GO Latinos Magazine Diciembre | December 2016

Challenges Faced by Single Parents Los desafíos de los padres solteros

How to Deal with Sport Related Injuries? ¿Cómo enfrentar las lesiones en el deporte?

Keep the Holiday Season Healthy, safe and secure Haga que sus fiestas sean saludables, seguras y protegidas

Homestead National Parks Trolley Returns with New Routes and Programs

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COMMUNITY PROGRAMS • HEALTH • EDUCATION • SPORTS • FINANCES • LOCAL EVENTS & MORE

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[CONTENTS | CONTENIDO

Volumen 3 | Issue 27

GO! LATINOS Bilingual Magazine

13345 SW 264th Ter, Homestead, FL 33032 Phones: 786-601-7693 786-725-2070 Fax: 305-851-4115 Director

Ervin Palacios Director of Marketing

16

Bertha López 786.877.4632 blopez@golatinos.net Account Executives

Yansi Valentin yvalentin@golatinos.net Hugo Enriquez Norma Wilson Graphic Designer

Go Latinos Creative Writers

Rosibel Mena Liliana O. Herbstreith Sandra Chang

20

Distribution

Eliaz López Contributors

Roxana Vega Daniel Alabaci Shirley Solis - 305MOM Joaquin Barbara Jerry Blanton

08

Locals Events

26

Submit calendar items to

events@golatinos.net Online

Haga que sus fiestas navideñas sean saludables...

08 Los desafíos de los padres solteros 16 ¿Cómo enfrentar las lesiones en el deporte?

20 24 10 pasos que debe considerar para comprar una Casa Regresa El Tranvía de los parques nacionales de Homestead 26

www.golatinos.net

Keep the holiday season Healthy, safe and secure

Challenges Faced by Single Parents

How to Deal with Sport Related Injuries?

On the Cover Katheryne Dyamond Bauza Foto | Photo: Ervin Palacios

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Go! Latinos Magazine is published monthly. Articles do not necessarily reflect Go! Latinos Magazine policy. © 2016 Go! Latinos Magazine LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole without permission is prohibited. Go! Latinos Magazine LLC cannot accept responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Go! Latinos Magazine LLC a license to publish your submission in whole or in part in all edition of magazine.

Ten Steps to Consider When Buying a House

Homestead National Parks Trolley Returns with New Routes...

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Go! Latinos | December 2016 | 7

SEGURIDAD Y PREVENCIÓN

Haga que sus fiestas navideñas sean

D

saludables, seguras y protegidas

urante la temporada de fiestas, muchas personas no quieren pensar en cosas desagradables. A pesar de que celebrar sea la meta más importante en la temporada de fiestas, las personas y las familias deben dedicar cierta atención a hacer de las fiestas un tiempo seguro. Solamente porque sea Chanukah, Navidad o Año Nuevo, no significa que la seguridad no sea una prioridad. Las siguientes guías le pueden ayudar a usted y a su familia a disfrutar la temporada de fiestas de manera saludable, segura y protegida.

• Tenga cuidado a la hora de decorar. Decorar puede ser hermoso, pero también puede ser peligroso sino se hace apropiadamente. Recargar los tomacorrientes es muy normal durante la temporada de Navidad pero puede producir incendios. Sea cuidadoso con las velas y otros tipos llamas. Las mascotas se pueden enredar en los cables o pueden tirar adornos de vidrio. Mantenga las decoraciones delicadas lejos del peligro.

• Lávese las manos para prevenir gérmenes. Cuando llega el tiempo frío, las per8 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

By MCG

sonas pasan más tiempo dentro o cerca de otras personas. El tiempo de fiestas es uno en el que nos reunimos con amigos y parientes, nos abrazamos y nos damos besos.

No arruine las festividades distribuyendo gérmenes. El Centro para el Control de Enfermedades (CDC) dice que la temporada de fiestas es también el tiempo de la gripe.

La CDC recomienda a las personas a lavarse las manos con agua y jabón durante al menos 20 segundos para matar los gérmenes.

• Esté al tanto de los niños curiosos. Los niños se enamoran de las luces y los sonidos de las fiestas y pueden ser más curiosos que nunca durante esta época del año.

Algunas cosas que los adultos dan por sentado pueden ser peligrosas para los más jóvenes. Las hojas filosas de los árboles de navidad pueden provocar dolorosos cortes en la boca y garganta de los niños que se los tragan.

Los aerosoles de nieve pueden ser dañinos si se usan inapropiadamente. El maní y el popcorn usado para decorar también

puede provocar que los niños pequeños se atraganten.

• Sea un anfitrión inteligente. Las bebidas alcohólicas y las fiestas van mano a mano.

Un anfitrión responsable sabe cuando un invitado ha bebido más de la cuenta y buscará una manera segura de transportarlo a su casa. Porque los niños imitan a los adultos, muchos beberán las bebidas que vean que los adultos beben. Envenenamiento por alcohol es un riesgo muy real para los niños, así que preste atención a los pequeños sin importar su edad.

• Proteja su casa. Prevenga la entrada de ladrones si es que va a viajar pidiéndole a sus vecinos que chequeen su casa. Use luces con sensores de actividad, mantenga las apariencias de que siempre hay alguien en la casa recolectado el correo y no coloque demasiada información de su viaje en las redes sociales. Invierta en un sistema de seguridad si lo necesita.

Asegure una temporada festiva mas feliz haciendo de la seguridad y la salud una prioridad.

SAFETY & PREVENTION

Keep the holiday season

D

Healthy, safe and secure

uring the holiday season, many people do not want their thoughts to stray to anything unpleasant. Although celebrating may be the primary goal come the holiday season, individuals and families also should devote some attention to keeping the holidays safe.

Just because it's Chanukah, Christmas or New Year's doesn't mean safety and security should not remain a top priority. The following guidelines can help families enjoy a holiday season that is healthy, safe and secure.

• Exercise caution when decorating. Decorations can be beautiful, but they also can be hazardous if not used properly.

Overloading outlets is commonplace during the holiday season, but that can lead to home fires.

Exercise caution around candles and other open flames. Pets may become tangled in wires or knock over glass ornaments.

Keep delicate decorations away from harm.

• Wash hands to prevent germs. As the cold weather arrives, people may spend greater periods of time indoors or in close proximity to other people.

The holidays also are about greeting friends and relatives, and embracing or kissing. Do not ruin the festivities by spreading germs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the holiday season is also flu season. The CDC recommends celebrants wash their hands with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds to remove

By MCG| Translated by Sandra Chang

germs.

• Keep track of curious children. Children are enamored with the sights and sounds of the holidays and may be more curious than ever during this time of year. Things adults take for granted can be hazards to youngsters. The needles of holiday trees can cause painful cuts in the mouth and throat of a child who swallows them. Snow sprays may be harmful if the aerosol propellants are used improperly. Peanuts and popcorn used for decorating can pose potential choking hazards to young children.

• Be a smart host or hostess.

Alcoholic beverages and holiday revelry sometimes go hand in hand. Responsible party hosts know when a guest has had too much and will arrange safe transportation home. Because kids imitate adults, many may drink the beverages they see adults drinking. Alcohol poisoning is a real risk for children, so pay attention to youngsters no matter how young they may be.

• Protect the home. Deter home burglars when traveling for the holidays by having neighbors keep a watchful eye on your house. Use motion-sensor lights, keep up the appearance that someone is home by having mail collected, and do not advertise any travel plans on social media.

Investment in a home security system if need be.

Ensure a happier holiday season by making safety and health a priority.

Go! Latinos | December 2016 | 9

10 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

Los mejores juguetes para esta navidad Por Rosibel Mena

1

Disney Princess Carriage

Disney Princess Carriage, de 24 voltios, cuenta con sonidos de cuento de hadas y dos asientos para que las princesas puedan montar con un amigo. También incluye una tiara de princesa y una varita mágica de iluminación. Edades de 3+.

Cuando los niños le dan de comer su botella, se quedará dormido en sus brazos.

Pat su cabeza o frota su panza y Snuggles cerrará los ojos y hará sonidos adorables como un cachorro. Edades 6+.

4

Kurio Watch

Por primera vez, los niños pueden crear sus propios Skylanders con infinitas opciones de poderes, habilidades, frases, apariencia, y más. Creation Crystals permite a los jugadores transportar sus Skylanders únicos a consolas en cualquier momento y lugar. Edad 6+

Este reloj inteligente cuenta con una cámara, reproductor de música, rastreador de actividad, mini-juegos y mucho más. Los niños pueden conectar el reloj para ver en los dispositivos Android de los miembros de la familia a través de Bluetooth. Con la aplicación de mensajería para niños, pueden compartir grabaciones de voz, dibujos y mucho más. Edades 6+.

Snuggles se mueve, se siente y responde como un verdadero cachorro.

Si un híbrido de patineta / snowboard ya no era suficiente de un giro en

2

Skylander imaginators

3

Snuggles, My Dream Puppy

12 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

5

Razor’s Ripstik Is Now Electric

un paseo más tradicional, esto definitivamente lo es. Con el control remoto Ripstik Electric de Razor, los preadolescentes y adolescentes de 9 años y más pueden disfrutar de un paseo que literalmente pone el poder en las palmas de sus manos. Y sin necesidad de ensamble, está listo para salir de la caja.

Edades de 9+.

6

Air Hogs Helix Sentinel Drone

Este quadcopter de vídeo de ultra-rendimiento incorpora una cámara de acción de alta velocidad agregada para capturar objetos que se mueven rápidamente. Los niños pueden ver la secuencia de video en tiempo real y usar las gafas de vista en primera persona (FPV) para una experiencia de visualización totalmente inmersiva.

Edades 12+.

H O LI DAY S E A S ON

The Best Toys for this Christmas 1

By Rosibel Mena | Translated by Pablo Villatoro

3 5

Disney Princess Carriage

This 24-volt Disney Princess Carriage features fairytale sounds and two seats so princesses can ride with a friend. It also includes a wear-and-share princess tiara and a light-up magical wand. Ages 3+.

Snuggles, My Dream Puppy

Snuggles moves, feels, and responds just like a real puppy. When kids feed him his bottle, he’ll fall asleep in their arms.

Pat his head or rub his tummy and Snuggles will close his eyes and make adorable puppy sounds. Ages 6+.

4

Razor’s Ripstik Is Now Electric

If a skateboard/snowboard hybrid wasn’t already enough of a twist on a more traditional ride-on, this definitely is.

With Razor’s remote-controlled Ripstik Electric, tweens and teens ages 9 and up can enjoy a ride that literally puts the power in the palms of their hands. And with no assembly required, it’s ready to ride straight out of the box. Ages 9+.

2

Skylander imaginators

For the first time, kids can create their own Skylanders with endless options for powers, abilities, catchphrases, appearance, and more. Creation Crystals allow players to transport their unique Skylanders to consoles anytime, anywhere. Age 6+

6

Kurio Watch

This smartwatch features a camera, music player, activity tracker, mini-games, and more. Kids can connect watch to watch or to family members’ Android devices via Bluetooth. With the kid-safe messaging app, they can share voice recordings, drawings, and more. Ages 6+.

Air Hogs Helix Sentinel Drone

This ultra-performance video quadcopter features a built-in, high-speed action camera to capture fast-moving objects.

Kids can watch the video stream in realtime and use the first-person view (FPV) goggles for a fully immersive viewing experience. Ages 12+.

Dr. Maximiliano Velasco Dr. Maximiliano Velasco is a Board Certified Anesthesiologist and Board Certified in Pain Management. He is dedicated to helping his patients find relief from chronic pain. At our clinic, we offer a multidisciplinary, multispecialty approach that allows each patient access to a variety of pain treatment options and approaches including conservative management such as physical therapy, home stretching exercise programs, and interventional procedures, including but not limited to intra-articular joint injections, trigger point, trigger point injections, epidural injections, facet blocks, radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulators and intrathecal pump placement.Through many years of practice and experience, Dr. Velasco has acquired the knowledge and skill set necessary to effectively diagnose, treat and relief patients suffering from painful conditions from cancer related pain and non-cancer pathologies, ranging from central and peripheral neuropathy, myofascial pain, arthritis and spine related conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis and arthritis of the spine.

14 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

FAMI L IA

Los desafíos de los

padres solteros

L

Por Rosibel Mena

a crianza de los niños y la misión de dirigir una familia sin el apoyo de otro adulto trae desafíos que pueden resultar bastante estresante para el adulto como para el niño.

En la actualidad, los padres solteros son un grupo demográfico significativo en los Estados Unidos. Para el 2010, la Organización para la Cooperación y el Desarrollo Económico (OECD, por sus siglas en inglés) encontró que estas familias representan el 28, 3 por ciento de los hogares estadounidenses.

Durante los últimos 20 años las familias de padres solteros se han vuelto más comunes que las denominadas familias convencionales compuestas por la madre el padre y los hijos.

En la actualidad vemos toda clase de familias encabezadas por las madres, los padres o por los abuelos que crían a sus nietos.

Pero pese a la frecuencia de esta situación, los retos no dejan de abrumar al papá o la mamá quien tiene la responsabilidad de dividirse para ser padre, madre, juez, jurado, consejero y maestro a la vez.

En primer lugar, no tienes una figura principal en la que delegar o con la que repartirte el trabajo.

Así lo reconoce Martha González, madre soltera de tres niñas desde hace 4 años. Para Martha su labor como madre no ha sido fácil y en muchas ocasiones ha sentido desfallecer sus fuerzas al 16 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

no contar con el apoyo de otro adulto dentro del hogar.

“Claro que tenemos más retos estando solos, porque hay una mayor presión y responsabilidad que si las tareas son compartidas por dos personas. Para eso he tenido que ajustar tiempos y rutinas para lograr el desarrollo, la educación y el bienestar de mis hijas de la mejor manera posible”, comentó esta mamá peruana, quien tiene más de 20 años de residir en Miami.

Otro de los grandes retos de los padres solteros es que tienen que ser su propio apoyo y sostén.

Y es que como cabeza de familia deben ser capaces de proporcionar alimentos, ropa, vivienda y mantener las cuentas al día.

“En una ocasión mi hijo Gabriel de 5 años enfermó de varicela así que solicité vacaciones para cuidarlo. Cuando se recuperó a la semana siguiente cayo en cama mi hija Camila y tuve que faltar al trabajo, pero esta vez sin goce de salario. Ese mes mi ingreso se vio drásticamente afectado”, agregó Matilde Huerta tras reconocer que aun hoy en día hace malabares para sacar 48 horas de 24.

Pese a todo, ambas madres coinciden que los desafíos las hacen fuertes porque su motivación es sacar adelante a sus hijos.

“Yo considero que las pruebas por las que pasamos nos hacen levantarnos y hacerlo mejor la siguiente vez”, concluyó Huerta.

FA MILY

Challenges Faced by

R

Single Parents

aising children and guiding a family without the support of another adult can bring stressful challenges to both parents and children.

Single parents represent a sizeable demographic in the United States. In 2010, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development found single parents to be 28.3% of American families.

Over the past 20 years, single-parent families have become more common than the ¨traditional¨ family composed of a mother, a father, and children. What is being seen is a wide variety of family structures from families headed by the mother, the father or the grandparents raising their grandchildren.

Despite the increase in the number of single parents, the challenges that come with being one can be overwhelming for the

By Rosibel Mena | Translated by Pablo Villatoro

parent acting as both a father and a mother, as well as a judge, jury and teacher.

“First, you do not have a partner to whom to delegate or assign responsibilities,” says Martha Gonzalez, who has been a single mother of three girls for the past four years. For Martha, her role as a mother has not been easy, and many times she has been discouraged by the fact that she cannot count on the support of another adult in her home.

“Of course, we face more challenges by being single parents because there is greater pressure on us than when there is another person who supports us.

That is why I have had to adjust schedules and routines to achieve to the best of my ability the development, the education and the well-being of my daughters.” commented the Peruvian mother who has lived

in Miami for the past 20 years.

Another great challenge to single parents is being the sole provider. As heads of families, they must provide food, clothes, a home, and timely bill payments.

“On one occasion my five-year-old son Gabriel got chickenpox, and I asked for vacation time to take care of him. When he recovered, my daughter Camila got sick, and I had to miss work and this time it was without pay. That month my income was drastically affected,” added Matilde Huerta, admitting that she still tries to make 48 hours out of 24 hours in a day.

Despite all, both mothers agree that the challenges make them stronger because their motivation is to ensure that their children succeed in life. “I believe that the trials we go through help us to be better parents every day,” said Huerta.

Go! Latinos | December 2016 | 17

18 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

DEPORTES

E

n Estados Unidos más de 30 millones de niños y adolescentes participan en algún tipo de deporte y sufren cerca de 3,5 millones de lesiones cada año, las cuales impiden la participación por un periodo de tiempo, según la Asociación de Pediatría. Casi una tercera parte de todas las lesiones que se producen en la infancia están relacionados con los deportes.

El doctor Alex Pereda, especialista en Terapia Física, revela que, aunque uno puede pensar que los deportes de alto impacto tendrían más lesiones, los estudios han demostrado lo contrario. Por ejemplo, continua, el movimiento altamente repetitivo de lanzar una pelota o balancear un bate (más de 1 mil veces por semana) en preadolescentes varones de edad escolar puede resultar en tensiones, esguinces y desgarros musculares o ligamento. Entre tanto, en las mujeres, las lesiones de rodilla son los más comunes, que se ven más en el baloncesto, voleibol y el futbol debido al alto impacto cuando se ejecuta.

Al conocer las causas de las lesiones deportivas y como prevenirlas usted podrá contribuir a que la práctica deportiva sea una experiencia gratificante y positiva para su hijo. Es si como el doctor Pereda nos responde a las siguientes preguntas.

1. ¿Cuales son las principales lesiones que hay cuando se hace deporte?

La mayoría de las contusiones deportivas que se observan en nuestras instalaciones incluyen torceduras, esguinces menores, desgarros de los tendones o ligamentos y fracturas óseas de varias regiones del cuerpo, incluyendo la columna vertebral, hombro, codo, muñeca, mano, cadera, rodilla, tobillo o pie.

2. ¿Por qué ocurren estas lesiones?

Estas lesiones suelen ser causadas por depor20 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

¿Cómo enfrentar las lesiones en el deporte?

Por Rosibel Mena | Fotos Ervin Palacios

tes de contacto agresivos, pero también pueden deberse a deportes sin contacto en los que la fatiga física o la activación del músculo nervioso (contracción) durante el impacto de alta velocidad, correr o saltar, causan la posibilidad de contusión.

3. ¿Cómo prevenir las lesiones?

Aunque las lesiones nunca se pueden prevenir completamente, pueden minimizarse realizando ejercicios específicos del deporte como entrenando el cuerpo, los músculos y las articulaciones con la técnica apropiada del movimiento. Nuevos estudios han demostrado que antes de jugar un deporte se debe calentar el cuerpo utilizando el entrenamiento de impacto ligero a moderado y el estiramiento balístico con el fin de aumentar la temperatura central a un sudor ligero o moderado. Del mismo modo, el tipo correcto de calzado es importante para evitar lesiones. Por último, durante los deportes de alto impacto y contacto, aprender a caer o rodar correctamente es una necesidad para evitar más contusiones del suelo.

4. ¿Qué se debe hacer cuando existe una lesión?

En caso de cualquier lesión el atleta debe parar inmediatamente y buscar la opinión de un cirujano ortopédico o un doctor de terapia física que se especializa en deportes. Aunque el hielo y la elevación siempre se recomiendan para cualquier contusión, un atleta nunca debe asumir que una lesión es menor y/o tratar su propia condición sin el asesoramiento profesional adecuado.

Para más información sobre lesiones deportivas u otras condiciones relacionadas por favor llame a Florida Occupational Healthcare al 305-2743311

Alex Pereda, DPT, MTC

Doctor of Physical Therapy Board Certified Manual Therapist Certified Specialty in Orthopedic and Sports

SPORT

How to Deal with

Sports-Related Injuries?

By Rosibel Mena | Translated by Pablo Villatoro

A

ccording to the Pediatric Association, in the United States more than 30 million children and teenagers participate in some kind of sport and suffer about 3.5 million injuries a year, which prevent them from participation in sports for a while. Almost one-third of childhood injuries are sports related.

Per Alex Pereda, D.P.T., the highly repetitive motion of throwing a ball and swinging a bat (over 10 thousand times a week) by males from preteen to the college age causes the most abuse, which can result in strains, sprains and muscle/ligament tears.

In females, knee injuries are the most common and are predominantly seen in basketball, volleyball, and soccer players due to high impact while playing.

By knowing the causes of sport injuries and how to prevent them, you can create a more positive and safe sporting experience for your children.

Dr. Pereda responded to us for the following

questions: What are the most common injuries?

Most sports injuries that we see at our facility include minor strains, sprains, tendon/ligament tears, and bone fractures of multiple body regions including the spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle and foot.

Why do those injuries happen?

Those injuries are usually caused by aggressive contact sports but can also be due to non-contact sports in which physical/muscle fatigue or nerve-muscle firing (contraction) during high-velocity-impact running or jumping cause the injury.

How can we prevent those injuries?

Although injuries can never be fully prevented, they can be minimized by performing sport- specific exercises by training the body/muscles and joints in proper movement technique. Â New studies have proven that before playing a sport, one should warm up the body using light- to moderate-

impact training and ballistic stretching to increase core temperature to a light or moderate sweat. Similarly, wearing the right type of shoes is important to avoid injuries.

Finally, during high-impact and contact sports, learning to fall or roll properly is a must to avoid further injury from the ground.

What must be done when an injury occurs?

In case of any injury, the athlete should immediately stop and seek the opinion of a sports and orthopedic doctor such as an orthopedic surgeon or a doctor of physical therapy specializing in sports. Although ice and elevation are always recommended for any injury, an athlete should never assume an injury is minor and/or treat their own condition without proper professional advice.

For more information about sports injuries or other related conditions please contact Florida Occupational Healthcare at 305-274-3311.

Go! Latinos | December 2016 | 21

22 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

Go! Latinos | December 2016 | 23

FI NA N Z A S

J

Diez pasos que debe

Considerar para Comprar una Casa

unto al ahorro para la jubilación, la compra de una vivienda es uno de los eventos financieros más importantes para la mayoría de los estadounidenses.

Soraima M. Alonso, agente de bienes raíces de la compañía Real Estate Sales Force (RESF) revela algunos pasos a seguir para que los posibles compradores de vivienda puedan encontrar los recursos y conozcan el proceso correcto para ser propietarios.

1. Empezar una búsqueda temprana de la casa que desearía comprar ya sea en precio como la zona.

2. Mostrar los fondos para el pago inicial. Aunado a esto debe demostrar que cuenta con ahorros para hacer frente a los gastos inesperados que vienen con la propiedad de la vivienda.

3. Trabaje con un prestamista para determinar cuánto le pueden prestar. Un factor importante que los prestamistas evalúan es la relación deuda-ingreso, una buena regla general es mantener su nivel de deuda total igual o inferior a 36 por ciento de su 24 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

Por Rosibel Mena

ingreso bruto mensual. Para esto, revisarán el historial de ingresos, W2s actuales, tener dos años en el trabajo y otra documentación.

4. Obtenga una precalificación y una pre aprobación del crédito para el préstamo de su casa. Recuerde usted puede obtener una copia gratuita de su informe de crédito visitando el sitio web www.Anualcreditreport.com.

5. Asegúrese de tener un agente de bienes raíces.

6. Encuentre una casa y haga una oferta por ella.

7. Consiga que un inspector revise la casa.

8. Asegúrese de que le hagan una valoración a la casa.

9. Coordine todo el papeleo con el prestamista y su agente.

10. Cierre la venta.

La especialista comentó que actualmente es un buen momento para comprar porque los intereses esta bajos, entre un 3.8 % a un 4%, sabiendo que el interés también va a depender del crédito y los gastos que obtengan las personas.

FINANCES

Ten Steps to Consider

N

When Buying a House

ext to saving for retirement, buying a house is one of the most important financial decisions made by many people in the United States.

Soraima M. Alonso, real estate agent with Real Estate Sales Force, revealed some steps that potential buyers can follow to find helpful resources and to learn the correct process when buying a house.

1. Start an early search for a house you would like to buy within the price range you can afford and within your desired geographic area.

2. Demonstrate that you have the money for the down payment as well as to show that you have enough savings to cover non-budgeted expenses that may come with owning a house.

3. Work with a lender to determine how much money you can borrow. An important factor affecting that is the income-debt ratio. In general, a good rule is to keep your debt at a level 36%

By Rosibel Mena | Translated by Roxana Vega

of or below your monthly gross income. Lenders will also assess your income history, most recent W2s, having a steady job for a least two years and other documentation.

4. Obtain a prequalification for a line of credit for the loan. Remember you can get a free annual copy of your credit report by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com.

5. Make sure you have a real estate agent.

6. Find a house and make an offer.

7. Get a house inspection done.

8. Get an appraisal of the house.

9. Coordinate all paperwork with your lender and real estate agent.

10. Close the deal.

Alonso also commented that now is a good time to buy a house because interest rates are low, ranging from 3.8% to 4%, considering that interest is affected by a person’s credit rating and spending.

Soraima Alonso Real Estate Agent

Go! Latinos | December 2016 | 25

LUGARES PARA VISITAR

Tranvía de los parques nacionales de Homestead Regresa con nuevas rutas y programas

E

Por City of Homestead Government | Foto City of Homestead | Traducido por Sandra Chang

l galardonado servicio del Tranvía de los Parques Nacionales de Homestead regresó desde el 26 de Noviembre del 2016 hasta el 30 de abril del 2017 en su cuarta temporada de operación.

El tranvía sale cada sábado y domingo desde el centro de Homestead, el cual figura en el registro nacional de lugares históricos. Los visitantes pueden disfrutar de restaurantes de la zona, apreciar la hermosa arquitectura histórica de Homestead, o visitar gratuitamente el museo Old Town Hall antes o después de visitar los parques.

Usted puede tomar el tranvía de los Parques Nacionales de Homestead en Losner Park en el centro Histórico de Homestead ubicado en la 104 N. Krome Ave. El tranvía se conecta a las rutas de los autobuses de trasporte público del condado de MiamiDade. También hay muchos lugares para es26 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos

tacionar gratuitamente al lado de la parada del tranvía.

El tranvía traerá a los visitantes desde el centro histórico de Homestead al centro de visitantes Ernest Coe del Parque Nacional de los Everglades y el camino Anhinga en Royal Palm. También viaja al Centro de visitantes Dante Fascell en el parque Nacional Biscayne, donde también pueden hacer el nuevo tour en bote por la isla.

Además de viajar a la playa dentro del parque Bayfront de Homestead en el Condado Miami Dade.

El tranvia de los Parques Nacionales es el único transporte público disponible para estos tesoros nacionales y es uno de los primeros programas de este tipo en el país.

Este innovador programa ha recibido una variedad de prestigiosos premios, entre ellos el National Parks Service Director’s Part-

nership Award y el City-County Communications and Marketing Association Savvy Award.

El tranvía de los Parques Nacionales es el resultado de esfuerzos coordinados, liderado por el Consejal Stephen Shelley, entre la Asociación de Conservación de los Parques Nacionales (NPCA) en colaboración con el servicio de los Parques Nacionales y la ciudad de Homestead.

La NPCA es la voz de América para los parques nacionales, y trabaja para proteger y mejorar el sistema de los parques nacionales para las generaciones actuales y el futuras. Para más información sobre los horarios y rutas del tranvía, así como también las visitas guiadas por los guardaparques y otras actividades, visite www.cityofhomestead.com/gateway o llame al 305-224-4457.

PLACES TO VISIT

Homestead National Parks Trolley

H

Returns with New Routes and Programs

By City of Homestead Government | Photos City of Homestead

omestead’s award-winning National Parks Trolley Service is active through April 30, 2017 for its fourth season of operation. The Trolley departs every Saturday and Sunday from Downtown Homestead, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can enjoy local area restaurants, take in Homestead’s beautiful historic architecture, or visit the free Old Town Hall Museum before or after their visit to the parks.

The Homestead National Parks Trolley can be picked up at Losner Park in Historic Downtown Homestead at 104 N. Krome Avenue. The trolley connects to bus routes from Miami-Dade County public transportation. There is also plenty of free parking adjacent to the trolley stop. From Downtown Homestead, the National Parks Trolley will bring visitors to Everglades National Park’s Ernest Coe Visitor Center and the Anhinga Trail at Royal Palm. It also travels to Biscayne National Park’s Dante Fascell Visitor Center and boardwalk where visitors can take the new Island Boat Tour, and to the atoll beach at Miami-Dade County’s Homestead Bayfront Park.

The National Parks Trolley is the only public transportation available to these nearby natural treasures and is one of the first programs of its kind in the nation. The groundbreaking program boasts a variety of prestigious awards including the National Parks Service Director’s Partnership Award and the City-County Communications and Marketing Association Savvy Award.

The Homestead National Parks Trolley is the result of coordinated efforts, spearheaded by Councilman Stephen Shelley, between National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) in collaboration with National Park Service and the City of Homestead. NPCA is America’s voice for National Parks and works to protect and enhance America’s National Park System for current and future generations.

For more information on the Homestead National Parks Trolley schedule and routes as well as ranger-guided tours at the National Parks and other activities, please visit: www.cityofhomestead.com/gateway or call (305) 224-4457.

mestead Hospital to the Homestead YMCA. All proceeds benefit YMCA's Financial Assistance Program, providing assistance for families in need to participate in YMCA programming.

Contact Allison Joyce ajoyce@ymcasouthflorida.org or 305.248.5189

MINI MONDAYS AT MIAMI CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

HOMESTEAD NATIONAL PARKS TROLLEY

FREE ride, FREE guided tour, and FREE admission to TWO NATIONAL PARKS! November 26th - April 30, 2017 Homestead invites its residents, neighbors, and visitors to explore Everglades and Biscayne National Parks, and Homestead Bayfront Park with a free guided trolley ride from Historic Downtown Homestead. The Homestead National Parks Trolley runs EVERY WEEKEND November 26, 2016 April 30, 2017. Visit www.cityofhomestead.com/gateway or call 305-224-4457 for detailed schedule information.

NORTH POLE ONBOARD THE POLAR EXPRESS™ TRAIN RIDE!

November 25th - December 24th The magical story comes to life when the train departs from Gold Coast Railroad Museum for a 45 minute round-trip journey to the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™. Once onboard, hot chocolate and treats are served as passengers read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers greet passengers at the North Pole and then board the train, where each child is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. Chefs aboard each car lead passengers in singing Christmas carols on the ride back to Miami. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride! You may take your own picture or use our professional photographer who make available (for a fee) beautiful color pictures of your family with Santa.

For more information call 305.253.0063

LANTERN LIGHT FESTIVAL

Wednesday, November 30 through Sunday, January 8 View a kaleidoscope of colors in the hand-

made lanterns. Each lantern is custom made

by Chinese artisans. Sample authentic Chinese food, enjoy performances from Chinese acrobats and shop for souvenirs. Miami-Dade County Fair Expo Center, 10921 SW 24 Street, Miami, FL, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM, All Ages, Cost: Children 2 -5 $19; Adults $23

HOLIDAY IN THE PARK

Free Family Friendly Festival Friday December 2 This Holiday in the park, please bring an unwrapped gift for a child for the jingle bell jaunt toy drive sponsored by South Florida Ridders. Enjoy special presentations and a variety of vendors and much more at this annual Holiday Festival. For more information call 305.323.6564 or visit www.HomesteadMainSt.org

JINGLE BELL RUN 2016

RUN FOR A CAUSE Saturday, December 10th at 8:30am Run for a Cause! Get into the spirit of the season at the Homestead YMCA Jingle Bell Run on December 10th. Wear your favorite holiday gear as you walk or run this festive 5K from Ho-

Monday, December 5 Mini Mondays are designed for children under five years old to have quiet time to explore the Museum and enjoy programs made just for them. MCM will engage all of their senses with painting, sand play, story times, and a puppet show. There will be no group visits on these mornings. General Admission $18; Florida Residents $14; Free for members and children under 1 year old. For more info: Call 305-375-5437 or visit the website www.miamichildrensmuseum.org

LANTERN LIGHT FESTIVAL

Wednesday, November 30 through Sunday, January 8 View a kaleidoscope of colors in the handmade lanterns. Each lantern is custom made

by Chinese artisans. Sample authentic Chinese food, enjoy performances from Chinese acrobats and shop for souvenirs. Miami-Dade County Fair Expo Center, 10921 SW 24 Street, Miami, FL, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM, All Ages, Cost: Children 2 -5 $19; Adults $23

SANTA'S ENCHANTED FOREST

November 3, 2016 to January 8, 2017 The largest Christmas-Themed Amusement Park and Carnival is back on its 26th year with its 3 million lights, 92" christmas tree, and the carnival rides for little ones and those wanting a little more extreme. Located in the heart of Miami in Tropical Park, you will no doubt see the lights from the highway as you drive past.

It is a huge sprawling lively event, just coming to see the lights is worth the trip. Tons of entertainment for kids and families round it all

up. There are the many live shows, games, magic acts, mazes, all sorts of rides, from carrousels to roller coasters and drop towers and of course, the carnival food! Where? Tropical Park, on the Palmetto (SR826) and Bird Road (40th Street) 7900 SW 40th Street, Miami, FL 33155 How Much? Adults (10-64) $31.78, Children (3-9) $22.43, Seniors (65+) $22.43 Season and express passes available. More Info: www.santasenchantedforest.com

TODDLER STORYTIME AT PALMETTO BAY LIBRARY

FREE EVENT Firday, December 2, 9, 16 and 23 Songs, stories and crafts for toddlers and their caregivers. Palmetto Bay Branch Library, 17641 Old Cutler Road, Palmetto Bay, Fl 33157, Hours: 10:15 AM - 10:45 AM, Ages 3 and under. For more information call 305-2321771

THE CHRISTMAS CASTLE

Friday, December 9 through Friday, December 30 The Christmas Castle is a computer controlled, animated Christmas light display synchronized to your favorite holiday tunes.

Christmas Castle, 12331 SW 109th Terrace Miami, Fl 33186, hours 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Cost: Free, contributions are donated to the Dan Marino Foundation for Autism Awareness.

HOLIDAY MOVIE NIGHT

FREE EVENT Friday, December 9th at 6:00- 10:00pm The Town of Cutler Bay, South- Miami Dade Cultural Arts Center, and Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava invite you to a brand new event of holiday family fun. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and holiday cheer for a family movie night featuring “Arthur Christmas.” Food trucks and pictures with Santa will be available starting at 6pm. Location: South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center 10950 SW 211 Street Cutler Bay, Florida 33189. For more information please contact the Town of Cutler Bay Parks and Recreation Department 305-238-4166.

HOLIDAY BY THE BAY

Weather Forecast in Palmetto Bay Snow Saturday, December 10th at 3-7pm The magic of the holiday spirit in Palmetto Bay gets bigger and better every year as the Village prepares to host its annual Holiday by the Bay at Ludovici Park on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016 from 3-7pm. This year, we are forecasting a "snowstorm" at 6 pm and are kindly asking event goers to bring unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots collection drive organized by Benefit Car Show. For more information call 305.259.1234 or www.palmettobay-fl.gov

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AND ICE

Friday, December 9, 2016 at 6- 10:00pm Doral Downtown Central Park, 3000 NW 87th Avenue Wristband pre-sale at Morgan Levy Park-5300 NW 102 Avenue until December 7th. Food and refreshments available for purchase. Please call (305) 593-6611 for more information.

ZOO LIGHTS

December 16-23, 26-30 Get in the holiday spirit by surrounding yourself with nearly a million bright, animal-shaped lights draped throughout Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152 St. Families can stroll through the park and enjoy carousel rides and nightly carollers.

Santa will be around for photos, plus milk and cookies will be served (for an additional fee).

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 10am–5pm (last entry 3:30pm); Sat, Sun 9:30am–5:30pm (last entry 4pm) Transport Metrorail Dadeland North then Zoobus.

For more information www.zoomiami.org

face painting, meet-and-greets with Santa Claus, arts and crafts, music and more. 405 Biltmore Way, Coral Gables.

WINTER HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Free Family Friendly Festival Friday December 9 Enjoy free admission to SMDCAC's Winter Holiday Celebration and food trucks! From 67:30 p.m. visit Santa, take pictures, and enjoy food trucks and signature holiday drinks for adults and kids. At 7:30 p.m. enjoy a movie on the backlawn: Arthur Christmas, It Takes a Family and FREE popcorn, courtesy of the Town of Cutler Bay! Bring lawn chairs and blankets.

No outside food or drink permitted. South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center 10950 SW 211th St. Cutler Bay, FL 33189. For more information 786.573.5307

WINTERLAND AT THE FARM

December 9, 2016 - January 9, 2017 Holiday treats, hay rides, face painting, paddleboat rides, Santa, pony rides, and many more activities for kids! With this 60-degree weather, what better way to warm up and get ready into the holiday spirit with family and friends than with some Snow, Holiday Treats, Hot chocolate and much more while you can meet Santa Claus, Nix the Snowman and Sprinkle the Gingerbread Cookie at a beautiful illuminated Forest. Check the website for hours www.pintofarm.com. Pinto Farm at 14890 SW 216 Street, Miami, FL 33170. For more information call (305) 878-2157

WILD HOLIDAYS AT JUNGLE ISLAND

December TBA, 2016 - January TBA, 2017 - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Wild Holidays is a two week extravaganza featuring holiday-themed animal shows, daily animal parade, reindeer games, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, face-painting, story time and more. Jungle Island at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, Florida 33132. Included with General Park Admission - Adults $39.95, Children (3-10) $32.95, Seniors $37.95. All prices plus tax.

Parking $10.

More info: www.jungleisland.com

TREE LIGHTING SPECTACULAR

FREE EVENT Friday December 5 at 5:00- 10:00pm Enjoy one of the city’s oldest holiday traditions, the annual tree lighting spectacular in downtown Coral Gables. Following the lighting of the tree in front of City Hall, Santa will arrive at adjacent Merrick Park, where there will be

BIG ORANGE, FIREWORKS AND PITBULL'S NEW YEAR'S REVOLUTION AT BAYFRONT PARK

FREE EVENT December 31, 2016 Pitbull's New Year Revolution returns to Bayfront Park for the largest FREE New Year's Eve party in South Florida for the Countdown to 2017! The smashing live event in Bayfront Park including our traditional Big Orange, the midnight Fireworks and the the mega party once again, produced by our very own Mr. 305, Pitbull, will be the perfect place to welcome the New Year in gorgeous South Florida weather...

And again this year, the New Year's Eve event will be televised live on FOX. The 2017 countdown event will be hosted by Queen Latifah and Snoop Dogg, with the full line up still to be announced as details are still trickling in, so stay tuned! Miami's traditional celebration is Big Orange, the city's answer to New York's Ball Drop and one of America's official countdowns.

The special will air live once again on FOX starting at 11:00 pm. Bayfront Park 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132. Big Orange on the side of the Intercontinental Hotel. Concert at the Amphitheater. More info: www.miamiandbeaches.com and www.bayfrontparkmiami.com

30 | Diciembre 2016 | Go! Latinos