Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Comerce serving Miami Shores, Biscayne Park, El Portal and Little River for over 75 years.
CARLA PETERS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
2025 EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT
Wes Pearce, Graber Realty Group
PAST PRESIDENT
Catherine McLaney
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
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
Deb Dziena, DD Hospitality & Events
Liangy S. Fernandez-Calli, Resident Member
Julie Isha, Barry University
Cory Gittner, Mediatech
Meghan Grimbert , MGD Shop
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
Cristine Pacheco, Rustic French Home
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
2025 EGRET MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTORS
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 • July 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.
2025 CHAMBER TRUSTEE MEMBERS
A Legacy in Print
The Story of The Egret Magazine
First published in 1973, The Egret Magazine began humbly as a one-page community letter circulated among the residents of Miami Shores. Over the years, that single page blossomed into a fullfledged publication, growing not only in length but in impact, voice, and reach. What was once a neighborhood bulletin has evolved into a trusted community magazine now delivered to over 7,000 household doorsteps across Miami Shores, El Portal, Biscayne Park, and parts of Little River, along with local businesses thoughout our communities.
In addition to our print circulation, The Egret extends its wings to thousands more through a vibrant digital presence, bringing stories, updates, and opportunities to even more readers, near and far.
At the heart of our publication is a deep commitment to community. At the Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce, we believe in giving back and uplifting the people and businesses that make our neighborhoods unique. That’s why every aspect of The Egret Magazine – from design and printing to publication and distribution – is proudly handled by local professionals and vendors. When you hold a copy of The Egret, you’re holding a piece of this community: created by us, for us.
More than a magazine, The Egret is a reflection of our shared stories, milestones, and momentum, a voice for the neighborhoods we call home.
If you would like to advertise in the monthly Egret Magazine, please contact Carla Peters at 305-754-5466.
Omarr C. Nickerson, Ph.D., Mayor, Village of El Portal
Rooted in South Florida, Driven by Purpose
The Matt & Lisa Allen Family Foundation: A Legacy of Hands-On Giving
n a quiet stretch of 102nd Street in Miami Shores, Halloween used to feel more like Hollywood. One October night each year, the street transformed into a living labyrinth of shrieks, shocks, and shadows. Costumes and chaos reigned, but at its heart was something deeper: community, creativity, and compassion. The event, Scaring for Caring, started as a high school project led by the Allen children, and supported by neighbors, friends, and classmates. Over the course of five years, it evolved to include a dance-a-thon and a street fair, quickly becoming a full-fledged fundraiser that drew large crowds and raised over a million dollars for cancer research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Jackson Health Center.
And it’s just one example of how the Allen family lives their values: not just through donations, but through presence.
That spirit now lives on in the Matt & Lisa Allen Family Foundation, a fast-growing philanthropic force in South Florida. Established in 2022, the foundation aims to close real-world gaps for underserved youth, providing access to healthcare, education, mentorship, and emotional support. In just three years, it has raised close to $4 million and built partnerships with organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters and Holtz Children’s Hospital. But ask Matt or Lisa what sets their work apart, and the answer is simple: they show up.“We don’t need our name on a building,” Lisa says. “We enjoy meeting the young adults we serve, and we hold them to a high standard. We also look for ways that our board, our committee, and our donors can participate in the work, not just the funding of it.”
This hands-on approach is part of a broader family philosophy that traces back decades. Lisa was born and raised in Coral Gables. Matt has spent over 50 years in Miami, serving as Chief Operating Officer of the Related Group for nearly three decades. Both have long histories of charitable involvement, but they eventually realized that they wanted to do more than cut checks. They wanted to shape something lasting, and deeply local. “When our children were young, we looked for ways to instill in them the foundation of philanthropy and giving back,” Lisa explains. “We brought them and their friends to the inaugural days of the Dolphins Cancer Challenge cycling events. Service wasn’t just something we talked about, it was something we did. Together.”
Article by: Doug Lindsay Photo by: Kate Baumwell
That togetherness now extends to their grown children, MEA, Bella, and Matthew, ages 23 to 26, each of whom is being integrated into the foundation in ways that suit their own strengths and schedules. “It’s a family thing that Matt birthed,” Lisa says, with a smile in her voice. “Together, we’re building something that they’ve helped shape and can carry forward.”
The foundation’s mission is sharply focused, but not narrow. At its core is a belief that every child deserves access to what should be considered the basics: education, healthcare, housing, mentorship, and support. The Allens are especially attuned to initiatives that address these needs in innovative ways.
The Matt & Lisa Allen Family Foundation’s most ambitious educational commitment to date may be its partnership with the Crockett Foundation through the Crockett-Allen Family Scholars Program. Designed for high-achieving high school students who show great promise, the program blends academic enrichment, leadership development, and real-world experiences to help scholars navigate their paths with purpose. From college tours and entrepreneurship training to SAT prep and mentorship, students gain both the skills and the confidence to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.
To date, the program has supported 53 students, each of whom is attending a fouryear state institution through Florida Prepaid matches.“The impact the Matt and Lisa Allen Family Foundation has had on the Crockett Foundation and our scholars is nothing short of transformational,” says Henri W. Crockett, President of the Crockett Foundation. “Thanks to the generosity of Matt and Lisa Allen, every student in our Crockett Allen Scholars program receives a 4-year Florida Prepaid scholarship – ensuring they can attend college without the burden of tuition.
“This support has broken generational barriers for many of our families. What the Allens have done is not just fund education – they’ve given hope, opened doors, and created a path to a better future. The Crockett Foundation simply couldn’t do this work at the scale or depth we do without them. We’re proud to call them not just partners, but family.”
The Allens’ support reaches even further into higher education. At Barry University, where Matt serves as a Trustee and proud alumnus, the foundation has helped 35 residential stu-
dents remain enrolled; students who may not have been able to continue their education without that support. “It has been such a privilege to see the impact of Lisa and Matt’s generosity on the students at Barry University,” says University President Mike Allen, Ph.D. “By giving the gift of education to so many deserving students, they are creating opportunities and building the next generation of leaders. As a Barry alumnus and dedicated Trustee, Matt, along with Lisa and their family, exemplify the University’s core values of service and empowering future generations. Their impact is inspiring and they are just getting started.”
Photo credits: Kate Baumwell and the Matt & Lisa Allen Family Foundation.
These initiatives reflect the foundation’s deep belief that empowering students through education isn’t just about academics, it’s about possibility. The Crockett-Allen Scholars program isn’t just about writing a tuition check. Scholars are honored at an annual blue coat ceremony, where they and their families are recognized and welcomed into the program. There’s also a graduation ceremony that celebrates each student’s journey and achievements. “It’s about the full circle recognition of the program and their growth,” Matt ex plains. “Recognition, support, and success.”
The foundation’s board members, sponsors, and committee members attend these events, and engage directly with the students, offering encouragement and creating meaningful connections. It’s a chance for these young adults to build real relationships with people who believe in them. It also allows everyone involved to see the impact of the work up close.
That transparency and trust are deliberate. Every dollar raised by the foundation goes directly to the programs it supports. There’s no administrative overhead taken from donations. The Allens insist on this model to foster credibility and to keep their operation lean, responsive, and highly accountable. Each nonprofit partner undergoes a thorough evaluation process. “We don’t need more organizations to serve,” Matt says. “We need better, more impactful results and services for these communities.” Sustainability, aligned missions, and the ability to remain hands-on are all non-negotiables. But so is a less quantifiable trait: heart.
In her years with the Junior League of Miami, Lisa focused on programs for women and children, including a particularly meaningful partnership with Habitat for Humanity. Those experiences helped shape her perspective on what makes local giving matter. “One person or one group can’t solve all the issues in South Florida. But if we each focus on what we care about – what we really care about – and respect others doing the same? That creates momentum.”
That mindset echoes through the foundation’s weekend-long fundraising events, where beneficiaries and donors mingle freely. The students the foundation supports aren’t kept at arm’s length, they’re at the table. “These kids are impressive,” Lisa says. “Their energy and their stories, remind all of us why we do this.”
As the foundation moves into its fourth year, the Allens are planning for deeper impact, not just wider reach. Strategic growth, stronger programs, and more integrated family involvement are all on the roadmap. But their longterm vision remains rooted in a singleprinciple: making sure no child gets left behind simply because the support they need isn’t there.
For anyone wondering where to begin in their own journey of giving, Lisa’s advice is simple: “Be an example for your own family. Volunteer with your kids. Make it a part of how your family lives, not just something you add on.”
And that’s the legacy she hopes to leave; not just through the dollars raised or programs launched, but through the values embedded in her children and, by extension, in the community around them. “My greatest hope,” she says, “is that my children are close and serve a purpose greater than themselves. The foundation is a vehicle for them to collaborate on issues that are meaningful to them and that continue to support the needs of children and young adults in South Florida.”
Back in Miami Shores, the haunted house is no longer an annual event. But the energy, the creativity, the community, the sense of doing something that matters together, hasn’t gone anywhere. Just like the Allen family itself, it’s just grown up, gotten more organized, and found a bigger mission.
If you would like to help empower South Florida’s youth and would like more information on the Matt & Lisa Allen Family Foundation, visit: MattLisaAllenFoundation.org
Photo credits: Matt & Lisa Family Foundation and Barry University
The 3rd Annual Allen Family Charity Sports Day
April 18, 2025
This years event surpassed the Allen’s fundraising goal and raised $1,528,750. Proceeds will benefit Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Miami, Jackson Health Foundation, Barry University, the Crockett Foundation, as well as other local organizations.
TIP OF THE MONTH
The #2 killer of a sale is cigarette smoke. If you smoke, do not smoke in the house. A coat of fresh paint usually removes any smell of smoke.
#1 Team for Keller Williams Realty for 16 Years in a Row.
The Original Queen of Quayside Joins Our Team
The Jack Coden Group is very proud and excited to announce the fact that Jane Deblasio the original “Queen of Quayside” has joined the team with her after 50 years real estate experience. In fact, Jane was selling Quayside residences for the original developer in 1975!!!
Born in Brooklyn, NY, Jane moved to Miami in 1971 to pursue her stellar career selling real estate in MiamiDade. Her goal was to find her clients their perfect dream home and be their exclusive realtor for life.
Jack stated : “I am thrilled and very excited to be working with Jane who embodies the Jack Coden Group’s culture and dedication to providing the finest service and expertise to our customer’s bar none”.
This is why the Jack Coden Group has been the #1 team for Keller Williams Realty for 16 years in a row.
Properties Exclusively For Sale By The Jack Coden Group
2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms
1,129 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $449,000
NEWLISTING
2 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
2,320 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $539,000
3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms
1,329 Sq. Ft.
Listed at: $598,000
4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms
2,081 Sq. Ft. Sold for: $620,000
7441 Wayne Ave. #11F
For Sale Bright & spacious 2 bedroom 2 bathroom CORNER unit with exquisite water views of Miami Beach and the city skyline! Located in charming Parkview Island, this gem features an open floor plan with abundant natural light, gorgeously remodeled kitchen with Brazilian quartz plus Sub-Zero fridge, private master suite with ensuite bath and generous closet space, remodeled bathrooms & tile floors throughout (carpet in the bedrooms). Enjoy resort-style amenities including a pool, fitness center, entertainment room, reading corner, valet & 24-hour front desk. Just minutes from the beach, all local shops & restaurants, steps away from Parkview Island Park & SO MUCH MORE! Come experience the fabulous lifestyle Miami Beach has to offer! All assessments paid in full by the Seller. No major construction in the building
1800 NE 114 St. #1103
For Sale It’s all about the view! Most desirable NE corner rotunda unit w/ 2 BEDS/ 3 FULL BATHS and a 60’ living room, totaling over 2,320 sq ft. Features incl. a private master suite w/ HIS & HERS full bathrooms & walk-in closets, breathtaking East & North views of the Bay, Beaches & the Miami skyline + 2 BALCONIES: a huge 6’x27’ balcony off the living room & a private sunrise balcony off the kitchen. Updated AC unit, brand new floors + impact windows & doors (in living areas). Welcome to The Cricket Club! Addtl. features incl. marble bathrooms, tons of natural light, storage unit & 1 covered parking space plus a 2nd spot, if needed. Building amenities incl. a Bayfront pool, gym, boat docks, 24 hr. doorman, bellman, valet, lobby bar, kids playground, jogging path + tennis & basketball courts.
19220 SW 119th PL.
For Sale Located on a desirable corner lot, this move-in ready 3-bed, 2-bath home offers spacious side yards with ample room for a boat. The fully fenced property includes a rolling gate for added privacy and security. Inside, you’ll find ceramic tile flooring throughout, a bright and functional layout, and a generous lot with endless potential. Perfect as a starter home or investment property! Conveniently located in a sought-after Miami neighborhood near Publix, top schools, parks, shopping centers, and the Miami Zoo. No HOA!
20231 SW 92 Ave.
SOLD Tucked away on a peaceful cul-de-sac just two blocks from Old Cutler Road, this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Highlights include a spacious 2-car garage, a cozy eat-in kitchen, a generous family room, and an elegant formal dining room—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Situated in a serene neighborhood with easy access to top-rated restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and the turnpike, this home is a true hidden gem. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity—Estate Sale!
From Curiosity to Community: My Dive into Water Aerobics in Miami Shores
BY: G. TURKEL
What started as simple curiosity quickly turned into something pretty amazing. A good friend of mine had mentioned that she was taking water aerobics at the Miami Shores Aquatic Center and couldn’t stop raving about the instructor, Lydia. “She’s got the best energy, such a fun sense of humor, and really knows her stuff,” my friend said. Naturally, I was intrigued. I mean, how hard could it be? Just bouncing around in the water and doing a few stretches, right?
Well... let me tell you how it really went.
At first, stepping into that chilly pool gave me a bit of a shock. but in the best way. It was surprisingly refreshing, and within minutes, I felt relaxed and completely at ease. Before I knew it, I was in the middle of a group of six friendly women who welcomed me like an old friend. Soon, that number grew to over 20 energetic, smiling faces; women full of life and laughter, and all of them proud to be part of this special community.
They call themselves the Miami Shores Mermaids, and I quickly saw why. These women ranged in age from 16 to 70+, and came from all walks of life. In one class alone, I met a teacher, a lawyer, a former pro golfer, a pickleball player, a lifeguard, a stockbroker, you name it. And the woman leading us through the class? That was Lydia.
Lydia has been teaching water aerobics for nearly 40 years, and trust me, you can tell. She’s strong, spirited, and knows exactly how to lead a room (or in this case, a pool). Her resume is as impressive as her form: she’s taught everywhere from the beaches of Bal Harbour to private homes, and has worked with people recovering from injuries, surgeries, and even strokes. When I asked her what keeps her so passionate about water aerobics, her answer was simple and heartfelt: “I just love the water. The pool is the best place to strengthen, stretch, be active, and have fun!”
And fun it was.
Lydia kicked off the class with some upbeat 80s tunes, and we were off, jumping, stretching, laughing, and moving to the beat. She kept a close eye on everyone, correcting form, encouraging us, and reminding us to smile. We used water bottles as weights and resistance bands for extra challenge. And wow, working against the water really takes it up a notch. One woman, Joan, who’s been doing water aerobics for 40+ years, leaned over and said, “Lydia’s class is one of the best I’ve ever taken.” And honestly? I couldn’t agree more.
As the hour flew by, I realized this wasn’t just a class, it was a commitment. These women were strong, focused, and here for a reason. Some were managing old injuries, others were just staying active and connected. When I asked Carla, another Mermaid, why she chose water aerobics, she smiled and said, “Because it’s low impact, it doesn’t strain my injured ankle, and I get to spend an hour with some really amazing people.”
That really stuck with me.
Joining this group felt like being invited into a little hidden gem of a community. I went in expecting a casual workout and came out feeling inspired and challenged.
If you’re wondering what water aerobics actually is, here’s a quick rundown: It’s a low-impact workout done in the pool, using water’s natural resistance to help build strength, improve flexibility, and boost cardiovascular health. And the best part? It’s easy on the joints, making it perfect for anyone recovering from injury or just looking for a gentle but effective way to move. Plus, it’s social, and a lot more fun than a treadmill.
So, if you’re looking for a high-energy, low-impact workout and love being in the water, you might want to check out this class at the Miami Shores Aquatic Center.
When: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM
Cost: $11 per class (residents and non-residents welcome!) No reservations needed, just show up and dive in!
HAPPY HOUR
Come on out and join the Mermaids, you never know what kind of strength, joy, and connection you’ll discover.
NEW MEMBER Spotlight
We’re
Step
Building Stronger Community Bonds
Come And Be Part of It!
Chamber Highlights: Celebrating Connection, Culture, and Community in June
The Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce continues to be a driving force for unity, collaboration, and growth in our vibrant village. Whether through dynamic networking events or meaningful community gatherings, the Chamber remains committed to creating spaces where residents, business owners, civic leaders, and changemakers come together to connect, collaborate, and celebrate.
June was a shining example of that mission in action, with a series of events that showcased the heart and diversity of our community.
We began by honoring Haitian Heritage on May 29, recognizing the deep cultural roots and vibrant contributions of the Haitian community across South Florida. Just days later, on June 3, the Chamber supported the Friendly Villagers Heroes Luncheon, a heartfelt event dedicated to recognizing everyday heroes who go above and beyond for others.
Community growth continued with the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Elements, a new home store in downtown Miami Shores that brings fresh energy and entrepreneurship to our local business scene. The celebration marked another milestone in our downtown business district.
One of the month’s most exciting moments took place at the Miami Marlins baseball game, where Chamber members enjoyed an energetic networking event - and our very own Chamber Treasurer, Rich Pototsky, threw out the first pitch, creating a truly memorable evening that blended sports, community, and business networking.
Later in the month, the Chamber celebrated alongside the Impact Partners Agency at their launch party - a special rollout event that marked the beginning of a bold new chapter focused on deeper community engagement and strategic collaboration.
Wrapping up the month with purpose and passion, the Chamber proudly supported the Kennedy Kids Fundraising Dinner at Sapori, helping raise awareness and funds for programs that empower local youth and provide critical support. The Chamber also joined in celebrating the one-year anniversary of Blu Dental, recognizing a thriving local business that continues to make smiles brighter in our community.
Each of these events - unique in purpose but united in spirit - demonstrates how the Chamber is more than just an organization. It’s a catalyst for economic vitality, social impact, and lasting community pride. Our gatherings are more than calendar events; they’re opportunities to strengthen bonds, share ideas, and build the future for our communities - together.
the Chamber Board
We are thrilled to announce and congratulate the newest members of our Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce Board:
Meghan Grimbert
Meghan Grimbert Design
Born and raised in Miami Shores, Meghan Grimbert’s passion for design began with fashion—earning her degrees in New York and Italy, interning for Zac Posen, and working in Paris. After years abroad,
she returned home to start a family and shifted her creative focus to interiors. Meghan now brings her global design sensibility to the heart of Miami Shores through home renovations and interior styling.
Deb Dziena is a global hospitality leader with 20+ years of experience driving results for top brands and events worldwide. From NYC’s Rosa Mexicano to major Miami activations like F1 and SOBEWFF, she brings a people-first approach to every project. Now, as founder of DD Hospitality & Events, Deb specializes in curated experiences and innovative hospitality solutions.
Originally from Wisconsin, Cristine has called Miami Shores home for over 25 years. She and her husband Mario raised their three children here and have deep roots in the community. With a background in art, design, and marketing, she has built a career spanning more than 30 years as a C-suite marketing executive in the real estate industry. Today, she also channels her creative and entrepreneurial spirit into Rustic French Home, her boutique in downtown Miami Shores.
Each of these incredible leaders brings a unique perspective, wealth of experience, and passion for our community. We’re excited to work alongside them and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make!
