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 As summer begins to wind down, I want to share one of the highlights for me because you helped make it happen. You may remember Desmond Meade. It was exactly three years ago when we launched our very first JustAsk community service campaign, when we selected a deserving member of our community who overcame adversity and was improving his/her life through education. We registered him/her at Target, and our JABBERS purchased the registry items in an effort to help them accomplish their academic goals. Desmond was our very first candidate. As fate would have it, he became a close friend not only to me, but to my entire family.
Once afflicted with homelessness, addiction and even suicidal thoughts, Desmond decided to turn his life around. In 2005, he became sober and began building his future. His fortitude and will to succeed helped him accomplish even his loftiest goals. He enrolled in Miami-Dade College where he graduated with honors and received numerous awards, and in 2010 he was accepted to FIU School of Law. In addition to holding a firm position in the top tier of his class, Desmond is a mentor to his peers, and even finds time to serve as President of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition. He is a true inspiration to all who know him. I am delighted to inform you that Desmond will graduate this spring (2014).
In addition to professional success, Desmond also found love somewhere along the way. He was recently married to the beautiful, brilliant, successful, amazing Sheena McCleary Meade.
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The Zamek and Meade families
on Lincoln Road
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Mrs. Meade knew that Desmond and I had been trying to connect for several months. But life, work, kids, school and social commitments continued to distract us, and neither of us made it happen. My phone rang about two weeks ago and to my surprise, it was Sheena on the other end ... with a plan up her sleeve. (God, I love her.) It was Desmond's birthday and Sheena was ready to pull out some surprises. I cancelled plans, rallied my troops, and we headed to Miami Beach to meet Sheena, Desmond, and two of their children (Xcellence, 10 and Xzion, 6) for dinner. The Meades, of course, showed up in style in a limo (See? I told you Sheena's a force). Desmond was floored. We had a perfect visit, complete with steak and fruit juice (Desmond's favorite!). But Sheena wasn't finished. The limo driver delivered our two families to Lucky Strike Bowling Alley, where Desmond'sfriends and family were
waiting, ready to bowl and even more ready to celebrate Desmond.
 | Desmond and crew
enjoying the limo |
Thank you, JABBERS, for introducing my family to the Meades. This friendship would not have happened without you. Thank you to Chapman Partnership and to FIU and to each and every one of you JABBERS who donated to Desmond and his registry three years ago. You remind me every day how lucky I am to be a part of this amazing community of JABBERS.
Happy giving and Happy JABBING!
-Boo
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In the Same Boat
From Loris Bargueiras: REPLY My husband recently purchased a new boat and is looking for an experienced captain who can go out on the water with him and really teach him the intricacies of navigation. He has some experience with boats but needs to learn marine laws, boating tips, etc. He was thinking of attending the Coast Guard's course, but with his schedule he would prefer private lessons on his boat, which is docked in Key Largo. If anyone can recommend a captain or business that provides this service, please let me know!
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Make it Personal
From Ricky Sanchez: REPLY Do you know of a great place to have shirts and towels monogrammed? Your suggestions are appreciated.
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The Web I Weave
From Rachel Charlupski: REPLY I am searching for a group of professionals who can provide web design, programming and graphic design services to update a website and brand image/company logo. I am open to hiring individuals, but I would prefer to assemble a group who has worked together before. Thanks for your recommendations.
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Out of Sync
From Diana Villabon-Perez: REPLY I just got a Samsung Galaxy S4 and need help syncing with Outlook 2013. Do you know of anyone that may be able to help me? Thanks!
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Skin Deep
From Jessica Lissauer: REPLY I am looking for a great dermatologist who is extremely thorough, meticulous and will take time to examine my skin. Please send me your fantastic referrals!
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Party Like A Pirate
From Virginia Bentley: REPLY Ahoy there Mateys! Nothing like sliding into your birthday celebration with a splash. Host your birthday party, beginning-of-school year celebration, or "just because" soiree at Grapeland Water Park. You have your choice of pool area and option to add on the lazy river or recreation pool features. Private party options are available. Take the stress out of the party experience; let us host your event so that all you need is your swimsuit, sunscreen and friends. Corporate rentals and fundraising opportunities are available as well. The best part is you don't need all your buried treasure to afford the experience. Call 305.960.2950 for more information.*
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Doctor, Doctor!
From Shelly Sherman: REPLY I would like recommendations for a dentist and a dermatologist who will see patients on a Saturday near the Brickell area. Your help is appreciated.
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South Florida Real Estate in the News From Ashley Cusack: REPLY  South Florida real estate made headlines this week for its stellar performance! You probably saw Wednesday's article by Douglas Hanks in The Miami Herald business section. The article discussed a recent Case-Shiller study showing that "property values are up 14% for the last 12 months, its best yearly increase since May 2006." South Florida has had 17 straight months of value increases! The article also cites that values in Miami are still 41% off from the real estate peak, but I challenge that statistic. That might be the case when you look at all of South Florida, but in most of our markets, we are closer to the "height" than that already. Looking at the non-waterfront home market in Coral Gable s, the peak of the market was in 2006 when prices per square foot topped off at $4 05. We are currently averaging $3 22/square foot, which is a 20% difference. Slowly and steadily, the market is improving! To learn more, visit my website HERE.* |
Shape Up
From Bianca Morales: REPLY I am looking for someone to do my eyebrows. I used to go to a woman named Tilza who worked at Nordstrom in Coral Gables, but she is no longer there. If you know where she is working or if you have someone else to recommend, I'd love to hear from you.
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In Good Repair
From Tamara Richards: REPLY We could really use a recommendation for someone reliable and trustworthy to make some repairs to our porch and possibly our roof. The person needs to be experienced as some columns may need to be replaced, not just patched. I appreciate your suggestions!
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Does Clutter Interfere With Your Life in Some Way?
From Dr. Kiara Timpano: REPLY For instance, does clutter in your home affect your family members or prevent you from inviting people to visit your home? If over the age of 18, you and/or your family member may be eligible to receive a free diagnostic screening and treatment referral information. Compensation may be provided. To learn more, please contact us at 305.284.5394 or email us HERE. To visit our website click HERE.*
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Roll Out the Carpet
Can you recommend a reliable carpet installer who works in the Grove area? Thanks!
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Keep on Hand
I am looking for a handyman to do some basic tasks like painting an outdoor fence, pressure cleaning, caulking, water seal wood gates, fix outdoor lighting and removing a concrete slab. Your recommendations will be very helpful.
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Come Clean
From Jennifer Lopez-Gottardi: REPLY Do you know of a good car wash service/person who can come to my house in the north Gables area bi-weekly? All suggestions welcome!
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Stain Stoppers! From Team JAB 
JABBERS, it's almost that time when your kids go back to school - and come home covered in stains! We want to know your best tricks for getting the mess out of clothes, backpacks, and everything else in between. From ink and grass stains to fruit juice and chocolate, how do you get those stubborn stains out? Send your invaluable tips HERE and they will show up in our Back to School Special Edition, hitting your inbox on Tuesday, August 13th. Happy JABBING!
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Get Moving
My daughter needs to move a couch and possibly other furniture into her apartment near the University of Miami. Do you know of any helpers who can assist her? Thanks!
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Termite Talk
From Tamara Richards: REPLY We suspect we have termites but would like to have a company come take a look. We are already familiar with Orkin so alternate recommendations are very much appreciated.
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Seeking Magazine Sales Associate
Looking for a highly motivated and reliable sales associate to work at South Florida community news publication. Position is flexible. Candidate must take initiative and follow directions. The position is commission-based with the potential of earning $60K+. No experience necessary. Inquire to learn more!*
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Assistant/Secretary Needed for Immediate Hire
Small, family-owned real estate investment company looking to hire a personal assistant/secretary as soon as possible. Position is full time but part time could possibly be considered. Computer knowledge (specifically Excel and QuickBooks) a plus. Must be easy to get along with, responsible and motivated. Please send cover letter and resume HERE for consideration.*
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Furnished Rental Needed
One of my colleagues had a house fire last week and her house is uninhabitable. She and her family would like to rent a furnished month-to-month rental that allows one small dog anywhere in the Zoo Miami area (preferred) or Kendall, South Miami, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and Coral Gables. Any recommendations for furnished rentals in that area would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!*
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Furniture Finds
Has anyone been to the office furniture warehouses in Hollywood and Pompano? I'd love to hear about your experience so I can determine if it's worth the drive! Thanks.
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School Switch
From Teresa Palczynski: REPLY I am considering moving my sixth grade daughter to Carrollton. She would be coming out of the public school system so I'd love to hear from anyone who had a similar experience. What was the transition like? Do you recommend tutoring for the entrance exam? Thank you for your feedback.
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Need a Housekeeper? Get By With A Little Help From Your Friends. From Team JAB  We could all use a helping hand around the house now and then, but determining who to trust with your most precious belongs (and loved ones) can be daunting. That's why we can now feature your Household Help request in our newsletter for a small fee. Whatever your household needs - housekeeper, live-in nanny, pet sitter, elderly caregiver or Saturday night babysitter - just click HERE to submit your request today. We'll prominently feature it in an upcoming issue, so your fellow JABBERS can share the secrets to their household success. Or, you can continue to use our free Household Help website by click HERE. |
It Takes Two
From Carolyn McCarthy: REPLY My two daughters are going to different schools this year so I'm trying to figure out how to be in two places at once! Is anyone interested in carpooling from Gables by the Sea to Riviera Prep or Carver? I hope to hear from you.
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Catch a Ride
I am looking for help with transporting my son to Palmetto High in August. Do you know of a driver who can pick him up at 6:45 am and take him to school? Thank you!
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Family Room Furniture for Sale
From Francine Tomas: REPLY Selling custom made family room wall unit with pullout columns for storage, two leather Pottery Barn sofas and ottoman, two custom silk and mahogany chairs, and coffee table. Asking $2,800 for complete room. Dimensions of wall unit are 8' x 13'. Originally paid $16,000 for the unit. Reply above for more details.*
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Couch, Armoire and Rug for Sale
Selling antique camelback sofa with clawed feet in great condition ($300 OBO), custom built armoire/TV entertainment unit made of solid wood ($400 OBO), wool 5' x 8' area rug ($100 OBO). Please reply above for more pictures or if interested.*
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Selling Pine Queen Sleigh Bed
From Corey Gonzalez: REPLY Beautiful solid pine queen size sleigh bed for sale. Comes with Sealy Posturepedic Plush mattress, box spring and down comforter (with or without duvet cover). Sheets and shams from Neiman Marcus, if desired. Asking $450 for everything OBO. If interested, reply above.*
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Pili Carrera Nursery Set for Sale From Michelle Sanchez: REPLY Selling Pili Carrera fairy nursery set, which includes two bumpers, comforter, two fitted crib sheets, one flat sheet, diaper stacker, crib skirt, two baby pillow cases, three decorative pillows, basket towel, and diaper changer. Entire set for $150. Perfect for grandma's house! Pick up in south Gables, 33143. Reply above for more photos or if interested.*
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The Old College Try
We are looking to furnish a college apartment with a dining room table and chairs, two dressers, a coffee table and bar stools. If you have furniture for sale, please contact me!
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Book It
From Beatriz Reynaldos: REPLY I am a first grade teacher looking to expand my classroom library. If you have any used books that you would like to sell or if you know where I can find some, please let me know!
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Like Riding a Bike
From Kassandra Perez: REPLY
I am currently on the hunt for a gently used cruiser or mountain bike, not a street bike, for my tall fiancée. The bike would preferably have tires that are a minimum of 28 inches in diameter. If you are looking to sell yours, please let me know!
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