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Cutler Bay MAY 15 - 28, 2012
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305-669-7355
Town clerk’s firing ignites debate, raises questions
BY GARY ALAN RUSE
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own clerk Esther Coulson was fired on Tuesday, May 1, during an 8 a.m. emergency meeting of the Cutler Bay Town Council, by a 3-1 vote. Council members Peggy Bell, Mary Ann Mixon and Sue Ellen Loyzelle voted for the dismissal and Mayor Ed MacDougall voted against firing Coulson. Vice Mayor Ernie Sochin was keeping a doctor’s appointment and was not present. The assistant town clerk, Pam Regula, resigned. The issue, which began earlier, has sparked controversy and differing views among members of the council and Cutler Bay residents. “I never felt the clerk was anything but a great clerk,” MacDougall said when contacted after the vote. “I had full confidence in her abilities and never experienced any indication of poor performance. “I had no reason to fire her and could not understand why members Bell, Loyzelle and Mixon wanted her gone. It was clear to me that the manager wanted her gone as well. He tried to get me to fire her (ask her to resign). I told him I would not, but if the three members aforementioned felt she was underperforming I would ask ESTHER COULSON for a review by the council,” the mayor added. “The manager and legal put a corrective plan together based on what they thought. I did not put it together. And it was given to
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CLERK, page 6
Channel 10 meteorologist joins Whigham Elem. Earth Day event
County seeking distribution sites for Summer Food Service Program BY W. DAVID ALLISON
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iami-Dade Community Action and Human Services Department (CAHSD) is currently seeking program sites for the county’s 2012 Summer Food Service Program. Applications are being accepted for consideration from organizations that wish to become a Summer Food Service Program site. The Summer Food Service Program will operate from Monday, June 11, through Friday, Aug. 10. The program provides nutritionally balanced lunches and snacks to needy children regardless of race, color, creed, sex, handicap, age or national origin during the summer recess. Program sites may be public or private facilities, such as community or recreational centers, summer camps, cultural workshops or churches that provide services for children. Selected program sites Pictured are (l-r, back row) Madelyn Sierra-Hernandez, assistant principal; teacher Priscilla Cowart; Susan Lyle, principal; Trent Aric; teachers Susan Cummings and Marilyn Horne; (front row) teachers Lisa Brannon, Adrian Delesdenier and Louis Saenz.
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FOOD, page 6
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BY GARY ALAN RUSE
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tudents, faculty and administrators of Dr. E. L. Whigham Elementary School observed Earth Day on Apr. 30 with a large scale project and a special guest known to many area television viewers. “Earth Day was celebrated in a big way at Whigham this year,” said Marilyn Horne, fourth grade teacher. “We were the recipients of a grant from Fairchild
Gardens and built a large vegetable garden. We joined in a school-wide effort to plant a large butterfly garden. “Plants, trees, mulch, and soil were donated from teachers, residents, and parents. Marty and Peggy Bell donated a Japanese fern tree and a Colusa rose tree which were also planted.” Horne said that as educators, getting students interested in preserving and car-
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EARTH DAY, page 6
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May 15 - 28, 2012
May 15 - 28, 2012
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Redland International Orchid Show at Fruit and Spice Park, May 18-20 BY CATHY GUERRA
Don’t miss the Redland International Orchid Show May 18-20 at the Fruit and Spice Park, located at 24801 SW 187 Ave. in Homestead. Truly the largest annual orchid show in the United States which features over 50 booths of educational exhibits and orchid vendors, the American Orchid Society-judged event showcases various types of orchids, plants, and unique supplies for sale. There also will be lectures by experts in the field, raffles and international food. Admission is $10 per person and children under age 12 are admitted free. Doors open at 9 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 the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department, grows more than 500 vari-
eties 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. For information about Miami-Dade Parks call 3-1-1, or visit online at <www.miamidade.gov/parks>.
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May 15 - 28, 2012
The Tandem Experience offers new concept in theater camp BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD
The opening of the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St. in Cutler Bay, created the opportunity for a new theater-related summer camp called The Tandem Experience. Created by Robin Barson and Jeannie Sensale, the summer camp will culminate with a production of Pirates of Penzance. The announcement about Tandem created a stir. The ink was barely dry on the contract with the county before they received three camp registrations. Part of the excitement is that the camp will teach both performance and technical skills. “This is a skilled-based program both in the performance and technical tracks,” Barson said. The idea is to give the campers exposure to higher levels of instruction than they might get elsewhere. “A lot of kids only want to go out and be a lead in a production,” Barson said. “A lot of kids end up in technical theater because their audition didn’t go so well. We think it’s an area that can be a training ground for a career. We want to introduce them to the possibility.” Every production can be a positive experience even for those who are not the lead because each production teaches you something different. “We want them to find ways to learn something in every possibility,” Barson said. Barson, the drama teacher at Ammons Middle School, will be the camp artistic director. Sensale, the musical director, teaches voice to private students. She also is the musical director for productions at Ammons as well as Palmer Trinity School. The two met in a community theater performance of Guys and Dolls in 1999. They are bringing in an additional teacher, Phebe Hibshman, the drama teacher at Palmer who is a trained Shakespearean actress, as artistic director. “We’ve been building summer camps and working together in production for years both on stage and with children,” Barson said. “We’ve done numerous children’s theater productions.” Barson said the summer camp is just the first project for Tandem. The plan calls for bringing in professionals in both the acting and technical fields to work with the campers. “A professional might do a master class on character,” Barson said, adding that
Robin Barson and Jeannie Sensale will run a theater summer camp at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
lighting directors could do presentations on proper lights or a costume designer might come in for a session on costume design. “They’ll do hands-on workshops with the technical students, so they’ll get an intensive in lighting,” Barson said. Sensale said not only will the technical kids get great instruction, but the children on the performing side will gain broader knowledge as well. The camp also will teach the children a great understanding of ensemble work. Barson said the camp will be a diva-free zone because the students will learn that everyone in a production has value. Tandem is offering six full scholarships that will be based on need, talent and interest. They are seeking additional funding to make the camp even more affordable for families while still being cost effective. In creating the company, Barson and Sensale received input from a parent advisory board and a teen advisory board. They wanted to ensure they were taking an educational approach that also fit with their philosophical approach. Camp will run from July 16 to Aug. 10 and will feature a performing track and a technical track. The camp is open to children ages 10 to 18. The performance is scheduled for Aug. 9 at 7 p.m. It will be open to the public. For more information, go online to <www.tandemtheatreproject.org>.
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Crime is down in Cutler Bay. Let’s hope civility stays up Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR
AROUND TOWN Well,folks, folks, the good news is that accordWell, ing to the April Police Report, crime is down in the Town of Cutler Bay. It varies by category, but overall crime is down almost 11 percent over last year. For the month of April, there were no homicides, four forcible sex offenses, two robberies, 123 cases of larceny, five auto thefts, 22 burglaries and12 aggravated assaults. Any reduction is an improvement, and kudos should go to the members of the Cutler Bay Police for their continuing efforts. In other other aareas, reas, recent events may put to In the test the town council’s resolution of November of last year, called “Town’s Commitment to Maintain Civility Resolution In its Public and Political Discourse.” Everyone should take a refresher look at it, especially sections 2 and 3. You can find it online, by the way, at this address: h t t p : / / w w w. c u t l e r b a y - f l . g o v / m e e t i n g / 1 3 2 2 8 6 8 9 7 0 _ R e s o l u t i o n % 2 0 11 78%20Civility.pdf
Calendar marking time… Calendar marking time… the next Regular Council Meeting is on Wednesday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m. at the Town of Cutler Bay Council Chambers at 10720 Caribbean Boulevard, Cutler Bay. This could be a feisty one, folks, especially after the Town Council Special Meeting regarding “Interim Town Clerk Transition” that was on the afternoon of May 10 (after our deadline time, so we don’t know how it went). The town holds its regularly scheduled council meetings every third Wednesday of the month. Regardingthe thefiring firing of Town Clerk Esther Regarding Coulson and the resignation of her assistant, we’re seeing a barrage of emails from many folks around Cutler Bay. Two follow. romPamela PamelaRegula, Regula, former assistant to FFrom the town clerk, we got this: “From the third day on the job, at my first council meeting, I saw first-hand how the administration treated the town clerk. The town clerk is a chartered position and equal to the manager as well as the attorney. Unfortunately, the manager, as quoted from the May 6, 2012 Herald article, “Pam was new and wasn’t used to the way we were running the organization.” The administration doesn’t run the clerk’s office. In fact, administration doesn’t run the town. According to the charter the town council runs the town. Even after our public work-
Cutler Bay News
6769 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355, Fax (305) 662-6980
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PUBLISHER .................................................................................................................................. Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz WRITERS, COLUMNISTS.............................................................. Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Ana Caceres, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, 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
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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.
shop regarding the memo I wrote, we couldn’t get assistance from the administration. We were consistently sent items and changes at the last minute. According to Mixon the clerk always sent the agenda late because of proofreading. We sent the agenda late because we received them late from the manager and attorney, with typos, missing items, and last minute items. If we didn’t take the time to make sure they were correct, we would be blamed for that as well. The Cutler Bay clerk position is a no win situation as long as current administration is running the government like a private business. The administration should not have a role in the hiring a new clerk. The Mayor and the Council should receive the resumes directly without involvement from administration. They should hold a panel interview for each of the candidates they choose.” rom Louise Louise Lockwood, Lockwood, long-time resiFFrom dent and activist who had a hand in building and shaping the Town of Cutler Bay, we got this: “Last year Mayor MacDougall called me and wanted to know if there was a need for an exercise person to teach pool exercises. I inquired and it was approved by East Ridge. I contacted Mayor McDougall and he introduced me to Esther Coulson and we arranged for her to come in one morning a week to to
do water exercises. Esther came here and after she was finished she went to Town Hall to work. Some Wednesdays we had 10 or more and everyone felt so good after the exercises and Esther was so good at doing water exercise. Then she stopped coming. So I inquired and some of the female council members felt she should be at Town Hall working and not helping seniors at East Ridge. So Esther never came back and we missed her very much. This was a terrible thing to stop. We at East Ridge live in Cutler Bay and what a wonderful community service for Esther to do for only one hour a week. She was wonderful to work with. All Council Members should be doing some kind of community service. It was a heart break for her not to continue doing something to help senior citizens at East Ridge.” Thoughtof ofthe theDay: Day: Thought When life presents itself with a thousand reasons to cry, show the world that you have a thousand and one reasons to smile. — Fernando Cabral
Richard Yager contributed to this report. Got Tips? Call 305-669-7355 ext. 249 or send emails to Michael@communitynewspapers.com
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EARTH DAY, from page 1
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ing for the earth is a huge priority at the school, and that they want to “encourage and energize children to be aware of how fragile and beautiful the world we live in is.” They were joined by Trent Aric, meteorologist from Channel 10 News, who also is a Cutler Bay resident, to open the ceremony. Susan Cummings, fifth grade science coach and Science Department chair at the school, couldn’t have been happier with the visit, even though the weather, ironically, was threatening. ”We were so excited to hear that Mr. Trent Aric was going to speak at our Earth Day ceremony,” Cummings said. “As the entire student body gathered outside for the event, the wind and rain began to blow. Of course, all fingers were pointed to Mr. Aric as we managed to relocate all students into the cafeteria for a wonderful ceremony. “Afterwards, the students jumped
FOOD, from page 1
between raindrops to plant avocado trees along the back of the school and a butterfly garden by the PE court. Without our strong staff and parental support, this event would not have been as successful.” Priscilla Cowart, the fifth grade inclusion teacher at Whigham, reflected on the way the meteorologist’s participation in the event came about. “Susan Cummings and I met Mr. Aric while working out at Crossfit React,” Cowart said. “After finding out Mr. Aric lives within the Cutler Bay community, we extended an invitation to him asking if he could be our opening speaker at our Earth Day ceremony. “Mr. Aric was not only extremely approachable, but he proved to be as reliable and professional as they come. As he addressed the student body about weather, recycling and his job, he actively engaged all age groups. It definitely was a treat and an honor for us!”
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will receive meals to serve the general public in addition to the children participating in their program. The Summer Food Service Program is open to children up to age 18 residing in geographical areas where 50 percent or more of the children qualify for free or reduced price meals during the regular school year. Applications for the Summer Food Service Program can be downloaded from the Miami-Dade County Web portal at <www.miamidade.gov/socialservices>. Applications must be submitted on or before by 5 p.m. EST on May 25. For more information about the Summer Food Service Program, contact Rani Panchanathan, Nutrition Services Supervisor
The program provides nutritionally balanced lunches and snacks to needy children regardless of racce, color, creed, sex, handicap, age or national origin during the summer recess. at 786-469-4789 or Ruthe White, Nutrition Service Coordinator at 786-469-4692.
JUMPS FOR CUTLER BAY
CLERK, from page 1
May 15 - 28, 2012
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the clerk. It was clearly understood that the clerk would be given 60 days — workdays — to correct what the three members and the manager wanted. The 60 days were to be up on Apr 23. At that time the council would gather to discuss the clerk’s progress. In a surprise move on Apr. 17, at 11 p.m., after all but three people had left the monthly meeting, Councilmember Bell asked that the meeting be extended so the council could discuss the clerk’s progress. “After being given an extension, with no discussion about how the council felt, Bell made a motion to dismiss the clerk by asking her to resign,” MacDougall said. “All the aforementioned voted yes; the Vice Mayor and I voted no. Then she made a motion to fire the assistant clerk. That motion failed.” Councilmember Mixon responded to questions about the Apr. 17 vote. “No one I know on the council has any personal issues with Ms. Coulson,” Mixon said. “She is a lovely woman. She was not fired; by a vote of 3 to 2 her resignation was asked for. This decision was performancebased only. Her resignation was asked for based on a list of 12 items put forth by Mayor MacDougall and given to the rest of the council on Jan. 25, 2012. “To my understanding, this list was put together because she was falling short on her duties and making many mistakes. This list of 12 items gave the clerk 60 days to address and rectify those 12 items on the list,” Mixon continued. “The 60 days went by and there wasn’t enough improvement; so based on her not resolving those issues and in addition, making mistakes that were extremely costly to the town, to the tune of nearly $4,000, her resignation was asked for.” Mixon said that the council had been discussing the town clerk’s abilities and/or issues with her job since June or July of last year. After the May 1 vote to fire the clerk, she made an additional statement. “Many residents got up and spoke against our decision but they are not in our position and do not know the totality of it all,” Mixon said. “Many were under the impression that this was something three council members came up with out of the blue 60 days ago. Which [by the way] is totally not true. “I’d be interested in how the mayor could have no problems with the clerk yet write a 12-item list of things she needed to improve upon. At the meeting this morning the mayor completely denied having anything to do with this list and that it never came from him.” Mixon stated that the town attorney took minutes of the Jan. 25 meeting at which the list was handed out and which are public record. After which, the mayor responded
again, reaffirming that he did not create the list, that it came from the town manager. When asked what prompted her to vote to fire the clerk, Councilmember Bell’s answer was brief. “The record speaks for itself,” Bell said, adding, “I believe it is unnecessary to disparage the clerk.” Vice Mayor Sochin also commented on the firing. “I was very upset because my dealings with the clerk since she’s been there have been fantastic,” Sochin said. “I never asked her for anything that she didn’t get right away. She’s been totally overwhelmed with work.” The May 1 firing also prompted a volley of email messages from Cutler Bay residents, such as Steve Zarzecki of the Concerned Citizens of Cutler Bay, who sent this to fellow residents and members of the news media: “At Tuesday’s special town council meeting, called by Peggy Bell to fire the town clerk, the town manager, in what seemed to be a scripted move, suggested…directed?...that the council appoint his assistant as interim clerk. Over the objection of the mayor, the council voted to do this. I see this as a blatant violation of Section 3.3 of our town charter: “The town manager shall: (1) Be responsible for the appointing, hiring, promoting, supervising and removing of all town employees, except the town attorney and town clerk and all of their employees. “Obviously, the manager’s assistant was hired by, is supervised by, and will be promoted by the town manager. The fox is officially and illegally in the hen house. The power grab is complete. Our Cutler Bay government is not only dysfunctional — it is out of control. The town manager must go.” Nancy McCue commented on Zarzecki’s message and the vote. “It is with great sadness to learn that the years of work and the dreams of so many to have a local government untarnished by political games and power plays was for naught,” McCue wrote. Resident and pioneer Louise Lockwood commented on the firing. “Esther Coulson was doing community service for East Ridge seniors for one hour a week and had to stop coming because three of our council members felt she was needed at Town Hall and it was only one hour a week,” Lockwood said. “Esther Coulson was a very dedicated person who wanted to help seniors. Shame on our council members who managed to stop her from coming. I worked for 10 years to become incorporated and have decided that if I had to vote on this now, it would be a big ‘no.’” Councilmember Loyzelle had not responded by deadline time for this issue.
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Must companies doing business with Cuba stay out of Florida? R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY Florida Gov. Rick Scott, as of this writing, must decide if he is going to sign into law a bill that prohibits foreign corporations that do business with Cuba from doing business in Florida. It is a poor law! Brazil, South Florida’s largest trading partner, says “no” to the proposed law. Canada says “no.” The Florida Chamber of Commerce says “no” to the proposed law. Florida would be losing the benefits derived from major international businesses that now are contributing to the growth of our state. The Canadian ambassador called the Florida Chamber of Commerce president and said that if the bill is passed into law many Canadian corporations that currently do business in Cuba and Florida will stop making investments in our state for fear that the proposed law will prohibit them from developing their investments.
The Brazilian Minister of Trade and Industry, Fernando Pimentel, talked about the bill last month with U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson telling him his government couldn’t do anything thing until the state [Florida] takes a position on the proposed law. Then they would decide how to act. Interestingly, our governor traveled to Brazil earlier this year on a trade mission seeking to increase the currently blooming trade between Florida and Brazil. He seems to forget that Odebrecht USA, a subsidiary of Odebrecht in Brazil, the third largest construction company in the world that build major portions of Miami International Airport and currently are building the Metrorail extension to the airport no longer would be permitted to work in Florida. All this appears an effort to curry the support of South Florida voters who came from Cuba. Will it do anything to bring down the Castro regime? Except for a baseball manager’s romance with Castro everyone I know in Florida — of Cuban heritage or not — wants to see Castro’s way of government gone and the island return to a democratic state. But ban-
VIEWPOINT ning a foreign corporation from doing business in Florida, if it happens to be doing business in Cuba, is no way to build a better Florida. Wilson, the Florida Chamber of Commerce president, to quote the Miami Herald, said “companies should not do business with oppressive regimes in Cuba and Syria. But, having a state [Florida] instead of the federal government, setting foreign policy is unconstitutional. Florida has gone around the world and said ‘we want to be your trading partner.’ How do we tell the world we want the world here and then send an unconstitutional message to them that ‘oh, by the way, we’re going to start doing country-by-country rule making?’” Just how far reaching such a law could go is almost impossible to project. As an example: City National Bank, here in Miami, is custodian for several Miami-Dade County
bank accounts. The bank is owned by Cajas Madrid of Spain, which Cuba lists as one of the financial institutions operating in Cuba. Does this mean City National Bank no longer can do business in Florida? Doesn’t make sense, does it? The list must go into the thousands once you start researching what holding companies own a company operating in Florida and also own a subsidiary that does business in Cuba. It will make any company in the world think twice about doing business in Florida. Just how costly will that be? 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.
East Ridge Retirement Village Names New Marketing Director Rick H. Drew, who has nearly 15 years of experience Westgate Travel Club. in sales and marketing, has been named the director Drew received an associate’s degree in criminal jusof marketing for East Ridge Retirement Village, a life tice from Seminole State College in Sanford and is a licare community in Cutler Bay. censed real estate sales person. Drew will be responsible for managing and overAbout East Ridge seeing the sales and marketing programs for the comCelebrating over 50 years serving Miami-Dade munity and implementing the training curriculum for County, East Ridge Retirement Village is a unique the marketing team. life care community incorporating eight compo“We are pleased to have Rick join the East Ridge nents of wellness: social, vocational, intellectual, community,” said Executive Director Victoria Duvall. spiritual, physical, emotional, and environmental “He possesses the combination of sales experience and health services in every facet of its lifestyle. The and supervisory skills that will make him a valued adcommunity draws from the rich neighborhood dition.” charm of suburban Cutler Bay and the vibrancy of Prior to joining East Ridge, Drew served with WestMiami in a lush tropical environment. East Ridge, gate Resorts, the largest privately held corporation located at 19301 SW 87th Avenue, offers a continspecializing in time shares. He held varied positions uum of care, including independent and assisting with the company and was promoted from operations living, respite care and skilled nursing care and director to in-house sales director and a regional project director. rehab. For more information, please call (305) 256-3564 for a personal Later, as the company’s national project director, he founded the tour or visit www.eastridgerc.com <http://www.eastridgerc.com/> .
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May 15 - 28, 2012
People are starting to call me Retro-Ernie BY ERNIE SOCHIN
Vice Mayor People are starting to call me Retro-Ernie because of all my articles dealing with “The Good Old Days.” Well I can’t help myself; they really were good old days and to those young-uns reading this, let me tell you that some day you will be looking back on these present days as good old days. Believe me. Yes, we now have all kinds of sophisticated technological stuff that seems so great, but what does it really provide us? In the old days, television was free. Yeah, we only had three or four channels but Milton Berle, Arthur Godfrey and Friday night wrestling were all we needed. The other day I was listening on my car radio to a station on the West Coast of Florida — WAVV in Naples. They were playing “easy listening” music and I was able to sing along with just about every song — Bridge over Troubled Waters, Dancing in the Dark, Blue Moon, etc., etc. Try doing that nowadays. I watched the Grammy’s and could barely make out any of the lyrics, never mind sing along with them.
So much for me being on American Idol. There was a time that I actually looked forward to the postman coming. (They only were men then.) I might get a letter from someone or perhaps a commission check, but there always was something to look forward to other than a bunch of flyers offering pizza at special prices. When I received a letter from someone, I had time to actually think about a reply. Now, when someone texts you they expect an immediate response. “I texted you 35 seconds ago and haven’t heard back yet!” (BTW, do you remember actually licking stamps?) Everybody had electricity back then and no one ever thought about how much next month’s bill might be. It could be $14 or $15; who cares? I remember filling my car up with gas for $4 and asking my buddies to chip in a dollar each so we could drive someplace. No kidding! Remember pin-boys at the bowling alley? Trying to hit one with a ball or pin was part of the fun. (Hey, I was younger then.) Flying: There was a time when you purchased a ticket from an airline, went to the airport, waited for them to announce your flight and then boarded the plane, Simple, huh? Then a stewardess, as they were once called, offered you a drink and choice of
Remember when a stewardess, as they were once called, offered you a drink and choice of meal.
meal once you were on the way. The “stewardesses” were always young and cute too. (At least I thought they were.) Here’s a tough one guaranteed to make me a few new enemies. Woman stayed home and took care of the house and children. I guess “Rosie the Riveter” changed all that. My mom always was waiting for me after I walked home from school with a bloody nose from John Batten punching me. My mother soothed things over and told me to stop fighting in the schoolyard. We actually all ate dinner together at the end of the day, and not a fork was touched until Daddy got home at the same time every night. When is the last time any of you all sat down as a family? Yes, I know women are now equal and are entitled to earn a salary so we can afford the new Lexus and Hi-Def TV, but I really liked having my mother at home. Oh, well! Divorce: That was a word that only referred to Hollywood stars like Liz Taylor and others who were constantly changing spouses. We, and most comedians, would joke about it. Now I am sometimes embarrassed among friends when they start referring to wife No. 3 and husband No. 2. I have had only one for the last 49 1/2 years. People ask why and I explain because I always get the last word: “Yes, Dear.”
Besides my wife doesn’t allow me to date, which severely restricts my social life. No, I only had one mom and dad and I loved them both! Sports: We played baseball, football, hockey and just about every other sport and never had our parents around yelling at us or fancy uniforms. Nor did we care whether we were in first or last place. First base might be the garbage can lid, second an old phonebook, and if we had enough kids available, third would be and old carton. There was no Little League, Khoury League or any other league — just a bunch of kids who got together to knock a ball around and just plain have fun. “Those were the days, my friend; I thought they’d never end.”
May 15 - 28, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Young Israel of Kendall event THE HERITAGE SCHOOL to celebrate 25th anniversary “An International School” FOUNDED IN 1971 13300 SW 120 Street • Miami, FL 33186 • Ph: 305-232-2222
2012-2013 School Year
Modern building in Pinecrest is home to Young Israel of Kendall. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Young Israel of Kendall is celebrating the 25th anniversary in its location in Pinecrest, and in honor of the occasion, the congregation is planning a community-wide dinner event on Thursday, May 31, during which the synagogue and all of its members and friends will be honored on having achieved this unique 25-year milestone. Rabbi Hershel Becker said that when the synagogue first moved into the area, it began with a small house, which was used to conduct daily services and to provide a meeting place and other services for the community. But it was not long afterwards when a vision of a magnificent new building became a reality, as plans and construction of the current beautiful sanctuary, mikvah, classrooms, library, meeting rooms, administrative offices, and kitchen and catering facilities, were completed. Young Israel of Kendall is located cen-
trally one block east of Suniland Shopping Center in Pinecrest. In addition, the synagogue is marking the occasion at its dinner event and festivities by recognizing honorees of its annual dinner event over the past 25 years. Part of the evening’s planned programs is to give special recognition to those community leaders who have been instrumental in building and maintaining the synagogue’s presence in the community. The evening’s festivities will commence at 6:30 p.m., with cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres, followed by a catered dinner, music and planned activities. A journal ad book will be on hand as a keepsake of the 25-year celebration and the dinner event. For information about the dinner event and the ad book, contact the synagogue office at 7880 SW 112 St., Pinecrest, FL 33156, telephone 305232-6833. Information also can be obtained on the synagogue’s website at <www.youngisraelofkendall.com>.
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.
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May 15 - 28, 2012
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Page 9
It’s time for our legislators to start thinking outside the bag BY ROSS HANCOCK
Cutler Bay Mayor Ed MacDougall, like many of us in the communities fronting Biscayne Bay, has seen too many plastic shopping bags littering our shoreline and neighborhoods. These lighter-than-air bags float effortlessly, live forever, and seem to be multiplying somewhere. They endanger marine life, and they are the favorite breeding ground for summer mosquitoes. Mayor MacDougall looked into a town-wide ban on the plastic invaders, but found out that Florida towns are powerless to restrict the frisky critters. In 2008, our legislators in Tallahassee decided that banning bags is a power with which local government just can’t be trusted (Section 403.7033, Florida Statutes). So the mayor gave up on the idea, until an 8-year-old student asked why.
And Ed MacDougall asked himself, “Why, indeed?” Other cities in other states — and even entire countries — have banned plastic shopping bags. There probably is enough support in the community to at least debate the idea. Maybe in Orlando, they don’t want a plastic bag ban. Maybe Jacksonville doesn’t have the afternoon storms that send these things aloft to a bay. Maybe people in other towns all carefully recycle their bags, and they just want to keep them legal. The point is that special places have special situations. Why tie the hands of all the municipalities in the state? Well, it turns out that plastic bags are much cheaper than paper bags for the retailers, and the lobbyists for the retail chains knew it would be easier to influence state legislators instead of fighting in every town hall. Lobbyists are doing that kind of thing more and more. There is a lobby for airboats, so they get a bill going to stop cities from imposing a late-night curfew on airboat noise (Senate Bill 1794).
There’s a lobby for beekeepers, so they cook up a bill to keep towns from restricting beekeeping in neighborhoods (Senate Bill 1132). They do this with ease at the state level, because you would complain to the mayor and council members if your neighbor on the left started his airboat at midnight and it woke up all the angry bees belonging to your neighbor on the right. But you never see your state representative, so he never has to hear your complaints about the state laws that might create this catastrophe. The Florida League of Cities lists dozens of intrusive state laws that restrict the home rule of towns like Cutler Bay to govern themselves according to the will of residents, and according to the special character of
each community. Some of these restrictions are deadly serious, involving regulation of guns, pit bulls, wage theft, and hurricane preparation. It’s time for Florida legislators to stop meddling in the home rule of our municipalities. Starting with these pesky shopping bags, let’s hope the mayor and the young people of Cutler Bay will help show our Tallahassee government that local governments know best what our local communities need. Ross Hancock (ross@rosshancockforfla.com) is a candidate for State Representative for the new House District 114, including parts of Coral Gables, South Miami, Ludlam, and Pinecrest, plus all of West Miami and Cutler Bay.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
Rebuilding Together, partners ‘Make a Difference’ in Naranja BY LEE STEPHENS
Bradie Collier, 73, and Lillie Collier, 75, have lived in their Naranja home for 35 years. Bradie is legally blind and Lillie is in a wheelchair. They have two grandsons and a great granddaughter living with them. Their home is badly in need of repairs including modifications to accommodate the wheelchair. The Colliers are one of 20 homeowners who benefited from Rebuilding Together Miami’s annual Rebuild Day on Apr. 28. Despite the threat of rain, 350 volunteers turned out to help the Colliers and other deserving homeowners in South Miami-Dade’s Naranja community. In addition to home repairs, the volunteers landscaped St. Johns Missionary Baptist Church and completed a massive cleanup at Sea Pines complex. The rain did come after lunch, but most of the work was done. Mrs. Collier was overwhelmed with the change to her home. Reyna Chavery paints closet doors. “I am very excited and very ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– happy because I have seen my Naranja Community bedroom go from where I couldn’t enter Hamilton, and now I can go in with my wheelchair,” Redevelopment Agency, State Farm, AlFlex Exterminators, Arellano she said. Construction, Coastal Construction, Bradie felt the same way. “It’s a blessing from God, a blessing Cogent Construction, Carlos Luis State Farm, Pepsi Beverages Company, from God.” In the past three years, Rebuilding Everglades Steel, First Florida Building Together Miami has rehabbed 48 homes in Corp, First St. John Missionary Baptist the Naranja community with the help of Church, Hollub Homes, Kingdom Cuts, the Naranja Community Redevelopment KVC, MCM, Odebrecht Construction, Agency, contractors donating their skilled Overholt Construction, Shortys BarBQ, labor and many volunteers. Preserving South Pointe Construction, Turner homeownership and revitalizing communi- Construction, WM Bagsters, Whole Foods ties by providing free rehabilitation servic- Market Coral Gables, Valspar Paint, es is the mission of Rebuilding Together LYND Company, Landmark Construction Services, Team Contracting, and Core Miami-Dade. By leveraging resources and organizing Construction Services of South Florida. “We are pleased to make a difference in volunteers, Rebuilding Together Miami is able to provide repairs for homeowners to the lives of the Naranja homeowners. create safe and dry homes. The homeown- Rebuilding Together Miami is committed ers live on fixed incomes that force them to to preserving affordable housing and helpchoose between medicine and food or ing those less fortunate “ said Donna Fales, executive director of Rebuilding Together repairing a leaking roof. Funding the home repairs are Raymond Miami. For more information, visit online at James, Chrysalis Center, SunTrust Investment Services, Booz Allen <www.rebuildingtogethermiami.org>.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
Competition crowns top young talent in county BY EMILY CARDENAS
The crowd sat in silence on pins and needles as finalists from each category walked on stage one by one to hear the judges’ decisions — then cheers erupted from the crowd as the winners were announced. It was the finals of the Young Talent Big Dreams competition on Apr. 28 at Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables. Felipe Herrera, a 14-year-old pianist and student at Coral Reef Senior High, took top honors in the solo musical instrument category for his stunning performance of an original composition. New World School of the Arts student Johnny Wright, 17, stole the show in the dance category with contrasting strength and grace, while a diverse group from the Thomas Armour Youth Ballet tapped their way into everyone’s hearts to win group dance. Isabel Peña, 10, transported the audience to Broadway with her theatrical vocal performance, and Janay Blakely pierced souls with her powerful spoken word piece. Esther and Gloria Chae, the final act of the night, electrified the audience with their precision and technical mastery of piano and cello and walked away as overall grand prize winners. The sisters, 9 and 12 respectively, took home a $500 cash prize and earned a private recording studio session with award-winning musician, producer and arranger, Paul Fakhourie, who has worked with such renowned artists as Eric Clapton, Stephen Damian, Ziggy Marley, and Lauryn Hill. All of the Young Talent Big Dreams winners will continue to share their talent throughout the year with scheduled performances around Miami-Dade County. Winners also won the chance to attend master classes with professionals in their discipline. But regardless of who won, there were no losers at the Miracle Theatre, even after the last balloon and confetti flake floated to the floor. “It’s been a great experience to get exposed to different people, actors, dancers, musicians,” said Shatorri Faison, 17. Guitar player Christopher Torres actually passed on his high school prom to participate in the finale. “It’s an opportunity to play for people, and I’ve never had a chance to do this before outside of school,” he said. “When we watch and read the news every day we don’t often see the most shining examples of our young people, but when you come here and experience all of this extraordinary talent you realize hope is very much
alive, and that our future is bright because of them,” said Modesto E. Abety-Gutierrez, president and CEO of The Children’s Trust, presenting sponsor of the competition. The Young Talent Big Dreams competition, now in its second year, is coordinated by Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre. Seven auditions in all held at theaters from the northern corner to the southern tip of Miami-Dade, and hundreds of participants showcased their talents this year. The competition follows the popular TV talent show model, and judges have included a host of industry professionals from the performing arts community. Judges for the finals were Milton Granger, Howard Cohen, Daniel Lewis, Jodie Langel and Nerissa Street. Wells Fargo was the evening’s sponsor. “Actors’ Playhouse is proud to have initiated Young Talent Big Dreams, in partnership with The Children’s Trust, to help develop young talent in Miami-Dade County,” said Barbara S. Stein, Actors’ Playhouse executive producing director. “The arts are a critical component to a wellrounded individual, both educationally and culturally, and arts programs develop character, self-confidence, and skills as much as the three R’s in traditional learning experiences,” she added. “I had no idea I would make it into the finals. I was so surprised,” said Gabriella Ortega, 9. “I was really nervous in rehearsal, but once I’m on stage I get into it.” Kristynn Portugues, 12, who has diabetes, wants kids to know that no chronic disease or disability should slow them down. “I’m so glad to find a competition that’s really all about the talent God gave you and not about your looks,” she said. Arantza Espinosa certainly didn’t let her visual impairment hold her back. Despite being blind, she and her performance partner, Eddy Camacho, both from Braddock Senior High School, won in the group instrumental/vocal category. A total of 88 acts made it to the semifinals, and 22 advanced to the finale. The contestants — all residents of Miami-Dade County — ranged in age from 8 to 17. “Boy, do I love my job!” roared Earl Maulding from the stage. The director of Theatre for Young Audiences at Actors’ Playhouse was the official emcee of the competition. “It’s so inspiring to travel around MiamiDade County and see all of this amazing talent. It’s also gratifying to see kids who didn’t make it to the finals last year come back again. It shows you that they have the perseverance to keep on trying and the desire to improve,” Maulding added.
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Authors outline inspiring history of South Beach BY BAY PROBY
Charles J. Kropke and Eleanor Goldstein, co-authors of South Beach: Stories of a Renaissance, chronicled the remarkable pioneers, builders and civic leaders who turned South Beach into one of the travel world’s most remarkable success stories at Books & Books in Coral Gables on May 2. In its first year of publication, the lavishly illustrated 244-page souvenir book, published by Coral Gablesbased Tropic Moon Press, has won rave reviews from booksellers, readers and civic organizations. Autographed copies of the colorful hardcover publication now are available for sale at the leading independent bookstore. “The book is a treasure trove of stories, photos and original artwork that brings South Beach to life,” said Goldstein, noting it took more than two years of interviews and research to create the book. “One of the reasons our book has taken off is that readers appreciate the
intriguing stories that bring South Beach to life,” Kropke added. “We feel passionate about South Beach and appreciate the opportunity to pass that enthusiasm along to you tonight.” Recently, the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) selected South Beach: Stories of a Renaissance as its feature book for MDPL Reads, a community reading program. The “coffee table” souvenir book also was featured during Art Deco Weekend, an annual event organized by the league that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, Lincoln Road and the other storied streets of South Beach. For more about the book or to order a copy, visit online at <www.southbeachstories.com>. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pictured at the Books & Books Coral Gables book signing are (l-r) authors Charles J. Kropke and Eleanor Goldstein, and Books & Books owner Mitch Kaplan.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
County’s Green Business Certification, Commercial Rebate programs launched BY MAGGIE FERNANDEZ
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In celebration of Miami-Dade Green Week and Earth Day, Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez and County Commissioner Rebeca Sosa officially launched the Miami-Dade Green Business Certification and Commercial Rebate programs on Apr. 20 at La Loggia Ristorante in downtown Miami. The programs were kicked off by issuing the county’s first Green Business Certification decal to La Loggia Ristorante. In addition, participants toured the establishment’s kitchen to view the new Energy Star-rated freezers and food warmer purchased with a $10,000 Miami-Dade Commercial Rebate. “With the Green Business Certification Program, we are doing our part to protect the environment, and we’re also helping stimulate our local economy,” Mayor Gimenez said. “I’m proud that our county government is helping local businesses operate more efficiently.” With $1 million in federal funds available through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program, $10,000 in rebates are available to local businesses for the purchase of certain Energy Star appliances and equipment. This program is offered to decrease a business’ energy consumption and increase savings on energy bills by encouraging the replacement of older and inefficient appliances. To date, 62 businesses have applied for the commercial rebate, and $193,000 in federal funds has been awarded.
Rebates are available to Miami-Dade businesses by applying to become certified through the Green Business Certification Program, which has been developed to help local businesses to maximize their social, ecological and financial performance. To date, 225 businesses have applied to become green certified, and 59 currently are going through the process. This certification program is an initiative of the Vibrant Economy goal area in GreenPrint, the county’s communitywide sustainability plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, cut energy, water and fuel consumption, and develop a more sustainable community. The commercial rebate program is part of the county’s energy efficiency campaign, an award-winning communitywide energy education program managed by the Office of Sustainability (OOS) that engages residents to gain support for energy conservation, renewable energy, recycling, and waste reduction, and serves as a catalyst for longterm behavior changes resulting in reduced energy usage. This campaign is an initiative of the Water and Energy Efficiency goal area in GreenPrint. The communitywide energy efficiency campaign is one of 12 projects part of the county’s EECBG program, which includes a mix of energy management projects, citizen outreach and education, sub-grants, pilot/demonstration programs, construction projects, and incentive programs. For more information, visit online at <http://green.miamidade.gov> or send email to <greenbusiness@miamidade.gov>.
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OPENING DOORS TO SOUTH FLORIDA REAL ESTATE
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May 15 - 28, 2012
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
May 15 - 28, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Belen student wins Baynanza T-shirt design competition BY TERESA MARTINEZ
Seventh grade Belen student Maximiliano Garcia del Pozo on Saturday, Apr. 21, accepted first prize for designing the T-shirt used in Baynanza. During the 30th anniversary of Baynanza thousands of volunteers from the community showed how much they care for one of our most important natural resources — Biscayne Bay. Many endured stormy conditions at 28 locations along the Bay during the Cleanup Day, picking up trash along the shorelines. Maximiliano was joined by his science teacher Andrés Jiménez and Professor Shyara Lara as well as his proud mother, María de los Ángeles del Pozo.
Maximiliano Garcia del Pozo, a seventh grade student at Belen is pictured with his artwork that inspired the Baynaza T-shirt.
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May 15 - 28, 2012
Doctors use procedure they pioneered on 1,000th patient BY MELISSA LICHTENHELD
Carlos Gutierrez of Miami made history as the 1,000th patient to receive a treatment pioneered nearly 20 years ago in South Florida by a team of doctors at Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute. The innovative repair allows patients to evade a silent killer that tends to strike at midlife and into the golden years. Doctors recently told Gutierrez, 63, that he was a victim of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. It is called a silent killer because the bulging of the aorta grows without symptoms. Had his aneurysm gone undiscovered, it was large enough to burst, resulting in a painful death. Gutierrez went home the following day after treatment. “More than 1,000 patients keep on living because of our commitment not only to practicing medicine but to improving it,” said Barry T. Katzen, MD, founder and medical director of the Institute. Eighteen years ago Philip Shroyer, 72, was the second patient in South Florida to receive the treatment when he was living in what is now Palmetto Bay. The retired mail
carrier had participated in a clinical research trial at the Institute, one of only five centers in the nation and the only center at the time in South Florida treating the disease using an experimental, less invasive technology. Rather than open the abdomen, doctors entered the groin and traversed a highway of blood vessels to reach the aorta. They repaired the bubbled blood vessel with small, tube-like devices called stent grafts. Shroyer went home days after the procedure and returned to work a few weeks later at a time when open surgery required months for recovery. Today, Shroyer is a healthy, active retiree enjoying his grandchildren. The Institute’s unique multidisciplinary approach to cardiovascular treatment was evident during the milestone procedure performed by two interventional radiologists, Dr. Katzen and James Benenati, MD, and vascular surgeon Athanassios I. Tsoukas, MD. They repaired Gutierrez’s aneurysm using the endovascular procedure pioneered by Dr. Katzen, Dr. Benenati, Orlando Puente, MD, and the late Jose Alvarez, MD. “It’s an incredible landmark because of
Nearly 20 years ago three Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute physicians (l-r) Dr. James Benenati, Dr. Barry T. Katzen and Dr. Orlando Puente traveled to Utah to learn how to perform an experimental procedure to repair a silent killer, the abdominal aortic aneurysm. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
the total number of patients we have treated,” said Dr. Benenati, the Institute’s medical director of the Peripheral Vascular Laboratory. Institute doctors performed their first aneurysm repair on Mar. 17, 1994, at a time when it was so experimental there was still an issue about whether interventional radiology, a fledgling specialty, should be involved in what traditionally had been a surgeon’s domain. “The easiest thing would have been just to operate with open surgery, but we were willing to push the envelope and try not to operate. We were on the forefront,” said Dr. Puente, a vascular surgeon. Institute doctors, who continue to perform the most abdominal aortic aneurysm repair procedures in South Florida, are invited to teach their knowledge around the state, nation and the world. “We are still the go-to people because of our wealth of experience,” Dr. Benenati said. Abdominal aortic aneurysms are the 15th leading cause of death in the United States. One in 250 persons, most frequently males, are expected to develop the disease. “In the old days a good primary physician could palpitate the abdomen and find the mass if it was big. Now most aneurysms are diagnosed by screening tools such as CT scans or ultrasounds. Many times they are found while a patient is being tested for other
issues,” Dr. Tsoukas said. Formerly, the only treatment for an abdominal aortic aneurysm was for a surgeon to open the abdomen, wrap the swelling aorta with a plastic wrap much like sandwich wrap, and hope it would last awhile to prevent rupture. Such an operation added six years to the life of Albert Einstein. In the 1950s, surgeons began repairing and replacing the aorta with synthetic tubing called vascular grafts. While very effective in preventing rupture and prolonging life in many patients, the procedure itself is highly invasive, requiring long hospital stays, ICU resources, and is associated with some mortality and complications which could be quite significant. The modern operation, called an endovascular aortic repair, has become standard procedure that adds decades to the lifespan of otherwise healthy individuals with greatly reduced risk and hospital stay. Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization in the region. Established in 1987, the Institute treats heart and blood vessels as a single entity within a multidisciplinary framework that brings together specialists from all areas to collaborate on giving patients the best possible care.
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UnitedHealthcare’s new call center employs 125 workers BY ANNALICIA FINOL
UnitedHealthcare has opened a new call center in Miami that employs some 125 area workers. The new facility will provide customer service support to more than 165,000 Floridians who are customers of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Florida and beneficiaries of the company’s Florida Healthy Kids, Long Term Care, Medicare/Medicaid and Medicaid programs. Currently, the company employs more than 5,000 Floridians and helps more than 2 million members in the state live healthier lives. “In today’s tough economy, economic development is a high priority,” said State Sen. Rene Garcia (R-Hialeah). “I would like to thank UnitedHealthcare for its commitment to the people of South Florida by creating jobs and opportunities. The creation of over 120 jobs is a great thing for the constituents of my district and Miami-Dade County,” he added. “I’m very excited for the much-anticipated grand opening of the UnitedHealthcare call center,” said Rep. Jeanette Nunez (RMiami). “Creating 125 local jobs is a great step in the state’s promise to further economic development, stimulate the market and get Floridians back to work. The new call center continues UnitedHealthcare’s commitment to providing consumers access to high-quality, personalized healthcare programs that improve their health. UnitedHealthcare recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration for local officials and call center employees. Offerings in Florida include employer-sponsored health
Pictured are (l-r) Keith Vollberg, Lori Halpern, mascot Dr. Health E. Hound, State Rep. Jeannette Nunez, State Sen. Rene Garcia, call center manager Tamika Wallace and State Rep. Ana Rivas Logan, along with call center employees. (Photo provided by Randy Borges Photography)
plans, individual plans, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement plans, Part D prescription drug plans, Medicaid managed care plans, chronic disease management and care coordination programs. “Our employees at this new call center will help broaden our
reach to the more than 160,000 Medicaid beneficiaries who depend on us for helping them access the quality and affordable healthcare programs and services they deserve,” said Kathleen Crampton, president and CEO for UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Florida.
May 15 - 28, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Get off the road and on to the water taxi
Captain Danny navigates the waters of Biscayne Bay. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY RAQUEL GARCIA
It is just another day in paradise as drivers pass the looming downtown Miami skyscrapers along Brickell Avenue on a steamy concrete jungle afternoon. Curving around Biscayne Boulevard, the line of traffic picks up I-395 past AmericanAirlines Arena toward South Beach. Trickling along the causeway, motor vehicle operators in their air sealed gas guzzling machines swerve in and out of lanes dangerously in apparent frustration to get somewhere on time. There must be a better way. The BiscayneXpress Water Taxi is docked and ready for passengers to climb aboard. Departing from Miamarina near Bayside, riders can enjoy a kiss of fresh air while taking a stress-free scenic cruise across Biscayne Bay to Miami Beach. Designed as an alternative for tourists and locals alike, Captain Kevin Pagan and his crew offer daily roundtrip service from Bayside to the Miami Beach Marina. “I grew up on South Beach and used to take my 19-foot Aquasport to school at Beach High every day,” Captain Pagan said. “I’ve always been in the marine industry and got my 100-ton captain’s license in 1990. As a private fishing boat captain, finding a way to ferry passengers along the water seemed like a good idea.” Clients often would request marina pickup service prior to their anticipated fishing expedition aboard Pagan’s 42-foot Custom Carolina Jumanji and the water taxi service
evolved from there. Pagan believes the alliances he has established with area venues and anticipated expanded routes will secure the success of a business concept that has been tried before along Miami’s waterways. “Parking in Miami Beach is out of control. We will pay Bayside parking for our passengers and they can come on over, enjoy a nice lunch while taking in the sights and then get on board to the Beach,” Pagan said. With plenty of room for up to 38 passengers, the yellow-canopied water taxis offer spacious comfortable cushion seating and high hand rails all around. The $10 one-way trips depart daily at 10:15 a.m.; 12:15, 2:15 and 4:15 p.m. Return trips from Miami Beach are at 10:45 a.m.; 12:45, 2:45 and 4:45 p.m. Captain Pagan and his crew have a second vessel available (along with Jumanji) and can line up Biscayne Bay tours for special events as during the Food and Wine Festival and myriad activities on the beach year round. “We have regular customers already like the South of Fifth Neighborhood Association that come on board and often bring friends. Simply from word of mouth so far we have enjoyed a steady stream of business,” Pagan said. Along with the picturesque, relaxing, road-rage free experience, Pagan said he and his crew also share information with passengers on local history, and tips for protecting Biscayne Bay. To find out more about BiscayneXpress Water Taxi Service, visit <www.biscaynexpress.com> or call 786-347-5295.
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Miami-Dade Expressway Authority to host free business workshop
Topical Phenytoin for Wound Healing BY SONIA MARTINEZ, RPH
Phenytoin is a drug commonly taken orally to prevent seizures. However, compounded phenytoin can also be used topically to promote the healing of leg ulcers, pressure sores, venous stasis and diabetic ulcers, traumatic wounds (such as war injuries), radiation-impaired wounds and burns, as well as to enhance the survival of split-thickness skin grafts in large chronic diabetic ulcers. Studies have shown that compounded topical phenytoin in the form of 2% aerosol powder or 10 % w/w ointment applied once daily for two to eight weeks significantly improved healing of recalcitrant neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers. Studies have found that topical phenytoin therapy compared favorably with other standard topical treatment procedures, and in some cares resulted in a shorter time to complete healing and formation of granulation tissue. The type of phenytoin and the preparation are important – ask our compounding pharmacist for more information.
BY CINDY POLO
Photo by Ella Woodson Sonia Martinez, RPH - Marco Drugs
Marco Drugs and Compounding will provide you with compounded medications prepared with the highest standards and with high quality bulk materials, traditional prescriptions and high grade nutraceuticals, supplements and multivitamins. We provide to you health information in a clean, comfortable, fun and safe environment. Make us your doorway to total health. Marco Drugs & Compounding is located at 6627 South Dixie Highway, Tel: 305-665-4411 • Fax: 305-663-3258 Email:marcodrugs@bellsouth.net <www.marcodrugs.com> This article is intended to provide information on healthrelated matters. The ideas expressed cannot be used to diagnose or treat individual health problems and should not be taken as medical advice or instruction.
Providing Excellence in Girls Soccer since 1998
GIRLS SOCCER Tryouts! Dade County’s oldest ALL GIRLS soccer club invites committed players to attend tryouts for the 2012 - 2013 Season MPS offers competitive teams for girls ages U9-U18. All teams participate in FLUGSA and some play at the State Cup level. MPS teams regularly attend national tournaments. All teams are coached by licensed soccer professionals.
MAY/ JUNE
Saturday 06.02.12
Tuesday 05.29.12
Ages U9-U12 ........ 10:00am - 11:00am Ages U13-U18 ........ 11:00am - NOON
Wednesday 05.30.12
Ages U9-U12 ........ 10:00am - 11:00am Ages U13-U18 ...... 11:00am - 12:00pm
Ages U9-U12 ........... 6:00pm - 7:30pm Ages U13-U18 ......... 7:00pm - 8:30pm Ages U9-U12 ........... 6:00pm - 7:30pm Ages U13-U18 ......... 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Thursday 05.31.12
Ages U9-U12 ........... 6:00pm - 7:30pm Ages U13-U18 ......... 7:00pm - 8:30pm
May 15 - 28, 2012
Sunday 06.03.12
JULY Saturday 07.14.12
Ages U9-U18 ...... 10:00am - NOON
Evelyn Greer Park 8200 SW 124 St. Pinecrest, FL
BRING CLEATS, SHIN GUARDS, SOCCER BALL & W A T ER!
www.miamipremiersoccer.com 305-525-3324 • 305-562-9740
The Miami-Dade Expressway Authority (MDX) will host its ninth annual Small, Local & Minority Business Enterprise Workshop on Thursday, May 17, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Miami Airport Convention Center. The value-packed agenda teaches local businesses how to develop and market themselves to governments and corporations. This year’s theme, “More than Roadways,” highlights MDX’s continued commitment to the local economy and will feature keynote speaker Julia E. Hubble, author of Tackling the Titans: How to Sell to the Fortune 500. MDX’s contractors will be present to connect with attendees and provide insight into doing business with their organization. The workshop is the largest component of the MDX For Business Program, which includes a series of trainings to small and local businesses at discounted costs, as well
M D X ’s c o n t r a c t o r s w i l l b e p re s e n t t o c o n n e c t w i t h a t t e n d e e s a n d p ro v i d e insight into doing business w i t h t h e i r o rg a n i z a t i o n . The workshop is t h e l a rg e s t c o m p o n e n t of the MDX For B u s i n e s s P ro g r a m . as the newly developed Career Enhancement Program for those currently unemployed. For registration and more information on MDX For Business, visit <http://mdxway.com/>.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
Event aims to raise awareness of threat from non-native fish BY TONY PERNAS
The Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (ECISMA) is hosting the Everglades Non-Native Fish Round Up Tournament on May 19, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Miccosukee Arches (SW Eight Street and 172nd Avenue) to raise public awareness about the potential negative impacts of releasing non-native fish into Florida waters, and to encourage anglers to target these non-native species for consumption. The Everglades ecosystem is home to at least 22 non-native freshwater fish species. These non-native fish threaten to cause detrimental changes to the South Florida native fish communities, particularly as the number of new species continues to increase. All but two of these fish were introduced illegally as the result of release of unwanted pets and food fish, or due to the flooding of aquaculture ponds. The Round Up also will serve as a mechanism for gathering data into non-native fish distribution and abundance that can assist in their management.
Pictured are the new owners of Lots of Lox (l-r) Steve, Jimmy and Nick Poulos.
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The Round Up will be a one-day event open to all anglers (shore or boat) fishing in the Everglades area, and includes a junior division. Cash and prizes will be awarded for the “Largest Fish” (by weight) and a “Slam” (the greatest variety of non-native fish). The entry fee is $25 per angler, which includes a T-shirt and merchandise from tournament sponsors: Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, Eagle Claw and JD’s Custom Baits. For more information about the tournament, call 786-249-0073. Online registration is available at <www.evergladescisma.org/roundup>. ECISMA is a formal partnership between federal, state and local government agencies, tribes, individuals, and various interested groups that manage invasive species and is defined by a geographic boundary. The partnership includes the Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Department; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; National Park Service; South Florida Water Management District, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
May 15 - 28, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run sets new participation marks BY MAYRA HERNANDEZ
When Team FootWorks begin planning the 2012 Corporate Run series, the magnitude of this year’s races could not have been imagined. With more than 29,000 runners and walkers from more than 1,100 companies, the Corporate Run has broken all previous records with the largest number of participants and companies since the first 1,300 participants took to the streets of Miami 27 years ago. “When we first began producing this race almost three decades ago, we never dreamt that it would become as large as it has,” said Hans Huseby, race director. “It is a testament that more and more companies are embracing health and wellness initiatives for their employees. “We’re excited to see folks lacing up their sneakers in support of the Corporate Run’s goal to promote health and fitness and increase camaraderie in the workplace.” The tri-county race series awarded prizes to the top finishers at each race. Miami’s top finishers were Andrew Letherby, 15:18, and Erica Huerta, 18:53. For the third year in a row, a portion of the race series proceeds will benefit the South Florida Chapter of the American Red Cross.
In the upcoming weeks, Team FootWorks will present the organization with a check for more than $29,000. The Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series attracts more than 1,100 South Florida Companies and incorporates a special competition to award the overall men’s, women’s and co-ed teams in 20 different industries. Every year, the run is open to employees of businesses, corporations, government agencies, financial institutions and non-profits — regardless of company size. Known as “Florida’s Largest Office Party,” everyone is encouraged to participate and join their company team to walk or run as a group. Often this is the first step towards greater health and wellness among South Florida employees and their companies. Sponsors of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run series included the local South Florida Mercedes-Benz Dealers, American Airlines, BB&T, Aetna, Baptist Health, Club Med, Sharp, UPS, Pearl Izumi, Motorola, Southern Waste Systems and more. For more information including ways to get involved in the 2013 series, contact TeamFootWorks at 305-666-RACE (7223) or visit <www.mercedesbenzcorporaterun.com> or <www.teamfootworks.org>.
15199 Granadaa Blvd First time on the market since 1967. Stately, 1926 Old Spanish, Coral Gables home. So beautiful it has been featured in numerous coffee table books and post cards. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths in the main house, plus two 1 bedroom maid quarters above the 2 car garage. 11,406 sq ft corner lot with plenty of parking. Gorgeous swale and wide sidewalk. Come take a tour of History and find your new home! Offered at $799,000.
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DREW KERN 305.329.7744
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ESSLINGER WOOTEN MAXWELL, INC., REALTORS
Walkers and runners take to the streets of Downtown Miami as part of the record-breaking 2012 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run series. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
May 15 - 28, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Parenting for modern life with Jodi Orshan’s ‘Parenting Plan’ BY RAQUEL GARCIA
As a long distance runner navigates the hills and terrains of a marathon distance course, so should parents have a compass and map of sorts to get them through the peaks and valleys of family life, according to Jodi Orshan, marriage and family counseling therapist. Orshan has developed a multi-faceted “Parenting Plan for practically perfect parenting” that appears to optimize her diverse background as educator, trainer, youth program director and life coach. “Other than raising my own four children, I cannot tell you anything more gratifying then partnering with a family and watching them grow; it is just gorgeous, very rewarding,” Orshan said. Her expertise in family building is over 30 years in the making and ranges from developing a blueprint for the day-to-day life scene, to remediating families in crisis like the 15-month-old who will not sleep through the night, or a contentious divorce requiring a soft and supportive touch. “It is amazing how quickly parents can take charge when you offer specific tools and positive language for them to just take a deep breath, be present in the moment, let their fears and frustrations go, and fall apart later,” Orshan said. Modern technology and micromanaging complex scheduling can pull families apart, according to Orshan who suggests that simple strategies like committing to daily gadget-free quality time with the kids can make all the difference. “Making dinner together every night and turning off all electronics for a minimum of 25 minutes or so done consistently will produce amazing results. Studies show that grades improve as a result of this one simple act of uninterrupted family time. There is even a correlation with less bullying problems when parents are involved in activities with their children. It is one simple act but
when you are there you need to really be there,” Orshan said. The three major transition times for parents, according to Orshan, are: 1. Preschool when communication begins and a familial separation starts; 2. Early teens and the onset of puberty, and 3. Junior/senior years of high school when parents wonder if children are appropriately prepared to leave the nest. Orshan laments that in today’s age there no longer is a “village” to help raise kids because no one person can be everything to everyone. “When kids were more connected to their immediate neighborhood community parents did not have to worry so much and life was easier. We have now built a virtual community of support with our seminars and coaching so parents can also get the nurturing they need and let out a sigh and a smile.” An example of innovative solutions that can make difficult situations easier was made by Orshan when telling the story of a tricky divorce that had a happy ending for the family. “The two parents were very much battling and did not understand the concept of coparenting. Each parent becomes 100 percent parent and their family mission is decided independently of each other under different roofs.” Orshan said, as a result, the goals and dreams of each new household turned out to be nearly identical, merely implemented in different ways and it resolved 90 percent of the challenges in that particular case. “Live the values you want them to value. Be courageous and kind and caring to elders and animals, and inspire in them the values you treasure. It is critical to act the good life you want for them. It is not what you say. They are always watching you.” To find out more about Jodi Orshan and “The Parenting Plan” visit <www.theparentingplan.com> or call 305-240-1249.
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My Lawn Man wants to top my Live Oak Tree for the STORM SEASON. Should I have him do this? THE ARBORIST
BY RON VON PAULUS
No. Don’t top your live oak or any other hardwood tree such as a black olive or mahogany. A tree sometimes needs to be pruned to avoid interference with utility lines, buildings, or parts of the surrounding environment. Whenever pruning is required, it is important to avoid the practice of topping -- the removal of all parts of a tree above a certain height with no consideration for its structure or health. Long thought to reduce a hazard, topping is a temporary and ineffective solution that actually makes a tree more hazardous in the long run. • Topping "starves" trees by robbing them of their food-creating leaves. • Topped trees, in an act of defense, create shoots that grow quickly (up to 20 feet in one year) and are more prone to breaking. • Topping also makes trees more susceptible to insects and disease. • Topping creates "high maintenance
trees" that are expensive to treat, repair, and care for. Hurricane tree-trimming basics for hardwood trees • Reduction pruning is an effective alternative to topping. It reduces the size of longer branches by cutting back to a lateral branch. Some branches are removed at their point of origin. • Avoid excessive thinning of interior branches. It can lead to rapid growth of upright interior shoots and limb breakage. • The best way to learn to manage tree growth and maintain tree health is to consult a Certified Arborist. These tree care professionals know how to safely prune trees, and they can couch you as a homeowner how to best maintain and care for them throughout the year. Ron von Paulus is an International Society of Arboriculture certified arborist (ID # Fl5770A) and has more than 20 years experience working with trees in South Florida. He offers free consultations to homeowners and businesses. He can be reached at Big Ron’s Tree Service 305-588-3091 or by email at <ron@BigRonsTreeService.com>
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
Dade County Farm Bureau awards scholarships to three ag students BY THERESA A. SMITH
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The Dade County Farm Bureau has announced the recipients of three scholarship awards totaling $2,000 for high school seniors who plan to study for a career in agriculture. Charlotte Yanes, a senior at South Dade Senior High School and president of the school’s FFA was selected to receive the Wayne Dunagan Memorial Scholarship. Wayne Dunagan was an active member of the agricultural community. His farm produced some of South Dade’s finest pole beans and avocados. His son and grandsons remain actively involved in agricultural production. The Wayne Dunagan Memorial Scholarship was established in 2005 by Dunagan & Son Farms to recognize outstanding academic and civic achievement. The Philip and Mary Marraccini Memorial Scholarship recipient is Lauren Arve, a senior at South Dade Senior High School, and treasurer of the school’s FFA. Mr. and Mrs. Marraccini were active
members of the agricultural community and were pioneers in the ornamental tropical fish industry with the establishment of Summerland Tropical Fish Farms in 1950. The Philip and Mary Marraccini Memorial Scholarship was established in 2008 by Summerland Fish Farm to recognize outstanding academic and civic achievement. Jose Martinez, a senior at John A. Ferguson Senior High School and vice-president of the school’s FFA is the recipient of the Emil Gross Memorial Scholarship. ‘The Emil Gross Memorial Scholarship was created in 2011 to recognize outstanding academic and civic achievement, and pursuit of secondary education in the area of agriculture. Dade County Farm Bureau represents more than 4,000 members, over 1,000 of whom are involved actively in agribusiness and represent over 900 agricultural operations. Dade County farmers provide an economic impact of over $2.57 billion to the local and state economy. Visit on the Internet at <www.dade-agriculture.org>.
May 15 - 28, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
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May 15 - 28, 2012
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Upscale Furniture Consignment Gallery
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May 15 - 28, 2012
May 15 - 28, 2012
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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May 15 - 28, 2012
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
May 15 - 28, 2012
WE BUY GOLD Palmetto Bay (Now Open!) 17595 S.Dixie Highway 305-254-3938 The Falls Near Bloomingdales 786-242-9900 International Mall Next to Yogurbella 305-592-9799 London Square 13630 SW 120th St. #214
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May 15 - 28, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
County receives grant from Target for concert series BY LAURA PHILLIPS
The Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department has announced that its 2012-13 Noches Tropicales Concert Series has been awarded a $75,000 grant from Target Corporation. “The Target grant will allow us to continue bringing wonderful cultural entertainment for residents to enjoy for free,” said Jack Kardys, Miami-Dade Parks director. “Target’s partnership with Miami-Dade Parks is a great example of how the business sector can make a difference in the community by supporting recreational opportunities that improve Miami’s quality of life. It’s a great opportunity for them to give back to their consumers in a meaningful way.” The free Noches Tropcales concert series at Tropical Park celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Hispanic music and dance. As part of the department’s commitment to making quality arts experiences accessible to the entire Miami-Dade County community, the annual series provides a venue for families to enjoy the performances. During the past six years, Noches
Tropicales has showcased 21 outdoor concerts that have included traditional Cuban contemporary music and zarzuelas, Argentinean tango, Brazilian jazz, and a Spanish version of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The grant is part of Target’s ongoing efforts to build strong, safe and healthy communities across the country. These efforts include Target’s long history of giving 5 percent of its income to communities, which today equals more than $3 million every week. As part of this commitment, Target is on track to give $1 billion for education by the end of 2015 to help kids learn, schools teach, and parents and caring adults engage. To date Target has provided more than $300,000 in cultural grant funds in support of Noches Tropicales. “At Target, we are committed to serving local communities where we do business,” said Laysha Ward, president of Community Relations for Target. “That’s why we are proud to partner with Miami-Dade Parks as we work to strengthen communities and enrich the lives of our guests and team members.” For details about Miami-Dade Parks call 3-1-1, or visit online at <www.miamidade.gov/parks>.
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The Law firm of Alexander P. Almazan P.A. Provides specialized workers compensation defense, real estate title and closing services with a focus on personal attention, communication and our client’s bottom line. With experienced and knowledgeable people we are able to provide excellent legal and title services you and your company deserve. We serve all Florida counties making our firm, your only destination.
Real Estate Services Whether you are a buyer, seller, lender, servicer or asset management company our office has the experience you need to insure the integrity of your real estate transaction.
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Alexander P. Almazan P.A. 305.665.6681 7550 Red Road, Suite 208 305.665.6685 Fax Miami, Florida 33143 AAlmazan@almazanlaw.com • www.almazanlaw.com
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May 15 - 28, 2012
County’s Commission for Women elects new officers for 2012-13 BY LAURA MORILLA
The Miami-Dade County Commission for Women elected its officers for 2012-13 on Apr. 25. Michelle Dunaj Lucking, an attorney who lives in Coral Gables, was elected chair. Marie Woodson, elected first vice chair, is a division director in the Miami-Dade County Community Action and Human Services Department and lives in Hollywood. Francesca Menes, elected second vice chair, is the policy and advocacy coordinator for the Florida Immigrant Coalition and lives in North Miami Beach. Sharon Kendrick-Johnson, elected member at large, lives in South Miami and is a Small Business Education Coordinator for Miami-Dade College.
Grace O’Donnell, a retired major from the Miami-Dade Police Department, is the immediate past chair and will serve as the fifth member of the Executive Committee. The Commission for Women falls within the purview of Miami-Dade’s Office of Community Advocacy, a division of the Chair’s Office. The Miami-Dade County Commission for Women was created in 1971 as an advisory board to the county commission, county administration and the public at large about issues pertaining to the status of women. The Commission for Women also advocates for women in the community and strives to improve their quality of life. For more information contact the Commission for Women at 305-375-4967 or visit the website at <www.miamidade.gov/advocacy/CFW_h
www.communitynewspapers.com
May 15 - 28, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Globetrotters join with fitness leader to host basketball clinics BY GLYNNIS RICHARD
For the first time ever, the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are partnering with fitness club industry leader 24 Hour Fitness to host 120 summer skills clinics for youth across the U.S. Designed to take fans, ages 6-14, behind the curtain to see the magic behind the Globetrotters’ electrifying basketball skills and tricks, participants also will learn about the importance of staying active and eating healthy. The innovative clinics will take place at approximately 40 – 24 Hour Fitness clubs in nine states during a 10week period this summer, including locations in South Florida. “We are excited to partner with 24 Hour Fitness on this innovative program that combines the world’s most entertaining basketball team and a national fitness leader,” said Harlem Globetrotters CEO Kurt Schneider. “These clinics are an extension of our brand and allow our fans to experience unparalleled interaction with our talented players, while promoting health and wellness for children in a fun setting.” Each clinic will be conducted by current Globetrotter players. Two three-hour clinics will take place on the following dates and times at local 24 Hour Fitness locations: June 18, 8400 Mills Dr. in Kendall, 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 2-5 p.m., and
June 19, 20851 S. Dixie Hwy. in Cutler Bay, 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 2-5 p.m. “Like the Harlem Globetrotters, 24 Hour Fitness believes in the importance of keeping our children active through physical activity and sports,” said Randy Drake, senior vice president of fitness and business development, 24 Hour Fitness. “We are excited to be able to offer these unique and entertaining basketball clinics to our members and partner with the iconic Globetrotters.” As part of the partnership, the Harlem Globetrotters will offer participants a voucher for a complimentary ticket to a 2013 World Tour game. Additionally, 24 Hour Fitness will offer free three-day passes and discounts on club memberships to parents of clinic participants. Registration information about the summer skills clinics can be found at <www.harlemglobetrotters.com>, where visitors can find a complete list of clinic locations, dates, and times. To supplement the live clinics, the Globetrotters also will run “how to” drills and skills videos on key social media platforms to extend the experience for clinic participants. Call 1-800-224-0240 or visit <www.24hourfitness.com> for more information and to find the club nearest you.
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May 15 - 28, 2012
Baptist Children’s Hospital presents program on coping with ADD, ADHD BY BARBARA MOORE
Your child cannot seem to concentrate in school. It takes hours to complete homework that shouldn’t take that long. You notice a lack of organization at home and school. Whether you suspect or already know that your child has attention deficit disorder (ADD or ADHD with hyperactivity), join the mother and son team of psychologists, Sally Kolitz-Russell, PhD, and Brent Kolitz, PhD, who will help you cope with parenting a child with ADHD. The program “Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): What
Parents & Teachers Should Know,” will take place on Thursday, May 31, 7-9 p.m., in the auditorium at Baptist Children’s Hospital, 8900 N. Kendall Dr. They will discuss the myths, symptoms, diagnosis and misdiagnosis of ADD/ADHD; common problems kids have with ADD; strategies for dealing with school, homework and behavioral issues; and treatment options. The program is free, but registration is required. Space is limited. Call 786-5963812 or send email to <programs@baptisthealth.net>. Note: The program is not intended for children.
May 15 - 28, 2012
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Karel Kutner Foti named to BCVI Foundation board BY NANCY EAGLETON
forward a few years and here I am able to serve Baptist Health in this way. I’m so Karel Kutner Foti has been named to the happy to be in a position to give back to this board of directors of Baptist Cardiac & organization and the community that I’ve Vascular Institute Foundation and also will grown up in.” As a member of the Capital Improvement serve as a member of the Baptist Health Foundation Board, the fundraising arm for Committee, Foti’s mission will be to continue to raise money for the Baptist Cardiac & Baptist Health South Florida. Foti is a licensed Realtor with Esslinger Vascular Institute’s $60 million expansion Wooten Maxwell International Realty and project at the Baptist Hospital campus in operates Florida Paradise Properties with her Kendall. A benefit concert performed by international superstar son, Rick Wieder. She has Celine Dion in December been working in the real 2011 kicked off the expanestate business since 1981, sion campaign. and specializes in commercial Through growth and innoand luxury real estate vation, Baptist Cardiac & throughout South Florida. Vascular Institute will A Kendall resident, Foti broaden its research proand her husband, George, gram and ensure that medhave two grown children, ical breakthroughs continue Rick and Joel, and three to be discovered in South grandchildren — Hunter, Florida. The Institute will Madison and Jack. create centers of specialized Foti’s affiliation with care and prevention. It will Baptist Health began years attract and help train the ago when she served as a next generation of world“Pink Lady” at Baptist class physicians to further an Hospital. Karel Kutner Foti environment of sophisticat“There were several of us, –––––––––––––––––––– ed care. And like all Baptist in our 20s, who declared we were too old to be called Candy Stripers,” Health facilities, the Institute will continue to Foti said. “I still have the service pin that I provide charity care to patients in need. “Contributions to this expansion will received for the 100-plus volunteer hours I served. Even then, Baptist was a bright spot ensure that high-end, cutting-edge care is accessible to everyone,” Foti said. “This is for me.” Years later, Foti’s mother was a patient an incredible opportunity for all of us to under the care of Barry T. Katzen, MD, make a difference in our community.” For more information about contribuBaptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute’s founder and medical director. Foti said she is tions in support of the Baptist Cardiac & grateful for the exceptional treatment and Vascular Institute’s expansion campaign, contact Karel Foti at 305-960-2444, or compassionate care her mother received. “Dr. Katzen and the entire team at Baptist Sean Kramer, Baptist Health Foundation, Cardiac & Vascular Institute took wonderful at 786-596-6535, or visit online at care of my mother,” Foti explained. “Fast <www.BaptistHeart.net/foundation>.
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Miami-Dade working to create electric vehicle infrastructure BY MAGGIE FERNANDEZ
Miami-Dade County joined local government partners and private sector stakeholders in March to kick off a planning effort that will prepare Southeast Florida communities for electric vehicles. The group, known as the EV/Infrastructure Alliance, will assist the South Florida Regional Planning Council and its Florida Gold Coast Clean Cities Coalition, which recently received a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and will partner with the Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) over the next year. Through this regional partnership, a plan will be developed for future deployment of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and vehicle use within Broward, Indian River, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie counties. Electric vehicles reduce emissions, the country’s reliance on foreign oil, and cost less to operate than a typical gas-powered car. EV/Infrastructure Alliance has created teams to address each of the tasks involved in preparing communities for electric vehicle deployment. During the next 10 months, the teams will identify opportunities to streamline the EV permitting process, work with vehicle fleets interested in EV deployment, establish criteria for EV charging infrastructure, prepare community outreach materials, and develop plans for a future demonstration project that will provide commuters with a self-service rental/car share opportunity along the US1 corridor in Miami-Dade County. “We are looking forward to expanding our sustainable efforts with the use of these electric vehicles,” said Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. “Miami-Dade County is committed to supporting the environ-
ment, and this is just one more way of how we can become an exemplary first-class green community.” This effort is consistent with the national Clean Cities’ goal of putting one million electric drive vehicles on the road in the U.S. by 2015 through developing a plan for reliable alternative fueling infrastructure at locations and corridors conducive to charging EVs. The electric vehicle readiness plan will complement the Southeast Florida Regional Partnership’s Sustainable Communities Initiative, which is focused on improving the region’s economy and creating jobs, an effort that is also hosted by the council. The county has a longstanding partnership in these initiatives, having received the “2011 Champion for Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Alternative Fuels Award” from the Florida Gold Coast Clean Cities Coalition for its extensive use of alternative fuel vehicles and supporting sustainability goals. In fact, EVs are included in several initiatives of the Water and Energy Efficiency goal area in Miami-Dade County’s sustainability plan, GreenPrint, a community plan to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, cut energy, water and fuel consumption, and help develop a sustainable community for future generations. The plan, which contains 137 separate initiatives, will result in a reduction of 1.5 million metric tons (mt) of emissions and an avoidance of 3.1 million mt over the next five years. Roughly speaking, 1.5 million mt of CO2 emissions is associated with making 144,000 trips around the Earth or powering 206,000 homes in Miami-Dade County for the year. To get more information on Miami-Dade County’s sustainability efforts and to read GreenPrint, please visit <http://green.mismidade.gov>.
May 15 - 28, 2012
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Mitsubishi Lancer adds SE all-wheel drive model
Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS Mitsubishi has added a new model to the 2012 Lancer lineup, the Lancer SE with All-Wheel Control (AWC), the Mitsubishi version of All Wheel Drive. The SE joins the DE, ES, GT and Ralliart trim levels in the Sedan body style, but it’s not offered as a Hatchback, which comes only in the ES and GT trims. The AWC feature allows the new Lancer SE to deliver a sportier ride and better performance from the 2.4-liter 168 hp fourcylinder engine with MIVEC variable valve-timing technology. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that aids fuel efficiency and performance. Heated front seats and side mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels and a chrome lower grille are standard equipment on the SE. The Ralliart is at the top of the Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan lineup, and it’s the most popular and most expensive
version. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter, 237 hp turbocharged and intercooled MIVECequipped four-cylinder engine, and paired with a lightning-fast six-speed automatic manual Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST). In addition to full-time all-wheel control (AWC) with Active Center Differential (ACD), it comes with a front helical limited-slip differential, a rear limited-slip differential and Hill Start Assist (HSA), which allows the vehicle to remain in a stationary position on the slope. Standard amenities on the 2012 Lancer Ralliart include premium sport fabric seating surfaces, an aluminum hood with heat extractor vent, chrome side lower door molding, and leather-wrapped sports steering wheel, shift knob and shift boot. Like the Lancer GT, the Lancer Ralliart has an optional Touring package that adds a backup camera system with display screen inside the rearview mirror for the 2012 model year. At the lower end of the 2012 Lancer lineup is the GT model, which comes with the same four-cylinder engine as the SE, though mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) with INVEC-III (Intelligent & Innovative
Mitsubishi Lancer has sporty styling and is available in either Sedan or Hatchback body configurations. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Vehicle Electronic Control system) is optional. The CVT-equipped Lancer GT also includes Sportronic shifting via magnesium-alloy steering wheel paddle shifters. Additional standard equipment on the Lancer GT includes newly designed 18inch alloy wheels, new interior fabric and instrument panel trim, a sporty front fascia from the Lancer Ralliart model, a sporttuned suspension, six-speaker audio system, sport front bucket seats, automatic cli-
mate control, Mitsubishi’s FAST-key with panic feature and leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob and parking brake. Pricing on the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer ranges from $15,695 to $27,995. Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.
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