Nicolas Escobar
Betsy Comendeiro
John Reaves
Vanessa Kayes 305.201.9297 vanessa@valbyrnerealtor.com www.MiamiRealEstateWorks.com
Absolutely stunning waterfront property with private boat slip offers a luxurious and private retreat. This two-story townhome has upscale designer finishes throughout and is equipped with an elevator. A covered terrace and pool offer year-round outdoor living.
The future owner will be minutes away from the Riviera Country Club.
A Very Special Home.
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER DAN BASTIEN publisher@thefloridavillager.com
VP OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DANA BASTIEN dana@thefloridavillager.com
COMMUNITY
Disney’s Aladdin is making its Mami premiere at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County. Aladdin, adapted from the animated Disney film and centuriesold folktales including “One Thousand and One Nights,” is brought to theatrical life in this new musical. This new production features a full score, including the five popular songs from the Academy Award–winning soundtrack and more written especially for the stage. arshtcenter.org
Miami’s longest-running juried art festival will be held on January 14–15, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the University of Miami. The festival will feature over 150 fine art exhibitors, a children’s art tent, marketplace, a beer garden, food and live entertainment. This free outdoor community event is ideal for all art enthusiasts, offering artwork in a variety of media and price ranges. beauxartsmiami.org
Enjoy the outdoors at this weekly farmers market. Located on SW 77 Avenue just north of SW 152 Street, it is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. You’ll find food, orchids, local vendors and more. pbfarmersmarket.com
Head to Evelyn Greer Park for the second annual FitCrest 5K. Check-in begins at 6:30 a.m. Pre-race warm-up is at 7:45 a.m., and the race starts at 8 a.m. It is a timed 5K, and all race bibs will have a timing chip. After the race, enjoy field day activities, obstacle courses, bounce houses, music and more. pinecrest-fl.gov
MiamiFLTeam.com
It's not just about the claims. It's about your health. Many older homes in South Florida have cast-iron pipes that can cause unwanted plumbing problems leading to costly home repairs. Molds can cause asthma and other illnesses. Our families are what's most important.
Award winning Miami Visual Artist/ Photographer/Writer Jonathan Brooks shares images that will be on display January 3 through January 31,2023 at the Wirtz Gallery at the First National Bank of South Miami, South Miami Branch. Brooks’ Palmas Y Cafe exhibition starts the 3rd of January and runs through the end of January. It is a free event open to the public. The bank’s Gallery is a public art space that is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and closed Saturday and Sunday.
Pinecrest Gardens recently celebrated the official opening of their much-anticipated ADA-accessible and inclusive playground, mini-zoo, Sensory Learning Garden and Inspiration Center.
Cry Baby Creamery, located in Palmetto Bay, recently celebrated their first anniversary. The festivities garnered the attendance of residents, Mayor Karyn Cunningham, Vice Mayor Leanne Tellam and Councilman Steve Cody. Even Elvis was on hand for a special appearance. Their menu features everything from ice cream and cookies to brownies and cold brew.
The Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami, announced an open call to South Florida–based artists to submit their work for MOCA’s 2023 Art on the Plaza series. Art on the Plaza was inaugurated in 2021 with a series of temporary public art installations on MOCA North Miami’s front plaza, inviting artists to activate the space and connect the museum to the community.
Wild Kratts Creature Power!, the newest traveling exhibit at the Museum of Discovery & Science, will take explorers of all ages for a walk on the wild side beginning Friday, January 20. Based on the popular PBS Kids series, the new interactive exhibition presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital will run from Friday, January 20, through Sunday, May 7, and will harness children’s natural curiosity and interest in animals by providing meaningful, inquiry-based STEM experiences in which children use critical thinking skills to discover amazing creature powers. The deadline for submission of art projects is January 8, 2023, by 11:59 p.m.
South Miami Parks and Recreation is hosting a Volleyball Clinic for ages 8 to 16 at Gibson-Tuttle Community Center. It kicks off January 23 and runs through March 16. No prior experience is required. The fee for residents is $35, and nonresidents pay $65.
The once-shuttered Irish pub is back in Coral Gables! Founded in 1989 by John Clarke and Martin Lynch, Breakwater Hospitality Group‘s Emi Guerra and Alex Mantecon, in partnership with Erick Passo, owner of Downtown’s Black Market Miami, renovated and recently reopened the iconic eatery.
Miami’s first and only Master Brewer Academy (MBA) is launching a new 2023 program just in time for those looking to celebrate “new year, new you, new brew” by either making a career change or upping their home brew game. The 11-month program, conveniently spread out over nights and weekends, starts January 5. Founded and led by Director of Education Todd Space, MBA’s classroom is the taproom, with curriculum taught inside South Florida’s most noteworthy breweries, including Est. 33 (where Todd is head brewer), Cerveceria La Tropical, The Tank Brewing Co. and Tarpon River Brewing and taught by their respective head brewers.
Brightline in partnership with Miami Dade College and the Neighbors & Neighbors Association (NANA), have announced the winners of its first food truck enterprise program: Tywanda DuPont, Clarence Davis, and Nancy Guerrier. In September 2021, Miami Dade College and NANA launched a semester-long program that offered minority business owners in underserved communities the opportunity to compete to purchase or lease a food truck, complete with start-up funding. The 14-week initiative prepared 17 competing participants on how to open and operate a food truck business.
To celebrate the completion of this program, the winners unveiled their food truck concepts during a Taste & See at Brightline’s MiamiCentral station. The event provided each chef with an opportunity to highlight the inspiration behind their food truck concepts and experience of the program. In addition to Brightline’s donation of free parking spaces for the food trucks at the MiamiCentral train station, NANA has provided inventory and licenses for the award recipients.
“Brightline is committed to supporting our local communities, like Historic Overtown, through advancement opportunities for entrepreneurs who live and work here,’’ said Patrick Goddard, president of Brightline. “We are excited to taste the concepts created by these budding local culinary stars and cheer their future success.”
The three winners’ culinary concepts are Ty’s Hometown Café & Bistro Food Truck, 13 Pirates Eat, and ZOEMANGetItandGo.
Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) recently held its 29th annual Principal TODAY event, with more than 400 principals and community leaders registered to participate. This is one of M-DCPS’ signature programs, which focuses on developing partnerships that support public education.
This annual event allows M-DCPS to showcase the magic happening in MiamiDade schools while forming partnerships that result in internships and mentoring for the benefit of students.
Every year, school principals have the option to choose a partner or be paired with one through outreach to local chambers and the business community at large.
Individuals stepping into the principal’s shoes ranged from CEOs of for-profit and nonprofit organizations, elected officials, small business owners and members of the media.
Miami-Dade County’s potable water and fire hydrant system in the Village. This is a major step in finally resolving an enduring issue, resulting from the county’s approval of development of the area in the 1950s and 1960s, and a perennial matter for Village Councils since the incorporation of Pinecrest in 1996.
This issue had left approximately 725 homes in the Village without access to the county’s potable water system and to rely on wells. This has been especially problematic for a myriad of issues, including failing wells, the threat of saltwater intrusion and unreliability of well systems during storms due to power outages.
More than 74% of the proposed new water lines have been installed since the project began in January 2022, with more than 500 tons of asphalt placed as part of the restoration process. All roads that have had new water mains installed will be milled and resurfaced with 1-inch-thick new asphalt. This asphalt restoration process will continue until the project is completed. Additionally, the Village-wide fire hydrant system will be completed with the installation of nearly 200 hydrants.
Once completed, property owners can connect to the water system. Each affected property will be responsible for one-time connection costs, which are estimated at approximately $2,500 to $5,000. It is recommended that property owners consult a licensed plumber on where to best locate the proposed water meter box in the swale outside their property, as each property is different. Residents of completed phases have received letters from Public Works outlining the procedure to follow to begin the process of obtaining their Water Agreement with the Water and Sewer Department.
Water service is provided by Miami-Dade County’s Water and Sewer Department. Upon completion of the project, the infrastructure becomes property of Miami-Dade County. The Village of Pinecrest will not derive any revenue from this project.
Property owners in areas have to connect to the water system within 10 years of the water line being activated. After 10 years, individual property owners may seek an additional extension or variance from this requirement from MiamiDade County’s Environmental Quality Control Board.
If you are interested in learning more, please contact Coral Gables Plumbing at 305.254.3434.
South Miami, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay residents, do you have drain stoppages? Overflows? Sewer odor? If so, and your house was built before 1975, chances are your old cast iron pipes are cracking and falling apart.
• Thorough cleaning and descaling of pipe prior to installation of structural liner.
• Installations done by licensed and insured plumbing contractor.
• Work will be done with permits and in accordance with the Florida Building Code.
• Structural lining will be installed, not simply paint on epoxy coating.
• Certified by 3rd party engineers.
Coral Gables Plumbing is a certified Cured In Place Pipe (CIPP) dealer and provides Trenchless Pipe Repair allowing new pipe to be installed without breaking your homes foundation. We provide fast and friendly service with 24 hour commercial and residential emergency service.
Palmer Trinity School student Jahmir Everett, class of 2023, was awarded the first annual Colin Powell scholarship for the Episcopal Church of Southeast Florida. The scholarship presentation took place at Holy Family Episcopal Church with the Rector of Holy Family, Father Horace Ward; The Reverend Dr. Kwasi Thornell; and The Most Rev. Michael Bruce Curry, Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church.
Everett was recognized for his strong academic record, athletic leadership as captain of both his football and basketball teams, selfless service within his community and active involvement with the Black Student Union at Palmer Trinity.
“Jahmir is the consummate leader who personifies the school commitment to ‘Lead with Love,’” said Palmer Trinity Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Mary Ellen Cassini.
The Colin Powell Black Student Scholarship Fund was established by the Howard Thurman Center to provide scholarships for students who wish to attend Episcopal schools within the Diocese of Southeast Florida. The fund is in honor of Colin Powell, an American politician, statesman, diplomat and United States Army Officer. It is to be a living legacy to Colin Powell’s life as well as inspire young Black people to strive to be the best they can be and take advantage of opportunities as they have presented them.
Palmer Trinity School and the Village of Palmetto Bay honored local veterans at its eighth annual Veterans Day special assembly and breakfast held at the school’s gymnasium. Guests included veterans and their families from the South Miami-Dade area, including Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was the guest speaker, followed by presenters, Palmetto Bay Mayor Karyn Cunningham and Chairman of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners and Commissioner for District 12 Jose “Pepe” Diaz. In addition, Reverend Frank Corbishley, chaplain at the University of Miami, gave an opening prayer.
In an effort to address the teacher shortage and establish teaching pipelines, Miami Dade College (MDC) and Miami-Dade County Public School systems have announced a collaborative partnership to create the Teacher Candidate Residency Program at MDC.
Working together, this partnership will design, implement and continuously improve the recruitment, development and retention of high-quality teachers. The program will allow MDC School of Education students to be hired while completing their bachelor’s degree.
to the pediatric dental office of Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, Dr Bob Providing specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a "child-friendly” environment. As pediatric dentists,
focus on preventive care to help each child have a healthy smile that will last a lifetime. Serving infants, children, and teens.
SETTING OUT ON A MISSION TO EAT HEALTHIER STARTS WITH CREating goals and working to achieve them with those you love. To help make nutritious eating more manageable, call together your family and work with one another to create a menu everyone can enjoy while staying on track.
Connecting an array of recipes that all can agree on starts with versatile ingredients like dairy. Gathering at the table with your loved ones while enjoying delicious, nutritious recipes featuring yogurt, cheese and milk can nourish both body and soul.
To find more nutritious meal ideas to fuel your family’s health goals, visit milkmeansmore.org.
PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES, PLUS 30 MINUTES CHILL TIME COOK TIME: 20 MINUTES; SERVINGS: 8
CHICKEN: ▸ 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
YOGURT SAUCE:
1 1/2 cups plain, whole-milk yogurt ▸ 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup diced cucumber
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 clove garlic, peeled and minced ▸ 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper ▸
3-4 small loaves whole-wheat pita bread, halved lengthwise ▸ 1 cup thinly sliced tomatoes ▸ 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
TO MAKE CHICKEN:
1. Place melted butter, dill, oregano, garlic, lemon juice, salt and pepper in gallon-size zip-top freezer bag. Seal bag and shake contents to combine. Add chicken. Seal bag, pressing air out of bag. Shake chicken to coat with marinade. Refrigerate chicken in marinade 30 minutes.
TO MAKE YOGURT SAUCE:
1. Stir yogurt, lemon juice, diced cucumber, dill, garlic, salt and pepper. Cover sauce and refrigerate.
2. Heat grill to medium heat.
3. Grill chicken over direct heat, about 10 minutes per side, until cooked through. Transfer chicken to cutting board and rest 10 minutes. Thinly slice chicken across grain.
4. Serve chicken on pita bread with tomatoes, red onion and yogurt sauce.
Where: City of Coral Gables Historic City Hall
405 Biltmore Way, Coral Gables, FL 33134
When: January 22, 2023, starting at 7:30 a.m. How: unitedwaymiami.org/amerant5k
Details: United Way Miami, together with Amerant Bank, the largest community bank headquartered in Florida, announced that the Amerant Bank 5K will take place on Sunday, January 22, 2023, in Coral Gables. This will be Amerant Bank’s second year as the title sponsor for the organization’s 12th annual 5K event, which benefits United Way Miami’s mission to build a stronger Miami for all.
All runners, walkers, families and fitness enthusiasts alike are invited to team up for a fun-filled morning of exercise to benefit United Way Miami’s work in education, financial stability and health. Partnered with Agency 44, known for producing iconic races such as the Miami Marathon, the race will start and finish at the City of Coral Gables’ historic City Hall and end with a festive postrace celebration near the City Hall area. Participants will enjoy a five-kilometer run or walk through the beautiful tree-lined streets of Coral Gables followed by an Activity Zone where families can gather and enjoy fun activities, food, refreshments and music.
“We are grateful to Amerant Bank for entrusting us as partners for this incredible family-friendly event,” says Symeria Hudson, president and CEO at United Way Miami. “Proceeds generated from this race will support services and programs that empower Miami-Dade County’s most vulnerable residents. It is because of corporations like Amerant Bank that we’re able to continue living our mission,” continued Hudson.
“We are proud to be entering our second year as the title sponsor of the Amerant Bank 5K benefiting United Way Miami,” said Jerry Plush, chairman and CEO at Amerant Bank. “We are committed to serving our community and helping give back through our partnership.”
At PURE Plastic Surgery, the focus is relentlessly on producing the best experience for patients. For many women, that involves a significant boost in empowerment and self-esteem after their procedure is complete.
WHEN IT COMES TO PLASTIC SURGERY and other cosmetic procedures, society has an unfortunate habit of settling on negative reasons why the procedure may have been performed. But what’s overlooked in this narrative are the many positive reasons that people choose plastic surgery: to improve their personal mental health and self-esteem by electing a procedure that will make them look better and feel better about themselves.
S. Alexander Earle, MD, FACS, the founder of PURE Plastic Surgery, certainly does not overlook this aspect in his consultations with his patients. In fact, he views empowering patients and helping improve their mental health as the core tenets of his business.
“As a plastic surgeon, I work with women to restore their confidence, improve their appearance and how they see themselves as it relates to their world,” says Dr. Earle. “Some have gone most of their lives choosing the happiness of others over their own, and having a procedure done allows them to — for the first time — focus on themselves. I learn a lot from my patients who trust me with their vison and their lives, and that means everything to me.”
Dr. Earle’s notion that plastic surgery can help
women boost their self-esteem and feel empowered is supported by scientific research as well. In a 2020 study of married women published in the World Journal of Plastic Surgery, the study participants reported higher levels of positive body image, mental well-being and sexual self-esteem after their cosmetic procedures.
Of course, part of Dr. Earle’s mission to empower women through his work is devoted to making women feel better about themselves as they age. Over the years, Dr. Earle has noticed a positive shift in how women perceive aging, and the work of the professionals at PURE Plastic Surgery can play an important role in this paradigm change.
“Women are embracing their age more now than ever,” says Dr. Earle. “Years ago, many women wouldn’t publicly share their age; and today, you see so much pride in skin care and body routines as they progress through life. We all hear ‘50 is the new 40,’ but really, 50 is 50 and is a beautiful age. Our patients are investing in their total self, which includes food, exercises, products and procedures that can enhance their features in the most natural-looking way.”
Dr. Earle and his staff support patients of all ages and all cultures. You can see this not only in PURE Plastic Surgery’s patient base but in its staff of awardwinning medical professionals. “We wanted PURE employees to reflect who we treat each day,” he says. “This is important because we want our patients to
feel valued, heard and for them to be able to relate to the nurses and care staff — some who share their very personal plastic and cosmetic surgery journeys.”
Dr. Earle’s wife, Mikele Aboitiz, also happens to be the CEO of the company and spearheads the finances, operations and marketing of the company. She partnered with Dr. Earle to create the inclusive vision of PURE Plastic Surgery, which includes a number of medical professionals of diverse backgrounds. “Dr. Natalia Vidal is a plastic surgeon who has brought so much to PURE, from her artistry to the way she interacts with patients,” says Dr. Earle. “She is intelligent, open-minded, kind and always looking for ways to improve our practice.”
Dr. Earle’s empowering and inclusive practices have led to astounding growth since he first opened the business in 2018. As a team of two well-trained and double board-certified surgical professionals, Dr. Earle and Dr. Vidal are ready to handle all your plastic surgery and other cosmetic needs. Whether you’re looking for a minor treatment or a total body transformation to improve your mental health and overall well-being, PURE Plastic Surgery has the professionals that you can trust to guide you through the process safely and with fantastic results.
For more information about PURE Plastic Surgery, visit pureplasticsurgery.com. The office is located at 7265 SW 93rd Ave., Suite 201; and you can reach them at 305.902.3432.
At Caron, we’ve been helping people reclaim their lives from addiction for nearly 70 years – close to 20 years in South Florida alone. And our new state-of-the-art Keele Medical Center in Delray Beach is the next step in our journey to help people heal.
Caron Florida’s Medical Center will provide: • 24/7 medically managed care for those struggling with addiction • One of the only standalone Older Adults Residential Programs in the country • Residential Treatment for those looking for privacy and discretion
Learn more at www.Caron.org/Florida
The best in addiction treatment is now expanding in Florida.
When you’re struggling with addiction, you deserve the best in care.
MILLIONS ACROSS THE WORLD WILL be looking to hit the reset button on 2022 and find a fitness or workout routine that suits them in 2023. And if you’re among those aspiring to regain your former vigour, then you’re in luck — numerous fitness apps could help you out. Unlike other sectors where one or two apps dominate the market (‘Duolingo’ for learning languages, for example), there is no “definitive” fitness app.
Instead, it simply comes down to finding the one that’s best for you — and we’re here to help!
If you are an ardent runner, then Map My Run could be the perfect app for you, with a whopping 4.8-star rating on the iPhone app store. The Gear Tracker feature will track the mileage on your shoes, locate nearby places to run and can connect with up to 400 devices to analyse your data and give you feedback. This is the perfect app not only for self-evaluation but also for using software to optimize your routine. Runkeeper is another intuitive app that feeds into your running schedule, with motivating voices programmed in.
As well as being able to track your runs, it is also capable of logging multiple activities, such as cycling, walking, gym workouts, cross-training and yoga.
For those looking to gain muscle tone, JEFIT has an exhaustive list of resources for users finding their footsteps in strength training and bodybuilding. The app is loaded with thousands of routines, conveniently sorted into targeted body areas. The app comes complete with a workout planner, exercise log, progress tracker and multiple timer options. What’s more, you can sync all these features with your JEFIT profile.
Combining your fitness and nutritional routines is made easy with MyFitnessPal, an app that is distinguished by its huge food database and insight system. You choose a specific goal, such as weight loss, weight gain or muscle tonin, and MyFitnessPal will provide you with the healthy habits required to meet your target. The nutritional aspect of the app is impressive, with a barcode scanner (linked to the food database), a recipe importer, a restaurant logger and even a calorie counter. The benefits of working out are negated by poor nutrition, and this app will give you a comprehensive view of how your diet complements your workout schedule. Fitness Buddy takes a similar approach, offering a personal trainer and dietitian within the same app. Specialized meal plans and recipes are offered depending on the workout plans that you are following, making this an impressively intuitive app.
While the apps discussed are brilliantly fine-tuned to your routine, they may appear daunting to beginners. This is where The 7 Minute Workout comes into play: an accessible app that provides you with a highly effective cardio workout. It’s also known as the “7-Minute Scientific Workout,” as it is backed by peer-reviewed scientists, who cite it as an efficient high-intensity workout. Researchers have put together 12 exercises packed into a 7-minute workout that achieves the same result as an hour’s workout. It effectively increases your metabolism for an entire day. Maintaining your fitness improves all aspects of your life, so there is no excuse for not taking the time to work out (even if it is only for 7 minutes!). With the wealth of free or cheap fitness trackers available on any smartphone, it is easier than ever to find the one that’s right for you.
COMMITTING TO GETTING FIT AND ACTUally doing it aren’t always one and the same, but relying on tech devices can be an effective way to tackle your fitness goals.
From watches and phones to earbuds and virtual reality headsets, technology can make it easier to track your progress and create a more enjoyable workout experience. See how some of the latest technology is fueling new devices ideal for amping up your workouts this winter with these trendy ideas.
Find more inspiration to energize your fitness regimen at qualcomm.com
Powered by the Snapdragon 4100+ Wear Platform, the Fossil 6 Wellness Edition watch provides the speed, power and performance you need to efficiently track your health, all with extended battery life, Bluetooth 5.0 LE connectivity, rapid charging and more features to elevate your experience. The watch detects movement and starts a workout for you. In addition, not only does it allow you to monitor how hard your heart is working and provide estimated blood oxygen measurements so you can see how well your body is circulating oxygen, but it also measures your cardiorespiratory fitness, allowing you to track the amount of oxygen your body utilizes during exercise. In addition to keeping tabs on your active hours, the watch also helps you understand more
about your sleep habits, including sleep quality and history, restfulness and progress against sleep goals.
If you’re always on the go, a powerful smartphone is a smart way to get in a streamlined workout. An option like the OnePlus 10T 5G delivers on multiple levels. Driven by the powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 mobile platform, this is a phone built to evolve beyond speed. It has Qualcomm FastConnect 6900 for premium Wi-Fi connectivity and a Kryo CPU for unbeatable performance, ideal for multitaskers and power users. The charging system delivers a day’s power in 10 minutes. What’s more, the antenna system, featuring a total of 15 antennas, provides a 360-degree closed-loop system to avoid blind signal angles, while simple and textured visuals help you focus and move seamlessly between work, rest and play.
Setting fitness goals starts with a plan, and achiev ing them requires strong work ethic and, just as importantly, the ability to track progress so you can enjoy the success. The ultimate expression of ultra-portability and ver
satility, the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook is powered by the Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 Compute Platform. Slim and sleek, this two-in-one features a detachable keyboard to transform from a tablet to a laptop so you can keep an eye on your fitness goals whether you’re working out at home or on the go; and 15 hours of battery life means you can enjoy usage from day to night.
If your workout regimen needs an infusion of playful fun, the Meta Quest 2 virtual reality headset may be just the ticket. This VR headset is your ticket to the metaverse (and so much more), whether you’re working out, gaming, meeting up with friends or going on a virtual field trip. Industry-leading graphics and immersive audio put you in the middle of the action. The portable device is ideal for workouts on the go, and you’ll find a wide range of apps that let you work out amid stunning scenery, compete against friends and participate in challenges. The immersive experiences break up the monotony of a boring, basic workout, making exercise fun and playful.
An energizing workout requires a soundtrack to get you pumped up and moving. Enhance your listening experience with LG Tone Free T90 wireless earbuds, which feature Dolby Head Tracking and Snapdragon Sound. These earbuds identify the location of sound as you turn your head, recalibrating to enable a more natural sound experience so you’re always in the center of the scene. The speaker driver is made of a strong, lightweight material that delivers better overall audio clarity and reduced vibration so you can hear every sound come alive. Exceptional audio combines with superior connectivity for music, movies, crystal-clear voice calls, gaming and a low latency fit for aptX Adaptive compatible devices.
FOR ARTURO RODRIGUEZ, CO-FOUNDER OF Zativa Life Health & Wellness, your well-being is his business. And if the last five years are any indication, business is booming. What started as one med spa with a few staff members is now a full-fledged South Florida franchise with seven different locations to handle all your health and wellness needs. You’ll find Zativa Life in South Miami, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Lakes, Bird Road, Coral Gables, Wynwood and another one in Naples. In early 2023, locations will also be added in Aventura, Doral, Brickell and Broward County with a location in Oakland Park.
What’s more, Rodriguez has changed his franchise model with a plan to take his business to the next level. “We started as a licensing agreement franchise model, but we now retained the law offices of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski to acquire the FDD (franchise disclosure documents) to expand nationally and internationally in 2023,” he says. Las Vegas, New York and Philadelphia are all on his list as possible future locations.
“I always wanted to do a franchise model, but I wanted a business where I could add more services and products and not have limitations,” says Rodriguez. “When we first started, we had five services; and now we offer 15-plus different services at our med spas. If I try it out and it works, then I roll it out to my franchisees; and they can add it to their menu of offerings and increase their profits.”
Part of the reason for Rodriguez’s and Zativa Life’s success, of course, is his focus on doing what is best for his customers. Rodriguez’s professional background before co-founding Zativa Life Health & Wellness was as an owner of medical centers, so Zativa Life was a natural fit. Since the time the first location opened, he has put his focus on high-quality, medically researched and administered solutions. Zativa Life has a medical director and medical professionals on staff who are responsible for everything from placing IVs to administering boosters.
One way that Rodriguez keeps his customers happy is by offering a wide variety of services, many more than you’ll find from other health and wellness centers. One of his key offerings is IV vitamin therapy, which is a method of infusing nutrients directly into the bloodstream to ensure maximum absorption and availability. The benefits of the therapy can range from fighting off hangovers to strengthening the immune system to reducing headaches and muscle cramps, and many more. “They come with our brand name, so they’re specifically formulated for Zativa Life,” says Rodriguez. “Our signature Zativa Life has 60 ml of meds compared to others who offer much less.”
Zativa Life also offers ozone therapy, a unique treatment with many benefits, including preventing illness and fighting the signs of aging. By adding ozone to the client’s own blood, it becomes more oxygenated and can result in a strengthened immune system and better circulation and brain function, as well as detoxification of the lungs, heart and kidneys. “Our therapies may help many people recover after medical treatments,” says Rodriguez. “For example, cancer patients sometimes come after chemo is done to help them get stronger and for their bodies to recover.”
For Zativa Life’s exclusive hormone replacement therapy, customers first have blood drawn and sent to a lab before results are reviewed and interpreted by Zativa Life’s medical director. From there, clients are placed on a three-month plan aimed at correcting the imbalance and resulting in higher energy levels, better sleep quality, a reduction in anxiety and a lessening of arthritis, joint and muscle pain.
Of course, these are just a few of the highlights of the many
products and services offered by Zativa Life. They also offer Botox injections, as well as a variety of home health and wellness products to choose from. Their different locations offer varying services, including body contouring, waxing services and much more.
What started out five years ago as one med spa with just a handful of employees is now a health and wellness powerhouse across South Florida. Rodriguez only envisions more growth in the years ahead as more people realize the benefits of Zativa Life’s treatments, as well as the commitment to customer service shared by his team of medical professionals.
“Anyone who is in pain, who might have an imbalance or who wants to feel like their best self, we can help them,” says Rodriguez. “We can give your cells life again.”
Zativa Life Health & Wellness has six locations throughout the Miami area and one in Naples, with four more opening in early 2023. Visit zativalifehw.com for more information or to schedule an appointment.
IT’S FRIDAY NIGHT. YOUR SON WANTS TO JOIN THE BAND, AND YOU WERE supposed to stop at the local music store all week and check out prices. The deadline is Monday. You just ran out of time this week. What do you do? Some people would go to the internet and search for the musical instrument. Some people may even purchase the instrument online, pay the outrageous shipping costs and hope it arrives on time for the Monday afternoon band tryout.
That is one option. The other option is calling your local music store and getting advice from a musical expert. You will get to discuss the options with a “live,” customer service–focused person!
» Boost the local economy: Shopping locally will boost the local economy and keep the community financially stable.
» Easier and close to home: The music store of your choice may be right around the corner. Give them a call, set up an appointment or just stop in and talk about your options and opportunities.
» Find unique, one-of-a-kind items: Local stores often stock items that are made locally and aren’t available elsewhere.
» Support local entrepreneurs: This gives you an opportunity to thank local business men and women for keeping their business open and boosting the local economy. Most of these business men and women are your family, friends and neighbors.
» Help build your local community: Buy locally. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear, making it difficult to recruit families to your community. Real estate sales suffer, and you no longer have a thriving community.
» Receive some GREAT advice and customer service: Local businesses may be in a position to offer discounts that you may not otherwise receive. They may have special offers that you can only take advantage of if you shop at their store. And the customer service is spot on … they normally treat you like family!
» Try before you buy: What an advantage this is! Have you ever purchased an item online, only to find out you really don’t like it? At a local business, it’s easier to sample the product.
Although shopping online may be a convenience, is it the best option when you are looking for musical equipment, music lessons or just want to get advice from professionals? Probably not. See the value of shopping locally for yourself … you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy the sounds of music and have FUN!
WHEREVER 2023 TAKES YOU, PUT DOWN YOUR PHONE AND get engaged! Pick a time for your trip that you will be able to disconnect from calls, emails and texts. What good is taking a vacation when you bring your office with you? Everyone needs to let their brain rest, and yes, that includes you!
How great the experience of the traveler who can slow down and empty their mind so they can fully embrace and experience a moment in time via all their senses. Cutting out mental distractions takes practice and discipline. On your journey, be aware of when your thoughts start to drift to things like emails or responsibilities at home and work. When they do start to drift, bring your focus back to the sights, sounds and smells of that particular moment. It is important not only to be mindful during your journey but also to fully understand the reasons why you’re taking this trip in the first place. Don’t pick a destination to “just get away.” Be purposeful in your choice. There are many reasons people pack their bags and lock the door behind them:
» To commune with nature (like hiking in Yellowstone)
» To have quality time with family (like a cabin on a lake)
» To go inward and self-evaluate (like a spiritual retreat)
» To learn about other cultures (like a visit to Thailand)
» To challenge themselves and push past fears (like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro)
» To just have fun (like Mardi Gras)
Traveling is good for your psyche. It brings you out of what is familiar and puts you in the unfamiliar where new concepts and thoughts are born and tested. It heightens your self-confidence and gives you a stronger sense of self. It can affect your personality as well. If you tend to be an introvert, being in a situation where you are forced to interact with strangers can expand your range of comfort. Traveling can create an ease for change you wouldn’t normally feel in your day-to-day routine. You can gain an appreciation for life you wouldn’t notice if you didn’t get out of your familiar surroundings.
For me, the ability to relax, detach and unplug from my worries and responsibilities is a huge reason I love to pack my bags. Take time to delve into the “whys” of where you want to travel. Go beyond superficial answers like “to get away” or “I’ve always wanted to go there.” Make travel a deep, personal experience, not just itineraries, museum schedules and sightseeing. When you reach your destination, promise yourself you will be present with all your senses and I guarantee you will return a changed person in many ways.
A unique collaboration between leading senior housing provider Belmont Village Senior Living and renowned Baptist Health South Florida is redefining senior living. Belmont Village Coral Gables, opening in 2023, is the first in a series of senior living communities coming to South Florida through this innovative partnership. Along with five-star hospitality and amenities, first-class accommodations, a rich social environment, and first-rate care, Belmont Village Coral Gables will feature Live Healthy by Baptist Health on the ground floor, a wellness-focused center for its residents and seniors in the greater Coral Gables area.
TRAVEL INSIDERS ARE EXPECTING A VAST INCREASE IN THE NUMBER of individuals traveling during the 2022 holiday season. In a video for Yahoo! Finance, Hopper Lead Economist Hayley Berg said, “We’re expecting to see a huge surge in travel over this holiday season.” After a few years of holiday season travel being interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic, individuals are eager to get back to their holiday travel traditions.
With an almost 14% increase in travelers as compared to 2019 comes an increase in potential undesired incidents. However, individuals may keep themselves and their loved ones safe by following a few simple travel tips.
According to Alarms.org, homes that don’t have a security system are 300% more likely to be burglarized. Homeowners who have a home security system in place should ensure that all its components are in working order. This includes all alarms and motion detectors. For added security, individuals could opt for 24/7 professional monitoring of their homes during the time they will be away. Both professionally installed and doit-yourself home security systems often have the option to include professional monitoring for an additional fee.
Travelers should always leave a copy of their itinerary, important documents and contact information with a trusted friend or family member so that the information can be easily accessible in case of an emergency. Copies of identifying documents such as passports and credit cards should also be given to a trusted individual in the event that the originals get lost during travel and a copy is needed. Additional copies should be left in a person’s luggage so that if a driver’s license, passport or credit card is lost, a traveler can more easily replace the lost document.
When traveling, an individual should carry all prescription and over-the-counter medications they may need for the duration of their trip, as quality and availability may vary from country to country. Emergency
travel kits should also include all medically necessary supplies such as medical identification bracelets or necklaces, diabetes testing supplies, EpiPens and inhalers.
Supplies to prevent injury and illness may include hand sanitizer, insect repellent, sunscreen and water purification tablets. Finally, travelers should pack a fully stocked first aid kit, which should include 1% hydrocortisone cream, antibacterial or antifungal ointments, a digital thermometer, oral rehydration salts, wound cleaner, aloe vera gel, anti-itch ointment, bandages, cotton swabs, disposable gloves, tweezers and eye drops. For a complete list of what to include in an emergency travel kit, individuals may visit wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/pack-smart
Whether a car is being used to travel to the airport or to get a family to their final destination, it should be safely functioning before travelers depart for the holidays. Individuals should check their tires, paying particular attention to tire pressure and tread depth while ensuring there is a spare tire available in the event of a blowout. For added safety, car owners should take their car to a dealership or mechanic for an inspection and any necessary maintenance before embarking on their holiday travels.
The leading personal injury attorneys of Panter, Panter & Sampedro hope you keep these recommendations in mind as you enjoy a safe holiday season together with your loved ones. However, if the unexpected does occur, our experienced personal injury attorneys can work with you one-on-one to help you get the justice, recovery and compensation you deserve. Call us at 305.662.6178 to speak to a dedicated attorney.
Family is at the heart of our core values in both legal matters and in our communities. For more than 30 years, we have proudly protected the rights of Florida's families after loss or serious injury due to the negligence of others while also being highly active supporters of our community.
HARLI IS A SIX-MONTH-OLD FEMALE MALTIPOO. Although she only weighs five pounds, she is not afraid of dogs 10 times her size. Her favorite people are her three siblings (Olivia, Luca and Eva), and her favorite thing to play with is their socks. Charli also enjoys sleeping all day, eating and car rides! One of her favorite things to do is run up and down the stairs while playing hide-and-seek with her siblings. Charli’s dislikes include baths, vacuum cleaners (terrified of) and loud noises. Even though Charli has only been with her family for a few months, they don’t know what they would’ve done without her!
LET’S FACE IT, AFTER A WHOLE SEASON OF CELEBRATING WITH family and friends and indulging in special meals and desserts, most us of gain some weight. Our New Year’s resolutions usually include eating healthier and exercising. As we share our daily lives and celebrations more and more with our pets, we’re also sharing the consequences. The weight gain in dogs, however, is for different reasons: They get walked less often, since their owners are busier entertaining friends and family; or they are left boarding in a kennel with limited exercise while the family is out of town; or they steal delicious leftovers from the garbage. Most pet owners laugh when the vet announces that their dog has gained a couple of pounds, since this is about the average weight that their owners have also gained during the holidays. Humorous as it might be, a couple of extra pounds on a human is not the same as a couple of extra pounds on a dog: A Chihuahua that has gained two extra pounds would have increased its body weight by at least 25%. In human terms, this would be like a woman that weighs 140 pounds gaining 35 pounds during the holidays. For this reason, it is critical for dogs to lose those extra pounds.
Excess weight will create mobility problems, will decrease energy and endurance, and can lead to diabetes, cardiac disease and many other serious medical conditions. Studies have shown that obesity will shorten a dog’s life span by about two years. With all this in mind, let’s go over the most important steps to help your dog lose that extra weight in the new year.
1. Provide daily leash walks. To start burning calories, make sure your dog engages in constant low-impact cardio exercise for at least 15 minutes daily. It is ideal, then, to walk your dog 15 to 30 minutes twice a day.
2. Feed the amount of calories recommended for the dog’s ideal weight. Read the dog food manufacturer’s label. It advises the recommended amount of food for each particular ideal weight. Use this as a starting guideline.
3. Divide the total daily amount of food in two or three meals a day. This will prevent your dog’s metabolism from slowing down.
4. Avoid high-calorie treats. If you must offer treats, consider healthy ones: pieces of fruits (except grapes) or vegetables. The most popular among dogs are watermelon, banana, green beans and baby carrots.
5. For dogs that eat too fast , slow down the eating process and help them enjoy the meal and feel full by using a compartment dish. There are many options on the market.
DR. SANCHEZ-EMDEN IS THE FOUNDER OF THE ANIMAL HEALTH AND REHAB CENTER IN SOUTH MIAMI. SHE HAS BEEN PRACTICING VETERINARY MEDICINE FOR 30 YEARS. AS A CERTIFIED VETERINARY JOURNALIST, SHE IS THE RESIDENT VETERINARIAN FOR TELEMUNDO AND CNN ESPAÑOL. SHE IS AN AUTHOR AND HOSTS THE PODCAST SHOW “HABLANDO DE PERROS Y GATOS CON DR. MARTA,” AVAILABLE ON THE MAIN INTERNET PLATFORMS. FOLLOW HER BLOG, DRMARTAVET.COM, AND @DRMARTAVET ON YOUTUBE, INSTAGRAM AND TWITTER. ALSO FIND HER AT FACEBOOK. COM/DR.SANCHEZEMDEN AND ANIMALHEALTHREHAB.COM
As we start the new year with healthy goals for ourselves, let’s share those goals with our pets, too. In the end, your dog might become the best weight loss/exercise partner you ever had.
SOUTH MIAMI
(305) 662-2622 6927 Red Road Coral Gables, FL 33143
COUNTRY WALK (305) 252-4626 13721 SW 152nd Street Miami, FL 33177
READERSCHOICEAWAR D
IF YOU ARE READING THIS ARTICLE, IT LIKELY MEANS YOU’RE TAKING A break from staring at a screen — unless you’re reading a digital version, of course, which is very likely. According to recent data, the average person spends 3 hours and 15 minutes on their phone a day. And one in five people spend 4.5 hours on their phone each day. Another study shows that, on average, people pick up their phones 58 times per day. While we’re on the topic of picking up the phone, if you’re on Instagram, make sure to follow us at @RubinsteinFamilyChiro!
Over the last three years, children and adults have become more attached to screens than ever before. This increased screen time is creating worsening posture, which can have a major impact on your overall health. We’d like to discuss the negative effects of poor posture in hopes to motivate you to do something about it.
» Pain and soreness: When you are hunched over, it causes your muscles to work harder, leading to muscle pain, soreness and even fatigue. Too many ignore the soreness and pain caused by their poor posture without thinking about the long-term health problems it’s creating. Poor posture can often lead to chronic pain because it causes so much stress on the spine. Many people suffer from lower-back pain without realizing it can be a result of poor posture.
» Effects on mood: Posture impacts your mood and can have great effects on your sense of well-being. A study in the Journal of Health Psychology found that those who sat in a slumped position were more fearful, had lower self-esteem and were more likely to experience bad moods compared to those with good posture.
» Increased stress: Bad posture can increase physical and mental stress. Because bad posture causes your back muscles to work harder, it causes physical stress and, therefore, pain. This pain has a negative impact on our mental health, too. In the above-mentioned study, a link was made between posture and our reaction to stress. The results of the study indicated that sitting upright might help you become more resilient to stress. Additionally, it was found that bad posture decreases testosterone and increases cortisol, the stress hormone.
» Carpal tunnel syndrome: We have spoken before about the nerves in the neck and back and how they are responsible for muscle function in the wrists, arms and hands. Your poor posture can have a direct impact on this muscle group, which is susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome. If you get numbness and tingling in your arms and hands or suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, there is a good chance your posture is involved.
» Digestive issues: Because slouching causes your organs to be bunched together, poor posture can have a direct impact on your digestion. It makes it more difficult for your body to digest food, causing constipation.
» Poor breathing: The best position for your lungs to work right is when you are sitting upright, as the diaphragm and rib cage are able to expand properly. Poor posture restricts your oxygen and blood flow, making it more difficult to breathe. This can lead to increased stress and anxiety, as well as decreased energy levels. As you can see, having good posture is very important to ensure optimal health in adults and children.
Chiropractic is very effective in improving posture by aligning the spine and improving joint flexibility and taking stress off certain muscle groups, allowing for less stress on the body. Good posture + proper alignment = optimal function of the body. If you feel you already have poor posture, it might be a good idea to go to a chiropractor for an evaluation and plan of action. If you would like to see how your posture is, please contact our office and mention this article for a free posture evaluation.
MELISSA AND SHIMON RUBINSTEIN OF RUBINSTEIN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC HAVE A FAMILYBASED WELLNESS PRACTICE IN THE HEART OF CUTLER BAY LOCATED ON THE CORNER OF OLD CUTLER ROAD AND FRANJO ROAD. THEY LOOK FORWARD TO ENHANCING THE LIVES OF CUTLER BAY, PALMETTO BAY, PINECREST AND SOUTH DADE. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT RUBINSTEINFAMILYCHIRO.COM OR CALL 305.336.1803. MAKE SURE TO LIKE THEM ON INSTAGRAM AT @RUBINSTEINFAMILYCHIRO AND ON FACEBOOK AT RUBINSTEIN FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC.
Now, adjust your position, sit up straight, take three deep breaths and enjoy your day.
IT’S A SATURDAY NIGHT. YOU ARE ON YOUR THIRD DATE WITH THIS FABUlously handsome guy and have a drink in your hand. He turns to you in the glow of the candlelight and says ever so sweetly, “I think we should just be friends.” Total mood crusher. At that moment, you swing into your convincing gear and with every ounce of energy you have, you attempt to convince him why you two should be more than friends.
Ladies, ladies … really? Did you check your self-respect in at the door with your coat? Let’s take an in-depth look at this whole situation and put it in perspective. The facts are that you have had three dates with this man. Yes, he might be quite pleasant to look at and the life of the party, and you probably have spent several nights building a Hallmark movie around this “relationship” — but that is it. Even if you have been dating him for a while, the outcome is the same: He just wants to remain friends.
The mistake women make is that they immediately try to talk the person into being more than friends. The end result is that you still end up being just friends and you come across looking like you have no self-confidence and are needy. Clearly this is not the last impression you want to leave him with. My question to you is this: Why is it so hard to just accept that you might not be what he is looking for and not build it into something more than that? Not being someone’s type doesn’t mean that you are flawed or not desirable. It just simply means you are not the right fit for him. Haven’t you met men who are not “your type” but are still great guys?
However, if upon reflection you come to the conclusion that this “friend” business is starting to be a pattern, perhaps an honest evaluation of yourself is needed. Is it something you are doing, the way you come across? Or is it the type of men you are attracted to? For the latter, look for common denominators in these men, and then ask yourself, “What need are they fulfilling in my life?” We tend to stay with people who fill a need, whether it is positive or negative. Is it something you are doing? Does the topic of your ex and marriage keep coming up in conversation? Are you sleeping with them too quickly, or have you tried to become ever present in their lives after just a few dates? Perhaps you are unconsciously pushing them away out of fear of being hurt.
It’s a new year, and if your dating life has been less than satisfactory, then it’s time to change something. An honest evaluation might sting a bit, but it will prevent further heartache down the dating road. Mandy Hale sums it up by saying, “The person you’re meant to be with will never have to be chased, begged or given an ultimatum.” And the barber sums it up by saying, “Next.”
YES, WINTER MONTHS IN SOUTH FLORIDA ENJOY SNOW … WELL, snowbirds. These northerners descend to our warm, tropical climate and often fall in love with the energy here and our dazzling blue skies. This year, we will likely see an uptick in visitors because of Hurricane Ian’s destruction along the west coast. This will inevitably spill over into the real estate market, making the first quarter of the year an ideal time to list your home.
Housing inventory remains low, and while the market is not as explosive as early last year, South Florida’s luxury market is predicted to be the second top luxury market in the world in 2023, according to Robert Frank, CNBC. “Miami remains a popular haven for the wealthy, given its low tax rates and growing number of financial firms locating their headquarters or offices in South Florida.”
Add snowbirds into that mix and Coral Gables and nearby homeowners will be in a unique position if they choose to sell their property.
The unprecedented increased equity many have witnessed in our area also adds to the unique opportunity to sell your property, particularly if you are looking to downsize or rightsize. While the percentage increase varies by state and city, the national average shows the typical homeowner who’s owned their property for 5 years has seen an incremental value of over 60%. Those homeowners who have owned their home for 30+ years have seen an increase of over 288%, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency.
All these factors are very enticing for those of you considering selling a property. However, in order to maximize the potential profit when selling your home, I recommend aligning with a local, established Realtor with national reach. My team and I receive weekly calls from out-of-town Realtors referring clients. This type of networking is indispensable when trying to widen your net for potential buyers. Additionally, ask any prospective Realtors if they advertise in key relocation markets such as New York, Boston, Chicago, California and Texas. A Realtor who invests in feeder markets knows the value of balancing local prospects and transplants.
Winter in Miami is my favorite time. The weather, the festivals and, yes, even the snowbird traffic. I delight in sharing our paradise with others and making them new neighbors while helping locals prepare for their next chapter.
BY VANESSA MOLINA SANTAMARIA
WHETHER IT’S FROM FIRE, HURRICANES or other causes, property damage is an unfortunate aspect of life for many in South Florida. When these incidents do occur, you’d like to think that homeowners and business owners can rely on their insurance companies to make things right — but unfortunately that isn’t always the case.
To ensure that you get the most value from your property damage claim, you need more than just an insurance company. And this is where a public adjusting company like CMC Claim Consultants comes in.
Cristina and Michael Cordo, the owner and vice president, respectively, of the company, have been helping homeowners with claims of this nature for years. It could be a hurricane, a fire, a burst pipe or any number of things gone wrong. “Our job is to help you get your life back on track after disasters strike,” says Michael. “Most people don’t understand their policies or how to navigate them. That’s where we come in.”
“We’re experts just like the insurance companies,” adds Cristina. “We make sure we maximize all the damages and take everything into account, from door casings to outlets to behind the walls to the air conditioning unit. Everything adds up. We don’t get paid unless you do.”
In many cases, policy owners faced with unpaid claims opt for the legal route. “I know clients still unresolved after five years,” says Michael. “In the meantime, what do you think is happening to their house? They’re pulling out loans and trying to fix patches. The extent of the damage just continues to snowball. Let’s not forget that attorneys get paid by the hour. Multiply that by five years, and now you’re looking at a $1 million settlement.”
CMC offers an underused alternative not advertised by most insurance providers. Most policies have what’s called an appraisal clause. If you and your insurance company do not agree on the value of your claim or are still in disagreement on the damages to your property or the price to fix your damage, this is an alternative dispute resolution method that could expedite the settlement of your claim. It involves two sets of appraisers: one for the client and company, respectively, plus a mutually agreed-upon umpire to mediate the process so both parties can come to an agreement.
“The appraisal process works,” says Michael. And the CMC reputation for this process is second to none, with licensed employees, and thus experience, in all three aspects as adjusters, appraisers and umpires.
Let’s say you file a claim for property damage. Then the insurance company offers a small amount of money. Most people accept this and move on for various reasons: They don’t want the fight, don’t know the true extent of the damage or perhaps are simply thankful they got anything at all. The good news is that by the money exchanging hands — no matter how small — the insurance company has essentially admitted fault.
Now you can get a full, unbiased home appraisal performed by an adjuster of your choosing, like CMC, to assess the true extent of any damages done. The insurance company will do the same. After the inspections, everyone meets with the predetermined umpire to come to terms. Because the insurance company has essentially already admitted fault, the negotiating balance of power shifts. The process stays out of court and costs the policyholder nothing if they’re unable to recoup damages, which is unlikely the case.
“Double-check your policy,” advises Cristina. There seems to be a trend towards people taking insurance discounts, ones they don’t always understand. A lot of policies have been cutting water damage, as property owners assume this falls under their mandatory flood insurance. However, that is not the case. It’s important that people in South Florida have both.
“You can send us a copy of your policy. We’ll always double-check it for free,” Cristina says. “We’ll let you know exactly what’s covered and what’s not. Also, be sure to always have current photos of your full property, especially before a hurricane. Keep everything documented and keep receipts for any repair or cleanup.”
What started from the corner of their kitchen has grown into a full-fledged family operation. In 2004, Cristina and her father first launched what is today an award-winning, community business. Little by little, they brought in family to assist with the operation, which today consists of the dynamic husband-and-wife duo plus several highly trained and skilled adjusters.
Their passion for the business is evident. “We are a family business fighting for families,” says Cristina. “In a moment when you need somebody the most, we’re there to reassure you you’ll be okay. Your home is your castle. You deserve to feel safe in your home. Those types of things drive us to do what we do.”
CMC Claim Consultants, Inc., is located at 12651 South Dixie Hwy., Suite 207, in Pinecrest. For more info, call 305.668.3335, email info@cmcpublicadjusters.com or follow them on Instagram at @cmc_claimconsultants.
Saturday, December 17, was a magical night for My First Place as they celebrated their 30th year in the community, nurturing young minds. School parents, longtime friends and family came to celebrate, as well as a very special guest, Maria Verdeja-Kasner, the founder of My First Place Preschool. During our awards presentation,, Maria was presented with the Leader in Early Childhood Education Award. Some of My First Place’s teachers were awarded with the Greatest Teacher Awards. It was an evening filled with dancing, live music, fine dining and cocktails. Everyone at My First Place Preschool appreciates the support and looking forward to another 30 years!
January 1, 1923
FORE!
The Country Club of Coral Gables opens; residences that overlook the golf course are some of the finest in the city.
THE BILTMORE HOTEL OPENS
The January 1926 grand opening included the arrival of two deluxe trains carrying 1,000 VIPs from New York.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DON SHULA
Don Shula, Hall of Fame coach (Super Bowl 1972, 1973; Miami Dolphins; 4x NFL Coach of the Year), born in Grand River, OH (d. 2020)
Image: Richard Mackson-US PRESSWIRE
January 17, 1977
SNOW FALLS IN MIAMI
This is the only time in the history of the city that snowfall has occurred. It also fell in the Bahamas.
January 2, 1984
50TH ORANGE BOWL #5 Miami beats #1 Nebraska, 31-30. Image: WireImage
January 9, 2000
THE PERFECT ENDING Miami Dolphins QB Dan Marino wins his last career NFL game (20-17 vs. Seattle).
January 29, 2018
PRO SOCCER COMES TO MIAMI
David Beckham launches a Major League Soccer team in Florida: Inter Miami CF.
Sources: onthisday.com, Wikipedia, miami-history.com, floridahistorynetwork.com
