FOR A GREENER FUTURE: Community led sustainabilty efforts create long-lasting and positive change.
GREEN DAY
STREET FESTIVAL
SATURDAY, APRIL 26 3PM - 8PM 2025
CARLA PETERS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
2025 EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT
Wes Pearce, Graber Realty Group
PAST PRESIDENT
Catherine McLaney, The Citadel
TREASURER
Rich Pototsky, CPA, Miami-CFO.com
VICE PRESIDENTS
Kate Baumwell, Kate Baumwell Photography
Gigi Turkel, Core Design Group
Angela Young, St. Rose of Lima Church School
2025 MUNICIPAL BOARD MEMBERS
Angela Dorney, Miami Shores Village
Jonathan E. Groth, Esq, Mayor, Village of Biscayne Park
Omarr C. Nickerson, Ph.D., Mayor, Village of El Portal
2025 GENERAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Andrew Bellinson, Esq., Bellinson Law Firm
Roni Bennett, South Florida People of Color
Robert Bourne, Robert Bourne Real Estate
Victor Bruce, Bruce & Bruce
Diego Caiola, The Florida Marketplace Group
Liangy S. Fernandez-Calli, Resident Member
Julie Isha, Barry University
Cory Gittner, Mediatech
Jon Harmeling, Chick-fil-A
Robin Hechler, Horace Mann Middle School
Dennis Kleinman, First Equity \Mortgage Banker, Inc.
Maria Leon, Little Stars Dentistry
SunJa Leon, The Nokkha Group
Vanessa Maggi, Maggi Realty Group
Mélida Matos, Doctors Charter School
Margarita Perez, MD, Miami Shores Medical Group
Mark Piper, Northwestern
Sara Ryan, Museum of Contemporary Art
Scott Smith, Ph.D., Barry University
Paula Szlufman, Primer Microschools
Christian Ulvert, Edge Communications
Carter Winkle, Ph.D., Barry University
The Egret is designed by Carla Peters, MyWeeThree Design and Gigi Turkel, Core Design Group
Egret Photographer: Kate Baumwell Egret Editorial: Liangy S. Fernandez-Calli
The Egret • April 2025 • 9620 NE Second Avenue Suite 201, Miami Shores, FL, 33138 • 305-754-5466 e-mail: chamberinfo@ miamishores.com • www.miamishores.com • facebook.com/MiamiShores, The Greater Miami Shores’ Egret is the official publication of the Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce, and is published monthly. 7400 copies of the Egret are distributed to homes, apartments, and businesses within the villages of Miami Shores, Biscayne Park, El Portal, Little River and Upper East Side free of charge. Views expressed in this publication are those of the editorial staff and do not necessarily reflect those of the Board of Directors. Information in it is intended for Chamber member organizations as well as the residents of our communities. Please contact the Chamber for more information on membership, advertising, distribution, or content.
Hometown Comprehensive Medical Care Providers. Serving Miami Shores, El Portal, Biscayne Park and Beyond.
Ana Apaza Concha, MD ENDOCRINOLOGY
Margarita Perez Caminero, MD CARDIOLOGY
Luis Arias Urdaneta, MD
RHEUMATOLOGY
Green Day: It Takes a Village to Make Change
By Liangy Calli
As spring breathes new life into nature, April is the perfect time to honor Mother Earth. For us in Miami Shores, it also marks one of the most anticipated events of the year, second only to the beloved Marshmallow Drop, Green Day! Now celebrating its 15th year, this cherished event continues to evolve, fostering community spirit, supporting local businesses, and inspiring eco-conscious practices that extend beyond a single day. This year, Green Day will take place on Saturday, April 26th, from 3 to 8 p.m., transforming our downtown into a hub of sustainability and environmental awareness.
Green Day wouldn’t be possible without the generous sponsorship of Graber Realty Group, along with the unwavering support of our Village Government and our dedicated local nonprofit, Bound by Beauty. Over the years, the event has refined its focus, culminating in the launch of Green Street, an exhibition area inaugurated in 2023 with the endorsement of Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, a passionate environmental advocate. Sponsored by Mary Benton, founder of Bound by Beauty, Green Street features a collection of nonprofits and vendors dedicated to tackling resilience and sustainability. Children are encouraged to participate in hands-on, interactive projects designed to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
As Green Day approaches, we are eager to highlight some of the participating organizations, showcasing their missions and ongoing contributions to both our Village and the wider community. These initiatives collectively address environmental challenges, reinforcing our shared commitment to protecting and preserving our surroundings. Green Street will be brimming with educational information and interactive projects for children.
Bound by Beauty
Bound by Beauty is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming how we interact with nature and our neighbors, fostering beautiful, resilient, and sustainable communities. Using butterflies as a catalyst for change, the organization inspires meaningful action. Their booth will be a celebration of nature’s wonders, joined by Girl Scout Troop 1305, who will demonstrate creative ways to upcycle non-recyclable items like bottle caps and CDs into stunning nature-themed art pieces.
Pelican Harbor Seabird Station
A cornerstone of Miami’s wildlife conservation efforts, Pelican Harbor Seabird Station has grown into a worldclass wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and education center. Dedicated to the care of sick, injured, and orphaned native wildlife, their ultimate goal is to rehabilitate and release animals back into their natural habitats, ensuring the health of future generations. Be sure to stop by their booth to meet some of their rehabilitated feathered friends and learn more about their invaluable work. It is possible you may even get to see a bird release!
Miami Blue Chapter of the North American Butterfly Association
Named after one of Florida’s rarest butterflies, the Miami Blue Chapter is committed to protecting and restoring butterfly populations throughout Southeast Florida. Once found in Bahia Honda State Park, Miami blue butterflies now exist primarily in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. At their booth, visitors can observe butterfly caterpillars up close, discover their host and nectar plants, and gather expert tips on how to create a pollinator-friendly garden at home.
Renüable Composting
Renüable is on a mission to drive personal, social, and environmental change by equipping community members, government leaders, and activists with the knowledge and resources needed for a more sustainable present and future. Owner Xavier DeRoos will be present to demonstrate just how simple—and essential—it is to transform food scraps into nutrient-rich compost. Rather than allowing organic waste to decompose in landfills and produce harmful greenhouse gases, composting helps combat climate change by enriching the soil and reducing our environmental footprint. Visit the Renüable booth to learn how you can make a difference, one compost pile at a time.
Flora of Miami
Natalia and Mauricio of Flora of Miami will showcase a stunning selection of native plants that not only beautify gardens but also provide vital food sources for pollinators and other essential wildlife. Their thoughtfully curated plants help conserve water, support biodiversity, and contribute to a healthier environment. Visit their booth to receive expert advice on which plants will thrive best in your own green space.
Miami-Dade County Water & Sewer Department
In recognition of Water Conservation Month, the Miami-Dade County Water & Sewer Department will provide a water tank in alignment with our Village’s ordinance banning single-use plastic at events. This initiative reinforces our commitment to sustainable practices while ensuring attendees have access to clean, refreshing water without the waste.
We take immense pride in our collective efforts to embody the essence of Green Day. Our primary goal is to strengthen community bonds within our Village, support local businesses, and host an event that is both celebratory and environmentally responsible in addressing climate change.
In collaboration with the Village and the Sustainable Miami Shores Committee, we continue to build upon Green Day’s success with year-round programming at the Miami Shores Brockway Library that amplifies its initiatives. These workshops cover essential topics such as water conservation, recycling, composting, tree care, native landscaping. This year, we aim to introduce new and engaging discussions that inspire action and awareness.
Green Day is more than just an invitation to reconnect with neighbors—it’s an opportunity to ignite change. We hope it inspires everyone to take part in their own sustainability journey. Join us in making a difference, not just for a day, but for the future.
This vibrant event will transform NE 2nd Avenue between NE 96th Street and NE 102nd Street into a lively fair celebrating environmental awareness and community spirit. Attendees can look forward to a fun-filled day featuring a dedicated kids’ zone packed with inflatables, entertainment, and games, ensuring enjoyment for the whole family. Live music performances from local bands and artists will set the tone for an energetic atmosphere. Shoppers will have the chance to explore over 100 vendor booths, offering unique items such as custom jewelry, clothing, and fairtrade goods. Food lovers can indulge in a variety of delicious options from local restaurants to food trucks and local beverage vendors.
Pelican Harbor Seabird Station: Miami’s Lifeline for Wildlife
By Liangy Calli
Nestled in the heart of Miami, Pelican Harbor Seabird Station (PHSS) has become a beacon of hope for injured wildlife and a cherished part of the community. Since its founding in 1980 by Harry and Darlene Kelton, the station has grown from a humble act of compassion— rescuing a single injured pelican—into a vital institution for native wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.
With the support of dedicated veterinarians and the Miami-Dade Parks Department, the Keltons transformed a modest shed into a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital. Today, PHSS is more than just a rescue center; it is a sanctuary where birds, small mammals, and reptiles receive lifesaving care before returning to their natural habitats. Their holistic approach not only provides top-tier rehabilitation but also fosters a deep connection between urban communities and the fragile ecosystems they inhabit.
A New Era for PHSS
In early October last year, PHSS reached a major milestone, securing its master building permit from the City of Miami. The long-awaited approval paved the way for an exciting transformation, with the general contractor breaking ground in November. Since acquiring the property four years ago, PHSS has worked closely with its architect to design a nearly 8,000-square-foot facility that will replace the current 950-square-foot hospital. The new space will allow for state-of-the-art, individualized care for patients, an expansive education center featuring six permanent exhibits, on-site staff offices, raptor flight training areas, and appropriately sized habitats for both recovering and ambassador animals.
The new facility is located on a picturesque 2.6-acre site near Little River, rezoned from residential to commercial in late 2022. The permitting process took nearly a year and a half, and throughout 2024, PHSS completed substantial
site work, including extensive soil remediation to address arsenic contamination from early 20th-century citrus groves. Additionally, ongoing archaeological excavations have unearthed decorated Tequesta pottery sherds, as well as animal bone and shell tools dating back to 750–1200 CE. Many of these artifacts will be permanently displayed in the new building, highlighting the site’s deep historical significance.
While these discoveries have occasionally slowed progress, they have reinforced PHSS’s mission. This land has long been a space where people, wildlife, and the environment are intricately connected. As proud stewards of this historically rich site, PHSS looks forward to creating a destination dedicated to the healing of thousands of sick, injured, and orphaned native animals—while also serving as an educational hub for children and adults alike.
Continuing the Mission
Despite ongoing construction, PHSS remains fully operational at its original location through a partnership with Miami-Dade County. With patient numbers rising—up 10% from last year—the expansion could not come at a better time. The new facility is expected to be completed by early 2026, but until then, PHSS continues its vital work, providing critical care and public engagement opportunities.
Want to be part of the mission? Visit pelicanharbor. org to explore volunteer opportunities or attend one of their signature events. The Lovebirds Sunset Cruise offers breathtaking waterfront views paired with expert-led insights into Miami’s avian wonders. The Speaker Series engages the community with thought-provoking discussions on conservation and environmental stewardship.
Pelican Harbor Seabird Station reminds us all of the incredible biodiversity thriving in our backyard. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or simply learning more about local wildlife, every Miami resident has a role to play in protecting this irreplaceable treasure.
-Vanessa Maggi, Broker
26,800 Sq. Ft. Lot
Listed at: $1,504,500
5 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms
4,600 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $3,299,000
2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms
1,000 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $799,000
5 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
2,800 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $2,299,000
570 NW 54 St. Warehouse
Under Contract This 2400 square foot warehouse which contains four offices is located right at the entrance to I-95 on the extremely busy W 54th St thoroughfare. You have 40,000 cars a day that can see any signage you put on this building. Warehouse is being sold with three separate lots connected as one assemblage for a total of 26,800 square feet each of the lots is worth over $400,000. The warehouse is currently being used by two different long-term tenants in the automotive industry. Not have leases and the current income is $6000 a month. The land is zones commercial as well as automotive and marine. Perfect for a future development site but use the warehouse now.
6520 SW 134th Dr.
For Sale Are you ready to fall in love with this spectacular 4,600 sf 5/4 bilevel masterpiece on a 23,783 private tropical sf lot? This exquisite home has been totally REMODELED w/ no expense spared. Features include an expansive private master suite w/ its own terrace + balcony, master bath + walk-in closet, chef’s kitchen w/ custom cabinetry, 4 custom bathrooms, porcelain tile floors throughout & a courtyard pool with outdoor shower. Located in the tropical enclave of Devonwood, this true oasis is a masterpiece with the most gorgeous pool & deck, NEW impact glass windows & doors, updated electric & plumbing, NEW AC units & NEW roof. Additional features include multiple living areas, separate guest suite & 2 family rooms, perfect for entertaining. Agents bring your buyers who demand only the BEST.
720 NE 62 St. Unit 511
For Sale Stunning 2/2 corner penthouse condo with a spacious PRIVATE ROOFTOP TERRACE (1000+ sq ft) and an extra 187 sq ft wraparound balcony, offering a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The unit is thoughtfully designed with an open layout, high ceilings, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and luxurious bathroom, oversized floor-to-ceiling glass-walled rain shower with pebble stone, laundry closet. Abundant natural light fills every room, creating a warm ambiance.
760 NE 115th St.
For Sale Welcome to the most spectacular pool home in lush Biscayne Park! Beautifully remodeled with no expenses spared, this exquisite 2800 sq. ft. 5BD/3BA features unusually high ceilings, spacious living areas, a huge master suite with large walk-in closet + great views of the pool & a gorgeous chef’s kitchen with custom Italian cabinetry that overlooks the most magical & serene meticulously landscaped backyard. Live the Miami lifestyle and create lifetime memories in your own tropical oasis! Additional features include a fabulous covered outdoor patio with a BBQ, custom bathrooms, private laundry/ utility room + tile floors throughout. Located on one of the neighborhood’s prettiest tree lined streets + just blocks to the popular park on 113th St. & community center where so many amazing events take place.
Capturing
From networking events to community celebrations, the Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce has brought residents, business owners, and leaders together. These gatherings showcase our vibrant community, fostering connections, celebrating achievements, and supporting growth. Explore the photos and relive the energy that makes our communities thrive!
The Chamber is the heartbeat of our vibrant community, bringing together business owners, residents, and those passionate about local initiatives. Whether it’s the Doctors Charter School Hawks 5K Run/Walk or a ribbon-cutting ceremony for
new businesses like Conscious Brewing, there are countless ways to get involved, gain exposure, and contribute to events that foster growth. Supporting local businesses by shopping, dining, and utilizing Chamber member services strengthens
our economy and enhances our community’s unique character. Stay engaged, make meaningful connections, and help our communities thrive. Visit MiamiShores.com to explore more photos and discover how you can get involved!
Experience Community, Connection, and Celebration with the Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce!
BY: CHRISTINE FRANKLIN
Over the past month, the Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce has hosted several notable events, highlighting the community’s dedication to leadership, recognition, and growth.
Women in Business: Pathways to LeadHERship Expo: On March 8, coinciding with International Women’s Day, the Chamber presented the second annual “Women in Business: Pathways to LeadHERship Expo” at Barry University’s Weber Hall. This inspiring event featured a panel of four distinguished women professionals who shared their journeys to success, offering valuable insights to attendees. The expo provided ample networking opportunities, showcased women-owned businesses, and treated participants to a delightful lunch accompanied by refreshing beverages. The event, generously sponsored by Maggi Realty Group, Barry University, and Pilates Unites, among others, showcased the community’s strong commitment to fostering women’s leadership.
2024 Citizen of the Year Award Ceremony: On March 15, the Chamber honored Gigi Fong Turkel as the 2024 Citizen of the Year during a celebratory cocktail party at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in North Miami. The evening featured gallery tours, music, and a gathering dedicated to recognizing Turkel’s numerous contributions to the community. Her dedication and service have left a lasting impact, making her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at Conscious Brewing: On February 27, the Chamber welcomed Conscious Brewing to the downtown area with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Miami Shores Mayor George Birch presided over the event, marking the beginning of an evening filled with happy hour specials and community camaraderie.
Upcoming Event: Green Day 2025 Street Festival: Looking ahead, the Chamber is excited to announce the upcoming Green Day 2025 street festival, scheduled for Saturday, April
26th, from 3:00PM to 8:00PM. This vibrant event will transform NE 2nd Avenue between NE 96th Street and NE 102nd Street into a lively fair celebrating environmental awareness and community spirit.
Admission and parking for Green Day 2025 are free, making it easy for everyone to participate. The Chamber encourages you to join in this exciting celebration of sustainability and community spirit.
Pickleball Palooza: Every year, Pickleball Palooza brings together players of all skill levels for an action-packed day of competition, camaraderie, and fun! This highly anticipated event has become a favorite in the community, drawing both seasoned pros and enthusiastic newcomers eager to test their skills on the court. With exciting matches, great company, and a lively atmosphere, Pickleball Palooza never disappoints. So get ready, paddles up for another thrilling tournament coming your way soon! Stay tuned for details, and don’t miss out on the excitement!
These events underscore the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to celebrating leadership, honoring community contributions, and promoting local businesses, thereby strengthening the fabric of the Miami Shores, Biscayne Park, El Portal, Little River and the North Miami communities.
For upcoming socials and events, check out MiamiShores.com.
