DORAL FAMILY JOURNAL - issue 116

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DO RAL Somos tu comunidad. ENTERATE! Envíanos temas de tu interés. COLABORA!

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Septiembre/September 25, 2016 EDICIÓN QUINCENAL

BIWEEKLY EDITION

No. 116

DO RAL familyjournal

Septiembre/September 25, 2016 • No. 116 • 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

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

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

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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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City | Ciudad

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Doral Recognizes Special Olympics Medalist

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he City Council lauded Aquanaut Valeria van Balen for her dual silver medal wins in the 2016 Trisome Games in Florence, Italy. One of four swimmers on Team USA, Valeria posted impressive times of 1:44 in the 100m and 0:45 in the 50m women’s freestyle events to earn silver medals.

An ardent competitor, Valeria has shown herself to be at home in the water, winning a silver medal in Stand Up Paddleboard at the 2015 Miami-Dade Special Olympics and beating her personal best to earn a gold medal for that event in 2016. Equally competitive in terrestrial sports, Valeria earned a bronze medal in tennis and a silver medal in golf at the Florida State Special Olympics.

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“Valeria is an inspiration to everyone,” remarked Councilwoman Sandra Ruiz. “She embodies what can be done by determination, dedication and supportive parents. It is my pleasure to see that her accomplishments are known throughout Doral,” she added.

The World Trisome Games, dedicated exclusively to athletes with Down syndrome, ran for the first time in Florence, Italy from July 15th to 22nd, featuring athletes from 35 nations competing in events such as swimming, synchronized swimming, athletics, tennis, table tennis, judo and gymnastics. Organized by the Sports Union for Athletes with Down Syndrome (SU-DS), the SU-DS has approached the International Paralympic Committee for it to be a new class within the paralympic games.

Exceptional Parks and Recreation Areas for Doral

Doral Legacy Park- NW 114th Avenue and 82nd Street The two pieces of land for Legacy Park had been purchased in 2008 and 2010, however, NO funding had been assigned to the development of this space, and additionally, the original design plans did not address any of the needs identified by our residents. Since 2012, funding for design and construction of the 18-acre, $23M Legacy Park was prioritized by the Council. Although we faced delays because of soil contamination that had never been identified during the land-purchasing process, Legacy Park will be opened to the public in November 2016. It includes Doral’s first, 35,000 sq. ft. community center with an indoor basketball gymnasium and exercise track, a 200-seat community room, a senior room, an arts and craft room, a recreational room, an aerobics/dance room, a multi-purpose room, and a conference room. The park’s exterior spaces include Football/Soccer Artificial Turf Fields, shaded pavilions, a softball field, a splash pad, tennis courts, an outdoor movie area, basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, and walking/running pads.

Doral Glades Park- NW 74th Street between NW 97th Avenue and NW 107th Avenue Doral has some beautiful natural reserve lands with wildlife and endangered species and it was one of my priorities to highlight and preserve these natural

habitats through Doral’s first Nature-oriented park. The 25-acre, $11M Glades Park will be the City’s first, nature-oriented park space designed around a large lake accessible via a series of trails, boardwalks, a kayak launch, and a fishing pier. The park will also feature a 9,000 sq. ft. Nature/Recreation Center, basketball courts, tennis courts, a playground, and a large area for multi-purpose green space, picnic shelters, walking/exercise trail, a lake viewing platform, wetlands, bike lanes, and an educational wetland boardwalk. The official groundbreaking for Glades Park will take place in October 2016. The park’s construction has already been fully-funded.

Doral Aquatics Facility- Doral Central Park Doral’s first Aquatics Center will be a 10-acre facility with a competition and an activity pool, water slides, a weight room, a multi-purpose room, a concessions area, pavilions and cabanas, shaded seating areas, a connection to a future Community Center, and a three-story parking structure. The City will use the venue to hold local and higher education swimming competitions, senior citizen activities and more importantly programs that will ensure all of Doral’s children learn to swim.

This state of the art facility will allow us to engage in private/public partnerships, which will attribute to creating sustainable alternatives for its future operations and maintenance. The Aquatics/Water Park is designed and almost ready for permitting.

Culture Arts Facilities In addition to fully planning and funding these projects, in 2015 the city purchased the parcel of land adjacent to Downtown Doral Park where we are designing a 12,500 sq. ft. Cultural Center. In order to remain competitive as a high-quality place to live, work, learn and play, the City of Doral must continue to provide world-class services for parks and recreation facilities as well as cultural activities.

As our community matures, it is important to ensure that Doral continues to meet the community’s needs. This year, we began research for the 2017 Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Doral needs elected officials committed to preserving our city’s green spaces and to funding programing at our parks. The successful results achieved in additional parks and recreation facilities for our community over the last four years are clearly visible today. Parks are the spirit of a community; it is were we gather as families, as friends, and as neighbors. I am commitment to Doral’s future and I will continue to make sure that these facilities are well-planned, serviceoriented, sustainable, and state of the art. It is what we have come to expect in Doral, and it is also one of the many things that I am working on to ensure a bright and bold future for our community.

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n 2012, as I walked door to door in Doral, many residents voiced concerns regarding the need for additional parks and recreational facilities to serve our City’s diverse and thriving community. The one request that I heard more than any other had to do with the need for an Olympic-size swimming pool aquatics facility. Residents felt then, as they still do now, that Doral’s children need a public facility where they can learn how to swim. In addition, our community’s competitive swimmers have been using another municipality’s pool, and they need a place to call home. Residents also want an aquatics facility with amenities not offered within their own complexes. As a result, I decided that supporting funding for well-planned, sustainable, state of the art, parks and recreation areas, as well as a dedicated aquatics facility, would be one of my top priorities while serving on the Council.

Given this priority, one of my first tasks when I took office in 2012 was to review the 2009 Parks Master Plan, and place the top priorities established by our residents first on my agenda. The study conducted in 2009 showed that the top requests from our residents in order of priority were: an outdoor/indoor swimming pools and/or waterpark, nature centers/trails, indoor fitness/exercise facilities, paved walking/ biking trails, small neighborhood parks, and off-leash dog parks. It was obvious that much was left to be done.

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Traffic | Tráfico

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The search for solutions continues

Traffic and its implications in the life of Doral residents As of October 1st, 2016, even when public work jobs have to be follow a calendar of construction in Miami Dade County, the City of Doral representatives will be able to make recommendations for the schedule in order to decrease the impact on traffic in our City.

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Edda Pujadas, @epujadas

n the last years, Doral has grown both industrially as residentially speaking, this is a synonym of progress but it has also caused one of the main problems for its residents: traffic.

To find solutions is not an easy task, but Miami Dade County works diligently on this, with the support of the City of Doral. The truth is that traffic in the City of Doral has been complicating, especially during the work week given the commercial and logistic activity of the city, and due in part to the constant repairs that are being done in the streets, for this reason we asked several residents what are their opinions regarding which is the responsible entity in solving the traffic problem in Doral and what they think is the cause of this problem.

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AFFECTED RESIDENTS SPEAK

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For Albeniz Palma, the responsibility of traffic falls on City Hall, because even when she understands that Miami Dade County has the last word on this issue, she considers that the City of Doral has not been efficient in representing the interests of its tax payers, who should not be so affected by these public works, that on top of it take a long time to be concluded. She added that “because we are in an electoral year, all the accusations take a different tone and questions arise regarding the lack of planning and the excess of residential permits.”

Andreina Luciani and Daniela Hurtado agree when they indicate that the City of Doral is responsible for the traffic problem and that the main reason is bad planning and the excess of residential projects, given that our streets are not prepared for the amount of cars of the people that live and will live in Doral.

This opinion is shared by Pilar Medina, who gives the responsibility to the City of Doral for the construction permits granted without having taken into consideration that this affects the traffic. “We are victims of dreadful planning, where residential growth was projected without considering the street infrastructure that would be needed.”

Heycel Hurtado divides the responsibilities between the City of Doral and Miami Dade County, due to bad planning and the excess of construction projects, while Vanessa Bastardo believes that the City of Doral is responsible because it approved permits without having the corresponding street infrastructure for the new construction. “Traffic in Doral will be a problem

that will continue until the responsible parties start working on solving it.”

Ana Piccone thinks alike, she believes that City Hall is the entity in charge of solving the traffic problem in the city and that the residential increase has been so huge that six years ago, when she moved to Doral NW114 Ave was a lonely street and NW 74th street did not even showed on a GPS. “Today NW 114 Avenue is super congested and NW 74th Street has grown so much that there are even strip malls on it.”

Antonia Arias and Henry Misri introduce a new element in this survey, they both agree on stating that City Hall is the entity in charge of dealing with traffic issues, but it is also evident that there is traffic congestion due to the drivers that either ignore or do not respect the traffic laws.

Antonia Arias added that even when she considers that part of the traffic issue is due to the fact that the city was not planned to receive so much population, it is also true that many of the current politics campaigning have tried to take advantage of this situation to incline the electoral opinion in favor or against certain political agendas.

for the construction, maintenance and organization of the streets and highways is Miami Dade County, through its different dependencies.

THE AUTHORITIES SPEAK

Nevertheless, in order to improve the road infrastructure and to minimize the traffic congestion in Doral, City Hall and Miami Dade County work jointly and on a continuous basis reviewing the projects for

In spite of the fact that the residents of Doral coincide in saying that the traffic problems in the city are responsibility of City Hall, the responsible entity

Edward Rojas

construction and maintenance in our city.

In a meeting with our City Manager, Edward Rojas, the Transportation Consultant, Joan Shen and the Public Affairs Director, Evan Owen, they explained that all the road infrastructure projects follow a specific chronogram; this takes into consideration the safety of the drivers, the necessities and the financial availability.

“Every construction project or road infrastructure improvement is done following a specific path and it is governed by a chronogram, if this is not done then delays and increases in cost may occur,” explained Mr. Rojas.

“Unfortunately, these schedules, established

by Miami Dade County tend to create traffic complications, but this is part of the construction process and we are doing our best effort to work in coordination with them in order to establish planning criteria that impact our traffic in the least possible way, but there are projects that can not be stopped or delayed or moved to a different date or specific time, we simply need to go ahead and do them in order to improve our streets,” indicates Rojas.

The City Manager stated that as of October 1st, 2016, even when Miami Dade County’s chronogram dictates certain public works jobs, city representatives will be able to suggest on the schedule and dates for them in order to create less impact on our traffic. Andreina Luciani Edward Rojas stated that this has been achieved thanks to the good relations that the City of Doral has with Miami Dade County, even the Director of the Department of Transportation and Public Works, Alice Bravo has indicated that she is very happy with the efforts that the City of Doral is doing to improve its traffic problems. “When the cities get directly involved in the search for solutions to their problems it is much easier to provide the residents with effective answers.”

The relationship with Miami Dade County has allowed us to accelerate certain projects, the City of Doral advances the money, County authorities execute and supervise the project and then the funds are reimbursed to City Hall. “We can not delay or reprogram works that have already been scheduled.”

Rojas highlighted that “we have now the money, the will and the need to invest in road infrastructure

Traffic | Tráfico

improvements. We can not tell the County not to need to eliminate the commercial trailers with goods conduct works in our city when we really want driving on Doral Boulevard, “when trailers turn left them to happen because we want to have to take the Turnpike, they a better city with a better road infrastructure create a delay in traffic, so that is according to the residential, labor and by building this ramp we will commercial growth of our city.” be improving traffic along “Before”, added Rojas, “Doral was a small our three main avenues. city, now we have grown and our activity is Given that Doral is a city related to the rest of Miami Dade County. We that is integrated to the are a big residential city but what has really transportation system of brought traffic to us is the labor, industrial, Miami Dade County, it is business and investment development and also benefited by projects this is evident during the weekends, such as the improvements when traffic congestion decreases that the Miami Dade substantially.”

Expressway Authority is Really, statistics show that during the conducting along 836 that business week we have a double of our Henry Misri include among others, population coming in and out of Doral, an access ramp on 12th and even when this increases the traffic issue, street, the widening of 87th avenue to four lanes in we also need to take into consideration that it each direction and the widening of 12th street to implies an economic benefit for the city and we three lanes in each direction, several access points can not go against this type of development. along 836 (12th street/82th avenue, 12th street/84th Regarding the most relevant projects for the avenue and 12th street/87th avenue), all of which will future, Rojas, Shen and Owen spoke about alleviate the traffic issue in our local streets. a joint participation with the Florida Turnpike Rojas stated that the improvements in the road Enterprise (FTE) to build an access ramp from infrastructure in Doral will be the result of a joint effort 117th avenue to the North side of the Turnpike, between Miami Dade County, the City of Doral and its also a bridge over 41st street residents. “We would like for out residents that will connect the North and to understand that what is happening now South sides of the Turnpike Trail is in order to have a future benefit, it is and a ramp for local traffic on similar to when we remodel our homes, 117th Avenue. we do go through certain drawbacks but Rojas explained that this at the end we have a beautiful house, it is agreement will allow Doral to the same thing with traffic.” spend only $3.2 million dollars, “As the authority in Doral, we try our best while FTE will pay the remaining to decrease all the hurdles and decrease balance of $12.4 million dollars the impact that traffic brings to the quality for the execution of this project, of life of our residents, but we also need the estimated date to begin it is them to understand that right now we the second week of 2017 and have the opportunity and the money to it includes a pedestrian and Antonia Arias improve the infrastructure of our city and bicycle path in the future. this is exactly what we are doing.”

Shen added that this project was born from the

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Traffic | Tráfico

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Seguimos en búsqueda de soluciones

El tráfico y sus implicaciones en la vida de los doralinos A partir del 1ero. de octubre del 2016, aunque la realización de obras viales deba ceñirse al cronograma de construcción del Condado de Miami-Dade, los representantes de la Ciudad de Doral podrán hacer recomendaciones sobre los horarios y fechas que tengan menor impacto en el desplazamiento vehicular.

Edda Pujadas, @epujadas

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n los últimos años, Doral ha crecido tanto industrial como residencialmente, lo que ha sido sinónimo de progreso, pero también de uno de los problemas que más aqueja a sus habitantes: el tráfico.

Si bien, buscar soluciones no ha sido una tarea sencilla, el Condado de Miami-Dade trabaja constantemente en ello, contado con el apoyo de la Ciudad de Doral. La verdad es que el tráfico de Doral se ha complicado, especialmente, en los días laborales por la actividad comercial y logística de la ciudad y por las constantes reparaciones que se realizan en las vías, por lo que le preguntamos a varios residentes sus opiniones en cuanto a qué organismo consideran responsable de solucionar el problema del tráfico de Doral y cuál creen que sea la causa del mismo.

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HABLAN LOS AFECTADOS

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Para Albeniz Palma, la responsabilidad del tráfico en Doral recae en la Alcaldía, pues a pesar de que entiende que el Condado de Miami Dade es el que tiene potestad sobre este asunto, considera que la Ciudad de Doral, no ha sabido representar los intereses de sus contribuyentes, quienes no deberían verse tan afectados por el desarrollo de obras que, dicho sea de paso, se tardan mucho tiempo en concluir.

Añadió que, por encontrarnos en año electoral, las acusaciones se recrudecen y empiezan a generarse dudas en cuanto a la falta de planificación y el exceso de permisologías residenciales”.

Andreina Luciani y Daniela Hurtado coinciden en señalar que la Ciudad de Doral es responsable del problema del tráfico y que la causa principal es la mala planificación y el exceso de proyectos residenciales, pues nuestras calles no están preparadas para el desplazamiento vehicular de la gente que habita y habitará Doral.

Esta opinión es compartida por Pilar Medina, quien le asigna la responsabilidad a la Ciudad de Doral por el otorgamiento de permisos de construcción sin tomar en cuenta que esto afecta el desplazamiento vehicular.

“Estamos siendo víctimas de una pésima planificación, en la que se proyectó el crecimiento habitacional sin tomar en consideración las vías de comunicación que serían necesarias”.

Heycel Hurtado divide las responsabilidades entre la Ciudad de Doral y el Condado de Miami-Dade, por la mala planificación y exceso de proyectos en

construcción, mientras que Vanessa Bastardo cree que la ciudad de Doral es responsable por haber otorgado permisos sin haber adaptado la vialidad a las necesidades de las nuevas construcciones. “El tráfico en Doral es un problema que se va a mantener hasta que los responsables se dediquen a trabajar para aligerarlo”.

Igual piensa Ana Piccone, quien considera que la Alcaldía es el ente encargado de atender los problemas de tráfico de la ciudad y que el incremento residencial ha sido tan abismal que hace seis años, cuando ella se mudó a Doral, la 114 Avenida era una vía desolada y la 74 calle ni siquiera salía en el GPS. “Hoy en día la 114 está súper congestionada y la 74 se ha desarrollado tanto que ya hay hasta centros comerciales”.

Antonia Arias y Henry Misri introducen un elemento nuevo en esta encuesta, pues ambos coinciden en señalar que si bien es la Alcaldía el ente encargado de atender los problemas de tráfico, también hay una evidente congestión por los conductores que desconocen y/o no respetan las leyes de tránsito.

Antonia Arias añadió que si bien considera que parte del problema del tráfico se debe a que la ciudad no fue planificada para recibir a tanta población, también es cierto que muchos de los políticos en campaña han tratado de aprovechar esta situación para inclinar la opinión de los electores a favor o en contra de determinadas tendencias políticas.

HABLAN LAS AUTORIDADES

A pesar de que los residentes de Doral coinciden en señalar que solucionar los problemas de tráfico de la ciudad es responsabilidad de la Alcaldía, la institución responsable de la construcción, mantenimiento y organización de las calles y carreteras es el Condado de Miami-Dade, a través de sus diferentes organismos.

Sin embargo, con el objetivo de mejorar el sistema vial de Doral y minimizar la congestión vehicular a lo largo de sus principales calles y carreteras, la Alcaldía de esta ciudad, en conjunto con el Condado de Miami Dade está en una revisión constante de los proyectos en construcción o de mantenimiento dentro de la ciudad.

En una reunión sostenida con el administrador de la Ciudad de Doral, Edward Rojas; la asesora de transporte, Joan Shen y el director de comunicaciones, Evan Owen, se nos explicó que los proyectos viales se realizan de acuerdo a cronogramas previamente establecidos, tomando en consideración la seguridad de los conductores, las necesidades y la disponibilidad financiera.

“Todo proyecto de construcción o de mejora vial se realiza siguiendo una pauta establecida y que se rige por un cronograma que debe seguirse, pues de lo contrario se generan retrasos en la finalización de la obra y el incremento de los costos”, explica el administrador Rojas.

“Desafortunadamente, estos horarios de trabajo, establecidos por el Condado de Miami-Dade, tienden a generar complicaciones en el tráfico, pero esto es parte del proceso de construcción y nosotros hacemos nuestro mayor esfuerzo por trabajar en coordinación con ellos para establecer criterios de planificación que impacten lo menos posible en el tráfico, sin embargo, hay obras que no pueden detenerse o acomodarse a una fecha u “Antes”, agregó Rojas, “Doral era una ciudad hora específica, simplemente, hay que hacerlas para conseguir la meta de mejorar pequeña, ahora hemos crecido y nuestra actividad está vinculada con el resto del Condado de Miaminuestras calles”, indica Rojas.

El administrador de la ciudad agregó que, a partir Dade. Somos una ciudad más grande a nivel del 1ero. de octubre del 2016, aunque la realización de residencial, pero lo que realmente ha traído obras viales se rija por el cronograma de construcción el tráfico a nuestra ciudad es el desarrollo del Condado de Miami-Dade, los representantes de laboral, industrial, de negocios y de inversión la Ciudad de Doral podrán hacer sugerencias sobre y esto se evidencia los fines de semana, los horarios y fechas que tengan menor impacto en el cuando la congestión vehicular disminuye sustancialmente”. desplazamiento vehicular.

Realmente, las estadísticas demuestran Señala Edward Rojas que esto se ha logrado, gracias a las relaciones que la Ciudad de Doral que los días laborales tenemos el doble de mantiene con el Condado de Miami Dade, incluso la la población entrando y saliendo de Doral y si bien esto incrementa el tráfico hay directora del Departamento que tomar en cuenta que también de Transporte y Obras implica un beneficio económico para Públicas, Alice Bravo, la ciudad y no podemos ir en contra ha manifestado que del desarrollo. está muy complacida Con respecto a los proyectos de relevancia con los esfuerzos que por venir, Rojas, Shen y Owen hicieron realiza la Ciudad de referencia al acuerdo de participación conjunta Doral para mejorar sus con el Florida Turnpike Enterprise (FTE, por problemas de tráfico. sus siglas en inglés) para construir una rampa “Cuando las ciudades se de acceso desde la 117 avenida hacía el lado involucran directamente norte de la autopista Turnpike, así como un en la búsqueda de sus puente sobre la 41 calle que conectará las soluciones es mucho más rápido darle una respuesta Albeniz Palma secciones norte y sur del Turnpike Trail y una rampa de deslizamiento para el efectiva a los residentes”.

La relación con el Condado de Miami-Dade ha tráfico local en la 117 avenida.

Explicó Rojas que este acuerdo permitido que muchos proyectos se realicen más rápidamente, pues la Ciudad de Doral pone el dinero permitirá que Doral sólo invierta $ 3.2 por adelantado, las autoridades del Condado lo millones de dólares, mientras que la ejecutan y supervisan y luego los fondos retornan a FTE pagará el saldo de $ 12.4 millones la Alcaldía. “No podemos, entonces, demorar o re- de dólares para la ejecución de este proyecto cuya fecha estimada de inicio programar obras que ya están proyectadas”.

Rojas recalcó que “ahora tenemos el dinero, la es la segunda mitad del 2017 y que voluntad y la necesidad de invertir en mejoras viales. incluye a futuro un paso peatonal y de No podemos decirle al Condado de Miami-Dade que bicicletas.

Agregó Shen que este proyecto no realice trabajos en nuestra ciudad cuando realmente queremos que esto si suceda porque aspiramos tener surge de la necesidad de eliminar el una mejor ciudad con una infraestructura vial que tráfico de camiones con mercancías esté acorde con el crecimiento residencial, laboral y por el Doral Boulevard, “cuando los Pilar Medina camiones giran a la izquierda para comercial”.

Traffic | Tráfico

tomar la Turnpike hacen que se retrase el flujo del tráfico, así que al construir esta rampa estaremos mejorando el tráfico por nuestras tres principales avenidas.

Debido a que Doral es una ciudad integrada al sistema de transporte del Condado también se ve beneficiada por proyectos como la mejora que el Departamento de Autopistas de MiamiDade (MDX, por sus siglas en inglés) realiza en la 836 que incluye, entre otras obras, una rampa de acceso por la 12 calle, el ensanchamiento de la 87 avenida a cuatro Ana Piccone líneas en cada dirección y de la 12 calle a tres carriles en cada dirección y la habilitación de accesos a la 836 (12 calle/82 avenida, 12 calle/84 avenida y 12 calle/87 avenida), lo que aliviará el tráfico en las calles locales.

Rojas manifestó que la mejora de la vialidad de Doral será el resultado de un esfuerzo conjunto entre el Condado de Miami-Dade, la Ciudad de Doral y sus residentes. “Quisiéramos que la gente entienda que lo que está sucediendo ahora es para obtener un beneficio futuro, es como cuando hacemos remodelaciones en nuestras casas: pasamos algunos inconvenientes pero, al final, obtenemos un hogar hermoso, es el mismo caso con el tráfico”.

“Como autoridad de Doral, tratamos de disminuir los inconvenientes y disminuir el impacto del tráfico en la calidad de vida de nuestros residentes, pero también necesitamos que entiendan que tenemos la oportunidad y el dinero para mejorar la infraestructura de la ciudad y eso justamente lo que estamos haciendo”.

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City | Ciudad

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Promoted by Councilwoman Sandra Ruiz

Doral residents will be able to finance energy improvements for their homes

Homeowners in Doral will be able to pay for their investment in energy efficient improvements as part of their annual property taxes.

Edda Pujadas, @epujadas

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he main purpose of the “Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program is to offer the homeowners in Doral financial plans that help them invest in energy efficient improvements for their properties, this was recently approved unanimously by the City of Doral Council.

Councilwoman Sandra Ruiz, who stands firmly by her commitment to strengthen energy savings and promote “green” initiatives proposed this program in our city. She explained that this is an effort inspired at a Federal level, and approved by the State of Florida, to create an incentive for homeowners to invest in energy efficient improvements for their houses and provide them access to the necessary funds for this.

The idea of the PACE program is to offer to the homeowners an option to finance improvements in their properties to make them energy efficient, and also protect them from hurricanes, given that this plan includes loans for the installation of a wide range of impact doors and windows, solar panels and energy efficient air conditioning units, among others.

As for the time in which this PACE program will be available for the homeowners in Doral, Councilwoman Ruiz informed us that “the city attorney confirmed that they are finalizing the contracts with the authorized PACE administrators who applied to the city to provide funding for homeowners and this will be ready by the end of September.”

“This is the first step in the establishment of the program, but there are still some details that need to be finalized in order for the homeowners to be able to get access to this program in a safe way.

Once this stage is concluded, all the rules and regulations will be published and made available on the city webpage.” added Councilwoman Ruiz.

BENEFITS

Sandra Ruiz explained that the homeowners will see the benefits of the PACE program through their lower electric bills, having better protected houses and in the increase in the value of their

property, “at the same time that we work toward the environmental development of Doral and we will be collaborating in the objective of having a clean energy city.”

The PACE program allows homeowners and even commercial and business owners to increase the value of their properties without having to go through a credit check process and without compromising their income/debt ratio. Owners will have the option to choose payment plans between 15 to 25 years and pay for their investment through their annual property taxes.

“Another relevant benefit of the PACE program is that it will also create local, well-paying and longterm jobs in a variety of industries that will want

to join us in this “green” savings plan and that will place our community in the clean energy space” explained Council woman Ruiz, she also said that she aspires that Doral becomes one of the most important “green” communities in South Florida.

This program will not only benefit the homeowners in their quest to lower their electric bills, but it will also help purify the environment in Doral, this will allow us to have a “green” and environmentally healthy community for our children and future generations.

The PACE program also increases the demand for clean energy infrastructure that will hopefully decrease the cost of energy production as demand increases. The funding mechanisms will also directly affect the choices developers and contractors make with future construction projects throughout the city – providing attractive green energy options for new developments.

Doral is the 20th municipality in Miami Dade County that joins this initiative of energy savings that can help the homeowners pay for new refrigeration systems, better lighting, solar panels, water pumps and insulation, among other options.

This program is already being implemented in several cities around the United States, through this program the homeowners are saving money and increasing the values of their properties at the same time that their local governments are reaching important environmental goals. “ Definitely, this PACE program will benefit us financially and will leave our children with a more sustainable and responsible city.” Assured Council woman Ruiz.

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City | Ciudad

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Promovido por la concejal Sandra Ruíz

Residentes de Doral podrán financiar mejoras energéticas para sus hogares

Edda Pujadas, @epujadas

Los propietarios de viviendas en Doral podrán pagar su inversión en mejoras encaminadas al ahorro energético como un complemento en su factura de impuestos anuales.

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frecer a los propietarios de viviendas en Doral planes de financiamiento para la realización de mejoras en sus hogares que incidan en el ahorro energético es el objetivo principal del programa “Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE)”, por su denominación en inglés, el cual fue aprobado recientemente y de forma unánime por la Ciudad de Doral.

La concejal Sandra Ruiz, quien se mantiene firme en su compromiso de fortalecer el ahorro energético e impulsar las iniciativas “verdes”, fue la promotora del programa PACE en la Ciudad de Doral y explicó que el mismo es un esfuerzo de inspiración federal, aprobado por el estado de la Florida, para incentivar a los propietarios de viviendas a realizar mejoras en su hogares que lleven al ahorro y conservación de la energía, teniendo acceso a los fondos disponibles para este fin.

La idea del programa PACE es ofrecer a los propietarios de viviendas una opción para financiar mejoras en sus hogares que harán que sus casas sean energéticamente eficientes, así como también permitirá proteger a estas propiedades de los huracanes, pues este plan incluye prestamos para la instalación una amplia gama de ventanas y puertas de impacto, paneles solares y aparatos de aire acondicionado eficientes, por ejemplo.

En cuanto al momento en que el programa PACE estará disponible para los propietarios de viviendas en Doral, la concejal Ruíz informó que, “el abogado de la ciudad confirmó que los contratos con las empresas que procesaran el financiamiento a los propietarios de viviendas para aplicar al programa PACE estarán listos a fin del mes de septiembre”.

“Si bien, este es el primer paso para avanzar con el programa, todavía quedan por finalizar algunos detalles legales para que los dueños de propiedades puedan acceder a este plan de manera segura.

“Una vez concluida esta etapa, todos los detalles y requisitos para acceder al programa PACE se publicaran en la página web de la Ciudad del Doral.”, agregó la concejal Ruíz.

BENEFICIOS

Sandra Ruíz explicó que los dueños de viviendas verán evidenciados los beneficios del programa PACE en la disminución de sus facturas eléctricas, en la

consecución de que sus hogares estén más protegidos de huracanes y en el aumento del valor de su propiedad, “al mismo tiempo damos un paso más a favor del desarrollo ecológico del Doral y estaremos colaborando con el objetivo de tener una ciudad que funcione con energía limpia.”

El programa PACE permite a los propietarios de viviendas e incluso a los dueños de locales comerciales y negocios, incrementar el valor de sus propiedades sin tener que exponerse a una verificación de crédito y sin comprometer su relación ingreso/deuda. Los propietarios pueden elegir los términos de pago entre 15 o 25 años y pagar su inversión a través de un complemento a su factura de impuestos anuales.

“Otro relevante beneficio del programa PACE es que creará nuevos puestos de trabajo locales, con una buena remuneración laboral y con estabilidad en una variedad de industrias de nuestra comunidad que querrán sumarse a este plan de ahorro energético y desarrollo “verde”, explicó la concejal Ruíz, a la vez que comentó que aspira que Doral sea una de las comunidades “verdes” más importantes del sur de la Florida.

Este programa no sólo beneficiará a los propietarios de viviendas en su intento de disminuir sus facturas de electricidad, sino que también ayudará a purificar el medio ambiente en Doral, lo que nos llevará a tener una comunidad “verde” y ambientalmente segura para nuestros hijos y para las generaciones futuras.

La aplicación del programa PACE también implicará la necesidad de construcción de infraestructuras

que funcionen con energía limpia, con lo que se espera reducir los costos de producción de energía a medida que aumenta la demanda. Adicionalmente, los mecanismos de financiamiento también ayudarán directamente a los contratistas de nuevos proyectos que podrán proporcionar opciones de energía “verde” para que sus construcciones sean más atractivas.

Al aprobar la aplicación del programa PACE, Doral se convierte el municipio Nro. 20 del condado de Miami-Dade en unirse a esta iniciativa de ahorro energético que puede ayudar a los dueños de vivienda a pagar por nuevos sistemas de refrigeración, mejoras de iluminación, paneles solares, bombas de agua y aislamiento, entre otras opciones.

Este programa ya está siendo aplicado en varias ciudades de Estados Unidos, en las que los propietarios de viviendas están ahorrando dinero y logrando que sus propiedades sean más valiosas, mientras que los gobiernos locales están alcanzado importante objetivos ambientales. “Definitivamente, el programa PACE nos beneficiará económicamente y nos ayudará a dejarle a nuestros hijos una ciudad más sostenible y responsable”, aseguró la concejal Ruiz.

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www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Meet the candidates for City Of Doral Council Seat 1

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Seat 1 is the most coveted position in the City of Doral ballot this November, with six candidates competing for it.

Sandra Sabatella, @sandrasabatella

n our last edition, Doral Family Journal introduced you to the different point of views of the candidates for Mayor of the City of Doral. Thanks to the good reviews we received for this article, we decided to also interview those aspiring for City Council seats 1 and 3.

The main goal of these candidates is their social commitment to the city and its residents, and together with the Mayor, they look forward to exercise their leadership to benefit the present and future of Doral.

City of Doral Seat 1 is the most coveted seat in the race, as Jackeline Alers, Jackelin Guiza, Claudia Mariaca, Enza Mongiovi Vera, Adriana Moyano and Carlos Pereira, aspire to win it. All of them assure to be prepared for the position and they express their will to improve the quality of life in the city.

We contacted each of these candidates to ask about certain issues that concern our community, so that the residents and voters have the opportunity to compare proposals and get to know them better.

On our next issue, we will present the answers of the candidates for Seat 3.

Candidates’ responses below are presented in strict alphabetical order, based on their last name:

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1. WHAT WOULD BE YOUR GOALS AS A CITY OF DORAL COUNCILMEMBER?

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JACKELINE ALERS: “As a longtime citizen, my goals would include; but not be limited to strategy, planning and execution of proactive solutions truly making Doral the premier city to live, work, play and learn.

• Propose innovative proven solutions utilized in major cities to address traffic challenges.

• Support and promote local businesses as they are the cornerstone of our business community.

• Develop unique facilities through public/private partnerships for our seniors and adolescence to provide ground-breaking opportunities through social, educational and physical activities.

• Develop clear communications with our residents to promote greater citizen

participation in all areas.

• Grow our cultural diversity in every nationality that resides within our city”.

JACKELIN GUIZA: “I will address my goals with five interrelated strategies: Access to Job, Smart Logistics, Connected Visitors, Connected Citizens and Sustainable Transportation”.

CLAUDIA MARIACA: “As a longtime resident of Doral, I have developed strong roots in our community and have volunteered on multiple boards. I am driven to serve our community and now seek to represent the residents on the City Council. My professional career has included working in corporate marketing and product development. My real world experience gives me a refreshing perspective compared to career minded politicians. I will focus on working with the community to continue to develop Doral in a more responsible manner, bring integrity and honesty back to local government and be a voice for the hard working residents of Doral”.

ENZA MONGIOVI VERA: “As a resident of Doral for over a decade, I know the needs of our community and the importance of Bold Leadership. As your next Councilwoman, I pledge to Find innovative solutions to reduce traffic and congestion, Advocate for responsible development, Insure public safety and Improve our quality of life”.

ADRIANA MOYANO: “I would like to help make sure that the residents of the City of Doral

feel proud of their hometown by contributing in maintaining our quality of life and government fundamentals. I believe that I can bring people together, even when we disagree. I believe that the city is in need of growing its relationship with its residents and in turn by creating this, much needed, communication with Doral residents we can better represent their true needs and not those of special interests”.

CARLOS PEREIRA: “Ethics and transparency in government is probably the most critical issue in Doral. Currently, we have a Mayor who profits from development in Doral. How can we not think of conflicts of interests? How can we be sure that decisions are made with the best interest of our City and not tainted by profiteering? I do not have any connection to development, or building associations. I don’t have that conflict of interest and believe that I will monitor our city to ensure fairness and honesty and ethics for everyone to benefit the City of Doral”.

2. WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE ARE THE MOST PRESSING CHALLENGES FACING THE CITY OF DORAL AND WHAT ARE THE SPECIFIC INITIATIVES THAT YOU WOULD PROPOSE TO ADDRESS THEM? JACKELINE ALERS: “The most pressing issues are similar to many other growing cities; traffic, controlled growth, safety, quality education and maintaining a family friendly environment. I would review the previously developed master

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www.doralfamiyjournal.com plan to see if it does reflect a positive outcome for our community consisting of residential, industrial and business sectors and amend accordingly. I also believe we need to be fiscally responsible and direct funding to the areas of most importance in order to achieve the four main areas we as a community seem to agree are important; live, work, play and learn; each of which have challenges and opportunities for great advancement”.

JACKELIN GUIZA: “Issues: • Traffic, Transportations, Security and Sustainability implement one of the most successful technology platforms in the world for the City of Doral to become a “smart city”.

• Bullying, institute an educational advisory committee with experts educators, parents and community leaders on Human Rights for the implementation of the Resolution of Conflicts”.

CLAUDIA MARIACA: “I believe that the most pressing challenges facing the City of Doral are Smart Growth, Government Accountability, Traffic Solutions, and Public Safety. This has been a recurring topic while speaking to voters.

Unfortunately, given the established constraints for our responses (“each answer should not exceed 100 words”) I cannot properly address the detailed specifics of the initiatives I propose, which include redirecting our budget, communication with Miami Dade and developers, and continuing to develop our police force. Feel free to contact me for more details on all the work that must be done. www.mariaca2016.com” ENZA MONGIOVI VERA: “The most pressing challenges facing our City and the entire county is Traffic. As your Councilwoman, I will work closely with the MPO and the County’s Transportation committee to insure mass transit reaches west that can connect to our trolley system”.

ADRIANA MOYANO: “Some of the most pressing challenges facing Doral are: 1. Create effective and modern solutions to relieve the traffic in our city. I believe that we need to be selective and responsible when approving new construction projects and prioritize new public facilities based on the needs of our growing population.

2. Boost economic prosperity and jobs for all

residents and making Doral not just a great place to live and work but also a safe city for our families to enjoy. We need to look at some of the root causes that keep some of our citizens from working in our city causing them to look elsewhere for employment.

3. To make sure that third party interests are kept out of the negotiating table when dealing with our county government which we must do regardless”.

CARLOS PEREIRA: “The number one complaint by the residents of the City of Doral is traffic delays. The lack of leadership from the previous and current Mayors, the lack of foresight in long term planning, the overdevelopment and poor communication with the County and State authorities have led to the daily traffic disaster we all experience. The most urgent goal in Doral is an increased focus on future planning, obviously, and to include addressing the rising sea level crisis. I believe that we also need to look at limiting development to match with avoidance of the congestion that overdevelopment is bringing to us”.

3. IF YOU ARE ELECTED, WHAT DO YOU THINK THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GOVERNMENT (THE PUBLIC SECTOR) AND BUSINESS (THE PRIVATE SECTOR) SHOULD BE? JACKELINE ALERS: “It is of paramount importance that we align the goals of our public and private sectors in order to achieve the most for our community in areas where we partner such as transportation, education, economic development etc.

My experience through civic volunteer positions and also senior level executive positions for local, state, national and international nonprofit

organizations has given me years of proficiency on how to properly partner with the public and private sectors. We need to collaborate with senior public officials and diverse community leaders, to secure public-private strategic partnerships to effectively mobilize constituents in our community to surpass expected results”.

JACKELIN GUIZA: “The public and private organization that has to work closely especially at the Smart City Challenge, the relationship between them are five, Policy, Regulator, Developers, Owners, and Operator”.

CLAUDIA MARIACA: “We are lucky to live in a Free Enterprise environment where the relationship of the Government with Businesses, while extremely important, must be limited. As such, Government should have two main functions when it comes to the Private Sector: 1. Establish rules that protect individual freedom and private property rights, and that uphold and encourage competition; and 2. Enforce those rules vehemently and with equality. Nevertheless, the City should also serve as a connection between residents and businesses. After all, residents and business owners are the City’s most important clients”.

ENZA MONGIOVI VERA: “Once elected, the Public and Private Partnerships would be improved and our City would be thriving. We need to give businesses incentives and tax credits to bring their business to our city. Bringing businesses to Doral would create more jobs and increase the cities revenue. I am the only candidate with the knowledge and bold leadership to make this happen”.

ADRIANA MOYANO: “It is a reality that local government receives less economic help from our federal and state governments therefore the

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

• Uncontrolled Construction proposes an urban policy establishing ordinances to regulate the abusive sprawl of new developments.

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Cover | Portada

www.doralfamiyjournal.com cannot survive without protecting and encouraging the private sector to develop new technologies and services for the people. Still, the private sector’s motivation is driven by profit and the government is driven by cost reduction while providing for services and administration of the public sector.

Still, governments help businesses by providing contracts for work in just about all areas of the economy. At the same time, governments tax businesses, not just individuals. The relationship turns out to be symbiotic with clear differences in specialized functions”

4. WHERE DO YOU SEE THE CITY OF DORAL IN THE NEXT TEN YEARS? AS A COUNCILMEMBER, HOW WILL YOU CONTRIBUTE TO ITS ACHIEVEMENTS?

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

need to better relationships between the public and private sectors is a must in order to offset the lack of economic help that would have, in the past, come from federal and state government programs”.

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CARLOS PEREIRA: “Most everyone realizes there are differences between the economies of the public and private sectors.

However, there are more differences than similarities precisely because the functions are totally different.

When choices are made about what responsibilities and functions to assign to the government, a crucial consideration should be the relative competencies of the private vs. the public sectors. The goals are totally different, but a government

JACKELINE ALERS: “This is a very important time for Doral. Every decision made will affect those in the future. If our elected officials, including myself; are transparent, communicate effectively with our community, act in a proactive rather than reactive manner to address our current pressing issues, are fiscally responsible, are inclusive of our multi-cultural community and truly listen and act on their collective behalf, we can clearly make Doral the premier place to live, work, play and learn. I am dedicated, motivated, and driven for the right reasons. I’m confident together we can create a City that other cities will aspire to emulate”.

JACKELIN GUIZA: “I see like a Mayor and the future partner to outline this platform for the next 20 years because we have a tremendous opportunity to put in place an ambitious plan to make Doral a digital city that is expected to create jobs and increase GDP over the next 10 years. Through initiatives aimed at encouraging and incentivizing entrepreneurs, increasing efficiencies through smart cities, Doral could become a global technology powerhouse”.

CLAUDIA MARIACA: “I believe we are at a crucial moment in the life of our city that will define and shape its future. As residents, we must decide if we are happy and satisfied with the current direction lead by this administration, or if change is necessary to progress into a brighter future. This election will be crucial for the future of our city. As a Councilmember I want to make sure our City has both a strong economic base and the necessary infrastructure to make sure our 10 year journey is smooth, and our destination a great City to live in”.

ENZA MONGIOVI VERA: “Doral and the area has become the economic engine of Miami-Dade County. It is an area that produces jobs, destination for shopping and tax revenue for the county and City.

Increasingly Doral serves as a pass through for those trying to avoid tolls, shopping and dining, as well as a place to live. The population in our City most likely doubles during the course of the day due to traffic. A few approaches that I would support and encourage:1-Doral has a good trolley system that should be further expanded to serve more areas and residents; 2-We should work closely with the MPO and the County’s Transportation committee to insure mass transit reaches west that can connect to our trolley system; 3-We need to encourage and require responsible development in the future that includes a Transportation component that helps, for example shopping centers and destinations could include a system that picks up patrons; 4-Invest more in technology that allows us to move people more efficiently”.

ADRIANA MOYANO: “My achievements will be the accomplishments of our Doral residents. Only by truly listening to the needs of our residents is that an elected official can contribute because all elected officials should represent the people, all though in government that is not always the case. One of my main concerns

is to make sure that our taxpayer dollars are not misspent and that the City of Doral residents always have a voice in city issues. I see Doral as a top example for others to follow of what a city should be but in order to do this we must elect people who have the work ethic and the vision to reach this goal”.

CARLOS PEREIRA: “I envision continued beauty, low crime and prosperity for Doral. Ethnic and cultural diversity on top of the beauty is a magnet for ongoing growth of our immigrant population.

Cultural diversity has problems of its own. As a councilmember I will work against creating pockets of divisions of our residents. We are ONE MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITY. I will be “WORKING HARD FOR YOU!”

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People | Gente

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Young People that Change the World

By Maria Alejandra Pulgar

Leonardo Bacan: Award Winning Artist

@marialepulgar - NAHJ #37172

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eonardo Bacan has been drawing and painting for as long as he can remember and at age 19 he gained national recognition for being selected finalist of the National Young Arts Foundation Award in Visual Arts and winner of the Gold Medal Portfolio of the Scholastic Art and Writing Award Competition 2016.

“I started very young, using coloring papers and colored pencils and crayons from an early age.” His drawings were not simple toddler doodles. He made actual shapes and figures, concrete expressions of the world as he saw it.

This Miami native from Brazilian descent lives in Doral along with his parents and brother. Loves to play soccer, listening to bossa nova and speaks English, Portuguese and Spanish. He is a regular kid, with an extraordinary talent, who graduated from New World School of the Arts High School last June. This fall he started to study Painting at New World Arts College in Miami and aspires in the future to get a Master’s degree and pursue a career as visual artist and educator of future generations.

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

FAMILY SUPPORT: THE KEY TO MAKE TALENTS BLOSSOM

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The never-ending flow of expression through painting caused him trouble on his elementary years: “I used to draw little cartoons on my homework, draw random stuff on my tests and used to get in trouble at school for that” “My teachers recommended my parents I should go to art school. My mother started considering it and in fourth grade I had an art class where people did not care that much, but I really took it seriously drawing dragons and soldiers trying to stop them. I put such an effort in my drawings that the teacher suggested to my mom “maybe you should actually put him in art school”. My mom transferred me on 5th grade to South Miami K-8 Center.”

It proved to be the wisest decision, as South Miami K-8 Center is a public magnet school for children talented in arts, the perfect place for Leo’s talents to blossom. Even though at the beginning he did not like the change and missed his friends, as soon as he found out it was a place where doing what he liked to do did not get him in trouble he “liked it, it was liberating”.

The support of his family has been instrumental for the development of his talent, and their efforts have paid off seeing him happy and successful. He attended magnet schools for middle and

high school. Leo says that he “would definitely recommend it if you have a child with artistic inclination. Find one for their special interests because it is a great experience. They learn from professional artists; start real, professional training early on and broaden their knowledge.

If your child has some kind of talent, go for it. I am very grateful for my mom for making that decision.”

The influence of his father has also been very important in his life. “My dad is a musician; he plays many instruments, and also draws. He is a great influence in my artistic life.”

Every day Leo’s father drove him very early to catch the train from Doral to Downtown to attend classes at New World. Watching the sun rising from the train, the beautiful colors on the sky were the inspiration for the series of abstract paintings that gained him the awards and opened the doors for the successful career he has started.

ON THE SAME LIST AS WHARHOL

Winning the Gold Medal on the Scholastic Art and Writing competition has put Leonardo Bacan’s name on the same list with artists, writers and actors like Andy Wharhol, Sylvia Plath or Robert Redford. This prestigious competition attracts thousands of talented students every year. For him the experience has been enriching but also very humbling.

While in school, he learned to use different techniques, his “work right now, what I am passionate is painting and I decided to focus on that. Abstract was something I had never done before. Abstract means it has no form; it does not look like nothing that exists. That is where my works falls at the moment: abstract landscapes, because it is not 100% abstract, but is landscapes, surreal.”

“Color is very important in my paintings because I express emotions.

When I made my first painting on this style, I was on the train going to school, thinking on issues that I had at that time. The way I focused and thought about solutions was when I was looking through the window, brought me to a state I was able to organize myself and know what I wanted to do next. I reflected how therapeutic that was on my paintings. I made this crazy landscape showing the beauty of the sunrises I saw from the train and showed what it meant to me at that time.”

Leo releases stress through painting, using colors to reflect his mood. “Different compositions express decision-making and my pieces show a lot of movement because everything is fast. Graduating high school; going to college, making the portfolio, winning two national awards. I was in a spot where I did not know what to do with my life. I was able to sit down and express these messages on my paintings; it was a message to myself; showing my purpose.”

GIVING BACK TO FUTURE GENERATIONS

The influence and support of his teachers made him grow in his art and he looks forward in the future to teach other aspiring artists. He decided to stay and study in Miami because he believes in the growth the arts are having in this city. ”We already host Art Basel. Appreciation for art is growing and soon we will be one of the greatest art zones.

All the beautiful experiences that I am grateful from my teachers, I want to pass them on. I believe in art and art is changing so I want to be able to create a new generation of artists in my students and keep it moving. Success is consequence of what you put to it and I will put my best, be in the zone and if I do just that, it will be fine.”

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People | Gente

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Jóvenes que cambian el mundo

Leonardo Bacan: Artista Ganador de la Scholastic Art Competition Por Maria Alejandra Pulgar @marialepulgar - NAHJ #37172

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eonardo Bacan ha dibujado desde niño y a sus diecinueve años ganó reconocimiento nacional como finalista del Premio de Artes Visuales de la Fundación National Young Arts y ganador de la Medalla de Oro en Artes Visuales de la Competencia Scholastic Art and Writing 2016 “Comencé a dibujar muy pronto, con creyones y papel” pero sus dibujos no eran los típicos trazos de niño sino formas y figuras concretas, expresiones de cómo podía ver el mundo a su tierna edad.

Este joven nacido en Miami, de origen brasilero, vive en Doral con sus padres y su hermano. Juega soccer, escucha bossa nova, habla inglés, portugués y español y es un muchacho normal, pero con un talento extraordinario. Se graduó de la secundaria New World School of the Arts el pasado Junio y ha comenzado la Universidad estudiando pintura en el New World Arts College. Aspira en el futuro estudiar su maestría, seguir una carrera en las artes visuales y más adelante poder educar a futuras generaciones.

El apoyo familiar: la clave para hacer florecer los talentos El inacabable flujo de expresión creativa le causó muchos problemas en la escuela. “Todo el tiempo dibujaba en mis tareas, cuadernos y hasta los exámenes. Los maestros recomendaron a mis padres que me pusieran en clases de arte y mi madre comenzó a considerarlo en el cuarto grado.”

“En ese momento tenía una clase que a los demás no les interesaba mucho, pero que yo me tomé muy en serio, pintando dragones y soldados que peleaban con ellos. Puse tanto esfuerzo que el maestro sugirió a mi madre que me pusiera en la escuela de arte. En Quinto Grado me transfirieron a South Miami K-8 Center.”

Fue una sabia decisión de su madre, pues esta escuela pública tiene un programa “magnet” para niños talentosos en el arte, el sitio perfecto para Leonardo.

Aunque al principio no estaba de acuerdo con el cambio porque extrañaba a sus amigos, tan pronto como se dio cuenta que hacer lo que más le gustaba no le causaba problemas se sintió “aliviado y liberado” en el nuevo entorno escolar.

El apoyo de su familia ha sido fundamental para el desarrollo de sus talentos y los esfuerzos se han visto recompensados al verlo desarrollarse como un joven feliz y exitoso. Leonardo piensa que asistir a una escuela magnet

marcó una gran diferencia para él. “Definitivamente es muy recomendable para niños con talentos especiales, es una gran experiencia. En mi caso pude aprender de artistas profesionales, comenzar entrenamiento profesional y ampliar mis conocimientos.

Si un niño tiene talento es una excelente decisión y estoy muy agradecido con mi madre por haberla tomado en mi caso.”

La influencia de su padre también ha sido muy importante en su vida. “Mi padre es músico y toca diferentes instrumentos. También dibuja y ha tenido una gran influencia en mi vida artística.”

Todos los días cuando su padre lo llevaba temprano en la mañana a tomar el tren desde Doral al Downtown para ir a clases en New World, Leonardo podía ver el amanecer desde el tren. Los hermosos colores del cielo fueron la inspiración para la serie de pinturas abstractas premiada que le ha abierto las puertas para la carrera exitosa que ha comenzado.

EN LA MISMA LISTA QUE WHARHOL

Como ganador de la Medalla de Oro en la Competencia Scholastic Art and Writing, Leonardo Bacan ha puesto su nombre en la misma lista de famosos artistas, escritores y actores, como Andy Wharhol, Sylkvia Plath o Robert Redford.

Esta prestigiosa competencia atrae miles de estudiantes talentosos cada año y solo 23 son elegidos, una experiencia “enriquecedora y a la vez una lección de humildad” para Leo. En la escuela aprendió a usar diferentes técnicas, pero actualmente su “pasión es la pintura. He decidido enfocarme en eso. Nunca había hecho abstractos, cosas sin forma, sin parecido a nada existente.

Actualmente hago paisajes abstractos, que no son 100% sin forma sino mas bien surrealistas.”

“En mis pinturas el color

es muy importante porque expresan mis emociones.

Cuando hice la primera pintura en este estilo, estaba en el tren hacia la escuela, pensando en los asuntos que me preocupaban en ese momento. Mirando por la ventana me enfoqué en las soluciones y llegué a un punto donde pude organizarme y decidir mis próximos pasos. Pude reflexionar lo terapéutico que resultaban mis pinturas y creé un paisaje que mostraba las bellezas de los amaneceres que vi desde el tren y lo que representaron para mí en ese momento.”

Leonardo libera tensiones pintando y usa los colores para reflejar su estado de ánimo. “Las diferentes composiciones muestran mi proceso de toma de decisiones. Cada pintura tiene movimiento porque todo pasa muy rápido: la graduación de secundaria, comenzar la universidad, crear el portafolio, ganar los premios nacionales. Estaba en un punto que no sabía qué hacer con mi vida y pude expresar esos mensajes en mis pinturas, mensajes a mí mismo, para encontrar mi propósito.”

AYUDANDO FUTUROS GENERACIONES

La influencia de sus maestros en el desarrollo de su arte ha influido en la decisión de Leo de enseñar a otros artistas en el futuro. Decidió quedarse a estudiar en Miami porque confía en el crecimiento de arte en esta ciudad.

“Ya tenemos Art Basel. Pienso que el aprecio por el arte está creciendo en Miami y pronto seremos una ciudad muy artística. Tengo gratos recuerdos y experiencias de mis maestros, eso es algo que deseo compartir. Creo en el arte y el arte está evolucionando. Quiero poder formar en el futuro nuevas generaciones de artistas. El éxito es consecuencia del esfuerzo que ponemos y yo estoy poniendo el lo mejor de mí para prepararme. Estoy seguro que todo estará bien y estoy en el sitio correcto.”

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Septiembre/September 25, 2016

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Septiembre/September 25, 2016

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Septiembre/September 25, 2016

Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

El Otoño y las Alergias Alimenticias Dra. Elena Ubals

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a estación de otoño por ser temporada de cosechas y acopio, es también, de antaño, época de grandes fiestas, verbenas, ferias y romerías que celebran la abundancia y prosperidad con amplio despliegue de manjares y golosinas.

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

La naturaleza suavizada y vestida de oro, nos ofrece la merecida recompensa por nuestra ardua faena. Es ocasión de plenitud y satisfacción, cuando familia y amigos se reúnen alrededor de la mesa a deleitar recetas de la abuela a prueba del más exigente comensal. Para los que vivimos en el sur de la Florida, los festejos comienzan con Halloween seguidos rápidamente por el Día de los Difuntos luego por el Día de Acción de Gracia, culminan con las fiestas Navideñas, Año Nuevo y terminan con Los Reyes Magos.

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Se suceden tan deprisa que tal parece que al repartir las golosinas a los niños disfrazados, ya se terminó el año. Es una vertiginosa cadena de fiestas culinarias envuelta en el caluroso reencuentro con seres queridos. Es sin duda, la temporada más hermosa. Es también sin duda, la época de recetas más elaboradas y complicadas; platos fuertes con salsas contundentes, embutidos, postres con nueces, pescados, mariscos, vinos y champaña.

En fin, toda una explosión gastronómica. Cabe recordar, sin deslucir las fiestas, y por razones obvias, que en esta temporada se producen la mayoría de reacciones alérgicas alimenticias.

La incidencia de reacciones alérgicas en adultos se estima alrededor del 1 % de la población y en niños, algo mayor, abarcando hasta un 6 a 8 % en niños menores de 3 años. Por razones aún desconocidas, la incidencia de reacciones alérgicas alimenticias está incrementando. Por ejemplo, la alergia al maní o cacahuete ha aumentado en algunos países como Estados Unidos. Cualquier alimento es capaz de desencadenar una reacción alérgica, pero los alimentos comúnmente implicados en la gran mayoría de las reacciones alérgicas son la leche de vaca, la clara de huevo, el maní o cacahuete, las nueces, el trigo, el pescado y los mariscos.

La reacción alérgica propiamente dicha es una reacción inmunológica a la proteína del alimento que casi siempre ocurre súbitamente después de la ingesta del alimento y va acompañada de urticaria o ronchas en la piel, edema o hinchazón, dificultad respiratoria y hasta descenso de presión arterial con pérdida de conocimiento. Esta reacción puede ser muy peligrosa y hasta fatal. La persona así afectada debe acudir a un especialista de alergias para confirmar la alergia a través de prueba de sangre o prueba cutáneas, debe además evitar la ingesta del alimento en cuestión y llevar consigo la adrenalina autoinyectable para usarla en caso de reacción alérgicas causada por la ingesta accidental del alimento.

Existen otros tipos de reacciones alérgicas inmunológicas, como el eczema o dermatitis atópica, condición dermatológica especialmente frecuente en niños que se manifiesta con picazón y erupciones recurrentes de la piel. La dermatitis atópica a veces está relacionada con la ingesta de ciertos alimentos. Las reacciones alérgicas deben diferenciarse de otras reacciones relacionadas con ingesta de alimentos como la intolerancia alimenticia, las reacciones tóxicas, infecciosas y las indigestiones. Por ejemplo, la intolerancia a la lactosa, un carbohidrato de la leche, es una condición muy corriente que se manifiesta con dolor abdominal, flatulencia y diarrea después de ingerir leche.

Las reacciones tóxicas como la ciguatera que se produce por la ingesta de pescado contaminado por la toxina o la escombriosis que se produce por la ingesta de pescado descompuesto, pueden confundirse a primera vista con reacciones alérgicas. Afortunadamente, las indigestiones que son las aflicciones más frecuentes en general y en esta época festiva en particular, en su gran mayoría, no tienen importancia.

De modo que a disfrutar las fiestas con moderación y ojo con el invitado alérgico, sobre todo si es un niño. Buen provecho!

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Septiembre/September 25, 2016

Education | Educación

The Importance of Education for Women

Belinda Leon, @belileon7

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

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ducation is the great equalizer for women and young girls. With education, young women can achieve academic and professional dreams that will put them on the same playing field as men. Why is that necessary? Because inequality still exists.

I hold an Ed.D. degree which is a doctorate in Education. In 2014, of all the doctorate degrees awarded in the United States, only 7% went to Hispanic females and out of that 7%, 569 were degrees in Education. When you consider that the Hispanic population in the United States is over 55 million, 7% is a small group of women. Moreover, the Hispanic population is expected to grow to 30% of the population by 2050. We need more Hispanic women with advanced college degrees. I do not want to be part of such a small group!

There are many resources available in today’s world to help families determine the right path to college. All high schools have college advisors; every year MiamiDade County Public Schools hosts a National College Fair every year; numerous search engines exist for the hundreds of available scholarships; and there are many non-profits that will work specifically with low-income and/or first generation future college students. These tools were not necessarily available when I graduated from high school in 1988. When I graduated, the drop out of high school rate for Hispanic students was 33%. We have improved to a dropout rate of only 14%, but that is still a significant percentage of students.

Here in Doral, Ronald Reagan High School has a little over 2000 students. In 2015, there were 490 Hispanic seniors of which 89% graduated. In the senior class, there were 255 Hispanic girls and 89.8% graduated.

These are excellent rates! We live in an area with excellent schools and our girls have every opportunity to succeed.

Worldwide, right now, there are 62 million girls that are not in school. Yet, education is what will remedy so many of the challenges women face.

For each year of high school a girl completes, they increase the amount of money they will make in their life by 20%. For each year of education a mother receives, the infant mortality rate drops by 10%. Every 30 seconds, 13 girls under the age of 18 are married in the world.

In 2014, almost 22% of women in Miami Dade County were living under the poverty rate- it’s 16.5 for the nation.

Education can reduce that poverty and empower girls.

Women only make 79 cents for every dollar a man makes. Only 19% of the seats for Board of Directors in the United States belong to women. Jobs in the STEM field are growing faster than any other market in the United States, yet women only make up 14% of the STEM workforce.

If we educate our girls, they will make more money; reduce poverty; reduce prostitution; they will be happier- happier! And there is ever research that they are more likely to be in a successful marriage if they are educated. Education is the major predictor of earnings and equality.

Education is the great equalizer. It can never be taken away from you. Invest in girls.

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

La importancia de la educación para la Mujer

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a educación es el gran igualador para las mujeres y las jóvenes. Con la educación, las mujeres jóvenes pueden lograr los sueños académicos y profesionales que las pondrán en el mismo campo de juego que a los hombres. ¿Por qué es necesaria? Porque aún existe la desigualdad.

Yo tengo un Doctorado en Educación. En el 2014, todos los grados de doctorado concedidos en los Estados Unidos, sólo el 7% se destinó a las mujeres hispanas y de ese 7%, 569 eran grados en Educación. Cuando se considera que la población hispana en los Estados Unidos sobrepasa los 55 millones, el 7% es un pequeño grupo de mujeres. Por otra parte, se espera que la población hispana continuará creciendo alcanzando un 30% de la población para el 2050. Necesitamos más mujeres hispanas con títulos universitarios avanzados. No quiero ser parte de un grupo tan pequeño!

Hay muchos recursos disponibles en el mundo de hoy para ayudar a las familias a determinar el camino correcto para ir a la universidad. Todas las escuelas secundarias tienen asesores universitarios; todos los años Miami-Dade County Public Schools promociona una Feria Nacional de Universidades; Existen numerosos motores de búsqueda para cientos de becas disponibles; y hay muchas organizaciones sin fines de lucro que trabajan con los futuros estudiantes universitarios de bajos ingresos bajos. Estas herramientas no necesariamente estaban disponibles cuando me gradué de la escuela secundaria en 1988. Cuando me gradué, existía una alta tasa de abandono de la escuela; el 33% de los estudiantes hispanos abandonaba la escuela. Ha mejorado la tasa de abandono de solamente el 14%, pero sigue siendo un porcentaje significativo de los estudiantes.

Aquí en Doral, Ronald Reagan High School tiene un poco más de 2000 estudiantes. En 2015, había 490 estudiantes hispanos de los cuales se graduaron el 89%. En la clase de seniors, había 255 niñas hispanas y el 89,8% se graduó. Estos son excelentes porcentajes! Vivimos en una zona con excelentes escuelas y nuestras niñas tienen todas las oportunidades para tener éxito. En todo el mundo, en este momento, hay 62 millones de niñas que no están en la escuela. Sin embargo, la educación es lo que va a solucionar muchos de los desafíos que enfrentan las mujeres hoy en día.

Por cada año, que una joven completa la escuela secundaria, ellas aumentan la cantidad de dinero que harán en su vida en un 20%. Por cada año de educación que recibe una madre, la tasa de mortalidad infantil se reduce en un 10%. Cada 30 segundos, 13 niñas menores de 18 años se casan en el mundo. En el 2014, casi el 22% de las mujeres en Miami Dade estaban viviendo bajo la pobreza… un 16,5% de la nación. La educación puede reducir la pobreza y la autonomía de las niñas.

Las mujeres sólo hacen 79 centavos por cada dólar que hace un hombre.

Sólo el 19% de las plazas para Junta de Directores en los Estados Unidos pertenecen a mujeres. Trabajos en el campo de STEM están creciendo más rápido que cualquier otro mercado en los Estados Unidos, sin embargo, las mujeres sólo representan el 14% de la plantilla de STEM. Si educamos a nuestras chicas, van a ganar más dinero; reducir pobreza; reducir la prostitución; serán más felices! Y hay investigaciones que muestran más probabilidades de estar en un matrimonio exitoso si se les educa. La educación es el principal factor de predicción de los ingresos y la igualdad. La educación es el gran igualador. Invierte en las niñas!

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Septiembre/September 25, 2016

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www.doralfamiyjournal.com

The Wings over Homestead Air Show is back!

By Jose “Pepe” Diaz Miami-Dade County Commissioner, District 12, Miami-Dade County Military Liaison and Chairman of the Military Affairs Board

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esidents who miss the thrill and excitement of the Wings Over Homestead Air Show can look forward to the return of the specular air extravaganza this fall. The show, which was canceled for the last three years due to military budget cuts, is coming back the weekend of Nov. 5 and 6 to dazzle spectators of all ages.

The free-to-the-public show, whose theme this year is “Spirit of Flight: Celebrating Superior Air Power,” will take place at the Homestead Air Reserve Base and feature the world-famous U.S. Army parachute team The Golden Knights and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds performing breathtaking displays of aeronautics from close-formation aerial stunts to supersonic fly-bys in a variety of aircraft from vintage to modern. The show also will feature static displays of military aircraft for an up-close and personal experience, along with beverage and food vendors to accommodate an expected record crowd.

This is a great opportunity for the community to get a feel for the dayto-day operations at Homestead Air Reserve Base while marveling at the awesome beauty and skill of these special aircraft and the pilots who fly them. Who doesn’t love to see jets and other aircrafts do maneuvers in the air that leave us all speechless?

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

I have been working closely with the Miami-Dade Military Affairs Board, Homestead Air Reserve Base Commander U.S. Air Force Colonel David P. Garfield and his staff, and Deputy Mayor Russell Benford along with several County departments to organize this event to ensure that it is a success.

As a U.S. Marine and the Military Liaison for Miami-Dade County, I’m really looking forward to being there and cheering these fantastic pilots.

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For more information on the show, please visit www.wingsoverhomesteadarb.com The Miami-Dade Military Affairs Board’s mission is to promote, attract and solicit military-related events in Miami-Dade County and advocate on behalf of military personnel on issues like health care, housing loans, pension benefits, education, employment, unemployment benefits, disability claims, vocational training and insurance, and to refer them to the appropriate agencies. For more information about the Military Affairs Board, or if you know someone who needs assistance with military or veteran issues, please contact Gustavo Cruz at (305) 375-4493 or guscruz@miamidade. gov, or visit www.miamidade.gov/advocacy/military_home.asp

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Septiembre/September 25, 2016

By Sandra Sabatella

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

Enjoy the last days of September and welcome October with this fantastic list of events:

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LAST FAMILY FRIDAYS AND DIVE IN MOVIE AT GRAPELAND WATER PARK: Sept 30th from 5:30pm.

This is the last opportunity to enjoy the Grapeland Water Park Family Fridays.

Ending this 2016 season, the park will be open from 5:30 pm for just $5 per attendee. Families will have the chance to access the slide pools until 7:30 pm and then enjoy the Dive In Movie at the recreation pool at 8:00 pm. This time the movie will be ‘Inside Out’.

Don’t miss it. www.miamigov.com/grapeland JUNIOR ORANGE BOWL FAMILY DAY: October 1st from 11:00am to 9:00pm.

A fun and free event for every one! During the annual Junior Orange Bowl Family Day, little ones will enjoy carnival games, entertainment, prizes, giveaways, bands, face painting, junior calypso competition, and much more.

Parents and guardians will have access to educational resources, financial services, health screenings, and accessibility awareness.

For location and additional details visit: www.miamibrowardcarnival.com/junior-carnival/ The Miami Dade Park and Recreation Department offer a great variety of monthly events for people of all ages. In this edition we suggest these two: • Introduction to Archery at A.D. Barnes Park.

October 01st from 10:00 am to12:00 pm. During this educational and hands-on seminar, you will learn about the origins and history of archery as both a sport and tool for survival. Be instructed on proper technique and take some practice shots at a target to test the new skills. This program meets at the park Nature Center located in 401 SW 72 Av, Miami. It is required to wear comfortable shoes and protection from the sun. Fee $ 8 per participant.

• Matheson Mangrove Kayak Trek: October 02nd, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Give yourself the chance to be immersed in the remarkable beauty of Biscayne Bay, traveling with expert naturalist-guides through mangroves, the world’s only salt-water trees, and discover a world filled with Brown Pelicans, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, Nurse

Sharks, Sting Rays, and more. Participants will meet at the wading beach in Matheson Hammock Park for an unforgettable adventure. Fee $30 per person. For more information about these or other events visit: www.miamidade.gov/parks GRAN GALA ZUN ZÚN CHILDREN FEST: October 1st from 2:00pm to 5:00pm at the Miami Dade County Auditorium. If you like concerts, this is the event for you and your family.

Enjoy a concert of playful and educational Afro-Caribbean rhythms, presenting talented singers, storytellers, and local artists devoted to top-quality programming for kids and families. During the Zun Zún Children Fest, the little ones will learn about art, and cultural experiences. The event is free but tickets are required. They are available at www.ticketmaster. com; by phone (800) 745-3000, and at the Miami Dade County Auditorium Box Office.

For more information call 305-547-5414.

4th ANNUAL BURGER KING BEACH RUN: October 8th. Starting at 6:00am when registration opens, runners will have the opportunity to participate either in 5K or 10K course with a gorgeous ocean view. All race participants will end at the finish line where a race after-party awaits, including a Family Fun Zone with interactive play zones, a hydration station with beverages and snacks, and live music and DJ entertainment, along with on-site appearances by WTVJ-NBC6 TV. Prices start at $10. Kids can participate as well. www. bkbeachrun.com MIAMI BROWARD CARNIVAL: October 09th from 11:00am to 11:00pm. A multicultural event that comes to Miami every year. This exciting festival celebrates the culture, traditions and art heritages of the Caribbean. It’s fun for all ages with celebrations ranging from pageantry to musical performances by world-class entertainers.

This carnival features: a Parade of the Bands and competitions, Music trucks, Carnival Concert with Caribbean talents, traditional food and beverages from Caribbean islands, and the crowning of the Carnival King and Queen Panorama. www.miamibrowardcarnival.com

DEERING HARVESTER DAY: October 09th from 10:00 am to 4:00pm. This wonderful annual event celebrates the fall harvest at the beautiful Deering Estate.

Guest will enjoy a great variety of activities such as bocce ball and croquet.

Families will also have the opportunity to take memorable pictures next to the vintage International Harvester Truck and other locations specially decorated for fall. During the day, tours for the Historic house will be offered at 10:30 am and 3:00pm. All other natural areas tour will be available at 12:00pm. Admission is $12 for adults, and $7 for children ages 4 to 14. www.deeringestate.org FAMILY FUN FRIDAYS AT GULFSTREAM PARK. Every Friday in September and October 2016, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. This free event gathers families from Miami Dade and Broward counties every week offering Dj’s, dancing and entertainment at the Campions Plaza.

During October, visitors will meet Disney Characters such as the Evil Queen and Snow White, Jaffar and Aladdin, Darth Vader, and Maleficent. www.browardfamilylife.com MIAMI ATTRACTIONS MONTH: October is the month to celebrate the great variety of attractions that Miami has to offer. Enjoy the most amazing attractions with this offer “Buy 1 get 1 admission free” plus some other promos.

Take your children in a trip to discover history, adventure, and the magical journey of learning and having fun. Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories and spend quality time with your little ones. The list of attractions includes: Zoo Miami, HistoryMiami, Jungle Island, the Miami Seaquarium, The Coral Castle, the Deering Estate at Cutler, Vizcaya and much more. Print your coupons or get more details at www.miamiandbeaches.com Look for more fun family events in our next edition!

Por Sandra Sabatella

ULTIMO VIERNES FAMILIAR Y PELICULA EN GRAPELAND WATER PARK: Septiembre 30, a las 5:30 pm. Esta será la última sesión del Viernes Familiar en el parque acuático Grapeland. Terminando esta temporada 2016, el parque estará abierto desde las 5:30 pm por sólo $ 5 por persona. Los asistentes podrán usar todas las piscinas hasta las 7:30pm y luego ver la película Inside Out a las 8:00 pm.

No se lo pierda. www.miamigov.com/grapeland JUNIOR ORANGE BOWL DÍA FAMILIAR: Octubre 1ro, de 11:00am a 9:00 pm. Un evento divertido y gratuito para personas de todas las edades. Durante este evento anual los más pequeños y sus familias podrán disfrutar de juegos de carnaval, entretenimiento, premios, sorteos, bandas, pintura de caritas, competencias de calipso, y mucho más. Los padres y tutores tendrán acceso a recursos educativos, servicios financieros, controles de salud y diferentes sesiones. Para detalles de dirección y programación detallada visite: www.miamibrowardcarnival.com/junior-carnival/ El Departamento de Parques y Recreación de Miami Dade ofrece una gran variedad de eventos mensuales personas de todas las edades. En esta edición le sugerimos: • Introducción a la Arquería en A. D. Barnes Park.

Octubre 1ro, de 10:00 a 12: 00 pm. Durante este seminario educativo y práctico, los participantes aprenderán sobre los orígenes e historia de la arquería no solo como deporte, sino como herramienta para la supervivencia. Después de ser instruidos en la técnica adecuada y tomar algunas fotos, podrá practicar las nuevas habilidades. Este programa se lleva a cabo en el ‘Nature Center’ ubicado en 401 SW 72 Av, Miami.

Se requiere el uso de zapatos cómodos y protección contra el sol. Costo $8 por participante.

• Kayak Trek en el Matheson Mangrove: Octubre 2, de 10:00 am a 12:00pm. Sumérjase en la extraordinaria belleza de Biscayne Bay, viajando con expertos guías naturalistas a

través de los manglares, los únicos árboles de agua salada del mundo, y descubra un mundo lleno de pelícanos, garzas, tiburones nodriza, rayas, y más.

Los participantes se reunirán en la playa Matheson Hammock Park para una aventura inolvidable. Costo $30 por persona. Mayor información sobre estos u otros eventos visite www.miamidade.gov/parks GRAN GALA ZUN ZUN FESTIVAL INFANTIL: Octubre 1ro, de 2:00 pm a 5:00pm en el Auditorio del Condado de Miami Dade. Si le gustan los conciertos, este es el evento para usted y su familia. Disfrute de un concierto de alegres y educativos ritmos del AfroCaribe, con la participación de talentosos cantantes, narradores y artistas locales dedicados a la programación de la más alta calidad para niños y sus familias. Durante este festival, los más pequeños podrán aprender sobre arte y experiencias culturales. El evento es gratuito pero se requiere boletos, disponibles en www.ticketmaster.com; o por teléfono (800) 745-3000 y en la taquilla del Auditorio de Miami Dade.

Para más información llame al 305-547-5414.

4ta EDICIÓN DE BURGER KING BEACH RUN: Octubre 8, comenzando a las 6:00 am cuando se abre la inscripción, los corredores tendrán la oportunidad de participar, ya sea en 5K o 10K con un recorrido hermoso con vista al mar. Todos los participantes terminaran en la línea de meta con una fiesta que incluye una zona de diversión familiar con juegos interactivos, una estación de hidratación con bebidas y aperitivos, música en vivo y entretenimiento, junto con apariciones de personalidades del canal de TV WTVJ-NBC6. Precios desde $10 y hasta los niños pueden participar. www. bkbeachrun.com MIAMI BROWARD CARNAVAL: Octubre 9 de 11:00 am a 11:00pm. Un evento multicultural que se lleva a cabo anualmente para celebrar la cultura, tradiciones y patrimonio de arte del Caribe. Este festival tiene diversión para todas las edades incluyendo un desfile de las bandas, concursos, camiones de música, conciertos, comida y bebida tradicional de las Islas del Caribe y la coronación del Rey Carnaval y la Reina Panorama. www.miamibrowardcarnival.com

DEERING HARVESTER DAY: Octubre 09 de 10:00 am a 4:00 pm. Este maravilloso evento anual celebra la cosecha de otoño en el hermoso Deering Estate.

Los asistentes podrán disfrutar de una gran variedad de actividades como bochas (bolas criollas) y croquet. Las familias también podrán recordar el momento tomando fotos junto a los camiones decorados al estilo “vintage” y los diferentes escenarios especialmente adornados para el otoño. Ese día se ofrecerán tours para el edificio histórico a las 10:30am y 3:00pm. Un tour por el resto de las áreas naturales del parque estará disponible a las 12:00pm. El costo de entrada es $12 para adultos y $7 para niños de 4 a 14 años. www.deeringestate.org VIERNES DE DIVERSIÓN FAMILIAR EN GULFSTREAM PARK. Todos los viernes de septiembre y octubre de 2016, de 7:00pm a 9:00pm. Este evento gratuito y semanal reúne familias de los condados de Miami Dade y Broward con movidas presentacaiones de DJ, baile y entretenimiento en el Campions Plaza.

Durante octubre, los visitantes podrán conocer ademas los personajes de Disney, tales como la Reina Malvada y Blancanieves, Aladino y Jaffar, Darth Vader y Maléfica. www. browardfamilylife.com MES DE LAS ATRACCIONES EN MIAMI: Octubre es el mes para celebrar la gran variedad de atracciones que Miami ofrece. Disfrute de atracciones sorprendentes con la oferta “Compra 1 y gana 1 entrada gratis”, además de otras buenas promociones.

Aprenda sobre historia, viva aventuras y diviértase en cada visita a las atracciones mientras crea recuerdos inolvidables con sus pequeños: Zoo Miami, HistoryMiami, Jungle Island, el Miami Seaquarium, El Castillo de Coral, el Deering Estate at Cutler, Vizcaya y mucho más.

Imprima sus cupones y obtenga más detalles en www. miamiandbeaches.com No olvide consultar nuestra lista de eventos en nuestra próxima edición.

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

Disfrute los últimos días de septiembre y de la bienvenida a octubre con esta fantástica lista de eventos:

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Septiembre/September 25, 2016

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Segunda gran exhibición de DecorHaus en ATLANTIC Doral Luxury Rental Apartments

os días 9 y 10 de septiembre se llevó a cabo la exhibición, donde se mostraron distintas piezas decorativas como opciones para crear o reestructurar ambientes en el hogar, oficinas, restaurantes y locales comerciales, en una asociación estratégica entre DecorHaus y Atlantic Doral.

Adangelis Bracho y Marianela Mendoza tuvieron el gusto de mostrar una amplia gama de cuadros y cojines, estampados con la novedosa técnica de Liquid Transfer, a todos los residentes de este conocido condominio y público

en general en su segunda exhibición llevándoles una nueva opción en diseño y decoración.

DecorHaus es una empresa que realiza piezas decorativas con mano de obra y materiales locales en distintos formatos y estilos que embellecen y renuevan espacios adaptándose a necesidades particulares.

Si desea mas información, puede llamar al 305-9227226, o enviar un email a decorhausfl@gmail.com, Instagram:decorhausfl

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

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Event | Evento

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In Flash | Fotos

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Nuevo centro especializado en alergias y asma en Doral: Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

La asociación de Asma y Alergias de la Florida (Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida), fundada por el Dr. Morris Beck en 1979, ha atraído a muchos de los mejores especialistas. Ha crecido hasta formar una red de alergistas que abarcan Miami, Broward y Palm Beach y ofrecen servicios completos para el tratamiento de las alergias.

Continuando con su expansión, este pasado 21 de septiembre, se inauguró la 14va. clínica especializada en alergias y asma de ese grupo, esta vez en Doral, bajo el liderazgo del Dr. Mark Young, el Dr. Neil Gershman, y la Dra. Elena Ubals.

Contando con una masiva participación de asistentes y la presencia del Dr. Mark Young, Dr. Neil Gershman, Dr. José Moreno, Dr. José Carpio y la Dra. María Barcena, se realizó el tradicional corte de cinta, dirigido por Manny Sarmiento,

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Presidente de Doral Chamber of Commerce.

Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida, está compuesta por médicos especialistas en Alergia/Inmunología, es decir, en enfermedades que ocurren cuando el cuerpo no tiene la capacidad necesaria para combatir los gérmenes y por lo tanto, el paciente sufre de infecciones tales como, Rinitis alérgica, Sinusitis, Urticaria, Tos Crónica, Alergias a Medicamentos, Alergias a Picaduras de Insectos, Asma, Alergias Alimenticias, Eczemas, Anafilaxias, Infecciones Recurrentes y Dermatitis de Contacto.

Si usted desea, puede contactarlos al 305-549-8869, o visitarlos en la 3650 NW 82 Ave St., Suite 406, Doral, FL 33166. También puede visitar su página web www.allergyweb.com

In Flash | Fotos

www.doralfamiyjournal.com

Primer Taller de Educación Ciudadana YO SOY DORAL

Educación, Seguridad Ciudadana, Salud, así como la inversión y la asistencia legal.

El objetivo de estos talleres, es motivar a los nuevos residentes a convertirse en ciudadanos ejemplares de nuestra ciudad.

Si usted desea participar en los futuros talleres o desea mas información, puede llamar al 305.3004594 o enviar un email a info@doralfamilyjournal.com

Septiembre/September 25, 2016

El pasado 22 de septiembre, se dio inicio al primer taller de Educación Ciudadana “YO SOY DORAL” organizado por Doral Family Journal y bajo la orientación y apoyo de la Ciudad de Doral, así como la Policía de Doral, Medina & Medina Consultant Group y Business 2 Action, ClubZ y Kendall Hospital. El taller se realizó en The Atlantic Doral y contó con la participación de varios expertos para hablar sobre el Rol del Inmigrante en Estados Unidos,

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