 Families, medical providers, research groups and  charities all around the country observe September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. We at Team JAB join them in recognizing the importance of shining a spotlight on this very important issue and are honored to do so this week with the help of two members of our JustAskBoo community whose daughters have inspired their incredible efforts to end childhood cancer.
This year, almost 13,000 children will be diagnosed with cancer; approximately 25% of them will not survive their battle with this brutal disease. Please join us and the families whose stories we feature this week in raising awareness in the fight against pediatric cancer. To learn more about pediatric cancer, click HERE.
Happy JABBING!
~Team JAB
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Love My Lawn
I'm looking for someone who can provide lawn maintenance. In addition to routine grass cutting and hedge trimming, I need a person to treat and remove weeds, maintain or replace plants, fertilize my lawn, install mulch and additional sod, etc. as needed. If you know someone who provides great service in the Miami Shores area, please let me know. Thank you!
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Let Your Child's Imagination Soar ... Through Art!
 The Young At Art Institute at Young At Art Museum lets your child's imagination and artistic talent soar. The Institute features the finest art studios for ceramics, cartooning, digital art, darkroom photography, drawing/painting, mixed media and print making. Morning, afterschool and evening classes are delivered by professional and visiting guest artists for children, teens and adults. Click HERE to learn more. Do you need something for your kids to do on Friday nights? Our Night At The Museum lets kids wear their coolest PJs and have a blast enjoying art activities, games and a pizza dinner. For reservations, call 954.424.5031 or click HERE for class information.*
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Sound Off
From Aniette Lauredo: REPLY I am looking for an experienced, licensed contractor to soundproof my condo. I am hearing a lot of noise from the neighbor and I would like to eliminate it. If you have had similar work done and had a great experience, please let me know!
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It's Never Too Late to Impact a Child's Life
For teens in foster care, an 18th birthday can be a scary, rather than celebratory time and it means growing up fast. The lack of guidance and presence of a stable positive role model in their life can leave them unprepared to handle the responsibilities that come with adulthood. That is why it's never too late to step in and be that guiding force that will make the difference between heading out into the world with confidence or beginning a new life with anguish over the unknown. Click HERE or visit us on Facebook to find out more about Our Kids and its teen foster care program.*
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A Tight Seal
My home is 28 years old and in desperate need of new weatherstripping. If you know of a person or company that can seal my doors and windows to keep water out, please let me know!
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Discovering Daycare
From Arielle Biscayart: REPLY I am researching Jewish daycares in the North Miami Beach or Hallandale/Hollywood areas. I am especially interested in facilities with a reputation for infant care. Thank you for your advice!
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Party With a Purpose
From Team JAB
We love to party, but we love to help our community even more. Did you know that 100 percent of ticket sales for our Fifth Anniversary Party go to United Way of Miami-Dade? It's a celebration with a cause, which is cause for celebration! It will be a night to remember on October 3rd, filled with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, raffle prizes, music, art, and plenty of JABBING at Wynwood's Zadok Gallery. Click HERE for reservations. A special thanks to our generous sponsors: Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables and Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay, Durée & Company, Shops at Midtown Miami and Ashley Cusack Real Estate.
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First Children's Imagination Ball
 The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and Arsht Families, a volunteer committee of parents committed to supporting children's access to the performing arts, proudly announce the first Arsht Families Imagination Ball on October 6, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. This one-of-a-kind children's gala is an afternoon of immersive arts activities, dancing, wild dessert displays and performances by "America's Got Talent" finalist David Garibaldi and His CMYKs, and kids rock band LIVE! Modern School of Music - all set on the Lynn Wolfson stage of the Ziff Ballet Opera House. Proceeds will support the Center's Arts Education and Community Engagement programs. Click HERE for more information.*
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Collect Your Thoughts
From Mayra Martinez: REPLY I just inherited a large number of Lladro figurines. Is there a good place to sell this type of collectible? Many thanks.
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 Thank You for Sharing! From: Victoria Assa JABBERS, I am impressed! I recently asked you to help me find a great local frame shop. Within a couple of hours, I received excellent referrals, complete with the name of the frame shop and the contact information. Thank you so much for taking the time to respond so thoughtfully. I am extremely grateful to be part of a community of people so willing to share their resources and help one another.
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Carnival Care
I'm looking for antique dealers or a place to sell carnival glass that I inherited from my late father's collection. Please reply with your suggestions. Thanks.
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National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
In honor of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Team JAB talked to two local women who advocate tirelessly on behalf of pediatric cancer patients everywhere. While their stories are different, they share one common vision - to end childhood cancer.
Shanna Rodriguez-Torres
Many of you already know Shanna Rodriguez-Torres. Her beautiful daughter,  Bella, passed away in May after a courageous six year battle with a muscle cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma. Bella and her generous and fighting spirit touched members of the community and celebrities alike. Whether it was the Miami police and firefighters accompanying Bella to her appointments with her doctors, Lebron James writing #LiveLikeBella on his basketball shoes during the NBA finals, or the Walt Disney Corporation sending Mickey Mouse to visit Bella in the hospital, one thing is clear - everyone who met Bella was touched by her in some way.
In honor of their daughter whose fighting spirit inspired others to live life to the fullest, Shannah Rodriguez-Torres and her husband Raymond founded the Live Like Bella Foundation. While also advocating for the most innovative non-toxic cancer research exclusively for use in pediatrics, the foundation helps cancer patients and their families in three unique ways: (1) they offer "funds in hand" for clinical trials; (2) they provide recreational support to families by providing android tablets to families across the United States so that children can keep up with their education, play games and video conference with family and friends when they are separated due to treatment; (3) the Live Like Bella Foundation works with funeral homes across the country to help provide families with a memorial plaque or urn for their child who has passed away from cancer. When asked what she would like to see the Live Like Bella Foundation achieve in the next ten years, Shannah said that they would like cancers that are considered terminal to be curable without the lasting and toxic effects of chemotherapy.
Shannah believes that Bella, whose concern for others always trumped concern for herself, would want her parents to help find a cure for pediatric cancer and she draws her strength from this goal. Shannah says that the greatest lesson her daughter taught her is,"it is not the weight of the load that breaks us, but rather how we choose to carry it." For more information on the Live Like Bella Foundation, please click HERE.
Nickelle CrowleyNickelle Crowley is the mother of a very courageous little girl. At the age of two, Ava Crowley went to bed one night complaining of a stomach ache. Over the next few weeks the pain persisted, followed by  complaints of being tired and a noticeable increase in water consumption. Nickelle told the pediatrician that she feared Ava had a tumor. This motherly instinct may have saved her daughter's life. Ava was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma, a cancer that forms in nerve tissue.
When JAB Founder and President Boo Zamek learned of Ava's diagnosis, she connected Nickelle to Shanna Rodriguez-Torres, who provided a tremendous amount of information and comfort. After 13 months of treatment, including six rounds of chemotherapy, surgery to remove the tumor, stem cell transplant, radiation and immunotherapy, CT/PET and MIBG scans performed in July revealed that Ava has no remaining evidence of disease.
Like Shannah and Bella, Nickelle and Ava are making a difference in the fight against pediatric cancer. They are working with the Miami Children's Hospital Foundation to raise $10,000 for the Miami Children's Hospital Cancer Center. This past weekend, MCH hosted a 5K run/walk in downtown Coral Gables with proceeds going towards these efforts ... and they could not have chosen a cuter MCH5K hero than Ava!
To our readers who have children battling cancer and other illnesses, Nickelle offers this advice:
- Become an expert in your child's illness. You are your child's greatest advocate.
- Take care of yourself by eating healthy and exercising. A clear head is necessary when making hard and important decisions regarding your child's treatment.
- Accept help that is offered. This is a difficult journey to travel alone.
Nickelle also reminds us to find gratitude in each day and in each moment with your child. For more information and to join Ava's fundraising team, click HERE.
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Looking for a Well-Educated and Experienced Tutor for Your Child?
 The search is over! My name is Carmella Guiol and I have been working closely with children for a decade as a teacher's assistant, garden teacher, camp counselor and after-school tutor. As an alumnus of the French International Baccalaureate program and a graduate of Amherst College in Massachusetts, I have learned the value of a great education. Fluent in English, French, and Spanish, I am happy to help improve your child's language skills, as well as their math, science, reading and writing skills. References available! Don't hesitate to call me at 786.370-9787 or email me HERE.*
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Do You Need Help With an Aging Parent?
From Michelle Hoekstra: REPLY  Let "ME" help "you!" ME, Inc. is a personal concierge service catering to the elderly as well as busy professionals in Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties. We provide personal services such as errand assistance, escorted private transportation, companionship and much more! We work hard to help preserve independence and lifestyle and, unlike a friend or neighbor, we work around your schedule and not the other way around. In addition, all of our staff has passed a rigorous background check and we are insured. To learn more about our services, visit us HERE or email us HERE.*
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Planning Ahead
From Corinne Bayer: REPLY We are interested in renting a house in Orlando next July for one week. We will need a place that is large enough to accommodate two couples and four kids between the ages of three and six. If you have any suggestions, please contact me. Thanks!
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Local JABBER Goes to Hollywood!
From Team JAB 
Congratulations to JABBER Marilyn Blosser, local insurance and financial advisor extraordinaire, native Miamian, and now, best-selling author, on receiving a Quilly Award, given at a reception in Hollywood, California. Marilyn has joined an exclusive group of North America's financial advisors to co-author The Secret to Lifetime Financial Security: The Nation's Leading Financial Advisors Reveal How to Turn Your Back on Banks and Wall Street and Take Control of Your Financial Future Today. For those of you who know Marilyn and her husband Bob (of Bob's Plumbing), you know that this newest achievement is well-deserved. We are so thrilled for you, Marilyn!
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College Bound Seniors: Last Chance!
From Jamie Sirianni: REPLY  The final due date for most college applications is January 1st, and the last chance to take the SAT and ACT is in December. If your child is a senior in high school, then you know that the clock is ticking. It is time to let JLP Education Services help your senior gain the confidence and skills they need in order to ace these big exams. JLP's stimulating preparation courses, provided by our experienced staff in one-on-one private sessions, is just what you need. Click HERE to invest in your child's academic future.*
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Tummy Aches
I am looking for a gastroenterologist who takes into consideration holistic and diet changes as a remedy. I've had stomach issues all my life and have yet to find a doctor who listens to all my symptoms to uncover the root problem. Your recommendations are much appreciated.
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 Jet-setting JABBERS
From Team JAB
JABBERS, you sent us some great photos this summer from your travels all over the globe. Are you jet setting this fall? Send us images of you climbing Mount Kilimanjaro! Shoot us a snapshot of you and your family picnicking at the Grand Canyon! Heading to the Swiss Alps? Don't forget to share your pictures with us so we can share them with your fellow JABBERS! Send your photos HERE.
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A Radiologist With a Passion for Women's Imaging There's a woman's side to everything, and that includes health. Dr. Carrie Horst, Medical Director for Midtown Women's Center, understands the importance of offering a personalized female-centric approach to diagnostic testing. Unlike getting your mammogram at the local hospital where the radiologists on staff may not have specialized training in mammography, Dr. Horst is board certified and fellowship-trained in breast imaging. She is dedicated to personally reviewing every patient's mammogram results. To meet Dr. Horst and receive the highest quality care in breast imaging, visit Midtown Women's Center. Click HERE to request an appointment online or call 786-375-6600.*
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Sitting Pretty
I'm looking for a reliable person to stay in my mid-Beach cottage and care for my cats while I'm on an extended vacation later this year. If you know someone who has experience and verifiable references, please contact me. Thank you!
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Legal Solutions for Family Building
From Leslie Schreiber, P.A: REPLY Are you wondering what your options are after you have been diagnosed infertile? Are you exploring surrogacy or donation? Are you making decisions about embryo disposition? If you answered "yes" to some of the questions above, I am a good resource for you. I represent fertility clinics and agencies, traditional and non-traditional intended parents and people who want a conversation in a compassionate listening environment. Laws vary state to state, as well as internationally. My goal is to help protect your parental rights. Click HERE to view law firm website for more information.*
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Habla Español?
From Christine Civantos: REPLY
Can anyone recommend a great Spanish tutor? My son already speaks Spanish, but I want him to develop his vocabulary and writing skills by learning about a subject he loves (history or science) in Spanish. I prefer someone who can come to our home in the north Gables. Thanks!
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Stop Eating Junk!
 Have the best snacks on the planet delivered straight to your door! Eating healthy doesn't have to taste bad or be difficult; let the snackologists at Healthy Surprise make it fun and easy to eat healthy by delivering you a box full of delicious and healthy snacks! They find the best companies with the most delicious snacks and then read the labels to ensure quality. Everything is healthy, delicious, gluten-free, natural, vegan, soy-free, corn-free and wheat-free. Over 10,000 happy customers and 100% money back guarantee. Makes a great gift idea too! Click HERE to get snacking.*
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 Seeking Graphic Designer From Team JAB JustAskBoo is looking for a few talented, competitively priced freelance graphic designers with an eagle eye for detail and a penchant for strict deadlines. We love our clients and want them to have access to just the right designer, in order to create custom campaigns with a WOW effect. If you feel passionate about clean lines, powerful messages and iconic images, then we want to connect with you. Send a resume and a sample of your work HERE. |
Flamenco Fancy
From Soledad Space: REPLY I'm looking for flamenco clothes for a little girl (age 4) in XS or S and flamenco shoes size 9-10. If there is anything you would like to sell, I would really appreciate hearing from you. Muchas gracias!
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Let's Dance!
Furia Flamenca is the only dance studio in Miami offering a unique flamenco dance curriculum for both kids (two years and up) and adults. Together with some of the best flamenco dance teachers from Spain, Furia Flamenca has created a full educational program that will make you explore the wonderful art of flamenco dance, percussion, singing, guitar, culture, language and history. The programs have been specifically designed for babies (age 2), kids (ages 5+) and adults in order to meet the highly specific developmental needs in each of these age groups. Come in to get a free trial class! Click HERE to learn more.*
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Selling Macy's White Leather Six-Piece Sectional Couch
From Nicole Waters: REPLY Looking for luxury and flexible seating? Then this is the couch for you. It can be quickly arranged for multiple seating or even a bed. Originally purchased at Macy's for more than $2,000 - now asking $800. Reply above if interested.*
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Petite Party Planning
From Janice Miranda: REPLY I'm having a Jake the Pirate party for my son and would like to hire a party planner. I would like a professional and reliable person who has props and can do themed parties for children. Any suggestions would be appreciated! Thank you.
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Nannies| Caretakers| Housekeepers
Babysitters | Elderly Care | Drivers
Cooks | Helpers...
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Asterisk * indicates sponsored content
JustAskBoo does not conduct any background check, investigation or review of the individuals listed in these referral pages. You are solely responsible for selecting an appropriate nanny, caretaker, sitter or service provider for yourself or your family.
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