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Aventura
Serving Aventura, Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor, Golden Beach, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside
May 18 - 24, 2011
mckafka Development Group teaches Harvard Executive Program on purchasing distressed properties BY YAFFA MIZRACHI
A
lthough on opposite ends of the world, Fernando Levy Hara, who lives in Aventura, and Austrianborn Stephan Gietl, who lives in Prague in the Czech Republic, met while attending the Advanced Management Development Program in Real Estate at Harvard University Graduate School of Design (AMDP) in 2009. AMDP is exclusively for entrepreneurs and senior-level professionals with at least 15 years of real estaterelated experience. Despite the U.S. experiencing one of the worst economic crises in the last century, Levy Hara and Gietl believe the country will make a strong comeback from the downturn. For their AMDP endof-program project, the two scholars realized their shared vision for succeeding in a changed real estate climate and developed a business plan that would offer
mckafka Development Group Principals Stephan Gietl and Fernando Levy Hara
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Properties recently acquired by mckafka Development Group
Las Olas by the River in Fort Lauderdale
Village East in Fort Lauderdale
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AVENTURANEWS.COM
May 18 - 24, 2011
Around Town in Aventura Ameriprise Financial Services and city officials cut ribbon for new office The fourth largest financial advisory firm, Ameriprise, recently held an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony to announce their new location at One Turnberry in Aventura. Jeremy M. Straub, Complex Director of Ameriprise Financial said, “As many firms close branches, we have decided to invest in communities which we have not served in the past. I could not be happier with our location and being in Aventura. What I did not expect was how welcoming the City, including the Mayor and Commissioners, and the people of the city were going to be. I have opened a number of locations, but this has
been the first city in which I felt part of in such a short period of time, and we are thankful that the Aventura Marketing Council helped us become acquainted with the city and the business community.”
For more information, call Jeremy M. Straub at (305) 914.3945 or visit ameriprise.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Aventura Vice Mayor Bob Diamond; Bob Waxman, Giliane Cannavo, Jeremy Straub, Ameriprise; Aventura Mayor Susan Gottlieb; Mel Gordon, Ameriprise; Aventura Comm. Billy Joel
Stuart Geller designs holiday table settings for Bloomingdale’s
Super Bowl volunteers become part of Miami Dolphins Foundation ‘Special Teams’
Kelly Tortoriello, Leslie Nixon and Elaine Adler
At a recent Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County event held at Bloomingdale’s in Boca Raton, Interior Designer Stuart Geller (center) was selected to design holiday table settings gift ideas for the “Passover Panache...” The Women of Spirit and Spice.” Chefs Keith and Dena Blauchild of Parkland Caterers presented three holiday recipes that were Kosher for Passover. Geller Design Group can be reached at 305-937-0111.
Keeping in touch with each other after Super Bowl XLIV 2010 were Kelly Tortoriello, VP of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Leslie Nixon, Manager of Volunteer Programs for the Miami Dolphins Foundation and Elaine Adler, President of the Aventura Marketing Council. On the agenda were upcoming initiatives for the Miami Dolphins Foundation “Special Teams.” Tortoriello and Adler co-chaired the Volunteer Committee for Super Bowl XLIV held at Sun Life Stadium in February, 2010, and Nixon was the Staff Director for the committee, which was responsible for identifying, organizing and train-
ing over 6,000 volunteers. Nixon now heads up the Miami Dolphins Foundation “Special Teams.” This unique organization was created to enlist and mobilize the ongoing services of the community with Miami Dolphins staff, players and alumni. Hundreds of Super Bowl volunteers have signed up to partner with existing organizations on worthwhile social, civic and charitable programs and to provide community support efforts in times of emergency.
For more information, call (305) 943-7900 or visit miamidolphins.com/specialteams or e-mail volunteers@dolphins.com
May 18 - 24, 2011
AVENTURANEWS.COM
Wandering & Pondering The Klutz
For those of you that don’t know the stopped the downward plunge of her fork expression a “klutz” is someone that some- into my palm. I reacted to the pain by how louses up things without trying to. swinging my other arm out and made conI am left handed and because of that, tact with the stomach of a passing waiter things happen because I’m a minority in a whose plate of chicken cacciatore scattered over the people sitting to our left. right handed world. For instance I As a result of this catastrophe, was having a discussion with a the restaurant now has three seclocal politician on a matter of tions for its diners, “no smoking, some importance. I stood up to no dogs or cats, no Palmers.” emphasize some point threw out This has given me some my left hand and knocked his thought and I have decided that favorite plant and its stand to the being the left hander in a right floor and making a bit of mess. handed world is not so good. My point was not taken. I ended DAN PALMER We minority lefties are really out of his office. I was in a restaurant with a charming an oppressed group who don’t have the luxlady, an Italian restaurant. I was discussing uries of a right handed world. There had to something or other, and somehow my be an organization that stood up for us. elbow landed in the plate of marinara sauce Sure enough there was one called “Left that she had asked for. Trying to recover Handers Inc.” I contacted them, they sent me an appliwith some grace, my hand went forward and knocked her water glass into her cation that I quickly filled out and sent back I got an answer the other day “Sorry no spaghetti. At this point I discovered that she wasn’t a lady because she could have dogs, no cats no . . .
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Honesty • Integrity • Values • Respect • Knowledge • Ethics
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AVENTURANEWS.COM
Elite BEAT
May 18 - 24, 2011
Holistic Health Care Miami co-founders Maria Stellato and Adriana Perez cultivate mind and body health
BY LYNN CARROLL
PROVOCATIVE QUESTIONS FOR PROVOCATIVE PEOPLE needs of the body to ensure a healthy body and mind. We believe that holistic healing treatments are the most natural and effective way to correct energy imbalances in the body in order to achieve maximum health.
BY LYNN CARROLL
L C : What modalities do you of f e r ? AP: We’re licensed in Oriental and Chinese medicine, and can treat a variety of symptoms and disorders using a non-invasive, holistic approach that has no side effects and can sometimes effect results in just as few treatments. Treatment methodologies include Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, Cupping, Facial Rejuvenation, Homeopathy, Hypnotherapy, Injection therapy, Moxibustion, Nutritional counseling, Physical Therapy and Reiki.
ing psychology at FIU, where I graduated with a BA in Psychology in 2002. In 2005, I completed an MS in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Carlos Albizu University. As part of my MS program, I completed a practicum at Florida Power &Light’s FPL-WELL Employee Assistance Program, where I helped to coordinate healthy lunches and meditation group breaks, and also conducted research to demonstrate to top executives the importance of a healthy lifestyle and healthy programs for employees and employers. This experience piqued my interest in alternative medicine. In 2008, I obtained a Diploma in Oriental Medicine from the Acupuncture Massage College, and I’m currently pursuing a PhD in Holistic Nutrition at Clayton University.
school, I moved to Miami to study traditional ways of healing. In 2000 I earned a medical assistant degree from Miami-Dade College, and a year later I was certified as a Plebotomoy Technician. I was planning to become a registered nurse. But my medical training was interrupted when a family member became seriously ill and needed my care. During this time, I became disillusioned with traditional western medicine, and became interested in more comprehensive and holistic alternatives. I enrolled in a massage therapy program and got training in homeopathy, oriental medicine and nutrition. In 2008 I obtained a Masters in Oriental Medicine from the Acupuncture Massage College. I’m also a licensed skin care specialist in Florida, a Reiki master and a certified hypnotist.
LC: How do you define “holistic health c a re”? MS: The Holistic Health Care approach considers the physical and psychological
LC: How did you become involved in the study of eastern medicine? MS: I became interested in the connection between the body and the mind while study-
AP: My grandmother was a healer, and growing up in Medellin, Colombia, I watched her use herbs, teas and other alternative methods to cure ailments. After high
Holistic Health Care Miami is located at 17150 NE 19th Avenue, North Miami Beach. For information: 305-949-9828 or holistichealthcaremiami.com
MARIA STELLATO AND ADRIANA PEREZ
Miami Children’s Young Ambassadors host Spring Fling launch event at Echavarria residence Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation Diamond Society members Cristina and Daniel Echavarria and Brooke and Dr. Chad Perlyn hosted a Spring Fling Launch event for the Miami Children’s Young Ambassadors (MCYA), of which Cristina Echavarria and Dr. Perlyn are co-chairs. Approximately 100 young professionals, physicians and Miami Children’s Hospital and Foundation senior leaders and donors gathered to enjoy a beautiful South Florida evening and to discuss their common interest in advocating for children’s issues and serving as ambassadors for Miami Children’s Hospital. Attendees included Miami Children’s Hospital (MCH) Board Chairman Gary Gregory; MCH Board member Dr. Maria Franco; MCH Foundation President & CEO Lucy Morillo-Agnetti; MCH Vice President of Strategic Business Planning and Public Affairs, Chief Hospitality Officer Nancy Humbert; MCYA Leadership Committee members Dr. Plato Alexander, Gabriel Decaran-Voight, Michael Grieco, Chandra Iglesias-Balsera, Andres Asion, Cristina Echavarria, Jackie Humbert, JC Antorcha, Brenda Vargas, Dean Neiger, Brooke and Dr. Chad Perlyn; MCH physicians Drs. Mislen and Christian Bauer and Dr. Jason Katz ; Florida International University Athletic Director Pete Garcia;
MCYA Co-Chairs Dr. Chad Perlyn and Cristina Echavarria, John Agnetti, MCH Foundation President & CEO Lucy Morillo-Agnetti Taylor Gregory Pena; MCH Board Chair Gary Gregory; MCH Vice President of Strategic Business Planning and Public Affairs, Chief Hospitality Officer Nancy Humbert
Carolina Cejas and Eduardo Arellano. “ M i a m i Children’s Hospital saved my life after I was in a motorcycle accident as a teenager and, as the father of two young children, I feel lucky to have this valuable resource in our community,” said Daniel Echavarria. “We cannot take Miami MCYA Leadership Committee Members – Dr. Plato Alexander, Michael Grieco, Chandra Children’s for grant- Iglesias-Balsera, Andres Asion, Cristina Echavarria, Gabriel Decaran-Voigt, Jackie Humbert, ed; we must show our JC Antorcha, Brooke & Dr. Chad Perlyn support through –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “Miami Children’s Hospital saved my brothdonations and giving children a voice.” MCYA is a newly formed membership er’s life when he was a child, and due to his organization for young professionals between inspiration, I chose to pursue a career where I can the ages of 22 and 45 who have a strong com- affect children’s lives,” said Dr. Perlyn, who is a mitment to improving the lives of children in pediatric plastic surgeon at Miami Children’s. “MCYA allows not only doctors and nurses, but our community and beyond. Members have the opportunity to network with the entire community to step up and support chilprestigious business and community leaders, meet dren’s health care.” with key Miami Children’s Hospital and For more information on MCYA and Miami Foundation personnel and determine how their donations can best be used to benefit the children Children’s Hospital Foundation, call Lani Valido at 786-624-2826 or lvalido@mchf.org of our community and beyond.
May 18 - 24, 2011
AVENTURANEWS.COM
Infections can be contagious
Patricia C. Frank FRANKLY SPEAKING Everyone knows that when your resistance is low you are more apt to catch something. Usually that is not a good situation. People try to avoid becoming infected or contaminated by others. They usually go out of their way to protect themselves from the contagious person. There is, however, an exception to this rule. Of all of the things that you might be susceptible to from someone else, by far, the greatest thing you can catch is infectious joy. It is pure pleasure and bliss. You can spot an infected person very easily by their look, by their smile by the twinkle in their eyes and by the way they carry themselves and by their movements. They have a bounce to their step. Another telltale sign is how they make you feel when you are with them and how they make you feel
even when you are not with them. Just thinking of them can make you feel joyful. If you do not already have it, you may be lucky enough to catch it from another person who has it or from the beauty of nature, or from a kindness, or the consideration a stranger has shown you. You can also catch it from a compliment or praise and appreciation. If you know someone who is infected, expose yourself to them and their joy. When you have a physical infection, the traditional advice is to stay home and stay away from other people. When you are infected with joy the opposite advice holds true. Go out and about and spread it to everyone, everywhere you go. Don’t stay home. Don’t avoid others. Become a carrier. Infect as many people as you can. Get close to them. Touch them. Touch their hand and hug them. Breathe on them and breathe your joy and your delight into them. Once you are infected, it is the only infection that you will not want to get rid of. It is a true blessing. Patricia Frank is a Licensed Psychotherapist. She can be reached at 305-788-4864, 212 308-0309.
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Fairmont Turnberry Isle summer camps return, June 13th This summer, turn off the video games and send junior to the legendary Fairmont Turnberry Isle resort for two amazing camp options, including the following: TENNIS & GOLF CAMP During this second annual camp, kids ages 7 to 15 meet new friends and stay in shape through exciting tennis and golf programs facilitated by the resort’s team of celebrated professionals including Gary Knapp, voted “Teacher of the Year” by the South Florida PGA and the Southern Nevada Chapter of the Southwest Section PGA; Hiro Suzuki, who is the resort’s resident golf pro and previously served as golf director under Robert Trent Jones, Sr.; and Tennis Director Elisabeth Cusack, who was a Division 2 Conference Champion at college and has coached junior tennis for over 10 years. In addition, Turnberry Isle’s Tennis & Golf Camp includes swimming at the Laguna Pool featuring a lazy river and 180-foot long waterslide. Available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday (June 20-24; June 27July 1; July 11-15; July 18-22; July 25-29; August 1-4). The cost to participate is $100 daily or $400 weekly and includes lunch, refreshments and a take-home water bottle. Spaces are limited and advanced registration is required seven days prior to the camp start date. To register, call 305-933-6925. KIDS’ CONNECTION AT FAIRMONT TURNBERRY ISLE Give kids an adventure with help from Miami Fitness
Connection during this unique supervised children’s camp for ages 4 to 12. For the past 15 years, Miami Fitness Connection has provided youth from all over the world with a memorable camp experience and offers a variety of fun-filled activities that’s sure to impress even the toughest little critic. Activities include teambuilding and cooperative games, arts & crafts, sports & fitness, drama, pool & beach activities, a character’s club and special classes like zumba, gymnastics, a safari animal show, Lego® robotics, and much more. Counselors are fully trained, bonded and certified for swimming instruction and cardio resuscitation. Available seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 13 through August 28. The cost to participate is $75 a day ($65 for resort guests) and includes lunch. To register, call 305-776-0885 or contact the resort directly at 305-932-6200 and ask to be transferred to the concierge desk.
Fairmont Turnberry Isle offers something for everyone making it a favorite vacation spot for families. This luxurious 392-room retreat is also renowned for its world-class golf and tennis, award-winning Willow Stream Spa, stellar dining options including Celebrity Chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak restaurant, and private Ocean Club. Summer room rates start at $149 per night and include complimentary greens fees on two championship Raymond Floyd-redesigned golf courses. For reservations, call 1-866-612-7739 or visit fairmont.com/turnberryisle
May 18 - 24, 2011
Vi at Aventura among sponsors for Senior Health Day event BY LYNN CARROLL Join 100,000 seniors nationwide in a renewed focus on fitness after 50 at the upcoming 18th Annual National Senior Health & Fitness Day, to be held from 9 a.m. to noon on May 25th at the North Beach City Center, 2801 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd. “Our Senior Health & Fitness Day is a wonderful opportunity for seniors to make, renew and revitalize their commitment to live healthier lives through better health and fitness,” says Marjorie Aloni, community relations manager at Vi at Aventura –– an event sponsor –– and chair of the Hallandale Beach Chamber’s Health & Wellness Committee, which is organizing it. The event is among about a thousand to be held across the country, she says. The Hallandale Beach Chamber of Commerce is official host for the health screening and education program. In addition to Vi, sponsors include Mount Sinai Medical Center, Hallandale Medical Center, Locatel Health & Wellness, Memorial Regional Hospital South and Visiting Angels. Aloni says the day will begin with a light breakfast and will offer numerous
free medical screenings as well as fitness and exercise classes. “In addition to screenings for blood pressure, blood glucose, diabetic foot care, acupuncture, balance, memory screening, chiropractic problems, and sleep disorders,” she says, “there will be classes offered on Tai Chi, a triptouch breast demonstration, senior balance exercises, fall prevention and nutrition.” The National Senior Health & Fitness Day is held annually on the last Wednesday in May in support of Older Americans Month and National Physical Fitness & Sports Month. It is coordinated by the Mature Market Resource Center. Vi Aventura, 19333 West Country Club Drive, Aventura, is a continuing life-care community offering luxury independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care. The North Beach City Center is located next to the Hallandale Beach water tower at A1A and Hallandale Beach Boulevard. Free parking is available.
For event information, call 305-6924829.
Aventura Hospital celebrates 10th floor expansion launch Aventura Hospital and Medical Center (AHMC) recently hosted a festive reception to launch the hospital’s latest expansion project. Notable representatives from the City of Aventura were among the many guests in attendance. Hospital CEO, Heather J. Rohan joined Aventura Vice Mayor Bob Diamond and Commissioners Teri Holzberg and Billy Joel to mark the start of a $10 million dollar capital expenditure project that will add a 10th floor to the hospital’s North Tower, significantly enhancing the facility’s orthopedic, spinal and general/medical surgery service line. Construction will commence this month, and completion of the project is anticipated for the fourth quarter of next year. “We continue to grow with the community and are committed to providing excellent healthcare for the growing community and have been diligently working toward making this expansion a reality for our patients and physicians,” said Aventura Hospital CEO Heather Rohan. “We have a robust surgical neurology and orthopedic program and are confident that this expansion will serve to further enhance the care of our patients.” The expansion project will add 42 private rooms in more than 30,000 square feet of
customized, post-operative patient care space. The unit will also be equipped with special features designed to enhance the surgical patients’ experience and recovery process, such as a dedicated, state-of-the-art rehabilitation gymnasium and a patient dining area designed to promote post-operative mobility, a fast recovery and socialization amongst patients and family members. For more information, call 305-682-7000 or visit AventuraHospital.com
Aventura Vice Mayor Bob Diamond and Commissioner Billy Joel sign a 10th floor construction beam
Aventura Hospital CEO Heather Rohan and Aventura Comm. Teri Holzberg (center) join hospital staff.
Heather Rohan; Gail DiCaterino; Dr. Michael Dennis, Orthopaedic Surgery
May 18 - 24, 2011
AVENTURANEWS.COM
‘Aventura Souvenir’
Bari Auerbach LIFE IN THE CITY If you’re a resident of if you’re just visiting, everyone should have essential Aventura souvenirs like these to enhance their home or remember their trip to the “City of Excellence”: For Your Wardrobe: The must have Aventura souvenir is the “I Love Aventura” T-shirt adorned with a heart and chic gold accent trim available at Walgreens near the designer flip flops. For Your Car: The must have Aventura souvenir is the condo bar code sticker that comes in fashion colors like neon pink and can help gain access to buildings so luxurious, even the garages have marble floors! For Your Coffee Table: The must have Aventura souvenir is one of the fine publications focusing on the city like Aventura
News or Aventura Magazine – just make sure you get them before everything printed becomes obsolete and the only thing readable will be downloadable. For Your Scrapbook: The must have Aventura souvenirs are a copy of one of the first red light camera tickets you got on Country Club Drive; and receipts from shopping sprees at Aventura Mall you want to hide from your spouse. For Your Kitchen: The must have Aventura souvenirs are a basket filled with shellacked Mo’s bagels; and a Starbucks gold card evoking fond memories of all the free coffee drinks you got for spending way too much on frappuccinos. For Your Fridge: The must have Aventura souvenirs are a slice of cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory that’s still giant even after it was shared by three people; a bunch of organic grapes from Whole Foods Market that was so expensive it almost maxed out your credit card; and a commemorative carton of eggs from Target purchased the day they opened a grocery section.
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May 18 - 24, 2011
mckafka Development Group teaches Harvard Executive Program on purchasing distressed properties Continued from page 1 –––––– sound investment solutions in a volatile and much riskier business environment. mckafka Development Group, based in Aventura, was formed in 2009 as a real estate investment firm specializing in the acquisition of distressed properties by purchasing condominiums in default, loans in default and real estate owned bank properties in South Florida. Today, mckafka has brought more than 250 condominium units in South Florida in less than two years to international investors. In February, mckafka acquired the remaining 68 residences at Village East in Fort Lauderdale. 23 out of 68 units have already been sold. Properties that sold out within a year of their purchase were 62 units at Las Olas by the River in Fort Lauderdale, and 177 condominium units in two buildings in downtown Miami. Gietl, managing member, CFO and COO of mckafka said “Harvard Graduate School of Design Director of Education Corlette Moore McCoy encouraged us to prepare and submit a business case illustrating our real business story and progress since
mckafka Group recently hosted an Aventura Marketing Council Chairman’s Roundtable Luncheon “International Partners… Driving Today’s Economy.” Photographed here are mckafka principals Fernando Levy Hara and Stephan Gietl with special guests (l-r) David Adams, U.S. and Miami Poder 360 Magazine; Fernando Levy Hara; Doreen Hemlock, Sun Sentinel; Ian McCluskey, Thought Leadership International; Stephan Gietl
becoming partners.” “She believed we would serve as valuable instructors for an upcoming Executive Summer Program,” added Levy Hara, also managing member and CEO of mckafka. The faculty selected the Harvard alumni to be part of the “Distressed Assets” program curriculum held on July 25th and July 26th and have been assigned two to four hours to speak about their business case, conduct a debate between participants, and extract final conclusions. The multifaceted program utilizing both industry leaders and case studies taught by Harvard professors will address questions including: Where are the opportunities for investors in this marketplace? How do borrowers work with their lenders to restructure and/or work out their problems? What impact does the CMBS market have on a borrower’s ability to work out a problem loan? And, where will smart real estate equity capital be invested? “It is a great honor to participate as instructors for such a prestigious program. We could not be more proud and are embracing this responsibility with academic precision to ensure this elite group will
Stephan Gietl and Fernando Levy Hara at Harvard –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
have every opportunity to learn from and be inspired by the success stories presented by their peers” concluded Levy Hara.
For more information, call Fernando Levy Hara at 786-426-3800 or e-mail flevyhara@mckafka.com
May 18 - 24, 2011
AVENTURANEWS.COM
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Get ready for unexpected home inspection and higher premium
Al Sunshine CBS MONEY WATCH If you own a house or condo, your insurance company may notify you soon that they’re sending an inspector to check out your property. It’s part of the industry’s efforts to better understand the amount of risk they have in your property… and what it will cost to rebuild. Unfortunately, in most cases those inspections will end up leaving you with higher insurance bills. That’s because the inspectors may cancel mitigation credits like storm shutters and roof reinforcements that have saved you money on your bills. Those credits, and the way homes are inspected, have been changed following intensive lobbying by the insurance industry. The industry hopes to find ways of raising rates to better “capitalize” their Florida business.
Critics say that means raising rates so they can earn bigger profits. As it stands today, the insurance company picks its inspectors to check out your house. That leaves you with no choice. If you refuse the inspection, the company will probably cancel your policy or jack up your rates. If you disagree with the findings, you still have the right to contract your own inspection. However, under current law there is no independent mediation process, and companies are under no obligation to even read your inspectors report, much less over-rule their own inspectors. Why should you care? There’s one reason in particular. Once the inspection report shows your home doesn’t meet the latest codes, your insurance company will raise your rates and your bills might grow by hundreds of dollars a year. That’s what happened to me. An insurance company inspector disqualified my storm shutters because he didn’t find a small “acceptance” decal showing they were “Code-Approved.” He also said my roof wasn’t built
according to code because he couldn’t see the extra roof bracing I had installed on the back section of my gable end. On the other hand, my inspector found both with no problem and told me a qualified inspector would have been able to locate both of these so-called “deficiencies.” Remember, the inspector is hired by the insurance company and NOT by the homeowner. As a result, the insurance company ignored my findings and raised my rates about $1,200 a year. So I dumped them and went with Citizens. I just got my Citizens inspection letter. The company confirms it’s mailed them out to about 300,000 customers in an effort to better learn about their customers’ risk. So how does the state’s “insurer of last resort” handle its inspections? It appears to be about the same as the private companies with no options for homeowners. No due process to handle disputes, and no independent arbitration between homeowners and Citizens. In other words, policyholders are left with few options. The company’s
official statement explains the intricacies. “A homeowner can dispute Citizens inspection findings by submitting documentation that clearly refutes the information collected during Citizens inspection. The findings of an inspection purchased by a homeowner generally will not supersede the findings of a Citizens inspection, because a majority of homeowner purchased inspections do not include the same level of detail that a Citizens inspection contains, nor the same documentation such as photographs to support the inspection findings. Photographs only recently were required to be submitted with wind mitigation inspections on June 1, 2010, so many of the homeowner inspections Citizens has on file have no supporting documentation accompanying them.” In other words — good luck. Watch Al Sunshine’s “Money Watch” reports Monday-Friday beginning at noon. You may find Al’s blog at <www.cbsMiami.com>.
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May 18 - 24, 2011
AVENTURANEWS.COM
The Grill on the Alley puts networking ‘on the menu’ for Aventura Young Professionals BY BARI AUERBACH The Grill on the Alley has a brunch menu, lunch menu, dinner, menu, prime menu, dessert menu, kids’ menu, happy hour menu, a takeout menu and catering menus – but just recently, “networking” was also added to the menu when the legendary restaurant at Aventura Mall hosted a luncheon for Aventura Marketing Council’s Aventura Young Professionals. AYP chair Jeff Levinson of Sabadell United Bank joined by The Grill’s general manager Jeff Martin welcomed a great turnout of business and community leaders invited to build business and socialize at The Grill – renowned for “famously American” cuisine featuring the finest in prime steaks, chops and fresh seafood as well as classic cocktails. While opening menus highlighted by entrees such as Prime New York Steak, Pan-Seared Atlantic Salmon and Grilled Shrimp Pomodoro, entrepreneurs from Williams Island POA, Stern Bloom Media and Melnick, Lilienfeld & Castonguay, CPA’s agreed The Grill’s menu variety combined with amenities such as a private dining room and cocktail lounge provide no reason to look any further than The Grill for every day or special dining occasions. Agreeing it would be a great idea to create an app for downloading all The Grill’s great menu item descriptions, leaders from Senior Helpers, Fidelity Investments, Mercantil Commercebank, BankUnited and Kent Security looked forward to trying signature dishes including the American Kobe Burger, Braised Short Ribs, Chicken Pot Pie, Roasted Brick Chicken and Jumbo Lump Crab Cake. Executives from Total Bank, IT Doctors, the Office of Dr. Frederick Knoll, the Office of Dr. Richard Galitz, Footcare Express, FastCare and Wise Matchmaking also commended The Grill for hosting such a productive “meet and greet” and serving prime meats such as Filet Mignon, Charbroiled Rib Eye Steak, Prime New York Pepper Steak and Charbroiled Skirt Steak. Colleagues from Tropic Survival Advertising & Marketing, Berman Chiropractic Center, DS Xpress, Seo4anyone.com, ASAP Staffing Services, Monarch Lakes Dental Group, Circle of Lifesaving and Fabian Realty concurred The Grill’s menus also help create the perfect venue for meetings, conferences and special occasions that can be planned by an expert banquet coordinator, who can suggest the best wine and food pairings - plus now, “The Grill can come to you” catering services are conveniently available. Friends from the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa, Velocity Processing, Kovens Conference Center, HSBC Bank and Calder Casino & Race Course proffered yet another relaxing reason for coming back to The Grill: Happy Hours 4-8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday when hand-crafted cocktails meet delicious “Chef Bites” like Australian Lamb Chops, New York Pepper Steak, Braised Short Rib, Jumbo Sea Scallops and Peppered Filet Medallions – plus favorite appetizers including Popcorn Shrimp, Bleu Cheese Fries, and Kobe or Crab Cake Side Kicks. Before the luncheon was over, everyone concurred “Quality Without Compromise” tops the menu list of main reasons for The Grill on the Alley’s great success. – an attribute shared by all members of the Aventura Young Professionals.
For reservations or more information about gift cards, private dining and catering at The Grill on the Alley in Aventura Mall, phone: 305 466-7195 or visit thegrill.com. To inquire about upcoming AYP events, phone 305-9325334.
Jeff Levinson, Sabadell United Bank; Jeff Rosa Reyes and Jessica Walcott, Morton’s the Martin, Grill on the Alley Steakhouse flank Greg Gringruz, iBeautiful.com Dimitry Shaposhnikov, DS Xpress; Tammy Wagner, Velocity Processing; Marcelo Pimenta, Cross Fit
Amy Stone and Jan Carera, Williams Island POA; guest Aventura Young Professionals enjoy great networking at Grill on the Alley
Lilly Quintana, Ofc. of Dr. Richard Galitz; Yvonne McCormack-Lyons, Women’s International
Cisar Ocane and Michael Mortellaro, Fidelity Investments flank guest
John Parafinczuk, ASAP Staffing Services; David Harari and Anna Gulevitskaya, Kent Security; Shelley Phillips, Fast Care
May 18 - 24, 2011
AVENTURANEWS.COM
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Café Aventura, formerly Tropical Smoothie Café hosts ‘eat better-feel better’ SpeedBiz meeting BY BARI AUERBACH Faster than you can say “Eat Better-Feel Better” Café Aventura, formerly Tropical Smoothie Café helped create the quickest way to build business by hosting an Aventura Marketing Council SpeedBiz meeting – the “short and sweet” monthly networking event presented by the AMC’s Small Business Development Committee. Café Aventura owner Michael Erber helped welcome a great turnout of business and community leaders to the café’s great new location at One Turnberry Place (Chase Bank Building, 194th Street and Biscayne Boulevard) for the
morning Lightning Biz event likened to “speed dating for your business - only better!“ “SpeedBiz has become a favorite to many Aventura Marketing Council members as it provides a way to connect one-on-one with new members and a way to reconnect with long-time members,” said Aventura Comm. Michael Stern of Stern Bloom Media, Chair of the AMC’s Small Business Development Committee. Always on-the-go AMC professionals especially appreciated Café Aventura’s fast service and “fresh food, fresh ingredients” menu featuring a big selection of low-fat yogurts, gourmet wraps, sandwiches and grilled pitas in addition to salads and soups, breakfast wraps served all
Aventura Comm. Michael Stern, Stern Bloom Media with Aventura Café’s Maria Vasquez, Cinthia Montvelle, Petrina Folsom and Carolina Villalbar
Aventura Comm. Michael Stern; Lance Detotto, Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort; Hope Bieri, Berman Chiropractic Center; Oscar Llorente, Mount Sinai Medical Center
day long - plus great choices for kids too. Without wasting any time, AMC executives decided Café Aventura is the perfect place for a power lunch with specialties like the Asian Chicken Wrap with romaine lettuce, carrots, crunchy Asian noodles, cucumber and sweet Asian dressing. Other favorite wraps include the Chicken Caesar, Delightful Turkey, Roasted Veggie and their Healthy Tuna Wrap. Hungry for a hearty sandwich in a hurry, everyone looked forward to trying the Turkey Veggie, Classic New York, Spicy Buffalo Chicken and Sweet Pecan Chicken Salad. Racing to decide which Café Aventura grilled pita was more delicious – no one could
Candice Ryan-Lederman, North Beach Vascular & Aesthetics; Dan Palmer, Aventura News; Maria Stellato, Holistic Health Care Miami
Ally Korn, Aventura Heart Center; Madelyn Fradkin, Mobile Assistant Direct; Barbara Falk, Broward Promotions
choose between their variety of grilled chicken, assorted meat and vegetarian options. Before the SpeedBiz meeting was over, lucky Veronica Walsh of Macy’s won a $20 gift card and AMC members speed dialed all their friends to tell them about Café Aventura’s generous eat better, feel better offer: “Take a Friend on a Fresh & Healthy Trip on Us!” Just pick up a coupon and when you buy any sandwich, wrap or salad, a friend can get one of equal or lesser value free. Café Aventura is now located at One Turnberry Place (Chase Bank building) 19495 Biscayne Boulevard. To inquire about catering services, phone: 305-682-0354.
Dr. David Muransky, Aventura Chiropractic Care Center; Faith Vittorio-Fehr, Standard Coffee Service Company; Alex Bieri, Stern Bloom Media
Cheyenne Chernov, Juice Plus; Yvonne McCormack-Lyons, Women’s International Film & Arts Festival; Jesus Soto, Coconut Grove Bank
AMC members enjoy the best one-on-one business networking in town!
Sholom Neistein, Florida International University; Shelley Costin, Miami Gardens Florist; Brandon Kress, Sapoznik Insurance & Associates
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May 18 - 24, 2011
May is Burger Month.... Shari Lynn Rothstein-Kramer EAT THIS... DRINK THAT
May is the month of the burger…need we say more? For those need a juicy, meaty, tasty filling burger fix, you are not alone. As a matter of fact, there are more than 14 billion hamburgers consumed each year— that’s an average of 47 hamburgers per person per year, so it is safe to say that there are plenty of Americans who feel the same. So much so, that they dedicated a month to the food. There are many ways to create the “ultimate” burger, but in my opinion, there are so many varieties of the “burger” peer se, it is hard to truly tell. For purists, a quarter to a half pound of pure aged angus will do the trick. Now, with the enormous popularity of burgers, high-end and celebrity chefs are putting their own twists on the classic, throwing together short rib, brisket, sirloin, Kobe, and more to create the perfect meat mix. Naturally, there are chopped Ahi burgers (which I love as a light and healthier alternative to the heavy, “fattier, more caloric and cholesterol-packed” patty; chopped salmon burger (mixed with chopped scallions, garlic, some soy an sesame seeds) for a make a great Asianstyle patty packed with Omega-3 oil; pork burgers, which I prefer in slider form – mini-burgers that come three or four to a plate and are perfect for sharing, or another great beef alternative – the beloved turkey burger. As a matter of fact, when prepared properly, it can be difficult to tell the difference. In my house, we are always concerned about eating right, and shaving calories and fat where we can. But, we love food. Plain and simple – if it isn’t delish, we won’t eat it. So, with that said, we do a finely diced onion, egg (for binding), light bread crumbs to aerate , sometimes we’ll add BBQ sauce into the meat, of course some salt, pepper, parsley, and garlic and
make oversized patties, which we then throw on the grill. Unbelievable- and easy to prepare! Naturally, for those who are adventurous, delve into the world of game meats – buffalo, ostrich, chopped wild boar, Venison – if you can chop it, you can “burger-ize” it. I would be remiss not to mention any style Veggie-burger – be it grains or beans, or a combo there of. A great quick and satisfying veggie burger is a Boca Burger. I do not believe in “pre-packaged frozen foods”, but these I must say make the grade. Once you’ve got your base, then it’s all about the toppings and the bread! I am a purist – I want a thick juicy burger with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles (on occasion) and ketchup. I prefer an English Muffin or Pita bread to big thick buns. For me it’s about the bread to meat ratio. And I like it 65/35 meat to bread. Others feel differently, but the fact is that everyone needs to find their own way. Think about the endless toppings – cheese, bacon and onion rings; a slice of ham and pineapple for a Hawaiian Burger; wrapped in a giant lettuce cup with tomatoes, red onion and sprouts; topped with a fried egg (I must admit this one gets me EVERY time), mushrooms and Swiss – always crowd pleaser; Avocado, tomatoes and sprouts, Throw guacamole and salsa on for a Mexican-style burger; teriyaki glaze, Enoki mushrooms, seaweed salad and top with sesame seeds is a very original take on Japanese style; for a more upscale designer treat top with truffles. There’s nothing else needed! Now these are just a few suggestions. If it feels right to you – go for it. Make up your own style. Cook them medium rare, medium or well, with or without cheese, topped or naked, with or without condiments – is there’s no right or wrong! Create what pleases you and then enjoy! May is burger month – be a part of it! Shari Lynn Rothstein has been writing about food, wine, lifestyles and fashion for more than 20 years, in New York and Florida. She resides in Aventura. Shari can be reached at shari@slkcreative.com for comments, questions thoughts.
Turn It Off... Conserve Water!
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AVENTURANEWS.COM
Choosing a Financial Advisor BY JEFF POWELL “Ever notice how it’s a penny for your thoughts, yet you put in your two-cents? Someone is making a penny on the deal” – Steven Wright Most people have a certain image of what the selection process for a financial advisor can be like. It goes something like this: They’re standing on a beach, overlooking a sea of investment companies, with wave upon wave of advisors washing ashore, wanting their business. To a prospective investor, this can seem daunting, but it’s really not. Of the hundreds of advisors that may come ashore, how do you pick the one that is best for you? Start by doing your homework. First, go to FINRA.org, where you can find out if the advisor has a criminal and/or poor regulatory record. Next, ask the advisor to send you their ADV Part 2. This document provides information on their background, experience, and the services they offer. Once you have completed your review of the advisor and are satisfied with the results, sit down with them for a formal interview. Here is a list of initial questions to help guide you through the process: Does the advisor utilize a thirdparty custodian (a specialized financial institution responsible for safeguarding a firm’s
or individual’s financial assets)? Utilizing a third-party custodian is important because you do not want to provide any advisor the opportunity to “run away” with your hardearned money. How does the advisor get paid? Are you paying the extra penny? Are they a fee-only advisor? The fee-only model of compensation reduces the potential for conflicts of interest between the advisor and client because the advisor does not benefit from particular investments. Is the advisor paid through commissions? Does the advisor or the firm they are working for get paid kickbacks or receive incentives for recommending a certain fund or investment? You want to make sure the advisor has your best interests in mind, not their own. Ask for a complete fee schedule. If the advisor cannot produce one in writing, you should walk out the door. Finally, find out what the advisor’s approach is to investing and financial planning. Does the approach fit with your goals and objectives? Has the advisor explained the process in a manner you can understand? In the end, you want a financial advisor that has your best interests at heart, is transparent in his or her processes, and is willing to put everything they are telling you in writing. If they fail any of these tests, my advice is to save that penny and throw them back in the water.
Never Pay Another Expensive Repair Again
Ly Espinol
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Victory Center for Autism offers webcast on young adults with Autism BY LYNN CARROLL
A diagnosis of autism need not be a sentence to a limited, frustrating life. The Victory Center for Autism & Behavioral Challenges is playing host to a special webcast live from New York City that will look at many approaches to creating a fulfilling life for young adults with autism, says Thayla Olmos, the Victory Center’s executive director. The webcast will be aired 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on May 26th in the MAR-JCC Main Building, 18900 NE 25th Avenue, North Miami Beach. Delivering the keynote address, “Autism and My Sensory-Based World,” is Dr. Temple Grandin, a professor at Colorado State University and author of several books that draw on her own experience to explain the unique challenges and gifts of living with autism. She will discuss such topics as finding the right job to match various levels of autism and making simple modifications to a workplace to
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create a comfortable environment for the autistic. A session produced by Caren Zucker with ABC News Correspondent John Donovan will focus on John Triplett, a 77-year-old Mississippian who was the first person diagnosed with autism, and whose story illustrates the positive impact of community support. Other topics will include social entrepreneurism, a presentation on creative ways to help young people with autism develop selfconfidence and direction for the future, and how to establish a special-needs trust that will ensure lifetime care while preserving eligibility for government benefits. Brenda and Moise Weitzberg, founders of Aspiritech, a program designed to provide training and employment in software testing, will talk about their challenges and successes during the first year and a half of operation, and suggest ways in which the model can be expanded. Seating is limited. Please confirm attendance with Jerrika “Zippy” Romero, 305-4661142, ext. 202.
Boys Town Jerusalem toast l’chaim
Michael Yavner; Karen and Mark Firestone; Hili and Marty Scheck; Alison Mars
Aventura Arts & Cultural Center offers Summer Theater Camp Students out of school this summer can celebrate their inner thespian at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center’s Summer Theatre Camp 2011, presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the Performance Project. The camp is offered in two sessions: June 27 to July 22 and July 25 to August 19. Both sessions are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and are designed to give campers an introduction into the world of theater both onstage and behind-the-scenes. Campers will top off their experience by performing in live Broadway-style shows in a professional theater setting. This year’s program consists of two groups: Acting UP, for campers ages 6 to 11, and Broadway Bound, for campers who are 7 to 13. Broadway Bound and Acting UP sessions are limited to 50 campers total. The programs culminate with campers taking the stage at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in a performance. First and second session Acting UP campers will perform a Broadway revue. First session Broadway Bound campers will perform Once Upon a Mattress and second session Broadway Bound campers will perform Cats. The first two weeks of each session
focuses on a curriculum that includes tap, jazz and ballet classes, acting for the stage and camera, improvisation, design, costuming and production. By the third week nearly two thirds of the camp is devoted to production with the final week given over to rehearsals, performance and a cast pizza party. Camp fees for either program is $880, which includes two complimentary tickets to any performance in which the camper appears, a DVD of the final performance, a T-shirt, a refillable water bottle, script and a primary costume (for use during the show). There is a $230 non-refundable deposit to reserve a spot, which is included in the full camp payment. The balance is due one month prior to the start of each session. There is a $200 discount for siblings or for those who enroll in both sessions. Before and after care is also available at $50 per session between 8 and 9 a.m., $100 per session between 4 and 6 p.m. or at a daily rate of $10 per day for either. Campers must bring their own lunches but snacks will be on sale for a nominal fee.
Registration is available online at browardcenter.org/summercamp2011 or call 954- 462-0222 for more information.
Brian Roller; Alex Matz; Glenn Moses; Sofia Matz
Kenneth Bernstein; Jeffrey Herman; Paul Kruss; Alex Halberstein –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Boys Town Jerusalem’s (BTJ) Dor L’Dor (“Generation to Generation”) Society recently enjoyed an evening sponsored by L’Chaim Kosher Vodka. BTJ is one of Israel’s premier institutions for educating the country’s next generation of leaders.
For more information about the Dor L’Dor Society, 305-654-0001or garnowitz@boystownjerusalem.org
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Celebrate Dad & Grads
Jeannie Roberts ENTERTAINMENT Ties, boxers, golf balls, fruit baskets, coffee mugs —been there, done that! This Father’s Day, tell dad you love him with these fun and fashionable ideas from The Village at Gulfstream Park. And while you’re shopping for dad, don’t forget June also marks the time of year to spoil all the grads in your life, too. THE DAPPER DAD & GRAD Since we’ve already put the kibosh on giving dad a tie or undies this Father’s Day, present him with a gift from Village Squire, The Village at Gulfstream Park’s newest go-to boutique for casual clothes. Papa will love Village Squire’s elegant yet stylish shirts, shorts and more by brands such as Haupt, Arnold Zimberg, Moda Ibiza, Agave Cooper just to name a few. Also, swing by The Pacific Paradise for laidback labels like Tommy Bahama, Tori Richard and Robert Graham. For a look and lifestyle that every dad deserves, check out Bobby Chan, offering high-end men’s lifestyle apparel at impulse retail prices. Or, keep dad comfortable and fashionable with brands like Ted Baker, Nat Nast and King Baby, available at Valhalla Menswear. Young grads, on the other hand, will embrace the edgy looks found at Rock & Religion where designers such as Affliction, Roar, Silver Dagger, Envy and more can be found. For girly grads, saunter on over to Apricot Lane and scoop up labels like Miss Me, Sugar Lips, Ginger, Sky, Rock & Revival and True Religion.
And who wouldn’t cherish a new watch? At Time Concepts, Glam Rock, Techno-Marine and NOA watches are all the rage and cool for any age. FOR FOODIES Spend a little quality time together and show dad and the recent grad you adore them by filling their belly at one of The Village at Gulfstream Park’s many restaurants. Tickle their taste buds at Yard House , B r i o T u s c a n G r i l l e , T e x a s d e Brazil, III Forks, Cadillac Ranch, Cantina Laredo, or The Playwright Irish Pub. THE FRAZZLED FATHER AND STRESSED SCHOLAR Give your tired dad or stressed-out College grad the gift of relaxation and rejuvenation at Full Bodied Wine & Spa. All treatments at the spa are grape-based and lead to an intoxicating experience (minus the hangover!). Massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and hair treatments are given Caudalie and Divine products. Also up for grabs are an impressive wine selection, beautiful candles, stemware and hair products. And for the picky papa or grad, there’s always the option to buy The Village at Gulfstream Park’s VISA gift cards. That way, those you love can purchase what they want at any of the glorious shops and restaurants at The Village at Gulfstream Park. Jeannie Roberts is the Director of Marketing for The Village at Gulfstream Park, south Florida’s newest open-air shopping, dining and entertainment destination, anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park Racetrack and Casino. Ms. Roberts’ column runs the third Wednesday of each month. The Village at Gulfstream Park is located at 501 South Federal Highway in beautiful Hallandale Beach, Florida. Visit thevillageatgulfstreampark.com for details.
www.communitynewspapers.com Barbara Buxton, J.D., LL.M. Florida Attorney
Nursing Home Medicaid • Elder Law & Estate Planning Florida Medicaid Planning & Eligibility Asset Protection • Wills, Trusts, Living Wills Powers of Attorney • Guardianships Probate: Estate Administration
Serving Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties Tel.: 305.932.2293 Miami-Dade County 954.760.7077 Broward County www.buxtonlaw.com
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Outlander Sport a 5-passenger version of Mitsubishi Outlander Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS If you like the seven-passenger Mitsubishi Outlander, then you will love the all-new 2011 Outlander Sport. It’s a slightly smaller version of the popular SUV, but with a completely redesigned body to accommodate five passengers and a more fuel-efficient engine paired to either a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Outlander Sport models are available in two trims: ES — with 2WD and plenty of standard equipment and a choice of either the manual or CVT transmission. SE — more upscale, technology-equipped; available with either 2WD or 4WD and the continuously variable gearbox. Both models have a muscular look and a front fascia inspired by jet fighter plane air intakes. Chiseled bodywork and smooth, flowing lines meld into a high beltline and rear spoiler to give the vehicle one of the lowest drag coefficients in its class.
Under the hood, Mitsubishi’s proven 4B11 engine with an aluminum block and cylinder head, innovative MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) continuously variable valve timing system and normally aspirated configuration powers the all-new CUV (25/31 mpg). New features include resin-coated pistons and smoother surface camshafts for reduced friction and improved fuel economy. A higher efficiency alternator and electric power steering contribute to better gas mileage. The improved version of the 2.0-liter inline-4 produces 148 hp at 6000 rpm and 143 pounds-feet of torque at a lower 4200 rpm. The majority of the torque is produced across a wide powerband, from around 2200 rpm all the way to just below redline at 6500 rpm. Available on the Outlander Sport ES and standard on the SE, the Sportronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) has design updates that improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, and also improves driver feel when manually shifting via the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. In normal driving on flat roads, the CVT’s shift schedule has been set to provide a good balance between fuel economy and dynamic performance. But should you find yourself on a winding road, the CVT switches to a more
Outlander Sport features jet fighter plane air intakes, chiseled bodywork and smooth, flowing lines that meld into a high beltline and
aggressive manual sports mode that mimics a six-speed gearbox and improves the responsiveness of the unit’s pulley hydraulics. The standard transmission on the Outlander Sport ES, Mitsubishi’s smoothshifting five-speed manual gearbox, has been updated for this all-new compact crossover. Shift feel has been improved with the addition of triple synchros for both first and second gears, while first and final gear ratios have been changed for better performance and fuel economy. Borrowed from the Outlander, the light-
weight, electronically controlled 4WD system is an available option on the Outlander Sport SE and has seen further design improvements. The base price on our 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SE 2WD test vehicle was $21,695. Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.
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May 18 - 24, 2011
Best books for your ‘best body’ BY BARI AUERBACH If you’ve been thinking about getting into better shape before summer, the new books Extra Lean Family by “Extra” host Mario Lopez; and You Losing Weight by Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen are two of the best books that can help you achieve your best body! ‘Extra Lean Family’ “Extra” host and author Mario Lopez has released a new version of his bestselling book, Extra Lean, called Extra Lean Family. According to the “Extra” website, “As a new father himself, Lopez is committed to helping his family by applying the principles of Extra Lean to the household starting in the kitchen.” “Living ‘Extra Lean’ has allowed me to enjoy food more than ever, while maintaining my best health, and I want nothing less for my family or yours!” Lopez said. Kirkus Reviews n o t e s , “Lopez effectively demonstrates how parents can coach their children about healthy snacks, vitamins and how to ‘dejunk’ life. In Extra Lean Family, Lopez introduces more mindful food choices via a three-part regimen of understanding, preparing and applying his lean-family principles to everyday life. “Other sections describe how food influences metabolism and why carbohydrates are so addictive. Lopez stresses the importance of Omega acids, fiber, water intake and keeping a food journal. His comprehensive five-week meal plan includes a grocery list, time-saving tips and food suggestions heavy on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. “Some of the ‘big-dish’ dinner recipes include Spicy Turkey Chili, ‘Paella-Style’ Chicken and Rice, Bacon and Cheddar Macaroni Casserole and Homemade Fish Sticks - all healthfully reinvented. ‘You Losing Weight’ On a recent episode of the Dr. Oz show, Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen, co-authors of You Losing Weight shared tips on how to lose 20 pounds in eight weeks. Oz and Roizen maintain the key to success is “dieting smart –not
hard…small changes make the big difference.” Shortcuts to “lose 20 pounds and still live your life” are included in the book along with 99 tips and six steps Oz and Roizen recommend taking to achieve weight-loss success: *Find someone to cheer for you - and take the fries from you. *Fill half your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables, protein on one quarter and whole grains on the other quarter. *Have a little healthy fat first to feel fuller, using nuts like almonds. Eat a few 25 minutes before a meal. *Take A “You-Turn” if you lapse and turn things around. *Reward yourself. Get a massage, new workout clothes, etc *Keep moving! Walking just 30 minutes a day makes a huge difference. According to healthybodydaily.com, “In the handy weight-loss guide You Losing Weight, Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen take a no-nonsense approach to explaining the human body to outline why crash dieting can’t work for the long term. They also share their favorite weight-loss super-foods recipes and provide exercise suggestions for how to get the most from any kind of workout. “With food plans, shopping lists, and comprehensive advice on the science of weight loss, You Losing Weight is a pocket-size paperback packed with everything dieters need to know about how to develop better habits that can help prevent diseases caused by obesity and keep pounds off for good.” Extra Lean Family and You Losing Weight are available at amazon.com
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May 18 - 24, 2011
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE UTD PRESIDENT
BY KAREN ARONOWITZ, President, United Teachers of Dade
It’s 7:30 a.m. and I’m seated at a table, declining an invitation to help myself to breakfast before it’s time for me to speak at a Rotary Club gathering. Soon I will be introduced to the fifteen or so people who gather this morning to hear my remarks and discuss education. I admire their commitment, these people who come for quick breakfasts and hurried lunches, before launching into the rest of their day’s appointments; they want to understand and help. As the public face of Miami-Dade teachers, I speak to many such groups. In the short time I am given, I try to correct the record, so as many people as possible can understand the issues from the educators’ perspective – not the media or the politicians. I do my best to let the business professionals at breakfast understand that our state’s failure to fund public schools diminishes the future for our children and the future for their businesses. I don’t have much time, though, because I am off to the airport for a trip to Tallahassee to talk to our legislators – a much tougher audience. On my way to the airport, I meet by phone with members of our Race to the Top committee, who brief me on the situation. Race to the Top was sold to the public as a sort of miracle grant, when in fact, it might be seen as a bureaucratic nightmare of clauses and sections dedicated to defeating the entire purpose of local control by educators and of innovative approaches to teaching. We have lemons here; we are making gallons of lemonade. I arrive at the airport, board the plane and work on my remarks for my meeting in an attempt to save what’s left of funding for actual education, or to hold our finger in the dyke against what many see as a move to slowly dismantle public education altogether. What most of the general public does not know is
that the defeat of Senate Bill 6 last year did not stop the effort to weaken public education in our state. The new assault was confirmed by the passage of Senate Bill 736. Senate Bill 736 eliminates professional service contracts for teachers hired July 1st or later, no matter how well these teachers perform. Legislators also instituted an income tax of 3% on teachers and other public employees intended to fill a deep hole in Florida’s budget, while at the same time, giving large corporations tax breaks. Budget cuts to public education resulted in a $185 million loss MiamiDade Public Schools alone (over $500 per student). Teachers and school support personnel face lay-offs as public schools are forced to curtail or eliminate arts, physical education, and elective courses. Class sizes will increase based on a new definition of what constitutes a core course and will only make matters worse. My afternoon is spent meeting with legislators, and speaking out on behalf of real educators. The mood varies depending on the Legislator. Some greet me with understanding and affirmation, as by Representative Bullard and others we almost have to chase down the corridor to try to catch a minute. It’s always frustrating to see how far legislation gets away from what’s really happening in the classroom, and how hard it is for many who make our laws to understand the real impact on real people. The day ends with few victories. Nonetheless, we state our case repeatedly until well past dinner. Before going to bed at my hotel (I have another full day of meetings tomorrow starting at 7:00 am.), I check in with my fellow officers who have spent the day at school faculty meetings, where they had to tell teachers the bad news about SB 736. We let them know we do have recourse when there is bad law; we have a voice and we will use it. My colleagues assure me that, even though people are not happy, they are not defeated. We can work together to make our voice heard and create change. In spite of it all, I have had a good day. I have had the honor of being the president of a union of educators. I have had the honor of fighting for American principles, and working with many dedicated professionals who are willing to do the same. I go to sleep tired but proud of our Union, and grateful to do this work.
The United Teachers of Dade represents 32,000 teachers and school support personnel in MDCPS. The union is committed to being a leader in creating public school reform, fostering a quality public education for all students and elevating the professional status of teachers, paraprofessionals, office employees, and all school support personnel.
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LUXURY ON A CURVE Living at Artech means living luxury without end. Exercise your tennis stroke, do laps at the infinity edge pool, take your boat out from the expansive marina or simply saunter along the lushly landscaped waterfront boardwalk. This is more than a home. It’s an experience for the most adventurous and sophisticated lifestyles in Aventura.
ARTECHMIAMI.COM Visit our sales center and model residences 2950 NE 188th Street, Aventura, FL 33180 305.466.2600
Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a purchaser or lessee. Units in this condominium are subject to timeshare estates. The features and amenities depicted herein are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. *This property is financed by ST Residential, LLC
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Jewish American Heritage Month Isn’t Just For Jews BY COMM. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ During the Civil Rights Movement, Shirley Zoloth helped organize a sit-in campaign to desegregate public accommodations in downtown Miami. She and her husband joined Alice Barr and Ishmael Howard at the Woolworth lunch-counter on Flagler Street. This was the first of dozens of lunch-counter sit-ins in Miami, a year before one of the most highly visible sit-ins in Greensboro, North Carolina. Shirley Zoloth is just one of the reasons we celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month each May, to recognize and learn about the contributions that Jewish Americans both famous, and not so famous, have made to our society. This May marks the United States’ sixth annual celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions that Jewish Americans have made and continue to make in American culture and history. As South Floridians, we should take great pride in the fact that the inspiration to create a Jewish American Heritage Month originated from the South Florida Jewish Community in 2005. The idea began with the goal of reducing intolerance and bigotry by raising awareness and understanding of the cultural contributions of Jews to the fabric of American history. The Jewish population comprises only two percent of our nation’s population. In fact, most Americans have had few interactions with the Jewish community and our traditions. It is my hope, that by educating non-Jewish Americans about the Jewish contributions to the nation and our culture, we will be able to reduce the ignorance that ultimately leads to hatred and antiSemitism. This May, Jewish American Heritage Month recognizes the abundance of contributions American Jews have made to the United States over the last 356 years. From sports, to academia, to the arts, to politics, Jewish men and women brought their mettle, creativity, and fresh ideas to the table. No matter what your background, we can all learn a great deal from the inspiring American Jews who came before us. For example, Levi Strauss and Estee Lauder are iconic American names synonymous with America’s success, but few Americans know that they were Jewish Americans. Certainly every American is familiar with the song “God Bless America.” The patriotic song is often sung at sporting
events, recitals, and other public events. But few Americans could tell you that it was written by a Jewish American. Irving Berlin wrote the original score in 1918 and in 1938. He revised it because of the rise of Adolf Hitler. The song became so popular that there was even a movement in 1943 to make it America’s national anthem. Even the very foundations of our country were impacted by Jews. Haym Salomon, a Jewish man, was one of the largest financiers of the American Revolutionary War. And Rabbi Joachim Prinz was a passionate Civil Rights Activist, appearing on the podium just moments before Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his “I Have A Dream” speech. The list goes on and on… By drawing attention to all of the varied ways in which Jews have contributed to American culture and history, Jewish American Heritage Month strives to create a national conversation about Jewish identity in the United States. Through better understanding and recognition of the importance of the multi-cultural fabric that comprises this country, Jewish American Heritage Month not only influences Americans’ perspective of Jews, but of all minorities as well. For South Floridians, Jewish American Heritage Month also symbolizes how a group of people at the community level can serve as a catalyst for a national movement. With more than 80 events across the country, national programming on the Biography Channel and national outreach efforts being led by the Jewish American Heritage Month Coalition, the Library of Congress and the National Archives, Jewish American Heritage month has grown to be a significant celebration and recognition of the American Jewish community. Whether it’s learning about Shirley Zoloth and her South Florida sit-in or that Florence Kahn was the first Jewish woman elected to the United States Congress, we have come a long way in promoting appreciation for the multi-cultural fabric of the United States. It is our responsibility to continue this education. If we, as a nation, are to prepare our children for the challenges that lie ahead, then teaching diversity is a fundamental part of that promise. Together, we can help achieve this goal with the celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month. I join President Obama in calling on all Americans to observe this special month by celebrating the many contributions of Jewish contributions throughout our nation’s history. For more information about the history of Jewish life in America, Jewish American Heritage Month, or the many
events occurring in May throughout the country, you can visit the official Jewish American Heritage Month Web site, www.jewishheritagemonth.gov <http://www.jewishheritagemonth.gov> . My office is always open to you. Whether you have a question, a comment, or you are having trouble with a federal agency, my office is here for you. You
can reach us in Pembroke Pines at 954437-3936, in Aventura at 305-936-5724 and in Washington, DC at 202-225-7931. I’m also available on the Web at: http://wassermanschultz.house.gov <http://wassermanschultz.house.gov> where you can sign up for my newsletter to receive the latest information on work being done in your community.
Ros-Lehtinen Introduces New Iran Sanctions Legislation to Close Loopholes, Mandate Enforcement BY U.S. REP. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN (R-FL)
U.S. Rep. Ileana RosLehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, along with Committee Ranking Member Howard L. Berman (D-CA) as the lead co-sponsor, on Friday introduced H.R. 1905, the Iran Threat Reduction Act, which seeks to close loopholes in current U.S. sanctions legislation which have allowed the Administration to avoid imposing the full range of available U.S. sanctions against the Iranian regime. Statement by RosLehtinen: “U.S. policy towards Iran has offered a lot of bark, but not enough bite. This new bipartisan legislation would bring to bear the full weight of the U.S. by seeking to close the loopholes in existing energy and financial sanctions laws, while increasing the type and number of sanctions to be imposed. “The threat posed by Iran to U.S. national security, our interests, and that of our allies, has reached a critical level. There is no time to waste. The goal of U.S. policy, working alone or leading other responsible nations, must be to compel the Iranian regime not just to cease, but to verifiably dismantle its nuclear weapons program and abandon its other unconventional weapons pursuits and state-sponsorship of global terrorist networks. “Given the grave nature of the Iranian threat, it is my hope that my colleagues will support further strengthening the bill as it moves through the legislative process and not fall into the trap of enabling the Executive Branch to ignore U.S. law. Failing to move expeditiously to close these loopholes, and allowing the continued failure of successive administrations to vigorously enforce the sanctions currently on the books, strengthens Iran while leaving the U.S. and our allies more vulnerable.”
BACKGROUND: Ros-Lehtinen was the lead co-sponsor of the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010 (CISADA), which was signed into law by President Obama in July 2010, and which strengthened and expanded U.S. sanctions against the Iranian regime. However, to date, only two companies (an Iranian state-owned firm and a Belarusian state-owned firm) have been sanctioned under CISADA and the underlying Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 for investment in Iran’s energy sector. H.R. 1905, the Iran Threat Reduction Act (ITRA), closes loopholes in both energy and financial sanctions and counters the Iranian regime’s efforts to evade them. The bill strengthens sanctions on efforts by the regime to circumvent existing law, adds new sanctions, such as denying visas to individuals who engage in Iran’s energy sector (which is more broadly defined by ITRA), and increases the number of sanctions the Administration is required to impose. It updates and replaces previous Iran sanctions laws to ensure that current law regarding the totality of the Iranian threat to U.S. national security, our interests, our allies, and also to its own people, is comprehensive. It targets capital markets and activities by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps and its affiliates by incorporating provisions from bipartisan legislation introduced by my colleagues on the Committee. The bill eliminates some waivers, resulting in a mandate to impose sanctions on those who provide the Iranian regime with the materials, technologies, and other assistance to pursue its nuclear, chemical, biological, and missile programs. The bill also creates a new higher standard for waiver of energy sanctions by requiring the President, before waiving, to notify Congress and certify that failure to waive would pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security interests of the U.S.
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Carrie Brazer Center for Autism helps children make progress BY MARTINA BALDWIN
National Autism Awareness Month was in April, but Autism Awareness is a part of daily life at the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism. Ribhi Abadeldayem, 6, on the autism spectrum, is a student who is enrolled in the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism day school, after school, Saturday and summer camp programs. When Ribhi first came to the center in the summer of 2010, he was unable to respond to his name or follow a one step instruction. He was reluctant to participate in group activities and was uncomfortable in any new environment. These characteristics are common among children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), ASDs begin before the age of 3 and last throughout a person’s life, although symptoms may improve over time. Some children with an ASD show hints of future problems within the first few months of life. In others, symptoms might not show up until 24 months or later. Some children with an ASD seem to develop normally until around 18 to 24 months of age and then they stop gaining new skills, or they lose the skills they once had. A person with an ASD might:
Ribhi Abadeldayem, 6, participates in the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism horseback riding physical education/hippotherapy program. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
• Not respond to their name by 12 months; • Not point at objects to show interest (point at an airplane flying over) by 14 months; • Not play “pretend” games (pretend to “feed” a doll) by 18 months; • Avoid eye contact and want to be alone; • Have trouble understanding other peo-
ple’s feelings or talking about their own feelings; • Have delayed speech and language skills; • Repeat words or phrases over and over (echolalia); • Give unrelated answers to questions; • Get upset by minor changes; • Have obsessive interests; • Flap their hands, rock their body, or spin in circles, and • Have unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel. One out of every 110 children is affected with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASDs are among the most common developmental disabilities in the world. The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University states: Autism Spectrum Disorders cross barriers of race, ethnicity and social class. Although the specific causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders are still unknown, research suggests that ASD is a biological condition that affects the way the brain develops and functions. With the help of intervention and support
services, individuals with ASD can make progress and achieve a higher quality of life. Ribhi still has an autism spectrum disorder and still has difficulties relating to people and his environment, but his parents and the staff at the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism report a notable change in his ability to cooperate and remain involved in group activities like basketball, music and yoga classes. Also, Ribhi is learning to transition from one activity to the next while holding hands and carrying his daily schedule. Recently, he has started to use the classroom iPad to practice his academic and communication goals. The interactive and hands on quality of each iPad educational application has helped him master colors, letters, functions and numbers. Also, he is more social with his classmates since he loves to watch them work and help with their activities. Ribhi also can be seen interacting during reading by mimicking teacher movements during story and circle time. For the past 11 years, the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism has been serving children with similar disabilities who are on the autism spectrum. The center has two locations in Miami Dade County. Their Elementary School is located at 8790 SW 94 St. The Middle School, High School, and Adult Vocational School, located at 7425 SW 42 St., provides the students with necessary life skills and vocational skills to enhance their ability to live and work more independently, in addition to the traditional educational courses. Florida McKay Scholarships for Children with Disabilities are accepted at both locations. Research is ongoing to find a cure for autism spectrum disorders and hopefully Ribhi and his schoolmates will be the beneficiaries of the research. In the meantime, schools like the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism will continue to make autism awareness a part of each day. For more information about the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism, visit the website at <www.cbc4autism.org> or call 305-2718790.
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Miami-Dade Elections reminds voters about voting options BY CHRISTINA WHITE
The May 24 Miami-Dade County Special Election is coming soon and voters will select a new State House District 110 representative, county mayor, two county commissioners and vote on six potential charter amendments. As always, the Miami-Dade Elections Department is urging all registered voters to participate in this important election. To make voting as convenient as possible, voters are reminded there are three ways to vote: Absentee voting already is underway. More than 105,000 ballots already have been mailed. Any registered voter eligible to vote in this election may request an absentee ballot on the Elections Department website; by phone at 305-4998444; in writing, or in person at Election Department Main Office, 2700 NW 87 Ave. or the Voter Information Center (VIC) at the Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW 1 St. (located on the First Floor). Absentee voters are reminded of the following:
• Submit your request by the deadline of May 18, 5 p.m.; • Ensure your ballot is received by the Elections Department by Election Day, May 24, no later than 7 p.m., and • Ensure you sign the voter certificate on the outside of the absentee ballot envelope. Early voting is underway and runs through Sunday, May 22. Voters can go to any of the 20 locations throughout the county. Locations and hours of operation are available on the Elections Department’s website. Election Day is May 24. Unlike during Early Voting when voters can choose any location, on Election Day voters must vote at their assigned polling place listed on their voter information card. Any voter who is unsure of where to vote
should call 3-1-1 or go to the E l e c t i o n s Department website and click on “Find Your Polling Place.” Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voters are reminded that whether voting at Early Voting or on Election Day, they must bring a valid photo identification that contains their name and signature. Acceptable forms of identification include: State of Florida Driver’s License, Military ID, U.S. Passport, Retirement Center ID, Public Assistance ID, Student
. Voters are encouraged
to be “Election Ready”
prior to casting their votes
ID, Debit/Credit Cards, Neighborhood Association ID, or ID Card issued by the State of Florida. Voters are encouraged to be “Election Ready” prior to casting their votes. Miami-Dade voters have been sent a sample ballot by mail. It also is available on the Elections Department website under “See Your Sample Ballot.” It is printed in English, Spanish and Creole and prepares voters for what to expect on the ballot including candidate races and issues, how to properly vote, the Early Voting schedule and absentee ballot information. For additional information, visit the Miami-Dade Elections Department website at <www.miamidade.gov/elections> or call 3-1-1.
www.communitynewspapers.com
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May 18 - 24, 2011
Miami Science Museum to host first Miami Underwater Festival BY DUREE ROSS
Manuel Uhia; and Equator, Rivers of the Sun by Satoshi Okabe from Japan. Miami Science Museum will host the At the festival, be one of the first to inaugural Miami Underwater Festival, May experience Miami Science Museum’s 27 and 28, in partnership with the Festival newest hands-on exhibit: Stingray Sea Lab, Mondiale de l’Image Sous-Marines (World where visitors will get to touch live Festival of Underwater Images) from stingrays at a new 3,000-gallon touch tank, France, and sponsored by Everest Capital. then discover what is found in Miami’s The festival will highlight a selection of amazing and diverse sea grass beds. prize-winning films from the 37th Festival During the festival, Miami Science Mondiale de l’Image Sous-Marines, Museum also will host programs that will showcasing the very best artistic, photo- better acquaint families with the wonders graphic and cinematographic productions of the sea, including: related to the underwater world. Marko Coral Morphologic will present a series and Shelly Dimitrijevic, founders of the of vibrant and artistic natural history films Miami Underwater that document the minute Festival, have worked invertebrate life of The festival will diligently to bring the best Florida’s reefs. highlight a of the original festival to National Park Ranger South Florida audiences. and photographer Thomas selection of prizeChristophe Pierron, one Strom’s “Biscayne’s winning films from of the organizers of the Underwater Secrets,” a the 37th Festival original Festival photo exhibit of the hidMondiale, will be present den natural beauty living Mondiale de to open the event on in Biscayne National Park, l’Image Friday, May 27, 6:30 p.m., will be on display. Sous-Marines, with a VIP Opening The South Florida Cocktail event and a Marine Aquarium showcasing the screening of short films Association will be hostvery best artistic, (screenings will begin at ing “touch tanks” showphotographic and 8:30 p.m.), including: casing local sea life, and Swiss director, Jose’ underwater experts Mike cinematographic Lachat’s Ma Forteresse Heithaus and Ila Porcher productions related (My Fortress), Drole will offer informative to the underwater D’Histoire (Strange talks about the wonders of Story), and Insatiable; Les the sea. world. Fenetres de la Vie From hands-on science (Windows on Life) by activities and familyBelgian director Danny Van Belle, and the friendly presentations on marine life and first installment of the Franco-German research, to live aquarium displays to Adventure Ocean Quest series, Great explore, the festival will be enjoyed by White Sharks of Guadalupe by Christian people of all ages. Petron. Miami Underwater Festival activities On Saturday, May 28, the Miami and screenings are included with Miami Underwater Festival continues at 10:30 Science Museum admission (Adults, a.m. with a special French-language pro- $14.95; seniors, $10.95; students with ID gram co-hosted by the Alliance Francaise and children, $10.95; children under 3, of Miami, featuring Rene Heuzey’s Le free). “Festival Only” tickets available per Mystere des Requins Baleines (The White screening session are adults, $8; children, Shark Mystery) and Naissance d’une Ile $5; children under 3, free. Festival Only (Birth of an Island) by Bertrand Boyer. The tickets include admission to screenings, afternoon begins with a lecture led by activities in the lobby and Stingray Sea Lab Florida International University’s Dr. Mike exhibit. Tickets can be purchased at the Heithaus and underwater specialist Ila door. Porcher and a roster of more family-friendFor more information and a complete list ly films. of films featured, visit online at The festival closes Saturday evening <www.miamisci.org>. with signature screenings, including: Free Miami Science Museum is located at Fall by BlueNery from France; The Pier 3280 S. Miami Ave. The museum is open from Italy by Daniele Iop; O Mar Das Cies every day from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Parking by Spanish filmmakers Jose Irisarri and is free.
May 18 - 24, 2011
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Adopt a great friend at ‘Gardens’ Pet Fair
Angie is ready for adoption. BY JEN FORD
You know those articles written about the puppies left behind by their mother or the cute little lap dog that is found wandering around and needs a home? Well, sadly this is not one of those cases. This is about the forgotten dogs, the dogs that sit at shelters longer than they should. The dogs that have spent their playful years with owners who gave them a loving home and then one day moved out and left them locked up in an empty house without food or water. Or the dog who got sick, maybe broke a limb and the owner threw them in a car drove them to a remote area and tossed him out. Maybe one who strayed too far from home to find its way back and became undernourished trying to find food, still hoping his family would find him. Tired, sick, broken, these animals are either picked up by the county and euthanized due to over population or, if they’re lucky, rescued by a local pet organization and given the treatment necessary to regain their health. Either way, some of these live in a shelter environment for months and even years. All dogs have the potential of being adopted, most have been housebroken and loved at some point and understand what it
Lenny needs a good home.
means to have a family to call their own. The rescue groups care for their ailments so they are physically ready to return to a loving home. But what home? How long do they have to wait? A pat on the head yields a face full of kisses, a toss of a stick or ball and their tails wag their entire bodies. These dogs are eager to please and desperately want to be a part of a family again. Their faces say, “Take me home and I will give you unconditional love for the rest of my life.” Their eyes plead, “Rescue me and you won’t be sorry. I have been a good pet, give me that chance again.” These dogs are not bad or vicious. They are victims of circumstance: The poor economy, the bad divorce, the careless open gate. Each one waits with hope in their heart that soon he will be taken home and loved. Visit with Paws4You Rescue, Born Free Pet Shelter, The Cat Network, Basset Rescue of Florida and Hollydogs Greyhound Adoption at the PAWareness Pet Fair on May 21 at Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 SW 57 Ave., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., to meet great animals that have been waiting all this time to meet you. For more information, call 786-2427377 or go online to <www.pawarenesspetfair.com>.
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