Cutler Bay News 4.2.2013 by Community Newspapers

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Cutler Bay I

APRIL 2 - 15, 2013

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County breaks ground on senior community center BY MAURICE R. HERNANDEZ

n a moving ceremony attended by Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez, Commission Vice Chair Lynda Bell, Commissioner Dennis Moss, and municipal leaders from around the county, as well as residents and close family members, ground was broken on Marilyn Hope’s Place, the newest, stateof-the-art senior community center in Cutler Bay. Once completed, the new LEED Certified facility will accommodate 101 individual apartments for low to moderate income residents 55 years of age and older. Additionally, the four-story building complex will include one of the few complete dining/activity rooms in District 8, as well as an exercise room, laundry facilities, and a computer room for its tenants. Vice Chair Bell expressed the reasons why she decided to spearhead this ambitious project. “Given the need to provide more affordable and better quality housing facilities for our community’s senior residents, I felt it was imperative for the county to develop this project as soon as

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Scouting a famil y tradition f or Bethan y and Christian Nilson

Miami’s Mega Pet Adoption Event returning to Tropical Park, Apr. 6

BY XIOMARA MORDCOVICH

Pictured (l-r) are Vice Mayor Ernie Sochin, Councilmember Sue Ellen Loyzelle, Teresa Nilson, David Nilson, Christian Nilson, Mayor Ed MacDougall, Bethany Nilson, Councilmembers Peggy Bell and Mary Ann Mixon.

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BY GARY ALAN RUSE

wo young Cutler Bay residents — Bethany Nilson and her brother, Christian — received proclamations from the mayor and town council during the regular council meeting on Mar. 21 for their accomplishments in Scouting. Their father and grandfather were Eagle Scouts, so the family tradition continues. Christian Herbert Nilson, currently a senior at Palmetto High School and a member of Boy Scout Troop 20, Thunderbird District, was recognized for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout and for his Leadership Service Project. The project he created, developed and coordinated involved the preservation of artifacts at the Deering Estate at Cutler.

“It means a lot,” Christian Nilson said. “The most important factor though is the fact that other people get to see me get something like that and it promotes Scouting. That’s sort of what it’s all about, spreading it to other people who may need our program.” His future plans include an interest in journalism and photography. Being a third generation Eagle Scout is significant to him. “Yes, that’s very important to me as well,” he said. “I’ve been working toward it my whole life, basically. Scouting is just a great program that needs to be maintained.” His sister, Bethany Paige Nilson, who

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iami’s Mega Pet Adoption Event is back. This signature event sponsored by the ASPCA will take place on Saturday, Apr. 6, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., at Tropical Park, 7900 Bird Rd., and will feature hundreds of homeless pets eager to find a forever home. The marathon adoption of puppies and kitties will kick-off its festivities at 9 a.m. and then continue non-stop with hundreds of wonderful pets at discounted adoption fees. Who will go home with you? Miami-Dade Animal Services, Humane Society of Greater Miami, and The Cat Network, together with rescue groups from all over South Florida, once again have joined forces following the amazing successes of last spring’s Mega Match-a-thon that found homes for 288 animals and the 24-Hour Mega Pet Adoption in October that united 438 pets with new families. “Our goal is to match families with their new BFF (Best Furry Friend),” said Alex Muñoz, director of MiamiDade Animal Services. “With hundreds of loving pets for adoption of all breeds, sizes, ages, colors and personalities, everyone should find the perfect dog or cat, or both.” There will be entertainment, food trucks, a kid’s fun area and much more. Admission to the park is free and complimentary parking is available in the park. For more information call 3-1-1 or 305-749-1825, or visit online at <www.miamidade.gov/animals> or <www.humanesocietymiami.org>.

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Party in the Redland benefits Friends Forever Pet Rescue BY LEE STEPHENS

The Redland resonated with the sound of salsa and the smell of paella was in the air one night in late February as a group of 200 of Kathy and Paul Cowan’s closest friends gathered in their home and danced the night away at the third annual benefit party for Friends Forever Pet Rescue. The Cowans are longtime benefactors of Friends Forever and are multi-adopters of the dogs that find their way to the pet shelter. Other strong supporters who attended the benefit were the popular Pinecrest Realtor Joann Roberts and entrepreneur Rita Schwartz, owner of Upscale Furniture Consignment Gallery. Friends Forever Rescue is the largest non-profit, no-kill, private shelter in Miami and, with more than 500 pet adoptions each year, operators need help to keep the animals fed and the shelter operating. No dog is ever turned away at Friends Forever Pet Rescue and all animals receive the medical care, grooming and shots needed to make them adoptable to a new home. Operating the shelter requires money and a lot of it. So, each year Friends Forever founder Dee Chess, with the help of Schwartz, produces several fundraising events to help defray operating expenses. There are no employees at Friends Forever, only volunteers, but there is still the cost of keeping the shelter open to deal with, and the expense of maintaining the 500-plus animals that pass through the shelter every year. It is especially important for the few animals that arrive at the shelter and never leave; they have a permanent home.

This year’s benefit party began with delectable mojitos and continued with the great sounds of noted Latin artists, courtesy of the deejay from Party Players. Delicious, mouth-watering desserts were provided by You Oughta Taste My Mama’s Cakes and there was a live auction of artwork and fine jewelry, as well as silent auctions and raffles for an IPad4, a Samsung HD TV and a beautiful Tuuci umbrella. The highlight of the evening was a special appearance by former Miami Dolphins running back Mercury Morris, a member of the legendary undefeated 1972 Dolphins team. Morris inspired the audience with his stories of the fabled season and then auctioned a vintage jersey bearing his name. All proceeds were donated to the Friends Forever charity. This year’s benefit raised more than $20,000, money that will be used to help build a new shelter on five acres in the Redland recently donated by a generous supporter. An architect already has donated plans for the new shelter and fundraising is underway to build it. The 2013 Friends Forever benefit at the Cowan home was a beautiful evening for everyone and it portends an even better future for all the animals housed at the Friends Forever Pet Rescue facility. For more information or to donate time or money, go to <www.FriendsForeverRescue.com>. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pictured (l-r) are Paul Cowan, Mercury Morris and Luis Barreto.

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County and local officials break ground for Marilyn Hope’s Place, the new senior community center in Cutler Bay. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

possible,” Bell said. Marilyn Hope’s Place will be a multifunctional residential facility where eligible seniors can live in comfort, receive subsidized meals, and be able to participate in group and/or individual activities in peace and security. Moreover, Marilyn Hope’s Place will be located at 11150 SW 211 St., adjacent to the South Miami-Dade Government Center, South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, Headquarters of the Miami-Dade County Police Department’s South District, and just across the street there is shopping, dining and entertainment at Southland Mall, Bell explained. The new facility is named after Bell’s mother, Marilyn, a woman who excelled as

TRADITION, from page 1

an executive and as an entrepreneur while raising six minor children as a single mother in the 1970s. “My mother was a natural born leader who taught us the values of responsibility and compassion for others. It is my genuine hope that this facility will make justice to her memory and that everyone who lives here will find it an oasis from the everyday, and a great place to call home,” Bell added. Marilyn Hope’s Place, developed by Siltek Group Inc., is being funded in part by the Building Better Communities General Obligation Bond Project Number 249, which was approved by the MiamiDade Board of County Commissioners on Jan. 24, 2012.

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is 20 and in her second year at Miami Dade College, was recognized for attaining the Venturing Silver Award, which is the highest award in the Venturing program. She is a member of Venturing Crew 314 in the Thunderbird District. A program of the Boy Scouts of America, Venturing “provides positive experiences to help young men and women mature, and to prepare them to become responsible and caring adults.” To earn the Venturing Silver Award, candidates must be proficient in emergency preparedness, participate in Ethics in Action, complete the Venturing Leadership Skills

Course, earn a Venturing Gold Award, and earn at least one of the five Venturing Bronze awards. Like her brother, she was appreciative of the proclamation given her by the town council. “I told them I was very thankful for the award and I’m going to continue my service to the community, just as they have been serving us over the years,” she said. She is interested in pursuing a career as a professional photographer. Both students will be honored during an official ceremony at the South Florida Council Eagle Awards Dinner on May 5.

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Town council recognizes ‘Read Conmigo’ program BY GARY ALAN RUSE

During the Mar. 21 meeting of the Cutler Bay Town Council the mayor and other council members presented a proclamation honoring the “Read Conmigo” program. Gulfstream Elementary School principal Concepcion Santana and Geraldine Toledo, the spokesperson for the program, accepted the proclamation. A program sponsored by Infinity Insurance Company, “Read Conmigo” works with area public schools to encourage bilingual literacy by providing free books and resources to parents to support reading to their children at home. The books feature positive creative stories written in both English and Spanish that parents and children can read aloud together. The proclamation praised Read Conmigo as a campaign that “promotes the distinct educational, social, and financial benefits of bilingualism and provides parents with free tools and resources to help them create a lifelong love of reading.” The belief is that bilingual reading will assist the students by raising their reading levels, help them succeed in the classroom and

Pictured (l-r) are Vice Mayor Ernie Sochin, Councilmember Sue Ellen Loyzelle, Gulfstream Elementary principal Concepcion Santana, Geraldine Toledo, Mayor Ed MacDougall, and Councilmembers Peggy Bell and Mary Ann Mixon.

improve their learning experience. Gulfstream Elementary School is one of several area schools participating in the program. Read Conmigo also provides an opportunity for up-and-coming Hispanic authors and illustrators to create books published and distributed

through the program. Books like Sugar Moon (Luna de Azucar), Jazmin, the Beautiful Sheep (Jazmín, la Bella Oveja), Animals Are Unique, Just Like You (Los Animales Son Unicos Como Tú) and numerous others all are designed to be appropriate for chil-

dren from kindergarten through fifth grade. The books are distributed through participating schools, at special events or can be viewed or downloaded through the program’s website. For information visit the website at <www.readconmigo.org>.

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Homestead named Gateway to Everglades, Biscayne NP BY BEGOÑE CAZALIS

The City of Homestead historically has been a partner of the two national parks that surround its city limits. This partnership has now been made official with a newly approved resolution that recognizes the City of Homestead as “The Gateway to the Everglades and Biscayne National Parks.” The resolution, which was approved by the Homestead City Council during its Mar. 20 meeting, was proposed by Councilmember Stephen R. Shelley who developed the idea along with the National Park Conservation Association. The new tagline brands the City of Homestead as a partner of our national parks and shares the common goal of increasing tourism and awareness about the unique natural resources in the South Miami-Dade area. “We are one of the only cities in America located between two national parks. We have an exciting opportunity to capitalize on the eco-tourism dollars generated by our unique ecosystems,” said Councilmember Shelley, an avid outdoorsman who spends much of his free time fishing or engaging in photography inside the Everglades and Biscayne national parks. He also is a member of the board of direc-

The City of Homestead is located less than 10 miles from Biscayne and Everglades national parks.

tors for the Everglades Association and of the Youth Fishing Foundation. “Solidifying our historic partnership with the Everglades and Biscayne National Park through this resolution makes our shared mission with the parks of tourism and conservation even stronger,” he said. According to the National Park Service, recreational and eco-tourism activities relat-

ed to the Everglades and Biscayne national parks contribute millions of dollars each year to the local economies of the surrounding communities. Every year, nearly a million people visit Everglades National Park and spend more than $146 million, supporting some 2,000 local jobs in South Florida. According to the Mather Economics study, the projected recreational economic impact of a restored Everglades ecosystem over the next 50 years is in excess of $16 billion for park visitation, commercial and recreational fishing and wildlife viewing and hunting, and more than $46 billion when including other non-recreational economic benefits. Biscayne National Park also is a global destination that annually welcomes half a million national and international recreation visitors who spend more than $30 million supporting more than 500 local jobs in South Florida. The City of Homestead is located less than 10 miles from Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park and offers the ideal location for overnight guests to lodge, dine, shop, gather information, and purchase sup-

plies when visiting the parks. These two national parks also provide Homestead residents easy access to nature and outdoor recreational and educational activities such as fishing, birding, kayaking and camping. “For decades the City of Homestead’s local businesses have hosted millions of national park visitors. Local residents have enjoyed a wealth of recreational opportunities, and local students have studied globally significant ecosystems on field trips,” said Biscayne National Park superintendent Brian Carlstrom. “An official designation as a gateway community to Biscayne and Everglades national parks will enhance the city’s identity, draw tourism, and boost its economy.” Additionally, the City of Homestead is continuing to work with the National Park Service, Miami-Dade County, State of Florida and federal government to secure funding to construct the BiscayneEverglades Greenway project. The Biscayne-Everglades Greenway project is a 42-mile round trip bicycle path that will connect Biscayne National Park with Everglades National Park. The Greenway project, which was developed first by Homestead Councilmember Judy Waldman, would be the first and only bike trail in the U.S. to connect two national parks and would have an immediate economic impact to Homestead and the surrounding communities. “We applaud the Homestead City Council for declaring the City of Homestead as the gateway community, connecting urbanites to Everglades and Biscayne national parks,” said Kahlil Kettering, Biscayne restoration program analyst for the National Parks Conservation Association. “National parks are economic generators, serving as living classrooms that tell our shared American heritage and are great places to have fun. “By 2030, 85 percent of all Americans will live in urban areas and gateway communities like Homestead are vital for engaging and inspiring the next generation of park stewards at Everglades and Biscayne national parks.”

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There is something new under the sun... a low bill! Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN Keeping PACE! Cutler Bay Mayor Ed MacDougall couldn’t be happier with the solar paneling on his roof that is part of the PACE program. “As the first in Florida to go energy independent with PACE, I can now preach what I practice,” Ed told us. “A 3,800 Square Foot house (under air-conditioning) with a $8.20 power bill. And this only because of taxes and service charge. I have banked 20 percent additional power not even used.” Ed said that his second month’s bill was just as low, and it shows that the PACE project works. “This is proof that every house and building can become its own power station.” There’s a special PACE dedication ceremony coming up in April with visiting state officials. Spring Fair... St. Thomas Lutheran Church, located at 17700 Old Cutler Road in Palmetto Bay, will host a Spring Fair on April 27. The family friendly event featuring arts and crafts, food, shopping and other fun things will help raise money for a number of charitable organizations throughout the area and was inspired by the popularity of the Fall Fair they hosted there last year, according to Diana Orme, the coordinator of Fair. Habitat, Camillus House, Lutheran Services of South Florida and the Miami Bridge in Homestead all benefit from the proceeds. Vendors who would like to participate in the Spring Fair should contact the church as soon as possible by calling 305-232-1227 or by sending an email to <stthomaschr@aol.com>. Can you help? Someone cut down or damaged a number of long standing man-

grove trees in the waterfront back yard of Palmetto Bay Vice Mayor John DuBois last week, under cover of darkness, and after calling the Miami-Dade Police who came out to investigate, DuBois has offered a $50,000 reward to catch the person responsible. Mangroves are a protected species in South Florida because they provide food, shelter and breeding grounds for sea life and wildlife, and filter out pollutants. Whoever did it may face felony charges for the damage that was done, and the Vice Mayor hopes that the reward will result in someone coming forward with info that will lead to an arrest. Anyone with information is encouraged to call MiamiDade Police at 305-278-4012. Joanne Flinn just turned 21 on March 28. She’s the daughter of Walter and Jennifer Flinn and niece of Eugene and Alexandra Flinn. She appears to be following in the footsteps of her aunt Alex, the author of many popular young adult novels, and has her own first novel out called “Beautiful Temptation.” You can check it out on Amazon here: <www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Temptationebook/dp/B00BEH0CH4>. Alec Rosen, the long-time area public relations guru, was excited to tell us about his “new job.” Now we’re excited, too. “As you know, for the past 10 years I have been running my own business, AJR & Partners,” said Rosen. “AJR has won numerous awards, earned national recognition, worked with major international brands, launched new products and services and helped many start-ups to well, get started. Over the years, I have worked with amazing partners, clients, employees and vendors. So, after 10 years of running my own shop providing PR, marketing and Social media services I thought it was time to move on.” Rosen isn’t retiring though.

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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

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Instead, after more than 25 years in PR and marketing, he decided to “give back to the community, make a difference and to follow a passion.” In April he will become the new marketing manager of Chapman Partnership, the private sector partner of the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, operating two Homeless Assistance Centers in downtown Miami and Homestead. The mission is to empower homeless men, women and children to build a positive future by providing the resources and assistance critical to growth and stability. Congratulations, Alec. We know your expertise will benefit a worthwhile organization. Etchings, anyone? Fulwood Limited Editions Press is hosting a juried show of etchings, engravings, drypoints, mezzotints and similar techniques to be held in their studio in Miami’s Wynwood Art District. Opening reception is from 7:00 10:00 p.m. on Saturday April 13 and will run until May 11. This is the second in a series. The first show in January was a general printmaking exhibition. The next show in June will feature monotypes followed by a show of drawings in August.

The studio is located at 251 NW 23rd Street in Miami. The popular band, Southern Atlantic Muse, will provide music at the opening reception, refreshments will be served and the public is invited. A real “Calendar” item... The Marlins are celebrating their 20th anniversary season this year and asked fans to select their favorite moments in the franchise’s history. The top 12 moments will be featured in the Marlins 2013 Calendar, to be given away to the first 15,000 fans attending the game against the Phillies on Sunday, April 14. The calendar will be presented by Leon Medical Centers. For info go to <www.marlins.com>. Thought of the Day: Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. — Albert Einstein Gary Alan Ruse 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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Thoughts on life, death and Jonathan Livingston Buzzard BY ERNIE SOCHIN

Vice Mayor A while back I read a fascinating bestseller book called Jonathan Livingston Seagull by author Richard Bach. Being the renowned writer and columnist that I am I thought I might try doing the same thing. I began by watching the buzzards, a type of vulture that inhabits our area this time of year. The first thing I noticed is that they seem to congregate on those big buildings downtown that are inhabited mostly by lawyers. I can’t figure the connection but maybe you can. I also observed that they just seem to be having fun, catching updrafts and wind currents so that they can just float along. Some glider pilots that I have talked to tell me that they will follow the buzzards around because they are great at finding the winds that keep sailplanes aloft. They also seem to float overhead when I am playing tennis. I usually yell up to them that I am not quite ready yet. I guess all they have to do is float around and enjoy themselves. When they get hungry they just swoop down and

find a dead something-or-other and feast to their heart’s content. No waiting in line for a table or worrying about how much to tip. You all have seen the cartoon showing several vultures on a telephone line and one saying to the other: “Wait, hell, I’m going to go down and kill something,” They do have choices. Some of us wonder in what form we might return to earth after we pass on. A buzzard might be a good choice or perhaps any kind of bird. Imagine the fun they must have looking for a recently detailed Mercedes or BMW and letting loose right on the windshield at eye level. Wow! You might want to come back as an elephant or hippopotamus. Why? Has anyone ever said to Dumbo or any of his family, “Gee, you look like you have been putting on weight.” They don’t worry about clothes fitting a little too tight. They go around totally naked and no one arrests then for indecency or anything else. Another choice might be a python. Picture having the entire Everglades to live in and feast on. The only drawback is a few hundred people who want to chop your head off, humanely of course, but they have to find you first. I also might come back as one of the dogs

Miami-Dade Courthouse: Buzzards above and legal eagles below. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

in my neighborhood. They are spoiled worse than my grandchildren. All of the neighbors provide them with a continuous supply of

various snacks, throw sticks and balls for them to chase, and love them all to death. Whenever I open my front door there are usually three or four of them waiting for a biscuit. They can come back 10 minutes later with those sad eyes saying, “I haven’t had a treat for years... Please give me a biscuit.” I guess I will have to practice those eyes. My wife says I am already pretty good at whining. Coming back as a cat might be alright provided that I was adopted by a kind old cat lady. Did you ever see how they dote on their cats? I might like being a white tiger at the zoo. What could be more relaxing than lying around all day with people admiring my beauty as I wait to be fed a huge hunk of meat? Being a spider might be fun also. Being something so small and being able to scare the “blankety blank” out of huge people would be a tremendous ego boost. A quote from Richard Bach, Jonathan Livingston Seagull: “Jonathan Seagull discovered that boredom and fear and anger are the reasons that a gull’s life is so short, and with those gone from his thought, he lived a long fine life indeed.” So, anyway, if you someday see me flying overhead, just wave hello and cover your windshield.

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Cutler Bay Business Association Luncheon NETWORKING on March 14, 2013

Photos by: Gary Alan Ruse

Members and guests had a chance to network while enjoying a delicious meal.

CBBA Vice President Cyndi Rogg (left) is pictured with regular and new members.

CBBA President Jonathon Wilson had everyone introduce the person next to them as a learning tool.

Cutler Bay Councilwoman Peggy Bell (right) often attends the CBBA meetings.

Pictured (l-r) are Letty of Ellie Mills Insurance, Freddie Ambrose, and Ron Mitro of AAA FotoFast.

Councilwoman Peggy Bell addressed the group about upcoming events of interest.

Julie Lynn Dobson, Director of Community Programs at Banyan Street Community Center, Inc.

William Thiele of Sunstate Bank enjoying a humorous moment with Jean Tong-Noon.

CBBA Board Member Jean Tong-Noon of JMT Creates spoke about cruise line special events.

Chef David Schwadron Catering at Palmetto Bay Village Center supplied the luncheon meal.

Christian Contreras of CBT College, Frank Acosta of The Risk Management Croup and Timothy G. Sander, P.A.

Freddie Ambrose (left) of Thinking of You Services with Maurice Hernandez of Commissioner Lynda Bellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office.

Chef David Schwadron Catering & Event Design 305.238.5881 â&#x20AC;˘ events@chefdavidcatering.com

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Library to present ‘Tales Under ‘Focus on Parks’ connects the Stars’ at Deering Estate area youth with outdoors BY CATHY GUERRA

The community is invited to the Deering Estate at Cutler on Tuesday, Apr. 23, 7 p.m., for an enchanted evening of “Tales Under the Stars.” Guests can enjoy a captivating evening of stories from around the world and a performance by Gypsy Cat Flamenco. Tales Under the Stars is presented by the MiamiDade Public Library System in collaboration with the Deering Estate at Cutler. The event is free and open to the public. The event is a preview of what’s in store during the Miami-Dade Library system’s 13th annual International Art of Storytelling Family Festival which will take place on Saturday, Apr. 27, 10 a.m., at the Main Library in downtown Miami. During the past 12 years, the Miami-Dade Library has partnered with libraries from around the world as a way to explore ways in which those libraries use storytelling as a literacy tool. This year’s international exchange partner is the Bibliotecas de la Comunidad de Madrid in Madrid, Spain.

T h e e v e n t i s a p re v i e w o f w h a t ’s i n s t o r e d u r i n g t h e Miami-Dade Library s y s t e m ’s 1 3 t h a n n u a l I n t e rn a t i o n a l A rt o f S t o ry t e l l i n g F a m i l y F e s t i v a l . 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. Natural areas tours are offered daily at 12:30 p.m. (October-May). EcoAdventure Tours are also offered throughout the year for an additional fee. For more information on the Deering Estate’s educational and cultural programs, visit <www.deeringestate.org>.

Group of 27 young South Dade camera buffs tried out digital cameras during a six-week program culminating with a “sleepover” at Everglades National Park on Mar. 23. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY RICHARD YAGER

Touring Miami-Dade parks and visiting scenic spots became a new adventure for Goulds Park area youngsters, many of whom rarely had traveled outside their neighborhood. A six-week program took them on a bike trip to Cape Florida State Park, a boat tour of the Miami River and a walking tour of history in downtown Miami through cosponsorship of Miami-Dade Parks and the National Park Service. Photography lessons were combined with use of camera gear to document their experiences, ending with a night camping out in Everglades National Park on Mar.

23. Photos of their excursions will be on display at the park’s Gallery Night on Apr. 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. “Some of the children never have gone outside their own neighborhood, let alone seen the ocean or a forest,” said Jack Kardys, Parks director. “By introducing photography to their outdoor experience we allow them to tell a visual story to share with participants, families, friends, and the community.” The first “Focus on Parks” program session began at Gwen Cherry Park in the north end of the county in January, followed by a second group meeting Saturdays at Goulds Park, 11350 SW 216 St.

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MDC celebrates Miami’s culture during Arts and Letters event BY ROXANA ROMERO

Art comes in many forms: performing arts, visual arts, music, and literature, among other genres. This year Miami Dade College (MDC) commemorates Miami’s unique artistic flair with the 21st anniversary of Arts and Letters, continuing through Apr. 10, at its Kendall Campus, 11011 SW 104 St. This 10-day affair includes poetry readings, photography exhibits, arts and crafts, live music, and many more activities the whole family can enjoy. All the festivities are free to the public. A sampling of the planned events: Tuesday, Apr. 2, 2-3 p.m., McCarthy Auditorium, Room 6120 — Derrick Adams, a multidisciplinary New York-based artist, will give a presentation about his artistic process. Adams studied at Pratt Institute, Columbia University, and the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture. He is the recipient of a 2009 Louis Comfort Tiffany Award and an honored finalist for the 2011 William H. Johnson Prize. Tuesday, Apr. 2, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Library, Building 2, Second Floor — Kids’ Choice Story Contest. Kids will do the judging! Bring your children (ages 5-11) to this story contest where the kids will decide the winners of original stories by Miami Dade College students. Rita Fernandez-Sterling

and Nancy Yi Ortiz will direct the event and present awards. Student writers’ submissions are coordinated by Marta Magellan. The stories will be read by Sherri Ahern, Sofia

Funk, Elena Perez-Mirabal and Monica Plata. Refreshments will be served. Wednesday, Apr. 3, 9-11 a.m., Library, Building 2, Second Floor — Heart of the Arts Photography Exhibit. This juried exhibition displays works by MDC photography students with the theme “Heart of the Arts.” Coordinated by Tony Chirinos. Wednesday, Apr. 3, 12:15-1 p.m., McCarthy Auditorium, Room 6120 — Keynote speaker Jody Steiger will deliver a speech on the importance of the arts in the community. Steiger has divided her career between the performing arts — as both designer and director — and the fields of educational innovation and curriculum planning. She holds a doctorate degree in education with special emphasis on the role of the arts in education and social development. She is a member of the board of AcciónArte and the board of the Orchestra of the Americas and the Fundación ARDE (Arte para el Desarrollo). She is the former director of the National Theatre of Costa Rica. Wednesday, Apr. 3, 2-2:50 p.m., Room R-403 — What is Beauty? Explore the nature of beauty through the prism of philosophy in this interactive workshop. Share, develop, and discover the aesthetics among the arts, nature, and human beings. Participate in a discussion on Plato, Kant and David Hume. Facilitated by Allen McPhee.

Wednesday, Apr. 3, 7-10 p.m., Theater, Building M — Rehearsal. Six Characters in Search of an Author by Luigi Pirandello calls into question the levels of theatricality and contrivance inherent in all plays. Be one of the first to attend this classic, made up of student cast members. Directed by Brad Beckman. Thursday, Apr. 4, 6-9 p.m., Art Gallery, Room M-123 — Emerging Artists: 47th Annual Juried Student Exhibition. Enjoy original works in all media by Kendall Campus art students. Friday, Apr. 5, 7-8 p.m., McCarthy Auditorium, Room 6120 —Originals. The Miami Music Revolution Student Organization performs original compositions and arrangements. Wednesday, Apr. 10, 11 a.m.-noon, Room R-403 — Tim O’Brien, author of the lauded The Things They Carried, a Big Read choice, will read from his work and share his thoughts on being an author. The details of warfare may have changed since Vietnam, but O’Brien’s semi-autobiographical account of a young platoon on a battlefield without a front, dodging sniper fire and their own misgivings, continues to win legions of dedicated readers, both in uniform and out. The Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts designed to revitalize the role of literary reading in American popular culture.

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Disc sports equipment now available at point of play Disc game gear now is available in vending machine at Kendall Indian Hammocks Park.

BY DAVID BURN

Disc throwing enthusiasts at Kendall Indian Hammocks Park now are stocking up on “fly gear to elevate their game” before hitting one of the park’s two 18-hole courses, thanks to a new automated “proshop” placed in the park. The first-of-its-kind vending machine from Omaha-based TeeBoxx is stocked with new discs from leading manufacturers like Innova and Discraft. The inventory provides gear for three unique disc sports — disc golf, free style and ultimate — all of which can be purchased on the spot by players with a credit card. Local player, disc golf course builder and parks advocate George Alvarez stepped up to the shiny new TeeBoxx with credit card in hand recently, selecting Innova Echo Star for $17.99 Alvarez said he is excited to help TeeBoxx launch here in Miami, because disc sports are a positive

development for the parks and the community. Disc sports, and disc golf in particular, have been growing at a rapid pace for more than a decade. Today, there are more than 3,000 disc golf courses in the United States and 3,000 more in countries around the world. “Our TeeBoxx helps introduce people to the sport, so the gear in our machines is geared to beginners and intermediate players,” said Aaron Martin, TeeBoxx cofounder and chief marketing officer. Martin said the company’s business model is one of private-public partnerships. “We have a deep interest in helping to fund and resurrect public parks,” Martin said. “There’s self-interest here, in that these parks are literally our fields of play, but it’s bigger than disc sports. It’s about getting people to move and have fun.” Customers can purchase disc sports equipment and learn more about disc golf, freestyle and ultimate at TeeBoxx.com.

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Rep. Joe Garcia honors Columbus High School

Chamber South announces winners of annual Legislative Essay Contest BY ARELIS FERRO

U.S. Rep. Joe Garcia (right), pictured with Brother Kevin, recently visited Columbus High School to present a copy of a Congressional Record statement that honors the school for 55 years of service to the community. Rep. Garcia entered the statement into the Congressional Record on Feb. 12. During his visit to Columbus, the congressman talked with students and was interviewed by reporters from the school’s CCNN TV station and other local news media. Garcia also toured Columbus’ Mas Technology Complex accompanied by two alumni who now work for him, district manager Raul Martinez Jr. and director of communications Giancarlo Sopo.

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The Chamber South Education and Business Coalition has announced the winners of the 16th Annual Legislative Essay Contest. This year’s winners are Gonzalo Crivelli of the School for Advanced Studies at Miami Dade College (Kendall Campus) and Kathryn Lopez of Miami Killian High School. They will receive a VIP trip to Tallahassee to experience the state of Florida’s legislative process first hand. The Education and Business Coalition sponsors this contest each year in an effort to help develop writing skills and instill in our future leaders an understanding of how individuals can make a difference. The two winning students from the School for Advanced Studies at Miami Dade College and Miami Killian Senior High and their parent chaperones will be attending a VIP trip to Tallahassee on Apr. 3 and 4. They will attend meetings with local legislators during Dade Days, tour the Old and New Capitol and the Supreme

Court, and network with local officials and business professionals. For more than a decade, the essay contest winners and their parents have described the trip as a once-ina-lifetime experience that provides an eyewitness view of state government. The two winners wrote a 500-word essay that answered one of two questions: 1. Should elected officials be held to a higher moral standard than you and I; 2. There appears to be apathy among youth today as to political involvement. If given the opportunity, what would you do to change it? You can read the two winning essays on Chamber South’s website at <www.ChamberSouth.com>. This year’s contest was sponsored by Chamber South, with support from Florida State Sen. Anitere Flores, and an MDRT Foundation grant courtesy of Donald Marx, who has contributed through the years to Chamber South and the Education and Business Coalition. For more information, call the Chamber South offices at 305-661-1621.

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Miami Surgical Center marks opening with ribbon cutting

Picture (l-r): Dr. Julio Roble, Dr. Alexis Jimenez, Mike Doyle, Dr. Mauricio Herrera, Dr. Emilio Suarez, Ron Zelhof, Dr. Daniel Kalbac, Dr. Pedro Cavajal, Joe Fernandez and Dr. Guillermo Tablada. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY DONNA SHELLEY

The Miami Surgical Center celebrated its opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 28. In practice in West Kendall since 2003, the new, relocated orthopedic and sports medicine center is a state-of-the-art facility with physicians who have access to the finest surgical equipment available. The celebration — attended by physicians, staff and wellwishers — featured tours of the new facility located at 7600 SW 87 St. in Kendall. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Daniel Kalbac, FACS, a partner of and practitioner in the facility, said of the center, “Efficiency is huge for us as surgeons. At the center, we get the technology hospitals don’t have.” The center’s new 13,000-square-foot location is designed for outpatient/sameday procedures with six operating rooms and one procedure room. The patientfriendly design of the venue ensures optimum efficiency. The center is outfitted with the newest surgical equipment from Arthex and the latest instrumentation for hip, shoulder, and distal extremity reconstruction and repair. The procedure room is outfitted with Nu-Boom surgical imaging equipment. The Miami Surgical Center is state licensed, Medicare approved, and accredited by the Accreditations Association for Ambulatory Health Care; it can service 20 to 30 patients per day currently and can expand to upwards of 40 per day in the future. The center is in partnership with Surgery Partners, a business that manages, develops and acquires ambulatory surgical facilities. They have 49 locations nationwide and strive to be a highly progressive and innovative healthcare services company.

“We are trying to be a solution to the high costs associated with modern healthcare,” said Ron Zelhof, vice president of operations for Surgery Partners. “By maximizing efficiency, we have been able to lower costs and become part of the answer to the question of the availability of effective and affordable healthcare.” The Miami Surgical Center provides orthopedic and pain services at costs that are 40 percent lower than that of a traditional hospital. The center’s procedures are minimally invasive. The patient and his or her family are kept well informed about the procedure and the progress of healing throughout the process. In partnership with Arthex Medical Education, the center has established an educational program for international surgeons. The group will be involved in training the most advanced and contemporary techniques in Orthopedic/Sports medicine. Physicians, primarily from Central and South America, will be coming to the Center’s 2,500 square foot learning center to train in the very near future. According to Mike Doyle, CEO for Surgery Partners, the new facility is five years ahead of most other centers. Thanks to everyone’s efforts it is on the front line of service because of its commitment to the vendors, physicians and patients. Dr. Kalbac, a U.S. Soccer Team physician, who also maintains an orthopedic practice on Sunset Drive in South Miami, is overjoyed with the new Miami Surgical Center. “It’s like a dream come true for me,” he said. The Miami Surgical Center is located at 7600 SW 87 Ave., Suite 200. Visit online at miamisurgicalcenter.com or call at 305-5952114.

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South Florida Energy Savers offers homes, businesses ‘green’ solution The South Florida Energy Savers’ van can be seen around the community.

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Jon Paulisin, CEO and owner of South Florida Energy Savers in Palmetto Bay, is a man who believes that greening South Florida is going to be a sure-fire success. “I believe in this. I started this company because I knew that greening was going to be the way to go,” Paulisin said. And it is no accident that he based his company in Palmetto Bay. He said that it is located in the “heart” of the region’s energy conservation initiatives. The village’s Municipal Complex was named as a Platinum LEED building by the U.S. Green Building Council. It is the highest award and the only government building in the entire state with this distinction. South Florida Energy Savers is a business ready to help commercial and residential customers save the planet, reduce their carbon footprint and pay less for their utilities — a lot less. The company, which was certified by the Ygrene Energy Fund in November 2012, offers a free energy survey to potential clients to determine what can be done to make the physical plant more energy efficient, and they make information available about service and products to help realize some serious changes to energy consumption. South Florida Energy Savers can make recommendations regarding solar photovoltaics, solar hot water heaters, solar pool heating, LED lighting, insulation, air conditioning and hurricane impact windows. The movement to green South Florida received a big boost when a number of municipalities became involved in the Clean Energy Green Corridor about two years ago. The municipalities, working with the PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) program,

a consortium of businesses, along with the Ygrene Green Energy Fund, will provide norisk administration of the PACE program. Ygrene’s certification program gives participating contractors access to its databank of approved products and has in place a system of checks and balances that requires a final inspection from Ygrene before the final check is paid to the energy contractor. The PACE program allows municipalities to levy non-ad valorum assessments to fund energy improvements. And this is where a company like Paulisin’s comes in to help qualify the residential or commercial property owner to receive low-interest financing for energy improvements. South Florida Energy Savers informs the client about all the products available to reduce energy costs and is knowledgeable about attendant rebates and federal tax credits. Solar power can make your home into its own power plant and add considerable resale value to your property. The installation of solar radiant barrier insulation in the attic can reduce the amount of time the air conditioner runs by upwards of 50 percent. For a real life success story about the efficacy of the PACE program and solar power, consider Mayor Ed MacDougall of the Town of Cutler Bay (a Green Corridor community), who recently had a solar array installed on his home. His monthly electric bills routinely averaged about $200. After the first full month on solar power, his bill was $8.20. That was $7 for administrative costs and $1.20 for tax. If you want to know how to affordably manage the same success as Mayor MacDougall, think about contacting South Florida Energy Savers to learn more at 305807-6925, or pay them a visit at 9048 SW152 St. in Palmetto Bay.

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Tennis player Victoria Azarenka visits Baptist Children’s Hospital Tennis player Victoria Azarenka took time off from the tennis courts during the Sony Open to visit the pediatric patients at Baptist Children’s Hospital. Victor OrtizLopez, 3, was excited to receive a large autographed tennis ball and backpack filled with goodies.

Valeria Diaz, 2, receives an autographed tennis ball and backpack with goodies from tennis player Victoria Azarenka during a recent visit to Baptist Children’s Hospital. Azarenka, who competed in the Sony Open Tennis tournament, took time

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Local professional can teach you how to Improv Yourself BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

Improv is being used to help business people overcome their fear of speaking in front of groups. Carey Kane, founder of Improv Yourself Communications, is offering workshops and classes to help companies train their employees in better presentation skills. “We teach professional how to think better on their feet,” Kane said. “We also teach them how to speak from a place of confidence, so that their clients feel at ease.” The goal of the classes is to boost productivity through communicating better both within the company and out to the world. “You are making the work more enjoyable because you’re communicating better,” she said “That brings clients in and boosts the bottom line.” Kane began teaching the classes part-time as evening courses in 2005. Throughout that time, her dream was to teach the courses as a full-time venture. “We do tailor a workshop to the needs of each company,” Kane said. “Among our array of workshop options, we offer one tailored to women professionals and women attorneys. We also offer one-on-one public speaking coaching.” Improv Yourself has been offering the workshops since April. Their clients include Crispin Porter + Bogusky and Antonia Canero PA, a Brickell Avenue law firm. The classes were developed after years of being in professions that required public speaking. Kane grew up in Pinecrest and left to attend college at Northwestern. After college, she worked for Teach for America and non-profits including Breakthrough Miami. Her ability to stand in front of others and speak comfortably came from her years in acting classes. “When I took acting classes I didn’t plan on “I’m going to use that for public speaking

skills,” Kane said. The workshops have paid off for attendees. Kane said one of the attorneys who took her evening courses was asked by his senior partners what he was doing that had improved not only his litigation skills but his interpersonal skills. Kane said a popular misconception about Improv is that you have to be funny. “Stand up comedy is when you need to be funny,” she said. “The courses are not about being funny but they are enjoyable. You’re anchoring the learning in fun.” When someone is going in front of the class doing Improv, Kane helps them through the presentation through gentle side coaching. “I teach people how to not undermine themselves,” she said. “Improv helps with so many skills.” One of those skills is collaboration. “You build brick by brick,” she said. “Your partner adds the mortar, and you add the brick.” Although Improv teaches you to be in the moment, it doesn’t mean that she advocates an undisciplined approach to work. She comes from a corporate culture but likes to think outside the box and help others to release their creativity. Kane’s work has caught the attention of not only companies but ABC News. “ABC News came out a couple of months ago and they covered a class and afterward they interviewed students about how it helped them with their careers,” she said. When she went into business full-time she took on a partner, Israel Maya, who was one of her first Improv Yourself students. “When enough attorneys and bankers told us, you’ve got to do this, I knew enough to approach him,” she said. “He’s an outstanding teacher as well.” For information, call 305-968-6502 or go online to <www.improvyourselfnow.com>.

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Local filmmaker Bernstein creates documentary on famed illustrator BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

Local filmmaker Brad Bernstein has created a documentary called Far Out Isn’t Far Enough: The Tomi Ungerer Story about a famed children’s book author/illustrator who climbed to the top of the industry but his work in erotica killed his children’s book career. “Basically, essentially he lost all the publishing contracts in the U.S. The erotica started to clash with the children’s book,” Bernstein said. Bernstein’s goal is to get the documentary qualified for an Academy Award nomination. The documentary was sparked by an article about author/illustrator Tomi Ungerer, the illustrator of the original Flat Stanley. “Every single quote was a sound bite,” Bernstein said. “We knew it had to be a film. I reached out to some of the people in the article.” In order to make the film, Bernstein interviewed Ungerer for more than 40 hours. He also interviewed Maurice Sendak, the author/illustrator of Where the Wild Things Are, about Ungerer. Bernstein learned that Ungerer is an unusual character, profoundly affected by his father’s death when he was very young and growing up under the Nazis. He came to the United States and became an illustrator for many of the best magazines. He was discovered by one of the great children’s book editors and went on to write and illustrate numerous critically acclaimed children’s books. His work is still considered brilliant by today’s editors. But his erotica undermined his career in children’s books. Ungerer left the U.S. for Nova Scotia and eventually settled in Ireland. “When he left in the ’70s he didn’t create a children’s book for a quarter century,” Bernstein said. He eventually wrote Flix, about a cat who marries a dog. In 1998, Ungerer won the prestigious Hans Christian Anderson award. This documentary is a departure for Bernstein, whose company, Corner of the Cave Media is usually hired to make documentaries by companies like VH-1, ESPN, PBS and CBS. In fact, he has a show airing Apr. 23 on CBS and a show on a jazz concert filming in late June. “We do a lot of music and documentary programming” Bernstein said. “We do a lot

Filmmaker Brad Bernstein ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

of stuff about TV. The network hires us out; we write produce, and edit.” But this time, he had to go out and look for financing to get the project off the ground. “Our goal was to start at festivals and start to get it distributed,” he said. The documentary has had theatrical runs in France and in Germany. The theatrical runs are needed to qualify the documentary for the Oscars. “We’re hopefully putting ourselves in position for 2014, for 2014, you do it in 2013,” he said. The change in pace for the filmmaker has been interesting. “We look for interesting projects that pay well,” he said. “We mix up projects.” Bernstein attended the University of Michigan and in 2007 he was contacted by Larry Rosen who used to own a jazz label. Rosen asked Bernstein to supervise a project. The project led him to meet Rich Sakowski, the editor and now his business partner. The project also enabled him to interview many fascinating musicians such as Billy Joel and Paul Simon. Bernstein’s documentary aired Mar. 6 and 8 at the Regal in South Beach during the Miami International Film Festival. The next airing is at the Florida Film Festival in Maitland. For more information go online to <www.facebook.com/FarOutTheMovie>.

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Former Bank Lawyer Fights for Miami Homeowners By Ann Lino Should I pay the mortgage on my home? What about the taxes and condo fees? What’s the worst that can happen if I don’t pay? What’s the best I can hope for? There are so many people offering advice. Realtors will tell you to sell. Bankruptcy attorneys will tell you to go bankrupt. Loan modification services will tell you to ask nicely for a loan modification. One attorney who spent years representing banks in foreclosures, Bruce Jacobs, will tell you to negotiate from strength. Bruce Jacobs is not only a former bank lawyer, he is also a foreclosure defense client. “I didn’t want to go bankrupt or spend the rest of my life paying for this mortgage mess,” said Bruce. “I had five mortgages on two properties underwater by almost $500,000.00. I stopped paying and put up a fight. Now, I have one property with one mortgage.” There are plenty of reasons to fight. Banks got a bailout of $7.7 Trillion in almost interest free loans from our taxpayer dollars. They pay out billions in bonuses to Wall Street executives while Main Street is left to fight for themselves. The loan modification programs are not working. Homeowners run in circles before getting denied or offered a deal that only helps the bank make more money. Bruce is part of a national group of dedicated lawyers fighting back against banks. They train at seminars around the country and online to share resources and develop cutting edge strategies in foreclosure defense. Many of the attorneys are former bank lawyers who, like Bruce, are passionate about fighting for meaningful help for their clients. Bruce has lectured on foreclosure defense at continuing legal education seminars for other attorneys and realtor offices so more homeowners have access to his strategies. “The goal is either a meaningful loan modification with a principal balance reduction, a release from the debt, or to fight to clear the mortgage off the property,” said Bruce about most of his clients. “There are reasons banks filed ‘robo-signed’ fraudulent documents in foreclosures all over the country. Many have serious paperwork problems which makes proving the right to foreclose in a courtroom difficult.”

To schedule a free consultation with Bruce Jacobs at his downtown Miami office please call (855) BANK-LIE (226-5543) or watch their free webinar: “Strategies for an Underwater Mortgage” at www.negotiatefromstrength.com. “Not paying your mortgage is only a strategic default if you have a strategy.”

April 2 - 15, 2013

MAC, Miami String Project join to present Man of La Mancha BY LIZETH CARRERA

Local high school students, ages 15-18, from the Miami String Project will perform an entire musical score alongside professional musicians and seasoned actors from the Miami Acting Company. Both organizations strive to preserve the arts in South Florida and provide once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for music and live theater lovers. For the first time, these organizations will perform the award-winning musical Man of La Mancha, Apr. 5-7, at the scenic Banyan Bowl at Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Rd. in Pinecrest. Performances are at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Man of La Mancha is a fivetime Tony Award-winning musical, including Best Musical. It tells the story of the “mad” knight, Don Quixote, as a play within a play. It was written by Dale Wasserman with music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by Joe Darion. The Miami Acting Company was established in 2006 — its main goal, to provide exceptional live theatrical performance to the South Florida area. Over the years MAC has been praised for its productions of Cats, A Chorus Line, Company, The Producers, Chicago, The Odd Couple, No Exit and The Sunshine Boys. The company expects to top itself with the beloved Man of La Mancha. This production will be directed by Pamela Kirkpatrick, an accomplished professional of the theater world, along with Miami Acting Company’s artis-

tic director Bill Altfield, one of MAC’s founding board members. The Miami Strings Project was born out of a simple mission — to provide gifted students with extraordinary educational and performing opportunities, to nurture future generations through outreach programs and share the love of music. The students will play alongside seasoned musicians and be led by the musical direction of Antoine Khouri, musical director for the Miami Strings Project. For tickets visit online at <www.miamiactingco.org>.

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5901 SW 74th Street, #211 South Miami, Florida 33143 www.villagerealtysfl.com Highly Desirable Village of Palmetto Bay!

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Josie Carreño Alvarez, Realtor® 305-669-6132 Direct • josie@josiealvarez.com

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Cancer survivors celebrate at East Kendall Relay for Life

Cancer survivors — (l-r) Sheila Salon, Francis Zolotin and Muriel Sommers — take a break by the lake at Baptist Hospital during the American Cancer Society’s East Kendal Relay for Life on Mar. 9. They were among 4,000 people who participated in the fundraiser and survivor celebration on the hospital’s campus.

Cancer survivor Mia Miller, 5, has a laugh with her mom, Irene Caleca, during the American Cancer Society’s East Kendall Relay for Life at Baptist Hospital on Mar. 9. The event raised more than $235,000 for the Society’s research, education and patient services. It was the eighth consecutive year that Baptist Hospital hosted the East Kendall Relay on its campus. (Photos by Fareed Al-Mashat, BHSF)

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Third annual Redland Blues and Deering Estate offering reduced Barbecue Festival, Apr. 20-21 entry on ‘Welcome Wednesdays’ BY BRIAN CULLEN

Miami-Dade Parks and Miami-Dade County District 8 Commissioner Lynda Bell present the third annual Redland Blues and Barbecue Festival on Saturday and Sunday, Apr. 20 and 21, at the Fruit and Spice Park located at 24801 SW 187 Ave. in Homestead. Join in lakeside for some tantalizing barbecue and incredible blues and country music. Relax while strolling through the park or spread your blanket and gaze at the sky. A multitude of children’s activities, petting zoo and pony rides will be available, as well as catch and release fishing provided by MiamiDade Parks EcoAdventures. There also will be an interactive zone sponsored by Homestead Motor Speedway all day on Saturday. Featured bands performing onstage throughout the day include: “Iko Iko,” “Pit Bull Blues Band,” “The Jay Blues Band,” “Big City Band,” and Shadow Creek. On Saturday from noon to 2 p.m., Thunder Country’s deejay Doug Hitchcock will be remote live on the air for the festivities and barbecue competition. The sponsors for the third annual Blues

and Barbecue Festival include Miami-Dade County District 8 Commissioner Lynda Bell, Budweiser, Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, Community Bank, Thunder Country 100.3, and rib vendors Huckleberry Hillbilly BBQ, Big Pig BBQ, Smok’n Hot Ladies BBQ, M&M Barbecue, and Smoke n’ Spice BBQ. Additional vendors include fresh roasted corn on the cob, funnel cakes, ice cream, silky smooth milk shakes and fried cheesecake. Admission is $8 and children under 11 years of age are admitted free. Doors open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call the Fruit and Spice Park at 305-247-5727. Fruit and Spice Park, operated by the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department, grows more than 500 varieties of sub-tropical fruits, herbs, spices, vegetables and nuts from around the world on 39 lush acres in the agricultural Redland. The park offers daily botanical tours, fruit tasting and naturalist led workshops. For more information, visit <www.fruitandspicepark.org>, or call 305-247-5727.

BY CATHY GUERRA

The Deering Estate at Cutler will offer $5 after-hours admission on the first Wednesday of each month from 4 to 8:30 p.m. as part of “Welcome Wednesdays.” On Wednesdays, Apr. 3 and May 1, bring a picnic and enjoy it on the main lawn of the estate. Guests can enjoy a relaxing evening and take in the rich colors reflecting off the boat turning basin. Chef David Schwadron Catering and Joanna’s Marketplace are the official picnic providers for the Deering Estate at Cutler and can be contacted directly for preordered meals. Call 305-238-5881 for Chef David Schwadron Catering and 305-6615777 for Joanna’s Marketplace. The main grounds of the estate will be

open to guests for a reduced rate of $5 and Deering Estate Foundation members receive free admission. There will be limited access to the buildings — only restrooms will be open. Guests will be able to meander through the public outdoor areas. 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., and Natural Areas Tours are offered daily at 12:30 p.m. For more information on the Deering Estate’s educational and cultural programs, visit online at <www.deeringestate.org>.

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23rd annual Great Taste of the Grove, Apr. 13-14 BY VANESSA GOODIS

Miami’s original family-friendly food festival, the Great Taste of the Grove Food & Wine Festival, is back and celebrating its 23rd year with a weekend of food, wine, music and fun for the whole family. On Saturday, Apr. 13, and Sunday, Apr. 14, from noon to 7 p.m., Coconut Grove’s picturesque Peacock Park will host the lively event, showcasing samplings from Miami’s best restaurants. Unlike many food festivals that charge large entrance fees at the door, the Great Taste of the Grove remains budgetfriendly for families. At only $10 for adults to get in and $5 for kids under 12 (free for kids under 3), attendees can sample tastes from nearly 20 restaurants in the three giant “Great Tasting Tents” for only $1-$8 per small plate. PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS INCLUDE: Acropolis C&R Food Concepts Calamari Restaurant ColdStone Creamery

GreentStreet Café’ Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar & Latam Grill Master C. Culinary

New York Roma Pizza Panorama at the Sonesta Hotel Peacock Garden Café

Ritz Carlton Spartico at Mayfair Hotel & Spa The Lot Bar & Lounge Timo’s at Villa Mayfair Toby’s Concessions And more are being added. While snacking and sipping throughout the festival, guests always look forward to the live performances on the Main Stage. Saturday, Apr. 13, is all about “Tribute Concerts.” So, get ready to sing along as performers pay tribute to some of our favorite bands: Neil Zirconia (Neil Diamond), Turnstiles (Billy Joel), and Odyssey Road (Journey). Sunday, Apr. 14, it’s a “Clash of the Decades” with local bands playing tunes from the ’40s to the ’90s with headliner Suenalo! In addition to all the live music, there will be a Kids Fun Zone with rides and attractions dedicated to keeping the youngsters entertained. For more information about this event, check the Facebook page, or visit the website at <www.thegreattasteofthegrove.com>.

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BCH to perform corrective facial surgeries for free BY BARBARA MOORE

A child’s smile is one of the greatest joys of life. Unfortunately, one in 800 children in the United States is born with a facial deformity. For the 12th year, Baptist Children’s Hospital will donate its facilities and charitable funds to perform corrective facial surgeries and other clinically needed reconstructive procedures for South Florida children. These operations will be provided at no cost for children whose families are unable to pay for these types of services. A screening to identify children who may be candidates for surgery will take place on Saturday, May 18, at Baptist Children’s Hospital. The surgeries will take place on Saturday, June 15. Types of facial deformities that can be corrected include: cleft palates, cleft lips, scars, tumors, burns, ear deformities, port

wine birthmarks and congenital hand deformities. Baptist Children’s Hospital doctors from various specialties, including plastic surgery, dentistry and anesthesiology, also will donate their time and expertise for this cause. To be eligible, patients must meet certain surgical and financial criteria. Patients must be age 18 or younger and residents of Miami-Dade, Broward or Monroe counties. They also must present documentation substantiating their parents’ or guardian’s previous 12 months gross income. A financial screening must take place before the clinical screening on May 18. To make an appointment for the financial screening, call Baptist Children’s Hospital at 786-596-3673. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net and connect with BaptistHealthSF on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

April 2 - 15, 2013

WellCare makes donation to benefit children with complex medical needs

The WellCare Community Foundation recently donated $5,000 to benefit children and families who receive services from PATCHES Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care, a treatment center that serves children who are terminally ill and have complex medical needs. Pictured (l-r) are Paul V. Wilson, PATCHES event coordinator; Tracy Schmidt, WellCare vice president for Florida Field Sales and Marketing; Suecia Mendez Padilla, WellCare community relations specialist; Kyle Smith, PATCHES founder and CEO; David Carrasco, WellCare director of community relations, and Joanie Ippolito, PATCHES founder and COO.

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Stephen Hertz named to NJCAA Fernandez joins local kids to mark 10,000th youth-sized tennis court Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame BY MARK KRUG

The NJCAA Baseball Coaches Association has announced its 2013 Baseball Hall of Fame class, which includes Stephen Hertz, former coach of Miami Dade College. This year’s inductees include former coaches Donald Green of Jefferson State Community College (AL), Hertz, and Jim Walker of College of Southern Idaho. The 2013 class also includes longtime NJCAA Division I World Series Tournament vice chair and volunteer Bruce Hill of Grand Junction, CO. The four inductees will be honored at the pre-tournament banquet of the 2013 NJCAA Division I World Series on May 24 in Grand Junction. Hertz spent a quarter century as the head baseball coach at Miami Dade College. During his tenure, his teams finished as either the champions or runners-up of the Southern Conference 19 times (10 championships / 9 runners-up). Even more impressive, his teams advanced to the Region 8/Gulf District tournament 19 times during his 26 seasons as head coach. His 2001 squad won the Gulf District title, advancing to the JUCO World Series where they finished fifth. Miami Dade was ranked consistently in the top 10 nationally under Hertz and he was named the Southern Conference Coach of the Year 10 times and Region 8/Gulf District Coach of the Year once. He retired in 2010 with a career NJCAA mark of 945-325 (.750). He is one of just 36 coaches in NJCAA history with 900 or more career victories. Including a combined 15 years as the head coach at Coral Park and Southridge high schools in Miami, Hertz’s all-time coaching record stands at 1,245-420 (.748) over 41 years. More than 150 players tutored by Hertz signed professional contracts, including four currently in Major League Baseball —

Placido Polonco (MDC 1993-94); Andres Torres (MDC 1997-98); Jon Albaladejo (MDC 2000-01), and Jesus Feliciano (MDC 1998). Hertz also has coached at the international level. He helped Team USA win gold at the 1999 Pan American Maccabi Games as an assistant coach. Returning to the same tournament in 2003, Hertz was head coach of Team USA and led the squad to the gold medal. In 2007, he led the Tel Aviv Lightning to the semifinals of the inaugural season of the Israel Professional Baseball League. A notable baseball player during his time, he signed a professional contract with the Houston Col 45’s in 1963 and made his MLB debut that year at the age of 19 — the eighth youngest player that season. In the minor leagues he twice was an All-Star (1965 Western Carolina League and 1966 Florida State League). He concluded his professional career in 1969 at the Triple-A level with the New York Mets affiliate in Tidewater, VA. Hertz is a member of the following halls of fame: Florida College System Activities Association (2007), Coral Park High School (2006) and Miami High School (1985). Since 1938 the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) has been the governing body of two-year college athletics, offering athletic and academic opportunities to college students. Now entering its 75th anniversary, the NJCAA is the second largest national intercollegiate athletic organization in the United States with over 500 member schools in 43 states. Each year 60,000 student-athletes compete in one of 28 different sports and the organization sponsors 48 national championship events and nine football bowl games. NJCAA Headquarters has been located in Colorado Springs, CO, since 1985. For more information visit online at <www.njcaa.org>.

Miami native and U.S. Fed Cup Captain Mary Joe Fernandez (second from top right) joins local youth at Tamiami Tennis Center in celebration of the 10,000th youth-sized tennis court throughout the country as part of USTA’s commitment to First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative. Pictured with young tennis hopefuls are (l-r) Katrina Adams, USTA first vice president; Doug Booth, USTA Florida executive director; Fernandez, U.S. Fed Cup captain and Olympic gold medalist, and Kevin Kirwin, Miami-Dade Parks, (Photo credit: Chris Trotman/USTA) Recreation and Open Spaces Department.

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April 2 - 15, 2013

Mayor appoints Emilio T. Gonzalez as county’s new aviation director BY SUZY TRUTIE

Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez has appointed Dr. Emilio T. Gonzalez as the new director of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, effective Apr. 1. Dr. Gonzalez’s appointment follows the resignation of José Abreu, who announced his resignation on Jan. 4. Abreu’s last day with the county is Mar. 31. “I want to thank José Abreu for his service and commend him for his many accomplishments during his time at the Aviation Department,” said Mayor Gimenez. “I am confident that Emilio Gonzalez — with his knowledge of domestic and foreign business, government and policy practices — is the ideal person to lead our airports forward.” Dr. Gonzalez oversees the department’s 1,227 employees, $428.9 million budget and will finalize a $6.5 billion capital improvement program. He is responsible for planning, directing and coordinating an extensive and complex airport system, including Miami International Airport, Homestead General, Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport, Opa-locka Executive Airport, and the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport. Dr. Gonzalez also will encourage the maximum use of airport facilities to provide a range of high quality aviation-related services for the communities served by the airport system, and generate revenues adequate to operate and develop the airport system as

a self-sustaining financial enterprise. Prior to joining Miami-Dade County, Dr. Gonzalez was president and CEO of NPI Advisors, an international and government affairs consulting firm. Previously he served as president and CEO of Indra USA, the United States subsidy of Spain’s Indra Sistemas SA, a leading European-based international company specializing in IT solutions. Dr. Gonzalez has spent most of his career involved in foreign affairs and international security policy issues. He served as director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, an under secretary position within the Department of Homeland Security in Washington, DC. He also was director for Western Hemisphere Affairs at the National Security Council at the White House. He completed a distinguished career in the U.S. Army retiring with the rank of colonel. A graduate of the University of South Florida with a BA in International Studies, Dr. Gonzalez also earned MA degrees in Latin American Studies form Tulane University and in Strategic Studies and National Security Affairs from the U.S. Naval War College. He was awarded a PhD in International Relations from the University of Miami. Dr. Gonzalez is a member of various boards in the banking, technology and social services fields including the Red Cross of Greater Miami and the Keys and St. Thomas University School of Business, among others.

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Florida Grand Opera to close season with Verdi’s La traviata Florida Grand Opera (FGO) closes its 72nd season with one of the most beloved opera’s of all time — Verdi’s La traviata. The story that inspired the blockbuster movie Pretty Woman, La traviata follows the fiery courtesan Violetta as she meets a young suitor and considers running away with him. Filled with passion, scandal, and glorious music, it’s a show not to be missed. Opening Apr. 20 at the Adrienne Arsht Center, tickets are on sale now starting at $11 at the Florida Grand Opera Box Office at 1-800-741-1010 and online at <www.FGO.org>. Pictured is soprano Maria Alejandres.

(Photo by Gaston de Cardenas for FGO)

Special weekend offers teachers free admission to Seaquarium BY MARITZA ARCEO-LOPEZ

During Totally Teachers Weekend, Saturday, Apr. 20, and Sunday, Apr. 21, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach county teachers in both private and public schools will receive free admission to Miami Seaquarium, plus a discount for up to four guests at 50 percent off of regular admission. Teachers also may enter to win a free field trip to Miami Seaquarium at the Education Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Only one trip will be awarded each day. Teachers must show a valid school ID card or pay stub along with a picture ID to redeem discount. The offer is only valid on regular admission to Miami Seaquarium and is not combinable with any other offer. “Totally Teachers Weekend is our small way of recognizing our teachers for the invaluable service they offer to our community,” said Andrew Hertz, general manager at Miami Seaquarium. “We encourage teachers to bring out their families and take advantage of this great offer.” For more than 50 years, Miami Seaquarium has been a firm advocate of marine life conservation and education.

Through its current interactive educational programs, Miami Seaquarium continues its mission of educating students of all ages about the wonders of marine life. Miami Seaquarium hosts several educational programs throughout the year, such as: Day Camps, Spring Camp, Home School Days, Girl Scout and Boy Scout Days and “Mommy and Me,” a program for mothers and young children. In addition, the park hosts thousands of local students for educational fieldtrips year-round. Teachers are invited to visit the Education Center at Miami Seaquarium during Totally Teachers Weekend for more information on educational programs offered at Miami Seaquarium. Miami Seaquarium, South Florida’s most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park, located on Virginia Key, provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and marinelife exhibits. General admission to Miami Seaquarium is $39.95 and $29.95 for children (ages 3-9). More information on Miami Seaquarium is available at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>.

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TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Pain BY SONIA MARTINEZ, RPH

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet. TMJ pain or inflammation can be caused by a jaw injury, arthritis, and muscle fatigue from clenching or grinding your teeth, or a bad bite. TMJ disorders are most common in women aged 30-50 and occur more often in people who have rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome or sleep disorders. It is very important to see a dentist or oral surgeon to determine the cause of the problem to receive proper treatment. Some TMJ disorders may require dental treatment (adjustment of the bite, or a bite guard) or surgical interventions. In many cases, the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders can be relieved with analgesics, corticosteroids, or muscle relaxants. We can work together with dentist and patient to compound a topical preparation containing the most appropriate medications to treat each individual’s specific problem.

Photo by Ella Woodson Sonia Martinez, RPH - Marco Drugs

Marco Drugs and Compounding will provide you with compounded medications prepared with the highest standards and with high quality bulk materials, traditional prescriptions and high grade nutraceuticals, supplements and multivitamins. We provide to you health information in a clean, comfortable, fun and safe environment. Make us your doorway to total health. Marco Drugs & Compounding is located at 6627 South Dixie Highway, Tel: 305-665-4411 • Fax: 305-663-3258 Email:marcodrugs@bellsouth.net www.marcodrugs.com

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/marcocompounding 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.

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April 2 - 15, 2013

Honda Accord offers luxury, agility and sophistication Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS Add my name to the growing list of auto writers singing the praises of the all-new 2013 Honda Accord. This ninth-generation Accord really is quite an automobile, with an all-new directinjected powertrain, a laundry list of safety innovations and a new plug-in hybrid model added to the lineup. Completely redesigned for 2013, this sleek Accord has a host of engineering, electronic and safety firsts combined with nice looks and smart styling. The new Accord lineup includes Sedan and Coupe models powered by four-cylinder, V-6 and hybrid powertrains, paired with manual, automatic and continuously variable transmission (CVT) options. Using the most high-strength steel ever in a Honda, the 2013 Accord Sedan and Coupe bodies combine sophisticated, athletic styling with a flowing aerodynamic design, while revised Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structures improve frontal crash safety. Honda’s all-new Earth Dreams powertrains

include the first U.S. application of Honda’s next-generation 2.4-liter direct-injected fourcylinder engine. Both the Sedan and Coupe offer a more powerful and efficient V-6 and there even is an all-new two-motor Accord Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Sedan. Four transmissions are available, including the first-ever application of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) on 2.4-liter fourcylinder models, a six-speed automatic on V-6 models, and unique six-speed manual transmissions on 2.4-liter four-cylinder models and the 3.5-liter V-6 Coupe. Fuel efficiency is the best ever for the midsize Accord, with fourcylinder models getting up to 36 mpg on the highway and V-6 models reaching 34 mpg. A new MacPherson-strut front suspension improves ride and handling, while also reducing interior noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The new lighter aluminum and steel front subframe also uses a proprietary Honda friction-stir welding process. Other new Accord technologies include the first application of the all-new cloudbased HondaLink system, which lets drivers put away their smartphones and remain connected to their contacts, music and social media. One especially interesting new item is the available LaneWatch blind-spot display that uses a camera on the right exterior mirror for a better look at the road behind. It

Sleek Honda Accord was completely redesigned for 2013 and has a long list of new powertrain, engineering, electronic and safety features.

channels the expanded rear view image through the Multi-Information Display (iMID) monitor on the dash. The system also includes a rearview camera and is standard on Accord EX, EX-L and Touring Sedan and EX-L Coupe models. Two additional popular features are now standard on all new Accords: Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and USB/iPod integration. All Accord models have Econ button with Eco Assist as standard equipment and the new Smart Entry & Push Button Start is

included on Accord EX, EX-L and Touring models. Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) features are standard on some trim levels. Base pricing on the 2013 Honda Accord ranges from $21,680 to $33,430. 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>.

April 2 - 15, 2013

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Garay Kitchens & Baths, Inc.

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Best prices in town!

We Build Custom Cabinets Over 20 years of experience! • Traditional and Modern Designs • Solid Paints and Stains Available • Computerized Drawings • Contractor Friendly • Complete Remodeling • Free Estimates Alex Garay 786.252.8474 Email: garaykitchens@bellsouth.net

Let us help you with your cabinet needs. We offer quality experience and service you can count on!

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Garay Kitchens & Baths, Inc.

April 2 - 15, 2013

Best prices in town!

Let us help you with your cabinet needs. We offer quality experience and service you can count on!

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Licensed & Insured

PROTECT YOUR BIGGEST INVESTMENT NOW!!! We Manufacture and Install

Impact resistant Windows and Doors High Performance Accordion Shutters Hurricane Panels Call 305-803-7602 for a free estimate

CLOSED

OPEN

Licensed and Insured Florida State License SCC 131150340 Miami Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties Approved

â&#x20AC;¢ Tree Trimming â&#x20AC;¢ Consultation â&#x20AC;¢ Stump Grinding â&#x20AC;¢ Landscaping â&#x20AC;¢ Lawn Services â&#x20AC;¢ Fertilization â&#x20AC;¢ Sprinkler Repair â&#x20AC;¢ Debris Removal â&#x20AC;¢ Backhoe Service â&#x20AC;¢ Driveway Pavers â&#x20AC;¢ Fencework - All Types â&#x20AC;¢ Chickee Huts â&#x20AC;¢ Outdoor Kitchens â&#x20AC;¢ And More

FREE ESTIMATES â&#x20AC;¢ 305-233-0699

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A Personal Touch Fitness Sensitive Personal Training

• NCSF Certified Sibyl Adams • Reiki Master • Post Rehab Training • Functional Training for Older Adults

All ages and fitness levels welcome Featured fitness blogger for seniority matters.com sibyladams@comcast.net

Phone: 786.395.1588

CORPORATE APPROVED

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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.

7600 SW 135 St Exceptional 3 bdrm/ 3 bath, family home in Pinecrest. Formal living & dining rms, eat in kitchen with lots of counter space. Spacious family room overlooks oversized, 25,700 sq ft lush backyard with covered patio and room for a pool. 2 master suites. 2 car side-entry garage. $699,000

7814 SW 165 St Spacious and well-maintained home on a quiet street in Palmetto Bay. 4 bdrm/ 3 bath, over 2,900 sq ft on a beautifully landscaped 18,000 sq ft lot. Formal dining room, expansive living room and family room. Large kitchen overlooks the pool and patio. Updated master bath.

7240 SW 146 TE The perfect home for entertaining in the Village of Palmetto Bay! 4 bdrm/ 2.5 bath. Formal living & dining rms, remodeled kitchen. Garage converted into spacious game room. Pool & covered patio, lovely landscaping, wooden deck and pergola. Plus a pond with peaceful rock waterfall. $599,000

10740 SW 121 St Lovely 3 bdrm/ 2 bath family home in the Pine Shores community. Bright and spacious kitchen with lots of storage and room for a large eat-in area or den. Formal living & dining rooms. Private fenced backyard with covered patio and pool. 2 car garage. $385,000

$529,000 350 75 ST #210

18003 SW 88 Pl

Wonderful 3 bdrm / 2 bath home in Just two blocks from the beach, near Bal Palmetto Bay. Vaulted ceilings in the Harbour! Light-filled 1 bdrm / 1 bath kitchen and family room. Formal living and condo. Open eat-in kitchen complete with dining rooms. Circular drive. Accordian gas stove, lots of storage. Large living shutters. Fabulous screened pool and patio area. Tile floor throughout. Gated entry with covered porch all surrounded by lush leads you to the nicely landscaped garden. vegetation. Large, fenced 15,125 sq ft lot. Plenty of street parking. $100,000

$339,000

18450 SW 78 Pl Fabulous 5 bdrm/ 3 bath home, built in 1995, in Cutler Bay. Updated kitchen with granite countertops. Formal living room and dining room. 2 car side entry garage. Newer pool and patio with large side yard.

$489,000

If you are interested in listing your home for sale or lease I would love the opportunity to speak to you. Call me for a complimentary analysis of your home. 305.329.7744

Your home here

ESSLINGER WOOTEN MAXWELL, INC., REALTORS 305.329.7744 â&#x20AC;˘ KERN.D@EWM.COM â&#x20AC;˘ WWW.DREWKERN.COM

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