OCTOBER 2026 MIAMISHORES.COM
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Liburd “Burd” Germain and the Team behind the Miami Shores Tennis Club 2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
ELIZABETH “BETH” HITT Barry University and DCS
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Game, Set, Community
Miami Shores Tennis Club is Building on a Legacy - and Looking Ahead BY CHRISTINE FRANKLIN
The Miami Shores Country Club was established in 1939 and has long been an important part of the community’s recreational history. While the Club operated for many years as a private, memberoriented facility, it opened to the public in 2008, giving residents and visitors greater access to its golf, tennis and other recreational amenities. Today, the Miami Shores Tennis Club welcomes players of all ages and skill levels, while membership provides additional benefits, including special rates, advance court reservations and access to member-only tennis programs and events.
Collectively, the team brings an extraordinary level of experience to the courts. Their backgrounds span teaching, coaching, competitive tennis and player development, giving the Club a depth of knowledge that benefits everyone from beginners to seasoned players.
Some of the professionals have also trained players who went on to become tennis professionals themselves and compete on the tennis circuit. That connection to the competitive side of the sport gives the program a valuable perspective and allows players to learn from professionals who have For generations, tennis has been an important part spent years understanding what it takes to develop of that story – and today, the Miami Shores Tennis a complete game. Club is putting an even greater focus on the sport. “Improving at tennis isn’t simply about hitting At the heart of the tennis program is a professional the ball harder,” said Burd. “It’s about footwork, team with an impressive depth of experience. technique, consistency, strategy, shot selection, Leading the program is Liburd “Burd” Germain, court awareness and confidence. It’s also about Director of Tennis and Tennis Pro, joined by Tim understanding your own game and learning how Neilly, Head Tennis Professional, along with Luis to make adjustments when the pressure is on. Figueroa, Lesley Beautelus, Rupert de Laszlo, Robert Whether a player is learning the fundamentals or McAdoo, Katalin Prauda, Juan Galaza and Howie looking to sharpen an already competitive game, Orlin, all serving as tennis professionals. our goal is to provide the knowledge, guidance and 4 l EGRET September, 2026
support they need to continue improving.” Building a Stronger Community Connection The Miami Shores Tennis Club is also developing a closer relationship with the Miami Shores Recreation Department, creating opportunities for the two organizations to work together on programs, events and activities for the community. Angela Dorney, Miami Shores Recreation Director, sees the developing relationship as an important opportunity for the Village and the Tennis Club to work together. The partnership opens the door to future collaborations that could include tennis programming, tournaments, youth activities, community events and other recreational opportunities. With the Recreation Department and Tennis Club bringing their own resources, experience and community connections to the table, there is plenty of potential for the relationship to grow. And while new opportunities are taking shape, tennis remains at the center of the vision. egret-magazine.com
More Than a Court Walk onto a tennis court and you quickly realize that the sport is as much about people as it is about competition.There are longtime players who know each other’s games, friends who meet for a weekly match, players who stay for one more set and newcomers finding their place within the community. Tennis creates connections naturally, and the Miami Shores Tennis Club is building on that tradition.
to a competitive level, the High Performance Academy provides more intensive training and player development. Each program is led by the Club’s professional coaching staff, giving children the opportunity to progress within a structured system as their skills and goals evolve. And the programming does not stop when the school week ends. Saturdays feature the Club’s Half-Day Camp, divided into Pee-Wee, Recreational and High Performance groups. By separating players according to age and level, children can participate in a setting that is appropriate for where they are in their tennis development while still enjoying the social and fun side of the sport.
The Club’s office staff also plays an important role behind the scenes. From coordinating reservations and programs to assisting members and guests, the team helps keep the day-to-day operation running smoothly and contributes to the welcoming atmosphere of the facility. The Club also offers camps throughout the year to The Club is also developing connections with the coincide with school holidays and breaks. Teacher United States Tennis Association (USTA) and planning day? There’s camp. Labor Day? There’s tennis and pickleball brands. These relationships camp. Winter and holiday breaks? There’s camp. help keep the program connected to the larger These full-day programs typically run for six hours, racquet-sports industry while creating opportunities with lunch included, giving families another option to introduce players to new products, equipment, when school is out while providing children with a full day of tennis, activity and time with friends. programs and events. A Calendar Full of Competition There is plenty of activity being planned for the future, including tennis tournaments designed for players of different ages and skill levels. The goal is to create opportunities for younger players, adults, recreational competitors and more experienced players to experience the excitement of tournament play. For younger players, tournaments can be an important step between lessons and more serious competition. They provide an opportunity to test new skills, learn how to manage the pressure of a match and experience the camaraderie that comes from competing with others.
For adults, tournaments can provide a different kind
“
Burd and his team are a great asset for tennis and for the community. He is bringing the tennis programming to the next level. He is a pleasure to work with, and he is a great partner with Miami Shores Village.” - Angela Dorney,
Miami Shores Recreation Director
of motivation. They bring players together, create friendly rivalries and give everyone something to work toward.
But adults do not have to wait for a tournament to get involved. The Club has developed a varied schedule of adult tennis programs designed for players with different abilities and interests. Beginner Clinics provide an entry point for newer players, while Mixed Clinics allow players to continue developing their games in a group environment. Competitive Live Ball clinics offer faster-paced play for those looking for a challenge, and ladder programs create opportunities for experienced players, including those at the 4.0 level and above, to connect and compete with players That pathway begins with the Recreational of similar ability. Program for children ages 6–11 and progresses into Team Tennis for pre-teens and teens who are Players can also choose programs based on exactly ready for more advanced instruction and match what they want to accomplish. Those looking to play. For young players looking to take their game improve their serve and net game can join the But competition is only one part of the Club’s approach to junior tennis. A major focus is creating a clear pathway for children to learn, improve and continue progressing as they grow. Monday through Friday, the Club offers after-school programs designed around different ages, skill levels and goals, with an emphasis on developing strong tennis fundamentals while creating an environment where children can have fun, build confidence and genuinely enjoy being on the court.
miamishores.com
Serve & Volley Clinic, while players interested in combining tennis with a workout can take part in Cardio Tennis. The idea is to give adults multiple ways to stay active, improve their game, compete and become part of the tennis community. And sometimes, of course, it’s simply about having fun and seeing what happens when the score starts to matter. Pickleball Has a Place, Too While tennis remains the primary focus of the racquet-sports program at the Miami Shores Tennis Club, pickleball has naturally become part of the conversation. The sport has brought many new players into the world of racquet sports, and the Miami Shores facility recognizes the opportunity to welcome them. Connections with pickleball brands and plans for future programming will help the Club continue to explore ways to incorporate the sport. A Place to Gather The Miami Shores Tennis Club is also available for private events, offering a unique setting for gatherings that can incorporate the facility and its recreational amenities. Whether it’s a tennis-focused event, social gathering or another private occasion, the Club provides an alternative to the traditional event venue. On Saturdays and Sundays from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., guests have the opportunity to reserve all seven of the Club’s courts — four green clay courts and three hard courts — for a private event. Birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, family gatherings and other private occasions can incorporate tennis, pickleball or simply take advantage of the Club’s outdoor setting and gathering areas. Rather than simply providing court time, the idea is to give guests a space of their own where they
Continued on page 15
EGRET October, 2026 l 5
2026 EGRET MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTORS Editor ~ Carla Peters Contributing Editor ~ Gigi Turkel Content & Contributing Writer ~ Jennifer Bellinson Contributing Writer ~ Christine Franklin Contributing Writer ~ Douglas Turkel Photographer ~ Kate Baumwell Intern ~ C. Soto Cover ~ Liburd Germain, Miami Shores Tennis Club The Egret • Octoberr 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.
Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce Community Partners TRUSTEE MEMBERS
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Congratulations 2026
ELIZABETH HITT MAKING A DIFFERENCE, ONE GOOD DEED AT A TIME Service. Leadership. Community.
For generations, the Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce has honored neighbors who step forward, give generously of themselves, and make our community stronger. Our 2026 Citizen of the Year, Elizabeth “Beth” Hitt, carries on that tradition through service that reaches across Miami Shores and beyond. A longtime Miami Shores resident, Elizabeth has built a record of generous, principled service across cancer research, animal rescue, civic engagement, and civil rights. As co-president of the
Heidi Hewes Chapter of the Woman’s Cancer Association of the University of Miami, she has helped raise vital support for cancer research, patient needs, education, physicians, and researchers. She has supported the Walk for a Cure and Home for the Holidays Walk and Tour, while frequently opening her home, at her own expense, to unite neighbors around charitable and civic causes. Beth is also a steadfast LGBTQ+ advocate and was instrumental in the success of Miami Shores’ first Unity Ball, helping transform a difficult moment into a
powerful show of inclusion and charitable giving. She also serves on the Board of SAVE, continuing her commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy and equality. An attorney committed to civil and human rights, Beth leads with courage, intelligence, humility, and extraordinary personal generosity, consistently serving others without seeking recognition. These are just some of the reasons we are delighted to recognize Beth as our 2026 Citizen of the Year and to thank her for the difference she makes in our community.
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305-754-5466 EGRET September, 2026 l 7
C MPUS
CONNECTIONS SPONSORED BY DOCTORS CHARTER SCHOOL
opportunities to discover their interests and challenge themselves through new AP classes and electives. Our partnership with Barry University is SOARing, with 83 students already enrolled in dual enrollment courses and taking meaningful steps toward their college goals. Could your student be our next Hawk?
Join us for Prospective Student Night on November 12, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. Meet our DCS is thriving, and we are thrilled to team, learn about the DCS experience, and welcome the new school year! Our halls are see the opportunities waiting for your family. full of energy, possibility, and Hawk pride. We Applications for the 2027–2028 school year have reached our highest enrollment in recent open November 2, 2026, and close February history and have a waitlist of families eager to 1, 2027. For more information, visit www. join our school community. doctorscharterschool.org. We look forward This year, students have even more to welcoming you to DCS very soon!
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Horace Mann Middle School Celebrating academic achievement through innovative learning, dedicated educators, diverse programs, and a supportive environment that prepares students for high school success, leadership, and lifelong learning. Miami Country Day School inspires students to excel through academic excellence, character development, innovation, and leadership. Their world-class preparatory curriculum and suppor tive community empower diverse graduates to thrive in top colleges and make meaningful contributions to our changing world. Miami Shores Elementary is welcoming families into a new school year with plenty of ways to stay connected. Parents and caregivers can get involved through the PTA, explore the school’s resources, and take advantage of Parent Academy webinars offered by MiamiDade County Public Schools. Visit miamishoreselementary.com for school news and updates. Miami Nature Playschool offers MIAMI NATURE PLAY Programs which are designed to positively connect young children and their families with nature, creating opportunities to stimulate their innate curiosity about the Natural World. In addition to being pioneers in South Florida creating an outdoor learning space, we are also active members of various organizations that are leading the #NatureForAll movement nationwide. The Cushman School You’re invited to discover what sets Cushman High School apart. Join us for our Fall Open House on Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 6 PM, and see firsthand how we prepare students in grades 9-12 for success in college, career, and life. Explore our campus, meet our faculty, and learn about our academic programs, athletics, and arts offerings. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today and see why families choose Cushman. cushmanschool.org/chs-open-house/ St. Rose of Lima Church School St. Rose of Lima Catholic School continues to celebrate its 75th Anniversary by building community and honoring our shared history. September brought families together through Family Movie Night, Parents’ Night Out, Grandparents’ Day, and a special visit to Dezerland. We also gathered for a meaningful 25th anniversary remembrance of September 11. We proudly celebrated three St. Rose alumni recognized as National Merit Commended Scholars, now completing their senior year at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
8 l EGRET September, 2026
egret-magazine.com
Barry University and Doctors Charter School of Miami Shores
Expand Partnership with Dual Enrollment Agreement Barry University and Doctors Charter School of Miami Shores celebrated a major expansion of their longstanding partnership at a signing ceremony on the Barry University campus. Under a newly approved articulation agreement, Doctors Charter School students will have access to 12 Barry University dual enrollment courses beginning in ninth grade, giving them a head start on college coursework without leaving Miami Shores. The agreement builds on a relationship that dates to the founding of Doctors Charter School and continues the vision of the partnership’s founding chair, Ambassador Charles E. “Chuck” Cobb, Jr. It creates a clearer, more direct pathway for Miami Shores students to pursue higher education close to home.
“This agreement allows local students to receive a critical head start on their college careers and represents our shared commitment to investing back into our local community,” said Barry University President Dr. Mike Allen. “This is a historic moment for two important Miami Shores institutions,” said Mélida Matos, Head of School at Doctors Charter School of Miami Shores. “It reflects our focus and continued commitment to elevating education, expanding opportunities, and building a better future for our students.” Barry University Provost Pablo Ortiz and the university’s academic leadership team led the development of the articulation agreement in collaboration with Doctors Charter School Head of School Mélida Matos and Director of Academics and Principal Dr. Diana
Loubeau, a Barry University alumna. The ceremony brought together leaders from across the Village of Miami Shores, including members of the Miami Shores Village Council, Village Manager Esmond Scott, representatives of the Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce, and former Vice Mayor Alice Burch, Barry University alumna.
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12 l EGRET October, 2026
It was another memorable month around the Shores, with neighbors and friends co together to celebrate, connect, and enjoy everything our community has to offer. meaningful conversations at the Shores Young Professionals mixer at Claug to ins moments at the Women in Business event at Brockway, there was no shorta opportunities to gather and engage. Residents also came together to honor who served during Memorial Day celebrations, while many embraced the long h weekend with family, friends, and sunshine. And, as always, MELI Frozen Yogurt things lively with its familiar line out the door. Take a look at some of the moment made this month one to remember.
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Continued from page 5
can bring together friends and family and create an event around the facility. It is another part of the Club’s broader evolution: finding new ways to use the property, introduce people to racquet sports and make the Tennis Club a place where the community can play, compete, celebrate and gather.
Friends meeting for doubles. Families spending time reflects that larger vision. The goal is not simply to together. Competitive players preparing for their fill courts, but to create a facility where players can next tournament. Someone picking up a racquet begin, develop, compete, socialize and continue finding new reasons to come back. There is room for all of them. Because ultimately, the Miami Shores Tennis Club is a place for everyone. So, if it’s been a while since you’ve stopped by, this might be a good time to take another look.
The facility itself is also continuing to evolve.
Grab a racquet. Meet the pros. Check out the courts. Ask about programs and membership. Watch a match. Or simply stop by and see what’s happening.
Plans are underway for an ongoing facelift, with improvements (like an expanded pro shop) designed to enhance the experience for players, members and guests. While all of the changes might not be visible yet, there is a sense that the Club is entering another chapter.
The next set is already underway – and there’s plenty more to come. Stay tuned.
And there is a lot coming. Looking Ahead What makes the Miami Shores Tennis Club particularly interesting is that it’s building on something that has been part of the community for generations while creating a vision for the future. The history matters. The courts matter. The professionals matter. But perhaps most importantly, the people matter. A young player discovering tennis for the first time. A longtime player looking to improve a backhand.
For more information on memberships, lessons, again after years away. The growing calendar of clinics, tournaments, programs, events, event rentals, junior programs, adult clinics, camps, competitive contact the Miami Shores Tennis Club at: opportunities, pickleball activities and private events 786-631-7845 or visit MiamiShoresTennis.com
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Chamber MEMBERSpotlight finished and the larger systems needed to keep a complicated project on schedule and financially grounded.
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Building for the Long Term Miami Shores-based Meta Fine Homes combines craftsmanship, technology, and local knowledge to help South Florida homeowners create homes that serve them. With home prices, interest rates, insurance premiums, and moving costs weighing on homeowners, improving an existing property can make more sense than starting over. For longtime residents, the choice is also deeply personal: Should they sell and leave the neighborhood they know, or remain and address the work their home needs? That question is difficult for older homeowners. Moving may mean leaving friends, routines, and a support system. Staying brings other concerns: How much will repairs cost? Which problems are urgent? Can the work be completed in stages? And how can someone without construction experience know whether the advice and pricing they receive are fair? Meta Fine Homes encounters those concerns firsthand. The design-build firm handles custom homes, major renovations, additions, and architectural millwork. Its work is concentrated in Miami Shores and nearby communities its team already knows and has watched evolve. General contractor and owner Chris Forment has lived in the Miami Shores community for more than 30 years. He learned construction working alongside his father, later studied engineering, and managed multifamily development projects valued at more than $40 million. That experience gives him an understanding of both the details that make a room feel
“I grew up learning that good construction is about more than what people see when the project is finished,” Forment said. “It is about what is behind the walls, how the home performs, and whether the decisions we make today will still serve that family 20 or 30 years from now. Because this is our community too, we feel a responsibility to build things that belong here and will last.” The firm recently began working with a Miami Shores resident who has lived in her home for more than three decades. Nearing 70, she had wrestled with whether to sell or remain while facing water intrusion, aging plumbing, and other needed repairs. Her only sibling lives out of state, but she has built a support network through a nearby church. Leaving could mean giving up the community that helps sustain her. Her situation reflects a broader challenge. Some owners of homes needing significant work are approached by investors who emphasize worst-case repair costs and present selling as the only sensible option. An offer may provide relief, but fear and incomplete information should not push residents out of neighborhoods where they hoped to remain. Homeowners deserve a clear assessment of what is urgent, what can wait, and what practical options exist before making an irreversible decision. Construction is expensive, but every repair does not have to happen at once. A thoughtful plan can prioritize active leaks, unsafe electrical conditions, failing plumbing, or structural deterioration, then organize less urgent improvements over time. Churches, charities, volunteers, and neighbors may also provide help that complements professional work. Forment says Meta Fine Homes considers each client’s circumstances and seeks solutions that respect both the home’s needs and the owner’s budget. That long-term view is particularly relevant in Miami Shores and the surrounding villages. Recent U.S. Census figures place the median value of an
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WELCOME NEW MEMBER
WELCOME TRUSTEE MEMBER
WELCOME NEW MEMBER
JOSHS PREMIUM MEATS
ISAACS ROOFING
TRUEHEALTH SOLUTIONS GROUP
Joshs Premium Meats brings its family-run specialty butcher shop to Miami Shores, giving neighbors a local source for exceptional cuts and hard-to-find selections.
For more than 30 years, Isaacs Roofing and Insulation Corp. has served South Florida as a licensed and insured roofing contractor.
TrueHealth Solutions Group helps individuals, families, self-employed professionals and small businesses make sense of health coverage. The company provides guidance through plan selection, taking time to understand each client’s health needs, providers and budget.
The company focuses on premium beef and Wagyu, including richly marbled Japanese A5 and Australian Wagyu, along with prime beef, pork, poultry, sausages, seafood, lamb and specialty items. Its team can help customers choose the right cut for an everyday dinner, weekend grilling or a memorable celebration. Each cut is vacuum sealed to maximize freshness and arrives freezer ready, making it easy to stock up or plan ahead. The new Miami Shores location also offers convenient access to the quality and selection that built the Joshs Premium Meats following across South Florida.
The company installs and repairs residential, commercial and industrial roofing systems, combining practical experience with ongoing training and established products. Its specialists evaluate each roof, explain the available options and develop a project scope and budget for the customer's property. Services include new roofs, reroofing and repairs, with experience in tile, shingle, metal, fluid-applied and modified roofing systems. Isaacs also provides ceiling insulation and lightweight concrete services, giving property owners one experienced team for several important parts of the building envelope.
Shoppers can explore steaks, roasts and specialty products in person, then turn to the website for more information about available cuts and the company's approach to premium meats.
The company's website emphasizes careful planning, quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, whether the project involves a home addition, a leak repair or a complete roof replacement. Florida weather can be demanding, so having a knowledgeable roofing partner matters long before storm season begins.
Whether you are an experienced home cook, searching for a gift or simply looking to upgrade dinner, Joshs Premium Meats offers knowledgeable service and an impressive range. The Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome them to the neighborhood and to our growing community of local food businesses.
Isaacs Roofing welcomes questions, provides estimates and helps customers understand which system best fits their building and goals. We are proud to welcome Isaacs Roofing as a Trustee Member and appreciate the company's investment in the Chamber and the broader business community.
9440 NE 2nd Avenue Miami Shores, FL 33138 305-393-9616 joshspremiummeats.com
7845 NW 66th Street Miami, FL 33166 305-234-5234 isaacsroofing.com I Lic. CCC1327401
16 l EGRET September, 2026
TrueHealth Solutions Group helps clients compare ACA marketplace plans and private plans outside the marketplace, which may offer savings for those who qualify. TrueHealth helps individuals and small businesses explore supplemental coverage for accidents, hospital stays and critical illness. These plans can provide money to help with deductibles and expenses when the unexpected happens. Dental and vision options are available. Health insurance can feel complicated when premiums, networks, medications and subsidy eligibility influence the final choice. TrueHealth Solutions Group compares options and explains the details so clients can make informed decisions and avoid paying for coverage that does not fit their needs. The company can help people review an existing plan, understand why costs have changed and determine whether another option may fit better. As a Miami Shores resident, principal Mario Gonzalez III is proud to help his neighbors find coverage they can feel confident about. Whether you are choosing a new plan or wondering if your current one still makes sense,TrueHealth Solutions Group is ready to help.
1000 5th Street, Suite 400 Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-479-4611
info@truehealthsg.com truehealthsg.com egret-magazine.com
Celebrating the restaurants, bakeries, bars and businesses bringing our communities together
BY CHRISTINE FRANKLIN There’s something delicious happening right here at home. Our local dining and drinking scene continues to evolve, giving us more reasons to eat, drink, gather and shop local for quality food. Best of all, there’s no single flavor defining our communities - it’s wonderfully eclectic. One of the newer additions bringing something distinctly different to the neighborhood is La Paix Bakery, dedicated to bringing authentic Haitian flavors to the city. Haitian cuisine is known for its bold spices, bright, tangy sauces and comforting dishes, and La Paix brings those flavors together for a memorable breakfast or morning stop. For those who believe a great meal starts with great ingredients, Josh’s Premium Meats is another welcome addition. Family-run and focused on quality, JPM takes pride in sourcing hormone-free, grass-fed and free-range proteins from family-owned farms committed to high standards. Carefully selected cuts are vacuum sealed to maximize freshness and are freezer-ready, making it easy to enjoy quality meats at home. It’s a business that brings a personal touch to the neighborhood food scene. For those looking for a healthy meal at home, Athletics Fit delivers chef-prepared meals fresh to your doorstep. With a new menu each week and high-quality ingredients, it makes eating well easy—even on the busiest days. Then there’s wine. Flight Wine Lounge is preparing for its next chapter under new ownership, with plans to bring specialty wines, tastings and a renewed emphasis on community back to the neighborhood. Wine lovers can look forward to discovering new bottles, enjoying tastings or gathering with friends. Stay tuned - the next pour is coming soon.
Nearby, Pinch Kitchen + Bar brings its own personality to the Biscayne Boulevard dining scene, offering a place to settle in for a good meal, a drink and conversation. Together, these neighborhood spots help make the boulevard an appealing destination.
SAME DAY LOCAL DELIVERY AND NATIONWIDE SHIPPING
For a morning pick-me-up or something sweet, Bonsai Coffee Truck and Meli’s Frozen Yogurt offer two different ways to treat yourself. Bonsai is casual and convenient, with coffee that fits perfectly into the rhythm of a busy Miami morning. Meli’s brings a little sweetness to the neighborhood, whether you’re stopping in for an afternoon treat or satisfying that after-dinner craving. For a livelier evening, Conscious Brewery has become a gathering place for locals looking to unwind. Grab a craft brew, catch trivia night or join in for karaoke. It’s a place where neighbors can relax, laugh and enjoy a little friendly competition. And sometimes, nothing beats pizza. Pizza Fiore keeps it simple with Italian favorites, whether you’re stopping in for a quick meal, grabbing a slice or taking home an entire pie. It’s the kind of neighborhood staple that doesn’t need to overcomplicate things. For those who love discovering specialty ingredients and hard-to-find flavors, Shores Gourmet Market offers another way to bring the dining experience home. The market features a unique selection of gourmet products sourced primarily from Italy, including items that can be difficult to find elsewhere. Whether you’re searching for something special for your next meal or simply want to explore new flavors, it’s an opportunity to turn an ordinary meal into a little culinary adventure.
Miami Shores
South Miami
9440 NE 2 Ave. 33138 (305) 393-9616
7295 SW 57th Ave. 33143 (305) 646-8817
nd
For those craving plenty of flavor, Double Luck Chinese brings another delicious dimension to the neighborhood dining scene. Whether you’re stopping by for the $8 happy hour specials or settling in for a meal with friends, it’s a flavorful way to enjoy Chinese favorites close to home. That may be what makes our local dining scene so appealing. It isn’t trying to be one thing - it’s Haitian flavors, Italian favorites, Chinese cuisine, craft beer, wine, tapas, coffee and more. Most importantly, these businesses give neighbors places to gather, connect and discover something new.
Just a short drive away, El Portal continues to Over on Biscayne Boulevard, No Reservations offer its own collection of restaurants and bakoffers an inviting escape for wine lovers and eries. Along the 79th Street corridor, Happy food enthusiasts. With wine tastings, curated Wine combines two things that naturally bewine flights and daily happy hour specials, it’s a long together - wine and tapas. With wines to cozy neighborhood destination. The menu fea- explore and small plates made for sharing, it’s So, the next time you’re deciding what’s for dintures simply prepared Mediterranean-inspired a cozy neighborhood spot for an afternoon ner or where to meet for a drink, look around. a pre-dinner glass or a leisurely eve- There’s a whole lot of good taste right here at dishes made for| sharing making it an | catch-up, 305-754-1924 9540 and NEpairing, 2ND AVENUE MIAMI SHORES, FL 33138 | PIZZAFIOREMIAMISHORES.com home. ning with friends. easy choice for a relaxed evening with friends. miamishores.com
EGRET September, 2026 l 17
t e G READY.
OCTOBER IS HERE! LET THE COMMUNITY FUN BEGIN!
A Message from The Greater Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce
There’s always something happening across the Tri-Village and surrounding communities, and this season is packed with opportunities to get out, get involved and have some fun!
TAILS&Tales Rescued by chance. Loved by choice. BY JENNIE BELLINSON
local favorite!
Looking for something a little more energetic? Head over to Barry University and cheer on the Buccaneers at a sporting From the quiet suburbs ofevent. New Grab Jersey some to the vi From neighborhood Trick-or-Treating and friends,brant enjoyenergy the game and Kate support our local of Miami, Baumwell’s journey Chamber Breakfasts to networking events, new university there. by passion, purpose, and has while alwaysyou’re been guided business openings and community gatherings, anthe eye holidays for the moments thatit’smatter. A seasoned get closer, the perfect there are plenty of ways to connect with the And asphotographer, community leader, and animal shop local. From unique gifts andadvopeople who make our area such a great place to time to cate, Kate has her life connecting delicious dining to spent neighborhood services people and to live and work. beauty, whether through family internaone-of-a-kind finds, supporting localportraits, businesses tional our landscapes, or the thriving transformative mission of We’re also welcoming new businesses to the helps keep community and makes nonprofit work. lot more fun. neighborhood, and that means ribbon cuttings, holidayher shopping a whole BECKY a great excuse to stop by, meet the owners, See what’s happening throughout the Tri-Village Now a proud Miami Shores resident since 2008, Owner ~ Sharon Thompson check out their new space and show some local and surrounding areas at MiamiShores.com. Kate first discovered her love for photography by Becky’s story began in the most unexpected way. She support. You never know when that new shop, restaurant or service might become your next capturing family moments for friends and loved was discovered in a dumpster behind Yao Animal Clinic ones. What began as a creative outlet quickly by a compassionate member of his staff, who rescued evolved into a professional calling. Over time, she her and affectionately named her “Backyard Becky.” built a robust portfolio and gained the experience What could have been a tragic ending instead became the start of a remarkable journey. When Miami Shores Greater Miami Shores that now positions her as a go-to photographer resident Sharon Thompson had the opportunity Chamber of Commerce for lifestyle shoots, family portraits, special events, to adopt Becky from Dr. Yao, she immediately felt a and product photography. special connection and knew Becky belonged with her family. Since then, Becky has filled Sharon’s life Kate also brings a uniquely compassionate lens to with love, laughter, companionship, and endless joy. her work, especially as an accredited special needs Her playful spirit, loyal heart, and unique personality ~ x e l N p children’s photographer. With over 15 years in ed- make every day brighter. From a tiny rescued kitten om 138 TIO CA leball C i, FL 33 ucational administration, she deeply understands with an uncertain future, Becky became a cherished O ~ L r Pick , Miam ! o nue o N how to create a safe, respectful, and engaging companion and true blessing. d O d n o In th Ave O a k S n i D NE 4 environment for all children, making her sessions ING .com 1 630 meaningful and memorable for families with diOM hores C iS tes! TE m A verse needs. a a i D k M r Upd c e o FOR MORE INFORMATION Ch F Beyond the studio, Kate is a world traveler who has photographed more than 25 countries, using her camera not just to capture beauty, but to tell stories. From the cobbled streets of Europe to the bustling markets of Asia, each image reflects
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305.812.1155 18 l EGRET October, 2026
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HOLLY & CHANCE Owners ~ Jennifer and Frank Hornstein Some stories begin with heartbreak. After losing our beloved dachshund, Roxie, our home felt empty. In December 2019, we visited the Hollywood Humane Society hoping to find a companion for our three sons and met Holly, a shy shepherd-terrier mix who quietly stole our hearts. Four years later, another rescue found us when a scruffy stray followed our youngest son, Andrew, home in pursuit of his sandwich. We named him Chance. Fearless, mischievous, and affectionately known as the “Sock Bandit,” he quickly became family. Together, Holly and Chance balance each other perfectly, filling our home with laughter, comfort, and unconditional love. They remind us that the greatest gifts sometimes arrive on four paws when we least expect them. Photo credit to Jo Reynolds. To be featured in the Egret Magazine’s Tails&Tales call 305-310-3824 egret-magazine.com
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