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Faith Communities in and around North Bay Village

North Bay Village and its surrounding areas offer a variety of places of worship, catering to diverse faith traditions. Here are some notable churches and temples in the vicinity:

Within North Bay Village:

  1. Ummah of Miami Beach
    • Address: 7904 West Dr, North Bay Village, FL 33141
    • Phone: 786-216-7035
    • Description: A local place of worship serving the Muslim community in North Bay Village.
    • superpages.com

Nearby Places of Worship:

  1. Calvary Chapel
    • Address: 7141 Indian Creek Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33141
    • Phone: 305-531-2730
    • Description: A Christ-centered, cross-focused church offering services and community programs.
    • superpages.com
  2. Temple Moses Sephardic Congregation of Florida
    • Address: 1200 Normandy Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33141
    • Phone: 305-861-6308
    • Description: A Sephardic Jewish congregation providing religious services and cultural events.
    • superpages.com
  3. Iglesia Jesus Es Rey
    • Address: 1133 71st St, Miami Beach, FL 33141
    • Phone: 305-867-7679
    • Description: A Christian church offering worship services and community outreach programs.
    • superpages.com
  4. St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church
    • Address: 17775 N Bay Rd, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160
    • Phone: 305-931-0600
    • Description: A Catholic parish providing mass services and religious education.
    • FaithStreet
  5. St. Bernard de Clairvaux Episcopal Church
    • Address: 16711 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160
    • Phone: 305-945-1461
    • Description: An Episcopal church known for its historic architecture and spiritual services.
    • FaithStreet
  6. St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral
    • Address: 2401 SW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33129
    • Phone: 305-854-2922
    • Description: A Greek Orthodox cathedral offering liturgical services and cultural events.
    • FaithStreet
  7. New Revelation Alliance Church
    • Address: 11900 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33181
    • Phone: 305-893-8050
    • Description: A Christian church focusing on community service and spiritual growth.
    • FaithStreet

These establishments reflect the rich tapestry of faith communities accessible to residents and visitors of North Bay Village, fostering spiritual growth and community engagement.

Letting Go of the Desk, or Should I Say, The Scandinavian Desk.

Letting Go of the Desk, or Should I Say, The Scandinavian Desk.

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“The true value of an object lies not in its price, but in the memories it carries and the stories it holds.”
– Wilson Alvarez
For as long as I can remember, a beautiful Scandinavian teak desk has been part of my life. Purchased by my parents in the early 1960s, it symbolized their love and commitment to our family. It was a significant investment at the time, and quickly became a centerpiece in our home. My older brother, Tom, used it first, and eventually, it became mine. Over the years, it collected the fingerprints of our family, preserving the memories of our shared experiences.
For many years, the desk sat in the corner of my garage, collecting dust and rarely being used. It was a relic of my childhood that I couldn’t bring myself to part with. Five years ago, I had the chance to reintroduce it into my life when a client graciously allowed me to bring the desk to their office. Once again, it became part of my daily routine. Despite its worn appearance, the desk’s practicality and the beauty of its teak wood brought me joy.
During those years, I was reminded of the deep emotional attachment I had to the desk. It wasn’t just a piece of furniture—it was a tangible link to my past. It carried the memories of my parents, who had chosen it with care, and of my brother, who had used it before me. After my divorce, when so much else had been lost, this desk was one of the few pieces of my history that remained.
As I sat at the desk each day, I reflected on the many phases of life it had witnessed. From my childhood in Puerto Rico to the present day, the desk had been with me through it all. Its presence in the office brought me comfort and familiarity during a time of personal transition.
But now, I know it’s time to let go. The desk has served its purpose, and it’s time for it to rest. Parting with something so deeply tied to my past is difficult, but I find comfort in the memories it holds. I’m grateful to my client for unknowingly giving me the opportunity to reconnect with this cherished piece of my history.
As C.S. Lewis once said, “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” This resonates with me as I say goodbye to the desk. It’s a reminder that while we cherish the past, we must also embrace the future with optimism. The desk may no longer be with me, but the memories and lessons it represents will always remain.
The true value of our most cherished possessions isn’t in their price tag but in the memories and emotions they hold. These items become symbols of our journey, carrying pieces of our past and reminding us of the people and moments that shaped us.
Letting go of something significant is never easy, but it teaches a powerful lesson: what truly matters cannot be measured by material wealth. As we move forward, the memories remain with us, inspiring our future. Hold onto what’s meaningful, and when the time comes, embrace letting go, knowing the love and memories will always be with you.
If you’ve ever had an object that holds deep meaning for you, now is the time to reflect on its significance. Don’t fear letting go when the time comes—the memories will always stay with you. Cherish them, and look forward to creating new ones.
#Memories #FamilyHistory #LettingGo #ScandinavianDesign #TeakDesk #EmotionalJourney #CherishedPossessions #LifeTransitions

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What is a Loss Leader?

What is a Loss Leader?

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What is a Loss Leader?

In the competitive world of business, strategies are crucial for attracting customers and driving sales. One such strategy is the use of a loss leader. A loss leader is a pricing strategy where a product is sold at a price below its market cost to stimulate other profitable sales. Businesses often use loss leaders to draw customers into their stores or websites, hoping that once inside, they will purchase additional items at higher margins. This blog will explore the concept of a loss leader in business and provide three examples of its application.
A classic example of a loss leader is the use of discounted printers by technology companies. These companies sell printers at a very low price, sometimes even at a loss, to entice customers to purchase them. The real profit comes from the sales of printer ink and other accessories. This strategy ensures a steady stream of revenue long after the initial sale, as customers need to replenish their ink supplies regularly.
Another well-known example is the use of Black Friday deals by retailers. Stores offer significant discounts on popular items such as electronics, clothing, and toys, often at prices lower than their cost. The goal is to attract a large number of customers who will not only buy the discounted items but also other full-priced products. This tactic helps retailers boost their overall sales volume and clear out inventory before the end of the year.
Grocery stores also frequently use loss leaders to their advantage. Staple items like milk, bread, and eggs are often sold at very low prices to draw customers into the store. Once inside, customers are likely to purchase other higher-margin items, increasing the store’s overall sales. This strategy is particularly effective in creating loyal customers who associate the store with affordable prices.
As Henry Ford once said, “A business that makes nothing but money is a poor business.” This quote highlights the importance of customer satisfaction and value creation in business. The loss leader strategy aligns with this principle by focusing on attracting customers through value deals and then building a relationship that leads to further sales. By offering initial value, businesses can create a positive customer experience that translates into long-term loyalty and profitability.
The takeaway from this blog is that the loss leader strategy can be a powerful tool for businesses looking to attract customers and drive sales. By carefully selecting products to discount and understanding customer buying behavior, businesses can turn initial losses into long-term gains. However, it’s essential to balance this strategy with a strong product mix and excellent customer service to ensure sustained success.
If you’re a business owner looking to implement a loss leader strategy, start by identifying products that can draw customers in without severely impacting your bottom line. Monitor your sales data to see how this approach affects your overall revenue and make adjustments as needed. Remember, the key is to create value for your customers while driving profitability for your business.
#BusinessStrategy #LossLeader #SalesTactics #CustomerAttraction #RetailSuccess

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Family Fun in the Grove

Family Fun in the Grove

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Family Fun in the Grove: Activities for All Ages
In Coconut Grove, every family outing becomes a cherished memory.
-Wilson Alvarez
Coconut Grove, often celebrated for its rich history and lush scenery, is also a fantastic playground for families. From waterfront parks to interactive museums, the neighborhood offers a plethora of activities that promise fun for all ages, making it an ideal spot for family outings.
One of the highlights for family fun is Peacock Park. With its expansive green spaces and well-equipped playgrounds, it’s a perfect spot for children to play and parents to relax. The park also hosts various community events throughout the year that cater to families, such as outdoor movie nights and children’s festivals, enhancing the communal spirit of the Grove.
For those seeking a mix of education and entertainment, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offer a fascinating glimpse into Miami’s past with family-friendly tours that engage children with history in an interactive manner. Additionally, the nearby Miami Science Museum features hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity about science and technology among young minds.
As author and speaker Simon Sinek wisely stated, “If you want to feel happy, do something for yourself. If you want to feel fulfilled, do something for someone else.” The community-focused activities in Coconut Grove not only provide fun but also opportunities for families to connect and create lasting memories.
Coconut Grove serves as a vibrant venue for family activities, where every visit can turn into an adventure. The neighborhood’s family-friendly attractions ensure that both kids and adults can enjoy their time together in enriching and enjoyable ways.
Gather your loved ones and explore the family-friendly side of Coconut Grove! Whether it’s a day at the park, a learning adventure, or a community event, there’s something here for everyone. Visit our website or call us at 305-386-6165 to discover all the exciting activities waiting for your family.

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The Porsche 944: A Timeless Classic That Still Turns Heads

The Porsche 944: A Timeless Classic That Still Turns Heads

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The Porsche 944 is proof that balance and precision are the true cornerstones of timeless engineering.
-Wilson Alvarez

The Porsche 944: A Timeless Classic That Defined the 80s
The Birth of the Porsche 944
The Porsche 944 first hit the roads in 1982, designed as a bold evolution of the Porsche 924. While the 924 was criticized for its lackluster performance, the 944 aimed to deliver a more powerful, refined, and exciting driving experience. With a focus on affordable luxury and brilliant engineering, the 944 bridged the gap between accessible sports cars and Porsche’s high-performance reputation.
“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” – Steve Jobs
This philosophy captures the essence of the 944: a car that looks iconic and drives even better.

Production Timeline: 944 Through the Years
The Porsche 944 was produced from 1982 to 1991 and offered several notable variations:

1982: The base 944 launched with a naturally aspirated 2.5L inline-4 engine.
1985: The 944 Turbo (951) arrived, adding serious power and performance with a turbocharged 2.5L engine.
1987: The 944 S introduced a 16-valve engine, producing 190 hp.
1989: The 944 S2 featured a 3.0L engine, one of the largest 4-cylinder engines in production, producing 208 hp.
1991: Production ended, and the Porsche 968 debuted, carrying much of the 944’s DNA into a new era.

Design: Bold, Timeless, and Functional
The 944’s flared fenders, wide stance, and wedge-shaped profile made it a design icon of the 1980s. Its styling was heavily inspired by the Porsche 924 Carrera GT, with added muscularity for a sportier look. Turbo models received aerodynamic enhancements like a vented nose panel, a front air dam, and a rear spoiler, further enhancing their visual appeal.
Inside, the cabin prioritized functionality. The driver-focused layout was simple yet effective, though some may find the interior dated by today’s standards.

Performance and Variants
The Porsche 944 gained fame for its perfect 50/50 weight distribution and transaxle design, which made it one of the best-handling cars of its era. Enthusiasts often praise its sharp steering, responsive handling, and reliability on winding roads.

Base Models: Adequate for daily driving but lacked the raw power of later variants.
944 Turbo: With up to 250 hp in later models, the Turbo delivered blistering performance, rivaling more expensive sports cars.
944 S2: Offered the largest engine in the lineup with a refined balance of power and usability.

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
The Good:

Handling Masterpiece: The 944’s balanced chassis and precise steering make it a joy to drive.
Affordable Porsche Experience: Offers an entry point into Porsche ownership without the hefty price tag of a 911.
Practical Design: A spacious hatchback and comfortable interior make it suitable for daily use.
Turbocharged Performance: Turbo models deliver thrilling acceleration and speed.

The Bad:

Maintenance Costs: Regular maintenance (like timing belt replacements) is expensive, and neglected examples can drain your wallet.
Aging Components: Electrical systems and interior materials can be problematic in older models.
Underwhelming Base Models: Early non-turbo models can feel underpowered by modern standards.

The Ugly:

Common Mechanical Issues: Timing belt and water pump failures are catastrophic if neglected.
Rust Problems: Poorly maintained examples are prone to rust, especially in humid climates.
Turbo-Specific Concerns: Turbos can suffer from cracked exhaust manifolds and aging turbos, leading to costly repairs.

Common Mechanical Problems
Owning a Porsche 944 means embracing some quirks and challenges:

Timing Belt and Water Pump: These require replacement every 30,000–45,000 miles. Failure can result in severe engine damage.
Oil Leaks: Commonly found around the camshaft housing and oil cooler seals.
Cooling System: Aging radiators and hoses are prone to leaks.
Clutch Wear: Clutches can wear out sooner due to spirited driving.
Electrical Gremlins: Failing wiring and old electrical components are common headaches.

Legacy of the 944
The Porsche 944’s production run may have ended in 1991, but its legacy lives on in the Porsche 968, which carried forward much of its design and engineering. Today, the 944 is a beloved classic, known for its unique blend of affordability, performance, and Porsche prestige.

Conclusion: Should You Buy a Porsche 944?
The Porsche 944 remains one of the best entry-level Porsches for enthusiasts. Its exceptional handling, iconic design, and practical nature make it a compelling choice. However, it’s essential to find a well-maintained example and budget for ongoing maintenance. For those willing to put in the effort, the 944 offers an unforgettable driving experience that’s hard to beat.
Takeaway: The Porsche 944 embodies the perfect mix of performance, practicality, and classic charm. Whether you’re driving a base model or a turbocharged variant, it’s a car that delivers on every level.

Call to Action
Are you ready to experience the thrill of driving a Porsche 944? Let us know in the comments! If you already own one, share your favorite memories and tips for maintaining this timeless classic.

 

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Amavita Foundation Introduces Miami Initiative to Stop Amputation Initiative to Support Cardiovascular Care in Miami-Dade County

Amavita Foundation Introduces Miami Initiative to Stop Amputation Initiative to Support Cardiovascular Care in Miami-Dade County

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Amavita Foundation Introduces Miami Initiative to Stop Amputation Initiative to Support Cardiovascular Care in Miami-Dade County
 The initiative seeks to lower the number of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations as a result of Peripheral Artery Disease with early detection screenings.  The Amavita Foundation, the nonprofit arm of Amavita Heart & Vascular Health (Amavita Health) announces the launch of its inaugural initiative, the Miami Initiative to Stop Amputation (MISA). With a mission to tackle the rising rates of amputations due to Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), MISA aims to educate and empower both patients and healthcare providers in Miami-Dade County through dedicated community outreach and healthcare advocacy. The Amavita Foundation through the MISA initiative has a goal of reducing non-traumatic lower extremity amputations in Miami-Dade County by 20 percent over the coming decade starting with identifying PAD in its early stages. In advanced stages, amputation might be the only course of action for those suffering from PAD. Statistics show that 1 in 20 Americans over the age of 50 have PAD, which is characterized by blockages in the arteries of the lower extremities and poses a significant threat to individuals’ mobility and quality of life. Left untreated, it can lead to severe complications, including tissue loss and limb amputations. Dr. Pedro Martinez Clark founder of Amavita Health, which supports the Foundation, underscores the urgency of addressing this issue: “Amputations not only impose immense physical and emotional burdens on patients but also incur substantial healthcare costs and increase mortality rates.” Mortality three years after an above-the-knee amputation can increase up to 71 percent. Recognizing the need for early detection and intervention, MISA will focus on raising awareness about PAD within the local community, particularly among minority populations who face a higher risk. Dr. Martinez Clark explains, “Blacks and Hispanics in Miami-Dade County are disproportionately affected by PAD and subsequent amputations. By concentrating our efforts on this condition, we hope to make a meaningful impact on reducing the incidence of amputations.” Cuban American patients were found to have the highest risk of PAD compared with Mexican Americans, followed by Puerto Rican patients, those with a Central American Background, and Dominican American patients. Black men, older than 50 had the highest rates of prevalent PAD. MISA’s comprehensive approach involves collaboration across multiple disciplines, including podiatry, endocrinology, and cardiovascular care. Through educational initiatives and outreach events, the initiative aims to bridge the gap in access to cardiovascular care and empower individuals to take proactive steps toward managing their vascular health. “The sobering reality is that many of these amputations can be prevented with early detection. Understanding risk factors, and symptoms and working collaboratively with other disciplines is key. Through the MISA initiative, we want to promote education, awareness, and the use of the latest advancements to treat PAD,” added Dr. Martinez Clark. MISA has garnered the attention and support of local U.S. representatives, who recognize the importance of addressing PAD and its impact on the community. Their involvement underscores the collaborative effort between public officials and healthcare advocates to implement effective strategies for reducing amputations and improving vascular health outcomes in Miami-Dade. The launch of MISA aligns with the American Heart Association’s mandate to decrease the number of amputations in the United States by 2030. By adhering to this mandate and leveraging community resources, the Amavita Foundation seeks to drive positive change and improve health outcomes for individuals affected by PAD in Miami-Dade County. For more information about the Amavita Foundation, the MISA initiative, and upcoming outreach events, visit www.amavitafoundation.org.   About Amavita Foundation The Amavita Foundation is supported by Amavita Health, a Miami-based cardiovascular practice affiliated with the Jackson Memorial Hospital system and Mercy Hospital. The Foundation strives to raise awareness, provide education, and offer support for individuals affected by peripheral artery disease. With the backing of esteemed medical professionals, the Amavita Foundation is committed to improving the lives of those fighting with this condition through advocacy and collaborative efforts.   About Amavita Heart & Vascular HealthTM Amavita Heart and Vascular Health TM is a comprehensive cardiovascular practice founded in 2017 by Dr. Pedro Martinez-Clark, an interventional cardiologist with extensive experience in heart disease and peripheral vascular interventions. Amavita is a cardiovascular practice specializing in ambulatory procedures and outpatient laboratory procedures. Utilizing the latest technology, we provide minimally invasive procedures for treating, diagnosing, and performing diseases on an ambulatory basis. Amavita has five locations across Miami-Dade County. For more information, visit https://amavita.health/. Contact: Patty Vila, Patty Vila Media, (305) 498-9660, pattyvilamedia@outlook.com

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