Cutler Bay News 12.14.2010

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One of Miami’s Community Newspapers

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NEWS

Cutler Bay SERVING SOUTH DADE

DECEMBER 14, 2010

Ernie Sochin to serve as town’s vice mayor BY GARY ALAN RUSE

E

rnie Sochin is the new vice mayor of the Town of Cutler Bay, at least until the next countywide

general election. He was selected to that position by fellow councilmembers on Monday, Dec. 6. Sochin previously served as the Seat 2 councilmember. When Ed MacDougall won his race for the seat of mayor of Cutler Bay and newcomer Mary Ann Mixon won her race for Seat 1 on the Town Council, both without the need for a runoff, it seemed smooth sailing for the operation of the council, but there was still one empty seat to fill. That post was the vice mayor’s seat, which MacDougall had filled prior to becoming mayor. A new vice mayor needed to be selected by the other council members to serve until the next election so that town business could be conducted. There were only four members on the council at that point and three votes were needed to appoint the new vice mayor. “We went for two days on this before VICE MAYOR finally selectERNIE SOCHIN ing Ernie Sochin as vice mayor,” Mayor MacDougall said. “At the Wednesday, Dec. 1, meeting there was a deadlock, with myself and Mr. Sochin voting for

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SOCHIN, page 4

Jan. 8 forecast calls for a Chili Day in Cutler Bay

Pitman Photo Supply, JOBC sponsoring photography contest BY JOHN MAXSWEEN

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he Junior Orange Bowl Committee (JOBC) and Pitman Photo Supply are giving local students an opportunity to be recognized for their photography skills with the final event on the 2010-11 Junior Orange Bowl Festival calendar. The Pitman Photo Supply Photography Contest is accepting photographs from students in grades 6-12 and the deadline for submissions is Jan. 21, 2011, at 6 p.m. Students may submit two photographs in each of the four categories: “People in Motion,” “Night Lights,” “Photo Assignment: The Everglades,” and “Containers for People.” There also will be a “Portfolio Review,” which recog-

In this photo from 2009 then Vice Mayor Ed MacDougall dishes out chili.

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PHOTOGRAPHY, page 4

(Photo courtesy Town of Cutler Bay) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY LEE STEPHENS

A

s far as we know, there’s no snow in the forecast for Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011 in south Miami-Dade County, but the Town of Cutler Bay is guaranteeing a big Chili Day that date for residents and visitors. The town’s second annual Chili Day in Cutler Bay will be a fun-filled day for the serious and not-so-serious chili chefs out there. The talk about who makes the best

chili ended at last year’s inaugural event. When the chili powder settled, a new “Chili Slinger” was crowned. It’s time, once again, for residents, businesses and community groups to put their cooking prowess to the test. There also will be a new “spark” (no pun intended) added to this year’s event, as various fire departments are pitted against each other for bragging rights as to who has the best ––––––––––––––––––– See

CHILI DAY, page 4

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December 14 - 20, 2010

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Machado Ford, Soccer Five announce new partnership

Pictured at the announcement are Hector Collado general manager of Gus Machado Ford, (left), and Scott Georgeson, president, Soccer Five. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY RICHARD YAGER

Soccer Five, one of Florida’s most up and coming soccer operations, and Gus Machado Ford, one of the state’s premiere Ford dealerships, have announced an auto partnership and a soccer league bearing the Machado name. “This partnership gives us the platform to really develop our Play, Talk, and Shop — and now Drive soccer!” said Scott Georgeson, president of Soccer Five. “We look forward to providing great value to all Soccer Five members as we introduce Team Gus Machado Ford. Honk your horn when you see our Soccer Five Fords in your area soon!” “We got very excited when the Soccer Five leadership team spoke to us about further increasing our involvement both in soccer and the local community,” said Hector Collado, Gus Machado’s general manager. “We will be introducing a series of initiatives, open days and a Gus Machado League to maximize on our exposure with the new partnership,” Collado added. “We’ll also feature the new Ford Fiesta on the live Soccer Five video and talk site.” Earlier this year, Soccer Five USA entered in an agreement with Miami-Dade Parks and Recreation Department to design, build, and operate Soccer Five facilities at the Kendall Soccer Complex.

“Soccer Five’s ultimate goal is to encourage the local and national interest in soccer in the U.S., bolstered by the admirable performance of the U.S. team at the 2010 FIFA World Cup,” Georgeson noted. The Soccer Five premise is simple, he continued, saying that lack of interest for the sport in America includes the length of the game and too few points scored per match. Soccer Five matches resolve both issues by making the field proportionately smaller, resulting in a shorter, more dynamic game with a higher score average. Evolution of Soccer Five in the U.S. is to provide a game for all ages and skill levels, being played in every major U. S. city by World Cup 2014, to support future World Cup bids,” Georgeson added. Gus Machado Ford is one of South Florida’s most popular dealerships with locations in Kendall, Hialeah and Miami featuring a full line of Ford cars and trucks, used vehicles, and full service and parts departments. For more information, visit Machado Ford at 15551 S. Dixie Hwy. in Palmetto Bay or on line at <www.gusmachadoford.com>, or call 1-800-524-7363. For information on Soccer Five U.S., including league formation, facilities and venue availability, contact Georgeson at 1888-575-2976.

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PHOTOGRAPHY,

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

nizes the student portfolio that has the overall finest photographs, with coherent style. Students who are interested in being eligible for the “Portfolio Review” must enter photographs in at least three categories. The winner of the “Portfolio Review” will win a $200 gift certificate to Pitman Photo Supply. Details for submitting a photograph can be found on the Junior Orange Bowl website at <www.jrorangebowl.org/photography> or by calling the JOBC at 305-662-1210. The judges for the contest are all experts on the art of photography. Among them is Ron Magill, renowned photographer and Goodwill Ambassador for Zoo Miami; Daniel De Azoulay, gallery owner and professional fashion and scenic photographer, and Kay Levine, award winning photographer and art buyer. The fourth and final judge is Dr. Randall Groh, a partner of Dental Leaders in Coral Gables as well as a scenic and wildlife photographer. Dr. Groh also is the chair for the event. The awards reception for the Pitman Photo Supply Photography Contest will take place on Friday, Feb. 11, at 7 p.m., in the Coral Gables Youth Center Theater. First, second, and third place finishers in

each category will be awarded gift certificates to Pitman Photo Supply. There also will be three special awards going to the best middle school photographers. The Photography Contest is one of 15 athletic, artistic, and cultural events that make up the 2010-11 Junior Orange Bowl International Youth Festival. This year’s Junior Orange Bowl Festival theme is “Sunshine in Every Smile.” The highlight of the festival is the Junior Orange Bowl Parade, which will take place on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, in Downtown Coral Gables. The Junior Orange Bowl Festival is possible with the support of the City of Coral Gables, Miami Children’s Hospital, Orange Bowl Committee, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, Cultural Affairs Council, Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Council, Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. The JOBC Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that serves the community of South Florida and the youth of the world by providing opportunities for wholesome, competitive and multicultural experiences. For more information, call 305-662-1210 or visit the JOBC website at <www.jrorangebowl.org>.

SOCHIN,

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him, while Peggy Bell and Mary Ann Mixon voted for Tim Meerbott. We met again on Monday, Dec. 6, and after some heated discussion we took another vote and the council selected Ernie Sochin.” Sochin, who still had two years left on his current term as Seat 2 councilmember, was somewhat reluctant to put himself up for the position, but said that he felt it was the right thing to do. “Everyone’s been congratulating me and I’m wondering whether I should be getting congratulations or condolences,” Sochin said jokingly last week. “I ran for that job because I was reluctant to appoint someone to the vice mayor position who just lost an election. “I didn’t think it was right to tell the people of the town that ‘even though you didn’t vote for this guy, we on the council are going to make him vice mayor,’ so I offered myself up rather than put him in.” Sochin was referring to Tim Meerbott, who had made himself available for the position after losing his bid for the mayor’s seat in the Nov. 2 election, and is reportedly still facing a Miami-Dade Police Department investigation regarding campaign contribu-

CHILI DAY,

JUMPS FOR CUTLER BAY

tions from Pasteur Clinics and a charter school company. But for Sochin, being vice mayor is not without risk. “The trouble with offering myself up is that I was termed out as councilman and had two years I could just sit back and relax, and now that I’m vice mayor, if there happens to be a county election, which could happen very soon if the recall of County Mayor Alvarez goes through and he has to run again, then I’ll have to run for office again. “But the feeling of the council was that anyone in the vice mayor’s seat should be able and ready to take over as mayor, whether it’s a temporary thing or whether, God forbid, it’s like what happened with John Cosgrove. I have to think about what’s best for the town, not for me, and if I have to put myself at risk for the town, well, that’s what I volunteered to do when I first got elected,” Sochin said. Now that the vice mayor position is filled, however, there is a vacancy in the Seat 2 post left by Sochin. Several people have submitted their resumes and the council is expected to select one of them for appointment on an interim basis on Tuesday, Dec.14.

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firehouse chefs. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded by a panel of judges for first, second and third place in three categories — Chili, Salsa, and Corn Bread. There also will be cash prizes awarded for the bestdecorated booth and a “People’s Choice” award for the fan’s favorite chili. Several of Cutler Bay’s Town Council members are looking forward to getting in on the fun. “It will be a hot time in the town on Jan. 8,” proclaimed newly elected Mayor Ed MacDougall. “This will be our second annual Chili Day event, so bring your family and bring your best chili recipe and all the ‘fixin’s’ for a great day at your Cutler Ridge Park.” Mayor MacDougall, who entered the non-competitive category last year, issued the following challenge: “I bet my chili can beat up your chili.” Councilmember Peggy Bell promised to

make her “hot hot hot” chili. “We had a wonderful turnout last year,” she said. “Our Parks Department does a great job with this event. I am looking forward to trying all the great food. It better be really chilly outside because my chili is hot!” Cutler Bay Recreation coordinator Fred Bobson points out that the event is open to all ages and tastebuds, and that you don’t have to be a competitive chili chef to enjoy the day. There will be no charge for chili sampling, and for those who do not eat chili, other foods and drinks will be available for purchase. There also will be live music and children’s activities throughout the day. The town’s Second Annual Chili Day in Cutler Bay is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Cutler Ridge Park, 10100 SW 200 St. For more information on the event or to register as a chef, contact Fred Bobson at 305-238-4166.

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Did the mayor’s invitation get lost in the mail...? Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN Ooops! Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Dennis C. Moss invited about 40 guests consisting of local business owners, Miami-Dade Police Officers, clergy, CEOs, community activists, CBOs and residents to his monthly Roundtable meeting December 1 held at the South Dade Government Center located at 10710 SW 211th Street in Cutler Bay. This included a tour of the new South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center building which is nearing completion. Also invited were Michael Spring, Director of Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs and Eric Fliss, Managing Director of the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, to provide a progress report and visual account of the long awaited facility, close to the South Dade Government Center and across from the Southland Mall. Nothing wrong with that, but Commissioner Moss somehow forgot to invite anyone from the Cutler Bay Town Council, the city in which the center is being built. “This is the first I’ve heard about it,” said newly elected Mayor Ed MacDougall when informed by our staff about the event. “It would have been nice if we had known.” Moss and his staff also forgot to alert the news media, choosing instead to send out an after the fact press release almost a

week later. Hmmm...was it something we said? Judith Mori of the Salvation Army reports that their seasonal bell ringers aren’t doing as well as in years past. “Despite indicators that the economy might be slowly turning to the positive, contributions to the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign are down about 21 percent from last year. In 2009, The Red Kettles had raised about $93,000 in Miami Dade. Only $73,000 have been collected so far, which falls short of the goal needed to meet the growing needs of the poor and the hungry.” The charity attributes the drop in part to the tough economy, but they also note there is a higher need for bell ringers to man the Red Kettles, with many not willing to risk their unemployment benefits for the temporary position, or to offer their time for free. The difficulty to find willing paid or unpaid bell ringers impedes The Salvation Army to cover all the hours at the retail locations that are willing to host them. The charity has roughly 40 Red Kettles out at a time but more locations are needed. “In Miami-Dade only, 400 people sleep under the roof of The Salvation Army while 1200 others sleep on the streets every night,” says Mori. “The Salvation Army needs help to continue to give warm nights and food to those in need throughout its homeless and HIV shelters, rehabilitation centers, emergency food, late bill assistance, emergency disaster service, Christmas toys assistance and daily community center programs such as sports, music, libraries and more.”

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, Cecile Fanfani, Diane Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller, Walter White LEGAL ADVERTISING ..................................................................................................................... Georgia Tait BOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................ Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek

GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............................................Catalina Roca, Isabel Ortega, Sergio Yanes, Vera Salom

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.

To learn about Salvation Army programs visit www.SalvationArmyMiami.org. Aside from dropping dollars and coins into the Kettles, those interested in donating should start on-line giving at a safe and secure website by visiting www.OnlineRedKettle.com, text the keyword “GIVE” to 85944 to donate $10, or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769). To volunteer, call 305-637-672. Well, here’s another invite from your friendly Metropolitan Planning Organization, more frequently called the “MPO.” Anyway, PIO Jane Rockwell who sends out these bulletins from time to time on behalf of the agency responsible for transportation planning in Miami-Dade County hopes you’ll provide ideas for transportation studies that can lead to “effective” solutions to deal with traffic congestion in the county. Such ideas “will be considered” for inclusion in the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) for Transportation (UPWP) Committee for

adoption by the MPO Governing Board. This is an opportunity for citizens to get involved. Get it off your chest to the MPO by January 14 with submissions via the Internet at http://www.miamidade.gov/mpo/m12plans-upwp.htm; or by calling 305-3754507; or faxing 305-375-4950; or by Email to mpo@miamidade.gov And don’t forget — shop local! Patronize your neighborhood businesses. Thought of the Day:: Doubt is not a pleasant condition, but certainty is absurd. — Voltaire

Gary Alan Ruse and Richard Yager contributed to this column. Got any tips? Contact me at 305-6697355, ext. 249, or send emails to <michael@communitynewspapers.com>.

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December 14 - 20, 2010

Legislators’ revenge may be killing Floridians R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY Members of the “new” Florida Legislature, in their enthusiasm to get back at Gov. Charlie Crist for abandoning the Republican Party and placing Marco Rubio in temporary jeopardy of losing his election bid for the U.S. Senate, have had an unexpected effect on the citizens of Florida. The sole intent of the recent one-day session of the newly elected, totally Republican-controlled legislature, was to pass all the bills that Crist, a onetime Republican, vetoed. Unfortunately, in their zeal to show Gov. Crist who is “now” boss they killed legislation that was intended to regulate the socalled “pill mills” that have been popping up as fast as the law can close them down. These pill mills make drugs available to anyone with the ability to go from one clinic to another, picking up multiple prescriptions for painkillers. The new law says that any state agency

rule costing the state $1 million or more over the next five years cannot go into effect until a more detailed study of cost and benefits can be determined. It is estimated that there are at least 600 such regulations that have been stopped from going into effect. Some estimate that it will take months for agencies to draw up the required cost and effect studies. In the meantime what was to be regulated will go unregulated. The regulation would require all doctors who run pill mills to comply with statemandated patient evaluation procedures, record-keeping and the physical specifications for clinics. Currently, if a clinic doesn’t accept health insurance it will not be subject to any state regulation. The results? An estimated seven Floridians die each day from overdoses of such medications as Oxycodone, which the addict accumulated by going from one doctor’s pill mill to another doctor’s pill mill collecting prescriptions. The previous legislature passed in 2009, by vote of Democrats and Republicans, drug regulations that would create a statewide database this coming spring to track drug purchases and to monitor “doctor shopping” by addicts. Thirty-four states

VIEWPOINT — including California, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Illinois — have such databases in effect and report their success in driving drug mills out of their communities and states. Unfortunately, due to the absence of such a law in Florida, they have migrated to our state, especially South Florida, and have attracted addicts from around the nation to the Sunshine State. One more honor for us not to celebrate. This mandate was to go into effect Dec. 1 of this year. Now, once a study of cost and benefits is completed, the legislature must pass a new pill mill law. In the meantime, more and more addicts will die. While St. Petersburg leads the state in drug overdose deaths Miami-Dade has seen 23 Oxycodone and Alprazolam deaths in the first six months of this year. Miami-Dade has been fortunate; Broward and Palm Beach Counties have experienced 77 and 68 deaths respectively from drug overdoses in the same period.

Such is politics. The needs of the community be damned. The accumulation of political party power, by whichever political party is in control, is all our elected officials care about and direct their energies. A question: Are we electing immoral people to public office? Or, do the new legislators, wanting to do good in Tallahassee, fall under the influence of the seasoned politicians, and lose their sense of direction and ability to represent the public? Are they, like the drug addict, sucked into the self-centered power base of the legislative body at the expense of the community that they pledged to represent? We appreciate your opinions on this column whether in agreement or disagreement. Please send your comments to (fax number) 305-662-6980 or email to <letters@communitynewspapers.com>. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of this newspaper, its editors or publisher.

December 14 - 20, 2010

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We became so attached to our neighbors’ dogs My granddaughter, Natalie, is pictured with her two friends, Cinnamon (left) and Bailey.

Promote Your Business In the

Cutler Bay News! BY ERNIE SOCHIN

Councilmember Cinnamon died last week. Cinnamon was a Chocolate Labrador belonging to my neighbors, Brian and Mary Smith. As most of you know my house and husband-keeper will not allow me to own a dog. We did have dogs for the first 28 years of our marriage and after our last one passed on she made me sign a contract agreeing not to have another for 28 more years. I will be 82 by then and may need one just to guide me around. Cinnamon and her son Bailey would greet me at my door every time I got home from work. I used to give them my used tennis balls to play with and this became their daily treat. One night when my keeper came home after dark, Bailey and Cinnamon did their usual thing of running across the street to greet me and get their tennis balls. They did this by loudly explaining in dog talk: “Where are our tennis balls?” My keeper doesn’t speak dog and had no idea why they were barking, attacking our car, and not letting her out. She blew the horn until Brian came out and rescued her after explaining about the tennis balls. After a while they got a little older and weren’t as interested in chasing tennis balls, so we went to Costco and bough a gigundo box of huge dog biscuits. We began feeding these to them each night as I got home. When my master arrived a few minutes after me they would again come over with Cinnamon looking up with her sorrowful

eyes and Bailey cocking his head in dog fashion saying something like: “I haven’t been fed in years and we are very hungry so please give us each another biscuit.” This came after having received one 10 minutes earlier from me. One time when I went into the house to put some things away and left the door open for a moment. Bailey went inside, found the box of biscuits, carried it outside to our sidewalk and stood there with an expression that said, “Hey…what about my biscuit?” My grandkids, who visit us frequently, used to ask where Papa was when they came to our house. Lately it has been: “Are Bailey and Cinnamon home?” Thanks kids! At a recent synagogue gathering, when the time came to say a prayer for the departed, my grandson, Julian, offered up Cinnamon’s name for the prayer. You wouldn’t think that it would be possible to become so attached to neighbor’s dogs, but that is what happened. Now Bailey is alone without his best friend and mother and he shows the sadness in his eyes whenever I see him. I have promised Brian and Mary that when they were away, I would go over and talk to Bailey, and so far I have been doing this although it breaks my heart every time I do. Cinnamon lived to be 16 (112 man years) and I am sure enjoyed every minute of those years with not just me, but all of our other neighbors spoiling her as much as we could. Bailey is now 13 (91 man years) even older than me so we get to complain about the same aches and pains, and how tough it is getting old. Lucky that I speak dog. Cinnamon, woof… woof (“Rest in Peace”).

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Local pharmacist designs carrying case for iPads BY GARY ALAN RUSE

Vincent Smith, a local pharmacist who has lived in Miami for 20 years, recently tapped into a long-time interest in creating things and has designed a carrying case for iPads, which he is now beginning to market. “I was inspired by the need for a different type of case from what was on the market,” Smith said. “I was going to be using the iPad out in public spaces here and on vacation and needed a simple case to carry it around. I have been designing products my whole life. I have a knack for coming up with ideas and bringing them to fruition.” Smith saw more people using iPads and, based on his own experiences, set about designing a safe and secure case for carrying the popular devices. He put the features he wanted into his own design and started the line on his own. “The Tip Tote bag was designed for people who use the iPad on the go whether for business, travel or everyday,” Smith said. “It allows you to carry the iPad with you while keeping your hands free. Its slim design adds protection by allowing you to conceal it under a jacket. It’s great for college students, and the pockets on the back allow you to carry cell phones and other things.” Smith, whose offices are near Coral Way and SW 57th Avenue, has been working hard to make retailers and consumers aware of his product, and created a company, Peak Naturals Inc., to market it and other products. He also created a website where people can buy them directly. But getting the product just the way he wanted it also took extra work. “The biggest obstacle was finalizing the design with the manufacturer which is in China,” Smith said. “There were several weeks of back and forth with samples and tweaking the design to get it just right.” The Tip Tote case comes in basic black with an adjustable shoulder strap, two strong Velcro closures to secure the flap and is padded and lined with soft fabric to protect an iPad from scratches and nicks. It measures 10 1/4 inches by 81/2 inches by 1 inch and sells for $39.99. Additional colors and styles are in the works for next year, and Smith already has brought out a second iPad-related product to further protect the vulnerable gadgets. The Gripper is a flexible silicone skin that goes around the iPad to provide a non-skid surface for safe handling while still allowing access to audio jacks, buttons, ports, and power outlets. It comes in four colors and iPads covered with

Vincent Smith is pictured with the special iPad carrying case he designed. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

the Gripper easily fit within the Tip Tote case. Smith said he learned something about himself in the process of working on the case and all the details along the way. “I discovered how much I love designing products and bringing them to market,” Smith said. “The whole process is quite rewarding. It’s a passion of mine.” For more information visit Smith’s website at <www.TipTote.com>.

December 14 - 20, 2010

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South Miami Hospital opens Fibroid Center BY SHANNON JOHNS

South Miami Hospital’s Fibroid Center, part of the hospital’s Center for Women and Infants, opened Monday, Nov. 29. The Center, located in South Miami Hospital’s East Tower at S. Dixie Highway (US1) and SW 62nd Avenue, offers women a unique, multispecialty approach to diagnosing and treating uterine fibroids, all in one location. The Fibroid Center’s team of specialists includes gynecologists, robotic surgeons, interventional radiologists, and fertility specialists. These doctors work together, along with women and their own doctors, to develop and implement a treatment plan that’s tailored to fit each woman’s individual needs. Traditionally, limited treatment options meant that women and their doctors would either leave uterine fibroids alone or opt for a hysterectomy to treat these non-cancerous growths in the uterus. Today, less-

invasive treatment options offered at the Fibroid Center can preserve a woman’s fertility, allowing her to have children if she chooses. In addition, the Fibroid Center has a dedicated nurse practitioner and a coordinator to schedule tests and evaluations with the appropriate specialists in one comprehensive visit, saving women valuable time. Rafael Perez, MD, is the medical director of the Fibroid Center. “We’re thrilled to be open and provide women and their doctors a level of service and expertise that is not offered anywhere else,” Dr. Perez said. The Fibroid Center accepts referrals from all physicians, and evaluations may be covered by insurance. To find out more or to schedule an evaluation, call South Miami Hospital’s Center for Women and Infants at 786-662-8585 and ask for the Fibroid Center or go online to <www.CenteredOnMe.com>.

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December 14 - 20, 2010

Coral Gables Congregational Church presents Holiday Spectacular This holiday season come enjoy the fifth annual Overtown Holiday Spectacular on Dec. 19, 4 p.m., at St. Agnes’ Episcopal Church, 1750 NW Third Ave. This annual free concert is presented by the award-winning Coral Gables Congregational Church Community Arts Program Conservatory for the Arts and its Young Musicians Junior Orchestra led by April Liberty, Advanced Orchestra conducted by Ashley Liberty and the All-Star Jazz Ensemble conducted by Daniel Strange. Concertgoers will hear music of Mozart, Gigout, Louis-Claude Daquin, Tchaikovsky and more with strings and St. Agnes’ grand pipe organ. The holiday event is made possible with the support of the following sponsors: The Historic St. Agnes’ Episcopal Church; The Links, Incorporated, Greater Miami Chapter; WLRN Public Radio; WDNA 88.9FM; The Children’s Trust; Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs; Cultural Affairs Council; Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners, and Coral Gables Congregational Church. For more information about this event,

call 305-448-7421, ext. 120.

BAPTIST HEALTH SOUTH FLORIDA TO PRESENT PRAYER BREAKFAST Join the Fellowship of Christian Athletes as members celebrate athletes, coaches and participating communities during the 40th Annual Orange Bowl Prayer Breakfast. Baptist Health South Florida once again will sponsor the prayer breakfast to take place on Dec. 30, 7:30 a.m., at Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail. Tickets for the event are $30 each or $300 to sponsor a table of 10. The event is open to the public. For ticket information, call 305-445-1600. CORALGABLES@HOME SETS ANNUAL TOUR OF KITCHENS Tickets for CoralGables@HOME’s annual “Dishing It Up! Tour of Kitchens” make a great holiday gift. This self-guided tour of some of Coral Gable’s most fabulous private kitchens will take place on Jan. 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each kitchen will feature cooking demonstrations and tasting sessions led by prominent local restaurant chefs. The event will conclude with a private luncheon and informational fashion show at

COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS the Coral Gables Country Club Prado entrance. Tour tickets are $35 in advance and $45 at the door. For information, call 305-443-4011.

licly traded or privately held. For more information, visit online at <www.miamichamber.com> or send email to <cpereira@miamichamber.com>.

CHAMBER SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR GOOD TO GREAT AWARDS The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce currently is accepting nominations for the prestigious South Florida Good to Great Awards. Recognizing companies that have made the transitions from solid performance to great performance, the 2011 awards will showcase the spirit of regionalism across South Florida and salute locally based businesses that have demonstrated success in the community. Nominations must be received at the Greater Miami Chamber’s office, 1601 Biscayne Blvd. by 5 p.m. on Feb. 4. The award is open to all for-profit businesses regardless of whether the company is pub-

CORAL REEF HIGH SCHOOL DRAMA STUDENTS TAKE HOME 6 AWARDS Coral Reef High School drama students recently took home six “Critics Choice” awards in the Florida State Thespian district competition, a new school record. On Nov. 14 at Braddock High and Nov. 21 at Felix Varela High, the Florida State Thespian district competition brought together hundreds of drama students from 47 public and private high schools throughout MiamiDade County. Of the 14 events, CRHS Thespian Troupe 5744 took home top awards in Monologue, Ensemble Acting, Duet Musical Theatre. Pantomime, Publicity Design and Student Directing. For information, call 305-232-2044.

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16705 Old Cutler Rd, Miami, FL 33157 Toll Free: 800-771-0330 Local: 305-255-0330

December 14 - 20, 2010

Portofino Coal Fired Pizza opens location in Kendall

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The restaurant’s centerpiece is the coal-fire oven, which can be seen throughout the restaurant. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY OLEE FOWLER

Portofino Coal Fired Pizza now is serving coal-fired cuisine in a comfortable and family-friendly atmosphere in Kendall. The neighborhood-dining destination offers an affordable menu filled with coalfired pizza, gourmet sandwiches and salads, unique pasta creations and specialties such as Coal Fired Salmon (coal fired, lightly blackened Atlantic Salmon fillet with lemon dill sauce served with smashed garlic red potatoes and season vegetables), all made with the finest ingredients available. Portofino Coal Fired Pizza offers traditional, crispy, thin-crust pizzas made to order with mozzarella cheese, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, aged Romano cheese, herbs and extra virgin olive oil. For pasta lovers there are a multitude of classic favorites including Baked Ziti (fresh pasta baked with mozzarella, ricotta and fresh tomato sauce) and Meat Ravioli (seasoned meat-filled ravioli pasta with your choice of alfredo or marinara sauce). Guests may also choose to create their own Pasta Classic (select choice of pasta: spaghetti, fettuccini or penne, choice of alfredo and marinara sauce, and any additional topping for $1.50 each). Portofino Coal Fired Pizza’s design features a warm, contemporary take on the classic Italian restaurant. Spacious in size, the muted reds and earth tones are accentuated by the rugged, stone-covered walls. The restaurant’s centerpiece is the beautiful, custom-made, coal-fire oven, which can be seen throughout the restaurant. While most ovens cook at only 400 degrees Fahrenheit, the

coal-fire oven at Portofino Coal Fired Pizza cooks at temperatures higher than 800 degrees, helping to sear in the food’s natural juices and deliver a unique, smoky flavor. With seven plasma screens, beautiful granite bar tops, 12 beers on tap, and a wide selection of wine, margaritas, daiquiris and sangrias available — all priced 2 for 1 all day, everyday, the extensive bar area is the perfect place for sports fans to sit back, relax and watch the game. Portofino’s wings complete the experience and come in several varieties. The wings can be coal fired (seasoned with grilled onions, focaccia bread and a side of mojo sauce) or served with a side of buffalo, mojo, barbecue, or honey garlic sauce. Adding a sweet note to the end of the meal is Portofino Coal Fired Pizza’s delectable dessert offerings. Traditional Italian choices like the Portofino Tiramisu (layers of lady finger cookies dipped in espresso coffee and sweet Marsala wine topped with mascarpone cheese and sprinkled with chocolate pieces and cocoa powder) and Gelato (chocolate or vanilla Italian gourmet ice cream topped with pieces of chocolate, caramel or fudge) are served with more non-traditional options like the Dolci Pizza (a sweet pizza dough smothered in rich chocolate, marshmallow and graham crackers) and Florida favorite Key Lime Pie (authentic Key Lime tart with a granola crust served with raspberry and kiwi-lime sauce and topped with fresh whipped cream). Portofino Coal Fired Pizza Kendall is located 11535 N. Kendall Dr. For more information, call 305-271-9400 or visit online at <www.portofinocoalfiredpizza.com>.

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Larry S. Forman receives ‘Journey of Dreams’ award

Larry S. Forman is founder and director of Comprehensive Rehabilitation Consultants Inc. and Children’s Rehab Network. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY MISTY BUCK

Larry S. Forman received the sixth annual “Journey of Dreams” Community Leadership Award by Parent to Parent of Miami during a ceremony on Nov. 6 at the JW Marriott. The award is bestowed upon an individual who has demonstrated and sustained leadership practices in the community that have resulted in strong partnerships for the benefit of children and adults with disabilities. Forman, founder and director of Comprehensive Rehabilitation Consultants Inc. and Children’s Rehab Network, was chosen for the award based on his vision, leadership and perseverance. He is a longstanding advocate for people with disabilities making the difference in the lives of children and families. His work involving people with special needs is recognized on a local and national level and he has participated on various boards and committees including Shake-aLeg Miami, Florida Brain Injury Association, and President’s Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. “Our goal is to work together to make sure individuals with disabilities are seen as people first,” Forman said in his accept-

ance speech. “People with unique needs should and can be treated fairly and equally. The goals still haven’t been reached and there are still battles for us to fight. “I know that Parent to Parent will continue to be the leader that it has been and will continue to embrace parents of younger children, bringing them into the fold and giving them the support that they need,” he added. “Larry’s heart is filled with love and compassion,” said Isabel C. Garcia, executive director of Parent to Parent. “Parent to Parent of Miami’s monthly support groups were blessed with his unconditional support. Larry is always a strong voice for children with disabilities and their families.” The Journey of Dreams Benefit Awards were created to recognize and honor individuals in Miami-Dade who are dedicated to improving and promoting initiatives that benefit children and adults with disabilities and their families. The awards honor three categories including the Community Leadership Award, Education Leadership Award and Excellence in Family Advocacy Award. For additional information on the awards visit <www.ptopmiami.org/journeyofdreams>.

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December 14 - 20, 2010

College announces winner of mascot design contest

Pictured are mascot contest winner Jaime Ramirez (with check) and Fernando Larez, director of marketing for CBT College. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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CBT College, an academic and career education institution based in Miami, operating five campuses in the greater MiamiDade area, on Dec. 4 announced the school’s official mascot, C-Beety, during a special Gallery Exhibition at CBT College’s West Kendall campus. C-Beety is “a funny kiut and intelligent character...that always wants to be first in line.” Created by Jaime Ramirez, grand prize winner of $2,500, “C-Beety also works hard to make a student’s life easy. She comes with a huge heart drive full of knowledge that she wants to share with everyone,” Ramirez said. Submissions for the “CBT College Mascot Design Challenge” began on Nov. 4 and ended on Nov. 30. The challenge included more than 122 individuals who registered for the competition of which 103 were local students and residents. Sixteen came from outside the Florida and three were from abroad including from Brazil, the Philippines and Russia. “Together with the panel of judges we selected this mascot because we felt it represented CBT College the best and embod-

ied what our college stands for — technology, drive and education,” said Luis Llerena, executive director of CBT College. “It was certainly a very difficult decision since all of the submissions were outstanding.” Josue Carabello, the competition’s second place finisher received a new 10.5-inch netbook computer and Ivan Hurtado received a $100 American Express gift card for third place. The event was attended by approximately 150 students (high school, college and international), faculty, staff and residents from the community and was sponsored by Starbucks, BJ Wholesale, Jerry’s Artarama, Cakeworld Banquet, La Hormiga de Oro, Chic Frozenberry and Casa Vieja. The panel of judges that helped select the winning mascot included: Elizabeth Carlisle, art and production director at the Latin Trade Group; Juan Carlos Toca, a renowned scultptor whose work has been exhibited at The Smithsonian, and Sid Hoeltzell, world-renowned fashion photographer. “We were overwhelmed by the community’s participation in this event and we are extremely honored for everyone’s support,” Llerena added.

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Former Surgeon General of U.S. delivers SFLHCC keynote address

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Dr. Richard Carmona, who served as the 17th Surgeon General of the United States, delivered the keynote address at the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s 16th Annual Sunshine Awards Luncheon that took place on Wednesday, Nov. 3, at the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave. in Coral Gables.

“The Sunshine Awards are held annually and is a signature event of the SFLHCC where we honor the top Hispanic entrepreneurs, executives and companies of South Florida,” said Liliam M. Lopez, chamber president/CEO. “We were honored to have one of the top Hispanics of the U.S. as keynote speaker, someone with an incredibly inspirational story, Dr. Richard Carmona.”

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December 14 - 20, 2010

Jewish Museum to focus on ‘Florida Jews in Justice’ BY LEE STEPHENS

“Justice, justice shalt thou pursue” is a strand that ties together all Jews in the law. To honor the service of all those Floridian Jews who have devoted their professional lives to the public to sustain the rule of law, the kickoff for Florida Jewish History Month in January will feature “Florida Jews in Justice.” This free program will take place on Sunday, Jan. 9, 10:30 a.m., at the Jewish Museum of Florida, 301 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. Gerald Kogan, former Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme Court, will moderate a panel discussion that includes Arthur England, former Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme Court; Irving “Red” Heller, retired assistant director MiamiDade Police Department and a founder of the Shomrim Society, and Karen Gilbert, Assistant U.S. Attorney, Department of Justice, Southern District of Florida. The people of the book were drawn to the legal profession as soon as occupational restrictions were lifted in the countries in which they lived. In the U.S., law became a bulwark against the kinds of oppression Jews had endured in many lands for countless generations. The rule of law has allowed Jews and all minorities to help shape national and state history. Law remains an avenue of social mobility in society and the best Jewish lawyers and judges have worked to secure justice for others. Eight Jews have served on the Supreme Court of the U.S. Louis Brandeis (1916) was the first, although Judah P. Benjamin rejected the offer in 1853 when he chose to retain his Senate seat. Benjamin Cardozo, Felix Frankfurter, Arthur J. Goldberg, who once said that his concern for justice stems from his heritage, and Abe Fortas served in the past. In 1993 as the 107th Justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg said, “I am proud of being a Jew. The demand for justice runs through the entirety of the Jewish tradition.” In 1994, Stephen G. Breyer joined the Court. And this year, Elena Kagan

became the third Jew to serve currently on the U.S. Supreme Court. Perhaps you know that at least 270 Jews have served as judges in Florida. The museum keeps scrapbooks about Floridian Jews who have served in public office. One set is for judges. The earliest known Jewish judge in Florida was Gus Cohen who was a federal judge in Pensacola from 1884 to 1914. Cohen settled there before the Civil War and was the grandfather of Frances Cohen who married Mitchell Wolfson in Miami in 1926. The earliest known Circuit Court Judge was Harry Sandler in Tampa, 1935-1964. While in the Legislature (1932-35), he sponsored the Homestead Exemption Amendment. A.O. Kanner served as first chief judge of the Second Court of Appeal in 1957. There is a highway named for him in Martin County. Florida has had four Jewish Chief Judges of the Supreme Court: Arthur England of Miami (1978-80); Ray Ehrlich of Jacksonville (1988-90); Gerald Kogan of Miami (1996-98), and Barbara Pariente (2004-06), who is currently serving on the court. The concept for Florida Jewish History Month (FJHM) began at the Jewish Museum of Florida. Marcia Jo Zerivitz, the museum’s founding executive director and chief curator, worked closely with legislators to translate the museum’s mission into a statewide observance. Although Florida was discovered in 1513, Jews and any people other than Catholics have been allowed to live in the state only since 1763 when Florida was taken from the Spanish and turned over to the British in the Treaty of Paris following the French and Indian War. The first Jews settled in Pensacola in 1763 and bought property to begin businesses. David Levy Yulee, a Jew, brought Florida into statehood in 1845, served as its first U.S. senator and was the first person of Jewish ancestry to serve in the U.S. Congress. Organizations interested in having a guest speaker for Florida Jewish History Month should contact the museum at 305-672-5044, ext. 3180.

December 14 - 20, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Researching for a financial adviser? Consider someone who CARES

Connect – Can you talk with your adviser without hesitation? What tells you in your gut that the adviser is on the same page with you? Is the adviser really listening to your concerns or just sticking to his sales script? Invest an hour with your adviser to find out who they are, why they are in business and if their drive is to get rich off of you or to really make your life better. Assimilate – Do you and your adviser have similarities? Look for a common ground. Do you deal with similar family and financial issues? Look for an adviser whose disappointments and success in life are similar to your own experiences. Retain – Is the relationship you start today going to last? Does the adviser really want to retain you? You can tell this by their responsiveness to your concerns. Do you get communication from the adviser or from a staff member? Ask the adviser for their retention ratio. This ratio represents how

many clients they lost each year for the past five years; ask why those clients were lost. Expand – Is the adviser able to expand his/her value to you? This does not mean selling you another product but rather, is he/she a source of information in areas related to the current services that you receive? Service – Does the adviser really deliver on customer service? Ultimately, people select a financial adviser based on two criteria: 1) service and 2) performance. Know your own service criteria before you start interviewing for an adviser. Let the adviser know what your criteria are so the adviser knows your ground rules. Because of a lack of clear communication, often there is a perception problem between the client and adviser in regard to service. The adviser should proactively ask you if your service expectations are being met on a continual basis. Securities offered through Securities America Inc member of FINRA/SIPC. Rick Tonkinson Registered Representative. Advisory Services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Rick Tonkinson Investment Advisor Representative. Rick Tonkinson and Associates, Inc. & Securities America companies are not affiliated.

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December 14 - 20, 2010

2011 CR-Z is Honda’s all-new Sport Hybrid Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS Honda is calling the nifty little CR-Z a Sport Hybrid. It’s an all-new model for 2011 and it blends Honda’s popular CRX with the Insight, but has the Honda Fit’s four-cylinder engine mated to the company’s patented Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid technology. The CR-Z is a sleek two-door, two-passenger coupe with quick, sporty handling. It’s a gasoline-electric hybrid-powered vehicle available in two basic models — CR-Z and CR-Z EX. Honda counts CVT and navigation as separate models for pricing, which gives the line six trim levels ranging from the Base (M6) to the EX with navigation (CVT). The Base M6 lists at $19,200 and comes standard with the 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a 13-horsepower electric motor with a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery mated to a six-speed manual

transmission. It gets 31/37 mpg. The base model also includes some pretty nice standard equipment, such as cruise control, automatic climate control, a 160-watt sound system, USB and auxiliary input jacks, and stylish 16-inch alloy wheels. On the high end, the EX with navigation (CVT) goes for $23,210 and also comes with the same power as the M6, but it’s mated to an automatic transmission and gets much better fuel economy at 35/39 mpg. The CR-Z has a wedge-design body that’s aerodynamic and sporty, with a low hood and a wide stance. It rides on a lightweight rigid platform and has a chassis with a short wheelbase and a performance suspension. The front has a prominent nose with a large grille and swept-back headlights. To the rear, the flanks are accented by upward creases and LED taillights. On the inside, the CR-Z has a futuristic gauge cluster and digital instrumentation. Developed as a stylish, driver-focused vehicle with an emphasis on efficient “green� performance, the CR-Z has a new three-mode drive system that allows the driver to configure the vehicle’s responsiveness for Sport, Normal or Econ (Economy) driving modes. Driver efficien-

Honda CR-Z is a two-door, two-seat coupe with a prominent nose, large grille and swept-back headlights. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

cy tools include Eco Assist and Eco Scoring, which together can help you determine more efficient driving styles, and compare fuel economy to previous trips and over the life of the vehicle. Standard safety features include front, side and side-curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. A lightweight, rigid platform and

a chassis with a wide track, short wheelbase and performance-oriented suspension components include aluminum front lower control arms for better handling dynamics. 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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It’s Not Fast Food. It’s Healthy Food!

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Miami Seaquarium transforming into holiday Winter Wonderland

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Holiday lights add a festive touch to the shows at Miami Seaquarium. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY MICHELLE PALOMINO

In a dazzling display of holiday splendor, Miami Seaquarium will transform into a Winter Wonderland for its annual Winter Nights and Lights Celebration, Dec. 18-30. Complete with nightly snowfall, a Kids Winterfest, extended park hours and holiday-themed shows and exhibits, Winter Nights and Lights, will light up the holidays with colorfully illuminated sculptures of reef fish, flamingos, dolphins, seals, sea lions, killer whales and other marine friends. Gates are open from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, except for Dec. 24 and 25 when the park will close at 6 p.m. Winter Nights and Lights also will feature a variety of holiday-themed shows after dark. Come early and enjoy your favorite shows. Stay late for the new holiday spectaculars, “Flipper and the

Nutcracker” and “Salty Saves the Holidays.” Also enjoy Top Deck’s Holiday Cruise, a seasonal classic. “Miami Seaquarium is pleased to make the holidays come alive with Winter Nights and Lights,” said Eric Eimstad, vice president of sales and marketing at Miami Seaquarium. “Quickly becoming a South Florida holiday tradition, Winter Nights and Lights promises to bring the holiday spirit to South Florida.” Miami Seaquarium, South Florida’s most popular tourist attraction, is a familyoriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park, accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and marine-life exhibits. For information on Winter Nights and Lights, call 305-361-5705, ext. 225, or visit online at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>.

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Cauley Square Village to begin new year with annual Pet Fest

exhibition of fun and effective training methods beginning at 2 p.m. in the main courtyard. Family-friendly pets are invited and all pets must be on leashes, in cages, as applicable, with current vaccination certificates available. The outdoor patios of both The Tea Room and The Village Chalet welcome pets to dine with their humans in the gardens. Cauley Square Village is open to the public with free parking seven days a week with shops closed on Mondays. Shops are open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Cauley Square is located at 22400 Old Dixie Hwy. (Take S. Dixie Highway to SW 224th Street.) You can visit online at <www.cauleysquare.com>.

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What better way to celebrate the arrival of 2011 than with family, friends and the family pet Cauley Square Historic Railroad Village in South Miami-Dade County opens its doors, and heart to all pet lovers and family-friendly pets, on leashes and with current vaccinations, to enjoy the third annual “Pet Fest 2011� on Sunday, Jan. 16, noon to 4 p.m. Returning as Honorary Inaugural Sponsors of the Martin Luther King holiday weekend event are PETCO, Redland Animal Hospital and Pet Chamber of Commerce. New sponsores for 2011 are K-9 Professional In-Home Dog Training as well as Cauley Square’s own Aviary, Tropical Pet Spaw Grooming Center and Top Hat Aquarium. Zaladin Feline Supplies returns as a boutique vendor joining other exhibitors and animal rescue organizations such as Paws 4 You Rescue, United Wag, MarrVelous Pet Rescues org. and others with pets available for adoptions. Vendors and exhibitors can call direct to the Cauley Square Administrative Office at 305-258-3543 for details and to reserve space for the event. Additional pet events are scheduled for Sundays in June, July and August. Dennis Urrutia, owner and operator of K9 Specialist Professional In Home Dog Training since 1992, will give a special

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Spirit of Camaraderie & Togetherness During The Holidays BY HELEN SHAHAM Q. I live in a condominium community and notice several of my elderly neighbors are away from their families during the holidays. How are holidays handled at a retirement community to help ease feelings of loneliness? A. As families face increased demands on time and longer distances from loved ones, gathering for holiday festivities may become more difficult. It may be worthwhile to stop by your neighbors’ apartments. You’d be surprised by how much a simple visit can brighten their day. At The Palace Senior Living Communities, we celebrate and recognize holidays with numerous events and activities so our residents never feel alone. For families who are unable to visit, they have peace of mind knowing their parent is surrounded by a team of caring professionals dedicated to their parents’ wellbeing and residents like themselves. Our independent living community, The Palace Suites, for example, kicks off the holiday season each year with a traditional Thanksgiving Day Brunch. Our full-time Entertainment Director fills the calendar of events with at least eight different activities each day ranging from lunch outings to water color classes to exercise programs and nightly cocktail hours. In December, The Palace Suites holds an annual Hanukkah Celebration. The community’s menorah lighting is another great way for residents to gather with friends and neighbors to celebrate the spirit and warmth of the season. Residents have the support of others who may also be away from their families and this reassurance and support makes the holidays less stressful. The season rolls on at The Palace Suites with a special holiday celebration luncheon and a driving tour of Miami’s holidays lights—a resident favorite.

Local schools provide a host of intergenerational activities and residents love this opportunity to enjoy children. We never need an official holiday to party at The Palace. There’s Hot Fudge Tuesdays and residents can satisfy a sweet tooth on Brownie Thursdays. The year ends with a bang as well. A New Year’s Eve extravaganza will feature entertainment by Derrick Salveston and serve as the official Palace countdown to 2011. The holiday season can be a lonesome time of year for everyone but for older adults living in a senior retirement community there’s camaraderie and commonality which help ease holiday blues. We understand that nothing replaces the togetherness of families gathering for the holidays and residents may miss being away from loved ones. However, with all the fun and excitement going on in our community, you just might have a hard time catching up with them to hear them say it. If you have questions about the lifestyle changes that go with aging, or if you’d like to be invited to a social event at The Palace Suites, please send a note to Helen Shaham, The Palace Suites, 11377 S.W. 84th St., Miami, Florida 33173, call her at 305-270-7020, or email helen@thepalace.org.

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

December 14 - 20, 2010

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December 14 - 20, 2010

’10 Race for the Cure attracts record number of participants

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The Miami/Fort Lauderdale Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure recently announced that this year’s Race for the Cure set a record for the most participants with 21,262 individuals, including more than 1,000 breast cancer survivors, taking part. This is the highest number of entrants since the affiliate starting hosting the race in 1996. During the past three years it has seen steady growth, gaining more than 1,000 racers each year. In keeping with Komen guidelines, 75 percent of the net proceeds raised stay in Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe counties to support education, screening and treatment in underserved communities. The remaining 25 percent is pooled with money raised by other Komen affiliates for national research grants. Just this year, Susan G. Komen for the Cure awarded the University of Miami $600,000 to conduct research to find a potential vaccine that would elicit immune responses to reverse

cancer progression. “The support we have received from the South Florida community will allow us to continue to expand our ongoing educational outreach and screening programs in Miami-Dade, Broward and the Florida Keys,” said Bobbi Meyers, executive director for Susan G. Komen Miami/Fort Lauderdale Affiliate. “We are expecting to exceed the $1.4 million raised last year. This money will bring us one step closer to our vision of a world without breast cancer.” Since its inception in 1996, the Miami/Fort Lauderdale Race For the Cure and the Affiliate have raised more than $10 million and reached hundreds of thousands of women and men through educational outreach. The Affiliate now is accepting sponsors for the 2011 Miami/Fort Lauderdale Race for the Cure scheduled to take place on Saturday, Oct. 15, at Bayfront Park in Miami. For additional information or to volunteer, call 305-383-7116 or visit online at <www.komenmiaftl.org>.

December 14 - 20, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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December 14 - 20, 2010

First Bank opens newest branch on Kendall Drive BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

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During a period of 15 years, First Bank of Miami has grown to five branches. Just recently, the bank celebrated a grand opening/ribbon cutting to mark the opening of its newest branch on Kendall Drive, a long-awaited addition to the list of branches. “We always wanted to come to the area,” said Jorge I. Triay, president and chief executive officer. “The whole idea is find the right location, finding the right market. This is the place for us.” In fact, a few years ago, bank officials placed a bid on a property that they thought would be good but that deal fell apart. They were very happy when the property at 9851 N. Kendall Dr. became available. The original building was razed and the new bank was built to suit First Bank of Miami. While the new building, a symbol of how well the bank is doing even Pictured at the ribbon cutting for the new Kendall office are in these economic times, Triay said First Bank president Jorge I. Triay and Nelson Alemany, First his employees know the secret to Bank executive vice president and chief operating officer. success. And it’s not what most peo–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ple think about banking. “This is a people business,” he said. “It’s call center. And those employees remain constant, so each time a customer walks in, totally a business of people.” In fact, banking is a long-term people they can expect to see familiar faces. Banks have taken quite a hit during the and relationship business, Triay said. past few years, with many larger, well“We’ve been at it for 15 years,” he said. “We know relationship banking, not only known banks making uncertain loans that is it the way to go it’s a win-win for both are now in foreclosure. At First Bank, they are cautious but they are still making loans. the customer and us.” “You cannot lend money to people who At a time when technology is allowing are going to have a rough time repaying some banks to exist only online and others to discourage customers from visiting and it,” Triay said. At the same time, they also are not buydealing with live tellers in favor of doing transactions via computer, First Bank has ing into the practice of making loans so made it even easier for patrons to sit down difficult to obtain that no money is being lent. and talk to someone. “We want to provide solutions,” Triay “We don’t have a dedicated teller line,” said Nelson Alemany, First Bank’s execu- said. Customers are concerned about the low tive vice president. “You do all transacinterest rates on CD’s and savings tions from a desk.” Those who do want to bank online have accounts. “Our mission is to find solutions,” he that option as well as online bill paying. And First Bank is up to date on technology said. “We have things to offer to them. If with the most modern check deposit fea- you hold it for a while, it will make tures possible. money.” At the same time, First Bank keeps to First Bank is located at 9851 N. the old-fashioned principle of customer Kendall Dr. For more information, call service. If a customer calls with a question, 786-347-2801 or visit online at they reach bank employees not a remote <www.FirstBankMiami.com>.

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December 14 - 20, 2010

Paper Boutique South Miami brightens holidays for kids

Jingle and Jangle pose with youngsters at Paper Boutique South Miami after the annual Santa’s Parade of Elves.

BY JILLIAN O’CONNELL

Paper Boutique South Miami joined in the celebration during the annual Santa’s Parade of Elves on Sunday, Dec. 5, with a very special event of its own. The Elf Magic Parade brought Jingle and Jangle to South Miami aboard the Play Kids float where they rode along the parade route waving and wishing all the children happy holidays. On board, was a very special guest, a little boy who is receiving cancer treatment at Miami

Children’s Hospital and through the efforts of the Make A Wish Foundation was able to ride alongside the elves. Paper Boutique South Miami continued the celebration at the store, located at 7346 SW 57 Ave., with a special Elf Magic party complete with snow cones cotton candy and elf hats for the kids. The store also collaborated with “Amigos for Kids” and spent the day collecting toys that will be distributed during the holidays to abused, neglected and disadvantaged children in the community.

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