“Under Contract” says a for sale sign at the corner of Sunset Dr. and SW 62 Ave. It’s a rather large vacant lot set strategically between two other pieces, both of which are owned by the Baptist folks, one to the north and the other to the west. For several years, Baptist has been chatting with the owner about buying the middle piece, but at this point, it looks like someone else might be the buyer. Just to be clear, although the sign says “Under Contract,” it doesn’t mean the lot is sold — but what it does probably mean is that our friends at Baptist Health just might be thinking ‘what’s next’? Anyone want to place a wager that it ain’t over til’ it’s over?
The hometown team might still have time to capture this crown jewel property, so central to its plans for an all-inspiring medical office complex occupying all three properties. Now for a little fun, wondering if HCA, UM, Mt. Sinai, Miami Children’s Hospital (now Nicholas), Jackson Memorial or Community Health (CHI) may have that ever so valuable corner piece “Under Contract.” Or could it be a senior health care company? Hmmmm…
Speaking of healthcare, Larkin Hospital purchased a 40,000 sq. ft. – plus building in the north end of the county, which is now the home of Larkin Health Sciences Institute, housing the Colleges of Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Congratulations to the Larkin team on its super growth over the past five years. BTW: I hear there’s more good stuff on the horizon, too!
An estimated 600 runners, joggers and walkers rambled through parts of Coral Gables to celebrate good times at the recent Baptist Health “Tour of the Gables 5K Run/Walk,” presented by the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. Feeling really awake at that early hour, folks jumped right in for a 7 a.m. pre-run warm-up exercise brought to you by the Coral Gables Athletic Club and then, after a short cool down, headed to the starting line. Gotta tell ya’ that it had been so long since I was in a 5K that when the starting “shot” fired, I held up my hands and said “I surrender” and laid down with hands and legs spread (just kidding). Lots of fun with people of all ages from eight on up, even a handful of 75+ geezers out for the fun.
Community Newspapers was represented by Amy Donner (who won an award for her time), Gloria “Gal” Burns, Christopher Cross, and daughter, Cassandra, and finance Diana Camacho — but wait, there are more: Denise Cebrero with daughter, Alex, and Ernesto Travieso, especially delighted to walk with his mother, Elena. Weather was picture-perfect (advance ordered by the Chamber of Commerce, I’m told). Also ran into Palmetto Bay Mayor Eugene Flinn and wife, Alex, as well as Palmetto Bay Councilwoman Karen Cunningham and daughter, Meagan, who starts law school at Boston University this fall. Also seen jogging around the golf course: Levi Meyer of Fortune International Realty.
Mark Trowbridge, CG Chamber prexy as Master of Ceremonies did a great job keeping pre-run activities running smoothly and even got better during the awards ceremony. BTW: Mark really has a genuine sense of humor. Bet he could take his act on the road. Speaking of staying fit, Footworks is once again bringing the “South Miami Hospital Twilight 5K” to the people of the City of Pleasant Living, The date is May 31 and, yes, there’s still time to sign up for this hometown event. The course which winds through some really nice parts of town, is sure to be healthy, as well as lots of fun. Homeowners will cheer walkers and runners from their front yards and here’s hoping some put their water hoses to good use, cooling off participants. For the first 2,500, the entry fee includes a souvenir shirt and it appears a commemorative finisher medal will honor those crossing the magical finish line. And, yes, there’s more: fun activities for all ages, including a live band and beer, an enormous Niagara Dry Slide and a bounce house for the kids, and, of course, food sampling from some really great area restaurants. So come one, come all, make your way to the starting line on Sunday, May 31. For more information, tel. 305-667-9322.
Congrats to South Miami Police Chief Rene Landa who received the Fred Maas Outstanding Law Enforcement Leadership Award. The Chief who took over the department just a few years ago was recognized at the recent Dade County Police Benevolent Association Law Enforcement Awards Gala. A very popular top cop, Chief Landa is well known for working with local citizens, church groups and business folks, keeping South Miami a better and safer place for all.
This past weekend, Dream Team Group Home held the grand opening of their second group home in Miami. I want to congratulate them for the work that they do for individuals with developmental disabilities. They provide loving homes with the highest quality of care for adults with special needs. Many families of children with special needs fear the future. As they age they wonder who will be there to care for their son or daughter. Dream Team Group Home is one of the most reputable homes for special needs in Miami and I encourage you to visit their website for more information <www.dreamteamgrouphome.com>.
Got any tips? Contact me at 305-669-7355, ext. 249 or send emails to <Michael@communitynewspapers.com>.
