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    Another Year Another Step Forward

    By
    Mayor Eric Jones Jr
    -
    Opening of New City Hall, April 2011

    We leave 2011 with a sense of community pride for the extraordinary efforts of our citizens, commission, administration and businesses that, through their hard work has us striving. We leave 2011 with gratitude for the generosity of our area residents and businesses that purchased gifts which ensured a happy Christmas for over 800 children who live in our city. You also gave generously to our Thanksgiving feast. The year 2011 demonstrated through its challenges and opportunities that we live and work in a warm and caring community. It is hard to believe another year is just beginning.  I am excited for our new year.  The economy is slowly beginning to thaw; projects are beginning, and more will follow.

    Our Commission and staff are committed to working so that we position our city to be ready to reap the benefits from an improving economy.  We have a vision and mission for our city from which we will build strategies to guide us to a successful future. I’d like to say at this time that it was a privilege to serve as your Mayor this past year. I am looking forward to 2012 with confidence and optimism for our community.  I want to express my gratitude to all of you for the continued public trust that you have honored me with by allowing me to continue as your Mayor. I respect this position and consider it an honor and privilege to serve the residents of West Park. I want to officially congratulate Commissioner Fyffe and Commissioner Mack on their reelection.

    Both have lifelong roots in the City, and I know that they will serve our city well. They have already demonstrated their service with their knowledge and commitment over the years. This year was very significant for our city as we officially opened our New City Hall. I am sure that those who attended the “Open House” were impressed. This state of the art facility will enable our Staff and Commissioners to meet the needs of the 21st century in serving our community.  I would personally like to thank our Administrator and his staff for the countless hours required so as aid myself and the Commission in implementing our vision for the City. Although the budget process this past year was grueling and will only be more challenging this coming year we are committed to preserving a stable tax rate in West Park while maintaining quality services.  Some of the accomplishments for the past year were as follows:

    ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2011

    • Grants: Following are grant applications prepared during the period indicated above:
    1. Through Broward County’s Division of Housing Finance and Community Development, we submitted grant applications for various projects and secured over $300,000 in Community Development Block Grants.
    2. Received grant for Youth Summer Program (Camp B.R.A.V.E.R.Y) for over $160,000 through the Children’s Services Council.
    3. Submitted $125,000 grant application for parks improvement to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection through the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program.
    4. Received the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance grant in an amount of $6,801 from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. These funds were used for surveillance cameras at the New City Hall.
    5. Received the Home Depot Foundation community Beautification grant of $1,500 for the City’s Extreme Mailbox Makeover program.
    6. Received $154,000 grant for establishing a single-stream recycling program throughout the City. The fund will assist with the purchase of recycling carts and for the program’s public outreach materials.
    7. Secured $541,000 in grants from the Florida Department of Transportation for improvements to SW 56 Avenue, between Pembroke Road and County Line Road.

    • Reduced Fire Department Annual Expenses: Negotiated a revision to the Fire Service contract with Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Department and the Village of Pembroke Park. The negotiation resulted in a 50%-50% split of the total operating cost with the Town of Pembroke Park. These efforts resulted in a savings of $538,429.30. Additionally, after restructuring the Emergency Medical Transport process, the emergency medical transport fee was estimated to yield $310,000 in revenue for Fiscal Year 2010-11, an increase of $72,500 in transport revenue. The negotiation of emergency medical transport fee and amendment to the current fire rescue services agreement generated a total savings of $655,929.30 to the City.

    • New Residential Waste Collection Services: In an effort to reduce expenses and increase revenue, we elected to renegotiate the residential solid waste collection services through a request for proposal process.  The saved the City over $250,000 cost for the collection service compared to prior year and improved services to the residents, to include:
    1. Provided a free 96-gallon cart to all residents for garbage collection.
    2. Provided a free 96-gallon cart to all residents for recycling collection.
    3. Reorganized the bulk trash collection for better quality service and cleaner neighborhoods.
    Also in consideration of the privilege granted to our service provider (WastePro) for the use of our roads, streets, easements, alleyways, swales and other public places; WastePro is required to pay a franchise fee of 15% of their gross revenue.  This is an estimated increase of $92,100 from the amount we receive from the county last year.

    • New Stormwater Utility Program: A Stormwater Utility Program was established in accordance with section 403.0893 of the Florida Statute.  The program is intended to generate revenue sufficient to plan, construct, operate and maintain stormwater management system.  In addition, this revenue will be set aside for such activities as storm drain cleaning, new drainage system construction, and various water quality initiatives required under the NPDES.  This program is estimated to generate over $350,000 annual revenue.

    • New Insurance Program: With continue effort to reduce expenses while increasing services, a new insurance benefit was negotiated by allowing insurance providers to submit prices and compete with the City’s current insurance provider (FIMT).  The process resulted in better insurance benefits through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida and at over $78,000 less than FIMT annually.

    • Implementation of the West Park Enterprise Zone: The city was successful in receiving the state designation as an Enterprise Zone. The designation allows the city to be a target area for economic revitalization which offers financial incentives to businesses that invest in or are within the City. Incentives offered include: Job Tax Credit; Property Tax Credit; building Material Sales Tax Refund and Building Equipment Sales Tax Refund.

    • Opening of New City Hall: The City negotiated and signed a lease with Interstate Development for construction of a New City Hall and Commission Chamber (first City Hall). The new City Hall further defines West Park as a municipality and provides administrative staff with the tools and space to improve the level of service to residents as the city grows; the Commission Chamber provides a formal, state of the art space for the public to attend Commission meetings.

    • City Newspaper: The City established the West Park Community Newspaper in our effort to continue improving communication with residents.

    • Playful City Designation: The City was recognized and designated as a Playful City USA. This designation allows the city to partake in the following:
    1. Be included in a national media campaign and be provided local media support and receive priority status in accessing all KaBOOM! resources including playground builds, trainings, and grants opportunities.
    2. Receive highway signs, awards and special incentive opportunities in honor of Playful City USA status.
    3. Be given access to online resources and communication vehicles to keep connected to Playful City USA communities nationwide.
    4. Be recognized at national municipal leadership and recreation conferences.
    5. Receive priority status for KaBOOM! Playground builds and grants.

    • Prescription Discount Card Program: The City partnered with The National League of Cities and CVS Caremark to provide the Prescription Discount Card Program to residents. The program allows the city to offer savings on prescription drugs to residents who do not have health insurance; a traditional pharmacy benefits plan for prescriptions not covered by insurance. The residents will save an average of 20 percent of the full retail cost of prescription medication. Benefits of the program include:
    •    NO COST to the City
    •    NO COST to residents
    •    Average savings of 20%
    •    9 out of 10 pharmacies participate in the program – more than 60,000 nationwide
    •    No enrollment or membership fees
    •    No limit on how many times the card may be used
    •    No age requirements
    •    Coverage for all family members
    •    Pet medications used to treat human conditions are covered

    • New Website: The City launched a new, user-friendly website in October which provides up to date information for residents. The website also features an interactive calendar, and links to current announcements, events, and the Community Newspaper.

    • Code of Ordinances Launched Online: The City’s Code of Ordinances was officially posted online in November, 2011. This allows residents and the general public to access any of the City’s ordinances at their convenience. The City’s Code can be accessed at:
    http://www.municode.com/resources/gateway.aspx?productId=14982.

    • Transfer of Property from FDOT: The City signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Florida Department of Transportation for the turnover of drainage retention ponds along State Road 7. In an effort to spur economic development in the City, the City desires to develop this portion of State Road 7 into an urban boulevard which would include commercial buildings, pedestrian friendly sidewalks, pedestrian lights and landscaping. This acquisition will bring potential revenue to the City’s tax base as these sites will be used as developable property, thus reducing property taxes in the future.

    • Traffic Calming Study Area A Improvements: The City Commission held several traffic calming workshops and adopted a traffic calming plan for Study Area “A”. The boundaries of Study Area “A” include:
    • North Boundary: Hallandale Beach Blvd
    • South Boundary: County Line Road (NE 215 Street)
    • West Boundary: State Road 7
    • East Boundary:     SW 56th Avenue            The project will involve construction of various traffic calming devices such neighborhood circles, speed humps, speed tables and/or raised intersections at designated areas. The improvements will significantly improve traffic congestion and increase safety along these roadways.

    • McTyre Park Master Plan: The City Commission approved a conceptual master plan for McTyre Park in an effort to meet the increased usage and demand for the park’s facilities. The master plan will define a meaningful balance between open field play areas; facilities for after school programs and events; improved vehicular parking; food and beverage concessions; exercise trails; a gymnasium and expanded green space areas. This master plan will result in a state-of-the-art, family friendly facility that residents will enjoy for years to come.                        Finally, I wish to thank West Park residents for their tolerance, patience, and support as we continue to move our City forward. I promise to continue to be readily accessible and responsive as your Mayor for the next five years. It was a privilege to serve as your Mayor this past year.  I look forward to 2012 with confidence and optimism for our wonderful community. My ultimate mission is that West Park remain a great place to live and raise a family! May each of you have a wonderful New Year full of good health, peace and love.

    GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU, GOD BLESS WEST PARK AND GOD BLESS AMERICA

    Native Son Julio Robaina Jr. wants mayoral seat back

    By
    Raquel Garcia
    -
    Julio Robaina Jr

    When former mayor Julio Robaina Jr was a student at South Miami Senior High School his father got injured in an unsafe vehicle while working for the city. His dad’s post-accident treatment and the lack of courtesy Robaina observed when speaking before the commission in later years were enough to convince him he could do a better job. Citing similar challenges today of low staff morale and a divided community in decline, termed out State Representative and property management company owner Robaina will run for the mayoral seat opening in the February 14 election. “When I was mayor morale was so high employees voluntarily attended city events and would willingly stay at work after 5pm if necessary. It is hard to see how things have regressed since we became the All- America City. Once again civility is gone,” said Robaina.

    A graduate of David Fairchild Elementary School, South Miami Middle School , and South Miami Senior High (and not to be confused with the former Hialeah mayor of the same name) Robaina got his start in local politics with the South Miami Homeowners Association (SMHA) after SMHA leaders Joyce Schecter and Joyce Hernden saw the potential in the young man who went to city commission meetings and spoke out.

    “I was taken in by SMHA and invited everywhere. They taught me how to serve the residential and business community while protecting the quality of life. I first volunteered on Paul Young’s campaign and he became vice mayor. Mayor Tom Cunningham was a mentor and he encouraged me to run for office and that’s how I got started in local government. My roots run deep,” said Robaina.

    In 1998 Robaina won his first commission campaign and received enough votes to enter city hall as vice mayor. He subsequently ran for mayor and won and served three consecutive terms from 1998 to 2002 before resigning during his third term in office to run for state representative.

    “When you are born and raised in the community, this is about family. When I was in office, the commission had no agendas and mutual respect for everyone on the dais. The city saw the renaissance of downtown with outdoor dining and pedestrian friendly sidewalks. We worked in the community redevelopment agency area (CRA) and never forgot about our northern residents. We planted trees and acquired two parks (All America and Van Smith). Property values went up and taxes went down. We got to see our projects come into fruition,” said Robaina.

    During his tenure Robaina said he brought 18 million dollars into city coffers by going to Tallahassee for Dade Days and through various other fundraising efforts and leaving office for Tallahassee was an effort to continue the revenue stream flow into South Miami. While serving as State Representative for District 117 he says he brought in another four million dollars before the monies dried up.

    Of current issues Robaina supports the Murray Pool saying it is a critical project that must be seen to completion because the lives of kids who live near canals and may not know how to swim are at stake. He supports tempered annexation saying there are pockets of homes bordering South Miami that are benefitting from services due to inter-local agreements but not paying taxes on garbage pickup and 911 responses for example. “When I was mayor communities like Lakeridge and Bridgepoint approached us to be a part of the city. We can be a beacon once again.” Robaina supports the Madison Square development but is wary of another possible mega-mall.

    “With the help of architect Victor Dover we started having charetttes (town hall style meetings on pertinent issues) back then and the residents developed the city documents to create a road map for development. We took a diamond and started polishing it. This is the kind of unity I want to bring back to the commission while not forgetting the business community,” said Robaina.

    To contact Julio Robaina call 305-343-0776 or email jrstaterep117@aol.com.

    Training for the ING Miami Marathon

    By
    Charlotte Libov
    -

    Some people call winter football or basketball season, but with the advent of cooler weather, January seems very much to be running season, especially with the ING Miami Marathon and Half- Marathon coming up in Jan. 29.

    With this in mind, I thought I’d turn devote this column to getting ready for marathons, although I do want to add (on behalf of myself and others) that marathons usually include a “walking” component, which is also a great way to stay fit.

    This column’s recommendations from Chris Sebelski, who is an assistant professor of physical therapy at St. Louis University. He penned it as a suggestion for New Year’s, but it seems like perfect timing now.

    HERE ARE HIS TRAINING TIPS:
    • Make sure you’re in good physical shape. Get a complete physical before e you start training, because it’s better to prevent injuries than try to recover from them.

    • Set realistic goals. If you haven’t been exercising in awhile, start with a walking/jogging mix. Set reasonable goals. Some people feel very tired for the first few weeks after exercise, so set a reasonable goal you can stick to. “Think about small steps and celebrate the victories,” he says. (By the way, being inactive seems impossible in our Miami Beach lifestyle, but it is true in other parts of the country, like St. Louis!)

    • Anticipate setbacks. Life happens. You may get a cold, get extra busy at work, or suffer an injury. “There will always be off days when you can’t fit in a workout or your time isn’t your best,” he notes. If there’s a day when you still want to run, but have less time, or are feeling not quite as energetic as usual, recalibrate your goal to one that you can meet.

    • Eat Smart. As you start burning more calories, you may find yourself hungry. “Be smart about the type of calories you eat, by including plenty of lean proteins and whole grains.” Also, think hydration, and drink plenty of water.

    • Train with a buddy. “Running is hard work, and after the first month or two of diligent training, you may find yourself getting off-track,” he notes. Training with a buddy adds a social aspect and can keep you motivated.

    • Utilize Cross Training: Include other forms of exercise in your training program, like hitting the gym to strengthen your core. “Core training builds strength, which, in turn, helps you breathe as you run, “ Sebelski notes. For information on the upcoming ING run, visit www.ingmiamimarathon.com.

    Chamber member Charlotte Libov is a journalist, professional speaker and the author five health books, including “The Women’s Heart Book,” which was made into a PBS special. She works out at Equinox South Beach. For more information, call Robin Conn at 305-673-1172 or visit www.equinox.com.

    Gardens Gallery to showcase transplanted artist Urzula Dudek

    By
    Lynn Wille Fichman
    -
    Urszula Dudek

    When an artist relocates from her place of birth in Eastern Europe to the cold winds of Chicago, and then on to the sunny warmth of South Florida, it is bound to be reflected in her art. Urszula Dudek’s paintings combine that vast range of experience into cohesive works, and the public will soon be able to view some of her pieces when they will be on display in a show on Florida’s nature at the Pinecrest Gardens Gallery beginning on Feb. 3.

    Tropical breezes practically jump from Urszula’s canvases as she captures the color, the feel and the vibrancy that typifies the South Florida landscape that she has come to love. The greens, purples, pinks and blues that she uses convey a sense of vigor and warmth, and her acrylic paintings, generally large and inviting, highlight some very dramatic flora that draws the eye to their inner depths.

    Urszula began her career in Poland, and soon after she graduated from the School of Fine Art she was immersed in the world of commercial art and commissions. In 1994 she moved to Chicago, and there the pull of opposing political ideologies found expression in her work as a graphic designer and decorator. Then in 2003, when she came to Miami, she was exposed to a degree of freedom that she had never before witnessed. This inspired her to return to painting after a long absence, and since beginning anew in 2009, she has perfected her craft in a remarkably short period of time.

    She was a featured artist at the Bromeliad Society of South Florida show at Fairchild Tropical Garden in 2010 and 2011, she participated in Artists in Bloom at Fairchild as well, she displayed some of her work at Painters’ Passions H Gallery in Miami, at the Ramble at Fairchild in 2010 and 2011, at the Art of Bromeliads 2011 Extravaganza in Daytona Beach, and her dog “Kaiser’s Friend” holds an honored spot in Pinecrest Gardens as part of the smARTy Dogs For Smart Schools program that can be seen throughout Pinecrest.

    Dudek’s work has not gone without significant recognition. She was awarded the “Best Artist” at the 2011 Bromeliad Society of South Florida show at Fairchild Tropical Garden, second place at the Bromeliad Society show for her acrylic painting, and Best of Show at the Peabody in Daytona.

    In addition, Urszula has donated paintings to the Community Garden Charitable Fund’s silent auction at their annual soiree to benefit Pinecrest Gardens. Her work is on display in private collections in Chicago, Miami, and in Warsaw, Poland, and she is the subject of an article in the International Cryptanthus Society magazine. Two of her paintings also grace Fairchild Gardens’ 2012 calendar.

    This talented and dedicated artist is also an important member of the South Florida community. She donates her time to several organizations, and she still finds time to garden in her backyard where she draws inspiration for her painting, pastel and colored pencil work. Lately she has begun to explore new avenues by painting on silk.
    Urszula Dudek may be contacted at 305-781-0477 or at www.UrszulaDudekart.mosaicglobe.com. For Gardens Gallery information, call 305-669-6990.

    School’s Spirit Week winners donate to Running With Sole

    By
    Cynthia Gutierrez
    -
    Pictured (l-r) are Nada Sater, CEO and co-founder of Running With Sole, several students and Spirit Week winners from Ms. Tassy’s class, and Nellie Tassy, Riviera Day School fourth grade teacher.

    Riviera Day School recently celebrated the end of its annual Spirit Week with a trophy presentation to the winning class and a check to a local charity.

    Nellie Tassy’s fourth-grade class, winners of the Spirit Week trophy, got to help local children in need by donating their $500 winnings to Running With Sole, a local non-profit whose mission is to provide shoes to all in need, sports shoes to inner city and homeless children from ages 3 to 18, and promote physical activity and prevent childhood obesity.

    “Engaging and educating children on the benefits of an active lifestyle and healthy eating habits is what Running With Sole is all about,” said Nada Sater, CEO and co-founder of Running With Sole.

    “Riviera Day School’s donations will help us continue our programs so that inner city and homeless children feel empowered with self confidence and self respect,” she added.?

    “It was a nail-biting competition but my class won this whole thing against the rest of the school and I am so proud of them. But the best part was that we got to help others.” Tassy said. “When it was time to select a charity, I told my students about Running With Sole and the great work they do with children. They all loved the idea and agreed it was the best choice,” she added.

    This is the second time Riviera Day School has donated to Running With Sole. Last year the school donated $500 to the organization.

    Students For The Poor Benefit Concert

    By
    Jennifer Oates
    -
    Samantha Kerker, 16, shows off the tie-dye clothes she created to help Nicaragua. Proceeds from the Feb. 11 benefit concert will be used to build a critically needed Food For The Poor school in Chinandega, Nicaragua.

    Embarking on a new way to involve South Florida’s youth in philanthropy, Atlantic Community High School junior Samantha Kerker a has collaborated with students from six Palm Beach high schools to present a concert to build a Food For The Poor school in Chinandega, Nicaragua. You are invited to participate in this evening of music and dance with friends and family. Samantha’s idea to start “Students For The Poor” clubs in Palm Beach County was inspired by the questions her peers asked about her Food For The Poor mission trip to Nicaragua.



    Event chairs : The benefit concert is the collaboration of six Palm Beach high schools. Participating Food For The Poor Students For The Poor clubs include Atlantic Community High School, Suncoast Community High School, A.W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, Palm Beach Central High School, Boca Raton Community High School, and West Boca Raton Community High School. Students For The Poor (SFP) is a unique student outreach effort initiated by students and developed by Food For The Poor, Inc. (FFP). SFP is an organized outreach group on high school and college campuses throughout the United States.



    Sponsors : Performers to include The Kinected (Pop Music), Kasper featuring Syxx Ent (Hip Hop/Rap), Amanda (Pianist, singing Adele songs), and Siren (Rock Band).



    Use of proceeds : Proceeds from the benefit concert will be used to build a critically needed Food For The Poor school in Chinandega, Nicaragua to benefit disadvantaged children in the area. In developing countries, school classes are sometimes held under a tree or in a dilapidated building. Both of these scenarios make it difficult for the students to concentrate on their studies. Donations can also be mailed to: Food For The Poor, 6401 Lyons Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073.

    Please make checks payable to Food For The Poor and include the special source code “SC# 77575” to accurately route your donation.

    Economic Development Council announces new chair, vice chair

    By
    Lee Stephens
    -

    Dr. James A. Thomas has been elected to serve as the chair of the Economic Development Council (EDC) of South Miami-Dade.

    Founded in 1992, the EDC is a public/private not-for-profit organization. Its overall objective is to implement an economic development program that will foster a positive image for the community, attract new businesses that create quality jobs for residents, while diversifying and strengthening the economic base consistent for the future of South Miami-Dade.

    Thomas is the CEO of Computer Systems and Software Inc. and holds a master’s and doctorate in Business Administration.

    At the EDC, Thomas’ position as chair will be to support the expansion and retention of existing business, to increase the overall economic vitality of the communities, and to attract new diversified business and employment to the area.

    Peter England has been elected to serve as the EDC vice chair.

    England previously served as director of government relations with Camillus House, and was the chief marketing officer for both Florida Power and Light and Florida Federal Savings. England held elected office as vice mayor of St. Petersburg.

    He earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing, and has done post-graduate work at the Columbia University Graduate School of Business in New York. He is a 26-year resident of Palmetto Bay.

    England is eager to team with Thomas and the board members of the EDC to create new beginnings for 2012.

    For more information about the Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade, call 305-378-9470 or go online to www.edcsouthdade.com.

    Author recounts his journey to find God in new book

    By
    Brian Mclendon
    -
    The latest studies find that nearly one in three Americans will change their religious affiliation at some point in their lives. We are, more than ever, a nation of God hoppers.

    The latest studies find that nearly one in three Americans will change their religious affiliation at some point in their lives. We are, more than ever, a nation of God hoppers.

    For New York Times bestselling author and former NPR foreign correspondent Eric Weiner — an agnostic by default — a health scare that put him briefly in the hospital leads him on an unexpected exploration of faith. While in pain and awaiting a diagnosis, a well-meaning nurse asks him a simple, blunt question: “Have you found your God yet?”

    This out of the blue query nags, prods, and ultimately launches him on a far-flung journey to do just that. The result is Man Seeks God: My Flirtations with the Divine, a funny, illuminating chronicle of his globe-spanning spiritual quest to find a faith that fits.

    Weiner, a longtime “spiritual voyeur” and inveterate traveler, realizes that while he has been privy to a wide range of religious practices, he’s never seriously considered these concepts in his own life. Face to face with his own mortality, and spurred on by the question of what spiritual principles to impart to his young daughter, he decides to correct this omission, undertaking a worldwide exploration of religions and hoping to come to a personal understanding of the divine.

    The journey that results is rich in insight, humor, and heart. Willing to do anything to better understand faith, and to find the god or gods that speak to him, he travels to Nepal, where he meditates with Tibetan lamas and a guy named Wayne. He sojourns to Turkey, where he whirls (not so well, as it turns out) with Sufi dervishes. He heads to China, where he attempts to unblock his chi; to Israel, where he studies Kabbalah, sans Madonna; to the Bronx, where he volunteers at a homeless shelter run by Franciscan friars, and to Las Vegas, where he has a close encounter with Raelians (followers of the world’s largest UFO-based religion).

    At each stop along the way, Weiner keeps an open mind, leaves judgment at the door, and tackles our most pressing spiritual questions: Where do we come from? What happens when we die? How should we live our lives? Where do all the missing socks go?

    With his trademark wit and warmth, he leaves no stone unturned. At a time when more Americans than ever are choosing a new faith, and when spiritual questions loom large in the modern age, Man Seeks God presents a perspective on religion that is sure to delight, inspire, and entertain.

    Eric Weiner is author of the New York Times bestseller The Geography of Bliss, which has been translated into 18 languages. A former correspondent for NPR and the New York Times, Weiner has reported from more than three dozen countries. His work has appeared in the New Republic, Slate, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, Foreign Policy, The New York Times Magazine, and the anthology Best American Travel Writing. He divides his time between Starbucks and Caribou.

    Weiner will be talking and signing his new book on Thursday, Jan. 26, 8 p.m., at Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave. in Coral Gables.

    For more information, visit online at www.ericweinerbooks.com.

    Sunny Isles Beach Ocean Rescue Division Report

    By
    Justin Broman
    -
    Justin Broman

    Sunny Isles Beach Ocean Rescue (SIBOR) Division is here to insure your safety while visiting the beach. One of the ways to keep our patrons safe is to prevent any possible emergency from happening whether it’s on the beach or in the water. However, if there is an emergency, we are ready and highly trained to take action.

    OCEAN RESCUE STATISTICS FOR 2011
    Bathers – 1,842,533
    Preventions – 10,852
    Assists – 208
    Rescues – 56
    First aid administered – 2,043
    Stings treated – 5,583

    When patrons visit the beach, they often visit with family and friends and are excited and eager to have fun. It is important to remember the ocean can be as dangerous as it is beautiful. Taking time out to plan your trip before you arrive at the beach can only help prevent an accident from happening and warn you of unseen dangers. You can call the Ocean Rescue Hotline (305-792-1940) to find out about any hazards or possible dangerous conditions (e.g. dangerous marine life, rip currents, winds, waves, surf conditions, etc.).

    As you arrive at the beach, you can always approach our lifeguard towers to find out useful information and any recent changes in weather or possible hazards. The lifeguard towers are fully-equipped first aid stations and have trained Ocean Rescue personnel readily available to answer any question you might have. The towers fly a colored flag system and have a daily condition board as well.

    Recently, the City Commission approved an increase in lifeguard towers in selected locations. This will give lifeguards a better view of you and your families.

    So always remember safety first and you will definitely have fun and a great experience at the beach.

    Don’t forget – ALWAYS SWIM NEAR A LIFEGUARD!

    Aventura Optima Plaza hosts ‘topping-off’ celebration City welcomes LEED Gold designed office/medical building

    By
    Bari Auerbach
    -
    LEED Gold designed office/medical building

    Truly defining “optimal development,” Aventura Optima Plaza, rising at 21500 Biscayne Boulevard, recently hosted a festive topping- off ceremony celebrating near completion of Aventura’s newest Class A, LEED Gold designed office/medical building developed by the prestigious Mexican firm Arquitectos Brom Asociados in association with Behar Font and Partners.

    Business and community leaders sharing optimistic predictions that Aventura Optima Plaza will “make business a pleasure” in a very environmentally friendly way were greeted by developers Ariel Bromberg and Jose Bromberg;Moises Gorin, Managing Member of Maor Consulting, LLC, who heads construction for the project and Randy Olen, Executive Vice President of Colliers International South Florida – the building’s exclusive leasing agent.

    Expressing appreciation to all those who helped ensure the exciting opportunity to build Aventura Optima Plaza comes to fruition, Ariel Bromberg said, “This celebration is the culmination of many years of work by a dedicated group of individuals who participated in our quest to bring a Gold LEED certified building to the City of Aventura. We searched long and hard before deciding on this site for our first venture in the United States. Previously, our focus has been in Mexico City, where we’ve developed several similar projects. We extend our gratitude to the Aventura City Commission and city staff for helping us go forward with Aventura Optima Plaza.”

    During the event, members of the Aventura City Commission concurred the city’s reputation for excellence and opulence will be enhanced by Aventura Optima Plaza. “We’re so proud you’ve chosen Aventura for this LEED Gold building,” Mayor Susan Gottlieb said. “We hope it ‘leads the way’ and sets a green initiative example for our neighbors. Thank you for your vision!”

    Aventura Optima Plaza’s Gold LEED design (Leadership in Energy Engineering and Design) reflects one of the highest recognized standards measuring building sustainability. It will be the first building in South Florida to be built with a double skin facade, which includes special hurricane glazing. The project will also display decorative solar panels on the south side building facade which will produce 48 KV of electricity daily.

    Conveniently optimizing accessibility, Aventura Optima Plaza fronts Biscayne Boulevard and is comprised of a ninestory office tower and four-story medical building connected by a covered parking structure featuring a 20,000-SF rooftop facility with a jogging path, landscaping and exercise rooms. In addition, it will feature a connecting fifth level terrace with outdoor seating area which will include a water feature, reclaimed wood decks and landscaping.

    Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebrates Christmas and New Site

    By
    Gloria Burns
    -
    Father Israel Mago surrounded by chior members following midnight mass.

    Our Lady of Guadalupe Pastor, Father Israel Mago is looking forward  to the completion of a new church in 2012 being built at NW 25th St. and 117 Ave.  A celebratory mass held there on Dec. 12 with retired Archbishop Agustin Roman as celebrant confirms that commitment.  A rain storm failed to deter the many hundreds who gathered for the special occasion featuring a performance by mariachis and testimonials on miracles associated with the Blessed Mother, the Virgin of Guadalupe.

    More than 500 parishioners of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Doral gathered at Doral Charter High School for Christmas midnight mass on Dec. 24.  This was the first time since the church was created that parishioners could attend the ceremony at their own mass venue.

    The following week, the three kings made an appearance to participate in the mass celebrating the Epiphany as a surprise for the congregation.  At Our Lady of Guadalupe, there is always something new to bring the congregation closer to God and to one another.   For more information on the only Catholic Church in Doral, visit www.olgfl.org <http://www.olgfl.org/> .

    City National Sponsors Children’s Art Park at 61st Annual Beaux Arts Festival of Art

    By
    Community Press Releases
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    From left, City National Bank’s Karen Pascual, Patrick Ahern and Orlando Diaz outside the Children’s Art Park tent at the Beaux Arts Festival of Art.

    City National Bank (CNB) played host to a group of talented youth artists during the recent 61st Annual Beaux Arts Festival of Art.

    CNB sponsored the Children’s Art Park at the Beaux Arts Festival where more than 100 future artists ages 4-12 created their own arts and crafts. Each child also received a free CNB piggy bank.

    A South Florida tradition, the Beaux Arts Festival of Art is Miami’s oldest juried fine arts show – attracting over 25,000 visitors annually, offering works in 11 mediums for a variety of budgets, and bringing 250 fine artists to the grounds of the Lowe Art Museum on the University of Miami campus. All proceeds benefit the Lowe. For more information, visit www.BeauxArtsMiami.org.

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