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NEWS
Cutler Bay JUNE 26 - JULY 9, 2012
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Town manager’s contract terminated by 3-2 vote BY GARY ALAN RUSE
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own manager Steven J. Alexander’s contract with Cutler Bay was ended by a 3-2 vote of the town council in a special meeting on Monday, June 11. The action followed disagreements among council members and public reaction over the May 1 firing of town clerk Esther Coulson and the resignation of her assistant, Pam Regula. In the vote, Mayor Ed MacDougall, Vice Mayor Ernie Sochin and Councilmember Sue Ellen Loyzelle voted to terminate the contract, with council members Peggy Bell and Mary Ann Mixon casting “no” votes. MacDougall commented on the vote and some of the background details in an interview on June 12. “I brought two resolutions forward last night,” MacDougall Interim town manager said. “I didn’t Rafael Casals even have the resolutions ready until yesterday afternoon. I worked on them all week, as I was in negotiations with the manager’s attorney and our attorneys to come to some final agreement, and we did, so in a 3 to 2 vote last night, we cancelled his contract.” Taking Alexander’s seat for the rest of the meeting was Rafael Casals, who will be serving as interim town manager as a result of the second vote of the evening, which placed him in the posi-
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MANAGER, page 6
Annual picnic to support American troops overseas scheduled July 7
Ford, Zoo Miami join together to offer $5 admission days BY CINDY CASTELBLANCO
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Pictured at the 2011 picnic are (l-r) Shirley Herndon, vice president of Sunstate Bank; Freedie Ambrose; Leif Gunderson of Sunstate Bank; Louise Lockwood; Chris Himmel, former aide to Carlos Alvarez; Jay Lockwood, husband of Louise Lockwood, and Cutler Bay Vice Mayor Ernie Sochin. (Photo by Winston D. Munnings)
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BY GARY ALAN RUSE
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hinking of You Services will host its fifth annual picnic to support American troops overseas on Saturday, July 7. The event takes place from noon to 4 p.m. at the U.S. Coast Guard Station, 16001 SW 117 Ave. Admission is free and there will be free food, entertainment, family fun, a bounce house for the kids and Bingo for seniors by CarePlus. The non-profit organization hosts the yearly picnic as an event to collect care package items to send free of charge to U.S. military per-
sonnel from any state who are serving overseas. “It’s going to be fun; we’re going to have free giveaways, free T-shirts for the kids, a bounce house,” said Freddie Ambrose, founder of the event. “We’re going to try to make it as much fun as possible for the kids.” Ambrose and his wife, Sonia, began Thinking of You Services in 2004 by sending cards to those in the service so no one would feel neglected at mail call, and discovered that military personnel overseas often needed personal care
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PICNIC, page 6
ook no further for affordable family fun for the Fourth of July. For the third year in a row, Zoo Miami is offering a sweet summer deal of $5 admission, backed up by Ford Motor Company. “Zoo Miami is such a great community resource and we want as many families as possible to enjoy it,” said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company. “In celebration of Independence Day, Ford is pleased to provide support so that the zoo is accessible to more people during this holiday week.” Representatives from Ford will be setting up shop in the zoo on July 4, 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will receive giveaways when they register to win a new Ford Focus and will be able to
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ZOO, page 6
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Commission honors Public Works and Waste Management Dept.
The Miami-Dade County Commission presented a proclamation to Kathleen Woods-Richardson, director, and the employees of the Miami-Dade County Public Works and Waste Management Department to mark National Public Works Week during the June 5 commission meeting at the Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St. The department is responsible for Miami-Dade’s roadways and bridges, storm drainage, mosquito control, traffic signals and signs, canal maintenance, solid waste collection, disposal and recycling.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
June 26 - July 9, 2012
Rep. Dwight Bullard discusses hurricane readiness at CBBA BY GARY ALAN RUSE
State Rep. Dwight M. Bullard of House District 118 spoke to members of the Cutler Bay Business Association (CBBA) at their monthly meeting on June 14. The topic was hurricane readiness. “This year as we all know marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Andrew,” Rep. Bullard said in opening his presentation. “They called it a 25-year storm, because a storm like that only comes around every 25 years, but more importantly, they viewed that as a recovery time that it was going to take to come back from that storm. We’ve been able to prove them wrong in every facet of our ability to bounce back and be resilient.” That said, Bullard still stressed the importance of being ready for possible storms since hurricane season began on June 1. To everyone attending the meeting he handed out copies of Tropical Cyclones, a preparedness guide from the National Weather Service, with full color charts, photos and tips from NOAA, FEMA and the American Red Cross. Rep. Bullard also talked about the problems with property insurance, especially with Citizens Insurance, which was estab-
State Rep. Dwight Bullard is pictured at the June CBBA luncheon. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
lished in the wake of many commercial insurance companies abandoning South Florida after Hurricane Andrew’s costly damages. He said there are still inequities in the system. “When you have shutters; when you have burglar alarms and other safety precautions that you put in place in your homes and businesses, what you’re supposed to see is a rate reduction for your ability to prepare yourself for any future incidents of natural disasters such as hurricanes,” Bullard said. “We haven’t seen that happen in a very significant way in the course of the last few years, so there’s a lot of frustration. But we can’t let that frustration overshadow the importance of being prepared.” He also said that efforts were underway to reverse earlier decisions in Tallahassee that allowed the insurance companies to “cherry pick” the kinds of policies they would offer here and avoid windstorm coverage. For information from the NOAA National Weather Service visit <www.weather.gov/safety.php>. To reach Rep. Bullard call 305-234-2208 or send an email to <Dwight.Bullard@myfloridahouse.gov>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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When the roadwork gets tough, remember local businesses! Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR
AROUND TOWN We hear from Cyndi Rogg, who is President of the Cutler Bay Business We hear as well as owner of the National Association Karate Academy at 20435 Old Cutler Road, that the road improvement work in that area—the huge shopping complex known as Old Cutler Town Center—has got the merchants there hurting. She says that with it being harder to get in and out and the traffic worse than usual, a lot of folks are just too cranky and impatient to make the effort to get to their favorite stores. Cyndi says she hopes drivers will calm down, be more patient, and that everyone will remember that the businesses located there are still open and there for everyone. And by the way, those that missed the last And byofthe meeting theway, CBBA not only missed a great presentation by Rep. Dwight Bullard on hurricane preparedness and a frank and open discussion with the members on property insurance inequities, they also missed out on
a great lunch catered by Connie Watson, Gen. Mgr. of the Black Point Ocean Grill in Cutler Bay. If you haven’t been there yet, the food and magnificent waterside location are well worth the trip. It’s at 24775 SW 87th Avenue, at the Black Point Marina. For more info on the CBBA, visit <www.cutlerbaybusinessassociation.com/>. Ooops Dept.! In the last issue we ran an item about the Rotary Club of PerrineOoopsRidge/Palmetto Dept.! Cutler Bay meeting at Portofino restaurant, which one of our staff got from the Village of Palmetto Bay’s website. We promptly heard from club member Susan M. Ludovici, Esq., of Ludovici & Ludovici, P.A., that the info was out of date. “We actually moved 17 months ago to Romanza at SW 145 Street! At least you know that I read your column!” Sorry! We stand corrected. But the part about the luncheon meetings being every Tuesday at noon remains the same. Rotary is one of the oldest, most respected service organizations around, so if you’d like to get involved, check them out. Zoo news...who knew? If you’re looking news...who knew? forZoo savings on family fun, Zoo Miami is for the third year in a row offering admission for only $5 from July 4 through July 8, with the help of Ford Motor Company. Ford will
Cutler Bay News
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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
GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............................................................ Denise Cebrero, Isabel Ortega, Cristian Ortiz 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.
have some displays and giveaways there on July 4, 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a chance to win a new Ford Focus. There are other goodies, too. On July 7, Blue Bell will be helping guests cool down by distributing free samples of ice cream to lucky zoo visitors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., as part of Scoops for Conservation, a partnership between the Zoological Society of Florida and Blue Bell Ice Cream that encourages donations for wildlife conservation. Pepsi Next will also be distributing free samples to help keep visitors refreshed on July 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 street and general zoo admission is normally $15.95 per adult and $11.95 per child (3-12), plus tax. Children under two, Zoo members and parking are free. Zoo Miami’s hours are 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Ticket booths close at 4 p.m. For information, visit <www.zoomiami.org> or call 305-251-0400. Mark this on your calendar. We hear from Mark this that the next meeting of the Steve Zarzecki Concerned Citizens of Cutler Bay will be on Tuesday, July 3, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Cutler Ridge United Methodist Church, 20740 Old Cutler Road. The guest speaker will be Ralph Casals, Interim Town Manager of Cutler Bay. “Mr. Casals and his staff will dis-
cuss progress in Cutler Bay. After the presentation there will be a round-table discussion on topics of interest to Cutler Bay residents. All are welcome.” For info, call Steve at 305-255-4351. Fans of comic books, TV and movies, the Florida SuperCon is back again, June 29 to Fans books,Airport Convention July 2 of at comic the Miami Center. Visit <www.floridasupercon.com/> for info. Whiz! Boom! Ahhh! Don’t forget the big 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular at Black Whiz! Boom! Ahhh! Point Park & Marina, 24775 SW 87th Avenue. Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m., but most folks will get there earlier to get a spot, have some food and mingle. For info call 305-258-4092. Have a happy and safe 4th everyone! Thought of the Day: Thought Day: Doubt of is athe pain too lonely to know that
faith is his twin brother. — Kahlil Gibran Gary Alan Ruse contributed to this column. For news tips call 305-669-7030 or send emails to <Michael@communitynewspapers.com>
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MANAGER, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– tion effective immediately. Casals has served as the town’s Public Works director since October 2006, and previously served as the assistant town manager of Miami Lakes, city manager of North Bay Village and assistant city manager of Florida City, as well as other municipal government positions. He attended Homestead High School, Miami-Dade Community College and Florida Atlantic University, and has degrees in Business Administration and Business Management. “I can tell you that the manager’s contract was an open end contract that had no sunset date,” MacDougall explained. “So it lived as long as he was alive or here. We didn’t have any review dates, which I was never happy with. “[Former Mayor] Paul Vrooman put that contract together and there was just no sunset date. So basically that contract read that if we cancelled the agreement with the manager that we owed him nine months of salary and there was just no way out of it. We couldn’t even review him unless we fired him for cause, and I was not prepared to do that, so I brought to the council the termination of the contract, which of course triggered the clause. “The contract was for perpetuity, and it was for 12 months compensation if it was within 90 days either side of an election, so I needed to do it within three months of the November elections or we would have owed him 12 months,” MacDougall added. Steven J. Alexander began serving as Cutler Bay’s interim town manager in
March 2006 and was hired officially on July 29, 2006. Alexander had worked previously for the State of Florida, two Florida state universities and served as assistant to the county administrator in Broward County. Mayor MacDougall explained that eventually a permanent town manager would be sought and that it would most likely be someone local. “We will go into a search, probably a South Florida search,” MacDougall said. “I don’t see the need to do a national search. We’ve never hired a manager from California or otherwise. But we’re in no hurry. I think we need to let things settle in a bit and let Ralph get control of things. He’s very intimately knowledgeable about the workings of the town so it’s relatively easy for him to move forward with this. In the meantime we’ll explore our options on interviewing for a new manager.” The mayor pointed out that the town also needs to hire a new clerk, a job which is being filled presently by Alexander’s assistant, Missy Arocha. The mayor said that he appreciated the involvement of everyone in the community and that he is optimistic about the future of the town. “I am grateful to the people of Cutler Bay,” MacDougall said. “I am grateful to the staff members at Town Hall. I am fully confident that we will move forward in a friendly, open, transparent way and that our government will stand with open arms to the public.”
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JUMPS FOR CUTLER BAY
June 26 - July 9, 2012
ZOO, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– view some of their latest car models. Guests visiting Zoo Miami on these discounted days can enjoy a few other goodies in addition to visiting the lions, tigers and bears along with the normal attractions offered by the zoo. On July 7, Blue Bell will be helping guests cool down by distributing free samples of ice cream to lucky zoo visitors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. as part of Scoops for Conservation, a partnership between the Zoological Society of Florida and Blue Bell Ice Cream that encourages donations for wildlife conservation. Pepsi Next also will be distributing free samples to help keep visitors refreshed on July 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “There is always so much to explore and take part in at the zoo, so for $5, it’s really a steal,” said Eric Stephens, Zoo Miami director. “Each visit is like a whole new experience.” To help plan the perfect visit, Zoo Miami has launched a handy mobile application for iPhone and Android owners that equips users with a map, calendar, animal information and more. The application can be found by searching for Zoo Miami in the App Store or Android Marketplace. Free Wi-Fi also is offered in four large, conven-
PICNIC, from page 1
ient locations throughout the zoo. For the whole Zoo Miami experience, guests should plan to explore the new Playworld Playground for some wet and wild fun for the kids. If visiting on a weekend, the Hippo Slide, the world’s largest inflatable water slide, is open to the public for a seriously slippery experience. Along the way, the Samburu Giraffe Feeding Station allows visitors to get up close and personal with a giraffe’s 14-inch tongue for a few bucks. Guests also can feed the Indian rhinoceroses, hop on for a camel ride or choose from the many different ways to travel through the zoo to view and learn about all the animals. The special and limited $5 admission days are available only July 4-8 and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 St. Regular zoo admission is $15.95 per adult and $11.95 per child (3-12), plus tax. Children age 2 and younger, zoo members and parking are free. Zoo Miami’s hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; ticket booths close at 4 p.m. For more information visit online at <www.zoomiami.org> or call 305-2510400.
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items they could not easily get. That’s how the care package program got started. “We want people to bring care package items for the troops,” Ambrose said. “Life is very gray in the battlefield in that theater, and our packages bring a hint of color. It uplifts their spirits. It means a lot to them. I am a Vietnam veteran and I know what it is to be out in the battlefield and be so far away from home and longing for a touch of home. I know how it feels at mail call if you don’t get anything.” Needed are coffee (16-ounce bags), energy bars, disposable razors, baby wipes, Pop Tarts, Slim Jims and socks. Each year, he and his wife wrap up packages of these items and mail them to service men and women in the Middle East and other places. Ambrose said that the response has been
heartwarming. A letter from Lt. Tristan Engler, one of many he and his wife have received, makes it clear how much the troops appreciate their efforts. “I cannot tell you enough how grateful we are for all your group does for us to remind us of you all back home giving us your support,” Lt. Engler’s handwritten letter reads in part. “It truly does mean a great deal to us here in Kandihar. Thank you all for everything you do.” This year’s theme is Latin food and music. Sponsors this year are Playville Party Rentals, InSource Insurance, Cutler Auto Repair, Country Inns & Suites, and CarePlus Health Plans. Ambrose advises everyone planning to attend to use the entrance at SW 117th Avenue (Keypad 001), and to RSVP to him at 786-252-2798.
Go Green...
RECYCLE!
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
June 26 - July 9, 2012
Dessert is my reward for finishing my meal BY ERNIE SOCHIN Vice Mayor
So New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg wants to limit sugary sodas to one 16ounce can. What if I buy two cans? Michelle Obama is on a mission to limit junk foods for kids. Walt Disney no longer will accept junk food ads. I have even heard (tell me it is not true) that Twinkies went bankrupt! Oh no! Now you all know that I come from another generation, i.e. planet, where, if you finished your meal, which I always did, you could have desert. I still reward myself that way. My home-based nutritionist always makes stupid remarks (to me) like, “How can you eat anything after finishing a full meal? How can you still be hungry?” What does hunger have to do with it? I simply am rewarding myself for being a “good boy” and finishing my meal, whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner. I grew up in the greatest generation. We kids rode our bikes
without helmets, walked to school, ran with scissors and ate whatever we damned well wanted. The only thing that might curtail our eating was our older brothers and sisters who got to the snacks first. My sister, bless her heart, used to eat the frosting off of the Drakes Cake cupcakes and leave the rest for me. Gee, thanks Elly. I did do some research on the subject of obesity, and learned that the Bovine species actually have as many as four stomachs — Rumen, Reticulum, Omasum and Abomasum to be specific. My own theory is that one of them is for deserts. More research is underway. Perhaps humans were intended to be that way. I have a couple of grandkids who are being raised on a diet of organic, fat free, sugar free, artificial flavor free, high fructose corn syrup free, taste free foods. Whenever they come to my house they head immediately for the Pop Tarts. Popsicles, meringue cookies and whatever else fulfills their cravings for a normal diet. They both seem healthy and able to survive. As for myself, yes, I must go to the “portly” section of Syms clothing store and I could stand to lose a few
The end of Twinkies? ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
pounds. The main cause, and this is just my theory, is that the foreign fabrics that our clothes are made of tend to shrink with all this humidity and the only solution seems to be buying new and larger sizes. Belts too, seem to have this same propensity. It must be the artificial leather. As for the childhood obesity kids, I was not one of those. The reason: I, like most kids of my generation, played outside. That was all there was to do. We ran, jumped,
rode our bikes and burned off calories by the thousands. I don’t see this type of activity in our kids today. I hear they no longer have Phys-Ed in schools. That was one of my better subjects, by the way. As for today, I continue to eat as my mother taught me, but frankly, if I didn’t play tennis at least twice a week, ride my bike for many miles, and spend many hours at the gym, I would probably not fit through the doors in my house. My doctors of course tell me to cut out sweets, carbohydrates, etc. I may just seek out a fat doctor. It seems that everything I touch has carbohydrates in it. What am I supposed to do with the bread and rolls that the waitress brings before my meal? Send it back, while there are thousands of children starving somewhere in the world? (It used to be Europe when I was a kid.) Occasionally at the gym, I jokingly remark that I will be going home to eat some Oreo Cookies. My advice: Don’t do that at the gym. Some people there are very serious and have bottles of all kinds of chemical substitutes for real food. They will try to convert you. I suggest you stay away from them, Don’t Worry. Be Happy. And eat whatever you want!
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Is Florida Gov. Rick Scott correct about voter purge? R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY Governor Rick Scott ordered Florida’s secretary of state to purge the state’s voter registry of ineligible voters. The state’s position: “…firmly committed to doing the right thing and preventing ineligible voters from being able to vote.” No one could argue with that position. I certainly don’t want my vote diluted by a vote from an ineligible voter. So what is the problem? First, the federal government has established procedures for voter purges — procedures that the state must follow. Second, the data used to determine who is eligible or ineligible must be accurate so eligible voters are not purged from the list. A lot of words have been written about the governor’s intentions and timing. Let’s put the question of political motivation aside. The laws of Florida and the federal government have established procedures for voter purges. If we follow them, the question of political motivation becomes irrelevant. Basically, the federal Voting Rights Act of
1993 says that no state can purge voter registration lists within 90 days of any federal election. Gov. Scott says that the federal law is incorrectly interpreted. He interprets the federal law as applying only to purges of onceeligible citizens who became ineligible through criminal conviction, death or mental incompetence. Scott said he is only going after voters who were not eligible to register because they were not citizens of the United States. We know where this is going. Lawsuits filed by the state against the federal government and lawsuits filed by the federal government against the State of Florida will end up in the federal courts. Which, incidentally, will cost the taxpayers of Florida a great deal of money, money that could be used far more effectively in our cash-starved state. Florida used the driver’s license registration as the database for searching out ineligible voters. When you make application for a driver’s license the question of citizenship is asked. Unfortunately, this database is not updated as non-citizens become citizens. So, deciding the right to vote based on the fact that the individual seeking to vote was not a U.S. citizen years ago, when he or she first applied for a driver’s license, is a very, very poor source of information. The state provided the counties with a list
VIEWPOINT of voters that might not, based upon driver registration records, be U.S. citizens. The state instructed the county supervisors of elections to write to each registered voter on the list, state Florida’s position. If the voters don’t respond within 30 days, their names will be stricken from the registration list and their vote, if they vote, will not count. The burden of proof should be on the state, not the registered voter. The supervisors of elections of all but two counties have stopped the purge determining that the data upon which they are to proceed is too flawed to be of value. The governor stated that Florida has been asking the Department of Homeland Security for data on citizenship since last October. He is asking the Justice Department to instruct Homeland Security to share the information so the state can proceed with the purge. Scott said, “the process would have been far less controversial and far easier had Homeland Security not ‘stonewalled’ the state.” Where do we stand as of this date? Recently the U.S. Department of Justice filed suit
against Florida to stop the purge based on two facts: one, the 90-day provision and, secondly, the inaccuracy of the driver’s license database. The State of Florida has filed a lawsuit accusing Homeland Security of unlawfully refusing Florida access to a federal database that could help the state’s purge. By the time the courts have ruled, and appeals have been heard, the state’s primary election will have passed and Florida will not have restarted its purge of ineligible voters. Then, if the 90 day rule holds, we will be within 90 days of the general election. A purge will continue after November obviously with no effect on the presidential elections, which in my opinion, is the whole purpose of an expanded purge. We appreciate your opinions on this column whether in agreement or disagreement. Please send your comments to (fax number) 305-6626980 or email to <letters@communitynewspapers.com>. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of this newspaper, its editors or publisher.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
George Butler III takes over as Farm Bureau president BY THERESA A. SMITH
The Dade County Farm Bureau board of directors has accepted the resignation of president Alice Pena, who is a candidate for the Miami-Dade County Commission seat for District 9 currently held by Dennis Moss. Vice president George Butler III will step up to complete Pena’s term. The membership is due to elect a new slate of officers in October. Pena served as president of Dade County Farm Bureau since October 2011. For eight years she has served as a director on the board of Dade County Farm Bureau. She also served as treasurer prior to being elected president. Pena is the owner/operator of PNS Farms, an organic egg operation in Miami-Dade County. Farm Bureau’s Women’s Committee named Alice Pena “Woman of Distinction in Agriculture” for 2012, and honored her at the annual Women in Agriculture luncheon in February. Directors thanked Pena for her steadfast service to the Farm Bureau, and wished her well on her campaign for counGeorge Butler III ty commissioner. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Butler has served the Farm Bureau as director and vice president more than 4,000 members, over 1,000 of since October 2009. His family’s nurs- whom are involved actively in agribusiness ery, Butler’s Foliage, has been in busi- and represent over 900 agricultural operaness in South Dade since 1961. His tions. Dade County farmers provide an father, George Butler Jr. served as presi- economic impact of over $2.57 billion to dent of Dade County Farm Bureau from the local and state economy. Visit on the Internet at <www.dade-agri1976 to 1977. Dade County Farm Bureau represents culture.org>.
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
School among first in county to use fully digital curriculum BY AIMEE ARTILES
In August, Christ Fellowship Academy (CFA) intends to put a laptop in the hands of every student in grades 4-6. Students will be introduced to a new digital curriculum, which not only includes all their textbooks online, but actively engages auditory, visual and tactile learners through the introduction of interactive text and activities. Students won’t just sit in front of their computer all day either. Teachers will continue to involve them in hands-on labs and discussions, as well as encourage them to think critically and take ownership. The school in Palmetto Bay will be one of the first private schools in Miami-Dade to offer a fully digital curriculum to elementary students. In fact, Christ Fellowship Academy is no stranger to “state of the art.” It currently offers students in every single elementary classroom the opportunity to work with a smart board and plasma screen. Every student — even as young as 2 years old — is introduced to working on their own computer. “Students have different needs and learning styles, which should drive the way we instruct,” said CFA principal Christina Blanco. “An education that involves digital
Students will be introduced to a new digital curriculum in August at Christ Fellowship Academy.
components transforms static memorization of material to an interactive process and makes it much more dynamic and fun for the students and our teachers.” The teachers, students and their parents at CFA are extremely excited. “My daughter is so excited about receiving
her own computer next August at Christ Fellowship Academy,” said Mirna Melo, parent of an incoming sixth grader. “Mia is familiar with computers and quite simply has never known a world without them. Next year, I know she will be even more engaged in the learning process and I am really excit-
ed about the possibilities.” Of course, the school recognizes the need for lots of hands-on activities for their younger preschool and kindergarten students who need to learn basic writing skills using a traditional paper-pencil method. Books won’t completely go away, Blanco said. “We don’t want to say that we’ll never use a book, because we will. We want to take a best practices approach and remember that it is always about what is in the best interest of our students. Right now, we feel that includes a variety of learning tools and strategies, but it’s a lot more digital than ever before.” Incoming fifth grade student Kyle Greene thinks, “next year is going to be awesome. I am really excited about all the new stuff we are going to learn and definitely about working with my own computer in the classroom.” Christ Fellowship Academy is located in the heart of Palmetto Bay and has been offering a quality, Christian education to students in grades K2-6 for more than 38 years. Registration for the 2012-13 school year is open. For more information, you can call the admissions office at 305-238-1833 or go online at <www.cfacademy.org>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Gulliver names Jeff Poppell as LATIN AMERICAN school’s head swimming coach BY LEE STEPHENS
at the World Maccabiah Games in Israel. Before moving to Arkansas, Poppell Gulliver Schools has appointed Jeff served as head swimming coach in Poppell, who led the Arkansas Razorbacks’ Jacksonville for the acclaimed Bolles women’s swimming and diving teams to School and Bolles Sharks swim programs. national success, as its new aquatics direc- Under his leadership, the Bolles School took state and national titles. In 2005, tor and head varsity swimming coach. Poppell was named the “We welcome Jeff to Florida High School Boy’s our school and are very Coach of the Year. In 2004, excited about the he was named the National prospects for our swim High School Girl’s Coach team in having such an of the Year. accomplished coach “I am very excited about working with them,” said returning to Florida and the John Krutulis, Gulliver opportunity to lead the high head of school. school and club swimming Poppell will be moving programs at Gulliver to Miami from Schools. Having spent 13 Fayetteville, AR, where successful years with the he was head women’s Bolles School and Bolles swimming and diving Sharks in Jacksonville, I coach at the University of am very familiar with the Arkansas for the past six college preparatory school years. Under Poppell’s environment and the comleadership the team has Jeff Poppell bined affiliation with a ranked in the Top 25 year-round USA swimming nationally for the past four seasons. He coached the program to a fifth club,” Poppell said. “Gulliver is a phenomenal school with place finish at the 2009 Southeastern Conference Championships, the highest great leadership and possesses one of the finish in the team’s history. The school has most beautiful outdoor 50-meter aquatic 10 student-athletes qualified to compete in facilities that I have seen. There is great potential to build a nationally competitive this summer’s U.S. Olympic Trials. “Jeff was able to put the University of program at Gulliver, and I am thrilled with Arkansas women’s swimming and diving both the opportunity and the challenge,” team on the map,” said Mark Schusterman, Poppell added. A Jacksonville native, Poppell holds a Gulliver’s director of athletics and head softball coach. “His knowledge and experi- Bachelor of Business Administration in ence will bring tremendous benefits to our management from the University of Georgia. He was a four-year letter winner swimming team.” From 2009 to 2011, Poppell received the in swimming and team captain for the American Swimming Coaches Association Georgia Bulldogs and a two-time NCAA Certificate of Excellence, and in 2009 he Qualifier, Academic All-SEC, and was the head women’s coach for Team USA Honorable Mention All-SEC.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
June 26 - July 9, 2012
South Florida Writers Assn. installs new board members
Pinecrest Mayor Cindy Lerner is pictured with newly installed board members of the South Florida Writers Association, which conducted its installation recently at the Pinecrest Branch Library. Pictured are (l-r, front row) president Ricki Dorn, Dorothy Danaher White, Mayor Lerner, Margaret McLaughlin, Evelyn Benson; (back row) Mort Laitner, Chris White, Estefania Jaramillo, Jonathan Rose, Connie Goodman-Milone, Don Daniels, Tara Lynn Brugh, Teresa Bendana, and Lynn MacKinnon. (Photo by David Milone)
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
June 26 - July 9, 2012
Former patients say ‘thank you’ at Critical Care Champions Dinner
Former patient Leon Carangi (center) receives a warm “hello” from his nurse Erika Gonzalez, RN, (left) at the Critical Care Champions Dinner held recently at Baptist Hospital. Carangi and fiancé, Vickie Rudasill, joined other former critical care patients at the special dinner to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for them during their long hospital stay. Carangi spent 57 days in the Critical Care Unit for a bacterial infection in his lungs. (Photo by Mabel Rodriguez)
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
June 26 - July 9, 2012
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 17
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Children’s Rehab Network for medically fragile child BY NANCY EAGLETON
Since 1991, Children’s Rehab Network has provided care for children whose medical conditions require continuous nursing, education and therapeutic care. At the two Pediatric Prescribed Extended Care (PPEC) centers, located in South Miami and Miami Gardens, the multidisciplinary team provides children with an enriching schedule that includes pediatric rehabilitation, special education, medical care and socialization. The nurturing environment is less restrictive than hospitalization or home healthcare and gives parents peace of mind while they are at work, school or caring for other family members. “Our centers focus on the psychological, developmental, physical, nutritional, educational and social needs of medically fragile and technologically dependent children,” said Kellie Brannon, director of therapy. “Children are evaluated and a plan of care is developed that places the child and their family at the heart of the program, and successfully addresses every aspect of the child’s development.” The staff is comprised of experts in a variety of fields including pediatric subspecialists, psychologists, registered dieticians, social workers and the centers’ own teams of nurses, therapists and teachers. The Children’s Rehab Network staff has been acknowledged in various publications and the directors have won awards in their fields. To qualify for PPEC, children, ages newborn to 21, must be considered medically fragile and require nursing intervention. In addition, the child’s physician must prescribe the services in order for the child to attend. Qualifying medical conditions may include premature babies, babies with failure to thrive, babies with spina bifida, children with asthma who require respiratory therapy, children who require seizure control, or those awaiting organ transplants. Because every child’s needs are different, each child’s daily schedule is customized to maximize his or her development. Children’s Rehab Services’ pediatric rehabilitation programs provide physical, occupational and speech therapy services. Nurses conduct daily assessments, administer medication and provide wound care, ventilator/tracheostomy care, central line care, feeding therapy and other medically necessary treatments. “We work as a team with the family and
Infant Juliet Johnson is all smiles as she plays with Children’s Rehab Network director of therapy Kellie Brannon. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
the child’s pediatrician to help stabilize and improve a medically fragile child’s condition. Daily communication is key,” Brannon said. “Our goal is for these children to go on to regular daycare, or public or private schools, as their medical conditions improve.” The special education teachers at Children’s Rehab Network work to promote each child’s self-acceptance and teach children methods to cope with his or her own reality. In addition, teachers from Miami-Dade County Public Schools provide stimulating educational activities directly at the center. “Children learn at their own pace in a motivating environment, surrounded by caring people and other children. They also have fun — as all kids should,” Brannon said. “This educational and social component is not traditionally found in home healthcare settings or hospitals.” Services at Children’s Rehab Network are provided Monday through Friday, up to 12 hours per day. The centers offer transportation for the children to and from their homes, with Emergency Medical Technicians onboard every van. The two Children’s Rehab Network locations are at 5920 SW 68 St., South Miami, 305-665-0886, and 2727 NW 167 St., Miami Gardens, 305-622-7575. For more information, visit online at <www.crnppec.org>.
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FPL CORNER Investing in Florida’s Future: Rate increase will fuel future investments
By Marlene Santos The value of affordable, reliable, clean electricity can be taken for granted, but is undeniable. In fact, Florida Power & Light Company powers all the needs of a typical family for just a few dollars a day. In other words, for what it costs you to buy a latte or a slice of pizza, you can run your air conditioning, lights, refrigerator, TV, pool pump, computers and everything else in your home for an entire day. And while the costs of many essential products and services have skyrocketed in recent years, FPL’s bills have actually decreased. Compared with prices in 2006, food and health care costs today are at least 20 percent higher while a gallon of gasoline is more than 40 percent higher. Meanwhile, FPL’s typical residential customer bill is about 13 percent lower over the same time period. It’s no accident that FPL customers have the lowest typical residential electric bill out of the state’s 55 utilities and reliability that is among the best in the country. It’s happened because we’ve invested in smart, cost-efficient technologies and worked hard to keep our operating costs down, year after year. How do FPL’s investments benefit customers? Here’s an example: FPL’s investments in converting its oil-fired power plants to natural gas facilities have cut our annual use of foreign oil from more than 40 million barrels in 2001 down to less than 600,000 this year. Every dollar FPL saves on fuel is a dollar that customers don’t have to pay, and these investments have saved our customers $5.5 billion in fuel costs since 2001. To support our ability to deliver low bills and high reliability in the years ahead, FPL is asking the Florida Public Service Commission to adjust our base rates. We’re asking for an increase of $7.09 a month on a typical residential customer bill, or about 23 cents a day. After adjusting for lower fuel prices, lower fuel usage and other adjustments, the net increase is projected to be $1.41 a month, or about a nickel a day. Even with this increase, FPL expects its bill to remain the lowest in the state and well below the national average. So what will the increase pay for? First is a new Clean Energy Center at Cape Canaveral. FPL will have spent about $1 billion on this facility when it goes into service in June 2013. Over the plant’s 30year operational life, it more than pays for itself primarily due to fuel savings estimated at more than $1 billion. Second is the impact of the accelerated amortization of so-called surplus depreciation, which was ordered by the Commission in 2010. While this provided a temporary way to avoid a base rate increase at that time, the surplus depreciation essentially runs out in 2013. Third, we anticipate adding 100,000 new customer accounts that we have a duty to serve, so our request includes the costs of the infrastructure, such as poles and wires, needed to serve them. Our request also includes an adjustment to our return on equity or ROE. Our current rates are based on an authorized ROE midpoint of 10-percent, which is the lowest of Florida’s investor-owned utilities and in the bottom third of the country -- despite providing customers with the lowest typical residential bills in the state and reliability that’s among the best in the country. We are asking for an allowed ROE midpoint of 11.25 percent and a performance incentive of 0.25 percent that would be allowed only if we maintain Florida’s lowest typical residential bill. We think having the lowest bill in the state matters to our customers. An appropriate ROE is crucial to our ability to finance the billions of dollars in improvements that keep reliability high and bills low, and that create thousands of jobs throughout South Florida. On average over the past five years, our capital investments have far exceeded our profit. In fact, FPL is the biggest investor in Florida, with plans to invest roughly $15 billion over the period 2010 through 2014. As a South Florida resident and an FPL customer myself, I know there is never a good time for rates to go up. My fellow employees and I have worked hard to minimize the required increase, and we’re committed to working equally hard to continue providing you with exceptional value for years to come. Marlene Santos is vice president of customer service for Florida Power & Light Co.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
Baptist Health hospitals score a perfect ‘A’ in safety survey BY NANCY EAGLETON
Baptist Health South Florida hospitals — across the board — scored a perfect “A” in the first-ever report card on patient safety issued by the Leapfrog Group, a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing full public disclosure of hospital performance. Baptist Health was the only multi-hospital system in Miami-Dade County to receive all A’s. Baptist Hospital, South Miami Hospital, Doctors Hospital and Homestead Hospital were included in the survey. West Kendall Baptist Hospital opened in 2011 and is too new to be included, while Mariner’s Hospital and other critical access hospitals were not eligible for the survey. “This is an excellent independent verification of the quality of care at Baptist Health South Florida hospitals,” said Brian E. Keeley, Baptist’s president and CEO. “All members of the staffs are to be congratulated for their unceasing dedication to patient care and safety and to making the right decisions for patients.” Hospitals across the United States were
given grades of A, B, C, D or F based on 26 measures of hospital performance that included infection rates, medication mixups, injuries and other preventable problems, some of which could be fatal. Hospitals were graded using publicly available data and hospital reports. Of the 2,652 hospitals graded, 729 received an A, 679 were graded a B and 1,243 earned a C or below. The Leapfrog Group gave A grades to nine Miami-Dade hospitals, B’s to two hospitals, C’s to four hospitals and D or F grades to five others. The Leapfrog Group is an independent watchdog run by employers and other large purchasers of health benefits that strives to make giant “leaps” forward in the safety, quality and affordability of healthcare in the United States by promoting transparency and value-based hospital incentives. To see how other hospitals in the state scored, visit HospitalSafetyScore.org. Baptist Health South Florida is the largest faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization in the region. For more information, visit <www.BaptistHealth.org>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
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BY NANCY EAGLETON
Clearwater Pools and Patio takes care of hundreds of pools in Miami and is one of the area’s largest pool servicing companies. After more than 15 years of servicing, repairing and renovating pools and patios, the Clearwater team now is providing new pool and patio construction. Owner Ken Manheimer launched the new division of his growing company in 2010, and offers clients high-quality construction and finishes and top-notch customer service. Years of restoring and repairing pools have enabled Manheimer and his skilled construction team to see mistakes made during the original build-out of a pool, and make improvements to the design and construction process. “We don’t just build to code; we exceed code,” Manheimer said. “We have improved the quality of pool shell construction and the sealing process, so clients won’t have those common problems we often repair.” He educates his customers on the many pool and patio design and materials choices. “I’m not a salesman. My job is to educate my clients on all of their options, so they can make a decision that best fits their needs and budget,” he said. Manheimer not only collaborates with clients to meet their design needs, but also works with them to meet their scheduling needs and ensure a less disruptive construction process. Clearwater Pools and Patio offers homeowners all of today’s popular design fea-
tures, including water features, benches, tanning ledges, beach entries, step-downs, colored lights and more. The Clearwater team knows that the pool area is an extension of the home, and must be functional as well as visually appealing. “Pools are not just for swimming anymore,” Manheimer said. “People want to enjoy their pool even when they don’t have a bathing suit on. They want to dip their toes or step in, cool off at the water’s edge, lounge and entertain friends and family.” Clearwater Pools and Patio offers customers a variety of pool and patio surfaces, and tile and coping choices at price points to fit every budget. Manheimer does not work exclusively with any vendor, and said he always is looking for new materials to provide customers with the newest design options. To “go green” and save on energy costs, Manheimer recommends variable speed pool pumps as well as other environmentally friendly pool equipment and features. Practicing what he preaches, his company “goes green” by using post-recycled products when available, recycling at the office and conforming to more fuel-efficient vehicles. “We offer our customers a fresh approach in pool service, renovation and construction,” Manheimer said. “Good communication, education and excellent service are key. My clients always have my phone number.” For more information on Clearwater Pools and Patio, located at 12308 SW 117 Ct., call 305-278-9395 or visit online at <www.clearwatermiami.com>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Expanding world-class healthcare at Baptist Cardiac and Vascular Institute BY RAQUEL GARCIA
When Dr. Barry Katzen’s mother had a stroke 20 years ago, the use of blot clot dissolving drugs for the brain was in its infancy. Already a practicing physician at the time, he and his colleagues attempted an aggressive treatment to save her life but did not prevail. It was at that point that Dr. Katzen determined there had to be a better way to treat cardiac and vascular patientsm Miami native and medical director of the Baptist Cardiac and Vascular Institute (BCVI), Katzen recently addressed an attentive audience during an informational forum at the home of Monica and Hector Betancourt in Coral Gables. Hosted by Baptist Health Foundation Founders Society members Karel and George Foti, the event was an opportunity to educate the community about the $60 million expansion project BCVI launched last fall. “There was early interest in using clot busters when my mother had a stroke but very little familiarity,” Katzen said. “So I wound up treating her with my colleagues to try to do something which ultimately wasn’t successful. But I determined at that point we are going to have a stroke program here that is innovative and will save lives.” Although even as a kid growing up in his
Miami Beach neighborhood Katzen knew he wanted to become a doctor, his mother’s case and also that of his father who passed away in his 50s as a result of cardio vascular disease, helped drive his dedication to the improved treatment of cardio and vascular disease. Since founding the Baptist Cardiac and Vascular Institute in 1987, Katzen has been a pioneer for improved treatment of heart disease, stroke, and related circulatory issues. “When the institute was founded in 1987, it was extremely unique to integrate care around the entire body,” Katzen said. “At the time, stroke, heart disease, and kidney problems were treated separately. Everyone was treating the same problem, just in different parts of the body. Because heart attack and limb loss and diabetes are very much related and dependent on the circulatory system, integrated treatment (such as ours) has now become standard practice.” Katzen enjoys being on the cutting edge of new treatments and innovation in healthcare. “BCVI has become internationally recognized as one of the top 10 cardiac and vascular programs in the United States. We recently noted our 1,000th treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms. The first patient we treated was probably the fifth case in the country,” Katzen said. “Back in the early ’90s, if a patient had an aneurysm that was about to burst they would
Dr. Barry Katzen speaks about the $60 million BCVI expansion. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
be in the hospital for about 10 days and it would take three to four months to be back to normal. Today a patient with the same disease leaves the hospital in 24 to 48 hours and is back to work in a week or 10 days.” The expansion campaign for the BCVI was launched officially with a sold out Celine Dion concert at the Fillmore Miami Beach on Dec. 16, 2011 that raised $6 million towards the expansion. Dion credits Katzen and the BCVI Institute for performing a cardiac procedure that saved her husband Rene Angelil’s life. With the sophistication of arts and culture in South Florida in the past 20 years, Katzen said medicine has similarly advanced and grown in sophistication. “It was our intention to become a world class facility back in 1987 and that is what we are trying to do — provide the best quality care as well as drive innovation through clinical research,” Katzen said. “As we look ahead to celebrate our 25th anniversary we are continuing to develop patient care around the hardening of the arteries. This affects the heart and the legs and the brain and creates a lot of death and disability in all of us. These kinds of dramatic changes and less invasive cardiac and vascular care extend the lives of patients in a simpler way.”
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
Bob Reynolds cited for 25 years as Certified Insurance Counselor BY JESSE SCHECKNER
Robert (Bob) Reynolds recently received national recognition for being a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) for more than 25 years and was given a plaque marking the accomplishment. To earn the designation of CIC, an insurance agent must pass five tough essay exams that cover the specific insurance disciplines of life and health, commercial property, personal insurance, commercial casualty and agency management. Each exam is preceded by a three-day course, each focusing on the deepest elements of insurance coverage, policy contracts and their application in the field. “Bob’s ongoing allegiance to and support of the CIC Program is a testament to the value he places on ‘real world’ insurance education and client satisfaction,” Dr. William Hold, president of the society of CIC, said during the award ceremony. “His clients, colleagues and the insurance profession as a whole benefit greatly from his dedication.” In 2000, Reynolds was named Agent of the Year by the Society of Certified Professional Insurance Agents. He is the only Floridian to ever receive the designation. “I guess you could say the insurance business is in my blood,” Reynolds said. “It’s what I always wanted to do.” His grandfather, E.H. Reynolds, entered the insurance field in 1910 and authored Florida’s first worker’s compensation law while working for Florida Power and Light. He founded E.H. Reynolds & Son in 1950. Douglas Reynolds, Bob’s father, took over the business in 1957 and merged with fellow insurer Edwin Morris a year later, renaming the company Morris & Reynolds Insurance. Morris retired and sold his interest to the Reynolds family in 1979, although they kept the name. During his successful career, Douglas Reynolds served as president of the Miami Insurance Board and was awarded the Society of Professional Insurance Agents’ lifetime achievement award. After earning his initial degree at Florida State University, Bob entered the family business in 1983 while continuing his studies at the University of Miami. “Going to Miami was a natural choice for me since I’d grown up a fan, as well as the fact that my father graduated from the U,” Reynolds said. “In fact, many of my
Robert and Julianne Reynolds ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
insurance and finance professors were the same ones my father had enjoyed three decades earlier.” He has since taken over the business, its main office located at 14821 S. Dixie Hwy. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition to becoming a licensed CIC, Bob has earned many titles including Certified Professional Insurance Agent. He is an associate in automation management, in insurance services and in underwriting. Morris & Reynolds is very active in the community, supporting numerous local and national foundations that include the American Cancer Society, the ALS Foundation of Florida, Breakthrough Miami and the Humane Society of South Florida. Of all his accomplishments, Reynolds cites his family as his greatest accomplishment. “My life’s biggest passion is my wife and partner Julianne and our two children,” he said. “By far, they are my greatest award.” For more information, go to <www.morrisandreynolds.com>, call 305-238-1000 or send email to <bob@morrisandreynolds.com>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Locally made film on school violence released on DVD BY GARY ALAN RUSE
Hidden Rage — a locally made independent film that takes on the issues of bullying, school violence and teen suicide by dramatically depicting the warning signs that parents, school officials and fellow students often ignore — will soon be available to a national audience. The DVD version of the movie, its story seems ripped from television news reports, will be out on July 17 in stores and online sellers as diverse as Walmart, Amazon.com, Best Buy, Barnes & Noble, Netflix, Christianbook.com, Kmart.com and others. Director/producer Norton O. Rodriguez said that the video version of the film is the culmination of years of effort. “We are very excited about our The DVD cover for Hidden Rage national release of Hidden Rage –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– on DVD,” Rodriguez said. “The movie took more than seven years guard Tony, and Kelly (Prodigal Son) to be produced, from script to screen. It Williams as a security guard/rapper who took three years of research after the brings comedy to the film. Columbine Massacre incident. “Dani Jordana Berkowitz as Rebecca “We felt bullying and school shootings and Rafaella Biscayn-Debest as Sophia would become a problem, only we never did a great job in bringing the female imagined it would become an international point of view to the issue of bullying, epidemic,” he added. “And we are thankful including cyber-bullying,” Rodriguez that it will reach a larger audience because added. “And having a producer like we believe the film also shows the solu- Mario Ortiz, who also produced our film tions available to get rid of bullying and Libertad (Freedom) in 1997 was a great help in producing Hidden Rage’s most school shootings.” Written by Alejandro Leyva and Robert complicated special effects and action A. Kramer, the movie was filmed in several scenes in the movie.” Actor Roberto Escobar not only played a South Florida schools with many real students as extras, the independent production key role, he also co-produced the film and by faith-based The God of Moses worked as co-director as well, according to Entertainment used a cast of solid profes- Rodriguez, who said that all of them are sional actors for pivotal roles but also some serious about getting out the message. “We believed the movie was important newcomers. The film’s compelling message also attracted a number of volunteers who to produce because the statistics are alarmdonated their time and effort, including for- ing, when you see so many young children mer South Miami Mayor Horace Feliu and being bullied,” Rodriguez said. “Hidden Rage is still timely because too many kids former Florida State Rep. Julio Robaina. “We believe Hidden Rage has been a suc- are still living in depression while many cessful film thanks to the amazing cast and others are committing suicide. There’s got crew that we were blessed to work with,” to be something wrong somewhere. Rodriguez said. “A cast and crew who Everyday there is more lack of love and worked hard and believed in the vision of the lack of God in our homes and in our film from day one. Our main actor, Aaron schools. Hidden Rage is geared to be a Goldenberg, is an amazing up-and-coming light in the midst of darkness and a warnactor who is very talented, and did a fantas- ing sign in such a time as this.” The movie is distributed by House tic job in portraying Joshua in the film.” Rodriguez also praised as “amazing” Lights Media. The trailer can be seen on actors Eric Nelson, who plays the security <www.youtube.com>.
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
City Furniture reopens newly transformed Dadeland store BY LINDA LEWIS
Revealing the eye-popping results of a $3.5 million “extreme makeover,” City Furniture has opened the first of five stores in its tri-county expansion — the newly transformed Dadeland area showroom at 9255 S. Dixie Hwy. in Pinecrest. With business on the upswing as the economy improves, City Furniture president Keith Koenig said South Florida’s top-selling furniture retailer is launching construction of additional stores to dramatically increase sales in proven locations. Construction was scheduled to begin for stores in Cutler Bay and Oakland Park. The company added 25 permanent jobs in connection with the Dadeland store and plans to add about 60 more firm wide by early 2013, Koenig said. The expansion in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties also is creating work for several hundred in the construction trades. City Furniture’s highest performing location per square foot, the Dadeland store has nearly doubled in size with addition of a second floor. The 28,556-square-foot showroom is one of the nation’s greenest furniture stores and brings City Furniture’s upscale “next generation” store design into sharp focus for consumers. When Koenig and his
late brother Kevin, the company’s founder, built the store as a Waterbed City in 1992, the location’s potential was clear. “Kevin had the idea of building a structure tall enough to eventually have a second floor, which would require a zoning variance,” Keith Koenig said. “As Waterbed City until 1994, and then as a full-line City Furniture store, the location has been outstanding.” The zoning variance was approved in 2010, and transformation moved ahead within the existing building’s envelope. “Thanks to Kevin’s vision, we could expand on land purchased 20 years ago, instead of having to sell and find a new location,” Koenig said. “Consumers’ tastes and expectations are changing faster than ever, and our next generation design reflects that reality,” Koenig explained. “Today’s customers want a shopping experience that inspires their imagination, delivers outstanding quality for the price — and reflects a company’s lasting values. They research first online and expect a ‘wow’ factor when they invest time to visit a store.” To meet those expectations, City Furniture is reinventing its store environments and introduced a new website this spring. The firm’s next generation store design is decidedly upscale, with high-fashion displays and museum-quality finishes. While City
Focal point for City Furniture’s Dadeland showroom is a dramatic 27-foothigh central atrium.
Furniture’s exceptional value for the price and same-day delivery are unchanged, the new store design features a host of innovative energy efficient features. Each store in the expansion is being built to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council — a natural extension of City Furniture’s corporate values and sustainable practices. Nationwide, only a handful of furniture stores have achieved LEED certification. At the Dadeland store just completed by Stiles Construction, second-floor balconies overlook a dramatic 27-foot-high central atrium. Adding eye appeal are richly textured “green” materials such as a solid cherry Hitchcock panel wall made with reclaimed wood, and natural stone feature walls with recycled Italian stone. Energy- and water-saving features range from interior and exterior LED lighting and a super high efficiency HVAC system, to drip irrigation and environmentally sound paints,
coatings, adhesives, carpet and flooring. Plantings of mature palms and other native foliage buffer and beautify the view from neighboring homes. At each new South Florida location, Koenig’s team is building on the success of the company’s City Furniture/Ashley Furniture HomeStore superstore concept. City Furniture is the Ashley Furniture HomeStore licensee in Southeast and Southwest Florida and has had strong results by offering the two brands in adjoining stores in Boca Raton, Stuart, Wellington, Fort Myers and Naples. Koenig expects the new Cutler Bay City Furniture store to be completed in spring 2013, and Stiles Construction will then renovate and connect the existing City Furniture store on the property at SW 187th Street as an adjacent Ashley Furniture HomeStore. The furniture retailer operates 14 City Furniture and nine Ashley Furniture HomeStore locations in Southeast and Southwest Florida. For information visit <www.cityfurniture.com>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Local bakery bringing unique dessert concept to Kendall BY RYAN JONES
One-of-a-kind Nothing Bundt Cakes — bakeries specializing in nostalgic yet refreshingly modern Bundt cakes — is spreading its wholesome goodness to the Kendall area. The newest bakery, the company’s milestone 50th store, is located at 12030 N. Kendall Dr. in Kendallgate Shopping Center. The bakery will host several grand opening activities on Friday, June 29, and Saturday, June 30. Nothing Bundt Cakes reintroduces an old family favorite, the Bundt cake, with a light moist taste and fresh, clean look that appeals to all ages. Each cake features custom concept cake decorations that are smart, contemporary and fun to enhance any occasion large or small. Nothing Bundt Cakes offers customers a wide range of cake flavors and sizes, from Bundtinis — single serving cakes — to larger Bundts that serve up to 18 people, and tiered cakes that serve up to 26 people. Grand opening celebrations include: Friday, June 29, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., 20 percent of all proceeds will benefit Camillus House. Saturday, June 30, 9 a.m., free Bundtlets for a year for first 50 customers with purchase; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., family fun event featuring balloon twisting, face painting and
yummy cakes for the whole family. “I hope these cakes will become a part of everyone’s lives, whether as a personal indulgence, a special gift or as a centerpiece during any gathering or special occasion,” said Monica Sicre Reckert, Nothing Bundt Cakes local bakery owner. “We are excited to become a part of this community and partner with local community organizations, such as Camillus House, furthering our commitment and dedication to the community in which we live and work.” Made fresh daily using only the freshest ingredients available, Nothing Bundt Cakes combines great taste and creative presentations that appeal not only to taste buds but to all five senses. Customers are greeted by the smell of freshly baked cakes the minute they cross the store threshold. A soothing yet warm color palette meets the eye with whimsical furniture and hand-painted signage reminiscent of yesteryear but with a clean, fresh approach. The Nothing Bundt Cakes staff instantly makes customers feel right at home with a friendly welcome. Phone and Internet orders also are available for customers’ convenience. “We’ve learned that Bundt cakes quickly become a memorable part of families’ traditions, so we are looking forward to introduc-
The Bundt cake is coming to Kendall. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ing this delicious concept to everyone in the headquartered in Las Vegas, NV. Nothing Miami area,” said Dena Tripp, co-founder of Bundt Cakes is one of the nation’s few bakNothing Bundt Cakes. “Our franchisees are ery/retail locations committed to the baking of not only an integral part of our growth strat- Bundt cakes. The bakery specializes in offeregy, but they are also an integral part of con- ing celebration solutions for moments that necting to the community through the love of matter and always enhancing their customers’ the handmade Bundt cake. We look forward celebrations. This bakery’s opening makes a to a successful partnership and becoming total of 50 bakeries across 12 states. part of this city.” For more information, please visit Founded in 1997, Nothing Bundt Cakes is <www.nothingbundtcakes.com>.
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
Wells Fargo volunteers help fix up home of Richmond Heights widow
Pictured are Wells Fargo employee Kelli Schweitzer and Pearly Richardson, brother of homeowners. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY DONNA FALES
Mary Chandler, 62, who recently became a widow, welcomed 14 Wells Fargo volunteers who painted her house and cleaned up her yard on Saturday, June 16. “We appreciate your assistance in making our home a safe and healthy environment again,” Chandler said. James Chandler and Mary were married 35 years and had lived in their Richmond Heights home for 35 years. Sadly, Mr. Chandler did not live to see the completed home repairs and freshly painted home as he passed away recently at age 75. Mrs. Chandler works for Baptist Hospital, a job that she has held for 41 years. Her husband was a retired Miami-Dade County Public School teacher and later a cook until forced to stop working because of illness. Mrs. Chandler was surrounded by family members — Teresa Brown, Ned Roberts, Alexis Brown and Pearly Richardson and her 87-year-old mother, Barbara Richardson. All but Ms. Chandler and Ms. Richardson joined in the workday.
Wells Fargo Housing Foundation awarded Rebuilding Together Miami a $10,000 grant to fix up the Chandler home. Home repairs included replacing fascia board and screening; hanging new ceiling fans; redoing the bathrooms with a new tub and toilets and installing handicap bars; repairing a wall leak; ceiling repairs; tenting for termites; cleaning the A/C coil and replacing carpet with a tile floor. Kelli Schweitzer of Wells Fargo brought her husband and son along so the workday might be a family activity. She believes in giving back to the community and helping those in need. “I did not think that we would finish painting the house, but look at it now. It looks great!” The Chandler family members provided lunch for the volunteers as their way of saying “thank you!” For more information about Rebuilding Together Miami, visit <www.rebuildingtogethermiami.org>. For more information about the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation, visit <www.wellsfargo.com>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
www.miamisoccerfestival.org SEPTEMBER 29 AND 30TH Kendall Soccer Park 8011 SW 127 Ave The annual Miami Soccer Festival exists to promote, celebrate and share ‘The Beautiful Game’ of soccer with the community of Miami and beyond within a healthy family environment. Over 150 teams will play over the weekend and additional entertainment includes ‘get in the game fitness and fun’, live music, a full range of food within the soccer village, and various water and fun experiences for the kids.
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
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Real Men Sing Show Tunes…and play with puppets BY BROOKE NOBLE
Actors’ Playhouse will cap off the 201112 Mainstage Season with the world premiere of Real Men Sing Show Tunes...and play with puppets, with book, music and lyrics by Paul Louis and Nick Santa Maria. A song-filled comedy for mature audiences, about real men behaving like real men, this manly musical revue will hit the Miracle Theatre from July 11 to Aug. 12. A hilarious romp through manhood, Real Men Sing Show Tunes…and play with puppets offers an inside glimpse of what it takes to be a man in a modern world shared with women, children, and yes, even puppets. The story of Real Men, who make a habit of juggling their balls every day; fatherhood, mid-life crisis, dating, marriage, potency, sexuality, and the lack of it. Men will finally have a musical comedy that speaks to them, while their ladies can gather some comedic material to use against them. Although puppetry is featured in this production, this risqué and witty musical is not suitable for children…only the childish and immature. “After years of working on new shows featuring ‘today’s women,’ it’s been a blast turning the tables and having fun with life, love, marriage, etc., from the guy’s point of view,” said artistic director David Arisco. “Nick and Paul are tremendously talented comedic writers, and this brand new show will have both men and women laughing at the results.” Arisco has worked closely with the playwrights throughout the past year developing this new work through a series of public and private readings. The playwrights also will be working closely on the production, with Paul Louis and Nick Santa Maria starring in the show. Louis began writing musicals in his high school days in Queens, NY. As a young adult, he began to write original puppet musicals, eventually becoming the resident
Pictured (l-r) are Paul Louis, Nick Santa Maria and Stephen G. Anthony in Real Men Sing Show Tunes... and play with puppets. (Photo courtesy of Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
director/ writer/ composer of children’s theater for the Shores Performing Arts Theater in Miami Shores. Louis created and wrote all the scripts and songs for 14 episodes of his former nationally syndicated children’s puppet TV series, Jelly Bean Jungle (praised by President Bill Clinton as “high quality children’s programming” and winner of an award of excellence by the Film Advisory Board). It was on Jelly Bean Jungle where he began to collaborate on other projects with fellow puppeteer, and now his writing partner, Nick Santa Maria. Together, the team created Blip and Blab, Language Explorers, an internationally seen series for teaching English as a second language.
Louis has written the book, music and lyrics to more than 50 children’s musicals, which have been produced in professional theaters throughout the USA. He also has been a contributing songwriter for the adult musical comedy dinner theater, “Laffing Matterz,” in Fort Lauderdale. Santa Maria began writing scripts and songs when he was 14 years old for films he and his cronies made after school, and on weekends. He also wrote material and songs for his first nightclub act at 15 years of age. As a member of the fondly remembered Miami Comedy Improvisation Group, “Mental Floss,” he honed his writing skills and became the resident songsmith. Santa Maria contributed songs and sketches for the Off-Broadway hit, Secrets
Every Smart Traveler Should Know, and also has written and composed special material for several artists. Santa Maria has just published his first book, Comedy Crazy: 60 Essays About Comedians from the Golden Age. Actor Stephen G. Anthony will join Louis and Santa Maria on stage. Anthony is well known in South Florida for his Carbonell-winning portrayals of Man #2 in I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, and Tom/Phyllis/Leslie in Sylvia. Since that time, Anthony made his Broadway debut as Hoss (the bass player) in the award winning, critically acclaimed Hank Williams: Lost Highway. Most recently, he has appeared alongside Sharon Gless in A Round-Heeled Woman at GablesStage, the Carbonell-nominated play August: Osage County at Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, and Death and the Maiden at The Mosaic Theatre. Preview performances of Real Men Sing Show Tunes…and play with puppets will be Wednesday and Thursday, July 11 and 12, at 8 p.m. The show will open on Friday, July 13, at 8 p.m., and play through Aug. 12. Evening performances will be held Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., with afternoon matinees on Sunday at 2 p.m. A special weekday matinee is scheduled on Wednesday, July 18, at 2 p.m. Preview night tickets on the first Wednesday and Thursday are $35. Tickets for weeknights and matinees are $40, and on Friday and Saturday evenings $48. The theater offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Discounts are based on availability and exclude Saturday and Sunday. Group discounted rates are offered for 15 or more through the group sales department. Single tickets may be purchased through the box office at 305444-9293 or online at <www.actorsplayhouse.org>.
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
Miami Foundation gives over $1M to local non-profit organizations BY JEANMARIE FERRARA
The Miami Foundation awarded more than $1 million to 62 local nonprofit organizations at its Bridging Generosity, Leadership and Grant-making luncheon on June 11. The Foundation’s signature Community Grants program invests in organizations and programs that share a vision of a greater Miami. These organizations represent the depth and breadth of innovation and services offered across the county, such as investing in Miami kids to become airline pilots; providing basic healthcare to those most in need, and supporting arts, culture and education. “These grants are made possible by philanthropists who have entrusted their charitable dollars and legacies to the Miami Foundation,” said Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of the Miami Foundation. “They created their family’s foundation with us and will forever help those in our community who are most in need and meet Miami’s emerging needs in ways the donor never envisioned.” A panel that included community leaders reviewed more than 300 proposals that strive to build a greater Miami. The recipients represent a broad spectrum of community organizations that work to improve the quality of life in Miami-Dade County. Previous Community Grants recipients — Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, City Year Miami and Voices for Children — were featured at the Bridging Generosity, Leadership and Grant-making luncheon. Organizations that are recipients of this year’s Community Grants were invited to the luncheon along with community leaders and philanthropists. THE 2012 COMMUNITY GRANTS RECIPIENTS INCLUDE: Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, $20,000; American Cancer Society, $20,000; American Red Cross South Florida Region, $15,000; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami, $10,000; Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Inc., $15,000; Breakthrough Miami Inc. (Miami, Coconut Grove, Miami Shores, Palmetto Bay), $20,000; Camillus Health Concern, $20,000; Camp Boggy Creek, $10,000; Cat Network Inc., $20,000; Catalyst Hip-Hop (Miami Springs), $15,000; Catholic Charities Legal Services, $15,000; Children’s Home Society of Florida, $15,000; Communities in Schools of Miami Inc., $20,000;
Community Smiles (Miami), $17,500; Deering Estate Foundation Inc., $20,000; Easter Seals South Florida Inc., $20,000; The Education Fund, $15,000; Experience Aviation (Opa-locka), $17,500; Family Resource Center of South Florida, $15,000; Farm Share Inc., $20,000; Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, $15,000; Florida International University-Honors College, $10,000; Florida International University-The Education Effect, $19,000; Glory Temple Ministries Inc. (Liberty City), $15,000; Good Hope Equestrian Training Center Inc. (Miami), $15,000; Green Mobility Network (Miami), $10,000; Haitian Neighborhood Center, Sant La (Little Haiti/Miami), $20,000; His House Children’s Home (Miami Gardens), $20,000; ITWomen Charitable Foundation (Miami), $11,000; Kristi House Inc. (Miami), $25,000; Miami Book Fair International, $15,000; Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation-Health on Wheels, $17,500; Miami Children’s Museum, $15,000; Miami Dade College Foundation-College Readiness Institute, $20,000; Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Inc., $17,500; Museum of Contemporary Art Inc., $20,000; NALEO Educational Fund, $10,000; National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts, $25,000; Neighbors 4 Neighbors, $20,000; New World Symphony, $20,000; Open Door Health Center Inc. (Homestead), $17,500; Our Kids Miami-Dade/Monroe Inc. (Miami and Key West), $20,000; Overtown Youth Center Inc., $20,000; Planned Parenthood of South Florida and the Treasure Coast, $15,000; Posse Foundation Inc. (Miami), $20,000; Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida, $25,000; Saint Martha Concerts and Cultural Affairs Inc. (Miami Shores), $5,000; Shake-A-Leg Miami Inc. (Coconut Grove), $15,000; Single Stop USA (Miami), $25,000; Sunrise Community Inc. (Miami and North Miami), $20,000; Take Stock in Children, $15,000; Teach for America Miami-Dade, $15,000; Trinity Church Inc., $20,000; UAspire, $25,000; U.S. Soccer Foundation, $17,500; University of Miami-Pediatric Mobile Clinic, $15,000; Veterans Link Up Inc. (Miami), $20,000; Voices for Children Foundation (Miami), $20,000; Women of Tomorrow Mentor and Scholarship Program (Miami), $20,000; WPBT2 Community Television of Florida, $15,000; Young Men’s Christian Association of Greater Miami Inc., $20,000, and The Zoological Society of Florida, $10,000.
Juan Pablo “JP” Paniagua, addresses more than 200 attendees at the Miami Foundation’s grants luncheon. Reading from the speech that he prepared in Braille he explains to the audience how visually impaired students work closely with teachers at Miami Lighthouse for the Blind to learn the lessons and strategies necessary to succeed at the FCAT. He has been working on his Braille skills at Miami Lighthouse for the Blind since 2003. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Established in 1967, the Miami Foundation has helped hundreds of people create personal, permanent and powerful legacies by establishing custom, charitable funds. With foundation expertise, fundholders have fostered the arts, awarded scholarships, championed diversity, taught kids to read, provided food and shelter for the hungry and homeless, and more. More than $150 million in grants and scholarships have been awarded in the Foundation’s 45-year history. Today, the Foundation is steward to more than $150 million in charitable assets. For more information about the Miami Foundation, visit online at <www.miamifoundation.org>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
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Fourth of July Celebration
South Miami Hospital will once again sponsor the City of South Miami’s Fourth of July Celebration, Wednesday, July 4, 5-10 p.m., at Palmer Park, located at 6100 S.W. 76th Avenue. The annual event brings neighbors together to celebrate our country’s independence. Bring a blanket and enjoy the festivities, which will include a DJ and live band and children’s entertainment. Food and drinks offered by local vendors will be available for sale. The evening will end with a spectacular fireworks display, beginning at 9 p.m. Alcohol, pets and personal fireworks are not permitted. Parking for the event is available at South Miami Middle School.
Fireworks Safety
Viewing public displays handled by professionals is the safest way to enjoy fireworks on the Fourth of July. Thousands of Americans are injured each year in incidents associated with fireworks, according to the National Council of Fireworks Safety. Though the most disabling injuries occur with illegal firecrackers, the majority of injuries are caused by bottle rockets, sparklers and Roman candles. It’s important to take safety precautions to prevent serious injuries, which most often occur to children and teens. “The most common injuries we see are to the hands, face and eyes. These can be life-altering injuries, and yet they can be prevented if proper precautions are taken,” said Yvonne Johnson, M.D., medical director of the hospital’s Emergency Center. “If you or someone with you experiences a fireworks-related injury, go to a doctor or hospital immediately.” If you plan to celebrate the holiday at home with your own fireworks, follow these tips to stay safe: • Buy fireworks from reliable sellers. • Ignite fireworks outdoors only. • Do not let children ignite fireworks. • Do not consume alcohol when using fireworks. • When igniting fireworks, wear safety goggles to protect the eyes. • Follow label directions and read cautionary labels. • Never place any part of your body over a firework device. • Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks. • Light only one at a time. • Do not use bottle rockets. Their flight paths are often erratic. • Do not attempt to relight fireworks that have not worked properly. • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of malfunction or fire. To view a complete list of fireworks safety tips and a safety video, visit FireworksSafety.org.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
Big Lots invites you to vote in Lots2Give video contest BY TONI FINK
Big Lots is turning to Americans to determine the 37 winners in this year’s Lots2Give video contest by voting online for their favorite video. The contest is part of the fifth-annual Lots2Give program launched by Big Lots to help schools in need of financial support across America. Big Lots asked participating schools to put their creativity to the test by submitting a short video and brief essay explaining why their school is in need of financial support. Cash prizes include 30 $2,000 third place prizes, four $5,000 second place prizes, two $10,000 first place prizes and one $20,000 grand prize — the contest’s biggest prize amount total yet. Now through July 8, the public can vote for their favorite video entries up to three times a day by visiting <www.biglots.com/lots2give>. Those votes will determine the schools that will
share $120,000 in cash prizes. Miami-Dade County schools in the running are: Alonzo and Tracy Mourning High School, Coral Reef High School, Ronald Reagan Doral High School and South Miami High School. “The Lots2Give program allows us to connect with schools in need of financial support across the country,” said Steve Fishman, chair, CEO and president. “We invite America to join us in selecting the winners of our Lots2Give video contest and promoting an important cause.” In addition to the Lots2Give video contest, participating schools will be the recipients of an in-store donation program. Customers can help selected schools by donating $1 or $5 at participating Big Lots stores through July 8. One hundred percent of donations will go to participating schools. For additional information and to vote for your favorite video, visit <www.biglots.com/lots2give>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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California’s beauty really begins north of the Golden Gate Bridge BY RON BEASLEY
Many people believe that California ends at San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, but I am here to tell you that as beautiful as the state is to the south, you haven’t see anything until you drive north along the Pacific Coast to the Oregon border. It’s a meandering 425-mile trek through the Napa and Anderson Valleys, where you’ll find literally dozens of vineyards and wineries, large and small. You can either take Highway 1 just after you cross the Golden Gate to drive up the coast and enjoy some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find anywhere in the world. Or you can stay on Highway 101 all the way to Crescent City just off the Oregon border. Another option is to drop off the 101 and take Highway 20 for a beautifully scenic drive through the Anderson Valley, where you will find some of the best vineyards in the state. Be sure and stop at the Scharffenberger Vinyard for some of the most delicious champagne anywhere. After you have finished visiting wine country, Highway 20 will take you through the quaint and historic town of Mendocino,
N E W S where there are numerous old oceanside mansions that have been converted to wonderful bed and breakfast hotels. Be sure and visit downtown Mendocino if you’re looking for exquisite paintings, sculpture and various other types of art by local artists. And you will want to take a drive and park at the headlands for spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the waves crashing on the rocky shoreline. Leaving Mendocino, take Highway 1 and continue on to Ft. Bragg where you can either travel Highway 128 for about 40 miles on a winding, twisting route through a Redwood forest and re-connect with Highway 101, and that will take you through the quaint, bustling town of Humboldt. Or you may opt to stay on Highway 1 and continue your journey up the Pacific Coast Highway. You will re-connect with the 101 at Eureka and eventually find
Visit the Scharffenberger Vineyard in the Anderson Valley for delicious champagne.
These sea lions relax on the dock outside the Chart Room Restaurant in Crescent City. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Towering Redwoods in the Jedidiah Smith State Park are awe-inspiring.
yourself in the town of Crescent City in California’s northernmost del Norte County. Crescent City is an oceanfront community with a laid-back charm and beauty that’s hard to find. There are several oceanfront motels to choose from for lodging, and seafood restaurants abound. One favorite is the Chart Room with its views of the harbor and ocean. You can dine on the seafood platter, the daily luncheon special, or the sumptuous fried oyster plate, which will have you coming back for more. The Chart Room is a favorite with local residents and it sits right alongside of the docks at the Crescent City Marina, so you can enjoy the sea lions lounging on the piers and the boats making their way to and from their moorings. Be sure and get a window seat. Adjacent to Crescent City is the beauti-
ful Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, where the trees are so big you can drive a car through them. Take the five-and-a-halfmile long Howland Hill Road drive through the park and be sure to park the car and hike the half-mile Stout Grove Trail that meanders through these colossal trees. It is truly spectacular. Or take the one-and-half-mile Lady Bird Johnson Trail that winds through beautiful flowers and towering old-growth Redwoods, Douglas fir and tanoaks. The First Lady dedicated Redwood National Park in 1968. Other trails to consider are the Circle, Revelation and Yurok Loop, where you’ll find amazing views of False Klamath Cove and Lagoon Creek. The Redwoods are simply a grand thing to see; many are hundreds of years old and they remain as one of the ancient wonders of the world that you don’t want to miss.
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden to host cooking class for children BY PAULA FERNÁNDEZ DE LOS MUROS
As a preview to the 20th anniversary of the International Mango Festival, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is hosting “Mango Munchkins Cooking Class,” a free event on Sunday, July 1, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., where children ages 5-12 can learn how to create healthy and delicious meals using the fruit at the tip of every Floridian’s tongue this summer — mangos. Noris Ledesma, curator of tropical fruit and writer for the blog “For the Love of Mangos” at Fairchild, is teaching participants how to make mouthwatering mango popsicles and smoothies. Ten-year-old Paloma Fernandez is teaching her peers how to make a healthy mango pizza, a recipe she created herself. “Mango Munchkins Cooking Class” gives a sneak peek into Fairchild’s buzzedabout International Mango Festival, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary on Saturday, July 14, and Sunday, July 15.
The cooking class takes place at the Shehan Visitor Center in the ballroom on the second floor at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd. in Coral Gables. This is a free event. There is a two-guest limit per each child participating. Space is limited, so an RSVP in advance is strongly recommended. Call Morgan Brooks at 305-667-1651, ext. 3303, to reserve a spot. For more information, visit the Mango Munchkins Cooking Class webpage. Fairchild’s International Mango Festival is in its 20th year and continues to be the summer’s must-attend event. It features the world’s largest display of mango cultivars, over 1,200 mango trees for purchase, amazing cooking demonstrations, fun things for the kids, mango cultivar tastings, a marketplace of mango products, educational lectures, mango-inspired cuisine, entertainment and much more. For more information, call 305-6671651 or visit <www.fairchildgarden.org>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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In new book Wade reveals importance of fatherhood BY ANDY DODDS
In his soon-to-be-published book, A Father First: How My Life Became Bigger Than Basketball, Dwyane Wade, a current co-captain for the Miami Heat and eighttime NBA All-Star, shares insights on his life both on and off the court with a large focus on fatherhood, a topic of deep personal significance. Wade reveals his thoughts on fatherhood, detailing his personal experiences as a parent, and tracing his transformation from being the child of a single parent to now serving as one himself. In the book, scheduled for release Sept. 4, Wade opens up and reveals for the first time the intimate and traumatic details of his growing up and also the prolonged battle with his ex-wife for sole custody of his two sons, touching on: • His mother’s struggles as a drug addict, and his growing up in Chicago among gangs, drug dealers and police raids (including a gut-wrenching story of young Dwyane finding a dead body in a garbage can). • How he pulled himself up from such a life, thrived through basketball and maintained his devotion to his mother. • He has never talked about the prolonged battle with his ex-wife over sole custody of his two sons and why doing so was the most important thing in his life, and how the constant media attention has affected him and his boys. • His advocacy for fathers taking a strong role in their children’s lives; his main reason for writing the book is to help fathers see how they can do this and to see that they and their children can benefit from it enormously. • His childhood hero, his sister Tragil, who got him out of the mean Chicago streets, placed him with their father, and in many ways rescued him from a life that could have gone the wrong way. • The coaches who served as role models and father figures through high school, college and the NBA and how much they meant to him.
lives of my two children is the single most significant undertaking of my life, and the job I take most seriously. While my basketball career has brought me many rewards — including an NBA Championship in 2006 and an Olympic Gold Medal in the 2008 Summer Games — my children are the two greatest gifts of my life.” A Father First also highlights Wade’s phenomenal basketball career — from his early days shooting hoops in Chicago, to training at Marquette University, to emerging as an unheralded draft pick to receiving MVP honors in the 2006 NBA Finals. In a narrative that spans two generations of the Wade family, Wade’s book encourages parents to lead by example and make being a caregiver the top priority. For more information on Dwyane Wade, visit <www.dwyanewade.com>.
Dwyane Wade is pictured with sons, Zion (left) and Zaire. (Photo credit: Bob Metelus)
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• The Heat’s successful 2006 NBA Championship, with Wade being awarded Finals MVP, and his gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. In March 2011, in a landmark legal decision, Wade earned sole custody of his two young sons, effectively setting a new precedent for professional male athletes. Most recently, he teamed up with President Barack Obama to support his Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative, a national parenting program geared toward encouraging fathers to become more involved in the lives of their children. “As a child, I grew up with aspirations to one day be a professional basketball player, and I am living that dream every day as a proud member of the Miami Heat,” Wade said. “However, the daily role I play in the
ABOUT THE BOOK: A Father First: How My Life Became Bigger Than Basketball by Dwyane Wade; William Morrow Hardcover; on sale Sept. 4; $26.99; 384 pages. Also available in e-book and digital audio formats. For more on this and other titles from HarperCollins Publishers, visit online at <www.harpercollins.com>.
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Make sure your summer vacation is a safe one BY KATHERINE FERNANDEZ RUNDLE
State Attorney, Miami-Dade County As we begin the summer season, many South Florida families start taking their highly anticipated summer vacation. For those whose plans involve leaving town, the last thing you want to worry about is the security of your home. Here are some tips that will help secure your home while you and your loved ones enjoy a fun and safe vacation. • Be sure to notify your local police agency about your departure and return dates, and give a name and telephone number of a neighbor, friend, or relative to notify in case of a burglary, fire or other emergency. Officers who routinely patrol in your area will check your home periodically. • Contact the post office and request your mail not be delivered during the days you will be away. Your carrier will deliver your “held” mail upon your return or you may choose to pick it up at your designated post office branch. • Newspaper deliveries also should be placed on hold while you are away so that they
do not pile up and alert passersby that your house is unoccupied. • Make arrangements to have your grass cut and watered while you are gone. • Have someone check daily to remove outdated papers and circulars from your doorway and yard. • If you have valuables in the house, take them to the bank for storage in your safety deposit box. Deposit extra cash that you are not taking with you in your bank account. • Move valuables so they can’t be seen from the windows. Be sure you have a list of all your appliances, furniture, and valuables. • Make sure to repair any broken windows, door locks or window locks before your trip. • Put any lawn furniture, bicycles, and other moveable objects away before leaving. Items left out while you are gone can be stolen easily. • Arrange with a neighbor, friend, or relative to watch over your house. Give them a key and let them know where or how you can be reached in case of an emergency. Make sure you take their telephone number with you so you can check with them during your trip. Give them your car description and license number. It is important that they know how to reach you at all times while you away.
Pictured are the new owners of Lots of Lox (l-r) Steve, Jimmy and Nick Poulos.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
GroveHouse Artists exhibit opens at the Deering Estate at Cutler
Estrogen Dominance BY SONIA MARTINEZ, RPH
The following problems can be signs of estrogen dominance: fibrocystic and tender breasts, heavy menstrual bleeding, irregular menstrual cycles, uterine fibroids, decreased libido, mood swings, vasomotor symptoms, weight gain (hips, waist, thighs), foggy thinking, forgetfulness or increased levels of triglycerides? Estrogen Dominance occurs if you have a relative deficiency of progesterone relative to estrogen. Without progesterone supplementation, most women will experience estrogen dominance at some point in their lifetime, the extent of which will vary based on genetics, nutrition, emotional stressors and exposure to environmental toxins. Men also make estrogen and progesterone, and these hormones need to be balanced in men, also. It has been proposed that increased estrogenic stimulation of the prostate in the aging male may lead to reactivation of prostate growth and cancer. Ask our pharmacist for more information.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
BY CATHY GUERRA
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 â&#x20AC;˘ 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.
The GroveHouse Artists exhibit at the Deering Estate at Cutler is open to the public through Aug. 31 and is free with estate admission. Each year GroveHouse Artists partners with the Deering Estate at Cutler for the annual general membership and Plein Air Exhibit displayed throughout the historic homes of the Deering Estate. Curated by GroveHouse Artists director Barbara Tejeda, the exhibit will feature award-winning works from the Affair En Plein Air event, a two-day juried outdoor painting competition, and diverse works that include ceramics, wood sculpture, watercolor, oil painting and craft. For more information visit online at <www.deeringestate.org>. GroveHouse Artists is a 501(c)(3) not for profit, cooperative art gallery with a purpose to provide a venue for local artists to exhibit their original art work. GroveHouse Artists also strives to establish a community forum for awareness and participation in the arts and the art experi-
E a c h y e a r G ro v e H o u s e A rt i s t s p a rt n e r s w i t h t h e D e e r i n g E s t a t e at Cutler for the annual general membership and Plein Air Exhibit d i s p l a y e d t h ro u g h o u t t h e h i s t o r i c homes of the Deering Estate. ence by presenting cultural programs, presentations, and exhibits that are open and free to the public. The Deering Estate at Cutler, a MiamiDade County Park, is located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. This 444-acre natural and archeological preserve and historic site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a center for education, culture and recreation. Historic house tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more information on the Deering Estateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s educational and cultural programs, visit online at <www.deeringestate.org>.
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
Wellspring Counseling launches kids Trauma-Resolution Camp BY SARAH CREUS
Focusing on one of the most at-risk communities, Miami-based Wellspring Counseling has launched the Bounce! Trauma-Resolution Camp, a one-week program focusing on providing integrated therapy for children who have suffered moderate to severe trauma. Offered by the licensed mental health therapists at Wellspring, Bounce!, offered July 9-13, includes age-appropriate trauma education, group and individual therapy, and parent participation in the context of a fun, experiential camp environment designed for elementary age children who have experienced single-incident traumatic life events. These events may be violent or non-violent. Wellspring’s curriculum for the program is based on the renowned National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children, which helps children deal with what is often unprocessed trauma through TLC’s innovated SITCAP model. SITCAP’s
goal is to provide a powerful framework for helping those who have been in a traumatic incident engage themselves in different activities to allow them to experience themselves as safe and empowered, flourishing individuals. “Diagnosing and treating a trauma episode in a child is crucial to not only their long-term mental health, but their ability to function as a meaningful adult in the future,” said Tova Kreps, LCSW, CTS, president of Wellspring. “It is our belief that even a moderate trauma episode in a child’s life, left untreated, can lead to longterm negative emotional ramifications throughout their entire life. We want to help bring healing through a proven, successful protocol.” Bounce! will take place at Old Cutler Presbyterian Church, 14401 Old Cutler Rd. The cost for this camp is $1,110. For more information or questions regarding scholarship opportunities, contact Wellspring at 786-573-7010, or log onto the website at <www.wellspringmiami.org>.
June 26 - July 9, 2012
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Cutler Bay Business Association Luncheon NETWORKING on June 14, 2012
Photos by: Gary Alan Ruse
State Representative Dwight M. Bullard addressing the group about hurricane preparedness and property insurance.
“And the winner is...” Richard Masso of Al's Lawnmower Sales & Service, Inc.
More members getting acquainted.
Rep. Bullard lends a hand to draw someone’s business card.
Cutler Bay business people introducing themselves.
CBBA members enjoying a great lunch before the meeting.
A representative from Dade County Parks & Recreation updates CBBA members.
The meeting was in the Palm Room at Palmetto Bay Village Center.
Jean Tong-Noon and Cyndi Rogg getting ready to award door prizes.
CBBA President Cyndi Rogg (center right) with others.
Connie Watson (far right), General Manager of Black Point Ocean Grill, which catered the meeting, with staff.
Pat Kerley of SERVPRO making a presentation.
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TWOCHEFS restaurant.com
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June 26 - July 9, 2012
June 26 - July 9, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Community Association Beat
Everything you wanted to know about collections - but didn’t ask! BY MITCH DRIMMER, CAM Community Association Manager
Boards of directors, managers, and even attorneys in Florida are more confused today about the complexities of community association collections than ever before. So how should an association approach the problem and devise the right solution? There’s so much disparity in opinions given by association attorneys regarding collections that boards need to first establish a procedure and move forward confidently in the knowledge they have chosen wisely. So who do you believe — and how can you choose “wisely” when authorities don’t agree on a standard of what can or cannot be done? Or even worse, what should or should not be collected? Answers lie in the questions boards should ask their collection solution, whether an attorney or collection agency. Among those questions: • How is the association being charged for services rendered? • How are the fees structured by your collection solution? • Does the collection solution defer fees, or is the association required to pay as they go? • Will your attorney defer costs for court actions? • Has your collection solution proposed that if they don’t collect their fees from a delinquent owner, subsequent purchaser, or foreclosing bank, will they then forgo their fees? Those just begin the kind of questions your board needs to ask. Others: • How does your correction solution define “statutory cap?” • Does it believe the association is only entitled to recover the lesser of 12 months
or 1% of the first mortgage, or does it believe the association is also entitled to recover all late interest, late fees, collection costs, and reasonable attorney fees? There’s a tremendous spectrum of opinion on answers to such questions and the company you choose that believes an association is entitled to more will invariably collect more. That’s why the collection solution should be carefully questioned about what entitles a foreclosing entity to “safe harbor” provisions. Some maintain that a first mortgage forecloses is entitled to receive a write off. Others say that a bank needs to comply with a stringent procedure to qualify for “safe harbor,” i.e., the lesser of 12 months or 1 % of the first mortgage. Boards should know whether the entity collecting money is going to put up a fight by reviewing service, notices and assignments to uncover defects, and then negotiate a settlement beyond the paltry amount a “safe harbor”allows. Answering a question with a question has been dubbed by some as the “Socratic Method” but clearly, boards of directors cannot make decisions unless they have solid answers to those questions. If you ask your collection partner: “What will happen if that is done?”, they may give you various scenarios. So perhaps it would be best to rephrase the question this way: “Do youu believe that if we do this, the result will be that?” The only way to best do this is to know the right questions to ask in the first place, and understanding what the various answers could mean. Mitch Drimmer is a licensed CAM, an instructor at FCAP, and is the Vice President of Association Financial Services, an accredited collection agency and specialty finance company specializing in community association collections. For more information, visit www.associationfinancial.com, Tel: 305-677-0022, ext. 804.
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CSF brings classical music back to Southwest Florida’s airwaves BY JASON HUGHES
Classical South Florida (CSF), a nonprofit listener-supported public radio organization dedicated to broadcasting classical music, has begun airing its programming in Fort Myers and throughout Southwest Florida on WNPS 88.7FM. CSF acquired the local frequency earlier this year. “We’re delighted to bring a full-time classical music service back to Southwest Florida’s airwaves,” said CSF program director, Jason Hughes. “Classical South Florida’s programming can now be heard by more than 5.7 million people throughout all of South Florida — from the upper Keys to the Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast,
and from Fort Myers to Naples and Marco Island. We’re proud of our continued growth, and we look forward to bringing our new listeners the very best in classical music programming for many years to come.” The CSF program schedule will include broadcasts of nationally renowned programs such as Performance Today, SymphonyCast and live performances from The Metropolitan Opera, as well as Florida favorites such as Backstage with the New World Symphony. Classical South Florida can be found on WKCP 89.7FM in Miami. More information on programming and the CSF organization is available online at <www.ClassicalSouthFlorida.org>.
Community Newspapers
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Hyundai Accent has sleek design, new 40 mpg engine
Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS There’s a lot to like about the 2012 frontwheel-drive Hyundai Accent. It’s a lot sportier and looks more modern, thanks to sharing the new design theme found on stablemates Sonata and Elantra models. For 2012, the Accent body has been completely redesigned and given more flowing lines, with a new grille, hood, fenders, headlights, taillights, bumpers and air intakes. In essence, the new Accent looks like a smaller Elantra. It’s sleek in design and there’s very little chrome, with the body color prevailing from front to back — including the bumpers, mirrors and door handles — and black accents for emphasis; only the grille bar is chrome. There also are new 14- and 16-inch wheels. On the inside, the Accent interior has been redesigned and it’s much more modern, with brushed metal accents on the doors, steering wheel and center console. The instrument panel, center stack, vents,
switches and controls have been redesigned. The instrumentation is white-onblack with red needles and the blue-glow nightlight is a nice touch. A three-spoke multi-function steering wheel has a thick rim and holds switches for the sound system on the left, cruise control system on the right, and telephone on the lower left. Sporty bucket seats have comfortable cushions and bolsters, and they are very supportive. The interior also has more room and more storage spaces. There’s 21.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the folding second-row bench seat; 47.5 cubic feet with the seat folded flat. Door and console storage is spacious and there’s even a nifty sliding console armrest. Under the hood, the new Accent has a peppy new twin-cam, 16-valve, 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine that utilizes direct fuel injection — a first in the subcompact class — and variable valve timing to give it lowrpm torque and high-rpm horsepower. The engine — 40 pounds lighter than the previous engine — generates 138 hp and 123 pounds-feet of torque. As for the gearbox, there’s a choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. On manual-transmission models, an EcoShift indicator
2012 Hyundai Accent has new styling with flowing lines, new bumpers, air intakes, grille, hood, fenders, headlights and taillights.
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between the instrument pods tells you the proper gear for various driving conditions. The automatic gearbox has the Shiftronic manual-shift mode. The EPA rates the new Accent at a not-too-shabby 30/40 mpg with either transmission. The 2012 Hyundai Accent is available in two body styles — five-door hatchback and four-door sedan — and offered in three trim
levels — GLS Sedan, GS Hatchback and SE five-door. Base pricing ranges from $12,445 to $16,795. 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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June 26 - July 9, 2012
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DREWKERN
OPENING DOORS TO SOUTH FLORIDA REAL ESTATE As a second generation real estate professional, and a Miami native, I have an intimate understanding of our local market. Let me help guide you through the sometimes turbulent waters of buying and selling your most valuable asset. The process should be easy and enjoyable when you have the assistance of the right professional. 13026 6 Nevada a Street Waterfront home, Gables by the Sea. 5 bdrm/5 bath, 2 story, 5,113 sq ft. 100 ft seawall, no bridges to bay. 12,000 sq ft lot. 2 car garage.
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W 877 Avenue 149011 SW Updated 4 bdrm/2 bath, 2,438 sq ft, home in Palmetto Bay. Fabulous kitchen. Formal living & dining. Large bdrms. 16,207 sq ft lot. 2 car garage.
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W 877 Ave 157000 SW Fantastic 4 bdrm/ 2 bath family home in Palmetto Bay. Formal living & dining rooms. Updated kitchen and baths. Spacious backyard with room for a pool and/or boat. Side entry, 2 car garage.
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69200 Sunrisee Drive Elegant waterfront, 6,138 sq ft, 5 bdrm/6 bath in exclusive Sunrise Harbour. No bridge to bay, 100 ft seawall with dock and lift. Beautiful details throughout. Generator. 2 car garage.
W 1255 Street 74600 SW Wonderful Pinecrest family home. 4 bdrm/2 bath. Well maintained and ready for your updating. 2 car side entry garage. Spacious backyard, screened pool and patio.
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Drew’s Recently Sold Listings 4510 SW 68 Ct Cir #19-4 (Buyer) 8149 SW 86 Te (Buyer) 605 W Flagler St TS6 (Buyer) 1155 Brickell Bay Dr #505 (Buyer) 935 Palermo Ave #2B (Seller and Buyer) 9394 SW 77 Ave #F9 (Buyer) 5990 Paradise Point Dr (Buyer) 8405 SW 208 Te (Seller) 6049 SW 64 Te (Seller)
2020 SW 99 Ave (Seller and Buyer) 4990 SW 64 Pl (Buyer) 818 Medina Ave (Seller) 515 Palermo Ave (Buyer) 12745 SW 64 Te (Seller) 7500 SW 172 St (Seller) 15725 SW 87 Ct (Seller) 8525 SW 146 St (Buyer) 13500 SW 73 Ct (Seller)
6525 SW 134 Dr (Seller) 20030 Cutler Ct (Seller) 9013 SW 206 St (Seller) 810 Lugo Ave (Seller and Buyer) 23190 SW 157 Ave (Seller and Buyer) 8891 SW 208 Te (Seller) 1501 Bella Vista Ave (Seller) 7620 SW 109 Te (Seller) 12821 SW 82 Ave (Buyer)
ESSLINGER WOOTEN MAXWELL, INC., REALTORS 305.329.7744 • KERN.D@EWM.COM • WWW.DREWKERN.COM
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