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Host Michael Miller speaks with Jevan Damadian, Jennifer Blessing, and Cindi Zarraluqui about Stand-Up MRIs

Host Michael Miller speaks with giants in the medical eqiupment industry, specifically, MRIs. Today’s guests were Jevan Damadian, Director of Business and Product Development, Jennifer Blessing, Director of Clinical Research Regional Site Director & CIndi Zarraluqui, Business Development Lead.

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 AventuraSunny Isles BeachMiami BeachCoral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, PinecrestSouth MiamiKendallPalmetto BayCutler 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

For more news, be sure to go to https://www.communitynewspapers.com #thatscommunitynews #communitynewspapers #miamidade #miamidadecounty #thatscommunity #miamiwomenwhorock #providencehealthcare #healthcare #miamicommunitynews #coralgables #palmettobay #southmiami #doral #aventura #pinecrest

Host Michael Miller welcomes local author, Lomberto Perez Plasencia to the Community News Studios

Host Michael Miller welcomes local author, Lomberto Perez Plasencia to the Community News Studios to discuss his inspiring book, “The Parker Pen Incident: Memories of A Cuban Pedro Pan Boy”.

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 AventuraSunny Isles BeachMiami BeachCoral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, PinecrestSouth MiamiKendallPalmetto BayCutler 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

For more news, be sure to go to https://www.communitynewspapers.com #philanthropy #thatscommunity #communitynewspapers #miamidadecounty #miamidadecounty #thatscommunitynews #miamicommunitynews #coralgables #palmettobay #southmiami #doral #aventura #pinecrest

In The Spotlight With Emily Zubi welcomes Nercy Radcliffe, CEO of Providence Healthcare Services


In The Spotlight With Emily Zubi, CEO & Founder of Miami Women Who Rock, welcomes Nercy Radcliffe, CEO of Providence Healthcare Services.

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 AventuraSunny Isles BeachMiami BeachCoral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, PinecrestSouth MiamiKendallPalmetto BayCutler 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

For more news, be sure to go to https://www.communitynewspapers.com #miamicommunityhealth #miamicommunitynews #communitynewspapers #coralgables #palmettobay #southmiami #thatscommunitynews #communitynewspapers #miamidade #miamidadecounty #thatscommunity #miamiwomenwhorock #providencehealthcare #healthcare #miamicommunitynews #coralgables #palmettobay #southmiami #doral #aventura #pinecrest

BROADWAY PLAYWRIGHT / PERFORMER RICK NAJERA ANNOUNCES MIAMI DEBUT OF SWEET 15 ¡QUE QUINCEAÑERA! – A SPANGLISH INTERACTIVE COMEDY EXPERIENCE

Broadway playwright and performer, Rick Najera, celebrated for his  notable contributions to the world of theater, television and film, will debut his latest theatrical  production of Sweet 15 ¡Que Quinceañera!, a live, interactive comedy experience, April 4-28. 

Produced by Mero Mero Productions, Lavan Entertainment and Executive Producer Rodrigo  D’Escoto, the show will take place at Renaissance at the Gables, 2340 SW 32nd Ave, Miami, FL  33145 and will be performed in Spanish and English (Spanglish). Tickets and dinner packages are  now on sale and can be purchased at https://www.sweet15show.com or via Eventbrite.com. 

“Sweet 15 breaks the story wall between actors and the audience as part of a theater play that  represents a new generation of interactive theater,” said award-winning playwright Rick Najera,  who created, wrote, and directs the show. Najera is known for his nationally acclaimed, award winning show on Broadway, Latinologues, comedic monologues about life in America, which ran  for 137 performances at the then Helen Hayes Theatre. “With this show, we are bringing theater to  audiences who normally don’t go to theater but who value entertainment and comedy, and Miami  is the perfect place for this groundbreaking play.” 

Sweet 15 ¡Que Quinceañera! will star Rene Lavan (Christmas with the Kranks, Dirty Dancing:  Havana Nights, Latinologues on Broadway, Every Witch Way), Ruben Rabasa (Ant Man, Father of  the Bride, I Think You Should Leave, This is Us), Vanessa Lyon (Monday Nights at Seven), Lauren  Lopez (In the Heights, Westside Story, Titanic the Musical, Shrek) and Roberto Escobar (Bloodline,  El Señor de los Cielos). Special guests and more cast to be announced soon. 

Sweet 15 delves deep into the heart of a quinceañera celebration, a cherished Latina tradition that  marks a young girl’s transition into womanhood. However, in this comedic production, a joyous  rite of passage unfolds into a tale of unexpected (and literal) twists and turns, seven years late. The  play is a valentine for families (especially Latino families) and shows the power of forgiveness as a  father tries to win back his family after disappearing for seven years. Placed in an actual  quinceañera hall, audiences will experience the exciting thrills of this immersive quinceañera. This  Broadway-style extravaganza is set to be an unforgettable experience that will leave audiences  singing along and laughing out loud. 

Rick Najera’s Sweet 15 !Que Quinceañera!, is produced by Mero Mero Productions, Lavan  Entertainment and Executive Producer Rodrigo D’Escoto, and will debut April 4, 2024 and run  through April 28 at Renaissance at the Gables, 2340 SW 32nd Ave, Miami, FL 33145. The show is  performed in Spanglish (Spanish / English). Tickets are now on sale starting at $49 and can be  purchased at https://www.sweet15show.com or via Eventbrite.com. Group and student tickets  available. Inquire about sponsorship opportunities. 

About Rick Najera’s Sweet 15 ¡Que Quinceañera! 

Sweet 15 ¡Que Quinceañera! is the story of the Valderrama family as they prepare to celebrate their  daughter’s quinceañera. There’s only one problem – the quince is seven years late! Their story begins  when the patriarch of the family, Eddy returns home after a seven-year absence. He disappeared the  same year his daughter, Sonora, was turning 15. Now, seven years later, he returns and upon his  shocking return, he sets out to reunite with his estranged family under one condition; they allow him to  throw a quinceañera for Sonora, who is now 22 years old. Eddy tries desperately to create a special  night for Sonora, but unfortunately nothing goes as planned. Sweet 15 ¡Que Quinceañera! is a  dysfunctional family comedy production where audiences will witness the love of a father who would  do anything for his estranged daughter. This production is filled with music, singing, dancing, laughter  and impromptu audience participation, guaranteed to have its audience singing along and dancing  in their seats. The show can be found on Instagram and Facebook @sweet15show and hashtag  #sweet15show. For more information, visit https://www.sweet15show.com 

About Rick Najera: 

Rick Najera is an award-winning playwright, screenwriter, and performer known for his  groundbreaking contributions to theater and film. With a career spanning decades, Najera has  consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling and representation. His work is celebrated for its  ability to bridge cultural divides and illuminates the human experience in all its complexity. Najera’s  show Latinologues, after touring the nation, made its Broadway debut at the then Helen Hayes Theatre  and ran for 137 performances. Najera is repped by Daryn Simons at Cohesive Entertainment Group,  LLC. For more information, visit https://www.ricknajera.com

Miami-Dade Clerk of the Court and Comptroller, Juan Fernandez-Barquin, Esq., Reports Positive Results from Extended Hours at Two Locations

On August 17, 2023, Miami-Dade Clerk of the Court and Comptroller, Juan Fernandez-Barquin, Esq., commenced a pilot program extending hours of operation at two county court locations to allow working residents the ability to address their court obligations without having to take time off from work. The two locations are South Dade Justice Center (10710 SW 211 St, Cutler Bay, FL 33189) and Joseph Caleb Center (5400 NW 22nd Ave, Miami, FL  33142), and their extended hours of operation are Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  

“We are now six months into the extended hours pilot program, and it’s fantastic to see that this program has been so well-received and utilized by the residents of our community,” said Fernandez-Barquin. Over the last six months extended hours at both locations have yielded 1,945 transactions and have totaled $83,837.02 in payments, where most payments received have been for traffic fines. “We are exploring the possibility of making this permanent.  Extended hours offer numerous benefits to our community and greater flexibility for working individuals, and improved convenience for the overall community who are complying with their court obligations.”   

All court-related financial obligations can be addressed during these extended hours. For more information, please log onto: www.miamidadeclerk.gov.

Chief James Reyes: Proven Results and Executive Experience Matter for our First Sheriff Election in 60 Years

This November, Miami-Dade voters will make history by electing a sheriff for the first time in 60 years — and our Miami-Dade Police Department will become the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office. When choosing the best leader to guide our community forward as our sheriff, residents must take into account many things: candidates’ values and integrity, their vision for our community, and whether they possess the level of experience necessary to step in and do the job on day one. There is nothing more important than keeping our residents and families safe – and we cannot afford to elect a sheriff who needs a learning curve to adjust to the demands of the job.

As our Miami-Dade Chief of Public Safety, I am running to be the next Sheriff of Miami-Dade County because I am committed to keeping our community safe. Over the last 25 years as a public servant and dedicated law enforcement executive with experience across all areas of public safety, I have served under four different sheriffs – both Democrats and Republicans – and I have been promoted under all of them. In fact, I’m the only candidate in this race with executive leadership experience in a sheriff’s office, and that matters.

My journey, from a young boy who fled Cuba with my family to find safety and freedom in Miami-Dade, to now serving as Chief of Public Safety in the most populous county in Florida has taught me that duty, service, and community are not just words – they embody our values. I am honored to serve this community that gave me and my family a chance to achieve our own version of the American Dream, and I do so every day guided by community trust.

As our Chief of Public Safety, appointed by our Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, I am proud to oversee three departments that embody the strength of our community: Miami-Dade Police, Fire Rescue, and Corrections – making sure that all three departments are working efficiently and collaboratively toward the same mission: serving and protecting the residents of Miami-Dade.

Prior to this role, I was honored to serve as Miami-Dade’s Director of Corrections and Rehabilitation, overseeing one of the largest jail systems in the country. I took on the role with the following mission: identify and empower talent, establish best-practices, and correct deficiencies in order to challenge a status quo that wasn’t serving our community’s interests. Along with the remarkable team at corrections, I set about improving staff morale, increasing safety and security in the jails, and expanding re-entry services. We always worked with an eye toward collaboration, and I’m proud to say that under my leadership, the department achieved substantial compliance with U.S. Department of Justice requirements for the first time in over a decade, a major achievement for Miami-Dade.

Before returning home to Miami-Dade, I served the Broward Sheriff’s Office for twenty-two years, rising and earning every rank up to the rank of Colonel and serving in top command for 6 years. During my time there I was determined to be an agent for positive change. I became the first mental health deputy in the department’s history, and was proud to lead its award-winning crisis response team. As Executive Director, I managed a budget exceeding $1 Billion and oversaw regional and contracted municipal law enforcement, corrections, fire rescue, and 911 communication services. I also gained invaluable experience in project development, serving as the lead developer and project manager in complex public safety infrastructure projects like Broward County’s first state-of-the-art Real Time Crime Center and the first Research, Development and Training Center. I was also proud to negotiate with the county commission to secure pay raises for 911 dispatchers and eliminate vacancies threatening the overall level of public safety for residents.

Over the last 25 years of my career in public safety, I have accumulated valuable leadership experience – delivering public safety and proven results. Amongst a crowded field of candidates, I uniquely possess the depth of experience required to perform all functions of a sheriff. I’ve served as an officer, led award-winning teams and entire agencies, negotiated with and worked alongside elected officials, challenged the status quo, balanced billion-dollar budgets, earned public trust, solved problems and delivered solutions to keep our community safe. As our next sheriff, I will continue to deliver for our community – by strengthening what makes the Miami Dade Police Department one of the top law enforcement agencies in the country, enhancing law enforcement strategies while fighting corruption, and always building public trust.

In this crucial moment for Miami-Dade County, we need an elected sheriff we can trust to lead with integrity and who has a proven track record. After more than two decades of service, I know I can have a positive impact and keep our community safe. This November, let’s choose wisely and elect a sheriff who is not only qualified, and committed, but who possesses the experience needed to serve and protect all members of our community on day one of taking office.

Culture Shock Miami presents 360 ALLSTARS, a spectacular urban circus experience, April 12

Culture Shock Miami is delighted to bring the extraordinary urban circus experience, 360 ALLSTARS, to the Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 12. This non-stop, energy-packed show promises a mesmerizing fusion of street culture artistry and features an incredible cast of world champion and world record-holding athletes and artists. $5 tickets for teens and young adults (ages 13-22) and a companion are available the Culture Shock website.

A fresh and exciting experience for audiences, 360 ALLSTARS incorporates dynamic movement, impressive stunts, and visual effects for a memorable family experience. The show takes the traditional circus to new heights with a dynamic showcase of diverse talents, including dancing, beatboxing, acrobatics, and BMX biking. The show’s “360” element refers to a full circle rotation, with each act featuring a 360-degree spin from its team of championship athletes.

In addition to awe-inspiring performances, 360 ALLSTARS features a live soundtrack delivered by award-winning musicians. The tracks are created by loop-pedal, which creates unique opportunities for looping or layering music. The experience is complemented by spectacular video projections.

360 ALLSTARS was created by Australian musician, Gene Peterson, who founded Onyx Productions in 2011. Now celebrating its tenth anniversary, 360 ALLSTARS has been featured on more than 2,000 international stages and seen by more than 1 million people. The production has received acclaim from audiences around the world, with sold-out runs on Broadway, at the Sydney Opera House, and last summer’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

For more information about Culture Shock Miami offers, visit cultureshockmiami.com. $5 tickets for teens and young adults (ages 13-22) are only available via the Culture Shock Miami website. Regular-priced ticket information for all ages is available on the Moss Center’s website.

MDEAT’s Executive Director, Bill Diggs is joined with Jaquelene Davis, MDEAT Economic Development Manager

MDEAT’s Executive Director, Bill Diggs is joined with Jaquelene Davis, MDEAT Economic Development Manager to discuss the growth of MDEAT.

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 AventuraSunny Isles BeachMiami BeachCoral Gables, Brickell, Coconut Grove, PinecrestSouth MiamiKendallPalmetto BayCutler 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

For more news, be sure to go to https://www.communitynewspapers.com #thatscommunitynews #communitynewspapers #mdeat #miamidade #miamidadecounty #thatscommunity #miamiscommunitynew #miamicommunitynews #coralgables #palmettobay #southmiami #doral #aventura #pinecrest #aventura

Pubbelly Sushi Introduces New Happy Hour Menu

Sip into Spring this March with the launch of Pubbelly Sushi’s all-new happy hour menu! 

The new bite menu showcases Pubbelly Sushi’s commitment to customer feedback by featuring fan favorites including Tuna Pizza, Rock Shrimp Tempura Roll, Lobster Donuts (3pc), and Kimchee Rice all going for just $10 each. 

The beloved Japanese and Latin-inspired chain is also introducing three new cocktails reminiscent of the sweet and refreshing nature of spring:

  • The Ikebana ($14) consists of vodka, lemon sour, St. Germain, Lillet Blanc, and apricot liqueur.
  • Sipping Me Softly ($14) blends gin, Grand Mariner, lemon juice, cranberry juice, fresh strawberries and basil. 
  • Wabisabi ($16) is made up of gin, cucumber juice, basil-wasabi syrup, apricot liquor, lime juice, prosecco and gondola pepper. 

But that’s not all – Pubbelly Sushi is thrilled to unveil its new wine list, featuring Chef Jose Mendin’s latest creation, Veranda, along with a reworked Yoshitomo beer. The premium Lager, brewed locally in Doral, has already garnered acclaim, with the brewery receiving recognition at the 2023 World Beer Cup.

“Pubbelly Sushi has always been about blending tradition with innovation, and our new happy hour menu is a testament to that philosophy,” said Emilia Picon, King Goose Hospitality’s director of marketing. “We’ve carefully curated a selection that not only brings back cherished favorites but also introduces exciting new flavors.”

Starting March 1st, the new happy hour will be available at all locations from 4pm to 7pm, Monday through Friday. For more information, visit pubbellyglobal.com or follow @pubbellyglobal on Instagram.

About Pubbelly Sushi 

Known as the eclectic neighborhood gastropub, Pubbelly Sushi brings a hyper-creative fusion of Japanese and Latin-inspired dishes by founding chef-partner José Mendín, a five-time James Beard Award semifinalist for “Best Chef, Southeast.” Pubbelly became an instant favorite for locals when it opened in 2010. A decade later, it continues to be embraced by the market, winning the 2020 Miami New Times Readers’ Choice Award for Best Sushi and maintaining a spot on every tourist’s “must ” list.

FIU study: Ransomware can hide in the websites you upload files to

FIU cybersecurity researchers warn websites that request access to your files might be able to bypass antivirus software and carry out major ransomware attacks.

Free photo editors, tax document assistants and other online apps that ask for permission to access your media can encrypt files and effectively take control of them, an FIU College of Engineering and Computing study shows. These attackers could then demand ransom in exchange for the files’ safe return.

The researchers say that the hack works on all three major PC operating systems: Windows, Linux and Mac OS. Some cloud services such as Apple Cloud, Box, Google Drive, OneDrive and Dropbox are also susceptible, as well as external drives.

Just two things are needed for a malicious website to conduct the attack.

  1. A person needs to say, ‘yes’ to a pop-up that asks them to share their files, such as ‘Allow this website to access your photos?’
  2. Someone must click, ‘yes,’ on a second pop-up, which is the attack. The pop-up will be disguised as a benign message, such as an advertisement or a request like, ‘May we close the rest of your tabs for you?’

Clicking ‘yes’ on these two pop-ups is all too easy, says Selcuk Uluagac, principal investigator of the research and Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences professor.

“Antivirus software systems allow these attacks because it is normal for them to give browsers access to files,” Uluagac said. “They don’t detect that anything is wrong.”

The research was conducted in collaboration with Google senior research scientist Güliz Seray Tuncay and published in the proceedings of the 32nd USENIX Security Symposium, which is a top-tier cybersecurity conference according to Google Scholar.

“Everybody knows not to download a suspicious file. Now we are finding that it can be just as dangerous to upload a file,” said Harun Oz, a Ph.D. student on the research team.

These hacks are possible due to the increasing power of web browsers, researchers say.

“Browsers have become much more powerful over time,” said Abbas Acar, a postdoctoral researcher on the cybersecurity team. “They can access our cameras, our files, our locations and even our battery status if we give them permission to do so.”

These ‘browser powers’ usually make being online more convenient and enjoyable. They make it easier to carry out everyday tasks. These capabilities are known in the tech world as APIs (application programming interfaces), and they have become integral to today’s internet ecosystem.

The FIU research is groundbreaking because it exposes the hazards behind one of the most universally used APIs: file-sharing. Since these programs are nearly ubiquitous and normally considered harmless by antivirus software systems, ransomware attacks conducted through them can be difficult to catch.

The FIU researchers explored solutions that could be implemented to protect users against this ransomware threat. They proposed three main ideas:

  1. a defense solution built into the browser that stops an attempted encryption,
  2. an app built into the computer that monitors files to see if they are about to be encrypted, and
  3. a notification system built into the browser that warns users against possible threats.

Uluagac adds that the FIU team conducted the research with their own proof-of-concept design model and did not take advantage of any websites ‘in the wild,’ but he warns that, “Everyone should be aware that this powerful ransomware threat could be out there.”

The team hopes to extend the research to smartphones in the future. Read more about the research.

Empower the next generation to be environmental champions

Jose Romano

Getting your kids involved early in public discourse and service is good for the Earth, and Business.

South Florida, the land of eternal summer and flip-flops (or chancletas), where the sun meets the sea, and the Everglades tell tales of resilience, there lies a treasure trove of environmental wonders—and challenges. With its unique ecosystem and vibrant, growing communities, South Florida is a hotbed for discussions about climate change, rising sea levels, and the need for sustainable living. As we empower the next generation to be eco-champions, it’s equally crucial to foster a nuanced understanding of the symbiotic relationship between progress and preservation.  And, while it might seem like a heavy topic for our kids, not to mention the kids of families migrating to Florida from places with less of these challenges (and who’ve probably never seen a lizard, much less an alligator), using humor and levity is the best approach. 

Bite-sized Awareness:

Children are like sea sponges, soaking up information faster than you can say “manatee.” By introducing them to the environmental issues specific to South Florida, we’re not just nurturing the next generation of eco-warriors; we’re creating a squad of miniature problem-solvers. Make it fun and digestible, like the organic seaweed snacks and croquetas they love.

Ron and Grant at #LetThemThrive

Dolphin Diplomats:

Let’s face it, everyone (well almost everyone) loves children! Imagine them as junior ambassadors for sustainable development, armed with knowledge and a contagious enthusiasm for cleaner oceans, charming the community into action. These little eco-diplomats can organize beach clean-ups, inspire recycling initiatives, and maybe even get their parents involved.  In an example close to home, right here at Zoo Miami, many kids saw the power of involvement and participated themselves in a rally on Nov 4th last year to protect the critical habitat of the federally endangered bonneted bat.  That rally resonated with elected officials and the voice of the people was heard and the development that was planned in that habitat was thwarted.  As my good friend Ron Magill says, “If the people lead, the leaders will follow.”

Eco-Art Extravaganza:

South Florida is a haven for artistic expression, and children can harness this creativity for a good cause. Encourage them to create eco-friendly art installations, turning recycled materials into masterpieces. It’s not just about making a statement; it’s about transforming waste into wonder and inspiring others to do the same.  It can be anything from what art you hang on the wall to “trolls” in the garden!

Building Blocks of Sustainability:

Teaching children the building blocks of sustainability is key. Let them understand that development can be a force for good, creating jobs, enhancing infrastructure, and elevating communities. Picture pint-sized architects designing eco-friendly buildings that harness solar power and capture rainwater—a child’s dream meets sustainable reality.

Max Beach Clean Up

Green Career Dreams:

Children are dreamers, and their dreams shape our collective future. Channel their aspirations towards green careers or at least foster an appreciation for the nature in their neighborhood.  Whether they become biologists or bankers, that connection informs future decisions like voting, conscientious purchasing habits and life style.  From conservation scientists to urban planners, encourage them to envision a future where their professions not only contribute to development but also champion environmental conservation.  Children, immersed in the roles of eco-ambassadors and sustainable urban planners, become the bridge between environmental stewardship and the demands of a growing community.  

Conclusion:

South Florida’s children are the key to a brighter, greener future. By infusing environmental discourse and service with humor and fun, we’re not just teaching them about the importance of sustainability; we’re nurturing a generation that understands how to tackle serious issues with a smile. Teach them “You catch more flies with honey (or guayaba!)”.   The future is bright, and in the hands of these young stewards, South Florida’s magic will continue to unfold.

Advice From the Pro: Rob Lara, Zoo Miami Interactive Programs Manager

Rob Lara

Opportunities to Turn Passion into Action

Through our Nature Play Programs, the Zoo Miami Foundation takes novice campers into the Everglades for one night of learning and fun.  Keeping the camping experience short, manageable and fun meets our goal of connecting them to nature for life.

At Zoo Miami, children and guests are encouraged to participate in creating “animal enrichment” from recycled materials in our Jose Milton Animal Fun Factory.  You should check it out!  And, you can see the animals enjoying these items when you walk the zoo.

Finally, encourage your kids to get involved through volunteering, an internship or shadowing opportunities.  At Zoo Miami Foundation we have plenty of options for involvement… my personal fave is the Conservation Teen Scientist (CTS) program. 

There are many other organizations and groups in our community that have similar missions of conservation and connecting children to nature while creating the empathy required for sustainable growth.  These include the Boy and Girls Scouts of America, Miami Dade-County Parks, Eco-Adventures and our local State and National Parks.  The opportunities are there, you just need to reach out and grab them!

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