miami laker 2015 december 18

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A Look Inside: Miami Lakes marks 15 years of “Growing Beautifully” at cel- ebration on December 19.........4 News and Notes of interest from the Town of Miami Lakes. See pages..........................6&7 Ben and Jerry’s owners play active role in opening of “The Spot” Youth Center...... 9 HML Chorus scheduled to perform at Disney’s Candlelight Processional........... ................11 Goleman basketball team off to best start in school history with an 8-1 record..................15 BGEC’s Bobcat Law Society places first in District We the People competition.................17 Miami Lakes Middle princi- pal Dr. Manuel Sanchez named tops in Region...................... 16 Community Calendar, 11, School, sports and church news, 11-20, Classified ads.........21-23 Vol. 41 No 24 305-817-4078 MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA DECEMBER 18, 2015 The original northwest Miami-Dade community newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & surrounding areas Like and Follow Us Online TheMiamiLaker @TheMiamiLaker @themiamilaker www.miamilaker.com Houses of worship season- al services and mes- sages......See Pages 18-20 SOFIA PALOMINO, 11, was the winner of the Bookmark Design contest for the Miami Lakes Branch Library. She was also the grand prize winner for the county overall in the ages 9 to 12 cat- egory. She competed with children from across the county to have her design featured on bookmarks that will be distributed at all branches, and featured on the library’s website. M. Lakes Bookmark Design winner is Sofia Palomino Ceasar Mestre, Wayne Slaton join mayoral race CEASAR MESTRE WAYNE SLATON By David L. Snelling The Miami Laker staff Two candidates who are seek- ing the Miami Lakes mayoral seat for next year are already familiar faces on the Town Council. Councilmember Ceasar Mestre and former mayor Wayne Slaton have thrown their hats in the ring to run for mayor in the town’s November 8, 2016 general elec- tion. Last month, Councilmembers Manny Cid, Tony Lama and Nelson Rodriguez each filed paper work to run for reelection for their at-large seats. Since Mestre is running for mayor, he will vacate his seat with two years left on his term, which may be filled during the 2016 elec- tion as well. Mayor Michael Pizzi told The Miami Laker he’s not ready to make a decision on whether he’s running again in 2016. “I’m just focusing on spending the Christmas holidays with my fami- ly,” he said. Slaton, who served as the cata- lyst during Miami Lakes’ incorpo- ration movement, was the town’s first mayor in 2001 and won reelection in 2004. He decided not to run in 2008 and unsuccessfully challenged Mayor Michael Pizzi in 2012. Following Pizzi’s arrest on pub- lic corruption charges and subse- quent suspension from political office, Slaton was elected mayor during a special election in 2013. Pizzi regained his seat follow- ing his acquittal and reinstatement lawsuits that forced Slaton to give up the mayoral seat early this year. During a press conference at Town Hall flanked by council members, Slaton said he wouldn’t appeal the court’s decision to rein- state Pizzi but would run for mayor again in 2016. “I acquiesced to the court’s decision so the town could move forward,” Slaton told The Miami Laker during a phone interview. “I told them at that time, I am not going anywhere.” Slaton, who was chairman of the Miami Lakes Municipal Advisory Committee (MAC), a group of residents who worked with county officials to proceed with incorporation, said he’s run- ning to make sure Miami Lakes maintains the highest standards. “That is the No. 1 thing,” he said. Slaton, owner of an electrical company, said he’s seeking to bring back a friendly government for residents, which he said was “the core value of the incorpora- tion movement.” OLL playground benefits from Give Miami Day OUR LADY OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC SCHOOL’S L’il Cheetahs are pictured enjoying a new playground thanks to the generosity of the school’s Give Miami Day donors. Pictured are (bottom, from left) Nicolas Mendez, Sebastian Perez, Christian Encinosa, Adrian Ochoa, Sofia Arguedas and David Barcena; (top, from left) Nicolas Ochoa, Talyah Limousin, Ava Hernandez, Valerie Valle and Lola Ygarza. (Please see Page 3) We wish our readers and advertisers a Very Merry Christmas and Joyful Holiday Season. The Miami Laker staff Roselind, Quintin, David, Maria, Yvonne, and Roger

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The Miami Laker print edition. The Original Northwest Miami-Dade Community Newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & Surrounding Areas.

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Page 1: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

A LookInside:

n Miami Lakes marks 15 yearsof “Growing Beautifully” at cel-ebration on December 19.........4

n News and Notes of interestfrom the Town of Miami Lakes.See pages..........................6 & 7

n Ben and Jerry’s ownersplay active role in opening of“The Spot” Youth Center......9

n HML Chorus scheduled toperform at Disney’s CandlelightProcessional........... ................11

n Goleman basketball team offto best start in school historywith an 8-1 record..................15

n BGEC’s Bobcat Law Societyplaces first in District We thePeople competition.................17

n Miami Lakes Middle princi-pal Dr. Manuel Sanchez namedtops in Region......................16

n Community Calendar, 11,School, sports and church news,11-20, Classified ads.........21-23

Vol. 41 No 24 305-817-4078 MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA DECEMBER 18, 2015

The original northwest Miami-Dade community newspaper for the Town of Miami Lakes & surrounding areas

Like and Follow Us Online

TheMiamiLaker @TheMiamiLaker @themiamilaker www.miamilaker.com

Houses of worship season-al services and mes-sages......See Pages 18-20

SOFIA PALOMINO, 11, was the winner of the Bookmark Designcontest for the Miami Lakes Branch Library. She was also thegrand prize winner for the county overall in the ages 9 to 12 cat-egory. She competed with children from across the county tohave her design featured on bookmarks that will be distributedat all branches, and featured on the library’s website.

M. Lakes Bookmark Designwinner is Sofia Palomino

Ceasar Mestre, Wayne Slaton join mayoral race

CEASAR MESTRE WAYNE SLATON

By David L. SnellingThe Miami Laker staffTwo candidates who are seek-

ing the Miami Lakes mayoral seatfor next year are already familiarfaces on the Town Council.

Councilmember Ceasar Mestre

and former mayor Wayne Slatonhave thrown their hats in the ringto run for mayor in the town’sNovember 8, 2016 general elec-tion.

Last month, CouncilmembersManny Cid, Tony Lama and

Nelson Rodriguez each filed paperwork to run for reelection for theirat-large seats.

Since Mestre is running formayor, he will vacate his seat withtwo years left on his term, whichmay be filled during the 2016 elec-tion as well.

Mayor Michael Pizzi told TheMiami Laker he’s not ready tomake a decision on whether he’srunning again in 2016. “I’m justfocusing on spending theChristmas holidays with my fami-ly,” he said.

Slaton, who served as the cata-lyst during Miami Lakes’ incorpo-ration movement, was the town’sfirst mayor in 2001 and wonreelection in 2004.

He decided not to run in 2008and unsuccessfully challengedMayor Michael Pizzi in 2012.

Following Pizzi’s arrest on pub-lic corruption charges and subse-quent suspension from politicaloffice, Slaton was elected mayorduring a special election in 2013.

Pizzi regained his seat follow-ing his acquittal and reinstatementlawsuits that forced Slaton to giveup the mayoral seat early this year.

During a press conference atTown Hall flanked by councilmembers, Slaton said he wouldn’tappeal the court’s decision to rein-state Pizzi but would run formayor again in 2016.

“I acquiesced to the court’sdecision so the town could moveforward,” Slaton told The MiamiLaker during a phone interview. “Itold them at that time, I am notgoing anywhere.”

Slaton, who was chairman ofthe Miami Lakes MunicipalAdvisory Committee (MAC), agroup of residents who workedwith county officials to proceedwith incorporation, said he’s run-ning to make sure Miami Lakesmaintains the highest standards.

“That is the No. 1 thing,” hesaid.

Slaton, owner of an electricalcompany, said he’s seeking tobring back a friendly governmentfor residents, which he said was“the core value of the incorpora-tion movement.”

OLL playground benefitsfrom Give Miami Day

OUR LADY OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC SCHOOL’S L’ilCheetahs are pictured enjoying a new playground thanks to thegenerosity of the school’s Give Miami Day donors. Pictured are(bottom, from left) Nicolas Mendez, Sebastian Perez, ChristianEncinosa, Adrian Ochoa, Sofia Arguedas and David Barcena;(top, from left) Nicolas Ochoa, Talyah Limousin, Ava Hernandez,Valerie Valle and Lola Ygarza.

(Please see Page 3)

We wish our readers andadvertisers a Very Merry

Christmas and Joyful HolidaySeason.

The Miami Laker staffRoselind, Quintin, David, Maria, Yvonne, and Roger

Page 2: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 2 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

Page 3: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 3

Mestre, Slaton announce their mayoral intentionsHe said, once again, he wants to

lead the town’s government andTown Council by example, withintegrity, honesty, truthfulness andhonor.

“Leading by example is show-ing respect for everyone,” he said.

Slaton moved to Miami Lakesin 1973 and was the poster boy forcivic and community activism byserving as president of his home-owners associations, long-timepresident of the Miami LakesCivic Association, chairman of thenow defunct Miami Lakes Com-munity Council and chairman ofthe Miami Lakes CitizensAdvisory Committee.

He led the Miami Lakes incor-poration movement in the 1990s tobring a local government closer tohome but was stymied by a loss ofrevenues dilemma to Miami-Dade’s Unincorporated MunicipalService Area (UMSA) budget, asthree other communities were alsoseeking cityhood.

Aventura, Pinecrest and SunnyIsle Beach were allowed to incor-porate but Miami Lakes had towait until the county could resolvethe problem, which led to the cre-ation of the MAC, a group of resi-dents picked by county commis-sioners to help Miami-Dade comeup with solutions.

The county gave Miami Lakesthe green light to become a city, as

residents voted for the town’scharter on December 5, 2000 tomake it official.

Slaton was elected the town’sfirst mayor in 2001 and wasreelected in 2004.He decided notrun for a third time in 2008 tofocus on the health of one of hisfamily members.

Mestre, a lawyer, said he decid-ed to run for mayor because“many” equally frustrated resi-dents are calling for a change inleadership.

“Recently, many residents haveexpressed their concerns for situa-tions our town is experiencing andthe desire that we have a newchapter in Miami Lakes leadershipin particular,” Mestre said. “Theyhave expressed the trust they havein my actions, demeanor and con-tributions on the Town Counciland asked me to run for mayor.”

Mestre said he has accepted thechallenge for several reasons,including wanting to ensure thatMiami Lakes is better off than itscurrent situation and where qualityof life is a priority instead of poli-tics.

“I want to see the master beau-tification plan implementation,”Ceasar said. “I want to make traf-fic relief our town’s priority. I willuse my background as an attorney,teacher and former police officerto maintain and improve our qual-ity of life. I want to be the leader of

the new chapter for Miami Lakes.”Mestre was first elected to

political office in 2010, when hedefeated incumbent Nancy Simonfor at-large Seat 6.

He served as vice mayor andthen, acting mayor, followingPizzi’s arrest.

“I am the only person who hasserved as councilman, vice mayorand mayor for the town of MiamiLakes,” Mestre said. “I haveserved professionally, honestlyand with dignity.”

A 22-year Miami Lakes resi-dent, Mestre sponsored legislation

for the first town-wide beautifica-tion master plan that is aimed atenhancing the aesthetics along thetown’s major streets and intersec-tions.

In addition, Mestre said he hasbeen a pioneer in the town’s brand-ing effort to bring new businessesto the town, and spearheading amarketing plan that includes apartnership with two of MiamiLakes’ biggest landowners.

Mestre was chairman of theMiami Lakes Economic Devel-opment Committee. “We partici-pated, for the first time, in the

International Shopping Centerconference to market our town,”said Mestre said.

Mestre said he proposed antipill mill legislation, a public safetycampaign to prevent vehicle bur-glaries, and prevented childrenfrom being exposed to drug para-phernalia.

He also co-sponsored legisla-tion making it a prerequisite forkids participating in sports andother activities at the town’s parkand community center to have anEKG to help detect any problemswith the heart.

Cutting the ribbon for Business Expo

MIAMI LAKES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE president Magaly Rubio, joined by Mayor MichaelPizzi and other Town councilmembers, prepare to cut the ribbon to open the Chamber’s annualNetworking Business Expo on December 10 at Shula’s Hotel on Main Street.

(Continued from Page 1)

Page 4: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 4 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

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Miami Lakes marks 15 years of ‘Growing Beautifully’

ORIGINAL MIAMI LAKES CHARTER COMMITTEE whichcompleted its historic compilation of the Town’s first charter dur-ing two fast-paced weeks in September, 2000, included (seated,from left) volunteer clerk Beatris Arguelles (who later becamethe town’s first clerk), members Maggie Clavelo, vice chairAngela Garrison and Dorothy Cook; (standing, from left) attor-ney Richard Jay Weiss (whose firm later became the town’s firstattorney), members Edward Pidermann, chairman MannyFigueroa and alternate Albert del Castillo.

By David L. SnellingThe Miami Laker staffOn December 5, 2000, Miami

Lakes became Miami-Dade’s 31stcity following nearly a decade-long campaign to bring a govern-ment closer to home to adequatelyand rapidly address local issues toreflect the quality living standardsthat made the original community,created by The GrahamCompanies, the model for residen-tial and commercial developmentthroughout the United States.

On Saturday, December 19,2015, lawmakers, residents andthe incorporation leaders whoworked tirelessly to bring MiamiLakes its own bureaucracy, willcelebrate the town’s 15th anniver-sary with a day filled with liveentertainment beginning at 11 a.m.at Miami Lakes Picnic Park West,15151 N.W. 82 Avenue.

The carnival-themed event, fea-turing rides, food trucks and askating rink, was originally sched-uled for December 5 but was post-poned due to a torrential downpour.

In addition to the live entertain-ment, Mayor Michael Pizzi said hewill recognize former councilmembers and residents who werepart of the incorporation move-ment which started in the 1990s.

Pizzi, who was an originalcouncil member, said MiamiLakes of today is a far cry from the

newly-minted town created 15years ago, when the city had askeleton staff and a make-shifttown hall inside a store front onMain Street.

“Our first city hall was a retailstore space. We had no money, nooffice for the town manager, noplace for our police department,no place for parks, and no placefor the finance department,” hesaid. “We started out absolutelyhard. It was really a struggle. Itwas a real team effort. And inthose short 15 years, we haveemerged as one of the finest citiesin the United States of America.”

The mayor said Miami Lakesaccomplished the achievements it

set out since incorporation, includ-ing opening up N.W. 87th Avenue,building a stand alone Town Hallbuilding, opening up a new youthcenter and a new fire station on thewest side of town.

The mayor acknowledgedcouncil members, town staff andvolunteers for their hard work anddedication in developing MiamiLakes among the best cities.

“They worked so hard for thepast 15 years to build this,” hesaid.

Council members also sharedtheir experiences during the 15years they have lived in MiamiLakes.

MIAMI LAKES ORIGINAL TOWN COUNCIL included (seated,from left) Mary Collins and Nancy Simon; (standing, from left)Michael Pizzi, Roberto Alonso, Mayor Wayne Slaton, interimTown Manager Merrett Stierheim, Peter Thomson and RobertMeador.

(Please see Page 5)

Page 5: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 5

Straightforward TipsFor Small Businesses

By Michael Huffaker, Franchise OwnerExpress Employment Professionals

Why Thankfulness and SuccessGo Hand in Hand

What’s the real secret to success?According to the experts, it’s notworking more hours than anyone inthe office or going through lifewithout making mistakes.

The simple answer is “beingthankful.” But the bigger questionis why?

“Without gratitude, core teamsfall away, culture diminishes andbecomes stagnated and undesir-able, innovation ceases, and fol-lowers ‘unfollow’,” according tothe Thinking Bigger BusinessBlog.

Conversely, the simple act ofthanking people for their contribu-tions leads to stronger teams, moreopen collaboration, higher moraleand even higher sales.

In fact, a case study featured inFortune magazine showed a directcorrelation between one compa-ny’s implementation of apprecia-tion lunches to thank customersand a 27 percent increase in rev-enue. In addition, when the compa-ny had to raise prices by 10 per-cent, not one of the “thanked” cus-tomers protested the increase.The Benefits of Being Thankful

Here are some important waysthat gratitude can help improveyour business, your career andyour life:

1. Thankfulness produces a solu-tion mindset. According toEntrepre-neur.com, it’s easy to toget stuck in “complaining mode”when things don’t go your way, butthat makes you less likely to moveforward. Gratitude changes thatperspective, and fosters the rightattitude for seeing solutions, ratherthan obstacles.

2. Gratitude fuels great leader-ship. When you have an attitude ofgratitude toward others, you begin

to focus more on their strengthsthan on their weaknesses. This hasa profound impact on improving ateam’s performance. To be a trulygreat leader, you must maintainmorale, and thankfulness is anexcellent tool to do so.

3. Gratitude increases willpowerand financial “patience.” A Har-vard University study revealed aninteresting connection betweenthankfulness and the ability forpeople to delay gratification.Successful people understand thevalue of forgoing smaller pleasuresnow in order to reap larger gainslater. The study showed that peoplewith a grateful mindset were betterequipped to exercise delayed grati-fication, and as a result, made morefinancial gains.

Putting it into PracticeIf you’re not in the habit of

expres-sing thankfulness, there’sgood news – gratitude works like amuscle, the more you use it, thestronger it gets.

A great way to get started is tokeep a written gratitude journal.Accord-ing to Harvard BusinessReview, research shows that keep-ing this will help you focus moreon the positives in your life andfeel more connected to others. Awritten reminder also makes it eas-ier to remember to share yourthankfulness with those who havehelped you.

One important caveat – be sin-cere. Despite the cliché about flat-tery getting you anywhere, expertssay false praise will get younowhere. Gratitude is about beingreal.

So when you gather with yourteam and co-workers and considerthe blessings you are grateful for,think about those who make theimportant things possible, andresolve to thank them year round.

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From my family to yours, wishing you a blessedHoliday Season and a Prosperous 2016!Councilman Tony Lama and Family

Paid by Anthony “Tony” Lama for Miami Lakes Town Council, Seat 3

It’s time to embark on a magi-cal journal to the North Pole onthe “Polar Express” as the MiamiLakes Youth Activities Task Forcepresents its next “Movies in thePark” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday,December18.

The free event will be held atMiami Lakes Picnic Park West,15151 N.W. 82 Avenue.

Attendees are encouraged to

bring blankets, and picnic basketsfor a family-friendly evening ofmoving watching under the stars.

The remaining movie schedule:Friday, January 8 – “ Max.”Friday, January 22 - “Minions.”For more information about the

Youth Activities Task Force andits events, contact Katya Lysak [email protected].

Movies in the Park series features‘Polar Express’ on Friday, December 18

Councilmembers reflect on 15 yearsCouncilmember Manny Cid

was a high-school student whenMiami Lakes incorporated andlater had the opportunity to serveon the Town Council with twooriginal lawmakers, Pizzi and for-mer mayor Wayne Slaton.

"I moved to Miami Lakes at theage of eight with my parents andsister,” Cid said. Twenty fouryears later, we all continue to livein the town and enjoy the samegreat quality of life. I am humbledto have been able to grow up hereand now serve the same communi-ty that afforded me great opportu-nities. All the folks who began theincorporation movement deserve alot of credit, as does ErnestGraham, William A. Graham, andthe entire Graham family for theirforward thinking vision."

Councilmember Tony Lamasaid he fell in love with the smalltown feel of Miami lakes at a“very” young age. “And it's noaccident that when people speak ofMiami Lakes today, they still ref-erence that "feel" as a reason forwanting to live in our town,”Lama said.

“The current and previouscouncils have made tremendousefforts to protect and expand ourcanopy, to protect and expand ourparks, to keep our lakes pristine,and to encourage, and in manycases fund, events that bring ustogether as a community of MiamiLakers.

“Low millage rates, utilizationof technology, and capitalimprovements like our newly con-structed youth center are greataccomplishments that increase the

value of our community, but it'sevents like the Festival of Lights,the Lighting of the HanukkahMenorah, the Concert at the Park,and our Spring Fling (to name afew) that make our communityone of the best places to live in theUnited States. I'm proud to callmyself a Miami Laker."

Councilmember Nelson Rod-riguez, who has lived in MiamiLakes since 1992, said he has hadthe privilege to represent the townover the past three years and con-tribute to its success.

“My priority has been to main-tain the beauty, culture and smalltown feel that the Graham familystarted over 50 years ago,” he said.“As we enter our sweet 16th as a

town, keeping Miami Lakes as agreat place to live, work and playis my goal. The development ofthe new Bridge Park will continueMiami Lakes in the path ofGrowing Beautifully.”

Councilmember Ceasar Mestresaid, “As a town, our residentshave a better quality of life andenjoy much better police protec-tion.

“The response time for police issignificantly lower than beforebecoming a town. I rememberwhen police would take hours torespond to calls, instead of minutes.

“Our parks have improvedtremendously. I have memories ofmy daughters being covered insand after playing in local parks.

“Drainage is now more effi-cient with roads flooding less. Andour schools are some of the best inthe county.”

The 15th Anniversary celebra-tion will feature local schools andorganizations performing on cen-ter stage including the BobcatJumpers, Bobcat Law Society,MLK-8 Salsa Squad, the HMLBand, Miss Hispanidad and MiamiDancity.

The event, activities and ridesare free, but the Town is encourag-ing residents to bring unwrappedtoys to be donated to His HouseChildren’s Home.

Sponsors for the event includeThe Graham Companies; MiamiLakes Auto Mall; Green SourceLandscape & Sports Turf; GestidoConstruction, LLC; SFM; Kimley-Horn and Associates; Baptist;CrossFit Miami Lakes; andMiami-Dade CommissionerEsteban Bovo Jr.

(Continued from Page 4)

TOWN MANAGER ALEXREY pictured during theTown’s first Strategic Plan-ning workshop at the originalMiami Lakes CommunityCenter.

Page 6: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 6 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

News and Notes from theTown of Miami Lakes

Groundbreaking for new auto dealership site

TOWN COUNCIL MEMBERS joined officials from Chrysler Dodge Jeep for a recent ground break-ing ceremony for the new dealership building at Miami Lakes Auto Mall. The expansion is part ofMiami Lakes’ efforts to help town businesses expand and lure new businesses to the city to stabi-lize the local economy. The 44,000+ square-foot building includes an area for auto parts, displayand service shop. A staple in the community, Miami Lakes Auto Mall employs over 250 people.

New Youth Center ‘The Spot’has official grand opening

RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY which officially opened MiamiLakes’ new Youth Center, “The Spot,” featured town officialsincluding Mayor Michael Pizzi, Councilmembers Tony Lama,Manny Cid, Ceasar Mestre and Frank Mingo, along with TownManager Alex Rey. The state-of-the-art facility celebrated its first“Open Hang Night” on December 2 which attracted a largegroup of Miami Lakes youth.

Matter of Balance coursedesigned for senior citizensopens workshops January 12

Are you a senior who has expe-rienced a fall? Matter of Balanceis here to help.

Participants in the program willlearn exercises to increasestrength and balance in a smallgroup setting for eight two-hoursessions, over a four week period.

The workshops will take placefrom January 12 to February 4 onTuesdays and Thursdays from 10

a.m. to noon at the RobertoAlonso Community Center, 16500N.W. 87 Avenue.

Space is limited and registra-tion is required. Registrationopens on Tuesday, January 5. Formore information, contactKristina Labossiere [email protected],or 305-698-9308.

Bob Graham Education Ctr.hosts Co-Principals for a Day

MIAMI LAKES OFFICIALS, including Mayor Michael Pizzi andCouncilmember Ceasar Mestre, were Co-Principals for a Day atBob Graham Education Center during the recent that engagesbusiness and community leaders as acting principals in an effortto build long-term relationships that benefit both students andthe community. They are pictured with principal YeceniaMartinez-Lopez, several staff members and students duringmorning announcements.

Page 7: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 7

•••••••

••••••

News and Notes from the Town of Miami Lakes

TOWN OF MIAMI LAKES recognized the Zonta Club of Miami Lakes for its “Zonta Says No toViolence Against Women” campaign. At the December 1 regular meeting, the Town Council pre-sented a proclamation to the group for its efforts to raise awareness of violence against women,preventing and combatting what is considered a hate crime against females.

Town Council recognizes Miami Lakes ZontaClub’s ‘No Violence Against Women’ campaign

Members in Town programs honoredfor participation and athleticism

AT THE DECEMBER 1 TOWN COUNCIL MEETING, Miami Lakes lawmakers recognized variouscommunity members for their athleticism and participation in town programs. Jessica Sibori andJuan Marte earned a black belt in the martial arts program. Students in the first ever adult archerycourse completed an intensive 16-week program. Alexander Ariano, Daniel Gonzalez, HopeReynolds, Julien Bencomo, Travis Bell and Trimika Bell were recognized for their commitment tothe sport.

Jazz Concert in the Parkrescheduled for January 30

Miami Lakes Cultural AffairsCommittee will host its annualConcert in the Park at 6:30 p.m. onits new date, Saturday, January 30,at Picnic Park West, 15151 N.W.82 Avenue. The original perform-ance date of November 14 wascanceled due to inclement weather.

The show is free and open tothe public, and will feature thepresence of several food trucks.Attendees are encouraged to bringblankets, picnic baskets, friendsand family for an evening ofrelaxing music under the stars.

The jazz concert will featurethe renowned talent of ElectricPiquete, co-founded by MichaelMut, a longtime town resident.Formed in 2007, Electric Piqueteis a Latin funk band known for itsAfro-Cuban authenticity andinventive takes on Latin and jazz

standards.They released a Latin jazz sin-

gle, a Latin soul single, debuted atthe Virginia Key GrassRootsFestival, played Carnaval on theMile for the sixth straight year,served as the house band at theMiss Carnaval Miami beauty pag-eant for a fourth time, and had asong placed on a special aboutMiami on CNN, all in 2015.

“As a long-time town resident,it’s a pleasure and an honor tohave been asked to play this con-cert at the beautiful Picnic ParkWest,” said Mut.

“We’re looking forward toentertaining the families and folksof Miami Lakes and surroundingareas, and I’m especially excitedabout playing a show so close tohome.”

Town hosts Beacon Council’sLife Sciences Committee

The Town of Miami Lakes ishome to the largest cluster ofhealth and life science-relatedbusinesses in Miami-DadeCounty.

On December 10, the Townpartnered with the BeaconCouncil to host their Life Sciencesand Healthcare Committee meet-ing in Council Chambers at TownHall. Several of Miami Lake’ lifesciences companies were repre-sented at the meeting includingMerck, HeartWare, and Nutri-Force Nutrition.

The meeting was followed by abus tour of the town’s life science

cluster using one of the Mooverbuses. Attendees also touredNutri-Force Nutrition whichemploys over 600 people and isthe recognized cGMP leader inproviding custom manufacturingand private labeling of vitamins,dietary supplements, nutraceuti-cals, nutritional sports supple-ments, and other health relatedproducts.

To learn more about the life sci-ences sector in Miami Lakes, con-tact Economic Developmentdirect Nicole Singletary at 305-512-7132, or [email protected].

Deadline Jan. 5 for Rocks! auditionsThe 7th annual Miami Lakes

Rocks! Music Festival has beenscheduled for Saturday, February13, at Miami Lakes Optimist Park,6411 N.W. 162 Street.

The popular event, sponsoredby the Town’s Youth ActivitiesTask Force, was created to providean avenue of artistic expressionfor town youth, promoting cultur-al and community spirit.

Auditions are open for collegeage and younger musicians, andare open to bands and individualsthat perform live music.

Performers must play a musicalinstrument; recorded music willnot be accepted.

Those who wish to audition areencouraged to submit videorecordings of up to 2 songs viaemail to [email protected] by 5 p.m. on Tuesday,January 5. All bands of all genresare encourage to participate.

For more information on theauditions, the festival, or sponsor-ship opportunities, contact LeisureServices manager Katya Lysak [email protected].

Winter Camps open December 21In partnership with PEAR and

YMCA, the Town of Miami Lakeswill be offering Winter Camp fortwo consecutive weeks beginningthe week of December 21.

Winter Camp with PEAR withtake place at the newly openedYouth Center at Miami Lakes EastPark, 6073 Miami Lakes DriveEast, and the YMCA will host itsWinter Camp at the Roberto

Alonso Community Center, 16500N.W. 87 Avenue.

The camps will run Monday toFriday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.,excluding December 24-25 andDecember 31-January 1, for chil-dren ages 5 to 15.

For more information, contactPrograms coordinator KristinaLabossiere at 305-698-9308.

Page 8: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 8 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

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I.R.S. Problems? Call us! Summary of actions taken duringTown Council’s December 1 meeting

By The Miami Laker staffAt its December 1 regular

meeting, the Miami Lakes TownCouncil selected seven residentsand one sitting lawmaker to serveon the town’s Charter RevisionCommittee, which is tasked withscrutinizing the document todetermine if changes are needed.

Serving on the committee areRoberto Alonso Jr., picked byCouncilmember Frank Mingo;Ramiro Inguanzo, selected byCouncilmember Nelson Rodri-guez; Claudia Luces, picked byCouncilmember Ceasar Mestre;Mirtha Mendez, selected byCouncilmember Manny Cid;Joshua Dieguez, picked byCouncilmember Tony Lama; Dr.David Bennett, chosen by ViceMayor Tim Daubert; and GeorgeLopez, selected by Mayor MichaelPizzi.

As mayor, Pizzi tapped Mestreto serve on the committee as anon-voting member.

The group will get down tobusiness on or before Friday,January 15, 2016.

The group will comprehensive-ly review the town’s charter, andsubmit any changes to the TownCouncil no later than October 1,2016.

In other town business:• Council members, on first

reading, approved an ordinance toreplace the town’s traffic concur-rency regulations with a mobilityfee system that will fund multi-modal transportation improvementand encourage development thatbetter mitigates impacts on thetransportation system.

If approved on second readingnext month, the measure wouldreplace traditional traffic concur-rency with a mobility fee systemthat would be more fair, effectiveand efficient than the existing sys-tem, and would take account alter-native modes of travel, consistentwith the council’s direction in therecently-adopted Strategic Plan.

• Lawmakers, on first reading,approved an ordinance to extendthe town’s lien amnesty program’sapplication deadline in caseswhere a building permit to correctviolations has been issued, but thepermit has not yet been closed.

The town’s lien amnesty pro-gram has been very successful,with 177 applications and morethan 100 applications finaled.

The deadline set for full com-pliance with the program isDecember 18, 2015. At this time,there are several cases in whichamnesty applications were timelyfiled and in which building per-mits have been issued for workneeded to reach compliance, but,

for reasons beyond control of theproperty owners, the permits can-not be finaled by December 18.

• Council members tabled azoning site plan for a conditionaluse for a small private educationalfacility at 15050 N.W. 79 Court.The Graham Companies is leasingspace to Agmus Ventures for a pri-vate college called Ana G. MendezUniversity.

Council members approvedMayor Michael Pizzi’s motion topostpone the vote because repre-sentatives of the company werenot present to answer lawmakers’questions about the proposal,including parking issues.

• Lawmakers approved a reso-lution to authorize the town man-ager to write-off noncollectablefalse alarm fee/fines, as part of thetown’s Miami Lakes AlarmReduction Program.

The write-off applies to finesless than $50, accounts associatedwith former town residents orbusinesses, fines associated with agovernmental agency, and BarbaraGoleman High School, fines olderthan three years and fines reportednoncollectable by Penn CreditCorporation. The total write off forthe current fiscal will be not bemore than $5,000.

• Lawmakers approved a reso-lution to accept a $300,000 awardfrom the Legislative Appropria-tions Budget consisting of a greenagreement between Miami Lakesand the State of Florida Depart-ment of Environmental Protection(FDEP) for Lake Sarah DrainageImprovements, consisting of anexfiltration trench drainage retrofitwithin the neighborhood.

• Lawmakers approvedCouncilmember Tony Lama’sCanopy Creation and ProtectionAct, which would give MiamiLakes a more uniform standard fortrees throughout the town.

Lama’s proposed legislationinstructs town staff to look intocreating a tree standard ordinancefor Miami Lakes for the future,including trees in the public right-a-ways and swale areas.

• Lawmakers approved Coun-cilmember Ceasar Mestre’s PublicSafety Campaign and Neighbor-hood Outreach Program dubbed“Hide It, Lock It or Lose It.”Mestre said although Miami Lakeshas a “very” low crime rate, vehi-cle burglaries are prevalent.

He said with help from thetown’s Public Safety Committeeand the town’s police, the outreachprogram can help residents reducetheir chances of being a victim bylocking their car doors and notleaving valuable items in the vehi-cles visible, such as laptops, iPads,purses and wallets.

• Lawmakers approved Lama’srecommendation to make MiamiLakes a golf cart friendly commu-nity to help alleviate severe trafficconditions in the town.

Page 9: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 9

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Miami Lakes Elderly AffairsCommittee announced its nextevent in the 10th annual SeniorGames open to seniors ages 50and up.

The Canasta Tournament willtake place on Friday, January 15,at the Roberto Alonso CommunityCenter, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue,beginning at 2 p.m.

Future games include:

Softball Game on February 10,Track & Field Events on April 9, aBridge Tournament on June 6, anda Basketball Game on August 27.

Participants will receive asnazzy T-shirt and medals will beawarded to winners in each agedivision for the male and femalegroups. Check for future gametimes and locations by visitingwww.miamilakes-fl.gov/calendar.

Town’s Senior Games schedule hasCanasta Tournament on January 15Ben and Jerry’s owners play active

role in grand opening of ‘The Spot’The beloved and local ice

cream shop, Ben and Jerry’s,known for their commitment tocommunity projects and fundrais-ers, participated in the Town ofMiami Lakes Youth Center grandopening event on November 21.

The shop served free ice creamto all those who attended anddonated an oak tree for the park.A tree planting ceremony washeld with the mayor and some ofthe council members.Additionally the shop donated afull entertainment center for thekids to enjoy at the new youthcenter, which included a largeT.V., sound system, a five-yearsubscription to xbox live gaming,Wii console and games, and a fiveyear subscription to Netflix.

The Ben and Jerry shop own-ers, Marcela and IvanKozupytsya, were both present atthe event and can add their latestcharitable donations to theirgrowing list of giving, which pre-viously include funding cam-paigns for local schools, involve-ment in the Youth Activities TaskForce Committee for MiamiLakes, and recognition in theform of an Appreciation Award bySenator Bob Graham for contri-butions and fundraising for BobGraham Education Center.

Ben and Jerry’s is located at15484 N.W. 77 Court in the RoyalOaks Plaza.

BEN AND JERRY Miami Lakes store owners Marcela and IvanKozupytsya donated a live Oak tree as part of the grand open-ing of the Town’s new Youth Center “The Spot.”

In celebration of its 42ndanniversary, the Miami LakesSports Shop, 6763 Main Street, ishaving a store wide sale on sportswear items and sporting equip-ment throughout the month ofDecember.

Miami Lakes Sports Shop isthe oldest retail operation inMiami Lakes.

Sports Shop owner JimHamilton said patrons can takeadvantage of feature name branditems at a 42 percent discount,representing the number of yearsthe store has been in business.

The store wide discount coin-cides with American Express’smarketing campaign to encouragepeople to come out and shop theday after Thanksgiving.

Hamilton said his discountprogram is called “Shop Small,Save Big.”

The Miami Lakes Sports Shopopened in 1973 in the CypressVillage shopping center andmoved to Main Street 30 yearsago.

For more information, call305-557-0356.

M. L. Sports Shopoffers 42% off onname brand itemsduring store’s42nd anniversary

Page 10: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 10 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

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We focus on helping car accident victims, slip and fall accidents and personal injury matters.

MIAMI LAKES OFFICIALS joined with members of ChabadMiami Lakes and other residents to light a 10-foot menorah nearTown Hall during a celebration on the third night of Chanukah.Pictured (from left) Rabbi Mendel Weiss, Mayor Michael Pizzi,and Councilmembers Tony Lama and Manny Cid.

Chabad Miami Lakes lightsTown’s Menorah for Chanukah

Lakes law firmhosts Food Drivefor Thanksgiving

KELLEY KRONENBERG, adiverse full-service law firm inMiami Lakes, organized afirm-wide Thanksgiving FoodDrive as part of its ongoingKelley Kronenberg Cares(KKC) initiative. The firm’sMiami Lakes and Brickelloffices joined together todonate to First PresbyterianChurch of Miami, led by part-ner Julie L. Swindell andattorney Patrick J. Davis.

Wide variety ofsenior field tripsscheduled by thetown’s ElderlyAffairs Committee

Miami Lakes Elderly AffairsCommittee announced the sched-ule of free field trips for residents,55 years and above, for a varietyof fun and cultural activities.

The trips include:January 7, 10 a.m. – Hialeah

Park Racing & CasinoFebruary 4, 10 a.m. – Zoo

MiamiMarch 3, 10 a.m. – Morikami

Japanese GardenApril 7, 10 a.m. – Perez Art

MuseumMay to September, time TBA –

Marlins baseball field trips.Transportation will be provid-

ed and depart from Town Hall,6601 Main Street. Field trips;locations and times are subject tochange. Space is limited andreservations open 7 days prior toeach field trip date (no excep-tions).

To reserve bus seating, contactSpecial Events and Committeescoordinator Clarisell De Cardenasat [email protected], or 305-364-6100.

results.305-817-4015

Page 11: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 11

Editorial/AdvertisingOffice

15450 New Barn Road #103Miami Lakes, FL 33014

Editor..................305-817-4007News Desk.........305-817-4028

305-817-4078Advertising...........305-817-4015

Editor..............Roger A. ReeceReporter..............R.A. RomeroReporter...........David SnellingMarketing & Advertising................................Quintin ValienteSocial Media....Maria VasquezGraphics....Yvonne SalvatoreSend editorial and photos to:

[email protected]

PRINTING - J.V. Mfg. Corp. Controlled Circulation to Zip Codes

33014, 33015, 33016, 33018

Published Semi-Monthly1st & 3rd Fridays

News/Advertising Deadline:10 days preceding

MiamiLakes

Meeting & Class Calendar

Town of Miami LakesVeterans Committee December 17 6:0 pm M.L. Govt. CenterNeighborhood Improvement Committee

December 17 7:00 pm M.L. Govt. CenterPublic Safety Committee December 22 6:30 pm M.L. Govt. Center

(The following classes are free and open to the public)(Note: Some classes in Christmas break beginning December 21)

(Regular class schedule resumes January 4, 2016)Tai Chi M/T/W/Th 9:00 am MCCCYoga (for adults) M/W 7:30 am MCCCYoga (for adults - Fee) T/Th 7:30 am MCCCKnitting/Crocheting Tu/Th 1:35 pm MCCCSewing (Seniors) T/Th 2:00 pm MCCCComputers (English) T/Th 9:15/11:30 am MCCCComputers (Spanish) M/W 9:15/11:30 am MCCCPainting I & II Fri. 9 am/12:30 pm MCCCPainting III Wed. 9 am RACCSpanish for Adults M/T/W/T 6:00 pm MCCCDominoes M/T/W/Th/Fri 6:30 pm RACCTable Tennis Tues./Thurs. 7:00 pm RACCBallet 1 & 2 Monday 4:30 & 5:30 pm MCCCBallet 3 & 4 Wednesday 4:30 & 5:30 pm MCCCJazz 1 & 2 Tuesday 4:30 pm MCCCJazz 3 & 4 Thursday 4:30 pm MCCCMartial Arts (tots) Monday/Wednesday 4:30 pm MCCCMartial Arts (beginners) Monday/Wednesday 5:30 pm MCCCMartial Arts (intermed.) Tuesday/Thursday 4:30 pm MCCCMartial Arts (advanced) Tuesday/Thursday 5:30 pm MCCCJazzercize (fee) M/Tu/W/Th 6:45 pm RACC

Homeowners OrganizationsRoyal Oaks December 16 7:30 pm MCCCSerenity Point December 16 7:00 pm MCCCGramercy Park December 17 7:00 pm MCCCLoch Andrews December 21 7:00 pm MCCCLoch Isle December 21 7:00 pm MCCCLake Martha December 22 6:30 pm MCCCLoch Lomond West December 22 7:30 pm MCCCLake Elizabeth November 23 7:00 pm MCCCVilla Vizcaya December 23 7:30 pm MCCCLake Sandra December 24 7:30 pm MCCCFountain Park December 28 7:30 pm MCCCLake Elizabeth December 28 7:00 pm MCCC

Miami Lakes Clubs, Professional & Volunteer GroupsMLCA Book Discussion December 22 1:00 pm MCCCM.L. Garden Club December 28 7:00 pm MCCCM.L. Bridge Club Mondays 11:30 am MCCCMLCA Bridge Thursdays 11:00 am MCCCM.L. Quilting Club Tuesdays 11:15 am MCCCM.L. Kiwanis 2nd/4th Thurs. 6:30 pm Pampered ChefM.L. Toastmasters 1st/3rd Tues.7:00 pm ML Educational CenterM.L. Lions Club 1st/3rd Tues. 7:00 pm Denny’s Hialeah

MCCC is Mary Collins Community Center, 15151 N.W. 82 AvenueRACC is Robert Alonso Community Center, 16500 N.W. 87 Avenue

The Town of Miami Lakes, homeowners associations, professional andvolunteer groups have scheduled meetings and classes during December:

We Stand CorrectedThe name of American High

Teacher of the Year YvonneMoton was misspelled in theDecember 6 issue, as well as hersister’s name which is GlendaMoton.

Hotel Indigo hosts CanineCocktails for New Year’sParty on Thursday, Dec. 17

Hotel Indigo Miami Lakesinvites locals and their pets to theCanine Cocktails Annual NewYear’s Party on Thursday,December 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. at7601 Miami Lakes Drive.

Canine Cocktails is a dog-friendly monthly gathering thatoffers a venue for dog owners toenjoy cocktails while their pupsenjoy treats. Complimentary horsd’oeuvres will be served and livemusic from Sandy Lane and John

Adams will play while guests andtheir pets mingle.

Miami-Dade Animal serviceswill be present with animals foradoption and $1 from every drinksold will go toward helping ananimal in need. The event will fea-ture drink specials, complimenta-ry appetizers, and dog-friendlygourmet treats.

For more information contactHotel Indigo at 305-556-0100.

HML Chorus scheduled to performat Disney’s Candlelight Processional

By R.A. RomeroThe Miami Laker staffHialeah Miami Lakes Senior

High’s chorus singers wereselected among schools’ chorusgroups across the nation andCanada to perform at Walt DisneyWorld’s Candlelight Procession-al. The singers will be performingfor two shows during the holidayseason on Saturday, December 5alongside celebrity narrator,Whoopi Goldberg.

The Candlelight Processionalis a Walt Disney World traditiontaking place at EPCOT’s WorldShowcase where a mass choir and50 piece orchestra, interwovenwith the biblical story of a saviorborn to a virgin in Bethlehem,narrated by a guest celebrity nar-rator. The processional takesplace from November 27 toDecember 30.

HML’s Fine Arts Departmentchair, Shenita Hunt, is excited tosee her students’ hard work payoff. “I’m so glad I was able to putin the work to get them preparedfor this year’s honor,” said Hunt.

HML’S CHORUS rehearses for their scheduled performance atDisney’s Candlelight Processional. Pictured (from left, front row)Stephanie Matais, Gabriela Gomez, Omaria Guerra, GemaMiranda (second row) Zephanie Tsimogianis, Melissa Cruz,Veronica Guerra, Keyshla Jorge, Paola Malave (back row)Yasmin Green, Christina Johnson, Jabari Dykes, Oscar Mulet,and Shenita Hunt, Chorus Director. Not pictured: CarleahHayden, Mario Prieto, Michael Miquez, and Enrique Jurado.

A NEW U. S. POST OFFICE outlet is available to Miami Lakesresidents in the Cypress Village Shopping Center within thePharmacy Care Store at 7413 Miami Lakes Drive. The newUSPS store is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday throughFriday, and offers all the amenities of a regular store with theexception of international post and money orders. The outlet isnow open for the public. For information call 305-821-4337.

New Postal outlet store openshometown news.

305-817-4015

Page 12: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 12 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

Page 13: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 13

Page 14: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 14 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

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Alyssa Rodriguez, Jordan Oriawin Roland Gomez scholarships

Doral Academy student AlyssaRodriguez and MAST Academystudent Jordan Oria won the 30thannual Optimist Club of MiamiLakes and Roland GomezScholarship Award among the sixgirls and six boys nominated forthe award.

The winners were announced atthe November 19 awards ceremo-ny at Miami Lakes Middle School.

The Optimist Club’s Scholar-ship Committee picked the final-ists and winners for the awardbased on points for their academ-ics, participation in school sports,clubs and community service.

Rodriguez, who earned a 3.95GPA and a 4.0 in conduct, andOria, who has a 5.57 GPA with a3.82 in conduct, emerged as thewinners in the girl’s and boy’s cat-egory.

Rodriguez played softball inhigh school and at the OptimistClub, while Oria starred in basket-ball.

The runner-up for the girls wasMonsignor Pace High studentCassidy Rose Zeigler, a softballplayer who has a 4.0 GPA and 4.0in conduct, and finishing in thirdplace was Hialeah Gardens stu-dent Liz Garcia (basketball), whoearned a 4.3 GPA and 4.0 in con-duct.

For the boys, the runner-up was

Hialeah Miami Lakes student andbasketball player William Zepka,who earned a 4.22 GPA and 4.0 inconduct, and his school teammate,Christopher Perdomo, finishingthird with a 4.52 GPA and 4.0 inconduct.

Other nominees for theScholarship Award included ErikaCastroman (softball); EmilyTorres (softball); Alyssa Crespo(softball); Adam Magoulas (bas-ketball); Julian Frias (baseball);and Daniel Frias (baseball).

JORDAN ORIA (left), andALYSSA RODRIGUEZ werenamed winners of the 30thannual Roland Gomez Opti-mist Club Scholarships.

BGEC wins U14 Flag Football championshipBob Graham Education Cen-ter’s flag football team wascrowned the U14 champions atthe 2015 Red Zone Sports Air ItOut Flag Football Tournament atTamiami Park on December 5.The "Air It Out" tournament isone of the longest running flagfootball tournaments in SouthFlorida. Members for this teamwere chosen based on their out-standing performance during thefall season in the BGEC middleschool flag football league. Teammembers pictured are AnthonyHernandez, Joel Castellanos,Edelso Riveron, Zachary Valca-rcel, Javin Aleman, AlexanderNegrin, Joseph Nieves, EvanMarkevich and head coach CandiFernandez.

Page 15: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 15

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Shula’s Athletic Club presentsWinter 2015 Rhythmic Gymnas-tics Show, scheduled for 7 p.m.,Friday, December 18, at 15150Bull Run Road.

Cost for the event is $8; kidsunder 14 years old get in free.

The Rhythmic Gymnastics is asport in which individuals orteams of five or more manipulateone or two pieces of apparatus –clubs, hoop, ball, ribbon, rope andfreehand, and combining elementsof ballet and gymnastics dance.

Ana Roche is the dance instruc-tor and Annette Prior-Perez is pro-gram director for the event.

For more information, call 305-820-8025.

Shula’s Gymnastics Show set for December 18Goleman basketball team offto best start in history with an8-1 record looking to playoffs

By David L. SnellingThe Miami Laker staffBarbara Goleman High’s boy’s

basketball team is off to its beststart in school history with an 8-1record, but the Gators are not outof the woods yet, as the team has along stretch before ending the reg-ular season and earning a playoffberth.

Head coach Chris Hambert saidhe doesn’t want his team to get toocomfortable but he’s confident intheir ability to keep the Gators’winning record in tact.

Goleman was put to the testagainst district rival MaterAcademy last Monday.

It’s a big turnaround from lastyear, as the Gators look to win itsdistrict with major competitors.

“There was some major com-petition this year like beatingCarol City, a team that beat ustwice last year,” Hambert said.

The Gators’ only loss was to

Northwestern.Hambert said his team fought

hard for three periods but thefourth quarter was a differentgame.

“Our record is a very goodaccomplishment so far,” he said.

The team is banking on leadingscorer point guard Gerald Lopez,and forwards Jake Rodriguez andSteben Pal.

“Those three players turned itaround for us but it really has beena team effort,” he said. “They allbring something to the table. Mostkids bought what we are trying todo. That’s what we are happy about.”

Hambert said his players pre-pared for the season by workinghard during the off season, sum-mer league and preseason.

‘They worked very hard to getto this point,” he said. “They aredoing what I asked them to do andthat’s the reason why we arehere.”

BARBARA GOLEMAN’S boy’s basketball team off to greatseason posting an 8-1 record.

Page 16: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 16 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

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MLM’s Dr. Manuel Sanchez named Region top principalBy David L. SnellingThe Miami Laker staffWhen parents drop their kids

off to Miami Lakes MiddleSchool, Principal Dr. ManuelSanchez lets them know each daythat their children are now hiskids.

“Their kids are my kids,” saidSanchez, who is the father of twoyoung children. “I treat them as ifthey are my own biological kids.They don’t have to wait to see me,they can come to my office at anytime to talk or they see me a lot inthe classrooms and the hallways. Iam there for them at anytime.”

Sanchez’s relationship with hisstudents, teachers and staff helpedmeld Miami Lakes Middle intoone of the most successful aca-demic schools in Miami-Dade,anchored by its award-winningLegal Studies Magnet Programand Cambridge Academy.

And it’s only fitting that theman in charge was named Miami-Dade Public Schools Principal ofthe Year for the North Region lastweek.

Sanchez said the region’s super-intendent called him with the goodnews and the school erupted intoan impromptu celebration.

“We were giving each other hi-fives and I screamed a little,”Sanchez quipped. “And it was alittle emotional because it took alot of work by the teachers andstaff to make this school success-ful. The award felt like a validationof the hard work our team has puttogether for our school.”

Recruiting elementary studentsfrom public and charter schools ispart of Sanchez’s duties, as theschool’s enrollment has increasedfrom 750 to 1,100 over the pastfive years.

He said Miami Lakes Middlehas the second largest gifted popu-

lation, selecting the top elementarystudents to join his school and par-ticipate in a wide spread of aca-demic programs, extra curricularactivities and sports.

Another significant task forSanchez was adding 100 computerstations to meet the demands of thestate’s standards testing require-ments for students, and makingsure teachers and staff memberhave the equipment and tools theyneed to be effective in the class-rooms.

“That’s what I try to do at theschool,” Sanchez said.

The New Jersey native saidmiddle school students are at acritical point in their lives.

He said they are young adultsand his job is to make sure they areprepared for high school and col-lege.

Case in point, students can earnseven high school credit courses,and they can take college levelcourses in the summer as part ofthe school’s CSTARS Program.

Students can also earn highschool credits for Spanish, Frenchand junior government, and partic-ipate in sports, clubs and extra cur-ricular activities such as fine arts,the school’s chorus and marchingband.

Sanchez, who’s an avid fisher,said the kids love the school’sFishing Club, and for the first timein 10 years, Miami Lakes Middlebrought back its Yearbook Club.

“We balance a high level of aca-

demics with extra curricular activ-ities,” Sanchez said. “We create awhole lot of experiences for thekids.”

After moving to Miami whenhe was kid, Sanchez graduatedfrom Hialeah Miami Lakes HighSchool and earned his Bachelor’sand Master’s Degrees in specialeducation from FloridaInternational University.

He earned his Ph.D in educationleadership from Barry University.

Sanchez landed his first teach-ing job at Miami Park Elementary,where he worked with kids withspecial needs and later became anassistant principal at Carol CityMiddle School.

He was principal at PalmSprings North Elementary Schoolbefore he landed at Miami LakesMiddle five years ago.

Sanchez said an experiencewith kids while he attended highschool and college inspired him tobecome a teacher.

He was a swimming instructorand kids were crying because theywere scared to get into the pool.“They were scared to death,” hesaid.

But he encouraged them on anda week later they were diving intodeep water, as he helped themwash away their fear.

“I have seen the impact I had onthe kids and I wanted to make thatpart of my career,” he said. “Iwanted to do it for a living. Mydad said ‘never pick profits overpassion.’ And that’s the reasonwhy I became a teacher, an assis-tant principal and a principal.”

Sanchez said his students atMiami Lakes Middle can alwaysapproach him and talk about theirissues.

“They are the reason I love tocome to work everyday,” he said.“I love their spirit.”

MIAMI LAKES MIDDLE SCHOOL students show their pride for their principal Dr. Manuel Sanchezwho was named Principal of the Year for the North Region

Applications for New Studentsnow available at school office.

RESULTSthe miami laker305-817-4015

Page 17: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 17

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“Lest the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.” (PS127)

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skills are more quickly and easily developed”

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BOB GRAHAM EDUCATION CENTER’S Bobcat Law Society class took home first place at theDistrict’s We the People competition.

The Bobcat Law Society stu-dents at Bob Graham EducationCenter last week won first place atthe District’s We the People com-petition and will be representingMiami-Dade County at the state

competition next month.The eighth-grade students sim-

ulated a congressional hearing inwhich they testified before a panelof volunteer attorneys, educatorsand leaders demonstrating their

understanding of the constitutionalprinciples and opportunities toevaluate, take positions and ulti-mately defend those positions onrelevant historical and contempo-rary issues.

BGEC’s Bobcat Law Society placesfirst in We the People competition

Pace spreads Christmas spirit with ‘Grinchmas’ Show

STUDENT DANCERS from Monsignor Edward Pace HighSchool’s Academy for Visual & Performing Arts Dance Programperform at the 2015 Christmas show “Grinchmas” on December10.

By Rene D. BasultoSpecial to The Miami LakerWith finals just around the cor-

ner, Monsignor Edward Pace HighSchool’s Fine Arts Departmentbrought out the Christmas cheerwith its 2015 Christmas show“Grinchmas.” Pace students, par-ents, faculty, alumni, and friendscame out to the Spartan Center onthe evening of December 11 towatch Pace Academy for Visual &Performing Arts Dance, Theatre,Art, and Music Programs put on a

show based on the Dr. SeussChristmas classic.

Students from the MusicProgram’s Jazz Band academy, ledby lead teacher Ross Goldman,performed a set of holiday classicsto open the show. Drama andMusical Theatre students actedand sang as the Cat in the Hat, theWhos, and the Grinch.

Members of the DanceAcademy performed their ownchoreographed pieces in betweenbouts of dialogue from Drama stu-

dents, while the Art Academydesigned the stage sets and props.The show closed with a nativityscene as a clarinet trio playedSilent Night. Following the show,the Fine Arts departments’ LeadTeachers were called on stage andrecognized for their work.

Brittany Gonzalez, a senior inthe Drama Academy TheatreProgram, wrote the show’s Seuss-inspired rhyming script. She saysthe performance was specialbecause it was the first time she

had seen one of her works per-formed onstage in a full produc-tion. She has been admitted into

the Savannah College of Art andDesign (SCAD) with a full schol-arship upon graduation from Pace.

Page 18: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 18 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

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Religious leaders offerspecial seasonal messages

Joy to the WorldBy Pastor Al PinoPalm Vista Community ChurchSome of my favorite TV pro-

grams begin with the end and thenspend the entire episode explain-ing how they arrived there.

Joy to theWorld is thatkind of hymn. Itwas written byIsaac Watts tocelebrate thesecond comingof Christ basingit on Psalm 98.But the hymnhas been sungby the church as

a Christmas song for over 200years.

You see, Christmas is aboutChrist's first and second coming.We typically call this the adventseason, advent meaning coming.

We look back in gratitude to Godfor sending Christ the first time todie for our sins and we look for-ward in faith anticipating Christ'sreturn to set all this right once andfor all.

Here's our Christmas prayer foryou at Palm Vista CommunityChurch: That you would know thejoy of Christ's salvation repentingof your sins and placing your faithin Him as your Savior. And thatyou would anticipate with joy thereturn of the King of Kings andLord of Lords when He will shareHis glory with His people bring-ing ultimate joy to the world!

Join us this Christmas seasoneach Sunday morning at 10:30a.m. We meet in the Miami LakesMiddle School auditorium.Childcare and simultaneous trans-lation into Spanish is provided ateach service.

PASTOR PINO

PACE PRINCIPAL Ana Garcia is interviewed by Roxanne Vargas, a Pace Class of 2002 alumnaand host of 6 in the Mix, as part of the NBC 6’s Caravan of Joy toy drive on December 11.

Pace students bring harmony, toysto NBC6’s Caravan of Joy toy drive

By Rene D. BasultoSpecial to The Miami LakerFor the ninth straight year, Pace

High School sent two busloads oftoys and choir singers to NBC 6and Telemundo 51’s Caravan ofJoy toy drive on December 11.Pace’s participation in the Caravanof Joy has become a nearlydecade-long tradition, and theschool’s Christmas Toy Drive hasbrought joy to girls and boys inSouth Florida.

Over 500 toys were donated bythe Pace community and collectedby members of the Drama Club,Pace Health & Medical Society,

Leadership, National HonorSociety, SGA, Science NationalHonor Society and SpartanAmbassador Society. Represen-tatives from these groups deliv-ered the toys to the driveway ofMiramar Fire Station 84 just out-side the NBC 6 & Telemundo 51studios.

The Spartans in Harmony choir,conducted by Pace Drama leadteacher Cristina Pla-Guzman,donned Santa hats and sangChristmas carols on live TV forTelemundo’s Acceso Total andNBC 6 in the Mix. Principal AnaGarcia was interviewed by 6 in the

Mix’ host Roxanne Vargas, a Pacealumna from the Class of 2002,who also spoke with students asthey moved toys out of the bus.

In addition to being a part of thelive broadcasts, the Pace studentsalso got a tour of the NBC 6 stu-dios after delivering the toys. Theywere lucky enough to be on stageand just off camera as Vargasinterviewed four finalists fromThe Voice live via satellite.Students commented that thisfirst-hand look into the intricaciesof TV production was one thatthey would never forget.

Kelly Falcon earns Cervantes Award

KELLY FALCON, a junior at Hialeah Miami Lakes High, wonfirst place in the High School Division of the “CervantesOutstanding Student Essay Awards” presented by NovaSoutheastern University. HML principal Eric Acosta is picturedwith Regional superintendent Vivian Santiesteban-Pardo,Falcon, and her Advanced Placement Spanish teacher EgbertoBermudez.

Page 19: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 19

Miami Lakes area religious leaders offer seasonal messagesSeason of Peace and Joy

By Father Jack StantonChurch of the EpiphanyGreetings from the Episcopal

Church of the Epiphany (Iglesiade la Epifania) in Miami Lakesduring this holiday season. Thisyear our Season of Peace and Joyis clouded by acts of terrorism inParis and around the world.

As we see reports of violencealmost every morning on the TV,our own neighborhoods don’tseem to be safe. Yet into this diffi-cult time we bring our message ofjoy as we celebrate the birth of thePrince of Peace. In the face of

fear, we saythat peace willprevail. In theface of vio-lence, we saythat safety willovercome. Inthe absence offaith, we pro-claim that Godcontinues to

bless and strengthen us.Have a Blessed Christmas

Season. As it has been said, ‘Don’tbelieve in miracles, count onthem.’

FR. STANTON

‘Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room’By Rev. Richard SparrowInterim MinisterMiami Lakes Congregational ChurchI remember as a small child

asking my parents if I could havemy Christmas present early – thenon Christmas morning I would actsurprised. To their credit, my folkswithstood my sure and certainpressure with the words, ‘No,we’ll wait until Christmas is here!’I’m guessing I sulked a bit – butmy parents didn’t give in.

Let me say right upfront...Adventis my most cherished season of theyear because the 4 Sundays beforeChristmas gift me with ampleopportunity to ‘watch and wait’,preparing my heart for the celebra-tion of the holy birth.

Along that line, my favoritetime of day is about two hoursbefore sunrise, as I find the pre-sunrise sky to be breathtaking,beginning with ever-so-soft raysof light appearing at the far reach-es behind the horizon. Sunrisethen greets me very slowly and Ineed to be awake for the changes –

each morningin a differentway. By thetime the suna c t u a l l yappears on thehorizon, I’mready, mywatching isdone and a newday begins.

Advent ismuch the same way - watchingand waiting, longing and prayingfor the birth of One who has trans-formed, does transform and willcontinue to transform our lives.Our culture doesn’t seem to under-stand, as we have surround-soundChristmas carols on radios and inmalls since Halloween.

Let me be clear – I loveChristmas music but I love andappreciate Advent more! Over theyears, wonderful parishionershave pushed me just like I pushedmy parents. ‘Now! – we wantChristmas carols now!’ In the spir-it of Advent and following the wis-dom of my parents, I respond,

‘No, we’ll wait until Christmas ishere!’

On Christmas Sunday,December 20, Christmas Eve andChristmastide (up to Epiphany onJanuary 6) we’ll raise the roof withthe great Christmas hymns andcarols, but for these Advent daysof ‘watching and waiting, longingand praying’ I invite you to joinme in preparing our hearts so thatat the birth-day of Jesus we’ll beready to welcome him in – invitinghim to transform our lives againand again.

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The Message of ChristmasBy Father Joseph LucasChrist the Saviour Orthodox CathedralThe message of Christmas is

too often drowned out by the noiseof the world. Even amongst thosewho still celebrate the religiousmeaning of the holiday, the hecticpace of the season often overshad-ows the beauty of the event beingcommemorated.

More thantwo millenniaago, in a quiethamlet ofP a l e s t i n e ,s o m e t h i n goccurred whichis nearly impos-sible to describein humanwords. Theeternal Son and

Word of God, who shares what itmeans to be God with the Father,"emptied himself" and became ahuman being. Born in humility, ina dark cave in Bethlehem, Hewould illumine the whole worldwith His light.

God and Man were united inHim; and so our reconciliation toGod was accomplished. As wereflect on this miracle yet again,let us proclaim the mystery anew,as if we have heard it for the veryfirst time. Let us enter into the

darkness of that cave – which rep-resents the darkness of our brokenworld – and receive the light oncemore. Only in this way can webear the light to those who need it.May the blessings of the Nativityof Christ be with all of you.

FATHER LUCAS

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Page 20: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 20 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

After School

Care

Local houses of worship holdspecial seasonal services

Miami Lakes area houses ofworship have announced a varietyof special holiday religious servic-es and events.

Our Lady of the LakesCatholic Church, 6600 MiamiLakeway North, has set the fol-lowing mass schedule forChristmas and the New Year:

Christmas Eve, Thursday Dec.2 - 7 a.m. in Spanish, 8:30 a.m. inEnglish, 4:30 p.m. Festival ofCarols, 5 p.m. in English, 11:30p.m Festival of Carols, andMidnight Bilingual.

Christmas Day, Friday, Dec. 25- 10:30 a.m. in English and12:30p.m. in Spanish.

New Year’s Eve, Thursday,Dec. 31- 7 a.m. in Spanish, 8:30a.m. in English, and 5 p.m. inEnglish.

New Year’s Day, Friday, Jan. 1-9:30 a.m. in Spanish, 11 a.m. inEnglish, and 12:30 p.m. inSpanish.

Miami Lakes CongregationalChurch, 6701 Miami LakewaySouth, is hosting special servicetimes during the Advent season.On the week of Christmas,Sunday, December 20, the FourthSunday of Advent Worship willtake place with the theme being“joy.” On Christmas Eve, aFamily Christmas Eve Worshipwill take place at 5 p.m. and aSacred Christmas Eve WorshipCommunion/Candle Lighting.

Elevate Church, 6250 MiamiLakes Drive East, presents a seriesentitled “Vintage Christmas”which provides a message of hopeand salvation. The church is alsohosting an ugly sweater service onDecember 20 for services at 9:30a.m., 11 a.m., and 12:30 p.m.

Continuing in tradition, thechurch will bring in the new yearwith a New Year's Family Fest(NYFF) on Friday, January 1,from 1 to 5 p.m. NYFF is a free

event for the whole communitywhich includes food, music,games, carnival rides, crafts, facepainting, bounce houses, andprizes.

Sunrise Presbyterian Church,located at 18400 N.W. 68 Avenue,is hosting special services for theAdvent season. On December 20,the church choir will perform aChristmas Cantata at the 10 a.m.service and on Christmas Eve aCandlelight Service will be held at7 p.m. Following Christmas, onDecember 27, a special service ofworship will be held at 10 a.m.

Miami Lakes UnitedMethodist Church, located at14800 N.W. 67 Avenue, is hostingthe second annual Winterfestevent for the community untilThursday, December 24. Festivaladmission is free and is open dailyfrom 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. ChristmasTree sales will through December24. Attendees will also be able toparticipate in activities and takeadvantage of the multiple photoopportunities.

On Saturday, December 19, theChristmas Cantata performed bythe church choir and Palm SpringsUnited Methodist Church ofMiami Lakes present “Canticles inCandlelight” by Joseph M. Martinat 4 p.m. at Epworth Village and at7 p.m. at the Miami LakesMethodist Church.

The Lowly King of Kings (Luke 2:16-18)By Rev. Pedro A. RiveraSunrise Presbyterian ChurchAt Christmastime we forget

that we are celebrating the birth ofOne who was One with God. TheOne who decided with God todescend to earth by leaving behindHis rightful throne at the righthand of the Father and becomefully-human and fully-dependenton the King for all matters, whileon earth. This was not an idea thatjust sprung up.

This whole plan was Createdthousands of years before the birthof Jesus and was being shared withthe world for over a thousandyears. Imagine, the message ofJesus was made known at leastthree thousand years ago fromtoday and over a thousand yearsbefore His actual birth. God call-ing out to all humankind to pre-

pare, prepare to receive Him. Jesuscame to the world as one of us, but

I imagine thatthe circum-stances wereworse thanours, yet wer o m a n t i c i z ethat event.

Don’t let memislead you,e x c i t e m e n twould comeand it did, but

first to a very poor group of peopleincluding Mary, Joseph and theshepherds. The first visitors Jesusreceives are the shepherds.

These shepherds are important,because their visit indicates to mewhat I’ve been saying for 50years: Jesus is the “Lamb of God.”These shepherds seal that truth. Itis no coincidence that they becomethe first visitors. They see Jesusfor who and what He is: the Lambof God who is laid to rest on atrough or the feeding box of theanimals. This gives way for all ofus to come to Jesus, after all, as theLamb of God; He will die for meand all of us that choose to go toHim.

“So they hurried off and foundMary and Joseph, and the baby,who was lying in the manger.When they had seen him, theyspread the word concerning whathad been told them about thischild, and all who heard it wereamazed at what the shepherds saidto them.” Luke 2:16-18. Thetrough where he lay after birth andthe visit of the “special” shepherdsclearly identify Jesus and to us isrevealed God’s great plan of salva-tion for all humankind.

In His adult years, Jesus trulydemonstrates how He felt aboutchildren. Even the followingteaching puts to shame all who sayto be above all others. Besidesthat, Jesus even told His disciplesto let the children come to me. Hetouched many and many touchedHim. Imagine being touched bynot just a King, but by the King ofKings or even in a deeper sense,being touched by the DivineHimself.

“Therefore, whoever takes thelowly position of this child is thegreatest in the kingdom of heav-en.” (Matthew 18:4)

A Merry Blessed Christmas toall! Feliz Navidad.

REV. RIVERA

LET’S HEAR FROM YOU!Got a story idea about

your family, school,church, organization or

even a neighbor?Email us at

[email protected],or call 305-817-4078.

Page 21: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 21

Elevate Church6250 Miami Lakes Dr. EastTelephone: 305-823-3888

Sunday Worship.........9:30, 11 & 12:30Friday Youth Nights.....................7 PM

M.L. Congregational Church6701 Miami Lakeway South

Telephone: 305-822-4313Adult Sunday School...................9 AMChildren’s Sunday School.....10:30 AMWorship.................................10:30 AMSpecial Need Service...............4:00 PM

(Every fourth Sunday)

Sunrise Presbyterian Church18400 N.W. 68 Avenue

Telephone: 305-821-5841Worship.................................10:00 AM

(Children’s Church)Servicio en Espanol...............11:30 AM

The Church of the Epiphany15650 Miami Lakeway North

Telephone: 305-558-3961www.episcopalmiamilakes.com

Sunday Eucharist...................10:30 AMChildren’s Sunday School.....10:15 AMAdult Bible Study.......................11 AMMisa en Espanol......................9:00 AMEscuela Dominical................12:15 PM

The Church of Jesus Christof Latter-day Saints8201 N.W. 186 Street

Telephone: 305-829-0049Spanish service.............................9 AMEnglish service.......................12:30 PMTuesday (Spanish).........................7 PMWednesday (English)....................7 PM

Palm Vista Community ChurchMeeting at Miami Lakes Middle

6425 Miami Lakeway NorthTelephone: 305-822-6999

Worship Service.........................10 AM

Temple Tifereth Jacob5901 N.W. 151 Street

Telephone: 305-557-2651Call for Service Schedule

Iglesia Biblica CristianaEspañol Servicios

Telephone: 305-557-1959Sunday service........................4:00 PMWednesday Youth....................7:30 PM

6250 Miami Lakes Drive East

Iglesia El Nuevo Comienzo6701 Miami Lakeway South

Services in SpanishSunday service.......................12:30 PMThursday service.....................8:00 PM

St. Andrews Lutheran Church575 W. 68 Street

Telephone: 305-821-3622Sunday service (English)........9:00 AMSunday service (Spanish).....10:30 AMBible School...............................11 AM

Iglesia CristianaReformada Vida Nueve5941 N.W. 176 St., Bldg. #5

Telephone: 305-244-9425www.icrvidanueve.com

Hialeah Church of ChristTelephone 305-558-1060

(Temporary meeting location)Shula’s Hotel (Davis Cup Room)6842 Main Street, Miami Lakes

Sunday Bible Study.................9:30 AMSunday Worship Service.......10:30 AMSunday Evening Service..........6:00 PMWednesday Bible Study...........7:30 PM

Fulfilled Life ChurchTelephone 786-378-2356

Country Club Middle School18305 N.W. 75 Place

Sunday Service (Eng.)..10:30 AM

Faith Is The Victory FellowshipTelephone: 954-435-1313

www.faithisthevictoryfellowship.comSunday Service.....................10:30 AM

(Cobb Theaters – 6711 Main Street)Theatre 17

Our Lady of the LakesCatholic Church

15801 N.W. 67 AvenueTelephone: 305-558-2202

Sunday services in English9:30, 11 AM and 5:30 PMSunday services in Spanish8 AM, 12:45 PM and 7 PM

Saturday services 8:30 AM, 5 PMDaily services 7 and 8:30 AM

Confessions: Saturdays 3:30 PM

Mother of Our RedeemerCatholic Church

8445 N.W. 186 StreetTelephone: 305-829-6141

Daily services (Spanish) 8:30 AMSaturday (English) 5:30 PMSaturdays (Spanish) 7 PM

Sundays (English) 8 & 10:30 AMSundays (Spanish)

9 AM, 12:30 PM, 7 PM

North Palm Baptist Church7801 N.W. 178 Street

Telephone: 305-558-2032www.NorthpalmBaptist.org

Sunday Bible Study.................9:15 AMSunday Worship....................10:30 AMWednesday Service..................7:00 PM

M.L. United Methodist Church14800 N.W. 67 Avenue

Telephone: 305-821-7274www.miamilakesumc.net

Praise Band & Music.............9:40 AMTraditional Worship Service.10:00 AMAlive-Contemporary Service11:30 AM(Child care and children’s/youthSunday School during both services.)

New Testament Baptist ChurchThe Gathering Place

6601 N.W. 167 StreetTelephone: 305-558-4930

Sunday Service..........................11 AMBible Study ............................9:45 AMWednesday Bible Study...........7:00 PMWednesday Youth Group.........7:00 PM

Orthodox Cathedral ofChrist The Saviour16601 N.W. 77 Court

Telephone: 305-822-0437Home of The Orthodox Book Center

Sat. Vespers.................................6 PMSun. Matins............................8:40 AMSun. Liturgy...............................10 AM

Sunday School & Inquirer Classes

Palm Springs UnitedMethodist Church5700 W. 12 Avenue

Telephone: 305-821-3232Worship Service...................11:00 AM

The Redeemed ChristianChurch of God

Victory Parrish Worship Center16261 N.W. 57 Avenue

Telephone: 786-428-0078Sunday service....................10:00 AMTuesday & Thursday..............7:00 PMFriday service.......................11:00 PM

Voice for JesusCobb Miami Lakes Theatre #11

6711 Main Street305-818-0565

Sunday service......................10:00 AMYouth service.........................10:00 AMChildren services...................10:45 AM

(Nursery provided)

Miami Lakes AreaHouses of Worship

(Editor’s Note: All information provided by individual houses of worship.Confirm service times by telephone.

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PAGE 22 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

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• 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms and • 2 and 3 bedroom Townhomes

• Stainless Steel Appliances • Granite countertops• Huge closets • On-Site Fitness Studio

• Resort style pool with sundeck • Basketball half court • Bark Park

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WE SELL MIAMI LAKESSERVING MIAMI LAKES

FOR OVER 25 YEARSArturo Rodriguez and family wishes you a

Happy Holiday and Prosperous 2016!

Arturo Rodriguez, P.A.

305-827-4521Broker-AssociateMaria Victoria

Zarate-Rodriguez

305-308-9482Realtor-Associate

artrodriguezrealestate.comResidential Real Estate “Owned and operated by NRT, LLC”

“Professional Service, Educational Guidance and a Proven Track Record.”

15961 N.W. 79 Court - Miami LakesThis beautiful 5 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom home features Saturnia mar-ble floors, Swaroski lighting, S/S appliances, granite counters. Mustsee! Reduced $678,500.

16240 West Troon Circle - M. Lakes Loch LomondTotally remodeled 5/3 home including new roof, new kitchenand bathrooms, wood and granite cabinets, built-in wall oven/microoven, S/S appliances, high end plumbing fixtures. Just Reduced to $699,000.

16720 N.W. 79 Place - Miami LakesThis custom built 4 bedroom, 3 bath home sits on an oversized 9435sq. ft. corner lot. Features large patio and pool deck, salt water pool,CBS fence, wood kitchen cabinets with granite counters. $589,000.

9904 N.W. 133 Street - Hialeah GardensSituated on almost a full acre, this 2-year new Custom Built 7 bed-room, 6 1/2 bath gated estate is one of north Miami’s most luxurioushomes created for grand scale living and entertaining. $2,800,000.

14601 Lake Candlewood Court - Miami LakesThis one-of-a-kind property with 5 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, is situated ona double lot with 3,421 sq.ft. a/c larger than tax roll, with all permits, out-door kitchen with commercial oven, built-in fish tank, hurricane shut-ters. Reduced. $475,000.

PENDING SALE

8420 N.W. 169 Terrace- Miami LakesCustom built with top of the line finishes. This Mediterranean estate inMiami Lakes has over 6,225 sq. ft. of unparalleled craftsmanshipincluding Italian marble floors. $1,450,000.

R E A L E S T A T E C L A S S I F I E D

During the holiday season, my thoughts turngratefully to those who have made this year

a very successful one.Wishing you peace, joy, health and prosperity

throughout the coming year.I look forward to working with you in the

years to come.Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah!Let’s make 2016 the best year ever!!

Magaly Rubio, CIPS, CRS, ePro, GRI, TRC

Coldwell Banker Residential Real EstateBroker Associate,

Previews International Agent,Commercial Investment Certified

305-821-0203 • Fax: 954-384-7912magaly,[email protected]

Serving the Miami Lakes community forover 35 years as a full service Realtor!

Vera Cox305-542-1944

[email protected]

305-817-2170

Closing Agent/Attorney

5 bedroom, 4 bath in Royal Oaks, oversize master bedroomw/bathroom with whirlpool, S/S appliances, new pool,Gazelo/paver deck with outdoor kitchen, on a corner lot.

Sold by Vera in 8 days - $549,000

8254 N.W. 165 Street - Miami Lakes

Serving your Miami Lakes Neighborhood

If you would like to know the value of your home intoday's real estate market, call me. I would be happyto give you a FREE market analysis!

HABLO ESPANOL

JHOBANNACASTILLO P.A.

Selling or Buying Your Dream Home?Let me help you!(786) 201-9979

http://jhobannacastillo.kwrealty.com

HAPPYHOLIDAYS!!

FOR RENT

3/2.5 Brand new townhome with 2-car garage, gated community, gran- ite counter tops, stainless steel app- liances, wood laminate floors, hurri-cane impact windows, fitness stu-dio, 24 hr. maintenance. From $2450 monthly. Call 305-821-1138.

2pt

3 BR/2 BA lakefront townhouse in Loch Andrews. $1,850 per month.Call owner at 954-963-0340.

Page 23: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

THE MIAMI LAKER DECEMBER 18, 2015 PAGE 23

Call today for your confidential evaluation if you are thinking of Selling!

Liza E. Mendez,CRB, CRS, CIPS, GRI, CDPE, e-Pro

Broker/Owner – Experience Counts!

305-558-7676www.lizamendez.comwww.pedrorealty.com

Our family at Pedro Realtywould like to wish you and your family

Peace, Joy, and many blessingsduring this special Holiday season

and into the New Year.God Bless you and those you love.

Thank you for your support and business.We appreciate it.

1401 S.W. 134 Way, #203CREDUCED $75,000

Great condo in Century Village (55 and overcommunity). 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths on thesecond floor overlooking main lake in theVil lage and within walking distance toClubhouse. Tankless water heater, newerA/C, flat top range. Amenities include state ofthe art Clubhouse, transportation, billards,and shows.

PEMBROKE PINES

ROSA NELL HAMMERBroker/Associate(305) 898-9315

ALLAN PELAEZBroker/Associate

(786) 301-9520

Miami Lakes Realty & Welcome Center • In The Lobby of Don Shula’s Hotel

6850 Main Street Miami Lakes, FL 33014 • (305) 822-9800

14550 Glencairn Road$579,000

Turn key one-story property in sought after treelined community of Lake Elizabeth. Remodeledkitchen with thick granite and 42-inch cabinets.Cabana bath with travertine marble floors.Accordion shutters on the outside along withPlantation shutters on the inside. Roof only 5years old. 15KW gas automatic generator. Lots ofattic space, Vaulted ceilings, 6” crown molding &French doors just to name a few extras.

MIAMI LAKES

8830 N.W. 191 Street$399,000

Builder’shome with a lot of extras. Oversized lotwith north/south exposure, back covered porch,light concrete on the second floor. Amazing viewo f t he l ake . P rope r t y has 15 SEER energyefficient A/C, approx. 6 years old. One bedroomused as laundry room, however water hookupavailable in garage. Gas stove, dryer and waterheater.

8297 Balgowan Road$305,000

Beautiful one-story corner townhouse in LakeSandra. 2 bedrooms/2 baths completely updated.Hardwood floors, new kitchen and bathrooms.A/C is only 2 years old. Two master bedrooms,accordion shutters and lots of extras. Coveredpatio with brand new awning with direct view ofthe lake.

MIAMI LAKES

PENDING

PENDING

PENDING SOLD

MIAMI SHORES LAKES ON THE GREEN MIAMI LAKES

Wishing our customers, friends and neighbors aHappy Holiday Season and a Prosperous New Year!

Serving Miami Lakes And The

Surrounding Areas For Over 50 Years!

1240 N.E. 91 Terrace$499,000

Lowest priced house in Miami Shores. 3 bed, 2bath, plus bonus room. Accordion shutters, largecircular driveway. Excellent location half a blockfrom North Bayshore Drive and Biscayne Bay.Street to s t reet access on a quiet dead endstreet. Total remodeling needed, or build youbrand new luxurious residence on this 8125 sq.ft. lot. By appointment only.

14524 N.W. 87 PlaceREDUCED $335,000

Great property in sought after Serenity Point inwest Miami Lakes. Originally a 4/2, currentlybeing used as a 3/2 with 2 master bedrooms andsitting area. Can easily be converted back to 4/2if needed. Property is in great shape. Coveredpatio, plenty of room for a pool. Storage shedand hurricane shutters.

PENDINGSOLD

R E A L E S T A T E C L A S S I F I E D

“Selling or Buying put My Experience to work for you Today!”

Viv ian MaciasRealtor, CRS, GRI, SFR

Cel: 305-300-4425Off: 305-883-7555

[email protected]

Beautiful home in Virginia Gardens

27 years of experience SELLING Residential and Investment properties

Four bedroom, two bath, family room. Built 2007, 2,853sq. ft. of living area, 8,625 sq.ft. lot size. Property needssome TLC. Make this one a new home for you this year.Call today!

If you have any Homestead Exemption questions...Call the Real Estate Leaders!

Selling or Buying?Cary Gonzalez sells Miami Lakes

since 1995!

6850 Main StreetMiami Lakes, FL

33014

Cary GonzalezREALTOR-Associate CDPE

(305) 213-2328carygonzalezrealtor

@yahoo.com

A Very Merry Christmas Wish For All!!

Page 24: Miami Laker 2015 December 18

PAGE 24 DECEMBER 18, 2015 THE MIAMI LAKER

CHEVROLET

Seven Dealers All In One Location

16600 NW 57th AveSOUTH SIDE OF THE PALMETTO EXPRESSWAY (SR 826)

EXIT 826 AT NW 57TH AVE (RED ROAD)

1-866-782-8208

Visit Us Online: MiamiLakesAutomall.com Like Us: facebook.com/MiamiLakesAutomall

Neighbor & Miami Lakes Automall GM,Fred Senra, Invites You To ExperienceThe Hometown Difference!

The Miami Lakes AutomallFamily Wishes You and YourFamily Happy Holidays!We Thank You for Letting usServe You, The Miami LakesCommunity and SurroundingCities.Happy Holidays and aProsperous New Year!