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MAR. 20 - APR. 2, 2012
Concert dreams ended, Rosenberg heads KFHA
BY RICHARD YAGER
T
he only possible role Michael Rosenberg might enjoy other than marshaling public opinion is appearing as a concert pianist on stage at the Arsht Center. Instead, he became a successful business entrepreneur and a civic activist bent upon “making wrong things right.” His dream of potential fame as a classical artist began during a Kentucky boyhood when he “enjoyed” taking piano lessons while other kids played baseball. Pursuing a career in classical music, the new president of the Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations (KFHA) graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in music. He next secured a master’s degree in Performance Presentation at the University of Miami, teaching up to 40 budding keyboard students each week while writing his own music and diligently practicing. “Then, one day, it hit me,” he admitted with a sheepish smile. “I wasn’t going to become a Rachmaninoff. So I began working in advertising that came about from New York contacts I made, trying to sell songs I’d written. “I’ve had over one thousand rejections but I still write songs on my sevenfoot Steinway,” he added. “They’re all
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ROSENBERG, page 6
Live entertainment continues at MiamiDade County Fair
SRO crowd on hand for Military Museum event
BY JOSE BOZA
The Miami-Dade County Fair continues with a thrilling LIVE! entertainment lineup for the whole family. Fairgoers can enjoy a wide variety of acts, including special performances by Grammy Award-winning artists. The LIVE! entertainment schedule will include: F r i d a y N i g h t s R O C K ! P re s e n t s : Mar. 23 — Multiple Grammy Award winning Christian artist Israel Houghton and New Breed in concert on the Main Street Stage at 9 p.m. Mar. 30 — Electronic bands Breathe Carolina and The Ready Set live and in concert on the Main Street Stage at 9 p.m. S a t u r d a y N i g h t s L I V E ! P re s e n t s : Mar. 24 — Grammy Award winner Willy Chirino and the Celia Cruz AllStars live and in concert at 9 p.m. on The Main Street Stage. Mar. 31— Grammy Award Winner and Premio Lo Nuestro Award recipients Chino y Nacho live and in concert at 9 p.m. on the Main Street Stage. S u n d a y F u n D a y s A - L i v e ! P re s e n t s : Mar. 25 — Dinosaur Train, The Tennis Smash Zone, The Green Zone and Disney’s Florida Resident Interactive Area. G. Holmes Braddock High School Navy ROTC Color Guard participates during monument unveiling at Miami Military Museum. (SEE FULL STORY ON PAGE 6)
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FAIR, page 6
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Officer follows his nose to locate ‘grow house’
CAC chair James Blough (left) honors Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District Officer Carlos Chapie (center) with assistance from Acting Maj. Hernan Organvidez. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY RICHARD YAGER
Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District Officer Carlos Chapie got a laugh and a warm burst of applause after a Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) honored him as the District’s Officer of the Month for February 2012. The chuckles occurred as CAC chair James Blough read a citation relating that Officer Chapie detected a “strong odor of marijuana emitting from an unknown house” in Winston Park on Jan. 23. Chapie had just parked his cruiser at Winston Park Elementary School, 13200 SW 78 Ave. where he had volunteered to advise students on DARE, the countywide Drug Abuse Resistance Program. After Chapie left the school, he decided to canvass the area to see if he could spot “suspected homes” that emitted the distinctive odor. “You must have a pretty good sense of smell for the stuff,” Blough interjected, causing the laughter from CAC members while Chapie grinned in protest. “Never touch the stuff,” the officer said. Nonetheless, Officer Chapie’s doggedness paid off when he decided there was sufficient evidence of at least
one location. He contacted the MiamiDade Police Narcotics Bureau leading to an area investigation that subsequently pinpointed a single home as a potential “grow house.” Obtaining consent from an occupant of the suspicious home, detectives searched the premises to uncover “numerous hydroponic marijuana plants in various bedrooms, along with an array of drug paraphernalia consistant with cultivating and harvesting marijuana,” according to the citation. As a result, both the homeowner and two tenants were arrested on drug charges. “We had a laugh at this officer’s expense,” added Hammocks District Acting Maj. Hernan M. Organvidez. “But young men like Officer Chapie, only with us less than a year, are proving to be outstanding in their knowledge and initiative that leads to making West Kendall a safer place to live.” Blough and Organvidez congratulated Chapie with the Officer of the Month citation at the Feb. 29 CAC meeting as the officer accepted, modestly adding, “It’s the job we’re supposed to do.”
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
The ‘new’ Palms debuts upscale dining, shopping BY RICHARD YAGER
Upscale dining, evening entertainment and sophisticated shopping have marked the emergence of The Palms during the past two years. Devon Seafood Grille soon will expand a growing smorgasbord of upscale dining places around the lake where the old Town and Country Center Mall once existed at Kendall Drive and SW 117th Avenue. Newest restaurant to open was Carmine’s La Trattoria in February, initial expansion of a successful Palm Beach entrepreneur offering a gourmet menu of Italian specialties. It was fashionable makeovers like these originally promised for the redevelopment of the 700,000-square-foot mall area on the east side of Mills Drive, once anchored by a Sears, other chain stores and independently owned shops. The plaza-styled development of The Palms around the six-acre lake now glistens at night with a lighted fountain and brightly lit facades of Mediterraneanstyled architecture, when viewed from SW 117th Avenue. Rising are the exterior cinderblock walls
Workmen build exterior of Devon Seafood Grille at The Palms. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
for Devon Seafood Grille, a deluxe seafood restaurant, one of two openings planned by the growing Midwestern restaurant group in 2012. With already established locations in Chicago; Philadelphia; Milwaukee, and Hershey, PA, the restaurant group will
expand to six U.S. areas with the new Kendall restaurant and a second in Oakbrook, IL. Devon Seafood Grille at The Palms promises “simply prepared fresh fish, premium steaks, an impressive wine cellar and handcrafted cocktails in a chiccasual atmosphere” when doors open next year. Just steps away from La Trattoria and the Devon site is the “Blue Martini,” described as the “hottest” new nightclub eatery in the nation. Its showplace lounge was the first dining establishment to open at The Palms and now hosts weekly live jazz broadcasts over WDNA (88.9/FM) in Miami. Next came the Western hoe-down style of Cadillac Ranch, the trendy CG Burgers and ice cream treats of Haagen-Dazs to create additional dining choices adjacent to the Nordstrom Rack and Loehmann’s retail stores that opened the first phase of The Palms development. The two national fashion outlets were
joined by a 2009 opening of an 88,783square-foot Kohl’s, second highest performing store of the U.S. chain. On the west side shopping center, Marshall’s, Men’s Wearhouse, Nine West Outlet and Shaq (O’Neal’s) 24-Hour Fitness debuted soon after. Recent demolition of the last section of the old mall building and utility relocations marks “the commencement of the second phase” of that area’s redevelopment with “two boxes and two signature restaurants,” said Claudia Marquez, marketing/specialty manager for The Palms at Town and Country, as well as London Square at SW 137th Avenue and 120th Street, both managed by Jones Lang LaSalle Americas Inc. “Local Miami flavor along with an unmatched depth of retail options is what is making The Palms a new entertainment hub for western Miami-Dade County,” Marquez said. “When complete, the retailer lineup will include fashion apparel, entertainment, white tablecloth dining, home accessories and specialty retail business. Altogether, it is Kendall’s newest open air retail destination.” The 75-acre site includes the west side shopping center with new architectural facades, the Professional/Medical Arts Center, a boutique hotel and a condominium office building fronting SW 117th Avenue. Development for The Palms dates back nearly 10 years when Codina Group Inc., the center’s former ownership, began studying an upgrade of the six outparcel sites of the 700,000 square feet that comprised the mall area. TIAFF-CREF, a New York-based international real estate corporation purchased the Codina land holding in 2004 and announced new site planning in 2006 that began with mall demolition that paved the way for 2007-08 construction of the first phase of The Palms.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Pedro Garcia: He’s a ‘professional,’ not a politician Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR
AROUND TOWN Miami-Dade Appraiser Pedro Garcia who twice visited Kendall forums speaking on tax issues in recent months patiently explained how he treats complicated tax issues by “following the law.” He told a West Kendall audience in January he would not arbitrarily decide if those four garages next to the new Marlins baseball stadium should be subject to a county tax next July, commenting: “Let the lawyers decide; I’ll follow the law.” At that time, he felt obliged to tell the City Commissioners it appeared the city would owe $1.2 million in taxes for the Stadium’s four parking garages because they forgot to have the Marlins made responsible — even after the team got $642 million, mostly of bonded tax funds, to build a playfield on public land. With parking spaces mostly reserved for the Marlins, Garcia reasoned the buildings could hardly be tax-exempt with few spaces left over for the public, as parking for preliminary UM, FIU and Marlin games proved a near mess. When the news broke that the City Commission stumbled, Garcia volunteered to attend a meeting to see if the baseball team might shoulder part of the tax cost by charging higher parking fees for the spaces and use a dollar ‘bump’ to offset the yearly tax. The Marlins said “No.” The Florida Legislature upon adjournment March 9 approved a loophole to an existing statute that will allow a special exemption for ancillary facilities (like the garages). Should a constitutionality test result, it appears there is a paper trail building that seems already overloaded for attor-
neys to sink their teeth into. Nevertheless, Garcia continues to stand above the tortured tale, even when termlimited State Rep. Carlos Lopez-Cantera (who pushed the amendment legal work through the legislature) said afterwards he has now been “encouraged” to run for Pedro’s job. Replied Garcia to an ayem papyrus reporter about an election battle for the Appraiser’s position: “We will see the difference between a politician and a professional. “I am a professional.” We totally agree. A letter honoring the USS Biscayne’s service was read from French Consul General Gael de Maisonnueve during the Miami Military Museum monument unveiling March 11, honoring its crew and all other American servicemen for their sacrifice to free France in WWII. Reading of the letter was followed by American Legion District 11 Public Affairs Director Tom Kaiser who said many WWII vets who fought for France should apply for the French Legion of Honor, a medal awarded in recognition of Americans living and dead who fought in France. Of four million GI’s who fought in the European Theater, only 160,000 are known to have received the distinguished service medal simply because so many surviving vets are unaware of the tribute provided by the French government in post-WWII. Contact Kaiser in Delray Beach at 561276-1796 for information. Martha Backer is looking for historic info on Miami Killian Senior High as the school nears its 50th birthday. An alumnus of its first graduating class and editor of the first “Cougar” yearbook, she recalls the land being purchased for a Senior High School to relieve Miami Palmetto and Miami Southwest High Schools (as well as May’s HS, SW 106 Street and 97th Avenue). Killian grads can catch-up with reunion plans and provide any info for a
Kendall Gazette
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PUBLISHER .................................................................................................................................. Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz WRITERS, COLUMNISTS.............................................................. Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Diane Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller, Walter White LEGAL ADVERTISING ...................................................................................................................... Georgia Tait BOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................. Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT.....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............................................................ Denise Cebrero, Isabel Ortega, Cristian Ortiz PUBLISHER EMERITUS .......................................................................................................................................... Ron Miller MIAMI COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Homestead News, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens Tribune, Palmetto Bay News, Opa Locka News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. Please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.
working history by sending an email to <meeyog@aol.com>. Volunteers needed when the Commissioner Joe Martinez distributes a bountiful 2012 harvest to needy residents during his Ninth Annual Easter Festival on Saturday, March 31, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Tamiami Lakes Park, SW 18 Street and SW 132 Avenue. Those helping will receive community service credit. To sign up, call Gigi at 305-552-1155. “F F ree Family Movie Night” at Wild Lime Park, 11341 SW 147 Avenue on Friday, March 23 with a “family”-oriented movie to begin at sunset (approximately 6:30 p.m.). Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets while kids enjoy a bounce house, popcorn, hot dogs, and refreshments, “while they last,” adds Comish Joe Martinez, sponsoring the event. St. Patrick’s Day at BGR (The Burger Joint) at Carter Square shopping center off Kendall Drive at SW 137 Ave.) promotes St. Patrick’s Day special: Reuben Burgers and Girl Scout Thin Mint Milkshakes. The ($9.99) burger is covered with Thousand Island dressing, sauerkraut and thin-sliced
corned beef in tribute to St. Paddy while the shake blends GS cookies to add a green tint to what Easterners call a “vanilla frappe” at $4.99. You can try the combo through March 31. Parks Department hosting “Farmers Market Weekends” at Tropical Park with fresh seasonal produce and flowering plants purchased directly from southwestern Miami-Dade growers from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, now until May 31 (weather permitting) with free admission and parking. Thought of the Day: What is the essence of America? Finding and maintaining that perfect, delicate balance between freedom ‘to’ and freedom ‘from.’ — Marilyn Vos Savant
Richard Yager contributed to this column. Got any tips? Contact me at 305-6697355, ext. 249, or send emails to <Michael@communitynewspapers.com>.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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slanted for a pops market. As a lounge pianist for two years, I must have memorized over a 1,000 pop tunes.” Diligently practicing classical works one afternoon at a UM Music School studio, the time arrived to give up his half-hour when a voice student he knew “only casually” walked in and said, “I have the studio next. Your time is up at 1:30.’ I looked at my watch and told her, ‘I have two more minutes.’” The voice student became Mrs. (Nancy) Rosenberg, an elementary music teacher for the past 34 years who plays clarinet in the Greater Miami Symphonic Band. The Rosenbergs have two daughters — Rachel, a school reading specialist and wife of CPA Marc O’Connor, parents of Braden, age one, and Dare Rosenberg, pursuing an act- Michael Rosenberg spends some of his time researching issues at ing and voice-over career in the library. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– New York. Tracing his lineage to a Polish grand- Badgering for answers eventually caused mother and parents who left New York the Miami-Dade County Commission to City for the town of Mt. Sterling (pop. change the water billing policy to credit 5,000), Rosenberg today owns and man- up to 50 percent of unusually exorbitant ages ImagineYourPhoto, a flourishing charges. When the county’s Animal Service graphics company manufacturing more than 3,000 advertising specialty products Shelter was overrun with strays, Rosenberg adopted a kitten, watched it die from T-shirts to tote bags. “Luckily, Nancy puts up with my stick- in four days from a shelter-borne disease. ing for detail,” Rosenberg said, freely con- His protest resulted in taking up the cause fessing that he’ll “protest what others will to save euthanasia-bound animals by crenot.” Not long ago, he argued that a pop- ating a Pets Trust to finance better housecorn sign at an AMC theater offering “Free keeping at shelters. “I love asking tough questions,” he Refills” for buckets shouldn’t deny a second refill (“It was a long movie,” he added. “One of the best things about KFHA is having government officials laughed). “But that wasn’t the point. The sign address problems directly to the peoshould have said ‘Free Refill — without ple,” Rosenberg said. “When you tally the ‘s’,” he declared. Rosenberg took his the vote total for most county elections, Kendall averages 25 percent of that complaint to a corporate level. “Do you know what? Every sign in vote,” a clout he said will eventually every AMC theater got replaced,” he said lead to new incorporations. “KFHA can lead the way but residents with a triumphant grin. “Just think, I caused a giant theater chain to correct must attend the meetings and study issues to become accurately informed,” something, just by speaking up.” Such determination motivated him to said Rosenberg, whose equal concerns lead an investigation into potential water for the community led to organizing a shutoffs to customers (himself included) KFHA fundraiser for the FoodShare program and a Christmas party for children for suspiciously high bills. He currently continues a four-and-one- of migrants. “People can change things, once they half-year battle with county water officials over a $450 three-month billing. get involved,” he concluded.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
SRO crowd on hand for Military Museum event BY RICHARD YAGER The Miami Military Museum marked its first memorial event as a standing room only crowd of more than 200 paid tribute to the naval ship USS Biscayne and its crew during a monument unveiling ceremony on Mar. 11. Designed to preserve the military history of Miami-Dade County and South Florida, the museum, located adjacent to Zoo Miami and the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is due to open in 2013. Scores of uniformed retirees representing all U.S. Armed Forces turned out with county officials to see the unveiling of a four-foot high polished granite stone outside the museum entrance with an inscription memorializing the ship and service personnel. Emceeing the program was U.S. Navy veteran Anthony Atwood, history professor at FIU, who has guided restoration of the two-story structure, moved from the Richmond Navy Base to a site adjoining the Gold Coast Railway Museum near Zoo Miami. A massive $1 million reconstruction project is rebuilding the old blimp base headquarters original framework, replacing interior walls, flooring, exterior windows, and installing an elevator along with a new front entry. “We only put out chairs for about 50 people
FAIR, from page 1
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Apr. 1 — Super Why, Disney’s Florida Resident Interactive Area and The Green Zone. All concerts and special events are free with fair admission. Additional free ongoing entertainment at The Fair also will include: The Garage — South Florida’s place to hang out and be seen! The Garage, located in the heart of The Fair’s Midway and open until The Fair closes each night, will be home to the ultra-popular “Game-Hype” system. Fairgoers will enjoy the latest in next-generation video game entertainment featuring live broadcasts from Miami’s favorite radio stations and deejays, as well as giveaways by the Miami Marlins and the Miami Heat. LIVE! BEFORE FIVE: More to love than ever before 5 p.m. at The Fair. • New this year on the Main Street Stage, Vocal Trash, a unique musical act using everyday garbage items and the percussive power of Stomp, the vocal styling of The Nylons plus horns, acoustic guitars and a touch of comedy.
under this small tent,” noted Andrew Kelly, of Lancaster, PA, friend of Stanley Morrison, 93, of Huntingdon Valley, PA, the monument donor who served two years aboard the USS Biscayne, command ship for two admirals. “This turnout will warm his heart,” said Rev. Dan Morrison, nephew of Stanley, during an hour-long program taped for his uncle, unable to travel to Miami. “Such landmarks work against the erosion of memory,” added the pastor of a Presbyterian church in Philadelphia, PA. The G. Holmes Braddock High School Navy ROTC color guard began the ceremony, led to the marker site by Florida Veterans Affairs Commissioner Joe Martory, first of a dozen speakers that included Cutler Bay Vice Mayor Ernie Sochin who appeared for MiamiDade County Commissioner José Diaz. Also honored were Ms. Georgie Carter Krell of Virginia Gardens, FL, national president of American Gold Star Mothers; Jack Kardys, director, Miami-Dade Parks; Kevin Asher and Laura Phillips, Miami-Dade Parks, all of whom secured the marker location, and Serge Lafresnaye, Miami Monument Co., whose company built and subsidized much of the marker and foundation construction costs, Atwood noted. • The Oasis hosts the return of the Show Me Pig Races, Petting Zoo and Pony Rides each giving guests an up-close look and interaction with their favorite barnyard animals. • Hot Miami Ice will dazzle audiences with an ice skating show set to Latin beats at the E. Darwin Fuchs Pavilion. • Royal Hanneford Circus returns with six all-new sensational acts in a spectacular European-style circus. The Miami-Dade County Fair and Exposition is celebrating its 61st year and is ranked as the largest fair in Florida, hosting well over a half million guests annually. The Fair is a private, not-forprofit organization dedicated to enriching the community by promoting education and South Florida agriculture. In cooperation with the Miami-Dade County Public Schools, The Fair annually showcases the artistic and academic talents of more than 45,000 students through competition and exhibitions. In its distinguished history, The Fair has donated more than $8 million in scholarships, awards and cash premiums. The 2012 Fair continues through Apr. 1. For complete information, visit online at <www.fairexpo.com>.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Arrest of ‘gang robber’ earns award for officer
Kendall District Officer-of-the-Month Rigoberto Machado (center) is congratulated by CAC chair Barry White (left) and Capt. Gregory Dohring. (Photo by Bella Mompierre)
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BY RICHARD YAGER
Miami-Dade Police Officer Rigoberto Machado earned Kendall District’s Officer of the Month honors in February for helping a victimized resident after an ATM withdrawal and his alert follow-up effort to identify a “gang robber” involved in a holdup. Hammocks District officers initially answered an armed robbery complaint on Feb. 1 from a resident who said he was followed home by a trio of suspects who took both his mobile telephone and cash. Hearing a BOLO (Be On The Lookout) description of the trio’s car and license tag number, Machado began canvassing a nearby Kendall area. Heading north on SW 137th Avenue, the officer spotted the fourdoor, red sedan with a Florida tag that the trio used to flee the residence. Immediately notifying the dispatcher for backup assistance, Machado followed the vehicle as it turned east on SW 100th Street and then north on SW 135th Avenue. There he turned on the cruiser’s flashing lights and saw three males “bail
out” of the car and flee on foot near SW 99th Terrace. Establishing a perimeter with officers from Kendall and Hammocks districts, assisted by K-9 units and a helicopter search, one of three males was located and arrested. Machado later identified him as an escapee during a “show up” at the Hammocks District Station. “Subsequent investigation revealed that the incident was a gang initiation,” according to Barry White, chair of the Kendall District Citizen Advisory Committee. “The subject who was arrested implicated himself in the armed robbery, as well as provided information on the gang and other individuals involved…which will lead to their apprehension.” Commended for his alertness and dedication, initiative and teamwork, Officer Machado was congratulated during the CAC’s Feb. 29 meeting for aiding a breakup of Kendall-based gang members who follow victims from ATM machines to their home for armed robberies. The award was presented by White and Police Capt. Gregory Dohring.
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Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
Just how many more elderly will they let die? R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY How many sick and elderly in Florida’s adult living facilities (ALFs) will continue to die due to lack of action by our Florida Legislature to end the abuse? What happened to the much-heralded legislation that was going to bring an end to the mistreatment of our seniors? We were promised so much. We saw it coming when the headline read: “Historic ALF reform may be at risk.” Then, recently, on the last day of the 2012 legislative session, the headline read “ALF reform bill dies in the House.” It would seem that the differences between the House and Senate versions of the reform bill could not be reconciled. But that’s not the full story. While our governor and leaders of Florida’s House and Senate showed great alarm over the Miami Herald’s exposé, those opposed to the proposed reform legislation had their way.
It seems seniors will continue to wander off in the middle of the night and walk to their death in the absence of proper supervision. The old and the infirm will continue sleeping in their own filth and bedsores. Conditions that would break the heart of the most callous individuals will continue. We thought that reform of the ALF industry would have been a high priority of the 2012 legislative session. We were promised reform legislation. After all, its passage wouldn’t create a large financial burden on the state. While the legislature spent long hours debating abortion, drug testing government employees, prayers in school, the use of contraceptives, and other earth-shaking legislation, the ALF reform bill languished in committee and died, by design, at the hands of ALF owners and their lobbyists who plied members of the legislature with money. To quote the Miami Herald, efforts to pass legislation “collapsed under intense lobbying by ALF owners and industry leaders. In the last five years, the industry [ALF] had poured more than $215,000 into the coffers of key lawmakers.” For a measly $215,000, 30 pieces of sil-
VIEWPOINT ver, our legislature has permitted the ALF industry to continue the despicable manner in how it cares for our seniors. Just how many more will die for a miserable $215,000? In the last week of the session the House passed a bill that was considered falling short of the needed penalties required to end the lax management of ALF homes. The Senate version called for greater penalties for noncompliance and required greater education of ALF employees. We are told there wasn’t time for reconciliation. But the truth is that money, just $215,000, ended the legislature’s promised reform. Just how unconcerned can the responsible members of our state legislature be? I am ashamed to admit that we as a community elected them to office to protect the people of our state. I have never seen a more despicable absence of moral fiber in an elected body.
If I had my way everyone that took part in the destruction of the proposed ALF legislation would be removed from office and banned from future participation in government. Perhaps the legislators who killed the ALF reform bill should read the Miami Herald’s “DAILYQ” on a recent Sunday’s editorial page. The question: “Are you pleased with what lawmakers in the state legislature did this year?” The response was 93 percent said “no,” and only 7 percent said they were pleased. Need I say more? 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.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Insurance fraud causing hikes in automobile coverage costs
Al Sunshine CBS MONEY WATCH By definition, insurance fraud occurs when companies, agents, adjusters, healthcare providers or consumers intentionally deceive others or misrepresent facts for financial gain. Each year, insurance fraud costs consumers an estimated $150 billion, an average of almost $1,000 per family in additional insurance premiums. Fraud specialists say well-organized criminal rings have set up phony clinics statewide and they have tracked how thieves stage accidents, and pay the so-called victims, hundreds of dollars. “When these criminals submit fraudulent insurance claims, obviously that has an effect on the policy premiums of individuals,” insurance investigator Jessica Turner said. “Florida is one of the states that pay the most in insurance premiums, mainly due to the fraud that’s so widespread in this state.” According to Accenture’s 2010 consumer survey, more than half — 55 percent — of U.S. consumers say poor service from an insurance company is more likely to cause a person to defraud that insurer. Also, one of five U.S. adults — about 45 million people — says it is acceptable to defraud insurance companies under certain circumstances. Four of five adults think insurance fraud is unethical. Phony medical claims cost Florida consumers about $1 billion a year. That has
driven personal injury protection bills on our car insurance up by about 66 percent. Not surprisingly then, consumers are fed up with their growing car insurance bills. For several years now, professional criminal fraud rings target carriers and flood them with thousands of fraudulent claims. Data management and analysis can eliminate much of the basic fraud. Insurance carriers also can automate advanced warning of possible fraudulent behavior through thorough analysis and categorization of policyholders. Still, some don’t see it exactly that way. “What’s new is the attempt by the insurance industry to create a drive toward wide-ranging reform,” said North Miami attorney Kenneth Dorchak. “It’s really aimed at increasing insurance company profits and limiting the access of the individual to meaningful healthcare for injuries arising out of an automobile accident.” The only thing everyone seems to agree on right now is that without some major changes, insurance fraud will get worse, and so will our car insurance bills. According to a report from the Insurance Information Institute (III), Florida insurers are being forced to pay 70 percent more each year to cover costs associated with fraud, such as staged accidents, excessive or unnecessary medical treatment and inflated or questionable claims. The III report, released in January, stated that the $10,000 PIP minimum has become a “dollar target” aimed at those looking to game the system. “If there’s no changes, we will likely have additional fraud, and to add more fraud to what we have it really escalates matters,” Jessica Turner warned. “Our insurance bills will be sky high, even higher than they are now.”
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Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
Community Association Beat
MDC Kendall to host singer/alumna Are you prepared for Jenny Love in concert on Mar. 22
the hurricane season? BY MITCH DRIMMER, CAM Community Association Manager
I have been talking to an insurance expert and good friend, Sean Viture, regarding what associations should do about 2012 hurricane coverage. The season starts June 1 or just about 10 weeks away. Wikipedia cites studies predicting two or three major storms this year, and while we live in a tropical paradise, storms of gale winds and worse remind us just how insignificant we humans can be. To catch up legally, Sean notes that the year’s first fiscal quarter is drawing to an end, the state legislative session is over and there are plenty of articles in newspapers explaining new legislation that may affect association responsibilities. That’s why this is a good time for those who serve on a condo association board to have a meeting specifically about insurance. Why? Because insurance is likely the association’s highest expense. (Besides, everyone is ‘still around’ to participate). If there is a storm loss, the membership will want to know what to do, most expecting the insurance to come through. Your association’s agent can invited to the meeting to explain different policies that make up the community insurance program and deductibles for each type of risk. But first of all: Do you understand Association hurricane deductibles, and how they apply to a community and unit owners? Hurricane deductibles are listed as percentages (3%, 5% or 10%) but what does that mean? Example: After a damaging storm, an association must assess every owner $6,000 for repair of common areas sustaining damage. That percentage (3% or 5%) represents the community’s coverage. As owners track an incoming storm, they should be aware not only of potential cost to their individual unit but additional
potential liability to the association, determined by deductibles that will apply to any and all damaged common elements and be billed separately from other community payments. Has the Association explored all possible credits on the policy? Citizens Property Insurance Corp’s online website (<www.citizensfla.com>) shows which credits are possible. It’s also a good checklist if a board is looking for ways to strengthen community buildings during scheduled repairs or maintenance. For example, if the roof needs to be replaced, why not also get a bid for “Secondary Water Resistance”? While the upfront cost may increase, it could be worthwhile for long-term premium savings. Does the Association have a disaster recovery plan and an annual drill? Having a hurricane drill is a great way for neighbors to meet each other and foster a sense of community. Questions they have need to be answered by board members, for ex., if there is no power, where do unit owners meet to get up-to-date information? Does the association have a roster of special needs residents who may need assistance or be evacuated? And does the association have its key documents uploaded to a cloud-based system, such as a free Gmail account for easy post-disaster recovery? For more specific information about insurance storm coverage, you can reach Sean Virtue, Regional Vice President, Mack, Mack & Waltz Insurance and an insurance Blogger at <www.Condo InsuranceExplained.com> or toll free at 855-84-CONDO.
BY TARNELL CARROLL
In honor of Women’s History Month, Miami Dade College (MDC) will present numerous activities, including the upcoming concert, “A Night with Jenny Love,” Thursday, Mar. 22, 5:30 p.m., at the Kendall Campus, 11011 SW 104 St. (Under the Oaks in front of the Koffeehouse). Love, an MDC alumna, will perform hits from great female performing artists. Born and raised in a very “black-beansand-rice” culture, it was in Miami that Love developed her musical tastes and interests. She began classical and jazz vocal training at age 13, while also performing with her father’s six-piece Latin band. In her teenage years, Love sang in gospel choirs throughout Miami and, with this experience, later created her own blend of Latin funk with a twist of powerhouse Southern soul. Her candid readiness to experiment with musical genres has had a profound influence on the direction of her musical journey.
Jenny Love ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
For more information about this and other MDC Women’s History Month events, visit online at <http://bluetoad.com/publication?i=103090>.
Mitch Drimmer a licensed CAM and Vice President of Association Financial Services, is an accredited collection agency, specializing in finance, business process outsourcing, and community associations. For information, visit <www.associationfinancial.com> or tel.305-67-.0022, ext. 804.
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Florida Renaissance Festival coming to Cauley Square
Jousting tournaments are part of the spectacle of the Florida Renaissance Festival. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY JOSE BOZA
Miami-area fans of the Florida Renaissance Festival can rejoice! For two special weekends, the Florida Renaissance Festival will take place for the first time at Cauley Square Historic Village in South Miami-Dade. The festival weekend dates are Mar. 31- Apr. 1 and Apr. 7-8. “We are excited to return to Miami at our new location in Cauley Square Historic Village,” said Bobby Rodriguez, executive producer of the Florida Renaissance Festival. “This year’s festival promises even more thrills and excitement for our loyal Miami fans.” The featured entertainment will surely get the crowds going at this year’s Florida Renaissance Festival. Musical acts include local favorites such as Celtic Mayhem, and nationally known acts like The Trouvaires. Also performing at the festival is Wolgemut, a colorful and energetic pipe and drum act, featuring talented musicians in traditional German Renaissance garb. Variety acts include the new Kamikaze Fireflies, The Duelists and the Washing Well Wenches. Fans will have the chance to interact with roaming entertainers, such as Gabriel Q, a creative puppeteer who works on stilts with elaborately costumed characters. And, of course, the Florida Renaissance Festival would not be complete without its
King and Queen, Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain. The royal couple will be on hand to greet their loyal subjects. Guests can enjoy jousting tournaments, feast on hearty food and toast to the royal court with a tankard of ale or cider. The festival also will feature games of skill and chance that will challenge guests of all ages, including archery, the test of strength, Jacob’s Ladder and many more. Historical reenactments, sword fights and magical illusions are just some of the exciting events in store for this year’s festivities. The Florida Renaissance Festival is produced by the nationally acclaimed Bobby Rodriguez Productions and strives to create an entertaining and cultural experience for adults and children alike. The Florida Renaissance Festival at Cauley Square Historic Village will be open each day from 10 a.m. to sunset. Prices are $20 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 to 11. Children 5 and younger are free. Group ticket rates are available. The Florida Renaissance Festival has been seen by more than one million people in South Florida. This 16th Century production features more than 100 costumed performers and stage acts from around the world. For additional information, visit online at <www.ren-fest.com> or call 1-954-7761642.
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From FORTUNE Magazine, February 6, 2012 © 2012 Time Inc. FORTUNE is a registered trademark of Time Inc. and is used under license. FORTUNE and Time Inc. are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, Licensee.
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Danny Berry’s JCC Baseball to add Little League play BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD
Red Berry’s Baseball World closes its doors at the end of March. Those parents are starting their search for a new place to play and Danny Berry hopes they will look his way. “I have been getting calls from people who were at his facility,” said Danny Berry of Danny Berry’s JCC Baseball, based at the Dave and Mary Alper Jewish Community Center. He’s been at the JCC for almost 20 years. Prior to that, he worked at Red Berry’s facility for nine years. Berry wrote a letter to Red Berry congratulating him on his career. “We both have the philosophy about baseball,” Danny Berry said. Berry said he can handle an influx of children who are seeking a new baseball league now that Baseball World is closing. “I can take in more. I’d basically spread them out throughout the week. My goal is to get 500.” In fact, the timing of when Red Berry’s program ends and Danny Berry’s next one begins is good. “His season goes until the end of March,” Danny Berry said. “My next program starts at the end of April.” That’s when he begins his Little League season and his Intro to Baseball Program for 3- and 4-year olds. Danny Berry said he and Red Berry run similar programs where parents are involved but the teams are coached by guys who played in college or the minors. He makes sure they coach positively and encourage the kids instead of yelling at them. His program always has been respected and now he has added an official Little League program as well. “I do have parents coaching in my Little League,” he said.
Danny Berry is pictured with some of the youngsters he teaches. (Photo courtesy Eric Ellington) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
“But I’m here all the time. My job, as the president of the league, is to make sure the parents are talking to the kids, not
yelling and screaming at them.” Danny Berry believes that playing baseball should be fun for children, without the pressure that they’ll feel if they play high school or college ball. “It should be the best time of their lives, right now,” Danny Berry said. “It builds their self esteem. It rubs off on other things at school. A coach is like a hero to the kids for six months.” He said being in a good baseball program can build character and teach good sportsmanship. “We make it a non-pressured fun environment for the kids,” he said. That’s one of the reasons he brought in Little League, because its philosophy meshes with his philosophy. Danny Berry’s Little League team of 11- and 12-year olds made it to the state championship last year, just one game from going on television. They lost the championship game but he’s confident he is going to have another good team this year. “I think we’re going to have a pretty good team with the 11 and 12’s,” he said. “The 9 and 10’s have a good team, but they can only go as far as state.” He is a fan of the system because Little League demands positive coaching. “You see the coaches in the World Series, you don’t see the yelling and screaming,” Danny Berry said. “Little League stresses the fun and the positive.” Danny Berry’s has an academy setting in the fall, Little League starting Apr. 30 and running for six weeks, then summer camp. He also runs an Intro to Baseball program for 3 and 4 year olds. His program accommodates children through age 12. For more information, call 305-271-9000, ext. 241, or go online to <www.dannyberry.com>.
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Switchboard of Miami’s Helpline logs 168,000 calls during 2011 BY RICHARD YAGER
They probably have saved hundreds, if not thousands, of lives. Yet those who operate Switchboard of Miami Inc. are still little known to many county residents after 45 years of existence. Switchboard’s staff and volunteers often make a profound difference between life and death, and that is why a description of the non-profit agency’s mission captured the attention of a West Kendall audience on Feb. 29. “While primarily known mostly for suicide prevention, we do many other services, as well,” said Trudy Krasovic, a Helpline counselor who noted a total 226 suicides in Miami-Dade County during 2011. “When I joined the service 24 years ago, the average was about 4,000 calls each month,” she recalled. “Now we average 15,000 calls per month for many reasons besides the desperation of a suicidal-inclined individual.” Krasovic assists in training staff for 24hour answering shifts at Switchboard’s newly occupied quarters in a former parking authority garage at 190 NE Third St. in downtown Miami. Increased call-ins during her years of service, however, more directly point to the agency’s extended outreach, rather than a surging population with suicidal tendencies, she added. That is because Switchboard maintains 24/7 lines that answer general information queries about where to find specialized help while providing referrals for free individual and family counseling and prevention assistance for high-risk youth and families through local schools. Operating on a yearly budget of $4.1 million, additional funding to keep Switchboard in operation comes entirely from contributions, grants and government subsidies that allow its Helpline services to log an estimated 168,000 calls yearly in addition to crisis counseling. Besides federal, state and county subsidies, major private donors who contribute regularly include United Way, Miami Foundation, AmeriCorps, National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Kidside Solutions Inc., Roxy Bolton Rape Treatment Center of Jackson Health System, and Alphanet Inc. “Caring, multilingual, professional staff members and volunteers are available around the clock for anyone in need of help, even if just to identify the right agency to call for a particular problem,” Krasovic said, noting Switchboard maintains the only comprehensive countywide Community Resource Directory. Its Prevention and Clinical Services
Moraima Lugo-Morales and Ruben Morales learn Switchboard services from Trudy Krasovic (center) during Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District CAC meeting on Feb. 29. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Department provides both school and community-based education and prevention programs (in English, Spanish and Creole), designed to identify youths with alcohol, tobacco, drug abuse, an inclination to violence, early pregnancies and other high risk behaviors. A Senior Services program provides a daily monitoring call, mostly to seniors who live alone, “to see that they’re okay and have a meal for the day,” Krasovich said. “We get about 700 calls a month just from seniors who need direct help or just a comforting word. They can’t always find a friend or relative to help with a personal problem.” Current Senior Services program for residents of 65-plus years resulted in 69,798 outgoing calls from problem-solvers last year. Prevention and Clinical Services provided education and information to 2,382 teens and individual or family group counseling to 354 families last year. An 18-member, all-volunteer board of directors governs the non-profit agency with its staff composed equally of employees (74) and volunteers (75), aided by nine AmeriCorps members and 10 interns. “We encourage people to find out about volunteering,” Krasovic urged, adding that a special “Gatekeeper” program provides free community outreach training the second Tuesday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. The session includes a light breakfast. Information for upcoming Apr. 10 or May 8 sessions is available by calling 305-3581640, ext. 156. For other program details, visit online at <www.switchboardmiami.org> or call 305358-HELP (4357).
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
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It’s Federal Tax Season — don’t get scammed BY KATHERINE FERNANDEZ RUNDLE
State Attorney, Miami-Dade County Just recently, a Miami woman was charged with stealing the identities of U.S. Marines and others in an alleged tax-refund scheme to con the Internal Revenue Service into sending her thousands of dollars. In Broward County, a Sunrise woman recently tried filing for her tax refund only to find out that someone else already had filed on her behalf and received the refund instead. During every tax season, scammers are on high alert, coming up with ways to score every last penny as they prey on the unsuspecting taxpayer. This means, among others, stealing identities, filing fake tax forms, hiding income offshore and exaggerating charitable donations. In South Florida, this type of criminal activity is very common. It is no surprise that a Federal Trade Commission report just released indicated that South Florida had more complaints about identity theft than any other place in the United States in 2011.
Some of the scams these crooks pitch involve victim participation in illegal activity, which potentially could lead to criminal prosecution. Each year, the IRS releases its “Dirty Dozen” tax scams to make the taxpayer aware of the common schemes being reported during that particular tax season. It is extremely important that we maintain our defenses on high alert by reviewing this list and becoming an even more informed taxpayer. Beyond releasing this yearly “Dirty Dozen” publication, the IRS always stresses that it does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email or any social media tool to request personal or financial information. Scam artists will tempt people in-person, online and by email with false promises about lost refunds and free money. Don’t be fooled by these scams. Remember the wise old saying: “If it sounds to good to be true, it probably isn’t.” Protect your identification and use caution during tax season to protect yourself against a wide range of schemes ranging from identity theft to return preparer fraud. To view the IRS’s “Dirty Dozen” list, go online to <www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=254383,00.html>.
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Tropical Park begins hosting ‘Farmers Market Weekends’ BY LAURA PHILLIPS
The Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department has begun “Farmers Market Weekends” at Tropical Park. The public has the opportunity to purchase fresh seasonal produce and flowering plants directly from south Miami-Dade growers, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., every Saturday and Sunday, through May 31 (weather permitting). “Improving our community’s health is important,” said Jack Kardys, Miami-Dade Parks director. “Hosting a farmers market event at Tropical Park provides citizens with access to fresh and affordable local fruits and vegetables, heart-healthy food choices, and park activities that can help them achieve a healthier lifestyle.” Tropical Park is located at 7900 SW
40 St. (Bird Road). The event will take place at the park’s main entrance at Bird Road and SW 79th Avenue. “Tropical Park is one of the most beautiful settings for such an event and a great place to take the family for a memorable day out,” said Miami-Dade County District 10 Commissioner Javier D. Souto. “After guests browse the market, they can spend the rest of their afternoon enjoying the park’s picturesque scenery and outdoor activities, such as picnicking, fishing and boating at the park’s south and east lakes, or strolling along the park’s miles of pathways and much, much more.” For more information about the Farmers Market Weekends at Tropical Park contact Tommy Vick of V&B Farms at 786-412-9584, or via email at <vandbfarms@gmail.com>.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
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‘Night in Bollywood’ fundraiser promises unique night of fun BY GLORIA BURNS
The fifth annual “A Night in Bollywood” extravaganza is scheduled for Mar. 24, 7-11 p.m., at 1400 S. Greenway Dr. in Coral Gables. Guests at this unique gala will be filled with the sights and sounds, culture, cuisine and the enigma and excitement that is India. With the event touted as “the most fun fundraiser in South Florida,” guests may expect an over-the-top evening featuring an incredible lineup high-energy Bollywood dance performances that include amazing aerial acrobats and fire breathers. There also will be a live and silent auction, contests for Best Dressed in Indian Attire, Seductive Indian Cuisine, and much more. Prepare to be spellbound as the affair promises to transport you from sunny Southern Florida to exotic India — all in a single evening. Last year, a record breaking 1,300
Guests at this unique gala will be filled with the s i g h t s a n d s o u n d s , c u l t u re , cuisine and the enigma and excitement that is India. people attended “A Night in Bollywood” with all proceeds going to benefit Sunil’s Home Orphanage in India. To date, the generosity of the community has touched the lives of more than 10,000 children — connecting them to the resources and educational opportunities that allow them to explore, innovate, and build important life skills to achieve their dreams and break the cycle of poverty. For tickets visit online at <www.sunilshome.com/tickets>.
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Badass Business Women preparing to celebrate anniversary, Mar. 24 BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Badass Business Women is celebrating its anniversary on Saturday, Mar. 24, from 7 p.m. to midnight, at The Stage Miami in the Design District. Look for a stellar event with hundreds of empowered entrepreneurs gathering to celebrate their successes and all that is to come in 2012. At the event Badass Business Women will be crowning the new “Badass in Business” award winners with a pink carpet and camera crew to rival that of the Academy Awards. Jessica Kizorek, founder of BadassBusinessWomen.org, is hosting the second annual anniversary party to cele-
brate the success of this dynamic organization that is changing the face of entrepreneurship. Women are invited to rub elbows with hundreds of Miami’s most Badass business people and the imported super stars being flown in from around the country. Imagine entering the heart of Miami’s Design District, walking down a hot pink carpet, coasting alongside the hot pink stretch hummer limousine. Prepare yourself for paparazzi, television crews and photographers catching your every move. Professional women unite to bond and grow their business For more information, visit online at <www.badassbusinesswomen.org>.
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Kendall Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram back on track and open for business
General Manager and owner Hector Collado (center left in suit) with staff –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY SUSAN SMITH
our top selling vehicles and we have a huge inventory on site. The Dodge Ram Trucks start with 1500 Regular Cabs to 5500 Duallys. The Dodge Challenger is an incredible sports car with a v8 Hemi. The Compass and Avenger are phenomenal. The Dodge Dart is coming back at our lowest price point and the quality will be there. We are also offering larger commercial vehicles as well.” The VIP Loyalty membership program is in effect for guests to take advantage of once they purchase a vehicle or have a service performed in the service department. It offers a host of complimentary services in addition to credit upon a new or used auto purchase that can be used towards service, parts, or accessories and three percent loyalty cash on paid service. The VIP plan also includes no vehicle maintenance for the first two years and access to the $12 oil change. General Manager and Owner of Kendall Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, Hector Collado, knows buyers after over 30 years in the industry. “We purchase a new vehicle when we believe we are getting a good value. The way I measure value is by comparing an $80,000 vehicle to a $40,000 one and if I can feel the same quality, workmanship and care that goes into both, well then I am going to get everything I want for 50 percent off. Now that is good value.” To find out more about Kendall Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram at 13355 SW 137 Avenue call 786-231-2132 or visit www.KendallDodgeChryslerJeepRam.com. *(automedia.com)
President Barack Obama said it clearly during the State of the Union Address in January: “We bet on American workers. We bet on American ingenuity. And tonight, the American auto industry is back.”* In no other community is the auto industry back in Florida like it is at Kendall Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram. The immaculate 25 vehicle showroom at 13355 SW 137 Avenue recently re-opened to an ecstatic neighborhood reception grateful for the renewed area commerce and additional area jobs. “Of the 100 vehicles we sold in the first few weeks of February since our opening, many clients would come in and say ‘we are so happy you are back.’ Obviously we are happy to be here as well in a welcoming facility; bar none. We want to earn the trust and business of the community by supplying information and the best prices in town,” said General Manager and Owner Hector Collado. The formerly shuttered dealership has now reopened under new ownership and offers one of the largest inventories in Dade and Broward counties at a state of the art facility including a service department open seven days per week for customer convenience. “We are the only image facility in Dade County and in essence that means that our showroom is what Chrysler wants all of their dealerships to look like. Our parts department has the capacity for over a million dollars in parts, and we are the only location open on Sunday for service and parts. Our guest lounge has 6 complimentary computer stations and free wireless internet. Plus, with a 70 inch HDTV screen it looks like the place to be on Super Bowl Sunday,” said Collado. Kendall Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram has a vehicle on hand for every South Florida lifestyle niche whether for town or country or—the Keys, according to Collado. “The Chrysler convertible 200 is amazing, the perfect car for sunny South Florida and a great vehicle to have. The Jeep Wrangler and Cherokees are two of The Kendall Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Showroom
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Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
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Westminster Christian students sweep Future Problem Solving competition BY ANA POVEDA
Westminster Christian School elementary and middle school students competed in the Future Problem Solving District Competition and came away with the top prizes in each category and division. In the Middle Division, grades 7-9, Westminster teams took the first and second place prizes in both the Written Plan category and the Skits Presentation. In the Junior Division, grades 4-6, Westminster students earned earned the first and second place awards for the Written Plan Category, and the first, second, and third place prizes in the Skit Presentation category. At the Future Problem Solving District competition, students develop written plans and skits for problems that are futuristic in nature, but oriented to real life. This year’s topic was human rights. Students rely on their skills of teamwork, communication, research, critical and creative thinking, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Placing teams will compete in Orlando on Mar. 19. This will be the fourth year WCS students qualified for state. District competition winners were:
MIDDLE DIVISION (GRADES 7-9) Booklet/Written Plan Category First Place — Callie Hodges, Savannah Hodges, Sophia Gonzalez and Brejah Upton; Second Place — David Delgado, Andrew de Moya, Jake Hodges and Michael Ibar. Skit Presentations Category First Place — David Delgado, Andrew de Moya, Jake Hodges and Michael Ibar; Second Place — Callie Hodges, Savannah Hodges, Sophia Gonzalez and Brejah Upton. JUNIOR DIVISION (GRADES 4-6) Booklet/Written Plan Category First Place — Alexia Arrizurrieta, Carolina Gonzalez, Melissa Navarro and Katrina Solares; Second Place — Carli Ness, Annie Perez, Faith Shaw and Emily Waltz. Skit Presentations Category First Place — Carli Ness, Annie Perez, Faith Shaw and Emily Waltz; Second Place — Meghan Quirantes, Rebekah Raffalski, Victoria Suris and Natalie Talarico; Third Place — Alexia Arrizurieta, Carolina Gonzalez, Melissa Navarro and Katrina Solares.
Pictured (l-r, back row) Mrs. Jodie Rivera, Andrew de Moya, David Delgado, Michael Ibar, Savannah Hodges, Jake Hodges, and Callie Hodges; (middle row) Alfonso Betancourt, Faith Shaw, Melissa Navarro, Carolina Gonzalez, Annie Perez, Sophia Gonzalez, Emilee Waltz, Alexia Arrizurieta, Katrina Solares, Lexy Wallery; (front row) Carli Ness, Nicholas Mora Solares, Victoria Suris, Rebekah Raffalski, Natalie Talarico, and Meghan Quirantes.
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Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
Miami Seaquarium offers teachers free admission Mar. 31 - Apr. 1 BY MICHELLE PALOMINO
During “Totally Teachers Weekend!,” Saturday, Mar. 31, and Sunday, Apr. 1, MiamiDade and Broward teachers, in both private and public schools, will receive free admission to Miami Seaquarium, plus a discount for up to four guests at 50 percent off of regular admission. Teachers also may enter to win a free field trip to Miami Seaquarium at the Education Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Only one trip will be awarded each day. Teachers must show a valid school ID card or pay stub along with a picture ID to redeem discount. The offer is valid only on regular admission to Miami Seaquarium and is not combinable with any other offer. “Totally Teachers Weekend! is our small way of recognizing our teachers for the invaluable service they offer to our community,” said Andrew Hertz, general manager at Miami Seaquarium. “We encourage teachers to bring out their families and take advantage of this great offer.” For more than 50 years, Miami Seaquarium has been a firm advocate of marine life conservation and education. Through its current inter-
active educational programs, Miami Seaquarium continues its mission of educating students of all ages about the wonders of marine life. Miami Seaquarium hosts several educational programs throughout the year, such as: Day Camps; Spring Camp; Home School Days; Girl Scout and Boy Scout Days, and “Mommy and Me,” a program for mothers and young children. In addition, the park hosts thousands of local students for educational field trips year round. Teachers are invited to visit the Education Center at Miami Seaquarium during Totally Teachers Weekend! for more information on educational programs offered at Miami Seaquarium. Miami Seaquarium, South Florida’s most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public every day of the year. The park provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and marine-life exhibits. General admission to Miami Seaquarium is $39.95 and $29.95 for children (ages 3-9). More information on Miami Seaquarium is available online at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Students can nominate teacher for chance to win Disney stay BY JACKIE MACKAY
The Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels have partnered with Walt Disney World once again to honor outstanding K12 teachers with its 2012 A+ For Teachers at Downtown Disney essay contest. The fourth annual contest, which runs through Apr. 13, asks students in grades 1 through 12 to nominate their favorite teacher by writing a brief essay of no more than 300 words and submitting it via <www.downtowndisneyhotels.com>. The essay should explain how the teacher has made a difference in the student’s life and will be judged on its relevance to theme, creativity, originality, and the merit of the teacher’s accomplishments as outlined in the essay. Seven winners will be chosen, and those students and their favorite teacher nominees each will win a vacation prize package that consists of: • Five-day/ four-night accommodations (for up to four family members) at one of the Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels; • Four free Walt Disney World one-day, one-park passes; • Four free tickets to the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park; • Complimentary breakfast at the hotel each day (for up to four family members), and • One $100 gas card. “We’re excited to kick off our fourth annual contest to celebrate those teachers who truly make a difference in the lives of their students in spite of the many challenges their schools are facing,” said Kevin Renzi, chair of the organization’s marketing committee. “We’ve been amazed by
the stories we’ve received in prior years, so we look forward to selecting even more gifted teachers for the recognition they deserve.” Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels have awarded 60 vacation trips to deserving teachers and their students since starting the annual essay contest in 2009. Prior winners have been recognized for home schooling students struggling with challenging illnesses, persevering in their teaching careers despite life-threatening medical conditions, supporting the work of non-profit organizations, helping their students excel academically, inspiring learning in the classroom, and other professional and personal feats. This year’s A+ For Teachers at Downtown Disney contest winners will be notified directly by May 1 and also announced on the hotels’ website. Guests staying at these Official Walt Disney World Hotels receive special privileges not available at hotels outside of the Disney Resort, such as: • Complimentary transportation to all four Disney theme parks, two of Disney’s water parks and Downtown Disney every 30 minutes; • Advanced tee times and discounts at all four Disney championship golf courses; • Disney’s Extra Magic Hours (at select hotels), and • Delivery of souvenirs purchased at the parks directly to their hotel room at no cost. To make a reservation or for more information on the 2012 A+ For Teachers at Downtown Disney contest, visit online at <www.downtowndisneyhotels.com>.
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Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
Miami Dade College students to host Concert for Congo BY LEE STEPHENS
worked with Food for the Poor, a nonprofit Florida-based organization. It hosted two All-Nighter’s for Haiti, accumulating more than $50,000 in funds towards the island’s relief. HEAL Africa is a registered 501(c)(3) charity whose main focus is to support the Congolese people, train health professionals, strengthen the communities, and encourage women to take on leadership positions while at the same time providing them with life skills and vocational training to help them thrive. Throughout the past 14 years, the organization has helped establish 28 women’s safe houses for those who have been victimized by the war. Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society with a mission of recognizing and encouraging the academic achievement of two-year college students along with proving opportunities for individual growth and development through participation in honors, leadership, service and fellowship programming.
Students Aiding International Development (SAID), in cooperation with HEAL Africa and Phi Theta Kappa, will host a concert on Mar. 30 at the Miami Dade College Kendall Campus’ Fred Shaw Memorial Plaza in an effort to promote awareness and raise the necessary funds to construct and preserve a safe house for the war victims of Congo. Although contributing to all genders and age groups, the Concert for Congo is a community and college event intended to heal, empower, and rebuild the lives of the women and children of the community who have been affected by the hardships of war, and, most importantly, rape. SAID is an organization established three years ago by Miami Dade College students with the intent of raising cognizance and accumulating funds to aid those who face deplorable suffering that occurs throughout the world. In October 2009 and January 2010, the organization
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Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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United Way launches program to encourage love for reading BY YANET OBARRIO SANCHEZ
United Way of Miami-Dade is expanding its volunteer reader pilot program — now titled Read Together/Leer Juntos — to include up to 130 volunteer readers at 13 early learning centers across Miami-Dade. Now through May 24, these readers are being matched with 55-60 pre-K classrooms for an hour of story time each week, influencing nearly 1,000 students. The program is still seeking volunteers to help enhance literacy opportunities for young children and instill a love for reading, even before they can read for themselves. For information on a center location and program specifics, visit <www.unitedwaymiami.org/volunteerreaderprogram> or contact Chantell King at <kingc@unitedwaymiami.org>. As part of the program, United Way is offering a training session for the volunteer readers where they will learn about ageappropriate books, tips for reading to young
children and receive a reader toolkit with sample activities and more. “The United Way Volunteer Reader Program is a great way for residents to get involved with their community,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. “Promoting literacy and encouraging our youngest residents to read is a true win-win and will have a lasting impact.” Research shows that children who learn to read well at an early age not only will read more independently, but also achieve more in math, social studies and science. They also are more likely to graduate from high school and pursue higher education. Investing in them pays off — the outcome includes higher graduation rates, better job skills, increased homeownership and less chance of criminal activities. To learn more about the Read Together/Leer Juntos program or for tips on how to read to children, visit online at <www.unitedwaymiami.org/Volunteer ReaderProgram>.
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Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
Miami-Dade announces transportation information for Sony Ericsson tourney BY DORIS HOWE
The Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department welcomes the return of the Sony Ericsson Open Tennis Tournament to Miami-Dade Parks’ Crandon Tennis Center, located on Key Biscayne, Mar. 19-Apr. 1. In cooperation with the Sony Ericsson Open/IMG, Village of Key Biscayne, Key Biscayne Police Department, Miami-Dade County Public Works and Waste Management Department, Florida Department of Transportation, and City of Miami, and in the interest of enhanced public safety at this year’s event, MiamiDade Parks provides the following information concerning traffic, transit, parking, drop-offs, bicycles, and pedestrians for residents and visitors attending the event: Pedestrians — For greater patron safety, the South Gate will not be accessible to pedestrians. Tennis fans walking to the tournament from the Village of Key Biscayne will be directed by Key Biscayne Police to proceed along the east side of Crandon Boulevard, along its bike path adjacent to Lot 4. The path will lead to the tournament’s main-entrance crosswalk, where patrons will cross Crandon Boulevard to enter the event. Pedestrians will not be permitted to walk north of Harbor Drive on the southbound side of Crandon Boulevard. D rop-Off/Pick-up/Will Call — The tournament drop-off, pick-up and ticket Will Call area will be strictly limited to the North Gate/Lot 6 entrance. Traffic — The public should expect heavier than normal traffic along Rickenbacker Causeway during the tournament due to larger than normal crowds. Fans should note that SunPass is NOT accepted at the causeway’s tollbooth. Visit <www.511southflorida.com> for traffic updates. Transit — Bus service via the popular Route B, also referenced as Route 102, covering the Brickell Metrorail Station, Brickell Business District, Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami Seaquarium, Crandon Park, City of Key Biscayne, and Cape Florida State Park, will make regular stops at the main entrance of the tournament when heading toward the Village of Key Biscayne. It also will make regular stops across the street from the main entrance, along the east side of Crandon Boulevard, on its return route to Brickell. Public transportation information, including bus schedules, routes and fares, can be found at <www.miamidade.gov/transit/>
or by calling 3-1-1. Taxi Service — Taxi service will be available with pickup/drop-off located north of the Crandon Park Office, between Lots 2 and 3, where shuttle buses enter/exit the park. Signage will be posted. Parking — Parking lots close two hours after the last match. Shuttle bus service to and from the All Day General Admission Parking Lot on Arthur Lamb Road ends one hour after the last match. During the tournament, parking will be available at the following locations: • All Day General Admission Parking — $12-$20/vehicle — Located at Arthur Lamb Road across from the Seaquarium. Free shuttle services will be provided from Arthur Lamb Road to Parking Lot 3 every 15 minutes until one hour after the last match. • Parking Lot 1 — Beach Patrons Parking Only — Located at the northernmost entrance to Key Biscayne after crossing the bridge beyond the Rickenbacker Causeway, this lot is strictly reserved for beach patron parking only. No event parking permitted. • Parking Lot 2 — Accessible Parking — Located at the north entrance of Crandon Park, all accessible parking spaces for the disabled are located in this lot to patrons with a tournament ticket and a valid handicap decal. • Parking Lot 2 — VIP Parking After 5 p.m., $30/vehicle — Located at the north entrance of Crandon Park, this is the closest lot to the stadium. Fee is per day, no reentry allowed. Subject to availability. • Parking Lot 3 — Box Holder Parking — This lot is reserved for Box Holders. • Parking Lot 4 — Motorcycle and Golf-Cart Parking, $10 — Located at the south entrance of Crandon Park, this is the only lot allowing motorcycle and golf-cart parking at a cost of $10. Fee is per day, no re-entry allowed. • Bicycles, Lot 4, Bike parking is free — Located in Lot 4 by its main exit, diagonally across from the tournament’s mainentrance crosswalk. P rohibited Parking – Overnight parking is prohibited at Crandon Park. Parking is prohibited at Calusa Park on Key Biscayne. Commercial trucks are prohibited from parking in all public lots. RV’s are not permitted at Crandon Park. RV Parking — RV’s are restricted and may only utilize Arthur Lamb Road for parking. For information about MDPROS the public should call 3-1-1 or visit online at <www.miamidade.gov/parks>.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
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When restaurateur Carmine Giardini was growing up in Abruzzo, Italy, life was about food and family. Extended relatives lived in the same traditional European household raising the food together that would eventually end up on the dinner plate. The family values Carmine remembers of working, sharing and refining the harvest served him well as his successful gourmet market and dining establishments attest. In the same tradition of upscale, four star, white table cloth dining Carmine has become famous for with his original Carmine’s La Trattoria in Palm Beach Gardens, the recently opened Carmine’s La Trattoria at The Palms at Kendall Town and Country Mall promises guests the same exquisite family-style dining experience. Rustic elegance awaits diners who can choose from several elegant yet cozy style seating options. Start with an aperitif at the spacious full liquor and wine bar and then adjourn to one of the booth style tables or saunter outside for a romantic outdoor experience at a table for two along the water. The secret of fine Italian cuisine is to take simple foods and bring out the best flavor of the food, then season to taste according to Carmine. A dish like Piatto de la Nona means Grandmother’s Dish. Traditional dishes like the veal chicken are made from Carmine’s grandmother’s original recipe. The lasagna is also based on Siena’s recipe (Carmine’s mother) made famous in the old country. Most of the desserts come from Italy. Carmine uses only Certified Angus Beef center cuts in the meat dishes and the diverse menu options to choose from like antipasti, zuppe, insalate, paste, risotto, specialita items and pizza from La Nostre Pizzeria are enough to satisfy any palate. “In the European tradition of eating with friends and family members, everybody orders something different and shares so you can try an
Lobster fettuccini –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
assortment of dishes. At La Trattoria we serve family style dishes for that reason. The proportions vary so you can order medium or large depending on your party,” said Carmine. To present the ultimate in Italian inspired atmosphere, waiters and chefs are periodically sent to Italy to savor firsthand the experience of Italian food, drink, and hospitality. Full service catering, party style plates for up to 200 and facilities for parties are also available. Since Carmine’s beginning days in the business as a butcher for over ten years in East and West Kendall some time ago and as a gourmet market owner, Carmine has learned never to bargain for a product but rather to insist on the best quality and customers will notice. The growth of his enterprises like CG Burger, Carmine’s Coal Fire Pizza and La Trattoria prove his point. “The most important part of this business is when people leave my restaurant and say ‘What great food and what a great experience, I will be back.’ That is what it is all about.”
To find out more about Carmine’s La Trattoria to include viewing an online menu visit www.carmineslatrattoria.com. For reservations, call 786-433-8687.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
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Miami Childrens Theater Wins Big at 2012 Junior Theater Festival Miami Childrens Theater’s participated in their first ever national theater competition, the internationally recognized, Junior Theater Festival held this past January in Atlanta, Georgia and won in multiple areas. Miami Childrens Theater took a group of 15 multi-talented students ranging in age from 10-16 and won awards for Best Acting in a Large Group Musical, Best Male Actor, Best Broadway Slam Performer and had three dancers chosen to appear in choreography DVD’s seen that will be used internationally to teach students. The dancers will be flown to New York and will film dance DVD’s to be included in Junior versions of Broadway Musicals. Participants rehearsed for over three months leading up to the festival. Junior Theater Festival is sponsored by ITheatrics, an offshoot of Music Theater International. Founded in 2003, JTF has grown to over 1500 participants from around the world. In addition to the competition, participants got to meet with the creative team and actors from NBC’s new hit show, “Smash” which is set within a Broadway musical. Miami Childrens Theater is in their 16th year of bringing the best of the performing arts to the young people of South Florida. Artistically, MCT has evolved into one of the top young persons’ theaters in the Southeast. With an acclaimed faculty and an extensive theater conservatory curriculum, MCT “graduates” have been accepted to the finest performing arts universities in the country and currently has six former students on Broadway or on national tours. Miami Childrens Theater’s reputation for high artistic and technical production values is well known. Past MCT productions include, Les Miserables, The Light in the Piazza, Evita, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, On The Town, Into the Woods, The Music Man, The Wizard of Oz, Mulan and Guys and Dolls to name just a few. For further information regarding MCT’s programming, summer camps and performances, call their offices at 305-274-3595 or www.miamichildrenstheater.com.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
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Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
Mazda3 refreshed for 2012, adds SKYACTIV technology
Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS Mazda finally has brought its SKYACTIV fuel-saving and performance technologies to North America, adding the innovative equipment to the popular 2012 Mazda3. Redesigned for the 2010 model year, the 2012 Mazda3’s exterior has been refined for a bolder look, and given a new front fascia and an updated five-point grille opening for both the sedan and hatchback styles. The refreshed exterior also includes unique new 16-inch and 17-inch aluminum alloy wheel designs. The 16-inch wheel has 10 twisted-surface spokes (increased from the current seven-spoke design) and the 17inch wheel has enlarged openings between each spoke. Designs for the 16-inch steel wheels and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels are unchanged. In addition to the Mazda3’s MZR 2.0liter dual-overhead-cam 16-valve four-
cylinder engine (available only on iSV and Sport sedan models), a new high-efficiency direct-injection SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine is offered now. It is the standard power in the Mazda3 iTouring and Grand Touring models and is mated to the new SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission or the optional new SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission. The iTouring and Grand Touring trims are available in either sedan or hatchback body styles. The MZR 2.0-liter engine continues to be available with the five-speed manual gearbox as standard equipment. Mazda3 iSport models also are available with the five-speed automatic as an option. The SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine is about 4.4 pounds lighter than the old MZR engine and uses multi-hole injectors for enhanced fuel spray, along with specially developed piston cavity shapes that ensure a shorter combustion time and suppress the impact on power and torque from engine knocking. Fuel economy gets a boost from the combination of a SKYACTIV engine and transmission. When equipped with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine and optional SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, the 2012 Mazda3 sedan gets an EPA rated 40 mpg on the highway, a 21
Mazda3 has a bolder stance, a new front fascia and updated five-point grille opening for both sedan and hatchback styles. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
percent improvement. With a fuel tank capacity of 14.5 gallons, the 2012 Mazda3 sedan with SKYACTIV technology has a 540-mile range. Also, previously only available with the MZR 2.5-liter engine, the Mazda3 fivedoor hatchback model is offered now in the U.S. with the SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine.
Pricing on the base 2012 Mazda3 starts at $15,200 and $18,450 with SKYACTIV technology. 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>.
Mar. 20 - April 2, 2012
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OPENING DOORS TO SOUTH FLORIDA REAL ESTATE As a second generation real estate professional, and a Miami native, I have an intimate understanding of our local market. Let me help guide you through the sometimes turbulent waters of buying and selling your most valuable asset. The process should be easy and enjoyable when you have the assistance of the right professional.
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