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MARCH 6 - 19, 2012
Bell pushes term limits, recaps tax-saving effort BY RICHARD YAGER
M
iami-Dade County commissioners should be limited to two four-year terms with a limit of eight years service, Commissioner Lynda Bell told members of the Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations (KFHA) during a meeting on Feb. 23. In her first public appearance at a Kendall forum this year, Bell said voters are justifiably frustrated with a neverending “tug-of-war” between themselves and elected officials. Together with District 6 Commissioner Rebecca Sosa, Bell is co-sponsoring a measure to place the matter before voters during the General Election on Nov. 6. If passed, it would become effective immediately. Bell said a suggestion by KFHA’s
Petisco added to WK Council, Ileana Vazquez elected chair
BY LAURA PHILLIPS
T
he Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department is issuing its annual call for seasonal job applicants to fill the summer staffing needs of its summer programming and activities, traditionally the busiest time of year when families and children on summer vacation frequent Miami-Dade County’s parks for its summer camps, pools and beaches. Applications only will be accepted through Mar. 23 for a variety of summer jobs at Miami-Dade Parks, including pool managers, lifeguards, park service aides, and recreation leaders. Applicants must apply via the Miami-Dade County Online Employment Application site at <www.miamidade.gov/jobs> and also must contact the Miami-Dade park where they wish to work. For a list of parks, phone numbers and addresses, visit the website at <www.miamidade.gov/parks>. Individuals must be at least West Kendall Community Council includes (l-r, seated): newly named member Ileana Petisco, Beatrice Suarez, newly elected chair Ileana R. Vazquez; (standing) Patricia “Shannen” Davis, vice chair Miguel A. Diaz and Joseph E. Delaney. (Jeffrey C. Wander was not present.) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY RICHARD YAGER
F
Commissioner Linda Bell is greeted by KFHA president Michael Rosenberg.
––––––––––––––––––––––––– See
BELL, page 6
Miami-Dade Parks issues call for summer job applicants
or the first time in three years, West Kendall Community Council has begun a new year with a full seven-member complement. As a Zoning Board of Appeals, the council hears applications in Miami-Dade County west of Florida’s Turnpike from SW 42nd Street (Bird Road) to various areas immediately north of SW 154th and SW 184th streets.
The December 2011 appointment of Ileana Petisco by Miami-Dade Commissioner Joe Martinez fills the Sub Area 116 seat representing an area of West Kendall, generally west of SW 157th Avenue between 104th and 154th streets. The seat was last held by chair Domingo Castillo, first DominicanAmerican elected to a public position in South Florida, a historical achievement
–––––––––––––––––––– See
COUNCIL, page 6
–––––––––––––––––––– See
PARKS, page 6
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March 6 - 19, 2012
March 6 - 19, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Shula/Killian interchange completion set for spring
Barrels guide westbound traffic at Shula (SR874)-Killian Drive interchange. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY RICHARD YAGER
The Killian Drive interchange with the Shula Expressway (874) is still on track for completion “this spring,” according to the Miami-Dade Expressway Authority (MDX). “All lanes are now open and all directional signage has been installed,” Mario A. Diaz, MDX public information officer, reported on Feb. 17. “The final paving at the Killian Parkway Interchange began in mid-February and is anticipated to last about one month,” he said. “Paving will take place on the Don Shula Expressway after the paving on Killian Parkway is complete. The project is in its final phase of construction and is scheduled for completion this spring.” Now in its third month beyond an anticipated 18- to 24-month completion schedule, the project has cost $1.8 million over the original contract estimate. “The original construction contract was for $68,146,050,” he stated, as of Feb. 21.
“As a result of MDX requested changes, unforeseen site conditions and quantity overruns on the project (not originally included in the contract), the final project cost is $69,993,821.39.” An MDX announcement for the SR 874/Shula Expressway and Killian Parkway Capacity Improvements project initially pegged costs at $61.5 million, prior to actual bidding and a contract award. The orange barrels that guide new traffic lane configurations should be removed by mid-March, MDX spokesperson Tere Garcia said during a Jan. 11 meeting in Kendall. Questions about removing the barrels and construction completion were raised by Miller Myers, an outspoken critic of MDX’s Open Road Tolling installations on formerly free expressways. At the time, Garcia said that accidents attributable to the change in directional signage were being monitored by traffic engineers who would continue studying traffic patterns upon project completion.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
March 6 - 19, 2012
Fast response helps police nab trio of home invaders BY RICHARD YAGER
A four-man Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District team corralled three suspects described as “violent offenders” to win honors as Officers of the Month during the Jan. 25 meeting of the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC). Sgt. Juan Rodriguez and Officers Al Gamez, Ariel Visciglia and Joar Cenreras comprised a TPU (Team Police Unit) dispatched to an “in progress” home invasion robbery at 9:43 a.m. on Jan. 25 at 19520 SW 116 Ave. The incident began when the trio used a stepladder to gain access to the home by smashing a window and brazenly tie up an awakened occupant with electrical extension cords. Holding the victim at gunpoint, the three then took turns ransacking the home, removing a wall television monitor and loading stolen items in the victim’s backpack before fleeing the residence. A neighbor who spotted two of the assailants run into the home next door was credited with calling 9-1-1, alerting a dispatcher who sent Sgt. Rodriguez and the three officers to the break-in scene.
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Told the trio of suspects was seen “running north” on SW 116th Avenue from the victim’s home, the four officers used descriptions of the pair and knowledge of the area to begin their search at a nearby abandoned residence. “At that location, they discovered the three subjects, a handgun and a backpack matching the description,” according to the commendation report. All three subjects were taken into custody without incident, and later identified by the victim and a second witness as the break-in assailants. “These are the times when officers face unknown consequences, and it speaks highly of both their training and quick thinking to make an arrest in such dangerous circumstances,” said Maj. Hernan M. Organvidez who, with CAC chair James Blough, presented the citations to each of the officers. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District CAC honors for January are presented by (l-r) Maj. Hernan M. Organvidez to Sgt. Juan Rodriguez; Officers Al Gamez, Ariel Visciglia, Joar Centreras, with CAC chair James Blough.
March 6 - 19, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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$102,000 for parks program to replace freebie tickets? Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR
AROUND TOWN Bravo to the Miami-Dade County Commission on Ethics and Public Trust on Feb. 21. We quote in full: “Complimentary tickets for performances and events at TOPA and the Convention Center which would otherwise be received by the Mayor, City Commissioners, and City employees shall hereafter be made available to disadvantaged youths, disabled persons, senior citizens and other individuals who do not have the financial ability to purchase tickets for cultural events.” Double-bravo to County Mayor Carlos Gimenez who asked for immediate action March 1 to accept a cash payment of $102,000 in lieu of tickets from the 2012 Sony-Ericson Tennis Tournament that begins March 19. Those sky-high priced admissions can fund 150 children at a summer Parks Dept. program, sez the Mayor who asks Commissioners to dispense with any delay in reviewing a 12-page “draft” report on ethics and accept the cash payment Tuesday, March 6. Adds West Kendall Mayor Martha Backer: “Freebie tickets that government bigwigs get to pricey events ought to be distributed to taxpaying folks along with transportation to even if it only happens once a year — just like the library system is able to pass out free passes to the Miami Zoo.” WK Mayor Martha says she’ll fill a Kendall busload any time a Comish unloads comps to the opera or a Marlins game! Thanks a lot, Miami-Dade County, for its super-tardy hold-the-presses “Immediate Release” notice of Kendall
area’s only Town Hall Meeting in a countywide series on Charter amendments, received in Kendall at 11:23 a.m., Wednesday, February 22. The meeting date? At 6 p.m. February 22 at West Dade Regional Library, or just seven hours after the on-line release turned up! Times and dates of five other subsequent county meetings? They’d already gone by as this Kendall Gazette was put to bed. G rouchy “Editor” Ed Asner of the TV Lou Grant role now spokesperson for Florida Chapter of Sierra Club’s 15-minute film decrying expansion of the Turkey Creek nuclear plant. See it on your computer screen at <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzwZ IBmLhT4>. Final word on Sunpass scam charging car renters $25 per toll from one disgruntled tourist to his Kendall travel agent: “I’m sure this is an issue with all rental agencies. I have decided that I cannot trust any one of them. American Express called me…and has offered…$50 because I am a customer for almost 40 years. I will take it…Florida is doing a number on the tourists… until we learn this, we are ‘fresh meat’ for rental car companies.” Amazed at the Miles Moss “WeightLoss Diet.” The former KFHA prexy explains it’s a “schedule of eating at certain times, certain things that are strictly regulated…” even as he and his missus have just returned from a two-week South American cruise with his new waistline intact. While not revealing the full secret turning him into his new slim and trim figure, we suspect Ms. Moss has something to do with it. Dadeland Mall set “to undergo a significant redevelopment” with summer construction of a two-story building housing called “an enviable group of restaurants, each with patio seating offering stunning views from the upper level overlooking Kendall Drive and a new wing of retailers
Kendall Gazette
6769 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355, Fax (305) 662-6980
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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.
on the lower level.” Demolition of the former Limited/Express building makes way for a projected opening in spring, 2013. The new structure tabbed ‘Kendall Wing’ will include a ‘Fashion Runway,’ tree sculptures, fountain, and (don’cha’ know?) a luxury valet with distinctive valet canopies, reports Dadeland manager Maria Prado. F ree Family, Fun & Fitness Day at Continental Park from 2 to 5 p.m., Saturday, March 24 when Parks Department and Continental Park Homeowners Association hosts a variety of activities, free food and information about “healthy” programs available for you and your family at 10000 S. W. 82 Avenue. Mysterious Moon! On Friday, March 16 at 8 p.m. Southern Cross Astronomical Society’s Dr. James and Barbara Natland reveal the dark side of the Moon and other lunar mysteries. James is an instructor at UM’s Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Sciences; wife, Barbara, is a NASA educator. The free SCAS program includes prizes, food and discussions at the FIU Physics Bldg. CP-145 Lecture Hall, Modesto Maidique campus. Park in campus garages at SW 109 Avenue/SW 8 Street
and follow the signs to CP-145. For information, call 305-661-1375 or visit <www.scas.org>. Miami-Dadde Parks calling for seasonal job applicants for summer program staffing with applications accepted until March 23 for a variety of jobs including pool managers, lifeguards, park service aides, and recreation leaders. Applicants (17 or older) must sign up via the county’s online employment application at <www.miamidade.gov/jobs> and must contact the Miami-Dade Park where they wish to work. For parks, phone numbers and addresses, visit <www.miamidade.gov/parks> or call 305-755-7898. Thought of the Day: As societies grow decadent, the language grows decadent, too. Words are used to disguise, not to illuminate, action. Words are to confuse, so that at election time people will solemnly vote against their own interests. — Gore Vidal
Richard Yager contributed to this report. Got Tips? Call 305-669-7355 ext. 249 or send emails to Michael@communitynewspapers.com
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BELL, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Marvin Stein that salary raises could be phased-in over two- to 10-year time periods “was certainly an idea worth looking into.” She noted the $6,000 current commission salary has existed as part of the Home Rule Charter since 1957. A Jan. 31 ballot saw county voters soundly defeat a proposal setting eightyear commission term limits (excluding time in office before 2012) while banning outside employment and raising commissioners’ salaries to about $92,097 annually. A second amendment increasing petition time to 120 from 60 days caused former KFHA president Miles Moss to reflect that a “moratorium” on incorporation movements still exists by the need to gain 25 percent of voters’ signatures to create a ballot initiative. While Bell had no answer for the current restriction, she stated, “I have always believed that it is up to the people to decide any issue — and if Kendall wants to incorporate, the voters have the right to petition to do so.” Ken Karger of KHFA asked Bell if she thought Mayor Carlos Gimenez and his administration had been effective in saving taxpayers money. “I think overall that the mayor is doing a good job,” Bell said. “He’s still working on efforts to restructure the way county government works.” Bell did praise Gimenez’s appointment of four deputy directors while sharply reducing the number of department heads, noting “these were, I believe, effective appointments and the individuals have proven to be top-notch administrators to
work with.” She added, “However, there’s always room for improvement.” Bell said “sticking to the 5 percent across-the-board cut” saved the county an estimated $40 million, rather than approval of a 4 percent offer from civil service negotiators to increase employee healthcare contributions. She also pointed to her four-part ethics reform package that includes a training program for county employees and lobbyists, gift restrictions and Sunshine Law review, increasing a ban on ex-commissioner lobbying from two to four years, and a requirement for an ethics opinion in advance of county employees receiving payment from a county-funded organization. Bell, a former Homestead mayor, was welcomed by newly elected KFHA president Michael Rosenberg who replaced Lee Zimmerman in the position. Zimmerman now serves as vice president. Rosenberg, who currently is pushing for reform in both animal services and disputes over water bill payments, said in his inaugural remarks, “When I see something that needs fixing, I just start working on it.” Noting “we’re going to continue even more forums to bring local issues to Kendall people in the future,” Rosenberg said KFHA will schedule Mayor Gimenez for a discussion of local issues for its next Town Hall meeting on Thursday, Mar. 22, 7 p.m., in the Kendall Village Center Civic Pavilion, 8625 SW 124 Ave. For information, call 305-386-1212 or visit <www.kfha.org>.
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March 6 - 19, 2012
COUNCIL, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– regarded by the Dominican Republic community. The seat had been vacant since Castillo resigned on Jan. 20, 2009 after not seeking reelection in the 2008 primary. Petisco’s service brought the council to its full seven members during its first two meetings in 2012, including the Jan. 17 session when Ileana R. Vazquez was elected chair and Miguel A. Diaz, vice chair. Vazquez, an at-large appointee of Commissioner Martinez in 2007, is an intervention specialist on behalf of children, and holds a doctorate in Children, Youth and Family Studies from Nova Southeastern University. Awarded a specialist degree in education from the National Board of Education, she serves as director of the ILE Learning Centers Inc. in West Kendall. Diaz was elected to a fouryear term in August 2010. Petisco, graduated from University of Miami Nursing School in 2010 as a registered nurse. She also received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2007 from FIU, majoring in sociology and anthropology. She currently is associated with the University of Miami School of Medicine in new drug control programs. She is the mother of three children. David, 18; Anabelle, 14, and Andrew, 5. Asked of her relationship to Anthony
Petisco, appointed to fill a vacant seat on East Kendall’s Community Council 12 in October 2011, she laughed. “That’s just a coincidence,” she said. “He’s the nephew of my husband, Jose. Anthony and I are both interested in service to our communities.” SCHOOL EXPANSION DENIED BY COUNCIL In zoning actions on Feb. 14, West Kendall Community Council acting as a Zoning Board of Appeals: • Denied by a 6-0 vote Camejo Private School expansion of facilities at the northwest corner of SW 59th Street and 136th Avenue on a three-acre site that would utilize an adjoining FPL easement to house up to 814 students instead of its current enrollment of 260. Granted permission by a 6-0 vote for TDBank to provide a directional sign on an existing monument emplacement of First Baptist Church and permit a drive-in bank branch on 1.4 acres of the church property of 10.2 acres at 14955 SW 88 St., immediately west of the Target store. • Approved the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sunday in an existing package store at BJ’s Wholesale Club, operated by Mormax Beverage Corporation, on an 8.7acre site located at 16200 SW 88 St.
PARKS, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 17 years old. For general information, call Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Summer Job Hotline at 305-755-7898 or visit its website. All applicants selected will be required to pass successfully a drug/alcohol screen and criminal background check prior to employment.
Those applying for pool manager or lifeguard positions are required to submit proof of current certification in CPR, first aid, lifeguard and water-safety instruction provided by the Red Cross, YMCA or other nationally recognized aquatic training program. Training is available for those who apply early.
March 6 - 19, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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What should voters do about commission term limits? R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY It seems like an unending story. As long as I can remember, and I’m over 75, we have been talking about term limits for the members of the Miami-Dade County Commission. In addition to the term limit question we have the parallel question of just how much should we pay a commissioner? Our county mayor only can serve two terms. The members of the Florida Legislature, both Senate and House, only can serve two terms. So why is there all the fuss about term limits for county commissioners? The arguments in favor are numerous. Fresh faces with fresh ideas come with term limits. Serve too long in office and the elected official can become too friendly with the workings of government and start to think about themselves rather than the best interest of the public. Reflect on the writings of our nation’s founding fathers whose concept of serving was go to Washington (actually at that time they went to New York) serve a few sessions
and then return to how you were making a living and leave government to the next guy. I say men because women weren’t permitted to vote or serve in public office at the time. Here in Miami-Dade we historically find our county commissioners asking to “please pay us more money and we will work fulltime without outside employment — but no term limits!” Voters say “sure, we will pay you more but will not do so until you, the commissioners, agree to term limits.” So, finally after 13 tries, the commissioners agreed to future a two-term limit if the voters would give them a salary increase to the state-recommended $92,097 annual salary. Voter sentiment wants the two-term limits to include terms served. Commissioners wanted two “more” terms on top of what they already have served. The voters again said “no.” Commissioners understand, from recent history that if they are too flagrant in their actions or just demand too much from the voters they may find themselves facing a recall petition. Former Mayor Carlos Alvarez and Commissioner Natacha Seijas all too soon learned that the voters were serious and found themselves booted out of office. Now our county commissioners are trying to make “nice” by offering what appears to
VIEWPOINT be voter-friendly amendments to our county charter. Not only are the commissioners coming forward with suggested amendments, but Miami Voice the group that led the recall of the mayor and commissioner, is rounding up voter signatures on petitions calling for stronger term limits and a related salary increase. It was suggested by a commissioner that if the county commission is willing to put amendments on the ballot there is no need for Miami Voice to do so. The only problem is that the commissioners, who are proposing the amendments, can’t guarantee that the proposals will get on the November ballot. Only by a majority vote of the commission can that happen. What happens if the commissioners do not say “go” and Miami Voice stopped gathering signatures? We end up with nothing happening and another few years of unlimited terms with a $6,000 annual salary. County Mayor Carlos Gimenez, in his recent state of the county speech, called for the commissioners to place on the ballot a no
nonsense amendment that would limit service to two terms. He did not address the subject of retro terms. Additionally, he called for a simplification of the petition process. It is time to make a simple statement: twoterm limit with one of the previously served terms included in the limit, a salary increase to the recommended $92,097, and no outside business. I would add one more: no more slush funds for the commissioners to disburse to friends who support their interests. Let county donations to needy organizations be approved by an appropriate, salaried county department — not influenced by politics.
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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March 6 - 19, 2012
Rising gas prices affect all aspects of our lives
Al Sunshine CBS MONEY WATCH In today’s economy, rising gasoline prices affect not only what it costs to fuel our cars but every aspect of our lives. For example, the groceries we buy — which arrive in gasoline-powered trucks — go up as well. Although it not only causes consumers to stay home, it causes everyone to have to cut their budget to accommodate other important areas. It turns out domestic oil demand is near record lows at the very same time U.S. oil supplies remain at high levels, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. I spoke to one Miami driver who blames speculators for hiking the price of wholesale oil. He said that is who is behind the recent spikes in local gas prices. In fact, some stations by Miami International Airport already are selling Regular-Unleaded for $4.39 a gallon! “The politicians better watch out what they are doing to the investors who are driving up prices?” this driver insisted. According to a report by the House Natural Resources Committee, between 1999 and 2007 the number of drilling permits on public lands has increased by more than 361 percent, yet gasoline prices continued to skyrocket. However, increased leases have not reduced the price of gas. With consumer prices up about 3 percent since last year, overall food and energy costs have risen at their fastest annual rate
since 2008. They’re up more than 6 percent for energy-related costs, and almost 4.5 percent for food prices. So do oil companies need new leases along the OCS (Outer Continental Shelf)? According to the U.S. Minerals Management Service, only 20 percent of the 38.5 million acres of existing leases along the OCS are being used for production. The vast majority of oil and gas deposits along the OCS already are open to drilling. What’s more, 82 percent of the gas in the OCS and 79 percent of the oil in the OCS is available for leasing. Local produce buyers say if gas prices keep rising, food costs will keep climbing too following the expected extra fuel surcharges from shippers. One Norman Brothers produce manager told me, “We’re not seeing it just yet, but it’s coming. It’s still early.” Consequently, a Kendall consumer complained, “I think that’s terrible having to pay extra for fuel products.” Her sentiments are commonplace. The price of oil on world markets climbed again recently, closing above $106 a barrel. Tension in the Middle East is partly to blame, but the rising price of gas at the pump provided political fuel for Republican presidential hopefuls. The surprisingly swift rise in oil prices recently has sent the average price of gasoline up and it’s hurting many families that were already fighting to survive tough economic conditions. The Obama administration says it’s not responsible for this rise in gas prices and insists that the solution to the problem is difficult. According to the administration, there is no easy answer to this problem.
March 6 - 19, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Palace resident Lillian Levin celebrates 105th birthday
Lillian Levin (right) celebrates her 105th birthday with daughter Sharyn Raab. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY KERRY GREEN-PHILLIPS
Lillian Levin has lived through 26 presidential elections and two World Wars. On Feb. 12, the centenarian celebrated her 105th birthday with daughter, Sharyn Raab, and her extended family, the staff at The Palace Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Affectionately called the “Ever-ready Bunny,” Levin is well known for her crochet skills. She adorned her afghan creations with a signature butterfly and later created butterfly pins as gifts to family, neighbors and Palace employees. Born in Manhattan in 1907, Levin was the daughter of Russian immigrants. She became a working woman before the feminist movement, serving as bookkeeper in New York’s garment district. Five historic events occurred prior to her
21st birthday: The Titanic sinks (1912), IRS introduces income taxes (1913), Prohibition (1919), Women gained right to vote (1920) and the first Transatlantic telephone call made (1927). She and her husband relocated to Atlantic City to raise their two children. They wintered in Miami Beach and she permanently moved to the Sunshine State in 1964 following his death. Levin attributes her longevity to lots of love from her family, which includes seven great-grandchildren and three grandchildren. She has a fondness for pizza and marked her 105th milestone with a Valentine’s Day-themed pizza party. For more information about The Palace Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, call 305-270-7000 or visit online at <www.ThePalace.org>.
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March 6 - 19, 2012
Elderly care residence denied in West Kendall BY RICHARD YAGER
Controversial rezoning for a congregate living residence in West Kendall was shelved by a 6-0 vote of the West Kendall Community Council acting as a Zoning Board of Appeals on Feb. 14. “Prodein,” a non-profit organization, sought to expand a narrow rectangular site at 15750 SW 64 St. to build an assisted living care facility amid a neighborhood of single-family homes. “Servants of Jesus of Charity Inc.,” a Hialeah-based non-profit, was the applicant listed to establish and operate the facility, supported by sisters of the Good Shepherd Catholic Church at 14187 SW 72 St. During the neighborhood’s early development in 1996, AU-type zoning that permits an institutional retreat in residential neighborhoods was granted for a one-story, 13,000-square-foot building, limited to five “live-in” units. The new application for “Residencia Madre Corazon” sought expansion to permit a six-building, two-story development of 68,000 square feet with 63 live-in units. It was protested vigorously by more than 100 petitioning neighbors. “It’s just not the right place nor the right time for it,” summarized ZAB member Patricia “Shannen” Davis at the conclusion of a Feb. 14 public hearing continued from Dec. 6 (due to an advertising error) and again on Jan. 17 to allow submission of documentation by objecting residents. The unanimous vote to “indefinitely
defer with leave to amend” by Davis, seconded by Ileana Petisco, was accepted by the applicant’s attorney, Juan J. Mayol, who said he’ll “confer with our principals and the residents to see if a footprint might be compacted to allow a smaller-sized facility.” Chief among objections was the potential of 113 residents due to the double-occupancy of unit configurations, as well as 25-foot setbacks that would bring the facility’s storage and disposal facilities within sight of adjoining homes. “Such an expansion is not what was intended when the original zoning for a small retreat-styled facility was approved,” declared Mark Alvarez, a professional planner who screened a presentation detailing objections. “I simply don’t want my 8-year-old daughter looking out her bedroom window at a garbage truck,” said Jose Nobis, a Ferguson High School faculty member, who said he and his wife purchased their home “to enjoy the benefits of a quiet neighborhood atmosphere.” The project had been approved with seven conditional requirements to conform to the county CDMP (Comprehensive Development Master Plan) as recommended by Eric Silva of the county Zoning and Community Design staff. However, council member Beatrice Suarez expressed the overall sentiment of her colleagues, saying, “This plan for housing this many people goes too far with too many conditions needed.”
March 6 - 19, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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COMMUNI-
Group gets funding for program helping special needs students Palmetto High special needs students benefit from a dance program funded by a grant from the Knight Foundation.
BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD
The Knight Foundation has granted millions to local arts programs to help elevate Miami into a world-class cultural destination. Those grants include one to Karen Peterson and Dancers Inc., a 22-year-old company that teaches teens with special needs how to dance. In fact, some of the students will participate in the annual Inclusive Student Talent Showcase, one of which will take place on Mar. 9 at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St. “Ten of the schools we serviced in the past,” Peterson said. “Because of the Knight Foundation, we were able to increase to 20.” The students have a wide range of disabilities from autism, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, visual, language disabilities and emotional impairment. The dance program is in Palmetto High, South Dade High, Homestead High, Campbell Middle, Cutler Ridge Middle, Southwest Miami High and Ferguson High. The rest of the schools are in the northern end of the county. “There are 14 weeks of instruction and the 15th week there is a gala performance,” Peterson said. “All the teachers that work with me are all college-educated dance majors.” She has five teachers visiting the schools. They work on an hourly basis. Peterson took a leap of faith that the program would be funded. She started the classes even before the grants were announced. “If they hadn’t, we would have cut our budgets in some other way,” she said. “We would have cut back to 10 weeks. We still would have maintained 10 schools for 10 weeks. Since we have this additional funding, we’ve been able to provide the program to 20 schools for 15 weeks.” Peterson believes the program is beneficial to the kids. The dance program also helps the teens keep in
shape at a time when PE programs are being cut. “First of all they get physical fun with music,” she said. “There is esteem building. Many of the kids who start the program are shy. They learn about creativity; there is also teamwork; they are working together as a group.” The kids are also filled with the “can do” spirit. “This increases their engagement with others, they improve their social functioning with others, and they improve their self confidence by knowing they are helping build a dance that will be shown to others,” Peterson said. “They are better prepared to meet the challenges presented by their disabilities because of the demand of organizing music and finding the courage to perform.” Harsha Shah, a special education teacher at Palmetto High, praised the program. “In a very short time, I noticed student’s coordination has improved,” Shah said. “Students are happy to learn art and most importantly very excited to find out their own body’s ability to move.” Peterson not only administers the program, she teaches as well. “I have a class of 20 autistic young men at Booker T. [Washington High]. Some seem totally out of it,” she said. “Even if you don’t think you are reaching these individuals who seem to be on another planet, you are. It’s a stimuli you don’t get anywhere else.” The Knight Foundation awarded Peterson’s group $10,000 and then she needed to match that money. She received some from the Youth Arts Enrichment Program from the MiamiDade Department of Cultural Affairs. And she is participating in the new fundraising platform that allows small donors to give directly to the arts programs that interest them, through the website <www.power2give.org>.
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Marker to honor sailors who served aboard USS Biscayne BY RICHARD YAGER
A retired Navy radioman who served aboard a history-making World War II combat vessel will see his dream come true this month. During 1943-45, Stanley J. Morrison, now 93, of Huntingdon Valley, PA, operated communications aboard the USS Biscayne during some of the heaviest navy battles of World War II in both European and Pacific theaters. Through his generosity, a granite marker inscribed with the words “Dedicated to the men who served on the Command Ship USS Biscayne AGC-18, May 1941 to June 1946” will be unveiled at the new Miami Military Museum on Sunday, Mar. 11, at 11 a.m. South Florida veterans have been urged to gather outside the museum to honor those who served aboard the USS Biscayne during landings at Sicily, Salerno and Anzio during
Granite monument will memorialize USS Biscayne’s officers and men. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
the Italian campaign, and on Iwo Jima and Okinawa in the Pacific. Morrison took it upon himself to arrange for the monument, its inscription and installation after having a family friend, Andrew Kelly, decide to locate it near Biscayne Bay. They selected the new Military Museum as the most suitable spot. “As a command ship, the Biscayne was in the thick of it with admirals and gold braid directing naval forces during key invasions — but we came through all of them,” recalled Morrison from his Pennsylvania home. “We were strafed, shelled and bombarded from all sides in some of the heaviest of the fighting but came through every major European battle except Normandy,” he added. “We called it the luckiest little ship in the Navy.” Morrison eventually will get to see his monument installed in Miami because his nephew, Daniel, will accompany Kelly in a trip to Miami from Pennsylvania to preserve the moment on film. The USS Biscayne, named for Biscayne Bay, was launched as a seaplane tender on May 23 and commissioned July 3, 1941, prior to conversion as an amphibious force flagship on Oct. 10, 1944, earning six battle stars. After the war, it remained in service with the U. S. Coast Guard for more than 20 years. “This was a special mission for Mr. Morrison to have the ship memorialized,” said Anthony Atwood, the FIU history professor who has guided the new Military Museum to reality. In March 2010, the structure was moved from the old Richmond Naval Air Base to its new address at 12450 SW 152 St., just east of the Miami Zoo entry and south of the Gold Coast Railroad Museum. It is now being restored after initial funding from a $2 million voter-approved allocation was later aided by a $118,000 federal subsidy to recondition and move the building from the Air Base to the Zoo Miami grounds, and build a new foundation for the structure.
Anthony Atwood (left) and Fr. Luis Fernandez of Military Museum Board check details of the Mar. 11 dedication. They met during a recent dedication for Veterans Way in Tropical Park.
In the current fiscal year, a $1 million county appropriation is being used to complete the interior that will house a variety of exhibits of memorabilia and artifacts, largely with Florida connections to U.S. military history.
“We want all veterans in the area to join us for the unveiling,” said Atwood, a 26year reserve officer who hopes “the museum may open sometime in 2013, honoring all who have served their country from Florida.”
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Boys and Girls Clubs to host annual Golf Classic, Mar. 19 BY DURÉE ROSS
Those participating in Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s 45th annual Golf Classic in memory of “Bebe” Rebozo on Monday, Mar, 19, not only will enjoy an exceptional golf experience, but also raise funds for the clubs’ youth development programs. The event will take place at the Deering Bay Yacht and Country Club, 13610 Deering Bay Dr. in Coral Gables. Chaired by Ben Walker from CCU Inc., the Golf Classic is expected to raise more than $110,000 for the clubs’ programs. This year’s event merges The Collection Audi quattro Cup, the largest amateur golf series in the world with over 79,000 golfers participating worldwide, and the “Bebe” Rebozo Memorial Golf Classic. “Year after year, members of the community come together to help support Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade through our annual Golf Classic,” said Alex Rodriguez-Roig, executive director for Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade. “This year’s event is certain to be a great one, and we look forward to raising funds to continue to provide the children of our community with high quality youth development programs.” “The Audi quattro Cup immerses golfers in the absolute best of the brand,” said Ken Gorin, president and CEO of The Collection. “The Collection is proud to bring this unique experience to Miami and be part of something that really was created to celebrate the excitement of amateur golfing.” Tournament registration will begin at 10 a.m. The tournament will kick off with a putting contest at 11 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at noon. All golfers will receive a gift bag, complimentary parking, green fees, cart, range balls, lunch, on-
course beverages and dinner at the awards banquet and ceremony at the Deering Bay Yacht and Country Club. The 5:30 p.m. awards banquet and ceremony will feature a sit-down dinner, cocktails, plus a raffle and silent auction featuring an array of great items from vacation stays, to weekend loans on select Audis, to sports memorabilia. The dress code for the awards banquet and ceremony is country club casual. The tournament’s winning team will be eligible to participate in the Audi quattro Cup U.S. Final to take place Aug. 23–26 at both The Links at Spanish Bay and Pebble Beach Golf Links in Pebble Beach, CA. There, Audi of America will decide which two amateur teams it will send to represent the U.S. in the World Final at Arabella Golf Club in Western Cape, South Africa, Nov. 23–27. The 45th Annual Golf Classic Presenting Sponsor is The Collection. Additional sponsors include Frank Crystal & Company – Shirt Sponsor; CCU Inc. – Eagle Sponsor; Wells Fargo – Umbrella Sponsor; Matty’s Sports – Eagle Sponsor; Ravenscroft Ship Management – Green Sponsor; Lana DeSimone – Green and Putting Sponsor; Clint Gulley/McDonalds – Lunch Sponsor. Many sponsorship/underwriting opportunities are available, ranging from a $15,000 Silver Sponsor to a $250 Hole Tee Sign Sponsor. Registration fees are $1,400 for a foursome, and $350 for an individual golfer. The admission price for dinner only is $100 per person. For more information about underwriting opportunities, or to reserve a foursome, individual golfer or purchase dinner only tickets, contact Astrid H. Ehrenstein at 305446-9910, ext. 30, or via email at <ahrenstein@bgcmia.org>.
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MDC’s School of Business to offer free workshops BY TARNELL CARROLL
This spring, Miami Dade College’s (MDC) acclaimed School of Business will offer free workshops to small and moderate size businesses in Allapattah, Overtown, downtown Miami and surrounding areas, as well as specific areas of Miami Beach as part of its Small Business Education Program sponsored by Citi Foundation. Beginning in March, the five free business seminars and workshops will be offered in English and Spanish for existing and potential entrepreneurs. The first workshop series for existing businesses only will take place on Thursdays, Mar. 8, 15 and 22, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., in English, in room 32105, and on Wednesdays, Mar. 14, 21 and 28, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., in Spanish, in room 3208. Topics covered will include finance, credit, marketing and selling techniques, funding sources, and more. Due to the success of last year’s workshop for existing entrepreneurs, the 2012 program has been expanded to add a two-day event designed for potential entrepreneurs and is scheduled on Thursdays, Apr. 5 and 12, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., in English, in room 3210, and on Monday, Apr. 9, and Wednesday,
Apr. 11, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., in Spanish, in room 3208. Additionally, a Business Forum event will be conducted for the general public on Saturday, Apr. 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., in room 3210. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. All workshops will take place at MDC’s Wolfson Campus Chapman Conference Center, 300 NE Second Ave., in downtown Miami. Participants must register online in advance for all workshops by visiting the Small Business Education Program’s website at <www.mdc.edu/smallbusiness> or <www.mdc.edu/negocios>. “We are committed to the community and excited to be able to offer this wonderful program,” said Dr. Ana M. Cruz, chair of the MDC Wolfson Campus School of Business. “We are prepared to reach more business owners from these highly commercial areas, as well as potential entrepreneurs.” MDC has been awarded multiple grants since 2007 from Citi Foundation which enables the college to offer these free technical workshops to hundreds of existing business owners. For more information about these free business workshops, contact George Ray at 305-237-7102 (English) or Josie Lorenzo at 305-237-3822 (Spanish).
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MD Transit Farmers Markets to benefit the United Way BY ADRIANA DIAZ-MASVIDAL
Miami-Dade Transit is sponsoring Farmers Markets to benefit the United Way of Miami-Dade. At the markets, transit riders, as well as members of the community at large, will have the opportunity to purchase fresh fruit, vegetables and prepared foods. The markets will take place through May at three locations, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Stephen P. Clark Government Center on Tuesdays, Adrienne Arsht Center Metromover station on Wednesdays, and Civic Center Metrorail station on Thursdays and Fridays. Visit the MDT website at <www.miamidade.gov/transit> for more detailed information.
“I’m glad that Miami-Dade Transit is teaming up with our local farmers markets for a great cause,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. “Supporting the important work of the United Way, while bringing healthy foods to our residents, is a winning combination,” the mayor added. “By purchasing fresh produce from these farmers markets, our transit riders have an opportunity to support Miami-Dade County’s small business community, as well as the United Way,” said MDT director Ysela Llort. To learn more about the United Way, visit online at <www.unitedwaymiami.org>, or call 305-860-3000.
Learn how to make a kite using recycled materials BY PAULA FERNÁNDEZ DE LOS MUROS
Families are invited to “Go Fly a Kite” on Saturday, Mar. 17, 10 a.m.-noon, at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd. in Coral Gables. Join education staff member Laura Tellez for a family class at Fairchild. Connect with your creative side when you make your own nature-themed kite. You’ll use some recycled materials as you learn how easy it is to repurpose those everyday recyclable materials into a beautiful kite. Then you will have a story time to learn
how different plants and animals use the wind to travel to many different places. At the end of the class, head down to the lowlands to let your kites take flight (weather permitting). This activity has limited seating. Fee (per parent/grandparent and two children) for members is $30; non-members, $40. Registration is required for this class. To register, call Fairchild’s Education Department at 305-667-1651, ext. 3322. For the complete class schedule, visit online at <www.fairchildgarden.org>. Parking is at the North Entrance (Visitors Center).
Baptist Children’s Hospital to present program about protecting kids online BY BARBARA MOORE
Having fun on Facebook, in chat rooms, and on other social networking sites may increase your child’s circle of friends. But who is “chatting” with your child online, and what might their intentions be? Learn more at the next community parenting program, “Cyber Smarts: Protecting Our Kids Online,” on Thursday, Mar. 22, 7-9 p.m., in the auditorium at Baptist Children’s Hospital, 8900 N. Kendall Dr. Sergeant Joseph Bermudez of the Miami-Dade Police Department will share
tips for keeping your family Internet savvy and cyber-safe. He’ll discuss: • Tactics used by online predators; • How to safely share information online; • What should be kept strictly confidential; • Appropriate “texting” activity; • Stopping cyber-bullying, and • What to do if you have suspicions about your child’s online activity. The program, which is not intended for children, is free, but registration is required. Space is limited. Call 786-5963812 or send email to <programs@baptisthealth.net>.
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Baptist Hospital to host ACS Relay for Life for 7th year
Survivors take the first lap around the lake at Baptist Hospital at last year’s American Cancer Society East Kendall Relay for Life. (Photo by Fareed Al Mashat/Baptist Health South Florida) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY PHYLLIS TEITELBAUM
For the seventh consecutive year Baptist Hospital will host the American Cancer Society’s East Kendall Relay for Life — an all-night survivors’ celebration, campout and relay-style walk around the hospital campus lake. The fundraiser, which begins at noon on Saturday, Mar. 24, and ends the next morning, benefits cancer research, education and patient services. Last year’s Relay for Life at Baptist Hospital raised more than $250,000 for the American Cancer Society, the most money raised by any Relay in South Florida. The American Cancer Society conducts dozens of Relay for Life fundraisers throughout the region each year. This year at Baptist Hospital, 8900 N. Kendall Dr., more than 3,500 participants are expected to pitch tents and pull an allnighter for the cause. It works like this: People of all ages form 10- to 15-member teams to walk relay style around the lake. Team registration is $100 plus any other money the team may collect from pledges and fundraisers. Cancer survivors are given special Tshirts and are invited to take the first lap around the lake at 4 p.m. They will be treated to a special dinner and other gifts. A moving candlelight ceremony at 9 p.m. will honor people battling cancer and those
who have died from the disease. The event continues overnight as participants enjoy food and entertainment, play games and even get a chance to sleep in their tents between laps. The event is supported by Baptist Health South Florida. Its staff and patients help plan the event and will be participating. “We’re delighted to host this community event because cancer care is a big part of what we do,” said Baptist Hospital CEO Bo Boulenger. “It’s inspiring to see so many of our physicians, employees and former cancer patients take part in this event.” For more information and to register, call Yomayra Mora at the American Cancer Society at 305-779-2860 or go online to <www.relayforlife.org/ekfl>. Baptist Health South Florida is the largest faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization in the region. Baptist Health includes Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, South Miami Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Mariners Hospital, West Kendall Baptist Hospital, Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute and Baptist Outpatient Services. Baptist Health Foundation, the organizations’ fundraising arm, supports services at all hospitals and facilities affiliated with Baptist Health. For more information, visit online at <www.BaptistHealth.net>.
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Machado recognized with community service award BY FERNANDO SENRA
In recognition of his outstanding corporate citizenship and contributions to the community, Gus Machado has earned a Salute to Dealers award from Ford Motor Company. Machado, who owns Gus Machado Ford and Gus Machado Ford of Kendall, is one of six winners chosen for his dedication to local community, service and peers among more than 8,500 Ford and Lincoln dealers from U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Europe, Asia, Caribbean & Central America, Africa, and the Middle East. Machado received the 12th annual tribute during a ceremony on Feb. 3 preceding the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention in Las Vegas. The list of Machado’s community activities is extensive in scope, but his major focus has been on increasing health and education awareness in the Miami area. Machado created the Gus Machado Family Foundation with the purpose of contributing to local and national organizations that promote cancer research, healthy living and youth education. In doing so, Machado created a community action network throughout Miami. Machado’s philanthropic successes stem from his passion to help his peers and tapping
into personal family struggles with life threatening diseases. These personal experiences have led to Machado’s partnership with the American Cancer Society on several initiatives including the Miami-Dade County 24Hour “Relevo Por La Vida,” also known as “The Relay for Life.” This American Cancer Society-sponsored event invites community members to participate in a celebration of those who have battled cancer, to remember loved ones lost to the disease and to fight for a cure. Additionally, Machado established a Senior PGA Golf event and co-founded Calle Ocho, a Kiwanis event in Little Havana that celebrates the Paseo Carnaval. This event is a celebration of heritage and uniting communities, attracting local leaders who in turn share and show their support for communities. The dealer also hosts back-to-school community fairs, providing more than 400 children with backpacks full of school supplies, immunizations and child identification cards. His dealership participates in Ford’s Drive One 4 UR School program and has partnerships with The United Way, Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure” and “Salute to Education.” Gus Machado’s name is synonymous with Miami philanthropy as he devotes 25 percent of his personal time to charity. Over the past
25 years, he personally has raised more than $2.5 million, adding to his Cuban success story. Machado’s commitment to community has a tremendous impact on his family, community and the Ford Motor Company. As a result of his good work, Machado has become a local hero and has received national press for his events. Salute to Dealers is conducted under the guidance of Edsel B. Ford II, a member of Ford’s Gus Machado (left) is pictured with Jim Farley, Ford Motor Company’s vice presBoard of Directors. The ident of global marketing, sales and service, in front of Machado’s portrait awardprogram was launched in ed in recognition for his receipt of the Salute to Dealers award. 2001 to demonstrate the company’s commitment to its thousands of dealer principals who step length of participation and personal motibeyond their showroom doors to make a dif- vation. A painted portrait of each honoree has a ference where they live and work. Edsel B. Ford II and three other judges montage of philanthropic and volunteer activselected winners from a total global field of ities that led to the award. Duplicates of the 100 nominees located throughout the U.S., portraits will join a Salute to Dealers display Canada, Brazil, Europe, Mexico and Asia in the lobby of Ford’s World Headquarters in based, on community service activities, Dearborn, MI for year-round viewing.
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There are fish tales galore at Deering Seafood Festival BY SHEILA STIEGLITZ
Escape to the eigth annual Deering Seafood Festival for an island celebration and savor Florida’s freshest fish and seafood prepared in an infinite number of delectable dishes. This year’s event takes place on Sunday, Mar. 25, at the Deering Estate at Cutler. What keeps people returning to the festival each year, and others eager to attend for the first time, is the wholesome family experience that is created on the biggest backyard on the bay at the historic Deering Estate at Cutler. After being selected one of the Top 100 Events in 2011 (placing seventh in the food category) and chosen one of Florida’s Top Ten Food Festivals in 2010 by BizBash Media, the staff and volunteers at the Deering Estate Foundation have been working overtime to keep the festival unique. “We’re really proud of the reputation that we have created and believe that quality of food served combined with on-going live entertainment are the keys to our success,” said Eric Haas, festival chair. “To keep everyone happy, we have extended the hours and are opening the gate at 10 a.m. this year.” At the entrance, guests are greeted by the sounds of steel drums and the towering Virgin Island stilt walkers. Once inside the gate there are activities for every age. To fully experience the Deering Seafood Festival plan to spend the day. There are pontoon boat rides aboard the Pelican Skipper to Chicken Key, an Artists’ Village featuring paintings, photography, crafts and jewelry by local artists, nature hikes and historic house tours. On the main stage, the entertainment lineup includes the Pan Paradise Steel Band and Caribbean Crew, each performing their reggae/calypso sound, followed by Mr. Nice Guy. Adding to the island
Soft shell crabs are just one of the many delicacies served at the Deering Seafood Festival. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
theme are the ever-popular, free-spirited Bahamian Junkanoo musicians who playfully dance throughout the crowd. Local celebrity chefs Giorgio Rapicavoli, Miami’s first winner of the TV Food Network’s show Chopped (Eating House), Simon Stowjanovic (Altamare), Chris Visger, Chef de Cuisine at Islamorada’s Green Turtle Inn and Kareen Anguin (Oceanaire Seafood Room) prepare their specialties at cooking demonstrations under the big top tent, presented by Whole Foods Market Coral Gables. During the food samplings, recipes are shared while the chef’s hold an informal Q and A. This year, the student winner of Johnson & Wales University’s Seafood Competition recreates the award-winning recipe at the festival. Throughout the day, fellow culinary students assist the chefs in food preparation. Also, a sommelier from Crown Wine & Spirits discusses wine pairings and offers tastings following
each cooking demonstration. A one-day only seafood emporium is created bringing together restaurants and caterers such as Golden Rule Seafood Market, Whole Foods Market, Eating House, Green Turtle Inn, Black Point
Ocean Grill, Imlee Indian Bistro, Shibui Japanese Restaurant, Iggy’s Street Wok, Rodbender’s and Paella Party who prepare shrimp, lobster, oysters, conch, fish and crab in a variety of ways. For land-lovers Sports Grill is on hand with their famous wings and burgers. In the Lil’Shrimp Kids Zone the Deering Estate’s Educational and Interpretive staff have created a hands-on adventure called the Deering Discovery Cove, where this year kids explore the Five Oceans of the World. The Kids Zone also offers unlimited fun on inflatables, and serves kid-friendly food. The Deering Estate at Cutler is a Miami-Dade County park, located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. in Palmetto Bay. Admission is adults, $15 in advance online/ $25 at the gate; children ages 414, $5, and Foundation members free. This includes park entrance and all activities — excluding food, drink, pontoon rides and rock wall, — from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Proceeds from the event benefit the Deering Estate Foundation. For more information call 305-2351668, ext. 263, or log on to <www.deeringseafoodfestival.org>.
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March 6 - 19, 2012
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Bringing the Cool to Cutler • Coconut Grove Arts Fest school and buy a cone and then sit and help their kids do homework at our tables,” says Roger, “We love that!” Romi adds, “We are so glad to provide a place for kids to hang out. Nowadays, kids get run out of many places. With us, we invite them to stay. We create comfort and hominess” Carleton’s ice cream is custom made to the specifications of the Hammer family Bringing The Cool to Cutler taste. There are around 20 flavors available Forget the big corporate chain ice at any given time and they rotate them regcream places. The idea behind Carleton’s ularly to meet customer requests. “If we Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor is to evoke get asked for a particular flavor, we make memories of hanging out at the corner store sure to have it when our patrons return,” with a soda fountain and to provide a says Roger. “We think it’s important to relaxed place for neighborhood folk to exceed expectations.” unwind. The ice cream parlor also has an oldOwners Roger and Romi Hammer are fashioned candy bar. Just grab wrapped 20-year residents of Palmetto Bay and candy pieces from dozens of candy jars and spent six years waiting for the perfect time pay by the pound. They have everything. Well, almost. One day a grandmother came in and said, “Where are the Squirrel Nut Zippers?” That night, the Hammers researched online and figured out what that candy was and how to get it. They now proudly sell the 1920s based candy at their candy bar. The ice cream parlor joins Starbucks and Sir Pizza, making this Cutler corner a great food destiPhoto caption: Romi Hammer scoops up the fun at Carleton’s Old Fashioned nation. An interior door Ice Cream Parlor. was added to allow Sir ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pizza customers to easily to open at their perfect hand-selected locafind their way to a yummy dessert at tion, Old Cutler Road and SW 168th Street. Carleton’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor. With the grand opening in late January, the “We think this store is tying us closer to Hammers are realizing their dream of creatthe community and we’re happy to live ing a wholesome place for the neighborhere,” explains Roger Hammer. “We’re not hood to enjoy. some far away corporate store that is here “We have families that come in after to take you money elsewhere.” To that end, the Hammers have made sure their prices are very competitive and hire local high school and college kids to work the counter. With so much goodness, I hope you’ll support local business and find the time to give Carleton’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor a try.
49th Annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival
Theodore Gall’s “The Puppet Master” towers over the sculpture artist himself. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
The cool “South Florida way” to arrive at the Coconut Grove Arts Festival is by boat. Thanks to my friends Brian and Heather Socolow, that’s just what I did this year. Like many, they’ve been coming to the best outdoor art festivals in the country for years. With over 360 artists this year, along with amazing food, wine, live music and kids’ activities, the Grove has once again raised the bar.
Even if you don’t like most art shows, it’s hard not to have fun here. The weather was perfect and tens of thousands of patrons pour in over the three-day President’s Day weekend. The artistic vibe was definitely in full force. Theodore Gall’s work caught my eye. “The Puppet Master” sculpture (see photo) towered above us as he explained with a broad smile, “see? Tony Mendoza, from Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood, among his acrylic works. The puppet has bro- ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ken free.” The metal Mendoza interprets others in his art. His wires dangled at ankle level. His other shockingly colorful and whimsical pop art works, while smaller, were just as striking. exhibit brought in tons of admirers over the Interesting, strong angles juxtaposed with weekend. textured, muscular shapes showed the Mendoza said this year’s festival was skilled craftsmanship and his deep knowl- definitely brighter and more alive. “With edge of his materials. the recession, everything slowed down. Gall has been exhibiting at the Coconut People are more comfortable now and will Grove Arts Festival for around 35 years. dedicate some of their disposable income to He now sells his works to the children or art. I’m doing very well. I can’t comgrandchildren of his early patrons. plain.” Originally from Chicago, and now living in If you missed Tony’s work this year, Ojai, CA, Ted Gall beams when he speaks you can see his large murals at several local of his Coconut Grove memories, “This is landmarks, including “All the Ways We Are the only Florida show I go to anymore. I Smart” (Gulliver Schools, South Miami) and Royal Palms on Biscayne Bay” (Miami-Dade Public Schools Administration Building, Miami). You can see a 3-minute compilation of this year’s show at http://youtu.be/VixU6EO23w (case sensitive!).
Hal’s Homeowner Help
Photo caption: (left to right) Deborah and David Throckmorton, along with Heather and Brian Socolow, dock at the Coconut Grove Arts Festival. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
used to do South Miami, Beaux Art, Disney Art Masters in Orlando and others… nothing compares to this.” The customers flowed through his tent buzzing about his work. “This is definitely a good year. The economy is coming back and thankfully I’m making some money.” Local artist, Tony Mendoza, has been showing off his talents at the show for the past five years. His art reflects the spirit of Miami and his Cuban heritage. Inspired by sayings, quotations, dances and music,
As a RE/MAX Realtor®, I am often asked for house tips and tricks. As such, I will provide helpful home hints each issue. If you own a home alarm system that calls the police, make sure to also have an audible alarm sound outside your home. A central monitoring service typically takes 7-9 minutes to call the police, enough time for the thieves to be in and out. An audible alarm is immediate and usually scares off a thief from even entering the home. I’m always looking for interesting people and events for consideration in upcoming issues. You can contact me at www.MiamiHal.com, hal@miamihal.com or www.facebook.com/MiamiHal. MiamiHal (Hal Feldman) is a Realtor® with RE/MAX Advance Realty. He is always available for any real estate questions you may have. On Sundays, from 10A-12N, he is outside Wagons West to talk real estate.
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March 6 - 19, 2012
Harmonica master James Cotton to perform at SMDCAC, Mar. 17 BY MARC LIPKIN
Grammy Award-winning harmonica master James “Mr. Superharp” Cotton and his band will perform on Saturday, Mar. 17, 8 p.m., at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center (SMDCAC), 10950 SW 211 St. in Cutler Bay. Cotton’s latest CD, the Grammy-nominated Giant, is his long-awaited return to Alligator Records. Cotton, who in 2012 is celebrating his 68th year as a professional musician (starting at age 9), has recorded almost 30 solo albums, including two highly regarded releases for Alligator in the 1980s and the famed Harp Attack! with Junior Wells, Carey Bell and Billy Branch in 1990. In 2011, Cotton won three Living Blues awards: Male Blues Artist of the Year, Most Outstanding Musician–Harmonica and Best Blues Album for Giant. Ticket prices are $15-$35. For tickets and information, call 786-573-5300 or visit online at <www.smdcac.org>. During the course of his storied career, Cotton seemingly has done it all. As a small boy he learned harmonica directly from Sonny Boy Williamson. He toured with Howlin’ Wolf, recorded for Sun Records, and spent 12 years with Muddy Waters before stepping out on his own.
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Leading his own band, he rose to the very top of blues and rock scenes, touring the world non-stop and earning his reputation as one of the most powerful live blues performers in the world. Giant is a ferocious blast of brash boogie blues. Produced by Cotton, Jacklyn Hairston and Derek O’Brien and recorded by Stuart Sullivan at Wire Recording in Austin, TX, Giant features 12 tracks, including four new Cotton originals and co-writes, alongside songs made famous by Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Ivory Joe Hunter and others. Throughout his career, Cotton always has led great bands, and the players on Giant are no exception. With guitarists/vocalists Slam Allen and Tom Holland, bassist Noel Neal and drummer Kenny Neal Jr., Giant is not just a reminder of Cotton’s legendary status, it is a vibrant, hard-hitting album made by one of the true blues masters. In June 2010, Cotton was honored at New York’s Lincoln Center, where his friends Hubert Sumlin, Pinetop Perkins, Taj Mahal, Shemekia Copeland and others paid tribute in an all-star concert. There James Cotton played to yet another sold-out venue, with fans cheering an undisputed giant of the blues.
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March 6 - 19, 2012
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Fresh from Grammy nominations Seraphic Fire sets next concerts BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Halfway through its 10th anniversary season, Miami’s Seraphic Fire is having a banner year by any measure. The classical chamber choir, which has grown steadily into one of South Florida’s cultural treasures, has seen its profile soar to new heights with its first two 2012 Grammy nominations: Best Choral Performance for its recording of Brahms’ Ein Representatives of Seraphic Fire are pictured in front of the Staples Center Deutsches Requiem and Best in Los Angeles prior to the Grammy Awards presentation on Feb. 12. Small Ensemble Performance –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– for A Seraphic Fire Ireland was tumultuous at the very least. Christmas. The only choir in North and South Ironically, out of this scandalous rule — America to be nominated, Seraphic Fire which included Henry VIII’s break with was represented at the Feb. 12 ceremony the Catholic Church, “Bloody” Queen by founder and artistic director Patrick Mary’s return to the Roman faith of her Dupré Quigley and Seraphic Fire board mother, and Elizabeth’s union of England under the Anglican Church — came some chair Joanne Schulte. Quigley, taking full advantage of the of the most glorious music England has momentous affair, kept his iPhone at the ever known. Featured on the program are ready, snapping pictures of the beaming pieces from the Eton Choirbook and the Seraphic Fire entourage and posting them masters Tallis and Byrd. This program promises to be more of online to a veritable legion of well wishwhat Seraphic Fire does best — a smartly ers. crafted and historically informed performDespite not winning in either category, the group seems anything but discour- ance of seldom-heard music. If the past is aged. A Facebook post made by Seraphic any indicator of future performance, Fire the next day stated, “…we have been Seraphic Fire’s roster of fresh-faced humbled by the support y’all have shown singers will deliver concerts of the highest us. Although we won’t be taking home a order. As the season of the arts enters its final Grammy, it’s an incredible honor to have months and the cultural doldrums of sumbeen nominated and we congratulate the mer inch ever closer, expect Seraphic Fire winners.” Not two weeks later, on Feb. 22, to finish with the same zeal that has Seraphic Fire happily announced that Joey brought it to such success. The concerts, titled “The Tudors: A Quigley had been appointed to serve as the ensemble’s managing director. Joey, Musical Tapestry” will take place Mar. brother of Patrick Quigley, previously 14-18. Local performance dates and locaserved as Seraphic Fire’s artistic adminis- tions are: Wednesday, Mar. 14, 7:30 p.m., St. trator and assumed operational responsiJude Melkite Church, 126 SE 15 Rd., bilities for the organization upon the departure of previous executive director Miami; Saturday, Mar. 17, 8 p.m., First United Lorenzo Lebrija. With this tremendous head of steam, the Methodist Church, 536 Coral Way, Coral ensemble hopes to continue its three- Gables, and Sunday, Mar. 18, 4 p.m., Miami Beach month streak of sold out performances and its sights are set on the music of the Tudor Community Church, 1620 Drexel Ave., Miami Beach. Dynasty. Tickets and information are available at As viewers of Showtime’s hit series The or online at Tudors are well aware, this spectacular 888-544-FIRE reign of the Kingdoms of England and <www.SeraphicFire.org>.
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March 6 - 19, 2012
Young adult author sought for Writer-in-Residence program BY VICTORIA GALAN
The Miami-Dade Public Library System is seeking a dynamic and engaging young adult author to be its 2012 Young Adult Writer-in-Residence. The 2012 Young Adult Writer-inResidence program is designed to encourage teens, ages 12-18, in the creative-writing process during a threemonth residency that will run from September through November. The program is made possible through the support of the Knight Foundation. The selected author will mentor 20 teens and develop and present workshops to help them develop their writing skills and provide critique and feedback on short stories, poems, plays and novels which will be submitted online. To be eligible, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, have professionally published at
least two young adult fiction books, have experience in teaching, writing, mentoring or as a manuscript evaluator or editor. The selected author will be subject to an official background check. To apply, submit a resumĂŠ (include a list of literary publications and experience in conducting writing courses, workshops, editing, etc.), a statement of personal mentoring philosophy, a description of a personal writing project that may be worked on during the residency and a two- to three-minute video introducing yourself to the teens that may be participating in the program. (If selected, video may be used for promotion of program.) Applications must be submitted by email to <writerinresidence@mdpls.org> and deadline is Friday, Mar. 16. Contact Cynthia Bermudez at 305-667-6121 with questions.
March 6 - 19, 2012
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South Florida Palm Society to host Spring Palm Sale More than 25 different vendors will offer over 250 different varieties of palms and cycads from all over the world.
BY LINDA TALBOTT
The South Florida Palm Society will host the 2012 Spring Palm Sale featuring “The World’s Largest Sale of rare and exotic palms.” The sale will take place on Saturday and Sunday, Mar. 17 and 18, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Montgomery Botanical Center (parking and entrance at Gulliver Academy, 12595 Red Rd.), which is home to a world-class research center and collection of palms and cycads. Admission to the sale is free. Montgomery Botanical Center (MBC) staff will be offering guided tours of its collections for $5 per person (free to children 16 and younger accompanied by an adult). More than 25 different vendors will offer
over 250 different varieties of palms and cycads from all over the world. Literally thousands of rare and unusual plants will be offered for sale. There will be an advice desk to answer your palm questions and with information on the proper methods to grow a variety of these plants. In addition, there will be several artists displaying their work. Guests are invited to attend South Florida Palm Society general meetings held in the Garden House at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden at 7:30 p.m. on the first Monday of every even-numbered month. Information about meetings and other events can be found on the SFPS website at <www.southfloridapalmsociety.org>. The next meeting will be on Apr. 2 at 7:30 p.m.
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March 6 - 19, 2012
Marlins ‘Caravan for Community’ visits Miami Children’s Hospital BY GARY ALAN RUSE
Players and front office staff of the Miami Marlins baseball team conducted a weeklong “Caravan for the Community,” Feb. 1319, that included a stop at Miami Children’s Hospital to brighten the lives of young patients, their parents and MCH staff. Part of the “blue shirts” volunteer Marlins Ayudan program developed to connect with and bring enhancements to the community, the Caravan participated in a school beautification project with City Year, a fishing tournament with local veterans from the Red Cross at Shake-A-Leg in Miami, a field day for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Broward and Miami-Dade counties, adopted a firehouse in Miami and
competed in a Family Feud game against teachers from Miami Central High School. Second on the list of stops was the Valentine’s Day visit to MCH to bring teddy bears to patients, give flowers to nurses and sign autographs. Team mascot Billy the Marlin also was there to exchange hugs with the delighted kids. After an initial encounter in the auditorium the team volunteers split up to go from floor to floor, room to room, visiting patients and family members. The Marlins made a big hit with the youngsters, but it was clear as well that the patients made an impact on the players as well, including infielder Donnie Murphy (No. 22). “It’s an absolute blessing to be able to come to a children’s hospital and be able to
Marlins pitcher Steve Cishek (left) and infielder Donnie Murphy visit a young patient.
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Team mascot Billy the Marlin interacts with youngsters and parents in the auditorium. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
communicate with the kids,” Murphy said. “It’s great just to interact with them and see how they’re doing and let them share their feelings with us. There’s really no better experience. That’s what we love to do. To be able to reach out to the community is great.” Marlins pitcher Steve Cishek (No. 31) was touched by the contact with the patients who were battling illnesses with grace and courage. “It’s awesome to be a part of this,” Cishek said. “Just to walk in and see a smile on their faces and see that they enjoy us. It’s more about them than about us. It makes me happy knowing they’re happy that we’re here. “They’re fighting a struggle, and being able to come here and make their day a lit-
tle better is all that matters. People have been giving to us our whole lives and it’s nice to give back to them.” Dr. Narendra Kini, Miami Children’s Hospital president and CEO, was deeply appreciative for the efforts by the team’s volunteers. “We are most grateful to the Marlins for taking the time to visit the children in our care,” Dr. Kini said. “For hospitalized children and their families the visit created a happy distraction and an event to remember. We are fortunate all could benefit from the Marlins’ generous outreach.” For information on the 2012 Marlins Ayudan Caravan for the Community visit the team’s official websites at <www.marlins.com> or <www.marlinsbeisbol.com>.
March 6 - 19, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
MDC to present three performances of acclaimed The Vagina Monologues BY TARNELL CARROLL
The Center @ MDC and Miami Dade College’s (MDC) Center for Community Involvement and Student Life departments will co-present The Vagina Monologues in separate performances at three campuses, beginning Wednesday, Mar. 14, in the Wolfson Campus auditorium. Under the direction of Joann Maria Yarrow, director of the Center’s renowned Prometeo Theatre, the play is one of several of productions planned to celebrate The Center’s 10th anniversary and V-Day Miami Dade College 2012. Originally written by Eve Ensler in 1996, The Vagina Monologues is based on hundreds of interviews conducted by Ensler herself, relating to themes such as sex, rape, love, orgasms, birth and women’s rights. It has garnered international success ever since its debut, and launched the concept of V-Day, a global movement of grassroots activists dedicated to generating broader attention and funds to stop violence against women and girls. MDC’s version of Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues will raise funds and awareness to stop violence toward women and girls by supporting both local and international efforts. All proceeds will benefit Miami’s Victim Response Inc. — The Lodge, whose services help victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault, and the V-Day’s Spotlight Campaign supporting women and girls of Haiti. Each production will be presented by MDC students, faculty and staff, with actresses performing in English, Spanish and Creole. “These are incredible, courageous
MDC’s version of Ensler’s “The Vagina Monologues” will raise funds and awareness to stop violence toward women and girls by supporting both local and international efforts. women who have come together to perform in something they believe in,” Yarrow said. “It is one of the important missions of the theater to unite and inspire the community.” Prometeo Theatre is unique in the nation for offering the opportunity of conservatory-style actor training in Spanish, while also offering a number of other programs for all different levels of expertise. From the Professional Training Program in the Theatre Arts to their “Prometeitos,” children’s programs, Prometeo Theatre offers a variety of workshops, courses and productions for all of those who want to discover the world of performance. Presentation of The Vagina Monologues (all performances at 8 p.m.): Wednesday, Mar. 14, Wolfson Campus Auditorium; Thursday, Mar. 22, North Campus Lehman Theatre, and Thursday, Mar. 29, Kendall Campus, McCarthy Auditorium. For more information, call 305-2373262 or visit online at <www.TheCenteratMDC.org>.
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Community Association Beat
The three phases of a delinquent unit’s life BY MITCH DRIMMER, CAM Community Association Manager
MCollections of delinquent maintenance fees for community associations have unfortunately become a reality these days, a process that can be broken down into three distinct phases: (1) Action when a unit owner misses paymenment; (2) The nitty-gritty of collection; (3) How delinquency is resolved. Step one is making contact with the delinquent unit owner in a timely manner, usually with a courtesy letter. (People forget, checks get lost). And there are times when people simply can’t afford the current month’s payment. That’s when they would welcome a friendly note letting them know a payment plan can be worked out. In its early stage, sending a delinquency to a collection agency or an attorney is not the way to go. Only if the owner fails to contact the association directly is it necessary to escalate a recovery effort, such as calling a professional collections service that has the expertise, systems and resources to resolve such issues. Professional collection companies will contact delinquent owners and advise them of the association’s intentions regarding collection, providing the resources and assistance to an owner to resolve a situation. If initial collection efforts are unsuccessful, the unit can then be scheduled for a lien notice in advance of a foreclosure. The plain and simple fact is that attorneys focus only upon two steps for an association: (a) a notice of lien and (b) foreclosure of title. It’s a good idea for an association to enter into an agreement with collection professionals to defer legal costs and fees until the time when a unit ‘settles out,’ at which
point such costs would be collected. When it comes to the touchy subject of collection legal costs and fees once an association forecloses on title, new options open. With title in hand, the association has power and control over the unit. It can first decide whether or not to rent the unit, monetizing it for the association. A second option is to do nothing and await a bank foreclosure filing for the unit collateral value. The final ‘settle out’ phase is tied to timing in one of three ways: •iWhen the bank finally comes for its cocollateral; • When the unit owner pays up (unlikely, but itit does happen); • When a short sale is made before a bank foforeclosure. If a short sale occurs, both new and old owners are jointly and severally liable for all funds legally owed to the association. Associations should resolve each case in the most favorable manner possible, and as soon as possible. This means maximizing the amount collected and eliminating any outof-pocket costs or risks to the association. Association boards should also remember that when it’s time for a unit to settle out, it’s the title company doing the work for the bank (in most cases). Thus a collections firm working on a merit basis has a great incentive to battle it out with the title company in behalf of the association’s interests. That’s why collection professionals are best suited for collections — because of the time they’ll devote, their strategy and great negotiating skills, as well as their knowledge, experience and the incentive to do the job right.
Mitch Drimmer is a licensed CAM and is the Vice President of Association Financial Services, an accredited collection agency, specialty finance, business process outsourcing, and specializing in community associations. For more information, visit <www.associationfinancial.com> or tel. 305-677-0022x 804.
March 6 - 19, 2012
Kohl’s Cares Scholarship program taking nominations until Mar. 15 BY ASHLEY THILL
Kohl’s Department Stores’ Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program will award more than $420,000 in scholarships and prizes — ranging from $50 Kohl’s gift cards to $10,000 scholarships — to more than 2,200 young volunteers who have made a positive impact on their communities. Nominations for kids ages 6 to 18 will be accepted until Mar. 15 at kohlskids.com. Kohl’s is helping promising youth to further their education at a time when college tuition continues to increase yearly — a challenge to many American families. “Through the Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program, Kohl’s recognizes young volunteers who dedicate their time, energy and passion to helping others and bettering the communities we live in,” said Julie Gardner, Kohl’s executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “During a time of economic uncertainty and high tuition costs, it’s important to support extraordinary kids by investing in their future. We encourage parents, teachers, neighbors and friends to nominate outstanding young volunteers at kohlskids.com.” To nominate volunteers ages 6-18 for a Kohl’s Cares scholarship, visit <www.kohlskids.com>. Nominators must be 21 years or older. Two nominees from each of the more than 1,100 Kohl’s stores
“ T h ro u g h t h e K o h l ’s Cares Scholarship P ro g r a m , K o h l ’s recognizes young volunteers who dedicate their time, e n e rg y a n d p a s s i o n t o h e l p i n g o t h e r s and bettering the c o m m u n i t i e s we live in.” — J u l i e G a rd n e r nationwide will win a $50 Kohl’s gift card, and more than 200 will win regional scholarships worth $1,000 toward post-secondary education. Ten national winners will be awarded a total of $10,000 in scholarships for post-secondary education and Kohl’s will donate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization on each national winner’s behalf. Through the Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program, Kohl’s aims to honor young volunteers who have made a positive impact on their communities. Since the program began in 2001, Kohl’s has recognized more than 15,000 kids with more than $3 million in scholarships and prizes. In 2012, Kohl’s celebrates its 12th year of rewarding young volunteers. For more information or a list of past Kohl’s Cares Scholarship program winners, visit online at <www.kohlskids.com>.
Community Newspapers
March 6 - 19, 2012
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
United Way Center offering tax help, financial resources BY YANET OBARRIO SANCHEZ
United Way of Miami-Dade is launching a public awareness campaign to inform families who earn less than $49,078 annually that they can receive up to $5,751 in tax credits through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). In addition, the campaign is promoting dozens of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites in Miami-Dade that offer free tax services by IRS-certified volunteer preparers to those who qualify. This campaign is made possible by two separate grants — a $20,000 grant from Bank of America and a $15,000 grant from the Walmart Foundation. United Way is utilizing radio and outdoor advertising to reach its target audience. The “Put more money in your pocket” message will be heard on Spanish, English and Creole radio stations and seen on Metrorail cars and stations. The campaign also combines public relations, website and social media outreach with a direct market-
ing component via United Way’s database of supporters and partner agencies. In addition to free tax preparation, working individuals and families can access year-round financial services and support — from financial coaching to benefits enrollment to employment assistance and credit counseling — at the United Way Center for Financial Stability. “Each year billions of dollars in tax refunds are not claimed by the people who most need those funds, because they don’t know they qualify or how to properly file their taxes,” said Harve A. Mogul, president and CEO, United Way of MiamiDade. “We are grateful to Bank of America and Walmart for their dedication to helping our neighbors file their taxes correctly and access much needed funds.” For more information about free tax preparation sites call 2-1-1, or visit online at <www.miamifinancialstability.org>. For information on free year-round financial services, contact the United Way Center for Financial Stability at 305-688-3551.
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Panter’s Pointers: Injuries on the rise for distracted pedestrians One of society’s current hot button topics is the danger of distracted driving, but perhaps equally as troublesome is the growth of injuries to distracted pedestrians. Many blame the increased use of mobile technology as the culprit. Similar to using handheld devices while driving, pedestrians can be fatally injured when they are distracted from their surroundings. A recent study by Dr. Richard Lichtenstein, director of Pediatric Emergency Medicine Research at the University of Maryland Hospital for Children in Baltimore found that deaths are on the rise for pedestrians using headphones. Whether it’s a story of a pedestrian walking into oncoming traffic or not hearing horns from vehicles or even trains, the results for distracted pedestrians can be tragic. Among the results, Dr. Lichtenstein’s study found that “the number of deaths of people wearing headphones increased from 16 in 2004-2005 to 47 in 2010-2011.” Perhaps most surprisingly is that the majority of vehicles involved were trains. The key to this alarming new trend is that it affects all populations. While the majority of cases studied involved people under the age of 30 in urban counties across the United States, this is an issue that everyone on the road needs to be aware of. In South Florida we are graced with beautiful outdoor weather throughout the year and so we are a city of runners, bike riders, walkers, etc. Whether cell phones or music devices such as iPods, it is commonplace to see pedestrians wearing headphones. What can we do to limit injuries to distracted pedestrians? First and foremost pedestrians should keep the volume low enough that they can hear what is going on in their surroundings. If you can’t hear someone talking to you, your volume is too loud. Secondly, pedestrians should be looking up at all times while in motion. If you look down to change a song or to use that fun new app, be sure that you are standing still in a safe spot out of traffic’s way. Last but not least, both pedestrians and motorists need to slow down and be aware of their surroundings before entering an intersection or crossing a crosswalk. Never assume the pedestrian will stop for you just like pedestrians shouldn’t assume that vehicles will stop for them. Source: U.S. News on msnbc.com, “Fatal distraction: Deaths of headphone-wearing pedestrians on the rise,” by Sevil Omer, 17 January 2012 CBS News, “Deaths on the Rise for Distracted Pedestrians,” by Jim Axelrod, 27 January 2011
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Chevy Volt looking good with gas around $4 a gallon
Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS With gasoline approaching $4 a gallon, it might be time to take another look at the growing number of electric vehicles available today. The Chevrolet Volt should be at the top of your list if you’re considering an electric new-car purchase; it’s safe, economical, has a 379-mile range with its onboard gasoline generator, and it’s really not that expensive after you factor in the tax credits and rebates. The Volt has bold, sleek styling and looks like an upscale, midsize sport sedan with its wide front and rear tracks, wheels-out stance and sculpted belt line. That said, there are few changes in the 2012 Volt and GM seems comfortable enough with the styling and performance to leave it alone, at least for the moment. Frankly, I like the Volt; it has good power and excellent torque, and it is surprisingly fast. Not only does it easily reach a top
speed of 100 mph, it clocks 0-60 mph in under nine seconds and runs the quartermile in less than 17 seconds. That’s not too shabby. The knock on the Volt is that it is not a true PEV because it has an on-board gasolinepowered generator. GM counters that the Volt is not a hybrid, but “a one-of-a-kind, allelectrically driven vehicle designed and engineered to operate in all climates.” The Volt is powered by GM’s Voltec propulsion system, consisting of a 16-kW lithium-ion battery pack and electric drive unit that allow a pure electric range of between 25 and 50 miles, depending on terrain, driving technique and temperature. A 1.4-liter gasoline-powered engine extends the range up to an additional 344 miles on a full tank of gas by operating the vehicle’s electric drive system until the car can be plugged in and recharged or refueled. The Volt’s long-life battery consists of a 5.5-foot, 435-pound, T-shaped, lithium-ion battery pack manufactured in Brownstown Township, MI. It supplies energy to an advanced 149 hp electric drive unit. GM says the Volt battery is designed to deliver value, safety, quality, performance, durability and reliability, and is covered by an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty.
2012 Chevy Volt has bold, sleek styling with wide front and rear tracks, a wheels-out stance and a sculpted belt line. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
GM engineers, since 2007, have completed more than a million miles and four million hours of testing on Volt battery packs, as well as each pack’s nine modules and 288 cells. A GM representative told me that every major element of the Volt was designed and analyzed for efficiency, including its highly aerodynamic exterior, lightweight wheels, specially designed tires and even the energy-saving premium
stereo system. Base price on the Volt is $39,995, but a $7,500 tax credit brings the cost down to $32,495. Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.
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They won the tournament!
January 22nd, USY Inc members from the USY chapter from Bet Breira Samu El Or Olom participated in their annual Sub Regional Basketball Tournament where multiple chapters from conservative synagogues around South Florida played against each other to eventually finish with a winner. With the help of B'nai Torah Congregation's USY chapter members, USY Inc's players Steven Solomon, Aaron Schwartz, Sarah Benhamo and Samantha Myers came out as the winners of 2012 Arvot Basketball Tournament! They are very proud of their chapter players!
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DREWKERN.COM
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.
1519 9 Granada a Blvd Impressive, 2 story, Old Spanish Coral Gables home. 4 Bdrrm/3 Bath main house and two, 1 bedroom separate maid's quarters above the garage. 11,406 sq ft lot.
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157255 SW W 877 Ct Updated Palmetto Bay, 3/2 with screened pool and 2 car garage. Newer roof and A/C with too many extras to list. Move in condition.
Reduced Price $449,000
Drew Kern
146011 Snapperr Dr Wonderful, 4 bdrm/2.5 bath family home in gated, Kings Bay community in Coral Gables. Open great room. Screened patio and pool. Carport fits 2 cars.
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90133 SW W 2066 St Spectacular Cantamar home, 3 bdrm 2.5 baths, 2 story model with 2 car garage. Open kitchen with granite counters, overlooking dining and family room.
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238011 Overseass Highway,, Summerland d Keyy
(Mile Marker 23.8) Great opportunity to Acres are upland (335,848 sq ft). 990 feet of purchase a unique commercial property in the frontage on Overseas Highway, West side is on Florida Keys. 9.46 acres on the Bay on Kemp Channel, and the east side is on a lagoon. Summerland Key. This property was Property has several ponds, 2 fresh water injection previously a thriving Shrimp Larva Farm. The wells and 3 salt water wells. seller represents that of the entire property, 7.71 Reduced price $1,495,000
ESSLINGER WOOTEN MAXWELL, INC., REALTORS 305.329.7744 â&#x20AC;˘ KERN.D@EWM.COM
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