JULY JUNE2026 2026 MIAMISHORES.COM MIAMISHORES.COM
KEEPING OUR VILLAGES SAFE
STRENGTH IN UNITY WITH
CHIEFS GOLT, MENDEZ, AVILA and MAJOR TROY Sapori MIAMI
A TASTE OF TRADITION
OVER 75 YEAR SERVING MIAMI SHORES | BISCAYNE PARK | EL PORTAL | LITTLE RIVER
COVER PHOTO BY: KATE BAUMWELL
MIAMI SHORES NEIGHBOR & PROPERTY SPECIALIST FEATURED PROPERTY
1000 NE 85TH STREET | SHORECREST O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 3 2 5 , 0 0 0
www.CasaCoquinaShorecrest.com
WES PEARCE MBA · MIAMI SHORES RESIDENT · COMMUNITY ADVOCATE
Tr usted re presentation. Proven results. Exce ptional ser vice in Miami Shores and be yond. 305.790.3331
wes@graberrealty.com
wespearce.co
@wespearce
SCAN TO VISIT MY WEBSITE
RECENT SALES & LISTINGS FOR SALE
FOR SALE
SOLD
6 NW 106TH STREET | MIAMI SHORES O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 1 0 0 , 0 0 0
1 1 5 0 4 N E 6 T H AV E | B I S C AY N E PA R K O F F E R E D AT $ 1 , 3 3 0 , 0 0 0
1 4 4 N E 9 1 S T S T R E E T. | M I A M I S H O R E S SOLD @ $1,227,500
Proudl y ser ving Miami Shores & the Upper East Side
Live Well. Stay Active. Feel at Home. Hit your stride when you live in a vibrant 55+ community designed for connection and everyday enjoyment. As an active adult community, our North Miami apartments feature expansive gardens, a modern fitness center, a refreshing pool, and welcoming social spaces that support your happiness, health, and ongoing vitality. Contact us today to take a tour and make Residences at Nomi your NEW home!
305-419-7460 ResidencesNomi.com
GUARDIANS
of our VILLAGES The Officers, K-9 Heroes, and Community Partnerships Protecting Miami Shores, Biscayne Park, and El Portal BY GIGI TURKEL The villages of Miami Shores, Biscayne Park, and El Portal are known for their beautiful neighborhoods, towering trees, thriving community spirit, and residents who care deeply about one another. Behind that quality of life stands another shared asset: dedicated police departments committed to protecting the people who call these communities home. Led by Miami Shores Police Chief David Golt, Biscayne Park Police Chief Carlos Avila, and El Portal Police Chief Alejandro Mendez, the officers and staff of these three departments work every day to keep our neighborhoods safe while building meaningful relationships with residents, businesses, schools, and community organizations. Miami Shores: Community Policing in Action Miami Shores Chief David Golt, the 8th Chief of Police for Miami Shores Village, holds bachelor’s degrees in Criminology and Government from Florida State University and a Master of Public Administration from Barry University. With more than 40 years of law enforcement experience, including leadership roles at the Pembroke Pines Police Department, Chief Golt has served with Miami Shores since 2015 and led the department to achieve Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation in 2025. Chief Golt leads a team of 52 dedicated professionals and together they serve more than 11,000 residents, as well as the students, faculty, and visitors of Barry University. The Miami Shores Police Department provides around-the-clock service through a team of sworn officers, telecommunicators, civilian personnel, and specialized units. Residents will also frequently encounter officers throughout the village - not only responding to calls for service, but also attending community events like the Annual Green Day Street Festival, where officers play a vital role in ensuring the event’s success by assisting with traffic control, road closures, crowd management, and public safety efforts. Along with visiting schools, participating in neighborhood meetings, and building relationships that strengthen public trust, 4 l EGRET June 2026
Left to right: Captain Christine Herbert + Chief Dave Golt Photo by: Kate Baumwell
their partnership and dedication help create Meatloaf, and Tango have become favorites a safe, welcoming environment for residents, among residents while serving as an important businesses, and visitors to enjoy cherished asset to the department. community traditions. The Miami Shores Police Department is Meet Miami Shores’ Four-Legged Officers also home to Major Troy, the department’s emotional support and service dog. Major Troy’s role may differ from that of the K-9 Unit, but his impact on the community is just as meaningful. He provides comfort during difficult situations, offers support to victims and their families, assists department personnel, and serves as a friendly ambassador at community events throughout the year.
Officers Cruz & Zeke
One of Major Troy’s most cherished community roles takes place at Brockway Memorial Library, where he participates in a children’s reading program from September through May. The program welcomes children Officers Giraldo & Meatloaf ages 4 to 8, giving young readers a fun, encouraging, and judgment-free environment in which to practice their reading skills and build confidence.
I had the opportunity to witness the program firsthand. As I walked through the library one day, a young girl was enthusiastically reading a story to Troy. At one point, he noticed me passing by and briefly turned his attention away from her. What happened next was priceless. In a sweet but determined voice, the little girl said, “Troy, are you listening to me? You need to pay attention!” I kept walking but glanced back to see what Troy would do. Ever the Officers Fernandez & Tango Chief Golt & Major Troy attentive listener, he turned right back to the young reader, and she happily continued her Among the department’s most recognizable story. members are its K-9 officers: Officer Zeke, Moments like these are why children look Officer Meatloaf, and Officer Tango. forward to spending time with Major Troy. As These highly trained K-9 officers work alongside they read aloud to him, they gain confidence, their handlers in patrol operations, evidence strengthen their reading abilities, and develop recovery, tracking, narcotics detection, and a lifelong love of books. Through his gentle suspect apprehension. Their specialized skills presence and unwavering patience, Troy provide valuable support in situations where reminds us that public safety is about more speed, precision, and safety are critical. than enforcement – it is also about compassion, Whether assisting in the field or demonstrating connection, and building trust within the their abilities during community events, Zeke, community.
Biscayne Park: Small Village, Strong Commitment
El Portal: Preserving the Village of Trees, Wildlife and Community
Known for its winding streets, lush canopy, and old-Florida charm, Biscayne Park – designated as a bird and tree sanctuary by the state – is one of the most distinctive communities in South Florida.
El Portal, whose name translates from Spanish as “The Gate,” draws its identity from two grand wooden gates that once stood proudly along NE 2nd Avenue, welcoming visitors to the village before their removal in the 1940s. Today, this charming community is known for its lush tropical landscape, abundant wildlife, peacocks, and strong neighborhood spirit. Often described as a hidden oasis, El Portal has long embraced a philosophy of preservation and stewardship. Since the 1950s, the village has been designated as a bird sanctuary by the State of Florida, reflecting its unwavering commitment to protecting native wildlife and its treasured tree canopies.
At the heart of the village stands one of Biscayne Park’s most cherished and recognizable landmarks – the historic Biscayne Park Log Cabin. Rich in history and community spirit, the cabin was gifted to the village by the federal government in 1935 and has played an important role in village life ever since. Originally serving as the home of the Biscayne Park Police Department, the rustic structure now houses the Village Commission Chambers and serves as a gathering place for community meetings and events. While the Village Hall and Police Department have since relocated just across the street, the Log Cabin remains a proud symbol of Biscayne Park’s unique character, small-town charm, and deep-rooted sense of community. Its enduring presence serves as a reminder of the village’s history and the police department’s longstanding commitment to building strong relationships with the residents it serves. The department is led by Chief Carlos Avila, who was sworn in as Chief of Police for the Village of Biscayne Park in August, 2025. He brings more than 45 years of law enforcement experience to the community, including 31 years with the City of Miami Police Department, working in patrol, the motor unit, and on high-profile homicide investigations during the “Cocaine Cowboys” era. Prior to joining Biscayne Park, he served as Deputy Chief and later Chief of Police for the City of West Miami for 14 years. The Biscayne Park Police Department embraces a highly visible, neighborhood-focused approach. Officers are deeply connected to the more than 3,100 residents they serve
Chief Carlos Avila
and work proactively to maintain the peaceful quality of life that has long defined the village. Further strengthening this commitment, the department has implemented a Neighborhood Resource Officer (NRO) program, providing residents with a dedicated officer who serves as a direct community liaison. The NRO fosters relationships with residents and local businesses, addresses neighborhood concerns, promotes crime prevention initiatives, and helps ensure that community policing remains at the heart of the department’s mission.
Just as El Portal is dedicated to safeguarding its natural surroundings, it is equally committed to protecting the residents who call the village home. One of the most visible examples of that commitment is the El Portal Police Department’s fleet of patrol vehicles, equipped with highly visible emergency lighting that residents often jokingly describe as being “lit up like Christmas trees.” While the eye-catching vehicles certainly turn heads, their purpose extends far beyond appearances. The enhanced lighting improves officer visibility, increases public awareness, and reinforces a proactive law enforcement presence throughout the village. Together with community-oriented policing efforts, these highly visible patrol units serve as a reassuring reminder that public safety remains a top priority in this close-knit community. Officers work closely with village leadership, residents and community members to address concerns, maintain neighborhood safety, and preserve the welcoming atmosphere that makes El Portal such a special place to live.
Visitors quickly notice another Biscayne Park trademark, the familiar “Don’t Even Think About Speeding” signs posted throughout the community. While the signs often bring a smile, their message is clear: Biscayne Park takes traffic safety seriously. In a village where residents walk their dogs, ride bicycles, and enjoy the outdoors, safe driving is essential. Over the years, the signs have become part of the village’s identity – a friendly but unmistakable reminder that protecting neighbors begins with slowing down.
Chief Alejandro Mendez
Leading this team of police professionals is Chief Alejandro “Alex” Mendez, with more than 35 years of law enforcement experience serving South Florida communities. After a
Continued on page 9
Sponsor
Sponsor
SHANE GR ABER, S HANE G RBROKER ABER ,
WELCOME TO THE GR ABER - HOOD! F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S
PENDING
SOLD
S PA N I S H M E D I T E R R A N E A N M I S I O N
S U N S E T PA L M S
747 N E 7 2 n d S t . , H i s t o r i c B a y s i d e l | $1 .1 M I L L I O N
4 3 3 N E 9 1 S t . , M i a m i S h o r e s | $1 . 3 2 5 M I L L I O N
Call Shane Graber @ 305.606.2200
Call Shane Graber @ 305.606.2200
COMING SOON
FOR SALE
L E C H ÂT E A U
V I L L A A G AV E
3 2 0 N E 8 8 t h S t . , E l P o r t a l | $ 2 .1 5 M I L L I O N
54 NW 96 St ., Miami Shores | NE W CONS TRUC TION
Call Shane Graber @ 305.606.2200
Call Richard “Ricky” Zimmerman @ 786.942.8998
FOR SALE
SOLD
CA SA COQUINA
V I L L A S E R E N ATA
1 0 0 0 N E 8 5 t h S t . , S h o r e c r e s t | $1 . 3 2 5 M I L L I O N
14 4 N E 9 1 s t S t . , M i a m i S h o r e s | $1 . 2 2 7, 5 0 0
Call Wes Pearce @ 305.790.3331
Call Wes Pearce @ 305.790.3331
RE AL E S TATE .
MADE BETTER.
6 l EGRET June 2026
CALL US TODAY
305.606.2200
9699 NE 2nd Avenue | Miami Shores
SOLD
COMING SOON
L U X U R I O U S E S TAT E H O M E
MA JE S TIC OAK MANOR
41 5 N E 9 5 t h S t . , M i a m i S h o r e s | N E W C O N S T R U C T I O N
769 N E 7 2 Te r r. , B e l l e M e a d e | $ 5 .1 M I L L I O N
Call Shane Graber @ 305.606.2200
Call Shane Graber @ 305.606.2200
SOLD
SOLD
M A I S O N S TA R L I G H T O A S I S
THE SWING GARDEN BUNGALOW
1 0 0 2 5 N E 3 r d A v e . , M i a m i S h o r e s | $1 . 3 M I L L I O N
1 2 7 N E 8 8 S t . , E l P o r t a l | $ 819, 0 0 0
Call Wes Pearce @ 305.790.3331 or Shane Graber @ 305.606.2200
Call Yvette Valverde @ 305.469.1410 or Bryan Amaya @ 786.661.0817
SOLD
SOLD
CASA SERENE
CA SA AMA ZONICA
49 N W 1 0 8 t h S t . , M i a m i S h o r e s | $1 .9 6 M I L L I O N
174 N W 1 0 6 t h S t . , M i a m i S h o r e s | $1 .11 M I L L I O N
Call Richard “Ricky” Zimmerman @ 786.942.8998
Nina Romero @ 305.834.2312
SOLD
PENDING
PA L M B R E E Z E
M I S H O VA C A N T L O T ! - R E C O R D B R E A K E R
11 5 N E 8 8 t h S t . , E l P o r t a l | $1 . 2 9 5 M I L L I O N
1 3 3 N E 9 9 t h S t . , M i a m i S h o r e s | $1 . 3 3 7 M I L L I O N
Call Wes Pearce @ 305.790.3331
Call Shane Graber @ 305.606.2200
Thank you! With over $850 Million in sales, GRABER is now the TOP brokerage in the Mimo/Upper EastsideMiami Shores - El Portal - Biscayne Park Market! EGRET June, 2026 l 7 MIAMISHORES.COM
BIG NEWS
2026 EGRET MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTORS Designers & Content Collaborators Carla Peters, 3C Studio Collective Gigi Turkel, Core Design Group Photography: Kate Baumwell
10%
Cover: Chief Dave Golt, Chief Alejandro Mendez & Major Troy Not shown: Chief Carlos Avila
off
Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce Community Partners
ON SELE CT SERV ICES
TRUSTEE MEMBERS
LIMI TED TIME ONL Y
CHRISTIAN PARLA OPENED A NEW SALON + BOUTIQUE + PHOTO STUDIO
CORE DESIGN GROUP MARKETING + DESIGN FIRM
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
@LEPARLEATELIER LEPARLEATELIER.COM
+1 (786) 698-0802 2246 NE 123 ST | MIAMI,FL 33181
The Egret • July 2026 • 9620 NE Second Avenue Suite 201, Miami Shores, FL, 33138 • 305-754-5466 e-mail: chamberinfo@ miamishores.com • 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. 7500 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.
ENROLL NOW
FOR SUMMER.
The Cushman School offers summer camp and academic programming for students in Pre-K through 12th grade.
CAD Sports Camp
Pre-K4-Grade 5
Summer Fun Camp
Ages 3-10
Cougar Training Camp
Grades 6-12
305-757-1966 CUSHMANSCHOOL.ORG
Virtual Academics
Grades 6-12
On-Campus Summer Studies
Grades 6-12
Register today for a summer of learning, laughter and lifelong friendships at The Cushman School.
seriousness of the situation, rushed over, and immediately began CPR. What followed was a distinguished 30-year career with the City of remarkable demonstration of the strength and Miami Police Department, where he rose spirit of our community. through the ranks and served in the Field Operations Division, he joined the Village of Miami Shores Recreation Department El Portal Police Department as a Lieutenant in employees, fellow players, neighbors, and 2019. He was promoted to Chief of Police in friends sprang into action. One person 2021 and has since led the department with a retrieved an Automated External Defibrillator strong focus on community policing and public (AED). Another called 911. Others contacted safety. In addition to his law enforcement the Miami Shores Police Department while leadership, Chief Mendez was appointed to the additional bystanders helped however they Miami-Dade College Paralegal Studies Advisory could. Committee in 2022, where he helps support the development of future legal and paralegal Within minutes, Miami Shores Police officers arrived, secured the AED, and joined the professionals. lifesaving efforts. Everyone played a part; The department’s commitment to community the Coast Guard officer who acted without engagement, responsiveness, and proactive hesitation, Recreation Department staff who policing reflects the values that have shaped responded quickly, teammates who stepped El Portal for generations. Whether patrolling forward, and police officers ready to do neighborhoods, supporting community events, whatever was needed. or responding to calls for service, officers remain focused on protecting both people and Most importantly, this story has a happy ending. the character of the village itself. Today, that resident is alive and recovering because ordinary people took extraordinary A Community Responds action when every second counted. To respect Public safety is often measured in statistics, the privacy of those involved, names have been reports, and response times. But sometimes omitted. Yet this experience reminds me how its true impact is revealed in a single moment. fortunate we are to live in a community where Recently, during a friendly pickleball match at people instinctively help one another. the Miami Shores Recreation Department courts, a longtime resident suddenly collapsed. I am grateful for the police officers who dedicate their lives to public service, our village answerALL the call, and residents On a nearby court, a United States Coast Guard employees whoFOR YOUR officer heard the commotion, recognized the who never hesitate to help a neighbor – or El Portal Con’t
even a stranger – in need. While this is just one story, Chiefs David Golt, Carlos Avila, and Alejandro Mendez could share countless others of officers, first responders, village staff, and residents working together to make a difference. I simply happened to witness this one. Stronger Together Although Miami Shores, Biscayne Park, and El Portal each maintain their own police departments and distinct identities, they share something important: a commitment to service and a belief that strong communities are built through partnership. Their officers work together through mutual aid agreements, training, emergency response, and public safety programs. They support one another when needed and understand that protecting our communities extends beyond municipal boundaries. Whether it’s K-9 Officers Zeke, Meatloaf, or Tango assisting in the field, Major Troy providing comfort during difficult moments, officers patrolling the streets, or neighbors stepping forward to save a life, the message is the same: public safety is not simply about law enforcement. It is about people. It is about service. It is about community. Throughout these three villages, those values remain alive every day.
DENTAL NEEDS
FOR ALL YOUR DENTAL NEEDS
Local Miami Shores Contractor for All Your Home Construction Needs Remodels • New Construction • Code Violations
METAFINEHOMES.COM 305-707-4124
CGC1525713
Dental Options
AVENTURA
305-757-9000
GENERAL, COSMETIC & SPECIALTY DENTISTRY
EMERGENCIES SEEN SAME DAY! 2999 N.E. 191 STREET • SUITE 804
10936 N.E. 6th Avenue ~ Miami, FL
TM
4 EXTENDED HOURS 4 GENTLE & QUALITY DENTAL CARE 4 INSURANCES ACCEPTED 4 MULTILINGUAL STAFF 4 FINANCING AVAILABLE 4 IN-HOUSE SPECIALISTS 4 OPEN SATURDAYS
(305) 466-1804
NEW LOCATION
META FINE HOMES
13160 BISCAYNE BOULEVARD
NORTH MIAMI
(305) 892-2960
= IMPLANTS SPECIAL =
= NEW PATIENT SPECIAL =
FREE CONSULTATION with SPECIALIST INCLUDES DIGITAL PANORAMIC X-RAY AFFORDABLE PAYMENT PLAN
INITIAL EXAM DIGITAL X-RAYS REGULAR CLEANING $
79
MUST MENTION AD
Where Friends & Neighbors Connect,
Where Collaborate Friends &and Neighbors Connect, Just Have Fun! Collaborate and Just Have Fun!
10 l EGRET June 2026
It was another memorable month around the Shores, with neighbors and friend together to celebrate, connect, and enjoy everything our community has to o meaningful conversations at the Shores Young Professionals mixer at Claug to moments at the Women in Business event at Brockway, there was no sh opportunities to gather and engage. Residents also came together to hon who served during Memorial Day celebrations, while many embraced the lon weekend with family, friends, and sunshine. And, as always, MELI Frozen Yo things lively with its familiar line out the door. Take a look at some of the mom made this month one to remember.
Where Great Food Meets Great Community
SAPORI MIAMI BY LUCA VOLTAREL
Sapori Miami occupies a sunny corner of North Miami’s plaza, framed by the reflective pool and just steps from MOCA and City Hall. More than a restaurant, it’s a community gathering place shaped by proprietor Luca Voltarel’s vision of hospitality - an environment where neighbors meet, ideas are shared, and everyday moments are worth celebrating. The restaurant’s bright interior, eclectic artwork, comfortable seating, and breezy patio invite guests to linger. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to answer a few emails, a sunlit table for lunch, a lively bar for cocktails, or an inviting space for dinner with family and friends, Sapori adapts naturally throughout the day. The patio overlooking the plaza and reflecting pool has become a neighborhood favorite, while Luca’s carefully curated playlists create the perfect soundtrack from morning coffee through evening cocktails. Chef Nicola leads the kitchen with a focus on honest Italian flavors prepared with modern sensibility. The menu ranges from shareable antipasti and seasonal appetizers to housemade pastas and hearty entrées that celebrate traditional Italian cooking with fresh, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Complementing the cuisine is an exceptional beverage program featuring Italian wines, classic and creative cocktails, and an outstanding coffee selection that supports Sapori’s welcoming all-day atmosphere. Now featuring daily specials that make Sapori even more inviting, guests can enjoy a $6 Happy Hour Monday through Saturday from 3–7 p.m., with favorites including truffle fries, savory meatballs, and mini sandwiches served on Sapo-
MIAMISHORES.COM
ri’s signature focaccia. Be sure to save room for dessert with locally crafted gelato available in flavors including dark chocolate, lemon, strawberry, vanilla, hazelnut, and pistachio.
enjoy pop-up classes followed by brunch.These partnerships reflect Sapori’s commitment to bringing together the worlds of art, education, government, wellness, and hospitality.
Music and neighborhood events are central to Sapori’s identity. On the last Friday of each month, the patio comes alive during Jazz Night presented by The Museum of Contemporary Art, creating the perfect backdrop for aperitivi, small plates, and live music under the stars. Sapori is also a favorite destination during NoMi Night Market on the first and third Fridays of each month, offering guests the perfect place to gather before or during an evening of local vendors, food, art, and entertainment.
The restaurant also welcomes private celebrations, business gatherings, wine tastings, artist talks, book launches, and community events with customized menus and attentive service that make every occasion feel personal. Whether hosting a neighborhood organization, an alumni gathering, or an intimate celebration, Sapori’s team creates experiences that reflect the warmth and hospitality for which it has become known.
Sapori’s relationship with the neighborhood extends well beyond its dining room. The restaurant actively collaborates with local institutions and community organizations, strengthening its role within North Miami’s cultural and civic life. Partnerships with MOCA welcome museum visitors and complement exhibit programming, while collaborations with North Miami City Hall support community initiatives. Barry University students and faculty regularly gather at Sapori, and wellness groups such as 305 Yoga
In a city that continues to evolve, Sapori Miami has established itself as a neighborhood favorite where exceptional Italian cuisine, warm hospitality, and meaningful community connections come together. Luca, Chef Nicola, and their team have created far more than a restaurant - they’ve created a welcoming place where friends gather, conversations flourish, and every guest feels at home. Whether you’re stopping by for a leisurely espresso, enjoying Happy Hour on the patio, indulging in housemade pasta and locally made gelato after visiting MOCA, or spending an evening listening to live jazz, Sapori offers more than a memorable meal. It offers an authentic neighborhood experience that celebrates food and community - one thoughtfully prepared plate, one carefully chosen song, and one warm welcome at a time. 750 NE 125th Street, North Miami, Fl, 33161 SaporiMiami.com EGRET June, 2026 l 11
Jen B. ~ Miami Shores, FL
Deals You’ll Love. Service You’ll Trust. Just minutes away, take advantage of Lipton Toyota’s exclusive Friends & Family Pricing and enjoy exceptional savings on a wide selection of new Toyota models and quality pre-owned vehicles. Forget the haggling, skip the long waits, and experience a hassle-free car-buying process with the personalized service your friends and neighbors have come to trust.
Gigi T. ~ Miami Shores, FL
Your next vehicle is closer than you think. Get started on an easy, stress-free car-buying experience today. Call 305-520-9494.
Caleb M. ~ Miami Shores, FL
1700 West Oakland Park Boulevard Right off I-95 & Oakland Park Boulevard LiptonToyota.com