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Halloween - It's Tricky
From Victoria Assa, Editorial Director 
Every late October, I spend part of my weekend frantically searching for last minute Halloween costumes. Usually, my kids know exactly what they want to be so my search is specific and extremely productive. This year, my children wanted to "google" ideas.
I now understand why this is the very scariest day of the year, especially for mothers who are faced with a plethora of choices fit for a Madonna/Britney/Miley performance.
I had no idea that I would have to justify to my 10-year-old son why he can't have a shiny, gold "big daddy pimp stick" or a combat costume with its own assault rifle and bullet belt (all available on Amazon)! Nor did I have the patience to explain to my 8-year-old daughter what a French maid is (available in children's size 8-10) and why our housekeeper doesn't wear an outfit like that.
Thankfully, my children settled on something we could all agree on: my daughter will be a '70s "groovy girl" (not my favorite decade but this costume actually has pants!) and my son will be Run from Run-D.M.C. (don't judge me). The thick gold chain with a huge dollar sign and a matching grill that says "hip hop" is not ideal but this was the best I could do in a "tricky" situation. Happy "Trick" or Treating (I know, I can't stop).
Hopefully the Halloween tips you'll read about in this newsletter will help make the day more fun than frightening!
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Speech Solution
From Aisa Pinto-Ramirez: REPLY My father recently had a stroke and is in need of speech/language therapy. He is currently staying with me in Miami but lives in Aventura, so any recommendations for excellent speech therapists in either of those areas or in-between would be much appreciated. Thank you!
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Bring to a Head
I have suffered from migraines all my life but lately they are getting much worse. If you have been treated by a neurologist in the Coral Gables/South Miami area who you highly recommend, I would love to hear from you.
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This License Plate Saves Our Kids!
From Staci Ehrenkrantz: REPLY Jump into action and help save a child's life! Lauren's Kids is a foundation fighting for the prevention of childhood sexual abuse. The organization needs your help in making this plate a reality. The plate titled, "Love and Healing," and designed by internationally acclaimed artist Romero Britto will help in the fight against childhood abuse.To enable this plate to become a reality, Lauren's Kids needs your help to reach the required pre-sale of 1,000 plate vouchers. The voucher fee is $35.50 and will be applied to the plate purchase. You can order directly online HERE.*
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JABBERS' Picks: Safe Trick-or-Treating Spots From Team JAB  JABBERS, we asked you where the safest and most fun places are to take your little ghouls and goblins trick-or-treating. There are so many great options! Check out a few of the top picks: Linda Reynolds said, "South Miami Merchants Association has Halloween trick-or-treating on Sunset Drive at most of the stores. Lots of fun and very safe!" Gaby Sosa said, "Santa Maria street in Coral Gables is always a hit! And the houses are wonderfully decorated." Boo Zamek said, "The northwest Gables/Country Club Prado area is a great place for the little ones." Marilyn Cale said, "Miracle Mile is the best in the mid-afternoon. Good for grown-ups too!" Michelle Castellanos said, "By far, Hampshire Homes in Homestead on 117th Avenue and 118 Street. The houses have northern feel to them and everyone goes all out with their Halloween decorations. If you're with small children, it's a good idea to get there early. It gets pretty packed by 7:30 pm!" Emilie Wernick said, "The north Grove off Tigertail, between Aviation and 22nd Avenue, is packed with festive kids and their parents on Halloween. It's really cute and the neighbors get very into the whole affair." |
Lose 10 Pounds in 30 Days!
Are you frustrated with your soft tummy, love handles or jiggly arms? Have you tried every fad diet and exercise craze to get back in shape? It's time to get your body back! At Fitness Together, we offer private, one-on-one personal training to give you the fastest results possible. No gimmicks. No fad diets. Just real results. Exclusive to JABBERS only, try our "Get Your Body Back Weight Loss" program to lose 10 pounds in 30 days for 50% off! Click HERE for more info.*
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Make the Fur Fly
I have inherited my mother's full-length mink coat, but do not wish to wear fur. Do you know of a reputable fur dealer who might make us an offer? Thank you.
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Do You and Your Closet Need a Fall Makeover?
 Stylists are not just for celebrities, so let Kim Rodriguez of KR Personal Style help turn your closet into a well tuned "store." She will clean out and create new outfits by just shopping in your closet - and whatever isn't there, she can shop for it. Free up space in your closet for pieces that make you look and feel amazing now! Please call 305.989.1671 or email her HERE. Visit her website HERE or Facebook page HERE.*
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All Dressed Up From Team JAB  You gave us some great feedback on the best places online to buy Halloween costumes. To make sure your child is the talk of the town on All Hallows Eve, take a peek at your top picks. Happy trick-or-treating! - Costume Express
- Chasing Fireflies
- Spirit Halloween
- Baby Cheapskate
- Costume Craze
- Amazon
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Mac Attack
From Marika Puyana: REPLY Do you know of an IT person who can help me fix applications not currently working on my Mac and help me connect all my other Apple devices? Your suggestions will be very helpful.
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Bring the Whole Family! Kids Film Fest Promises Fun
 Don't miss the first Miami International Children's Film Festival, with premieres of the best in global "art house" films for kids, at the Coral Gables Art Cinema, 260 Aragon Avenue, this October 25 to 27. Highlights include an opening night party and screening of AninA, an animated film that is Uruguay's official submission for this years's Best Foreign Film Oscar; short films for kids as young as 3; Magic Piano in 3D with live piano accompaniment; hands-on workshops for kids 6-18; and a daytime carnival. Tickets and more HERE or call the information line 786.385.9689.*
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Beautiful Alfred Browning Parker Home in Pinecrest
8800 SW 64 Court
$1,250,000
Alfred Browning Parker graces Pinecrest with a magnificently renovated 4 bedroom/4 bath home featuring coral rock details, beautiful beamed ceilings, travertine floors, Cuban windows and doors, impact glass, two fireplaces, updated kitchen with wood cabinets and stainless steel appliances. Beautifully landscaped and gracefully situated around oversized covered patio and pool area with built in gas grill. Master suite offers gorgeous bath with privacy patio surrounded by coral rock wall. Basketball half court, laundry room, den, office on walled acre lot. Truly special! For details, watch this video HERE, visit www.8800SW64Court.com, or contact Ashley Cusack (305.798.8685, email or website). EWM Realtors.*
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In the Picture
Is there a photographer you recommend to take shots of my family, including two young children? I hope to hear from you.
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Let it Snow!
From Lauri Kassewitz: REPLY I am spearheading a Mitzvah Day project for my temple and we are providing a snow day experience for local underprivileged children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience snow. We are looking for an ice company that is able to deliver a large amount of ice at the end of February to resemble a hill made of snow. If you have experienced snow in Miami at a birthday party or event and know of a company that can deliver a large amount of ice, please let me know!
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Are Your Holidays Stressful? Here's a Tip
From Netty Parente: REPLY The holiday season is stressful. We run around shopping for the best bargains, planning holiday meals and decorating our homes. Who has time for a spotless house? You know people are going to drop in or be invited, so when are you supposed to find time to clean? De-stress during the holidays by hiring a green service to clean your carpets, rugs, kitchen and bathroom floors. After, just knowing that the house is ready for visitors, is pure heaven. You will then be able to concentrate on other things, like enjoying the holidays. Click HERE for more information.*
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Let's Get Physical
My son could use physical and occupational therapy but I am having a hard time finding a center that caters to teenage boys with sensory and movement issues. If you have any suggestions, I would love to hear from you. As an alternative option, we would consider an athletic coach who could come to our house to work with him on sports skills. If there is anyone you know of, please send his/her contact information my way!
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Come in Costume From Team JAB  Halloween is the most wonderful time of the year for some kids. Help make the day extra special for deserving children who may not have an opportunity to dress up by donating new or gently used costumes for kids of all ages. Both Junior League of Miami and Kristi House are collecting costumes to brighten the day for kids who need to have a little fun. Click HERE to coordinate donations to Junior League of Miami and HERE for Kristi House.
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Sink Your Teeth Into It
From Corinne Bayer: REPLY I am looking for a great dentist for my son. Do you know of an English-speaking pediatric dentist in the Pinecrest area? I appreciate your valuable recommendations!
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Meet Dr. Bango, Your New South Miami PCP!
 MyCare Health Partners is proud to introduce, Dr. Kim Bango as your new South Miami primary care doctor. Dr. Bango is board certified in Family Medicine and a graduate of Universidad Central Del Este. She completed her residency in Family Medicine at Akron General Medical Center. Dr. Bango enjoys a variety of issues seen in Family Medicine like the opportunity to care for families as a whole. Her special interests include women's health care, diabetes, and dermatology. Located in South Miami, MyCare Health Partners accepts most major insurances. Click HERE to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bango or call 786.528.3000.*
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A Terrifying Treat  JABBER Kristina Pritchett provided us with this recipe for a spooktacular side dish to serve to your Halloween guests. Scary and scrumptious, it serves 10-12.
Spooky Spider's Nest Seven Layer Dip Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) can refried black beans
1 (1 1/4 ounce) envelope taco seasoning
1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, drained (or jalapeņos if you like it hot)
1 cup salsa
1 cup sour cream
1 cup guacamole
1 1/2 cup shredded cheese
2 green onions, sliced
2 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup chopped fresh tomato
A couple large bags of tortilla chips Instructions: - In a small mixing bowl, stir together the refried beans and taco seasoning.
- On a large festive Halloween tray, spread the beans in an even circular shape. Leave room around the edges for the garnish.
- Sprinkle green chilies over. Smooth salsa over. Smooth guacamole over.
- Place your sour cream in the end of a plastic bag. Cut the corner off. Squeeze sour cream on top of guacamole in several concentric circles (or octagon shapes for a more authentic look). Using a knife or the handle of a fork, run lines lightly through the sour cream to make the web shape.
- Sprinkle lettuce in a circle around bean dip. Sprinkle tomatoes and green onions over. Sprinkle cheese over.
- Garnish with a creepy "plastic" spider and serve with lots of tortilla chips!
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Let's Play Ball!
From Stephanie O'Day: REPLY I am looking for a private baseball coach for my son. All suggestions are welcome!
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Dining Table and Buffet for Sale From Belkis Lorenzo: REPLY Elegant dining room table and buffet for sale. Dark cherry wood - in great condition. Table sits six people and measures 83" x 44" and buffet 62" x 19." Asking $400 for both. Buyer must pickup from home in the Miami Lakes area. Reply above if interested.*
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Furniture for Sale
Crate & Barrel dining table (pictured), seats eight ($250), Crate & Barrel wood desk ($500), mahogany bedroom set (originally $10,000, now $2,100 for the set or pieces sold individually: queen sleigh frame $900, set of two end tables $600, six-drawer tall chest $750). Reply above for pictures and more detail. Pick up in Miami Beach.*
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Selling Couch and Loveseat From Belkis Lorenzo: REPLY Couch and love seat for sale in great condition. Dark beige color with dark wood trim. Couch measures 89" x 36" and loveseat 48" x 36." Asking $350 for both. Pickup in Miami Lakes area. If interested, reply above.*
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Keep on Truckin'
We are considering buying a Ford F-150 or similar. This would be an extra vehicle for use by a teen driver as well as for hauling bicycles, Home Depot purchases, etc. We've never had a truck, so any input on what to look for is appreciated. Referrals to late model light trucks for sale are also appreciated.
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Dog Duty
From Kyndal Campbell: REPLY I am in need of a reliable and trustworthy pet sitter to care for my crate-trained eight-month-old Brittany spaniel for a few days in November. Is there anyone you recommend?
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A Moving Experience
From Marcy Rosenzweig : REPLY I am in need of moving boxes so if you have any, I will happily pick them up. Thanks!
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