On August 11, 2024, Miami Shores Police Officers Murillo and Kubicek responded alongside Miami-Dade Fire Rescue to a call concerning a man suffering from seizures. Arriving first on the scene, Officers Murillo and Kubicek found the man unresponsive and struggling to breathe. Acting swiftly, they began chest compressions and administered a shock with an automated external defibrillator (AED). To assist his breathing, they then used a bag valve mask to deliver ventilation. Shortly after, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue’s Engine 30 team arrived, taking over and confirming that the patient had regained a strong blood pressure and heart rate. He was transported to the hospital by Rescue 30. The Fire Rescue Command praised Officers Murillo and Kubicek for their decisive, life-saving actions, which were instrumental in saving the patient’s life. The successful outcome is a testament to the rigorous training and quick response skills of both officers and the entire Miami Shores Police Department. Most importantly, the patient has since returned home to his family. In recognition of their heroic efforts, Officers Murillo and Kubicek were honored with Life-Saving Award ribbons from MSPD and received Officer of the Month Awards from the Miami-Dade County Association of Chiefs of Police.
SHORES ESTATES SEPTIC TO SEWER CONVERSION PROJECT
The Shores Estates area has numerous septic systems that were installed in the 1950s. The area is a high priority for septic to sewer conversion due to current flooding and septic tank failure during high tides and heavy rain events creating a high potential for environmental contamination and a health risk to the public. Low-lying areas and a high-water table present difficult conditions for efficient on-site wastewater treatment. Many of the drain fields bordering the canal are lower than the water elevation in the adjacent canal, leading to potential drain field failure as the groundwater table rises. The Village issued a competitive solicitation seeking bids. On September 17, 2024 Council approved the resolution to enter into a contract with Basile USA, LLC which was finalized in October. The project focuses on the Shores Estates subdivision situated in the northeast quadrant of the Village, adjacent to US 1 and south of Northeast 107th Street, with the golf course to the west and the C-8 Canal (Biscayne Canal) to the south to transition ninety-nine (99) residences from septic systems to a gravity sewer system. This will be achieved through the construction of a comprehensive gravity sewer system and a corresponding public lift station. Upon completion, the system will seamlessly integrate with the City of North Miami's sewer infrastructure, with subsequent management handed over to the city.
Join us on Nov 18 for a Special Called Planning & Zoning Meeting
On September 12, 2024, a community workshop was held to discuss the proposed Community Residential Regulations. A recording of the workshop and a summary report of that meeting are available on the Village’s website: www.msvfl.gov/CRZoningDistrict
A Special Called Planning and Zoning meeting will be held on November 18 at 6:30 to further discuss the CR Regulations and the public is invited to attend. Please join us for this discussion of an important proposed development project in the Village.
Pictured from left to right: Deputy Chief Samuel Bejar, Chief Pedro Delgado, Detective Igor Kubicek, Chief David Golt, Officer Brandon Murillo, Chief Michael Bentolila, and Chief Jason Cohen
VILLAGE HALL NEWS
WELCOME NEW PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR, DELROY PETERS
Mr. Peters joined the Miami Shores Village team in September bringing his knowledge of civil and environmental engineering projects. With a Master's degree in Civil Engineering and a Master's of Philosophy in Environmental Process Engineering, Mr. Peters is knowledgeable in civil and environmental-related issues. His local experiences involved working on various projects for Miami Dade County, other municipalities, and residential and commercial land developments.
Mr. Peters assisted the Village on two project selection committees to evaluate and select consultants for the Septic to Sewer and the Stormwater Master Plans. He has extensive experience in both the private and public sector working on various projects in South Florida including the Miami-Dade County SMART project. On a more personal level, Mr. Peters enjoys a good game of tennis and believes that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to one's personal growth and well-being.
OCTOBER AVENTURA MARKETING COUNCIL AWARDS
Detective Igor Kubicek and Sergeant Paul Vieira were each honored with the prestigious Anthony Damato Legacy Award for their outstanding dedication to public service. These awards, presented by the Aventura Marketing Council Chamber of Commerce, were celebrated at their annual Law Enforcement Recognition meeting. Detective Kubicek received the Criminal Investigations award for his exceptional work in solving a high-profile Grand Theft case at the Miami Shores Country Club leading to the suspect’s arrest and recovery of $200,000 in watches. Sergeant Vieira earned the Community Outreach Excellence award for his leadership in our community’s bike outreach program. His dedication has fostered trust and connectedness across the county, with numerous community bike rides enhancing the visibility and approachability of law enforcement. Through workshops and outreach events, he and his team have distributed helmets, safety gear, and educational resources, extending these benefits to underserved populations and building positive relationships for safer neighborhoods.
YOUR VOTES ARE IN NEXTDOOR NEIGHBORHOOD FAVS
We’re thrilled to announce that the Library has been voted a 2024 Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave for the second year in a row! Our team is beyond grateful for the community support that makes our Library such a beloved place for everyone. But the accolades don’t stop there—both the Miami Shores Recreation Complex and the Miami Shores Country Club have also been recognized as 2024 Nextdoor Neighborhood Faves!
A huge thank you to our wonderful neighbors who make these places shine! Here’s to another amazing year of community, connection, and cherished neighborhood spots! Want to find out if your favorite place made it on the list? Visit https://tinyurl.com/2h5sch3j to find out.
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NOVEMBER EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
OCTOBER EVENTS RECAP
Doggie Dip
On September 29, our furry family members had their day in the sun! The Doggie Dip event turned the pool into a tail-wagging “paw-ty” as dogs of all shapes and sizes splashed, swam, and cooled off in the water. The event was filled with smiles and wagging tails.
Halloween Shores Spooktacular Recap:
On October 25, the Miami Shores Recreation Department hosted its annual Halloween Shores Spooktacular, and it was a frightfully good time! The event was packed with exciting activities, including giant inflatables, fun games, and creative crafts. Kids came dressed in their best costumes, from spooky to adorable, adding to the festive atmosphere.
KIDS DAY OFF:
November 5th | 8:30am – 5:00pm | Ages 5 – 12
No school, No problem. Join the parks and Recreation Department for Kids Day off at the Field House. Kids will spend the day going on field trip to GameTime, playing, and exploring in a safe, engaging environment.
PARENTS NIGHT OUT TURKEY TOTS
November 15th | 6:00pm – 9:00pm | Ages 5 – 10
Need some time to yourself or a well-deserved night out? We’ve got you covered! Drop off your little turkeys with us, while you enjoy a worry-free evening. The night will be packed with fun fall crafts, engaging stories, and exciting games.
Kids can enjoy their school break with our Fall Mini Camp! The Camp will include outdoor activities, game, crafts and much more!
BRIDGE
Every Tuesday & Friday | 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Stay Social and Play. Bridge games held at the community every Tuesday and Friday. All Levels welcome!
BUSINESS BUZZ CORNER
We welcome the following new businesses this month:
Peel Miami Shores | 175 NE 96 Street
Dairy-free ice cream shop serving banana-based soft-serve in a variety of flavors.
Flawless Nails | 216 NE 98 Street
Nail spa, facials, waxing and eyelashes
Grand Opening of BLU
9713 NE 2 Avenue
Pictured Catherine McClaney, GMSCC, Robert Rodriguez, CEO, Mayor George Burch, Dr. Jared Helfant
Dental
LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS
For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.
KIDS PROGRAMS
MIAMI THEATRE CENTER FAMILY SERIES
Friday, November 1, 2024 | 10:30am
LIVE PUPPET SHOW
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 | 4:00pm
READ WITH MAJOR TROY
Thursday, November 7, 2024 | 3:30pm
FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
Thursday, November 14, 2024 | 4:00pm
SATURDAY STORY TIME
Saturday, November 16, 2024 | 10:30pm
VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB
Thursday, November 21, 2024 | 4:00pm
OCTOBER LIBRARY RECAP
On Saturday, October 5th, Brockway held its 7th Annual Artisan Fair.Despite the rainy weather, a record number of vendors and nearly 350 visitors attended the cozy hometown event. Folk band, OtherEndofTheRoad, played their feel-good music while neighbors new and old caught up between the books over shopping fun crafts, vintage pieces and unique artisanal wares.
A highlight of the event was Library Director Michelle Brown’s first ever Mrs. Brown’s Blue Ribbon Pie Contest, which had 8 spectacular entries judged by a panel of five. Pies from Dutch Apple to Passion Fruit were presented by contestants between the ages of 13-70+. Local resident, Marie Mennes, won first place with her Key Lime Pie with a Twist recipe. Congratulations, Mrs. Mennes!
ADULT PROGRAMS
SENIOR TECH CONNECT
Managing Contacts on your Smartphone
Saturday, November 2 | 10:30am
GARDENING FOR BUTTERFLIES, BIRDS & BIODIVERSITY
Saturday, November 9 | 11:00am
AVOIDING BURNOUT & INCREASING WELLBEING
Thursday, November 14 | 6:00pm
THE KAIMILOA PROJECT
Thursday, November 21 | 6:15pm
RESTORATIVE SOUND BATH MEDITATION
Monday, November 25 | 6:30pm
Join Us in Honor of Veterans Day November 11th
We invite the community to stop by and visit the Library’s annual Veterans Day White Table display in honor of our men and women in service who never returned home. The specially set table will be on display November 4-15, 2024. Don’t miss this meaningful tribute.
PUBLIC WORKS
MANAGING FALL IN FLORIDA: KEEPING YOUR TURF HEALTHY AND DRAINS CLEAR
As fall arrives in Florida, the landscape may not experience the dramatic foliage changes seen in other regions, but leaves still drop and can impact your lawn and drainage systems. Even in the SunshineState, managing fallen leaves is essential for maintaining healthy turf and ensuring efficient drainage.
The Impact on Turf Health
1. Light Blockage: Even in Florida’s milder autumns, a thick layer of fallen leaves can obstruct sunlight from reaching the grass below. Adequate sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis, which helps grass thrive. When leaves block light, it can lead to weak and patchy turf.
2. Moisture Retention: In Florida’s humid climate, a dense layer of leaves can trap moisture, creating an ideal environment for mold and fungal diseases. These issues can cause turf problems like brown patches or even more extensive die-offs if left unaddressed.
3. Pest Habitats: Accumulated leaves provide shelter for pests such as insects and rodents. Leaf litter can attract pests like ticks and other harmful insects, which may migrate to your lawn, jeopardizing grass health and posing risks to pets and humans.
The Importance of Clean Drains
1. Clogged Drains: In Florida, heavy rains can occur, and leaves that fall into drains can lead to blockages, hindering water flow. Clogged drains can result in standing water, increasing the risk of flooding, which can damage your landscape and lead to mosquito breeding.
2. Erosion and Runoff: Poor drainage from leaf accumulation can cause soil erosion and nutrient runoff. This not only affects the health of your lawn but can also contribute to pollution in local waterways, as sediments and chemicals wash away.
Best Practices for Leaf Management
1. Regular Raking: Regularly raking leaves is crucial, even in Florida's milder fall. Aim to rake leaves at least once a week during peak leaf drop to allow sunlight and air to reach your turf.
2. Mulching: Using a mulching mower to chop leaves into smaller pieces is an effective strategy. These fragments can decompose on your lawn, enriching the soil naturally while providing nutrients.
3. Composting: Collect leaves and add them to a compost pile. As they break down, they can create nutrient-rich compost, perfect for enriching your garden or lawn.
4. Clearing Drains: Regularly check and clear drains, gutters, and downspouts of leaves and debris. This proactive approach helps maintain proper drainage and prevents water accumulation.
HELPING TREES SURVIVE HURRICANES WITH PROPER PRUNING
The most important factor in helping trees survive hurricanes is proper pruning. Train young trees to develop a strong, well-spaced canopy of sturdy branches extending from a dominant trunk. Reducing the length of competing stems and branches will help maintain this structure as high up in the tree as possible.
If your trees are taller than 15 feet, hire a certified arborist to prune them before hurricane season. The arborist will remove any dead branches that could pose a threat to people, vehicles, or buildings. Overly long branches should be shortened, and those with cracks should be pruned or removed. By trimming branches that are the same diameter as the trunk and reducing the outer (not inner) canopy, your tree will be less likely to fall.
Please avoid trimming trees when a storm is imminent. This practice is risky and will not allow enough time for crews to clear debris before the storm arrives.
Mike Skofstad Village Arborist
VILLAGE UPDATES
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH NOVEMBER 2024
Celebrating Miami Shores centennial history, November’s historic house of the month showcases this house built in 1926 by the Shoreland Company. The house was designed in the Mediterranean revival style by the famous architectural firm of Kiehnel and Elliot which had a strong presence in Miami Shores and throughout South Florida. Named “The Skillman House” for its resident, Mr. J. J. Skillman, who developed several commercial structures in downtown Miami Shores. The property is listed in the National Historic of Places since 1988 and designated a local Historic Landmark in 1987.
Drive by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores Centennial home at 276 NE 98th Street!
OCTOBER COUNCIL ACTIONS
The Miami Shores Historic Preservation Board invites you to join us as we close out our year of Centennial celebrations Including a donation of newly attained documents and materials relating to the Village’s earliest history to the Village Archives. Join us! RSVP to 305-758-8107
• Appointed Bill Diggs, William Griffith and Kevin King to the Country Club Advisory Board.
• Appointed Marisol Campillo, Michelle Stone and Michael Weber to the Education Advisory Board.
• Appointed Nestor Alvarez, Nicola Meyer and Richard Pluhar to the Sustainability & Resiliency Committee.
• Adopted an ordinance, amending the Village’s Code of Ordinances by amending Chapter 6, Building and Building Regulations, Article I, in general, Section 6-4, permits application generally to update regulations to confirm with the Florida Building Code requirements for permitting and remove obsolete provisions related to solar photovoltaic systems.
• Approved an ordinance, amending the Village Code of Ordinances to allow publication of legally required advertisements and notices to me made in any manner permitted under Florida law, including through publicly accessible websites.
• Approved an Interlocal Agreement with Miami-Dade County relating to the publication of legal advertisements and public notices on Miami-Dade County’s publicly accessible website.
• Approved a resolution, approving the award of request for qualification RFQ 2024-05-01 storm water master planning services, executing an agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates and to negotiate with Chen Moore and Associates as the second-ranked proposer.
• Approved a resolution, approving an agreement with Tyler Technologies, Inc. for a five year term to upgrade the EnterGov Enterprise building department permitting & licensing software module not to exceed $118,199 and recurring annual fees of $92,354.00, subject to annual escalations not to exceed 5% per year after the first year.
Photo Credit: Zalmy Meyer, A.IA.
Village Council:
Mayor: George Burch georgeburchdvm@msvfl.gov | 786-893-7022
