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DECEMBER 10 - 23, 2013
$135M project to four-lane Krome Ave. to start by 2017
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BY RICHARD YAGER
he once-controversial plan to four-lane Krome (SW 177th) Avenue in southwest Miami-Dade County is now scheduled to get underway by 2017 to improve driving safety on the accident-prone roadway from Homestead to N. Kendall Drive. The first major link to four-lane a 10mile section between SW 296th and SW 136th streets from Homestead into the Redland area is advertised for a public hearing on Dec. 11 with construction estimated at $70 million, according Brian Rick, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) spokesperson. Two other major stretches totaling 18.2 miles in West Kendall are scheduled to get underway within the next three years at a cost estimated at $65.7 million, or a total of $135.7 construction expense between US1 and Kendall Drive. The two other major Krome four-laning projects on the drawing board are: • An approximate 11-mile distance, south from Tamiami Trail (SW Eight Street) to N. Kendall Drive (SW 88th Street) at an estimated cost of $38.6 million, scheduled to start in June 2016, and • An approximate 7.2-mile section from SW 88th Street south to SW 136th Street, estimated at $27.3 million with an April 2017 starting date. The first four-laning phase of Krome Avenue has been completed, extending 13.8 miles north from SW Eighth Street (Tamiami Trail) to Okeechobee Road, replacing the collision-prone two-lane road with four 12-foot wide lanes and a center median. Four-laning and other improvements now are phased for design study and potential construction in five-year FDOT funding south from SW Eighth Street to US1 at SW 296th Street, part of the agency’s long-range program to rebuild SW 177th Avenue with twin northbound
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KROME AVE., page 6
Holiday lights to shine brightly in West Kendall
Working together to make community a better place BY GRANT MILLER
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Commissioner Juan Zapata greets Christmas carolers. (Photos by Armando Rodriguez/ Miami-Dade County)
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BY ROBERT HAMILTON
ore than 400 residents joined MiamiDade Commissioner Juan C. Zapata, State Reps. Jeanette Nuñez and Carlos Trujillo, and Miami-Dade School Board member Carlos Curbelo to begin the holiday season at the first annual West End Holiday Magic event and Christmas tree-lighting ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 22, at the Kendale Lakes Library. Officials lit the grand tree and switched on the gateway lights at neighboring Olympic Park. Event goers enjoyed food trucks, a rock climbing wall, bounce houses, story time and the Roxy Theater Group carolers who brought good cheer with holiday songs.
The West End Holiday Magic will continue through Jan. 9, 2014 with events on the weekends including free rides for children, special appearances by Santa Claus, a food truck, snow days, and many other family-friendly activities. Kendale Lakes Library is located at 15205 SW 88 St. “We want residents of West Kendall to be able to enjoy some great holiday entertainment and activities right in their own backyards,” Commissioner Zapata said. “We encourage the community to come out and take advantage of all the fun.” The first annual West End Holiday Magic event is made possible through the sponsorships of Lennar, Miami-Dade County Parks & Recreation, and the Parks Foundation of Miami-Dade, among others. For information, contact Commissioner Zapata’s office at 305-375-5511.
Publisher
Miami-Dade County leaders, county department staff, executives of the Miami Marriott Dadeland and Datran Center, as well as other key community leaders are to be commended for teaming up as strategic partners to solve a problem. I had contacted Xavier L. Suarez, Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 7, to express concerns that I and many others had about the Dadeland South Metrorail station. There have been many rider and neighborhood complaints regarding the security and cleanliness of the station. There also has been an ongoing issue of chronic homelessness affecting that station and others. Commissioner Suarez spearheaded the effort to resolve these concerns. The first thing he did was put together a meeting with Miami Marriott Dadeland executives, Mildred Riscigno and Mercedes Etcheberry; County Deputy Mayor Alina Hudak; Ysela Llort, director of MiamiDade Transit; Robert McClellan, chief of Infrastructure Engineering & Maintenance; Hugh W. Chen, deputy director of Operations, and Hilda M. Fernandez, executive director of the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust. Commissioner Suarez worked directly with transit director Llort about the cleaning, lighting and security issues and discussed various options and potential solutions, including revisiting security contracts for the stations, as well as –––––––––––––––– See
MILLER, page 6
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December 10 - 23, 2013
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Santa Claus to visit kids The Palms to host benefit in Farm Share program ‘The Taste of the Palms’ BY RICHARD YAGER
Dec. 10 at Best Western Plus-Kendall Hotel & Suites, 8560 SW 124 Ave. For the third year, children aided by the A silent auction will be held during the Farm Share program will festivities to benefit the have their annual visit Read2Succeed program The public is welcome from Santa Claus at 7 p.m. begun at Arvida Middle on Friday, Dec. 13, at the t o j o i n t h e p a r t y t h a t w i l l School in West Kendall. Civic Pavilion in Kendall Tickets are priced at $15 f e a t u re F e rg u s o n H i g h Village Center, 8625 SW per person. For details, School Lady Falconers 124 Ave. visit online at The public is welcome <GreaterKendall.com>. s i n g i n g c a ro l s a n d h o l ito join the party that will On Dec. 12, from 6-8 feature Ferguson High d a y m u s i c b e f o r e a l i g h t - p.m., an inaugural School Lady Falconers GKBA “Holiday e d C h r i s t m a s t re e a n d singing carols and holiday Chamber Celebration” Hanukkah menorah. music before a lighted hosted by Dadeland T h e p ro g r a m w i l l b e Christmas tree and Mall will help collect Hanukkah menorah. toys for distribution by c l i m a x e d b y S a n t a ’s The program will be clithe Kiwanis Club of a rr i v a l w i t h b a g f u l s o f maxed by Santa’s arrival Little Havana. For attenwith bagfuls of treats and dance or program t re a t s a n d g i f t s f o r gifts for Florida City details, contact Jose F l o r i d a C i t y E l e m e n t a ry Elementary School children. Llorc at 305-665-6227 “The first year we had 40 or by email at S c h o o l c h i l d re n . youngsters and last year, <JLlorca@simon.com>. 65,” said Michael Rosenberg, KFHA president. “We’re hoping HOLIDAY HAYRIDES SCHEDULED AT CONTINENTAL PARK, DEC. 14 to treat at least 100 this year.” Hayrides will help neighbors view bestFor last-minute donations, contact the party co-chairs Donna Valls at 305-388- decorated homes in the annual Continental 5657 or by email <dvalls6@aol.com>; Park decoration program along with a visit Lina Moss at 305-798-1826 or from Santa Claus to highlight the HOA hol<linamoss@gmail.com>; Melinda Iglesias iday celebration at Dice House on at 305-790-7143 or <tinymel@aol.com>. Saturday, Dec. 14. A holiday movie and songs begin at 7 For corporate gifts, contact Rosenberg at 305-439-3571 or by email at p.m., followed by award of certificates at 8 <mike@ImagineYourPhotos.com>. For p.m. to residents of the best-decorated homes throughout area neighborhoods. party details, visit <www.kfha.org>. Metro-Dade Parks will offer a winter GREATER KENDALL BUSINESS ASSN. camp for children at the park pavilion, PARTIES TO BACK READ2SUCCEED 10000 SW 82 Ave. with a variety of activiGreater Kendall Business Association ties for age groups. Camp will be in session (GKBA) members will enjoy their annual Dec. 23-27 and Dec. 30-Jan. 3. “Holiday Party” from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on For information, call 305-274-9666.
BY DONALD WILSON
The Palms at Town & Country, N. Kendall Drive at Florida’s Turnpike, will host a restaurant crawl in Kendall, “The Taste of the Palms,” on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. This delicious tasting event will feature the area’s most sought-after restaurants, and each participating restaurant will be set up Lakeside at The Palms at Town & Country. Participants can purchase tickets ($10 advance tickets, $15 at the door) to walk from table to table tasting the food and drinks featured in The Taste of the Palms. This tasting event kicks off Relay for Life 2014 and is sponsored by West Kendall Baptist Hospital and The Palms at Town & Country, with all proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society and West Kendall Relay for Life. Attendees will enjoy live music and a silent auction filled with covet-worthy items.
Participating restaurants include Devon Seafood + Steak, Voodoo BBQ & Grill, Corner Bakery Café, Cadillac Ranch, Carmine’s La Trattoria, Haagen-Dazs, Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt, Blue Martini, and World of Beer. For more information about The Palms at Town & Country, call 305-274-7982 or visit <www.thepalmsshops.com>.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 10 - 23, 2013
‘Pawning for gold’ raises zoning issue with CC12 BY RICHARD YAGER
Is pawning gold any worse than selling it outright? That is a question East Kendall Community Council 12 may have to decide at a Dec. 17 zoning meeting. Jorge Carvajal, owner of MG Jewelers at 11760 SW 88 St. and two other stores in West Kendall, has taken his case to the people. As the owner of three jewelry stores in Kendall for 23 years, he wants to loan money on gold (and a few other valued items) at his store located in the shopping center with La Carreta restaurant, west of SW 117th Avenue. To do so, Carvajal had to apply for a zoning variance from the regulation that bans pawnshops in BU-1A commercial zone because such use is only permitted in BU-3 zoning districts. The regulation creates the BU-3 district for gun shops, secondhand stores, locksmiths, garages, etc., separate from jewelry, art, business offices and similar uses assigned to BU-1A zoning. The Development Services Division, Department of Regulatory and Economic Services (once called “Zoning”) initially has decided pawnbroking as a business accessory is “consistent” with Land Use Policy. Nevertheless, it recommends denial because the request “is not in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the (District) regulation,” adding that Carvajal hasn’t demonstrated a potential hardship if the variance is denied. Carvajal has agreed to establish a selfrestricted covenant with the variance that would limit pawning capabilities to “jewelry, fine art and certain antiques.” The restriction would not allow him to deal in any other items, or in his words:
“no guns, weapons, knives, tools, bikes, appliances, electronics, etc.” “We are a jewelry store and that’s all we want to be,” he concluded. Carvajal’s other two businesses are located at 16271 SW 88 St. in West Kendall, and at 13804 SW 152 St. in the Country Walk area, where he points out he has maintained a state and county pawn license that permits short-term loans using jewelry as collateral. Under a re-sellers fee (“available to almost anyone for $6”), Carvajal said it allows the purchase and re-selling of any jewelry piece for resale at all three of his stores. The Kendall businessman has sought both fellow storeowners and public support by distributing 3,000 letters, explaining in detail why the business of taking loans on gold he normally only sells is unfairly discriminated against, at least as far as local zoning interpretations go. At a prior hearing on Nov. 12, no objections had been lodged against Carvajal’s application but the matter was then deferred to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 17. It was the only item on the CC12 agenda as of Dec. 2. The hearing is at the Kendall Village Center Civic Pavilion, 8625 SW 124 Ave. As of the Dec. 2 date, a zoning staff member confirmed that only one objection to Carvajal’s application had been recorded before or after Nov. 12. “My family and I have lived in the Kendall area for the past 35 years,” Carvajal said. “We would never want to bring harm to our community. Allowing us this opportunity will also allow me to hire more employees and keep my businesses open.”
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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First trip to Cuba proves eye-opening experience BY RICHARD YAGER
A grandson of Kendall’s Diane Lawrence should be thrilled with a toy wooden 1957 Chevy convertible, handcrafted in Cuba. The miniature reproduction of an American vintage car cherished by restorers and vintage auto collectors alike is a souvenir of her first and only trip to the Caribbean nation. “When we first lived here, it seems just about everyone was visiting Cuba for a weekend or vacation in the 1950s, many for gambling and other nefarious activities.” she said. “I never went.” Her first-ever visit came about last July when Lawrence received an email from the Florida League of Women Voters about a people-to-people trip, called “Sisters Across the Straits.” “I saw it as both an educational experi-
Diane Lawrence shows crafted 1957 Chevrolet model to husband, Miles. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
ence and an adventure,” she said. “Never having been there, I got around to making my trip a half-century later.” The Oct. 14-20 junket was the ninth arranged by the League and the second during the past fall, the brainchild of League director and former State Rep. Annie Betancourt, who has led 10 delegations to Cuba since 2011. Travel to Cuba is restricted by the U.S., but the League was granted a special travel license to conduct its people-to-people program until February 2015. Purpose of the six-day trip by charter flight at a cost of $2,700 (plus membership in the League) provides its members “with the chance to forge relationships with civic organizations, academics at the University of Havana and members of Federación de Mujeres Cubanas,” according to the League’s website. Lawrence joined Betancourt with a dozen other Floridians and non-Floridians, exploring several cities and the countryside of the United States’ neighboring island. Well-known in the Kendale community for activity with its homeowner association, which she serves as corresponding secretary, Lawrence was equally devoted to her Cuban experience by composing a 3,255-word journal she calls “My Cuban Adventure,” written as soon as she returned to the U.S. “Well, I always wanted to be a journalist,” she chuckled. Landing in Cienfuegos in south central Cuba on Day One (“the airport was a bit of a shack”) Lawrence was instantly “fascinated by the sight of a dog running around on a luggage conveyor belt. I thought he was someone’s out-of-control pet, but he was sniffing for drugs. Very cool!” she described. Other highlights of her trip: A planned visit with women of Asociacion Nacional de Agricultores
Cobbled streets in City of Trinidad “hard for my short legs.” (Photo by Diane Lawrence) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Pequenos previously confirmed didn’t happen, Betancourt later surmised is was because “they didn’t want to meet because the women on previous trips asked too many questions.” “Stepping from the street to the sidewalk in the City of Trinidad was a little hard for my short legs,” Lawrence said noting some cobbled streets were “a disaster” for which she blames the Castro brothers. In Havana, “most of the buildings are in bad shape (plus “the old cars” you see on streets) but “Breakfast at the Hotel Nacional was very nice, lots of cut-up fruits (best pineapple I ever had) and truly fresh-squeezed juices.” “Everywhere we go there are poor people, holding out their hands and trying to get us to buy CDs, Cuban dolls, artwork and other things — some are just begging.” At El Quitrin, a unique clothing workshop completely run by women, garments are made on antiquated sewing machines to manufacture “white cotton clothing with fancy stitching.” (It was there that Lawrence left a supply of pre-made zip-
pers she brought along with buttons, pins, and other supplies as gifts that are much in need.) Winding up the trip was a visit to Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bar near his Cuban home in the Village of Cojimar, along with a visit to his “palatial home known as Finca Vigia,” restored as a museum that includes his famed fishing boat, the Pilar. At a farewell Saturday night dinner, Lawrence said she “toasted Annie” with a wish that both the Castros and communism “go bye-bye,” the embargo lifted and that a future President Hilary Clinton would appoint Betancourt as Ambassador to a free Cuba. Her last experience of note: waiting in line at the Havana Airport Oct. 20 for “distributed portions” of folded toilet paper. “Enough said,” concludes her Journal. For additional information on the Sisters Across the Straits, contact the Florida League of Women Voters by email at <LWVFoffice@gmail.com> or Annie Betancourt at <anniebetancourt9@gmail.com>.
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KROME AVE., from page 1
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and southbound median-divided lanes over its entire 37-mile distance from Okeechobee Road (SR 27) to Homestead. Scope of the first major southernmost phase will be described by state officials at 6:30 p.m. during an FDOT “Open House” from 6 to 8 p.m. at the John D. Campbell Agricultural Center, 18710 SW 288 St. Plans will remain for public viewing weekdays at the Center through Monday, Dec. 30, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Funding for this 10-mile Krome section currently is earmarked for $70 million in three design phases (Priority II) construction (Priority III) in FDOT 2035 Long-Range Transportation program, according to Rick. Those three phases include SW 296th to SW 232nd streets; SW 232nd to SW 184th streets, and SW 184th to SW 136th streets. FDOT has proposed a “suburban typical section” with a 30foot median strip from SW 296th north to SW 272nd, widening to a 40-foot median from SW 272nd north to SW 136th. The public hearing for the Redland area is part of a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study process to present engineering and environmentally-feasible alternatives for reconstruction and to receive public feedback before proceeding to final redevelopment alignment and construction.
December 10 - 23, 2013
Prior to the major four-laning projects, Krome improvements in two areas were underway in 2013 at a total cost of $6.35 million: • Completed in November 2013 at a cost of $1.9 million — minor widening, repaving and re-striping, new signage, guardrail reconstruction and upgrading railroad signals between S.W 88th and SW 122nd streets. • A second $4.45 million project between US1 and SW 297th Street, begun in April, is scheduled for a January 2014 completion. It includes repaving, re-striping, widening road shoulders, drainage installation (complete), replacement of sidewalk sections and pedestrian ramps, reconstructing guard rails, curb, gutter and signalization. In downtown Homestead, work has been completed on sidewalks and street paving is underway on Krome at Mowry Drive, NW Second Street and NW Fourth Street intersections. The long-awaited four-laning of the entire distance of Krome dates back to 2002 when the State Department of Community Affairs upheld a 7-4 vote of county commissioners to amend the master development plan, allowing expansion of the county’s westernmost thoroughfare. While vigorously challenged in past years by 20 environmental organizations, farming and anti-development interests, as well as the subject of a lawsuit (subsequently withdrawn), four-laning of Krome during the second decade of the century has proceeded to date with little controversy or opposition.
10-mile Krome Avenue four-laning proposed (shaded area).
(Map courtesy of Florida Department of Transportation)
MILLER, from page 1
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establishing better levels of monitoring of the 15 station overpasses found countywide. Plans for improvements are now underway. Suarez also sent a letter to Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez on Nov. 7, asking for his support and vigilance in addressing the need for constant maintenance and cleaning of all Metrorail stations and overpasses. Through the strategic partnership, the management of the Dadeland Marriott has helped address some of the maintenance and paint issues at the Dadeland South station, which is a wonderful start to solving an ongoing problem. Hilda M. Fernandez of
JUMPS FOR KENDALL GAZETTE
the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust is working to find ways to assist the destitute individuals who seek shelter in the stations. I want to commend Commissioner Suarez and the other county leaders, as well as the Miami Marriott Dadeland and the Homeless Trust, for promptly working together to help solve a problem affecting commuting residents, tourists and the community as a whole. They also have set the wheels in motion for the ongoing wider effort ahead. This kind of admirable teamwork speaks well for all those involved and is a great example of what can be accomplished when everyone simply works together for the common good. Thanks, and bravo, everyone!
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Spies vs. spies: Who is listening to whom? R. Kenneth Bluh VIEWPOINT KENNETH’S COMMENTARY
The headlines should not be reading: “America, listening in on the world.” It should be: “Who isn’t listening in on whom?” Since the days the Romans sent spies into Egypt to learn of its defenses against a possible Roman attack the world has been spying on both friend and foe. In 1986, the United States had to build a new embassy in Moscow when it was discovered that Russian construction workers, building the just-finished embassy structure, had planted bugs in every room in the new building. If not for the discovery the Kremlin would have been listening to every word spoken from the Ambassador to the cleaning ladies — who probably were Russian. Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff abruptly cancelled a high-level meeting
with the President of the United States because of American spying on her office only to have egg on her face when Brazilian newspapers started reporting that Brazil has been spying, eavesdropping on the United States all along. Who is spying on whom? German Chancellor Angela Merkel got all out of shape when it was learned that the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) has been listening in on her cell phone conversations since 2002. The Wall Street Journal recently reminded us that in the 1970s a top aide to thenGerman Chancellor Willy Brandt was exposed as a communist agent, forcing Brandt to resign. More recently, Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, again of Germany, sought to scuttle the U.S. invasion of Iraq by forming a united diplomatic front with France and Russia. That history, points out the Journal, shows why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on Berlin. The list of complainers grows. France, most well known for its spying apparatus, bitterly complained about U.S. invasion of private conversations. General Keith
Alexander, NSA director, went before Congress and told members that the records, in fact, had been handed over to us by our European intelligence agencies. Who was spying on whom? Mexico, Spain, Italy and 28 other nations so far have joined in what looked like a possible political win for a bunch of countries only to be proven to have been, in the main, spying on the U.S. all along. The latest spy discovery revealed that Russian’s token gifts to the heads of states at the recent G-20 summit contained bugged memory sticks and power cables. When faced with the revelation the Kremlin said that the U.S. was trying to “divert attention” from its own spying. We, like all other nations, must have an intelligence operation. Only by spying on our allies as well as purported enemies can
we be sure of their true relationship with America. If nothing else, it keeps other nations on their toes knowing that we are listening in on their operations. The only downside to the current revelations is that the “other guys” will work harder in building defenses in their countries against us and other nations. Please, please, let’s get on with the subjects of budgets, national debt, education and the future of America. 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.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Officer’s quick action helps nab two robbery suspects
When Kendall District Police Officer Jean Pompee heard a vehicle crash on Kendall Drive while on patrol, Sept. 28, he gave chase to three male occupants fleeing from the accident on the SW 88th Street median. Apprehending one of the three in the Denny’s restaurant parking lot, his quick action led to the arrest of a second escapee, one of a trio who had earlier committed an armed robbery in Miami-Dade’s North District and were fleeing from a Florida Highway Patrol net. Police recovered a semi-automatic pistol and 9mm Uzi from the vehicle — both used in the robbery. At the Oct. 30 Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting, CAC chair Barry White (left) together with Maj. Christopher Carothers honored Officer Pompee (center) for his alertness as September Officer of the Month in Kendall District.
Police officers ‘sniff’ out active marijuana laboratory
“Strong odor of cannabis” led Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District Officers Fabian Owens and Ramon Suescun to uncover a hydroponic farm at 15222 SW 161 Terr. on Oct. 17 after routinely checking ownership of a van suspected to be involved in area robberies. Calling for Narcotics Bureau detectives, a search warrant led to discovery of an active marijuana laboratory with drug paraphernalia, leading to a timely arrest and dismantling of the equipment. Pictured (l-r): Citizens Advisory Committee chair James Blough presents citations for “diligence and determination” to Owens and Suescun along with District Commander Maj. Arnold Palmer at the CAC’s Oct. 30 meeting.
December 10 - 23, 2013
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December 10 - 23, 2013
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Park exhibit opens honoring columnist Larry Thompson
Carl Thompson retells tales about his father, Larry Thompson. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY RICHARD YAGER
As a crowd of more than 50 laughed at stories about Larry Thompson’s exploits, a permanent historical exhibit of the former Miami Herald humor columnist was dedicated on Dec. 2 at the Miami-Dade County park that has borne the Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park and Campground name since 1977. Carl Thompson, son of the former columnist, marked the occasion in the park’s Cabana Recreation Center before a large audience of campers. Also paying tribute was Kim Yantis, exhibit specialist at the Deering Estate, who managed the exhibit project, now on view in the campground office at 12451 SW 184 St. “Dad began as a reporter with The Herald in 1945,” recounted Thompson, 59, visiting the park for the occasion with his wife, Dawn, from Tennessee. (Carl Thompson also began as a reporter for the Hollywood Sun-Times and for a year “off The Herald city desk,” he recalled before switching to a successful business career in later life.) “In 1977, I remember standing not 100 yards from this center to help dedicate the park in honor of my dad and mom,” he said. “Never did I think then I would be here today for this special moment.” “Life with Larry Thompson” was a daily feature in the newspaper that often
traced the lives of a family that “grew up in Coconut Grove but often took camping trips during the 1950s and 1960s while my two sisters and I were growing up.” Those stories were most often typewritten on a 1941 “Remington Noiseless,” now an exhibit centerpiece along with Larry’s tri-focal eyeglasses, a nameplate and original letters, books and memorabilia. It includes an 11- by 14-inch photo of Thompson riding a famed “Fat Cat” in an Orange Bowl Parade, emblematic of the family’s pet, Caesar, and other heavyweight felines to determine Miami’s fattest cat that year in a Thompson-originated stunt. Larry Thompson (1911-1973), columnist for 25 years, and wife, Penny (19171975), a leader in women’s aviation during the 1940s and early 1950s, often took their family on cross-country camping trips. Both were advocates of creating additional parks and planting more trees and shrubs throughout Miami-Dade. “When the county gained this parkland in 1964, my dad even wrote a column urging that no one be named for it, a practice he was generally against,” Carl Thompson noted, reading from the original piece. Ironically, the column’s finishing words written 11 years before his passing with a typical Larry Thompson chuckle: “Unless, of course, it would be named for me.”
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December 10 - 23, 2013
More than 800 participate in commissioner’s food giveaway
Miami-Dade Commissioner Lynda Bell gets a hug from one of the beneficiaries of the annual Thanksgiving Food Giveaway. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY MAURICE R. HERNANDEZ
Miami-Dade Commissioner Lynda Bell’s tradition of giving back to the less fortunate members of the community during the holiday season continues to draw hundreds of financially disadvantaged, the elderly and disabled residents, alike. Commissioner Bell’s third annual Thanksgiving Food Giveaway at the world-renowned Redland Fruit and Spice Park on Saturday, Nov. 23, was bigger and more successful than ever. The Farm Share organization provided fresh fruits, vegetables, as well as other Thanksgiving staples. Along with Farm Share, Commissioner Bell’s staff provided plenty of frozen turkeys to more than 800 needy residents with the support of over 60
selfless community volunteers — making the recent Thanksgiving Holiday the most memorable one ever. “I am delighted to have started this tradition of giving back to our community’s less fortunate when I was elected to the county commission. These wonderful but financially struggling residents deserve to have a good Thanksgiving meal surrounded by friends and family,” she said. “As long as I continue to serve, this tradition of giving back will continue each and every year. “I am also eternally grateful to the Farm Share organization and the increasing number of volunteers who show up each and every year to help their fellow residents in need. Without them, these annual charity events simply could not be made possible.”
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Animal Christmas celebration set for Biltmore Hotel, Dec. 17
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Do you or someone you know have Tinea Pedis/Athlete’s Foot? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 years or older that suffer from Tinea Pedis “Redness, Itchiness, Maceration, Erosion, and/or Scaling areas in between your toes” to participate in a three [3] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication or placebo at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $150.00.
¿Tiene usted o alguien que usted conoce Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies/Pie De Atleta? FXM Research en Miami está buscando a hombres y mujeres de 18 años o más de edad que padecen de Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies “Enrojecimiento, Picazón, Humedad, Erosiones, y/o áreas de Descamación entre los dedos de los pies”, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere de tres [3] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación o placebo sin costo alguno. • Reembolso por su tiempo y transporte de hasta $150.00.
For more information please call:
Para más información por favor llame al:
(305) 220-5222 Hector Wiltz, MD., CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami
FXM Research Miami 11760 Bird Road, Suite 452 Miami, FL 33175
www.fxmresearch.com There will be plenty of vendors offering merchandise for your two- and four-legged friends. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY RITA SCHWARTZ
Unlike the holiday poem, creatures will be stirring at the famed Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables on Tuesday, Dec. 17, from 6:30 until 10:30 p.m. The hotel is the perfect backdrop for a special night of merriment and holiday shopping, all to benefit the Pets’ Trust and the Pets’ Voice — the initiative to stop the killing of animals. The event will take place in the Country Club Ballroom which will open its doors to guests and their pets. It is the only time of year the hotel allows animals in the ballroom. There will be plenty of pet friendly vendors to allow you to treat your favorite four-legged friend to the good things life has to offer. Plus there will be plenty of vendors for all the people on your Christmas list. All in a festive setting just in time for Christmas, to make that last minute shopping an enjoyable experience. What about the best present of all: the gift of unconditional love? What better way to celebrate the holidays than giving your best friend a companion that would love to have a forever home and not be alone for the holidays? There will
be all types of amazing dogs and cats that are looking for that special home. (All pets are spayed/neutered and are up to date on their shots.) The holiday venue will have the Children’s Voice Chorus entertaining the crowd with traditional Christmas Carols. The complimentary food will be catered by local five-star restaurants. There will be all kinds of scrumptious fare for everyone including delicious desserts by “You Oughta Taste My Mama’s Cakes” and Arfpetizers by Laly of the “Doggie Bag Café.” There will be a cash bar available. There even will be a Canine Fashion Show, with Elite models from G Girl productions, showcasing holiday designs by ShihNanigans and Designs by Diane, to entertain you and your favorite pooch. Come be a part of a lifesaving event that will benefit animals and bring back your Christmas spirit. Tickets available — $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Package Special includes ticket plus a commemorative ornament or mug with your favorite picture on it for $40. Purchase online at <www.petsvoice.org>.
Do you or someone you know have Facial Acne? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 12 years of age or older that suffer from Facial Acne, to participate in a seven [7] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $350.00.
¿Tiene usted o alguien que usted conoce Acné Facial? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 12 años de edad o más que padecen de Acné Facial, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere de siete [7] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos del estudio bajo investigación sin costo alguno. • Un reembolso por su tiempo y transporte de hasta $350.00. For more information please call:
Para más información por favor llame al:
(305) 220-5222 Hector Wiltz, MD., CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami
FXM Research Miami 11760 Bird Road, Suite 452 Miami, FL 33175
www.fxmresearch.com
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Fairchild Tropical Garden hosts Sounds of Nature Challenge 3
Students from Miami Killian High School dance along with their musical performance of Rockin’ the Reef. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY ALEXANDRA CURBELO
The Fairchild Challenge — Fairchild Garden’s award-winning multidisciplinary STEM education competition, now in its 12th year, which reaches 130,000 students in South Florida at more than 260 schools from PreK-12 — conducted its annual Sounds of Nature Challenge 3 event on Nov. 20-21. The event took place in Fairchild’s Garden House and approximately 125 middle and high school students from more than 30 south Florida schools participated. South Florida is home to many environments and ecosystems, with wildlife and sounds that are unique. For Challenge 3, in partnership with the Frost School of Music at the University
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of Miami, middle school students identified South Florida’s environments/ecosystems and high school students chose time-lapse video that reflected tropical nature. Students then created a musical composition that brought their chosen topic to life and performed it in front of a live audience of several hundred people. The Fairchild Challenge includes a cross-curriculum science initiative and comprehensive environmental training pipeline including the nationwide STEM directive — Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Extending from early childhood through advanced graduate education, its goals are aimed at recruiting future science leaders and training a new generation of professionals in environmental science.
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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December 10 - 23, 2013
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December 10 - 23, 2013
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December 10 - 23, 2013
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Curriculum Expo draws some 400 at Miami Southwest High School
The Miami-Dade County Public Schools Curriculum Expo, conducted recently at Miami Southwest Senior High School with principal Carlos Diaz (pictured) and staff, was attended by some 400 students and parents.
MDC to offer classes on local history during spring term BY SUE ARROWSMITH
Step back in time with Miami Dade College (MDC) professor and renowned historian Dr. Paul George, who will teach Miami and South Florida History (AMH 2079) and History of Florida (AMH 2070) classes during the 2014 spring semester at the college’s Wolfson Campus in downtown Miami. Both courses offer three credits toward teacher recertification. Miami and South Florida History (AMH 2079) is available once again for history buffs on Thursdays, Jan. 9 to Apr. 24, 5:40-8 p.m. The class will cover a variety of topics about local history and incorporate lectures, visits to historical libraries,
repositories and exhibits, video and slide presentations, and tours of Greater Miami’s historic neighborhoods. History of Florida (AMH 2070) will be offered on Tuesdays, Jan. 7 to Apr. 22, 5:40-8:10 p.m. The class will consist of lecture, videos and tours, offering a stirring account of the Sunshine State in all of its eras, tracing its story from native populations to the present. Dr. George is widely recognized by the media and the South Florida community as the region’s foremost historian. He is interviewed often regarding key historical facts about the region and beyond. For more information, contact Dr. Paul George at 305-237-3723, or by email at <pgeorge@mdc.edu>.
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Volunteers to spread holiday cheer with free gift wrapping
December 10 - 23, 2013
Miami-Dade firefighters host toy drive for needy children BY DONNA VAN DER DIJS
The Dade County Association of Firefighter Charities is organizing “Toys for Kids” this holiday season. The drive continues through Dec. 21. During this period the public can drop off new, unwrapped toys at any MiamiDade Fire Rescue Station. “Firefighters have been organizing ‘Toys for Kids’ for more than 20 years,” said Karen Joseph, a Miami-Dade firefighter, who has organized the event for the past 16 years. “As firefighters we are out in the community every day. We are on the frontlines and we see first-hand the needs of the community. We just want to do our part to make sure every
Hundreds of volunteers from Christ Fellowship Church in Miami will greet busy shoppers at The Falls, Dadeland Mall and Bass Pro Shops with a smile and an offer of free gift wrapping. The free gift-wrapping service, courtesy of Christ Fellowship, starts Dec. 14 and volunteers will be available through Dec. 24.
child in our community has a merry Christmas.” The toys collected are distributed to Miami-Dade families through churches, women’s shelters and a variety of organizations throughout the county. “Every year we see the number of requests increasing, so we really need the community’s support to help as many children as we can this holiday season,” Joseph said. Firefighter Charities, a tax exempt 501(c)3 organization, also accepts monetary donations toward this campaign. Firefighter Charities is the fundraising arm for charitable causes of IAFF Metro-Dade Fire Fighters Local 1403. For more information regarding “Toys for Kids” call 305-519-8553.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Sandy DeWitt honored by AIA for her photography services BY LEE STEPHENS
the clean, pristine images which have garnered her numerous awards, including Best of Show Photographer Sandy DeWitt has been and Court of Honor. These awards come from her attention to marketing chosen Architectural imaging that exceeds field Photographer of the Year conditions. Her eye for for 2013 by the Miami detail helps define the fluchapter of American idity between her clients’ Institute of Architects. design spaces and their Her firm has been providfunction. ing photography services to Dewitt resides in South the architectural, design and Florida with her husband construction professionals and menagerie of animals. throughout the U.S. for over While shooting projects 25 years. Working closely worldwide, supporting with design teams she helps community outreach for present projects for Web education, and organizing presentation and publication. photographic working DeWitt, who has a gallery societies focused on the in Homestead, is an architecexploration of architectural artist with skills ture, she currently is grounded in the master working on her personal processes of photography, project: “Urban Decay: which she honed as a student Tyranny,” which explores at Rhode Island School of the relationship between Photography. The influences Sandy DeWitt the tyranny of aging and of Adams, Guerrero and ––––––––––––––––– urban spaces. Shulman are easily seen in
Look ‘outside the box’ with gifts from online Parkstore BY LAURA PHILLIPS
Looking for “outside the box” holiday gifts for that special someone? The MiamiDade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department has fun, health-minded and exhilarating adventure-packed gifts that he or she will remember for years to come at the online Parkstore. Visit Parkstore at <http://parkstore.miamidade.gov>. You’ll find these exciting gift options for everyone on your gift-giving list, and plenty more: • Specialty Tours at Local Attractions — Zoo Miami, Fruit & Spice Park and the Deering Estate at Cutler; • Kayak Fishing; • Canoe Adventures; • South Florida Birding Tours;
• Trap/Skeet Rounds at Trail Glades Range; • All-Inclusive Tennis, Golf and Soccer Packages, and • Annual Marina Boat Ramp Passes. There’s also the option to “go green” with “Adopt-A-Park” or “Adopt-A-Tree” packages, so your loved one can be part of a living legacy that they can enjoy for years to come. The Parkstore site is easy to browse and major credit cards are accepted. Purchases are shipped to the customer within a week and the option for overnight delivery is available at an additional charge. All of these great non-traditional holiday gift options are just a click away at MiamiDade County Parks’ Parkstore, by visiting <http://parkstore.miamidade.gov>.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Celebrate the holidays with exciting events at Zoo Miami BY CINDY CASTELBLANCO
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juices, coffee, tea, eggs, sausage, bacon, country style potatoes, and fruit. This holiday season Zoo Miami is hostHoliday Breakfast with the Zoo Squad ing a variety of exciting and fun activities admission includes zoo admission, parkfor everyone. ing, an all day pass for the Guests can enjoy thoumonorail and an all-youGuests can enjoy sands of beautiful animalcan-eat hot breakfast. shaped lights and dazzling General admission is t h o u s a n d s o f tree lights as they stroll the $24.95 plus tax per adult; zoo during the nine nights $22.95 plus tax per child beautiful animalof Zoo Lights; they can age 3-12. Zoo members are enjoy a Holiday Breakfast shaped lights and $19.95 plus tax per adult; with the Zoo Squad, and $17.95 plus tax per child. d a z z l i n g t re e l i g h t s Children ages 2 and under watch the animals open their specially prepared are free. a s t h e y s t ro l l t h e gifts during Holiday Gifts To make a reservation for the Animals. and purchase tickets, go to z o o d u r i n g t h e n i n e shop.zoomiami.org, The zoo’s glorious call grounds come to light for n i g h t s o f Z o o L i g h t s . Group Sales at 305-251nine brilliant nights during 0400, ext. 84993 or 84951 Zoo Lights, Dec. 20-30 or email <zoogroup(excludes Dec. 24-25) from 7 to 10 p.m. sales@miamidade.gov>. (ticket booths close at 9:30 p.m.). Guests Included with admission, Holiday Gifts can enjoy thousands of bright animal- for the Animals takes place on select days shaped lights along the walkways, listen to in December, including Christmas Day. wonderful holiday music, sip hot choco- Visitors will be entertained watching the late, munch on delicious cookies, take a animals joyfully open holiday gifts prespin on the carousel, “ice skate,” and have pared by zookeepers and volunteers. your picture taken with Santa. Check the website for exact dates, times General admission is only $5 per person and description. plus tax. Included with admission is a pair On your way out, stop at the gift shop of 3D glasses, which will make the Zoo and find that perfect gift for that perfect Lights experience even more engaging and someone. amusing. Food, beverages, carousel rides, Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 “ice skating,” and photos with Santa are all St. General zoo admission is $15.95/adult available at additional costs. and $11.95/child (3-12) plus tax. Guests interested in celebrating the holi- Children under 3, zoo members and parkdays at the zoo can also attend a Holiday ing are free. Zoo Lights and Holiday Breakfast with the Zoo Squad on Dec. 21, Breakfast with the Zoo Squad are special 8-9:30 a.m. In addition to photos with the events with separate admission prices. To Zoo Squad mascots, Gigi the giraffe and save time, buy your tickets online at Kaz the rhino, guests can start their day shop.zoomiami.org. Zoo Miami’s regular right with an all-you-can-eat hot breakfast hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; ticket that includes an assortment of fresh fruit booths close at 4 p.m.
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Two-day concert pays tribute to composer Ernesto Lecuona BY MARIA M. FLORES
New World School of the Arts will pay homage to legendary Cuban pianist and composer Ernesto Lecuona on the 50th anniversary of his death. The first in the NWSA Latin Music Legends series, the two-day concert is hosted by NWSA dean of music Dr. Milton Rubén Laufer, featuring soprano Marina De Ratmiroff, pianist Ciro Foderé, and the New World School of the Arts Chamber Orchestra, directed by Brent Mounger. Ernesto Lecuona concert takes place on Dec. 14, 8 p.m., and Dec. 15, 3 p.m., in the Koubek Center Auditorium, 2705 SW Third St. General admission is $20. Students and seniors are $10 with discount codes (Students: GROUP50 / Seniors: SENIOR). Tickets are available at <http://nwsa.mdc.edu>. “The goal of this concert is to preserve the works of these masters,” Laufer said. “Our mission is not only to educate our students, help them hone their craft and foster their passion for the arts, but also to offer them a legacy to which they can relate. We want them to discover and explore this music and keep it alive — whether they ultimately devote themselves to it as performers or listeners.” As the organizer of the NWSA Latin Music Legends series, Laufer’s involvement in the concert is akin to a “curator of an art exhibition.”
“It wasn’t about choosing Imitating the sound of a readily available music nightingale bird, Lecuona scores. For this particular wrote Escucha al Ruiseñor concert we have had to do for legendary Cuban colextensive research and field oratura soprano, Rosario work since Ernesto Garcia Orellana. Without a Lecuona’s original music is copy of the original music, so difficult to find,” Laufer began the arduous explained Laufer who will process of penning the score be playing the complete by hand, listening to an origSuite of Andalucia on the inal 1930s recording. Most piano, accompanied by the recently, however, he was NWSA Chamber Orchestra. able to secure a hand-written In addition, Laufer will be photocopy of the original offering short lectures on the music, allowing him and De individual music offered durRatmiroff more time to Marina De Ratmiroff (Photo courtesy of NWSA) ing the concert and will highrehearse and prepare for the ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– light their significance. He more historical/ educational also will discuss the process of “modifying” portion of the concert. some of it for simultaneous interpretation on Also in the repertoire is Rapsodia Negra, piano and orchestra. The Suite includes: which Ernesto Lecuona premiered at the Córdoba, Andalucia, Alhambra, Gitanerías, Cuban Liberation Day Concert at Carnegie Guadalquivir and the ever-popular Malagueña, Hall on Oct. 10, 1943, and dedicated to which premiered at New York’s Roxy Theatre in Carmelina Delfín. One of the three works 1927. Lecuona wrote for piano and orchestra, this “One of the most interesting pieces we piece is a “mosaic” of themes from zarzuelas will present is Escucha al Ruiseñor,” by Lecuona. With his sister Ernestina, who explained Laufer, who will be performing also appeared as pianist, the concert received the four-minute piece on piano alongside De exceptional mentions by The New York Ratmiroff. “It is rare to obtain a copy of this Times, which hailed his work “clean-cut and score because not only was it pressed in brilliant.” Rapsodia Negra will be presented Cuba, but it is also out of print.” on two pianos, featuring NWSA faculty
member and respected pianist Ciro Foderé. Ernesto Lecuona was a Cuban composer and pianist who lived from 1895 until 1963. Born in Havana Cuba, of Canarian and Cuban descent, he was a child prodigy who attained worldwide respect and recognition for his contribution to music. Hailed as the “Cuban Gershwin,” he is credited with raising Cuban music to classical status. Lecuona, who at age 5 had mastered five songs including La Mersellesa and the Cuban national anthem under the tutelage of his sister Ernestina Lecuona, also a recognized pianist, gave his first concert when he was just 5. He composed his first song at the age of 11 — Cuba y America, a two-step, which became part of the repertoire of Cuban military bands. A prolific composer of songs and music for stage and film, Ernesto Lecuona composed more than 400 songs, 176 piano pieces, 50-plus theater works, 31 orchestral scores, half dozen compositions for piano and orchestra, three violin works, a trio, five ballets and 11 film scores. Lecuona graduated from the National Conservatory of Havana with a Gold Medal for interpretation when he was seventeen. For information about New World School of the Arts visit <http://nwsa.mdc.edu> or call 305-237-3135. For information about the music program at NWSA, or about this concert, call the music hotline at 305-237-7855.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Mouse King, the musical makes it’s world premiere BY MICHAEL MUT
Arriving just in time for the holidays, Mouse King, a delightfully entertaining family friendly musical, will make its world premiere with two special performances at Miami’s Mandelstam Theater, 8530 SW 57 Ave., on Friday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m., and on Saturday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. Conceived and created by renowned puppeteer Noel MacNeal — a leading light behind television’s Sesame Street and Disney’s Bear in the Big Blue House — and featuring original music written by South Florida’s highly acclaimed musician and composer Jim Camacho, Mouse King revisits the story of the seasonal favorite The Nutcracker, while adding an entirely different twist. This original stage spectacular tells the story of The Nutcracker from an as-yetunseen perspective — the point of view of the mice characters — and, in the process, gives that perennial classic an imaginative new emphasis through the lens of modern musical theater. A cast of professional performers and puppeteers and supported by a group of local child actors has been specially selected to bring this family-friendly holiday production
to life. Tickets for Mouse King cost $20 and can be obtained via Brown Paper Tickets at <http://mousekingmusical.brownpapertickets.com> or 1-800-838-3006.
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Epiphany Catholic School students participate in hurricane exercise BY LEE STEPHENS
As HurrEvac computer images show Category 3 Hurricane Patricia getting closer to South Florida’s coastline, Mayor Patrick Cahill orders his fellow Epiphany Catholic School students to put out a fire in an evacuation shelter and relocate 1,000 residents to other evac centers in the area. “There are lives at stake, so let’s get this done,” he demands. Cahill and Emergency Management directors Katarina Sanchez and Daniel Gaviria were shouldering the responsibility of supervising Emergency Support Functions (ESFs in emergency management parlance) being handled by their classmates — Fire-Fighting, Transportation, Law Enforcement, Urban Search and Rescue, Health and Medical, Food and Water and Mass Care, to name a few — to ensure that the dispossessed people were properly relocated to other shelters and safe from the approaching storm. In the meantime, student meteorologists Katerina Molina, Alicia Pagliery and Alejandro Quevedo were briefing student reporters in order to keep the general public apprised of Patricia’s whereabouts and strength. As soon as the fire in the evacuation shelter was resolved, a gasoline truck overturned on a major evacuation route, leaving thousands of motorists stranded. Gas from the truck was spilling all over the road and motorists were overheated and thirsty with tempers flaring. To make things worse, family pets were jumping from the car windows and escaping into the woods. Again, Mayor Cahill had to depend on his ESFs to resolve this perilous situation. “We need to remove the truck, contain the spill and get bottled water out to these people as soon as possible. We also need to locate the animals and return them to their owners,” he demanded. “Get Hazardous
Materials, Resource Management, Mass Care Animal Services on it. We need to move fast.” After Patricia’s passage, things got even worse. The students faced equally challenging emergencies such as several hundred senior citizens stranded on an island due to an Intracoastal bridge being slammed into by an ocean tanker. “We’ve sent boats, helicopters and anything we can,’” Cahill said. “The ship is also spreading fuel all over the water and a few of the elderly need immediate evacuation.” In the meantime, a hospital was overcrowded with storm victims, medical resources virtually exhausted and basic water and food provisions also were used up. The hospital was on auxiliary power, making it difficult to perform basic surgical procedures. Also, parts of the city were virtually underwater from rain and storm surge, with people and their pets perilously stranded on rooftops and dangling from trees. Ninety students spent the morning of Nov. 15 at the Miami-Dade Emergency Operations Center in Doral, participating in a special hurricane preparedness exercise sponsored by StormZone, a South Florida-based non-profit program where they planned for and recovered from Category 3 Hurricane Patricia. StormZone, sponsored by the American Red Cross, CBS4’s Neighbors 4 Neighbors, and the International Hurricane Research Center at Florida International University, is a free online hurricane science education and preparedness program offered to public and private schools. The program specifically helps students understand the importance of advance preparation when confronted with a natural disaster such as a hurricane. Since 2006, StormZone has been taught in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach County
Students from Epiphany Catholic School took over the Miami-Dade Emergency Management Center for a hurricane exercise. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
schools throughout hurricane season which ended Nov. 30. Aimee B. Bojorquez, Emergency Management Coordinator, Office of Emergency Management, at the MiamiDade Fire Rescue Department, welcomed the students prior to the exercise, describing the Emergency Operations Center as a central coordination point for supporting the response to countywide emergencies and disasters. “The StormZone Program provides a realistic disaster scenario for students to role play leadership positions and learn how government manages disasters in a truly collaborative partnership,” she stated. At the conclusion of the exercise, student Mayor Cahill conducted a press conference assisted by student public information offi-
cers, Emily Salado and Antonella Cardenal, to inform student reporters on preparedness measures that were taken before the storm and recovery efforts after its passage. The first question asked was, “were any lives lost?” “No” said a relieved Cahill. “Through this interactive exercise, students learn about emergency management, make the decisions necessary to respond to a disaster in their community and develop a recovery plan,” said Bay Proby, StormZone director. “This classroom experience also lets students learn about the importance of individual responsibility, organizational collaboration and project management skills when confronted with a hurricane.” For more information about StormZone, visit online at <www.stormzone.us>.
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Woodystock concert in Grove surpasses its fundraising goal
Pictured are (l-r) Tom Cabrerizo, CFH Group CEO; James “Woody” Beckham, Woody Foundation founder, and Cris Cab, concert headliner. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY GLORIA BURNS
You have heard of Woodstock but may not have heard of a recent concert held right in our own backyard. On Sept. 21, Reggae-pop phenomenon Cris Cab was the headliner for a very successful benefit concert, Woodystock, so named for the nonprofit it benefits, the Woody Foundation. More than 1,000 people gathered at Peacock Park in Coconut Grove for this free grassroots event, designed with music and art lovers in mind. This first benefit concert served as a homecoming for reggae-pop sensation Cris Cab. Cab, who grew up in Miami and attended Christopher Columbus High School, was delighted to perform in front of family, friends and fans, along with fellow local musicians Jahfe, ArtOfficial and Lance-O of Kulcha Shok Muzik. Twenty-year-old Cab, who blends pop, reggae and soul, has been mentored by Pharrell Williams and Wyclef Jean. Cab, who has over 10 million YouTube views, performed his hits, including Good Girls. In addition, Woodystock featured wellknown Miami artist Jona Cerwinske who
painted a mural during the event and donated it to the foundation to be auctioned after the concert. An outdoor gallery also featured artwork from other local artists. Best of all, the event surpassed its $25,000 fundraising goal with funds directed to the Woody Foundation, a nonprofit organization that strives to raise funds and awareness of spinal cord injuries. This inaugural concert was coordinated by Woody Foundation board member Tom Cabrerizo, of CFH Group, a full-service real estate development and management company. The concert’s success came in large part through Cabrerizo’s success in attracting sponsorships from such businesses as All-Go Construction, BankUnited, City National Bank, Kramer & Associates, KW Property Management, Pacifica Companies and SunTrust Bank. The Woody Foundation was founded by James “Woody” Beckham, who suffered a life-changing spinal cord injury while making a rugby tackle in January 2011. For more information on the Woody Foundation, visit <www.woodyfoundation.org>.
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Water Matters: Modernization plan to pay for itself in years to come By Jennifer L. Skold The holiday season is in full swing and many of us have checklists of things that must get done: presents to buy and wrap, cards to send, and family and friends to visit. This time of year also allows many of us to pause and reflect on what has happened over the previous 365 days as well as plan for a brighter future. The Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD) is no different. In 2013, WASD began a 15- to 20-year project that will cost $12.6 billion. This was a result of the fact that our treatment plants and infrastructure are aging—up to 80 years old in some cases—and need to be upgraded or replaced. The county’s water and sewer infrastructure has been serving more than 2.3 million residents, as well as thousands of visitors and tourists every day. The fact is that time and usage have taken their toll, and we have to act now to preserve the quality of our water and integrity of our wastewater system As of this past Oct. 1, there was an 8 percent rate increase for customers, yet the average residential bill has only risen $3.36 a month. So, for what amounts to pennies more a day per household, we’re able The Miami-Dade Water to invest toward improveand Sewer Department is ments that will help us to the largest water and sewer continue delivering supeutility in the Southeastern rior services our current United States and even with and future residents for the rate increase; our rates decades to come. remain among the lowest in Upgrading the county’s the state and country. infrastructure will also result in improved fire capacity, environmental improvements, economic growth and increased capacity. WASD recently completed its first major capital improvement project—a complex $77.5 million utility relocation project at Government Cut that increases both water and sewer capacity for the county’s northern municipalities. It was completed both on-time and within budget. WASD is investing in the future because our water is worth it.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
vapor4you true one-stop tobacco alternative shop BY JESSE SCHECKNER
Like every longtime smoker, Miami Palmetto High alumnus Jim Deegan — a smoker for 30 years — had the desire to quit, but nothing he tried worked. His wife suggested they try “e-cigarettes,” or “personal vaporizers.” They first used primitive early models, which were made in China, had screw-on batteries, set nicotine levels and no real options for customization. Though unsatisfied that he was unable to part ways with his habit at the time due to their poor quality and harshness, he still believed in the product enough to start a small business selling them from home. “I was selling a smoking cessation product, yet I was still smoking, so it wasn’t such a great fit,” he said. Deegan went online and began looking at do-it-yourself kits. He learned “e-cigs” have four basic ingredients in their “juice”: propylene glycol (PG), an FDA-approved product used in baby laxatives and many skincare products which creates the vapor and is best known for use in fog machines; vegetable glycerin (VG), which is often used as a sweetener in foods and is responsible for the “throat hit;” food flavoring, and, optionally and in varying amounts,
Sales leader Steve Gomez (left) and president/owner Jim Deegan have successfully quit smoking by using vapor4you products. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
nicotine. “I found that by buying all-American products I could mix it to a level I was comfortable with, that I enjoyed using and which wasn’t harsh or nasty,” he said.
Deegan hasn’t had a cigarette in 16 months, nor has his wife. He since has opened up the e-cig and e-juice store, vapor4you. It is his first entrepreneurial endeavor. “This is our marquee store,” he said. “We’re basically just trying to give people a safer alternative to the addictive properties of a cigarette, which is the nicotine.” The vaporizers vapor4you offers come in varying sizes, shapes, colors and volumes and are fully customizable. They also offer disposable, limited-lifetime novelty items as well as retail packages used for wholesale in gas stations around the country. What sets vapor4you apart from its contemporaries, however, is that they blend all their juice — which comes in many flavors not found anywhere else — in-store. Because of this they can design programs through which their customers
can successfully wean themselves off of nicotine. “Once the customer chooses a flavor, then we have a conversation with them about how much they smoke and we try to start them at a level that they’ll be comfortable with,” he said. From there, if the customer so desires, they can gradually lower the amount until there is no nicotine in the juice. Deegan believes that customers will still use his product even after they are no longer physically reliant on it. “We find that people who quit and go to zero nicotine may not necessarily buy as much, but they do stay with the product,” he said. “We also have a good amount of customers who come in, have never smoked a day in their lives, and want to ‘vape.’” With a mellow ambience supplemented by a brightly lit, lively aquarium, a largescreen TV and a testing station where customers can test different flavors to their hearts’ content, it truly is a one-stop tobacco alternative shop. “We want the customer to feel very comfortable,” Deegan said. “They can come in and get their own personalized silicone testing tip, take a rack of testers, sit down and, at their leisure, taste our flavors, relax and watch the fish tank.” Starter kits run from $49.95 to $99.95 and are a one-time fee. Refill bottles are $14.99 apiece. Deegan estimates that packa-day smokers can save more than $2,500 a year by switching to his product, though for him money is the least important thing to consider. “Helping people quit smoking is the most satisfying thing about this business,” he said. “It’s just a great feeling for me. I feel like I’m doing something good for the community.” vapor4you is located at 9865 SW 184 St. For more information, visit online at <www.vapor4you.com> or call 786-5921945.
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Bike & Helmet Safety Event Miami Children’s Hospital’s Trauma Services Team will be fitting children for bike helmets. Informational sessions, safety instructions and giveaways!* *While Supplies Last
Family-friendly entertainment Kohl’s - Kendall Store 11800 Mills Drive, Kendall, FL 33183
Saturday, December 14 | 10 a.m. - 1p.m.
Questions? Call the Miami Children’s Hospital Trauma Services Department at
786.624.4639 www.mch.com/kohlscares
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Good Eats, Drinks, Music & Friends Tues & Thurs Night
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For your convenience PRIVATE FREE PARKING
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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December 10 - 23, 2013
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Registration underway for parks Winter Break Camps BY LEE STEPHENS
Don’t let your kids get stuck on the couch channel surfing and loading up on junk food during the Winter School Recess. Help them to stay active, connect to nature and make the most of their offschool time by enrolling them in one of the many fun-filled and affordable Winter Break Camps offered by the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department. Miami-Dade County Parks Winter Break Camps will take place Dec. 23 through Jan. 3, (closed Christmas Day/New Year’s Day), Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with early drop-off available at 7:30 a.m. and late pickup until 6 p.m. General Camp programs (Ages 6 –14) will thrill and challenge youngsters with a variety of activities from fitness, sports, and arts and crafts to games and exciting field trips. There also are Specialized Camps, which focus on a specific interest or need, including camps for nature and wildlife lovers like Zoo Miami’s “Winter Break Daze” Camp and EcoAdventures Camps at A.D. Barnes Park, Arch Creek Park and the Deering Estate at Cutler. For aspiring young golfers looking to learn the game or hone their skills, MiamiDade County Parks offers Junior Golf Camps at two of its golf courses — the Country Club of Miami Golf Course and the Crandon Golf Course. “Winter Break Daze” at Zoo Miami is designed to immerse children, ages 4-9, into the world of wildlife and conservation. It’s a fun-filled learning adventure that includes live animal presentations, visits to
animal exhibits, interactions with zookeepers, wildlife enrichment activities, and much more. EcoAdventures Camps at A.D. Barnes Park and Arch Creek Park will provide children, ages 6-15, with unique opportunities to discover the wonders of our South Florida ecosystem with outdoor activities such as trail hikes and wildlife encounters. At the Deering Estate at Cutler children, ages 6-15, will explore this magnificent historic estate and archeological preserve and learn about its unique natural surroundings. Winter Break Junior Golf Camp at the Country Club of Miami Golf Course is taught by PGA Professional Larry Levow and the Whole Game Golf School. The camp will cover golf fundamentals, fullswing and short game instruction for junior golfers, ages 8-15 (or younger with previous golf experience). Winter Break Junior Golf Camp at the Crandon Golf Course is taught by the golf professionals at the Crandon Golf Academy. The Beginners Golf Camp (ages 4-16) and Elite Golf Camp (ages 816) will cover a curriculum consisting of full golf swing with video analysis, short game, putting, golf etiquette and rules; plus contests with prizes. The Elite Golf Camp will additionally include on-course play, lessons on course management and strategy. Full-day sessions include lunch. Parents may register their child by visiting the specific Miami-Dade County Park where they wish their child to attend. Some parks offer online registration at <www.miamidade.gov/parks>, where the entire list of camp sites is found. The public may also dial 3-1-1 for the Miami-Dade County Information Hotline. Prices for camps vary.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Angel Share Charity delivers 125 Thanksgiving baskets
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For the fourth consecutive year, children from the Angel Share Charity delivered 125 Thanksgiving baskets to families at Laura C. Saunders Elementary School in Florida City. Thanks to the volunteer efforts of teachers, staff and families of Concordia Lutheran School in Kendall, and the help of the Walmart Foundation and State Rep. Frank Artiles of West Kendall, families enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal together and the children of the Angel Share Charity continued to learn that through their hard work and generosity they can make a difference. During the past five years, Angel Share has raised almost $20,000 for local families in need. For more information, visit <www.angelshare.us>.
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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‘Smart’ wireless tech toys top many Miami gift lists this year By Lee Stephens High-tech “smart” accessories will be some of the hottest items and biggest sellers -- especially in the Miami area -- this holiday season, according to Verizon Wireless, the nation’s largest wireless technology company. Smart accessories include remote-control vehicles; fitness gear; games; high-fidelity wireless speakers and headphones; devices to care for your car, home, pets and families; and other gadgets; all of which communicate with your smartphone or tablet. “We’re very mobile and love to have the newest, coolest shiny things here in Miami,” said Mariano Legaz, Florida region president of Verizon Wireless. “Smart accessories will make great gifts for the tech lover on your list, and they work with almost any iPhone, Android, Windows phone, Blackberry and more.” Some of these smart accessories include: -- Remote-control tech toys such as the Parrot® AR.Drone 2.0 Elite helicopter and the Griffin MOTO TC Rally off-road remote-control race car. -- Other fun and games such as Crayola DigiTools art gadgets and Moga game controllers. -- Fitness devices such as Fitbit activity trackers, Jawbone UP fitness wristband, Mo-
Eddie Rodriguez of Verizon Wireless shows off a variety of the latest 4G LTE wireless technology and "smart" accessories to a Miami customer.
toACTV from Motorola, heart monitors, and "smartscales." -- High-definition Bluetooth speakers and headphones from Bose, Beats Jawbone Jambox, Sol Republic and more. -- The Delphi Connect which monitors
your car’s system, location and more, and turns it into a rolling 4G LTE hotspot. -- Dropcam Pro and Belkin home security cameras which let you monitor what’s happening in your home quickly, easily and affordably almost anywhere and anytime from
you smartphone and tablet. -- Tagg Pet Tracker which helps keep you pet home and safe. Tagg alerts your phone if your pet leaves the yard, and uses GPS real-time tracking to help you quickly find your furry family member. These smart accessories are fun and effec tive when communicating with the lates smartphones and tablets such as iPhones iPads, Android devices, Windows phone and Blackberries, especially on a high-speed 4G LTE network. Verizon Wireless launched its most ad vanced 4G LTE technology in Miami in De cember 2010 and has been rapidly reinforcing it here ever since. “Smart accessories and 4G LTE technolo gies offer something for just about anyone,” Legaz said. “It’s going to be easy to find many options, but maybe hard to choose jus one gift, when shoppers come into a store full of these tech toys.” Miami area Verizon Wireless stores in clude: Coral Gables at 2201 Ponce de Leon Boulevard; Doral at 1450 NW 87 Avenue Hialeah at 1599 West 49 Street; Kendall a 11600 North Kendall Drive; and North Miami at 14744 Biscayne Boulevard. For more detailed information, visi www.verizonwireless.com.
Adding a New Dimension to Breast Health BY DONNA SHELLEY Dr. Leslie Frost has opened a new office and third location for the Comprehensive Breast Care Center at 10300 Sunset Drive. She has the newest technology in breast imaging; 3D mammography or breast tomosynthesis. Dr. Frost is committed to providing the best and most personalized service for women’s health. Modern, two-dimensional mammograms have been available to women since about 1970. The test, a low-dosage x-ray image of the breast has proven effective in early detection of breast cancer and for diagnostic testing of abnormalities in breast tissue. A powerful tool, the mammogram has been extremely important to the fight against this nation’s most prevalent form of cancer among woman. Now, with the addition of 3D imaging, doctors can see the breast tissue in greater detail, from many different angles. Likened to turning the pages of a book, the doctor or radiologist can see the condition of the breast tissue in one millimeter slices at a time. This method creates a clearer picture and
addresses the primary limitations of 2D imaging, the superimposition of normal breast tissue. “3D mammography is very exciting new technology for breast radiologists. It significantly increases the sensitivity of the mammogram particularly when evaluating dense breast tissue, which so many women have. Breast tomosynthesis allows us to see through the best tissue in more detail so that we can find cancer earlier. And we better evaluate areas of concern reducing the need for additional studies,” stated Dr. Frost. With 3D imaging, the outcome can not only distinguish between tumors and dense, healthy tissue, it can mean fewer diagnostic tests and unnecessary biopsies. Regular breast exams and annual mammograms should be part of a woman’s routine health regimen if she is over 40 or in a group that is at high risk of breast cancer. The most prevalent form of cancer among women in the country, breast cancer ranks second only to lung cancer in number of deaths it causes in this demographic. Hispanic-
American women (the most common cause of death from all cancers) and African-American woman (who have a lower incidence of breast cancer than Caucasian women, but tend not to have the mammograms necessary for early detection of cancer) are two groups who are at risk, as well as those who lack health insurance? Dr. Frost reminds women that 85 percent of breast cancer occurs in those who have no family history of the disease. As it turns out, the most significant factors for breast cancer are gender (female) and age (growing older). Although it is rare, men, too can have breast cancer. The good news is that the five-year survival rate for breast cancer found in its earliest stages is 88 percent. Dr. Frost is a board certified radiologist and breast imaging specialist. She has designed her practice to provide her patients with individualized service and attention. She reads all the test results and discusses the tests with each of her patients. In addition to breast health services, Breast Care Centers provide diagnostic breast ultrasound, breast
biopsy, pelvic and transvaginal ultrasound and bone density assessments. The new Breast Care Center is located at 10300 Sunset Drive, Suite 400, Miami, Florida, 33173. Call at 305-602-0692 or visit online at cbcmiami.com.
Dr. Leslie Frost
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Miami pays tribute to its philanthropic community BY LEE STEVENS
Close to 650 guests joined event chair Karelia Martinez Carbonell and chapter president Patrick Morris as they hosted the 28th annual National Philanthropy Day awards luncheon at Jungle Island. In 1985, the Miami chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals initiated the nation’s first National Philanthropy Day event. Today, more than 50,000 people in 130 countries around the world participate in National Philanthropy Day celebrations. The luncheon pays tribute to Miami’s philanthropic community. This year, trust company TIAA-CREF joined in honoring Miami philanthropists as the event’s Diamond Partner. TIAA-CREF Trust Company, founded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, provides estate planning and fiduciary services for individuals, families, foundations and other institutions. The event garnered one of the largest crowds in event history. Guests mingled and visited among pop artist Romero Britto’s whimsical centerpieces that spelled out words such as “Dream,” “Joy,” and “Hope.” Cynthia Demos, CBS4 news anchor, served as emcee and helped honor this year’s award winners: Roe and Penny Stamps, Lifetime Achievement Award; Bruce and Tracey
Berkowitz, Outstanding Philanthropist Award; Jorge Luis and Marile Lopez, Outstanding Volunteer Award; Barbara L. Romani, regional director for Community Development, accepted the Julia Tuttle Award for Community Involvement and Corporate Citizenship on behalf of the Citi Foundation; Michael Spring, director, accepted the Outstanding Grant Maker Award on behalf of the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs. Sallie Byrd, chapter past president presented the Joyce Galya Scholarship to Mary Morgan Radcliff. The event also featured a dynamic video produced by Aaron Glickman with clips from community leaders (representing the nominating organizations) including University of Miami president Donna Shalala; Barry University president Sr. Linda Bevilacqua; Northern Trust South Florida Region president Edward Joyce; Miami Marlins Foundation executive director Alfred Mesa; The Education Fund president Linda Lecht, and Adrienne Arsht Center president John Richard. Platinum sponsors for the event included: Baptist Health South Florida, Comcast, FIU, Marile and Jorge Luis Lopez, Penny and Roe Stamps, The Miami Foundation, and WPBT2. For more information about National Philanthropy Day and AFP Miami, visit <www.afpmiami.org>.
Pictured are Sr. Linda Bevilacqua, Barry University president, (left) and Penny Stamps, Lifetime Achievement Award honoree.
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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SAMA’s Rides ’n Smiles brings youngsters to Speedway BY RON BEASLEY
Automotive Editor The Southern Automotive Media Association’s (SAMA) sixth annual Rides ’n Smiles event at Homestead-Miami Speedway in late November put smiles on the faces of about 150 ailing kids fighting cancer, patients at Baptist Children’s and Miami Children’s hospitals. Rides ’n Smiles is the brainchild of MotorSports racing legend and SAMA president-elect Bill Adam. He conceived the idea of convincing auto manufacturers to lend SAMA their hottest and most exotic vehicles for use in the event. Then he persuaded Homestead-Miami Speedway officials to donate their facility and staff for a day, thus enabling SAMA members to host the event. Over the years, other private entities and individuals have joined Adam and SAMA to expand the scope of the project. This year he added an exotic car show at Homestead Air Reserve Base specifically for base personnel. Adam hand-picks SAMA members to drive the cars on the day of Rides ’n Smiles. Those automotive journalists are charged with spending the day giving the kids safe fast-paced three-lap rides around the Speedway road course, which, as the event name suggests, is meant to put smiles on the kids’ faces. “Seven years ago I was asked by Children’s Wish Canada to take children with terminal cancer for rides at Mosport race track in Canada,” Adam said, when asked how he came up with the idea for Rides ’n Smiles. “My friend, who volunteered me, accurately predicted that I’d get even more out of the day than the kids would, and he was right!” Adam, a former Pinecrest resident who now lives in Fort Lauderdale, thought the concept would be an ideal project for
Rides ’n Smiles founder Bill Adam is interviewed by automotive journalist Javier Mota at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
SAMA. Officials agreed and he began working on the first event seven years ago. Today, Rides ’n Smiles has evolved into a major automotive event, with 10 auto manufacturers this year lending their vehicles, Homestead-Miami Speedway donating use of the track, as well as safety and security personnel; Cadillac dispatching its racing team; the Ferrari Racing Team from Fort Lauderdale attending; Hyundai Motor America hosting lunch for the volunteers and drivers, and multiple private entities contributing cars, goods and services. More than 200 children — including those from military families from the nearby Homestead Air Reserve Base — turned out for this year’s Rides ’n Smiles and were given three fast laps around the Speedway’s road course in some of the fastest and most exotic cars on the highway
today, including a new Corvette Stingray, Jaguar’s new F-Type Roadster, a Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, Dodge’s exciting new Viper SRT and Nissan’s hot GT-R sports car and Hyundai’s sleek little threedoor Veloster. Ford, Chevrolet, Audi and Mazda also sent their hottest cars for the event. Also putting smiles on the kids’ faces this year were several exotic, privately owned cars. Bob Panoff brought along a supercharged Viper and Dodge Challenger, while Ron Vogel drove his gleaming new 2014 Maserati. Tom Gonzales gave rides to the kids in his garage-kept Corvette ZR-1 (he only drives the car once a year for Rides ’n Smiles), and German Botero piloted his vintage Porsche 356 race car. And Adam was all smiles as he drove William Scherer’s classic Ford GT.
A special treat for the kids was the arrival of the Cadillac Racing Team from Detroit with champion driver Andy Pilgrim. Also making the day more exciting was the appearance of the Ferrari Racing Team from Fort Lauderdale and the 2012 championship Dodge from Penske Racing. All of the teams gave on-track demonstrations of each car’s speed and power. At the same time, there were several rare and unusual vehicles on display for the youngsters’ enjoyment, including a Testa Rosa Sport Speciale from the Creative Workshop of Dania Beach; an authentic U.S. Army Humvee from SFC Joseph Hawkins; a 1968 Ford Mustang from Kris Adam; a Porsche Carrera GT; a Ferrari 458 Challenge race car from Henrik Hedman; a 1996 Corvette; a 2013 Ferrari from Kris Kavanaugh, and Myles Kornblatt brought along a museum-housed classic 1962 Corvette. Homestead-Miami Speedway treated the kids to a tasty lunch of hamburgers and hot dogs in the cafeteria, while drivers and volunteers from SAMA and the airbase were given a barbecue lunch courtesy of Hyundai’s Hope on Wheels project. All of the kids were awarded certificates from the Homestead-Miami Speedway confirming their 100 mph speed on the race track and each took home a gift bag stuffed with about $75 worth of auto-related goodies, including a back pack from Jeep, T-shirts from SAMA and Cadillac. Hot Wheels model cars from attorney Lance Joseph and Beanie Babies from SAMA members Angelica and Joe Willard. Adam said he already is thinking about how to make Rides ’n Smiles better in 2014. “I’ll start work on next year’s event in the next few weeks as I like to plant seeds and get things rolling while everyone is enthused and also full of the Christmas spirit of giving,” he said.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Kia Sorento redesigned for 2014; given new engine platform Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR
LET’S TALK CARS After spending a week behind the wheel of the Kia Sorento, I now understand why the people who own them have been raving about them. They are just that special. For 2014, Sorento adds a top-of-the-line trim level to its lineup — the SX Limited — and the popular U.S.-built crossover vehicle has been given an all-new platform, sophisticated new styling cues and significant improvement to ride, handling and comfort. In fact, over 80 percent of the parts are either all-new or significantly redesigned, including a new 3.3-liter GDI V-6 engine. The all-aluminum V-6 powerplant produces 290 hp at 6,400 rpm and 252 poundsfeet of torque at 5,200 rpm. It’s available optionally on the LX and EX and as standard equipment in the SX and SX Limited. Power is routed to either the front wheels or, optionally, to all four wheels using an enhanced Torque On Demand all-wheel
drive system that seamlessly directs power to the tire with the most traction. Also new is Torque Vectoring Cornering Control (TVCC) that aids stability under certain driving conditions, The 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder engine also is back for 2014 as standard equipment in the LX and EX and replaces the previously standard 2.4-liter MPI 4-cylinder. With 191 hp at 6,300 rpm and 181 poundsfeet of torque at a low 4,250 rpm, the lightweight all-aluminum powerplant is efficient enough for day-to-day driving demands. Sorento comes standard with a smooth shifting six-speed automatic transmission. Also standard, electric power steering replaces the hydraulic unit from the 2013 model, which improves steering feel and reduces weight. The new available FlexSteer offers drivers a choice of three steering modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport. The 2014 Sorento rides on an all-new chassis that increases torsional rigidity by 18 percent for improved ride and handling. To the rear, a reinforced multi-link setup utilizes new bushings and mounts to better isolate road noise vibration, while the compact design allows for more interior space. Redesigned front and rear fascias
New Kia Sorento rides has a lower, broader look from the front and a wider stance at the rear.
enhance the Sorento’s road presence with a lower, broader look from the front and a wider stance at the rear. The new Sorento rides on redesigned 17-, 18- and — a first for the Kia CUV — larger 19-inch wheels. On the inside, the new Sorento has a redesigned instrument panel that combines technology with ergonomics. On EX trims and above, the large center gauge cluster features a seven-inch TFT LCD that projects a digital speedometer flanked by easyto-read analog instruments for the
tachometer, fuel level and engine temp. The TFT LCD readout also displays trip and vehicle information, along with navigation updates (optional). The MSRP on the 2014 Kia Sorento ranges from $24,100 to $40,100. 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>.
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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December 10 - 23, 2013
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Diabetes and women — what you should know BY DR. E. ROBERT SCHWARTZ
Over the last few decades in the United States, there has been a growing prevalence of obesity throughout our society. Those who are overweight are more likely to be predisposed to diabetes – a chronic disease that is often referred to as the “silent killer” because its symptoms can go unnoticed. The simple and deadly fact is that many people do not know that they have the disease, so it’s important to be aware of the many risk factors. Early childhood obesity is a possible predictor of diabetes. Asian, Hispanic and African American women with an increased body mass index have a greater risk for developing diabetes than the general population. Family history is also a factor. If you have a sibling with diabetes, your chances of developing the disease are two to three times greater. If your mother or father is diabetic, your risk jumps to five to six times greater. Other important factors
that also increase your risk of being diagnosed with the disease include eating a poor diet high in fats, doing little exercise, smoking and drinking large quantities of alcoholic beverages. Diabetes affects women differently than men because the disease can affect both mothers and their unborn children. Pregnant women can be diagnosed with gestational diabetes, which can cause difficulties during pregnancy. Women with diabetes are also more likely to have a heart attack than women without diabetes. WHY DOES DIABETES OCCUR? Every cell in the body needs sugar to help it function normally. Sugar is helped across the cell membrane of all of our tissues by a hormone produced in the pancreas called insulin. When there is not enough insulin – or for some reason the pancreas does not produce it – then sugar builds up in the blood stream and can damage your tissues. When you have diabetes, one of the first places the sugar is dumped is into your urine. In ancient times, diabetes was actually diagnosed by tasting the urine.
There are two types of diabetes. Type 2 or diabetes mellitus, which is more common, does not cause many symptoms in the beginning. One of the early symptoms you may notice is the need to urinate more often. You may also become very thirsty and might develop blurred vision. If not diagnosed early on, Type 2 diabetes can cause many serious medical problems later in life. Heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, vision problems, including possible blindness, and loss of feeling in fingers and toes are all possible complications of untreated diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the inability of your pancreas to produce insulin or to produce very little of it. The symptoms of this type of diabetes are much more severe and can cause one to become very sick, very quickly. Fatigue, mental disorientation, dehydration and many other complications are often associated with Type 1 diabetes. The good news is that early detection can help minimize many of these serious medical complications. Diet, exercise, and medications can help lower the blood sugar and keep it in
normal ranges. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes will most likely need to be on a regimen of insulin, which is delivered by injections on a regular basis. For many people who are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, usually the first approach to treatment is to make lifestyle changes. These include regular exercise, eating healthily and losing weight if you are overweight or obese. Some patients may also need medications that reduce high levels of blood glucose. To find out if you have diabetes or are at risk, make an appointment with your primary care doctor. A few simple tests of the urine and blood can determine if you have diabetes or are at risk for it. Early detection is the best way to help you live a healthy lifestyle. Dr. E. Robert Schwartz is a board certified family physician at Jackson Memorial Hospital and professor and chair of the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He may be contacted via email at <eschwartz@med.miami.edu>.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
NICU event reunites former patients and families with BCH medical staff During the 21st annual Baptist Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) reunion, former patients and their families were reunited with the doctors and nurses who cared for them during their hospital stay. More than 500 children and their families attended the event to celebrate the milestones the children have made since leaving the hospital. Children were treated to face painting, clowns, train rides and more.
Maximus, Marcus and Macello Arango and their parents celebrated at the event. The triplets were born at 26 weeks and spent nearly four months in the George Batchelor/ Gloria Vasta Lewis NICU at Baptist Children’s Hospital.
Facial Plastic Surgery with Dr. Bustillo Dr. Bustillo, My daughter wants to have a rhinoplasty. We have consulted with two doctors and they both said completely different things. One wants to remove the bump on the bridge, narrow the sides, and leave the tip alone. The second physician wants to do the same and he also says that the tip needs to be defined and strengthened so that it doesn’t droop. I am so confused? Help? Bernadette Dear Bernadette, Well, I think its normal to be confused when two surgeons offer completely different advise. There are two basic types of rhinoplasty. Reductive and Structural. Reductive rhinoplasty is an antiquated technique. The thought is that by removing bone and cartilage, the nose is made smaller. I strongly believe that a smaller nose is not necessarily a better-looking nose. Today’s advanced rhinoplasty surgeons reshape the nose should by changing the shape of the cartilages. They also add cartilage grafts to maintain the shape of the nose through time. While I can’t tell you which surgeon will have the better result, there are some things you can do to help you decide. Make sure he is board certified in facial plastic surgery or plastic surgery, ask to see many before and after pictures, make sure he performs a good number of rhinoplasty procedures, and most importantly, make sure you feel comfortable with him. Good Luck,
Andres Bustillo, MD You can submit your questions to andres@drbustillo.com Andres Bustillo is a board certified facial plastic surgeon. 305-663-3380 www.drbustillo.com
Neonatologist Ernesto Valdez, MD, was happy to be reunited with his former patient Daniel Gutierrez, 3, and his family. Daniel was in the George Batchelor/Gloria Vasta Lewis NICU at Baptist Children’s Hospital for three (Photos by Alvaro Mata) months. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
More than 700 job seekers attend Health and Job Fair
The gym at Miami Dade College’s Kendall Campus was filled with job seekers and potential employers. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY MAURICE R. HERNANDEZ
Commission Vice Chair Lynda Bell and State Rep. Frank Artiles teamed to host a Health and Job Fair at Miami Dade College Kendall Campus on Saturday, Nov. 16. More than 700 job seekers attended this significant event in South Miami-Dade where they received vital information on current job openings offered by major companies such as Macy’s, AT&T, Jackson Health System, Trump Organization, U.S. Army, and Prudential Financial and Insurance. Participants also benefited from free health screenings from local healthcare organizations and institutions like the South Florida Chiropractic Center, Miami-
Dade College Medical School, as well as the Florida Department of Health, among others. In addition, job seekers also were given the opportunity to participate in a free food distribution offered by the Farm Share organization. “I am delighted to have had the opportunity to work closely with State Rep. Frank Artiles and his staff, in order to bring job seekers and employers together who are hiring in this struggling economy,” Bell said. “It is also most gratifying that the good folks at Farm Share, along with local healthcare organizations, were on hand to provide complimentary health screenings and distribute free food to struggling families in their time of need.”
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Do you or someone you know have Rosacea? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 years or older that suffer from Rosacea “Redness on forehead, cheeks, and nose with acne type lesions on your face” to participate in a four [4] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication or placebo at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $200.00.
¿Tiene usted o alguien que usted conoce Rosacea? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 18 años de edad o más que padecen de Rosacea “Enrojecimiento en la frente, mejillas, y nariz con lesiones similares al acné”, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere de cuatro [4] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos del estudio bajo investigación o placebo sin costo alguno. • Reembolso por su tiempo y transporte de hasta $200.00. For more information please call:
Para más información por favor llame al:
(305) 220-5222 Hector Wiltz, MD., CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami
FXM Research Miami 11760 Bird Road, Suite 452 Miami, FL 33175
www.fxmresearch.com
Do you or someone you know have Tinea Pedis/Athlete’s Foot? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 years or older that suffer from Tinea Pedis “Redness, Itchiness, Maceration, Erosion, and/or Scaling areas in between your toes” to participate in a three [3] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication or placebo at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $150.00.
¿Tiene usted o alguien que usted conoce Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies/Pie De Atleta? FXM Research en Miami está buscando a hombres y mujeres de 18 años o más de edad que padecen de Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies “Enrojecimiento, Picazón, Humedad, Erosiones, y/o áreas de Descamación entre los dedos de los pies”, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere de tres [3] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación o placebo sin costo alguno. • Reembolso por su tiempo y transporte de hasta $150.00.
For more information please call:
Para más información por favor llame al:
(305) 220-5222 Hector Wiltz, MD., CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami
FXM Research Miami 11760 Bird Road, Suite 452 Miami, FL 33175
www.fxmresearch.com
December 10 - 23, 2013
KRMC receives approval for General Surgery Residency BY PETER JUDE
pletes the lengthy process for accreditation as a training facility. Institutional accreditaKendall Regional Medical Center tion allows KRMC to establish additional (KRMC) has announced that on Nov. 7, the residencies in multiple specialties. “I am excited as we start to progress as a Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) granted initial teaching institution and also look forward to the accreditation of our new approval to begin the hospiInternal Medicine Residency tal’s first residency training program in January 2014,” said program for General Surgery. Scott A. Cihak, CEO of Kendall The General Surgery Regional Medical Center. Residency program will begin For more information about training residents in July 2014 the Surgical Residency Program and will open an initial 16 sursend email to <krmc.surgeryresgical training positions for idency@HCAHealthcare.com>. first, second, and third year Kendall Regional Medical candidates. A total of 24 resiCenter is a 412-bed, full-service dents are planned for the prohospital, located on Bird Road gram. The Surgery Residency (SW 40th Street) at Florida’s will be led by Mark G. Turnpike providing the residents McKenney, MD, MBA, of Miami-Dade County with 24FACS, who has more than 20 Dr. Mark G. McKenney hour comprehensive medical, trauyears of experience of teach––––––––––––––––– ma, surgical, behavioral health and ing and training physicians. Kendall Regional Medical Center also diagnostic services, along with a wide range of received initial institutional approval by the patient and community services. For additionAccreditation Council for Graduate Medical al information, call 305-222-2200, or visit Education as of July 1, 2013, which com- <www.kendallmed.com>.
Light The Night raises $800K for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society BY ALEXANDRA CURBELO
The 2013 annual Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night Miami Walk, which raises funds for blood cancer research and provide support to patients and their families, took place Saturday, Nov. 16, at Bayfront Park in downtown Miami. The event organized by the Southern Florida and Puerto Rico Chapter, raised approximately $800,000. More than 6,000 walkers and 50 corporate and family teams and sponsors participated in this year’s Miami Light The Night Walk. Before the walk, LLS Board of Trustees chair Lisa Geata welcomed the walkers, and Miami Light the Night chair Ralph Lawson, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Baptist Health South Florida, congratulated everyone on a successful fundraising season. LLS national CEO/president John Walter and local politicians also spoke, and a Remembrance Ceremony took place with candles lit in memory of loves ones lost to cancer. Later, through the leisurely one-mile walk, participants carried illuminated balloons — white for survivors, red for supporters and gold in memory of loved ones. Thousands of walkers — men, women and
children — formed a community of caring, bringing light to the dark world of cancer. Each year, in communities all across the U.S. and Canada, teams of families, friends, co-workers and local and national corporations come together to raise funds and bring help and hope to people battling blood cancer. Millions of consumers also help by donating at retail outlets. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services. The LLS mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services. Founded in 1949 and headquartered in White Plains, NY, LLS has invested more than $875 million in research targeting leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. LLS has 59 chapters throughout the United States and Canada. To reach the Southern Florida and Puerto Rico Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, call 1-954-744-5300 or visit <www.lls.org/sfl>.
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Dr. Andrew Chen PROUDLY ANNOUNCES HIS NEW SUNSET LOCATION Family Recovery Specialists is a chemical dependency, mental health and recovery practice located in Miami, FL. We provide highly individualized, comprehensive care in a very professional, comfortable and intimate setting. FRS has over 30 years combined experience helping families recover from the devastating effects of substance abuse and addiction. We team together with you on the journey from intervention to aftercare services in order to restore families and empower the individual in recovery. Let us help your family today! Comprehensive services for Addiction and Recovery: Intensive Outpatient Program Adolescents and Young Adults • Substance Abuse/Mental Health Evaluations • Intervention/Placement Services • Therapeutic Consulting Services • Concierge Crisis and Case Management • Recovery Coaching and Monitoring • Individual and Family Therapy
Raymond S. Estefania MS, LMHC, CAP Executive Director
Two locations to serve you:
Ana M. Moreno MS, LMHC Clinical Director
Sunset:
Coral Reef: Hugh Humphery,
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MD Medical Director
MS, LMHC Primary Therapist
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Vision • Health • Style Comprehensive eye exams, diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases, infections and injury, contact lens services including specialty fittings, glasses, industrial safety and sports eyewear. Eyewear selection includes these and many more: Carrera, Gucci, Guess, Rayban, Tiffany, Tom Ford, and Tory Burch. Frames vary by location.
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December 10 - 23, 2013
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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December 10 - 23, 2013
Savings, Spice and Everything Nice at Angelique WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU LIVE A HEALTHIER LIFE Mercy Hospital Medical Partners is a network of physicians located in Miami-Dade County. Our talented doctors are committed to delivering the quality care you deserve. Our mission is to provide healthcare services to all individuals in our community with dignity, compassion and respect. The vision of Mercy Hospital Medical Partners is to consistently meet the changing healthcare needs and expectations of the communities we serve.
LUNCH • DINNER • WEEKEND BRUNCH
Celebrate the Holidays and our 4th Year Anniversary with Family & Friends
Holiday Spice Menu 3-Course Prix Fixe Lunch $19 | Dinner $35
Key Celebration Dates: Live Jazz Music Every Friday & Saturday
Jingle Bells Brunch
Tuesday, December 24th & Wednesday, December 25th
Christmas Eve & Christmas Dinner Tuesday, December 24th & Wednesday, December 25th
Old & New Year’s Brunch
At Mercy Hospital Medical Partners we provide a wide array of general healthcare services including, but not limited to:
Tuesday, December 31st & Wednesday, January 1st
New Year’s Eve Bash with Live Music! Tuesday, December 31st
Thank you Coral Gables for your patronage! 117 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables Tel. 305.529.9922 www.angeliqueeurocafe.com
“The Little Miracle on the Mile”
Open Table.com
Diners’ Choice WINNER 2013
Table Diner’s Choice Winner for French Cuisine, Neighborhood Gem, Best Brunch & Notable Wine List 2011, 2012, 2013
Cardiology/Fasting Lipoprotein Profiles Physical exams: routine, school and sports Minor procedures: biopsies, removal of foreign bodies Routine care for allergies, infections, colds, flu Treatment of chronic illnesses such as arthritis, diabetes Pre-operative exams Treatment of high blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis Full range of laboratory tests, invasive tissue sampling and other diagnostic procedures to detect early disease of the endocrine glands Treatment and management of thyroid, pituitary and adrenal gland disorders Laparoscopic, Robotic-assisted and Minimally Invasive Surgery Every modality of Cancer Radiation Therapy including Image Guided Radiation Therapy/ Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IGRT/IMRT) and High Dose Rate Brachytherapy (HDR) CyberKnife® Robotic Radiosurgery System Female and male urology. Treatment of adrenal, kidney, ureteral, prostate, bladder, penile, and testicular conditions and diseases such as prostate cancer, benign prostate hypertrophy, bladder cancer, problems urinating, incontinence, kidney cancer, kidney stone disease, testicular cancer, uretepelvic junction obstruction, erectile dysfunction, penile curvatures and more
For more information or a FREE physician referral, call (305)-MERCYMD (637-2963) or visit MercyHospitalMedicalPartners.com To learn more about CyberKnife® , visit cyberknifemercy.com
December 10 - 23, 2013
SERVICES
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MASTER TUTOR Reading and Math PK to Grade 6 ALSO: Language Arts, Social Studies, Science Study Skills Organizational Skills, Informal Testing At your quiet house ($60) or mine ($50)
Call 305-595-0222 HELP WANTED
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SERVICES
SERVICES
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR Develop, policies, procedures, accounting, financial, tax return. 5 yrs exp. Bch. degree in Business Administration. ONLY RESUME E&F Latin Group Inc. Executive Park Dr. #137 Weston, FL 33331 HELP WANTED
Pest Control Company with office located in the Homestead area looking for a motivated, clean-cut dynamic individual with a good driving record. We are a pest control company that specializes in plant health care with very detailed programs. Experience in Horticulture a plus! Training pay then production and commission pay! Please fax resume to: 305-238-1721 or email to modelcontrol@bellsouth.net REAL ESTATE
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REAL ESTATE
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1,900-3,000 s/f Warehouse Space 5,662 s/f 2-Story Office Space Near Tamiami Airport KendallCommercialCenter.com
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Get help from the best!
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HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Seeking professionally Employment done at a as a ROOM reasonable price. ATTENDANT/ Call Claudia 786-216-3344 HOUSEKEEPING preferably in a SERVICES hotel or motel or HOUSE CLEANING office. Full time or part time. I take pride Night or day. in my work! Call Claudia Exp. and ref.
FINANCIAL ANALYST
SERVICES
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS
ALTERATIONS
at your home. Guitar, Piano, Drum, Etc. mystarschool.com Call Ricky
786-250-1787 SERVICES
PAINTER • HANDYMAN Call me for estimate 786-337-2374
HELP WANTED
HAIR STATION FOR RENT in Pinecrest (next to Office Max on 136th Street)
$300 per week, including sales tax. Large amount of storage for supplies. For more information, please contact Regina at 305-253-4772 REAL ESTATE
POSITION WANTED
SERVICES
REAL ESTATE
HOME BUYERS Save $5000.00 on the purchase of your home Or I’ll pay you $1000.00
Guaranteed! For details go to
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561-201-5886
Finances, economics, plans, control. 5 years exp. Bch. Degree in Accounting. ONLY RESUME Alandre Trading, LLC. 9739 NW 41 St. Doral, FL 33178
HELP WANTED
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
Brown Mackie FOR RENT College seeking KENDALL In popular minimum Master OFFICE South Miami! level Adjunct SPACE Faculty to instruct 2/1 unfurnished 200-3500 sq/ft General Education home. Needs We will beat any courses at our two lease deal in the TLC! Walk to locations now area. Hurricane located in Miramar protected buildings. shops, metrorail. 6701 SW 64 Ave and Miami. J. Gray Owner/Agent Email: 305-271-7177 727-343-0077 bevsmith@edmc.edu
HOME SELLERS Your home sold in 60 days or I’ll pay you $5000.00 cash!
GUARANTEED! For details go to www.60daysor5000paid.com William Bloodworth Keller Williams Realty Premier Properties
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HISTORY TUTOR • For all AP History Courses: American, European & World History • Academic Tutoring for All History Courses and Social Studies Classes • 7th to 12 Grades • Prep for AP History Exams & SAT Subject History Tests References available upon request.
Call Jamie at 305.322.5897
Dadeland Nails
December 10 - 23, 2013
PROFESSIONAL NAIL CARE SALON
Professional Nail Care for Ladies and Gentlemen
Plaza 77 • 9608 SW 77th Avenue Miami, FL 33156 Salon Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Sun: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tel: 305.412.1299 www.DadelandNails.com
Party Rentals Adults & Children Tables • Chairs • Linens • Centerpieces Balloon Decorations • Clowns Bouncers • Popcorn • Cotton Candy Snowcones • Chocolate Fountains
Mr. Happy Party info@mrhappyparty.com
786.444.7180
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
ADOPTION
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Homeschool Classes to Help Your Child Excel
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Living / Medical / Counseling Expenses Paid You choose the family you want for your baby / open adoption available. Call compassionate attorney
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866.633.0397 24 Hours / 7 Days FL Bar #0958107
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Are you looking for a small, personalized learning environment for your homeschooled child? Then turn to Kathy Procce, a professional tutor certified in math education with 20+ years of experience and a homeschool mother herself. Kathy is offering weekly homeschool morning mini classes or afternoon math classes in an intimate classroom setting in the Falls area. A good foundation in math will last a lifetime while building self-esteem and critical thinking skills. Contact Kathy at 305.244.6945 or email kprocce@gmail.com to get proven results for your child. All grade levels welcome.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
DO YOU OR A LOVED ONE NEED HELP WITH ALCOHOL OR SUBSTANCE RELATED ISSUES?
P
PaulMerker Merker has has helped helped Paul hundredsofofindividuals individuals hundreds andfamilies families and 305.934.5887
PAUL MERKER, MS, CAP Addiction Therapist Confidential Counseling
TUTORING SERVICES Subject Areas Taught: SAT Prep (math), ACT Prep (math), GRE Prep (math), Algebra I & II, Geometry, Calculus, Statistics, Physics, College Physics, Chemistry, Organizational Skill, Memory, Technical Writing. 15 Years Experience Office near 786-367-6713 Baptist Hospital
Shane Smoleny
merkerpaul1@aol.com 7600 SW 57th Ave, Suite 215 South Miami, FL 33143
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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International Speech and Evaluation Contest South Dade Toastmasters Club 2463, Area 53 South Dade Toastmasters Club 2463 is hosting its annual International Speech and Evaluation Contest on February 5, 2014 at the Deli Lane CafĂŠ and Tavern/Sunset Tavern, 7232 SW 59 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 at 7:30 a.m. during its regularly scheduled meeting time. The contest is for registered Toastmaster members but is open to the general public. Club 2463 invites anyone interested in learning more about the purpose and benefits of becoming a Toastmaster to the contest. Club 2463 meets weekly on Wednesday at the Deli Lane CafĂŠ and Tavern at 7:30 a.m. Meetings are scheduled for one hour. Visit and find out what being a Toastmaster is all about. About Toastmasters International Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Founded in October 1924, the organization currently has more than 270,000 members in 13,000 clubs in 116 countries. Each week, Toastmasters helps more than a quarter million people of every ethnicity, education and profession build their competence in communication so they can gain the confidence to lead others. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit www.toastmasters.org. Media Contact: Denni Jordan 305.432.1213 dennijordanrealtor@gmail.com VP Public Relation, South Dade Club 2463, Area 53
December 10 - 23, 2013
December 10 - 23, 2013
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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December 10 - 23, 2013
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A Personal Touch Fitness Sensitive Personal Training
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December 10 - 23, 2013
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GENERAL PAINT AND BODY WORK Cel Sezzz....
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December 10 - 23, 2013