Coral Gables News - February 2, 2010 - Online printed Edition - Local, Sports, Columns, Newspaper

Page 1

FEBRUARY 2 - 8, 2010

GABLES GREAT

City ceremony re-dedicates Country Club Prado entrance

Robert Fewell important part of area’s history BY GLORIA BURNS

A conversation with Robert Fewell reveals a fascinating journey through South Florida’s past. Fewell truly is part of a pioneering family that helped developed our community. His greatgreat-great grandparents of French descent came to Florida before it became a state, and around 1900, his grandparents moved ROBERT FEWELL to South Florida. In fact, his grandfather managed George Merrick’s father’s packinghouse in the

–––––––––––––––– See

FEWELL on page 6

City and county officials were present for the recent ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the year-long renovation of Country Club Prado entrance, one of the most beautiful entrances in Coral Gables. Pictured (l-r) are Vice Mayor Bill Kerdyk Jr., former Gables Mayor Dorothy Thomson, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Rebeca Sosa, Mayor Don Slesnick and city manager Pat Salerno. The Country Club Prado entrance at Red Road (SW 57th Avenue) and Eighth Street has gone through a substantial renovation of its monuments and fountains costing approximately $860,000. Funding for this project was provided by Miami-Dade County’s Building Better Communities General Obligation Bond. The original Country Club Prado entrance was completed in 1927.

Downtown Gables welcomes new restaurants, businesses BY JILLIAN BACZEWSKI he Business Improvement District of Coral Gables (BID) is has announced the opening of a diverse array of new businesses in Downtown Coral Gables. Ten new businesses already have opened,

T

with four more slated to open in the first quarter of 2010 — ranging from a traditional European café to funky burger spots, a contemporary art gallery, and a gourmet Argentinean market. These businesses join

–––––––––––––––––––– See

DOWNTOWN on page 6

2010 Buzzword: Optimism! MARK A. TROWBRIDGE President & CEO Coral Gables Chamber

It is hard to believe that 2010 is here — the start of the second decade of the 21st Century. We are 10 years removed from the Y2K phenomenon and more than thrilled that 2009 is in our collective rearview mirrors. There are the all-too-new buzzwords that are now a familiar part of our everyday language, including: bailout, viral marketing, tweets, Apps, ROI and the Obama Effect. But the question remains, what does 2K10 hold for our business community? First, I am an eternal optimist and, yes, there are signs of an improving economy. Retailers reported robust December sales, including a 2.9 percent year-over-year increase. Indeed, we may have begun to see the pendulum swing back in our favor, finally. But, we need to get out and spend — wisely — and patronize our stores, restaurants, and local businesses. They have been waiting diligently for our return. Truth be told, I am cautiously optimistic about the near future. Our recovery in 2010 is going to be about jobs, which in turn will bolster consumer confidence. Americans understand unemployment numbers better than any other economic indicator, and thus, until we see this improve, cash registers may

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Continued

INSIDE

Page 2

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

WELCOME TO THE OFFICIAL

AUTOMOTIVE WILLIAMSON, A NAME YOU HAVE KNOWN AND TRUSTED FOR OVER 40 YEARS, IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE WE NOW SELL NEW BUICKS AND GMC TRUCKS! “ THE CADILLAC OF CROSSOVERS” The All New Completely Re-Designed

2010 Cadillac

SRX New 2010 GMC

31,795 $359

$

††*

OR

Per Month Lease ††**

TERRAIN

†††*

23,985

$

New 2010 Cadillac

CTS †*

$

OR

Per Month Lease††††**

$

††††*

7815 SW 104TH ST. On The West Side Of US1

†REQUIRES PROOF OF A CURRENT LEASE IN THE HOUSEHOLD EXPIRING BETWEEN TODAY & 06-30-10. ††REQUIRES PROOF OF A CURRENT LEASE IN THE HOUSEHOLD EXPIRING BETWEEN TODAY & 06-30-10 AND PROOF OF OWNERSHIP OF A 1999 OR NEWER NON-GM PRODUCT IN THE HOUSEHOLD. †††CURRENT OWNERS OF 1999 OR NEWER OLDS, PONTIAC, GMC AND SELECT BUICKS, SEE DEALER FOR ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS. ††††REQUIRES PROOF OF OWNERSHIP OF A 1999 OR NEWER GM PRODUCT IN THE HOUSEHOLD.

*All purchase prices are plus tax, tag and title, dealer retains any applicable rebates & incentives, cannot be combined with any other offer. **Payments based on 48 month closed end lease, with $3995 down payment, plus 1st month’s payment, tax & tag due at signing, all offers require qualified approved credit, lease must be in individual’s name, not a business name, 12K miles per year with an excess charge of 20¢ per mile, dealer retains all rebates and incentives. *** 0% for 72 months not available in conjunction with any other offers. $13.88 monthly for every $1000 financed, with approved credit. Each offer not in conjunction with any other. Artwork may not depict actual vehicles. All offers are valid the date of publication only.

© HERMAN ADV. 2010-WCH-426

New 2010 GMC

ACADIA SL 29,495 33,195 339 1-800-539-8849 www.williamsoncadillac.com

$

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

‘Giralda Under the Stars’ celebrates dining al fresco BY GRACE SALISBURY

Downtown Coral Gables’ Restaurant Row (located on the 100 block of Giralda Avenue between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street) will be bustling with al fresco dining and live entertainment on Friday, Feb. 5, from 6 p.m. to midnight, as part of “Giralda Under the Stars.” During this monthly event, which takes place the first Friday of every month through May, the street will be closed, allowing for pedestrians to enjoy an evening stroll under the stars. From the local dinner crowd looking to walk to their favorite neighborhood restaurant to the traveling gourmand seeking a new scene, Downtown Coral Gables has something for every palate. Eleven Downtown Coral Gables restaurants and bars will extend their dining

rooms onto the street in a celebration of Restaurant Rows’ culinary options. The 100 block of Giralda Avenue will be closed to vehicular traffic so that Giralda Under the Stars participating restaurants and bars may fill the street with tables and chairs as well as live music and entertainers. Locals and “foodies” alike can enjoy Vietnamese, Spanish, Italian and Mexican cuisines among other ethnic and eclectic culinary options. Participating restaurants and bars include: Archie’s Gourmet Pizza, Bangkok Bangkok, Castelluccio Ristorante, La Dorada, Las Vegas Restaurant, Miss Saigon Bistro, The Bar, Talavera, Spris Restaurant, Pasion del Cielo and Il Grissino. For more information about Giralda Under the Stars’ participating restaurants and bars or to make a reservation for an al fresco table, visit online at <www.shopcoralgables.com>.

We are qualified professionals! Don’t trust your home or business to anything less. SERVICES WE OFFER • New construction-remodels-renovations • All Residential and Commercial repairs • Natural and LP Gas • Water Heaters (Gas and Electric) • Sewer backups-stoppages • Sewer Camera GREEN APPLICATIONS • Tankless Water Heaters • Heat Pumps • Solar Water Heating • Water Filtration • ECO Smart Plumbing Fixtures Since 1982, Southwest Plumbing Services, Inc., has been designing and installing complete plumbing systems in thousands of homes and businesses throughout South Florida. Management and field techs have decades of experience in all phases of residential and commercial construction as well as service and repairs. Southwest Plumbing Services is fully licensed and insured with certification to do both Residential and Medical Gas Repairs. State Certified Contractor CFC097090

SOUTHWEST PLUMBING SERVICES INC. 12925 SW 134TH CT. • MIAMI, FL 33186 ESTABLISHED 1982

305-232-6203

WWW.SOUTHWESTPLUMBINGSERVICES.COM

Page 3

Got Wrinkles? Wrinkle Study volunteers needed

Dermatology Research Institute is currently seeking participants for a clinical study utilizing an investigational product for the treatment of crow’s feet lines

Qualified participants will receive: -Examination by a Board Certified Cosmetic Dermatologist -All study related products and examination at no cost -Compensation for time and travel

For more information please call

(305) 444-5770

Page 4

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

Rotarians help purchase Shelter Boxes for Haiti Gloria Burns GLORIA’S GAB Coral Gables Rotarian Jorge Suarez and Steven Tonkinson, a Shelter Box response team member, addressed the Coral Gables Rotary Club in an effort to provide an update on their Shelter Box efforts in Haiti. Having purchased several Shelter Boxes last year, Rotarians were pleased to know their generosity has help make possible the shipment of 3,300 Shelter Boxes being delivered to Haiti. They will provide shelter and survival items for 33,000 people. Of course, replenishing supplies is crucial and the club answered with many

offering matches that brought the pledge total to more than $12,000 thanks to matches from many like Steve’s dad and Jo Burke donating $1,000 each, the cost of each box. The General Federation of Women’s Clubs also is lending a hand to help Haiti with collections and donations of money. Most recently a representative of Emmaus Medical, Ketsia, visited the Coral Gables Woman’s Club and left with a car packed to the top with donations from club members. Ketsia explained that Haitians coming here for medical treatment at Miami Jackson Hospital come with nothing and the newly laundered shirts and better clothing donated by the club will provide some dignity as they recover from the horrific disaster. A big time responder to Haiti was the University of Miami’s team of doctors led by Dr. Barth Green. They were on the scene in Port-Au-Prince within 24 hours of the quake offering compassionate care and saving lives under the most difficult circumstances. While many would consider these doctors and nurses heroes, they insist that the Haitians are the ones to be lauded for stoically enduring this horrific catastrophe. On the cultural front, Actors’ Playhouse celebrated the opening night for The Great American Trailer Park Musical. After a week of emotional news coming out of Haiti, this musical transported the audience to Starke, FL, for a truly hilarious evening with ––––––––––––––––––––––––– Martin Lynch of JohnMartin’s Irish Restaurant and Pub serves food to hungry theatergoers following an opening night performance at Actors’ Playhouse on Jan. 15.

Pictured is Jorge Suarez (left), seen here with money collected for Shelter Boxes, and volunteer Steven Tonkinson after the two addressed the need for more funding for the Shelter Box Program during a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Coral Gables at the Westin Colonnade.

off-the-wall-characters beautifully portrayed by the talented cast whose performances make you howl with laughter. In addition, David Nehls’ music and lyrics are so funny I suspect audiences may want to see this more than once just to catch all the laughs they missed the first time. Suffice to say, the show received a standing ovation from the opening night crowd, all of whom stayed around to partake in a late supper provided by JohnMartin’s Restaurant and Irish Pub. Warning — this is strictly an adult show and not suitable for any underage children. Hats off to artistic director David Arisco and, of course, Barbara Stein, for finding another great show.

For tickets and show info, call 305 4449293 or go online to <www.actorsplayhouse.org>. Seen enjoying the evening were Gables Mayor Donald and Jeannett Slesnick, former Mayor Dorothy and Jack Thomson, Miami-Dade Commissioner Sally Heyman, Miami-Dade School Board member Dr. Marta Perez and fiancé Chris Wolfe, Sen. Gwen Margolis, and Howard and Candice Wolfson of Hampton Inn. The much-anticipated drawing for the Norwegian Cruise Line cruise took place following the show and went to Eva M. Retchkiman of Coral Gables. Until next time, keep Haiti in your prayers and keep making each day count.

SAAD HOMES, INC. CGC 025768

Custom Home Builders • Renovations • Additions A Family Owned Business for 30 Years See our luxurious homes in Coral Gables Every where in Dade-Broward-Palm Beach Counties Now is the time to Build or Remodel

Lowest Construction Prices in Over Five Years! Plans-Permit-Finances Available

Info. (305) 829-8992 • www.saadhomes.com

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Museum memorial fund to honor Chief Gossett

Pictured are (l-r) Jim Gossett, Richard Gossett and Gables Fire Chief Walt Reed during the Coral Gables Museum’s Fewell Gallery topping off ceremony –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY LEE STEPHENS

Retired Coral Gables Deputy Chief Richard Gossett passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 20, after a courageous battle with cancer. Chief Gossett’s family has established a memorial fund in his name to benefit the Coral Gables Museum, which will be housed in the renovated Coral Gables Historic Police and Fire Station at 285 Aragon Ave. Chief Gossett worked out of “Old Station 1� from 1957 to 1970 and enthusiastically lent his experience, memories and expertise to the museum project. In addition he assisted students from Shenandoah Middle School in researching Coral Gables history for a book they produced, titled Building a Dream. Throughout the museum’s planning phase,

he always was available for consultation on the use and original design of the building. In September 2009, as part of the building’s “topping off ceremony,� Chief Gossett and his son, Coral Gables Firefighter Jim Gossett, hoisted a grapefruit tree to the top of the museum’s new Fewell Gallery from the Fire Department’s ladder truck. Prior to his passing, Chief Gossett shared his enthusiasm for the museum and his wish to assist in ensuring in its success. Gossett Museum Memorial donations should be mailed to Coral Gables Firefighters Benevolent Association, PO Box 340712, Coral Gables, FL 33134, with notation that the donation is for the Coral Gables Museum.

Ficus Hedge Owners!

(305)-235-8333 • www.onetwotree.com

Page 5

Page 6

DOWNTOWN, from page 1 –– such recent newcomers as Charlotte Bistro, an eclectic French bistro; Cleber Lopes, the renowned Brazilian salon and life institute, and Sweet women’s boutique. “We’re really expanding our appeal in 2010 and hope to attract even more residents and locals to explore the City Beautiful,” said Mari Molina, executive director of the BID. “In addition to fabulous new eateries and independent boutiques, the Gables’ cultural scene will really come into its own with the addition of the cinematheque and museum.” Downtown Coral Gables’ ever-growing cultural scene will be enhanced when the Coral Gables Cinematheque opens in March. This much-anticipated art cinema will offer international programming for all age groups and provide a venue for screenings of independent and student films, film festivals, lectures, book readings and other cultural events. According to cinema president Steve Krams, the Cinematheque will be “a wellspring for young and old alike who have a passion and interest in arts as expressed by the moving image. “The city, private individuals and the corporate community have invested heavily in our project and their voices reflect the character of our program,” Krams added. The Coral Gables Museum, opening in late

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

2010, will be located at the city’s Historic Fire and Police Station on Aragon Avenue. The museum will showcase the civic arts of architecture, urban design, planning, and historic and environmental preservation. The museum began its preservation education in October 2009 with a five-lecture series that will conclude in early February. This summer, the museum will host programming focused on the history and preservation of Coral Gables and South Florida in addition to a summer camp for kids. In addition to these businesses, the BID has introduced new events like “Giralda Under the Stars” which allows patrons to enjoy dinner outdoors on Downtown Coral Gables’ “Restaurant Row” the first Friday of each month. “With all the fresh and exciting energy in the air, there’s never been a better time to get to the Gables,” Molina said. Downtown Coral Gables and Miracle Mile is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood infused with a chic European feel. Decorated with tree-lined streets and Mediterranean architecture, the historic area boasts some of Miami’s finest boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, respected art galleries and lively entertainment venues. With more than 160 retailers and more than 70 restaurants, Downtown Coral Gables and Miracle Mile is a sophisticated destination to shop, live, play and work. For more information and a directory, visit online at <www.shopcoralgables.com>.

JUMPS FOR CORAL GABLES

February 2 - 8, 2010

FEWELL, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gables. While Fewell’s father was a Miami developer whose office was in the Old Halcyon Hotel Arcade, now the DuPont building, his mother wrote books about her early life in Miami that may be found in the Historical Museum. Fewell’s life reflects the history of South Florida. He lived through the devastating hurricane of 1926, the Stock Market Crash and the decade of the Great Depression after which he served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He then graduated from the University of Miami Law School but quickly gave up the practice of law to open his commercial real estate office in Coral Gables, where he continues to this day. As a licensed pilot, Fewell was known as the “Flying Realtor” and often flew clients in his own airplane throughout Florida and the Bahamas. Among the many highlights of Fewell’s life was a trip to Russia in the midst of the Cold War in 1959. He was chosen to join 39 other Miami businessmen who were flown

to Russia, welcomed into the Kremlin for a personal meeting and interview with Premier Nikita Kruschev. Details and photos appeared in Life magazine and newspapers. Fewell’s love for Coral Gables is evidenced in the many public places. In fact, he donated the funds to purchase the land for what has become Fewell Park, a lovely passive park on Coral Way and Granada Boulevard. He also contributed to the construction of the Miracle Mile/ Douglas Entrance Archway and has most recently funded the construction of the Coral Gables Museum Annex. The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce awarded him honorable mention for the Mediterranean Architectural Design used in the construction of his new office building at 288 Aragon Ave., another effort at beautifying his beloved Coral Gables. Over the years, Fewell’s contributions include more than just money as he has been equally generous with his time as a member of the University of Miami Presidents Club.

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 7

More than 60 scholarships available through The Fair BY MICHELLE PALOMINO

There are college scholarships up for grabs — more than $100,000 worth — and every graduating senior in Miami-Dade County looking to further his/her education at an accredited college, university or trade school in the 2010-11 academic year is eligible to apply. The scholarships, to be offered by the Miami-Dade County Fair, are part of The Fair’s annual scholarship program and will be offered this spring to outstanding Miami-Dade County seniors. Graduating seniors who want to apply have until Mar. 16 to submit their applications. Unless the student is home schooled, applications must be submitted by the school. “The Fair’s scholarship program is the cornerstone of our commitment to the youth in our community,” said Phil Clark, CEO of the Miami-Dade County Fair. “The Fair is a not-for-profit organization. The funds raised during the 18 days of The Fair support youth programs like the scholarship program that The Fair sponsors throughout the year.” Each scholarship will be $1,000 in value. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate a commitment to voluntary participation in school and community

activities. At least one recipient will be selected from each high school throughout the county. “Last year there were $10,000 of scholarship funds that went unclaimed because we did not receive applications from every high school,” Clark added. “You will not win if you don’t apply. We encourage all high schools to submit applications this year so that their students may take advantage of this generous scholarship.” As of early February, applications will be available in the College Assistance Office in each public and private high school throughout the county. Applications must be sent in by schools. Home schooled students may apply by calling Diana Venturini at 305-995-1367 for applications and due dates. The Fair will be celebrating its 59th year Mar. 25 to Apr. 11, and is expected to attract more than 600,000 visitors. Awarding more than $8 million in scholarships, awards and premiums along with outstanding educational student and youth programs, The Fair is more than just an 18day event and a sought after venue for community events and festivals held throughout the year. The not-for-profit organization is a South Florida institution that is there for the community throughout the year.

Make Your Profits Advertising With Us! Community Newspapers 305-669-7355 Now Serving

FORECLOSURE DEFENSE BANKRUPTCY BUSINESS LITIGATION FAMILY LAW LOAN MODIFICATIONS TITLE & CLOSINGS YOUR LOCAL LADY LAWYER

305-666-9311

rashmi@airanlawyers.com www.localladylawyer.com “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 a free written information about our qualifications and experience.”

Page 8

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

Healthy dose of laughter helped save author’s life BY TONYA STEWART

When London-based cancer sufferer Kit Hammond Stapely was told there was nothing more doctors could do for her, she realized that only a miracle could save her. That miracle came in the form of a new treatment — specially flown in from the U.S. — and a vital factor was the healing power of an “inappropriate sense of humor.� Kit not only recovered from her tussle with non-Hodgkins lymphoma — against all the specialists’ odds — but she trained as a “Laughter Leader� and Health Creation mentor, and now is helping others through “the black hole of a cancer diagnosis� and treatment by learning, among other things, to laugh at life. So, to what does Kit attribute this remarkable turnaround? “It was the sense of humour that got me into trouble all my life that played a big part in getting me out of trouble on my cancer journey,� she said. “If I couldn’t have laughed, I wouldn’t have survived.� And it was quite a journey. By1998 Kit had been through six years “overhung by the dreadful sword of Damocles,� following a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in

1992. During the next six years she had had the legal limit of every available chemotherapy drug but two; lost her hair five times from the treatment, several sets of lines in her chest, and her husband, who had given up all hope of her recovery, had lined up her replacement. In January 1998, a year after a gruelling stem cell transplant, Kit was told there was little more that doctors could do for her. Shortly afterwards upsurge of anger swept through her and she decided she didn’t want to go. “I wanted a miracle and I started working towards this goal,� she said. That miracle came in the form of Rituximab, a drug that her oncologist referred to as, “the magic bullet we’ve all been searching for because it targets only the cancer cell.� And guess what? The cancer cell they’d figured out how to target first was Kit’s own CD 19/ CD 20 cells (non-Hodkin’s lymphoma comes in many different forms). “I told you I’d get a miracle,� Kit winked at her oncologist, to which he replied, “It does seem a little like the U.S. Cavalry riding to the rescue at the very last moment.� “When life gives you lemons, make

FOOTNOTES

Kit Hammond Stapely –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– lemonade and have a party, is the philosophy that’s always worked for me,� Kit said. “I decided that if I couldn’t laugh, I’d have cried — and I’m not so sure I could have stopped.� This sense of humour helped her on a number of occasions. On a trip to London (when she was first diagnosed, she lived in New York) an old friend asked her, “How are you, Kit?� “Oh fine, really,� she replied, grasping the nettle firmly, “considering I’ve been told I have incurable cancer!� “There was a long silence as she digested my words,� Kit said. “She’s one of those people who spring back from everything

like a bop-bag and this line, delivered with some panache, actually made her pause, but not for long. ‘Oh well, never mind. At least you know what you’re going to die of,’ she said. When I recovered from the shock I found that pretty funny.� And when her trademark shining mane of hair was lost through chemotherapy, Kit decided “to have fun with the hair loss. This was surprisingly easy, once I had made up my mind. A friend owned a wig catalogue company and gave me carte blanche. I stopped collecting at nine.� One of the wigs was long and blonde, (Kit affectionately named it “Helga�). “The wonderful thing about being bald is that you can have whatever hair you like. I’d always wanted long, straight, platinum blonde hair, so guess which wig was first on my list? I still encounter male friends who enquire wistfully after it.� Kit looks back on this period with fond nostalgia, “which is strange considering how ill I was and how often.� So it wasn’t surprising that Kit, who had herself gained so much hope through her laughter during her cancer experience, decided to train with Dr. Madan Kataria as a Laughter Yoga Leader (joining the ranks of the thousands of similarly trained laughter leaders worldwide — more than 90 in Florida alone). She now works as a Cancer Laughter and Wellbeing Guide and runs “Laughter Playshops� to help people who want to develop the healing powers of laughter and play in their own lives. “Laughter acts like the valve in the pressure cooker of stress,� Kit said. “If you can laugh at anything — I don’t care how serious it is — then you can survive it.� Kit will be talking about the benefits of laughter and signing copies of her book, It Could Be Verse: An Anthology of Laughter Quotations, at Books & Books in Coral Gables, 265 Aragon Ave., on Feb. 16. Designed to appeal to those facing stressful life situations, the book contains quotes from both famous and infamous people taken from the past 2,000 years.

Ficus Hedge Owners!

(305)-235-8333 • www.onetwotree.com

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 9

Page 10

@3AB/C@/<B A>=B:756B

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

/<53:7?C3 3C@= 1/43

0G :/@@G <=:/<

M

iracles do happen and Angelique Euro CafĂŠ is proof positive of that. From the ancient shell of a shoe store, Yolanda JordanaRossi and Carlos Rossi created a European masterpiece of a restaurant. “This was a major journey for us,â€? Yolanda said. Fifteen months of research yielded something unique. “Many of our fellow Miracle Mile shops and restaurants have told us that we are exactly what is needed on the Mile,â€? said Carlos said. What the couple has succeeded in doing is create a personal atmosphere that is tailored to the individual customer. Armed with a totally un-rigid menu of wholly European-fused cuisines from the countries of Spain, France, Italy and Belgium, Angelique Euro CafĂŠ has crafted truly “sophisticated comfort food with a fine dining experience, without the fine dining prices.â€? The restaurant is open seven days a week and showcases 80 types of wine with 40 of those available by the glass. Relocating from New York, the husband and wife team of Yolanda and Carlos Rossi

February 2 - 8, 2010

:/@@G ; <=:/< j 1=@/: 5/0:3A 16/;03@ =4 1=;;3@13

B63 :7BB:3 ;7@/1:3 =< B63 ;7:3 ( G]ZO\RO 8]`RO\O @]aaW O\R 1O`Z]a @]aaW O`S bVS VcaPO\R O\R eWTS bO\RS[ bVOb Q`SObSR bVWa c\W_cS `SabOc`O\b Q]\QS^b ]T Âż\S O\R a]^VWabWQObSR 3c`]^SO\ 1cWaW\S Ob T]` O\ OTT]`ROPZS ^`WQS are the visionaries who wished to establish the premier European CafĂŠ on Miracle Mile. Yolanda, a Miami native born of Cuban

parents, graduated from FIU and went to New York to appease her appetite for big challenges. In so doing she traveled the

world and honed her management skills, along with developing a discriminating palate. Carlos was born in Puerto Rico from Spanish and French parents and left his beloved island to relocate to New York and establish his own advertising business. One of their earlier restaurants was “Torreblancaâ€?, the renowned fine dining Spanish international cuisine restaurant in Puerto Rico. These days the restaurant is known as “Jose, JosĂŠâ€? and after 30 years is still considered the place by which others are measured for their excellence of service and culinary expertise. The Rossi’s passion for hospitality is reflected in Angelique’s character, and the joy of providing unsurpassed personal service in a refined, but comfortable and familiar ambiance. Chef LeRoy Bautista was classically trained at The Instituto Alberghiero in Sardinia, Italy and continued his culinary evolution while spending time in the capitals of Western Europe. Chef LeRoy has spent the last 18 years building his unique talents in the demanding New Orleans restaurant scene. Take a visit to this warm, classic and truly authentic eatery at 117 Miracle Mile. Visit their website at www.angeliqueeurocafe.com or call 305-529-9922.

5`SS\ >W]\SS` @Og /\RS`a]\ b] 6SORZW\S 1VO[PS`¸a 3Q] 3f^] 0G :/@@G <=:/<

T

he Coral Gables Chamber’s Green initiatives are hitting full stride in 2010 with new sustainable programs and green expectations! The Go Green Task Force, headed by Anabella Smith and Carole Schafmeister, has been making preparations for the Chamber’s first-ever Eco Expo on Friday, February 5th, 2010 at 11:30 A.M. at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, 50 Alhambra Plaza. This event, sponsored by Resource 4 Floors, Gateways Unlimited, the American Institute of Architects, the Coral Gables Museum, the Eco Chamber, the U.S. Green Building Council, Comobar, Kohler, MiaGreen, and Steelcase, Inc will feature a luncheon with renowned green pioneer, author and sustainability advocate Ray Anderson of InterfaceFLOR, Inc. An honors graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology and a world-renowned speaker, Ray Anderson learned the carpet trade through 14-plus years at various positions at Deering-Milliken and Callaway Mills, and in 1973, set about founding a company to produce the first free-lay carpet tiles in America. Today, he chairs the world’s largest producer of commercial floor coverings. Interface has diversified and globalized its businesses, with sales in 110 countries and manufacturing facilities on four continents.

Workshops will take place from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. Workshop I will cover “Energy Savings and Waste Management� while Workshop II will cover “Tax Incentives� and Green Initiatives at the Workplace. The Eco Expo will also provide the opportunity for businesses and consumers

to convene and showcase the impact that the green movement is having on every aspect of our economy and society, from energy and transportation to education, health and travel, among many other areas. Space is Limited for the event. The TableTop Showcase prices are as follows: $250 for members and $350 for non-members. To be a full participant in the day’s events, the cost is $125, which includes a luncheon ticket, a signed book by Ray Anderson, both workshops, the reception and the Table-Top Expo. To purchase elements separately, the Luncheon only is $50; the Workshops are only $25 and the Expo and Reception is only $35. Luncheon at a VIP table of 10 with a book and the workshops combined is $750. “Our mission is to continue promoting sustainable practices in our community, commerce and everyday living,� said Anabella Smith, Go Green Task Force Co-Chair of the Coral Gables Chamber. For sponsorship and table-top opportunities, please contact the Chamber at 305-446-1657 To learn more about the Go Green Task Force and the Eco Expo, please call 305-4461657 or visit www.coralgableschamber.org. The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce is a 1,400 member, not-for-profit business association whose mission is to foster and enhance the economic interests and quality of life in the Coral Gables community.

B/0:3 B=> >/@B717>/<BA

Â’ BVS /[S`WQO\ 7\abWbcbS ]T /`QVWbSQba Â’ 1S`O[WQ 1]\acZbW\U 7:D/ >]`QSZOW\ BWZS Â’ 1][]PO` Â’ 1]\abO\bW\S 1O`^Sb Â’ 1]`OZ 5OPZSa ;caSc[ Â’ 3O`bV 3\S`Ug A]ZcbW]\a Â’ 3Q]QVO[PS` Â’ 5ObSeOga C\ZW[WbSR Â’ E]`Y^ZOQS @Sa]c`QS 6S`[O\ ;WZZS` Â’ 7\bS`TOQS4:=@ 7\Q Â’ 9]VZS` Â’ =FF= 1O`S 1ZSO\S`a /b BVS DWZZOUS ]T ;S``WQY >O`Y Â’ @Sa]c`QS " 4Z]]`a Â’ A]ÂżbSZ ;WO[W Â’ AbSSZQOaS 7\Q Â’ C A 5`SS\ 0cWZRW\U 1]c\QWZ Â’DOZZSg 4]`US 4OP`WQa 7\Q Â’ HgaQ]dWQV /`QVWbSQba

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 11

Page 12

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 13

Page 14

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

THE HERITAGE SCHOOL 13300 SW 120 Street. Miami, Fl 33186. Ph 305-232-2222

“An International School”

PRE-K (AGES 3 & 4) THROUGH 8TH GRADE The Heritage School offers an enriched integrated 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, Edline access via Internet to grades, homework, etc.

Visit our website and apply online

www.heritageschool.org SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN *50% Special Discount for Summer Camp if enroll in the 2010-2011 school year before 04/30/10

*Valid only for new students of Prekindergarten (full-time) ,kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade.

February 2 - 8, 2010

Financial Planning for FPL Employees I am an FPL employee. Do you have any suggestions specifically geared toward my employment? Yes, I have been working with FPL since 1991 (18 years), and I have some suggestions that should apply to you regardless of your age or time with the company. First: I suggest that you complete a comprehensive questionnaire (fact finder) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) in order to determine your 401k investment criteria and a realistic budget to see what you can contribute to the 401k. Second: Make an effort to maximize your contribution to your 401k plan. FPL matches your contribution up to 7% of your straight time salary. I suggest that you try to get to the 20% level especially if you are a new hire. Your 401k contribution actually decreases your taxable income so there’s a tax break for doing this. Third: Stay with FPL until the Rule 90 is satisfied. Rule 90 is a point system that

adds your age and time with FPL. Once you reach 90 points, your medical benefits are paid until age 65. At age 65, Medicare will be your health provider. For every point less than 90 you pay 2% of the insurance premium. If your age (55) and time with FPL (25 years) totals 80 then you will pay 20% of the premium. There are certain transition credits and age 55 rules that also need to be considered. The rule 90 does not apply for some new hirees. The health insurance premiums for people outside of FPL is a major cost. This will require that you save as much as you can, keep your other bills low and pay attention to your health. To read the complete column on , go to <www.ricktonkinson.com> Rick Tonkinson and his family have their office at 100 Almeria Ave, Suite 310, Coral Gables, FL 33134. Telephone 305-447-6617. 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.

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 15

CrepeMaker to donate portion of sales for Haitian relief To help the people of Haiti cope with the devastating effects of their recent earthquake, the CrepeMaker will be donating 25 percent of the Falls and Pinecrest restaurants’ sales on Wednesday, Feb. 3, to the Red Cross Haitian relief efforts. They also will be accepting donations, first aid equipment, canned goods, clothing and toys for the children of Haiti and the injured orphans brought to Miami’s Jackson South Hospital. The restaurants will be accepting donations until Friday, Feb. 5. For more information, contact Myra Jacobs or Courtni Austin at 305-233-1113 or send email to <assistant2@crepemaker.com>.

FIRST FRIDAY ART NIGHT IN CORAL GABLES, FEB. 5 The first art exhibit of 2010 presented by Greater Miami Investments, the Sport Exchange, Tarpon Bend and Art 4 U by Mike, will take place on Friday, Feb. 5, from 6 to 10 p.m. at 65 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. Abstract Art, Florida Landscapes by Mike Thompson and emerging Cuban female artists Carole Kingsley, Maple Moyano and Imaculada Meoendez. As always, a percentage of sales will be used to purchase art sup-

plies for Ponce de Leon Middle School’s art program. For more information, call 305-785-6344 or send email to <art4ubymike@gmail.com>.

COMMUNITY INVITED TO JOIN MIAMI RIVER CLEANUP PROJECT The Historical Museum of Southern Florida’s Young Professionals will be cleaning up the Miami River on Saturday, Feb. 6, and invite the community to join them. Simply arrive at 9 a.m. at Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish, 398 NW North River Dr. At this event with Young Professionals, ages 21-40, you can learn about the history of the Miami River with museum eco-historian Frank Schena, and then beautify the greenway located in the Lummus Park Historic District. Afterwards, you may join the Tropees for lunch at Garcia’s. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Historical Museum’s educational programs. To RSVP, call 305-375-1657 or visit online at <https://hmsf.ticketleap.com>. ANNUAL ‘STATE-OF-THE-PORTS’ BRIEFING SCHEDULED FEB. 10 For the 23rd year, Jose Abreu and Bill Johnson, the directors of South Florida’s

COMMUNITY NEWS briefs major airport and seaport, respectively, will report on the “State-of-the-Ports,” to brief Miami-Dade’s international business community on the economic impact of Miami International Airport and the Port of Miami in 2009. The briefing will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 10, at the Miami Mart Airport Hotel (formerly Radisson), 711 NW 72 Ave. Registration will begin at 11:20 a.m., with the luncheon and presentations at noon. Abreu will provide an update on airport construction projects and the projected impact of the improvements on global trade growth and on maintaining Miami’s position as the “Trade and Logistics Center of the Americas.” Johnson, will provide a progress report on seaport terminal improvements, expansion of cargo piers, the proposed tunnel, and on the port’s trade diversification efforts. The two directors also will forecast Miami’s trade growth in terms of best import/export markets for 2010. Corporate

tables of 10 are available at $400 and the cost is $40 per person. For more information, call 305-871-7910, or register online at <www.worldtrade.org> until Feb. 6.

J.D.R.F. TO HOST WALK TO HELP FIND JUVENILE DIABETES CURE The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is hosting a walk at Metrozoo later this year. To fundraise for the event, which will help find a cure for diabetes, there will be a kickoff party on Saturday, Feb. 13, 4 p.m., at the home of Ashton Sanchez, 11411 SW 114 St. Flyers with all of the information you need for the walk will be handed out during the party. Donations will be accepted and help the local JDRF group get ever closer to the goal of raising $5,000. For information, call 786-200-8867.

––––––– Continued on next page

CELEBRATES ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY AND ANNOUNCES ITS NEW HIGH SCHOOL

ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN FOR PRESCHOOL TO 12TH GRADE CONTACT US TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR NEW, STATE- OF-THE-ART 10 ACRE CAMPUS FOR GRADES 6 THROUGH 12 RIVIERA DAY SCHOOL 6800 Nervia Street, Coral Gables, FL 33146 I RIVIERA PREPARATORY SCHOOL 9775 SW 87 Avenue, Miami, FL 33176 305.666.1856 I www.rivieraschools.com I Accredited by AISF, SACS, CITA, NCPSA

Page 16

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

NEWS,

from previous page

MIAMI CIVIC MUSIC ASSOCIATION TO PRESENT ANNUAL PIANO GALA The Miami Civic Music Association will present its annual Piano Gala on Valentine’s Day, Sunday, Feb. 14, 4 p.m., at the Maurice Gusman Concert Hall, 1314 Miller Dr., on the University of Miami campus in Coral Gables. This all-piano event will feature pianists Rosalina G. Sackstein, J.B. Floyd, Dennis Kam, Santiago Rodriguez, Tian Ying, Jose Ignacio Diaz, Alejandro Mendez, Leila Torres and others. All proceeds from this concert will benefit the Rosalina G. Sackstein Piano Scholarship Fund at the UM’s Frost School of Music. General admission tickets cost $30; students only pay $10. Tickets may be purchased online at <www.miamicivicmusic.org>. You also can call toll-free: 1-877-733-3031. BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY JOINING FORCES WITH AMERICAN RED CROSS Burlington Coat Factory encourages local residents to help the countless victims of the recent devastation in Haiti by donating whatever you can give at the Miami store location, 11301 NW 12 St. (Dolphin Mall), or any of the other 430-plus Burlington Coat Factory stores nationwide. Donations will be

accepted through Wednesday, Feb. 17. Donations to the American Red Cross will support emergency relief efforts to help those affected by this earthquake. Assistance provided by the American Red Cross may include sending relief supplies, mobilizing relief workers and providing financial resources.

FIRST CAJUN/ZYDECO CONCERT, FUNDRAISER FOR ELKS CHARITIES The South Miami Elks Lodge will host South Miami’s first Cajun/Zydeco concert and fundraiser for Elks’ charities on Saturday, Feb. 20, from 5:30 to 11:30 p.m., at 6304 SW 78 St. in South Miami. There will be a full Cajun buffet with seafood gumbo, chicken jambalaya, red beans and rice, and much more. Slippery Tim and the Wetdogs will be playing Zydeco, Dixieland and rock and roll favorites with a seven-piece band and horn section. In addition, there will be many games, silent auctions, magic demonstrations and more. Tickets cost $30 per person and include entertainment and food. For tickets, call “Slippery” Tim Brockland at 786-351-0324 or Annie at the Elks Lodge at 305-668-1676. VITA OFFERS FREE TAX HELP TO LOW-INCOME APPLICANTS Miami Dade College (MDC) is continuing its long-standing commitment to help lowincome, elderly and non-English speaking

residents complete their 2009 taxes with the “always free” Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The VITA program is administered and staffed by faculty and MDC business students who volunteer their time to help the public in preparing their tax forms. Students are trained beforehand and must pass an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) exam of basic rules, regulations and tax preparation skills before they assist taxpayers. Divided into three groups, their functions are administrative, tax return preparation and quality review. Anyone who wants to get their taxes done through VITA must bring their social security card, along with any dependents’ social security cards; a picture ID; W-2 earnings statement; 1099 MISC (for self-employed individuals only); 1099 INT (interest income) and any documents pertaining to expenses to be claimed (receipts, etc.). This year, VITA will be offering services on Mondays from Feb. 8 through Apr. 12 at the MDC Homestead campus, 500 College Ter., in Room B-122. The services will be offered between 1 and 7 p.m. by appointment only. English and Spanish will be the languages spoken; for more information, call 305-237-5143. The services also will be offered at the MDC Kendall campus, 11011 SW 104 St., Room 6343, the business office for room 6319, from 2 to 4 p.m. from Feb. 8

SEE OUR NEWLY DESIGNED AUTHENTIC JAPANESE INSPIRED LOOK!

SUSHI,

SEAFOOD

&

February 2 - 8, 2010

through Apr. 8. Mondays and Wednesdays are by appointment only. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, walk-in customers will be accepted until 3:45 p.m. A maximum of 10 customers will be served each day. For more information, call 305-2372375/2283.

PROMOTE HEALTH AND FITNESS AT SHOPS AT SUNSET PLACE The Shops at Sunset Place invites all companies and organizations with products and/or services related to healthy and fit living to participate in the “Health and Fitness Expo” on Saturday, Mar. 6, from noon to 6 p.m., on the first level of the mall near Dan Marino’s Town Tavern. The “Health and Fitness Expo” will showcase various services and organizations that will educate families about the importance of living a healthy life. Event attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy health and fitness demonstrations, food samples, beauty makeovers, style demonstrations and much more. This informative event is designed to celebrate healthy living through exercise and healthy eating habits to last a lifetime. To participate in the “Health and Fitness Expo” or to receive more information about the event, contact Claudia Marquez at 305-663-0482 or via email at <cmarquez@simon.com>.

ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET WHERE YOU CAN EAT HEALTHY

the best & freshest sushi in town!

GRILL

Same Elegant Buffet Feast Featuring

Celebrate with Mama Linda Chinese New Year & Valentine’s Day on February 14th Opening Hour: Lunch 11:30am-3:30pm Dinner 5:00pm-10pm (Mon-Thu) 5:00-10:30pm (Fri-Sun)

PRICES

Fine Japanese & Asian Cuisine, Sushi, Seafood & Hibachi Grill FRESH, JUMBO ALASKAN SNOW CRAB LEGS LUNCH $9.95 (Mon-Fri) $10.95 (Sat-Sun) $6.95 (Kids 11 & under) FREE (Kids 3 & under)

DINNER $16.95 (Mon-Fri) $18.95 (Sat-Sun) $8.95 (Kids 11 & under) FREE (Kids 3 & under)

Senior Citizens 60 + $2.00 OFF DINNER

8800 S.W. 72ND ST. MIAMI, FLORIDA 33173 • TEL: (305) 275-8801 • FAX: (305) 275-1249

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Transitioning from active combat duty to civilian life can be tough BY Y MIC CHEELLEE ESTTLUND,, Crrim min nal Defeense Attorrney After a tour of duty in a combat zone, many of our service men and women return to civilian life having witnessed or suffered from significant trauma. Very often, these veterans are able to seamlessly pick up where they left off and lead normal, productive lives. However, an increasing number of veterans who return find they are unable to function as they did before their service, due to mental health issues. It is now not unusual for defendants in criminal court to be very recent veterans of the military. Men and women, who had no previous criminal involvement, now experience such severe problems that they are unable to behave within the requirements of the law. These are typically people who otherwise would never have had any contact with the

Page 17 John Balzola Photography

criminal justice system, but who now suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, anger control problems, anxiety or depression. Most judges are extremely grateful to our veterans for their service to our country, and have an understanding of the issues which can lead to criminal charges being filed against them. If a veteran has been arrested for behavior related to the trauma he or she has suffered due to military service, it is very important that the court become aware of the relationship between their military service and their mental health issues. The veteran’s attorney should advocate for his or her case to be handled with an eye toward treatment rather than punishment. After all that our service men and women have done for us, it is the least we can do for them.

Michelle Estlund is a criminal defense atttorneey pracctiicing in Flo orida sin nce 199 95. She hed att 305--44 48-00 077. Forr morre can be reach information go to <www.estlundlaw.com>.

Alma Accent XL Treatment Targeted heat therapy for immediate and visible reversal of the early signs of aging Skin Tightening and Body Contouring with immediate results

• Reduce wrinkles & fine lines • Improve Skin Tone and Texture • Stimulate New Collagen C A L L T O D AY :

Judith E. Crowell, MD 7800 SW 87th Avenue • Suite C300

305-274-0221

www.JudithCrowellMD.com

1430 MADRUGA AVENUE | CORAL GABLES | FLORIDA | 33146 BEHIND PUBLIX ON MONZA AVE

305.722.6000 WWW.METROPOLISFITNESSANDSPA.COM ONEWEEKGUESTPASS

Seven (7) Consecutive Day Pass. Must be 18 years of age, a local resident with a valid driver license or other government issued picture ID. Redeemable by non-members only. One pass per person, every six (6) months. Pass is not valid for re-sale or redeemable for cash. Extra charge for some amenities.

Page 18

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

Miami-Dade County Fair offers fun for everyone BY MICHELLE PALOMINO

Concerts, rides, foods, games — the Miami-Dade County Fair goes live Mar. 25 through Apr. 11, and promises to rock your world with 18 days of spine-tingling fun and unforgettable moments. Highlights of this year’s Fair include: Friday Nights Rock The Fair — Late night concerts “Go Live!” rocking the main stage every Friday night at The Fair. The “Friday Nights Rock The Fair” concert series kicks off on Mar. 26 at 8 p.m. with popular pop-punk band We The Kings, performing hits from their second studio album Smile Kid including the Billboard hit Heaven Can Wait and their hit single Check Yes Juliet. The series continues with concerts on Fridays, Apr. 2 and 9 (with performers to be announced). Concerts are included with the price of admission. The Garage — The Garage is the place to be. Located on the northeast corner of The Fair, The Garage is a fun place for teens to hang and experience the brand new Game Hype interactive system — a cutting edge, 16screen video game attraction — that showcases the latest in next generation video game entertainment (Wii, Playstation 3 and Xbox 360) on flat screen, high definition TVs.

In addition to our regular menu, Chef Monica will be creating weekend specials inspired by Valentine’s Day that will be sure to delight you.

The Euroslide is a family favorite at The Fair. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 5-B-4-5 — Look for $5 deals on food, rides and admission before 5 p.m., Monday through Friday at The Fair. Coupons are available on line at <www.fairexpo.com>. Kids Express YourselveS (KEYS) — Fun for the young and young at heart, Kids Express Yourselves in bigger and better ways through participation in self-motivated activities at The Fair. Helping moms navigate The Fair, KEYS offers a guide to moms to make the most of The Fair for their pre-K to pre-teen kids. 100 Spectacular Rides — Are you weak in the knees or brave at heart? Put it to the test with 100 spectacular rides to choose from at this year’s fair. For the thrill seekers, the Mega Drop, Swing Tower, Avalanche Coaster and Crazy Mouse all are returning. Not so bold? Don’t worry; there will be plenty of tamer

ALL TABLES WILL RECEIVE A VERY SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DESSERT. Great food, great service and great ambiance will set the mood for a great Valentine’s Day! If you prefer to stay home to celebrate Valentine’s Day but still want a great meal we will have take-out available. You will receive a very special Valentine’s dessert also!

Call today for details Kaliapy’s - same great location, same great chef, same great place Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, & Sunday 5 - 9 Friday & Saturday 5 - 10:30 12153 S. Dixie Hwy., Pinecrest

305.252.7337

rides such as the Giant Wheel and Sky Glider plus, for the kids, an expanded kids zone with KiddieLand and KiddieLand Too! Live Shows — Daily shows include Street Beat, a high energy explosion of urban rhythms; the Marcan Tiger Preserve, an educational and entertaining tiger show; The Royal Hanneford Circus returning with all new acts; Ice Show returning with a new theme, and Show Me Safari Petting Zoo; Pig Races, and Pony Ride along with lots of strolling entertainers. They all are included with the price of admission. Fair Foods — Fried, roasted, baked or toasted — with more than 160 different food vendors slated to be at The Fair, there will be no shortage of foods that will satisfy any appetite. New fare includes Polar Bear Homemade Ice Cream, Chicken and Rice Bowl dishes from Patinella’s Chicken Grill, and The Mexican Grill, where you can build your own burrito, taco, quesadilla or fajita. The return of fair favorites such as roasted corn, elephant ears, candied apples and cotton candy are sure to be crowd pleasers. Games — With more than Carnival games to choose from, it’s games galore at The Fair including the new Old West Shootout, a paintball game with an old west backdrop. Plus The Goblet, a fun-filled game the whole family can enjoy. The 2010 Miami-Dade County Fair will be celebrating its 59th year beginning Mar. 25 and continuing through Apr. 11. Ranked the largest fair in Florida, The Fair is an 18-day event that includes rides, games, food and live entertainment. Close to 50,000 student and adult exhibits are showcased during The Fair. General admission to The Fair is $9 for adults and children, free for children five years of age and younger. The Fair is located at Coral Way (SW 24th Street) and 112th Avenue. Hours are noon to midnight during Spring Break, Mar. 29-Apr. 2, and on all Saturdays and Sundays throughout The Fair. It is open 3 p.m. to midnight on all other weekdays. For information, call 305-223-7060 or visit online <www.fairexpo.com>.

South Miami Rotary Art Festival Coming Soon to a Street Near You! On Sunset Drive Downtown Saturday & Sunday, February 27 & 28 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, ADMISSION FREE Multiethnic Food Court ~ Children’s Alley Live Music ~ Fine Arts & Crafts ~ Artists From Across the Country www.southmiamiartfest.org

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 19

3rd Annual South Florida Summer Camp Fairs ...Connecting great kids with great camps

Come find a great summer camp! Saturday, February 6, 2010 Marriott Miami-Dadeland 9090 South Dadeland Blvd.

Sunday, February 7, 2010 Marriott Boca Raton at Boca Center 5150 Town Center Circle

FREE ADMISSION! Camps of All Kinds: Day; Overnight; Adventure; Special Needs (Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia); Theater; Academic; Sailing; Scuba; Marine Biology; Travel; Horseback Riding; Sports; Wilderness; Fashion; Modeling, Jewish; & much more! FABULOUS CAMPS AND PROGRAMS FOR TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS.

FREE Admission 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. FREE Gift to first 100 families, one per family. Please bring this ad.

Meet Camp Directors from Canada to Florida and even from the British Virgin Islands! Get door prizes, FREE giveaways from camps, FREE Snacks, FREE DVDs of camps, FREE brochures, Jobs available, Bring the family.

Click on our website, www.sensationalsummers.com, to find out more about each camp, and get directions to each camp fair

Page 20

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

GET INSTANT RELIEF WITH NEW IN-OFFICE TREATMENT Our physicians perform a non-surgical procedure in the office that quickly and permanently treats hemorrhoids without discomfort or medication, so you can get back to your life the same day.

CALL US TODAY TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT

305.459.3175 www.gicarecenter.com

Galloway Medical Park 7500 S.W. 87th Avenue, Suite 200 - Miami, FL 33173

Rita Schwartz Pinecrest Resident announces the opening of

Upscale Furniture Consignment Gallery 8845 SW 132nd Street. Located in the Shops by The Falls

FOR SALE THE FINEST QUALITY MERCHANDISE FROM THE MOST ELEGANT HOMES & ESTATES WANTED... ACCEPTING NEW HIGH QUALITY PRE-OWNED HOME FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES. We offer a unique gallery setting that will showcase your items in style.

Contact Rita: 305-491-5651 • antonreiche@bellsouth.net

A Division of

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 21

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND THE FOURTH ANNUAL Wise Beyond Our Years. Since 1926.

What a lot of banks have lost, we have never lost sight of.

Spring Garden Soiree To Benefit Horticulture at Pinecrest Gardens

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2010 Cocktails at 6:30 p.m., Dinner at 8:00 p.m. Open Bar - Silent Auction - Garden Party Attire

Your trust.

THE MEADOW AT PINECREST GARDENS, 11000 RED ROAD Dinner music provided by: Jimmy B, pianist Concert by: NESTOR TORRES AND HIS BAND Reservations are $125 per person. For reservations visit www.gardenfund.org or send a check to Community Garden Fund 5825 S.W. 111th Street, Pinecrest, FL 33156 Please include name, address, phone and email. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 305-669-1028

Wealth Management Consulting • Custom Investment Management • IRAs, Profit Sharing & Pension Plan Design •

Trust & Wealth Management

Personal Trusts Special Needs Trusts • Charitable Trusts • Guardianship Services • Estate Settlements • Fiduciary Banking Services • •

By knowing our clients’ passions we are able to embrace their biggest dreams and provide them with steady strategic guidance on the road to achievement. Find financial clarity through a single account and gain access to world-class money managers, real customization, continuous optimization and aggressive tax management. Life doesn’t wait; let’s talk. Call us to review your current estate plan and future financial goals. AVENTURA

COCONUT GROVE

CORAL GABLES

PALMETTO BAY SOUTH MIAMI

305.858.6666 www.coconutgrovebank.com

These products are not deposits, not FDIC-insured, not insured by any federal government agency, not guaranteed by the bank, and may go down in value.

Page 22

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Standup comic, writer Leifer to introduce book of essays BY SHEILA STIEGLITZ

Straight from taping of NBC-TV’s latest edition of Celebrity Apprentice, standup comic Carol Leifer comes to the Alper JCC on Tuesday, Feb. 9, with her first book of humorous essays, When You Lie About Your Age, The Terrorists Win: Reflections on Looking in the Mirror. The internationally acclaimed comedian and Emmy-nominated writer recently shared stories from her book with national audiences while appearing on The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Today Show, all of the evening talk shows and Fresh Air with Terry Gross on NPR. Hailed by The Washington Post as one of the best comedic minds of our time, Carol Leifer’s writing credits include Saturday Night Live; The Larry Sanders Show, and Seinfeld, the show that has been exalted as the greatest sitcom of all time. It has been said that she is the reallife inspiration for the character of “Elaine” played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Leifer’s first book is a laugh-out-loud look at life, love and family, and deals with her personal journey through aging, adoption, animal activism, feminism and faith. She explores coming to terms with yourself, and becoming the person you are meant to be. In 1998, she made her television debut starring on The WB’s Alright, Already, and was the co-executive producer of the ABC sitcom It’s Like You Know, starring Jennifer Grey. A native of Long Island, NY, she began her career in the late 1970s as a standup comedian, performing in well-known Manhattan clubs such as The Comic

Carol Leifer ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Strip, Catch a Rising Star and The Improv. Her big break came when David Letterman caught her act, which led to 25 appearances on his show. In addition, Letterman also produced her 1988 Cinemax special, Carol Doesn’t Leifer Anymore. Leifer appears at the Alper JCC, 11155 SW 112 Ave. in Kendall at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. For more information, call 305-2719000, ext. 268, or visit online at <www.alperjcc.org>.

Earn a Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine in only 36 months Become a Licensed Massage Therapist in only 9 months Discover your power to heal! Become a Healthcare practicioner! We have exactly what you’re looking for! Financial Aid is available for all who qualify! Classes are forming now! Call for your appointment

305-595-9500 www.amcollege.edu

10506 N. Kendall Dr ive Miami, Flor ida 33176

Page 23

Opportunities for Mental Stimulation Abound at Senior Living Communities BYY HELEN N SHAHAM Q. My parents are in their mid 80’s. Mom is starting to exhibit early signs of dementia and dad is overwhelmed dealing with the added responsibilities of her care. My siblings and I recently started researching communities. As an educator, I strongly believe in the “use it or lose it” theory and want to be sure both parents will be actively engaged. How are senior living communities keeping residents’ brains active? A. Research continues to support the “use it or lose” it theory. As you know, the key to successful aging is remaining active; therefore, it’s essential for seniors to be in an environment that encourages intellectual, recreational, social and cultural pursuits. At The Palace communities, we continually seek out activities which keep residents engaged, active and mentally stimulated. Our newly launched Art Without Boundaries program uses MnemeTherapy™ which combines singing, movement, painting and story telling to stimulate positive changes in the brain. It has been successfully used for individuals with variety of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s as well as stroke victims. Named after the Greek goddess of memory, MnemeTherapy involves a personalized half hour session with Certified Mneme Therapist April Atlas, who heads the Miami-Dade chapter of the Art Without Boundaries Foundation, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization. Each session begins with a song to help the resident relax. This also engages both sides of the brain: the right side is the intuitive, creative side where music comes from and the brain’s left side is the logical, sequential center providing language. After a brief assessment, the resident reviews samples and selects a painting he or she would like to recreate. According to Atlas, MnemeTherapy is neither an art lesson nor traditional art therapy. Residents choose what they like— she simply provides a step-by-step guide. She uses singing, movement, patterning, painting, story telling and praise to help stimulate sustained attentive focus and produce an amazing painting. The sessions often evoke memories for residents. For example, Leticia Villasanez, a resident at The Palace Royale, recalled her days in Cuba by naming her artwork “Beautiful Palm Tree in Cuba”. Once the painting is completed and named, residents develop a short story. In doing so, an old memory is now linked to a positive event. The artist and their work are then introduced to an audience, who provides positive feedback. This praise, says Atlas, increases dopamine levels in the brain, key

to alleviating some of the mood and emotional balance issues affecting Alzheimer’s patients. Our resident, Roxanne Manos, was a bit apprehensive because she had no experience; however, her hesitation was quickly replaced by excitement once her painting “Beauty of Nature” neared completion. “MnemeTherapy extends well beyond the half hour sessions,” said Atlas. “There’s a sense of pride and accomplishment as residents show off their creations to family and friends. One family was so excited about the painting that they took it home and framed it.” In addition to embracing activities for residents with dementia-related illnesses, we believe it’s important to provide programming that stimulates the brain prior to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related disorders. Our recent partnership with University of Miami’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute brings adult education courses to Palace residents as well as Kendall’s older adults. The spring session kicks off on January 5th and will explore western art and the political, economical and cultural contest in which it was created. The Palace communities have also introduced the Nintendo Wii gaming system, much to residents’ delight. Wii games such as Family Feud and The Price is Right are especially popular and help stimulate residents’ minds. Wii bowling and golf have also grown in popularity and have a fostered a spirit of camaraderie among Palace residents. I encourage you to meet with the community’s activity director and review the activity calendar to learn if there’s a good mix of educational and recreational programs. Although the staff at innovative senior living communities such as The Palace understands there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, they support the research that states the onset of dementia symptoms can be delayed by keeping mentally active and plan the community’s activities accordingly. If you have questions about the lifestyle changes that go with aging, or if you’d like to be invited to a social event at The Palace Suites, please send a note to Helen Shaham, The Palace Suites, 11377 S.W. 84th St., Miami, Florida 33173, call her at 305-2707020, or email helen@thepalace.org.

Helen Shaham and her husband Jacob have been operating Senior Living Communities for the past 30 years. The Palace Suites in Kendall is a luxury Independent Living Community for active seniors. In addition, The Palace at Kendall campus is home to two Assisted Living Residences and a Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. They also operate The Palace Gardens Assisted Living Community in Homestead, Homestead Manor Nursing Home and The Palace @ Home, a Medicare Certified Home Health Agency. Their two newest projects are The Palace at Weston – Luxury Living for Those 55 and Over, and The Palace Tel-Aviv, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Israel. They have two communities under development – The Palace at Weston Senior Living and The Palace at Coral Gables, Independent & Assisted Living. More information can be obtained by calling 305-271-2220 or by visiting The Palace website at <www.ThePalace.org>.

Page 24

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

ERCP with SpyGlass Comes to South Florida BY EDUAR RDO O RUA AN, MD Board Certified Gastroenterologgistt James Leavitt, MD, FACG is one of a handful of gastroenterologists trained to perform ERCP with Spy Glass. This procedure allows physicians to diagnose or treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas. Combining the use of x-rays and an endoscope, physicians can better examine the area, take tissue samples, and remove stones. Spyglass is a new technology that provides endoscopic imaging of all four quadrants of the biliary duct. It allows physicians to take a tissue sample with direct visualization, which greatly improves the rate of diagnosis and reduces the need for further testing and patient inconvenience. Dr. James Leavitt has been in prac-

tice since 1980. He is a graduate of D a r t m o u t h College, Magna Cum Laude, and the State University of New York Downstate Medical School. He completed his medical internship and residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami as well as his Gastroenterology fellowship. Dr. Leavitt is board certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine. Dr. Leavitt received from the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) the Freshman Governor of the Year Award and this year served as director for the annual ACG Practice Management course held in San Diego, California. To schedule an appointment or for more information, call (305) 459-3175 or visit <www.gicarecenter.com>.

save up to 70% on brand name labels

50% OFF SELECTED TAGS! COME SHOP OUR BRAND NAME LABELS: Theory, Free People, Marc Jacobs, BCBG, Seven Jeans, Abercrombie, Hollister, American Apparel, Juicy Couture, Lucky Brand, Hard Tail, James Perse, Diesel, Lacoste, Pac Sun and Urban Outfitters clothing & much more.

305.233.6744 w w w. t h e r e c y c l e d c l o s e t . c o m

13843 South Dixie Highway, Miami, FL 33176

You know what happens when you don’t advertise? Nothing. To avoid nothing from happening call 305-669-7355 today.

Miami’s Community Newspapers www.communitynewspapers.com

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 25

Delray String Quartet in concert at St. Thomas Episcopal Parish BY ROBERT HAMILTON

The Delray String Quartet continues its sixth season on Feb. 5, 7:30 p.m., at St. Thomas Episcopal Parish, 5690 N. Kendall Dr. in Coral Gables. Joining the quartet is violinist Megan McClendon, a recent alumna of the New World Symphony in Miami Beach under the direction of Michael Tilson Thomas. She holds a Bachelor of Music and Graduate Performance Diploma from Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore and a Master of Music degree from San Francisco Conservatory of Music. As a recitalist and chamber musician, she has performed with artists such as Robert Mann, Jorja Fleezanis, Todd Philips, and Paul Hersh. Megan grew up in Dallas, TX, but her performances have taken her all around the country and to Europe. Currently she is a memMegan McClendon ber of the Florida Grand Opera –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– and a faculty member at Miami Dade College. the music to be performed. Enjoy amusThe theme of the evening will be ing anecdotes and secret scandals of the Russian Winters to Broadway Blues, a composers. diverse program presenting the music of Members of the quartet are violinist Mei Gershwin, Haydn and Glazunov. Chilly Mei Luo, violinist Megan McClendon, vioRussian nights will seem far away from list Richard Fleischman and cellist Claudio sunny Florida when listening to Jaffé. More information can be found online Glazunov’s quartet but Gershwin’s Lullaby at <www.DelrayStringQuartet.com>. will transport you directly to the heat of Tickets at the door are $20; students, free Times Square in the ’30s. admission. Join Professor Richard Fleischman 30 For reservations and information call minutes prior to the concert for a pre- 561-213-4138 or send email to concert lecture and friendly discussion of <Tickets@DelrayStringQuartet.com>.

Thai - Sushi Bistro & Sake Lounge Under New Management r tic Bee Domes 1 2 FOR

HAPPY HOUR

Live DJ

Vinnie Only on Frid ays

Mon-Thurs 3pm-7pm & Friday 5pm-9pm NOW SERVING AMERICAN & FILIPINO BREAKFAST Only $3.9 9565 SW 72 St. • Miami

305.279.8583 305.878.5412

KARAOKE NIGHTS 9

Every Wednesday 2 FOR 1 DOMESTIC BEERFREE APPETIZER SIGN UP & JOIN OUR KARAOKE CONTEST

Whether you're looking to improve your skills in boxing, thaiboxing, or mixed martial arts; or become stronger and faster for baseball, football, tennis, golf or any other sport you can think of, we have the tools to help you reach your goals. Even if you just want to get healthier and feel better, regardless of age or fitness level, we have what you need. From our Youth Boxing to our Silver Sneakers senior fitness classes, we are your home for a healthier you.

MIAMI’S PREMIER SPOT FOR: • Fitness • Cross-Training • Kettlebells • Spinning • Yoga/Pilates

• • • • •

Boxing Mixed Martial Arts Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu TaeKwondo Parkour/Freerunning

THUMP FIGHT GYM

8100 SW 81ST DRIVE • MIAMI, FL 33143 PHONE: 305-403-7325 WWW.THUMPBOXINGGYM.COM

Page 26

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

Ciaran Sheehan to headline From Galway to Broadway BY BOB JENSEN

El Rancho Grande Mexican Restaurant, Kendall’s best kept secret, brings you the flavors of Mexico... Authentic Mexican Food, a festive display of color, ceramic tables and a décor ranging from Chihuahua to the Yucatán Peninsula. Business, family, casual and outside dining all in one.

Visit us: 12881 N. Kendall Drive Miami, FL 33186

305.382.9598

Broadway Phantom of the Opera star Ciaran Sheehan will headline the show From Galway to Broadway presented Saturday, Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m., at the South Dade Auditorium at 28401 SW 167 Ave. in Homestead. Discovered by legendary Broadway producer Hal Prince, Dublin-born Sheehan has been performing on Broadway, first as the romantic hero Marius in Les Miserables, then later as the dashing Raoul in the Phantom of the Opera. After two years as Raoul, Ciaran then starred in the coveted role of The Phantom. During the course of two and half years, he performed that role in more than 1,000 performances, both on Broadway and in Toronto. Ciaran currently is performing in concert

with the enchanting Broadway star, Gay Willis, and pianist Eily O’Grady Patterson. Together they bring a special Irish romance to the world’s most beautiful music. The new auditorium has the most up to date handicapped access features and is comfortable. Lots of free parking is available near the auditorium. Individual tickets are $25 at the door. To purchase season tickets go to <www.homesteadconcerts.com> or call 305-235-8818 or 305-253-6620. The concert series is presented with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs Council, the Mayor and the Miami-Dade County Commission. Additional support from local patrons, sponsors and benefactors keeps the season ticket price low at $50 for four concerts.

www.communitynewspapers.com

What is compounding? Photo by Ella Woodson

Sonia Martinez and her staff at Marco Drugs Women’s health—Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) for hormonal harmony Men’s health—Therapies for hormonal changes in men Children’s health—Medications in lower strengths or flavored for palatability Pet health—Formulations of special medications/products

The method of formulating and preparing prescription medication and nutritional supplements--customized in formula, dose, and dosage form--for physicians and their patients. Transfer any prescription with one phone call. Professional and personalized consultation about your medication regimen with information on side effects and precautions. Advocacy with your health care provider regarding your medication requirements. Wide selection of natural health products and supplements.

Marco Drugs & Compounding 6627 South Dixie Highway • Miami, FL 33143 Ph: 305-665-4411 • Fax: 305-663-3258 • marcodrugs@bellsouth.net www.marcodrugs.com

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 27

CATERING • TAKEOUT • DELIVERY For more information and reservations call

305-279-3606 or online at www.SiamPalacemiami.com

Celebrate 20 years with South Florida’s #1 Thai Restaurant as Siam Palace introduces Miami’s Best New Sushi Bar Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Siam Palace Join us on Sunday, February 14, 2010 for an unforgettable Valentine's evening. Enjoy culinary Thai and Sushi creations and exquisite wines and sake. Featuring live entertainment with internationally renowned harpist, Ms. Phuttaraksa Kamnirdratana. Call now for reservations at 305-279-6906. Limited seating available.

9999 S.W. 72nd Street Miami, FL 33173

Page 28

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

Celtic Cultural Series to present one-act comedy by J.M. Synge

Cast members are (l-r) Dan Fitzgerald, Oliver Kerr, Mary Ann Kerr and Sean Glynn ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY MARILYN LUNA

Antique, Victorian, and Contemporary Décor Come See Us For Unique Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Great Selection on Marcasite, Silver, and Natural Stone Jewelry Antique and Spiritual Books, Soy Candles, Incense, and Oils

Great Gifts for Birthdays, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and other Special Occasions

Located in Cauley Square since 2003 - Now Come and Visit our Second Location 6550 SW 40 Street (Bird Rd), Miami, FL 33155 (305) 665-0466 / (305) 975-8919

The St. Patrick’s Day Committee’s Celtic Cultural Series presents a staged reading of the one-act play In the Shadow of the Glen by J.M. Synge. The play will be performed in costume and staged 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 14, in the Upstairs Room of JohnMartin’s Irish Restaurant, 253 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. A dead body, the deceased’s waspish widow, a traveling whisky-loving tramp and a would-be Irish callow gigolo induce laughter and surprise in Synge’s comedy. Synge is sometimes dark as in Riders to

Hi-Tech Air Service

FPL PARTICIPATING INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR SM THE BEST SERVICE AND INSTALLATIONS IN MIAMI - DADE COUNTY

Hi-Tech Air Service

ASK FOR NANCY, TINO, OR JOHN CACO49302 FINANCING AVAILABLE

Monday-Saturday 11:00 - 7:00 • Sunday 12:00 - 5:00 RENTAL SPACE AVAILABLE FOR DEALERS

Bring this ad and get 10% off on all items

the Sea but in this play, he presents the humorous side he revealed in Playboy of the Western World. 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. The Celtic Cultural Series is produced by the St. Patrick’s Day Committee Inc. with the support of the City of Coral Gables, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs Council, the Mayor and the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners.

13339 SW 88 AVE. Miami, FL 33176

305-969-2600

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 29

2010 Volkswagen GTI marks sixth generation Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS The all-new 2010 Volkswagen GTI marks the sixth generation of the versatile hatchback sports car and, after almost three decades on the road, it continues to be a favorite with American consumers and driving enthusiasts around the world. With a redesigned exterior, including a more aggressive front end, cleaner side profile and sleeker hatch area, the GTI continues with its sporty nature. At the same time, new interior enhancements provide control and comfort for both the driver and passengers. The 2010 GTI is offered in both two-door and four-door models and both have numerous styling cues from the original Mk I. The front end starts with the hallmark black honeycomb grille with the GTI badge affixed on the passenger side. The distinct red stripe outline flows into the new angled teardrop headlight housings, with High Intensity Gasdischarged Xenon headlights as an option. The lower front fascia cooling duct is blacked out and positioned between two

halogen fog lamps. A more streamlined profile continues to the rear, with subtle black side skirts running partially along the car’s lower edge. To the rear, new taillights are integrated into the quarter panels and hatch, and include smoke-red brake lenses and clear reverse and turn-signal lenses. Red running lights blend into the updated rear bumper and the diffuser has special cutouts for the chrome-tipped, split dual-exhaust. A bodycolor duckbill spoiler sits atop the rear hatch, which houses a third brake light. The GTI comes standard with 17x7-inch alloy wheels and all-season performance tires, but can be upgraded to larger 18x7.5inch wheels. Under the hood, there’s a 2.0-liter 200 hp 16-valve DOHC turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder gasoline engine (21/31 mpg), with FSI direct fuel injection and maintenance-free hydraulic lifters. It has an advanced, fully electronic management system that combines drive-by-wire throttle control and FSI direct fuel injection to cut back on emissions, while increasing overall fuel efficiency and power. With the standard sixspeed manual transmission, the GTI notches a not-too-shabby 0-60 mph clocking in 6.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph. The GTI rides on a fully independent,

All-new VW GTI comes in two-door and four-door models; has black honeycomb grille, new angled teardrop headlights and halogen fog lamps.

European-tuned suspension with McPherson struts, with lower control arms up front complemented by a tubular anti-roll bar to keep the front wheels planted, especially in the corners, and connect to an all-aluminum subframe. The track-stabilization steering roll radius cuts back on body roll in tight turning situations, and has a more direct steering ratio for improved driver feedback. Keeping the car settled at the rear without sacrificing passenger comfort, a four-link independent setup with the springs and shock absorbers positioned apart from each other are matched with a separate sub-frame and

another tubular anti-roll bar. The sport-tuned arrangement comes with an added benefit — increased cargo space — by allowing for a larger rear hatch opening. Helping the GTI to head into the corners with ease is an electromechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system. Base price on the VW GTI is $23,290. 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>.

February 2 - 8, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 39

Page 40

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 2 - 8, 2010

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.