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Diciembre/December 15, 2016 EDICIÓN QUINCENAL

BIWEEKLY EDITION

No. 120

DO RAL familyjournal

Diciembre/December 15, 2016 • No. 120 • Year 2

Editor in Chief: Ettore Sabatella Executive Editor: Carlo Sabatella Managing Editor: Sandra Figueiredo Art Director: Mario Carpio Contributors: Grecia Romero María A. Pulgar Edda Pujadas Maria Sabatella Dunia Cuneo Belinda León Online Digital Magazine www.doralfamilyjournal.com E-mail: info@doralfamilyjournal.com Address: 10773 NW 58 ST. PMB # 96 MIAMI, FL. 33178 Ph: (305) 300.4594

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Doral Family Journal publication is owned and operated by Doral Family Journal, LLC.

The opinions expressed in DFJ are those of the authors and not represent the official views of DORAL FAMILY JOURNAL, LLC or its management. DFJ and its contributors can accept no legal responsability for loss through any error in information contained herein. Submissions will be edited at the editor’s discretion. Contents of the DFJ are not to be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. DORAL FAMILY JOURNAL, LLC does not endorse any advertiser or product, and it takes no responsability for losses or damages caused through the advertiser/customer relationship.

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Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Elections | Elecciones

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Runoff election results

Resultados Segunda Vuelta Electoral

Claudia Mariaca wins Seat 1 for Claudia Mariaca gana Silla 1 para City of Doral Council el Concejo de la Ciudad de Doral By Maria Alejandra Pulgar @marialepulgar - NAHJ #37172

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

he race that originally attracted 6 candidates to replace Councilwoman Sandra Ruiz on Seat 1, the remaining position on the City of Doral Council, has finished with activist Claudia Mariaca obtaining 56.32% (3,787) of the votes to ensure her victory over businesswoman Adriana Moyano, who got 43.68% (2,937). Mariaca has been living in Doral for ten years and all this time has been actively involved in the community through organizations such as the Doral Community Coalition, John I. Smith K-8 Center PTSA, Miami-Dade County School Board Attendance Boundary Committee and her Homeowner Association. Her professional background is in finances and marketing, and her involvement led her to be a well-known person to the community, which enthusiastically supported her to achieve the victory on this election. Having a strong minded “PTSA Mom” in the Council will bring a fresh perspective to the dais on many issues that directly affect families and education in the City of Doral. Although the number of votes counted comply with the Charter mandate of being 50%+1 for proclaiming a winning candidate, the Certification of Official Results by the Supervisor of Elections takes place after the Canvassing Board reviews the ballots and conducts the audit process. The members of the Canvassing Board, appointed by the Miami-Dade Elections Department are Honorable County Judges Shelley J. Kravitz and Andrew S. Hague, and Mrs. Connie Diaz, CMC, Doral City Clerk. Once the results are certified, Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez and Councilwomen Claudia Mariaca and Christi Fraga will be sworn in on December 20th at 6:00 pm, at the City of Doral Council Chamber.

a competencia, que atrajo inicialmente seis candidatos en Noviembre, para sustituir a la Concejal Sandra Ruiz en la ansiada Silla 1 del Concejo de Doral, ha concluido con el triunfo de Claudia Mariaca, quien obtuvo 56.32% (3,787) de los votos, para asegurar su victoria sobre la empresaria Adriana Moyano, quien alcanzó 43.68% (2,937). Mariaca ha vivido en Doral por diez años y todo este tiempo ha estado activamente involucrada en la comunidad a través de organizaciones como la Doral Community Coalition, la Asociación de Padres de John I. Smith K-8 Center, el Comité de Limites de Asistencia de la Junta Escolar y la Junta de Condominio de su residencia. Su formación y experiencia profesional están relacionadas con las finanzas y el mercadeo y es una persona muy conocida por su activismo comunitario. Esto aseguró el apoyo entusiasta de muchos votantes quienes ven en ella una persona sincera, confiable y bien preparada, una “Madre de PTSA” que trae al estrado una perspectiva fresca para múltiples asuntos que afectan directamente la calidad de vida de las familias y de la educación en la Ciudad de Doral. Aun cuando el número de votos obtenido por los ganadores cumple con el requisito del 50%+1 establecido en la Carta Constitutiva de la Ciudad de Doral, la Certificación Oficial de Resultados por parte del Supervisor de Elecciones ocurre una vez que el Comité de Revisión verifica todas las boletas y completa la auditoría respectiva. Los miembros del Comité de Revisión, designados por el Departamento de Elecciones de Miami-Dade, son los Honorables Jueces del Condado Shelley J. Kravitz y Andrew S. Hague, y la Sra. Connie Diaz, CMC, Secretaria Municipal de la Ciudad de Doral. Una vez certificados los resultados, el Alcalde Juan Carlos Bermúdez y las Concejales Claudia Mariaca y Christi Fraga serán juramentados el próximo 20 de Diciembre a las 6:00 pm en la Sala de Concejo del Ayuntamiento de Doral.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

City | Ciudad

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First interview as Mayor-Elect

Juan Carlos Bermudez comes back to Doral City Hall By Maria Alejandra Pulgar @marialepulgar - NAHJ #37172

uan Carlos Bermudez won the City of Doral Mayoral race on Runoff elections this December 13th, with the support of 66.6% of the voters that approached the polls. This time around Bermudez receives a City that has grown rapidly in a four year period, with additional issues consequence of that growth. The grassroots campaign, knocking more than 3000 doors in the city, allowed him to understand the changes on the demographics, and also determine the array of main concerns that are affecting the quality of life of all Doral residents. On the campaign process Bermudez found out that “there is a feeling that the culture in the city has changed; I learned that the residents are very unhappy, particularly with the lack of order, the changes on the master plan and the overdevelopment and over all the change in the quality of life. I also learned that a lot of residents want a government that is more accessible and more efficient. And they saw we had that before.” “I was very happy that a lot of people did remember what we did do when we began the city. Because a lot of them moved here because it was a city that had a good quality of life, that had planned and controlled growth, that did not have any scandals, that circuslike atmosphere in council meetings, a city where they can raise their family and I think there is a feeling that it is no longer there. And they saw in my case the opportunity to get us back to our values, to our culture.”

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE FIRST 100 DAYS?

Once the new council is sworn-in on December 20st, Bermudez does not expect to make drastic changes on the staff at the City of Doral, as it happened last time when the City Manager and Chief of Police were forced out right away. Bermudez said that he will start by evaluating the current situation and analyzing next steps that, if he finds out are needed to be taken, will be done in a proper and respectful manner. “The first 100 days will be to find out where are we and we need to move forward. I will be looking at the budget, at every position, what has been approved, what has not been approved and going from there.” “We have to dig in to know why our expenses are up 20 million dollars when there are not additional police officers in the street. We need to look at that and analyze every position and see what has occurred. We have to look at the master plan, see what the changes

that have been approved are and what can we do to plan organized growth. The first 100 days will be committed to that. I think the council will be supportive to those ideas; it is up to me to convince them it is a good idea.” “I don’t think there would be any immediate changes. I have to go in there and see who has done what. We have the hybrid system where the mayor has the right to nominate the manager, the boards and some other powers. If after reviewing I think there should be a change I would consider it in a very respectful way, but at the immediate moment I don’t see any changes occurring. I have respect for all the people that is there and like everything else they have to be evaluated on their efficiency and if it turns out there are something I would like them to do I would let them know.” Bermudez has a good opinion on the job Eddie Rojas has done as City Manager: “I have known him for a very long time. He has tried to do a good job on a very difficult time [...] I am on the outside looking in, but as we sit here today I think Eddie has done a good job dealing with a very difficult situation the last four years. It can’t be easy when you are trying to keep the council together the way the prior Mayor ran the city.”

RECOVERING THE VOICE OF THE CITY OF DORAL

“I don’t plan to be the Mayor of cutting ribbons. I plan to be the Mayor to show results” said

Bermudez. “Although social media is wonderful, if you only focus on social media we are not seeing results. We should be able to answer the important questions. We should use it to keep people informed but also to let people that we are actually doing our job.” Bermudez affirms that “it is important that the Mayor is the voice of the City, that represents well the Council. If the Mayor does something that makes the city look bad, they all look bad and the City looks bad. We need to go back to having a Mayor that represents honesty, integrity and ethics. A Mayor who is professional”, that earns the respect of other municipalities and the residents. “My first step would be to try to get that back and being a Mayor that is accessible. We lost that. We have to get back the reputation of the city, as one of the best places to work and live in the United States by going back to our values.” “We need to get back on track and continue to follow the original values where we made the quality of life the most important thing, with ethics in transparency. That way the new legacy would be that we got back to our values and this time we made sure we put it in our rules that nobody comes after and changes it. We built this city into open and transparent government and we need to get back to that.”

City | Ciudad

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Primera Entrevista como Alcalde Electo

J.C. Bermúdez Regresa al Ayuntamiento de Doral By Maria Alejandra Pulgar @marialepulgar - NAHJ #37172

¿QUÉ ESPERAR EN LOS PRIMEROS 100 DÍAS?

Una vez que el nuevo Concejo sea juramentado el 20 de diciembre, Bermúdez no espera hacer grandes cambios en el personal de la Ciudad, como si ocurrió cuando el dejó el cargo y tanto la Administradora como el Jefe de Policía fueron despedidos inmediatamente. Bermúdez dijo que comenzará por evaluar la situación actual y analizar los próximos pasos, si se consideran necesarios, siempre de una manera respetuosa y adecuada. “Los primeros 100 días revisaremos donde estamos y que necesitamos para seguir adelante. Revisaré el presupuesto, todas las posiciones, qué ha sido aprobado y a partir de ahí comenzaremos a tomar decisiones.”

Tiene una buena opinión respecto al trabajo de Eddie Rojas como Administrador Municipal: “Lo conozco desde hace mucho tiempo. Ha tratado de hacer un buen trabajo en un momento difícil. […] desde afuera pienso que ha hecho un buen trabajo manejando una situación difícil estos cuatro años. No debe ser fácil tratar de mantener al Concejo unido de la manera que el anterior alcalde manejaba la ciudad.”

RECUPERANDO LA VOZ DE LA CIUDAD DE DORAL

“Debemos investigar por qué nuestros gastos aumentaron 20 millones de dolares, cuando no vemos un policía adicional en las calles. Debemos revisar cada posición, ver qué ha sido aprobado y qué podemos hacer para planificar un crecimiento organizado. Ocuparemos los primeros 100 días en eso, creo que los concejales me apoyarán; queda en mis manos convencerles de que es una buena idea.” “No visualizo cambios inmediatos. Tenemos que llegar, ver qué ha hecho cada quien. Nuestro sistema de gobierno es híbrido, donde el alcalde tiene el derecho a nominar al administrador, los miembros de los comités y otras posiciones. Si después de revisar considero que debo hacer cambios, procuraré hacerlo de manera respetuosa, pero por los momentos no creo que vayan a ocurrir. Respeto a todos los empleados de la ciudad. Como todo tendrán que ser evaluados en su desempeño y si existe alguna observación que me gustaría que incorporaran se las haré saber.”

“No planeo ser el Alcalde que corta cintas sino que obtiene resultados” dijo Bermúdez. “Aunque las redes sociales son maravillosas, si solo te enfocas en ellas no tienes resultados. Debemos poder responder las preguntas importantes, mantener a la gente informada pero demostrar que realmente estamos haciendo nuestro trabajo.” Afirma Bermudez que “es importante que el Alcalde sea la voz de la Ciudad, que represente bien al Conceo. Si el Alcalde queda mal todo el Concejo y la Ciudad quedan mal. Necesitamos volver a tener un Alcalde que represente honestidad, integridad y ética; un Alcalde que sea profesional” que se gane el respeto de las otras municipalidades y los residentes. “Mi primer paso será recuperar eso y ser un Alcalde accesible. Tenemos rescatar nuestros valores para recuperar la reputación de Doral como uno de los mejores lugares para trabajar y vivir en los EEUU.” “Debemos volver al camino y continuar con los valores originales, donde lo más importante es la calidad de vida, con ética y transparencia. De esa manera el nuevo legado será el rescate de nuestros valores, y esta vez nos aseguraremos de colocar reglas que impidan que nadie pueda cambiar esos valores. Nosotros construimos una ciudad con gobierno abierto y transparente y debemos recuperarlo.” “Espero seguir trabajando para todos los residentes de Doral. Quiero recordarles que en la ciudad tienen los mismos derechos e importancia que los votantes. Soy el Alcalde de todos los residentes no solo los votantes y mis puertas siempre estarán abiertas para cualquier tema que ellos puedan necesitar.”

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

uan Carlos Bermúdez, el Primer Alcalde, regresa a la posición tras ganar la Segunda Vuelta Electoral para la Ciudad de Doral este 13 de Diciembre, con un 66.6% de los votos escrutados. Esta vez Bermúdez recibe una ciudad que ha crecido rápidamente en los últimos cuatro años, con los problemas que acarrea este crecimiento. Su campaña, donde visitó más de 3,000 hogares en la ciudad, le permitió comprender los retos actuales y cambios en la demografía de la población, además de determinar los puntos principales que afectan actualmente la calidad de vida de los residentes de Doral. Durante su campaña Bermúdez encontró que “la cultura en la ciudad ha cambiado. Los residentes están descontentos, particularmente con la falta de organización y respeto a las reglas, los cambios al plan maestro y el desarrollo descontrolado, que han afectado la calidad de vida. También quieren un gobierno eficiente y accesible. Y saben que era algo que teníamos.” “Me allegro ver que muchos recordaban todo lo que hicimos para crear la ciudad. Muchos se mudaron aquí porque había una buena calidad de vida, planificada, con crecimiento controlado; sin escándalos en la administración. Una ciudad donde podían criar a su familia. Muchos sienten que eso ya no es así y vieron en mi candidatura la oportunidad de regresar a nuestros valores y nuestra cultura.”

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Projects | Proyectos

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The grant will be distributed into three projects

Transit Improvements for Doral

Three million dollars in funds granted to the City of Doral, through the Transportation Alternatives Program, will be invested into public works projects. Edda Pujadas, @epujadas

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

aintenance and optimization of the drainage and canal system, implementation of bicycle lanes, and improvements in sidewalks are the main objectives of the three projects in which the City of Doral will invest the funds that it received through the TAP grant. This was announced by Jorge Gomez, Director of Public Works of the City of Doral, he explained that this grant will be used in the stabilization of the canal located along Doral Boulevard (NW 41st /36th street) between NW87th Ave and NW 97th Ave and in NW 41st street between NW 87th avenue and Palmetto (SR 826), in traffic improvements on NW 52th street (between NW 107th Ave and NW 97th Ave) and in NW 102nd Ave (between NW 41st street and NW 58th Street) and in the optimization of the highways that are within our jurisdiction. “The funds of this grant are an important savings for our city. These were granted to the City of Doral as part of the TAP program that was established by the Department of Transportation of the United States in 2012 to guide the growth and development of the traffic infrastructure on the country,” states Gomez.

Gomez told us that the entities that are eligible to apply to this program include local municipalities as the City of Doral, regional transportation authorities, traffic agencies, school districts and some other government organizations that are responsible to supervise transportation and recreational facilities. “Having obtained this grant is a big achievement for us, this is complied by through a process that we initiated with the presentation of the three projects to the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Miami Dade County (MPO) for its review together with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and they decided to award the grant to us,” he adds.

Some of the criteria used to select the projects which will be awarded the funds include: the technical feasibility of the project, its level of planning and the history of the applicant in the management of federal grants. “Once the projects are approved, the FDOT is the entity in charge of the supervision and administration of the financing through periodic reimbursements, in this case to the City of Doral.”

$3 MILLION FOR THREE PROJECTS

The Director of Public Works states that the City of Doral presented three applications for grants through the TAP program and the annual maximum per concession is one million for each one of the three projects. The first of these projects is the stabilization of the canal located along Doral Boulevard, (NW 41st /36th street) between NW87th Ave and NW 97th Ave and in NW 41st street between NW 87th avenue and Palmetto (SR 826), for which the city got a million dollars to be invested in the maintenance of this canal and in walking and bicycle paths. “The project consists on the stabilization of, approximately, 2.1 miles of canals, to avoid deterioration and to reduce the risk of flood by creating an adequate system of water canals. As part of this stabilization program, we will also incorporate walking and bicycle paths that will connect with the actual bicycle routes, this will serve as a transportation alternative and will turn the area into a recreational area,” indicated Gomez. Another one of the projects deals with traffic improvements along NW 52nd street (between NW 107th Ave and NW 97th Ave) and in NW 102nd Ave (between NW 41st street and NW 58th street), these are based on street maintenance, drainage, widening of bicycle lanes and resurfacing of pavement. “For these jobs we had already been awarded one million 21 thousand 654 dollars ($1,021,654) for the year 2014-2015, now we were awarded one extra million for the 2016-2017 year.”

Gomez clarified that this project is currently under construction in the City of Doral and includes improvement in the drainage, widening of green lanes for bicycles and improvements in the streets, such as intermittent lights, crossing lines and signaling. “The drainage improvements will help prevent flooding, the bicycle lanes will stimulate the use of this type of transportation and the resurfacing will prolong the life of the streets and will improve the friction that is created between the tires of the cars and the streets. These are really very important improvements for Doral.” The third project involves improvements to all the streets in the city, the construction of missing sidewalks and construction of ramps and maintenance of crossing paths and its signaling. “The amount that we got is also one million dollars and it will be applied according to the areas that were identified in the transit mobility study that the city conducted in March of 2015.” Gomez highlighted that the funds obtained by the TAP grant not only benefit the residents of our city, the labor force of Doral and its visitors, but they also reduce the financial burden to the City of Doral for the implementation of this improvements and projects.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Projects | Proyectos

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La subvención recibida se distribuirá en tres proyectos

Mejoras Viales para Doral

Los fondos otorgados a la Ciudad de Doral, a través del Programa de Alternativas de Transporte, ascienden a tres millones de dólares que serán invertidos en proyectos de obras públicas. Edda Pujadas, @epujadas

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

antenimiento y optimización del sistema de canales y drenajes de nuestra ciudad, habilitación de caminos para bicicletas y mejoras en las aceras son los objetivos principales de los tres proyectos en los que la Ciudad de Doral invertirá los fondos recibidos a través de la subvención del Programa de Alternativas de Trasporte (TAP, por sus siglas en inglés). Así lo anunció el director de Obras Públicas de la Ciudad de Doral, Jorge Gómez, quien explicó que esta subvención se invertirá en la estabilización del canal ubicado a lo largo del Doral Boulevard (41/36 calle) entre las avenidas 87 y 97 y en la 41 calle entre la 87 avenida y la Palmetto (SR 826), en mejoras viales en la calle 52 (entre las avenidas 107 y 97) y en la 102 avenida (entre las calles 41 y 58) y en la optimización de las carreteras que están dentro de nuestra jurisdicción. “Los fondos de esta subvención, que significa un importante ahorro para el Ayuntamiento, fueron otorgados a la Ciudad de Doral como parte del Programa de Alternativas de Transporte establecido por el Departamento de Transporte de Estados Unidos en el 2012 para guiar el crecimiento y el desarrollo de la infraestructura de transporte vial del país.”, señala Gómez. Gómez continúa indicando que las entidades que son elegibles para aplicar a este programa incluyen gobiernos locales, tales como la Ciudad de Doral, autoridades regionales de transporte, agencias de tránsito, distritos escolares y otros organismos gubernamentales responsables de supervisar el transporte y/o instalaciones recreativas. “La obtención de estos fondos es un gran logro para nosotros, pues implica un proceso que iniciamos a través de la presentación de los tres proyectos a la Organización de Planificación Metropolitana del Condado de Miami-Dade (MPO, por sus siglas en inglés) para su revisión conjunta con el Departamento de Transporte del Estado de la Florida (FDOT) y finalmente, nos fueron adjudicados.”, añade. Algunos de los criterios que se utilizan para seleccionar las obras para la adjudicación de fondos incluyen la viabilidad técnica del proyecto, así como su nivel de planificación y la historia

del solicitante en gestión de subvenciones federales. “Una vez que los proyectos son aprobados, el FDOT se encarga de su supervisión y administra su financiamiento a través de reembolsos periódicos, en este caso, a la Ciudad de Doral”.

$ 3MM PARA 3 PROYECTOS

Manifiesta el director de Obras Públicas que la Ciudad de Doral presentó tres solicitudes de subvención mediante el programa TAP y el máximo de la concesión obtenida es de un millón de dólares por ciclo anual para cada uno de los proyectos. El primero de estos proyectos es la estabilización del canal ubicado a lo largo del Doral Boulevard (41/36 calle) entre las avenidas 87 y 97 y en la 41 calle entre la 87 avenida y la Palmetto (SR 826), para el cual se obtuvo un millón de dólares a invertirse en el mantenimiento de este canal y en caminos peatonales y de bicicletas. “El proyecto consiste en la estabilización de, aproximadamente, 2.1 millas de canales para evitar el deterioro del mismo y reducir el riesgo de inundación proporcionando un adecuado sistema de canalización de las aguas. Como parte de este programa de estabilización, también incorporaremos caminos peatonales y para bicicletas que se conectaran con las rutas ciclísticas ya existentes en nuestra localidad, lo cual servirá como una alternativa de transporte y convertirá la zona en un área recreativa.”, indica Gómez. Otro de los proyectos radica en mejoras viales en la calle 52 (entre las avenidas 107 y 97) y en la 102 avenida (entre las calles 41 y 58), basadas en mantenimiento vial, drenajes, ampliación de carriles para bicicletas y repavimentación. “Para estos trabajos ya se nos habían asignado un millón 21 mil 654 dólares ($1,021,654) para el ciclo 20142015 y ahora nos fue otorgado un millón más para el periodo 2016-2017.” Gómez aclaró que este proyecto está actualmente en construcción por la Ciudad de Doral e incluye

mejoras en el drenaje, ensanchamiento de carriles verdes para bicicletas y mejoras en las calles, tales como faros intermitentes, pasos peatonales y señalizaciones. “Las mejoras en el drenaje ayudarán a prevenir desbordamientos de agua, los carriles de bicicleta estimularan el uso de este medio de transporte y la repavimentación prolongará la vida de la calzada y mejorará la fricción entre los neumáticos del vehículo y la calles. Realmente, son mejoras muy significativas para Doral”. El tercer proyecto consiste en mejoras a la calzada de toda la ciudad, construcción de tramos faltantes de aceras y de rampas y mantenimiento de los cruces peatonales y su señalización. “El monto obtenido consiste, igualmente, en un millón de dólares y se aplicará de acuerdo a las áreas identificadas en el estudio sobre la movilidad en tránsito realizado por el ayuntamiento en marzo del 2015”. Gómez destacó que estos fondos de la subvención de TAP no sólo traen los beneficios ya mencionados a los residentes de nuestra zona, a la fuerza laboral de Doral y a sus visitantes, sino que también reducen la carga financiera que la Ciudad Doral debía emplear para la implementación de estas mejoras y proyectos.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

City | Ciudad

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Stimulating the development of the city

Residents and Merchants of Doral will be able to finance the improvements to their properties The main objectives of these financing options are that the homes in Doral are energetically efficient and that the store fronts of the businesses of our city have a harmonic and decorative look.

Edda Pujadas @epujadas

hrough the PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) Program and the Façade Improvement Grant Program, the City of Doral will help its residents and merchants in financing the improvements to their real estate, this as part of the integral development and beautification of our city. Manuel Pila, Director for Economic Development for the City of Doral announced this at the same time that he indicated that these two programs want to stimulate the investment in the development of Doral. “We want that the houses of our residents are well maintained and in the best conditions. In the case of the businesses, we want them to have a good aspect and that they are nice place with a nice look, in accordance with our environment and that this incentivize the customer base,” he commented. We can say that the application of PACE, that was approved in August of 2016 by a unanimous vote of City Council, which was an initiative of ex-Council Woman Sandra Ruiz, allows the homeowners of Doral to pay for their investment in energy efficient improvements through this financing and the Façade Improvement provides a grant of up to $5,000 (five thousand dollars) to be applied to store fronts.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

PACE

home.” Pila stated that the residents that work under the PACE program will not only receive the benefit of financing the improvements of their home, but they will also experience a reduction in the electricity bills, will have homes that are better protected against hurricanes and floods, and will get an increase in their property values. The Director for Economic Development also stated that it is important to take into consideration that PACE offers both the homeowners and business owners these financial options without the need to get a credit verification and without compromising their income/debt ratio. This program, through which homeowners are saving money and achieving energy efficiency, is already in effect in several cities in the United States, of the State of Florida and the Miami Dade County. These municipalities are also receiving a benefit due to their environments being cleaner.

PACE is a Federal program, approved by the State of Florida, to incentivize homeowners to DORAL FAÇADE make improvements in their IMPROVEMENT GRANT homes that help save and PROGRAM conserve energy. It is also In regards to the Doral Façade geared to the protection of these Improvement Grant Program, properties from hurricanes, Pila stated that this was because this plan includes loans created to promote the financial for the installation of a big scope assistance for business owners of impact windows and doors, in Doral in order to stimulate solar panels and efficient air private sector investments, the conditioning equipment, among beautification of the store fronts, other things. economic development and the “For example, if we need creation of jobs in the city. “We to install in our home impact want to improve the appearance windows, this has a cost of 20 Manuel Pila of the buildings, industrial and thousand dollars. If we applied the PACE program, we can finance this payment in commercial districts,” he finalized. This program provides financial assistance by as much as 25 years, this makes this improvement feasible and allows us to have a better protected contributing with 25% of the investment costs of

repairs and improvements, up to a maximum of five thousand dollars ($5,000) per project. “This is already being done in the Doral Décor District, but it will be extended to other areas.” According to what Pila explained, this grant will now be assigned to projects of beautification of store fronts in properties located South of NW58th street, North of NW 12th street, East of NW 87th avenue and West of the Palmetto SR826. It is important to clarify that priority will be given to the real estate visible along the main arteries and to those that are located within the Doral Décor District. For this program, the definition to store front will apply to the “face” of a building parallel to the street (public or private) or any of the following external improvements: walls, fences, ADA infrastructure, walking facilities, windows and/or doors, marquees or roofs, lighting, painting, signaling, sidewalks, parking lots and landscape in general. Pila highlighted that both programs can be combined. He recommends to the homeowners in Doral to join PACE, for this purpose the first step is to request a quote from a contractor authorized to do these jobs, these can be find in: www.ygreenworks. com/find-contractors/. On the other side, the new cycle for the Doral Façade Improvement Grant Program starts in January 2017 through the City of Doral.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

City | Ciudad

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Estimulando el desarrollo de la ciudad

Residentes y comerciantes de Doral podrán financiar las mejoras a sus propiedades

Lograr que los hogares de Doral sean energéticamente eficientes y que las fachadas de los comercios de nuestra ciudad tengan un aspecto armónico y decorativo son los objetivos primordiales de estas opciones de financiamiento Edda Pujadas @epujadas

través del Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (PACE) y de Façade Improvement Grant Program, por su denominaciones en inglés, la Ciudad de Doral ayudará a residentes y comerciantes a financiar las mejoras en sus propiedades inmobiliarias como parte del desarrollo integral y embellecimiento de nuestra localidad. Manuel Pila, desarrollador económico de la Ciudad de Doral, hizo este anuncio a la vez que informó que ambos programas pretenden estimular la inversión en el desarrollo de Doral. “Queremos que las casas de nuestros residentes estén bien mantenidas y en condiciones optimas. En el caso de los comercios, aspiramos que los mismos tengan una buena presencia, que sean lugares agradables y de buen aspecto, acordes con nuestro medio ambiente y que incentive la captación de sus clientes.”, comenta. A grandes rasgos, podemos señalar que la aplicación del PACE que había sido aprobado en agosto del 2016 de forma unánime por el Concejo Municipal, siendo una iniciativa de la ex-concejal Sandra Ruiz, permite a los propietarios de viviendas en Doral pagar su inversión en mejoras encaminadas al ahorro energético a través de un financiamiento y el Façade Improvement asigna una subvención de hasta cinco mil dólares ($5,000) aplicados a mejoras de fachadas.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

PACE

PACE es un programa federal, aprobado por el estado de la Florida, para incentivar a los dueños de viviendas a realizar mejoras en su hogares que lleven al ahorro y conservación de la energía. Igualmente, se busca proteger a estas propiedades de los huracanes, pues este plan incluye préstamos para la instalación una amplia gama de ventanas y puertas de impacto, paneles solares y aparatos de aire acondicionado eficientes, entre otros. “Por ejemplo, necesitamos instalar en nuestra casas ventanas contra impactos, lo cual nos cuesta 20 mil dólares. Si aplicamos al programa PACE podemos financiar este pago hasta en 25 años, lo cual hace que la realización de esta mejora sea viable y nos permita tener un hogar más protegido.” Pila comentó que los residentes que se adhieran al programa PACE no sólo recibirán el beneficio de financiar las mejoras de sus hogares, sino que

también experimentaran una reducción de sus facturas eléctricas, tendrán viviendas más protegidas de huracanes y/o inundaciones y lograran un incremento en el valor de su propiedad. El desarrollo económico de Doral también mencionó que hay que tomar en cuenta que el PACE ofrece a los propietarios de viviendas e incluso a los dueños de locales comerciales y negocios, estos financiamientos sin tener que exponerse a una verificación de crédito y sin comprometer su relación ingreso/deuda. Este programa ya está en funcionamiento en varias ciudades de Estados Unidos, del estado de la Florida y del condado de Miami-Dade, en las que los propietarios de viviendas están ahorrando dinero y logrando que sus propiedades sean energéticamente más eficientes. Estas localidades también están siendo beneficiadas al obtener un medio ambiente más limpio

DORAL FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT GRANT PROGRAM

Con respecto al Doral Façade Improvement Grant Program, Pila manifestó que fue creado para proveer asistencia financiera a empresas y propietarios en Doral con el fin de estimular la inversión del sector privado, el embellecimiento de las fachadas, el crecimiento económico y la creación de empleo en la ciudad. “Buscamos mejorar la apariencia de los edificios, distritos industriales y comerciales,”, acotó. El programa proporcionará asistencia financiera al contribuir con el 25% de los costos de inversión en reparaciones y mejoras, hasta un monto máximo de cinco mil dólares ($5,000) por proyecto. “Esto ya se aplica en el área conocida Doral Décor District, pero ahora tendrá una mayor zona de cobertura”. Según lo explicado por Pila, esta subvención ahora

podrá asignarse a los proyectos de embellecimiento de fachadas de propiedades ubicadas al sur de la 58 calle, al norte 12 calle, al este de la 87 avenida y al oeste de la autopista Palmetto SR 826. Es importante aclarar que se le dará prioridad a los inmuebles altamente visibles, ubicados a lo largo de las calles principales y a los que estén localizados dentro del Doral Décor District. A los efectos de este programa, se tomará como definición de fachada al rostro de un edificio paralelo a una vía pública y/o privada o cualquiera de las siguientes mejoras externas: revestimiento, paredes, cercas, infraestructura para discapacitados (ADA, por sus siglas en inglés), instalaciones para peatones, ventanas y/o puertas, toldos y/o marquesinas, iluminación, pintura, señalización, aceras, estacionamientos y paisajismo en general. Descató Pila que ambos programas pueden usarse de forma combinada. Recomienda a los propietarios de viviendas de Doral unirse al PACE, para lo cual, el paso inicial es solicitar una cotización de un contratista autorizado en la realización de estos trabajos, que puede ubicarse en el siguiente sitio web: www.ygreneworks.com/find-contractors/. Mientras que el nuevo ciclo de aplicación para el Doral Façade Improvement Grant Program se inicia en enero del 2017, a través de la Ciudad de Doral.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

City | Ciudad

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Programmed for March 2017

Está previsto para marzo del 2017

One of the objectives of this event, that was approved by the City Council, is to promote our city as a cultural, artistic, diverse and creative place to live, work, learn and play.

Promover a nuestra ciudad como un lugar culturalmente artístico, diverso y creativo para vivir, trabajar, aprender y jugar es uno de los objetivos de este evento, cuya realización fue aprobada por el Concejo Municipal de Doral.

“Ritmo Doral:” Happiness “Ritmo Doral:” Alegría y and Culture for our City cultura para nuestra ciudad

Edda Pujadas @ epujadas

itmo Doral” is the name of the cultural community event that the City of Doral will produce as a way to promote our economy through local tourism, cultural development and diplomatic exchange. This event was announced by Manuel Pila, Economic Development Director for the City of Doral, he explained that “Ritmo Doral” inaugural event has as a tentative date March 25th, 2017, and will be wholly dedicated to the family entertainment and will focus in celebrating the rich and cultural diversity of our city and the international scope that Doral has through live music, culture, food and entertainment. “These cultural expressions are very important because their objective is to involve the residents and visitors of the city in its promotion as a culturally artistic and diverse place to live, work, learn and play”, stated Pila. Pila added that the intention of “Ritmo Doral” is to promote the cultural, economic and diplomatic objectives of our region, facilitating and incentivizing cultural events of high category, together with educational activities and international relationships with sister cities from other countries.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

THE RHYTHM FOUNDATION

The production of “Ritmo Doral” will be possible due to the signature of an agreement with The Rhythm Foundation, a well known non for profit foundation that has promoted world music and cultural events in South Florida for more than 29 years. This Foundation is well known as a cultural power in our state, they have stood out in the presentation of international artists and in the production of high quality community events. They have been promoters of lots of concerts, events and festivals, with special attention to cultural showcasing that connect with the residents of South Florida. It is important to mention that since 2015, The Rhythm Foundation manages the historical North Beach Bandshell for the city of Miami Beach. The Rhythm Foundation has agreed to produce, promote and organize the event “Ritmo Doral” in the Downtown Doral Park area and to work jointly with the City of Doral to facilitate the economic development, diplomatic and educational activities in the city and close by areas, which guarantees the success of this project. If you wish to get more information on the activities of The Rhythm Foundation you can visit their web page at: http://www. rhythmfoundation.com/

itmo Doral” es el nombre del evento cultural y comunitario que realizará la Ciudad de Doral como una forma de impulsar nuestra economía a través del turismo local, del desarrollo cultural y del intercambio diplomático. Así lo anunció el desarrollador económico de la ciudad, Manuel Pila, quien explicó que “Ritmo Doral”, cuyo evento inaugural tiene como fecha tentativa el 25 de marzo del 2017, será completamente dedicado al esparcimiento familiar y estará enfocado en celebrar la rica diversidad cultural de nuestra ciudad y el alcance internacional de la comunidad de Doral través de la música en vivo, la cultura, la comida y el entretenimiento. “Estas celebraciones culturales son muy importantes pues tienen como objetivo involucrar a los residentes y visitantes de la ciudad en la promoción de la misma como un lugar culturalmente artístico, diverso y creativo para vivir, trabajar, aprender y jugar.”, comenta Pila. “Ritmo Doral” busca promover los objetivos del desarrollo cultural, económico y diplomático de nuestra región, facilitando e incentivando presentaciones culturales de primera categoría, así como actividades educativas y de relaciones internacionales con ciudades hermanas de otros países.

THE RHYTHM FOUNDATION

La realización de “Ritmo Doral” será posible gracias al acuerdo suscrito con The Rhythm Foundation, por su nombre en inglés, una renombrada fundación sin fines de lucro, promotora de la música del mundo y de eventos culturales en el sur de la Florida desde hace más de 29 años. Esta fundación es reconocida como un eje cultural en nuestro estado, por haberse destacado en la presentación de artistas internacionales y en el desarrollo de programas comunitarios de alta calidad. Han sido promotores de un sin número de conciertos, eventos y festivales, dándole especial atención a aquellas demostraciones culturales que se conectan con el público del sur de la Florida. Vale la pena destacar que, desde el año 2015, The Rhythm Foundation gestiona el histórico North Beach Bandshell para la ciudad de Miami Beach. The Rhythm Foundation está dispuesta a producir, promover y celebrar el evento “Ritmo Doral” en el área del Downtown Doral Park y trabajar conjuntamente con la Alcaldía de Doral para facilitar el desarrollo económico, las actividades diplomáticas y educativas en la ciudad y zonas cercanas, lo que garantiza el éxito de este proyecto. Si desea obtener mayor información sobre las actividades de The Rhythm Foundation puede visitar su página web: http://www.rhythmfoundation.com/ Por su parte, la Ciudad de Doral otorgará un patrocinio de $30 mil dólares como presupuesto total para implementar la programación, producción y campaña promocional de esta actividad y para asegurar los servicios de los

The City of Doral will provide a sponsorship of $30 thousand dollars as total budget for the implementation of the programming, production and promotional campaign for this activity and to insure that the services of the main artists that will participate in this colorful event, take place. It is important to highlight that “Ritmo Doral” will give priority to the artists that represent our sister cities, such as Oranestad from Aruba, Barranquilla from Colombia, New Taipei City from Taiwan and in the near future Armenia from Colombia and the City of Guatemala, in order to promote cultural, diplomatic and touristic ties that can extend over time. Manuel Pila explained that taking advantage of the actual relations that we have with our sister cities, we have the opportunity to showcase at an international level everything that Doral has to offer not only in the cultural arena, but also in the commercial and residential areas, and this will positively impact our economic development. As it is known by everyone, these type of celebrations are an opportunity for entertainment and celebration and it is characterized by its extreme colors, for this reason it is expected that all the residents will be involved in this family event, it is expected that an important number of people will attend. The Director for Economic Development, Manuel Pila explained that before the cultural event, there will be a diplomatic activity that will serve to tighten the relationships among the cities and sponsor companies, creating the right environment to promote the integral growth of the regions involved. Pila added that “the production of this event in Doral gives us the incredible option to showcase our city to the world, to expand at an international level and to attract the best artists from South Florida and several other cities, creating a perfect platform for economic development.”

City | Ciudad artistas titulares que participaran en este colorido y alegre evento. Es importante destacar que “Ritmo Doral” dará prioridad a los artistas que representan a las ciudades hermanas que tienen relaciones con Doral, como Oranjestad en Aruba, Barranquilla en Colombia y New Taipei City en Taiwan y próximamente, Armenia en Colombia y Ciudad de Guatemala para generar acercamientos culturales, diplomáticos y turísticos que se extiendan en el tiempo. Explicó Manuel Pila que aprovechando las conexiones que se tienen con las ciudades hermanas, tenemos la oportunidad de demostrar a nivel internacional todo lo que Doral tiene para ofrecer no sólo en el aspecto cultural, sino también en las áreas comerciales y residenciales, lo que va a impactar positivamente nuestro avance económico. Como por todos es conocido, es tipo de celebraciones son una oportunidad para la diversión, el festejo y la celebración y se caracteriza por ser una actividad extremadamente colorida, por lo que es espera entusiasmar a todos los residentes a que participen en este evento familiar que aspira a conglomerar a un importante número de personas. El desarrollador económico de la Ciudad de Doral, Manuel Pila, explicó que, previo al evento cultural, se tiene programada una actividad diplomática que sirva para estrechar relaciones entre las ciudades y empresas participantes, creando un ambiente propicio para el crecimiento integral de las regiones involucradas. Pila agregó que “hacer este evento en Doral nos da la increíble opción de mostrarnos al mundo, de expandirnos a nivel internacional y de atraer a los mejores artistas del sur de la Florida y de varias ciudades a nivel mundial, creando la plataforma perfecta para el desarrollo económico”.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

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Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Education | Educación

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Attendance Boundaries may change for Doral Public Schools – Will your child be affected?

By Belinda Gonzalez-Leon, Ed.D.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

f you have children attending Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) in Doral, it is time to pay attention because attendance boundary changes are coming! School attendance boundaries determine whether your student attends Eugenia B. Thomas K-8 Center, John I. Smith K-8 Center, Dr. Rolando Espinosa K-8 Center, Ronald W. Reagan/Doral Senior High School, or one of the future schools to be built in Doral. Two K-8 Centers are planned for the city as is a new High School. A new K-8 Center is planned for August 2017 near NW 90th Street and NW 114th Avenue (which will begin as an elementary school during its first two years). A second K-8 Center is also planned for August 2019 near NW 78th Street and NW 102nd Avenue. In addition, John I. Smith’s Middle Learning Center on NW 112th Avenue will be converted to second High School for the city of Doral. In January and through early February 2017, community meetings will be held in Doral to formally present and discuss the proposed new attendance boundaries. It is crucial that parents attend these meetings! Parents will be able to learn about the proposed boundaries, new schools, ask related questions, and most importantly – provide feedback on the proposed changes. Representatives from the MDCPS Office of School Facilities, School Operations, Regional Superintendent’s Office, and members of the Attendance Boundary Committee will be present. In late March or early April of 2017, the final approval will be made as to which school your children will be attending August 2017. The process involves many individuals and concerned groups so as to allow for a thorough review of the recommended boundaries. When determining attendance boundaries, many things are taken into consideration. Class size, impact on special education programs, transportation, feeder systems, construction of new homes, expected influx of new families, construction of new schools, and diversity of school enrollment are among those considerations. The City of Doral continues to see

more families moving in; more housing developments being built; more employees who find it convenient to send their children to school in Doral; and a continuing need for a second High School. It is because of these reasons that attendance boundaries need to be realigned to spread students out among the existing and upcoming new schools in a better way. It is expected that the changes will be gradual, smooth, and accommodating for students. During the MDCPS Attendance Boundary Committee meeting held on December 1, 2016, several parents from Ronald Reagan High School and Dr. Rolando Espinosa K-8 Center attended to express some concerns. One parent was worried that information was not being distributed adequately about these upcoming modifications. She was assured that the matter would be looked into, but that there are many avenues to obtain the information. Other questions included the if the Cambridge Program would continue at the new high school; would sports programs be available at the new high school; would any new school have a Magnet Programs; would siblings be separated into separate schools; and concerns about the increase in student enrollment during the months of December and January and its effect on school utilization. The answers are that the Cambridge Program will continue at the new High

School; sports programs will be shared with the Ronald Reagan High School Campus until the new school can accommodate; and the High School will offer a specialty program to be determined still. Parents will be able to request that their children all stay at the same school. The fluctuation of students due to immigration is always under consideration and the expected growth in population with new construction, all Doral schools should not be underutilized. Doral families need to be informed about the upcoming changes. New schools are being built and a second high school is going to be established in Doral. Therefore, read the emails and notices that your school sends out. Listen to the automated phone calls you get. If you believe your school is not informing you about attendance boundary changes, call your Principal or your PTO/PTA or School Board Representative Susie Castillo or me – Dr. Belinda Leon, as I am this region’s Attendance Boundary Committee member. Be informed, attend the meetings, ask questions, and provide your input on the recommended boundaries. These changes affect not only your children, but your family and it is important that you be part of the process. Only by your participation can good acceptable decisions be made in regards to which school your child will attend.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Community | Comunidad

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Doral Residents share their love and kindness helping families in need More than 150 Volunteers donated food and delivered turkeyst to families in need for Thanksgiving

By Grecia Romero

ovember 19, 2016 was a regular Saturday morning for many residents in Doral, but not for more than 150 volunteers that gather at the receiving area of Walmart at NW 87th Ave, eager to load their cars with turkeys to participate in the “Turkey Challenge 2016”. Certainly, one of the most valuable qualities of Doral residents is their willingness to help others; and based on that quality, different organizations and movements have been created to support migrant, young people, children and families to well adapt themselves to live in Florida. But one of the most beautiful acts of kindness is when families and children are willing to share what they have, to help other families and children in need. That is the case of the “Turkey Challenge”, an initiative that started 15 years ago and have helped more than 4,495 families so far in Florida City.

TURKEY CHALLENGE: THE STORY BEHIND A TURKEY

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Probably many of us have donated school supplies, a toy, and food to schools or churches when they have a donation drive event. However, our busy schedules and other commitments prevent us to continue to provide that support outside those occasions. But that is not the case for Mrs. Debbie Campos, a 20 yearsold Doral resident who works full time for New York Life and still recalls what motivated her to start this movement after participating in one of those drives: “A friend of mine invited me to a school to give the children school supplies. When we saw the need of the people for things that we take for granted, I knew something needed to be done. We always seem to

help those outside of our country but there is a larger need in our own backyard”. She immediately took action and, since Thanksgiving Day was fast approaching, she decided to ask some of her friends for support and organized the first and small “Turkey Drive”. As she said: “We felt that no family should go without a proper meal especially during thanksgiving. We are so thankful for what we have every day and wanted to share”.

an active role in events like this. Mrs. Campos would like to give a special thanks this year to her family Madison Campos and Fernando Campos whom have always supported her. In addition Mayor Luigi Boria, Councilwoman Sandra Ruiz, Vice Mayor Christi Fraga, Atlas Managment, Southern Asphault Engineering, Dr. Jorge de Diego, Kris Mesquita, Carolina Piernavieja, Mariella Gutierrez, Sandra Sarasa, Girl Scouts Troop 552, Doral families and all of the students from the following schools that got involved: Kids Village, Doral Academy, Renaissance Charter, Belen, Florida Christian, La Salle, Columbus, and St. Brendan.

“CHILDREN AND FRIENDS FROM DORAL”: A NEW WAY TO HELP

With that initial motivation, they delivered 10 turkeys and food baskets the first year and, as the word spread, that quantity has increased yearly until reaching 500 turkeys donated last month. Even though there are no organizations that directly contribute with the event Debbie has received the support she needs from many sources: “Walmart in Doral has been our principal provider. They have all the turkeys ready for loading the day of the event. Many families in our community not only donate money to buy the turkeys, but they physically help loading their cars and helping with the distribution to each family. It is really incredible how the money comes from friends and friends of friends. This event has grown through word of mouth and people with good hearts”. Debbie has also been working very closely with Mrs. Carmen Kreuger, the Director of Guided Counselors at Florida City Elementary, who is the liaison organizing families in Florida City the day of the event. “Thanks to Carmen we are very organized ahead of time. She prepares the list of students/families, and we set the goal of turkeys in order to better serve and accommodate them. The day of the event, Mrs. Kreuger along with some of our volunteers are the ones that put the motions into place so when we arrive, families are waiting on line to receive their Turkeys”. Sharing love and kindness with others is only possible when people from our community get involved with

“Children and Friends from Doral” is the name of the new initiative, a toy drive breakfast, which will be conducted annually. The goal of this event is giving clothes and toys to at least 100 children inviting them enjoying a breakfast while sharing together as a big family. This event initiated in 2016 and will continue the second weekend of December each year. Doral residents, friends, and even business are invited to participate in these events. This is one of those few events in which the items donated are handed directly to the families who will enjoy them. As one of the youngest volunteer shared anonymously: “I love to participate in this activity. This is not about us, volunteers, it is about all those families that feel loved and appreciated because of what we are doing. I feel happy to see them happy”. If you want to get more information about any of these events or wants to make a contribution, feel free to contact Debbie Campos at debracampos0303@ gmail.com Doral Family Journal congratulates all those who participated in these beautiful events.

Community | Comunidad

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Residentes del Doral Comparten su Amor y Amabilidad Ayudando a Familias Necesitadas

l pasado 19 de noviembre fue probablemente un sábado común y corriente para muchos residentes del Doral, pero no para los más de 150 voluntarios que se reunieron en el área de carga de Walmart de la NW 87th Ave, deseosos de llenar sus vehículos con pavos para participar en el “ Turkey Challenge 2016”.

Ciertamente, una de las cualidades más valiosas de los residentes de Doral es su disposición a ayudar a otros; y sobre esa base, se han creado diferentes organizaciones y movimientos para apoyar a los inmigrantes, jóvenes, niños y familias a adaptarse al diario vivir en la Florida. Pero uno de los actos más bellos de bondad es cuando familias y en especial sus niños, están dispuestos a compartir lo que tienen para ayudar a otras familias en necesidad. Ese es el caso del “ Turkey Challenge”, una iniciativa que comenzó hace 15 años y que ha ayudado a más de 4.495 familias en Florida City hasta la fecha.

TURKEY CHALLENGE: LA HISTORIA DETRÁS DE LOS PAVOS

Probablemente muchos de nosotros hemos donado útiles escolares, juguetes y comida a escuelas e iglesias cuando tienen un evento de recolección. Sin embargo, nuestros horarios ocupados y otros compromisos nos impiden continuar brindando ese apoyo fuera de esas contadas ocasiones. Pero ese no es el caso de la Sra. Debbie Campos, una residente de 20 años de Doral que trabaja para New York Life y quien aún recuerda lo que la motivó a iniciar este movimiento: “Una amiga me invitó a una escuela para entregar útiles escolares a los niños. Cuando vimos la necesidad de otras personas por cosas que nosotros damos por sentadas, supe que había que hacer algo… Con

frecuencia deseamos ayudar a los de fuera de nuestro país, pero a veces no sabemos que hay una mayor necesidad en nuestro propio vecindario”. Debbie inmediatamente tomó medidas y dado que el Día de Acción de Gracias se aproximaba, decidió pedir ayuda a algunos amigos y organizó la primera recogida de pavos. Como ella dice: “Sentimos que ninguna familia debe quedar sin una comida adecuada, especialmente durante el Día de Acción de Gracias. Estamos tan agradecidos por lo que tenemos todos los días que queríamos compartir con otros”. Con este impulso inicial, se entregaron 10 pavos y canastas de alimentos el primer año y a medida que la voz se corría, esa cantidad aumentó anualmente hasta llegar a 500 pavos donados el mes pasado. Aunque no hay organizaciones que contribuyan directamente con el evento, Debbie ha recibido el apoyo que necesita de muchas fuentes: “Walmart en Doral ha sido nuestro proveedor principal. Tienen todos los pavos listos para cargar el día del evento. Muchas familias de nuestra comunidad no sólo donan dinero para comprar los pavos, sino que físicamente ayudan a cargarlos en sus autos y a distribuirlos a cada familia. Es realmente increíble cómo el dinero viene de amigos y amigos de amigos. Este evento ha crecido a través la promoción persona a persona y de gente de buen corazón”. Debbie también ha estado trabajando muy de cerca con la Sra. Carmen Kreuger, Directora de Consejeros Guiados en la Escuela Primaria Florida City, quien es el enlace con familias en ese sector. “Gracias a Carmen estamos muy organizados de antemano. Ella prepara la lista de estudiantes/familias y con ese número, nos fijamos el objetivo de pavos con el fin de servirlos a todos. El día del evento, Carmen junto con algunos de nuestros voluntarios son los que ponen todo en su lugar y así cuando llegamos, las familias están esperando en línea para recibir sus pavos”. Compartir el amor y la bondad con otros sólo es posible cuando las personas de nuestra comunidad se involucran ocupando un rol activo en eventos como este. La Sra. Campos quiere dar un agradecimiento

especial este año a su familia, Madison Campos y Fernando Campos, quienes siempre la han apoyado. Además, al alcande Luigi Boria, la concejal Sandra Ruiz, la vicealcaldesa Christi Fraga, Atlas Managment, Southern Asphault Engineering, el Dr. Jorge de Diego, Kris Mesquita, Carolina Piernavieja, Mariella Gutiérrez, Sandra Sarasa, Girl Scouts Troop 552, y estudiantes de las escuelas que se involucraron: Kids Village, Doral Academy, Renaissance Charter, Belén, Florida Christian, La Salle, Columbus y St. Brendan.

“NIÑOS Y AMIGOS DE DORAL”: UNA NUEVA FORMA DE AYUDAR

“Niños y Amigos de Doral” es el nombre de la nueva iniciativa que se llevará a cabo anualmente. El objetivo de este evento es dar ropa y juguetes a por lo menos 100 niños invitándolos a disfrutar de un desayuno mientras comparten juntos como una gran familia. Este evento se inició en 2016 y continuará el segundo fin de semana de diciembre de cada año. Los residentes de Doral, amigos, e incluso negocios están invitados a participar en estos eventos, que además son uno de esos pocos, en los que los artículos donados son entregados directamente a las familias que los disfrutarán. Como uno de los voluntarios más jóvenes compartía anónimamente: “Me encanta participar en esta actividad. No se trata de nosotros, los voluntarios, sino de todas aquellas familias que se sienten amadas y apreciadas por lo que estamos haciendo. Me siento feliz de verlos felices”. Si desea obtener más información sobre cualquiera de estos eventos o desea hacer una contribución, no dude en contactar a Debbie Campos enviando un correo electrónico a debracampos0303@gmail.com Doral Family Journal felicita a todos aquellos que hicieron posible estos hermosos eventos. Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Por Grecia Romero

Más de 150 Voluntarios donaron comida y entregaron pavos a las familias necesitadas para el Día de Acción de Gracias

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Kreative Kids Therapy announce the start of your Physical Therapy Department

By: Blanca Concepcion

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

n 2016, Kreative Kids Therapy has had the privilege of expanding to meet the needs of the community. We have increased our Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy Department. We are also excited to officially announce the start of our Physical Therapy Department. Kreative Kids Therapy has actively contributed in the City of Doral’s community by participating in events such as the Autism Walk, Disability Fair, and Back to School Night. Our director, Katy Echevarria M.S. CCC-SLP, continues to sit on the Special Needs Committee of Doral in order to learn and meet the needs of the community in addition to spreading awareness. We are continuously working to enrich and strengthen our programs through various certifications and training. Several of our dedicated therapists attained PECS Certification (Picture Exchange Communication System) and PROMPT Training (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets). We have also furthered feeding interventions and continued to effectively practice the nationally recognized Handwriting Without Tears

Program. Kreative Kids Therapy has had the pleasure in creating working relationships with Florida International University, Keiser University, and Concorde Career Institute. In this mutually advantageous initiative, we develop and train future therapists and provide these institutions with current clinical environments to further speech and occupational therapy curriculums.

We have also trained with the University of Miami’s FAAST (Florida Alliance for Assistive Technology) Department and have established a facility partnership to provide access to assistive devices to our families. In 2017, Kreative Kids Therapy looks forward to introducing the Early Steps Program that will introduce children to intervention programs from an early age. We attribute this new initiative to our relentless exploration of new and innovative proven treatment techniques and interventions to better service the community. Kreative Kids Therapy would like to thank our community, educational institutes, and families for their continued support in our efforts to further our children, awareness, and professional development. Katy Echevarria M.S. CCC-SLP Director Kreative Kids Therapy 8491 NW 17 St., Suite 113 Miami, FL 33126 Ph: 305.456.5542

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Education | Educación

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Young People That Change the World

RRDSH Teaching Academy Students wins Regional FEA Competition By Maria Alejandra Pulgar

@marialepulgar - NAHJ #37172

tudents from the Teaching Academy at Ronald W. Reagan/Doral Senior High School won 2nd and 3rd places at the 2016 Regional Competition from the FEA (Future Educators Association). Mrs. Karla Lopez, Director of the Teaching Academy explained that the program “works in collaboration with Florida International University (FIU) offering a cohort 4 year program to our students showing an interest in education, starting freshman year all the way to senior year. The academy is dedicated to cultivate highly skilled students in becoming exemplary teachers.” “This award is very important for the students, the school and the community. It is the goal of the academy to lead our young intellects into a path in education that they seek to one day fulfill to the fullest. The students had to create an informational/creative book geared for an audience of students from Kindergarten to fifth grade.” The winning students were Freshman Luis Navas (2nd place – Creative Lecture) and Sophomores Valeria Urbano (2nd Place – Writing Creative Non-Fiction), Penelope Botticelli and Tommy Morales (Tied 3rd Place – Writing Creative Non-Fiction). These fifteen year old students wrote, illustrated and presented their projects to the panel of judges, who selected their pieces over those of other hundreds of students from Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe County. Based on the success of their participation on this competition, Mrs. Lopez created an after school tutoring program, the “TATI – Teaching Academy Tutoring Internship, to assist students who have recently arrived to Miami and don’t have language acquisition. The tutoring will be done by Teaching Academy students who will learn how to assess students’ strengths and weaknesses” and create lesson plans to make them improve.

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PASSIONATE FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING

Luis, Penelope, Valeria and Tommy are very mature for being 15 year olds. They are focused, dedicated, and certainly appreciate the opportunity of having being invited to be part of the RRDSH Teaching Academy (TA), Luis moreover now that they are starting to reap the fruits of their hard work. Luis Navas, the freshman of the group, born in Caracas, Venezuela, has been living in Doral for the past three years. His main motivation to enroll on the TA come from his appreciation of the positive impact a good teacher can leave on his students. He considers Mrs. Lopez his role model and hopes to apply the traits and skills acquired on the program to his dream of becoming a medical professor or plastic surgeon.

He is “passionate about science” and that is why he wrote a book about the digestive system. Luis participated on the Writing Creative Non-Fiction Competition and created an informational book called “The adventure of Mr. Apple”. His book is “dedicated to kids with special needs” and considers that his placing on this competition shows his passion and perseverance: “no matter the obstacles that you find on your way or how difficult things are, if you persist in your goals and are very passionate about it, you are going to make it.“ Penelope Botticelli is a sophomore, born and raised in Doral. Her grandmother was her Penélope Botticelli with Mrs. Lopez inspiration to join the Teaching Academy. “I saw her teach and the a university-related competition.” She considers that passion she put into teaching made me feel so inspired.” introducing students “to the field of education at an early She won third place on the FEA Competition with her age, makes them have the knowledge and serve as a book about lions and their habitat. Her favorite subject is cascade inspiring other students and have tools to help science. For her, this award is important because “means them in the future.” that I’m in the right path to success for becoming a great Tommy Morales is a sophomore and moved to Doral teacher, and books are part of the learning process. Like from Venezuela three years ago. He says that at the my grandmother said: “without books you can’t teach”. beginning he saw participating on the program as “just I think that my participation in the TA another class, but it became a part of my life that I hope will make a difference in the school will guide me to a bright future in the field of education.” because students will see how inspiring He enjoys taking History, because he likes “studying the it is and want to join.” past and figuring out how the smallest decisions molded Valeria Urbano was born in Valencia, the world we live in today.” Mrs. Lopez, who invited him Venezuela, and has been living in Doral to join the TA, is for Tommy his “most dependable and for three years. Her mom inspired her beloved mentors, I hope to someday be like her.” to join the TA because “she has been Tommy considers obtaining the FEA award on Creative teaching her whole life and it makes Lecture a testament that this program brings him “one me happy to see step closer to someday joining how she can change the exciting field of education. I students’ life with her believe that the TA is going to positive attitude and create extraordinary teachers determination.” in the future, which will Her favorite subject is mold young minds into the Navas Math and considers Ms. productive society we need.” Phillips a role model because “she has Luis, Valeria, Penelope and found a balance, being a teacher that is fun Tommy, are examples of bright and was also able to teach us everything students at the Teaching we need to know.” Academy program at RRDSH, Valeria’s book was a non-fiction piece where they learn the skills that about “the ocean and underwater life”. will help them be part of the Obtaining this award means for her young people who will change that “even though I am a sophomore in the world. high school I can still compete and win in Valeria Urbano

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Education | Educación

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Jóvenes que cambian el mundo

Estudiantes de Academia de Maestros de RRDSH ganan Competencia Regional

By Maria Alejandra Pulgar

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

@marialepulgar - NAHJ #37172

studiantes de la Academia de Maestros de la Secundaria Ronald W. Reagan/Doral Senior (RRDSH) ganaron 2do y 3er lugar en la Competencia Regional de la Asociación de Futuros Educadores de América (FEA por sus siglas en Ingles). La Sra. Karla López, Directora de la Academia de Maestros (TA), explica que el programa “trabaja en colaboración con la Universidad Internacional de Florida (FIU), ofreciendo un programa de 4 años para los estudiantes que muestran interés en el campo de la educación. La academia se dedica a cultivar a los estudiantes para que lleguen a ser maestros ejemplares.” “Este premio es muy importante para los estudiantes, la escuela y la comunidad. Nuestro objetivo es guiar las inteligencias jóvenes en el camino de la educación para que logren su máximo potencial. Los estudiantes crearon libros creativos e informativos para un público infantil desde Kínder a quinto grado.” Los estudiantes ganadores fueron Luis Navas (9no. Grado, 2do lugar – Lectura Creativa), Valeria Urbano (10mo grado, 2do lugar Escritura Creativa – No Ficción) y Penélope Botticelli y Tommy Morales (10mo grado, empatados en 3er lugar, Escritura Creativa – No ficción). Estos jóvenes de 15 años escribieron, ilustraron y presentaron sus proyectos ante un panel de jueces, quienes seleccionaron a estos estudiantes entre cientos de participantes de los Condados Miami-Dade, Broward y Monroe. Basándose en el éxito obtenido en la competencia, la Sra. López creó un programa de tutorías llamado Práctica de Tutorías de la Academia de Maestros (TATI por sus siglas en inglés) “para ayudar a los estudiantes Tommy recién llegados a Miami sin dominar el idioma. La tutoría será dictada por los estudiantes de la TA, quienes evaluaran las fortalezas y debilidades de los estudiantes y crearán planes de trabajo para ayudarles a mejorar.”

APASIONADOS POR APRENDER Y ENSEÑAR

Luis, Penélope, Valeria and Tommy son muy maduros para tener 15 años. Son enfocados, dedicados y aprecian la oportunidad de ser parte de la Academia de Maestros de RRDSH, más aun ahora que comienzan a recoger los frutos de su esfuerzo. Luis Navas, de 9no grado, nació en Caracas, Venezuela, y ha vivido en Doral por tres años. La principal motivación para inscribirse en la TA fue su aprecio por el impacto positivo que los buenos maestros crean en

sus estudiantes. Considera a la Sra. López como su modelo y espera aplicar los conocimientos y herramientas adquiridos en el programa para cumplir su sueño de ser médico. “Soy apasionado de la ciencia” y por eso escribió su libro sobre el sistema digestivo. Luis participó en la categoría Escritura Creativa – No Ficción con su libro “Las aventuras del Sr. Manzana”. El libro está “dedicado a los niños con necesidades especiales” y considera que su logro en la competencia Luis Navas, Penelope Botticelli, Karla López, ValeriaUrbano y Tommy Morales muestra su pasión y vida en el mar. Para ella ganar este premio significa perseverancia: “no importan los obstáculos que consigas que “no importa que solo esté en 10mo grado, puedo en el camino, si persistes en tus logros competir y ganar en un nivel universitario.” Ella considera y trabajas con pasión puedes lograrlo que acercar a los estudiantes desde temprano al “campo todo.” de la educación les permite tener el conocimiento y Penélope Botticelli, estudiante de herramientas y servir de inspiración para otros estudiantes, 10mo grado, nació y creció en Doral. para ayudarlos en el futuro.” Su abuela fue su inspiración para Tommy Morales está en participar en la TA. “La vi enseñando y 10mo grado y llegó a Doral la pasión que ponía en su trabajo son desde Venezuela hace 3 inspiradoras para mí.” años. Al principio pensó que Ella ganó el tercer lugar en la participar en el programa era competencia FEA con su libro sobre “una clase más, hasta que leones y su hábitat. Su materia favorita se ha vuelto parte de mi vida, es ciencias y piensa que el premio que espero me guiará hacia es muy importante porque “significa un brillante futuro en el campo que estoy en el camino correcto para de la educación.” llegar a ser una buena maestra; los Morales Disfruta mucho la clase libros son parte importante de proceso de Historia pues le gusta de aprendizaje. Mi abuela decía “sin libros no puedes “aprender del pasado y enseñar”; pienso que mi participación en la TA hace comprender como hasta las más pequeñas decisiones una diferencia en la escuela porque puedo mostrarles han moldeado el mundo actual.” La Sra. López, quien lo lo inspiradora que puede ser para que quieran participar invitó a participar en la TA, es su mentora “más querida y también. confiable. Espero algún día poder ser como ella.” Valeria Urbano nació en Valencia, Venezuela, y vive en Tommy considera que este premio en escritura creativa Doral desde hace 3 años. Su madre es su inspiración muestra que este programa lo acerca “cada día más a porque “ha sido maestra toda su vida, y me hace feliz ver incorporarme al campo de la educación. Creo que el cómo puede cambiar la vida de los estudiantes con su TA creará extraordinarios maestro en el futuro, quienes actitud positiva y su determinación.” moldearán las mentes más jóvenes que necesita la Su materia favorita es matemática y considera a Ms. sociedad productiva.” Phillips como su modelo, porque “ella ha encontrado Luis, Valeria, Penélope y Tommy, son ejemplo de los un balance entre ser una maestra divertida sin dejar de estudiantes brillantes que participan en la TA de RRDSH, enseñarnos todo lo necesario.” donde aprenden y desarrollan las habilidades que les El libro de Valeria es una pieza sobre el océano y la permitirán ser jóvenes que cambian al mundo.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Education | Educación

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Should I apply to College early?

By Belinda Gonzalez-Leon, Ed.D.

ost high school seniors applying to college will submit applications by January 1, 2017. However, some students turned them in as early as November 1st! No, you did not miss a deadline. January 1st is the deadline for most regular decision applications, but if your student decided to apply Early Decision then the deadline was November 1st and an answer will arrive before Christmas! Several colleges, not all, have an option to apply for admissions under a program called Early Action or Early Decision or some other similar name. It is important to understand each option that a school offers in regards to admissions and to carefully consider the best route for your student. Although it is possible that an early application option could offer better odds of acceptance, there are restrictions and risks that have to be weighed.

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Early Decision typically entails that the student apply to only one school early and any other school under Regular Decision. If the student is accepted Early Decision, they must accept and withdraw their other college applications. Because fewer students apply via Early Decision, there is a higher rate of acceptance simply because the pool of applicants is smaller. However, the criteria is the same. Students who apply through Early Decision need to be absolutely sure that this is their number one choice for college and that they do indeed meet all admissions requirements. Keep in mind that the Common Application opens on August 1st and under Early Decision the student only has three months to complete the process whereas a Regular Decision application allows the student five to nine months.

The deadline for Early Decision applications is around November 1st of each year and students will get a decision from the college before the end of December. Students may or may not have a financial aid offer at the time that they need to accept the school’s offer. Students may or may not be in a binding agreement to accept the college’s offer of admissions. These are the risks involved. Many times the college will require that the parents in addition to the student sign an agreement to the binding nature in an Early Decision application. Parents and students often question how a college can force you to adhere to the binding

agreement of admissions. Although this is not necessarily a legal contract, if you break the agreement without an acceptable reason (such as inability to pay tuition), the college will take action. The school may contact the student’s High School to tell them about the infraction (which hurts the high school’s reputation as a school that sends good students to this particular college); the college will contact the student’s other colleges and inform them about the student’s actions; and in essence they blacklist the student for breaking the agreement. There is also another option that some colleges offer referred to as Early Action. Early Action functions the same as Early Decision except it is non-binding. Students can apply to numerous colleges and do not have to commit to attending the college if accepted early. In some cases, students even have until May to decide which school to attend despite being accepted early. It is extremely important that when determining how to apply to a college that you read carefully the different options available as they differ widely. For example, Harvard University offers an Early Action that is due by November 1st, but the student is not obligated to accept Harvard’s offer of acceptance. However, the student can only apply Early Action with Harvard, not with any other college. Students will know if they are accepted by December and must submit a decision by May. Harvard’s regular decision application is not due until January 1st and a decision is rendered to the student by late March. Princeton University offers Single Choice Early

Action which allows the student to apply early to other schools as long as they are a public college and it is a non-binding contract. New York University offers two Early Decision options, one due November 1st and a second due January 1st. If the student is accepted, they have only 25 days to decide on the offer. It is considered a binding offer unless financial aid is not able to cover college costs for the student. The second Early Decision option is for students who need a little more time to apply and make a decision. Closer to home, the University of Miami has three Early options. Early Decision is a binding offer meaning you must attend if accepted. They also offer Early Action that is non-binding and has a later notification date of January. UM also offers Early Decision II which is a non-binding application due in January with a notification date in February. Regular Decision also has a due date in January, but students won’t be notified of acceptance until April. Many other popular Florida schools – such as Florida International University and the University of Florida do not offer any type of Early Admissions application options. Any type of early application signals to the college that you are serious about attending and are making a commitment to attend. Although it could be a binding contract that you sign sometimes without financial aid information and have less time to complete your application, you are competing against a smaller number of applicants and are among the first to be considered for admissions. Each student needs to weigh the pros and cons of Early Admissions options very carefully.

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re you taking advantage of the benefits that your homestead affords you? I should probably first explain that I’m not talking about the City of Homestead. The homestead I’m talking about is the homestead as defined by the Florida Constitution as wells as the Miami Dade County Tax Appraiser. In very basic terms it is the property where you reside, the place you most likely call home. There are two basic benefits that your homestead gives you in Florida. The first, you receive a tax exemption when the tax appraiser calculates your taxes on you homestead, it is currently $50,000. As an example, if your house is worth $300,000, the tax appraiser will give you the $50,000 exemption and only calculate your taxes on the value of $250,000. The second and maybe one of biggest benefits given to a homestead in Florida is the protection of your homestead from creditors. This is one of the reasons why Florida is so attractive to many individuals looking to protect assets. The Florida Constitution allows for someone’s homestead to be protected from the forced sale of creditors, subject to exceptions that include your mortgage, your homeowner or condo association, and construction liens. As an example, if there is a judgment against you for $100,000, for a business deal gone badly and you have a home that is paid off and worth $200,000, the creditor cannot necessarily force you to sell your home to make you pay the debt. On the contrary, your mortgage holder, your association, or your general contractor may be able to do so, if they follow the necessary requirements to do so.

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Again these are just a few of the benefits you can take advantage of with your homestead. Both these benefits can be sought through simple processes in your home county. It is important to know that every situation is unique and that it is important to contact the proper professional to advise you of your situation and as for the protection from the creditors it is extremely important that you contact an attorney.

stá disfrutando de los beneficios que le ofrece tener una vivienda principal (Homestead)? Creo que debería comenzar por explicar que no estoy haciendo referencia a la ciudad de Homestead. De lo que estoy hablando es de la vivienda principal (“Homestead”) que está contemplada en la Constitución del estado de La Florida así como por el Evaluador de Impuestos del Condado de Miami Dade. En términos muy básicos, la vivienda principal es la propiedad en la que usted reside, el lugar al que usted seguramente llama su hogar. Existen dos beneficios básicos que su vivienda principal le brinda en La Florida. El primero de ellos consiste en una exención fiscal al momento en el cual el condado determina los impuestos que le corresponde pagar por su vivienda, actualmente esta exención es de $50,000. Por ejemplo, si su casa está valorada en $300,000, el evaluador de impuestos le va a aplicar una exención de $50,000 y sus impuestos serán calculados solamente sobre un valor de $250,000. El segundo beneficio puede ser uno de los privilegios más importantes reconocidos a una vivienda en La Florida al ser la protección contra ejecuciones judiciales por parte de sus acreedores. Esta es una de las razones por las que el estado de La Florida es tan atractivo para muchos individuos que buscan proteger sus bienes. La Constitución del Estado de La Florida establece que la vivienda principal está protegida contra la ejecución de acreedores, con limitadas excepciones que incluyen la hipoteca de la vivienda en cuestión, la asociación o condominio, y gravámenes creados por mejoras hechas a la propiedad. Por ejemplo, si existe una sentencia en su contra por $100,000, basada en alguna transacción comercial que no culminó en buenos términos, y usted tiene una vivienda libre de hipotecas que está valorada en $200,000, su acreedor no podría obligarlo a vender su vivienda principal para que usted le pague la deuda. Por el contrario, si su casa tiene una hipoteca, el dueño de esta hipoteca, o el condominio o asociación de vecinos encargada de administrar la propiedades, o el contratista que estuvo a cargo de remodelaciones en su casa, si podrían ejecutar una sentencia en su contra y obligarlo a vender su casa para cobrar la deuda, siempre y cuando dichos acreedores cumplan con los requisitos legales para lograrlo. Insisto, estos son solo algunos de los beneficios de los que puede disfrutar con su vivienda principal. Ambos beneficios pueden obtenerse a través de procedimientos realizados en el condado en el que se encuentre ubicada la vivienda. Resulta importante destacar que cada situación es única y que es necesario contactar al profesional adecuado para recibir la asesoría apropiada sobre su situación en particular. Finalmente, para obtener asesoría acerca de la protección contra acreedores es preciso que usted contacte a un abogado.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Health | Salud

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Winter Asthma and Allergies By Dr. Elena Ubals

ollen allergy sufferers may experience relief during winter months as most outdoor allergens disappear until spring. But our South Florida winters are mild and brief with tree pollination starting in February and people with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) sensitive to tree pollen may experience bothersome episodes of recurrent sneezing and runny nose early in the year.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Indoor allergy sufferers, those allergic to house dust mites, dog or cat dander, may experience increased symptoms because we tend to spend more time indoors during winter months. Also, holiday decorations, travel and stress can all present challenges for people with allergies and asthma; for instance, Christmas trees can make some people sneeze or experience shortness of breath. It is unlikely that they are allergic to the tree itself, but the fragrance may be irritating and some trees harbor mold spores that trigger asthma and allergies that cause sneezing, itchy nose or wheezing. Ideally, use an artificial tree but, if you must have a real tree, let it dry in a garage or enclosed room for a week and have a non-allergic person give it a good shake prior to bringing it inside. Be sure to follow directions carefully when spraying artificial snow or flocking. Inhaling these sprays can irritate your lungs and trigger asthma symptoms.

In addition, during winter months, dry indoor air may cause chapped lips, dry skin and irritated sinus passages. The moisture from a humidifier can help dry sinus passages, but for people with indoor allergies, dust and mold from the humidifier may cause problems. The number one indoor allergen is the dust mite which thrives in high humidity. Keep the humidity level in your house between 30-45% if possible. You can monitor the level with a hygrometer. Food allergies during the holidays is also an important concern. If you have a food allergy, holiday gatherings may be difficult to navigate. Be sure to ask about the ingredients used to make each dish. Be aware of cross-contamination that can occur during preparation. If you do not feel

comfortable eating foods prepared by others, bring your own snacks or eat before you arrive. And of course, have your epinephrine auto-injector handy at all times. Cold weather activities such as cross-country skiing and other winter sports are more likely to cause exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Symptoms include wheezing, tight chest, cough, shortness of breath and, in rare cases, chest pain which usually begins within 5 to 20 minutes of exercising. Strenuous exercise, particularly in cold air, may cause these symptoms in most

asthmatics. Some people with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction do not otherwise have asthma, and people with allergies may also have trouble breathing during exercise. To cope with this condition, the first step is to develop a treatment plan with your physician. Exerciseinduced bronchoconstriction may be prevented with controller medications taken regularly or by using medicine before exercise. Once symptoms occur, they can be treated with rescue medications such as albuterol. In addition, warm-ups and cool downs may prevent or lessen symptoms.

People with asthma should receive the yearly influenza vaccine as respiratory infections and viral respiratory infections in particular may exacerbate asthma symptoms. They should also strictly comply with prescribed controller asthma medications as winter months are associated with increased incidence of asthma exacerbations. People with atopic dermatitis or eczema may also experience winter related flare-ups of eczema. Dry winter air may dry the skin which triggers the itch/ scratch cycle typical of atopic dermatitis. People so affected should keep their skin hydrated with daily

application of emollient creams immediately after bathing and more frequently as needed. Of interest, some recent studies provide strong support for the benefit of vitamin D supplementation in children with winter-related atopic dermatitis. Some of information provided in this article has been obtained from the allergy-library from the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. For more information please visit aaaai.org

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

unning a successful business comes with its share of challenges. From staffing and coaching to branding and marketing (not to mention maintaining relations with the clients), there are a seemingly infinite number of responsibilities that relentlessly pull you in every direction. To continue to succeed it is necessary to manage your resources as efficiently as possible, which often means outsourcing duties you simply do not have time for. Enter the Certified Public Accountant, or CPA. By occupying multiple roles at once, a CPA can be your business’s best asset, affording you greater opportunity to focus on the business side of your organization. Defining what a CPA is, what they do and why it is important to have one will help you better understand how they can benefit your business.

SO WHAT DOES A CPA DO?

CPA’s are equipped to handle a variety of jobs and tasks, all centered around saving your organization as much money as possible. They perform tax services such as filing all levels of returns and cooperate with

you throughout the year to reduce your tax obligations. And if you happen to be questioned or even audited by the IRS, your CPA is there to represent you. As well as representing you, CPA’s provide quality assurance and auditing services of their own. Too often managers make important decisions based on incomplete or inaccurate data, putting their business at an increased and unnecessary risk. CPA’s, however, thoroughly research and objectively evaluate the validity of your financial statements to help managers avoid risk and make more informed, confident decisions. Similarly, CPA’s specialize in management and consulting services that help businesses make better use of their resources to maximize efficiency and profitability. Whether you’re starting, managing or growing your business, CPA’s lighten the load by providing multiple managerial services: budgeting, financial planning, insurance coordination, investment guidance, cash management and preparing financial statements. Whether you need help with supervising your business’s day-to-day activities or professional advice preparing long-term plans, CPA’s are a flexible

solution to your business needs.

WHY CHOOSE A CPA?

CPA’s make good business sense. By being in regular contact with your CPA, you essentially have a financial expert looking over shoulder to keep your risk low and make sure all your “i’s” are dotted. CPA’s are trained to nip unseen problems in the bud and let you focus your energy on your other managerial commitments. Bound by a code of ethics, CPA’s are required by law to act with integrity and give good, sound ethical advice to their clients. At Rosillo CPA we take this obligation seriously. We offer business success planning services in which we consult with you to ensure your business grows correctly. We strive to provide outstanding service to help make your business as strong as it can be. Contact us or come by to schedule a consultation today. We look forward to making it your best year yet. Rosillo & Associates, P.A. is located at 7950 NW 53 St. Suite 221, Doral, FL. For more information, please call (305) 477-5671

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

How a CPA Can Be Your Best Asset

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Miami-Dade County Communications Department wins international award for marketing and communication achievements

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

iami-Dade County’s Communications Department recently received two platinum and one gold awards for its marketing and branding campaigns in the prestigious MarCom competition. Winning submissions were chosen from more than 6,000 entries from throughout the United States, Canada and 17 other countries, and were judged by a panel of industry professionals. The Communications Department won platinum for Branding Refresh and Integrated Marketing: • Miami EcoAdventures successfully rebranded its program to increase awareness, participation and registration in ecological tours and to enhance Nature Center volunteer programs. The rebranded program was showcased using social media, digital web banners, newspapers and magazines. • The Miami-Dade County Animal Services Department launched an important “Pets are Priceless” campaign to help reach the 90 percent no-kill shelter rescue milestone. The integrated marketing campaign promoted waived adoption fees using a multi-channel approach that included newspaper, social media, live coverage, content marketing, radio, media partnerships and outdoor advertising. The Communications Department also won gold for Integrated Marketing: • The Miami-Dade County Animal Services Department relocated to a new, state-of-the-art facility and launched a creative campaign to reduce the risk of residents arriving to the old shelter. The integrated marketing campaign was called, “We’re Moving” and involved digital media, social media, content marketing, newspaper and radio ads and more. “Our team is honored to be recognized by a highly regarded international organization. We work hard to design and produce marketing and communications materials that effectively inform and educate our residents about important County initiatives and programs,” said Miami-Dade Communications Director Inson Kim. The MarCom Awards is administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals and consists of marketing, communication, advertising, public relations, media production and freelance professionals. Visit www.marcomawards.com to learn more about the winning awards.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Sandra Sabatella, @sandrasabatella

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Even though 2016 is almost over, there are still a lot of fun and great events to enjoy! Take a look at the list below and plan your activities accordingly so you don’t miss the fun of this season.

CITY OF DORAL MOVIES AT THE PARK: December 23rd at 7:30pm- Downtown Doral Park. All residents and friends are invited to spend a fun night of outdoor cinema. You just need to bring your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy these family films on a giant inflatable movie screen. Food and refreshment will be available. The movie will be Arthur Christmas. LIGHT UP THE NIGHT AT DORAL GOVERNMENT CENTER: December 28th at 6:30pm. City of Doral will lighting up the Mehorah and recognizing all first responders for keeping the City safe during the holidays! An event that show the holiday pride and spirit of unity in the city. Refreshments, music and giveaways for all attendants. For more information about these City of Doral events, visit www.cityofdoral.com HOLIDAY BAY CRUISE: December 18th 11:00am to 1:00pm or 2:00pm to 4:00pm. An unforgettable and relaxing bay cruise aboard the Pelican Island Skipper, a 45-foot Corinthian Catamaran. The Boat will depart from Deering Estate and will explore the waters of Biscayne Bay. This experience is recommended for families with children ages 4 and older. Explore the beauty of our local waters. $ 35 per person. More information www.deeringestate.org A CHRISTMAS CAROL, THE MUSICAL AT THE ACTORS’ PLAYHOUSE AT THE MIRACLE THEATRE IN CORAL GABLES: from now until December 24th, Saturdays at 2:00pm. The loved Charles Dickens classic takes a musical turn in this festive holiday favorite. A fabulous musical adaptation written especially for family audiences that will warm your heart as it reveals the true meaning of the holidays. To encourage the “Spirit of Giving” during the theatre’s production of “A Christmas Carol, the Musical, Actors’ Playhouse” will give every child who brings a new, unwrapped toy to donate during a performance, one free Flexible Anytime Ticket good for any remaining show in the Musical Theatre for Young Audiences 2016 – 2017 Season. All donations will be delivered to Neighbors 4 Neighbors for distribution to families in need. www.actorsplayhouse.org/children 4th ANNUAL MIAMI INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL: December 24th to December 29th at Coral Gables Art Cinema: The Coral Gables Art

Cinema and the New York International Children’s Film Festival present this week-long extravaganza in which the whole family will enjoy Miami premieres of new films from around the world. There will be parties, hands-on workshops for children of all ages, meet-the-filmmakers events, Family Fun on the Plaza Day with face-painting, balloon animals, live music, food and more. Definitely a wonderful opportunity for an adventurous and fun week filled with diverse, smart and awe-inspiring films you won’t get to see anywhere else. Tickets from $7. More information at www.gablescinema.com DEERING HOLIDAY WONDERLAND: From now until Dec 31st. The last chance of the year for a great tour through the elegant and historic houses of the Deering Estate, but this time of the year, with holiday decorations created by local community organizations and clubs. Explore the beautifully landscaped main grounds and historic buildings at leisure, or enjoy a guided house tour of the estate. Guided Tours are Free with Estate admission of $12 for adults, and $7 for children ages 4 to14. Special Story Time and Photos with Santa free with admission on December 10th and 17th. www.deeringestate.org KING MANGO STRUT PARADE AT COCONUT GROVE 2016: The 35th Coconut Grove’s wacky parade will be held on Saturday Dec. 31st at 2 pm. This spoof of the Orange Bowl Parade has been “Putting the NUT back in CocoNUT Grove since 1982.” Parade entrants poke fun and at any and everything, satirizing the people and events that made news during the previous year. The parade begins at the corner of Main Highway & Commodore Plaza in Coconut Grove. For more information visit www.kingmangostrut.org . 42nd ANNUAL MICCOSUKEE INDIAN ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL: December 26th to January 01st 2017. This multicultural heritage experience brings the color and pageantry of costumed Native Americans from all over the country to the city. Arts, crafts, music, dance, native foods and more are feature during this well-known festival. Find vibrant, multi-colored paintings and clothing designed by Native American artisans. This event is full with nonstop entertainment and activities for adults and

children. www.miccosukee.com NEW YEAR CELEBRATION BIG ORANGE NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION AND MIDNIGHT- BAYFRONT PARK’S PARTY: December 31st from 4:00pm at Bayfront Park. You can’t miss the free-admission Pitbull’s New Year’s Revolution party featuring today’s top pop stars … a unique experience that only South Floridians enjoy year after year! The event will also feature the Worldwide Food and Wine Festival (additional tickets required). The traditional countdown to the New Year will have as centerpiece the “Big Orange”, a 35-foot neon South Florida icon that slowly creeps the 400 feet up the side of the InterContinental Hotel which is adjacent to the park; and at midnight all South Floridians will enjoy the spectacular display of fireworks over the beautiful Biscayne Bay. Bayfront Park is located at 301 N. Biscayne Boulevard in Downtown Miami. Additional details visit www. bayfrontparkmiami.com 2017 OPENING EVENT RINGLING BROS AND BARNUM & BAILEY- OUT OF THIS WORLD: From January 06th to January 15th at the American Airline Arena. Welcome 2017 with a wonderful circus visiting the city with an incredible spectacle: artists, magnificent animals like the Asian elephants, big cats and much more. An Out of the World experience it’s an exclusive live family entertainment experience where everybody will have fun! Prices start at $16. More information at www.aaarena.com Thank you for another great year together! We wish you the best during 2017. We will see you again in our January edition with tons of fun activities for you and your family… Happy New Year!

Sandra Sabatella, @sandrasabatella

PELÍCULAS EN EL PARQUE DE LA CIUDAD DE DORAL: 23 de diciembre a las 7:30 pm - Downtown Doral Park. Residentes y amigos están invitados a pasar una divertida noche de cine al aire libre. Sólo tiene que traer su silla y manta para disfrutar de esta película en familia con pantalla de cine inflable gigante. Alimentos y refrescos estarán disponibles. La película será Arthur Christmas. “ILUMINE LA NOCHE” EN EL DORAL GOVERNMENT CENTER: 28 de diciembre a las 6:30 pm. La Ciudad de Doral iluminará el Mehorah y reconocerá a todos los oficiales por mantener la Ciudad segura durante las fiestas. Un evento que muestra el orgullo de esta época y el espíritu de unidad en la ciudad. Habrá refrigerios, música y regalos para todos los asistentes. Para más información sobre estos eventos, visite www.cityofdoral.com CRUCERO NAVIDEÑO EN LA BAHÍA: 18 de diciembre de 11:00 am a 1:00 pm, o 2:00 pm a 4:00 pm. Un inolvidable y relajante crucero en la bahía a bordo del Pelican Island Skipper, un catamarán Corinthian de 45 pies. El Barco saldrá de Deering Estate y explorará las aguas de la Bahía de Biscayne. Esta experiencia es recomendada para familias con niños de 4 años o mayores. Explore la belleza de nuestras aguas locales. $ 35 por persona. Más información www.deeringestate.org “A CHRISTMAS CAROL, THE MUSICAL” EN EL ACTORS’ PLAYHOUSE AT THE MIRACLE THEATRE EN CORAL GABLES: desde ahora hasta el 24 de diciembre, sábados a las 2:00 pm. El favorito clásico de Charles Dickens toma un giro musical durante esta época del año con una fabulosa adaptación escrita especialmente para el público familiar, que hará latir su corazón, ya que revela el verdadero significado de la navidad. Para animar al “Espíritu de Dar” durante la

producción la obra “A Christmas Carol, the Musical”, Actors ‘Playhouse le dará un ticket flexible para disfrutar durante la sesión juvenil 2016-2017 a cada niño que traiga un juguete nuevo para donar. Todas las donaciones serán entregadas a ‘Neighbors 4 Neighbors’ para familias necesitadas. www.actorsplayhouse.org/children 4th FESTIVAL ANUAL DEL CINE INFANTIL INTERNACIONAL EN MIAMI: del 24 al 29 de diciembre en el Coral Gables Art Cinema. Este festival de cine infantil ofrece una semana completa de espectáculos en el que toda la familia podrá disfrutar de estrenos de nuevas películas de todo el mundo que no encontrará en otro lugar. Con fiestas, talleres prácticos para niños de todas las edades, oportunidad de conocer los cineastas, Día Familiar con pinta-caritas, animalitos de globos, música en vivo, comida y más. Sin duda una semana de aventura y diversión llena de variadas e impresionantes películas. Entradas desde $7. Más información en www. gablescinema.com DEERING HOLIDAY WONDERLAND: Desde ahora y hasta el 31 de diciembre. La última oportunidad del año para un gran viaje a través de las elegantes casas y sitios históricos del Deering Estate, pero en esta época del año, con decoraciones navideñas creadas por organizaciones comunitarias locales y clubes. Explore los hermosos jardines y edificios históricos y disfrute de un recorrido guiado por la casa. Cuenta cuentos y fotos con Santa gratis con el precio de entrada los días 10 y 17 de diciembre. Los tours son gratis con la entrada de $12 para adultos y $7 para niños de 4 a 14 años. www. deeringestate.org DESFILE “KING MANGO STRUT” EN COCONUT GROVE: Un desfile extravagante y diferente que celebra el 35 aniversario el próximo 31 de diciembre a las 2 pm. Este desfile-parodia se ha llevado a cabo desde 1982 en el cual sus participantes disfrutan satirizando personas y acontecimientos que hicieron noticias durante al año que termina. El desfile comienza en la esquina de Main Highway y Commodore Plaza en Coconut Grove. Habrá fiestas y eventos previos al desfile. Para obtener más información, visite www.kingmangostrut.org. 42 FESTIVAL ANUAL DE ARTES INDÍGENAS DE MICCOSUKEE: Del 26 de diciembre al 01 de enero de 2017. Esta experiencia de patrimonio multicultural trae a la ciudad, el color y esplendor de los Nativos Americanos

de todo el país. Artes, artesanías, música, danza, comidas nativas y más, son características durante este festival bien conocido. Encuentre pinturas y prendas multicolores y vibrantes, diseñadas por artesanos nativos. Este evento está lleno de entretenimiento y actividades para adultos y niños. www.miccosukee.com CELEBRACIÓN DE AÑO NUEVO FIESTA DE FIN DE AÑO BIG ORANGE: 31 de diciembre a partir de las 4:00 pm en el Bayfront Park. No se puede perder la Fiesta de Celebración del Año Nuevo con Pitbull y la participación de las mejores estrellas del pop de hoy... ¡una experiencia única y gratuita que sólo los Floridanos disfrutan año tras año! El evento también cuenta con el Festival Mundial de Comida y Vino (a un costo adicional). La cuenta regresiva tradicional para el Año Nuevo tendrá como pieza central la “Gran Naranja”, un icono de neón de 35 pies del Sur de la Florida que se eleva lentamente a 400 pies hasta el lado del Hotel Intercontinental, que se encuentra junto al parque; ya a la medianoche todos podrán disfrutar de la espectacular exhibición de fuegos artificiales sobre la hermosa bahía de Biscayne. Bayfront Park está ubicado en el 301 N. Biscayne Boulevard, en el centro de Miami. Más detalles visite www.bayfrontparkmiami.com ABRIENDO EL 2017 RINGLING BROS Y BARNUM & BAILEY- FUERA DE ESTE MUNDO: Del 6 de enero al 15 de enero 2017 en el American Airline Arena. De la bienvenida al 2017 con un fabuloso espectáculo de circo que presenta increíbles artistas, magníficos animales: elefantes asiáticos, gatos grandes y mucho más. Una verdadera experiencia “Fuera de este Mundo” para toda la familia, totalmente en vivo con diversión para todos. Precios desde $16. Más información en www.aaarena.com ¡Gracias por otro año juntos! Le deseamos lo mejor durante 2017 y nos vemos de nuevo en nuestra edición de enero con muchas más actividades divertidas para usted y su familia... Feliz Año Nuevo!

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Aunque 2016 está casi terminado, todavía hay mucho que hacer y fabulosos eventos para disfrutar. Dele un vistazo a la siguiente lista y planifique sus actividades para que no se pierda la diversión de esta temporada.

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Protecting your Business The Buy-Sell Agreement

roperly establishing your corporation, partnership, or LLC to ensure that the shareholders or owners are protected in case of ownership changes is imperative and should be an integral part of any business. A “Buy- Sell: agreement can help protect your business should ownership changes arise. Many times owners wish to sell their interests and take their investments elsewhere or an owner may be forced to leave the business due to certain events. In each of these cases, a Buy-Sell agreement establishes set guidelines that had been pre-approved and signed by the different owners.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

For example, if an owner wants to leave the corporation and take his investment elsewhere, he may be lucky enough to find a willing buyer. However, this change in ownership may be something that the remaining owners would not be willing to approve. This could be a result of many reasons like having to work with an undesirable or conflictive new owner, a non-contributing owner, or any other reason. As such, in this case it would be prudent to include a “right of first refusal” provision in the agreement. This gives the remaining owners a first shot at buying out the shares or interest of the departing owner.

In many closely held corporations, partnerships, or LLCs it is almost impossible to sell an interest in the company, especially a minority interest. As such, many owners should include in the Buy-Sell agreements wording that addresses what happens to an owner’s shares should he decide to leave or if he is forced to leave. This can occur if a minority shareholder decides to leave, an owner becomes ill, divorces, goes into bankruptcy, or simply dies (at which point his interest may go to his heirs). This can be accomplished by a forced purchase provision. This provision basically states that the remaining owners must buy the departing owners shares or interest at a set price. The price of course for any buyback should be addressed in the agreement, either as a fixed price, a formula for determining pricing, or an appraised value. There are tax implications and there may be estate planning concerns involved in these decisions for setting pricing and transfers of interest to heirs or trusts. So, it is important that a business owner discuss these issues with an attorney who can help them with their particular set of circumstances and desires. Carmenates Law Firm, PA By: Nelson Carmenates, Esq. 1300 NW 84 Ave Doral, Florida 33126 Ph: (786) 999.6472

In Flash | Fotos

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Diaz-Balart Recognizes Winners of 2016 Congressional App Challenge Photos can be credited to the office of Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart.

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) announced the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners of the 2016 Congressional App Challenge for Florida’s 25th District. The winners were selected by an independent panel of local technology and STEM leaders who served as judges. From the 25th District, twenty-one students from three schools submitted seven original student-created apps.

1st Place: “Deepstone” created by Blake Anderson and William Pembleton from Gulf Coast High School in Naples. (Pictured with Congressman Diaz-Balart and Miami-Dade County School Board Member Susie V. Castillo)

2nd Place: “HW Tracker” created by Carolina Aguilar, Juancruz Gamero, and Nicholas Schnoor from Ronald Reagan High School in Doral. (Juancruz and Carolina pictured with Congressman Diaz-Balart)

3rd Place: “Hit or Miss” created by Elizabeth Berenguer, Albert Charles, and Emilio De Leon from Jose Marti MAST Academy in Hialeah. (Emilio and Elizabeth pictured with Congressman Diaz-Balart)

n el Nuevo Año 2017, se dará cuenta que sus beneficios de Seguro Social y los del programa de Seguridad de Ingreso Suplementario (SSI, por sus siglas en inglés) aumentarán un poco. También hay otros cambios que posiblemente le interesen. Entre estos cambios está la cantidad de los salarios que está sujeta al impuesto de Seguro Social (conocido como salario límite). Esta cantidad aumentará de $118,500 a $127,200. De los aproximadamente 173 millones de trabajadores que pagarán impuestos de Seguro Social en año 2017, este aumento en el límite de salario sujeto a impuestos de Seguro Social impactará alrededor de unos 12 millones de trabajadores. Algunos otros cambios para el próximo año incluyen el límite en la cantidad de ganancias sustanciales (Substantial Gainful Activity – SGA, por sus siglas en inglés), la cantidad básica que paga

el gobierno federal como beneficio del programa de SSI y la cantidad de salarios que se le permite excluir a los estudiantes que reciben los beneficios del programa de SSI. Si quiere saber qué cambios hay para la cobertura de Medicare para el año 2017, puede encontrarlos en el sitio de internet de Medicare, https://es.medicare.gov. Es posible que para algunas de las personas que reciben los beneficios de Seguro Social el aumento en sus beneficios mensuales de Seguro Social sea absorbido parcial o completamente por el aumento en las primas mensuales de Medicare. La Ley del Seguro Social estipula cómo se calcula el ajuste anual por concepto del aumento en el costo de vida. Para informarse mejor sobre estos cambios y el ajuste por concepto del aumento en el costo de vida, visite nuestra página de internet www.segurosocial.gov/espanol/noticias/cola.

Todos los cambios causados por el ajuste por el costo de vida están enumerados en nuestra hoja de datos que se encuentra en nuestra página de internet www.ssa.gov/espanol/noticias/prensa/ hojadedatos/2017cola-datos.pdf.

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

Todo nuevo año trae sus cambios – Infórmese sobre cambios de los beneficios de Seguro Social para el 2017

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High School Robotics Team going to States

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

n December 10th, the Doral Academy High School Robotics team participated in the Archbishop Coleman Carroll VRC Qualifier Competition. Out of over 50 teams participating, and hundreds of students from a variety of schools including, but limited to: Terra, Ransom Everglades, Coral Park, and University School, Doral Academy went home winning the Excellence Award. This award is presented to the team that is best overall when considering their final ranking, skills challenge score, engineering design, and interview responses. With this award, Doral Academy has now qualified for its first VEX Robotics Competition (VRC) state championship match! Students in attendance at this competition were: Erik Vento, Miguelangelo Aponte, and Angelino Basi.

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In Flash | Fotos

Renaissance Elementary/Middle Charter School 2016 TOY DRIVE

Diciembre/December 15, 2016

or the 7th year the RECS/RMCS children conducted their Annual Toy Drive to benefit the migrant farm workers of South Florida, through the Rural Neighborhoods Organization, a non for profit dedicated to assisting farmworkers in Florida. This year they joined forces with the Liberty Motorcycle Association, they drove for 2 hours to Immokalee, FL, escorted all the way by these wonderful bikers. Together they delivered toys to more than 200 children and will benefit a total of 1,000+ children sending toys to communities as far as Ruskin, Florida. â€œOne of the things we love about RECS/RMCS is that we are a big caring familyâ€?