Miami-Dade and Dade County FCU launch financial literacy initiative

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April 1, 2025

The Miami-Dade County Community Action and Human Services Department (CAHSD), in collaboration with Dade County Federal Credit Union (DCFCU), has announced the launch of a groundbreaking financial literacy initiative aimed at empowering residents with essential financial knowledge and skills.

This partnership is designed to enhance financial self-sufficiency and promote effective household financial management across the county.

“Empowering our residents with financial knowledge is key to building a stronger, more self-sufficient Miami-Dade,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “This partnership between the Community Action and Human Services Department and Dade County Federal Credit Union will provide essential resources that help families make informed financial decisions, reduce debt, and achieve long-term economic stability. We are committed to ensuring financial wellness is within reach for all members of our community.”

Accessible through Miami-Dade County’s official CAHSD website, this new virtual financial literacy platform will provide residents with critical resources, including budgeting tools, credit management guidance, savings strategies, and pathways to financial wellness. By leveraging DCFCU’s expertise and CAHSD’s expansive reach, the initiative aims to support individuals and families in making informed financial decisions, reducing debt, and building long-term economic stability.

“Financial literacy is a cornerstone of self-sufficiency, and we are committed to equipping our residents with the tools they need to succeed,” said Sonia Grice, director of the Miami-Dade County Community Action and Human Services Department. “Through this partnership with Dade County Federal Credit Union, we are ensuring that financial wellness is within reach for all members of our community.”

The virtual financial literacy platform will be available under the “More Services” section of the CAHSD website, making it easily accessible to residents seeking financial guidance and education. This initiative aligns with Miami-Dade County’s ongoing commitment to economic empowerment and community development, reinforcing the County’s dedication to providing innovative solutions that uplift and support residents.

“We are honored to collaborate with Miami-Dade County to bring financial literacy tools and educational content to our community,” said George Joseph, CEO of Dade County Federal Credit Union. “Helping residents gain financial independence is at the heart of our mission, and this partnership allows us to expand our reach and impact.”

The new financial literacy initiative is available immediately in various language, offering interactive content, workshops, and personalized financial planning resources. Residents are encouraged to explore the platform and take advantage of the available tools to enhance their financial well-being.

For more information about the new financial literacy platform, visit CAHSD’s website at www.miamidade.gov/global/service.page?Mduid_service=ser1741356745585604.

ABOUT US:

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

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

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

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

Hop to it! The Easter Bunny returning to Dadeland Mall

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Community News Releases

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April 1, 2025

Hop to it! The Easter Bunny returning to Dadeland Mall

Dadeland Mall has announced the Easter Bunny will visit with families as part of the Bunny Photo Experience in Center Court. The Easter Bunny arrives on Apr. 4 and will be available for visits until Apr. 19.

The Bunny Photo Experience will be open daily, and reservations are strongly encouraged.

For daily Bunny Photo hours and to make reservations, visit https://whereisbunny.com/mall/0166?utm_campaign=ma-dadeland-mall&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=website-simon.

Dadeland Mall also will host events with the Easter Bunny this season including:

• Chic & Seek Fashion Show & Egg Scavenger Hunt, Saturday, Apr. 5 — Enjoy a stylish morning fashion show with Tutto Piccolo, showcasing spring fashions for children from 10 to 11 a.m. near the Play Area, followed by an egg scavenger hunt at Dick’s House of Sport, Britto, Laderach, and more participating stores from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families will be able to enter to win the golden egg prize ($300-plus value) with participating retailer gifts and gift cards. The first 100 children will receive an Easter Basket. Space is limited, visit DadelandMall.com to reserve your spot today. Sponsored by South Dade KIA.

• Caring Bunny – Caring Bunny is a private event for children with special needs and their families. Special care is taken to ensure a sensory-friendly environment. Reservations are required. Sunday, Apr. 6, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Reserve your spot by visiting https://whereisbunny.com/mall/0166?utm_campaign=dadeland-mall&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=website-rsc-simon.

ABOUT US:

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

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

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

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

Fluoride Is Widely Available — It No Longer Belongs in Our Water

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Miami-Dade Commissioner Roberto J. Gonzalez

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April 1, 2025

For nearly seven decades, fluoride has been added to Miami-Dade County’s public
water supply. This practice was widely accepted as a public good. But the science,
the availability of fluoride in consumer products, and the public’s relationship
with public health institutions have all evolved. It is time our policies reflect that
evolution.

On April 1, I am bringing forward legislation to end water fluoridation in Miami-Dade. Some have asked why now. The answer is simple: public health policy should be guided by three principles — evidence, caution, and choice. Water
fluoridation now falls short on all three.

Let me be clear — this is not a political issue. Despite what some in the media have implied, this effort is neither partisan nor ideological. In fact, the federal court case that has reignited this national conversation was decided by a judge appointed by President Barack Obama. The current U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., a Democrat, has long raised concerns about the health risks associated with fluoride. The last time this issue came before our Commission in 2014, the presentation was sponsored by a Democrat.
Questioning the government’s handling of public health policy is not partisan — it
is responsible. And protecting public health is not about politics — it is about
stewardship. A question about the role or performance of government need not
come with a party label. It simply deserves a fair hearing.

The Environmental Protection Agency once recommended fluoride levels between 1.4 and 2.4 parts per million. That standard dropped to 0.7 ppm during the Obama administration, and now a federal court is requiring the EPA to reexamine even that lower threshold. Mounting evidence suggests that current levels may pose “an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment.” If what was once safe is no longer safe, and today’s standards are under scrutiny, what will be the standard tomorrow?

I don’t think we need 100 percent certainty to take measured action. Minimizing risk — especially when it involves pregnant women, infants, and children —requires nuance, not perfection. The right thing to do is to err on the side of
caution.

Even if we assume, that some concerns about fluoride are overstated, there
remains no justification for forced, mass exposure to a chemical that is already
widely available through toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental treatments.
The benefits of water fluoridation are, by nearly all accounts, marginal in the
modern era. The risks, meanwhile, are increasingly acknowledged. The balance
has shifted.

The pandemic also left us with a broader lesson. Florida led the way because we did not allow for government overreach. Nonetheless, trust in government is fragile. It is rebuilt not with force, but with respect — for science, for personal responsibility, and for people’s right to make decisions for themselves and their
families.

All of us have more data, better access to health care, and more ways to protect dental health without universal chemical exposure. Ending fluoridation is not a rejection of science. It is a recognition of updated science and informed consent.
I urge residents to view this matter as a public health reset. Let us move forward with humility, with care, and with the understanding that good governance begins with listening — and acting — when new facts come to light.

Roberto J. Gonzalez is the Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 11 and
the Safety and Health Committee Chairman, representing the greater West
Kendall area. He and his wife, Jessyca, are the proud parents of three daughters:
Skye, Ava, and Leah.

Host Lori Nussbaum welcomes Sarah Couper & Thomas Guerra, MS., Founder/CEO of F-Fentanyl, Inc.

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CNews YouTube

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April 1, 2025

Host Lori Nussbaum welcomes Sara Couper (APRN, FNP, PMHNP-BC of Inner Balance Healthcare) & Thomas Guerra, MS. (Founder/CEO of F-Fentanyl, Inc.) to discuss Fentanyl’s affect on our local community, what Harm Reduction is, and F-Fentanyl, Inc.’s role in supporting people seeking recovery.

To learn more, visit: www.F-Fent.org

For more news, be sure to go to www.CommunityNewspapers.com/CNewsTV

#thatscommunitynews #communitynewspapers #miamidade #miamidadecounty #thatscommunity #miamicommunitynews #coralgables #palmettobay #southmiami #doral #aventura #pinecrest #kendall #broward #biscaynebay

ABOUT US:

Miami Community Newspapers is your go-to source for Miami community news, offering daily updates, podcasts, and multimedia content. Covering local events, business updates, and lifestyle features across Miami-Dade County, our family-owned media company publishes a variety of neighborhood publications both online and in print. Explore Miami’s culture through our exclusive community podcasts, magazines, and newsletters.

Anacapri Celebrates 35th Anniversary

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Community News Releases

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April 1, 2025

Affinity Management Services Tapped to Lead Hammocks Homeowners Association

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William Kress

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April 1, 2025

Affinity Management Services has been selected as the new management firm for The Hammocks Homeowners Association in Kendall, one of South Florida’s largest and most well-established communities in South Florida. The decision marks a new chapter of accountability, transparency, and strategic leadership for the sprawling 6,559-unit community.

The Hammocks HOA, which encompasses one master association, 18 neighborhood associations, and 22 subdivisions, is home to more than 18,000 residents. In its search for a new management partner, the board prioritized operational stability, financial transparency, and community-focused leadership.

“At Affinity, our goal isn’t to be the biggest—it’s to be the best fit,” said Rafael Aquino, CEO of Affinity Management Services. “We’re proud to bring our local roots, expertise, and personalized service to a community like The Hammocks. We work behind the scenes so HOA boards can lead with confidence, knowing that we’re handling the complex operations that power their long-term success.”

Affinity, which manages nearly 30,000 units across the state, follows a guiding philosophy: Align. Execute. Deliver. That model centers on helping boards clarify their vision, implement sound processes, and drive measurable results—backed by a unique guarantee for timely, accurate financial reporting.

“The Hammocks needed a management company that could help restore stability and trust,” said Donald Kearns, President of The Hammocks HOA. “Affinity has already proven to be a reliable and professional partner—bringing structure, accountability, and a clear roadmap for our future.”

Idalmen “Chicky” Ardisson, Vice President of The Hammocks HOA, added, “Affinity understands that success means more than just maintaining a community—it means elevating it. Their focus on strategy, transparency, and results is exactly what The Hammocks needs as we plan for the future.”

With a leadership team rooted in South Florida and an office in the heart of Doral, Affinity’s local presence allows them to stay hands-on with every client community. Their selection by The Hammocks HOA is not just a win for the company—it’s a sign of growing trust in Doral’s own businesses to lead large-scale community transformations.

For more about Affinity Management Services, visit www.ManagedByAffinity.com or contact Michael Manrique at MPM@ManagedByAffinity.com.

Dr. Wolf Weighs In: The Best Approach for Rejuvenating the Eyes

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Community Newspapers

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April 1, 2025

Dr. Carlos Wolf is a partner at Miami Plastic Surgery and is board certified.

When it comes to facial rejuvenation, no two patients – and no two surgical recommendations – are exactly the same. In this edition, I will address a very common concern: how to refresh aging eyes while choosing the right surgical approach.

A patient writes: “Dr. Wolf, I’m concerned that I’m looking older, and my eyes appear puffy with extra skin over my upper lids. I have consulted with two surgeons who have given me different recommendations. One suggests that I should have my lower lids done along with a brow lift, while the other recommends an upper lid blepharoplasty and lower lids but no brow lift. What is your recommendation?”

In all my years of expertise in facial plastic surgery, my approach with clients has been to break down the options, discusses the key factors in choosing the right procedure, and provide them with valuable insight into achieving natural, youthful-looking results.

If you’ve ever wondered whether a brow lift, blepharoplasty – or a combination of both – is the best approach for you, this is a must-read. Let’s dive in.

When deciding between upper and lower blepharoplasty versus a forehead lift, the key factor is determining the root cause of your concern. If the primary issue is excess skin in the upper lids and puffiness in the lower lids, then upper and lower blepharoplasty would be the most direct and effective solution. This procedure removes excess skin and fat, creating a more refreshed, open appearance without altering the position of the eyebrows.

On the other hand, if the heaviness around the eyes is due to brow descent, where the eyebrows have lowered over time and caused the upper eyelids to appear hooded, a forehead lift can help reposition the brows to a more youthful height. However, since you have concerns about a high hairline, this procedure would need to be carefully planned. A traditional endoscopic forehead lift could elevate the hairline, while a modified approach, such as a hairline-lowering or trichophytic brow lift, may help prevent that issue.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. If the primary concern is excess eyelid skin, blepharoplasty alone may be sufficient. If the brows have descended significantly, a forehead lift may be beneficial, but techniques that preserve the hairline can be explored.

A detailed evaluation would help determine the best approach. because of your concern, it is important to choose a board certified facial plastic surgeon, or a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial surgery, so that you don’t end up with a great looking eye operation – but look older because your forehead now is enlarged. When choosing, be sure you see before and after pictures and discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Dr. Carlos Wolf is a partner at Miami Plastic Surgery and is board certified. Email your questions to cwolf@miamiplasticsurgery.com or call 305-595-2969. You can also follow him on Instagram @CarlosWolfMD or visit www.miamiplasticsurgery.com.

‘Strive305 Entrepreneurship Podcast’ with Hosts: Tico Casamayor & Irvans Augustin

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CNews YouTube

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April 1, 2025

‘Strive305 Entrepreneurship Podcast’ powered by the Strive305 Ambassadors and managed by Urban Impact Labs. (Hosted at Community Newspapers)

To learn more about Strive 305 HUB, visit: www.Strive305Hub.com

#thatscommunitynews #communitynewspapers #miamidade #miamidadecounty #thatscommunity #miamicommunitynews #coralgables #palmettobay #southmiami #doral #aventura #pinecrest #kendall #broward #biscaynebay

ABOUT US:

Miami Community Newspapers is your go-to source for Miami community news, offering daily updates, podcasts, and multimedia content. Covering local events, business updates, and lifestyle features across Miami-Dade County, our family-owned media company publishes a variety of neighborhood publications both online and in print. Explore Miami’s culture through our exclusive community podcasts, magazines, and newsletters.

Zoo Miami cheetah, ‘Koda’ undergoes wellness exam

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Community News Releases

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April 1, 2025

Zoo Miami cheetah, ‘Koda’ undergoes wellness exam

“Koda,” a 13-year-old male cheetah, recently received a thorough wellness exam as part of the Animal Health Department’s preventative medicine program.

After being immobilized in an off-exhibit habitat, the 110-pound cat was transported to the Animal Hospital where he underwent a series of procedures that included radiographs, an ultrasound, endoscopy, and dental cleaning.

Dr. Luis Macho, a veterinary internal medicine specialist from Advanced Veterinary Care Center in Davie, assisted Zoo Miami veterinarians and donated his expertise in performing the ultrasound and endoscopy procedures. In addition, blood and urine samples were collected. All the initial results indicate that Koda is in good health, and he has since recovered from the immobilization.

Koda was born at the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Center in South Africa on Mar. 6, 2012, and arrived at Zoo Miami on Nov. 29 that same year. For over a decade, Koda served as a special ambassador for cheetahs making regular appearances at Zoo Miami’s amphitheater programs as well as special presentations off grounds to promote cheetah conservation.

Thanks in large part to his contributions, Zoo Miami has provided well over $100,000 to conservation efforts in Eastern and Southern Africa.

At 13 years of age, Koda is an old cheetah. In the wild, cheetahs generally live between 8 and 10 years. Under human care, that lifespan can be extended to 12-15 years. Because of his advanced age, Koda has retired from making regular appearances and now resides in an off-exhibit habitat where he enjoys a more relaxed environment while still receiving excellent care as part of Zoo Miami’s lifetime commitment to him. However, he can still be seen occasionally as part of the rotation of animals that are featured in the new ambassador habitats adjacent to the Sami Amphitheater.

As Zoo Miami ages, so do many of the animals that have resided here throughout their lives. Though Koda is presently in good health with only some minor geriatric issues, we know that because of his advanced age, every day with him is a gift. The special care Koda receives reflects the commitment that Zoo Miami has to caring for the many animals that have met or exceeded their normal lifespan presently living at the zoo and often fighting the many challenges related to advanced age. That profound dedicated commitment to providing the best possible care to all the zoo’s residents often enables them to live an extended good quality of life that would not have been possible in the wild.

ABOUT US:

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

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

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

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

Youth Fair partners with Animal Services for dog adoption event

By

Eloise E. Rodriguez

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April 1, 2025

The Youth Fair is back for its 73rd year, continuing through Sunday, Apr. 6, except Apr. 1.

This year, the Youth Fair is featuring a Retro Rewind theme for 21 days of fair foods, animals, rides, entertainment, exhibits and more.

For the second consecutive year, The Youth Fair has partnered with Miami-Dade County Animal Services to not only have dogs available for on-site adoptions at Edwards Hall, but will provide four free admission tickets for the 2025 Youth Fair to anyone who adopts a dog from Miami-Dade Animals Services, now through Apr. 4.

Miami-Dade County Animal Services currently has more than 550 dogs available for adoption. This initiative aims to increase community awareness with the goal of finding these dogs lifelong homes.

“This partnership is made possible through joint effort with Miami-Dade County District 11 Commissioner Roberto J. Gonzalez and Miami-Dade Animal Services. We are looking forward to helping these dogs find new homes, while helping bring a safe fun time to families to enjoy at The Youth Fair,” said Eddie Cora, president of The Youth Fair.

“Partnering with The Youth Fair once again allows us to continue our mission of finding loving homes for the many dogs in our care,” said Annette Jose, director of Miami-Dade County Animal Services. “We are excited to offer this opportunity to the community and are grateful to The Youth Fair for their support in helping these dogs find their forever families.

Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of these pets and the families who adopt them.”

For more information about the dogs available for adoption, visit www.miamidade.gov/animals.

The 2025 Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Exposition is taking place at the Fairgrounds, SW 112th Avenue and Coral Way, its home since 1972, now through Apr. 6, except Apr. 1. Kids 5 and under and seniors 65 and older enter free every day. Parking is free.

For information on ticketing call 786-315-5251 during regular business hours or contact afernandez@fairexpo.com. For Youth Fair information, visit www.fairexpo.com.

ABOUT US:

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

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

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

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

Wings Over the Bay recognizes chicken wing cook-off winners

By

Gary Alan Ruse

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April 1, 2025

Wings Over the Bay recognizes chicken wing cook-off winners

1 of 3

The Town of Cutler Bay hosted its eighth annual Wings Over the Bay chicken wings cook-off on Mar. 8 featuring local restaurants and amateur competitors showcasing their best buffalo, grilled, and parmesan wings in a judged competition. In addition to the judged categories, attendees participated by selecting the People’s Choice Best Wing winner.

Among those in attendance were Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez, Miami-Dade South Operations Division Chief Raul Nunez, Assistant Sheriff Brian Rafky, Cutler Bay Mayor Tim Meerbott, and Councilmembers Suzy Lord and Richard Ramirez. Ricky Valido performed music on stage during the event.

Maria Herrera‑Mendoza, Events and Programs manager, Department of Parks & Recreation, said the event was a great success.

“It is hard to gauge attendance, but I would say about 4,000 people attended Wings Over the Bay, by far our highest attended Wings!”

After all the tasting and judging, prizes were awarded on stage by members of the town council. The winners were:

Restaurant division:
Best Buffalo Wing, Buffalo Wild Wings
Best Special Grilled Wing, Rodbenders
Best Parmesan Wing, Rodbenders

Amateur division:
Best Buffalo Wing, Hanns On
Second Place Buffalo Wing, Flava Unit
Third Place Buffalo Wing, Your Wing Man
Best Special Grill Wing, Flavor Unit
Second Place Special Grill Wing, The Jerks
Third Place Special Grill Wing, Your Wing Man
Best Parmesan Garlic Wing, Your Wing Man
Second Place Parmesan Garlic Wing, Flava Unit
Third Place Parmesan Garlic Wing, The Jerks
People’s Choice Best Wing, Rodbenders
Best Decorated Booth, Hanns On

Sponsors:
Baptist Health, Silver Sponsor
HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, Silver Sponsor
Raising Canes, Bronze Sponsor
Into the Blue Roofing, Bronze Sponsor
Nexlevel Contractors, Bronze Sponsor
Sunstate Bank, Bronze Sponsor
Buffalo Wild Wings, Wing Eating Contest Sponsor

Michael Hann of Hanns On said that it was the first time they had entered the wing cook-off.

“It was so fantastic. I thought the competition was stiff, but I’m really excited with the outcome,” he said. “We usually do the chili cook off and we won salsa awards several times.

I’ve lived in the town for half a century. I’m not going anywhere. I’ve got six kids and we love it, absolutely. It’s a small community with big heart.”

The spokesman for the cooking team that represented Rodbenders in the competition said,

“It’s amazing to win. They’re grateful for the support and excited to be recognized by the community.”

Charlene Ponce of The Jerks team said it’s all about family.

“We love participating in this event,” Ponce said. “This wasn’t our first Wings Over the Bay.

When we first did it, it was just three cousins getting together to see whose chicken wing recipe was the yummiest. Then it just turned out to be an annual family tradition.

“Now our kids are older and they look forward to it. My son actually won second place for Special Grill, and it was my first time winning Garlic Parmesan. My cousin typically wins Buffalo but oddly he didn’t place this year.”

Mayor Meerbott stressed the importance of the annual event.

“Wings Over the Bay is a perfect example of how our town brings friends and neighbors together, while also welcoming visitors to enjoy and relax in our community,” Mayor Meerbott said. “More importantly, events like this provide an opportunity for our Council to be accessible to residents, answering any questions they may have about the Town.

“It’s also great to see different generations of residents coming together to share in the experience, reinforcing the strong sense of community that makes Cutler Bay special,” he added.

ABOUT US:

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

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

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

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

Whigham Elementary’s tobotics team advances to the World Championships

By

Gary Alan Ruse

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April 1, 2025

Whigham Elementary’s tobotics team advances to the World Championships

Dr. Edward L. Whigham Elementary School robotics program won a Regional Championship Innovate Award on Sunday, Mar. 15, which earned the students a spot in the World Championship in Dallas, TX. One of the school’s two teams was invited.

Kimberly A. Clifford, teacher of gifted students in fourth and fifth grade, who also served as a coach for the teams, was pleased with their success.

“I work with each of these students in the classroom for their core curriculum in math and science,” Clifford said. “This robotics program has allowed these students to grow in so many ways — socially, emotionally, independently and academically.

“Each of these students are in the gifted class with me and work on an accelerated math curriculum, completing sixth and seventh grade math while in fifth grade. I have watched their confidence build and transfer from the robotics program to the classroom and vice versa,” she added.

Susan Godoy, a coach and physical education teacher, also expressed pride in the students’ achievements.

“Running Whigham’s Vex IQ Robotics program is a rewarding experience, as it not only fosters teamwork and innovation but also builds confidence in the students,” Godoy said.

“The kids’ dedication and hard work are truly inspiring, and it’s amazing to see them grow as we progress through our first Vex IQ robotics season.”

Samantha Steel, a coach and second grade teacher, explained the significance of what the students accomplished.

“With robotics, you can be a designer, a builder, and a problem-solver all at once. Every robot starts with a dream,” Steel said. “The dedication these kids have shown is incredible.

They definitely have a bright future ahead. I couldn’t be prouder of the robotics team at Whigham Elementary.”

Noah, a fifth grade student with Team Bolt, really enjoyed the experience.

“Clank! Clank! Clank! Things getting put together, to make you and the pieces feel better,” he said. “Robotics is a lot, but makes you feel like you fought.”

Francisco, a fifth grade student with Team Bolt, shared that opinion.

“Robotics may be easy at first, but every competition is a new challenge, and they just get harder and harder to keep winning,” he said.

Sophia, a fifth grade student with Team Miss Pepsi, agreed.

“I love robotics! Ever since the coaches introduced it to me last year! It’s so much fun,” she said.

Rose, a fifth grade student with Team Miss Pepsi, found that it taught her more than just the mechanics.

“Robotics has been so much fun ever since I joined last year,” she said. “It has shown me sportsmanship, and many other responsibilities so now I can use what it has shown me for other things like in another robotics team in middle school.”

In the competitions:
Competition 1 — They placed seventh and ninth out of 29 teams in total at Westminster Christian Academy, made it to finals and placed third and fourth. The Electrons with robot Bolt took home the Build Award and the Protons, while robot Miss Pepsi took home the Judges Award.

Competition 2 — There were 32 teams competing at the middle school level. Students (team Bolt and team Miss Pepsi) finished in seventh (Bolt) and 11th place (Pepsi), made it to the finals where they came in fourth and fifth place. At the awards ceremony, team Miss Pepsi received the Innovative Award for their creative design, which got them an entrance into the state level competition. Team Bolt won the top award of the day, the Excellence Award, getting them into the state level competition.

Competition 3 was at McMillian Middle on Feb. 22. Team Bolt was awarded second place in skills and Team Miss Pepsi won the Create Award.

Competition 4 was the South Florida Event Regional’s, also known as “states.” Team Miss Pepsi placed in the top 20 teams and went to the final rounds. Team Bolt took second place in Skills with 148 points and won an Innovative Award, which invited them to the World Championship in Dallas, TX, May 12-14.

The school’s PTA is accepting monetary donations to help pay for the team’s expenses for the Texas trip.

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