on bookmarks that will be distributed at all branches, and featured on the library’s website.

n Miami Lakes marks 15 years of “Growing Beautifully” at celebration on December 19.........4

n Ben and Jerry’s owners play active role in opening of “The Spot” Youth Center......9

n Goleman basketball team off to best start in school history with an 8-1 record..................15

n Miami Lakes Middle principal Dr. Manuel Sanchez named tops in Region......................16

n News and Notes of interest from the Town of Miami Lakes. See pages..........................6 & 7

n HML Chorus scheduled to perform at Disney’s Candlelight Processional........... ................11

n BGEC’s Bobcat Law Society places first in District We the People competition.................17

n Community Calendar, 11, School, sports and church news, 11-20, Classified ads.........21-23

PAGE 2

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 3

Mestre, Slaton announce their mayoral intentions (Continued from Page 1) He said, once again, he wants to lead the town’s government and Town Council by example, with integrity, honesty, truthfulness and honor. “Leading by example is showing respect for everyone,” he said. Slaton moved to Miami Lakes in 1973 and was the poster boy for civic and community activism by serving as president of his homeowners associations, long-time president of the Miami Lakes Civic Association, chairman of the now defunct Miami Lakes Community Council and chairman of the Miami Lakes Citizens Advisory Committee. He led the Miami Lakes incorporation movement in the 1990s to bring a local government closer to home but was stymied by a loss of revenues dilemma to MiamiDade’s Unincorporated Municipal Service Area (UMSA) budget, as three other communities were also seeking cityhood. Aventura, Pinecrest and Sunny Isle Beach were allowed to incorporate but Miami Lakes had to wait until the county could resolve the problem, which led to the creation of the MAC, a group of residents picked by county commissioners to help Miami-Dade come up with solutions. The county gave Miami Lakes the green light to become a city, as

residents voted for the town’s charter on December 5, 2000 to make it official. Slaton was elected the town’s first mayor in 2001 and was reelected in 2004.He decided not run for a third time in 2008 to focus on the health of one of his family members. Mestre, a lawyer, said he decided to run for mayor because “many” equally frustrated residents are calling for a change in leadership. “Recently, many residents have expressed their concerns for situations our town is experiencing and the desire that we have a new chapter in Miami Lakes leadership in particular,” Mestre said. “They have expressed the trust they have in my actions, demeanor and contributions on the Town Council and asked me to run for mayor.” Mestre said he has accepted the challenge for several reasons, including wanting to ensure that Miami Lakes is better off than its current situation and where quality of life is a priority instead of politics. “I want to see the master beautification plan implementation,” Ceasar said. “I want to make traffic relief our town’s priority. I will use my background as an attorney, teacher and former police officer to maintain and improve our quality of life. I want to be the leader of

the new chapter for Miami Lakes.” Mestre was first elected to political office in 2010, when he defeated incumbent Nancy Simon for at-large Seat 6. He served as vice mayor and then, acting mayor, following Pizzi’s arrest. “I am the only person who has served as councilman, vice mayor and mayor for the town of Miami Lakes,” Mestre said. “I have served professionally, honestly and with dignity.” A 22-year Miami Lakes resident, Mestre sponsored legislation

for the first town-wide beautification master plan that is aimed at enhancing the aesthetics along the town’s major streets and intersections. In addition, Mestre said he has been a pioneer in the town’s branding effort to bring new businesses to the town, and spearheading a marketing plan that includes a partnership with two of Miami Lakes’ biggest landowners. Mestre was chairman of the Miami Lakes Economic Development Committee. “We participated, for the first time, in the

International Shopping Center conference to market our town,” said Mestre said. Mestre said he proposed anti pill mill legislation, a public safety campaign to prevent vehicle burglaries, and prevented children from being exposed to drug paraphernalia. He also co-sponsored legislation making it a prerequisite for kids participating in sports and other activities at the town’s park and community center to have an EKG to help detect any problems with the heart.

Cutting the ribbon for Business Expo

MIAMI LAKES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE president Magaly Rubio, joined by Mayor Michael Pizzi and other Town councilmembers, prepare to cut the ribbon to open the Chamber’s annual Networking Business Expo on December 10 at Shula’s Hotel on Main Street.

PAGE 4

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

Miami Lakes marks 15 years of ‘Growing Beautifully’

ORIGINAL MIAMI LAKES CHARTER COMMITTEE which completed its historic compilation of the Town’s first charter during two fast-paced weeks in September, 2000, included (seated, from left) volunteer clerk Beatris Arguelles (who later became the town’s first clerk), members Maggie Clavelo, vice chair Angela Garrison and Dorothy Cook; (standing, from left) attorney Richard Jay Weiss (whose firm later became the town’s first attorney), members Edward Pidermann, chairman Manny Figueroa and alternate Albert del Castillo.

By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff On December 5, 2000, Miami Lakes became Miami-Dade’s 31st city following nearly a decadelong campaign to bring a government closer to home to adequately and rapidly address local issues to reflect the quality living standards that made the original community, created by The Graham Companies, the model for residential and commercial development throughout the United States. On Saturday, December 19, 2015, lawmakers, residents and the incorporation leaders who worked tirelessly to bring Miami Lakes its own bureaucracy, will celebrate the town’s 15th anniversary with a day filled with live entertainment beginning at 11 a.m. at Miami Lakes Picnic Park West, 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue. The carnival-themed event, featuring rides, food trucks and a skating rink, was originally scheduled for December 5 but was postponed due to a torrential down pour. In addition to the live entertainment, Mayor Michael Pizzi said he will recognize former council members and residents who were part of the incorporation movement which started in the 1990s. Pizzi, who was an original council member, said Miami Lakes of today is a far cry from the

MIAMI LAKES ORIGINAL TOWN COUNCIL included (seated, from left) Mary Collins and Nancy Simon; (standing, from left) Michael Pizzi, Roberto Alonso, Mayor Wayne Slaton, interim Town Manager Merrett Stierheim, Peter Thomson and Robert Meador. newly-minted town created 15 set out since incorporation, includyears ago, when the city had a ing opening up N.W. 87th Avenue, skeleton staff and a make-shift building a stand alone Town Hall town hall inside a store front on building, opening up a new youth center and a new fire station on the Main Street. “Our first city hall was a retail west side of town. The mayor acknowledged store space. We had no money, no office for the town manager, no council members, town staff and place for our police department, volunteers for their hard work and no place for parks, and no place dedication in developing Miami for the finance department,” he Lakes among the best cities. “They worked so hard for the said. “We started out absolutely hard. It was really a struggle. It past 15 years to build this,” he was a real team effort. And in said. Council members also shared those short 15 years, we have emerged as one of the finest cities their experiences during the 15 years they have lived in Miami in the United States of America.” The mayor said Miami Lakes Lakes. accomplished the achievements it (Please see Page 5)

Holiday Season Specials

Monday to Thursday: Seniors…$10 • Kids……..$10 Adults…. $12 • Tape w/hot towel…$10 Civil Servants (Tuesdays/Wednesdays) $12 haircut / $20 cut and hot towel shave

Specials honored for clients with this ad (expires 12/31/15)

7335 Miami Lakes Drive, Miami Lakes, FL 33014 Cypress Village Shopping Center

786.518.3290

THE MIAMI LAKER

Councilmembers reflect on 15 years (Continued from Page 4) Councilmember Manny Cid was a high-school student when Miami Lakes incorporated and later had the opportunity to serve on the Town Council with two original lawmakers, Pizzi and former mayor Wayne Slaton. "I moved to Miami Lakes at the age of eight with my parents and sister,” Cid said. Twenty four years later, we all continue to live in the town and enjoy the same great quality of life. I am humbled to have been able to grow up here and now serve the same community that afforded me great opportunities. All the folks who began the incorporation movement deserve a lot of credit, as does Ernest Graham, William A. Graham, and the entire Graham family for their forward thinking vision." Councilmember Tony Lama said he fell in love with the small town feel of Miami lakes at a “very” young age. “And it's no accident that when people speak of Miami Lakes today, they still reference that "feel" as a reason for wanting to live in our town,” Lama said. “The current and previous councils have made tremendous efforts to protect and expand our canopy, to protect and expand our parks, to keep our lakes pristine, and to encourage, and in many cases fund, events that bring us together as a community of Miami Lakers. “Low millage rates, utilization of technology, and capital improvements like our newly constructed youth center are great accomplishments that increase the

TOWN MANAGER ALEX REY pictured during the Town’s first Strategic Planning workshop at the original Miami Lakes Community Center. value of our community, but it's events like the Festival of Lights, the Lighting of the Hanukkah Menorah, the Concert at the Park, and our Spring Fling (to name a few) that make our community one of the best places to live in the United States. I'm proud to call myself a Miami Laker." Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez, who has lived in Miami Lakes since 1992, said he has had the privilege to represent the town over the past three years and contribute to its success. “My priority has been to maintain the beauty, culture and small town feel that the Graham family started over 50 years ago,” he said. “As we enter our sweet 16th as a

town, keeping Miami Lakes as a great place to live, work and play is my goal. The development of the new Bridge Park will continue Miami Lakes in the path of Growing Beautifully.” Councilmember Ceasar Mestre said, “As a town, our residents have a better quality of life and enjoy much better police protection. “The response time for police is significantly lower than before becoming a town. I remember when police would take hours to respond to calls, instead of minutes. “Our parks have improved tremendously. I have memories of my daughters being covered in sand after playing in local parks. “Drainage is now more efficient with roads flooding less. And our schools are some of the best in the county.” The 15th Anniversary celebration will feature local schools and organizations performing on center stage including the Bobcat Jumpers, Bobcat Law Society, MLK-8 Salsa Squad, the HML Band, Miss Hispanidad and Miami Dancity. The event, activities and rides are free, but the Town is encouraging residents to bring unwrapped toys to be donated to His House Children’s Home. Sponsors for the event include The Graham Companies; Miami Lakes Auto Mall; Green Source Landscape & Sports Turf; Gestido Construction, LLC; SFM; KimleyHorn and Associates; Baptist; CrossFit Miami Lakes; and Miami-Dade Commissioner Esteban Bovo Jr.

From my family to yours, wishing you a blessed Holiday Season and a Prosperous 2016! Councilman Tony Lama and Family

Paid by Anthony “Tony” Lama for Miami Lakes Town Council, Seat 3

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 5

Movies in the Park series features ‘Polar Express’ on Friday, December 18 It’s time to embark on a magical journal to the North Pole on the “Polar Express” as the Miami Lakes Youth Activities Task Force presents its next “Movies in the Park” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, December18. The free event will be held at Miami Lakes Picnic Park West, 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue. Attendees are encouraged to

bring blankets, and picnic baskets for a family-friendly evening of moving watching under the stars. The remaining movie schedule: Friday, January 8 – “ Max.” Friday, January 22 - “Minions.” For more information about the Youth Activities Task Force and its events, contact Katya Lysak at lysakk@miamilakes-fl.gov.

Do you have a family member or friend that needs daily activities, exercises, socialization and care?

“Miami Lakes Only Adult Day Service”

305-362-2202 13965 NW 67 Avenue, Miami Lakes www.alwaysatyoursideadc.com

Straightforward Tips For Small Businesses By Michael Huffaker, Franchise Owner Express Employment Professionals Why Thankfulness and Success Go Hand in Hand What’s the real secret to success? According to the experts, it’s not working more hours than anyone in the office or going through life without making mistakes. The simple answer is “being thankful.” But the bigger question is why? “Without gratitude, core teams fall away, culture diminishes and becomes stagnated and undesirable, innovation ceases, and followers ‘unfollow’,” according to the Thinking Bigger Business Blog. Conversely, the simple act of thanking people for their contributions leads to stronger teams, more open collaboration, higher morale and even higher sales. In fact, a case study featured in Fortune magazine showed a direct correlation between one company’s implementation of appreciation lunches to thank customers and a 27 percent increase in revenue. In addition, when the company had to raise prices by 10 percent, not one of the “thanked” customers protested the increase. The Benefits of Being Thankful Here are some important ways that gratitude can help improve your business, your career and your life: 1. Thankfulness produces a solution mindset. According to Entrepre-neur.com, it’s easy to to get stuck in “complaining mode” when things don’t go your way, but that makes you less likely to move forward. Gratitude changes that perspective, and fosters the right attitude for seeing solutions, rather than obstacles. 2. Gratitude fuels great leadership. When you have an attitude of gratitude toward others, you begin

to focus more on their strengths than on their weaknesses. This has a profound impact on improving a team’s performance. To be a truly great leader, you must maintain morale, and thankfulness is an excellent tool to do so. 3. Gratitude increases willpower and financial “patience.” A Harvard University study revealed an interesting connection between thankfulness and the ability for people to delay gratification. Successful people understand the value of forgoing smaller pleasures now in order to reap larger gains later. The study showed that people with a grateful mindset were better equipped to exercise delayed gratification, and as a result, made more financial gains. Putting it into Practice If you’re not in the habit of expres-sing thankfulness, there’s good news – gratitude works like a muscle, the more you use it, the stronger it gets. A great way to get started is to keep a written gratitude journal. Accord-ing to Harvard Business Review, research shows that keeping this will help you focus more on the positives in your life and feel more connected to others. A written reminder also makes it easier to remember to share your thankfulness with those who have helped you. One important caveat – be sincere. Despite the cliché about flattery getting you anywhere, experts say false praise will get you nowhere. Gratitude is about being real. So when you gather with your team and co-workers and consider the blessings you are grateful for, think about those who make the important things possible, and resolve to thank them year round.

PAGE 6

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

Groundbreaking for new auto dealership site

News and Notes from the Town of Miami Lakes New Youth Center ‘The Spot’ has official grand opening

TOWN COUNCIL MEMBERS joined officials from Chrysler Dodge Jeep for a recent ground breaking ceremony for the new dealership building at Miami Lakes Auto Mall. The expansion is part of Miami Lakes’ efforts to help town businesses expand and lure new businesses to the city to stabilize the local economy. The 44,000+ square-foot building includes an area for auto parts, display and service shop. A staple in the community, Miami Lakes Auto Mall employs over 250 people.

RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY which officially opened Miami Lakes’ new Youth Center, “The Spot,” featured town officials including Mayor Michael Pizzi, Councilmembers Tony Lama, Manny Cid, Ceasar Mestre and Frank Mingo, along with Town Manager Alex Rey. The state-of-the-art facility celebrated its first “Open Hang Night” on December 2 which attracted a large group of Miami Lakes youth.

Matter of Balance course designed for senior citizens opens workshops January 12 Are you a senior who has experienced a fall? Matter of Balance is here to help. Participants in the program will learn exercises to increase strength and balance in a small group setting for eight two-hour sessions, over a four week period. The workshops will take place from January 12 to February 4 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10

a.m. to noon at the Roberto Alonso Community Center, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue. Space is limited and registration is required. Registration opens on Tuesday, January 5. For more information, contact Kristina Labossiere at labossierek@miamilakes-fl.gov, or 305-698-9308.

Bob Graham Education Ctr. hosts Co-Principals for a Day

MIAMI LAKES OFFICIALS, including Mayor Michael Pizzi and Councilmember Ceasar Mestre, were Co-Principals for a Day at Bob Graham Education Center during the recent that engages business and community leaders as acting principals in an effort to build long-term relationships that benefit both students and the community. They are pictured with principal Yecenia Martinez-Lopez, several staff members and students during morning announcements.

THE MIAMI LAKER

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 7

News and Notes from the Town of Miami Lakes Jazz Concert in the Park rescheduled for January 30 Miami Lakes Cultural Affairs Committee will host its annual Concert in the Park at 6:30 p.m. on its new date, Saturday, January 30, at Picnic Park West, 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue. The original performance date of November 14 was canceled due to inclement weather. The show is free and open to the public, and will feature the presence of several food trucks. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, picnic baskets, friends and family for an evening of relaxing music under the stars. The jazz concert will feature the renowned talent of Electric Piquete, co-founded by Michael Mut, a longtime town resident. Formed in 2007, Electric Piquete is a Latin funk band known for its Afro-Cuban authenticity and inventive takes on Latin and jazz

standards. They released a Latin jazz single, a Latin soul single, debuted at the Virginia Key GrassRoots Festival, played Carnaval on the Mile for the sixth straight year, served as the house band at the Miss Carnaval Miami beauty pageant for a fourth time, and had a song placed on a special about Miami on CNN, all in 2015. “As a long-time town resident, it’s a pleasure and an honor to have been asked to play this concert at the beautiful Picnic Park West,” said Mut. “We’re looking forward to entertaining the families and folks of Miami Lakes and surrounding areas, and I’m especially excited about playing a show so close to home.”

Members in Town programs honored for participation and athleticism

AT THE DECEMBER 1 TOWN COUNCIL MEETING, Miami Lakes lawmakers recognized various community members for their athleticism and participation in town programs. Jessica Sibori and Juan Marte earned a black belt in the martial arts program. Students in the first ever adult archery course completed an intensive 16-week program. Alexander Ariano, Daniel Gonzalez, Hope Reynolds, Julien Bencomo, Travis Bell and Trimika Bell were recognized for their commitment to the sport.

Town hosts Beacon Council’s Town Council recognizes Miami Lakes Zonta Life Sciences Committee The Town of Miami Lakes is home to the largest cluster of health and life science-related businesses in Miami-Dade County. On December 10, the Town partnered with the Beacon Council to host their Life Sciences and Healthcare Committee meeting in Council Chambers at Town Hall. Several of Miami Lake’ life sciences companies were represented at the meeting including Merck, HeartWare, and NutriForce Nutrition. The meeting was followed by a bus tour of the town’s life science

cluster using one of the Moover buses. Attendees also toured Nutri-Force Nutrition which employs over 600 people and is the recognized cGMP leader in providing custom manufacturing and private labeling of vitamins, dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, nutritional sports supplements, and other health related products. To learn more about the life sciences sector in Miami Lakes, contact Economic Development direct Nicole Singletary at 305512-7132, or singletaryn@miamilakes-fl.gov.

Club’s ‘No Violence Against Women’ campaign

Deadline Jan. 5 for Rocks! auditions The 7th annual Miami Lakes Rocks! Music Festival has been scheduled for Saturday, February 13, at Miami Lakes Optimist Park, 6411 N.W. 162 Street. The popular event, sponsored by the Town’s Youth Activities Task Force, was created to provide an avenue of artistic expression for town youth, promoting cultural and community spirit. Auditions are open for college age and younger musicians, and are open to bands and individuals that perform live music.

Performers must play a musical instrument; recorded music will not be accepted. Those who wish to audition are encouraged to submit video recordings of up to 2 songs via email to YATF@miamilakesfl.gov by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, January 5. All bands of all genres are encourage to participate. For more information on the auditions, the festival, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Leisure Services manager Katya Lysak at lysakk@miamilakes-fl.gov.

Winter Camps open December 21 In partnership with PEAR and YMCA, the Town of Miami Lakes will be offering Winter Camp for two consecutive weeks beginning the week of December 21. Winter Camp with PEAR with take place at the newly opened Youth Center at Miami Lakes East Park, 6073 Miami Lakes Drive East, and the YMCA will host its Winter Camp at the Roberto

Alonso Community Center, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue. The camps will run Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., excluding December 24-25 and December 31-January 1, for children ages 5 to 15. For more information, contact Programs coordinator Kristina Labossiere at 305-698-9308.

TOWN OF MIAMI LAKES recognized the Zonta Club of Miami Lakes for its “Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women” campaign. At the December 1 regular meeting, the Town Council presented a proclamation to the group for its efforts to raise awareness of violence against women, preventing and combatting what is considered a hate crime against females.

• • • • • • •

• • • • • •

PAGE 8

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

Pons & Associates I.R.S. Problems? Call us! Accounting Services

Personal, Small, New Business Taxes and Payroll

Roberto Pons, Enrolled Agent Federally Authorized Tax Practitioner

305-779-8588

6625 Miami Lakes Drive, Suite #233 At The Crexent Business Center PonsAndAssociates.com

OWNER WILL BEAT ANY DEAL IN THE LAKES! Electricity, Janitorial, Maintenance Included! Suites from 200-8,000 sq. ft. From $13.00 - $20.00 per sq. ft. Full Service . 14411 Commerce Way 5881-5901 N.W. 151 Street 14505 Commerce Way 6001 N.W. 153 Street 15291-15327 N.W. 60 Avenue

Brokers Welcome! We Will Create A Lease Deal To Fit Your Budget!

305-827-8373 ext. 104 Email: leasing@leaseflorida.com

Summary of actions taken during Town Council’s December 1 meeting By The Miami Laker staff At its December 1 regular meeting, the Miami Lakes Town Council selected seven residents and one sitting lawmaker to serve on the town’s Charter Revision Committee, which is tasked with scrutinizing the document to determine if changes are needed. Serving on the committee are Roberto Alonso Jr., picked by Councilmember Frank Mingo; Ramiro Inguanzo, selected by Councilmember Nelson Rodriguez; Claudia Luces, picked by Councilmember Ceasar Mestre; Mirtha Mendez, selected by Councilmember Manny Cid; Joshua Dieguez, picked by Councilmember Tony Lama; Dr. David Bennett, chosen by Vice Mayor Tim Daubert; and George Lopez, selected by Mayor Michael Pizzi.

As mayor, Pizzi tapped Mestre to serve on the committee as a non-voting member. The group will get down to business on or before Friday, January 15, 2016. The group will comprehensively review the town’s charter, and submit any changes to the Town Council no later than October 1, 2016. In other town business: • Council members, on first reading, approved an ordinance to replace the town’s traffic concurrency regulations with a mobility fee system that will fund multimodal transportation improvement and encourage development that better mitigates impacts on the transportation system. If approved on second reading next month, the measure would replace traditional traffic concurrency with a mobility fee system that would be more fair, effective and efficient than the existing system, and would take account alternative modes of travel, consistent with the council’s direction in the recently-adopted Strategic Plan. • Lawmakers, on first reading, approved an ordinance to extend the town’s lien amnesty program’s application deadline in cases where a building permit to correct violations has been issued, but the permit has not yet been closed. The town’s lien amnesty program has been very successful, with 177 applications and more than 100 applications finaled. The deadline set for full compliance with the program is December 18, 2015. At this time, there are several cases in which amnesty applications were timely filed and in which building permits have been issued for work needed to reach compliance, but,

for reasons beyond control of the property owners, the permits cannot be finaled by December 18. • Council members tabled a zoning site plan for a conditional use for a small private educational facility at 15050 N.W. 79 Court. The Graham Companies is leasing space to Agmus Ventures for a private college called Ana G. Mendez University. Council members approved Mayor Michael Pizzi’s motion to postpone the vote because representatives of the company were not present to answer lawmakers’ questions about the proposal, including parking issues. • Lawmakers approved a resolution to authorize the town manager to write-off noncollectable false alarm fee/fines, as part of the town’s Miami Lakes Alarm Reduction Program. The write-off applies to fines less than $50, accounts associated with former town residents or businesses, fines associated with a governmental agency, and Barbara Goleman High School, fines older than three years and fines reported noncollectable by Penn Credit Corporation. The total write off for the current fiscal will be not be more than $5,000. • Lawmakers approved a resolution to accept a $300,000 award from the Legislative Appropriations Budget consisting of a green agreement between Miami Lakes and the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) for Lake Sarah Drainage Improvements, consisting of an exfiltration trench drainage retrofit within the neighborhood. • Lawmakers approved Councilmember Tony Lama’s Canopy Creation and Protection Act, which would give Miami Lakes a more uniform standard for trees throughout the town. Lama’s proposed legislation instructs town staff to look into creating a tree standard ordinance for Miami Lakes for the future, including trees in the public righta-ways and swale areas. • Lawmakers approved Councilmember Ceasar Mestre’s Public Safety Campaign and Neighborhood Outreach Program dubbed “Hide It, Lock It or Lose It.” Mestre said although Miami Lakes has a “very” low crime rate, vehicle burglaries are prevalent. He said with help from the town’s Public Safety Committee and the town’s police, the outreach program can help residents reduce their chances of being a victim by locking their car doors and not leaving valuable items in the vehicles visible, such as laptops, iPads, purses and wallets. • Lawmakers approved Lama’s recommendation to make Miami Lakes a golf cart friendly community to help alleviate severe traffic conditions in the town.

THE MIAMI LAKER

Ben and Jerry’s owners play active role in grand opening of ‘The Spot’ The beloved and local ice cream shop, Ben and Jerry’s, known for their commitment to community projects and fundraisers, participated in the Town of Miami Lakes Youth Center grand opening event on November 21. The shop served free ice cream to all those who attended and donated an oak tree for the park. A tree planting ceremony was held with the mayor and some of the council members. Additionally the shop donated a full entertainment center for the kids to enjoy at the new youth center, which included a large T.V., sound system, a five-year subscription to xbox live gaming, Wii console and games, and a five year subscription to Netflix. The Ben and Jerry shop owners, Marcela and Ivan Kozupytsya, were both present at the event and can add their latest charitable donations to their growing list of giving, which previously include funding campaigns for local schools, involvement in the Youth Activities Task Force Committee for Miami Lakes, and recognition in the form of an Appreciation Award by Senator Bob Graham for contributions and fundraising for Bob Graham Education Center. Ben and Jerry’s is located at 15484 N.W. 77 Court in the Royal Oaks Plaza.

M. L. Sports Shop offers 42% off on name brand items during store’s 42nd anniversary In celebration of its 42nd anniversary, the Miami Lakes Sports Shop, 6763 Main Street, is having a store wide sale on sports wear items and sporting equipment throughout the month of December. Miami Lakes Sports Shop is the oldest retail operation in Miami Lakes. Sports Shop owner Jim Hamilton said patrons can take advantage of feature name brand items at a 42 percent discount, representing the number of years the store has been in business. The store wide discount coincides with American Express’s marketing campaign to encourage people to come out and shop the day after Thanksgiving. Hamilton said his discount program is called “Shop Small, Save Big.” The Miami Lakes Sports Shop opened in 1973 in the Cypress Village shopping center and moved to Main Street 30 years ago. For more information, call 305-557-0356.

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 9

Town’s Senior Games schedule has Canasta Tournament on January 15 Miami Lakes Elderly Affairs Committee announced its next event in the 10th annual Senior Games open to seniors ages 50 and up. The Canasta Tournament will take place on Friday, January 15, at the Roberto Alonso Community Center, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue, beginning at 2 p.m. Future games include:

Softball Game on February 10, Track & Field Events on April 9, a Bridge Tournament on June 6, and a Basketball Game on August 27. Participants will receive a snazzy T-shirt and medals will be awarded to winners in each age division for the male and female groups. Check for future game times and locations by visiting www.miamilakes-fl.gov/calendar.

ANGELITOS BANQUET HALL 300 PALM AVE., HIALEAH, FL 33010 We Specialize In Events Weddings • Sweet 15 & 16 Baby Showers • All Gatherings

BEN AND JERRY Miami Lakes store owners Marcela and Ivan Kozupytsya donated a live Oak tree as part of the grand opening of the Town’s new Youth Center “The Spot.”

WWW.ANGELITOSBANQUETHALL.NET

305-888-9345

PAGE 10

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

The Law Offices of Joshua J. Hertz, P.A. Don’t Get Hurt, Get Hertz! We focus on helping car accident victims, slip and fall accidents and personal injury matters.

Chabad Miami Lakes lights Town’s Menorah for Chanukah

Lakes law firm hosts Food Drive for Thanksgiving

Location: 8100 Oak Lane, Suite 403, Miami Lakes, FL 33016

305-821-2182

www.fighting4yourrights.com

MIAMI LAKES PERIODONTAL ASSOCIATES Robert A. del Castillo, D.M.D., P.A. • • • • • •

Dental Implants • Implant Prosthesis Periodontal Therapy • Fast Braces Regenerative Therapy • Inman Aligner Periodontal Plastic Surgery General and Cosmetic Dentistry Zoom Whitening

7735 N.W. 146 Street, Suite #104 Telephone: (305) 556-7010 Interest Free Financing Available • Same Day Emergencies We Accept Most Insurances • Se Habla Español

MIAMI LAKES OFFICIALS joined with members of Chabad Miami Lakes and other residents to light a 10-foot menorah near Town Hall during a celebration on the third night of Chanukah. Pictured (from left) Rabbi Mendel Weiss, Mayor Michael Pizzi, and Councilmembers Tony Lama and Manny Cid.

KELLEY KRONENBERG, a diverse full-service law firm in Miami Lakes, organized a firm-wide Thanksgiving Food Drive as part of its ongoing Kelley Kronenberg Cares (KKC) initiative. The firm’s Miami Lakes and Brickell offices joined together to donate to First Presbyterian Church of Miami, led by partner Julie L. Swindell and attorney Patrick J. Davis.

Wide variety of senior field trips scheduled by the town’s Elderly Affairs Committee

Feliz Navidad de la familia Diaz Merry Christmas from the Diaz Family

Miami Lakes Elderly Affairs Committee announced the schedule of free field trips for residents, 55 years and above, for a variety of fun and cultural activities. The trips include: January 7, 10 a.m. – Hialeah Park Racing & Casino February 4, 10 a.m. – Zoo Miami March 3, 10 a.m. – Morikami Japanese Garden April 7, 10 a.m. – Perez Art Museum May to September, time TBA – Marlins baseball field trips. Transportation will be provided and depart from Town Hall, 6601 Main Street. Field trips; locations and times are subject to change. Space is limited and reservations open 7 days prior to each field trip date (no exceptions). To reserve bus seating, contact Special Events and Committees coordinator Clarisell De Cardenas at decardenasc@miamilakesfl.gov, or 305-364-6100.

results.

PAID FOR AND APPROVED BY MANNY DIAZ FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 103

305-817-4015

THE MIAMI LAKER

HML Chorus scheduled to perform at Disney’s Candlelight Processional By R.A. Romero The Miami Laker staff Hialeah Miami Lakes Senior High’s chorus singers were selected among schools’ chorus groups across the nation and Canada to perform at Walt Disney World’s Candlelight Processional. The singers will be performing for two shows during the holiday season on Saturday, December 5 alongside celebrity narrator, Whoopi Goldberg. The Candlelight Processional is a Walt Disney World tradition taking place at EPCOT’s World Showcase where a mass choir and 50 piece orchestra, interwoven with the biblical story of a savior born to a virgin in Bethlehem, narrated by a guest celebrity narrator. The processional takes place from November 27 to December 30. HML’s Fine Arts Department chair, Shenita Hunt, is excited to see her students’ hard work pay off. “I’m so glad I was able to put in the work to get them prepared for this year’s honor,” said Hunt. hometown

news.

HML’S CHORUS rehearses for their scheduled performance at Disney’s Candlelight Processional. Pictured (from left, front row) Stephanie Matais, Gabriela Gomez, Omaria Guerra, Gema Miranda (second row) Zephanie Tsimogianis, Melissa Cruz, Veronica Guerra, Keyshla Jorge, Paola Malave (back row) Yasmin Green, Christina Johnson, Jabari Dykes, Oscar Mulet, and Shenita Hunt, Chorus Director. Not pictured: Carleah Hayden, Mario Prieto, Michael Miquez, and Enrique Jurado.

New Postal outlet store opens

We Stand Corrected

Editorial/Advertising Office 15450 New Barn Road #103 Miami Lakes, FL 33014 Editor..................305-817-4007 News Desk.........305-817-4028 305-817-4078 Advertising...........305-817-4015

Editor..............Roger A. Reece Reporter..............R.A. Romero Reporter...........David Snelling Marketing & Advertising........ ........................Quintin Valiente Social Media....Maria Vasquez Graphics....Yvonne Salvatore Send editorial and photos to: info@miamilaker.com PRINTING - J.V. Mfg. Corp. Controlled Circulation to Zip Codes 33014, 33015, 33016, 33018

Published Semi-Monthly 1st & 3rd Fridays News/Advertising Deadline: 10 days preceding

A NEW U. S. POST OFFICE outlet is available to Miami Lakes residents in the Cypress Village Shopping Center within the Pharmacy Care Store at 7413 Miami Lakes Drive. The new USPS store is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and offers all the amenities of a regular store with the exception of international post and money orders. The outlet is now open for the public. For information call 305-821-4337.

PAGE 11

Hotel Indigo hosts Canine Cocktails for New Year’s Party on Thursday, Dec. 17 Hotel Indigo Miami Lakes invites locals and their pets to the Canine Cocktails Annual New Year’s Party on Thursday, December 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. at 7601 Miami Lakes Drive. Canine Cocktails is a dogfriendly monthly gathering that offers a venue for dog owners to enjoy cocktails while their pups enjoy treats. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served and live music from Sandy Lane and John

305-817-4015

The name of American High Teacher of the Year Yvonne Moton was misspelled in the December 6 issue, as well as her sister’s name which is Glenda Moton.

DECEMBER 18, 2015

Adams will play while guests and their pets mingle. Miami-Dade Animal services will be present with animals for adoption and $1 from every drink sold will go toward helping an animal in need. The event will feature drink specials, complimentary appetizers, and dog-friendly gourmet treats. For more information contact Hotel Indigo at 305-556-0100.

Miami Lakes

Meeting & Class Calendar The Town of Miami Lakes, homeowners associations, professional and volunteer groups have scheduled meetings and classes during December:

Town of Miami Lakes

Veterans Committee December 17 6:0 pm M.L. Govt. Center Neighborhood Improvement Committee December 17 7:00 pm M.L. Govt. Center Public Safety Committee December 22 6:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center (The following classes are free and open to the public) (Note: Some classes in Christmas break beginning December 21) (Regular class schedule resumes January 4, 2016) Tai Chi M/T/W/Th 9:00 am MCCC Yoga (for adults) M/W 7:30 am MCCC Yoga (for adults - Fee) T/Th 7:30 am MCCC Knitting/Crocheting Tu/Th 1:35 pm MCCC Sewing (Seniors) T/Th 2:00 pm MCCC Computers (English) T/Th 9:15/11:30 am MCCC Computers (Spanish) M/W 9:15/11:30 am MCCC Painting I & II Fri. 9 am/12:30 pm MCCC Painting III Wed. 9 am RACC Spanish for Adults M/T/W/T 6:00 pm MCCC Dominoes M/T/W/Th/Fri 6:30 pm RACC Table Tennis Tues./Thurs. 7:00 pm RACC Ballet 1 & 2 Monday 4:30 & 5:30 pm MCCC Ballet 3 & 4 Wednesday 4:30 & 5:30 pm MCCC Jazz 1 & 2 Tuesday 4:30 pm MCCC Jazz 3 & 4 Thursday 4:30 pm MCCC Martial Arts (tots) Monday/Wednesday 4:30 pm MCCC Martial Arts (beginners) Monday/Wednesday 5:30 pm MCCC Martial Arts (intermed.) Tuesday/Thursday 4:30 pm MCCC Martial Arts (advanced) Tuesday/Thursday 5:30 pm MCCC Jazzercize (fee) M/Tu/W/Th 6:45 pm RACC

Homeowners Organizations

Royal Oaks Serenity Point Gramercy Park Loch Andrews Loch Isle Lake Martha Loch Lomond West Lake Elizabeth Villa Vizcaya Lake Sandra Fountain Park Lake Elizabeth

December 16 December 16 December 17 December 21 December 21 December 22 December 22 November 23 December 23 December 24 December 28 December 28

7:30 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 6:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:30 pm MCCC 7:00 pm MCCC

Miami Lakes Clubs, Professional & Volunteer Groups

MLCA Book Discussion M.L. Garden Club M.L. Bridge Club MLCA Bridge M.L. Quilting Club M.L. Kiwanis M.L. Toastmasters M.L. Lions Club

December 22 1:00 pm MCCC December 28 7:00 pm MCCC Mondays 11:30 am MCCC Thursdays 11:00 am MCCC Tuesdays 11:15 am MCCC 2nd/4th Thurs. 6:30 pm Pampered Chef 1st/3rd Tues.7:00 pm ML Educational Center 1st/3rd Tues. 7:00 pm Denny’s Hialeah

MCCC is Mary Collins Community Center, 15151 N.W. 82 Avenue RACC is Robert Alonso Community Center, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue

PAGE 12

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 13

PAGE 14

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

BGEC wins U14 Flag Football championship Alyssa Rodriguez, Jordan Oria Bob Graham Education Cenwin Roland Gomez scholarships ter’s flag football team was Doral Academy student Alyssa Rodriguez and MAST Academy student Jordan Oria won the 30th annual Optimist Club of Miami Lakes and Roland Gomez Scholarship Award among the six girls and six boys nominated for the award. The winners were announced at the November 19 awards ceremony at Miami Lakes Middle School. The Optimist Club’s Scholarship Committee picked the finalists and winners for the award based on points for their academics, participation in school sports, clubs and community service. Rodriguez, who earned a 3.95 GPA and a 4.0 in conduct, and Oria, who has a 5.57 GPA with a 3.82 in conduct, emerged as the winners in the girl’s and boy’s category. Rodriguez played softball in high school and at the Optimist Club, while Oria starred in basketball. The runner-up for the girls was Monsignor Pace High student Cassidy Rose Zeigler, a softball player who has a 4.0 GPA and 4.0 in conduct, and finishing in third place was Hialeah Gardens student Liz Garcia (basketball), who earned a 4.3 GPA and 4.0 in conduct. For the boys, the runner-up was

JORDAN ORIA (left), and ALYSSA RODRIGUEZ were named winners of the 30th annual Roland Gomez Optimist Club Scholarships. Hialeah Miami Lakes student and basketball player William Zepka, who earned a 4.22 GPA and 4.0 in conduct, and his school teammate, Christopher Perdomo, finishing third with a 4.52 GPA and 4.0 in conduct. Other nominees for the Scholarship Award included Erika Castroman (softball); Emily Torres (softball); Alyssa Crespo (softball); Adam Magoulas (basketball); Julian Frias (baseball); and Daniel Frias (baseball).

60 MINUTES CLEANERS Over 30 years in the same location to better serve you with the best prices in town!

Pre-paid Specials Any Item $3.95 Business Shirts $1.89 Guayabera de Hilo $7.00 186th St.

178th St.

78 Ave.

169 S t.

77th Ct.

60 Mins. Cleaners

67th Ave.

154th St.

Alteration on premises Wedding Dress cleaning • Same Day Cleaning

N E

82nd Ave.

crowned the U14 champions at the 2015 Red Zone Sports Air It Out Flag Football Tournament at Tamiami Park on December 5. The "Air It Out" tournament is one of the longest running flag football tournaments in South Florida. Members for this team were chosen based on their outstanding performance during the fall season in the BGEC middle school flag football league. Team members pictured are Anthony Hernandez, Joel Castellanos, Edelso Riveron, Zachary Valcarcel, Javin Aleman, Alexander Negrin, Joseph Nieves, Evan Markevich and head coach Candi Fernandez.

Business Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00 am - 6:30 pm • Saturday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Sunday Closed

305.557.9616 7750 NW 178 Street Located at the P.S.N. Shopping Center

THE MIAMI LAKER

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 15

Goleman basketball team off Shula’s Gymnastics Show set for December 18 Shula’s Athletic Club presents The Rhythmic Gymnastics is a Ana Roche is the dance instructo best start in history with an Winter 2015 Rhythmic Gymnas- sport in which individuals or tor and Annette Prior-Perez is proShow, scheduled for 7 p.m., teams of five or more manipulate gram director for the event. 8-1 record looking to playoffs tics Friday, December 18, at 15150 one or two pieces of apparatus – For more information, call 305By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Barbara Goleman High’s boy’s basketball team is off to its best start in school history with an 8-1 record, but the Gators are not out of the woods yet, as the team has a long stretch before ending the regular season and earning a playoff berth. Head coach Chris Hambert said he doesn’t want his team to get too comfortable but he’s confident in their ability to keep the Gators’ winning record in tact. Goleman was put to the test against district rival Mater Academy last Monday. It’s a big turnaround from last year, as the Gators look to win its district with major competitors. “There was some major competition this year like beating Carol City, a team that beat us twice last year,” Hambert said. The Gators’ only loss was to

Northwestern. Hambert said his team fought hard for three periods but the fourth quarter was a different game. “Our record is a very good accomplishment so far,” he said. The team is banking on leading scorer point guard Gerald Lopez, and forwards Jake Rodriguez and Steben Pal. “Those three players turned it around for us but it really has been a team effort,” he said. “They all bring something to the table. Most kids bought what we are trying to do. That’s what we are happy about.” Hambert said his players prepared for the season by working hard during the off season, summer league and preseason. ‘They worked very hard to get to this point,” he said. “They are doing what I asked them to do and that’s the reason why we are here.”

Bull Run Road. Cost for the event is $8; kids under 14 years old get in free.

clubs, hoop, ball, ribbon, rope and freehand, and combining elements of ballet and gymnastics dance.

820-8025.

wishes you and your family a

Merry Christmas!

BARBARA GOLEMAN’S boy’s basketball team off to great season posting an 8-1 record.

Miami Lakes Barbers

Men's Hairstyling

Celebrating our 50th Anniversary!!! Five Professional Barbers To Serve You We Specialize In The Latest Hairstyles For Men & Children Haircuts

$12.00 and up 305-821-3005 Call or Come By!

We Also Do Beard Trimming

Open Mon.-Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 13917 NW 67 Ave. Lake Patricia Shopping Center

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Ǧ ͻǣ͸

Apply online at www.PaceHS.com!

Contact our Admissions Team at 305.623.PACE, ext. 342 or visit www.PaceHS.com

We are located at: 15600 NW 32 Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33054

We’re Social! Like Us or Follow Us

@PaceSpartans

PAGE 16

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

MLM’s Dr. Manuel Sanchez named Region top principal By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff When parents drop their kids off to Miami Lakes Middle School, Principal Dr. Manuel Sanchez lets them know each day that their children are now his kids. “Their kids are my kids,” said Sanchez, who is the father of two young children. “I treat them as if they are my own biological kids. They don’t have to wait to see me, they can come to my office at any time to talk or they see me a lot in the classrooms and the hallways. I am there for them at anytime.”

Sanchez’s relationship with his students, teachers and staff helped meld Miami Lakes Middle into one of the most successful academic schools in Miami-Dade, anchored by its award-winning Legal Studies Magnet Program and Cambridge Academy. And it’s only fitting that the man in charge was named MiamiDade Public Schools Principal of the Year for the North Region last week. Sanchez said the region’s superintendent called him with the good news and the school erupted into an impromptu celebration.

“We were giving each other hifives and I screamed a little,” Sanchez quipped. “And it was a little emotional because it took a lot of work by the teachers and staff to make this school successful. The award felt like a validation of the hard work our team has put together for our school.” Recruiting elementary students from public and charter schools is part of Sanchez’s duties, as the school’s enrollment has increased from 750 to 1,100 over the past five years. He said Miami Lakes Middle has the second largest gifted popu-

MIAMI LAKES MIDDLE SCHOOL students show their pride for their principal Dr. Manuel Sanchez who was named Principal of the Year for the North Region

lation, selecting the top elementary students to join his school and participate in a wide spread of academic programs, extra curricular activities and sports. Another significant task for Sanchez was adding 100 computer stations to meet the demands of the state’s standards testing requirements for students, and making sure teachers and staff member have the equipment and tools they need to be effective in the classrooms. “That’s what I try to do at the school,” Sanchez said. The New Jersey native said middle school students are at a critical point in their lives. He said they are young adults and his job is to make sure they are prepared for high school and college. Case in point, students can earn seven high school credit courses, and they can take college level courses in the summer as part of the school’s CSTARS Program. Students can also earn high school credits for Spanish, French and junior government, and participate in sports, clubs and extra curricular activities such as fine arts, the school’s chorus and marching band. Sanchez, who’s an avid fisher, said the kids love the school’s Fishing Club, and for the first time in 10 years, Miami Lakes Middle brought back its Yearbook Club. “We balance a high level of aca-

RESULTS

the miami laker

305-817-4015

demics with extra curricular activities,” Sanchez said. “We create a whole lot of experiences for the kids.” After moving to Miami when he was kid, Sanchez graduated from Hialeah Miami Lakes High School and earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in special education from Florida International University. He earned his Ph.D in education leadership from Barry University. Sanchez landed his first teaching job at Miami Park Elementary, where he worked with kids with special needs and later became an assistant principal at Carol City Middle School. He was principal at Palm Springs North Elementary School before he landed at Miami Lakes Middle five years ago. Sanchez said an experience with kids while he attended high school and college inspired him to become a teacher. He was a swimming instructor and kids were crying because they were scared to get into the pool. “They were scared to death,” he said. But he encouraged them on and a week later they were diving into deep water, as he helped them wash away their fear. “I have seen the impact I had on the kids and I wanted to make that part of my career,” he said. “I wanted to do it for a living. My dad said ‘never pick profits over passion.’ And that’s the reason why I became a teacher, an assistant principal and a principal.” Sanchez said his students at Miami Lakes Middle can always approach him and talk about their issues. “They are the reason I love to come to work everyday,” he said. “I love their spirit.”

AUTUMN AND WINTER ARE A GREAT TIME TO RENOVATE YOUR POOL! POOL EQUIP.

DECK

POOL + SPA

Repair / Sale Pump / Filter Color Lights Deck Jets Salt Chlorinator Vacuum Cleaner

Heaters Renovation Traveltino Pavers Pressure Clean + Sealing

Resurfacing Diamond Brite Acid Wash Renovations Water Line Tile Coping

YEARS EXPERIENCE

One Month FREE* *With sign up for a year.

(305) 999-POOL (305) 999-7665

Enjoy your pool! Let us do the work!

Applications for New Students now available at school office.

ZoePool@hotmail.com SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

Manufacturing Corp. Your TOTAL Packaging Supplier

In business since 1961 serving many of the finest businesses in South Florida. We offer fine quality & service and excellent pricing. Try us, discover why we have so very many, very satisfied long term customers!

305-885-4666

Our professionals will gladly assist you with solutions to your packaging problems.

THE MIAMI LAKER

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 17

Pace spreads Christmas spirit with ‘Grinchmas’ Show By Rene D. Basulto Special to The Miami Laker With finals just around the corner, Monsignor Edward Pace High School’s Fine Arts Department brought out the Christmas cheer with its 2015 Christmas show “Grinchmas.” Pace students, parents, faculty, alumni, and friends came out to the Spartan Center on the evening of December 11 to watch Pace Academy for Visual & Performing Arts Dance, Theatre, Art, and Music Programs put on a

show based on the Dr. Seuss Christmas classic. Students from the Music Program’s Jazz Band academy, led by lead teacher Ross Goldman, performed a set of holiday classics to open the show. Drama and Musical Theatre students acted and sang as the Cat in the Hat, the Whos, and the Grinch. Members of the Dance Academy performed their own choreographed pieces in between bouts of dialogue from Drama stu-

dents, while the Art Academy designed the stage sets and props. The show closed with a nativity scene as a clarinet trio played Silent Night. Following the show, the Fine Arts departments’ Lead Teachers were called on stage and recognized for their work. Brittany Gonzalez, a senior in the Drama Academy Theatre Program, wrote the show’s Seussinspired rhyming script. She says the performance was special because it was the first time she

had seen one of her works performed onstage in a full production. She has been admitted into

the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) with a full scholarship upon graduation from Pace.

BGEC’s Bobcat Law Society places first in We the People competition The Bobcat Law Society students at Bob Graham Education Center last week won first place at the District’s We the People competition and will be representing Miami-Dade County at the state

competition next month. The eighth-grade students simulated a congressional hearing in which they testified before a panel of volunteer attorneys, educators and leaders demonstrating their

understanding of the constitutional principles and opportunities to evaluate, take positions and ultimately defend those positions on relevant historical and contemporary issues.

STUDENT DANCERS from Monsignor Edward Pace High School’s Academy for Visual & Performing Arts Dance Program perform at the 2015 Christmas show “Grinchmas” on December 10.

Tis the season for Friends, Laughter & Dance

BOB GRAHAM EDUCATION CENTER’S Bobcat Law Society class took home first place at the District’s We the People competition.

MONTESSORI CHILDREN'S HOUSE 6381 Miami Lakeway North, Miami Lakes 33014 (Preschool Thru 6th Grade) Now accepting “STEP UP FOR STUDENTS” Scholarships Stepupforstudents.org Now offering V.P.K. Call for more information!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

AMERICAN MONTESSORI SOCIETY “Within our own specially prepared environment a child’s abilities and skills are more quickly and easily developed”

BEGIN IN PRE-SCHOOL Reading - Geography - Mathematics - Science Ballet - Piano - Spanish - Bible www.miamilakeschristianmontessori.com

C11MD0920

305-823-2522 (since 1972) 305-823-5632 **NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS** Montessori Christian Center of Miami Lakes, Inc. admits students of any race, color, national and ethenic origin in administration of its admission policies, education policies, and other school administrative priograms, to all the rights, privilages, programs generally accorded or made available to the studens at the school.

“Lest the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.” (PS127)

MIAMI LAKES 15507 Bull Run Road

786-313-7600

MIRAMAR 12164 Miramar Parkway

WWW.INTENSITYDANCERSSTUDIO.COM

INTENSITYDANCERSTUDIO

@INTENSITYDANCER

PAGE 18

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

Pace students bring harmony, toys to NBC6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Caravan of Joy toy drive By Rene D. Basulto Special to The Miami Laker For the ninth straight year, Pace High School sent two busloads of toys and choir singers to NBC 6 and Telemundo 51â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Caravan of Joy toy drive on December 11. Paceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s participation in the Caravan of Joy has become a nearly decade-long tradition, and the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Toy Drive has brought joy to girls and boys in South Florida. Over 500 toys were donated by the Pace community and collected by members of the Drama Club, Pace Health & Medical Society,

Leadership, National Honor Society, SGA, Science National Honor Society and Spartan Ambassador Society. Representatives from these groups delivered the toys to the driveway of Miramar Fire Station 84 just outside the NBC 6 & Telemundo 51 studios. The Spartans in Harmony choir, conducted by Pace Drama lead teacher Cristina Pla-Guzman, donned Santa hats and sang Christmas carols on live TV for Telemundoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Acceso Total and NBC 6 in the Mix. Principal Ana Garcia was interviewed by 6 in the

Mixâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; host Roxanne Vargas, a Pace alumna from the Class of 2002, who also spoke with students as they moved toys out of the bus. In addition to being a part of the live broadcasts, the Pace students also got a tour of the NBC 6 studios after delivering the toys. They were lucky enough to be on stage and just off camera as Vargas interviewed four finalists from The Voice live via satellite. Students commented that this first-hand look into the intricacies of TV production was one that they would never forget.

Religious leaders offer special seasonal messages

Joy to the World By Pastor Al Pino Palm Vista Community Church Some of my favorite TV programs begin with the end and then spend the entire episode explaining how they arrived there. Joy to the World is that kind of hymn. It was written by Isaac Watts to celebrate the second coming of Christ basing it on Psalm 98. But the hymn PASTOR PINO has been sung by the church as a Christmas song for over 200 years. You see, Christmas is about Christ's first and second coming. We typically call this the advent season, advent meaning coming.

We look back in gratitude to God for sending Christ the first time to die for our sins and we look forward in faith anticipating Christ's return to set all this right once and for all. Here's our Christmas prayer for you at Palm Vista Community Church: That you would know the joy of Christ's salvation repenting of your sins and placing your faith in Him as your Savior. And that you would anticipate with joy the return of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords when He will share His glory with His people bringing ultimate joy to the world! Join us this Christmas season each Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. We meet in the Miami Lakes Middle School auditorium. Childcare and simultaneous translation into Spanish is provided at each service.

Kelly Falcon earns Cervantes Award

PACE PRINCIPAL Ana Garcia is interviewed by Roxanne Vargas, a Pace Class of 2002 alumna and host of 6 in the Mix, as part of the NBC 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Caravan of Joy toy drive on December 11.

Here we grow again! New Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dentistry Office

NOW OPEN ,/* 0.110 /+ .- ' 0- ),$$ /,(/ !, 1+ &-(1 "-. - 1. %# 1,.+ *' 0- 1001. +1. 1 0&1 .- /* )-(( */0 1 ,.1 ,''/* , +1)-*' $-),0/-* ./ &0 ,).-++ 0&1 +0.110 ".-( - . ) ..1*0 -""/)1 -""1./* &/$'.1* + 1*0/+0. -. ,* , -/*0(1*0 ),$$

/,(/ !, 1+ &/$'.1* + 1*0/+0. !-),0/-*

% #% 0& 1* 1 /01 #% /,(/ !, 1+ ! #% . 1$1*, ., 1 + / 1'/,0./) 1*0/+0

.0&-'-*0/)+

% ## 0& 1 /01 %%# /,(/ !, 1+ ! #% . 1"".1 1/++ .0&-'-*0/+0

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dental Special

(,/*+0.110+(/$1+ )-(

2 5 + ,

Braces Special

()-4 (514/21 4'/- 2,,53 42 35+5/"5 ./-+2)14$ 15 *04/514- 21&%$ 124 42 5 )-5. /1 +21 )1+4/21 /4' /1-)301+5# 01% 24'53 2,,53# ./-+2)14# 23 35.)+5. ,55 *32 30($ 2,,53 5 */35- ! .0%- 0,453 35+5/*4$ 0.0 ! !#! # !# ! $ ()-4 (514/21 4'/- 2,,53 42 35+5/"5 ./-+2)14$ "0&/. 21 -401.03. (214' 234'2.214/+ 43504(514 ,23 0.)&4- 23 +'/&.351 /, -40345. ! .0%- )*21 35+5/*4 2, 4'/- 2,,53$ '0 &5% 3540/153 /1+&).5.# -*5+/0&4% 30+ 54- 23 3540/153- 035 0../4/210&$ 0../4/210& ,55- ,23 ! (214' 43504(514 0**&%$ 124 "0&/. /4' 01% 24'53 ./-+2)14# 35.)+5. ,55 *32 30( 23 21 *35"/2)- 43504(514 23 43504(514 0&350.% 5 )1$ ./-+2)14 ,23 /1-)301+5 *04/514- (0% "03%$ ,/101+/1 0"0/&0 &5 21 0**32"5. +35./4$ 2,,53 5 */35- ! .0%- ,32( 35+5/*4$ 0.0 ! 4'5 *04/514 01. 01% 24'53 *53-21 35-*21-/ &5 ,23 *0%(514 '0"5 0 3/ '4 42 35,)-5 42 *0%# +01+5& *0%(514 23 5 35/( )3-5. ,23 *0%(514 ,23 01% 24'53 -53"/+5# 5 0( 23 43504(514 '/+' /- *53,23(5. 0- 0 35-)&4 2, 01. /4'/1 '2)3- 2, 35-*21./1 42 4'5 0."534/-5(514 ,23 4'5 ,355# ./-+2)145.#35.)+5. ,55 -53"/+5# 5 0(/104/21 23 43504(514$ &/+ .1 !!

KELLY FALCON, a junior at Hialeah Miami Lakes High, won first place in the High School Division of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cervantes Outstanding Student Essay Awardsâ&#x20AC;? presented by Nova Southeastern University. HML principal Eric Acosta is pictured with Regional superintendent Vivian Santiesteban-Pardo, Falcon, and her Advanced Placement Spanish teacher Egberto Bermudez.

Nickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Auto Center Nick is featuring everyday low gas prices (diesel, too) for the Miami Lakes area!

Pay at the Pump! Complete auto services and repairs. Mechanic always on duty! Convenience Store â&#x20AC;˘ Open Daily 6 AM - 10 PM

6780 N.W. 169 Street

( just north of Palmetto Expressway )

305-823-3382 MV-35595 â&#x20AC;˘ MVR-98104611

THE MIAMI LAKER

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 19

Miami Lakes area religious leaders offer seasonal messages ‘Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room’ By Rev. Richard Sparrow Interim Minister Miami Lakes Congregational Church I remember as a small child asking my parents if I could have my Christmas present early – then on Christmas morning I would act surprised. To their credit, my folks withstood my sure and certain pressure with the words, ‘No, we’ll wait until Christmas is here!’ I’m guessing I sulked a bit – but my parents didn’t give in. Let me say right upfront...Advent is my most cherished season of the year because the 4 Sundays before Christmas gift me with ample opportunity to ‘watch and wait’, preparing my heart for the celebration of the holy birth. Along that line, my favorite time of day is about two hours before sunrise, as I find the presunrise sky to be breathtaking, beginning with ever-so-soft rays of light appearing at the far reaches behind the horizon. Sunrise then greets me very slowly and I need to be awake for the changes –

each morning in a different way. By the time the sun a c t u a l l y appears on the horizon, I’m ready, my watching is done and a new REV. SPARROW day begins. Advent is much the same way - watching and waiting, longing and praying for the birth of One who has transformed, does transform and will continue to transform our lives. Our culture doesn’t seem to understand, as we have surround-sound Christmas carols on radios and in malls since Halloween. Let me be clear – I love Christmas music but I love and appreciate Advent more! Over the years, wonderful parishioners have pushed me just like I pushed my parents. ‘Now! – we want Christmas carols now!’ In the spirit of Advent and following the wisdom of my parents, I respond,

The Message of Christmas By Father Joseph Lucas Christ the Saviour Orthodox Cathedral The message of Christmas is too often drowned out by the noise of the world. Even amongst those who still celebrate the religious meaning of the holiday, the hectic pace of the season often overshadows the beauty of the event being commemorated. More than two millennia ago, in a quiet hamlet of Palestine, something occurred which is nearly impossible to describe in human FATHER LUCAS words. The eternal Son and Word of God, who shares what it means to be God with the Father, "emptied himself" and became a human being. Born in humility, in a dark cave in Bethlehem, He would illumine the whole world with His light. God and Man were united in Him; and so our reconciliation to God was accomplished. As we reflect on this miracle yet again, let us proclaim the mystery anew, as if we have heard it for the very first time. Let us enter into the

results. 305-817-4015

darkness of that cave – which represents the darkness of our broken world – and receive the light once more. Only in this way can we bear the light to those who need it. May the blessings of the Nativity of Christ be with all of you.

‘No, we’ll wait until Christmas is here!’ On Christmas Sunday, December 20, Christmas Eve and Christmastide (up to Epiphany on January 6) we’ll raise the roof with the great Christmas hymns and carols, but for these Advent days of ‘watching and waiting, longing and praying’ I invite you to join me in preparing our hearts so that at the birth-day of Jesus we’ll be ready to welcome him in – inviting him to transform our lives again and again.

Season of Peace and Joy By Father Jack Stanton Church of the Epiphany Greetings from the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany (Iglesia de la Epifania) in Miami Lakes during this holiday season. This year our Season of Peace and Joy is clouded by acts of terrorism in Paris and around the world. As we see reports of violence almost every morning on the TV, our own neighborhoods don’t seem to be safe. Yet into this difficult time we bring our message of joy as we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace. In the face of

• CHAPTER 7 & 13 BANKRUPTCY • LOAN MODIFICATION & MMM PROGRAM • FORECLOSURE DEFENSE • REAL ESTATE CLOSINGS • PROBATE • PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE • FIRST CONSULTATION IS FREE • PRIMERA CONSULTA GRATIS CALL TODAY! LLAMENOS HOY!

305-262-8226 6600 COW PEN ROAD, SUITE 220 MIAMI LAKES, FL 33014

LET US EARN YOUR TRUST

fear, we say that peace will prevail. In the face of violence, we say that safety will overcome. In the absence of faith, we proclaim that God FR. STANTON continues to bless and strengthen us. Have a Blessed Christmas Season. As it has been said, ‘Don’t believe in miracles, count on them.’

PAGE 20

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

The Lowly King of Kings (Luke 2:16-18) Local houses of worship hold By Rev. Pedro A. Rivera Sunrise Presbyterian Church At Christmastime we forget that we are celebrating the birth of One who was One with God. The One who decided with God to descend to earth by leaving behind His rightful throne at the right hand of the Father and become fully-human and fully-dependent on the King for all matters, while on earth. This was not an idea that just sprung up. This whole plan was Created thousands of years before the birth of Jesus and was being shared with the world for over a thousand years. Imagine, the message of Jesus was made known at least three thousand years ago from today and over a thousand years before His actual birth. God calling out to all humankind to pre-

LET’S HEAR FROM YOU! Got a story idea about your family, school, church, organization or even a neighbor? Email us at miamilaker1@aol.com, or call 305-817-4078.

pare, prepare to receive Him. Jesus came to the world as one of us, but I imagine that the circumstances were worse than ours, yet we romanticize that event. Don’t let me mislead you, excitement would come REV. RIVERA and it did, but first to a very poor group of people including Mary, Joseph and the shepherds. The first visitors Jesus receives are the shepherds. These shepherds are important, because their visit indicates to me what I’ve been saying for 50 years: Jesus is the “Lamb of God.” These shepherds seal that truth. It is no coincidence that they become the first visitors. They see Jesus for who and what He is: the Lamb of God who is laid to rest on a trough or the feeding box of the animals. This gives way for all of us to come to Jesus, after all, as the Lamb of God; He will die for me and all of us that choose to go to Him.

“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” Luke 2:16-18. The trough where he lay after birth and the visit of the “special” shepherds clearly identify Jesus and to us is revealed God’s great plan of salvation for all humankind. In His adult years, Jesus truly demonstrates how He felt about children. Even the following teaching puts to shame all who say to be above all others. Besides that, Jesus even told His disciples to let the children come to me. He touched many and many touched Him. Imagine being touched by not just a King, but by the King of Kings or even in a deeper sense, being touched by the Divine Himself. “Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4) A Merry Blessed Christmas to all! Feliz Navidad.

special seasonal services Miami Lakes area houses of worship have announced a variety of special holiday religious services and events. Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church, 6600 Miami Lakeway North, has set the following mass schedule for Christmas and the New Year: Christmas Eve, Thursday Dec. 2 - 7 a.m. in Spanish, 8:30 a.m. in English, 4:30 p.m. Festival of Carols, 5 p.m. in English, 11:30 p.m Festival of Carols, and Midnight Bilingual. Christmas Day, Friday, Dec. 25 - 10:30 a.m. in English and12:30 p.m. in Spanish. New Year’s Eve, Thursday, Dec. 31- 7 a.m. in Spanish, 8:30 a.m. in English, and 5 p.m. in English. New Year’s Day, Friday, Jan. 19:30 a.m. in Spanish, 11 a.m. in English, and 12:30 p.m. in Spanish. Miami Lakes Congregational Church, 6701 Miami Lakeway South, is hosting special service times during the Advent season. On the week of Christmas, Sunday, December 20, the Fourth Sunday of Advent Worship will take place with the theme being “joy.” On Christmas Eve, a Family Christmas Eve Worship will take place at 5 p.m. and a Sacred Christmas Eve Worship Communion/Candle Lighting. Elevate Church, 6250 Miami Lakes Drive East, presents a series entitled “Vintage Christmas” which provides a message of hope and salvation. The church is also hosting an ugly sweater service on December 20 for services at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. Continuing in tradition, the church will bring in the new year with a New Year's Family Fest (NYFF) on Friday, January 1, from 1 to 5 p.m. NYFF is a free

l hoo r Sc e t f A e Car

event for the whole community which includes food, music, games, carnival rides, crafts, face painting, bounce houses, and prizes. Sunrise Presbyterian Church, located at 18400 N.W. 68 Avenue, is hosting special services for the Advent season. On December 20, the church choir will perform a Christmas Cantata at the 10 a.m. service and on Christmas Eve a Candlelight Service will be held at 7 p.m. Following Christmas, on December 27, a special service of worship will be held at 10 a.m. Miami Lakes United Methodist Church, located at 14800 N.W. 67 Avenue, is hosting the second annual Winterfest event for the community until Thursday, December 24. Festival admission is free and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Christmas Tree sales will through December 24. Attendees will also be able to participate in activities and take advantage of the multiple photo opportunities. On Saturday, December 19, the Christmas Cantata performed by the church choir and Palm Springs United Methodist Church of Miami Lakes present “Canticles in Candlelight” by Joseph M. Martin at 4 p.m. at Epworth Village and at 7 p.m. at the Miami Lakes Methodist Church.

THE MIAMI LAKER

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 21

Miami Lakes Area Houses of Worship Elevate Church 6250 Miami Lakes Dr. East Telephone: 305-823-3888 Sunday Worship.........9:30, 11 & 12:30 Friday Youth Nights.....................7 PM

M.L. Congregational Church 6701 Miami Lakeway South Telephone: 305-822-4313 Adult Sunday School...................9 AM Children’s Sunday School.....10:30 AM Worship.................................10:30 AM Special Need Service...............4:00 PM (Every fourth Sunday)

Sunrise Presbyterian Church 18400 N.W. 68 Avenue Telephone: 305-821-5841 Worship.................................10:00 AM (Children’s Church) Servicio en Espanol...............11:30 AM

The Church of the Epiphany 15650 Miami Lakeway North Telephone: 305-558-3961 www.episcopalmiamilakes.com Sunday Eucharist...................10:30 AM Children’s Sunday School.....10:15 AM Adult Bible Study.......................11 AM Misa en Espanol......................9:00 AM Escuela Dominical................12:15 PM

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 8201 N.W. 186 Street Telephone: 305-829-0049 Spanish service.............................9 AM English service.......................12:30 PM Tuesday (Spanish).........................7 PM Wednesday (English)....................7 PM

Palm Vista Community Church Meeting at Miami Lakes Middle 6425 Miami Lakeway North Telephone: 305-822-6999 Worship Service.........................10 AM

Temple Tifereth Jacob 5901 N.W. 151 Street Telephone: 305-557-2651 Call for Service Schedule

Iglesia Biblica Cristiana Español Servicios Telephone: 305-557-1959 Sunday service........................4:00 PM Wednesday Youth....................7:30 PM 6250 Miami Lakes Drive East

Iglesia El Nuevo Comienzo 6701 Miami Lakeway South Services in Spanish Sunday service.......................12:30 PM Thursday service.....................8:00 PM

St. Andrews Lutheran Church 575 W. 68 Street Telephone: 305-821-3622 Sunday service (English)........9:00 AM Sunday service (Spanish).....10:30 AM Bible School...............................11 AM

Telephone: 954-435-1313 www.faithisthevictoryfellowship.com Sunday Service.....................10:30 AM (Cobb Theaters – 6711 Main Street) Theatre 17

Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church 15801 N.W. 67 Avenue Telephone: 305-558-2202 Sunday services in English 9:30, 11 AM and 5:30 PM Sunday services in Spanish 8 AM, 12:45 PM and 7 PM Saturday services 8:30 AM, 5 PM Daily services 7 and 8:30 AM Confessions: Saturdays 3:30 PM

Mother of Our Redeemer Catholic Church 8445 N.W. 186 Street Telephone: 305-829-6141 Daily services (Spanish) 8:30 AM Saturday (English) 5:30 PM Saturdays (Spanish) 7 PM Sundays (English) 8 & 10:30 AM Sundays (Spanish) 9 AM, 12:30 PM, 7 PM

North Palm Baptist Church 7801 N.W. 178 Street Telephone: 305-558-2032 www.NorthpalmBaptist.org Sunday Bible Study.................9:15 AM Sunday Worship....................10:30 AM Wednesday Service..................7:00 PM

2pt

Whole Life Insurance. Tax Free Annuities. Call Carmen at 786-229-4830.

TILE INSTALLATION Tile/Marble Installation. Remodel bathrooms and repairs. Free Estimates. Call 305-803-6901.

305-621-4690 REASONABLE TREE SERVICE AND LANDSCAPING, INC. • Trimming • Shaping • Removals • Mulch & Hedges • Rock & Plastic

• Topping • Transplanting • Sodding • Fertilizing • Weeding

VERY REASONABLE PRICES.

14800 N.W. 67 Avenue Telephone: 305-821-7274 www.miamilakesumc.net Praise Band & Music.............9:40 AM Traditional Worship Service.10:00 AM Alive-Contemporary Service11:30 AM (Child care and children’s/youth Sunday School during both services.)

50 ft. Bucket Truck, Chipper Dump Truck, Stump Grinder & Bobcat Loader

New Testament Baptist Church The Gathering Place 6601 N.W. 167 Street Telephone: 305-558-4930 Sunday Service..........................11 AM Bible Study ............................9:45 AM Wednesday Bible Study...........7:00 PM Wednesday Youth Group.........7:00 PM

Orthodox Cathedral of Christ The Saviour 16601 N.W. 77 Court Telephone: 305-822-0437 Home of The Orthodox Book Center Sat. Vespers.................................6 PM Sun. Matins............................8:40 AM Sun. Liturgy...............................10 AM Sunday School & Inquirer Classes

Palm Springs United Methodist Church

5941 N.W. 176 St., Bldg. #5 Telephone: 305-244-9425 www.icrvidanueve.com

The Redeemed Christian Church of God

Fulfilled Life Church Telephone 786-378-2356 Country Club Middle School 18305 N.W. 75 Place Sunday Service (Eng.)..10:30 AM

Sprinkler Systems. Installation and repairs. 24 hours. Free estimates. Call 305-300-9414.

Free estimates/licensed-insured.

Iglesia Cristiana Reformada Vida Nueve

Telephone 305-558-1060 (Temporary meeting location) Shula’s Hotel (Davis Cup Room) 6842 Main Street, Miami Lakes Sunday Bible Study.................9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service.......10:30 AM Sunday Evening Service..........6:00 PM Wednesday Bible Study...........7:30 PM

SERVICES

M.L. United Methodist Church

5700 W. 12 Avenue Telephone: 305-821-3232 Worship Service...................11:00 AM

Hialeah Church of Christ

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Faith Is The Victory Fellowship

Victory Parrish Worship Center 16261 N.W. 57 Avenue Telephone: 786-428-0078 Sunday service....................10:00 AM Tuesday & Thursday..............7:00 PM Friday service.......................11:00 PM

Voice for Jesus Cobb Miami Lakes Theatre #11 6711 Main Street 305-818-0565 Sunday service......................10:00 AM Youth service.........................10:00 AM Children services...................10:45 AM (Nursery provided)

(Editor’s Note: All information provided by individual houses of worship. Confirm service times by telephone.

OVER

Currently hiring for: • Dual Therapist Massage/Esthetician (On Call - Spa at Shula’s)

• Front Desk Attendant (Part Time - Spa at Shula’s)

• Golf Outside Services (Part Time - Shula’s Golf Club)

• Housekeeping Room Attendant (Full Time - Shula’s Hotel)

• Leasing Agent (Full Time - Graham Residential) • Personal Trainer (Full Time - Shula’s Athletic Club) For a full description of responsibilities or to apply online, visit us at www.donshulahotel.com, www.miamilakes.com, or www.grahamresidential.com

EEOE/DFWP

30 YEARS IN MIAMI LAKES JOHN E. BUZZELLA

305-621-4690

COMPUTER REPAIRS

THE MIAMI LAKER CLASSIFIED ADS PERSONAL CLASSIFIED RATES: $5.00 per line, 3 line minimum ($15.00) Bold headlines and boxes count as two lines. Personal classifieds must be paid in advance. No phone orders, please!

Certified (Computer Technician) 1. Is your computer giving you errors? 2. Has your computer “slowed” down/bogged down in speed while processing? 3. Do you need to learn anything about computing? 4. Problems with shutdown or Startup? 5. Want to set up wireless network or just upgrade? I can get rid of computer errors-speed it

Name

Phone

Street

back up to faster than it was at brand new!

ANYTHING you need with a PC.

FREE ESTIMATE

Jeffrey Donner

(305) 822-9081

City

Zip Code

Please run my ad for

issue(s)

Payment enclosed (Amount) $ Category: Over 15 Years Experience

ANCHOR ROOFING

Total characters in one line total 24. Letters, all spaces, and punctuations (periods, commas, etc.) count as one character. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

• Tile Roofs • Flat Roofs • Metal Roofs Call us for an estimate!

305-691-7707 ccc 1326710

MAIL TO THE MIAMI LAKER 15450 NEW BARN ROAD, SUITE 103 MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA 33014

PAGE 22

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

E A L

S T A T E

L A S S I F I E D

Arturo Rodriguez, P.A.

WE SELL MIAMI LAKES

305-827-4521

SERVING MIAMI LAKES FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Arturo Rodriguez and family wishes you a Happy Holiday and Prosperous 2016!

Broker-Associate Maria Victoria Zarate-Rodriguez

305-308-9482 Realtor-Associate

FOR RENT 2pt

3/2.5 Brand new townhome with 2car garage, gated community, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, wood laminate floors, hurricane impact windows, fitness studio, 24 hr. maintenance. From $2450 monthly. Call 305-821-1138.

3 BR/2 BA lakefront townhouse in Loch Andrews. $1,850 per month. Call owner at 954-963-0340.

Serving your Miami Lakes Neighborhood

8420 N.W. 169 Terrace- Miami Lakes Custom built with top of the line finishes. This Mediterranean estate in Miami Lakes has over 6,225 sq. ft. of unparalleled craftsmanship Situated on almost a full acre, this 2-year new Custom Built 7 bed- including Italian marble floors. $1,450,000. room, 6 1/2 bath gated estate is one of north Miami’s most luxurious homes created for grand scale living and entertaining. $2,800,000.

9904 N.W. 133 Street - Hialeah Gardens

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

JHOBANNA CASTILLO P.A.

Selling or Buying Your Dream Home? Let me help you!

(786) 201-9979

http://jhobannacastillo.kwrealty.com

15961 N.W. 79 Court - Miami Lakes

16720 N.W. 79 Place - Miami Lakes This beautiful 5 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom home features Saturnia marThis custom built 4 bedroom, 3 bath home sits on an oversized 9435 ble floors, Swaroski lighting, S/S appliances, granite counters. Must sq. ft. corner lot. Features large patio and pool deck, salt water pool, see! Reduced $678,500. CBS fence, wood kitchen cabinets with granite counters. $589,000.

PENDING SALE 14601 Lake Candlewood Court - Miami Lakes This one-of-a-kind property with 5 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, is situated on a double lot with 3,421 sq.ft. a/c larger than tax roll, with all permits, outdoor kitchen with commercial oven, built-in fish tank, hurricane shutters. Reduced. $475,000.

If you would like to know the value of your home in today's real estate market, call me. I would be happy to give you a FREE market analysis! HABLO ESPANOL

Serving the Miami Lakes community for over 35 years as a full service Realtor! 8254 N.W. 165 Street - Miami Lakes

16240 West Troon Circle - M. Lakes Loch Lomond Totally remodeled 5/3 home including new roof, new kitchen and bathrooms, wood and granite cabinets, built-in wall oven/micro oven, S/S appliances, high end plumbing fixtures. Just Reduced to $699,000.

“Professional Service, Educational Guidance and a Proven Track Record.”

artrodriguezrealestate.com

Residential Real Estate “Owned and operated by NRT, LLC”

Luxury Rentals in Miami Lakes Fountain House Apar tments • 1 and 2 bedrooms directly on Main Street • Select loft style units • Faux hardwood flooring • Garage available for rent • Washer/dryer in every unit • Sun splashed pool with tanning deck • Shula’s Athletic Club Benefit

St. Tropez Apar tments • 1 and 2 bedrooms on beautiful Lake Ruth • Great closets • Washer/dryer in every unit • Resort style pool with gazebo • Gated entry •Mosaic tile backsplashes in kitchen • Shula’s Athletic Club Benefit

Crescent House Apar tments • 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms • Garage available for rent • Private balconies with storage closet • Resort style pool with expansive sundeck • Washer/dryer in every unit • Gated entry • Walking distance to Main Street shops/restaurants • Shula’s Athletic Club Benefit

Sold by Vera in 8 days - $549,000 5 bedroom, 4 bath in Royal Oaks, oversize master bedroom w/bathroom with whirlpool, S/S appliances, new pool, Gazelo/paver deck with outdoor kitchen, on a corner lot.

Vera Cox

305-542-1944

Closing Agent/Attorney

vera.cox@coldwellbanker.com

305-817-2170

During the holiday season, my thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made this year a very successful one. Wishing you peace, joy, health and prosperity throughout the coming year. I look forward to working with you in the years to come. Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Let’s make 2016 the best year ever!!

Residences at Lakehouse • 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms and • 2 and 3 bedroom Townhomes • Stainless Steel Appliances • Granite countertops • Huge closets • On-Site Fitness Studio • Resort style pool with sundeck • Basketball half court • Bark Park

Visit our website at www.grahamresidential.com

Magaly Rubio, CIPS, CRS, ePro, GRI, TRC Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate Broker Associate, Previews International Agent, Commercial Investment Certified

305-821-0203 • Fax: 954-384-7912 magaly,Rubio@coldwellbanker.com

THE MIAMI LAKER

DECEMBER 18, 2015

PAGE 23

R E A L E S TAT E C L A S S I F I E D Wishing our customers, friends and neighbors a Happy Holiday Season and a Prosperous New Year! Serving Miami Lakes And The

A Very Merry Christmas Wish For All!!

Surrounding Areas For Over 50 Years!

ROSA NELL HAMMER

Broker/Associate

ALLAN PELAEZ Broker/Associate

(305) 898-9315

(786) 301-9520

MIAMI SHORES

LAKES ON THE GREEN

1240 N.E. 91 Terrace $499,000

8830 N.W. 191 Street

MIAMI LAKES

Selling or Buying? Cary Gonzalez sells Miami Lakes since 1995! REALTOR-Associate CDPE

(305) 213-2328 carygonzalezrealtor @yahoo.com

Builder’shome with a lot of extras. Oversized lot with north/south exposure, back covered porch, light concrete on the second floor. Amazing view of the lake. Property has 15 SEER energy efficient A/C, approx. 6 years old. One bedroom used as laundry room, however water hookup available in garage. Gas stove, dryer and water heater.

DING PEN

Great property in sought after Serenity Point in west Miami Lakes. Originally a 4/2, currently being used as a 3/2 with 2 master G bedrooms and sitting area. Can easily converted back to 4/2 DbeIN PEN if needed. Property is in great shape. Covered patio, plenty of room for a pool. Storage shed and hurricane shutters.

PEMBROKE PINES

MIAMI LAKES

1401 S.W. 134 Way, #203C REDUCED $75,000 Great condo in Century Village (55 and over community). 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths on the second floor overlooking main lake in the Village and within walking distance to G Clubhouse. Tankless water heater, newer DIN PENAmenities include state of A/C, flat top range. the art Clubhouse, transportation, billards, and shows.

14550 Glencairn Road $579,000 Turn key one-story property in sought after tree lined community of Lake Elizabeth. Remodeled kitchen with thick granite and 42-inch cabinets. Cabana bath with travertine ING marble floors. Accordion shutters onDthe outside along with PEN Plantation shutters on the inside. Roof only 5 years old. 15KW gas automatic generator. Lots of attic space, Vaulted ceilings, 6” crown molding & French doors just to name a few extras.

8297 Balgowan Road $305,000

D SOL

Cary Gonzalez 6850 Main Street Miami Lakes, FL 33014

14524 N.W. 87 Place REDUCED $335,000

$399,000

Lowest priced house in Miami Shores. 3 bed, 2 bath, plus bonus room. Accordion shutters, large circular driveway. Excellent location half a block from North Bayshore Drive and Biscayne Bay. Street to street access on a quiet dead end street. Total remodeling needed, or build you brand new luxurious residence on this 8125 sq. ft. lot. By appointment only.

Beautiful one-story corner townhouse in Lake Sandra. 2 bedrooms/2 baths completely updated. Hardwood floors, new kitchen and bathrooms. LD master bedrooms, A/C is only 2 years old. SOTwo accordion shutters and lots of extras. Covered patio with brand new awning with direct view of the lake.

Miami Lakes Realty & Welcome Center • In The Lobby of Don Shula’s Hotel

6850 Main Street Miami Lakes, FL 33014 • (305) 822-9800

If you have any Homestead Exemption questions...Call the Real Estate Leaders!

Beautiful home in Virginia Gardens

Four bedroom, two bath, family room. Built 2007, 2,853 sq. ft. of living area, 8,625 sq.ft. lot size. Property needs some TLC. Make this one a new home for you this year. Call today!

Vi v i a n M a c i a s Realtor, CRS, GRI, SFR

Cel: 305-300-4425 Off: 305-883-7555

vivian@principalproperties.com 27 years of experience SELLING Residential and Investment properties

“Selling or Buying put My Experience to work for you Today!”

Our family at Pedro Realty would like to wish you and your family Peace, Joy, and many blessings during this special Holiday season and into the New Year. God Bless you and those you love. Thank you for your support and business. We appreciate it. Call today for your confidential evaluation if you are thinking of Selling!

Liza E. Mendez, CRB, CRS, CIPS, GRI, CDPE, e-Pro

Broker/Owner – Experience Counts!

305-558-7676 www.lizamendez.com www.pedrorealty.com

PAGE 24

DECEMBER 18, 2015

THE MIAMI LAKER

CHEVROLET

Seven Dealers All In One Location Neighbor & Miami Lakes Automall GM, Fred Senra, Invites You To Experience The Hometown Difference!

The Miami Lakes Automall Family Wishes You and Your Family Happy Holidays! We Thank You for Letting us Serve You, The Miami Lakes Community and Surrounding Cities. Happy Holidays and a Prosperous New Year! Visit Us Online: MiamiLakesAutomall.com Like Us:

facebook.com/MiamiLakesAutomall

th 1 6600 NW 57 Ave SOUTH SIDE OF THE PALMETTO EXPRESSWAY (SR 826) EXIT 826 AT NW 57TH AVE (RED ROAD)

1-866-782-8208