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
Grove Isle’s first new residential development in decades is one step closer to completion.
Renowned real estate developer Ugo Colombo’s CMC Group has topped off construction of Vita at Grove Isle, a 65-unit ultra-luxury condominium on the 20-acre private island of Grove Isle, situated just offshore of Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood. The seven-story boutique waterfront development, located at 5 Grove Isle Dr., is comprised of three interlinked buildings, artfully forming one unified structure. Vita at Grove Isle is slated for delivery in late 2025.
Vita at Grove Isle is seeing strong sales, with nearly 80 percent of its residences pre-sold and under hard contract. The majority of the development’s buyers hail from the United States, showing strong domestic demand for newly built product as a primary residence in Coconut Grove, which has become one of Miami’s most desirable neighborhoods in the recent years.
“Seeing Vita at Grove Isle take shape is a fulfillment of our vision for future residents and the future of Grove Isle itself,” said Ugo Colombo, founder of CMC Group. “This development will offer an exclusive private island lifestyle, combining the unparalleled water views and unique location with the comfort and luxury of homes, all within the convenience of a condo. It truly redefines luxury living in one of Miami’s most sought-after residential enclaves.”
Residences at Vita at Grove Isle will feature unobstructed panoramic bay views, exquisite detailing, and the highest quality materials and craftsmanship. Units include three-, four-, and four-plus-den-bedroom layouts, along with a collection of 12 exclusive penthouses each boasting private rooftop pools, measuring up to 6,600 square feet in size. Residences are priced from about $6 million, with penthouses priced from about $19.5 million.
Vita at Grove Isle’s construction progress brings the island closer to much-needed significant upgrades, including roadway enhancements, updated signage, and guardhouse improvements, as well as the completion of the Vita at Grove Isle Club. Club members will have access to a club pool and adjacent bar, as well as additional amenities including night-lit tennis, padel ball and pickleball courts.
Vita residents also will have exclusive access to a range of indoor wellness facilities, including a private bayfront pool, bar, lounge, and fitness center and spa. Additional amenities include a children’s playground, along with a gourmet restaurant and bar, open to the public, which will serve lunch, dinner, and cocktails, along with access to the island’s marina.
CMC Group’s exceptional track record of sought after, sold out, high-quality residential buildings has established the firm’s strong and long-lasting relationships with top lenders.
In early 2024, CMC Group secured a $239 million construction loan from Bank OZK for the building.
Ugo Colombo has tapped global architecture and design firm CallisonRTKL, local architectural firm S & E Architects, and Italian designers Carlo and Paolo Colombo of A++ Architecture to create one-of-a-kind interior and amenity spaces at Vita at Grove Isle.
Composed to showcase a single architectural structure, the three buildings – Mare, Luce, and Sole – will offer a boutique living experience enveloped by lush, native landscaping.
The building’s design mirrors its unique Grove Isle location, inspired by the natural contours of the island in its elegant, curved shape while maximizing views of the sparkling Biscayne Bay.
Meticulous detail was paid to the design of Vita at Grove Isle. Every residence will include private elevators with a private foyer; contemporary Italian-designed open concept kitchens with concealed top-of-the-line appliances; elegant bathrooms with custom Italian cabinetry, European designer fixtures, hand-selected book matched marble, and masterfully crafted Italian stonework; at least 10-foot-high ceilings; pre-installed smart home technology including lighting, climate control and water/air filtration systems; high-performance interior wall soundproofing for ultimate relaxation and privacy; and large 13-foot-deep waterfront terraces – and up to 6,000 square feet of private rooftop space in penthouses – allowing for year-round outdoor dining, lounging and entertaining.
Spanning 20-acres, Grove Isle is considered one of Miami’s most exclusive private islands, located in Coconut Grove, just minutes away from mainland Miami via the scenic Grove Isle Drive Bridge. The secluded community is highly prized by residents as a peaceful haven with panoramic bay views.
The island is in close proximity to Miami’s best shopping, most elite schools, chef-driven restaurants, and entertainment destinations in areas such as Brickell, Miami Beach, and Coral Gables and has been described as one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the United States.
For more information about Vita at Grove Isle, including preconstruction sales opportunities, contact the sales team at (305) 400-7400 or info@vitagroveisle.com. A visit to the project’s sales gallery is made by appointment only. It is located at 3357 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove, FL 33133. Learn more at www.vitagroveisle.com.
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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.
Rosso Development, Standard International and Midtown Development have announced construction has topped off and windows have been installed up to the eighth floor at The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami, a 12-story pied-à-terre-style building centrally positioned in the heart of Miami’s most connected and walkable neighborhood.
Already 95 percent pre-sold, the project secured $45.045 million in financing from Bank OZK to begin building earlier this year and announced two major food and beverage concepts, Solana by Juvia Group on the rooftop and Rosetta Bakery Café & Privato Speakeasy on the ground floor.
“This marks an exciting milestone and serves as a testament to Midtown’s continued growth into one of Miami’s most in-demand neighborhoods,” said Carlos Rosso, founder of Rosso Development. “The support for the project and excitement it has generated among buyers and the community reinforces our vision for Midtown as a vibrant, thriving hub, where people want to live, work, and enjoy life. We are proud to be part of this dynamic evolution and look forward to delivering a development that truly embodies the spirit of this remarkable neighborhood.”
Tapping the industry’s best talents, The Standard Residences is crafted by internationally acclaimed architecture firm Arquitectonica, renowned interior designer Urban Robot in collaboration with The Standard’s award-winning in-house design team, landscape designer Naturalficial, and Civic Construction as the general contractor.
Located at 3100 NE First Ave., between The Design District and Wynwood, the building blends culture, community and style with world-class design, amenities and service. The 228 residences range from studios to two-bedroom layouts, all designed and finished with
The Standard’s distinctive touch and allow for flexible living, with owners able to lease out their units for terms as short as one month.
A lushly landscaped rooftop creates an elevated outdoor experience with a 60-foot, resort-style sunset pool, and signature rooftop restaurant and bar reminiscent of the vibe The Standard pioneered from LA to New York to London. Wellness offerings include a state-of-the-art sweat room and fitness center, an infrared sauna, an indoor pickleball court, and yoga and stretch studios.
A social floor features a karaoke bar and screening room, as well as fully equipped co-working spaces, Zoom rooms and a private boardroom. A dedicated Standard concierge will be available around the clock to assist owners and direct cultural and community programming.
Expected completion of The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami is the third quarter of 2025. Sales and marketing is managed exclusively by Douglas Elliman Development Marketing. For more information visit thestandardmiamiresidences.com.
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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.
More than 40,000 attendees see the artwork of,000-plus artists during Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami shows.
Redwood Art Group, the nation’s leader in exhibitions, event production, media, and marketing for the global fine art community, announces its return to Wynwood Arts District with its flagship art fairs, two of the longest running fairs during Miami Art Week.
Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami will return to MANA Wynwood Convention Center, offering “Two Fairs Under One Roof” for both exhibitors and art enthusiasts during this year’s Miami Art Week, taking place Dec. 4-8 at Mana Wynwood, 2217 NW Fifth Ave., and NW 22nd Street in Miami. The five-day fairs will cover more than 150,000 square feet of indoor exhibition space, all within walking distance of Wynwood’s coveted restaurants, bars, and retail boutiques. E-tickets can be purchased in advance by visiting redwoodartgroup.com/spectrum-miami/ and redwoodartgroup.com/red-dot-miami/.
Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami have grown to become the ultimate destination for the fine art industry professional and contemporary art enthusiast, with exhibits showcasing today’s elite artists, galleries, dealers, and emerging talents. With more than 40,000 attendees flocking to see the artwork of the 1,000-plus artists showcased by over 280 exhibitors, avid art enthusiasts and industry leaders also will return to enjoy Spectrum Miami’s sister fair, highlighting established and independent emerging artists.
Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami form the acclaimed contemporary and fine art experience that collectively presents some of today’s most coveted national and international galleries and artists from the U.S. and around the world. Redwood Art Group exclusively produces the two art fairs housed in one location — considered to be the only multi-fair production of its kind during Miami Art Week.
“We’re delighted to announce the dates for Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami, returning to Mana Wynwood for a 14th year and 19th year respectively, during Miami Art Week,” said Eric Smith, president of Redwood Art Group. “Last year, we saw a record attendance of international art enthusiasts and industry leaders, and we anticipate this year’s show to attract an even wider audience.
“We have some very special artists and galleries exhibiting for the very first time, and appointments are already being made with collectors from around the world. Attendees will enjoy the very best the fine art world and contemporary art industry has to offer, and we’re looking forward to introducing another five days of immersive art and entertainment.”
Spectrum Miami, an upscale and urban curated contemporary art fair, now in its 14th year, will be located adjacent to its sister fair, Red Dot Miami. Spectrum Miami presents special programs and site-specific exhibitions that showcase the thriving art landscape of the city. Spectrum Miami showcases independent career artists, studios, and younger galleries that are pushing the boundaries in surprising and significant ways.
Spectrum Miami also is where contemporary meets extraordinary, featuring the works of more than 200 exhibiting galleries and artists from the Florida region, the U.S. and around the globe. Known for its urban and upscale works of art, the five-day show attracts more than 40,000 visitors and high-net-worth collectors who interact with the specially curated programming, while celebrating the fine art experience with music, entertainment, and other special events.
Spectrum Miami offers established and emerging independent artists the opportunity to showcase their work on an international stage. Over the decades it has become the ultimate venue for independent artists to be discovered — not only by gallery owners and art publishers, but also by collectors and enthusiasts.
As part of the interactive schedule of programming, this year’s Spectrum Miami will include Art Labs featuring specially curated site-specific projects by prominent galleries, art institutions, and art collectives within the fair; Spotlight Program, providing collectors with a focused look at several prominent galleries and artists that will each be creating a site-specific exhibition, and the Discoveries Collection — selections of artwork chosen by the Spectrum Miami curatorial team that make up a group of amazing discoveries throughout the fair, each priced at $3,000 or less.
Red Dot Miami, a curated gallery-only contemporary art fair, now in its 19th year, will be located adjacent to Spectrum Miami as part of the highly anticipated annual presentation of leading galleries and their artists from the U.S. and around the world.
Red Dot Miami illuminates the best the contemporary art world has to offer, with its special exhibits and programming that showcases exhibitors, art industry professionals, and select nonprofits and institutions.
Red Dot Miami features more than 75 galleries representing over 500 leading contemporary artists from primary and secondary markets throughout the world. The five-day show attracts more than 40,000 visitors and high-net-worth collectors who interact with the specially curated programming, which includesSpotlight Galleries, a focused look at several cutting-edge galleries chosen by the Redwood Art Group selection committee; Art Labs, a series of outstanding projects by leading galleries, art institutions, and art collectives within the show, and the Discoveries Collection – selections of artwork chosen by the Red Dot Miami curatorial team that make up a group of amazing discoveries throughout the fair, each priced at $5,000 or less.
The complete Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami schedule of programing will be announced in November.
Returning exhibitors for this year’s Spectrum Miami, include Famespace, Jason Perez Art, Eric Von Siebert, Alfano Sculpture, Angela Fabbri and Peter Scherrer. Returning exhibitors for this year’s Red Dot Miami, include Contemporary Art Gallery USA, Mecenavie Gallery, Artavita/World Wide Art, Gebhardt Gallery, Perseus Gallery, The Gallery Steiner, Artblend and Latchezar Contemporary.
The Opening Night Preview for Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 4, featuring libations, hors d’oeuvres and musical entertainment. Tickets for the Opening Night Preview are priced at $85 per person and include access to all fair dates. A General Admission one-day pass for Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami is $50 and includes admission to the Opening Night Preview and one additional fair date when purchased online in advance (available until Nov. 15).
All tickets will be delivered as mobile e-tickets and can be purchased in advance. With digital ticketing, each guest’s mobile phone becomes their ticket, enabling a more streamlined and contactless entry experience. For further information or to purchase tickets, visit redwoodartgroup.com/ spectrum-miami/and redwoodartgroup.com/red-dot-miami/.
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.
The theme of the gala is Emerald City/A Return to Oz.
The Emmy and Gold Medal-winning South Florida Youth Symphony (SFYS), one of the country’s leading youth music organizations, will celebrate its landmark 60th year with an Emerald Gala, Nov. 9, at the Miami Shores Country Club, 10000 Biscayne Blvd.
The gala, to benefit the 60-year-old organization’s ongoing mission of empowering young musicians, begins with a 6:30 p.m. cocktail hour — featuring the Magic City Jazztet — followed by dinner and show at 7:30 p.m.
In keeping with the theme of the gala — Emerald City/A Return to Oz — guests are asked to wear a Land of Oz costume or evening attire.
“This Land of Oz costumed gala should be a fun evening for everyone and will be a night to remember,” said Marjorie Hahn, South Florida Youth Symphony executive and music director. “In addition to the costumes and entertainment, we’ll have a wide variety of enticing silent auction items for attendees to bid on.”
Following the three-course dinner, guests will be entertained with a cabaret show featuring Ryan and Cindy Ellis.
In addition to supporting the South Florida Youth Symphony’s ongoing music programs, a portion of the funds raised from the event will help the SFYS — which is comprised mainly of students from low income and underserved households in north Miami Dade and south Broward counties — underwrite scholarship programs for deserving young musicians.
During Hahn’s 53-year career as an educator, conductor and executive of the SFYS — founded by her late stepfather Maestro Carmen Nappo — the organization has awarded nearly $500,000 in scholarships and instruments to in-need students. No child has been turned away in the last five-plus decades because of a lack of financial resources.
Individual tickets are $125 and a limited number of gala sponsorships are available at the Silver ($1,800), Gold ($2,250) and Emerald ($3,000) levels. Tables of 10 are $1,250.
To purchase tickets or sponsorships — available through Oct. 25 — contact the South Florida Youth Symphony at sfysmusic.org for gala information or via phone, 305-962-2079.
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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.
Following Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s strong commitment to Vision Zero, aimed at reducing traffic accidents, fatalities and serious injuries by 2040, the Miami-Dade Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW), the Miami-Dade County District 5 Commission Office, and the Miami Downtown Development Authority (Miami DDA) have collaborated to add 170 special separation devices in the buffer zones of the bike lanes along N. Miami Avenue and NE First Avenue.
These devices create protected bicycle lanes, providing cyclists with clearly marked space for biking separate from traffic, while also promoting slower speeds and discouraging vehicles from parking in these dedicated lanes.
“As we continue to grow as a community, it is crucial that our infrastructure reflects the needs of all who live and work here. This project is another step forward in creating safe, equitable, and efficient mobility for all, including our large community of cyclists,” Mayor Levine Cava said. “Whether you’re driving, walking, cycling, or using public transit, everyone deserves to feel safe on our streets. Together, we are building a future where safety and accessibility go hand in hand, ensuring that every resident is safe, regardless of how they move.”
The separation devices not only will enhance visual awareness between motorists and pedestrians, leading to increased safety, they will contribute to the beautification of the area. The marine-grade aluminum planters selected for this project, provided by Green Theory and Division 32, have anti-graffiti coating and will feature a variety of Florida native plants. The planters will be maintained by the Miami DDA’s Downtown Enhancement Team and will enhance the aesthetic appeal of the Downtown area while also supporting sustainability.
“The new landscape planters simultaneously add to the beauty of Downtown Miami while making it a more enjoyable and safer place for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike. We look forward to expanding the program by adding zipper buffers and expanding outside of the Central Business District,” said Miami-Dade County District 5 Commissioner Eileen Higgins, vice chair of the Miami DDA.
These planters are part of the Downtown Mobility Network, a joint planning and funding effort among the county, city, Miami DDA, Miami Parking Authority, District 5 Commission Office and District 2 City Commission Office. The program proposed implementing 2.5 miles of separated bike lanes in the Central Business District of Downtown Miami and installation began in 2021.
“We want to ensure that regardless of how you travel through Downtown Miami, you are able to do so safely,” said Christina Crespi, CEO and executive director of the Miami DDA.
“We are proud to help fund this initiative to provide cyclists with a clear path to navigate the urban core, while also protecting our pedestrians and providing more mobility options for the workers, residents, students and visitors that frequent the area.”
For the next phase, the same kind of protection will be installed on NE and NW Fifth and Sixth streets. Future plans for the Downtown Mobility Network include extending it to NE 15th Street, the Venetian Causeway, and eventually Brickell. This program aligns with Miami-Dade County’s and the Miami DDA’s transportation goals of developing innovative micro-mobility networks and expanding protected bike lanes throughout the county.
“We are continuing our commitment to creating safer modes of transportation throughout the county,” added Eulois Cleckley, DTPW director and CEO. “These safety improvements advance our lofty goal of ending all traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2040.”
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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.
In support of Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s Climate Action Strategy and Future-Ready Economic Plan, PortMiami has received a $19,547,316 grant from the Resilient Florida Program to construct a new, elevated Berth 10 bulkhead system that will ultimately protect the existing uplands from flooding and potential damage caused by sea level rise.
“This funding from the Resilient Florida Program is a testament to our commitment to safeguarding Miami-Dade County’s future,” said Mayor Levine Cava. “We are taking a proactive approach to ensure that PortMiami remains a vital hub for international trade while also addressing the challenges posed by climate change and rising sea levels, which is critical to the ongoing function and growth of PortMiami.
“This investment will strengthen our infrastructure, protect jobs, and support sustainable economic growth for the region, while reflecting our broader vision of building a resilient, future-ready Miami-Dade,” the mayor added.
Strengthening the port’s bulkheads, berths and assets is a priority and necessary to avoid operational shutdowns in the event of a significant hurricane or storm surge events. Funds from this program will be used to replace the existing shoreline at Berth 10 with an elevated new bulkhead, stormwater improvements, and an angled transition submerged toe wall, designed to embrace the living shoreline. This project will prevent the intrusion of floodwaters into the port’s existing critical infrastructure, which includes a bidirectional cargo roadway, cargo yard, and an electrical substation.
PortMiami is recognized as the Cruise Capital of the World and Global Gateway of the Americas. The port is among Miami-Dade County’s largest economic engines contributing $61 billion annually to the local economy and supporting more than 340,000 jobs. For more information, visit www.portmiami.biz.
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.
Linda Perry: Let It Die Here, 2023 (Credit: H. Zumbrun)
OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival, internationally acclaimed as one of the largest LGBTQ+ cultural festivals in the world, has announced its 42nd edition fall dates, preview of featured films and a new format designed to unite cinema enthusiasts from South Florida and beyond.
For the first time in its event history, OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival will offer 62 acclaimed features and shorts including premieres and documentaries from 25 countries that inspire, entertain and educate to theaters and audiences in both Broward and Miami-Dade counties during one run.
This year’s fall festival will open in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, Oct. 17 at Regal Dania Pointe (128 Sunset Dr., Dania Beach) and will run through Thursday, Oct. 24, at Paradigm Cinemas: Gateway Fort Lauderdale (1820 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale) and Savor Cinema (503 SE Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale).
From Friday, Oct. 25, through Sunday, Oct. 27, the festival will move to Silverspot Cinema Miami (300 SW Third Street) and Regal South Beach (1120 Lincoln Road Mall, Miami Beach) followed by select screenings available from Monday, Oct. 28, to Sunday, Nov. 3, during the OUTshine AT HOME extension.
“We are thrilled to introduce the newly reimagined OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival to South Florida,” said Allen Martello, festival co-director, OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival. “Film is better with friends and our vision is to bring our community together to celebrate inspiring LGBTQ+ cinema with a fall and a spring festival in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
“We’re also thrilled to welcome back free Uber rides to and from select film screenings in Miami making it easier for our Fort Lauderdale neighbors to travel to Downtown Miami via rail. By connecting our community, we’re also adding on extra viewings, parties and special events, increasing the festival’s run dates in theaters and at home.”
Young Hearts (Belgium/Netherlands, 2023) will open this year’s fall festival on Thursday, Oct. 17, 7 p.m., at Regal Dania Pointe. Written and directed by Anthony Schatteman in his feature debut, the film explores first love as 14-year-old Elias (Lou Goossens, in a breakthrough performance) contends with his feelings for Alex, a cool new neighbor.
Exquisitely filmed in the Belgian countryside, this profound story resonates on multiple levels: a balm for those whose initial queer experiences were traumatic, a mirror for today’s LGBTQ+ youth, and a hopeful message for parents of future generations.
An afterparty at the Dania Improv will take place immediately following the screening.
This year’s Centerpiece Film screening at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 at Savor Cinema will be the East Coast premiere of Hammarskjöld – Fight For Peace (Sweden, 2024), a speculative biopic about Swedish UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld, the anti-colonialist, allegedly queer diplomat who died under mysterious circumstances during the Cold War while trying to bring peace to The Congo. The film is directed by Per Fly.
Back by popular demand is the festival’s Latin Spotlight featuring critically acclaimed men’s and women’s films set to take place on Oct. 25 at Silverspot Cinema Miami. The fall edition’s selections areThe Astronaut Lovers (Los Amantes Astronautas) (Argentina/Spain, 2024) and the North American premiere of The Muleteer (La Arriera) (Mexico, 2024).
Directed by Marco Berger, The Astronaut Lovers is a breezy comedy about Pedro and Maxi, childhood friends reuniting as young men who fall in love and comically try to hide it from family and friends. In The Muleteer, director Isabel Cristina Fregoso presents a compelling 1930s narrative about daring teenage Emilia who ventures from the ranch where she grew up to find her biological father. Riding her horse through the mountains, where she pretends to be a young muleteer, she discovers a different world that leads her to find her destiny.
Additional selections of note include High Tide (United States, 2024) featuring Brazilian star Marco Pigossi at the heart of a moving tale of a gay immigrant in Provincetown navigating the gig economy after an unexpected breakup. The film also stars Marisa Tomei, Mya Taylor, and Bill Irwin; Drive Back Home (Canada, 2024), a brotherly road trip drama taking place in 1970 starring Alan Cumming; All Shall Be Well (Hong Kong, 2024), director Ray Yueng’s Teddy Award-winning film exploring family dynamics, unraveling relationships and the complexities of Hong Kong’s inheritance laws; the award-winning Pet Shop Days (USA/Italy/Mexico/UK, 2023), director Olmo Schnabel’s gritty throwback to American independent cinema with a riveting portrait of lost young men seeking connection featuring fantastic performances (including Willem Dafoe), raw emotion, and propulsive pacing; and the documentaries Linda Perry: Let It Die Here (United States, 2024) and Sapir (Israel, 2024), an engrossing portrait of the world’s first professional league transgender football referee, Sapir Berman.
Focusing on local LGBTQ+ filmmaking talent, OUTshine has curated a new South Florida Shorts program and will present its Filmmaker Panel during the festival run.
“Film lovers can expect a lineup of international, North American, U.S. and East Coast premieres stacked with notable award-winning and up-and-coming directors, actors and writers sharing creative visions and personal experiences that excite, exhilarate and uplift the human spirit,” said Joe Bilancio, director of programming, OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival.
“At a time when diversity and acceptance is in the spotlight, it’s paramount for us to present films and programs with balanced viewpoints that promote tolerance, equality, understanding and empathy,” he said.
OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival’s fall edition closes at 6 p.m. at Regal Cinemas South Beach with the film Layla (UK, 2024), a love letter to the queer community. Written and directed by Amrou Al-Kadhi, the film focuses on Layla, a struggling Arab non-binary drag queen whose confident façade hides their desperate desire for love.
When Layla’s performance at a belittling corporate Pride event turns into a transgressive takedown, they are surprised to catch the eye of marketing executive Max, whose attentions sweep Layla off their feet. As Layla starts to alter who they are in order to keep Max’s interest, they both must face uncomfortable truths.
Immediately following, a celebratory Closing Night Party will take place on historic Lincoln Road.
“The OUTshine staff, leadership, and board of directors are all incredibly excited to bring this new approach toOUTshine in both cities this fall,” said Owen Carhart, festival co-director, OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival. “Paired with new sponsors, opportunities, and a revamped community partner program, we can’t wait to show you just where OUTshine is headed, not only this fall, but for the years to come.”
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.
Internationally acclaimed artist Romero Britto has acquired a 58,000-square-foot property in Miami for $11.8 million.
Located in Miami’s Little River neighborhood at 795 NW 72 St., the dazzling compound has two floors and is highly customized. The Britto Palace already has hosted dignitaries, celebrities, innovators, and art patrons from all over the globe. It also is considered the largest art studio in the world.
Ocean Bank announced a $9.4 million loan for the purchase of the property which is now the official new headquarters of the Britto Group in the USA which has business globally in fine art, consumer goods, retail, brand licensing, real estate, coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, skin care and liquor.
“The Britto Palace is a magical place where I like to spend most of my days creating with the purpose to bring more happiness to the world,” Britto said. Dr. Lucas Vidal, CEO of Britto Group and Britto’s business partner, added, “Miami is the perfect vibrant and dynamic city for our new global headquarters and to our business expansion.”
Raphael Garcia and Gladys Reed, senior vice president and Private Client Services manager, arranged the loan for Ocean Bank.
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.
The U.S. Department of Education recently recognized 356 schools as the 2024 cohort of the National Blue Ribbon Schools, including 15 schools in Florida and five in Miami-Dade County.
This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
Miami-Dade County schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools were:
• Coral Gables – George Washington Carver Middle School, Miami Dade County Public Schools.
• Hialeah – Jose Marti Mast 6-12 Academy, Miami-Dade School District.
• Miami – HIVE Preparatory School, Miami-Dade School District.
• Miami – True North Classical Academy, Miami-Dade.
• Miami Gardens – North Dade Center For Modern Languages, Miami-Dade School District.
“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.”
The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent a wide array of schools, they share common traits.
National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and there is a concerted effort to ensure every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is a key component of their success.
A National Blue Ribbon School award flag displayed in a school’s entryway or on a flagpole is a widely recognized emblem of exceptional teaching and learning. These schools serve as models of effective and innovative practices for educators across the nation.
The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories.
• Exemplary High Performing Schools: These schools are among the top performers in their state as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
• Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools: These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between different student groups and the overall student body.
Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, and community involvement.
Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites nominations for the National Blue Ribbon Schools award from the top education official in all states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. Private schools are nominated by the Council for American Private Education.
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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.
Academy sixth graders Logan Núñez and Julianna De la Guardia (l-r, front) along with fifth grader Aiden Perillo and sixth grader Enzo Martinez (l-r, rear) work together in group exercise.
A Conversation with Motivating Minds Academy’s Betty Riera
Riera
A Conversation with Motivating Minds Academy’s Betty Riera
Education is a journey of transformation, not just for students but for educators as well.
Betty Riera, founder of the Motivating Minds Academy, understands this better than most.
With a passion for holistic, personalized education, she has dedicated her career to fostering environments where students learn to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally.
Riera’s path to teaching began long before her official teaching career, and her enthusiasm for the achievement of others has always made her a natural educator. Today, her academy is known for its unique approach to tailoring each child’s education to their learning style, all while nurturing their overall development.
Explore more about her journey, her inspirations, and how Motivating Minds Academy is shaping the future of education in the Coconut Grove community.
Q: What inspired you to get you into teaching? Riera: Well, educating and planting seeds of knowledge have always been something I’ve naturally been drawn to do. It’s more than just teaching in a classroom — it’s about educating on all fronts. Even as a child, I would help my family members with homework and school projects by cutting out encyclopedia pages and putting book reports together for them right at my parent’s kitchen table. That early experience and inspiration from some of the impactful teachers I had growing up ignited a love for teaching and leading.
Q: Motivating Minds Academy has a unique approach to education. What inspired you to pursue a more nontraditional approach to schooling? Riera: Our methods are born from a belief that traditional educational methods are too broad and don’t serve every student effectively. We were inspired by student-centered learning models, which emphasize student choice and autonomy. Research shows that when students have a say in their learning process, they’re more engaged and motivated. We also believe education should focus on the whole person — not just their academics but also their social, emotional, and creative development.
Q: Motivating Minds focuses on helping students develop skills for life outside the classroom. So, how do you ensure your kids thrive academically, socially, and emotionally? Riera: We take a comprehensive approach to helping our students thrive in all aspects of their lives. We personalize academic learning to fit each student’s strengths, interests, and needs. This means individualized learning plans and real-world projects that make learning more engaging and relevant. Socially, we emphasize collaborative learning, encourage leadership roles in school activities, and focus on conflict resolution and cultural awareness to help our students navigate real-world challenges. Emotionally, we integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) into our daily curriculum, which promotes self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and coping strategies.
Q: How do you figure out what works best for each student, and how do you tailor their education to best fit their needs? Riera: Understanding each student’s learning style is key to our approach. We start by conducting initial assessments, including surveys, diagnostic tests, and observational methods, to gauge their strengths, interests, and learning preferences. We also listen to feedback from students and parents, which gives us a fuller picture of their needs. Once we identify how a student learns best — whether through visual aids, hands-on activities, or group work — we tailor their instruction accordingly. This might involve personalized learning plans, flexible grouping strategies, or varied assessment methods to give them different opportunities to demonstrate their understanding.
Q: As a long-time educator with deep ties to Miami, how does being part of the colorful and culturally rich Coconut Grove community shape what you do at Motivating Minds? Riera: The Grove’s vibrant, diverse culture is a massive influence on what we do at the Academy. I was born and raised here, so this community has always inspired me personally. We embrace the rich cultural heritage of the Grove by incorporating local traditions, arts, and music into our curriculum. This makes learning more enjoyable for our students and helps them develop a deeper appreciation for their community. Whether through field trips to local landmarks or by inviting guest speakers from the neighborhood, we’re always looking for ways to connect our students with the vibrant culture of Coconut Grove.
Q: Outside of school, what’s your passion? Riera: When I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and friends, going on ocean adventures, practicing yoga and meditation, and taking my dog, Rocky, for long walks. I’m also very passionate about health and nutrition. I’m actually certified in nutrition counseling and education skill development. I believe that a balanced lifestyle is key to overall well-being.
About Motivating Minds Academy
Motivating Minds Academy inspires students and families in the Grove with its innovative, student-centered approach. For more information, visit their website at https://motivatingmindsacademy.co/ or stop by the campus to witness the magic of holistic learning in action, at 3121 Commodore Plaza, Miami, FL 33133.
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.
Get ready for epic family fun: Monster Jam tickets on sale
Sparkle Smash
Get ready for epic family fun: Monster Jam tickets on sale
Experience Monster Jam live and become a fan for life with an ultimate day of family fun at loanDepot park on Jan. 25-26, 2025. Get ready to cheer, scream, and be amazed as massive Monster Jam trucks and world champion drivers take over Miami for a weekend packed with high-flying action and jaw-dropping stunts.
This isn’t just any event — it’s As Big As It Gets — where 12,000-pound trucks stand on two wheels and fly through the air in competitions of speed and skill. It’s all happening at Monster Jam, where every moment is unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable.
Feel the thrill of full-throttle fun
Get ready for non-stop excitement as Miami roars to life with gravity-defying stunts, heart-pounding races, and plenty of big air. The world’s best drivers tear up on the dirt as they battle for the Event Championship in three competitions: Racing, Skills, and everyone’s favorite, Freestyle, where Monster Jam trucks defy the laws of physics and do the impossible. Fans will be right in the middle of the action, helping to crown the Event Champion as they get to score the drivers in real time based on their skills, stunts, and saves.
Monster Jam Pit Party
The day of fun starts at the Monster Jam Pit Party on Saturday, where families can get up close and personal with these massive trucks, snap a selfie, meet their favorite drivers, and collect autographs. It’s the perfect way to start a day of adrenaline-charged fun, packed with family-friendly activities.
Monster Jam Trackside Experience
Arrive early and get revved up with Monster Jam Trackside, happening about an hour before the event. It’s packed with driver interviews, pit crew sneak peeks, and epic giveaways that’ll get everyone pumped up before the action begins. Then, watch as the opening ceremonies set the stage for non-stop Monster Jam madness!
Meet the superstars of Monster Jam
These aren’t just any drivers — they’re world-class male and female athletes who have mastered controlling these 12,000-pound beasts. Whether pulling off insane backflips, nailing vertical two-wheel tricks, or tearing up the track in all-out racing, these drivers are ready to wow fans with the most mind-blowing live motorsports action around.
The competition is fierce as 12 top drivers battle for the Stadium Championship Series West title and a coveted spot in the Monster Jam World Finals in Salt Lake City, UT, on July 4th weekend.
Fans can cheer on their favorites, like Adam Anderson in the legendary Grave Digger; fierce and fearless Kayla Blood driving Sparkle Smash, a six-ton unicorn with a bold attitude; Tristan England driving JCB DIGatron which was designed in conjunction with JCB’s engineering team and inspired by JCB’s iconic construction equipment; and more!
When: Saturday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.
Pit Party open from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. (Saturday Event Ticket and Pit Party Pass required for entry.)
Sunday, Jan. 26, 3 p.m. Where: loanDepot Park, 501 Marlins Way, Miami, FL 33125
Tickets: Gravity-defying action, down-to-earth prices. Tickets and Pit Party Passes are now available for purchase online at MLB.com. Ticket prices subject to change – additional venue/ticketing fees may apply.
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.
