9.4.2012 Kendall Gazette

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One of Miami’ Community Newspapers ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Connecting local businesses.

ENDALL GAZETT E K communitynewspapers.com

305-669-7355

SEPTEMBER 4 - 17, 2012

Soccer Festival expects this year’s attendance to double BY RICHARD YAGER

History of Cuban ‘Yayabos’ memorialized at Blue Lakes

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rowds that could double last year’s estimated 5,000 soccer players and fans are expected in Kendall for Miami’s second annual Soccer Festival, Sept. 29-30, according to its entrepreneurial innovators, Alan and Scott Georgeson. The 2012 Festival will attract even greater numbers of youth league teams from South Florida to compete in tournament play, based on early registration numbers already exceeding those of 2011, Scott Georgeson said. “This year’s festival is hosting teams from under-5 years through under-18, expanding last year’s attendance that began with under-9s,” he explained “We are hoping to announce the appearance of a known soccer star or celebrity once again for this year’s festival,” Georgeson added. He noted Abby Wambach, star player of the U.S. Olympic women’s team, kicked off the Miami Festival in 2011. The 2012 festival hosts both adult and youth soccer competitions with a court of tented concessionaires, providing soccer specialties, food and music at Kendall Soccer Park, 8011 SW 127 Ave. Buffalo Wild Wings and Anthony’s CoalFired Pizza, two of the major co-sponsors, will provide special fare to accompany a first-time license for beer and wine service at the festival. The Georgesons, who established the first Soccer 5 program in the U. S. three years ago, organized the two-day festival in 2011 to serve as a backdrop for a year-

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SOCCER, page 6

Beacon Council Update BY GRANT MILLER

Publisher The folks at The Beacon Council say we got a bunch of it wrong so here it is in their own words: Dear Mr. Miller: We write to correct the factual mistatements in your article about The Beacon Council as follows: 1. You stated: The Beacon Couincil received 50 percent of the occupational license surtax. In fact The Beacon Council received 28 percent of the occupational license surtax. At left, Arturo Weiss Jr., nephew of Cuban tennis great, and Ms. Weiss admire Dr. Juan Weiss sign at Blue Lakes Park tennis court unveiling. To the immediate right are Jorge Bravo and Miami-Dade parks director Jack Kardys. At far right, Miami-Dade Commissioner Javier Souto stands behind Esperanza Bravo, historian, and Gladys Bravo, among Yayabo celebrants. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY RICHARD YAGER

T

he name “Yayabos” continues to have special meaning in Kendall. The memory of Dr. Juan Weiss, a Cuban and U.S. tennis legend, became the newest chapter in

Yayabos’ history at Blue Lakes Park Tennis Courts in August. Celebrating the former tennis star were more than 50 members of the Yayabo Softball Club, calling themselves “Yayabos” because so many grew up in

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TOP-RATED INTERNATIONAL STUDIES CHARTER SCHOOL NOW ACCEPTING ENROLLMENT

WWW.ISCHS.NET

YAYABOS, page 6

SEE ENTIRE LETTER ON PAGE 8

SWEET TOMATOES raises $5,200 to benefit YMCA (See story page 4)


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Septembeer 4 - 17, 2012


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

350 kids in foster care enjoy shopping spree in Kendall

Voices For Children president and CEO Nelson Hincapie and board of directors chair Gail Applerouth pose with two participating children and their bag full of new clothes for the school year. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY AMANDA MARTIN

Members of the Miami-Dade community came together on Aug. 15 to prepare 350 children in foster care for the new school year. Thanks to a partnership with Old Navy and Office Depot Foundation, the Old Navy at the Shoppes at Dadeland closed to the public from 6 to 9 p.m. to allow MiamiDade foster children a chance to shop privately for $75 worth of clothes for the new school year. Additionally, Elevation Burger, Lime Fresh Mexican Grill, Dominoes and Thierry’s Catering handed out meals to the more than 600 individuals who turned out for this event. Children participating in this event are part of the Kinship Care Program and the Transitioning Youth Project (TYP). Angelica, a participating teen from the TYP, expressed her gratitude to Voices For Children Foundation for putting together this special event for her and her peers. The Transitioning Youth Project works to ensure youth leaving the foster care system have the adult relationships, education and skills they need to become successful adults. “I am so excited to have some new outfits and a pair of shoes to wear to school and work,” she said. “I’ve been working and going to school for almost two years now and sometimes it can get rough. I really appreciate Voices For Children Foundation for helping me and other kids in my situation.” Celita and Eva, young sisters who participated in the Kinship Care Program were grateful for their new clothes as well

exclaiming, “I love my sparkly shoes!” The Kinship Care Project, where children are placed with family members rather than licensed foster homes, works to ensure these families receive appropriate services like access to financial assistance, educational support and medical resources. With difficult economic times for families, as well as businesses, these partnerships demonstrated the impact that can be made when communities band together. “We strongly believe that it takes a community’s effort to help children break the cycle of abuse and neglect,” said Nelson Hincapie, president and CEO of Voices For Children Foundation. “We are thrilled that members of our community have stepped forward for our event to help these students start off the school year with pride and confidence.” Voices For Children Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that raises funds to ensure that every abused, abandoned, and neglected child in Miami-Dade County has a court appointed Guardian ad Litem and that financial assistance and other resources are available for their accompanying health, educational, and social needs. Guardians ad Litem are trained, court-appointed adults who serve as the representative voice for abused, abandoned, and neglected children involved in dependency court proceedings. There are more than 3,000 children in Miami-Dade County’s foster care system and currently 1,184 children are unrepresented by Guardians ad Litem. For more information please visit <www.BeAVoice.org>.

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September 4 - 17, 2012

Sweet Tomatoes raises $5,200 to benefit YMCA

Customers enjoy the 45-foot salad bar during Sweet Tomatoes’ preview fundraiser. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY TRACY MARKS

Sweet Tomatoes, an award-winning restaurant specializing in made-fromscratch soups and salads, raised $5,200 for the YMCA of Greater Miami during its preview fundraising event in August. Now open, Sweet Tomatoes’ 45-foot salad bar offers fresh, seasonal vegetables and tossed salads, made-from-scratch soups and handcrafted muffins, focaccia, breads and desserts. Guests dined at Sweet Tomatoes’ new Kendall location in The Palms at Town & Country, and paid just $5 for an all-you-can-eat experience, of which Sweet Tomatoes donated 100 percent to the YMCA of Greater Miami. The YMCA a non-profit that provides programs — child care, sports, before and after-school care, aquatics, day camps, teen programs, adult fitness and senior programs — in four family centers, three preschools, and more than 60 elementary and middle schools, and park locations throughout Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. “The pre-opening fundraiser was a great success for the restaurant and the Y,” said Hector Inchaustegui, general manager of Sweet Tomatoes. “We love the mission of the organization and are excited that we are able to give back to the community with the help of all of our guests during the three-day event.” The new Kendall restaurant will be the ninth location in the Southeast Florida

region and will accommodate 160 guests. Sweet Tomatoes offers a rotating menu of more than 100 original, made fresh daily recipes featuring signature salads, soups, bakery goods and hot pasta sauces, at an all-you-care-to-eat price. All food is prepared without the use of artificial flavors, colors, additives or artificial trans fats. A different food theme is featured each month and the most popular menu items are rotated every two weeks. Sweet Tomatoes seeks to be a vital and contributing part of each community it operates. To reach this goal, restaurants offer a “Fun-Raiser” program through which charities, churches, schools, athletic teams, Scout troops and other non-profit organizations may raise funds by hosting in-store events. The non-profits are invited to hold a special event in a Sweet Tomatoes restaurant and a portion of all event sales will be donated back to the non-profit. The restaurants assist in marketing the nonprofit’s event by creating master flyers for distribution and promotion. In addition, Sweet Tomatoes restaurants are encouraged to participate in the community on a local level by means determined appropriate by restaurant management. Sweet Tomatoes in Kendall is now open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on Sundays. For more information call 305-5951995 or visit online at <www.sweettomatoes.com>.


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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MDX need ‘rail review’ before changes Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN Robert Maristany’s letter in The Herald August 25 hit a sympathetic note, so we reprint the Miami resident’s comment in full: “The last thing South Miami needs is an ugly toll-road lane on the Busway. The initial goal was that this road would encourage commuters to ride a fast bus and skip the car. I see the Busway as a huge success and a precursor to extending rail transit south in the form of heavy rail or light rail as many U. S. cities have done. “Now that we have rail service to the airport, and the possibility of private rail to take us to Orlando, let’s continue South Miami-Dade with rail. It will convert our area into a true mixed-transportation metropolis,” he concluded. Quoted in the ayem papyrus about Busway conversion to Sunpass for private vehicles, Pinecrest Mayor Cindy Lerner termed the idea “insulting” and added that she believed the agency was trying to distract attention from its study, a charge denied by PR spokesperson Tere Garcia on behalf of her bosses. The first and last public meeting about a Busway Xway was held April 3 by the MDX to update a newly-appointed13member Community Advisory Committee on the study. Even at the onset of that review, several members were appalled to hear an engineer blithely speak about building overpass vehicles bridges at major east-west street intersections to provide non-stop traffic on Busway express lanes.

“Bridging” SW 104 and 112 Streets for motor vehicles as well as a half-dozen more cross streets further south could easily cost hundreds of millions. And what would be the scope of integrating a traffic pattern for The Falls shopping plaza at S. Dixie Highway and SW136 Street or Jackson South Hospital at SW 152 Street? MDX may have more than a few questions to answer at its next citizens’ meeting, including a growing concern that while the agency continues planning more and bigger toll roads, how about bankrolling part of its growing Sunpass revenues for light or heavy rail expansion? We’re well aware that extending Metrorail in South Dade must await more favorable economic times and better County Commission long-term transportation budgeting and/or bonding, Nevertheless, the idea to siphon a percentage of those 50-cent tolls to establish a year-to-year ‘kitty’ for long-term rail service on existing MDX right-of-ways certainly makes sense to us. Even if only for our grandchildren and great-grandchildren to enjoy! Next session of Kendall Federation of Homeowners Association set for Monday, September 10 at 7 p.m. to hear Schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho update the ‘state of schools’ both in Kendall and countywide. Session as usual takes place in the civic pavilion adjoining Regal Stadium Theaters in Kendall Village Center, 8624 SW 124 Avenue. We suspect you’ll hear a strong pitch for the $1.2 billion bond issue to renovate dilapidated schools and improve technology throughout the county, proposed by Carvalho and approved for balloting Nov. 6. Initially termed a “no-brainer” by supporters, the measure is likely to get heavy-support in this neck of the woods.

Kendall Gazette

6769 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355, Fax (305) 662-6980

www.communitynewspapers.com

PUBLISHER .................................................................................................................................. Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz WRITERS, COLUMNISTS.............................................................. Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Diane Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller, Walter White LEGAL ADVERTISING ...................................................................................................................... Georgia Tait BOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................. Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT.....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............................................................ Denise Cebrero, Isabel Ortega, Cristian Ortiz PUBLISHER EMERITUS .......................................................................................................................................... Ron Miller MIAMI COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Homestead News, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens Tribune, Palmetto Bay News, Opa Locka News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. Please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.

Our only question: how do you weigh school repairs against equally-needed water and sewer pipe replacements, both costly bond programs that may have Joe Taxpayer’s head swimming in debt by November 7? Kendall voting ousting East and West Community Council incumbents led to post-balloting comment that an organized campaign was directed against members who have steadfastly supported retaining the county’s UDB (Urban Development Boundary). That means keeping an eye on who applies for what when UDB boundary changes are up for votes in coming zoning board hearings. In another corner, West Kendall activists are focusing on county use of optical scanning machines, claiming they do not create voting logs, are subject to “freezing” that results in data loss, and do not have proper controls to protect against fraud or human error in their operation. Proof offered is that the ES&S DS200 machines purchased by the county have been decertified by the Federal Elections Assistance Commission (EAC) with the manufacturer assessed $200,000 in damages in one out-of-state election utilizing that equipment. “Calm & collected” reports Officer Laurel Wade of Hammocks District Police Community Outreach, noting absence of motorists clogging Kendall streets during and after Tropical Storm Isaac passed by last week. “It was nice to see people staying inside and following storm advice,” she told a Citizens Advisory Committee meeting August 29. A Valencia resident added that the “usual lake” heavy rain produces on SW 104 Street at the community entrance was greatly relieved by an owner-paid effort

that cleaned storm drains since the county’s Public Works Dept. hasn’t yet solved the flooding issue. Free sand bags to help keep Isaac away from the door were available August 26 from Commissioner Dennis Moss whose name in big black letters appeared on each bag as their benefactor. Hmmmmm…wonder if tax money paid for both the imprinting and the bags! Misspelled press release for a second annual “Tunnel-to-Towers 5K Run/Walk” in Fort Lauderdale at 7:30 a.m. September 8 notes the course runs through the Henry E. Kenney Tunnel (New River Tunnel). That’s the Henry E. KINNEY Tunnel (with an “I”) named for a friend and highlyregarded Fort Lauderdale Herald editor whose constant editorial plugs in the 1950’s were recognized as the primary impetus that led to building the first US 1 tunnel between Key West and Canadian border. A little more respect on the copy desk, please! Longtime diner dessert treat (blueberry pie with a hefty scoop of vanilla) hard to find in everyday shopping these days. Gal at Norman’s checkout says “We don’t make them – but have you tried our blueberry scones?” And when was the last time you saw a blueberry pie at Publix? Whatever happened to blueberry pies? Thought of the Day: Education is a better safeguard of liberty than a standing army. — Edward Everett Richard Yager contributed to this column. Got any tips? Contact me at 305-6697355, ext. 249, or send emails to <michael@communitynewspapers.com>.


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SOCCER, from page 1

September 4 - 17, 2012

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round program popularizing adult and youth recreational leagues. Now in partnership with Miami-Dade Parks Department, the Soccer 5 programs create year-round league play for both adult and teenage teams, as well as the Soccer Academy that teaches soccer at early ages. The academy began the first of two eight-week sessions on Sept. 3, for its fallwinter season, providing soccer lessons from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights. The first program continues through Oct. 26. A second session is slated from Oct. 29 through Dec. 21. Special attractions for academy mem-

bers include participation as ball boys/girls for FIU matches, attending a Miami Heat game and liaison for coaching by an English Premier League Club. A rumbling thunderstorm postponed for a week a barbecue for 40 youngsters and family members that celebrated ending of an innovative 10-week summer camp. The first-time summer program was designed to teach toddlers to teens (ages 3-12) basics of the Soccer 5 game played on reduced-sized fields. For festival information, visit <www.miamisoccerfestival.org>; for detail on all Soccer 5 programs, visit <www.soccer5usa.com/miami>.

YAYABOS, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– the village of Sancti Spiritus in Cuba where the Yayabo River flows. Most are active today in the Association of Espirituanos in Exile, headquartered in Hialeah. Among them were Arturo Weiss, nephew of Dr. Weiss, and Ms. Esperanza Bravo, the association’s curator of the documents and a bibliographer of Cuban History at the University of Miami. The sign honors Dr. Weiss as “one of the most popular Cuban players of the late 1940s to early 1950s era, recalled Miami-Dade Commissioner Javier Souto who spearheaded the endeavor preceding an Aug. 4 tennis court dedication program. Representing his country in many international tournaments in the 1940s, Dr. Weiss was Cuba’s national singles and doubles champion, won a U.S. professional doubles title in 1970. He later trained tennis professionals as a professional himself at Key Largo’s Ocean Reef, Tampa Yacht Club, New Orleans Country Club, and tennis director at Hollybrook Golf and Tennis Club in Pembroke Pines. Speaking in Spanish, Souto honored both Dr. Weiss and the Yayabo Softball Club who, as members of the association, have assisted fellow Cuban immigrants while preserving the history of their former home. Blue Lakes Park has become premier meeting place for the Yayabo sports aficionados, noted Jack Kardys, Miami-Dade Parks Department director, adding that since its organization in 1962 as one of the first Cuban groups to help resettle exiles, it continues to play a major role in the park’s expansion. The Yayabo Softball Club, a non-profit organization, led the development of a

park shelter and picnic facilities with Commissioner Souto’s backing by raising $150,000 to contribute to complete the project in 1996. In November, the Blue Lake Yayabos “will celebrate 50 years of service to our people and the community,” said Amado Garcia, active in the association that numbers more than 600 member families representing over 3,500 individuals who have resettled in Florida and the U.S. Sancti Spíritus (“Holy Spirit” in English) is the capital city of Sancti Spíritus Province in central Cuba, one of the best preserved cities in the Caribbean since the time of the sugar trade. Known worldwide for its famed Medical University, it is also the home of the Sancti Spíritus Gallos baseball team. One of Cuba’s older bridges was built with clay bricks over the Yayabo River in 1815 for pedestrians and has “thus far resisted heavier modern traffic,” according to Wikipedia. Today, the name “Yayabo” in Miami thrives prominently in many Latin neighborhoods from “Yayabos Custom Kitchen Cabinetry” in West Kendall to the “El Yayabos Cafeteria” on E. 25th Street in Hialeah. An annual fishing tournament called “Copa Yayabo” is hosted at Miami Outboard Club and Selecciones, the association newsletter that later became El Fenix del Yayabo, is said to be Miami’s longest continuously published monthly magazine. “It just shows how important Yayabos are to our community,” concluded Kardys speaking before a cluster of elderly and lively Yayabo tennis players, softball team and Blue Lakes Park boosters, all who have now come to call Miami their home.


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Kmart scheduled to close 104th St. store Sept. 23 BY RICHARD YAGER

A Kmart store open for 25 years in Kendall is scheduled to close its doors on Sept. 23. The Kmart on S. Dixie Highway, at 7900 SW 104 St., is holding final sales before shutting down as the major tenant of three buildings in the 18-plus-acre property. Before becoming a Kmart in 1986, the store space was occupied by Builders Square. The store adjoins a Winn-Dixie outlet and a third free-standing restaurant building at the corner of S. Dixie Highway and SW 104th Street. “Our option to renew our lease was denied,” said Kim Freely, spokesperson for the giant retail corporation in Hoffman Estates, IL, adding she could not provide any additional details. “The Sept. 23 date is the closing listed, but it could vary by a day or two.” The store has about 40 employees, all of whom will be given the opportunity for transfer to other Kmart locations, depend-

ing upon existing vacancies, she said. Meanwhile, one store manager said a “Super Target” store (along with a new Office Depot) is scheduled to replace Kmart. A Target corporate spokesman would not confirm that information. Ownership of the property is listed as Suebert Corporation, headed by Bertram J. Goldsmith/CEO, who could not be reached for comment before publication. In 2012, the property carried a total market value of $24.7 million, a $5 million assessment increase over its $19.5 million value in 2011. Building market values also increased from $3.6 to $8.5 million in the same 12-month period. The shopping area originally was built in 1963. The third building, once occupied by Fuddrucker’s, was reopened as “Betty’s Best Burgers” which closed its doors leaving the current building unoccupied. A new Fuddrucker’s outlet subsequently was opened at 14875 S. Dixie Hwy. in Palmetto Bay, some 40 blocks south of its former location in Kendall.

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School loses media program; alumni come to the rescue BY WILL BARROSO

The G. Holmes Braddock High School alumni have not forgotten their roots. In fact, they have formed a non-profit organization, called Focus on Tomorrow, to rebuild and nurture the creative platform that helped launch their careers. Successful Braddock High School alumni from across the country, including Channel 10’s Christina Vazquez, are reuniting in an effort to support high school art programs that promote creativity. To that end, Focus on Tomorrow is kicking-off a “Save the Arts” fundraising campaign. During the first phase of the campaign, multiple companies from throughout the Miami area are joining forces with Focus on Tomorrow to reinstate a TV Production course for students at Braddock. The course was eliminated after state education budget cuts. Focus on Tomorrow is targeting an

$80,000 “Save the Arts” fundraising goal — the price tag of a new television studio package that will help revive the TV Production course at the high school. Focus on Tomorrow’s “Save the Arts” Dinner and a Movie with Christina Vazquez fundraiser will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 12, at the Paragon Theater in Cocowalk, 3015 Grand Ave. in Coconut Grove. Admission price is $35. Purchase tickets online at <www.focuson-tomorrow.org>. Dinner will be provided and the cost of admission includes the first round of drinks for each guest. Raffle tickets will be sold for $5 and additional drink coupons will be available. Focus on Tomorrow NFP Inc. is a 501(c)(3) corporation. The non-profit was founded in April by Juan Reyes, Will Barroso, Valerie Bleus and Juan Gonzalez, but many other alumni have since contributed to the development of the organization.

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The folks at The Beacon Council say we got a bunch of it wrong... So, here it is in their own words

September 4 - 17, 2012


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Miami-Dade schools selected to pilot innovative program BY RAQUEL REGALADO

Leading the nation in providing educational opportunities for students, this fall Miami-Dade County Public Schools will offer an innovative program that will equip high school students with additional skills for college and beyond. The program — AP|Cambridge Capstone Program — was developed by the College Board and the University of Cambridge International Examinations, a not-for-profit department of the world renowned University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. The capstone program consists of: • A seminar taken in the 11th grade including writing, researching and team projects which explore topics of global relevance such as genetic engineering, climate change, and online and interactive communities. • A research project taken in the 12th grade, growing out of the skills developed in the seminar course and ending with a 4,500- to 5,000-word research paper. • AP courses of a student’s choice, usually taken in 11th and 12th grades. Students who pass the seminar course and research project and score 3 or higher on at least three AP exams will receive the AP|Cambridge Capstone Credential. By completing

the capstone program, students will demonstrate skills beyond those acquired in individual AP courses. Trained within an international curriculum framework, participants will develop stronger research, communication and collaboration skills necessary for today’s global marketplace. The new program will be offered in about 18 schools in the United States and abroad. Miami-Dade County Public Schools was selected to pilot the program due to having one of the largest, most comprehensive AP programs in the country — ranking first in the nation in both the number of AP exams taken by Hispanic/Latino students and the number of Hispanic/Latino students earning a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam. Four high schools in the county were selected to pilot the program for the 2012-13 school year: Barbara Goleman Senior High School, Miami Palmetto Senior High School, Miami Southridge Senior High School, and North Miami Beach Senior High School. Students interested in participating in the AP|Cambridge Capstone Program must apply through the annual magnet application process. Additional information may be requested from the schools offering the program this fall: Barbara Goleman, 305-362-0676; Miami Palmetto, 305235-1360; Miami Southridge, 305-2386110, and North Miami Beach, 305-9498381. Raquel Regalado is a member of the Miami-Dade School Board.

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Family Medicine Center Opens at West Kendall Baptist Hospital New Baptist Health Facility Services Community’s Primary Care Needs

By Tim Dodson West Kendall Baptist Hospital’s new Family Medicine Center is now open, providing area residents with high-quality primary and preventive care. West Kendall residents can now turn to the Baptist Health Medical Group Family Medicine Center for all routine care needs such as physical examinations, flu and allergy shots, non-emergency illnesses and injuries, chronic disease management and well-child visits. “The opening of the Family Medicine Center is the next step toward our goal of creating a comprehensive health care community here,” said Javier Hernández-Lichtl, CEO of West Kendall Baptist Hospital. “Residents already turn to us for inpatient care, surgeries, emergencies, and childbirth. Now we can serve their day-to-day care needs, as well.” Conveniently located on the first floor of the hospital’s Medical Arts Building, the Family Medicine Center is designed to provide leading practices in education and compassionate care in a hightech and high-touch environment. The state-of-the-art facility includes six private exam rooms, an on-site laboratory, a group meeting room, a teleconference center and wireless computer tablets for patient registration. Current staff includes two physicians and a support team of medical assistants, patient representatives and care coordinators. More full-time physicians will join the center as the patient load increases. Beginning in 2013, four new physicians in training will join the staff each year for a three-year family medicine residency. “We invite West Kendall residents to call us to arrange a tour of our facility,” said Dr. Agueda Hernández, director of the Family Medicine Center. “Our staff will be here to welcome you and assist in setting up your new care relationships and transferring records.” Dr. Hernández and Dr. Manuel Torres, the staff physicians, have admitting privileges at West Kendall Baptist Hospital as well as other facilities in the Baptist Health South Florida network. The Family Medicine Center will also function as the primary training ground for the West Kendall Baptist Hospital Family Medicine Residency Program, which will launch in the summer of 2013 in affiliation with Florida International University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. “There is a critical shortage of primary care physicians across the country, and South Florida is no exception,” said Dr. David Brown, chair of Family Medicine at West Kendall Baptist Hospital and chief of Family Medicine at FIU’s medical school. “Our vision for the residency program is to attract and train highly skilled physicians, and then retain them to serve the community.” The Family Medicine Center is locate-d in the Medical Arts Building adjacent to West Kendall Baptist Hospital, 15955 SW 96th Street. The center accepts most major forms of health insurance, including Aetna, Florida Blue, United Health Plan, and Neighborhood Health as well as Medicare and Medicaid. For more information or to make an appointment, call 786-467-3140.

September 4 - 17, 2012

New dentist in Kings Creek Plaza says, ‘Open wide and relax...really!’ BY CASSANDRA WILLIAMS

If you are determined to keep those pearly whites their whitest, but you are afraid of the dentist’s chair, Dr. Ravi Ramjit, DDS has a message for you: “Going to the dentist is less painful than it used to be. So is talking to your dentist.” Clean, neat and orderly in appearance, the young doctor smiles with charming confidence as he says that it is a motto he follows with pride and believes can revolutionize modern dentistry. What’s more, he’s inviting you to come in and experience this kind of patient care first hand. Dr. Ramjit practices dentistry at the office of Dr. Paul Plasky, DDS, PA, in the Kings Creek Shopping Plaza located west of Dadeland Mall. The clinic has been open to the public for the past 35 years and has established itself as one that puts patient health first. With its friendly staff and tranquil environment, the dentist’s chair practically welcomes you into it. Once your dental work is complete, relax just outside the office in a mini picnic area where colorful parrots fly overhead. The location offers the convenience of a spacious parking area and a wide array of choices for shopping and dining in the plaza. Dr. Ramjit received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Miami with a major in chemistry and minors in math and biology. He went on to pursue a career in dentistry and completed his training at Howard University in Washington, DC. Excelling in his detailed handiwork and active involvement in the community, Dr. Ramjit graduated from Howard University with three awards of distinction in removable prosthodontics, restorative dentistry and community dentistry. Born and raised in the Miami-Dade County, Dr. Ramjit is no newcomer to the neighborhood. From age 5, his keen interest in baseball lead him to participate in the Howard-Palmetto Khoury League and he continued to do so for 10 years. Later, at 14, he umpired for the league until he reached the age of 22. He has volunteered at numerous hospitals in Miami and over the years has developed a personal understanding of the needs and changes in the community. Dr. Ramjit grew up under the guidance of his father, Ravi Ramjit Sr., who is an entrepreneur and owner of a well-known body shop in the locality, European Auto Collision. As a child, he was inspired by his father’s dedication, hard work and success in establishing his business. With this in

Dr. Ravi Ramjit is pictured with a patient. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

mind, he decided to make a commitment to the oral health of the public in providing safe and durable dental work. When asked what one of the most important things to consider is when choosing a dentist, Ramjit recommends personal comfort. “One of the most important things to consider when you choose a dentist is whether you feel comfortable with that person. Are you able to explain symptoms and ask questions? Do you feel like the dentist hears and understands your concerns? It is crucial that the patient feels comfortable expressing their fear or anxiety, or asking questions about a procedure.” Most of us already know how important it is to brush and floss daily and to see a dentist periodically. However, Dr. Ramjit’s emphasis on modern dentistry being all about the long-term oral healthcare partnership, helps to put things into perspective for his patients while rendering it easy to make those once dreaded trips to the dentist reassuringly pleasant. The office address is 8100 SW 81 Dr. in Kendall. Dr. Ramjit currently is accepting new patients, so call today at 305-274-3730 and Ana or Kelly will be happy to help you make an appointment.


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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‘The Great American Songbook’ concert to feature Amy Alvarado BY GARY ALAN RUSE

Palmetto Bay resident Amy Ioné Alvarado will be performing with Justin John Moniz in “The Great American Songbook,” a special concert presented by the Miami Conservatory of Music on Saturday, Sept. 15, at 7:30 p.m. The Miami Conservatory of Music Recital Hall is located at 2911 Grand Ave. in Coconut Grove in the Mayfair Promenade. Celebrating a century of American music, the program features songs from such American musical greats as Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Hoagy Carmichael, George and Ira Gershwin, Rodgers and Hammerstein, and others. Amy Alvarado finds the program a perfect fit for her. “I am so honored to be performing such luscious music,” Alvarado said. “It has been one of my dreams to be able to perform a concert set of songs from ‘The Great American Songbook.’As a student in college, I performed with the FIU Big Band singing the songs of Cole Porter and Duke Ellington and Gershwin. “Each song on the program has a special place in my heart. The beautiful melodies along with our arrangements will take you back to a time of love and joy. I am very excited to perform alongside my talented colleagues, Mary and Justin.” Alvarado began her singing career at age 17, winning an honorable mention award in the Young Arts Competition of the National Foundation for the Advancement of the Arts. She studied opera and classical voice at Florida International University, earning her BM in Vocal Performance, and continued her professional training at the Florence Voice Seminar, the Crittenden Opera Workshop and Opera in the Ozarks. She has served on the vocal faculty of the Miami Conservatory of Music since 2007 and her recent credits include CabarlesQue and Broadway Medley. Dr. Mary Adelyn Kauffman is a pianist, vocal coach and conductor who has recently returned to Miami from Europe where she enjoyed a career as a freelance pianist, coach, and choral and orchestral conductor in Germany, Italy and Spain before accepting positions within the German state-supported opera system, first in Hildesheim and later in Chemnitz. She now is a member of the adjunct faculty at Florida International University. Tenor Justin John Moniz has starred in more than 50 operas, operettas, and musicals to-date in performances around the

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country, including the New York Grand Opera, Opera New Jersey, Lake George Music Festival, Orchestra of Northern New York, New Jersey Symphony, College Light Opera Company, Hawaii Performing Arts Festival, the Miami Bach Society, SoBe Institute of the Arts, Florida Grand Opera and others. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to present such an exciting program for the Miami community this fall,” Moniz said. “As classical musicians, it’s not every day that we have the opportunity to cut loose and let the emotion dictate what notes and rhythms come out of our mouths. The program will feature songs much of our audience will know and love with some new and exciting surprises along the way. “Our collaborator, pianist Mary Adelyn Kauffman, is a musical genius, particularly in the genre of American music. Her innovative improvisations and flawless playing leave you in awe. Ms. Alvarado and I are honored and humbled that she has agreed to join us for this project.” General Admission tickets are $15, Student tickets are $10. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit <www.miamiconservatoryofmusic.com>, or call 305-442-2283. Tickets, if available, also can be purchased at the door 30 minutes prior to the performance.


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September 4 - 17, 2012

Sandy Paster and teammates prove nothing is impossible BY NANCY EAGLETON

For Sandy Paster, team captain of Mission Not Impossible, raising money for American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Relay for Life of East Kendall is a year-round job. The next event, Mar. 9, 2013, marks the Relay for Life of East Kendall’s 15th year, and Paster has been there since the beginning. In fact, she and Jill Jennings were founding members of the ACS’s signature event in Miami-Dade Central. “The first Relay for Life was held at Tropical Park,” Paster recalled. “We had 11 teams participate and raised $14,000. In 2012, our Relay event had 48 teams and raised our goal of $270,000.” Miami-Dade County now boasts 28 Relays, all raising money for the same cause. After serving as chair for a few years of the original Relay, which has now morphed into the East Kendall Relay for Life, Paster co-founded the team Mission Not Impossible in 2002. Since then, Mission Not Impossible has raised more than $237,000 for the fight against cancer. Paster began her volunteer relationship with the American Cancer Society in 1994

after serving as her father’s caregiver during his battle with melanoma — a battle he ultimately lost. “It had a profound impact on my life,” she said. “I knew I had to do something to help fight this disease.” Paster has not only helped family and friends battle the disease; she also is a two-time ovarian cancer survivor. Her surgery and treatments in 2005 did not keep her away from that year’s Relay event, was she was welcomed with a banner that read “Nothing is Impossible for Sandy Paster.” Paster and Mission Not Impossible work tirelessly year-round to raise money for the annual Relay. On Wednesday, Sept. 12, 510 p.m., the group will host Girls’ Night Out at The Melting Pot, located on Sunset Drive near 117th Avenue. The event is open to the public and reservations can be made by calling 305-279-8816. In addition to hosting fundraising events, team members make and sell platters of homemade baked goods “lovingly made by Mission Not Impossible,” and handmade bracelets made of Swarovski crystals and sterling silver. The team also has published a 365-page cookbook titled Cooks with a

Sandy Paster (standing, second from right) and Team Mission Not Impossible have raised more than $237,000 for the fight against cancer. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Mission, which is full of recipes and tributes. The items are all available for sale at the team’s events and on its website at <www.TeamMNI.com>. For the last nine East Kendall Relay events, Mission Not Impossible has ranked first in most funds raised by an individual, non-business, team. The team also has consistently placed in the top three for best decorated tent. At events, the group raffles gift baskets, jewelry, makeup, spa packages and gift certificates generously donated by sponsors, while the local classic rock band Deck 52 entertains the crowd. “Deck 52 has become our signature band,” Paster said. “They are baby boomers, like me, and a few are also cancer survivors. Their support has been so important to our success.” Paster attributes Mission Not Impossible’s success to the many supporters and sponsors who have joined the team members in their fight against cancer.

“We’re like a freight train chugging along, adding cars, picking up people along the way and building up steam,” Paster said. “It’s important to find something in life that makes you smile every day, and this is one of those things that make me smile.” Paster has found yet another way to fight cancer. Through the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, she volunteers to speak with local medical school students about the signs and symptoms she experienced prior to her cancer diagnosis. She said the organization is seeking other volunteers. “Because ovarian cancer is difficult to detect, this knowledge will help the students better diagnose and treat patients,” Paster said. To learn more about Mission Not Impossible, make a donation or purchase the team’s items to benefit the American Cancer Society, visit online at <www.TeamMNI.com>.


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

American Girl announces October opening of new store in The Falls BY ROBERT HAMILTON

Girls in the Miami area will soon have a new reason — and place —to celebrate as American Girl unveils its new retail experience at The Falls on Oct. 6. The new 16,000-square-foot retail site, located on the east side of the mall near Bloomingdale’s, features a fun, casual environment where girls and their family members and friends can shop for their favorite American Girl products, enjoy lunch and dinner, or an unforgettable dessert in the Bistro, treat their doll to a new ’do in the Doll Hair Salon, and celebrate birthdays or other special events. “We’re delighted to debut a beautiful new store in Miami and welcome our American Girl fans in the area to a special place designed just for them,” said Jean McKenzie, executive vice president of American Girl. “Whether they’re celebrating a birthday, shopping for the latest American Girl products, or sharing a meal in the Bistro, girls and their families will find that the new store promises to provide a lasting memory they’ll treasure for years to come.” The American Girl store will feature a complete assortment of the company’s popular historical and contemporary dolls, along with a selection of doll outfits, accessories, “Dress Like Your Doll” clothing, and a variety of the company’s best-selling books. Beyond shopping, girls who want to treat their dolls to a new look can visit the Doll Hair Salon, where they can choose from a variety of salon services — from ponytails to pampering to pierced ears. And, for fashionable young fans, the store will feature a “Creativi-tees” boutique, where girls can create stylish T-shirts for themselves and their dolls. Girl-friendly events and activities based on the American Girl characters and awardwinning books also will be available throughout the year. Guests can drop in for a relaxing meal, a decadent dessert, or for Anytime Tea service in the 60-seat casual and contemporary Bistro. Whether it’s familiar favorites like Cheesy Cheese Pizza and Best-Ever Chicken Tenders, or more adventurous dishes such as Mediterranean Salad with Herb Vinaigrette, the Bistro menu features nourishing choices with playful twists that are sure to be a hit with girls and their parents. To enhance the dining experience, favorite dolls are seated next to their owners in American Girl’s trademark “treat seats” and provided their own doll-sized menus. The new American Girl store is designed as the ultimate place to celebrate birthdays and other special occasions. Girls can have a Bistro party or opt for a deluxe celebration in a private party room where they can enjoy an

The new American Girl store will feature a Doll Hair Salon (top) and selection of award-winning books (below).

organized game and craft, special food and cake, and party favors. For more information on the new American Girl store or to make dining or party reservations, call 1-877-247-5223. To learn more about American Girl or to request a free catalogue, call 1-800-845-0005, or visit <www.americangirl.com>.

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September 4 - 17, 2012

Early education program has openings for kids 3-4 BY SANDRA RODRIGUEZ

Preschool and VPK slots are available for children ages 3-4 at the United Way Center for Excellence in Early Education Demonstration School, Educare of Miami-Dade. This high quality early learning center will prepare your child to enter kindergarten ready to learn and succeed. The Demonstration School has earned accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC, <www.naeyc.org>) one of the nation’s leading organizations of early childhood professionals. In 2010, the

school also received the Accredited Professional Preschool Learning Environment (APPLE) accreditation, awarded by the Florida Association for Child Care Management, another leading accrediting organization. The school also is a member of the Educare Learning Network, an exclusive network of high-quality, high-performing early education centers from around the country. For more information call 305-631-7600 and ask to speak to the family engagement team. For more information about United Way, visit online at <www.unitedwaycfe.org>.

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Sprint, Ford to give away pace car from Ford Championship Weekend BY CHRIS MADIGAN

Sprint and Ford have added to the excitement of the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup as one lucky fan will drive away with the actual pace car — a 2013 Ford Fusion Titanium — being used during Ford Championship Weekend at HomesteadMiami Speedway, Nov. 16-18. NASCAR fans can enter now through Sunday, Nov. 18, to win the car at Sprint.com/Speed via their smartphones or online and at the Sprint Experience, Sprint’s mobile-marketing display located in the midway at every NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. Fans visiting the Sprint Experience at the Homestead-Miami Speedway will get a first-hand look as the 2013 Ford Fusion Titanium will be on dis-

play at the track. The winner also will receive an allexpenses paid trip for two to Las Vegas during NASCAR’s Champion’s Week to attend NASCAR After the Lap where the Ford Fusion Titanium will be presented. The all-new Fusion, signed by every Ford Racing driver, features a 240-horsepower engine, 2.0 liter EcoBoost Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection, six-speed transmission with paddle shifting, remote start, 18-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. The contest is open to legal U.S. residents who are at least 18 years of age at the time of entry. For complete Official Rules, including entry instructions and prize details, visit sprintpacecargiveaway.com.


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September 4 - 17, 2012

Recall 2012 SAVE & RESCUE THE Village of Palmetto Bay

Mayor Shelley Stanczyk

Councilwoman Joan Lindsay

Our schools and churches are under attack by Mayor Stanczyk and Councilwoman Lindsay

THIS MUST BE STOPPED!!! Concerned citizens of Palmetto Bay are seeking to recall the Mayor and Councilwoman. Their outrageous spending of Village tax dollars on frivolous lawsuits and needless appeal against Palmer Trinity School (Palmer) has lined the pockets of Village attorneys with more than $600,000 in legal fees. It has exposed the Village to millions of dollars in legal fees owed to Palmer, and has opened the door to Palmer’s pending counterclaims against the Village in excess of $13 millions. This money could have been used to improve our parks, roads and police protection.

When asked, please sign the petition to recall the Mayor and Councilwoman. Paid political advertisement paid for by the committee to "Recall Palmetto Bay". 14135 Farmer Road, Palmetto Bay, FL 33156 www.RecallPalmettoBay.com


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden announces premier Bridal Event

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden provides a romantic backdrop for a garden wedding. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY PAULA FERNÁNDEZ DE LOS MUROS

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden soon will be in full bloom with brides-to-be this fall when it hosts its premier Bridal Event and Fashion Show on Thursday, Oct. 11. Unlike any other bridal event in South Florida, Fairchild’s event presents guests with a true “Garden Wedding Experience” as well as providing them with local resources to help make their special day truly unique. The Bridal Event will feature a cocktail hour on the Garden House lawn where guests can enjoy drinks and sample light bites prepared by Fairchild’s preferred caterers. Guests also will have the opportunity to peruse local vendors — ranging from full-service caterers and photographers to florists and linen rentals — that will be on site. The highlight of the “Garden Wedding Experience” is a fabulous runway fashion show that takes place in the breathtaking Bailey Palm Glade, Fairchild’s most popular location for wedding ceremonies. The fashion show will feature original bridal gowns and bridesmaid’s dresses by Ella Bella Rozio, dresses for the mother of the bride and children’s wear from Bloomingdales and menswear by Hugo Boss. Tickets will be sold in advance and at the door. Each ticket admits two guests. Tickets are $40 for general admission in advance, $60 for VIP admission in advance and $50 for general admission at the door. For tickets and more information, call Anna Brickner at 305-663-8058. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is dedicated to exploring, explaining and

conserving the world of tropical plants. Considered the greatest tropical botanic garden in the world, Fairchild exhibits some of the tropical world’s most rare and beautiful plants within the tapestry of an iconic landscape design. Fairchild is a one of the world’s best science, conservation and education-based gardens and a recognized international leader in both Florida and international conservation. It has conservation programs in over 20 countries throughout the tropical world including Indonesia, South America, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia. Fairchild’s palm and cycad collections are considered the best collections in the world and are nationally recognized by the American Public Gardens Association. It is also home to the American Orchid Society. The Fairchild Challenge is the largest science-based education program in the U.S. reaching more than 150,000 schoolchildren. Fairchild hosts popular events like the Chocolate, Mango, Orchid, Food and Garden, Ramble and Edible Garden festivals, as well as an internationally acclaimed art program, GardenMusic Festival, concerts, plant shows and sales, and evening events and is the cultural and community hub in South Florida. Fairchild is a not-for-profit organization with 45,000 members and over 1,200 volunteers. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Rd. in Coral Gables. Admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors, $12 for children 6-17, and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members. Information is available online at <www.fairchildgarden.org>.

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September 4 - 17, 2012

Books and Books offers unique birthday parties for children BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

Parents are always searching for new and innovative birthday party ideas — and the best ones are held outside of the house. Books and Books has just introduced a birthday party package for kids who love books. The party concept was developed by Becky Quiroga Curtis, who is both the children’s book buyer and the children and young adult events coordinator at Books and Books. “We haven’t officially had a birthday party,” Quiroga Curtis said. “We have one booked for September. We had one before about a year-and-a-half ago.” That party was for a child’s second birthday and there were a total of 10 children. “We read a story and did a craft,” Quiroga Curtis said. “I knew the age of the children before hand, so I planned a craft specifically for the age group. It only required the children to peel off a couple of stickers.” Quiroga Curtis said they were approached by the parents wanting the host the party at the store. “I basically took the idea, and ran with

it,” she said. That party went well, so she decided to expand on the concept. There is a variety of packages available, depending on the age of the child and how much the parent wants to spend. She thought about some of the things she would like included if she were the parent. “I tried to make it as inclusive as possible,” she said. “You don’t have to do anything. You pick the theme. We started adding to it, and did the package.” Each package has everything needed, including lunch and the cake. “All you have to do is show up,” Quiroga Curtis said. The packages are set up for 12 children but extra children can attend at an additional cost with a maximum of 18 kids. The books sparking the party themes for ages 1-6 include Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, The Cat in the Hat, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. For ages 7-11 the books are Magic Tree House, Junie B. Jones, The Phantom Tollbooth and Percy Jackson. She said they are keeping to those books so they can have reusable decorations including giant plywood cut-

Book-loving children now can have their birthday parties at Books and Books. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

outs of characters. A basic party includes peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with chips, or individual pizzas; lemonade or juice box for 12 children, cupcakes and candles, all paper goods, use of courtyard space, decorations (balloons, streamers, etc.), a personalized

oversized birthday card, Books and Books gift registry, personal bookseller host or hostess, 20 percent off any purchase made the day of the party and one hour of complimentary parking for any vehicle in attendance. Quiroga Curtis said they have three timeslots available each day and could even have up to 21 a week, but she’s not planning to book the maximum number because of the many other events hosted by Books and Books. Since word has gone out about the birthday parties, Quiroga Curtis said there have numerous requests for information. Flyers have been printed and Quiroga Curtis said in-store signage is important. She has long been the children’s book buyer but recently took over the children’s events as well. She has started putting out a newsletter to make sure everyone knows about Books and Books children’s event. “I’m trying to come up with different things to make our place awesome, kids wise,” she said. Books and Books Coral Gables is located at 265 Aragon Ave.; telephone 305-4424408.


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Former South Miami mayor pens controversial thriller novel BY GARY ALAN RUSE

Horace G. Feliu is perhaps best known to South Floridians as a former three-term mayor of the City of South Miami, a past Rotary Club president, and for his brief acting appearance in the recent film Hidden Rage. But now he has a new title to add to the list of accomplishments — published author. Feliu’s new thriller novel, his first, is called The Nativity Conspiracy, and its thriller plot mixing Biblical history with UFOs and conspiracy theories seems certain to outrage leaders and some members of the Catholic Church as well as other Christians. Although his novel is new, his interest in writing is not. “I have been writing since I was a teenager,” Feliu said. “Like many teenagers, I was a big fan of comic books and wrote my first comic book story, complete with drawings of a super hero by the name of Eagle-Man. Eagle-Man was an Air Force pilot by day and winged vigilante by night. “Using his eagle wings, he would swoop down on unsuspecting villains along with his sidekick…get this…don’t laugh…Sparrow Boy! Fortunately, this temporary phase in my budding writing career only lasted a short time.” Feliu said that the idea for his novel is rooted in his religious upbringing, but that his background in biomedical engineering and medical technology was a factor as well. “I was born and raised a Catholic where the Immaculate Conception is an important part of the Church’s teachings,” Feliu said. “We have had the technology to duplicate an immaculate conception for several decades now through in vivo or in vitro fertilization so I imagined that advanced beings could have certainly done the same back in Biblical times. I derived the plot of my story from that point realizing it would be an intriguing story, especially to conspiracy and UFO buffs.” Feliu said that the project began in 2002 with a working title of “LukesGospel.com,”

FOOTNOTES

and although it had the basic plot and some of the intrigue, he was not satisfied with several of the characters, so he held back and did not work on it for several years. His family, job and public service also kept him from working on it for about five years. But once resumed, he found the writing process satisfying and exciting. “I enjoyed creating a unique and no doubt controversial plot while developing characters using personality traits from some of the people that I have known in my life,” Feliu said. “Cardinal Devivio for example is the amalgamation of several shady characters I have met along the way.”

Feliu’s favorite authors are James A. nicated by the Church, ridiculed and called a Michener, Charles Dickens, Dean Koontz and blasphemer for even thinking, let alone writIan Fleming. He said that in The Nativity ing, a story where even the main character, Conspiracy he identifies with the lead charac- Father Mat McDougal is a sinner,” Feliu said. ter, a cop turned priest who “My next train of thought gets caught up in a dangerwas that I am a man who ous mystery involving corbelieves in God without the rupt Vatican officials and need of a middleman or Italian Mafia bosses, all religious hierarchy created seeking an ancient scroll by men, no less and certainwith startling revelations. ly no more than I. I came to “Father Mat McDougal the conclusion that only is a product of Miami, and those who either have little like the city he has a wild faith in their own beliefs or side,” Feliu said. are insecure would take Feliu, a native of South offense to this story.” Florida, is happily marAnd what does he hope ried to Seida, his wife of that readers will take away 22 years, and has a daughfrom this thought-provokter, Sarah. Having coming novel? Horace G. Feliu pleted his undergraduate “To question what you (Photo by Lewis Feldman, Fineprint Studios). and graduate studies at would do if you discov–––––––––––––––––––––––– Florida International ered a scroll with an earth University, he works primarily in the bio- shattering revelation,” he said. medical field and also is an adjunct profesFeliu’s novel is available as an eBook on sor at a local college. Amazon.com and other sites, and in hardGiven his upbringing, he did find there cover and trade paperback editions. For was a conflict for him in writing about such information visit his website at <www.thena controversial topic. ativityconspiracy.com>. “At first I thought, what if I am ex-commuFeliu currently is working on a sequel.


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September 4 - 17, 2012

AT&T urges motorists to make 9/19 the last day they ever text and drive BY KELLY STARLING

AT&T is stepping up its efforts to stop the dangerous behavior of texting while driving. An intense 30-day push to get drivers nationwide to take the no-texting-while-driving pledge began on Aug. 15. The push is an extension of the AT&T “It Can Wait” campaign launched in 2009 and will culminate on Sept. 19 when AT&T asks all drivers to make a lifelong commitment to never text and drive again. “More than 100,000 times each year, an automobile crashes and people are injured or die while a driver was texting and driving,” said AT&T Florida president Marshall Criser lll, citing a statistic from the National Safety Council. “Our goal is to save lives,” Criser said. “I hear from far too many people whose lives have been forever changed by a textingwhile-driving accident, and together, we want to spread the word about how deadly a

single text can be. Texting and driving should be as unacceptable as drinking and driving. “We’re challenging everyone to take the pledge to never text and drive and to make it a lifelong commitment,” he said. “And we’re challenging all device makers and app developers to offer devices that come pre-loaded with a no-text-and-drive technology solution.” AT&T is encouraging those who take the pledge to share their promise with others via Twitter (#itcanwait) and Facebook. AT&T customers also are urged to use the free AT&T DriveMode app to curb the temptation to text while driving. When enabled, the app automatically sends a customized message to those texting you letting them know you’re driving and will get back with them when you’re at your destination. More details concerning the “It Can Wait” campaign can be found at <www.itcanwait.com>.

American Red Cross is seeking Spectrum Awards nominations BY PATRICIA ROJAS

The American Red Cross South Florida Region is accepting nominations for the 20th anniversary Sara Hopkins Woodruff Spectrum Awards for Women. The Spectrum Awards for Women annually recognizes women whose efforts have made significant contributions to the community in the following categories: Cultural, Education, Entrepreneurial, Healthcare, Hospitality, Philanthropy, Red Cross Service, South

Florida Ambassador, Volunteerism and Youth. A committee of local business and community leaders will select the award recipients, who will be honored during a luncheon on Mar. 5, 2013, at InterContinental Miami. To nominate a qualified woman, visit the website at <www.sflredcross.org>. The deadline for nominations is Friday, Sept. 21. For more information, or for sponsorship opportunities, contact Kenia Tedesco by email at <Kenia.Tedesco@redcross.org> or call 305-728-2515.


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What is robotic surgery? How does it benefit the patient? BY ERNESTO CARDENAS

surgeon-controlled tool to perform highly advanced laparoscopy. The surgeon still makes small incisions and places trocars as Recently I spoke they would in traditional laparoscopy. with a family member However, the surgeon introduces instruabout robotic surgery ments that are able to articulate even better and I was surprised to than a human wrist and fingers. The result see what little she is a remarkable improvement in precision. knew about this imporThe physician controls every movement tant topic in modern of the robot “hands” through movements gynecology. of his or her own hands. Visualization is Her impression was enhanced via a magnified high definition comical; a robot out of a science fiction movie 3D screen. Safety mechanisms include yielding a scalpel in some sort of space ship hand tremor control and freezing of instruoperating room. The truth is that robotic sur- ments when the surgeon looks away from gery has a lot less to do with a robot and a lot the screen. The robotic system functions more to do with providing a very specialized like a surgeon’s shadow; unable to pertool to the operating surgeon. form independent movements. Laparoscopy and minimally invasive The advantages of robotic surgery are surgery began over 100 years ago with the well documented and include short hospiidea that small incisions can be made in the talization, minimal pain, and rapid return body to introduce a camera and diagnose to daily activities. Also, the psychological disease. In the 1980s benefit of small coslaparoscopy gained metically pleasing We perform almost all major significant popularity scars cannot be surgeries robotically; especially thanks to new instruunderestimated. ments that allowed Our practice has cases that in the past would the surgeon to operate been using the da require a large incision. efficiently. Using Vinci robotic system long thin instruments for several years through small tubes called trocars, sur- with great success. We perform almost all geons were able to perform movements major surgeries robotically; especially with varying degrees of precision. This cases that in the past would require a large allowed for complex surgeries such as hys- incision. Often, patients requiring major terectomies and even cancer resection. surgery would postpone treatment indefiDespite advancements, traditional nitely due to concerns of a lengthy recovlaparoscopy is limited. Although a sur- ery; tolerating symptoms such as chronic geon’s hand can turn and swivel thanks to pain and bleeding. Now those same patients our wrists, rigid laparoscopy instruments seek us out to see if they are candidates for are limited to only one angle. This is a minimally invasive robotic surgery. major problem in patients with difficult For more information, contact Ernesto anatomy. These patients would typically MD, FACOG, at be offered traditional open surgery that Cardenas <www.bayshorewomenshealth.com>. For involved large incisions. Robotic surgery involves the use of a appointments, call 786-953-7651. MD, FACOG


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100 Montaditos increases presence in South Florida with new locations

Diners help celebrate the opening of 100 Montaditos’ Kendall location. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY JENNEFER MELENDEZ

Juan Gervás, 100 Montaditos CEO for the Americas, has announced that 100 Montaditos is right on schedule with store openings in the United States as it ambitions to have 14 stores across Florida and one in Washington, DC, by the end of 2012. Since its first store opening in January 2011, 100 Montaditos has left many in South Florida wanting more and the Spanish restaurant chain is happy to oblige as new stores opened during August in Kendall and Coral Gables. The two new locations will generate a total of 44 direct jobs in Miami-Dade County during a time when the housing market depression, high unemployment rate and cutbacks in government funding continue to affect the local economy. The Coral Gables location has opened its doors to the public and is conveniently located at 230 Miracle Mile, a dining and nightlife epicenter for the people who live and work in the city. Also opening recently was 100 Montaditos Kendall at 10501 N. Kendall Dr., located near shopping, offices, Baptist Hospital and Miami Dade College. The chain is best distinguished by the use of quality ingredients and economically priced menu items, among them jamon Ibérico (Iberian cured ham), of Spanish origin and recognized as the highest premium quality ham in the world. At $15 for an Ibérico Ham platter large enough to share, 100 Montaditos offers the Spanish delight at one-third of the market value, a price that remains clearly unmatched by any other store or restaurant in Miami. “We have been pleasantly surprised by the success of our brand in Florida,” Gervás said.

The Madrid-based chain, Spain’s top international restaurant franchise, has been a hit due to its strategic locations, fresh food, low prices and pleasant atmosphere. These advantages have prompted interested franchisees as far north as Boston to sign agreements with 100 Montaditos, though South Florida is and will continue to be the chain’s stronghold in the U.S. 100 Montaditos is named after its signature item, the montadito, a crunchy Spanish roll baked to order and jampacked with traditional Spanish meats, cheeses, sauces and other toppings. More than 100 types of montaditos, both savory and sweet, are available to choose from and they can be enjoyed at any time of day as a snack or meal. Along with montaditos, the restaurant is also known for such Spanish favorites as Blue Cheese, Manchego and Brie platters; patatas bravas, fried potatoes accompanied by a spicy red sauce, and assorted salads with an Iberian twist. Traditional drinks include cava, a sparkling white wine similar to champagne; tinto de verano, a blend of red wine and lemon-lime soda; sangria, wine mixed with chopped fruit, and clara, a blend of Spanish draft beer and lemon-lime soda. Founded in 2000 in Huelva, Spain and inspired by 19th Century Spanish taverns, the fast casual restaurant chain 100 Montaditos now operates more than 250 franchised restaurants in Spain, Colombia, Mexico, Portugal and the United States that together have served up more than 60 million montaditos. 100 Montaditos is owned by the Madrid-based restaurant holding company Grupo Restalia, which also operates the beer pub franchise La Sureña. For information about 100 Montaditos, visit 100Montaditos.com/US.

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September 4 - 17, 2012

Soccer Festival expects this year’s attendance to double BY RICHARD YAGER

Crowds that could double last year’s estimated 5,000 soccer players and fans are expected in Kendall for Miami’s second annual Soccer Festival, Sept. 29-30, according to its entrepreneurial innovators, Alan and Scott Georgeson. The 2012 Festival will attract even greater numbers of youth league teams from South Florida to compete in tournament play, based on early registration numbers already exceeding those of 2011, Scott Georgeson said. “This year’s festival is hosting teams from under-5 years through under-18, expanding last year’s attendance that began with under-9s,” he explained “We are hoping to announce the appearance of a known soccer star or celebrity once again for this year’s festival,” Georgeson added. He noted Abby Wambach, star player of the U.S. Olympic women’s team, kicked off the Miami Festival in 2011. The 2012 festival hosts both adult and youth soccer competitions with a court of tented concessionaires, providing soccer specialties, food and music at Kendall Soccer Park, 8011 SW 127 Ave. Buffalo Wild Wings and Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza, two of the major cosponsors, will provide special fare to accompany a first-time license for beer and wine service at the festival. The Georgesons, who established the

first Soccer 5 program in the U. S. three years ago, organized the two-day festival in 2011 to serve as a backdrop for a yearround program popularizing adult and youth recreational leagues. Now in partnership with Miami-Dade Parks Department, the Soccer 5 programs create year-round league play for both adult and teenage teams, as well as the Soccer Academy that teaches soccer at early ages. The academy began the first of two eight-week sessions on Sept. 3, for its fall-winter season, providing soccer lessons from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights. The first program continues through Oct. 26. A second session is slated from Oct. 29 through Dec. 21. Special attractions for academy members include participation as ball boys/girls for FIU matches, attending a Miami Heat game and liaison for coaching by an English Premier League Club. A rumbling thunderstorm postponed for a week a barbecue for 40 youngsters and family members that celebrated ending of an innovative 10-week summer camp. The first-time summer program was designed to teach toddlers to teens (ages 3-12) basics of the Soccer 5 game played on reducedsized fields. For festival information, visit <www.miamisoccerfestival.org>; for detail on all Soccer 5 programs, visit <www.soccer5usa.com/miami>.


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Miami-Dade County Parks help kids stay fit for life BY LAURA PHILLIPS

improve motor skills, movement knowledge, and social and personal skills. When making that back-to-school With parental permission, Miami-Dade checklist, your child’s health and well- County Parks will track and measure key being should top that list. The Miami- health indicators in participants, such as Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open blood pressure and Body Mass Index Spaces Department, in its long-standing (BMI), assisting parents and children to commitment to help keep our communi- make informed decisions about their fitty’s kids healthy and fit, invites parents to ness and nutrition needs. Upon completion register their children, ages 6-14, in its of the programs, participants will know “Fit-to-Play: Health, Wellness and Obesity how much their fitness levels have Prevention” Out-of-School Program. improved through charted documentation. Kids will enjoy fun, fully For the third consecutive year, Miami-Dade supervised programming The program County Parks has partafter school with activities operates at 34 sites nered with the University focused on fitness, nutrition of Miami UHealth System, and wellness, and developMonday through engaging it to provide ing their appreciation of Friday, 2 to 6 p.m., oversight of its Out-ofnature, science and the culthroughout the School Program’s health, tural arts. wellness and obesity preThe program operates at school year, vention initiatives. 34 sites Monday through including school UHealth also provides all Friday, 2 to 6 p.m., throughvacation breaks, of the health testing and out the school year, includeducation components for ing school vacation breaks, through June 6, these programs. through June 6, 2013. 2013. This unique program “Our evidence-based fitaimed at making fitness ness and wellness program encourages kids to stay healthy and fun for kids of all ages and abilities, active throughout their lives, and pre- includes children with disabilities. Under pares them with life skills that will help the supervision of Miami-Dade Parks certhem to reach their full potential and to tified therapeutic recreation specialists, become better citizens,” said Jack children with disabilities can choose to Kardys, Miami-Dade County Parks participate alongside children without disabilities or at sites exclusively made up of director. Each day’s session begins with home- children with disabilities. Miami-Dade County Parks offers transwork help, followed by Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids (SPARK) portation to pick up children at nearby activities. SPARK is an evidence-based, schools and transport them to the program outcome-oriented active recreation com- at select park sites for an additional ponent of the Out-of-School program, ded- charge. For more information, call 3-1-1 or visit icated to improving the quantity and qualParks’ website at ity of physical activity that children Miami-Dade engage in. It is designed to develop and <www.miamidade.gov/parks>.

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Hectorr Wiltz,, MD.,, CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami

Do you or someone you know have Tinea Pedis/Athlete’s Foot? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 years or older that suffer from Tinea Pedis “Redness, Itchiness, Maceration, Erosion, and/or Scaling areas in between your toes” to participate in a three [3] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication or placebo at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $150.00.

¿Tiene usted o alguien que usted conozca Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies/Pie De Atleta? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 18 años o más que sufran de Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies “Enrojecimiento, Picazón, Humedad, Erosiones, y/o Descamación entre los dedos de los pies”, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere tres [3] visitas. Seguro Médico no es requerido para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación o placebo a no costo. • Compensación por tiempo y transporte hasta $150.00.

For more information please call / Para más información por favor llame:

(305) 220-5222

11760 0 Bird d Road,, Suite e 452

Miami,, Florida a 33175 5 • www.fxmresearch.com m

Hectorr Wiltz,, MD.,, CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami

Do you or someone you know have Toenail Fungus? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 to 70 years of age that suffer from Toenail Fungus, to participate in a fifteen [15] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $950.00.

¿Tienee ustedd o alguienn quee ustedd conozcaa Hongoss Enn Lass Uñass Dee Loss Pies? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 18 a 70 años de edad que sufran de Hongos En Las Uñas De Los Pies, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere quince [15] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación sin costo alguno. • Reembolso por su tiempo y transporte hasta $950.00.

For more information please call / Para más información por favor llame:

(305) 220-5222

11760 0 Bird d Road,, Suite e 452

Miami,, Florida a 33175 5 • www.fxmresearch.com m

September 4 - 17, 2012

Boys and Girls Clubs to host annual ‘Wild About Kids’ Gala BY DUREE ROSS

Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade will host its sixth annual “Wild About Kids” black-tie optional gala, Saturday, Oct. 20, at the Four Seasons Hotel Brickell, 1435 Brickell Ave. Gala proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade and its many positive programs for 10,000 area children who need them the most. The gala was voted one of BizBash’s Top 100 Events of 2011. BizBash selects annual gatherings based on their impact on their respective industries and communities (and on the city) while innovating to stay on top. Guests will enjoy a unique “live” red carpet welcome, as well as a cocktail reception, live music, dinner, a silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind items, and more. Celebrity South Florida artist David “LEBO” Le Batard, who has supported Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade in the past, is donating a piece of his original artwork inspired by the organization’s mission statement to the silent auction. A step-by-step photographic documentation of the painting in progress, as well as a short video of LEBO, will be shown at the gala. LEBO also is leading two to three workshops at Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s after school programs throughout the year to help enrich and awaken the “artist” in participants. Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade alumna, 13-year-old Elizabeth Elias, will sing the national anthem to kick off the dinner program. A singer, dancer and model, Elias sang the national anthem at

the June 23 Miami Marlins’ game. Attendees, including South Florida’s top community leaders, will have the opportunity at the event to sponsor a child through donations. Once again, the gala emcee will be Lynn Martinez, anchor of WSVN’s Deco Drive. The gala is chaired by Lana DeSimone, Irene Korge and Eris Thomas. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Current sponsors are: Presenting Sponsor, Miami Marlins Foundation; Silver Sponsor, Hamilton Yacht Group South Florida; Bronze Sponsors, Jorge Luis Lopez Law Firm, Matty’s Sports, Coral Gables Executive Physicians, The Bermont Advisory Group and Irene Korge; Media Sponsor, Miami magazine; Liquor Sponsor, Bacardi, and Wine Sponsor, Epica Wines. Attendees will have the option to continue the celebration at an after party at the Four Seasons, which will include a full bar and tapas-style food. Admission to the after party is $50 per person. A cocktail reception begins at 7 p.m. with dinner and program starting at 8 p.m. After party begins at 10:30 p.m. Gala tickets are priced at $325 per person. After party tickets are priced at $50 per person. For tickets and table and sponsorship opportunities, contact Astrid H. Ehrenstein, director of special events and development, at 305-446-9910, ext. 30, or by email at <aehrenstein@bgcmia.org>. For more information about the Boys and Girls Clubs, visit online at <www.bgcmia.org>.


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First Woman President elected of Southeast Rabbinic Organization Jaime Klein Aklepi, rabbi at Bet Breira Samu-El Or Olom in Kendall, and Pinecrest resident is the first woman elected as President of the Southeast Central Conference of American Rabbis, (SEACCAR), the regional professional organization of Reform Rabbis which includes Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina and parts of Tennessee. SEACCAR is a region of the CCAR, the oldest professional Rabbinic Organization in the United States, founded in 1890. The mission of SEACCAR and the CCAR is to foster excellence in Reform Rabbis through professional development, personal growth, Torah study and additional education opportunities. “I am honored to serve as president of such an important and distinguished organization and to help further my colleagues in their roles as rabbis and spiritual leaders. There are increasing challenges facing synagogues and religious institutions today and the rabbi, as leader must be prepared as never before. Not only do we serve as spiritual leaders, teachers and pastoral counselors, we must

also be competent in leadership management and even in the use of the newest technologies.” As for being the first woman president, Rabbi Aklepi says, “I’m very happy to be the first woman in this role. Sometimes in the rabbinic organizations it can feel like a Jewish good ole’ boys network, but that’s changing. It’s important to acknowledge and celebrate the impact of women in religious life. I am always conscious of my ability to be a role model to other women.” Rabbi Aklepi has never been reluctant to be the first at something or to develop new programs or ideas. While she was the Hillel Director at the University of Miami, Rabbi Aklepi created and launched the first Birthright Program, the most popular Israel experience for young Jewish men and women. She is also a past president of the Rabbinic Association of Greater Miami, where she was the second women president. Today, Rabbi Aklepi serves one of the first combined Reform and Conservative congregations in the country. “Bet Breira Samu-El Or Olom is mov-

ing from an experiment in a new style of synagogue to its own special niche in the community. As we begin our fourth year as both reform and conservative we continue to embrace each tradition and offer multiple worship styles. At the same time, we are one institution and therefore for most of our activities and events, outside of worship, there is a seamless unity.” Rabbi Aklepi is looking forward to the challenges and rewards that will accompany her new role of president of SEACCAR.


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September 4 - 17, 2012

Check out the Miami Face Doctor’s Official Channel @ www.youtube.com/miamifacedoctor featuring Dr. Vijay Sharma in action Dr. Vijay Sharma Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon THE

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THERE IS A SOLUTION….. Pets’ Trust Miami. www.PetsTrustMiami.com Here is how: Two large high volume free/low cost, spay/neuter clinics that can perform up to 100,000 surgeries per year, compared to the current 15,000. Low cost veterinary care for families that qualify. Education programs Help families keep their pet through hard times

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September 4 - 17, 2012

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Local businesswoman bringing the magic of autumn to Grove BY LEE STEPHENS

Local entrepreneur Vanessa Goodis decided to play Mother Nature this year by bringing the magic of autumn to South Florida families at the first-ever Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch, taking place Sept. 29 and 30 at Peacock Park. “Growing up in South Florida, I never had the chance to experience the change in weather or seasons, especially when it came to fall,” said Goodis, event director of the Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival. “For the past few years it’s become particularly apparent to me that we’re missing out,” she added. “Friends and family around the country have been posting photos enjoying Harvest Festivals and Pumpkin Patches, and we just didn’t have anything like that here in South Florida.” To fill the void in the marketplace, Goodis has planned a wholesome festival that captures the beauty of autumn and allows South Floridians to experience a taste of the season — the Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival. As the name implies, the central feature of the festival will be a true pumpkin patch with more than 2,000 pumpkins shipped in from Amish farmers in upper Michigan. Families will have the opportunity to pick their favorite pumpkin from the giant patch at the center of Peacock Park, as well as personalize their pumpkins right on site in a huge tent stocked with every arts and craft supply that a kid could want. In addition to the pumpkins, families can walk right over to the Kid’s Fun Zone filled with rides and inflatable attractions for all ages. There will be a free “dress-your-own” scarecrow village where the kid in all of us can create a new family member and snap some memorable photos, Kids also will

enjoy finding their way through a hay bale maze that’s just tall enough for parents to still watch their youngsters from the outside. Plus, families have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of performances running all throughout each day in the event’s amphitheater that will seat 150 attendees per show. Adults will also be thrilled to explore and shop from 20 family-friendly vendors, and enjoy fare from the Foodie Court filled with items to satisfy every breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner craving. “Our team has worked hard to create the full autumn experience for our South Florida attendees,” Goodis said. “And we think we have planned a really great event that everyone in the family will enjoy and look forward to every year from now on. We’re hoping the Pumpkin Patch Festival becomes a new tradition for our community and its families.” This event has been built on a foundation of Goodis’ previous production experience; even at only age 30 she already has a long list of successful events and marketing campaigns under her belt. A graduate of the University of Florida, she now owns Promo Moxie Marketing, a boutique marketing and events agency headquartered in Fort Lauderdale. Her clients include vitaminwater, smartwater and GoGo squeeZ, just to name a few. In 2011, Promo Moxie produced a four-day festival on behalf of vitaminwater in Miami, and Goodis also worked with radio legend “Footy” to produce his annual Bubbles & Bones Gala for many years. For more information about Vanessa Goodis, Promo Moxie, or the Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch, contact Goodis directly at 786-525-8257 or send email to <Vanessa@promomoxie.com>. Visit the event website at <www.coconutgrovepumpkinpatch.com>.

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Deering Estate at Cutler offers free admission on PLAY Days BY JENNA NOORDHOEK

The Deering Estate at Cutler will offer free admission to all guests on Saturday, Sept. 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. as part of the annual Fee-Free “PLAY” Days. Guests can enjoy complimentary admission as well as hands on eco-art activities, science discovery programs, and historic house tours. The Fee-Free “PLAY” Days were created to honor the Deering Estate’s partner organizations and the community. On Sept. 15 the estate will honor the Scouts, but the entire public can enjoy a variety of programs and activities — all for free. Programs and activities scheduled for Sept. 15 include: • Historic House Tours at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 and 3 p.m. • “Book Nook by the Bay” program from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Education Booth. Theme: Scouts; Activity: Plant Detective Game where participants will go on a hike to find clues about different native plants. • Tableau Vivant/The Living Picture from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Join Deering Estate Artist in Residence Christina Pettersson and guests for a special outdoor drawing event. Pettersson created this

interactive art event as a way to link the estate’s past to the present. Costumed artist models will be carefully posed, as guests are invited to create onsite figure drawings and photographs. The approach marries traditional life drawing classes with the art forms of the stage and photography. Drawing supplies and easels will be provided, but guests are welcome to bring cameras, sketchpads, and other drawing materials. Food and beverages will be available for an additional fee. Food for purchase will be provided by Crepemaker and the Deering Estate Foundation. Guests are invited to “PLAY” — Preservation, Learning, Adventure, Year-Round — and enjoy the many tours, educational programs, and special events that the Estate has to offer. The Deering Estate at Cutler, a MiamiDade County Park, is located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. in Palmetto Bay. This 444-acre natural and archeological preserve and historic site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a center for education, culture and recreation. Historic house tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. and are free with estate admission. For information on the Deering Estate’s educational and cultural programs, visit online at <www.deeringestate.org>.


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CONTACT US NOW FOR AN ADMISSIONS VISIT (PRESCHOOL THROUGH 12TH GRADE)

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September 4 - 17, 2012

Celebrate MCM’s ninth birthday with $9 admission in September BY WOODY GRABER

Miami Children’s Museum (MCM) marks its ninth anniversary in its Watson Island location on Sept. 8. In honor of MCM’s ninth year, admission for Miami-Dade residents will be only $9 for the entire month of September. Children and families are invited to help MCM’s mascot, MiChiMu, celebrate his ninth birthday on Sept. 8, from noon to 5 p.m., with games, arts and crafts, an animal show, cupcakes and other fun activities throughout the day. The $9 September Birthday admission includes access to MCM’s interactive exhibits and daily programming. Admission also includes entrance to the return of MCM’s Wizard of Oz interactive exhibit opening on Sept. 22. Miami Children’s Museum is located at 980 MacArthur Causeway on Watson Island in Miami. Regular admission is $16 for adults and children, $12 for

Florida residents, free for children less than 1 year, and admission for members is complimentary. During the month of September, to celebrate the ninth birthday, Miami-Dade resident’s admission is just $9. Founded in 1983, Miami Children’s Museum is dedicated to enriching the lives of all children by fostering a love of learning and enabling children to reach their highest potential. The 56,500-square-foot facility includes 14 galleries, classrooms, and a 200-seat auditorium. The museum offers hundreds of bilingual, interactive exhibits; programs and classes, including special needs classes; Subway restaurant; Gloria Martin Kid Smart Educational Gift Shop and learning materials related to arts, culture, community and communication. To learn more about the museum, visit its website at <www.miamichildrensmuseum.

Studies Don’t Lie:

Patients Benefit from a Strong PCP Relationship

A

senior from Broward County is rushed to the emergency room because she mixed medications that are contra-indicated. Another bounced around from specialist to specialist, undergoing duplicate tests and procedures. All of this could be avoided. More than 100 studies document the critical role primary care physicians (PCPs) play in patient care. PCPs can be many things for a patient — their cheerleader, advocate and even their medical interpreter — but most importantly, the studies prove that having a strong relationship with a PCP leads to better quality of life, more productive longevity, and lower costs as a result of reduced hospitalization, improved prevention and better coordination of chronic disease care. AvMed Health Plans, one of the oldest Medicare providers in South Florida, has embraced a more PCPcoordinated approach to healthcare. The company recently introduced CenteredCare®, which puts the PCP at the center of every member’s care. According to Dr. Edwin Rodriguez, Medical Director at AvMed, this coordinated approach will lead to better health outcomes for patients. “Some 15-20% of Medicare hospital admissions are due to medication complications,” said Rodriguez. “By

by Christine Bucan

developing a strong relationship with your PCP, you can avoid this.” Louise Schendel, a senior from Margate who visits her PCP every three months, admits she would be lost without the lasting relationship she has built with her PCP over the years. “When I have a problem, I call him and he tells me exactly where to go and what to do. I feel like I have someone out there rooting for me,” said Schendel, an AvMed Medicare Advantage plan member for two years. “Without my PCP I wouldn’t have the confidence on where to go and what specialists to visit.” William Pena, M.D., a primary care physician who practices in Hollywood, often acts as an interpreter for patients who don’t always understand what a specialist recommends: "They want us to explain procedures. The best way to get better results is when a patient clearly understands what they have and how to interpret tests. They need to understand their options for treatment and they rely on their PCP to help." To learn more about the importance of building a strong relationship with your PCP, visit AvMedMedicare.org.


September 4 - 17, 2012

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Miami Seaquarium goes back to school with educational programs BY MARITZA ARCEO-LOPEZ

For more than 50 years, Miami Seaquarium has been a firm advocate of marine life education and conservation. Through its current interactive educational programs, Miami Seaquarium wants to continue its mission of educating students of all ages about the wonders of marine life. Miami Seaquarium hosts several educational programs, such as: Day Camps; Home School Days, and “Mommy and Me,” a program for mothers and young children. DAY CAMPS Offered as alternatives to Miami-Dade County Public Schools teacher workdays, kids in K-12 will explore various marine mammal species, what they need for their survival, their diet and what makes them unique. Additionally, students will enjoy exciting animal interactions, shows, art projects, games and marine biology fun. Dates include: Sept. 17, Shark Attack; Sept. 26, Dolphins, Orcas and Sea Lions, Oh My!; Oct. 26, Secrets of the Deep Sea; Nov. 6, Majestic Manatees,and Nov. 12, Colorful Coral Reefs. HOME SCHOOL Home School students can participate in the educational programs offered at Miami Seaquarium. The program teaches students from pre-K to high school about marine plants, animals and many other aspects of marine life in an interactive, hands-on way. Dates include: Sept. 12, Marine Habitats of South Florida; Oct. 10, Blue Planet; Nov. 14, Fish, Sharks, Rays, and Dec. 12, Endangered Species. MOMMY AND ME Mothers and their children between the

ages of 2 and 5 may enjoy “Mommy and Me.” During the program, mother and child will learn about different animals, from sea turtles to reptiles. The program will offer mothers and children the opportunity to interrelate and bond with these unique animals. Dates include: Sept. 5, Dynamic Dolphins; Oct. 3, Freaky Fish; Nov. 7, Sensational Seals and Sea Lions, and Dec. 5, Rockin’ Reptiles. BOY SCOUT AND GIRL SCOUT WEEKEND Join the Miami Seaquarium and help celebrate the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts with a special weekend full of fun. In addition to the exhibits and shows, the Scouts can visit booths that are going to be set up next to the Education Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to receive more information on the education programs the Seaquarium offers. Special admission price for the dates are $12 for Scouts and accompanying guests receive 50 percent off regular park admission for up to four guests. Scouts can enter to win free admission to this year’s Boy Scout and Girl Scout Campout for up to 15 people. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts must come in their complete uniform in order to receive special discount offer. Dates include: Oct. 6 and 7, Boy Scout Weekend, and Oct. 20 and 21, Girl Scout Weekend. Miami Seaquarium, South Florida’s most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and exhibits. For information on Miami Seaquarium visit <www.miamiseaquarium.com>. For more information regarding schedules or to register for either program, call 305-3615705, ext. 207.

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September 4 - 17, 2012

Amy’s Hallmark to host fundraiser for breast cancer support group BY REBECCA KLEIN

Time to get an early start on your holiday card and gift shopping while supporting a great local organization. Amy’s Hallmark, located at 14765 S. Dixie Hwy. in Palmetto Bay, will be hosting its second annual fundraiser on Wednesday, Sept. 12, 6-9 p.m., to support South Miami Hospital’s “Your Bosom Buddies” breast cancer support group. Proceeds from raffle drawings and a percentage of all sales made that day will go to the breast cancer support group. Refreshments will be served. “Some of our customers approached us and asked how we could help out this worthwhile organization and we didn’t hesitate to do our part,” said Bill Hochstetter, owner of Amy’s Hallmark. “When a woman is diagnosed with and being treated for breast cancer they are so overwhelmed with the medical treatments and focus to just get better. “A support group like Your Bosom Buddies allows them to find other people

to share their fears, struggles and hopes with and it’s a group we are honored to be a part of and support in any way we can,” he added. Your Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group, located in South Miami Hospital at the Victor E. Clarke Education Center, is a sharing, caring and educational breast cancer support group, which also offers the very valuable “Buddie for You” buddy program for newly diagnosed women. The support group meets once a month. Established in 1980, Amy’s Hallmark in Palmetto Bay is a locally owned and operated card and gift shop, offering a wide array of unique and specialty gifts from top names such as Vera Bradley and Romero Britto. Amy’s Hallmark also carries one of the largest selections of Gold Crown Exclusive ornaments, gourmet candies and chocolates, jewelry and the largest selection of collegiate gifts in South Florida. For more information on the Your Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group fundraising event, contact Amy’s Hallmark at 305-232-5559.


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

MiaSci gets grant to support college readiness program BY DUREE ROSS

Upward Bound Math and Science Center. All others are university-based. The museAT&T recently awarded the Miami um’s program has received many accoScience Museum (MiaSci) a $300,000 lades, including National Award for grant through its ASPIRE program, one of Museum Service for Excellence in Youth the largest corporate commitments ever to Programming in 2001, and the coveted address high school success and workforce NSF Presidential Award for Excellence in readiness. Science, Mathematics and Engineering The grant will support the development Mentoring in 2005. of the museum’s Upward Bound Math and AT&T’s ASPIRE program is the compaScience college readiness program from ny’s most significant education initiative to October through date and one of the largest September 2014. The procorporate commitments During the school gram is for low-income, ever to address high year, students will first generation collegeschool success and workbound students in grades force readiness. The proparticipate in 9-12. gram is centered around Saturday sessions There are several key four key components: at the museum, elements of the museum’s • Awarding grants to including a wide college readiness program: school districts, school ongoing college counseldistrict foundations and variety of ing services, a week-long nonprofit organizations workshops with overnight college tour, focused on preparing stuhands-on science entrance exam preparation, dents for college and/or application assistance, and the workforce; activities, tutoring sustained encouragement • Providing job shadand homework help, and support. owing opportunities for college preparation, During the school year, 100,000 students, in constudents will participate in junction with Junior computer lab access Saturday sessions at the Achievement Worldwide, and internship museum, including a wide giving students the experiences. variety of workshops with chance to see firsthand hands-on science activithe job skills needed to be ties, tutoring and homework help, college successful in the future; preparation, computer lab access and • Commissioning the next chapter of internship experiences. Optional after major research on the high school dropout school activities will include tutoring in all issue and solutions by directly engaging subjects, conducted by college level men- educational practitioners, and tors. In the summertime, students will par• Underwriting 100 community dropoutticipate in an intensive six-week program prevention summits, organized by that provides them with further insight into America’s Promise Alliance, to engage college curriculums. education experts and community leaders “We are very thankful to AT&T for this across all 50 states around the high school generous grant,” said Gillian Thomas, dropout crisis and ways to address it. Miami Science Museum president and For additional information on Miami CEO. “With these funds, we can continue Science Museum’s Upward Bound Math to aid students’ beliefs in their abilities and and Science Center and/or AT&T’s ASPIRE help motivate them to stay on track for col- program, contact Tony Lima at 305-646lege and during their college careers.” 4209 or at <tlima@miamisci.org>. Miami Science Museum’s Upward Miami Science Museum is located at Bound program engages underprivileged 3280 S. Miami Ave. The museum is open local youth in the sciences by encouraging every day from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. them to stay in school and pursue post-sec- Admission is free for MiaSci members and ondary education in science and math. children under 3; students (with valid ID), Since the program’s inception, 100 percent seniors (62+) and children 3-12 are $10.95; of students enrolled have graduated from adults are $14.95. Parking is free. high school and over 90 percent have For more information about the current sought college education. museum or the future home, the Patricia and Currently, Miami Science Museum is the Phillip Frost Museum of Science, visit only museum in the country operating an <www.miamisci.org> or call 305-646-4200.

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FPL CORNER FPL Marks Hurricane Andrew Anniversary as a Time to Remember, Learn and Prepare

On Aug. 24, Florida and the nation will observe the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Andrew, one of the most dramatic and devastating natural disasters in modern history. For those who lived through the storm and witnessed its incredible destruction first hand, this month is a time of solemn remembrance. And for everyone across the state of Florida and all along the Eastern seaboard and the Gulf Coast, Andrew’s anniversary is an occasion to learn from the past and to recognize the unpredictable and powerful nature of hurricanes, along with the absolute necessity of good planning and preparation throughout every hurricane season. When Andrew struck just south of Miami, it made landfall with peak sustained winds of 165 miles per hour, and gusts of up to 175 mph. Now classified as a rare Category 5, the hurricane pushed a massive storm surge up Biscayne Bay, and delivered more than 7 inches of rain along the core of its path. Damages from the storm totaled more than $25 billion dollars throughout the Bahamas, Florida and the Gulf states, with thousands of homes lost and many more damaged. FPL’s storm preparedness and recovery processes were also significantly challenged by Hurricane Andrew. As crews worked feverishly to restore power after the storm, FPL developed and perfected some of the systems now in place to map storm damage and to estimate restoration times. “At FPL, hurricane preparation is now part of our daily operations, every day we’re not in a storm we’re preparing for one. On this anniversary, we urge our customers to prioritize disaster planning too,” said Keith Hardy, FPL’s vice president of Distribution. “We are always working to help the communities we serve prepare for the next storm. Every year we make multi-million dollar investments in our infrastructure to make it more resilient.” In the past two decades, advances in technology have changed every step in the hurricane preparation and recovery process. New forecasting tools allow for more frequent assessments of a storm’s path and intensity, and better computer modeling has improved accuracy, especially on the intensity front. At the same time, technology has altered the way that information is communicated before, during and after a hurricane. Today, storms can be tracked online, on mobile devices, through social media outlets, and of course through traditional media sources. FPL has harnessed technology to enhance the way that it communicates with customers before and after hurricanes, and the way that it pre-positions restoration crews and models the damage to its system from a storm. To help with preparation, FPL offers customers a wealth of information and tips on its website, www.FPL.com. After a hurricane, FPL offers constant updates and information about the power restoration process through its website, which is mobile friendly, and through Twitter (www.twitter.com/insideFPL), Facebook (www.facebook.com/FPLconnect) and YouTube (www.youtube.com/FPL). FPL’s blog (www.FPLblog.com) is also an important source of news. “But the fact is, while much has changed since Andrew reached our shores,” said Hardy, “one simple truth remains the same: hurricanes carry with them a potentially overwhelming destructive power, and when a major storm hits, power will be interrupted, trees will fall and water will rise. Floridians must understand this fact and make every preparation for it.”


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September 4 - 17, 2012

Pollo Tropical is bringing a big serving of flavor to fundraising BY ASHLEY WOJNAR

Pollo Tropical has the smarts on fundraising with an easy and delicious way for schools and other nonprofit groups to take advantage. Pollo Tropical Smart Savings Cards feature 10 discount offers on popular Pollo Tropical menu items, a $40 value in total. Students may sell the cards to their family, friends, neighbors and other supporters for just $1. The school or organization then keeps 100 percent of the card sales for their fundraising needs. Featured on the cards are two-for-one offers on its ever-popular Quarter Chicken Meal, sandwich or wrap combos and TropiChillers. The cards also include offers for a free small TropiChop with the purchase of a drink and $3 off a Family Meal. Offers are good for only one per visit, at any company-owned Pollo Tropical location.

“The Pollo Tropical Smart Savings Card is an easy way for schools and nonprofit organizations to support their activities and provide supporters something valuable in return,� said Sandra Molina, director of Marketing and Communications for Pollo Tropical. How it works: The first step is to visit <www.pollotropical.com/community> and complete and submit a Smart Savings Card request form. Once a school is approved and shipping fee is received, Pollo Tropical will mail the requested number of Smart Savings Cards to the school. The school is then responsible for distributing cards to the supporters and collecting the funds raised. The school receives 100 percent of the funds collected from the Smart Savings Cards. For more information about Pollo Tropical, including menu items and nutritional information, visit online at <www.pollotropical.com>.


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Miami Children’s Chorus looks Homestead-Miami Speedway begins to ambitious 2012-13 season ‘Racing to Read’ program in schools BY ROBERT HAMILTON

It’s time to get Miami buzzing about the Miami Children’s Chorus and the talent of its 180 members. MCC’s credits are extensive, having performed at the Super Bowl, Carnegie Hall, with pop stars and the Florida Grand Opera, in Europe, South America and South Africa, but MCC has never taken on such an ambitious season as the one planned for 2012-13. Rehearsals began recently and soon Miami will be humming along to their joyful melodies. This season will bring more opportunities for artistic experiences of the highest quality that will breathe new life into the organization. These include performances with the Florida Grand Opera in Puccini’s La Boheme and Mozart’s Magic Flute, with the Cleveland Orchestra in Mahler’s Symphony No.3, in addition to MCC’s holiday concert, “Voices of Angels,” and spring concert, “Let the Children Sing,” presented in Coral Gables. MCC also has commissioned two pieces to be performed for concerts titled “A Voice with A Future” to be presented at New World Center and the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center in May. These pieces will be added to a long list of works already commissioned by the organization through its New Works For Children’s Voices commissioning project. Composers and performing musicians Nestor Torres and Jim Papoulis have been tasked with creating a piece each that will not only challenge choristers artistically but also will inspire and entertain audiences. It’s not all about entertainment, fun, and games. MCC also is about education and growth. It’s about forging friendships, going above and beyond preconceived notions, breaking barriers, and setting higher expectations for excellence in order to ensure a brighter future. Since its founding in 1965, MCC has been committed to the betterment of its community, presenting free family-friendly events and

educational workshops throughout MiamiDade County. In 2012-13 MCC is taking things a step farther creating more opportunities for service and outreach. More than 15 partnerships are in the works with youth, arts, education, and service organizations. These collaborations include working with: five youth service organizations for MCC’s We Will Sing choral outreach initiative, partnerships with the Adrienne Arsht Center, the Miami Dade County Public School Music Office and local universities for MCC’s presentation of Sing Miami, a free teacher workshop and family sing-along. MCC also will participate in the Arsht Center’s Light/Holocaust and Humanity Project, performing the children’s opera Brundibar as a springboard for a community conversation about hatred and bigotry. With so many performances and projects planned, how will MCC choristers fare? “They are no strangers to professional performance experiences as their accolades show, and they are certainly no strangers to preparing for each performance with purpose, vigor, and a strong work ethic,” said Analy Mendez, artistic administrator. “Our goal is to provide our members and participants a unique, exciting, and purposeful experience that will bring joy to their lives” said Timothy A. Sharp, music director. “MCC is a microcosm for community — a collective body of individuals, with an aspiration, learning to work together amidst many factors. Through their music study, in a choral environment, MCC choristers learn to work and communicate with others and emerge as leaders strengthening our community.” With the continued support of the community, local government, corporations, foundations, and individuals, MCC is able to serve all of Miami-Dade County with true passion for artistic excellence. Visit online at <www.miamichildrenschorus.org>, or call 305-662-7494 for a complete schedule of events.

BY GEORGE STIEREN

Homestead-Miami Speedway, in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools, has launched its “Racing to Read” program for second grade students at nine South Florida schools. The initiative, which aims to promote reading among youth, continues through Oct. 26. Racing to Read features rewards for participating students including: • Each student who reads a minimum 20 books will receive two tickets to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship race, the Ford EcoBoost 400, at Homestead-Miami Speedway on Nov. 18. • The school that reads the greatest number of books total will garner a school visit from Homestead-Miami Speedway that includes a race-driven No. 99 Carl Edwards NASCAR car. • The school with the highest percentage of participation in the program will receive a pizza party, compliments of HomesteadMiami Speedway. All participating students will receive raffle tickets to win exclusive items autographed by NASCAR drivers “We are proud to offer ‘Racing to Read’ in coordination with Miami-Dade County Public Schools,” said Homestead-Miami Speedway president Matthew Becherer. “Reading is clearly a key to education and, if NASCAR race tickets serve as a catalyst for children to read more, it will be a victory for everyone involved,” he added. “’Racing to Read’ will offer our second grade students an additional incentive to read books that they love,” said Karen Spigler, Miami-Dade County Public Schools administrative director for Reading/Language Arts. “We in the district

are excited to partner with HomesteadMiami Speedway in this exciting initiative and look forward to it continuing for years to come.” Miami-Dade County Public Schools selected the following to participate in the inaugural year: Cutler Bay — Dr. Edward Whigham Elementary; Homestead — Air Base Elementary, Coconut Palm K-8 Center, Gateway Environmental K-8 Learning, Goulds Elementary, Redland Elementary and Redondo Elementary; Leisure City — Leisure City K-8 Center, and Palmetto Bay — Pine Lake Elementary. Students in the program can monitor their progress, both individually and against other participating schools, online at homesteadmiamispeedway.com/racingtoread. The Homestead-Miami Speedway has been open since 1995 following an initiative to spur economic recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew. The 640-acre facility is active more than 280 days per year and hosts NASCAR’s Championship Races during Ford Championship Weekend (Nov. 16-18). The Sprint Cup Championship Ford EcoBoost 400 is broadcast live on TV and radio to 175 countries and into 24 languages. The 2011 championship attracted ESPN Television’s largest NASCAR Sprint Cup Series viewership ever with a peak audience of 10.5 million when the checkered flag fell. Homestead-Miami Speedway, featuring a 1.5-mile oval and 2.21-mile road course, generates more than $250 million annually for the region. For more information, visit online at <www.homesteadmiamispeedway.com>.


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

September 4 - 17, 2012

ADVICE from the GYNO — Randye Karmin, MD, FACOG I’ve heard rumors that radiation in mammograms can increase my risk of breast cancer. Is this true? Can I get a thermography instead? There is a lot of confusion about mammogram screening and the risks versus the benefits at various ages. The absolute truth is that breast cancer is still on the rise and women are being diagnosed younger and younger. The good news is that deaths from breast cancer are decreasing and this is in large Dr. Randye Karmin, part due to early detection afMD, FACOG forded by routine mammogram screening. In spite of varying reports by the US Preventative Task Force, The American College of Ob/Gyn still recommends screening mammograms every one to two years for women between 40 and 50, and every year thereafter. Digital mammography uses a technology that is far improved from traditional film mammograms, allowing better visualization with less radiation exposure, and typically less compression to achieve the same image quality. While cumulative radiation exposure may increase one’s risk for cancer, the amount of radiation from digital mammography used according to current guidelines is not felt to be of sig-

nificant enough risk compared with the overwhelming benefits of early diagnosis. Thermography is considered experimental by the FDA as there is not enough evidence to suggest that it is as effective as mammogram for identifying breast cancers. That being said, thermography is being investigated as an adjunct to possibly better evaluate whether patients with an “abnormal” mammogram should proceed with biopsy. However, since it is still under investigation, most insurance companies will not cover the procedure. Breast ultrasound, on the other hand, has been shown to improve detection of breast cancer when used in conjunction with mammogram for women with dense breasts. Ask your gynecologist if this would be appropriate for you. I’m 40 years old and I don’t have any hot flashes, but my periods have gotten so heavy and are coming more often than they used to. Am I going through menopause already? It’s unlikely that you are going through menopause. As women get older, their ovarian function changes and therefore, so does their cycle. This can result in dramatic changes in your periods similar to what you are describing. For most women, this is normal and can be managed with either a low dose birth control pill or a progesterone containing IUD. For women who don’t want any type of hormonal treatment, there is a minimally invasive office procedure called endometrial ablation, which can significantly reduce or eliminate your periods for good. While most of the time a change in your bleeding pattern is normal, you should make an appointment with the Gynecologist if your period comes less

than 21 days apart or lasts for more than 7 days. This may be a sign of a polyp, fibroid, or other uterine abnormality and should be evaluated by a pelvic ultrasound and possibly a uterine biopsy, both of which can be performed in the doctor’s office with minimal discomfort. My husband and I are done having children, but I can’t get him to wear a condom and he refuses to have a vasectomy. I hate the side effects of birth control pills. What are my options? After carrying their children and going through labor, one would think a little snip wouldn’t send our hubbies running for the hills. But many men refuse to bite the bullet. Fortunately for women, there are good, non-hormonal, long-term and even permanent birth control options. Today’s IUDs are not like the devices from the 70’s that got a lot of bad press because of poor design. The copper IUD is a hormone-free device that is inserted into the uterus in the doctor’s office and can last for up to 10 years. Should you change your mind about having more children, it can be removed easily so you can conceive again. If you are 100% sure you have completed childbearing, Essure permanent birth control is a minor procedure performed in the office which uses a tiny coil to block each of your tubes. The coils are inserted vaginally with no surgical scars and you return to your normal activities almost immediately. Dr. Randye Karmin is a Board Certified Ob/Gyn in Private Practice in Miami, Florida. Call 305-670-0010 for an appointment or book online at www.miamiwomen care.com


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

What Time Is It? Trimming Time..

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September 4 - 17, 2012


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Jeep Patriot loaded with technology, safety features Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS With its rugged styling, 4x4 off-road capability, excellent fuel economy and interior versatility, the Jeep Patriot is a popular SUV with American consumers and many claim it is the best-priced compact SUV on the market today. The Patriot was re-styled in 2011 and it continues much the same in the 2012 model year, with its familiar square design, round headlights and seven-slot grille. It’s offered in three levels: Sport, Latitude and Limited. All are available with front-wheel drive, the Freedom Drive I full-time, active 4x4 system or the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package with low-range capability. Patriot Sport — powered by the 158 hp 2.0-liter I-4 World Gas Engine (23/29 mpg) mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT2) or a five-speed manual transmission. Standard features include electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist, advanced, multi-stage front

and passenger air bags, anti-lock front disc and rear drum brakes, audio jack, fog lamps, illuminated cup holders, removable/ rechargeable flashlight, floor mats, outside temperature display, fold-flat 60/40 folding rear seat, rear seat heat ducts, rear window defrost and wiper, front sliding visors with mirror, tilt steering column, cruise control, deep tint glass and roof side rails. Patriot Latitude — has all the standard features of the Sport and more. It adds air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power heated exterior mirrors, illuminated keyless entry, 17-inch aluminum wheels, remote start, front heated cloth seats, rear 60/40 seat recline, driver seat height adjuster, fold-flat front passenger seat, 115volt power inverter, body color exterior door handles and liftgate brow and a leatherwrapped steering wheel with audio and speed controls. Patriot Limited — top-of-the-line; powered by the bigger 172 hp 2.4-liter I-4 World Gas Engine. Has all the standard equipment of its siblings and more; comes with leather seats, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, driver’s seat manual lumbar adjust, leatherwrapped parking brake handle, six-way power driver’s seat, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), AM/FM/six-disc CD/DVD/MP3/HDD radio, SIRIUS Satellite

Jeep Patriot has familiar square design, round headlights, sevenslot grille.

Radio, automatic temperature control, bright exhaust tip and bright accents on the front and rear fascias. The 2012 Jeep Patriot offers an array of technological and consumer features for communication and navigation. They include a Uconnect media center with iPod interface, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and SIRIUS Travel Link navigation, along with a power sunroof, a premium audio system with nine Boston Acoustic speakers, liftgate speakers, illuminated cup holders and fold-flat rear seats. Standard features include illuminated cup holders, sunscreen glass, fog lamps, removable/rechargeable flash light, outside temper-

ature display, rear fold-flat 60/40 folding seat, rear window defrost and wiper, tilt steering column, cruise control and sliding visors with mirror. The 2012 Patriot can tow up to 2,000 pounds, so it’s a nice choice for a family with a small boat on a trailer. Base price on the 2012 Jeep Patriot is $22,780. Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.


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September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Girl Scout Council seeking volunteers as role models BY LANCE BALDING

The Girl Scout Council of Tropical Florida (GSCTF) is seeking volunteers in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties to serve as positive role models for girls. Although every girl has the ability to lead, many girls do not believe they can. A lack of role models, unhealthy images of beauty, and peer pressure to not stand out, are just some of the obstacles that stand between girls and their full potential. But you can help girls break down those barriers. Your time as a volunteer will provide girls the environment they need to pursue their own interests and leadership roles. GSCTF offers many volunteering opportunities tailored to fit your calendar, talents, and interests.

• Direct service to girls as a leader in a troop or group, middle-school mentoring, outdoor education, sports and fitness, conflict resolution facilitators, environmental awareness, technology, arts and crafts, music, community service projects and many other areas. • Behind the scenes support in the areas of administrative support, Council committees, learning facilitator, data management, virtual Girl Scouting, and fund development. Explore what being a volunteer could mean for you at <www.girlscoutsfl.org>. For specific questions, or to learn more about the current volunteer needs in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, send email to <info@girlscoutsfl.org> or 305253-4841.

www.communitynewspapers.com

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HELP WANTED

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SOCIAL WORKER POSITION AVAILABLE at New Horizons Community Mental Health Center in Miami, FL Job duties: Provide counseling and related services to adults experiencing mental health issues and problems. Counsel and aid family members to assist them in understanding, dealing with and supporting the client or patients. Assist in providing quality care for the psychiatric client within the therapeutic milieu. Conduct clinical assessment of patients. Fax resumes to: Attn: Stella Marrero, HR, 305-638-7006. REAL ESTATE

September 4 - 17, 2012

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

September 4 - 17, 2012

Licensed & Insured

PROTECT YOUR BIGGEST INVESTMENT NOW!!! We Manufacture and Install

Impact resistant Windows and Doors High Performance Accordion Shutters Hurricane Panels Call 305-803-7602 for a free estimate

CLOSED

OPEN

Licensed and Insured Florida State License SCC 131150340 Miami Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties Approved

• Tree Trimming • Consultation • Stump Grinding • Landscaping • Lawn Services • Fertilization • Sprinkler Repair • Debris Removal • Backhoe Service • Driveway Pavers • Fencework - All Types • Chickee Huts • Outdoor Kitchens • And More

FREE ESTIMATES • 305-233-0699


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

DO YOU OR A LOVED ONE NEED HELP WITH ALCOHOL OR SUBSTANCE RELATED ISSUES?

Paul Merker has helped hundreds of individuals and families 305.498.0704

PAUL MERKER, MS, CAP Addiction Therapist Confidential Counseling

merkerpaul1@aol.com 7600 SW 57th Ave, Suite 215 South Miami, FL 33143

- CLASSES FOR KIDS & ADULTS MATH Ɣ INTERNET Ɣ COMPUTERS PUBLIC SPEAKING Ɣ EBUSINESS Algebra, Geometry, Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Email, FaceBook, Twitter, eBay, PayPal, Skype, Photoshop, Web Pages, iPhone, iPad, Kindle, Apps, Video Editing, Business Presentations.

Call us Today at 305-298-8907 Ɣ IN ENGLISH Ɣ EN ESPAÑOL Ɣ EM PORTUGUES Ɣ

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

ROOFING • Reroof/Repairs • Owner on every job • Specializing in roof leak repairs • Work guaranteed • Serving Florida since 1994

WILLIAM CARPENTER - President/Owner

ALL-TECH ROOFING I INC • (305) 247-6717 Lic. # CCC1328633

ARE YOU 62 OR OLDER? Then a Reverse Equity Mortgage could be right for you! • Proceeds Are Tax-Free • Use the Cash Any Way You Choose • No Monthly Mortgage Payments • Continue to Own and Live In Your Home • No Income or Credit Qualifications • Buy a Home

For A No Obligation Review Call 305-259-0714 Para Información En Español: 305-491-6862 9485 SW 72 Street, Suite A150 Miami, Florida 33173 FHA Approved Lender

Equal Opportunity Lender

NMLS ID# 816508 • FLORIDA MORTGAGE LENDER SERVICER #MLD360


September 4 - 17, 2012

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Property Tax Appeals For houses, hotels, apartments, shopping centers, office buildings, restaurants, warehouses, hospitals, commercial properties. Contingent basis. $20 filing fee.

Law Offices of

Post & Gonzalez, P.L.

66 W. Flagler Street, Suite 300 • Miami, Florida 33130 (305) 379-1500 The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.


September 4 - 17, 2012

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Depend on Our Experience For The Very Finest Personal Home Health Care We Customize Our Care To Suit Individual Circumstances Lic# NR30211110

Aztek Nursing Registry Inc. Certified Nursing Assistants Personal Care Attendants Companions & Homemakers Bathing & Dressing Medication Assistance

Meal Preparation Light Housekeeping & Laundry Transportation & Accompaniment Hourly or Live-In

A Personal Touch Fitness Sensitive Personal Training

• NCSF Certified Sibyl Adams • Reiki Master • Post Rehab Training • Functional Training for Older Adults All ages and fitness levels welcome Fitness blogger for seniority matters.com

sibyladams@comcast.net

Phone: 786.395.1588

CORPORATE APPROVED


September 4 - 17, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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September 4 - 17, 2012

“Miami’s Best Pizza”

USA Today

9118 Bird Road Miami, FL 33165 Serving South Florida

Since 1955

Tues-Wed-Thur-Sun 11:00 to 10:00 pm Fri - Sat 11:00 to 11:00 pm

“The Finest Italian Pizza in Town”

Your Pinecrest Nursery WHOLESALE PRICES

SOD 75 a piece From Our Family’s Nursery to Your Family’s Home

Open to the Public and Landscapers Fruit Trees Palms & Trees Shrubs & Flowers Bamboo Bonsai Mulch, Rocks, Soil, Etc. Professional Landscape Design Installation & Maintenance

Killian Drive (112th St.) S.W. 99 Court

(West of US-1)

786-371-8556 www.killiangrowers.com

EESION 1st Saturday Every Month: R F I Gold Coast Railroad Museum ADM Every Sunday: Cutler Bay Farmers Market Every Thursday: Miami-Dade County Fairground *

FUN FOR PARTIES - “HALF BAKED” • GREAT FOR SNACKS • “HALF BAKED” • DINNER DELIGHT

CALL: 305-221-0221 TO ORDER www.frankiespizzaonline.com


September 4 - 17, 2012

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