Cutler Bay News, December 22, 2009 Edition - Local, Entertainment News - Miami, Florida

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Cutler Bay SERVING SOUTH DADE

DECEMBER 22, 2009

CITT executive addresses EDC on future of transit CBBA party gathers toys for F needy kids in the community C

BY GARY ALAN RUSE

ormer Palmetto Bay village manager Charles Scurr, who has for the past year been the executive director of the Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust (CITT), addressed members of the Economic Development Council of South Dade (EDC) at the group’s regular monthly meeting on Dec. 8.

Scurr spoke informally on the topic of transit service to the more than two dozen people attending the meeting at the EDC headquarters at 900 Perrine Ave. Included among the attendees were Palmetto Bay Mayor Eugene P. Flinn Jr.; village council members Shelley Stanczyk and Howard Tendrich; Cutler Bay Vice Mayor Ed MacDougall; Pinecrest Council member Joseph M. Corradino; County Commissioner Katy Sorensen, as well as business men and women, and others from the community.

“I want to talk about where we’ve been, where we are now and where we’re going,” Scurr told the group. “The Transportation Trust is the half penny sales tax that was very soundly approved by the voters. We

Fruit and Spice Park set to host Redland Festival

BY EDITH TORRES

M

Pictured (l-r) are Officer Debbie Fleites, Officer MaryAnn Stahl, CBBA president Darryl Boyette, Officer (Photo by Bill Meiklejohn) John McLaughlin and Sgt. Chad Murphy.

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BY GARY ALAN RUSE

CITT executive director Charles Scurr at EDC meeting on Dec. 8.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See

EDC, page 4

embers of the Cutler Bay Business Association (CBBA) had their fourth annual holiday party on Thursday, Dec. 10, meeting not only for a fun get-together but also to support a good cause.

More than 400 people gathered at the Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay dealership, located at 10701 SW 211 St., which provided space for the event as well as free valet parking.

Each member or guest attending was asked to bring an unwrapped gift for a child. As a result, the CBBA collected enough new, unwrapped toys to fill a Mercedes-Benz SUV. The toys were to be

distributed to local children by the Cutler Bay Policing Unit.

Food for the party was provided by area restaurants and stores, including Buffalo Wild Wings, Cutler Bay Sports Bar, Sonny’s Barbecue, Black Point Ocean Grill, Honey Baked Hams, Royal Palm Grill, Sal’s Italian Ristorante, Takee Outee Chinese Restaurant, Rodbenders, Wendy’s Chocolates, LA Sweets, Costco, and Publix Supermarkets.

Palmetto Bay Village Center provided the tables and chairs for the event.

Musical entertainment was presented

by Breaktime, Sheryl Latty and the carolers, and Shayna Rogg. Justo Rico was Santa for the night.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– See

CBBA, page 4

elebrate the new year at the 33rd annual Redland Festival, Jan. 9-10, at the Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187 Ave. in Homestead.

The Redland Festival, a Fruit and Spice Park staple event that draws crowds in the thousands, will have its traditional natural arts and crafts, more than 20 nurseries selling native plants and fruit trees, a children’s area, as well as a variety of entertainment for the young and old.

Featured entertainers performing both on stage and impromptu throughout the park include Merlina, the magician and bilingual story teller, bringing her stories to life with audience participation and interaction; Redland Festival returning favorites Ed and Geraldine Berbaum performing old-time musicals and inviting children to join them in playing musical rhythm instruments; David Ballard performing comedy variety entertainment using puppets and clowns, and renowned guitarist James Kelly performing traditional Irish music.

The Natural Selections of South Florida, with host and owner Joseph Wasilewski, will conduct live animal shows prompting educational discussion and teaching the audience about the environmental purpose of native Florida animals. Animals featured include alligators, crocodiles, snakes, turtles and other interesting creatures.

Admission is $8 per person and children under age 12 are admitted free. Doors open at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. For more information, call the Fruit and Spice Park at 305-247-5727.

The Fruit and Spice Park, operated by MiamiDade Park and Recreation Department, grows more than 500 varieties of sub-tropical fruits, herbs, spices, vegetables and nuts from around the world on 39 lush acres in the agricultural Redland. The park offers daily botanical tours, fruit tasting and naturalist-led workshops.

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December 22 - 28, 2009

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Southland Mall starts holiday season with balloons, Santa

The First Annual Balloon Drop took place at Southland Mall, 20505 S. Dixie Hwy., on Black Friday (Nov. 27) with a simultaneous launch in three separate locations inside the mall — Sears Wing, Center Court and Macy’s Wing. Hundreds of people turned out for the event in which many of the balloons contained prizes.

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Santa Claus listens to the wishes of one youngster after he arrived at Southland Mall, 20505 S.

Mall hours this week are Dec. 22 and 23, 8 a.m.-11 p.m.; Dec. 24, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.; Closed Christmas Day; Dixie Hwy., on Black Friday (Nov. 27). Santa made his entrance at the mall in style riding in a bright red convertible courtesy of Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay. Dec. 26, 8 a.m.-10 p.m., and Dec. 27, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

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EDC,

December 22 - 28, 2009

from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

collect about $180 million a year. Out of that, 80 percent goes to Miami-Dade County. The majority of that goes to funding the Miami-Dade County transportation system.”

Scurr said that when the discussion regarding the sales tax originally began, the first thought was for a full penny tax but that was scaled down to a half-cent. But, he said, while the amount of the tax decreased, the needs of the transit system in MiamiDade increased, meaning a wider gap between available revenues and the costs of needed improvements.

Scurr noted that most communities around the country are experiencing transit financing difficulties these days. It is not only because that with the current economy local revenues are down, but also because federal funding, which often used to cover 80 percent of project costs, is much lower and harder to get.

“I think there’s a new realism that you’re going to have to scale your plans to what’s possible,” he said.

He suggested that communities are less likely to jump directly into heavy rail transit systems and more likely to upgrade their bus and other systems, including light rail.

He estimated that the cost of extending heavy rail to the north county line in Miami-Dade would be about $1.2 billion.

He said they are seeking innovative ways to

CBBA,

finance new projects and extensions of Metrorail, and seeking more economical approaches.

“We are looking at the entire FEC corridor going north, into Broward and Palm Beach County, for possible commuter rail use,” Scurr said, referring to the Florida East Coast Railway tracks that closely parallel US1. “The good thing is that there’s high density all the way along there.”

Scurr said that the only east-west linkage for Metrorail that they are considering currently is along the Dolphin Expressway (SR 836), and a CITT draft report handed out at the meeting suggests that the MiamiDade Expressway Authority (MDX) is open to making portions of its right of way available for transit systems and possibly invest some of MDX’s capital in projects.

The cities get 20 percent of the CITT funds and Scurr said that the fact that Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay may be working jointly on some projects, such as shuttle buses, is a good way to go.

“We really encourage the cities getting together and pooling their money,” Scurr said.

When the question was raised regarding coordinated computerized traffic signals in the county and beyond, Scurr was optimistic.

“Traffic signaling is 85 percent complete,” he said. “In six to eight months it should be 100 percent complete.”

from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Hosting the event were Pete Blackwell, general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay, and Denie Harris, marketing director of Silver Arrow Group.

Miami-Dade County District 8 Commissioner Katy Sorenson was among the first to arrive, along with Leif Gunderson of Sunstate Bank. Other local VIPs included Cutler Bay Vice Mayor Ed MacDougall and fellow commissioners Peggy Bell, Tim Meerbott and Ernie Sochin.

Treasurer of the CBBA, Bill Meiklejohn, thought it was a successful event.

“It was just a great evening to enjoy the start of the holidays,” Meiklejohn said. “I enjoyed spending time with Linda Peterson of Peterson Harley Davidson, James Rogers of J’s Automotive Repair, Dr. Patricia Fulton, Richard Masso of Al’s Lawnmower Sales & Service Inc, Mel Mendelssohn of Happy Cruising Inc., Bill Ryan of Ryan’s Restorations / Ryan’s Woodworks Inc., Jean

Tong-Noon of WOW Green International, Joie Walker of Weathermakers Air Conditioning & Electrical, Ron Metro of AAA FotoFast, Sherell Green of InterCredit Bank NA, and so many others.”

CBBA president Darryl Boyette and vice president Cyndi Rogg concluded the evening by hosting an auction.

The toys gathered at the event were slated to be delivered by members of the Cutler Bay Policing Unit Neighborhood Resource Unit. Names of the needy children were selected as a result of information from 911 calls and recommendations by Cutler Bay school principals.

The next meeting of the CBBA is on Thursday, Jan. 14, at the Palmetto Bay Village Center (Building C), 18001 Old Cutler Rd. in Palmetto Bay. For more information call Cyndi Rogg at 305-609-1096 or visit online at <www.cutlerbaybusinessassociation.com/>.

www.communitynewspapers.com

December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 5

Sometimes a government shutdown is a good thing Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN This is the one time of year when the hustle and bustle and occasional turmoil that goes in village or town government grinds to a halt and everyone mellows out.

The Christmas, Chanukah and possibly even Kwanza decorations go up, the parties gear up, the gifts are wrapped up and everyone seems to calm down a bit as they close up shop to take time off for holiday festivities and spend more time with family and friends. And maybe pop a few corks at New Year’s. Sure, it kinda slows things down a bit, but isn’t it nice to see everybody relaxing a bit, having fun and sharing in the things that we all have in common...the things that really count the most, when you think about it. From all of us here at Community Newspapers, we wish you the best and hope your holiday season is truly wonderful.

A r e a d e r ’s lette r on the big South Miami FPL meeting on December 10 begins “Thanks to everyone who made the Town Hall meeting a success. Feedback was that the evening was very professional. Great media presence and coverage.

Looks like all three FPL people stayed pretty much for the whole meeting. We even had folks drive in from Key Largo, Naples and Palm Beach County. We are so grateful for the City of South Miami graciously making its excellent facilities and audio/visual professional and system available. W. arranged for copies of the DVD to be available soon. Nice scene for our group at Deli Lane; we are just too

refined for Sunset Tavern. Enjoy the holidays, back to work in the New Year, peace and love.” — BW. J o b rem i nd er from Commissioner ‘Joe’ Martinez: The Census Bureau is accepting applications for temporary jobs helping with next year’s count of the United States population. Most assignments will last five to ten weeks, require U.S. citizenship, a driver’s license, use of a vehicle, and a background check. The ability to speak a second language is a big plus. For more information, please call 866-861-2010 or visit <www.2010Censusjobs.gov>.

Attention Jane S eym our fans... If you don’t mind driving north a ways, Emmy and Award-Winning Actress Jane Seymour, who is also an accomplished artist, will make three special appearances at the Wentworth Galleries in Las Olas, The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens and the Town Center Mall in Boca Raton. “Jane Seymour: A One Woman Show” includes original oils, acrylic and watercolor paintings, as well as limited edition artwork, all available for purchase.

Guests will have the opportunity to see Ms. Seymour on all days:

S a t u r d a y, J a n u a ry 23: 6 p.m.– 9 p.m.

We n tw o r t h G a l le ry: Town Center Mall, 6000 Glades Rd., Boca Raton.

For Details call: 561-338-0804 or 800-732-6140 Wentworth Galleries’ website, <www.wentworthgallery.com> provides information on featured artists, upcoming exhibits, online orders and directions.

T h ou g h t f o r t he Day: A conscience which has been bought once will be bought twice.

— Norbert Wiener

Gary Alan Ruse and Richard Yager contributed to this column.

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

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Actress/artist Jane Seymour is pictured with one of her paintings.

(Photo by Charles Bush)

F r i d a y, J a n u a r y 22: 7 – 9 p.m.

We n t w o rt h G a l l e r y: The Gardens Mall, 3101 Pga Blvd., Palm Beach.

For Details call: 561-624-0656 or 800-732-6140 S a t u r d a y, J a n u a ry 23: 12 – 3 p.m.

We n t w o rt h G a l l e r y: Las Olas, 819 East Las Olas Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale.

For details call: 954-468-0685 or 800-732-6140

Cutler Bay News

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

www.communitynewspaper s.com

PUBLISHER .................................................................................................................................. Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz WRITERS, COLUMNISTS.............................................................. Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Cecile Fanfani, Diane Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller, Walter White LEGAL ADVERTISING ..................................................................................................................... Georgia Tait BOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................ Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek

GRAPHIC ARTISTS ...................................................Catalina Roca, Isabel Ortega, Angie Santiesteban

PUBLISHER EMERITUS...........................................................................................................................................Ron Miller COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Aventura News, Biscayne Tribune, Coral Gables News-Tribune, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Cutler Bay News, Palmetto Bay News, 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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December 22 - 28, 2009

Medicare fraud capital — one more black eye R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY The United States Inspector General Daniel R. Levinson said approximately 2 percent of the nation’s diabetics live in Miami-Dade County. He also said that 50 percent of all moneys disbursed by Medicare in the entire nation for diabetic reimbursement are spent in Miami-Dade.

Levinson said, “that it might indicate fraud.”

Might! How expensive could diabetic medications cost in Miami-Dade?

Medicare is spending approximately $500 million a year on diabetic care for seniors in Miami-Dade, with a population of 2.4 million, the same amount it is spending on the rest of the nation’s 305 million people.

They call Miami the “Medicare Fraud Capital of America.” Medicare estimates that fraud is costing the American taxpayer $60 billion a year. If we could save that

money we would be well on our way to covering the cost of the expanded health coverage currently being debated in Congress.

How is it possible that we are spending, on average, $5,964 a month on each diabetic patient under Medicare coverage in Miami while the national average is $378 a month? The federal government says “a big part of the losses are incurred by the government wanting to quickly pay claims without verifying the bill.”

Who pays a bill without looking at it and asking, “Is this correct?” Medicare claims that in the last year it has shut down 33 agencies in Miami that have been billing Medicare illegally. Once closed down they then go across the street and open up a new store and are back in business. Put them in jail and that will put an end to their staying in business.

Payment caps proposed to go into effect this year will, it is lamented, hurt the legitimate diabetics who require home care.

The government says it will continue to pay for home healthcare for the needy elderly, insisting that their only goal is to stop fraudulent claims.

If approximately 50 percent of the

Looking for Something Special for the Kids Stocking? Consider a Custodial Account I am looking for something special for my children’s or grandchildren’s stocking. What do you suggest?

If you can afford it, and you feel motivated to do so, I suggest that you put a check in their stocking to be used to open or add to a custodial account.

Who controls the money in the custodial account?

Custodial accounts are registered under the minor’s name and social security, but the custodian (you) controls the money until the minor is an adult.

Is the custodial account more flexible than the Florida Prepaid College Plan or 529 plan?

Yes, the Florida Prepaid College Plan and the 529 plan are for educational purposes only. The custodial account can be used for other purposes besides education.

When should you start a custodial account?

The sooner the better. The cost of education will continue to rise. I suggest that you get into the “tradition” of making this a yearly item for the stocking.

You should have a review of your financial condition prior to investing including a clear understanding of your investment criteria.

Rick Tonkinson is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP™) who works with working people in your area since 1991. The family business, Rick Tonkinson & Associates, Inc is located at 100 Almeria Ave, Suite 310, Coral Gables, FL 33134. Telephone # 305447-6617.

Securities offered through Securities America Inc member of FINRA/SIPC. Rick Tonkinson Registered Representative. Advisory Services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Rick Tonkinson Investment Advisor Representative. Rick Tonkinson and Associates, Inc. & Securities America companies are not affiliated.

––– VIEWPOINT ––– Medicare fraud is in Miami-Dade why not pour 50 percent of the Inspector General’s staff into our community and clean it up once and for all?

So who is guilty? First, the fake service providers that are billing Medicare for services and equipment that are not provided seniors. Then, there are the immoral members of the medical profession that receive bribes for fake referrals. The unsuspecting seniors that are victims of medical identity theft — their Medicare numbers being used fraudulently to make claims.

Lastly, there are the seniors who are accepting under the table cash from illegal providers in exchange for the use of their Medicare numbers to make fraudulent claims. They are as guilty as the illegal providers who are billing Medicare for reimbursement for services they have not provided.

Seniors, check your “Quarterly Medicare Summary Notice” which you receive in the mail. If you find billings for services you

have not received, send what you have found to The Office of the Inspector General: By email to <www.HHSTips@oig.hhs.gov>; Call 1-800-447-8477; By mail to HHS TIPS, PO Box 23489, Washington, DC 20026, or By fax to 1-800-223-8164.

If all seniors checked their Medicare Summary Notices and turned fraudulent claims over to the government for investigation, we would go a long way in saving the taxpayers billions of dollars every year.

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 publisher.

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December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

BY ERNIE SOCHIN

Councilmember I want to be cool!

Well not weathercool; there is not much I can do about that. I just want to be up-to-date and not a dork, to use one of the modern expressions.

I though it would be a good idea to get a barbed wire tattoo around my biceps like a lot of guys at the gym have. My housemate and shopping companion reminded me that I have no biceps. So much for that idea. A fellow councilman from a neighboring town has a ponytail that looks kind of cool.

Again, my housemate says I would not only look like a fool, but even worse, an old fool.

I visited a local high school recently and saw what is apparently cool to the young men getting ready to graduate and seek their path to riches in the real world. They were wearing their pants down to a point just above their knees and walked around leaning over and holding their belt buckle so that the pants don’t actually fall to the floor. You can see this in shopping malls as well.

I asked the principal at that particular school if there wasn’t something he could do to change this behavior and he informed me that they were all in uniform and not actually showing any skin. The uniform is a pair of jeans and a shirt with a collar and sleeves. The style, I am told, originates in prison where prisoners are not allowed belts and shoelaces, so this is a way of looking cool by showing that you either have been in prison or respect those who have.

Great! I guess the rap stars dressing this way now adds credence to it.

When I went to school back around the time of the Spanish American War, we were required to wear a necktie each day and, if we forgot one, had to rent one from the French Teacher for 10 cents a day, or go home. This was in public school in Boston.

In my cool days I wore jeans and a Tshirt with the obligatory pack of cigarettes rolled up in my sleeve. I had a cool crew cut and knew the words to all the latest songs — Mule Train, Jezebel, Don’t Fence Me In, and Cry of the Wild Goose. Have you ever tried to pick up the rap lyrics of

today’s music? Good luck!

I love to look at pretty girls as much the next guy, but I just don’t get why an attractive female with a beautiful face would want to hang all kinds of hardware from her lips, nose, eyelids and who knows where else. Frankly, I find it a turnoff but then again I am O-L-D. I can’t help but wonder about wiping your nose after sneezing and having a ring hanging from your nostril. Neither can I envision having someone drill a hole through my tongue and attaching a ball bearing or something similar too it. I know that after I have eaten a rack of baby back ribs, I can’t wait to finds a piece of dental floss and then get home to brush my teeth.

What is it like with a ball bearing or large pearl attached to your tongue?

The butterfly tattoo on the lower back seems pretty much de rigeur now but I am starting to see people with their entire bodies covered with tattoos. In my day, it was only drunken sailors on leave who had tattoos. Every Navy port town had tons of tattoo parlors and probably did a lot of business back then. Who knew?

As I said, I am O-L-D, but you young folks will live to see the changes that will come in the next 40 to 50 years. I don’t think it will be pretty, but good luck!

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December 22 - 28, 2009

Cutler Bay Business Association December 10, 2009

Cutler Bay Business Association and Community Combine for Holiday Party

Live music by Breaktime

Chris Himmel and Councilmember Tim Meerbott

Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay Sales Staff

Everyone enjoyed the atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz

The December 10 holiday party for Cutler Bay Business Association was a successful blending of efforts by both business owners and members of the community. It was open to anyone who presented a business card at the door.

The setting was the elegant showroom of Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay, complete with valet parking for just over 400 guests.å The party menu featured the best from Sonny’s BBQ, House of Subs, Buffalo Wild Wings, Sal’s Italian Restaurant, Honey Baked Ham, Black Point Marina Ocean Grill, Royal Palm Restaurant, Cutler Bay Sports Bar, Takee Outee Chinese Restaurant, Rodbenders, Wendy’s Chocolates, LA Sweets, Costco and Publix Supermarkets.

The tables and chairs for the party were contributed by Palmetto Bay Village Center, where the CBBA holds its monthly meetings during the year.

Entertainment included a live band, photos with Santa, Christmas carolers, raffles, and a bellydancer.

Guests at the party brought unwrapped gifts for local children, which were distributed later by Cutler Bay Policing Unit.

Start the 2010 business year off to a great start by attending the January 14 networking luncheon at Palmetto Bay Village Center (building C). The meeting starts at 11:00 a.m. and lasts until 1:00 p.m. Bring plenty of business cards with you.

www.CBBA.biz

Larry Jackson (second from left) entertains visitors

CBBA Members donated toys which the police distributed in community

A special guest made his appearance, Santa, played by Justo Rico

Everyone had a great time and we are looking forward to 2010

Pilar Larssen and Denise Cebrero had a blast

December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 9

Special Dinne for New Year r s

Herb Parlato honored for efforts on behalf of EDC

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Private Parties + Conference Rooms Outgoing Economic Development Council of South Dade (EDC) executive director Herb Parlato (center) receives a special award honoring his efforts on behalf of the EDC and the community at the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s December monthly membership meeting. He is pictured with Miami-Dade County Commissioner Katy Sorensen and EDC chair Richard Horton.

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December 22 - 28, 2009

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Pictured (l-r) are WFOR CBS 4 Shannon Hori, South Miami Hospital CEO Javier Hernandez-Lichtl receiving 2009 Humanitarian of the Year Award, Peter Chevalier and Gustavo Berenblum.

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BY JOSE BOZA

March of Dimes named Javier Hernandez-Lichtl, CEO of South Miami Hospital, one of seven 2009 recipients of its prestigious Building Our Community Humanitarian of the Year Award during a recent recognition luncheon at Jungle Island.

Hernandez-Lichtl was honored for his personal involvement and commitment to making a difference in South Florida.

The Humanitarian of the Year Award recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in their respective fields, as well as their commitment to community activities that enhance the quality of our lives.

“It’s an honor to be recognized with this select group of individuals who truly embody the spirit of a humanitarian,” Hernandez-Lichtl said. “March of Dimes makes a huge difference in families’ lives. I am proud of their work —

past, present and future.”

In addition to his role as hospital CEO, Hernandez-Lichtl has held various leadership positions within Baptist Health, South Miami Hospital’s parent company, since 2003. A resident of Coral Gables, he is active in the community with the Florida Sterling Council, Miami International University of Art & Design, Florida International University and University of Miami School of Nursing. He led the 2008 March for Babies campaign.

The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency with a mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy to save babies. For more information, visit the March of Dimes website at <www.marchofdimes.com> or its Spanish website at <www.nacersano.org>.

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December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Experience the difference at The finest restaurant in Pinecrest-Palmetto Bay-The Falls has a fresh and contemporary new look with a new menu to match. Some new and exciting flavors like Snapper Ceviche and Cuban coffee rubbed Rib Eye Steak, Ginger Ahi Tuna with black bean-pineapple relish and plaintain chips or Coconut macadamia Crusted Mahi with a zesty orange marmalade sauce. Also some old favorites like Weinerschnitzel, Snapper Francais, Beef Stroganoff or Filet Mignon.

We also have daily specials which have included our famous Roast Duck, Raspberrie Chicken or Honey Ginger Salmon. Call or email to see what specials we are doing today!

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

December 22 - 28, 2009

Goodyear at Cutler Bay celebrates grand opening

BY ROBERT HAMILTON

Goodyear at Cutler Bay Tire and Auto Service Center, 20390 S. Dixie Hwy. (on the west side of US1 across from Southland Mall), celebrated its grand opening on Nov. 21.

Formerly Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co., it is now family owned and operated

by Kevin and Michele Pedersen.

“This is a great opportunity for us to serve the community that my husband grew up in (Palmetto High 1976) and we have lived in throughout the years,” Michele Pedersen said. “We have owned and operated the Goodyear at Homestead Tire and Auto for the past nine years and we wanted to expand to this location and provide a full-service state-of-the-art facility that provides automotive care to any type of vehicle on the road.

“We have one of the largest selections of tires and provide complete auto care with the Gemini Nationwide warranty. From our

“We ha ve one of the largest selections of tires and provide complete auto care with the Gemini Na tionwide warranty.”

— Michelle Pedersen staff to our waiting area we want to make sure our customers know we care about their needs and that our promise to them is to give them excellence service.”

Hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

For information, call 305-233-5241.

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December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Sunrise School of Miami — A Green School in Your Backyard

BY PATTIE RUSSELL At the Sunrise School of Miami — a Waldorf school — being “green” and teaching environmental responsibility is a key part of the Waldorf curriculum.

Waldorf education has become the largest independent, non-denominational educational movement in the world, with over 900 schools and an additional 600 early childhood programs in 85 countries. What accounts for this widespread interest? The Waldorf approach is based on the simple but profound insight that children learn in distinctly different ways at different stages of their development. It cultivates academic, social and emotional intelligence, and connects children to nature and the arts.

Encouraging students’ connection with the earth is seen throughout the school. Gardening, especially biodynamic farming, was part of Waldorf founder Rudolf Steiner’s original vision. Starting in the youngest grades our students learn to take care of our garden, complete with organic soil and seeds and a composter where all students dispose of their leftover food to create fertilizer that we add back to the garden environment.

Materials in a Waldorf classroom are always made from natural products. In the earliest grades students feel the warmth experienced with wooden rather than plastic toys, and they use beeswax crayons and organic paints. They even use pure, plant-dyed wools when knitting and weaving to develop fine motor skills essential to writing and developing the focus that they will need in future grades.

Even the paint on our classroom walls is milk-based to avoid toxins and create a calming effect.

The Waldorf curriculum links students to the world around them through the required study of music, art and foreign language—subjects that have become expendable in many schools. First-graders move through a science curriculum that leads to zoology in grade

four, botany in grade six and chemistry, anatomy, physiology and physics by grade eight. Math and geography follow a similar trajectory. The program of study additionally integrates unique classes such as knitting, quilting and woodworking.

Fifth-graders re-create the Greek Pentathlon.

At Sunrise School of Miami the link students have with the natural world is important. Nature deficit disorder is a newly coined phrase for the negative ramifications from a dearth of outdoor experiences. The Sierra Club and the National Wildlife Federation have recently expressed concern that today’s children will not grow up to be environmental stewards since there has been such a sharp decline in national park visit rates and camping rates in the last 20 years.

They even think a declining interest in the outdoors could result in fewer conservationists.

At Sunrise School of Miami, we are confident our students will grow up at a minimum to hold a great respect for the natural world, and it would not surprise me if many of them become the environmental stewards and conservationists that will continue our country’s green revolution.

Sunrise School of Miami is a Pre-K4 – 8th Grade school located at 8795 S.W. 112 St. For more information visit: www.sunriseschoolofmiamil.com.

December 22 - 28, 2009

Gulliver students develop water purification system

Gulliver Prep student engineers inspect the solar water purification system earmarked for Haiti. A second unit is being constructed as well. Pictured (l-r) are seniors Eric Tano, Martin Arostegui and Kyle Kurzner.

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

BY BAY PROBY

Gulliver Preparatory School engineering and biomedical science students are addressing one of Haiti’s most pressing health problems — drinkable water.

With support from a LemelsonMassachusetts Institute of Technology two-year grant, the Gulliver students recently completed a prototype ultraviolet (UV) water filtration system that will produce 500 gallons of safe drinkable water per day. They also are developing a reverse osmosis system to determine which approach is most effective in removing dangerous waterborne bacteria, viruses and protozoa from Haiti’s water supply.

The success of the Haitian Water Purification System project is the most recent accomplishment for Gulliver’s unique pre-engineering program, which integrates hands-on learning through service projects and textbook studies in its curriculum.

“We want our students to design and develop technology solutions that improve the quality of life for individuals and communities,” said Claude Charron, Gulliver’s Engineering and Biomedical Science Department chair. “That was the overriding theme for our Haiti water purification project.”

Friends of the Orphans, an international nonprofit that operates orphanages in Latin America and the Caribbean is partnering with Gulliver and MIT to install the solar water purification system at St. Damien Pediatric Hospital in Port au Prince where the water will be used for medical purposes and drinking.

Since last fall, the pre-engineering students have been researching, designing, and engineering a prototype purification system that uses a 15-watt ultraviolet light bulb. One bulb can last between three to nine years, depending on the size of the filtration equipment, and can be powered using self-sustainable solar energy.

“It is difficult to find fresh water in Haiti without contaminants that cause potentially fatal ailments like Hepatitis A and E, typhoid fever, leptospirosis, and diarrhea,” said Nikita Mayani, an 11th grade biomedical science student at Gulliver.

In addition to Friends of Orphans, the Gulliver team hopes to partner with the University of Miami and an international organization such as Engineers Without Borders, in order to implement and maintain the most effective system for Haiti.

“Our goal for the next school year is to compare the two water purification systems and send the better one to Haiti,” Charron added.

December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 15

First Everglades Sunset Bike Hike and Wine Tasting Tour Miami-Dade Parks Eco-Adventures is hosting its first Everglades Sunset Bike Hike and Wine Tasting Tour on Sunday, Dec. 27, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tour participants will meet at the Ernest Coe Visitors Center in Everglades National Park, 40001 State Road 9336 (Palm Drive/SW 344 St.) in Homestead.

The evening will begin with a leisurely paced seven-mile bicycle ride along the Long Pine Key Nature Trail to Pine Glades Lake, led by experienced naturalist guide and author Roger Hammer. At Pine Glades Lake participants will taste an assortment of fine South Florida Tropical Fruit wines provided by Schnebly Redlands Winery, made from carambola, avocado, lychee, mango, guava and passion fruit, as well as sample an assortment of cheeses, while enjoying a picturesque sunset in the beautiful Everglades.

The cost to take this tour is $50 and includes bicycles, helmets, wine, snacks and transportation into Everglades National Park. Space is limited. To reserve your seat, call 305-365-3018; the deadline to RSVP is Dec. 23.

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

DADELAND MALL TO PRESENT ‘WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH FAIR’ In honor of American Heart Month, Dadeland Mall will present Sister to Sister’s “Women’s Heart Health Fair” on Saturday, Feb. 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Center Court of the mall, located at 7535 N. Kendall Dr. Dadeland Mall has partnered with Sister to Sister: The Women’s Heart Health Foundation, to recognize American Heart Month. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in women and this event will help educate them about ways to reduce the risk of getting this disease.

For more information about attending this free event, contact Dadeland Mall at 305-665-6226 or visit online at <www.simon.com>.

VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS SEEKING NEW VOLUNTEER GUIDES Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is seeking volunteers interested in providing meaningful and interactive experiences for visitors by leading tours.

Join on location at 3251 S. Miami Ave., on Wednesday, Jan. 6, from 7 to 9 p.m., for refreshments and a chance to learn more

COMMUNITY NEWS briefs about the program. New volunteer guides training is scheduled for every Saturday from Jan. 23 through Feb. 26, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and attendance at all sessions is required to become a volunteer guide.

Guides will be selected based on application and interview process during this special open house. A completed application, received no later than Jan. 4 will serve as your reservation to attend. Space is limited, so candidates are encouraged to turn their applications in quickly.

Visit online at <www.vizcayamuseum.org> for detailed information and an application.

UM CREATIVE WRITING PROGRAM PLANS CRAFT-INTENSIVE WEEKEND The University of Miami’s Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program will honor the 50th teaching anniversary of its founding professor and author of 14 books,

Lester Goran, by launching a weekend workshop series designed to engage the local writing community. The workshop will take place on Saturday, Feb. 27, and Sunday, Feb. 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the CAS Library, 1210 Stanford Dr. on the UM campus.

Sessions at this program will span the breadth of creative writing, including memoir, poetry on and off the page and the development of what John Gardner calls “the vivid and continuous dream” in fiction. UM professors Jane Alison, Maureen Seaton, Walter Lew, Mia Leonin, Peter Schmitt and MFA program director M. Evelina Galang, joined by Lois Wolfe and R. Zamora Linmark, introduce narrative techniques, poetic traditions and hybrid forms of writing through lectures, demonstrations and in-class exercises.

––––––– Continued on next page

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

NEWS,

December 22 - 28, 2009

from previous page

For more information about seminars and breakout sessions with MFA students and alumni, visit the website at <www.as.miami.edu/english/creativewriting/lestergoran/writenow>.

AWARD HONORS SMH UMBILICAL CORD BLOOD COLLECTION CENTER South Miami Hospital’s Public Umbilical Cord Blood Collection Center has won an international Stevie Award for

Women in Business in the “Best New Service of the Year” category.

Denise Woods, RN, vice president of the hospital’s Center for Women and Infants, received the honor, chosen from among 2,600 candidates in 40 categories.

The Stevie Awards were created to honor the positive contributions of businesspeople and companies around the world. The awards include the American Business Awards, International Business Awards, Stevie Awards for Women in Business and Stevie Awards for Sales and Customer Service.

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December 22 - 28, 2009

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Page 17

World’s largest cruise ship exceeds expectations

BY MIKE BERK When something is hyped as much as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas has been during the past few months, you expect that a visit on board might not live up to your expectations.

Well, this grand lady, the largest cruise ship in the world, surpassed those expectations. Words and pictures, plans and drawings couldn’t do justice to the real thing.

Designed with seven distinct “neighborhoods,” the 225,000-ton Oasis of the Seas sets a whole new standard of cruise ship design. The designers took advantage of its 208-foot width to open parts of the ship to the sky and create two of its seven neighborhoods — Central Park and Boardwalk — as well as greatly increasing the number of staterooms with balconies.

“We wanted to create something that is game-changing. It is our tradition,” Richard Fain, chair of Royal Caribbean International, told a group of media members during a recent preview cruise from the ship’s homeport of Port Everglades.

Dividing the ship into seven neighborhoods makes it much less overwhelming and finding your way around the 1,187-foot long liner is not nearly as daunting as one might expect.

There are so many different areas on the ship, many quiet intimate spaces — inside and out — where you can conduct a quiet conversation or read a book, even with another 5,399 guests on board (based on double occupancy).

The ships seven neighborhoods are: Central Park — Open to the sky, the unique lush tropical park at sea, complete with flower gardens and canopy trees, spans the length of a football field with paths and quiet rest spots. It also is home to some the

Sculptures like this one add an artistic touch to the gardens of Central Park.

N E W S ship’s premium dining and shopping venues.

Boardwalk — For those who have spent any time near seaside piers such a Coney Island in New York, this may bring back fond memories. Complete with a carousel, it features a seafood restaurant, ice cream parlor, donut shop and Johnny Rockets, and is the gateway to the revolutionary AquaTheater.

Royal Promenade — An evolution of the Royal Promenade found on the line’s Voyager and Freedom class ships, this center of activity features lounges, dining and shopping.

During a cruise it is often the location of theme parades and other entertainment activities.

Pool and Sport Zone — With pools galore, the Oasis of the Seas features the first “beach pool” at sea, the H2O Zone kids water playground, several whirlpools, an expanded adults-only Solarium, basketball court, miniature golf course, and two FlowRider surf simulators.

Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center — This neighborhood includes several amenities that enhance healthy living including a spa, relaxation rooms, and a fitness center with all the latest exercise machines.

Entertainment Place — This is the place to be after dark with a jazz club, comedy club, nightclub, casino and Opal Theatre.

Youth Zone — There was a time when cruises were not family oriented, but the Oasis takes family cruising to a new level with more than 28,000 square feet dedicated to children, from tots to teens. There are age appropriate activities and facilities designed in conjunction with Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean program.

Even with its great size and new features, guests who are regulars with Royal Caribbean will feel right at home with familiar place names. You’ll recognize many of the dining areas, lounges and recreational activities found on many other ships of the fleet.

Fain said the concept behind the Oasis’ design was to incorporate a third that was familiar, a third evolutionary and a third revolutionary. If you liked the rock-climbing wall, there are two, as well as two FlowRiders, the popular surfing simulator.

And if you like thrills, take a brief ride on the zip line nine decks above Boardwalk.

Probably the most notable new feature aboard the Oasis of the Seas is the AquaTheater, a unique open-air amphitheater featuring a pool that can be used for syn-

Above: This view from above shows the Boardwalk with the Carousel (foreground) and AquaTheatre.

Below: Video screens around the Oasis of the Seas shows occupancy at dining venues.

chronized swimming and diving shows, and when combined with giant video screens and dancing waters can create a multi-sensory experience unlike any other at sea.

Another new feature of the Oasis is the Rising Tide Bar — the world’s first moving bar at sea. A feat of engineering, the bar rises and lowers as guests enjoy a cocktail as they slowly move between Central Park on Deck 8 and the Royal Promenade on Deck 5.

This ship includes the latest 21st Century technology, much of which passengers won’t see, but there are some useful tools such as the touch screen video monitors that help you find your way to your stateroom or some other location on the ship.

One unique high-tech feature is the video screens around the ship that give you up-tothe-second information about space availabil-

ity at any of the many dining venues on board.

Each cabin’s flat-screen television offers access to the Internet, ordering room service, making reservations for activities on board and ashore, and keeping track of how much you spent in the gift shop or bar.

With so much to offer onboard, you may not want to go ashore, but if you do, the Oasis of the Seas visits such ports in the Eastern Caribbean as St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Nassau, leaving Port Everglades every Saturday. In the spring, the ship will begin alternating weekly with ports in the Western Caribbean.

For more information and reservations on the Oasis of the Seas or any other Royal Caribbean ship, call your travel professional, visit <www.royalcaribbean.com> or call 1800-ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.

Page 18

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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December 22 - 28, 2009

Ocaquatics Swim School owner honored by national association

BY ROBERT HAMILTON

Miren Oca, owner of Ocaquatics Swim School, was honored by the U.S. Swim School Association with its 2009 Humanitarian Award, which was presented in October at the organization’s 21st annual National Conference, in San Diego, CA. The award is given to an individual who provides outstanding service to the local community in some way related to water safety, drowning prevention or aquatic education.

Since 1999, in conjunction with the University of Miami Wellness Center, Ocaquatics provides a week of free, daily swimming lessons during spring break for 85-100 underprivileged children. Oca serves on the board of the Swim for Life Foundation which works to prevent incidents of drowning and near drowning. She is the water safety chair of Miami-Dade Safe Kids Coalition and is a member of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance.

Ocaquatics participates in numerous local child safety fairs, holiday parades and cultural festivals where she distributes safety information.

During the summer, Ocaquatics Swim School celebrated the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art teaching swimming facility in West Kendall. This new facility allows infants from as early as 6 months, children and adults to enjoy uninterrupted swimming instruction year round in a safe indoor pool, even during severe lightning storms and the colder winter months.

Equipped with an Ultraviolet Treatment System that kills harmful bacteria resistant to chlorine, the 30,000-gallon heated pool uses fewer chemicals to sanitize the water, thus creating a more pleasant swimming experience. The new pool also features Stage One Drinking Water Grade Filtration, which is the same filtration process that is EPA approved for single pass removal of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in municipal drinking water systems. It also features other “green” innovations.

“We are very proud and excited about our new indoor facility, especially because we believe that if those learning how to swim practice once or twice a week for an extended continuous period of time, they will become better swimmers than those who take a week or two of intensive lessons during the summer time only,” Miren Oca said. “It’s a safer, comfortable and more convenient alternative for all,

Miren Oca ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

doing away with cancellations and reschedules resulting from South Florida’s inclement weather.”

This family friendly facility offers all the amenities and conveniences including: ample changing rooms and showers, air conditioned area for parents to comfortably watch their children; kids play area, refreshments/snacks kiosk and plenty of parking.

Already teaching more than 550 students per week, classes are offered seven days a week at convenient times.

Ocaquatics Kendall facility is conveniently located at 13408 SW 131 St. (across from Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport with easy access from Florida’s Turnpike).

For more information contact Miren Oca at Ocaquatics Swim School, office, 305969-SWIM (7946); cell, 305-390-6446, or visit online at <www.ocaquatics.com>.

With more than 350 swim school members throughout the U.S. and abroad, the U.S. Swim School Association strives to support the aquatic education, water safety and drowning prevention efforts of its members through ongoing education. For more details visit online at <www.usswimschools.org>.

December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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December 22 - 28, 2009

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December 22 - 28, 2009

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December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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This knight on horseback adds pageantry and excitement to the Florida Renaissance Festival.

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

BY JOSE BOZA

Ponce De Leon explored Key Biscayne on his first mission to the New World in 1513 and claimed it on behalf of the Spanish King.

The Florida Renaissance Festival, the only festival of its kind in South Florida, will commemorate Ponce De Leon’s legacy by showcasing its first Miami show ever near Key Biscayne. The Miami festival’s three consecutive weekend dates are Jan. 910, 16-17 and 23-24, at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park.

“It’s been more than five years since a Renaissance festival graced Miami and our yearly festival goers have been very passionate about bringing an event back,” said Bobby Rodriguez, executive producer of the Florida Renaissance Festival. “We feel that Historic Virginia Key Beach Park is the perfect location because it offers the environment that we recreate every year at our other events.”

This 16th Century production features more than 100 costumed performers, five stages with continuous entertainment and stage acts from around the world. During the three family-themed weekends, guests will enjoy jousting tournaments three times a day, hearty food, human-powered rides and games for children that include the World’s Largest Rocking Horse, Giant Chess, Barrel Rides, and games of strength and skill.

The festivities will feature historical reenactments, sword fights, magical illusions and an abundance of authentic fare from freshly made kettle corn to roasted giant turkey legs, which can be washed down with a swig of mead or ale.

The Florida Renaissance Festival is produced by the national, award winning Bobby Rodriguez Productions and strives to create an entertaining and cultural opportunity by making Renaissance history come to life for both children and adults.

The event is hosted by City of Miami Parks and Recreation Department and Historic Virginia Key Beach Park.

The Florida Renaissance Festival at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park will be open weekends from 10 a.m. to sunset.

Prices are $20 for adults and $7 for children ages 6-11 and children under five are free.

Season passes are $30 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Advance discount tickets are available online.

The Florida Renaissance Festival in Deerfield Beach has been seen by more than one million people in South Florida.

This 16th Century production features more than 100 costumed performers and stage acts from around the world. For additional information, visit online at <www.renfest.com>, follow on Twitter: @flarenfest or find the festival on Facebook: The Florida Renaissance Festival. The office number is 1-954-776-1642.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

December 22 - 28, 2009

Black Friday SOUTHLAND MALL | Cutler Bay, FL

n o o l l a B Drop Southland Mall is conveniently located on US1 and SW 205th Street, off the Florida Turnpike, Exit 12, and has over one million square feeet of gross leasable area. The center is the only enclosed regional mall servicing South Miami-Dade County down to the Florida Keys and houses approximately 100 specialty stores, including Macyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, JC Penney, Sears, TJ Maxx, Old Navy, Starbucks, Regal Stadium 16 Cinemas, and a diverse Food Court.

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December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Local young adult author has successful book debut

BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

When Danielle Cohen Joseph’s first book, Shrinking Violet, came out in May, it was an immediate hit. Not only was it popular with teens, the Disney Channel optioned it for a television movie.

In fact, the book sold so well that it pretty much sold out its first printing by fall. She found out about the shortage when she went to order some for a conference she was attending and was told they didn’t have any more in stock.

“They are all shipped out, all the 5,000,” she was told.

Normally, selling out the first run is a good thing and a second run is ordered. But in today’s economy, things are different.

Initially, the publisher, MTV Pocket Books, balked at ordering a second printing.

That worried Joseph because she had a number of events scheduled where she needed to be able to sell her books, including the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Regional Conference, Jan. 15-17, at the Wyndham Miami Airport Hotel.

In hopes of convincing the publisher a second printing is needed, “The printing ran on the first of she campaigned on December and shipped out a few days Facebook and through ago,” she said. “The Amazon rankings her Live Journal blog, Danielle Joseph since then have been good. When I was and she ran a “Save (Photo credit: running the campaign it was really good.

Shrinking Violet” conMichael Sylver) test. Entrants had to post ––––––––––––––––––––––––– It seems likes it’s selling.”

Her second book, Indigo Blues, comes a review on Amazon or Barnes and Noble.

They also were supposed to blog, tweet or out July 1, to be published by Flux Books.

Facebook about the Save Shrinking Violet She’s working on finishing another manuCampaign, and take a picture of themselves script called Graveyard Shift.

Joseph is a stay-at-home mom with three wearing a sweater and mimicking the book’s children, two boys and an infant girl. Her cover. The contest ended Oct. 15.

“I gave away four gift cards and then husband is a banker for SunTrust. Her older another book blogger gave away six advance son wants to write a book with her. He told reading copies,” she said. “A lot of people her she could put her name on the cover.

She tries to find time to write whenever she just bought copies.”

A number of fellow authors even ran con- can. She works primarily from home, but for a change of pace, she goes to Starbucks to write. tests in support of saving Shrinking Violet.

Since the book came out, Joseph has been “People have been very supportive,” in demand as a speaker. She recently spoke at Joseph said.

As a result, a number of children’s book the Florida Council of Teachers of English and the Miami International Book Fair on a bloggers reviewed her book.

“I’ve had a lot of emails from people who young adult writers panel with fellow local have read it,” she said. “I had one girl who author Gaby Triana and Tampa author Alicia did a blog from the Philippines, telling Thompson.

For more information about the Society everyone to buy.”

Joseph’s savvy campaign got results, and of Children’s Book Writers and on Nov. 24 she received word the book Illustrators Conference, go online to <www.SCBWIFlorida.com>. would go to a second printing.

FOOTNOTES

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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December 22 - 28, 2009

‘Barefoot Christmas Eve’ to benefit Soles4Souls

BY ROBERT HAMILTON

Soles4Souls has a simple mission to collect new and “gently worn” shoes to donate to victims of natural disasters and those living in extreme poverty.

This year, Bay Community Church, 9855 SW 184 St. in Palmetto Bay, and hundreds of other congregations across North America are participating in “Barefoot Sunday,” except Bay Community Church will be participating on Christmas Eve, where people leave their shoes at the door to be donated to the poor. Barefoot Christmas Eve is a unique opportunity for people to remove their shoes and walk out of worship services barefoot.

“Churches have always been incredibly responsive to our programs,” said Wayne Elsey, founder and CEO of Soles4Souls.

“This engaging event will not only leave a mark on the hearts of your entire congregation, but it will also help Soles4Souls continue our mission to ‘Change the World One Pair at a Time.’”

The efforts of Bay Community Church

and participating congregations will go directly toward helping put shoes on the feet of barefoot children around the world.

The U.S. government estimates that 300 million children around the world don’t own a single pair of shoes. A sad irony is that Americans threw away the same number of shoes into landfills last year alone.

Bay Community Church serves the communities of Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay and is conducting the shoe drive in conjunction with the National Karate and Fitness Academy, 20435 Old Cutler Rd. The National Karate and Fitness Academy is having the shoe drive throughout the month of December while Bay Community Church will focus its drive at its Christmas Eve service at 7 p.m.

To learn more about Soles4Souls and its upcoming charitable events, visit online at <www.giveshoes.org>, or call 1-866-521-7463. Churches also can email the Soles4Souls team at <sunday@giveshoes.org> to request more information on how to register for Barefoot Sunday.

December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 27

CATERING • TAKEOUT • DELIVERY For more information and reservations call

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Celebrate 20 years with South Florida’s #1 Thai Restaurant as Siam Palace introduces Miami’s Best New Sushi Bar Enjoy 20th Anniversary Thai and Japanese Specials including: “Monday Madness” is 2-for-1 on all Thai beer, featured wines of the month bottles of wine & wines by the glass.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

December 22 - 28, 2009

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December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 29

2010 Cadillac SRX redesigned with new engine options Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS Since better fuel economy tops just about every consumer’s list of necessities in a new vehicle these days, most manufacturers are trying to deliver, and that includes Cadillac. The luxury manufacturer has redesigned the SRX for 2010 and given it a pair of more efficient engine choices.

The luxury midsize SRX is powered by Cadillac’s advanced V-6 engines, the smallest-displacement engines that the company offers in North America. A new 3.0-liter, 265 hp direct-injected engine (direct injection results in more power, 10-15 percent better fuel economy and lower emissions) mated to a new Hydra-Matic 6T70 sixspeed automatic transmission is standard, while a new 2.8-liter turbocharged V-6 is optional. Both have advanced technology that helps produce high performance typical of larger-displacement engines, but with greater fuel economy and lower emissions.

They replace the 3.6-liter and 4.6-liter

engines of the previous generation SRX. The new turbocharged V-6 is derived from engines that GM uses in luxury European models and it delivers about 300 hp under full throttle, but gets the fuel economy of a smaller engine during lowerload driving conditions such as highway cruising. An Aisin AF40 six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the 2.8-liter turbo and includes a driver-selectable “eco mode” that alters transmission shift points to maximize fuel economy.

The new SRX seat seats five adults (the optional third row is no longer available), has ample cargo room, tows up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped and rides on a wide track that delivers responsive handling. It has the typical edgy Cadillac design of recent years, with minimal body overhang, and the wheels are pushed out to corners. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard and 20-inch wheels are offered.

A multi-piece shield grille marks the face and vertical headlights blend into a sweeping body that tapers downward to give the vehicle a sporty, raked profile. A bold accent line dives across the body side and ends at a chrome front fender vent that incorporates a side marker light. An integrated spoiler on the rear edge of the roof extends the sleek

Redesigned Cadillac SRX has a shield grille, vertical headlights and a sweeping body that tapers down for a sporty profile.

design line and improves aerodynamics.

On the inside, luxury abounds, with hand-sewn leather covering the dashboard and seats. An integrated center stack houses controls for climate and audio systems.

The 2010 SRX has many advanced electronic systems, including adaptive headlights that swivel in synch with vehicle steering, a power liftgate with programmable height setting, an integrated hard disc drive for audio storage and a dual-screen

system for rear entertainment. Bluetooth compatibility is standard, as is OnStar’s Turn-by-Turn Navigation service.

Pricing on the 2010 Cadillac SRX starts at $33,330.

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>.

December 22 - 28, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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December 22 - 28, 2009