Palmer Trinity School to host free concert at Trinity Chapel

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December 23, 2025

Palmer Trinity School to host free concert at Trinity Chapel

The community is invited to the Trinity Chapel at Palmer Trinity School in Palmetto Bay, home to the newly installed Casavant Pipe Organ, for a free performance by two of Minneapolis’ most dynamic and versatile musicians on Thursday, Jan. 22, at 7 p.m.

Experience an unforgettable night of virtuosic music with Charles Lazarus, acclaimed Minnesota Orchestra trumpeter and former Canadian Brass member, and David Cherwien, renowned organist and former National Lutheran Choir director.

This genre-defying program features American Nomad, a classical-jazz hybrid concerto by Emmy Award-winning composer Steve Heitzeg, alongside modern takes on hymns and spirituals, original compositions, and beloved classical favorites.

Palmer Trinity School is located at 8001 SW 184 St. in Palmetto Bay. For more information about the school, visit www.palmertrinity.org.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

Just Play forms partnership with Make-A-Wish Southern Florida

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Community News Releases

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December 23, 2025

Just Play, a leading global toy company, recently announced a new partnership with Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. Through corporate contribution, in-kind toy donations, and ongoing company-wide initiatives, Just Play will help fund life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, reinforcing the company’s mission to bring joy to children and families.

For 45 years, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 615,000 wishes around the world, each one bringing joy, hope, and strength to children and their families. Just Play’s support will help make even more of these transformational moments possible.

“As a company built on the joy of play, we know there is nothing more meaningful than seeing a child’s face light up,” said Geoffrey Greenberg, co-founder and co-CEO of Just Play.

“Partnering with Make-A-Wish Southern Florida allows us to play a part in bringing that spark of magic to children who need it most. We’re deeply honored to partner with Make-A-Wish Southern Florida to play a part in bringing that spark of magic to kids who need it most.”

“Make-A-Wish Southern Florida brings hope to children during some of the most challenging moments in their lives, and that mission aligns beautifully with the heart of what we do as a company,” added Charlie Emby, co-founder and co-CEO of Just Play.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to help fuel wishes that bring joy, strength, and cherished memories to these incredible children and their families.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Just Play to bring joy to our wish kids,” said Norman Wedderburn, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. “Because of their generosity, children facing unimaginable challenges will experience magical moments that remind them that dreams really do come true. Just Play’s dedication to supporting children and families through charitable efforts reflects the heart of this partnership.”

Through this partnership, Just Play will contribute funds supporting Make-A-Wish Southern Florida’s mission of creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, with additional opportunities for employee and community engagement planned throughout the year.

About Just Play LLC
Just Play is a passionate toy company and global leader across a broad range of children’s consumer goods including figures, playsets, dolls, plush, role-play and dress-up. Founded by two toy industry veterans, Charlie Emby and Geoffrey Greenberg in 2010, Just Play creates unique and innovative proprietary lines, as well as award-winning products based on popular children’s entertainment brands with best-in-class licensing partners.

Just Play is committed to supporting children and families through charitable efforts alongside organizations including The Toy Foundation, Toys for Tots, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Operation Snowball, and others. These efforts reflect Just Play’s mission to create positive impact both globally and within the local communities where families live, work, and play.

To learn more about Just Play’s products, visit JustPlayProducts.com.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

Belen announces 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees

By

Teresa Martinez Director of Communications

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December 23, 2025

Belen Jesuit Preparatory School has announced that nine distinguished individuals will be inducted into the Belen Hall of Fame, Class of 2026, on Saturday, Mar. 21, 2026, 6:30 p.m., at the InterContinental Miami.

The Belen Hall of Fame honors members of the community who have participated in, excelled within, strengthened, or continuously supported Belen, and who, through their personal and professional lives, embody the Jesuit ideals upheld by Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, El Colegio de Belén, and the Jesuit Schools of Cuba. These people represent lives of service, leadership, integrity, and excellence — living testimonies to what it means to be men and women for others.

Since its establishment in 2022, 65 individuals have been inducted into the Belen Hall of Fame. From educators and Jesuits to physicians, architects, journalists, business leaders, and philanthropists, the Hall reflects the extraordinary breadth of talent and vocation shaped by Belen. This year’s class continues that proud legacy, standing as a powerful reminder that excellence rooted in faith leaves a lasting imprint.

Alex Adams, Class of 1985, businessman
A respected leader in the business community, Alex Adams has built a career defined by innovation, strategic vision, and principled leadership. His professional success is matched by a steadfast commitment to mentorship and service, reflecting the values instilled during his formative years at Belen. Adams continues to exemplify what it means to lead with purpose and humility. He is a former member of the Belen Board of Advisors. Currently, he is the president of Northern Trust South Florida and Mid-Atlantic Regions.

Dr. Joaquín Albarrán, Class of 1878, medical doctor
Joaquín Albarrán dedicated his life to the healing arts with distinction, compassion, and unwavering professionalism. He was an extraordinary late 19th Century urologist. His early career was in microbiology and histopathology in Paris, during a period of great medical advances and innovations. His later contributions to urology included the Albarran lever, Albarran’s sign, Albarran-Ormond syndrome, and seminal works on testicular and renal tumors. He died in 1912 at the age of 52, the same year he was nominated for a Nobel Prize in Medicine. Through his work, he has touched countless lives and carried forward Belen’s tradition of excellence in medicine.

Dr. Alberto Arán, class of 1972, medical doctor
An exemplary physician and respected figure in the healthcare community, Alberto Arán has spent decades advancing patient care with integrity and skill as a board-certified ophthalmologist. His dedication to his profession and his compassionate approach to medicine reflect the Jesuit ideal of cura personalis — care for the whole person. His legacy continues to inspire both colleagues and future generations. He also is recognized as the first ophthalmic surgeon in Florida to use the FDA-approved excimer laser. Currently, he is the medical director of Aran Eye Associates and The Laser Center of Coral Gables.

Eduardo García, Class of 1987, businessman
Eduardo García has forged a distinguished career marked by entrepreneurial spirit, ethical decision-making, and community engagement. His leadership extends beyond commerce, serving as a model of responsibility and generosity. He remains a proud ambassador of Belen’s mission in both professional and civic arenas and serves on the school’s Board of Advisors. Currently, he is a partner and co-founder of TREO Group LLC, a privately held real estate investment and development firm based in Miami. He also is a partner at Grove Bay Hospitality Group, the owners and operators of multiple restaurants in South Florida.

Eduardo and his family also own Everglades Steel, Medley Steel, and Metallic Products, a family of companies that has been a leader in the steel distribution business since 1976.

Jorge L. Hernández, Class of 1974, architect
Renowned for his creative vision and technical excellence, Jorge Hernández has left a lasting mark on the built environment through thoughtful and impactful design. His work reflects a deep respect for form, function, and community. As an architect, he has shaped spaces that serve people while honoring the disciplines of his craft. He proudly designed the Our Lady of Belen Chapel as a gift to the Jesuits, whom he credits with his formation.

Currently, he serves as a professor at the University of Miami’s School of Architecture and is the owner of his own firm, JLH Architect, in Coral Gables.

Tom Llamas, Class of 1997, journalist
An award-winning journalist and trusted voice in national media, Tom Llamas has distinguished himself through his commitment to truth, clarity, and responsible reporting.

His career reflects courage, professionalism, and integrity in an ever-evolving media landscape. He personifies the call to inform with conscience and speak with purpose. He currently serves as the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News and hosts Top Story with Tom Llamas on NBC News NOW.

Dr. Orlando Puente, Class of 1971, medical doctor
Orlando Puente’s career is a testament to excellence in medicine, leadership, and compassionate care. His dedication to his patients and his contributions to the medical field have earned him widespread respect. Through a lifetime of service, he has exemplified the profound impact of healing guided by faith. He serves as a general and vascular surgeon at Baptist Health’s Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute.

Armando Rodríguez, former Belen Teacher and Administrator
A beloved educator and guiding presence within the Belen community, Armando Rodríguez devoted his career to shaping minds and forming character. His influence extends across generations of students who benefited from his wisdom, discipline, and unwavering commitment to Jesuit education. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he helped shape.

The Most Rev. Thomas Wenski, Archbishop of Miami
A spiritual shepherd and steadfast advocate for justice and dignity, Archbishop Thomas Wenski has served the Church with humility, conviction, and deep pastoral care. His leadership reflects a profound commitment to faith, service, and the common good. His lifelong dedication to guiding the faithful stands as a powerful witness to servant leadership. Additionally, his unwavering support of Belen Jesuit during its growth and innovation is a testament to his belief in Jesuit education.

Tickets to the ceremony are now available at https://buytickets.at/belenjesuit/1937138.

To learn more about past inductees, visit https://site.rocketalumnisolutions.com/home/746.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

Zoo Miami grants girl’s ‘wish’ to go on a safari

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Community News Releases

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December 23, 2025

Zoo Miami grants girl’s ‘wish’ to go on a safari

Make-A-Wish Southern Florida teamed with Ron Magill and Zoo Miami to grant another life-changing wish for a critically ill child.

Aluna Mackey, a five-year-old from Poultney, VT, wished to go on a safari at the zoo and learn about wild animals. The young girl, who has been impacted by cystic fibrosis, visited with her parents and little brother for a magical day that allowed her to be a kid enjoying time with loved ones, far from her usual medical facilities. In addition to her VIP experience in Miami, the Mackeys enjoyed a nearly week-long dream vacation in South Florida.

The wish and all that surrounded it were not just a nice thing Make-A-Wish did for the family, but a necessary respite from a disease that has dominated all their lives.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

SNAP benefits help keep Miamians fed and supports local economy

By

Monica Vigues-Pitan

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December 23, 2025

SNAP benefits help keep Miamians fed and supports local economy — Monica Vigues-Pitan

For thousands of Miami-Dade residents, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as SNAP, plays a vital role in helping families and individuals access healthy food. The federal program, administered in Florida by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), provides monthly benefits that help low-income households buy groceries and maintain stability.

In South Florida, the scale of need is significant. Nearly 3 million Floridians receive SNAP benefits, including more than 224,000 seniors in Miami-Dade County. About 60 percent of local SNAP households include at least one person over age 60, one of the highest rates in the country. For many, especially seniors on fixed incomes, people with disabilities, and families with children, SNAP is essential to maintaining food security and independence.

Beyond supporting families, SNAP strengthens the local economy. Every dollar in SNAP benefits generates about $1.79 in economic activity, benefiting grocery stores, farmers markets, and food retailers across Miami-Dade County.

Understanding the program
SNAP provides benefits through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card and can be used to purchase approved food items. Eligibility is based on household size, income, and expenses, and recipients must periodically renew their benefits to remain eligible.

Although designed to be accessible, the program can be challenging to navigate.

Applications require detailed documentation, and small errors can lead to delays, denials, or interruptions in benefits. Understanding how to maintain eligibility and respond to DCF notices is critical for keeping benefits active.

Many recipients experience problems such as application denials, benefit reductions, or terminations. These can occur when paperwork is missing, income is miscalculated, or household information is recorded incorrectly. Sometimes, benefits stop even when eligibility hasn’t changed, due to administrative errors or missed deadlines for recertification.

When this happens, individuals have the right to appeal. Timely action is important; most appeals must be filed within a specific period after receiving a DCF notice. Keeping copies of forms, income documentation, and correspondence can make the process smoother.

Legal Services can help
Legal Services of Greater Miami assists residents who experience SNAP denials, reductions, or terminations. The organization reviews DCF notices, helps gather supporting documents, and represents individuals in hearings and appeals. Legal Services also educates the public on eligibility requirements to prevent interruptions and partners with community centers and senior programs to reach those most at risk.

If your SNAP benefits have been denied, reduced, or terminated, or if you need help understanding eligibility or renewal, Legal Services of Greater Miami can provide free guidance and representation. Anyone who needs help can apply online at www.legalservicesmiami.org or call our office at 305-576-0080. There is no cost for services, and staff will check eligibility during the application process.

Monica Vigues-Pitan is CEO of Legal Services of Greater Miami.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

County commissioners, show us how you spent the money

By

Grant Miller, Publisher

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December 23, 2025

Miami-Dade County residents pay some of the highest taxes in the state, yet most residents have no clear way of seeing how their elected leaders spend the money allocated to their offices.

Every year, each commissioner receives funds used for staffing, communications, travel, office expenses, events, printing, consultants and discretionary use. And every year, that money is spent with almost no real-time visibility for the people footing the bill.

The information exists – because legally it must – but accessing it requires public record requests, waiting weeks, navigating outdated systems, or relying on summaries that lack detail or context. In 2025, that is unacceptable.

If transparency is truly a priority, then every commissioner should have a public-facing dashboard on their official county webpage, showing a simple line-by-line breakdown of the expenses their office generates. Not as a glossy yearly PDF. Not as a vague report with rounded totals. And, definitely, not something only accessible through a formal request. A dashboard updated monthly would allow residents to see where office dollars are going, how much remains, and how priorities shift through the year.

We already live in a world where banking apps show spending in real time, and nonprofit and corporate financials are increasingly accessible through digital platforms.

Other governments around the U.S. have done it because transparency builds trust. Miami-Dade should not lag, especially in a county where budgets are in the billions and public skepticism already is high.

Where the money goes matters. If a commissioner is spending heavily on community events, residents might see that as an investment in constituent services. If travel spending spikes, people deserve to know the purpose and benefit. If consulting fees or outside services grow dramatically, the public should see patterns and ask questions.

Transparency is not about accusing anyone of wrongdoing. It’s about preventing questions from becoming accusations in the first place. A dashboard can help with that.

A real spending dashboard also would help normalize responsible budgeting. Commissioners could point to it when making hard decisions, especially during years with budget cuts or financial challenges. The message becomes: “Here’s where your money goes. Here’s why we made the choices we did.” That level of openness eliminates confusion and builds credibility – even when the public disagrees.

The technology exists, the information exists, and the public deserves access without obstacles. The question now is whether commissioners are willing to share that access voluntarily or whether residents will need to demand it.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

Rescued crocodile dies day after surgery at zoo

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Community News Releases

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December 23, 2025

Rescued crocodile dies day after surgery at zoo

Zoo Miami on Dec. 12 announced the passing of “Britney,” the American crocodile who was rescued in Key Largo on Oct. 20 after enduring severe trauma. Britney had suffered from a spear wound to her skull, a bullet wound to her head, and ingested metal objects that led to lead toxicity in her blood.

Surgery was performed on Dec. 11 to remove the foreign metal objects found in her stomach which had been identified through radiographs and were contributing to dangerously high levels of lead in her bloodstream.

While the procedure was successful in removing the metal, Britney’s condition already was compromised. She was anemic and weakened by the trauma from the spear and gunshot wounds.

Following the surgery, Britney was placed in the zoo’s animal hospital to recover from the anesthesia. However, the following morning she was found to still be very lethargic, with lingering effects from the anesthesia. Recovery from general anesthesia can be especially challenging for cold-blooded animals like crocodilians, whose metabolism can fluctuate significantly, leading to complications. Unfortunately, the combination of her pre-existing injuries and anemia proved insurmountable, and tragically, she passed away in the afternoon.

The loss of the federally threatened animal serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of illegal and cruel actions against wildlife, actions often driven by unfounded fear and ignorance. It also highlights the unintended harm that can result from the introduction of toxic substances into the environment, such as pellet gun ammunition, which can enter the food chain and negatively affect wildlife.

“While we mourn the loss of Britney, we also hope that her story serves as a poignant reminder that we share this planet with countless species that face increasing challenges to survive in a rapidly changing world,” said RonMagill, zoo spokesperson. “It is vital that we learn to coexist peacefully with wildlife, fostering understanding and respect, to prevent such tragedies from happening again.”

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

Holiday traditions shine as community supports local causes

By

Gloria Burns

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December 23, 2025

Holiday traditions shine as community supports local causes

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The Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bells Run was a smashing — and hilarious — success on Dec. 6 at Tropical Park where costumed holiday characters turned the fundraiser into pure festive fun.

A large crowd attended, including a strong team from HCA Mercy Hospital, whose orthopedic surgeon Dr. Gilbert Beauperthuy-Rojas was the event honoree. Also, on hand to cheer on participants were Mercy CEO Allyssa Tobitt, Mercy COO Jessica Miller (in a standout costume), Mercy director of communications Annabel Beyra, and Arely Ruiz, president of the Coral Gables Woman’s Club. They were just a few among the hundreds who took part in the lively morning run.

In the days leading up to the race, the Coral Gables Woman’s Club hosted its December Gringo Bingo, with proceeds benefiting the Arthritis Foundation and delivered on race day.

Special kudos go to the club’s longtime volunteers, Steven Bradley, the much-loved “Gringo,” who calls the numbers each month, and Corey Tennyson, who provided deejay services.

What began in 2019 as a one-time bingo fundraiser for veterans — created by Steven and this writer — quickly grew into a monthly tradition that has since raised well over $100,000 for dozens of nonprofits. The club continues this success thanks in large part to Steven, who donates his time despite a demanding schedule as managing partner of Vivo Sports and Social at Dolphin Mall, and the support of Miami’s Community Newspapers to promote the events.

Dec. 6 also brought the annual Villagers Holiday House Tour, presented this year as a festive “Stroll in the Grove.” On Nov. 25, Villagers president Gina Guilford and past president Kelly Schild (Gina’s sister) joined Gloria’s Gab LIVE to highlight the event and the extraordinary impact The Villagers have made in historic preservation.

Kelly, who co-chaired this year’s tour with Merlin Ebbert, shared that the group has awarded $2 million in grants to 200 organizations, an astonishing achievement for an all-volunteer nonprofit. With record attendance this year, 2026 promises to be even more impactful for preservation projects.

The historic Coral Gables Woman’s Club, itself a past Villagers grantee, recently showcased both history and artistry by hosting Her Art Basel on Dec. 3. Curated by Arts and Culture chair Alex Guillen, the exhibition featured works by women artists, including her mother, Celia Guillen. While one ballroom became an elegant gallery, the other hosted the club’s annual Holiday Dinner Party catered by celebrity chef Chris Valdes. Guests enjoyed cocktails, admired the art, then returned for dinner and beautiful performances by Margarita Parsamyan, an operatic soprano and the founder of MP Miami Music School, with one of her students, Elizabeth Rojas.

Holiday performances continued with the Merrick Festival Caroling Competition, which brought 30 choirs from across Miami-Dade to compete for cash prizes. Directed each year by Sally Baumgartner Goodman, the beloved event is made possible by sponsors including Miami-Dade County, City of Coral Gables, Holtz Children’s Hospital, and Coral Gables Community Foundation. The Rotary Club of Coral Gables, one of the award sponsors, invited the winning choir to perform at the club’s holiday luncheon – always a seasonal highlight.

For those seeking holiday inspiration while shopping, the Festival of Trees Showcase at Miami International Mall (NW 87th Avenue and 25th Street) is a must-see experience. Mall general manager Maria Prado shares that the display features beautifully themed holiday trees created by St. Thomas University’s fashion and visual merchandising students, each inspired by an iconic brand such as Swarovski, Crocs, Aliss, Pandora, and Sephora.

Admission is free, and the installation offers a festive backdrop for photos, shopping, and seasonal cheer.

Upcoming events for your calendar:
Now through March 2026 – South Florida PBS Pharaoh Immersive Experience, at the Boynton Beach offices. For tickets, go to www.southfloridapbs.org pharaohs (Look for a new Titanic Experience coming in January 2026)
Now thru Dec. 31 – Festival of Trees at Miami International Mall, Doral, free admission
Dec. 27-30 – Junior Orange Bowl Basketball Tournament
Jan. 1, 2026 – College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl, noon, Hard Rock Stadium
Jan. 3-6 – Junior Orange Bowl International Golf Tournament, Biltmore Golf Course, 8 a.m. daily
Jan. 4 – Annual King Mango Strut Parade, Coconut Grove
Jan. 10 – Voices for Children Annual Gala, Ritz Carlton
January 2026 – The Titanic Immersive Experience opens presented by South Florida PBS, for info visit www.southfloridapbs.org.

In closing, remember to count your blessings, share a kind word and a smile, and make a difference. Happy Holidays!

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

M-DCPS South Region wins the ‘Clash of the Regions’

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Community News Releases

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December 23, 2025

M-DCPS South Region wins the ‘Clash of the Regions’

Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) South Region won the Miami Loves Teachers (MLT) “Clash of the Regions” competition. The achievement was celebrated recently at the Perla T. Hantman School Board Administration Building.

The South Region had the greatest number of teachers who registered on the MLT website to receive the numerous benefits the non-profit offers to educators.

“I’m extremely proud of the work of the teachers and leaders in the South Region,” said South Region superintendent Rafael A. Villalobos. “I’m very happy and excited to have won the trophy and be the representative for Miami-Dade County Public Schools because we are your best choice.”

Region and district representatives, as well as representatives from Miami Loves Teachers, The Education Fund, 2026 Miami Orange Bowl Host Committee, and College Football Playoff Foundation, all attended the event.

Besides the trophy, the first 200 teachers who signed up were to receive complimentary tickets to the Orange Bowl Classic 2026, a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal happening on New Year’s Day. There also will be other opportunities for teachers to receive complimentary tickets to upcoming games.

“Clash of the Regions” is a spirited competition and community initiative that offers teachers resources, event tickets, and professional development, where different school regions compete for sign-ups and engagement. Teachers can join and access benefits by registering at MiamiLovesTeachers.org.

Miami Loves Teachers is a teacher recognition and retention initiative led by The Education Fund, in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools, College Football Playoff Foundation, and 2026 Miami Orange Bowl Host Committee.

The program provides incentives, resources, and community engagement opportunities to celebrate and support educators across Miami-Dade, like the weekly $1,000 DonorsChoose grants awarded to public school teachers in conjunction with a check for the principal of the school where the teacher works. Individuals can nominate a deserving teacher by visiting: https://miamilovesteachers.org/teacher-of-the-week/

Thanks to the College Football Playoff Foundation and innovative partnerships like these, Miami-Dade County Public Schools continues to provide exceptional opportunities and support for educators.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

Pinecrest Town Center sold for $42.5 million

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Community News Releases

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December 23, 2025

Pinecrest Town Center sold for $42.5 million

Miami-based Limestone Asset Management and joint venture partner Orion Real Estate Group recently sold/closed on the Pinecrest Town Center, a mixed-use retail and office property, located at 12651 S. Dixie Hwy., for $42.5 million.

The sellers were represented by Eric Williams with Newmark.

Limestone Asset Management and Orion Real Estate Group performed an extensive nearly $6 million renovation and improvement on the property, which was completed in February 2024. The renovation involved modernizing the façade and storefronts, installing impact windows, upgrades to lighting, and adding a rooftop parking area.

Limestone Asset Management purchased the property in March 2021 for $32 million. The entire site encompasses 228,355 land square feet and 435 feet of frontage along S. Dixie Highway. It includes a four-story office building.

Built in 1985, the property previously underwent renovations in 1994 and 2004. It is now around 90 percent occupied with a strong tenant mix, including major lessees such as Sage Dental, Coldwell Banker and F45 Training, as well as local favorites Anacapri Italian Restaurant, Roasters ‘N’ Toasters, and Sea Siam Thai & Japanese Restaurant.

“Having performed a recent comprehensive nearly $6 million renovation on Pinecrest Town Center, located in one of Miami-Dade’s most vibrant communities with a thriving market and a family-oriented lifestyle, we are pleased to sell it to a highly reputable buyer who will maintain the beauty of the property,” said Ibrahim Al-Rashid, chair of Limestone Asset Management.

Pinecrest is home to approximately 18,388 people (2020 Census), long attracting major business executives and professional athletes. The average home listing price for the area is well above $1 million, which is significantly higher than the median home value for Miami-Dade County.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

Ram 1500 Limited has great features for the whole family

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Grant Miller, Publisher

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December 23, 2025

Ram 1500 Limited has great features for the whole family

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The 2026 Ram 1500 Limited Crew Cab sits among the top of Ram’s luxury lineup, and it looks the part, with a bold grille, polished chrome touches and dynamic Ram branding.

The 1500 Limited gives you a feeling of rugged capability and quiet luxury. It’s known for having one of the most upscale interiors in the segment. The seats are wrapped in premium leather, the trim is finished with carefully matched wood accents, and the dashboard houses a large touchscreen that feels more like high-end smart-home tech than something you’d expect in a work vehicle. It is spacious, it’s refined, and it’s designed for people who spend real time behind the wheel — not just running errands, but living life in motion.

Drivers and front passengers can sink into “Best-in-Class” 24-way power adjustable front seats with heat, ventilation, memory and massage functionality while rear passengers on Crew Cab models enjoy class-exclusive reclining rear seats, great leg room and storage.

The whole cabin can stay charged up with dual wireless charging and a 10.25-inch front passenger display.

The Ram 1500 lineup has moved away from the long-familiar HEMI V8 and now offers a new twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six called the Hurricane engine that at high output produces 540 horsepower. That gives it the power for towing boats, trailers or work equipment – the kinds of things that matter in a community where outdoor life and weekend adventures are part of the culture.

With that engine setup, the EPA-estimated fuel economy is 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. That’s the official rating, but as any Miami driver knows – between stop-and-go traffic, constant AC use, and occasional hauling – real-world mileage may vary. What matters more is that the truck has the muscle to do what you need and the comfort to enjoy the drive.

Pricing for the Ram 1500 varies widely across trims, but the Limited Crew Cab is positioned near the top of the model range at $76,000. Like any vehicle purchase, discounts, packages, and inventory availability will affect what someone actually pays, so buyers should compare equipped pricing rather than base numbers.

Where this truck really connects with South Florida is in how it fits daily life. It’s just as useful backing into a space at Tropical Park for youth football practice as it is pulling up to a meeting in Coconut Grove. It’s a tailgating platform, a hurricane-prep hauler, a family road-trip machine, and a business partner – all wrapped into one polished package. And for anyone who fishes, coaches, restores homes, runs a business, or just lives life with passion, that versatility matters.

So who is the Ram 1500 Limited Crew Cab for? It’s for the buyer who wants strength and style. Someone who takes pride in community, loves the energy of sports, and appreciates capability, but refuses to sit in something uncomfortable or basic just because it’s a truck.

Plenty of vehicles try to shout for attention. The Ram 1500 Limited doesn’t need to. It carries itself like a seasoned star athlete that is confident, capable, respected and ready to perform when the whistle blows.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

From vision to reality: Marking 25 years of Everglades restoration

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Community News Releases

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December 23, 2025

From vision to reality: Marking 25 years of Everglades restoration

Twenty-five years after the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) was signed into law, restoration of America’s Everglades is moving with unprecedented momentum, driven by historic levels of federal and state funding and a renewed commitment of bipartisan support.

“Everglades restoration is a bold, bipartisan effort that is working and worth the investment,” said Eric Eikenberg, CEO of The Everglades Foundation. “America’s Everglades is the source of freshwater for millions of people, and the heart of Florida’s clean water economy of tourism, real estate, and recreation.”

When CERP was signed into law on Dec. 11, 2000, it represented rare alignment among both political parties and the state and federal governments. The plan, which splits the cost equally between the State of Florida and the federal government, created a long-term roadmap to repair South Florida’s water infrastructure and revive America’s Everglades, but completing it would require decades of sustained investment.

Today, that commitment to bipartisanship continues to move projects forward, with many now beginning to reshape the landscape. Water is flowing south in places where it had been blocked for decades. Wetlands are showing early signs of recovery, and communities are seeing the benefits of improved water management.

“Everywhere you look in the Everglades watershed, restoration is beginning to deliver benefits,” said Dr. Steve Davis, chief science officer at The Everglades Foundation. “But the full vision of CERP is still ahead of us. Continued investment is essential if we want to see the ecological, economic, and water quality benefits fully realized.”

Recent economic studies by The Everglades Foundation found that 84,000 local businesses rely on the Everglades. This critical ecosystem supports two million jobs and generates $31.5 billion in annual economic activity. Prior research also shows that every $1 invested in restoration produces a $4 return.

Major components of the plan have been completed or are under construction, including the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir Project. Constructed by 2029 and operational by 2032, the EAA Reservoir will substantially increase the flow of clean freshwater to the central Everglades and Florida Bay while significantly reducing harmful discharges from Lake Okeechobee to Florida’s coasts by more than half.

“We are seeing important progress, but we are far from finished,” Eikenberg said. “This is a generational effort. Twenty-five years ago, leaders from both parties made Everglades restoration a national priority. Today, thanks to historic levels of investment, that vision is finally within reach. Our responsibility now is to stay the course, secure the funding, and complete the mission for future generations.”

About The Everglades Foundation
The Everglades Foundation is committed to the restoration and protection of America’s Everglades through science, advocacy, and education. Founded in 1993 by two outdoor enthusiasts – Paul Tudor Jones II and the late George Barley – The Everglades Foundation works to bring people together and provide a powerful bipartisan voice for Everglades restoration. The Foundation’s team includes renowned PhD scientists, experienced educators, policy experts, and professionals in communications.

By coupling this breadth of expertise with a passion for restoration, The Everglades Foundation is leading the effort to restore and protect the flow of clean freshwater to the Everglades through the world’s largest ecosystem restoration project. Learn more at EvergladesFoundation.org.

ABOUT US:

For more Miami community news, look no further than Miami Community Newspapers. This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond. Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news, online resources, podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed. With topics ranging from local news to community events, Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area.

This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications, magazines, special sections on their websites, newsletters, as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay and Homestead. Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news, events, business updates, lifestyle features, and local initiatives within its respective community.

Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com.

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From vision to reality: Marking 25 years of Everglades restoration

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