One of Miami’s Community Newspapers ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Connecting Local Businesses
SEPTEMBER 4 - 17, 2012 ––––––––––––– communitynewspapers.com –––––––––––– 305-669-7355
Neighbors hope buyer can be found Around Town to preserve historic Milledge House Senior Center BY RAQUEL GARCIA
rejected
iami can be perceived as a bit lacking in that classic Southern charm taken very seriously in cities like Savannah and Charleston. But head east on Sunset Drive and take a right onto SW 47 Court and it seems like time slipped into the Antebellum South and landed at the Wilkes’ plantation home of Twelve Oaks. It is a tranquil and flourishingly green street where the cardinals still sing loudly in mid-afternoon and the neighbors get together for block parties and holidays. Several area property owners have united to lobby for the uneventful transfer of the Milledge home now for sale at 4700 SW 74 St. The community hope is that a new buyer will also fall in love with the neigh-
M
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See
HOUSE, page 7
BY MICHAEL MILLER Executive Editor
Neighborhood historian Jill Kramer outside the Milledge Property
Area youth receive backpacks and school supplies a t Gibson Bethel BY RAQUEL GARCIA
he store room of the Gibson Bethel Community Center was piled high with large cardboard boxes full of donated back packs and brand new school supplies before the 10th Annual Back Pack Give Away, when over 300 packed back packs were given away to area youth just before the first day of classes. The fall holiday spirit was in the air on give-away day as center staff filled the back packs with goodies prior to the kids’ arrival. “We’ve had such a great response to our outreach efforts,” said Parks and Recreation Director Lorenzo Woodley. South Miami Middle School and South Miami Senior
T
Neighborhood children are ready for their backpacks and school supplies courtesy of Gibson Bethel Community Center and friends
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See
GIBSON BETHEL, page 9
The biggest surprise at the August 21 city commission meeting was not that a developer was rejected (same ole story) from building a senior living center across the street from city hall, but rather that the commission fueled the hopes of the developer’s dream team of lawyers from March until August. They then finally dropped the axe last meeting with a vote of four to one against the project. At the August 7 city commission meeting, Building Director Victor Citarella made it abundantly clear there was no way on earth the approvals required for Metro South Senior Apartments to build on 6101 Sunset Drive could happen in time.
–––––– See
AROUND TOWN, page 8
ALL TYPES OF COVERAGE FROM OVER 100 TRUSTED, COMPETITIVE, INSURERS
305.238.1000
Savings & Service Since 1950
Page 2
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
South
Septembere 4 - 17, 2012
Fitness District
On a tree lined street behind the hustle and bustle of USI a collection of the finest businesses in the area of wellness and fitness have set up shop to serve you. If you want to be strong and fit then surround yourself with like minded people. That’s what’s happening on Madruga and Santona. Join the thousands that have already discovered this slice of South Gables heaven and let your journey begin or continue. The right food, the right clothes, the right mood. No matter what your training goals are, motivation awaits you at these wonderful establishments.
Schedule an Appointment: 305.668.9876
a Boutique Bike Shop
Three Distinct Group Fitness Studios, Miami's best Instructors and trainers! FREE PARKING!! Join us for Weekly Group Rides
Gym Hours Mon - Thur 5AM-10PM Fri 5Am-9PM Sat 8Am-5Pm Sun 8Am-3Pm
stands for Enhancing Bicycle Performance
We Carry: BMC, 2011 Tour de France winner. Cadel Evans rides for BMC Time, French bike Stomer, electric bike, best seller in Europe.
metropolisfitnessandspa.com info@metropolisfitness.com
1430 Madruga Ave., Coral Gables, FL 33146 305.722.6000
bala vinyasa yoga
Great Service Shop led by mechanic Keith Norris, 5 time US National Champion. We use the Retul Fitting System.
CYCLING LAB
TEST Drive the STROMER amazing electric bike
EBP Cycling Lab 1430 South Dixie Highway, Suite 103 Coral Gables, Florida 33146 305-668-9876
Follow us on Follow us on
Bring this ad for 1st Class FREE
Bala Vinyasa Yoga
Be empowered to transform your body and change your life
1430 S. Dixie Hwy #116, Coral Gables FL 33146 phone: 786 953 7709 www.bvyoga.com email: infocoralgables@bvyoga.com
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 3
Page 4
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
SOUTH MIAMI
SIGHTINGS Chamber South hosts Golden Tiki Luau Party Fundraiser
The beautiful people from First National Bank of South Miami: (l to r) Pete and Diane McGovern, Pedro and Claudia Cancio, Rene Aldonza, and Mercy and Carlos Prieto
Samoan Fire Knife Warrior Chief Otaja heats up the night
President of Wiremasters Electric Kent Crook wins the Golden Ticket! The prize is naming rights for one year to the Chamber South Conference Center. (l to r) Peter Jude of Kendall Regional Hospital, Phil Lyons of InSource, and JoAnn Parns of Palmetto Bay Village Center
The Polynesian-themed event benefited the completion of Phase 1 in the Chamber South Green Building Project by providing new sustainable flooring for the Chamber South office in South Miami.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 5
September kicks off with Home Rehabs for Veterans and more Gloria Burns GLORIA’S GAB More than 100 Home Depot associates will put their home improvement skills to good use helping with home renovation of five local veterans. This is part of a national program than will renovate homes of 100 veterans in need nationwide on Sept.6. Locally, The Home Depot Foundation, with an $80,000 grant for repair expenses, is teaming up with Rebuilding Together Miami, an organization that provides free rehabilitation services for low income, elderly, military veterans and families and disabled homeowners. Among those involved in this effort are US Army veteran , Elvin Thompson; Bob Miller, Chair of Rebuilding Together Miami (RTM); and James McCants, RTM’s Outreach Director. Speaking of our military, men and
news
South Miami
Miller Publishing • Community Newspapers 6796 SW 62 Avenue • South Miami, FL 33143 305-669-7355 www.communitynewspapers.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– PUBLISHER
Grant Miller grant@communitynewspapers.com
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Michael Miller Michael@communitynewspapers.com
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS David Berkowitz, Richard Yager
WRITERS Ron Beasley, Linda Bernfeld-Rodriguez, Kenneth Bluh, Nancy Eagleton, Robert Hamilton, Gary Alan Ruse, Richard Yager, Lee Stephens, Raquel Garcia
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Albie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Amy Donner, Dianne Maddox, Denzel Miles, Miller Myers, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller, Lori Schwadron, Karina Soave, Georgia Tait, Walter White
PROOF DEPARTMENT Isabel Vavrek
GRAPHIC ARTISTS Isabel Ortega, Denise Cebrero, Cristian Ortiz
PUBLISHER EMERITUS Ron Miller
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We will not return solicited or unsolicited material including stories, columns and/or photographs. If you send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material. Every issue of the South Miami News is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including advertisements, produced by Community Newspapers and Miller Publishing. Using artwork and /or typography furnished or arranged for/by us is the property of Community Newspapers.
women from the military as well as fighters and police will join the community again this year for the 5 K Freedom Ron PARK (Perform Acts of Random Kindness) Festival at JC Bermudez Park, 300 NW 87th Ave. on Saturday, Sept. 8, 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Festival Chief Events Officer, Marly Quincoces, promises another great morning of family fun with lots of entertainment, food and a terrific race venue. As in the past, there will be a moment to remember those who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks. To register, visit events@theparkproject.org. For another Saturday morning walk, join the ADAs Step Out to Stop Diabetes Walk on Sept. 22, 7:30 a.m. at the Marlins Park, 501 Marlins Way. Look for lots of great information at this Walk as well as healthy refreshments before joining CBS4 meteorologist, Craig Setzer, who will lead the walk at 9 a.m. For details, visit www.diabetes.org/stepoutmiami. Finally, on August 15, a record crowd of more than 200 women and a few men gathered for a High Heels and Hand Shakes event at CRAVE in the Village of Merrick Park. Group Sales and Marketing Manager for CRAVE, Christina Ward, is co-founder of High Heels and Hand Shakes, a community resource organization that brings together philanthropic business citizens through charitable events. As with all H & H events, admission was a donation of $10 and/or high heels with proceeds benefitting different local charities each time. Five large bags were gathered for Dress for Success Miami, and hundreds of dollars raised for Macarena Zilveti’s Badges of Courage Foundation and the GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club May Van Sickle Children’s Dental Clinic, both organizations are run by women. While Badges of Courage supports low-income women with breast cancer and those who are in treatment, the CGWC’s Children’s Dental Clinic provides more than $230,000 in free dental care annually to disadvantaged children in Miami Dade County. Among many at the affair were Lizz Wiegandt, Betty Alvarez, Debi Moore, Maryann Etkin, Mireya Kilmon, Marita Villar, Susie Tilson, Linda Hartwell, Troy Wright, Sabrina Perez King, Maureen Flanagan, and Mitzi Jenner to mention a few. Until next time, keep making each day count.
Linda Hartwell, Macarena Zilveti and Maureen Flanagan discuss charitable endeavors at High Heels and Hand Shakes event.
Raffle tickets for sale at the High Heels and Hand Shakes charities at CRAVE event.
MILLER PUBLISHING AND COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS are proud to publish the following newspapers:
Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens Tribune, Opa Locka News, Palmetto Bay News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun
If you would like to submit information for this column, please send your news via e-mail to gloriagalburns@aol.com.
Mary Kay’s Lizz Wiegand, one of the table vendors donating percentage of sales to charity at H & H event, seen here talking to guest.
Christina Ward and Susie Tilson at CRAVE charitable event.
Page 6
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
City National Bank of Florida opens on South Dixie Highway
Larkin Community Hospital First Annual Health Fair draws hundreds BY CONCHITA SMITH
The newest banking center of City National Bank of Florida opened its doors at 6388 South Dixie Highway on June 18. Congratulations to longtime community banker manager Raquel Hickey and her team of professionals. City National Bank has opened seven new offices in the past three years with the new location bringing CNB’s total number of banking centers throughout Florida to 26. City National Bank is rated 5 stars “Superior” by Bauer Financial and was named Community Bank of the Year by the South Florida Business Journal. From left, City National Bank Chief Operations Officer Javier Sanchez, South Miami Mayor Dr. Philip K. Stoddard, CNB Personal and Business Banking Regional Manager Dustin Symes, Personal and Business Banking Executive Mara Suarez, South Miami Banking Center Manager Raquel Hickey, Chamber South President Mary Scott Russell and City National Bank President and CEO Jorge Gonzalez.
September 4 - 17, 2012
Larkin Community Hospital recently hosted its first annual neighborhood health fair at a block party where an estimated 600 plus families and friends gathered together to enjoy live music, dine on food truck fare, and treat the kids to bounce houses, face painting, and a visit from special guest NBA all-star player Kenny Anderson. Over 200 attendees registered for the nine tented screening booths available to check glucose, blood pressure, stroke and heart health, memory loss, podiatry care, pulmonary function, and bone density. The anticipated new health fair annual tradition is a way for Larkin to stay connected to the immediate area it serves, while also highlighting specializations in health care service according to marketing coordinator John Nuno. “We are proud to be who we are in terms of what sets us apart in the community,” said Nuno. “We are a small hospital and we like it that way. It allows us to be more family oriented and sets us apart from a large facility with so much staff that you can lose that feeling of community.” Because in today’s uncertain economic times monitoring health care concerns may be postponed due to financial hardship, Larkin opened its doors for the general public to take the opportunity to check
their overall wellness status. “First and foremost we wanted to take the time to give people a chance to check their health and so we made these screenings available to the public,” said Nuno. “The word community is part of our title and considering the struggles in today’s economy we wanted to do something to reach out and help.” “We are also becoming more specialized in catering to specific needs and wanted to highlight new services as well on this day. Our recently opened Miami Neuroscience Center is one of the most highly technologically advanced facilities in the world for neurosurgery. We had the grand opening for our facility on January 13 of this year and already doctors from all over the world are visiting to learn from our leading experts on staff.” Nuno said the efforts of the day were well received by guests who offered much positive feedback in gratitude for the community centered event. “It was a fantastic day and everybody was really into it. People are excited about next year’s event and we are going to start production soon. This was a strong base for us for more of what is to come.” The Larkin team plans to work closely next year with one of its main charities of over ten years, the Susan G. Komen Foundation. A 5 K walk/run where all proceeds will benefit the organization directly is part of the line-up for next year’s event.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
HOUSE, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Historic Pinewood Cemetery lies next door to the Milledge Home –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
borhood and preserve the property and character of the street. “We all love our block,” said neighbor Jill Kramer. “We want to maintain the charm of our street, it is very important to us. We are afraid of developers that don’t care.” The home was built in 1901 and originally stood behind Sunset Elementary School until it was moved the few blocks over to its current location by the Milledge family in 1944. “It was historically a cracker farm house,” said owner Lewis Milledge. “Mom put in federal features and changed the window treatments for the look of colonial Williamsburg.” Milledge, or “Brother” as he is affectionately known in the community, lived on the property all his life with the exception of college, law school, and first nuptials. “We had chickens in the yard as pets, and we had a corral. I had a horse but he was too big for me so my father got me a pony named ‘Bopeep.’ I would ride on those streets in Coral Gables that were east of the property and as I recall only a couple were paved. You could ride all day long and my word, you wouldn’t see another soul.” The neighborhood is also famous for the departed souls from the pioneer era laid to rest at Pinewood Cemetery on Erwin St, just one block east of the Milledge home. Jeremiah Barnett, a Private of the 1st Florida Infantry during the Spanish American War and Mary Townsend Addison, who arrived in 1860 with her husband John and settled in to what eventually became the Deering Estate, are two of the estimated 200 buried at Pinewood. Although the cemetery struggled over the years to secure historic protection, and
tombstones as well as land have been lost, as one Coral Gables city commissioner put it in genealogist Harriet Stiger Liles’ book on Pinewood Cemetery, “it all came back to haunt them.” Thanks to the efforts of historians like Liles, the city of Coral Gables, and Eagle Scout Troop 457, the cemetery has been restored to a lush memorial landscape. Neighbor Victoria Cummock knows a bit about historic restoration. Her 1860 Antebellum Colonial home down the street from the Milledge property was moved to its current location from Daynesberry, Georgia. “The Cornell family bought the house from 93 year old bachelor Judge Clark,” said Cummock. “When the family bought it, they paid $250 and split it up into four pieces to send to Florida in 1952.” The Cornell Home has since been completely restored and is designated historic by Miami-Dade County. Cummock hopes the Milledge house will find a similar benefactor. “It’s got great bones but needs TLC. Unless someone has a love for restoration or is willing to put the money into it, it’s a teardown. There are very few homes left from that period in South Florida. It would be a shame if anybody decided to tear it down.” It is a bittersweet time for the Milledge family. They hope their historic home will not be torn down yet understand the harsh economic realities of life in the big city. “It is sad, it is incredibly sad, to not continue to have the home in our family,” said Milledge. “But I have to be relieved of this tax burden and get things changed around and go on with my life.”
Page 7
Page 8
AROUND TOWN, from page 1
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
The developers had a deadline for all approvals to be complete by September 15 in order for them to receive 25 million in federal support. “The best case scenario for approval is three to five months,” said Citarella at the August 7 meeting. Notwithstanding the impossibility of DERM, water, county, fire, and city approvals required for the project happening within a few weeks, the commission led the lawyers on to believe they still had a chance for the senior center and scheduled continued discussion for the August 21 meeting where they were summarily rejected. Time to sue! HOLE IN THE WALL MOVES ON Although the proprietors of Hole in the Wall who were hoping to open a second location in South Miami (at the Petco Shopping Center zoned for restaurants) were denied the required special use permit from the commission to open for business, they have decided not to appeal after all. “It’s hard to not fight for what’s right,” said co-owner Craig Erickson. Erickson believes it would have been a losing battle given the priority the commission placed
on a few well organized paranoid neighbors who bought their property right next to a strip mall. “It was a difficult process in South Miami at the commission level and we were going to appeal but we decided against it. There are easier municipalities to deal with.” Congratulations to Hole in the Wall on their subsequent Cutler Bay location and for making Miami New Times’ “Best of Miami 2012 edition.” LET’S GO GET A DRUG TEST So far not one of our distinguished elected officials has taken me up on my offer to take a drug test. Come on guys, let’s boogie on down to the local drug testing joint and submit our blood, hair and urine for an analysis. I promise it won’t hurt a bit. Just to make it abundantly clear (and I ain’t blowing smoke on this one) I have no reason to believe that any of those blessed souls that serve the citizens of the City of Pleasant Living have any connection to any illegal drugs, just the opposite. These guys on the dais are as clean as a whistle. That is why they ought to consider leading the way to show the kids at our local schools it’s cool to be clean.
CITY SETTLEMENT… CHECK IS IN THE MAIL Oh yeah, the city settled with former city manager Ogibola Balogun for some $285,000 or so. And from what a little bird told me, the city wants to wait till the new budget passes in October before they pay him. Golly folks, I wonder what that means… are we not liquid? And now that one part of the civil case is about over, I WONDER if the state attorney just might investigate the whole smelly thing to see if any laws were broken during his termination process. If I were a betting guy, my money would be on... ON THE ROAD And driving around in her reddish miniature vehicle was none other than THE RED HEAD… drumroll please… Ms. Sharon McCain. She loves checking out the neighborhood and trigger finger texting her findings to her buds. I can just see her now driving around with a caricature of Stoddard on her ride and a bullhorn as she follows the mayor about
September 4 - 17, 2012
town like City of Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado’s “favorite” constituent does. BOB’S BUDDY It seems Bob’s Canadian friend is still dealing with his friends at ICE. Richard Warren recently made his initial appearance before Federal Magistrate Judge Patrick A. White at the Adkins Building Courthouse downtown on August 15. Assistant Federal Public Defender Samuel Randall was appointed to the case of the homeless handyman who apparently entered the country illegally after a previous deportation. According to Randall, “we were able to obtain dismissal of the criminal charges.” Warren is currently at Krome Detention Center awaiting immigration proceedings. Immigration attorney Maggie Arias is now handling his case. Raquel Garcia contributed to this column. Thought for the Day: The first rule of hurricane coverage is that every broadcast must begin with palm trees bending in the wind. — Carl Hiassen Got Tips? Call 305-669-7030 or email <michael@communitynewspapers.com>.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 9
GIBSON BETHEL, from page 1
Volunteers await the crowds ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Lorenzo Woodley restocks the inventory –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
High School volunteers Jonathan Gonzalez, Janiqua Warren, Chanel Adams, Jamelia Warren and Lauren Taylor were as busy as elves stacking tables with piles of note books, crayons, pencils, pens and erasers, to be loaded into the back packs.
When the back packs are ready, they are restacked in the boxes and placed on dollies to be delivered to the display area in the gymnasium. Every year hundreds of area families gather at the center in anticipation of this annual fall school year event. Live music and food add to the festivities. “Our sponsor support this year has been tremendous,” said Woodley. “We have had at least 50 to 60 individual families sponsor the kids (in addition to corporate sponsorship).”
South Miami Middle School and South Miami Senior High School volunteers Jonathan Gonzalez, Janiqua Warren, Chanel Adams, Jamelia Warren and Lauren Taylor with Parks and Recreation Director Lorenzo Woodley. BELOW: Supplies ready to be put to good use. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Ed’s Boot Camp, Alliance for Youth, South Miami Hospital and Peak 360 are some of the area business sponsors that helped make it possible for hundreds of neighborhood students to start school well prepared with the tools they need to foster the joy of learning. The 2013 Back Pack Give Away will be August 15. Sponsors are encouraged to sign up early. To find out more about how to get involved call Gibson Bethel Community Center at 305-668-7232.
Page 10
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
Take back control of your exercise routine this Fall BY SCOTT BAUMANN General Manager Fitness Together
With kids going back to school and summer vacations coming to an end, it is the perfect time for you to take back control of your life by getting back into a regular exercise routine and getting back on track to living a healthy and fit lifestyle. To help you get back into the fitness groove this fall, we offer the following three tips for re-activating and enhancing your exercise routine. GO BACK TO BASICS If you’ve taken a break from your regular exercise routine during the summer months, you may be eager to jump back into where you left off before your exercise hiatus. When getting back into your exercise routine, though, it is important to start with the basics to get your mind and body acclimated to a regular, consistent exercise regimen. If you jump back in too fast and take on more than your body can handle too soon, you run the risk of sidelining injuries, early burnout and fatigue – all conditions that can keep you out of the game well past the summer months. GET MOVING According to the World Health Organization (WHO) , physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for all global deaths, with 31 percent of the world’s population not physically fit.1 As a society, we need to make a concentrated effort to get our bodies moving to not only increase our mortality rates, but to put ourselves in a more positive position to live a physically fit and healthy lifestyle. To get started on increasing your body’s movement, you can make some simple changes every day that can make a
big difference to your life. For instance, take a 30-minute walk each evening with your family, ride your bike to run errands instead of driving, replace workplace breaks in the kitchen with walking breaks around the block, turn off the television and play an active game with your family instead of laying on the couch, or sign up for a recreational sports league for increased weekly movement and friendly competition. MAKE IT A HABIT When exercise becomes a part of your daily schedule, it quickly becomes less of a chore and more of a habit. You can make exercise a habit by doing your workouts at the same time each day, creating a routine you can follow and adapt on a daily/weekly/monthly basis, and including a support group environment (trainer, friends, family) that provides accountability and encouragement. When exercise becomes a habit, you help to eliminate the mental tendency to skip a workout and create a more positive mindset that is focused and dedicated to exercising regularly. Changing your current lifestyle – even when it’s for the good – can sometimes feel overwhelming and intimidating. By breaking up your overall objectives into more manageable smaller changes like the ones listed above, you can create a foundation that will lead you to successfully meeting your lifestyle goals. For details, call 305-665-3694, or go to <www.fitnesstogethermiami.com> or email at: <scottbaumann@fitnesstogether.com> Facebook: www.facebook.com/ fitnesstogethermiami Miami personal fitness studios (South Miami and Grove)
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 11
‘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
NOW OFFERING PRIMAL RAW. SINGLE SOURCE RAW DIETS AND TREATS
Open 7 Days a Week
Amy Ioné Alvarado –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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.
Page 12
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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>.
Page 13
Page 14
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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>.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ••• –––––––––––––––––––––––––
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.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 15
Page 16
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 17
Page 18
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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 Palmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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>.
Page 19
Page 20
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 21
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.
Page 22
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 23
Page 24
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
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
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 25
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.
KITCHEN,, BATHS S & More... COMPLETE KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING
Certified Kitchen Designers (CKD) on Staff • Computer Designs • • Complete Home Remodeling • GENERAL CONTRACTING SERVICES AVAILABLE GREEN BUILDER LEED AP Licensed General Contractors Since 1983 • Trebor Invest Corp. Lic#CGA15738
Visit us www.TreborGeneralContractors.com We specialize in insurance claims VISIT OUR SHOWROOM OR CALL FOR FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATE
8790 SW 132 Street, Miami, FL 33176 KITCHEN, BATH & MORE
305-254-9222
Page 26
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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>.
Page 27
Page 28
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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>.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 29
Page 30
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 31
Page 32
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
Page 33
“Specializing in the Quality of Life and Healthcare for Women” At Women’s Healthcare of Kendall, LLC, we seek to provide the highest level of care through our highly skilled health care professionals and state of the art technologies. We are devoted to addressing the individual needs and demands of patients in a warm and caring environment.
Women's Healthcare of Kendall is a full service Obstetrics and Gynecology Practice Surgical Suite NOW OPENED. Patient’s NOW have the CONVENIENCE of having procedures performed in-office instead of in-hospital setting IN OFFICE PROCEDURES
Hysteroscopy • Essure • Endometrial Ablations Urodynamics • LEEP • Colposcopy
GENERAL GYNECOLOGY · Routine and yearly examinations · Adolescent Gynecology Counseling · Contraceptive Counseling · Pap Smears and Cervical Cancer Screenings · Breast and Ovarian Cancer Screenings · Urogynecology · Uterine Disorders · Premenstrual Syndrome Management · Menopausal Disorders
OBSTETRICAL CARE · Family Planning · Prenatal Care and testing · High risk Pregnancies · Labor and Delivery Care · Midwifery Care · Postpartum Care
10700 North Kendall Dr. Phone: (305) 270-7999 Suite 200, Miami, FL 33176 Fax: (305) 270-6788 www.womensmd.net • info.desk@womensmd.net
Homestyle Cuban Food From New York to Miami Family owned and operated for over 30 years!
305-670-2228 7360 S.W. 90th St. Miami FL 33156 www.elsitiorestaurant.com
We Deliver Open 7 days • 9am to 10pm Free Valet
73 PL
Pablo E. Delgado, M.D., FACOG Mary A. Leyva CNM, ARNP Lauren D. Viego, ARNP
Kendall Dr.
El Sitio
Publix
S.
d
da
.
lvd
dB
n ela
dadeland Blvd
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Palmetto Expy. 826
September 4 - 17, 2012
-1
US
Page 34
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
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.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 35
In the Famous Warehouse District by the Falls next to Battaglia Shoes
8845 SW 132 St. â&#x20AC;˘ Miami, FL 33176
305.491.5651
ur Visit Ooom R Show ! d To ay
Open: Monday to Friday 10:30am - 6pm - Sat. & Sun. 10am - 5pm info@upscalefurnituregallery.com
Summer Specials Up To
50% OFF
Upscale Furniture Consignment Gallery www.UpscaleFurnitureConsignmentGallery.com
Where Class & Vintage Meet
Fine antiques to contemporary pieces. Find one piece or decorate your entire room!
Page 36
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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
P LASTIC S URGERY I NSTITUTE OF
For more information on Dr. Sharma’s services contact our local Coral Gables office at:
475 Biltmore Way #308 Coral Gables, Florida 33134
305.456.5727 PEPE SAL SAYS WE NEED YOU……
MIAMI
Did you know that we kill 20,000 adoptable dogs and cats every year in miami dade county? The Problem Is OVERPOPULATION It costs Miami Dade County taxpayers $300 to kill each dog or cat, and will cost less than $65 to spay and neuter All photos: Liam Crotty www.liamcrotty.com
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
THIS IS HOW
Mark Buehrle
YOU CAN HELP WIN THIS CAMPAIGN:
To make this happen, we need
Please send your check to:
VOLUNTEERS, FUNDRAISERS, and DONATIONS
Pets’ Voice 8845 S.W. 132nd St. Miami, FL. 33176
Mayor Gimenez
Miss Florida Laura McKeeman
Xiomara Gonzalez
THE VOTE FOR SAVING OUR ANIMALS IS NOVEMBER 6th.
Pepe Sal Pets’ Trust Spokes Dog
For volunteers, to create fundraisers, or for sponsorship opportunities…. contact Michael Rosenberg at
mike@imagineyourphotos.com
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 37
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>.
Pictured are the new owners of Lots of Lox (l-r) Steve, Jimmy and Nick Poulos.
THE ORIGINAL LOTS
OF LOX • Catering Available • Dine In or Take Out
•
BREAKFAST SPECIAL
$6.45
INCLUDES COFFEE OR TEA MON. THRU FRI. 7AM TO 11AM
14995 South Dixie Hwy.
Tel: 305-252-2010 • Fax: 305-232-7560
NEW HOURS Open Monday thru Friday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Dinner Specials from 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM Saturday and Sunday 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Page 38
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
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>.
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 39
CONTACT US NOW FOR AN ADMISSIONS VISIT (PRESCHOOL THROUGH 12TH GRADE)
NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART 10 ACRE CAMPUS FOR GRADES 6 THROUGH 12 RIVIERA DAY SCHOOL 6800 Nervia St. Coral Gables, FL 33146 Tel. 888.522.6617 I RIVIERA PREPARATORY SCHOOL 9775 SW 87 Ave. Miami, FL 33176 Tel. 888.479.0829 www.rivieraschools.com I Accredited by AISF, SACS, MSA, Ai, NCPSA
Page 40
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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.
Page 44
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;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,â&#x20AC;? 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
Page 41
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.
CUSTOM SUITS • EXPERT ALTERATIONS At John the Tailor our mission statement is “to produce high quality men’s custom suits and shirts that fit as close to perfect the very first time. Also, we know how important alterations are to you, and we offer the best alterations Miami has to offer.” We have served the Miami community for over 28 years, Call us to schedule an appointment, at:
(305) 667-8768
5609 South West 74th Street, South Miami For more about this extraordinary family of tailors, visit:
www.johnthetailor.net
Page 42
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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.
Page 43
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.”
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 45
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>.
Page 46
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
Page 47
Restaurant Corner For advertising information call (305) 669-7030 Wings
Sandwiches
World Famous Steak “Keg Bites”
No Better Burgers Anywhere!
Eat-In Take Out
Family, Food & Fun
The Best Burger & Coldest Draft Beer!
12805 S.W. 136 Avenue
305•253•2043
Now Serving Breakfast
TWOCHEFS Serving South Florida since 1975
restaurant.com 305-663-2100
We now deliver and cater!
Coral Gables Dadeland North Kings Bay
305.448.3736 305.666.5511 305.233.6224
8287 S. Dixie Hwy. www.TWOCHEFSrestaurant.com
Two Brothers Pizzeria • Panini • Bar (305) 595-7559
Palms at Town & Country 8424 Mills Drive, Miami, FL 33183-4807
Dinner Special 4:30 pm - 9: pm Breakfast Special
$6.45 14995 South Dixie Hwy. 305.252.2010
(305) 662-6855 8080 S.W. 67th Ave. S. Miami, Florida
305-247-0657 350 N. Homestead Blvd. Homestead, Florida
Page 48
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
What Time Is It? Trimming Time..
FREE Evaluations ISA Certified Arborist Make your trees safer for Hurricane Season
305.267.1426 www.onetwotree.com
September 4 - 17, 2012
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 49
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>.
Page 50
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
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.
â&#x20AC;˘ 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. â&#x20AC;˘ 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
Page 51
Page 52
HELP WANTED
BABYSITTER (42) Working in daycare. Babysitting evenings & weekends. References available.
786.537.0127 SERVICES
FOR SALE
SERVICES
SERVICES
SERVICES
PAINTER Bectsy’s NEED A • HANDYMAN Cleaning TUTOR? Call me for estimate 786-337-2374 MISSING PET
Services Residential & Commercial
MISSING CAT
• Reading • Math • Language Arts • Español
Siamese & 2 wheelcairs Himalayan, Male, Get help 2 walkers from the best! 1 oxygen machine Gray/Brown. 97th & Kendall area. 1 toilet seat 786.651.0862 ANDREA 305.662.8097 305.412.0764 bectsyp@aol.com HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
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
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
SALON FOR SALE Located on Sunset & 95th. Great location & great parking. $20,000.00 For more information call 305.775.3933
SERVICES
SERVICES
SERVICES
SERVICES
TUTORING SERVICES Subject Areas Taught: SAT Prep (math), ACT Prep (math), GRE Prep (math), Algebra I & II, Geometry, Calculus, Statistics, Physics, College Physics, Chemistry, Organizational Skill, Memory, Technical Writing.
Private personal training. Close to campus. First session free!
15 Years Experience
BARBER Kendall Area
786-367-6713
www.fitnesstogethermiami.com HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
~
TRAVEL AGENT Growing sales force! Exciting opportunities! Pursue sales, build relationships. Marketing materials & programs available. Sell exclusive AAA branded products. 2 yrs. retail travel experience preferred and strong sales skills required. Competitive base + comm. mariakramer@aaasouth.com
Bilingual, with experience for upscale men’s barber shop. Call 305-505-0813 REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED Adata Technology (U.S.A.) Co., Ltd. seeks a OPERATIONS RESEARCH MANAGER Mail resume to: 2500 NW 107th Ave. #400, Miami, Florida
HELP WANTED
EASY FUN JOB
Kendall area Female preferred Must have a valid driver’s license occasionally to drive a 2012 car Part time available Salary/Days/Hours open Must be personable Contact Herb at 786-242-8878
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
%&
'
'$ "$
" # !(
September 4 - 17, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 53
Page 54
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
Page 55
Page 56
September 4 - 17, 2012
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
Page 57
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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 â&#x20AC;˘ 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.
Page 58
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012
Attention Small Businesses & Organizations!!
Misunderstanding the IRS can cause unnecessary Audit$$$. We speak financial at an affordable price! Stop the tax love notes. We can take care of all your small business accounting needs
305.964.7097 â&#x20AC;˘ www.afbservice.com Community Health of South Florida, Inc. is one of the largest federally qualified health care centers in the United States, providing job opportunities with competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including a liberal pension plan. Malpractice coverage is provided by the Federal Torts Claims Act. We are a stable private-not-for-profit health care organization. All sites offer quality comprehensive primary and behavioral health care services. CHI is Joint Commission accredited. We offer outstanding benefits to the employees of CHI. Come and join our team of professionals. Immediate positions for ARNP, Certified Nurse Midwife, Clerk, Data Analyst, Dental Assistant, Dental Financial Service Specialist, Dentist, Director of Performance Improvement, Director of Planning & Development, Driver/Transportation, Environmental Service Worker, Executive Secretary, File Processor, Health Educator, HIM Scanner, HIM Supervisor, Laboratory Services Support Services, Licensed Health Risk Manager, Licensed Practical Nurse, Maintenance Mechanic, Mental Health Specialists I & II, Patient Care Technician, Patient Financial Service Specialist, Personnel Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Physicians (Board Certified), Physician Assistant, Registered Nurse and Radiologist. Applicants may apply on line at www.CHISOUTHFL.org, in person or fax Resume to: Community Health of South Florida, Inc. 10300 SW 216 Street, Miami, Florida 33190_Phone: (305) 252-4872 Fax (305)254-4987. AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. PREFERENCE IN APPOINTMENT WILL BE GIVEN TO ELIGIBLE VETERANS AND SPOUSES.
September 4 - 17, 2012
0$7+ 78725 :,7+ <($56 2) (;3(5,(1&(
$OO OHYHOV RI PDWK IURP WK JUDGH WR &ROOHJH 5HYLHZ IRU ILQDOV 0DWK 6NLOOV 3UH $OJHEUD $OJHEUD , DQG ,, 3UH &DOFXOXV &DOFXOXV &ROOHJH $OJHEUD DQG &DOFXOXV 6$7 $&7 35(3$5$7,21 5DQVRP (YHUJODGHV 3DOPHU 7ULQLW\ *XOOLYHU 3DOPHWWR 0LGGOH DQG +LJK 6FKRRO %HOHQ 5HDVRQDEOH 5DWHV :LOO FRPH WR \RX LI QHHGHG
*8$5$17((' 5(68/76
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 59
Page 60
September 4 - 17, 2012
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
Page 61
Page 62
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 63
Page 64
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
September 4 - 17, 2012