Faith

Communities

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:

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:

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
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
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
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
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
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
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.

Foundation Aksum

Foundation Aksum: A Cigar That Honors an Ancient Kingdom

Discovered at Big Smoke Miami Beach 2026, the Foundation Aksum proves that some cigars are more than a blend of premium tobaccos—they’re a celebration of history, culture, and craftsmanship.
By Wilson Alvarez
Every cigar has a story.
Some tell the story of a family that has cultivated tobacco for generations. Others honor a master blender or commemorate a special anniversary. Then there are cigars like the Foundation Aksum, which reaches back nearly two thousand years to celebrate one of history’s greatest civilizations.
I first experienced the Aksum during Big Smoke Miami Beach 2026, one of the cigar industry’s premier events. Surrounded by fellow enthusiasts, conversations, and the familiar aroma of premium tobacco, the Aksum immediately stood out. Its striking band, featuring artwork inspired by the ancient Kingdom of Aksum, hinted that this wasn’t just another boutique cigar. It was designed to tell a story before the first draw.
That story begins in East Africa.
The ancient Kingdom of Aksum, located in present-day Ethiopia and Eritrea, was one of the world’s great trading empires between the first and seventh centuries. Known for its monumental architecture, advanced commerce, and cultural influence, Aksum remains a symbol of innovation and resilience. Foundation Cigars drew inspiration from this remarkable civilization when creating a cigar intended to reflect richness, complexity, and lasting character.
The cigar itself lives up to that ambition.
The Aksum features an elegant Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, a Connecticut Broadleaf binder, and premium Nicaraguan fillers from Jalapa and Estelí. Produced at the renowned AJ Fernandez factory in Nicaragua, the blend represents a collaboration between respected cigar maker Nick Melillo of Foundation Cigars and one of the industry’s most accomplished manufacturing teams.
Visually, the cigar makes an excellent first impression. The wrapper is smooth with a soft oily sheen and only minor veins. Construction feels firm without hard spots, while the cap is neatly finished. The presentation is refined rather than flashy, allowing the historic artwork on the band to become part of the overall experience.
Once lit, the Aksum reveals why so many enthusiasts have taken notice.
The opening draws introduce notes of cedar, roasted coffee, baking spices, and subtle black pepper. Rather than overwhelming the palate with strength, the cigar develops gradually, encouraging the smoker to slow down and appreciate each transition. As the smoke settles into the second third, cocoa, earth, and a gentle natural sweetness begin to emerge. The flavors remain balanced without any one component dominating the blend.
Construction throughout my experience was impressive. The draw remained consistently open, producing generous smoke output, while the burn required little attention. The ash held firmly, a characteristic often associated with careful bunching and quality craftsmanship.
By the final third, the cigar became richer without losing its composure. Earthier notes took the lead while coffee and spice remained present. The profile never became harsh or bitter, allowing the final inch to remain just as enjoyable as the opening light.
That balance may be the Aksum’s greatest achievement.
Many premium cigars attempt to impress with sheer strength. Others rely on overwhelming pepper or nicotine to create excitement. The Aksum takes a different approach. It rewards patience, offering complexity through refinement rather than intensity. Smokers looking for an aggressive powerhouse may find it restrained, but those who appreciate nuance will likely discover a cigar worth revisiting.
Its reputation within the cigar community reflects that quality. Cigar Aficionado awarded the Aksum Claro Robusto an impressive 93 rating and recognized it as the No. 12 Cigar of the Year for 2024, praising its balance, complexity, and craftsmanship. That recognition helped introduce the blend to a wider audience, but awards alone don’t explain its appeal. The real measure comes from the experience in the hand—and the Aksum delivers.
No cigar is perfect, however.
The flavor profile leans toward elegance instead of boldness, which may not satisfy smokers seeking heavy spice or full-bodied intensity from the opening draw. It is also a cigar that benefits from a slower smoking pace. Rushing through it can mute the subtle transitions that make the blend distinctive.
Still, these observations feel less like criticisms and more like reminders that the Aksum was blended with a specific vision in mind.
After spending time with it, I understand why Foundation Cigars chose to honor an ancient kingdom with this release. Like its namesake, the Aksum demonstrates that true greatness often comes from thoughtful craftsmanship, enduring character, and attention to detail rather than spectacle.
Final Verdict
The Foundation Aksum isn’t simply another boutique cigar competing for shelf space. It is a carefully constructed smoking experience that combines historical inspiration with exceptional blending. From its refined construction to its evolving flavor profile, it offers a memorable journey that rewards smokers willing to appreciate subtlety over strength.
Wilson’s Rating

Appearance: ★★★★★
Construction: ★★★★★
Burn: ★★★★½
Flavor Complexity: ★★★★★
Value: ★★★★½
Overall Rating: 4.8 / 5 Stars

Some cigars are remembered for their strength. Others for their rarity. The Foundation Aksum earns its place through balance, craftsmanship, and a story that lingers long after the final draw.

South Florida Summer Weather: Heat, Storms & Saharan Dust

South Florida is heading into the weekend with a classic summer weather pattern that residents know well — sweltering heat, afternoon thunderstorms, and the return of Saharan dust drifting across the Atlantic. According to WSVN 7News meteorologists, high temperatures are expected to climb into the low-to-mid 90s, with heat index values making it feel even hotter across the region.
The familiar cycle of hot, humid mornings giving way to scattered afternoon and evening storms is firmly in place for the foreseeable future. Meteorologists note that sea breeze boundaries will continue to act as the primary trigger for storm development, particularly during the peak heating hours of the afternoon. Residents are encouraged to plan outdoor activities for the morning hours and stay weather-aware throughout the afternoon and early evening.
Adding a layer of haze to the mix, Saharan dust is making its seasonal return to South Florida skies. While the dust can reduce air quality slightly and create stunning, golden-hued sunsets, health officials typically advise those with respiratory sensitivities to limit prolonged outdoor exposure on the dustiest days. On the bright side, the presence of Saharan dust tends to suppress tropical storm development in the Atlantic, offering a subtle silver lining during the active hurricane season months.
For beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts planning weekend activities, meteorologists recommend keeping a close eye on local forecasts, as storm timing can shift day to day. Staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak heat hours are essential tips for enjoying South Florida’s vibrant summer safely. Despite the heat and storms, South Florida’s summer energy remains electric, with communities making the most of the season’s long, sun-filled days.
Sources: WSVN 7News Weather Blog. This article was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence and reviewed for accuracy and editorial standards.

Pochettino Stays Positive After US Advances Past World Cup Group Stage

Despite a 3-2 loss to Turkey in their final group stage match Thursday night, the United States men’s national soccer team has successfully advanced through the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, and head coach Mauricio Pochettino wants fans and pundits alike to keep the bigger picture in mind. Pochettino expressed visible frustration with what he described as an unfair perception of disappointment surrounding the result, emphasizing that the team’s primary goal heading into the match was to emerge healthy and ready for the knockout rounds.
Speaking after the match in Inglewood, California, Pochettino made clear that managing player fitness and avoiding injuries ahead of the round of 16 was the top priority for the coaching staff. With the United States already having secured their place in the knockout stage before Thursday’s game, the tactical approach reflected a calculated effort to protect key players rather than push for a result at all costs. The coach’s perspective is a sensible one — tournament success ultimately hinges on having a full-strength squad available for the elimination rounds, where every match becomes win-or-go-home.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is a historic edition of the tournament, being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, making it especially meaningful for American soccer fans who are packing stadiums and watching in record numbers across the country. The US team’s presence in the round of 16 is a cause for genuine celebration, as the squad looks to make a deep run on home soil and inspire a new generation of soccer fans from coast to coast.
With the group stage now behind them, attention turns to the exciting knockout bracket where the United States will face their next challenge with a rested and determined squad. Pochettino and his players will have the full support of passionate home crowds cheering them on every step of the way. The best of the 2026 World Cup is yet to come for the United States!
Sources: WSVN 7News, Associated Press. This article was compiled with the assistance of AI and reviewed for accuracy and tone.

Officer Catches Panicked Fawn With World Cup Goalie Skills

A heartwarming moment caught on bodycam footage is going viral this week, showing a Ross Township police officer in the Pittsburgh area coming to the rescue of a frightened fawn that had fallen over a retaining wall and become trapped. The quick-thinking and agile officer managed to catch the panicked deer with impressive reflexes, earning praise from his department and wildlife lovers across the country.
The Ross Township Police Department shared the footage, which quickly captured the hearts of viewers online. Department officials described the officer’s catch with a playful nod to the ongoing FIFA World Cup, saying he displayed the “fearlessness of a FIFA World Cup Goaltender.” The comparison was well-timed, given the excitement surrounding the 2026 World Cup currently being held across North America, making the feel-good story resonate with sports fans and animal lovers alike.
After being safely caught by the officer, the young fawn was unharmed and was able to be released back into a safe area away from the retaining wall. Wildlife experts often caution that fawns, while appearing fragile, are surprisingly resilient when handled gently and returned to their natural environment quickly. The officer’s calm and swift actions ensured the animal suffered no lasting stress from the ordeal, making this a perfect example of community service that goes well beyond typical police duties.
Stories like this one serve as a wonderful reminder of the compassionate side of law enforcement and the unexpected ways officers serve their communities every day. Social media users flooded the post with comments of appreciation, with many tagging friends and family to share the uplifting clip. Whether you’re a fan of wildlife, soccer, or simply good news, this Pittsburgh-area officer’s impromptu fawn rescue is sure to put a smile on your face. Congratulations to the officer for his remarkable quick thinking and gentle touch!
Sources: WSVN 7News, KDKA Pittsburgh. This article was compiled with the assistance of AI and reviewed for accuracy and tone.

CLE Corojo: The Return of Authentic Honduran Corojo

A Premium Honduran Cigar That Honors Christian Eiroa’s Legacy
Acquired at Big Smoke Miami Beach 2026
Few names command as much respect in Honduran tobacco as Christian Eiroa. After helping build Camacho into one of the world’s premier premium cigar brands, Eiroa returned in 2012 with a new vision—a company built around authenticity, heritage, and his family’s passion for Corojo tobacco. The result was CLE, an acronym for Christian Luis Eiroa.
The CLE Corojo quickly became the flagship of the new company, proving that Honduras could once again produce world-class cigars using authentic Corojo tobacco grown in the fertile Jamastran Valley. More than a decade later, it remains one of the most recognizable Honduran puros on the market and a favorite among smokers who appreciate bold flavor balanced with refinement.

The History Behind CLE
The Eiroa family’s roots in tobacco stretch back generations. Christian’s father, Julio Eiroa, became one of the pioneers responsible for elevating Honduras into a premium cigar-producing nation.
Christian later revitalized the Camacho brand with bold Corojo blends before the company was sold. Rather than retire, he returned to his roots by launching CLE Cigar Company.
Instead of chasing trends, CLE focused on preserving authentic Honduran tobacco and traditional cigar-making techniques. That philosophy remains evident in every CLE Corojo.

Blend Information
Factory: Aladino Factory (Honduras)
Country of Origin: Honduras
Wrapper: Authentic Honduran Corojo
Binder: Honduran
Filler: Honduran
Strength: Medium to Full
Body: Medium-Full
Vitolas: Multiple sizes including Robusto, Toro, Gordo and Figurado
Unlike many cigars marketed as “Corojo,” the CLE Corojo uses authentic Honduran Corojo tobacco throughout much of the blend, giving it a distinctive profile that reflects Christian Eiroa’s expertise with this seed varietal.

Construction
One characteristic repeatedly praised by enthusiasts is the cigar’s excellent craftsmanship.
The wrapper displays a beautiful reddish-brown Colorado hue with a slight oily sheen. Veins are minimal, seams are nearly invisible, and the triple cap is expertly applied.
Construction highlights include:

Firm pack without soft spots
Easy cold draw
Thick smoke production
Slow, even burn
Dense light gray ash
Consistent combustion

From my own experience, the cigar burned evenly with very few corrections. The draw felt open without becoming loose, producing generous clouds of creamy smoke throughout the session.

Flavor Profile
The CLE Corojo doesn’t overwhelm your palate.
Instead, it builds flavor in layers.
First Third
The opening immediately delivers black pepper accompanied by cedar and natural tobacco sweetness.
Fresh earth and oak soon follow while remaining surprisingly smooth.
Second Third
As the cigar develops, leather begins to emerge.
Coffee, roasted nuts, baking spices and hints of cocoa become more noticeable while the pepper settles into the background.
This is where the cigar truly finds its rhythm.
Final Third
The finish becomes richer.
Earth, espresso, leather and cedar dominate while subtle sweetness remains underneath.
The final inch never becomes bitter—a testament to proper fermentation and quality construction.
Overall strength gradually moves from medium toward medium-full without becoming overpowering.

Cigar Aficionado’s Take
Since launching the brand, Cigar Aficionado has consistently covered CLE and Christian Eiroa’s return to premium cigar manufacturing.
The magazine recognizes CLE as one of the flagship brands born after Eiroa’s departure from Camacho and has awarded multiple CLE Corojo vitolas ratings in the 90-point range, praising the line for its construction, balance, and authentic Honduran character. The publication also credits Christian Eiroa with helping reestablish Honduras as a source of premium Corojo tobacco.

Pairing Suggestions
The CLE Corojo pairs exceptionally well with:

Espresso
Café Cubano
Single Malt Scotch
Kentucky Bourbon
Dark Rum
Medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon

Its balanced spice also makes it an excellent morning cigar alongside quality coffee.

My Honest Review
I acquired this CLE Corojo during Big Smoke Miami Beach 2026, one of the premier events for premium cigar enthusiasts.
Sometimes cigars received at festivals are enjoyable simply because of the memories attached to them. Fortunately, the CLE Corojo doesn’t need nostalgia to stand on its own.
This cigar impressed me for different reasons.
It wasn’t trying to be the strongest cigar in the room.
It wasn’t overloaded with ligero.
Instead, it demonstrated restraint.
Every transition felt intentional. The pepper introduced itself without dominating the experience. The cedar remained constant throughout, while coffee and leather gradually took center stage. Most impressive was the consistency—from first light to final inch, the cigar stayed balanced without becoming harsh or overheating.
Construction was equally impressive. The draw was effortless, the burn remained straight, and the ash held firm longer than expected.
If I had one criticism, it’s that some smokers who prefer powerhouse Nicaraguan blends may find the CLE Corojo a bit restrained. It rewards patience and attention more than it delivers raw intensity.
For enthusiasts who appreciate nuance, complexity, and craftsmanship, however, that restraint is precisely what makes it memorable.
My Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆☆ (9.2/10)
Ratings

Appearance: 9.5/10
Construction: 9.5/10
Draw: 9.4/10
Burn: 9.3/10
Flavor: 9.1/10
Complexity: 9.0/10
Value: 9.2/10

Overall Score: 9.2 / 10

Who Should Smoke the CLE Corojo?
This cigar is an excellent choice for:

Fans of authentic Honduran tobacco
Smokers looking for a balanced medium-to-full-bodied experience
Enthusiasts who appreciate construction and consistency
Anyone interested in Christian Eiroa’s post-Camacho legacy
Collectors seeking a premium everyday cigar rather than an occasional powerhouse

Final Thoughts
The CLE Corojo isn’t about chasing trends or overwhelming strength. It reflects Christian Eiroa’s commitment to authentic Honduran tobacco, careful craftsmanship, and balanced flavor. Acquiring one at Big Smoke Miami Beach 2026 made the experience memorable, but the cigar itself earns its place on merit. With excellent construction, refined transitions, and a classic Corojo profile, it’s a cigar I’d gladly revisit and recommend to anyone looking to explore the best of modern Honduran cigars.

AEO (Answer Engine Optimization)
What is the CLE Corojo?
The CLE Corojo is a premium Honduran cigar created by Christian Luis Eiroa using authentic Corojo tobacco, offering a medium-to-full-bodied smoking experience with notes of cedar, pepper, coffee, leather, and earth.
Who makes CLE cigars?
CLE cigars are produced by Christian Luis Eiroa, founder of CLE Cigar Company and former leader of Camacho Cigars.
Is the CLE Corojo a good cigar?
Yes. The CLE Corojo is widely respected for its excellent construction, consistent burn, balanced flavor profile, and authentic Honduran character. Multiple vitolas have earned ratings in the 90-point range from Cigar Aficionado.
What does the CLE Corojo taste like?
Typical tasting notes include cedar, black pepper, roasted coffee, leather, earth, baking spices, cocoa, and a long, smooth finish.

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