Aventura News, June 3, 2009 Edition - Miami, Florida

One of Miami’s Community Newspapers

Phone: 305-669-7355

NEWS

Cutler Bay SERVING SOUTH DADE

APRIL 28, 2009

Resident writes book to inspire, motivate

BY GARY ALAN RUSE arl Mathis, who has lived in Cutler Bay and the South Florida area for 16 years, has drawn on the challenges of his own life to write an inspirational and motivational book that he hopes may help others.

Life Is What You Make It: Build a Better Life for You and Your Family is the title of the book written by a quiet, modest and confident man who was born on the tropical island of Grenada and came to the United States in 1977. After coping with the death of his wife and the challenges of raising his three sons as a single parent, Mathis felt motivated to

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Scouts learn about citizenship by attending town hall meeting

BY CRISTINA ARMAND PIO, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY MARIA ALMODOVAB

ixteen Boy Scouts from Troop 314, chartered to Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Cutler Bay, attended a Cutler Bay town hall meeting on Saturday, Mar. 18, in order to earn their Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge.

The Scouts spent the day with Cutler Bay Council members, Mayor Paul Vrooman and Vice Mayor Edward MacDougall. The boys learned about the inner workings of town hall meetings and the important issues expressed there.

S

–––––––––––––––– See

MATHIS, page 4

ummer is just around the corner, and our minds already are wandering to lazy days by the pool. When you look around, it seems like you are surrounded by a different body of water in every direction, either at beaches, lakes or backyard pools.

With all of this water around us, we must remember to teach our kids about water safety. Drowning is the No. 1 cause of death for children in Miami-Dade County.

Since the beginning of 2007, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue has responded to 199 drownings. The majority of these incidents

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Pictured (l-r) are Cutler Bay Councilmember Ernest Sochin, Councilmember Timothy Meerbott, Scouts of Troop 314, Vice Mayor Edward MacDougall (kneeling) and Councilmember Peggy Bell; (back row) Mayor Paul Vrooman and John Zatroch, assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 314.

Carl Mathis is pictured at his home in Cutler Bay.

Now is time to think about summer and water safety

In order to reach the highest rank in Scouting, Eagle Scout, Boy Scouts must fulfill many requirements, including the completion of at least 21 merit badges. Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge is one of the 12 required merit badges, along with Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, First Aid and Emergency Preparedness, to name some. The Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge has eight requirements, including the following: Choose an issue that is impor-

––––––––––––––––– See

SAFETY, page 4

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 3

When it comes to getting wealthy, I must be stupid

BY ERNIE SOCHIN

Councilmember

I must be stupid.

Well some of my detractors say that and perhaps they are right. You see, I recently went to the Sony Ericsson Tennis Tournament on Key Biscayne. It is a great event and you should go there next year, even if you have no interest in tennis.

A hint: Bring your own coffee.

My daughter-in-law decided she needed a cup there to start the day. One problem: the line waiting for $5 cups of coffee at a famous (can’t mention names) STAR coffee place that gets big BUCKS for coffee was too long. It seems that people even in this economy are willing to actually wait in line to spend five and sometimes more BUCKS for a cup of coffee.

Remember the old expression when someone gave you something of little or no value: “With that and a dime you can get a cup of coffee.” Well no more. Now you are talking big bucks. Why am I stupid? Because if someone had told me some years ago that people would pay

that much for coffee I would have thought they were nuts. In other words, why didn’t I think of that first?

The same must be said of those people who are willing to spend extra money to get a bottle of water from some company that probably fills these bottles from a public lake or river and gives it a famous sounding name like “Sochin Springs.” I actually know someone who does pay all that extra money, but other than the fact that she lives with me, I can’t reveal her name. To me, my tap water is just fine and relatively cheap. Again, why didn’t I think of that?

Okay, I admit it; I use an iPhone. It is really great and, if ever I figure out how to use all those apps, I might actually begin to enjoy it. Would I have been one of those people who waited in line overnight to buy one when they were first introduced? No way!

I have been in the business of marketing and merchandising most of my life and never had a product to sell that was that profitable or in such demand.

I came close once. Someone sent me a box of samples of the Pet Rock, some years back. They didn’t include a return address or any information with the package. I thought it was someone’s idea of a

joke and promptly gave away all the samples. Some months later, after the boom was over, I learned that I was to actually begin selling them and that the manufacturer was in such a hurry to get the samples out that he forgot to provide all the details. I missed the boom on that one.

Oh well.

Sometimes it is a good thing to be a little slow on the uptake. There was a period a few years ago when everyone seemed to be getting rich buying and flipping condos. I finally decided to join the fray. I increased the credit line with my bank and went out to make a killing.

There was a property in Palmetto Bay and of course those huge condos in Kendall. By the time I finished doing all my due diligence, the prices already had gone up and I missed out.

I think my bank and the person I share my house with are quite thankful.

For a while I though I might try making a fortune as a contemporary artist.

Some time back I visited the Guggenheim Museum in New York looking at, for the most part, what seemed like a lot of junk for which people were willing to spend lots of money.

I stopped at one particular piece that was nothing more than a canvas painted

white. Really. The title was White on White and the price was somewhere in the high $20,000 range. I asked one of the curators who happened to be standing nearby what determines the value of such a piece. He stuck his nose up and suggested I go learn something about art before I ask such questions.

Farther down the isle was an even larger canvas painted all white with the exception of an orange circle in the center.

This one was called Morning Sunrise and cost even more. I decided, being the curmudgeon that I am, to play a game with some of the snobs admiring these things.

I stood back, stroked my chin and exclaimed, “tremendous perception of depth.” Instantly a crowd gathered around me to hear what I had to say. I did at least get a date out of it, but once she found out what a phony I was it was all over.

I know I could do stuff like that if I really tried, but my conscience just won’t let me. I honestly think many of those so-called artists are laughing on the way to the bank, but again, they have the big bucks and I don’t.

I guess I will just have to continue through life being stupid, but you must admit I am a fun guy to be with (sometimes).

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

MATHIS, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SAFETY, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– express his views to others.

“It was a burning desire to let people know, especially the younger generation, that life is whatever they make it to be,” Mathis said. “Life itself is not being lived to its fullest, so as I was sitting one day meditating, the thought came to mind that I should use my writing capability and encourage as many as I could to not give up on their dreams.”

A preacher at the Holy Ghost Tabernacle of Deliverance Ministries in Goulds and a teacher, Mathis is used to communicating with people.

Still, writing a book was something new for him.

“At times it was fun and there were times that it was challenging,” Mathis said. “However, to know that this book will bless others kept me motivated to finish what I had started. I did face some challenges, as others did not see what I saw, but I quickly realized that this was my desire. If there’s one thing I discovered during the process of writing and getting this book published is that life really is what you make it.”

Mathis admits the recent years have not been easy for him and his three sons, who are now ages 14, 17 and 20.

“When my wife died in December 2005, I was faced with the challenges of raising three boys as a single parent,” Mathis said. “Many thoughts came to my mind as to what to do and how to go about performing both father and mother roles at the same time; however the well being of those boys surpassed those thoughts. Of course there I was faced with many difficulties. But to know that all three boys are togeth-

er, where I can guide them the right way into the quality of life, this puts a smile in my heart.”

Mathis was distressed by what he sees around him, the way that quality of life has been diminished, that many people are giving up and throwing in the towel. He wanted to motivate them not to give up.

“This book is about you controlling life and not life controlling you,” Mathis said. “This book was written for anyone who needs some encouragement in his or her life, or just needs some motivation — someone who feels that life has dealt them a raw deal. It was written to give an illustration and to challenge you to pursue your heart’s desire.

“After reading this book you just may be motivated to lead a more productive and fulfilling life. Just remember, nothing that is worthwhile comes easily. There may be some challenges or some setbacks in life, but don’t let that stop you from reaching for your goal.”

Mathis knows that with today’s economic problems, people are facing more challenges than usual, but he strongly believe that life is much more than materialistic things.

“If you hold on to your faith and trust in what you believe, better days are ahead,” Mathis said.

Life Is What You Make It is a trade paperback published by AuthorHouse, ISBN 9781434391216. It can be ordered from Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, and Borders.com online bookstores, by special order through local bookstores, or by calling the author at 305-300-6155.

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involved children under age 16, and 32 percent of them were children under 5 years of age.

A drowning can occur at any time in a split second. In Miami-Dade County, the majority of drownings occur between the hours of 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Within this time range, the peak hours tend to be in the late afternoon from 3 to 4 p.m.

The peak months for drownings are just around the corner; they are May, June, July and August.

In order to make sure you have a safe summer, remember the following guidelines: • Always think of your pool as a potentially dangerous place.

• Always directly supervise children when they are in a pool or around any body of water. Youngsters can drown in just a few inches of standing water. Bathtubs and large buckets also pose a threat. Most childhood drownings occur without an adult immediately present.

• Keep a phone at poolside so you don’t have to leave the kids to answer the phone and so you can call 9-1-1 immediately in case of an emergency.

• Never assume that swimming lessons or flotation devices can completely protect a child from drowning. Don’t have a false sense of security!

• Install alarms on all doors that lead into a pool area so you will know if a door to the pool has been opened.

• Secure long hair to the head, braid it, or cover it with a cap. Long hair can get suctioned into pool vacuum lines.

• Ensure that all family members learn how to swim and what to do if they see someone in trouble in the water.

• Have your family members learn CPR. Drowning victims have a better chance of surviving if they get assistance right away.

• Know and comply with the Florida and Miami-Dade County statutes for pool fencing and pool safety. Pool fencing has been proven to save children’s lives.

Since January of this year, MiamiDade Fire Rescue already has responded to 11 drownings. Safety and supervision are key to making this a safe and memorable summer.

SCOUTS, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– tant to the citizens of your community, find out what branch of government is responsible for this issue, schedule an interview with a government official from this branch and ask him/her what is being done about this issue.

Attend a town council meeting and

after, with your leader, discuss what issues and opinions were expressed at the meeting and discuss your own opinions about the issues Find a charity outside of Scouting that could help your community; contact the charity and find out how you and your troop can help.

April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

It seems like everyone is all a-twitter

Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN These days, the new toy on the internet, joining Facebook and MySpace, is something called “Twitter.com.” The earlier social networking sites, essentially an outgrowth of bulletin boards, allowed for a casual once or more times a week posting of news, topics of conversation or discussions about matters of interest to a group of friends. Never mind that more and more instead of the teen social groups they were initially intended for, the social sites are being taken over by businesses, rock bands, public relations people and, of course, sexual predators. They did at least have a semblance of purpose and serve as an aid to the communication of ideas.

Twitter (and aren’t its members at all concerned that they are going to be referred to as “twits”...?) is the next log-

ical, or is it illogical, extension—a texting fed moment by moment stream of consciousness spewing-out of whatever folks are doing.

Now there probably are some intelligent folks out there who are using it for a semi-practical purpose, but from what we’ve seen, a lot of it is just nonsense that is boring beyond belief. One local member, whose name we won’t mention, posted the message “it’s raining here.” Golly, wow! Another that we know of is so paranoid that he’s constantly checking the postings of a few people in particular out of fear they might be saying something about him.

Hmmmm...talk about insecurity.

Some twitterers are public officials, who are perhaps, God bless ‘em, just trying to look hip and with it (does that ever work?) but most are just average folks.

What’s disturbing is the amount of time being devoted to these constant postings. Hey folks, here’s a thought— if your lives are so devoid of something important to do that you can fritter away your hours twittering, they maybe

you should just toss the technology and spend a few hours doing volunteer work at a local hospital, nursing home or animal shelter, where you can actually make a difference by doing something meaningful.

And by the way, talking about something meaningful that the bad economy has put a crimp in, there was an important film about school violence that was made locally, called “Hidden Rage,” produced by Miami-based independent film company, The God of Moses Entertainment. With its message about recognizing the warning signs of Columbine-type school shootings and helping students and parents see the consequences of ignoring those signs, in a family-accessible format, a lot of people volunteered to work in the film for free, including State Representative Julio Robaina, South Miami Mayor Horace Feliu, many students and school officials, parents and others in the community.

Filming is complete and editing and other post-production work is at least 95 percent finished, and premieres in a

Page 5

number of cities around the country are pending, with one slated for South Miami’s Shops at Sunset AMC Theater complex.

Today’s economy, though, has bogged down the effort so close to completion, with posters and other things needed to wrap things up and get the message out there.

To find out more, the movie website, with a link to its trailer, is found at this address: www.hiddenrage.com (click on “news”) and the producers, a faith based company, are at: www.thegodofmoses.com. Sponsors and donations are being sought.

And don’t forget, folks—shop locally and give the small, independent merchants and restaurant owners a chance.

Thought of the Day Beware the fury of a patient man.

— John Dryden Gary Alan Ruse contributed to this column.

Got any tips? Contact me at 305-6697355, ext. 249, or send e-mail to <Michael@communitynewspapers.com>.

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PUBLISHER .................................................................................................................................. Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz WRITERS, COLUMNISTS.............................................................. Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Ana Caceres, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Cecile Fanfani, Tammi Jimenez, Diane Maddox, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller LEGAL ADVERTISING ..................................................................................................................... Georgia Tait BOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................ Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek CUSTOMER SERVICE....................................................................................................................... Elaine Mink GRAPHIC ARTISTS .......................................................................... Isabel Ortega, Angie Santiesteban PUBLISHER EMERITUS...........................................................................................................................................Ron Miller COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS / MILLER PUBLISHING publish the following newspapers:

Aventura News, Biscayne Tribune, Coral Gables News-Tribune, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Cutler Bay News, Palmetto Bay News, Palmetto Bay Monthly, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. Please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.

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Page 6

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

We employ them, so why don’t they show us respect?

R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY It seems to happen over and over and over again. Someone runs for public office proclaiming his or her desire to represent us and cure the ills of our community, our state, our nation.

However, once they are elected their attitude changes and it seems they feel we elected them to public office in order that they might be free of financial worries with us, the taxpayers, footing their bills and securing their futures.

When the reality of their misdeeds comes to light they must certainly feel the embarrassment of their actions. Yet, elected officials continue to try the patience of those who supported them at the polls.

Fortunately, most elected officials respect the responsibilities bestowed upon them at election time and act responsibly as they perform the acts of their public positions. However, the

glaring errors we have seen in so many of those charged with misrepresenting their communities makes us ask: Do they think we are so dumb as to accept their actions and forgive them for their misdeeds and reelect them come the next election? Probably so!

Why do so many elected officials blow the opportunity to move on to greater positions in public service by acts of greed, or callous unconcern for those that elected them to office? By paying taxes we hire them as our employees. In private industry they would be called into the boss’ office and discharged with cause. Perhaps there is the difference. In government there is no “boss’ office,” there is only election time and most voters almost always will “forget.”

Why would Ray Sansom, the ousted speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, misdirect $6 million of public funds to help a friend and secure for himself a high position in a state university? Did he think that his high position in the legislature would protect him from investigation? Couldn’t he foresee a grand jury looking at his actions and state that “his friendship and political

VIEWPOINT contributions violated the trust that the citizens of Florida should expect from their elected representatives?”

How in his wildest dreams did the mayor of a community with only 6,132 (current estimate) residents think that his position as mayor entitled him to have his town’s taxpayers pay for $50,000 in cell phone calls to the Dominican Republic during his tenure in office?

What is almost worse than the $50,000 was his statement that “no one ever informed [him] of any limitations on his use of his cell phone.”

I am sure, Mr. Mayor, you were working on a deal in the Dominican Republic that would make West Miami a far better place to live.

Why would county commissioners use the services of law enforcement officers to drive them around town when our streets are crying for more police protection? Why, when commis-

sioners receive a car allowance, would they pocket the funds and then proceed to have a cop drive them around the county?

I’ll tell you why. Because they know no one will do anything about it.

Do you really think that such an abuse will mean their defeat at the polls come the next election? At best their response will be, “Sorry, I didn’t realize — I’ll give my car allowance back.”

Then all will be forgotten until the next moral and or legal violation will surface.

Somehow our community is entitled to better public servants.

We appreciate your opinions on this column whether in agreement or disagreement.

Please send your comments to (fax number) 305-662-6980 or email to <letters@communitynewspapers.com>.

The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of this newspaper, its editors or publish-

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Some ways to cut car insurance bills Al Sunshine 4 YOUR MONEY There are ways to cut your car insurance bills. The suggestions come from the fine folks at the Insurance Information Institute and the U.S. Department of Agriculture through Uncle Sams’ Consumer Website at Pueblo, CO. Here are a few of the tips: 1. Shop for quotes from at least three different companies. And make sure to compare the exact same coverage so you have a good way of comparing costs and coverages.

2. Check insurance costs before buying a car. Monthly insurance bills are based on the car’s repair history, how much it costs to fix after accidents and how well it protects you in the event of an accident. Vehicles with cheaper parts cost less to fix than exotic cars requiring more expensive components. Active

safety systems like roof and side air bags also are cheaper to insure because they limit potential injuries in the event of an accident.

3. If you have an older car, reduce your coverage limits. If your car is only worth half as much as you paid for it, there’s really no reason to pay for its full replacement value. The insurance companies don’t want you to know they depreciate older cars significantly. In the event of a loss they will reduce your settlement payment. There’s no reason to pay high premiums for something the insurance company will not really pay for.

4. Improve your credit rating. Critics say it’s an illegal practice to charge different rates based on customers’ credit ratings, but it’s a fact of life that the insurance industry rates customers based on their financial report cards.

And your credit rating could be keeping you from getting the lowest insurance rates possible. Double check your credit report and dispute any negative reports.

Watch Al Sunshine’s “4 Your Money” reports weekdays on CBS4 News beginning at noon.

Page 7

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

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Page 9

Everything we do is about improving quality of life

BY CARLOS ALVAREZ Miami-Dade County Mayor Miami-Dade County is looking for ways to spur the economy, create jobs and invest in our future.

Everything we do is about improving the quality of life for our residents. To us, recovery and reinvestment are not just “buzz” words. They are our mantra and our creed as we work to make the best possible use of stimulus dollars, and emerge from this economic downturn better and stronger.

With the help of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, here’s some of what we’re planning to do: • Hire 50 new police officers and get additional funding for mortgage-fraud related investigations; • Purchase fire engines and rescue units that run on clean diesel or hybrid technology; • Serve an additional 300 infant, toddlers and pregnant women through our Head Start/Early Head Start program; • Improve elevators, roofs and windows in existing public housing units; • Renourish beaches; • Provide small businesses stabilization loans; • Enhance training and employment services through South Florida Workforce; • Build bus rapid transit along Kendall Drive; • Add Wi-Fi to Metrorail; • Weatherize homes for low-income residents, and • Purchase hybrid garbage trucks.

The challenges facing our nation and our county are great, but we will not succumb to adversity.

We cannot allow our spirit to be diminished. We must steel ourselves to push forward. We can see this thing through. After all, we are Americans.

Failure is not in our DNA. Of course, drawing down federal economic stimulus dollars is just one component of Miami-Dade County’s recovery plan. Inventive and cooperative thinking helped us launch a local economic stimulus plan last summer, way before economic stimulus was popular in Washington. More than $330 million of infrastructure work has been expedited, including important road repairs and water and sewer projects. We also continue to prioritize services, eliminate waste and do more with less.

The challenges facing our nation and our county are great, but we will not succumb to adversity. We cannot allow our spirit to be diminished. We must steel ourselves to push forward. We can see this thing through. After all, we are Americans. Failure is not in our DNA. Hopefully, next year at this time, we can all breathe a collective sigh of relief and look forward to more prosperous times.

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at the Deering Estate at Cutler Treat Mom to a morning of delicious food Sunda y, 1 0:30 a May 10, 20 in an elegant setting. Taste appetizing dishes .m. – 1 0 :30 p.m 9 $ 7 0 . and desserts provided by Bill Hansen Ad $45 C hildren ults ( ages 5 Childr Catering, tour the grand historic houses, en 4 a nd und 12) e r and take in the scenery as you enjoy a free.

For Pleas e call reservation 3 s 0 5 235.1 relaxing day at the historic Estate. www.d 668 eering estate.o ext. 233 16701 rg SW 7 2nd A Miam v e nu i, Fl 3 3157 e

Miami-Dade Parks provides quality and diverse cultural and recreational experiences for persons with disabilities. Call 305-365-3128 (V) or 305-365-6705 (TDD) to request materials in accessible format, a sign language interpreter (five days notice required) and for information on access for persons with disabilities..

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Page 10

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 11

‘Daddy, may I borrow $25?’

BY GRANT MILLER Publisher I found the following story on the Internet. The author is unknown, but I thought the tale and its lesson well worth sharing.

A man came home late from work one evening tired and irritated, only to find his 5-year old son waiting for him at the door.

“Daddy, may I ask you a question?” the boy asked.

“Yeah, sure, what is it?” the man replied a bit grumpily.

“Daddy, how much do you make an hour?”

“That’s none of your business,” the man said angrily. “Why do you ask such a thing?”

“I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?”

“If you must know, I make $50 an hour.”

“Oh,” the little boy replied with his head down.

“Daddy, may I please borrow $25?”

The father was furious.

“If the only reason you asked that is so you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. Think about why you are being so selfish. I don’t work hard every day to pay for such childish frivolities.”

The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door.

The man sat down and began to get even angrier about the little boy’s questions. How dare he ask such questions just to get some money? After an hour or so, the man calmed down and started to think about what had happened. Maybe there was something the boy really needed to buy with that $25, and he really did not ask for money very often. The man

went to the door of the boy’s room and opened the door.

“Are you asleep, son?” he asked.

“No, daddy, I’m awake,” the boy replied.

“I’ve been thinking; maybe I was too hard on you earlier. It’s been a long day and I took out my aggravation out on you. Here’s the $25 you asked for.”

The little boy sat straight up, smiling broadly.

“Oh, thank you, daddy!” he cried.

Then, reaching under his pillow, he pulled out a wad of crumpled up bills.

Seeing that the boy already had money, the man felt his anger rising again as he watched his son slowly count his money.

As he carefully placed the last bill in place, he looked up at his father with a broad smile.

“Why do you want more money if you already have some?” the father grumbled.

“Because I didn’t have enough, but now I do,” said the little boy. “Daddy, now I have $50, so I would like to buy an hour of your time. Please come home early tomorrow, I would like to have dinner with you.”

The man was crushed. He put his arms around his son and begged him for forgiveness.

This story is a reminder to all of us who work so hard in this modern, fast-paced age that we should not let life slip through our fingers without spending time with those who really matter to us, those close to our hearts. Remember to share $50 worth of your time with someone you love. If we die tomorrow, the company we work for will easily replace us in a matter of hours. But the family and friends we leave behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives.

Grant Miller may be contacted by calling 305-669-7355, ext. 216, or by sending email to <grant@communitynewspapers.com >.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

Hammocks Middle School to present dance show

BY GERALD SCHWARTZ Hammocks Middle School’s awardwinning dancers will present a gala show, titled “Dance, Inc.,” on Thursday, Apr. 30, and Friday, May 1, at the school, 9889 Hammocks Blvd. in West Kendall.

The shows begin at 7:30 p.m., and tickets, at $5 a person, are available at the door.

More than 100 members of the Electric, Hurricane and Tornado Dancers — Hammocks’ three dance teams — will perform a show based on “the difficulty of finding a job in today’s economy.”

Acting as well as dancing will be featured, according to the school’s longtime dance teacher, Wendy L. Schwartz, a Pinecrest native who graduated with high honors from the University of Florida’s acclaimed fine arts program.

Among the dance styles to be per-

formed are hip hop, lyrical, modern, pompom and jazz. One of the numbers will salute World Aids Day, Apr. 30. It will highlight how AIDS affects all walks of life, and progress in finding a cure for the disease.

Some of the dances, several of which were choreographed by students, are Firewoman, a hip hop number by the Electric Dancers; Doctor, a jazz number by the Tornado dancers, and Florida Marlins, a salute to the professional baseball team off to a spectacular start.

Other numbers portray “a mad scientist,” a cheerleading coach, a motivational dancer and an author writing a sequel to the book Twilight. Other numbers feature a rock star, a gravedigger and a video director.

Dancers coached by Schwartz have won national, regional, state and county championships in competitions throughout the nation.

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 13

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate CARES, the charitable arm of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, has announced it donated $68,940 to local charities in MiamiDade County earlier this year.

This sum includes an individual donation of $25,000 from a Coldwell Banker office in Miami. Additional funding supports Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), the statewide initiative of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate CARES. The funds were raised through contributions from sales associates and fundraising events in Miami-Dade County.

Members of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate CARES, presented donations to the following local charities: Actors’ Playhouse, Armed Forces Service Center, Bay Point Schools, Centro Hispano Católico, Close-up Program, Crohns & Colitis Foundation, Dani Girl Foundation,

***** Five Star Baseball Camp

“Where fun & baseball are one in the same” at Westminster Christian School Baseball Complex

June 29-July 3 • July 6-10 • July 20-24 Time: 9am-12pm(Half Day) • 9am-3pm(Full Day*) *Lunch Included Ages 5-13 CAMP DIRECTORS:

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FIU/The Woman’s Studies Center, Friends Forever Rescue, Girl Scouts of America, Guilder’s Club of South Florida, Habitat for Humanity, Liga Contra el Cáncer, Lotus House, MADD, South Miami Alliance for Youth, Spirituality for Kids, Voice for Children Foundation, and Wellness Community.

“We are very proud to contribute to the various charities throughout Miami-Dade County through CARES. We appreciate and respect what they do for our communities,” said Charles Richardson, Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate regional senior vice president for Southeast Florida.

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate CARES is a chapter of the NRT Foundation. The NRT Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity. The Foundation’s mission is to better the quality of life in communities where NRT Incorporated/Realogy has a presence.

For more information, visit online at <www.FloridaMoves.com>.

April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 15

Professor to discuss brain when aging becomes a factor Dr. Deborah Nash, a professor of neurology and molecular and cellular pharmacology at the University of Miami School of Medicine, will conduct a talk and discussion, titled “Using Your Brain: Studies of Successful Aging in the Nervous System,” on Friday, May 1, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., at the Miami Science Museum, 3280 S. Miami Ave. A previous AFAR research grantee, Dr. Nash is an internationally recognized neuroscientist and neuropharmacologist who has published extensively on aging, neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders and drug and alcohol research. She currently serves as a member of the National Institutes of Health Neurological Disorders Program Project Review Committee, among many other affiliations.

Admission to this event is free for museum members and $5 for anyone else. For membership information, go online to <www.miamisci.org/ www/membership.html>. Light refreshments will be provided. Seating is limited, so RSVP to Susan Lichtman at 305-

598-1115 or <susan@afar.org>.

via

email

at

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FORECLOSURE PROCESS TO FOLLOW NEW ORDINANCE In an effort to improve and expedite the process currently followed by Miami-Dade County in the enforcement of code violations of vacant houses that are going through a foreclosure process, on Dec. 2, 2008, the county commission approved Ordinance No. 08-134. The Office of Neighborhood Compliance (ONC), which has jurisdiction of this ordinance, is sponsoring a workshop on the implementation of the registry established by this ordinance on Monday, May 4, 2 p.m., at the Jorge Mas Canosa Center, 250 SW 114 Ave. in Sweetwater.

Representatives from the Office of Neighborhood Compliance, Planning and Zoning as well as Building departments are the scheduled speakers. A member of the county attorney’s staff also will be present to answer any legal concerns.

Those interested in participating or

COMMUNITYNEWS briefs who need additional information, may call the ONC at 786-315-2505.

PROPERTY APPRAISER’S OFFICE TO CONDUCT AGRICULTURAL CLASSIFIED VALUE WORKSHOP The Miami-Dade County Property Appraiser’s Office will conduct its annual Agricultural Classified Value Workshop on Wednesday, May 6, at 1:30 p.m. The workshop, which is conducted in collaboration with the Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Service, a division of the county’s Consumer Services Department, will take place in the auditorium of the Extension Service’s John D. Campbell Agricultural Center, 18710 SW 288 St., in Homestead.

This will be the first formal meeting between the growers and Property Appraiser Pedro J. Garcia, who was

installed on Jan. 6 following his midDecember election victory. Garcia is urging commercial agriculture producers to fully utilize this opportunity to engage the Property Appraiser’s Office in a dialogue about how the classified values are determined and to provide information about the impact of current market conditions on their businesses.

For additional information, call the Property Appraiser’s Office at 305-2341454 or the Cooperative Extension Service at 305-248-3311, ext. 240.

DADE COUNTY BAR TO OFFER FREE LEGAL HELP-LINE, MAY 6 LegalLine, a toll-free help-line answering a broad range of basic legal questions, will be offered by the Dade County Bar

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Soup & Salad, Entrée Crepe & Dessert Crepe.

Glass of complimentary Wine + Roses for Mom. Children under 10 EAT FREE (from kid’s menu)

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Page 16

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from previous page

Association from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6. Callers can phone 1866-596-0399 and anonymously ask their question in English or Spanish.

Each three-hour help-line is staffed by more than a dozen volunteer attorneys who answer basic questions across a wide spectrum of legal specialties, including family, probate, criminal, real estate, condo, landlord-tenant, business and immigration law, and refer callers to other service organizations as appropriate.

For more information about LegalLine, which takes place on the first Wednesday of the month, except holidays, visit online at <www.dadecountybar.org/forms/legalline.php>.

WOMAN’S CLUB TO HOST ANNUAL WINE TASTING, SILENT AUCTION The Coco Plum Woman’s Club will host the sixth annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction on Friday, May 8, 6 to 9 p.m., at the club’s headquarters, 1375 Sunset Dr. in Coral Gables.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Educate 4 Tomorrow, a non-profit organization that provides one-on-one

educational mentors for foster care children who are turning 18 and “aging out” of the system.

In addition to tasting wine, guests also will enjoy a series of wine seminars, from novice to expert, and a silent auction. Live musical entertainment will be performed by the Nightscape Band, a group of doctors, who perform for charitable causes.

Limited complimentary parking will be available on the property. Tickets cost $75 in advance and $100 at the door. Tickets can be purchased by calling 305-374-3751 or by visiting < w w w . E d u c a t e To m o r r o w . o r g > .

Proceeds from ticket sales, auctionedoff items and donations, which are taxdeductible, will directly benefit Educate Tomorrow.

CREW-MIAMI HOSTS 8TH ANNUAL OFFSHORE FISHING TOURNAMENT CREW-Miami invites you to “reel in new business on the high seas” during its eighth annual Offshore Fishing Tournament and Cocktail Reception fundraiser on Friday, May 8, 7 a.m., at the Coral Reef Yacht Club, 2484 S. Bayshore Dr. in Coconut Grove.

The cocktail reception begins at 6:30 p.m. at the same location.

CREW-Miami is a commercial real estate association dedicated to provid-

ing a forum for professionals actively involved in the commercial real estate industry, to promote professional interaction, ethics and integrity, to provide educational opportunities, to expand centers of influence of its members and to utilize a support network.

To register for this event or for sponsorship information, log on to <www.crewmiami.org>, or send email to Jeff Williamson at <jwilliamson@republicproperties.net>. All participants must be registered prior to the event.

TROPICAL CORNUCOPIA SHOWS ‘GREEN SCENE’ OF S. FLORIDA International visitors and members of local populations numbering more than 10,000 are anticipated to attend Tropical Cornucopia, the first sustainable event that celebrates South Miami-Dade County’s “Green Scene” on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Losner Park, 104 N. Krome Ave. This event will have a main stage featuring international entertainment (Mexican, Asian, Haitian, Italian and German), 60 exhibitors promoting Homestead’s history, a Maypole dance and many other attractions.

For sponsor, vendor, volunteer and general information, visit online at <www.theredland.org>.

April 28 - May 4, 2009

BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL PRESENTS ‘DISCOVER YOUR CHILD’S STRENGTHS’ Psychologist Albert Zbik, PsyD, will help parents learn to explore, discover and develop their child’s natural talents during a community parenting program, titled “Discover Your Child’s Strengths,” on Thursday, May 28, 7-9 p.m., in the auditorium at Baptist Children’s Hospital, 8900 N. Kendall Dr. Among the topics he will discuss are the role of memory in the development of strengths and weaknesses, different ways of being smart, developing children’s multiple intelligences, discovering how your child learns best, and tips for parents to give their kids a bright future that plays to their strengths.

The fee for this program is $5 and must be paid in advance. To reserve your space and make your payment, call 786-596-3812. This program is not intended for children.

ROXY THEATRE GROUP TO OFFER CLASSES AND SUMMER CAMP Classes in drama, singing, dance, costuming, production, stage-makeup and much more will be offered for children, ages 5 to 17, from June 8 to Aug. 14, at

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

NEWS,

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 17

from previous page –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

the Roxy Theatre Group, 1645 SW 107 Ave. The camp will be open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Participating students will take field trips to the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Actors’ Playhouse and the Environmental Center.

Scholarships for this program are available. For more information, call 305-226-0030 or visit online at <www.RoxyPac.com>.

GIRL SCOUT SUMMER CAMPS OPEN TO GIRLS AGES 5-17 Registration is now open to all girls ages 5 to 17 for Girl Scout Summer Camp, which begins on June 8. There are four girl-specific camps in MiamiDade County: Girl Scout Camp Choee, 11347 SW 160 St.; Girl Scout Camp Mahachee, 9950 Old Cutler Rd. in Coral Gables; Girl Scout Camp Little House, 6609 SW 60th St. in South Miami and Girl Scout Camp CEO. The first three camps, open to all

girls ages 5-17, run from June 8 to July 17, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; “Early Bird” is from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and “After Camp” is 4 to 5:45 p.m.

Girl Scout Camp CEO is for girls ages 14-17 at Girl Scout Camp Choee, July 27-31. Program aide (ages 12-13) or Counselor in Training (ages 14-17) opportunities area available. Both Girl Scouts and non-Girl Scouts are welcome to attend.

Cost of each of the first three camps for Girl Scouts is $100 per week; non-Girl Scouts is $110 a week.

Overnights and field trips are optional. Additional fees may apply. The cost of the Girl Scout Camp CEO is $300; it includes air-conditioned sleeping cabins with full bath, program, supplies, fieldtrips, food, supervision and recognition.

For more information, contact Christina Martin, communications director, at 305-253-4841, ext. 246, or send email to <cmartin@girlscoutsfl.org>. You also can visit onlien at <www.girlscoutsfl.org>.

RIVIERA DAY CAMP

PRIVATE TUTORING IN READING, MATH, ENGLISH, SPANISH • Swimming Instruction • Softball • Football • Soccer • Volleyball • Basketball • Woodworking • Leather Crafts • Ceramics • Aerobics • Tennis • Karate • Cheerleading • Roller Skating • Scooters • Arts & Crafts • Field Trips • Video Arcade & Game Room • Cookouts & Movies • Bounce House • Rock Climbing • Bumper Boats And Much More...

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Page 18

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

Maurice’s Jewelers to give away charm bracelet to lucky mom

BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD Mother’s Day is going to be quite special for a Maurice’s Jewelers customer who buys a special Pandora charm for their charm bracelet.

“Every month we do a promotion,” said Erin Koppel, whose grandfather founded Maurice’s Jewelers. “Pandora is the No. 1 selling line in the nation.”

Recent giveaways have included a Pandora umbrella and a one caret solitaire valued at $4,000.

For every $100 spent on Pandora, customers will get a chance at the drawing.

In honor of Mother’s Day, anyone who buys a One World Health charm, will be included in a drawing for a special twotone Pandora charm bracelet with twotoned beads valued at more than $2,000.

Best of all, for each One World Health charm sold, Pandora will donate $20 to One World Health.

The One World Health Charity Charm is sterling silver with 14K gold accents. It has a CZ dangle that represents clean water.

The bracelet has the Tree of Life charm, the Life’s Path bead, the Key to My Heart charm, an I Love You charm, a

mother of pearl heart charm and the Queen Bee charm among others. It also has the Pandora clasp. The drawing will be held on May 9.

While charm bracelets have been around forever, the Pandora charm bracelet is a new twist on an old standard.

“It’s a modern day charm bracelet,” Koppel said. “They screw on. They don’t dangle.”

There are hundreds of possibilities for the charms, including Murano beads. Along with the myriad possible charms, you can choose bracelets in gold, silver, two-toned, and a variety of clasps and spacers.

“There are different sized bracelets for different wrists,” she said.

The bracelets are so popular, that some people have several of them.

“They don’t stop at the charm bracelets,” she said. “They also have the jewelry.”

Pandora comes out with new beads a couple of times a year, which brings customers back to the store to buy them.

“We have a big client base coming in from all over to get these beads,” she

Erin Koppel is pictured with the special Mother’s Day Pandora charm bracelet that will go to a lucky mom on May 9.

said. “We’re a gold retailer for Pandora, so we get it first, we get the entire line.”

Some beads are sterling silver, some are gold and some are Murano glass beads. In fact, the Murano beads are so popular that the company manufactures them 24 hours a day.

“We have a wish list here, people could come in and see what beads you don’t have or do have and buy it,” she said.

That wish list does not have to be limited to Pandora charm bracelets; it can include anything in the store. It makes buying jewelry easy for family and friends because it comes with a picture of the items in question.

Maurice’s Jewelers also buys back gold or customers can trade it in for different jewelry.

“You can trade it in for money, you can trade it in for jewelry or you can trade it in for Pandora,” Koppel says.

Maurice’s Jewelers is a full-service jewelry store with a large selection of fine jewelry. The business was founded in 1935 and has been in the family since then.

For more information, call 305-2535740. Maurice’s Jewelers is located at 13615 S. Dixie Hwy.

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

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THERE’S A REASON THINGS ARE

MADE JUST FOR KIDS It’s a pretty big world out there, but the Miami Children’s Hospital Palmetto Bay Center is here to bring it down to size. Get the same quality care you’ve come to expect from the only hospital in South Florida exclusively for children, right in your neighborhood. From Early Steps, an early intervention program for infants and toddlers from birth to 36 months, to rehabilitation, to urgent care for life’s little emergencies, the pediatric specialists and staff at the MCH Palmetto Bay Center are here for your children.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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April 28 - May 4, 2009

April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 23

How to Select a Hearing Aid

BY CURT HAGEDORN If you remember your grandfather or other relative with a box about the size of a transistor radio in their pocket with a wire running to an earplug, hearing aids have changed a lot since then. With the rise of digitization and computerization, hearing aids have become ever smaller, and more effective – in fact, like contact lenses, there are now even disposable models.

However, unless you’re the kind of person who picks out a pair of reading glasses by trial and error at the local drugstore, you should really first consult with your physician and/or audiologist to make sure that you’re getting the proper hearing aid for you – and to make sure that your hearing loss isn’t cause by some other underlying problem. Also, since hearing can change over time, it’s important that you have a relationship with a professional that can help you analyze problems and make adjustments over time as you break in the device and learn how to use it over the long term.

A hearing professional will do a variety of tests covering the full range of sounds and frequencies you may need assistance or have trouble hearing. What are called tone tests or pure tone tests measure the kind of hearing loss you might have. Speech recognition tests measure the threshold of volume where you can hear and understand speech. Finally, impedance tests help the audiologist understand the functioning of your middle ear in your overall hearing profile.

Once these tests are completed, you can expect to be presented with the results of what is called “audiogram,” which will tell you if there is any variation in hearing between your right or left ears, your total level of hearing loss, and at what levels or frequencies you hear best. Your potential hearing aid will then be adjusted based upon these results.

There are a number of different kinds of hearing aids available, not only in their operation but also how they’re worn. Conventional hearings aids pretty much are based upon the same “transistor radio” technology of your grandfather’s hearing aids. They have an analog microphone and amplifier, and a man-

Since hearing can change over time, it’s important that you have a relationship with a professional that can help you analyze problems and make adjustments over time as you break in the device and learn how to use it over the long term.

ual “volume” adjustment. The manufacturer or hearing professional can make other adjustments. Though most hearing aids are now ‘in ear’ models, these can be somewhat larger and more obtrusive. The major advantage to this type of hearing aid is cost usually from $300 to under $1,000, and if your hearing loss is minor, specific to only one ear or only necessary in certain situations, say, at theatre or sporting events, an analog aid might be an adequate choice.

Computer programmable and digital hearing aids offer greater adjustability to match the specific losses outlined on your audiogram, can be customized for each individual ear, and depending upon the kind and style you get, can be almost invisible “completely in the ear canal” models to “behind the ear” models that have certain advantages of amplification and battery life and size. By far the most popular are those which are almost completely invisible to the casual observer, though they do have some significant disadvantages in terms of not being able to accommodate major hearing loss, as well as reliability problems and just the sheer problem of say, changing a battery in something so small that is often used by the elderly. So, one of the slightly larger “in the ear canal” or “in the ear” models might make more sense for you in terms of the trade off between cosmetic appearance and performance.

Expect to pay from two to three thousand dollars or more for a quality in the ear model. Programmable features allow you to set your hearing aid for different listening environments – say “in church” or “watching television at home” – different aids offer different numbers of channels and feature. Finally there are disposable hearing aids that are usually analog models for light to moderate hearing loss. Like disposable contact lenses or those drug store reading glasses, these models can represent a significant cost savings at about $40 a piece for about a month or so of life defending upon use, are a good way to “try out” having a hearing aid in general, but are no substitute for a professional analysis of hearing loss and a permanent hearing aid solution.

Copyright © 2005 Publishers-Edge

Purchasing a Hearing Aid You can purchase your hearing aid from either an audiologist, a nonphysician specialist with a degree in measurement and treatment of hearing impairment, or a hearing-aid dealer.

Whether you use an audiologist or a hearing-aid dealer, you need someone who will work with you over several visits to find the right

hearing aid, teach you to use and maintain it and then be available to service it in the months and years to come.

Following are a few additional steps you can take to find a reputable, skilled hearing-aid dealer or good audiologist.

Avoid those who sell only one type or brand of hearing aid. No man-

ufacturer makes an aid that’s right for everyone.

Make sure the hearing aid dispenser offers at least a 30-day trial period for the hearing aid and services the aids that he or she sells.

Find out exactly what’s included in the price. Some dispensers charge separately for the hearing aid and the fitting; some will quote an all-in-one

price.

Watch out for excessive and nonrefundable fees. Some hearing aid dispensers may charge a “restocking fee” or a “dispensing fee” analogous to the dealer surcharges added on to some new cars.

Know whether the warranty is honored by the manufacturer or by the dispenser.

Page 24

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Storytellers from around the world to take stage in downtown Miami

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Kehewin Native Dancers perform at past Art of Storytelling (AOS) International Festival.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY VINORA HAMILTON Storytellers from around the world will take center stage in downtown Miami on Saturday, May 2, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the Miami-Dade Public Library System celebrates the ninth annual Art of Storytelling (AOS) International Festival, a joint partnership with the Toronto Public Library, Toronto, Canada.

This free family event at the Main Library, 101 W. Flagler St., will highlight the joys of reading and expose children, teens and their families to the many ways in which storytelling is used in different countries to enhance literacy.

A magical adventure awaits as celebrity storytellers from Canada, Brazil, the Caribbean, Japan and the U.S. join the Bit’s ‘N’ Pieces Puppet Theatre, Mother Goose, Red Riding Hood, Anne of

Green Gables and many others to entertain and enthrall.

Unique to this year’s event will be a “Teen Zone” featuring anime, manga and video gaming competitions, plus activities around popular books such as Twilight and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.

Throughout the day there will be magic shows, face-painting, arts and crafts, and music and dancing with local and international entertainers including Blah-Zay-Blah, Steps in Order, Drumming Circle, Tallawah Mento Band, Kehewin Native Dancers and the Bahamian Junkanoo.

Free parking is available at the MiamiDade Cultural Center Garage, 50 NW Second Ave., and the Hickman Garage, 270 NW Second St. For a full schedule of events log on to <www.mdpls.org> or call 305-375-BOOK (2665).

See us online at: www.communitynewspapers.com

April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

‘In the Company of Women’ nomination deadline, May 1

BY EDITH TORRES Miami-Dade County is seeking outstanding women nominees for the 22nd Annual “In the Company of Women” Awards Ceremony, which will take place in March 2010. The deadline for nominations is 5 p.m. on Friday, May 1.

“In the Company of Women” now is part of programming at Miami-Dade Park and Recreation’s Women’s Park.

Each of the eight professional award winners will be recognized throughout the year at an event at the Women’s Park in her honor. These eight events will lead up to the main “In the Company of Women” Awards Ceremony where the winners will receive their award and Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez will present the Mayor’s Pioneer Award.

The award spotlights the accomplishments of outstanding professional female leaders in the community in the following categories: • Outstanding Woman in Arts and Entertainment; • Outstanding Woman in Business and Economics; • Outstanding Woman in Communications and Literature; • Outstanding Woman in Education and Research; • Outstanding Woman in Government and Law; • Outstanding Woman in Health and Human Services; • Outstanding Woman in Science and Technology; • Outstanding Woman in Sports and Athletics, and • Mayor’s Pioneer Award.

The Mayor’s Pioneer Award honors a woman who has proven leadership, creativity, and vision in addressing community issues in Miami-Dade County within the past 10 years.

A committee of past winners and community leaders will review nomination forms in order to determine the

nominee’s eligibility. For the professional awards, emphasis will be placed on the nominee’s contribution to women’s progress in her profession/area of interest.

For the Mayor’s Pioneer Award, emphasis will be placed on overall involvement in the community and women’s progress. Appointees from Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez’s office will review nominations for the Mayor’s Pioneer Award.

Nominees in each category must meet the eligibility criteria reflecting continued accomplishments in the following five areas: Professional Development, Community Responsibility, Leadership and Vision, Contribution to Women’s Progress, and Promotion of Pluralism.

Nominators are required to complete the nomination form and submit nine copies of the form along with nine photocopies of supporting materials including any newspaper or magazine articles about the nominee, if available.

If you are nominating a woman for the Mayor’s Pioneer Award, submit only three photocopies of the nomination form. You also must submit three photocopies of recommendation letters from three individuals, not including the nominator, and any supporting materials including newspaper or magazine articles. Nominations that fail to include these items and/or do not meet the application deadline automatically will be disqualified.

Nomination forms and instructions can be located on the Miami-Dade Parks website at <www.miamidade.gov/parks/women.asp> and can be picked up at any Miami-Dade County public library. Nomination forms must be mailed to Lisa Fernandez, park manager, Women’s Park, 10251 W. Flagler St., Miami, FL 33174.

Past recipients of the “In the Company” award are not eligible. A list of past award winners is available at <www.miamidade.gov/parks>.

www.communitynewspapers.com

Page 25

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

The Celtic Cultural Series to present ‘The Bagpipe’

Pictured is Pipe Major Nigel MacDonald.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

PRE-K (AGES 3 & 4) THROUGH 8TH GRADE

BY JOHN KANE

The Heritage School offers an enriched integrated

Where there are Celts, there are bagpipes. From Galicia in northwest Spain to Scotland and Ireland, the bagpipe is present.

Why do Celts love the sound that drives others to distraction? Nigel MacDonald, Pipe Major of the St. Andrews Pipe Band, will explain all that and provide a history of the bagpipe along with an exposition of how the bagpipe is made. He also will play a few tunes on the instrument.

The presentation will take place on Sunday, May 3, 4 p.m., in the Upstairs

curriculum; Arts, Music, Dance, Drama, Physical Education, Technology, Languages, wireless laptops, computer lab, robotics, Small Class sizes limited to 20 students - 10 acre campus, swimming pool, baseball field, soccer field, camera surveillance system,

Room of JohnMartin’s Restaurant, 253 Miracle Milein Coral Gables.

All Celtic Cultural Series events are free and open to all. Ample parking is available on Miracle Mile and in the City Parking Garage behind JohnMartin’s, accessible from Aragon Avenue. On Sundays, the parking is free.

The Celtic Cultural Series is funded by the St. Patrick’s Day Committee Inc. with support of the City of Coral Gables and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs.

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Page 27

Give Mom brunch with dolphins on her day

BY MICHELLE PALOMINO Mother’s Day Brunch at the Miami Seaquarium on Sunday, May 10, will give Mom the opportunity to slip into a wet suit with her family and come face to face with dolphins at the park’s Dolphin Harbor.

The unforgettable dolphin interaction will be followed by a Champagne Brunch that Mom can enjoy with her family.

Moms and families may choose from a Mother’s Day Dolphin Encounter or Dolphin Odyssey.

The Dolphin Encounter includes feeding, touching and learning about the dolphins in the shallow waters of Dolphin Harbor. The Dolphin Odyssey, offered in deeper waters, features feeding, touching and learning about these magnificent animals plus enjoying a “ride” with the dolphins across the pool. Both sessions will be followed by a Champagne Brunch.

In addition, the Mother’s Day program includes one day’s admission to the park for mom and all participants. Participants must be 52 inches or taller to participate in the Dolphin Odyssey.

A Mother’s Day Dolphin Encounter and Brunch may be purchased for $179 plus

tax per participant, but Florida residents will enjoy a discounted rate of $134 plus tax. For children ages 5-9 the cost is $139 plus tax, or a discounted resident rate of $108 plus tax per child. Mother’s Day Dolphin Odyssey and Brunch is available for $239 plus tax, but residents enjoy the special pricing of $174 plus tax per participant. Adult family members wishing to observe the dolphin session can enjoy the delicious brunch for $85 plus tax including park admission and brunch. The child observer price, for ages 3-9 is $76 plus tax including admission and brunch.

Availability is limited and advance reservations are required. For more information or to purchase your “Mother’s Day Dolphin Experience and Brunch,” call 305-365-2501 or visit online at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>.

Miami Seaquarium, South Florida’s most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. More information on Miami Seaquarium is available at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>. For more information regarding schedules or to register for either program, call 305-361-5705, ext. 207.

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Page 28

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

The Duran family, a New Generation of hearing

If you’ve received bad news about your State Farm property insurance policy being non-renewed, the good news is WE ARE HERE TO HELP! As an independent agency, we are not employed by any carrier and are free to shop the market for the best deal that suits all of your needs. While we recommend you wait until you receive the legally required 180-day notice from State Farm, if you would like to start weighing your options now, we’re glad to help.

We also offer a variety of other coverages, such as auto, personal umbrella, flood and more, and we can often provide you with discounts for multiple policies with the same company – all with the service you deserve at a price you can afford.

As a Trusted Choice Independent Agent, we have taken a special pledge to provide top tier 24/7 service to all of our customers. To read about our pledge and the Trusted Choice commitment, go to www.trustedchoice.com. When you need a quote for your property insurance, contact:

Maria Isabel Aquino-Maghak Emerald Insurance Group II, Inc. 12392-A S.W. 82nd Avenue Pinecrest, FL 33156 Telephone: (305) 234-8900 Fax: (305) 234-7505

Starting a new company may be a daunting task for some, but not for the brother and sister team of Dr. Joseph K. Duran and Yvette Duran Someillan. They combined their vast knowledge and experience in the field of Audiology and hearing aids and embarked on a new business venture.

Before receiving a doctorate degree in Audiology at the University of South Florida, Joseph Duran started his work with hearing loss and hearing aids at a very young age at Caribe Hearing Aids in Miami. While studying at Miami Dade College he worked as a Hearing Instrument Specialist and realized his passion for the field. He felt the need to continue his studies and found that Audiology, encompassing hearing and balance disorders, brought him the satisfaction he was looking for. It afforded him the opportunity to not only help patients with hearing loss, but also those suffering from dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance. Joseph had the opportunity to sharpen his skills as an audiologist at the University of Miami Ear Institute.

His sister Yvette, who also started working at Caribe Hearing Aids at a young age, “did not think I would spend most of my life in this industry.” But while studying Accounting at Florida International University (FIU) she also studied for and received a license to sell and dispense hearing aids. After graduating from FIU she decided to continue working at Caribe and applied her accounting knowledge to the administrative side of the business.

Naturally, when the Duran’s decided to open their own business, New Generation Hearing Centers, in January of this year, they divided the responsibilities. Yvette is in charge of operations, while Joseph attends to their patients.

Both married with children, they believe that owning their own business allows them to continue their careers while, at the same time affording them time to spend with their families. Together, the team has accumulated 30 years of experience in both Audiology and the Hearing Aid industry, making them well prepared when they opened the doors of their new office at 3431 SW 107th Avenue in Miami, Florida in January 2009.

Choosing a place to start was not a problem.

Joseph and Yvette both grew up in this area of Miami. They both went to Rockway Elementary, and while Yvette continued her education at St. Brendan High School, Joseph attended Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. Born of Cuban parents, Dr. Duran and his sister Yvette are fluent in Spanish and English.

“This is our home, we know the people and we understand their needs”, commented Joseph Duran, 32, Co-President and Director of Audiology of New Generation Hearing Centers.

Although Dr. Duran does not specialize in children under the age of ten, he has patients up to the age of 106.

Recently, he had to look for solutions for a

patient who suddenly (within seconds) lost his hearing in one ear because of a displaced shot while cleaning a firearm. Another patient lost hearing in one ear while scuba diving. “Luckily he came to see me right away, so I was able to have him begin treatment with an Otolaryngologist getting him on the road to recovery,” stated Dr. Duran.

Based on their years of involvement with the sale of hearing instruments, the Duran’s have been able to keep their finger on the pulse of any and all new technological advancements in their field.

They are able to empathize with their patients and understand how hearing loss, when untreated, can lead to other health related problems such as stress, fatigue, decreased self-confidence, and in extreme cases, depression.

The transition from analog to digital technology in the last 10 years has completely changed the menu for hearing aids. “Now our patients have more options,” affirmed Yvette Duran Someillan, 38, CoPresident and Director of Operations of New Generation Hearing Centers.

Since the appearance of digital hearing aids, open fittings, and Bluetooth compatibility (technology that allows for cordless communication between hearing aids and cell phone or other electronic devices), many people with hearing difficulties feel more comfortable wearing them.

Digital hearing aids, in comparison with analog systems, are extremely flexible in terms of programming. Since they come equipped with computer chips, environmental sounds can be adjusted automatically. Wearing a hearing aid is no longer cumbersome or a nuisance, hearing aids are now discreet and can be fit to suit any lifestyle.

“That has allowed me to offer made-to-order hearing aids to my patients,” explained Dr. Duran. For example, one of his patients is a teacher and reported difficulty hearing the students sitting in the last row of his class. Dr. Duran programmed his hearing aids to allow this patient to hear those students by simply pressing a button. When not in class, the patient only has to touch the same button again for the hearing aid to function properly in other situations.

New Generation Hearing Centers offers a wide range of hearing aid types and styles with prices starting at $500. Most of the hearing aid cost is generally paid for by the patient since most insurance plans will only cover a portion of the total price. More advanced models begin at $1,300. A majority of the hearing aids available have been designed by large manufacturers, one of them being well-known, Swiss-made Phonak Hearing Instruments.

It is because of the many years in the field of audiology that both Dr. Duran and his sister felt secure in their ability to achieve success with this business venture, even in this unstable economy.

The Durans said…“We believe we are giving a much needed service in an area we know and love”.

April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 29

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Page 30

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

Equator is Suzuki’s midsize pickup truck Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS I really like the 2009 Suzuki Equator, the company’s all-new entry into the midsize pickup truck segment.

It has a bold look and offers a nice combination of style, utility, comfort and offroad capability. In fact, the Equator recently was named “4X4 of the Year” by 4-Wheel & Off-Road magazine.

Developed in a joint effort with Nissan North America, the new Equator is available in both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles and in rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations. It has a contemporary design, with a number of unique Suzuki elements, including the hood, front fenders, grille, bumpers, front fascia and tailgate. The large “S” over the honeycomb mesh grille denotes that this truck is a Suzuki product.

To accommodate loads ranging from ATVs to motorcycles, Suzuki offers Crew

Cab variants in both Short Bed and Long Bed styles. There also are lots of standard safety features on the truck, including roof-mounted curtain, side-impact and rollover supplemental airbags, as well as seat-mounted side-impact supplemental airbags. And, as with all Suzuki vehicles, it comes with a 100,000-mile, seven-year, powertrain limited warranty.

Built at Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Smyrna, TN, the Equator is powered by a standard 2.5-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine with 152 hp and 171 poundsfeet of torque. A 4.0-liter, V-6 DOHC engine that produces 261 hp with 281 pounds-feet of torque is an available option. The V-6 has an aluminum block with cast-iron cylinder liners, Teflon-coated pistons, a micro-finished forged steel crankshaft, micro-finished camshafts driven by a silent two-stage timing chain and variable valve timing.

The Equator comes with either a fivespeed electronically controlled automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission, available only on four-cylinder models. A shift-on-the-fly 4WD system with an electronically controlled part-time twospeed transfer case is an option, as is a comprehensive off-road traction system that includes four-wheel active limited slip

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Equator has several Suzuki design cues, including large “S” over the honeycomb mesh grille.

traction control, an electronic-locking rear differential, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control.

The Equator’s long 125.9-inch wheelbase (Extended Cab or Crew Cab/standard bed) enhances driving stability and comfort, while its overall length of 206.6 inches provides a nice balance of utility and maneuverability in a pickup truck.

The all-steel double-wishbone front suspension balances rugged capability with everyday driving comfort. In the rear, the solid axle configuration uses over-slung leaf springs and a long suspension travel for an excellent combination of on- and off-road dynamics and hauling capability.

The Equator has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds (V-6 2WD Sport Package), more than enough to haul your motorcycle, ATV or boat.

Base pricing, including destination charges, ranges from $17,995 for the 2WD model with the four-cylinder engine and manual transmission, to $31,375 for the RMZ-4 Sport model with the V-6 and an automatic gearbox.

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>.

305.256.8005

Relax, Refresh and Renew.

We cater to a multicultural clientele seeking a one-stop solution to personal care needs in a warm, inviting environment Massage Therapy:

20% OFF

Hair:

• Swedish

• Deep Tissue

• Shiatsu

• Chair Massage

• We work with all hair types • Specializing in Ethnic & Textured Hair

Other Services:

Facials:

• Nails: Including acrylics, gels & natural nail care. (20% OFF on Tue. & Wed.) • Waxing: Full range of waxing services

• Glow Classic Facial • Mini Facial • Deep Cleansing Facial • Express Facial • “Vitamin C & Sea Facial” • Glycolic Peel

* your first Nail, Waxing, Facial or Massage Service Call for your appointment.

COMPLIMENTARY*

15 minute express facial & skin analysis $25 value Thurs-Fri. Additional discounts available for school & hospital employees. * Must present coupon at time of service

Gift Certificates Available • Kendall Breeze Plaza 12390 SW 127 Ave • Miami, FL 33186 • 305.256.8005

Since 1975

OPEN 7 DAYS LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED SAME LOCATION SINCE 1943

liver

e We D

Buy one entrée at regular price

$2.00 OFF

Second Entrée is 1/2 price

Large Cheese Pizza with Two Toppings

Cannot be combined w/any other coupons or offers. Dine in only. Expires 6/30/09

Cannot be combined w/any other coupons or offers. Expires 6/30/09

305-253-6511

14415 S. Dixie Hwy. • Kings Bay Shopping Center We cater for office & private parties Daily Lunch Specials • 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. www.papariccosmiami.com • Fax: 305-253-3882

Largest selection and finest quality seafood in South Florida.

YOU’LL BE HOOKED BY OUR QUALITY, SELECTION, GREAT SERVICE AND REASONABLE PRICES. CALL TO INQUIRE ABOUT OUR CATERING SERVICES • WE SHIP ANYWHERE IN THE US

MEDIUM SHRIMP $6.99 PER POUND 17505 SOUTH DIXIE HIGHWAY • PALMETTO BAY, FL 33157

305.235.0661 • WWW.GOLDENRULESEAFOOD.COM

• Remodeling • Additions • New Construction • Free Estimates • Generator Connections

Lighting Electric of Miami, Inc.

FOR SALE OR RENT Deering Bay Grand Marina 90’ deeded boat slip. Owner Motivated!

305-665-7996 - 305-2829541 FREE ADS AVAILABLE AT CNEWS!!! We are looking to trade advertising space for goods and services--- A/C Equipment & repair * Electrical services & repairs * Computer repairs * Office machines & supplies * landscaping * painting * truck/automobile repairs Please contact: ROBIN KORTH 305-6697355, ext 275 robinkorth@communitynewspapers.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY SERVICES

REROOFS & REPAIRS

Serving Florida Since 1994 • Free Estimates • Insured for your protection • Owner on every job • Work guaranteed WILLIAM CARPENTER President/Owner ALL-TECH ROOFING I INC 0330GT 1030GT

(305) 247-6717

LIC. &INS.

CC#18769

EMPLOYMENT HELP WANTED E N G I N E E R I N G MANAGER ACAI Incestments LLC dba Die Vac Plastics, Hialeah FL; Engineering degree+ 5 yrs exp. Quality control; economic evaluations; Projecct management; trade exp. with the US, Brasil, Mexico, China, India, Portugal, Czech Republic, Venezula. Fax resume Attn: A Marino 305-821-5705 HELP WANTED Management Analyst, Doral, FL: Gather & orgz info flowers grow & store procedures, devlp solut, confer w/persl, observ unit functs, work perf, prep & apprv recom new proceds, relat form & report BS Ecology or Agriculture +5yr exp. Fax Sunflower Farms Distributors Inc. 305.513.5933 M A N A G E M E N T ANALYST Bachelor req.

Mail res: Rios, Medina & Assoc., Public Acc., P. A. 17913 NW 7 St. Suite 103 Pembroke Pines, FL 33029

ORTHODONTIC ASSISTANT Full Time, S. Miami. Must be trained as an ortho

call 305-666-7077 or 305-665-0351

OWN A COMPUTER? Put it to Work! Up to $1,500 to $7,500/mo. PT/FT Free Info! www.byourownboss.com or contact us at 305-992-8344 THE WATER WIZARD COMPANY Plumber’s assistant and sales positions available. Bilingual Eng/Span. Call 305-2353508

MERCHANDISE MISCELLANOUS 2007 CUSTOM GOLF CART E-Z-GO ST Sport 2+2 FM/CD/IPod Ready Jensen Radio - Carbon Fiber Kit. Like New $5000 (305)992-3198

REAL ESTATE HOMES FOR SALE **FREE FORECLOSURE LISTINGS** Over 400,000 properties nationwide.

Low down payment.

CALL NOW! 800-4988619

NEW HIGH RISE Class A office space available.

Limited number of suites for lease. Owner will do custom build out for your needs. Adjacent to Metrorail and Palmetto. Opposite Dadeland Mall. For more details call Carlos or Rio at (305) 670-2382

PALMETTO BAY CENTRE 8925 SW 148 St. at US1 (Behind Starbucks) WHY DRIVE DOWNTOWN? 2 MONTHS FREE Office space is perfect for: Medical Services • Attorneys • Accountants • Real Estate • Mortgage Brokers • Other Professionals. Ample Free Parking, Close to Jackson South & Baptist Medical Center • Near 2 Banks, CVS Pharmacy, Publix, Walk to Several Restaurants & Golf, Close to Your Home & Bus Line. Make your business profitable by operating your business efficiently and locally. FREE UP YOUR TIME AND MONEY Contact Dennis Haber at 305-256-3002 PINECREST/DADELAND AREA Opposite Dadeland Mall Office space available, can also be medical/ dental use. Fully built out.

Month to Month or 1 year lease. Utilities incl. Call Liz at (305) 670-3051

RENTALS APARTMENTS 1/1 APARTMENT. GREAT LOCATION. Near So. Miami Metro Rail & UM. 6341 SW 80th Street. Call for an appointment. 305232-3971

OFFICE SPACE

KENDALL OFFICE SPACE 200-7,500 sq/ft We will beat any lease deal in the area. Hurricane protected Buildings.

J. Gray

(305)

271-7177

UPGRADE TO

AND SAVE! NO equipment to buy!

NO start-up cost!

Over 130 HD channels!

DIGITAL READY

CALL NOW! 888-602-4448

0505GT

Service

252-3476

MISCELLANEOUS

Lic. # CCC1328633

ELECTRICIAN Fast, Reliable

Needs Licensed Hair Dressers/ Assistants

COMMERCIAL RENTAL Palmetto Bay New bldg.

9710 E. Indigo St. #201.

1,240 sq.ft. Negotiable.

Call 305-233-7363

Page 31

PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE AGENT WANTED

Must be 440 or 220 licensed. No exceptions. If you are a team player, like coming to work, can prove results in your first week, this career might be for you.

We have been in business for the past 24 years and are looking for that special person to join our team. You must be dynamic, organized and a self starter. This is a sales career. Salary plus commissions.

Robin Wolff, LUTCF, CLTC Financial Planner Please send resume to 220or440@bellsouth.net or fax to 305 274-3466

0505GT

He’s name is Tom; he is an orangey yellow cat with white paws and underbelly. He’s sweet, but sometimes cautious of humans.

If you spot him, please contact Kathy Martinez @786-357-1709 or or email Diana Torres at dtorres@northerncapitalinsurance.com $50.00 reward if found!!!

Well Established South Miami Salon 0430SC

LOOKING FOR A LOST CAT

assist. FAX 305-665-5606

526RB

LOST & FOUND

PLASTER REPAIR Interior Ceilings & Walls.

Water Damage Repair.

Match Any Finish. 30 Yrs. Exp. Best Quality. Tom Fitzgerald 305-238-3956 CRC-057464

8/30’2005-PC

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

VEHICLES TRUCKS FOR SALE 1987 Chevy Truck. Step side, restored, color red, 350 engine, automatic. Exc. Cond.

Must See! $,6500 obo.

305-253-3762

0428AC

April 28 - May 4, 2009

Page 32

R E A L

E S T A T E

D I R E C T O R Y

•

April 28 - May 4, 2009

C A L L

( 3 0 5 ) 6 6 1 - 9 2 0 0

For Rent

ABBY IKEHARA,

Furnished Office in South Miami 2 Blocks from US 1 and South Miami Hospital

Broker-Associate Cell: 305-972-0678 Email: abbyikehara@estatehomesinmiami.com

Aprox. 500 sqf. in second floor with private entrance and parking space.

Specializing in Coral Gables, Pinecrest & Miami Choice Realty of Miami, Inc. 9425 Sunset Drive, Ste #172 Miami, Florida 33173 0526DKM

Abby Ikehara - Broker-Associate

0428AB

T H E

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Visit at 7701 SW 62 Ave 2nd floor or call (305) 667-8858 and ask for Billy or Roger.

SENIORS, have a FHA Reverse Mortgage Question?

Call for a FREE 52 page AARP BOOKLET "Home Made Money" to assist you in understanding FHA's benefits!

Call

Kenneth Bluh for your FREE COPY

0428GT

NO OBLIGATION! NO COST! - NO REQUIREMENTS!

305-442-1256 Ext. 3033 R. Kenneth Bluh, Vice President

Capital International Financial, Inc. “Your Miami Hometown Lender since 1981” 395 Alhambra Circle • Coral Gables • FL 33134

FHA Approved Lender

Equal Opportunity Lender

Para Español o Português: Nadia Brunkow • 786-325-7328

Visit me for more information at www.RKBluh.com

“ASK A PRO” BUSINESS SECTION 0915SA

WE DELIVER

0908GT

• Locally owned in Palmetto Bay • Never a line or wait • Call to transfer your prescriptions today Tel. 305-278-1659 Fax. 305-278-1660

9843 SW 184th Street.

Palmetto Bay, FL 33157

Bring this ad in for 10% OFF your next prescription

Mega is introducing its New Health Insurance Plans now available for Florida Residents The Same Trusted Company Specializing in Health Insurance for the Self-Employed, Individuals and Families • No co-pays on Doctors visits* • Flexibility - Choose from several plan options • • Portability - Take your plan with you anywhere • Affordable Plans •

Greg Nash - Licensed Health & Life Insurance Agent (786) 554-6162 • gregorynash@mw-ins.com Insurance plans are underwritten by the MEGA life and Health Insurance Company, a Health Markets Company. Exclusions and limitations apply.

Group policy #26025 and 26026 or state variation. “When Preventive Plus Benefit is purchased for additional premium, first dollar coverage limited to available balance. Coverage is not available in all states. Association membership is required. M/001021.

0430LS

MEDSTAR PHARMACY

April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 33

“ASK A PRO” BUSINESS SECTION Not happy with your current lawn care company?

ATTENTION!

Tired of wasting your weekends on lawn work?

BEFORE YOU BUY A FORECLOSURE OR A SHORT SALE PROPERTY, CALL ME FIRST! 786-399-0451 NEW LAWS ARE CHANGING THAT WILL AFFECT YOUR PURCHASE AND A POSSIBILITY OF SAVING 8-25 THOUSAND DOLLARS.

0609GT

ANDREW TRIPODI, P.A. REALTOR

Licensed and Insured

786-234-8807

T H E F I T N E S S S TAT I O N

Task Surveyors, Inc.

AFTER-SCHOOL FITNESS & KARATE PROGRAMS • Bankruptcy •

Loan Modification • Defense • Real Estate Closings • • Debt Relief Agency •

NOW ENROLLING FUN PROGRAM ACTIVITIES:

FREE

GYM MEMBERSHIP For Parents & a Friend

0616GT

CDS Vouchers & Beca Vouchers Accepted!

Exp. 3/29/09

0811SA

• KARATE • DANCE • GYMNASTICS • • YOGA • JUMP ROPE • GAMES • • READING & HOMEWORK HELP • • NUTRITION CLASSES • MOVIES •

• Foreclosure

Se Habla Español

GET YOUR KIDS MENTALLY & PHYSICALLY FIT!

305-285-0340

0526SA

Consulting Engineers • Planners & Surveyors

Joseph J. Steinocher, P.E., R.L.S. President 17638 SW 97th Avenue (Franjo Road) Miami, Florida 33157 T: 305.233.3038 • F: 305.255.5939

THE MIAMI DREAM TEAM OF THE KEYES COMPANY WWW.MIAMIDISTRESS.COM

0616SA

0619SC

A Man and A Mower • Complete Lawn Care

MONDAY - FRIDAY 2PM - 7PM

633 N. Krome Avenue • Homestead, FL 33030

THE FITNESS STATION MARTIAL ARTS CENTER • 18804 S. DIXIE HWY., CUTLER BAY

305.251.2499

Tired Of Cleaning?

Pierre’s French Cleaners

Relax, We’ll Take Care Of It!

• Fabric Care Professionals • All Work Done on Premises 0825SA

0519SA

Bedspreads • Drapes Alterations • Rugs • Carpets

Handy Drive-Thru Service!

$15 off $10 off Your First Cleaning

18460 S.W. 97th Ave. NEW! 1 Hour Alterations (ask for details)

www.palmettocleaningservices.com

Across Street From Holy Rosary Church

305-235-6063

Your Second Cleaning

$5 off

Your Third Cleaning

90 minute minimum cleaning for new clients

90 minute minimum cleaning for new clients

90 minute minimum cleaning for new clients

With this coupon for scheduled cleanings before 5/15/09. Not valid with other offers or prior services.

With this coupon for scheduled cleanings before 5/15/09. Not valid with other offers or prior services.

With this coupon for scheduled cleanings before 5/15/09. Not valid with other offers or prior services.

0616SA

FREE Estimates • Call today Roger Miller

Hilda Marrero President

0702GT

Jessica Arce

0519SA

PACIFIC MORTGAGE SERVICES Serving all of Florida Lowest Conventional Rates in a Generation

WE PERSONALIZE EVERY FILE!

25 years of integrity and service 0505AB

305-598-1044 - Off. 305-962-5280 Cell

Community Association Management and Maintenance Get a quotation free for a program tailored to your community.

www.landcapoffice.com • 305-251-2234

0526GT

Est. 1995

0529GT

17891 S. Dixie Hwy • Suite 105 Miami, Florida 33157 Ph: (305) 251-3098 Fax: (305) 235-9982

0519SA

Lowest Rates SR. 22 • Homeowners

Page 34

T H E

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

B U S I N E S S

D I R E C T O R Y

•

April 28 - May 4, 2009

C A L L

( 3 0 5 ) 6 6 1 - 9 2 0 0

0512DKM

$20.00 OFF Your next Birthday Party Booked

0709AD

0428DKM

0609GT

0726RB

042010HJ

Min. 10 Guests

ANTIQUE MALL Y’ALL

The Largest Antique Mall in Miami-Dade County We have the BEST Shopping with TONS of GREAT MERCHANDISE including:

0427TJ

430GT 8/30/06-PC RPKG

0428RBMM

0428DKM

20%-75% reductions across the Mall including furniture, jewelry, watches, collectibles++

Shop for Great Gifts for Mom Mother's Day is May 10

0525RB

A n t i q u e L i g h t i n g , Furniture, C o t t a g e S t y l e T a b l e s & C h a i r s , Jewelry, B o o k s , & Art with

April 28 - May 4, 2009

B U S I N E S S

D I R E C T O R Y

GET YOUR REFUND

WILLY GUARDIOLA

PRESENT THE 21st ANNUAL

NOW!

12762 SW 88 ST. 305-551-5678

2009

GO-ALL-PRO BASKETBALL CAMP FOR BOYS & GIRLS (AGES 5-17)

INJURED AT WORK?

3-SUPER SESSIONS

Refund Anticipation Loan Available

AT MIAMI-DADE COLLEGE-KENDALL CAMPUS 11011 S.W. 104th Street, Miami

1. MON., JUNE

8 - FRI., JUNE 12 2. MON., JUNE 15 - FRI., JUNE 19 3. MON., JUNE 22 - FRI., JUNE 26

NOTE: All 3 Sessions are from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

CAMP IS LIMITED TO THE FIRST 200 CAMPERS TO ENROLL PER WEEK! First Come, First Served!

Our camps have SOLD OUT every session for the past 19 years.

ENROLL NOW and JUST SAY GO ! !

â&#x20AC;˘ Cracked Plastic Bumpers

â&#x20AC;˘ Leather & Vinyl Seats

â&#x20AC;˘ Small Dents & Dings

â&#x20AC;˘ Carpet Stains & Dyeing

â&#x20AC;˘ Scratches and Scuffs

â&#x20AC;˘ Lease Return Damage

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(305)720-2086

WILLY GUARDIOLA â&#x20AC;˘ CESAR ODIO

305-252-2255 or 561-630-4544

Having Trouble with

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Call (877)538-4392 Need To Learn QuickBooks?

Consoles & Dashboards

0623RB

Boarding, Day Care & Behavior Modification In our Home

Typical & Special Needs Small Dogs (20 lbs or less)

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FREE CONSULTATION NO FEES OR COSTS IF NO RECOVERY

The Law Office of Ruth E. Johnson, P.A. Miami, FL

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL:

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KKNOW YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS!!!

Experienced accident attorney can help 0526DKM

INST ANT C A SH !

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( 3 0 5 ) 6 6 1 - 9 2 0 0

0616RB

INCOME TAX

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0526RB

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;South Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Successful Basketball Campâ&#x20AC;?

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Electronic Tax Form Filing

Hablamos EspaĂąol

â&#x20AC;˘

Page 35

0831RB

T H E

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

786-303-1118

Subscribe To Profit Nuggets, Quickbooks Tips & Tricks You Can Use Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Free!

www.smalldognanny.com

Law Offices of Russell A. Cohen Divorce, Child Support, Child Custody Criminal Defense including Felonies, Misdemeanors, Traffic and DUI cases

Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Services Complete Pet Care Provider

Know your pet is in good hands!

Accident cases involving serious injuries

0526RB

10420 S.W. 77th Avenue, Suite 202, Miami, FL 33156

Phone: 954.691.5505 valmaguer@allfourpawsinc.com www.allfourpawsinc.com

0831RK

Valerie Almaguer 0428AB

(305) 255-5488 russell@racohenlaw.com

Insured

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.

Serving Miami-Dade County

s /N )N 9OUR (OME s !LL 3UBJECTS s !LL !GES

Over 60?

Use prescription medication more than prescribed?

R

786-249-6700 www.clubztutoring.com

$ISCOUNTS ARE ARE AVAILABLE ONLY WHEN THE ENTIRE PACKAGE IS PURCHASED AND PAID FOR BY *UNE .OMINAL REGISTRATION FEE FOR NEW CLIENTS

Confidential research study EARN CASH Please call us at 305-529-1489

0430RK

22 hours of one-on-one tutoring s #ATCH UP FROM PREVIOUS SCHOOL YEAR n /2 n GET A JUMP START ON NEXT SCHOOL YEAR s 4UTORING IN ONE SUBJECT

We make summer learning fun, interesting, and best of all...EFFECTIVE!

AB

SUMMER TUTORING PROGRAMS Summer â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Masteryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Program 20% Discount* 44 hours of one-on-one tutoring s #ATCH UP FROM PREVIOUS SCHOOL YEAR n/2n GET A JUMP START ON NEXT SCHOOL YEAR s 4UTORING IN MULTIPLE SUBJECTS s )MPROVE STUDY AND ORGANIZATION SKILLS Summer â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Scholarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Program 15% Discount* 33 hours of one-on-one tutoring s #ATCH UP FROM PREVIOUS SCHOOL YEAR n/2n GET A JUMP START ON NEXT SCHOOL YEAR s 4UTORING IN UP TO TWO SUBJECTS s )MPROVE STUDY AND ORGANIZATION SKILLS Summer â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Program 10% Discount*

0811GC

YOUR CHILD CAN GET AHEAD THIS SUMMER

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

I M P R O V E M E N T

Selective Cut, Inc. Landscaping & Design • Concrete • Pavers Sprinkler Repair • Custom Water Features

0630HJ

One call does it all!

E THE TIM NOW’S P E R P ANE HURRIC

•

C A L L

Backhoe & Bobcat Services • Concrete Finishing Custom Concrete Driveways

786.380.0801

EXTERIOR Wood Fascia Door-Window Inst’l.

Structural Repair Terraces

INTERIOR Renovations Crown Moulding Termite Repair

SPECIALIZING IN: House Painting, Roof Cleaning & Painting, etc Pressure Cleaning Roofing Repairs

C USTOMBUILT W OOD D ECKS

786.385.5614

LIC & INS #038001

PAINTING Free Estimates CC# 96BS00340

LICENSED & INSURED

305-248-8180 305-274-8180

For All Your Carpentry Needs

Certified Arborist on Staff • General Contractor on Staff • Licensed & Insured

( 3 0 5 ) 6 6 1 - 9 2 0 0

STEVE’S

CUSTOM CARPENTRY

by R ick

Complete Tree, Landscaping, Lawn Service and Construction Service Company

Tree Trimming • Full Lawn Maintenance

D I R E C T O RY

DM929

H O M E

0317DM

T H E

April 28 - May 4, 2009

People Forget How Fast You Did a Job But, They Remember How Well You Did It • Must Be Licensed & Insured

RB0511

Page 36

“Call Us”We’d like to get to “MOW” you!

T R E E

•

L A N D S C A P I N G

FULL TREE SERVICE RB0803

MM

• Selective Pruning •

• Stump Grinding • Trimming •

“We Do TREE-RRIFIC Work” Licensed & Insured • Residential & Commercial Specialist

MAID BRIGADE BENEATH THE CLEAN, YOU’LL FIND SPARKLING CUSTOMER SERVICE! Cleaning homes like yours since 1979.

Every cleaning inspected and guaranteed.

Uniformed, bonded and insured.

For Information:

(305) 430-M AID ( 6 2 4 3 ) $ 15 . 00 OFF

(954) 921-2332

Yo u r F i r s t & S e c o n d R e g u l a r Cleaning with Mention of this ad!!

0609DS All- Papers

Reliable and Secure

PAINTING HANDYMAN

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL and MUCH MUCH MORE! Se Habla Español

Licensed & Insured

VIDAL MARTINEZ Your HANDYMAN For Property Ph: 305-255-1133 Cell: 305-490-0038

FREE ESTIMATES

Ask About Monthly Services

10715 S.W. 190th St. Miami, FL 33157

5/30/07-ALL

305-253-7374

1231TJ

FREE ESTIMATES

Prompt & Courteous Since 1982

0609DS

Members of the International Society of Arboriculture

April 28 - May 4, 2009

T H E

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

H O M E

I M P R O V E M E N T

D I R E C T O RY

Page 37

•

C A L L

( 3 0 5 ) 6 6 1 - 9 2 0 0

Mr.. Marble Mr

SCREEN ENCLOSURES 0430HJ

25%

HURRICANE SHUTTERS

0505RK

Mr. Marcello Cell.:(305) 608-4953 Tel.:(305) 694-1259

Lic./Ins. #06BS01325

0210SC

Marble Crystalization & Polishing Travertine & Mexican Tiles Bathrooms & Table Top Cleaning

FREE ESTIMATES

OFF

FREE ESTIMATE Licensed & Insured

305.245.9860 • 20% OFF ANY JOB OVER $2,000 Commercial & Residential CC# 18924

Robert Jude

Owner on the job

305.668.4344 SERVING: Coral Gables - Pinecrest - Kendall - So. Miami Since 1985 . .

FREE ESTIMATES

7005 S.W. 76th Street Miami, Florida 33143

GT0401

BBB 1090

SUNSHINE PAINTING & R ESTORATION CO. INC. Coating & Waterproofing Specialist

0428DKM

• DOORS • GARAGE DOORS • FASCIA • SOFFIT • SUB FLOORS • OAK FLOORS • GENERAL CARPENTRY • TERMITE REAIRS

• LICENSED & INSURED • FAST SERVICE • REASONABLE RATES

BOB O’CONNELL Repair Rotten Wood and Carpentry Service

FREE ESTIMATES

238-9296

0630GM 11/28

0614SC

0430GT

DOZENS OF REALTORS AS REFERENCES Serving South Dade Since 1986 Licensed & Insured • Tree Trimming • Consultation • Stump Grinding • Landscaping • Lawn Services • Fertilization • Sprinkler Repair • Debris Removal • Backhoe Service • Driveway Pavers • And More

Steve Nagy Enterprises

305-216-4717

Expert Repairs & Complete Reroofing By A Fully Insured Florida State Certified Roofing and General Contractor

305-233-0699

0407DM

Wood Replacement/Repair Roof Inspection and Consultation Insurance Carrier Dispute Resolution Insurance Mitigation Inspection

0421SC

Metal Tile Shingles Flat Roofs

Lic# CCC052480 ¥ CGC1515299

RO O F I N G

Page 38

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

THE HEALTH BEAUTY & FITNESS DIRECTORY • CALL (305)661-9200

When you need a lawyer, you’ll be really glad you have one!

D i s c re e t • D e d i c a t e d • E x p e r i e n c e d

IN CHRONIC PAIN?

Any time you have a legal problem or question, you can have access to a quality law firm through a Pre-Paid Legal membership. Now the services of a capable lawyer and preventive legal care are just a phone call away! Skeptical? Call us now and find out more!

Medical Management of Pain Addiction Medicine Adult Family Medicine

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

305-461-2425 (24 hours)

7000 S.W. 62 Ave. #400 South Miami, FL 33143

www.AAmiamidade.org

RK060209

Dr. Erik van Ginkel, M.D.

IF YOU WANT TO STOP, THAT’S OURS.

Maria Cancio Independent Associate 305-607-0311

Tel: 305-665-0585 md@miamipainandrecovery.com

www.prepaidlegal.com/info/mcancio

0630DM

If you want to drink, That’s your business.

CASINO GAMBLING CLASSES Private or Groups (Your Location) Beginner & Advanced Players “WINNING STRATEGIES!”

Ramona

0609RK

Craps, Black-Jack, Roulette & Texas Hold’em Poker

Lowell Richman (Professional Gambler)

27 years of experience

President – Casino Gambling, Inc. (Since 1978)

Email: casinogamblingparties@hotmail.com

Please call me today for an appointment

305.992.1543 305.233.5291

0428DKM

305-933-3935

Master Stylist has been a professional hair stylist and colorist for over twenty years.

14973 So. Dixie Hwy • Miami, FL 33176 • www.josephs-salon.com

TRADITIONAL CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE

HUI SHAO, AP, OMD

Specializing in Pain Control Acute or Chronic Pain (neck, shoulder, back, sciatic...)

• Arthritis • Bursitis • Athletic Injuries • Anxiety • Sinusitis • Colitis • Weight Control • Allergies • Migraine & Headache • Hypertension • PMS & Gyn Problems • Immune Disorders • Stress & Depression • Sexual Disorder • Stop Smoking . . .

Many other disorders, call to inquire.

• We accept most Health Insurance & auto accident insurance

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By Doctor from Shanghai, China. Practicing Chinese Acupuncture for Over 15 Years

OFFERING CLASSES 3 YEARS - ADULT

Astrology Consultations

Jeffrey Brock is the Director of The Astrological & Metaphysical Research Center and has been teaching astrology since 1978.

Mr. Brock also has extensive experience with personal & corporate leadership development and is a Clinical Hypnotherapist and a Licensed Avatar® Master.

305.279.2569 http://JeffreyBrock.com Email:

Brock120@bellsouth.net

Website covers frequently asked questions about consultations and what to expect

Britney Simpson - Artistic Director • 12 Yrs Teaching Exp. • Former FL Marlins Cheerleader

Hip Hop, Lyrical, Ballet, Jazz, Acting, Broadway Dance, Yoga and Pilates

CORAL GABLES OFFICE • (305) 461-4046 3310 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite #250, Coral Gables, FL 33134 w w w . a c u p u n c t u r e i n m i a m i . c o m

PRIVATE PARTIES Call For Booking!

0630KS

Jeffrey Brock, well-known South Florida astrologer, is available for astrology consultations - discover the incredible sychronicity between the time and place of your birth and your personality. Astrology is being recognized as the “Rosetta Stone” of psychology.

Dancin' In The Streets

Now Registering For Summer Camp

8761 SW 129th Street (Falls Warehouse Area) 786.342.1840 www.simpcityinc.com

April 28 - May 4, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

April 28 - May 4, 2009

Cutler Bay Business Association April 9, 2009

Cutler Bay Business Owners Learn How To Get The Most Bang for Marketing Bucks

Dr. Pat Fulton offers tips to stretch your marketing dollars

Ron Gill and Mike Hopkins keep in contact at the monthly networking event

Tight economic times mean that business owners must squeeze as much value out of every marketing dollar as possible. Pat Fulton, a local writer and college instructor, addressed that issue in “Getting the Most Bang for Your Marketing Buck” when she spoke to the April 9 networking luncheon of Cutler Bay Business Association.

Fulton provided a three-page tip sheet to each attendee, loaded with practical suggestions she learned while working 10 years in downtown revitalization in St. Petersburg before moving to Miami in 2001. Under the topic “Packaging is everything”, she suggested training employees in how to answer the company telephone, distributing T-shirts with the company name and product, handling customer complaints promptly and courteously and regularly changing storefront displays.

To retain customers, her tips included collecting customer business cards in a store site fishbowl, sending thank-you notes, creating a customer newsletter sent by email, offering customer bonuses for new customer referrals, and creating a frequent shopper card. Inexpensive promotions that she outlined were gift packets for new residents, new parents, newlyweds; placement of a car, truck, bicycle or baby carriage in a local parade; handing out sports schedule cards, and using football tailgate parties for promotion. Fulton recommended using the “Kid Factor” by participating in school carnivals, offering in-store child care, or sponsoring a youth-oriented event.

For more information on cost-effective marketing tips, contact Pat Fulton at patful01@msn.com.

Darryl Boyette answers questions from prospective new members, Amy Mahfood and Lee Ann Morrison

Chiropractor, Dr. Matthew Westrich, examines Angie Cortez using state-of-the-art equipment

Harry Wilson, Ron Gill, Amy Mahfood, Kathy Terry, and Lee Ann Morrison take note of tips they can use

Ed and Susan Ludovici purchase beautiful orchids from newest CBBA member, Kevin Folliard

Pat Farina and Jean Tong-Noon show Jaclyn Otero their Mona Vie products

Buffalo Wild Wings sponsored the luncheon, owner Seth de Kanter and employee, Cedric, proudly display their food

28850 S. Dixie Hwy. • Homestead, FL 33033 T: 305-245-2239 • F: 305-245-2297 homestead@signarama.com • www.signarama.com/33033

Mel Mendlesohn, Richard Masso, Jean Tong-Noon, and Kevin Folliard scoop up marketing ideas