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APRIL 19 - MAY 2, 2011
Calusa Country Club plan has homeowners divided
BY NANCY EAGLETON
I
t seems the greens of Calusa Golf Course in West Kendall have been in the red for some time. The owner closed the Calusa Country Club in March and is proposing to develop the 168-acre property into an upscale senior community. But with change, comes resistance and many concerned neighbors who live on the perimeter of the golf course are supporting a covenant that restricts the property’s use. The covenant, which dates back to 1968, stipulates that any development other than a golf course requires a waiver of the covenant be signed by 75 percent of the 144 homes that abut the golf course. Tim Hyman, who represents owner Facundo Bacardi of the Bacardi rum family, recently conducted a community meeting to present the $200 million development concept, The Gardens of Calusa –
Signs of opposition have appeared throughout the Calusa community.
––––––––––––––––––––– See
CALUSA, page 4
Sounds of Latin jazz finding home in West Kendall
Education cutbacks on agenda for KFHA town hall meeting
BY RICHARD YAGER BY LEE STEPHENS
T
he rhythmic tattoo of bongos, coupled with a big band beat, has turned Hammocks Middle School into Tuesday night jam sessions. It’s largely the inspiration of two-time Grammy nominee tenor saxman Ed Calle and Steve Kirkland, the school’s 25-year band director who also blows a mean alto sax during off-campus hours. Wander into the school’s band room between 6 and 8 p.m. on any Tuesday night this spring and you could hear Woody Herman’s flag-waving Opus de Funk rocking to a Latin beat by a 22piece crew of four trumpets, three trombones, eight reeds, three percussionists, two pianists and a bass. Joining aspiring mid-teen musicians who play in the Hammocks Middle School band program are adults like retired Pembroke Pines police officer Jose Orlando, 56, of Cutler Ridge, once a bongo player with the famed Tito Puente. With Victor Giol, a computer instructor at Miami Dade College’s Kendall campus, the pair furnishes authentic Latin rhythms for students such as Daniel Proctor, 15, a trombonist from Felix Varela Senior High School. “I’m learning about the Kai Winding and J.J. Johnson in addition to Troy ‘Shorty’ Andrews, my favorite on jazz trombone,” Proctor said. “They’re both great soloists but the playing is a little too structured; I like a freer jazz style.” The community program is co-led by Eduardo J. Calle, EdD, most often introduced in worldwide jazz “gigs” and fes-
A
Steve Kirkland (standing) at work with Dr. Ed Calle, tenor sax great. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
tivals with other Latin jazz artists such as Arturo Sandoval and Nester Torres, and as director of his own Fuego Caliente Latin jazz orchestra. West Kendall’s Latin Jazz Community Orchestra is an experiment–in-progress for Miami Dade College’s successful three-year Latin Jazz Summer School, designed especially for musically inclined aficionados of Puente or Perez Prado. Open to anyone wanting to learn or hone Latin jazz skills from middle school through adult ages, the communi-
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See
JAZZ, page 4
s Florida lawmakers discuss a state budget proposal that would slash education funding, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) officials and stakeholders continue to fight for the rights of children to receive a constitutionally mandated high quality public education. The Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations (KFHA) has announced that M-DCPS superintendent Alberto Carvalho will brief residents on the issues during a special town hall meeting on Apr. 20, beginning at 6:30 p.m., in the auditorium at Hammocks Middle School, 9889 Hammocks Blvd. KFHA board members ask those planning to attend to take note of the new meeting location that more easily will accommodate the anticipated large crowd.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See
KFHA, page 4
www.westkendallbusiness.com
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 3
Chamber South Business Expo is the place to see and be seen
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BY LEE STEPHENS
Sometimes it’s not what you know, but whom you know. Chamber South’s 12th Annual Business Expo is the place to see and be seen on Wednesday, Apr. 20, from 5 to 8 p.m., at the Datran Center Atrium, adjacent to the Miami Dadeland Marriott. Visitors will have an opportunity to get to know the South Miami-Dade’s business community. They’ll find banks, hospitals and clinics; schools and universities; business coaches, printers and marketers. There will be service companies to clean homes and businesses; insurance agents; payroll services and contractors to repair or build-out an office or warehouse. There will be myriad opportunities to network with local business groups and not-for profit community organizations. The 2011 Business Expo is sponsored by
sponsored by Credomatic, TownCare Dental, Kendall Summit, Daisho, Williamson Automotive, Baptist Health South Florida, Jackson South Community Hospital, Morris & Reynolds and many others. The Expo is made possible by the Chamber South Business Committee in partnership with the Datran Center, South Dade Economic Development Council, Red Sunset Merchants Association of South Miami and the business associations of Cutler Bay, Palmetto Bay, Pinecrest and West Kendall. The expo boasts close to 100 exhibitors, complimentary hors d’oeuvres from local eateries, cash bar, music, a silent auction and much more. The Datran Center is an ideal location for the Business Expo thanks to the Dadeland South Metrorail station and various offices located in the Datran Center.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
JAZZ, from page 1 ––––––––––––– ty ensemble is now completing the second of two six-week sessions and preparing for a May 3 concert appearance. “We wanted to extend the program into a community due to the great response we’ve had to our summer Latin jazz program,” explained David Lotke, MDC program manager for the School of Community Education. “Steve, as an instructor in our summer program, was a natural choice to lead a Latin jazz group.” In session through May 3, Kirkland said, “It’s been a great experience, especially for adult musicians who still love to play Latin jazz but have no place to use their talent off hours.” Devotion to band directing could be Kirkland’s middle name, having graduated from the University of Miami’s School of Music in 1986 with a plaque for “Outstanding Achievement” from Pi Kappa Lambda music honor society. Immediately thereafter, he became band director at Hammocks Middle School, a post he has held for a quarter century, starting his teaching career at age 21 and gaining his master’s degree in Music Education from FIU in 1990. Born in Naples as a great grandson of a
post-Civil War settler, Reese Kirkland, Kirkland’s jazz roots are reflected by a framed photo of the Big Band era’s trumpeter Harry James, gracing an LP album cover of the 1950s, hanging just inside the entry door to the band room. A close-up shows James’ mouthpiece pressed against his lips. Kirkland explained: “The mirror right next to it is for my horn players to practice looking like James’ embouchure [mouthpiece position]. It’s perfect positioning.” Kirkland praises legendary alto sax men from Johnny Hodges of Duke Ellington days to Charlie “Bird” Parker, but says, “Cannonball (Julian) Adderly is my own favorite and Dave Sanborn another.” Father of four, all of whom are students in their dad’s band classes, Kirkland chuckles: “I’ve been driving to work with one of my kids in the seat next to me ever since I got here. I’m really looking forward to the day when I will be drive to and from the job by myself.” In occasional off hours, Kirkland plays live Latin jazz and funk with his own group at the Sports Grille, 9090 SW 97 Ave., Thursday nights from 7 to 10 p.m. He’s also featured at the new Blue Martini clubs at The Palms and downtown Brickell Avenue. For updates, visit online at <www.stevekirkland.com>.
KFHA, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gov. Rick Scott’s original budget plan called for public education to absorb about 72 percent of his proposed budget cuts although public schools only account for 29 percent of state spending. While lawmakers have not completely embraced the governor’s plan, M-DCPS officials projected projected the district will have to deal with $144 million in cuts, a total many PTA and education advocates call completely unacceptable. KFHA president Lee Zimmerman
appreciates Carvalho’s candid outreach to the community. “Our children are Florida’s future. But unlike other special interests, children don’t have legions of highly paid lobbyists roaming the Capitol hallways in Tallahassee to fight for their interests,” Zimmerman said. “It’s vital that parents and community stakeholders stay informed and hold our elected legislators accountable. We are thankful that Mr. Carvalho will present us with a transparent up-to-date analysis of the situation.”
JUMPS FOR KENDALL GAZETTE
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
CALUSA, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pictured is a rendering of the Vita course at Linear Park surrounding The Gardens of Calusa – Life Care Retirement Community.
Life Care Retirement Community, to the Calusa homeowners. “The homeowners are concerned about traffic, their property values and their view,” Hyman said. “We understand that, which is why we are trying to create a total package that will enhance the quality of life of the residents that abut this property.” Part of that package is a $50,000 payment per household which will be paid to 100 percent of the owners who sign the restrictive covenant waiver within two weeks of receiving it. After the two-week period expires, payment would be made only to those who make up the necessary 75 percent of the signatures needed. “This money will be placed in escrow, ready to pay,” Hyman said. “This is a multi-million dollar giveback.” The second part of the package addresses the homeowners’ backyard views. Hyman contends that the design philosophy of “The Gardens” is based on respecting the environment and enhancing the lifestyle of the perimeter homes and families. To replace the homeowners’ backyard views of the golf course, the site’s plan includes a 20-acre, 3.2-mile long, 50-foot wide linear park that would border the entire 168-acre property. The park, which would include a Vita course, lakeside gazebos, fountains, sunset viewing areas, playground and putting green, will be for the exclusive use of The Gardens’ residents and the homeowners, who will each have a private path connecting their property to the park walkway. Hyman said that the homeowners would have majority representation on a board that oversees the park, while The Gardens would maintain the park and provide 24hour security. One Calusa homeowner who plans to sign the waiver, but wanted to remain anonymous said, “Everyone’s first reaction is to fight, because it’s a change — and change is scary for some people,” she
said. “I didn’t use the golf course, but my husband and I would probably use this park.” For some homeowners, the development still falls short of warranting their signature to waive the restrictive covenant. Some worry that if they sign, it opens the door to other types of development, if this plan falls short. Not so says the Bacardi group, who assures homeowners that their signature will waive the covenant only for this specific development proposal. Calusa homeowner Orlando Rodriguez said that he is worried that the value of his home will decrease now that it will no longer be “on the golf course.” “The owners have offered us each $50,000, but I think our home values will decrease by more than that,” he said. “If they want us on their side, they’re going to have to offer more to compensate for that decrease.” Barry Schimer, another Calusa homeowner, said that he does not support this development plan. “This is not about business; these are our homes,” he said. “Would Mr. Bacardi like this development in his backyard?” The proposed master plan of The Gardens of Calusa includes independent living cottages, assisted living villas and a nursing care facility, for a total of 960 dwelling units. The self-contained community will include dining areas, lounges, library, theater, ballroom, computer center, retail center, medical center, fitness center and spa and wellness center with an indoor swimming pool. Even with all the amenities, Hyman is quick to point out that the building footprint on the property will be 11 percent, with the remaining 89 percent open space. The average setbacks of buildings from property lines will be 170 feet, and 380 feet for threestory buildings. “We are planning a successful, viable working business and in the process of planning it. We’re trying to make everyone happy,” Hyman said.
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Two Wrongs ‘Make’ a Right! Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR
AROUND TOWN Let’s be open about the recall of Mayor Carlos Alvarez. In child-like retribution, a wealthy automotive dealer rallies an Anglo-Latin taxpayer base to oust Alvarez for pushing Marlin baseball stadium funding, then tacks on budget policy and staff issues that guarantee a recall turnout of voters, mostly incensed about County Commission dalliances. Now, Norman Braman and supporters – almost as an after-thought — seek to abolish the ‘Strong Mayor” form of government. In other words, throw out the baby (Alvarez) with the bathwater (“Strong Mayor government”}. So do two wrongs (motive and recall votes) make a right? Begrudgingly, they do. A Florida legislative act created the Metropolitan Charter Board and “Home Rule” for Miami-Dade County November 6, 1956 by voter referendum. “The Miami Metropolitan Experiment” (Indiana University Press, 1963), details objectives of providing a fast-growing county area with a government that could effectively overcome interplay of a hodgepodge of 26 city administrations and state agencies, all with murky hands in growing countywide affairs. The enabling legisla-
tion as digested by expert author Prof. Edward Sofen: “…Under the home rule charter, the right to create, merge, consolidate, and abolish municipal corporations, special taxing districts, boards, and other governmental units or offices whose jurisdiction lay totally with Dade County could be transferred from the state to the local level. Only the County Commission, as it might be reorganized, the Board of Public Instruction, the superintendent of public instruction, and the state court system within the county were exempt from such transfer.” In effect, a new county political structure would be empowered to replace state or local city controls of the Port of Miami (rather than the City), miscellaneous taxing agencies, transportation bus routes and all other jurisdictions better administered by the overall authority of an elected Commission. Now, more than a half-century later, voters see-saw between a strong executive vs. legislative (Mayor vs. Commission) empowerment to run the county’s business effectively. Clearly, it was the intent of the Home Rule charter to keep authority within the Commission, the legislative branch of county government. A responsible Charter Review Committee has already come up with a planned agenda of reform to strengthen the role of the Commssion. Now, that may come about with the recall of Alvarez simply serving as a catalyst for long overdue action to create a “Strong” Commission, sufficiently paid to
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attract ethical individuals, hopefully above suspicion of lobby deals or similar shenanigans behind closed doors. MPO (Miami-Dade Metropolitan Planning Organization) co-hosting two-day “Think Bike Workshop” with The Netherlands and the City of Miami, bringing together Dutch bike experts with local politicians, sez a press release…for which there’s gotta be a joke about putting the ‘right spin’ on things lurking around there somewhere. For interested bike folks, the session will be held Monday, May 2 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the conference room at the downtown Clark Center, 111 Northwest First Street. For details, call 305-375-4507 or visit www.miamidade.gov/mpo. We’re told demolition of the Keiser University’s building next to Kohl’s at Town & Country Center (renamed “The Palms”) is next, now that the college has transferred itself and 1,000 students to its new location at 2101 NW 117th Avenue at the Dolphin Commerce Center professional business campus. It all began in Kendall in 2001 with nine students, now claims 18,000 students worldwide with 14 Florida campuses and a “branch campus” in Shanghai, China.
Schools ‘Supt’ Alberto Carvalho busy making the rounds in Kendall, first at Hammocks Middle School, Wednesday, April 20, at 6:30 p.m. for a Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations meeting (free and open to the public) in what KFHA Veep Don Kearns calls a “Budget Battle Briefing.” Then Carvalho shows up again at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 28, at West Kendall Business Association’s monthly networking session ($35 per lunch) at Killian Palms Country Club, 9950 SW 104 Street, addressing “Business and Schools.” Both appearances slated to rally opposition to pending legislative cuts in county school funding. For details on the WKBA meeting, tel. 305386-4030 or visit www.westkendallbusiness.com. Thought for the Day: Think like a man of action, and act like a man of thought. — Henri Bergson
Gary Alan Ruse contributed to this column. Got any tips? Contact me at 305-6697355, ext. 249, or send emails to <michael@communitynewspapers.com>.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Adios, Latin American visitors, if legislature has its way R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY Picture this if you will. Early Saturday morning, back in Miami, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio after a night out politicking with his Republican friends, goes to Don Pan at the request of his wife, to buy a couple of loaves of Cuban bread. Unshaven, with Cuban bread next to him in the car, the Senator doesn’t come to a complete stop at an “all way” stop sign. A police officer, watching the intersection pulls over the senator. “Let’s see your ID.” He looks Latin, thinks Officer Johnson. “Sorry, officer, I just ran out to the store to buy some Cuban bread and jugo (Spanish for OJ). In the rush I forgot my driver’s license — sorry!” “Sure, sure, I’ve heard that before.” “Don’t you recognize me officer? I’m Senator Marco Rubio, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio. I’m a big wheel in Washington!” “Sure, that’s what all you South Americans say. I’m President Obama! Let’s go downtown and you can tell it to a judge Monday
morning. You know my job under the new Florida Immigration law is to make sure none of you Latino types sneak into Florida. Last guy like you I picked up ended up in Homestead at the federal detention center.” Couldn’t happen, you say? Don’t believe it; it can and it will happen! If an Arizona type immigration law passes in Florida, I will tell my wife’s kids (ages 31 and 28 from Brazil) to stay in Brazil. Forget about spending a few thousand dollars at Dadeland Mall. The last thing I want is for the kids to be picked up by cops as possible immigrants. Yes, they do speak English, but with a Brazilian accent. They’re better off visiting New York for their shopping. There they appreciate foreigners with money. I can’t understand the Florida Legislature contemplating immigration legsilation patterned after the Arizona law that the courts have held as unconstitutional. This is Florida, South Florida, where I am jokingly referred to at the office as “El Ultimo (last) Gringo in Town.” Is the legislature trying to alienate all the visitors, visitors by the tens of thousands that come to Miami to spend their money helping keep Florida’s economy going? Are our legislators so dumb that they can’t see there are tens of thousands of Latins that have become citizens and vote? Does the leg-
VIEWPOINT islature think that these Americans of Latin American decent are going to vote you back into office if you make it difficult, if not impossible, for their friends and relatives to visit Miami without fear of interrogation and possible incarceration? One more thing, Mr. and Ms. Legislator: You are cutting back on the funding of law enforcement officers, which means there will be fewer cops on the street chasing bank robbers, guys driving under the influence, breaking and entering, etc. So on top of this you want to make every law enforcement officer an immigration officer? Talk about priorities! Andres Oppenheimer, nationally syndicated columnist, wrote in the Miami Herald that immigrant workers in Florida contribute an estimated $4.5 billion in tax revenues a year. And, those visitors to Florida, my wife’s children included, spend approximately $7 billion a year when they visit our state. On top of this, investments made by foreign investors, average over $34 billion a year in our state. And, Mr. and Ms. Legislator, you want to make it uncomfortable for them to come to South Florida? Have you lost your senses?
Without their money South Florida, no all of Florida, would be in deeper trouble than we are in today. Think of what Walt Disney World would be like without foreign visitors? We just got back from Orlando for the compulsory visit to Mickey land. I heard a lot of Spanish, Portuguese, German and many other languages being spoken walking around Epcot Center. I would hate to see what an immigration sweep, looking for foreign speaking visitors, would do to our legal visitors’ enthusiasm. Get real, legislators. Look for ways to save the state revenues, to increase employment and to keep our schools open. Stop trying to wreak havoc, questioning every Latin-looking visitor and resident on the streets of Florida. Please! We appreciate your opinions on this column whether in agreement or disagreement. Please send your comments to (fax number) 305-6626980 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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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
1st Q shows slow recovery; is bleakest news behind us?
Al Sunshine CBS MONEY WATCH Could it be that the bleak news is behind us? It seems that South Florida’s economy has seen a steady, slow recovery for the first quarter, with tourism and foreign trade seeing decent improvements. As we enter the second quarter, what can we expect and, more importantly, what can we do about it? Wall Street closed the quarter with the best showing in 13 years. Our investments and retirement accounts should be seeing decent gains. South Florida’s housing market is seeing its huge inventory of distressed properties getting smaller by the month. At the start of the second quarter, some problems around town are getting better. But some old ones still remain. Pepi Cancio, a Coral Gables contractor said, “I’m in the construction industry and business has been down for me and a lot of other people, and there’s still a lot of people suffering.” The local construction industry remains a key part of our economy and it is expected to continue seeing tough times. What is the problem? Forecasts for higher gas prices will slow consumer spending and hold back demand for new housing and commercial units. While pri-
vate hiring is expected to continue to see moderate gains, budget cuts may trigger a new wave of layoffs for government workers. Real estate sales are improving, but prices may still bottom out. We’ll continue attracting foreign investment and foreign tourism, but don’t be surprised to see cuts in domestic tourism as we approach the slow summer. As far as our family finances are concerned, the second quarter will probably be dominated by rising consumer prices that are all based on rising energy costs. Lane Jones of Coral Gables’ Evensky & Katz warns, “I think the most important thing is not to let rising energy costs catch you off guard. Look over your budget to start seeing what you need to do to adjust it, so it doesn’t catch you by surprise.” There’s also another problem facing family finances. We should expect limited income growth, as companies start trimming costs to make up for higher operating expenses. As a result, don’t be surprised to see a slowdown in consumer spending, even as local businesses slash prices to try to get customers back to the checkout counters. Second quarter South Florida-style will continue to see some old problems getting better. But our stalled construction, employment and personal incomes will continue to be a problem for quite a while, with no quick and easy fixes anywhere in sight. Watch Al Sunshine’s “Money Watch” reports Monday-Friday beginning at noon.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Despite changes, county services will continue without interruption Alina T. Hudak MANAGER The past several months have been challenging for our community. To be sure, there is a great deal of change afoot in county government. The most important things, however, have not changed. We will respond to some 643 fire-rescue emergencies today and collect garbage from 162,353 households. We will welcome visitors at 263 public parks and care for more than 5,800 children in our Head Start and Early Head Start centers. More than 310,000 people will crisscross the county in our buses, trains and special transportation services, and about 100,000 will crisscross the globe through Miami International Airport. We will feed
dozens of lost and stray animals, answer 9,698 calls to the 3-1-1 Answer Center and deliver 2,317 meals to 27 senior centers. That kind of work will continue to be our focus. In one way or another, every one of our 2.5 million residents depends on us every day. On behalf of our entire workforce, we want you to know that you can continue counting on this government for the large and small things we do. Working collaboratively with chairman Joe A. Martinez and the Board of County Commissioners, it is my goal to ensure a seamless transition. Like so many of you, I call this community home, a place where I work, live and raise my family. I am proud of the contributions made by county employees to improve our quality of life. I am committed to doing my part in leading county government so that the leaders you elect will know that we have maintained the highest standards and continued to deliver excellence every day.
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Shaded walks coming to Snapper Creek Park This pergola provides shaded walkways at Snapper Creek Park.
BY RICHARD YAGER
It’s only a hiccup in the year’s MiamiDade Park and Recreation Department budget, but it’s a welcome one for residents around Snapper Creek Park. A $90,000 capital improvement project is creating shaded walkways in Snapper Creek Park, 10280 SW 80 St., a neighborhood oasis of greenery adjacent to Sunset Park Elementary School. Three wood lattice and stucco column pergolas, with accompanying ADA accessible benches, are complementing a children’s playground to create a “community gathering area on the park’s west side,” said Laura Phillips, spokesperson for the Parks Department.
Pergola construction and new bench seating completes a plan to transform an otherwise passive green space into an attractive neighborhood park, suitable for jogging, play or simple relaxation, she noted. Slated for completion in May, the project is funded by the Quality Neighborhood Improvement Program, part of Parks Department’s $40.4 million capital budget for fiscal 2010-11. For the mathematically inclined, the park improvements represents an outlay of just a fraction of one percent (0.0596%) of the total department fiscal year spending of over $151 million, combining both an operating budget of $110.5 million and capital expenditures of $40.4 million.
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Dade County to Dodge City: Officer’s persistence pays
Pictured (l-r) are Maj. James O’Donnell, Officer of the Month Det. Gerardo Trujillo and CAC chair Barry White. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY RICHARD YAGER
Relentless tracking of three suspects over a two-year period won Det. Gerardo Trujillo honors as Miami-Dade Police Kendall District Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) Officer of the Month for February. In May 2009, Det. Trujillo became part of an investigative team immediately following a neighborhood shooting that saw three suspects escape leaving a victim behind with a gunshot wound. After the individual was transported to Jackson Medical Center’s Ryder Trauma Unit, Det. Trujillo, with Det. Sharon
McCallister and Midwest District Det. Roland Garcia, interviewed the victim’s girlfriend but had only a shoe, two bullet casings and a bloody trail as physical clues. Using those details over a period of several months, Det. Trujillo eventually identified, arrested and charged all three subjects with attempted felony murder, including tracing one of them to Dodge City, KS. The combined teamwork and Det. Trujillo’s “astute powers of observation” were cited by Maj. James O’Donnell in a citation awarded by CAC chair Barry White at the Kendall Police District meeting on Mar. 30.
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Commissioner Bell launches first of monthly ‘work days’
Miami-Dade Commissioner Lynda Bell serves her constituents during the first of her monthly “work days” at Lots of Lox Deli in Palmetto Bay. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY MAURICE R. HERNANDEZ
Miami-Dade County Commissioner Lynda Bell “rolled-up” her sleeves on Mar. 31 during her first monthly “Work Day” at the Original Lots of Lox Deli in Palmetto Bay. Surrounded by plenty of hungry patrons, Commissioner Bell spent the day as a server at the popular delicatessen where she was able to obtain a first-hand appreciation of the everyday pressures and challenges that local small business owners, employees and customers face. “I am glad to have had this great opportunity to immerse myself in this very demanding workplace environment and take back to the county commission a true appreciation of the needs of our community,” Commissioner Bell said. “In this very tough economic climate, local government must be a partner to
small businesses all over South Florida. They must listen closely to their needs and provide them with the necessary tools so that they may recover and provide much needed jobs to the many of our residents who have long suffered with unemployment,” she added. “Commissioner Bell’s innovative and hands-on approach to the challenges faced by our local small businesses is refreshing,” said Nick Poulos, proprietor of the Original Lots of Lox Deli. “I hope that through forums like these, she can formulate policies to create an environment where small businesses can thrive while staying in touch with local business leaders.” If you are a business owner who would like to invite Commissioner Bell for a “work day,” or if you would like more information on the program, contact Commissioner Bell’s office at 305-3786677.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Palmetto High School grads creating alumni association BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD
Palmetto Senior High graduates are getting together to create an alumni association and spearheading the effort is Pinecrest Mayor Cindy Lerner (Class of 1970) “We’re taking the reunion with Class of 70 and transitioning it into an alumni association for Palmetto,” Lerner said. “Hopefully the alumni association to be will help the Class of ’71.” Currently, a steering committee is meeting regularly to plan the Class of ’71’s 40th reunion, scheduled for June 10 and 11. That reunion will begin with an event at Mike Arnspiger’s art gallery, Artspace MAGQ, 8747 SW 134 St. in the Falls area. Then Saturday, June 11, the reunion moves to the Dadeland Marriott. The Marriott will be the headquarters hotel for out-of-town guests. The reunion is targeting graduates from 1968 to 1972. The alumni association is being created to help the school and to provide a database of graduates. The hope is by keeping the graduates involved with the school, that when needed, Palmetto officials can have a resource to tap.
Pictured (l-r): Karen Procter, Kay Sims-Wilson, Chris Ball, Carol Tragash and Pinecrest Mayor Cindy Lerner meet to create an alumni association and plan the Class of 1971 reunion. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
The concept came to Lerner when she saw all the things Gulliver graduates do for the school through that school’s alumni association. While Lerner’s two older daughters attended Palmetto like their mom, her youngest went to Gulliver. The idea of an alumni association is not new. It was tried a decade ago but Lerner is bringing it back. Other public high schools such as Miami Beach and Miami Southwest have strong alumni associations. “Palmetto has some pretty significant alumni,” she said. “With all the things I’m doing with the schools, it seemed like a no brainer that I revive that effort.” Palmetto’s principal, Howard Weiner, is in favor of the idea.
“The essence of Miami Palmetto Senior High School is the success story of our alumni,” he said. Lerner is tag teaming with the upcoming reunion in hopes of building momentum for the alumni association. One of the difficulties in creating an alumni association is putting together a good alumni database. Although the school recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, and 760 alumni became members of the event’s Facebook page, there are many more alumni whose information needs to be added. The Class of ’71 hired a reunion company, First Class Reunions, to help with the event, but found the data base for Palmetto to be incomplete, said Carol Tragash (Class of ’71). “We’re working hard to reach everyone but our data base is ancient,” she said. “Even those who are not planning to attend, if they could go and update their information it will help for future events.” Tragash attended the Class of ’70’s reunion, the first time she’s been back since her 10th reunion. “It was just so much fun to share the evening with people either we knew, or experienced the same time of life,” she said. Palmetto groups are opening their reunions to grads from a range of years. For example, the Class of ’70 welcomed grads from ’68 to ’72. “Anyone is welcome,” Tragash said. “Someone wrote on our Facebook page, ‘but I graduated in 74.’ I really want to encourage everyone to come.” The cost of attending the Class of ’71 reunion is $145. Those interested in attending the reunion or updating their information can go to the Palmetto Reunion Facebook page or visit online at <www.reunionweb.com>.
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
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New audiobook teaches kids about protecting our planet BY PRISCILLA BURGOS
Recognizing the importance of protecting mother earth, Merlin Castle Group and the EDGE Charitable Foundation, are joining forces for the release of Henry, The Little Green Truck. Designed to teach children about protecting our planet, Henry and friends will take readers on a ride, where children can tag along Henry’s path toward becoming an environmentally friendly truck. “Early environmental education experiences help shape a child’s values, perspective, and understanding of the environment and how to interact with it,” said Monica Ponce, co-founder of the Merlin Castle Group. Henry, The Little Green Truck is a great way to teach children how to respect the world they live in. The audiobook, published in English and Spanish, which encompasses an inspiring story line, witty friends and an essential message, will be available on Amazon.com. “To find the adequate words to best describe this literary adventure is very difficult, but I can say that I have found a new fountain of inspiration for my imagination to thrive,” said the author, Jessyca Sarango. “To have the ability to influence many people, especially kids, from the corner of my humble and childish heart is incredible.” A portion of the proceeds will go to the EDGE Charitable Foundation. Ponce expresses that, “it is a great honor to partner with the EDGE; together we can do
magic! Mother Earth is crying for attention, as such we need to open our eyes to what is happening around us and work together to make a change.” Profits will be used in order to ensure the success of the organization’s Earth Month Education Campaign and its many other endeavors. The Earth Month Education Campaign is taking place during April, when the Foundation will introduce to children the importance of lowering their carbon footprint. “The EDGE Charitable Foundation is very appreciative and honored to be chosen by the Merlin Castle Group as its charitable partner,” said Priya Nembhard, founder and vice president of the EDGE Charitable Foundation. “Our fight to impact future generations, goes hand-inhand as we teach children the value of our planet’s resources and the importance of social responsibility.”
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
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Mission Possible: How to make your non-profit successful The Miami Dade Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals Network of Miami will be hosting “Mission Possible: How to Make your Non-Profit Successful” on Apr. 20. The event will take place from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. in Jungle Island’s Treetop Ballroom, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail. Guests will have the opportunity to hear from experts in the non-profit business areas of law, business management, marketing, and finance. Guest speakers for Mission Possible include Norman Wedderburn from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Javier A. Soto from the Miami Foundation, and Delores Dunn from the Center for Family and Child Enrichment Inc. For more information regarding this event visit online at <www.m-dcc.org>. WDNA 88.9 AND UM TO HOST CONCERT BY SALSA ORCHESTRA WDNA 88.9 and the University of Miami Frost Salsa Orchestra will host a concert on Apr. 21, at 8 p.m., featuring Alberto De La Reguera, musical arranger and conductor, and special guest Mark O’Connor, violin. General admission is $15. The concert will take place at the University of Miami Gusman Concert Hall, located at 1314
Miller Dr. in Coral Gables. For more information and reservations, call 305-284-5813. CORAL GABLES RESIDENTS INVITED TO FREE CONCERT Coral Gables residents (only) are invited to attend the first of a series of free concerts on Apr. 25, at 8 p.m., courtesy of the 20-year Development Agreement between the City of Coral Gables and the University of Miami. The Frost Symphonic Winds will take the stage at the Maurice Gusman Concert Hall, 1314 Miller Dr. on the campus of the University of Miami. The Frost Symphonic Winds is comprised of students throughout the Frost School of Music. Directed by Thomas Keck, the Symphonic Winds provide audiences with programs consisting of the highest quality performances representing diverse musical styles. Free parking is available at the University of Miami Campus after 4 p.m. For additional information, contact the City of Coral Gables Parks and Recreation Department at 305-460-5600. TEMPLE JUDEA’S SPRINGTIME BAZAAR TO TAKE PLACE, APR. 27 Temple Judea, one of the largest Reform
COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS synagogues in Miami, will conduct its second annual Springtime Bazaar on Apr. 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the synagogue, 5500 Granada Blvd. in Coral Gables. Admission is free. The eclectic vendors at the Springtime Bazaar will sell everything from head to toe and in between — from cute kid gear and handbags to exquisite jewelry, gorgeous clothing, flip flops, unique gifts and candles. The Springtime Bazaar is organized annually by the Parents Association with all proceeds benefiting the Margaux Early Childhood School at Temple Judea. As an added bonus on the day of the bazaar, a blood and toy drive will take place. For more information, call Jennifer Gerson or Leslie Matus at 305-667-9470 or send email to <judeabazaar@aol.com>. INFORMED FAMILIES PRESENTS LUNCH AND LEARN WORKSHOP Informed Families/The Florida Family Partnership invites parents and caregivers to attend its free monthly Lunch and Learn
Workshop on Apr. 28, at noon, which will explore how to creatively engage and inspire bright children to realize their full potential. Titled “Meeting the Needs of Exceptionally Bright Children,” the workshop will be presented by Barbara Quinaz, MS, gifted educator and 2011 Miami-Dade County Public Schools Region III Teacher of the Year finalist. The meeting will take place at the corporate headquarters located at 2490 Coral Way, second Floor. To RSVP, send email correspondence to <aferro@informedfamilies.org>. For more information, call 786-536-3283. THE FALLS PRESENTS THIRD ANNUAL GIRLS NIGHT OUT The Falls, 8888 SW 136 St., one of the largest open-air shopping, dining and entertainment complexes in the United States, is presenting its third annual “Girls Night
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
from previous page ––––
Out: Spring Preview,” on Apr. 28, from 6 to 9 p.m. The exciting event serves to engage local women in an evening of networking, fashion, delicious culinary tastings, signature martinis courtesy of Blue Martini in Kendall, incredible savings and more. In addition, the first 150 guests will receive a gift bag filled with goodies courtesy of The Falls (while supplies last). Famed South Florida event designer and stylist to the stars, Godfrey del Rio, will present a spring “trend show” that will showcase the latest looks. In addition, guests will also enjoy makeup demonstrations, event stations featuring home décor ideas for spring, spectacular specials featured in The Falls Spring Savings coupon book and more. Guests will have the chance to enter to win fabulous prize packages including two shopping sprees at The Falls and other great prizes. For more information, call 305-2554571. LIBRARY SYSTEM TO HOST ART OF STORYTELLING FESTIVAL The Miami-Dade Public Library System
presents its 11th annual Art of Storytelling (AOS) International Festival Day on Apr. 30, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Main Library, 101 W. Flagler St. The event is free and open to all ages. Hear Yuniko Yamamoto of Japan and Ireland’s Niall de Burca share stories and folklore from their homelands. Also featured are Sadarri Saskill & Company and Dylan Prichett who bring an African-influenced flair to their storytelling. Heather Forest, Javier Del Sol and Matthew Sabatella will showcase their creative storytelling techniques. The Teen Zone area — which promises to be bigger and better — will feature an anime/magna competition, the School of Rock Band and origami activities. A cast of storybook characters will delight the hearts of little ones while the nine-feet tall puppets of the Bit’s ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre will captivate the entire family. Special guests performing on the plaza include Geeta Dias: Bollywood Indian Dancers, Breffni Academy of Irish Dances and the Hip Hop Kidz. Free parking is available (while spaces last), at the Miami-Dade Cultural Center Garage, 50 NW Second Ave., and the Hickman Garage, 270 NW Second St. For a full schedule of performances, log on to <www.mdpls.org> or call 305-375BOOK (2665).
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Walmart Foundation now accepting applications from Florida nonprofits BY INGRID VEGA
The Walmart Foundation currently is accepting applications from Florida nonprofit organizations for its annual State Giving Program. Created to carry out the retailer’s commitment to giving back to local communities, nearly $2 million in grants were issued to 34 Florida-based charities in 2010. Launched in 2008, associate-led State Advisory Councils work with the Foundation to identify needs within their state, review grant requests and make funding recommendations to the Foundation. Applications may be submitted online through Apr. 22 and grant amounts start at $25,000. “At Walmart, we are always looking at ways to make a long-lasting impact in communities across Florida,” said Cindi Marsiglio, Walmart senior manager for public affairs and government relations. “Our aim is to work with organizations that address basic unmet needs. Our Walmart associates have unique insights when it comes to understanding the needs within their local communities, and their involvement in the funding process is invaluable.” The funds granted from the State Giving Program are utilized to establish new programs or elevate existing initiatives that zero in on the following areas: Education — Organizations addressing the educational needs of underserved young people ages 12-25; Workforce Development/ Economic Opportunity — Organizations providing job readiness, skills training and support services for workers with moderate skills; Health and Wellness — Organizations
that improve access to healthcare and reduce health care disparities; Environmental Sustainability — Organizations that seek to promote production systems that sustain people and the environment by reducing waste; C u r rent Focus on Hunger Relief — Walmart and the Walmart Foundation made a $2 billion commitment through 2015 to hunger relief efforts in the U.S. The Foundation seeks to fund initiatives that integrate hunger relief into the main areas listed previously. In November 2010, nine hunger-based organizations throughout Florida were surprised with two impromptu check presentations held at America’s Second Harvest of the Big Bend (Tallahassee) and Feeding South Florida (Broward, Miami-Dade, Monroe and Palm Beach counties). In Tallahassee, America’s Second Harvest of the Big Bend, Bay Area Food Bank and Bread of the Mighty Food Bank received a combined amount of more than $300,000 in funds to assist in their hunger relief efforts. While in South Florida, Feeding South Florida, Farm Share, Ruth Rales Jewish Family Services, The Poverello Center, Cross Road Food Bank and Star of the Sea Foundation received a combined amount of more than $400,000. To be considered for support, perspective grantee organizations must submit applications through the Walmart Foundation State Giving Program’s online grant application, available at <www.walmartfoundation.org/stategiving>. Eligible applicants must have a current 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in order to meet the program’s minimum funding criteria. Grant submissions are only
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Learning Experience School students competing in meet Heading off to the Penn Relays later this month are (l-r) Robbie Bertran, David Rams, Coach Daniel Cartaya, Albert Johnson and Joseph Paz
BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD
Each morning, four young men from the Learning Experience School go to the track at Tropical Park to practice the 100-meter dash and the 4 x 100 relay. The practices begin with stretching and leg exercises and then they begin to race, practicing handoffs for the relay and finishing with the 100-meter dash. The team is coached by Daniel Cartaya, the school’s assistant development director, who hopes to have them ready in time for the Penn Relays on Apr. 28-30. Albert Johnson (A.J.), David Rams, Robbie Bertran and Joseph Paz will be making the trip to Philadelphia, and it all started because Cartaya was trying to get Rams onto the Special Olympics Team USA. “I was calling around to and I got in touch with Nancy Sawyer who is vice president of Special Olympics Florida. We were going around all sorts of possibilities,” he said. He learned that it was too late to get Rams on Team USA, but loved the suggestion they try entering the Special Olympics component of the Penn Relays. The Penn Relays are a place for the elite track and field athletes to compete. Established in 1895, it is one of the elite events in the track and field world. According to the Penn Relays website, more athletes compete at the event than compete at the Olympics. When he contacted the Penn Relays, Cartaya realized he actually had two athletes that could enter for the 100-meter dash — Johnson is faster than Rams in that event. Since there also were slots available for the 4 x 100 relay, they submitted a team for that event as well.
“They have to qualify,” said Cristina Cartaya, the school’s executive director. “Based on times, two of our students qualified in the 100. Those two and another two qualified in the 4 x 100 relays.” Johnson has the fastest times. Unofficially, in practice, he’s run the 100 in 12.51. His fastest Special Olympics time is 12.7 seconds. Rams, the Miami-Dade Special Olympics Athlete of the Year, has a practice time of 12.82. His fastest Special Olympics time is 13 seconds, but his coach said he actually slipped in the race. Paz’s fastest time is 15.12 and Bertran’s is 14.2. They qualified for the relay. “The fastest time at the Penn Relays is 12 seconds flat,” Daniel Cartaya said. “We’ll see. With the crowd and the competition, they may run faster.” What’s amazing is that this is only the third year of the track and field program at the school. “We started the first year with four students going to the track and field competitions in Orlando,” Cristina Cartaya said. “Last year we took 23 medals.” The team recently competed in the county’s Special Olympics and will be going to the statewide Special Olympics Games in Orlando. Also amazing is that the boys don’t focus only on track and field, they have basketball first and then begin training for track and field after basketball season. Fundraising has started to help send the team to the Penn Relays. AFirst Giving page is being set up for donations. Links can be found at <www.TheLearningExperienceSchool.org> and the Learning Experience School’s Facebook page. At the school, there will be bake sales and car washes to raise funds.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Kendall Regional celebrates first year of Level II NICU
Kendall Regional Medical Center physicians and staff are pictured with some of the NICU babies in attendance at the first anniversary celebration of the hospital’s Level II NICU. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY ANN BRIGGLE
Kendall Regional Medical Center (KRMC) celebrated the one-year anniversary of its Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) on Saturday, Mar. 26, with more than 160 people, including babies who were former NICU patients and their families, for an afternoon picnic in the hospital courtyard. The families were reunited with the doctors, nurses and staff who treated the babies during their critical first few months of life. “It is always rewarding to see former patients happy and healthy,” said Lee Chaykin, Kendall Regional CEO. “We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate the success of this first year of our Level II NICU than with the families who personally benefited by its opening.” Kendall Regional and its NICU are dedicated to providing a family-centered care atmosphere. The picnic celebration fea-
tured entertainment for children of all ages including an appearance by Dora the Explorer, a clown, face painting activities and a photo session. Kendall Regional also provided music entertainment, food and cake for attendees. Many of the hospital’s NICU physician and staff members also attended the event including Dr. Bernardo Pimentel, NICU medical director; Ricardo Pavon, CFO of Kendall Regional, and Edith Diaz, NICU unit leader. Kendall Regional’s Level II NICU is an eight-bed unit with state-of-the-art equipment and a five-bed step down unit where babies are transitioned to prior to discharge. The center opened in January 2010 and has treated more than 180 sick, premature or low birth-weight newborns. The unit includes 12 neonatologists and nurse practitioners and 25 nurses who are specially trained to care for infants. For more information, call 305-222-2200, or visit online at <www.kendallmed.com>.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
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Lauren Book walks for abuse victims, changing state laws BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD
For years Lauren Book was physically, sexually and emotionally abused by her female nanny. After revealing the abuse to her family, Book and her father, lobbyist Ron Book, worked to change Florida laws to help to make it easier for abusers to be brought to justice. Along with working to change state laws, Book began the Lauren’s Kids Foundation, a non-profit organization to help survivors and to prevent abuse through education. The foundation has a prevention program for school children in grades K-5 called Safer, Smarter Kids. “We do talk about secrets and surprises and what is a safe touch,” she said. “We were just featured on the Lisa Ling Show on the O Network. The goal is to continue to fund the program in schools.” Book has a written a memoir called It’s OK to Tell about her experiences. She had a signing on Mar. 16 at Books and Books in Coral Gables to Lauren Book’s memoir It’s OK to Tell was launched at a Mar. 16 mark the book’s release. Tracy signing at Books and Books in Coral Gables. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Alonso Mourning introduced her. to Tallahassee. Last year she walked a total “It’s a real tool for anybody to look at of 500 miles and went through three pairs the prevention of abuse,” Book said. “How of shoes. This year, the walk is 1,000 miles a victim of abuse can become victorious long. and become a thriving survivor. It’s my “It’s an incredible activity, it’s an incredprocess of healing and how my family ible walk,” she said. “We’ve touched so came to do what we did.” many people and changed so many lives.” From Books and Books she headed to The walk also brings attention to legislaKey West to begin the “Walk in My Shoes” tion to be voted on by Florida lawmakers. trek to Tallahassee. Last year’s legislation eliminated the “The walk is a program on its own. statute of limitations on abuse. This year We’re starting the walk in Key West and the legislation calls for the continued fundwe’re walking all the way to Tallahassee,” ing of sexual treatment centers. she said. “Our ‘Rally in Tally’ will be Apr. The 39-day walk ends Apr. 26 with a 26.” rally on the steps of the historic Old While on the walk, Book and her Capitol Building. entourage will be stopping at every sexual Since 2002, Book and her father have assault treatment center along the way. been successful in advocating for more “They don’t have to suffer in silence, than a dozen laws that have passed by the they can become thriving survivors,” she Florida Legislature. said. “Ninety five percent of sexual abuse For more information on the walk and is preventable through education and Book’s memoir, go to awareness.” <www.laurenskids.org>. Lauren’s Kids This is the second year Book has walked Hotline is 1-877-LKids01.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Wheels to independence needed for MDC student BY TERE ESTORINO Luis Vazquez, a top student at Miami Dade College, dreams of a career as a computer technician for a major sports franchise. Surprisingly, it is a van that could bring this young man closer to his dream. Vazquez, 21, straddles the line between a typical college student and the non-traditional student who strives to overcome obstacles to succeed. He has muscular dystrophy and is confined to a wheelchair, but this does not stop the Kendall Campus student from having a 4.0 GPA and dreaming of a bright future. Vazquez is dependent on Miami-Dade County’s Special Transportation Services to get around. Given the size of the community, budget reductions at the county and the volume of calls, the service is not always reliable for someone with big ambitions and a drive for independence and self-sufficiency. He has been evaluated by a certified driver rehabilitation specialist who determined Vazquez would be able to drive if he had a vehicle that was modified to his needs. The van Vazquez needs is a Chrysler Town and Country Limited Edition minivan, which will be able to accommodate his wheelchair and all the technology needed. The minivan costs between $30,000 and $40,000 and requires nearly $100,000 for modifications. A Federal and State Vocational Rehabilitation program will pay for the upgrades. His parents, who he lives with, support all his activities, but do not have the means to acquire the van. The family currently has a van that is not suitable for wheelchairs, as it requires that the chairs be secured very tightly, which is difficult to do. Luis has a sister, Elizabeth, who also has muscular dystrophy and is confined to a wheelchair. She also is studying at MDC.
A van could bring Miami Dade College student Luis Vazquez closer to his career dream. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
“I’m always worried about my mom and sister riding in that van, but if I had my van, I would be able to help them,” Vazquez said. “It would be easier for both of us to get to school.” “I won’t have to spend hours waiting for service and will be able to do more activities,” he added. This is key for him, as the transportation service requires 24-hour notice, and waits can be grueling, which currently leaves him unable to participate in many of the activities young adults his age enjoy. “I want to prove to people out there that despite my obstacles, I can make my dreams come true,” Vazquez said. A van that can be modified to his needs would be the first step toward making that happen. To help Luis Vazquez with his cause, visit online at <www.makeluisdreamcometrue. blogspot.com>.
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Sedrick Irvin named head football coach at WCS BY ANA M. POVEDA
Westminster Christian School has named Sedrick Irvin to lead the Westminster Christian Warriors football program as head coach. Irvin joins the Warriors from the University of Alabama and from the University of Memphis where he served in assistant coaching positions since 2008. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to be part of the tradition that is Westminster Christian football,” Irvin said. “I’ve known about their program for many years, and to have the ability to be part of it and to help it to grow to state and national prominence, is a challenge I relish.” At the University of Alabama, he served two seasons as a running back coach/intern. During his second season, he had the opportunity to coach and work with Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram, the first Alabama player in history to win this award. “Sedrick has meant a lot to me,” Ingram said. “He understands the game and the players and he is going to be a great coach. He has helped me elevate my game, and will be a great asset.” In his first season at Alabama, Irvin worked with running back Glen Coffee, who led the Tide’s ground attack in 2008 with 1,383 yards and 10 touchdowns. “The thing that makes Sedrick such a great coach is that he cares about the players more than he cares about the job,” Coffee said. Irvin was a running back at Michigan State University under Nick Saban. While at MSU, Irvin was one of only two players to record three straight 1,000-yard rushing seasons. He was twice named second team All-Big Ten in 1997 and 1998. “Sedrick Irvin was a great player for us
Westminster Christian Varsity Football Coach Sedrick Irvin –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
at Michigan State,” Saban said. “He did a fantastic job here as a student assistant and graduate assistant. He has a great rapport with the players; he’s got good work ethic and he’s got a good knowledge of the game of football. I’m sure he will do a great job at Westminster and we wish him the best.” He left MSU after three seasons to enter the NFL draft, and was selected as a running back by the Detroit Lions. He left the Lions after two seasons due to injuries. He went on to play in NFL Europe and with the Arena Football League. Irvin graduated from Miami Senior High School in 1995, where he was a three-sport athlete and a USA Today All-America running back. In 2009, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama.
SAVOR THE FRESH FLAVORS OF SPRING AT SEASONS 52
BY NANCY EAGLETON
To bring out the natural flavors of the fresh, seasonal ingredients used in every dish, the chefs at Seasons 52 in Coral Gables use rustic cooking methods such as wood-fire grilling and brickoven cooking. Combine these cooking techniques with expert seasoning and oil control, and the result is a flavorful meal that is naturally low in calories. In fact, everything on the Seasons 52 menu is less than 475 calories. In order to offer ingredients at the peak of flavor, the Seasons 52 menu changes every season. The restaurant opened with its winter menu in November 2010 and recently launched its new spring menu. On it, you’ll find fresh fish choices and seasonal veggies, including asparagus and pea varieties like English, snap and edamame. Just as the restaurant name implies, the Seasons 52 Specials Menu changes every week. The special menu panel features new market inspirations along with a weekly wine pick, and provides guests the adventure of tasting flavor combinations offered at the peak of freshness. According to Gary Marcoe, managing partner, the Seasons 52 concept is right for the time and the community. “Our menu celebrates living well – eating a healthy, yet delicious meal, having a glass of wine, and feeling good about it,” he said. “This is a discriminating community that cares about health and wellness, yet also wants to be able to indulge and enjoy.”
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selected by Master Sommelier George Miliotes, the 152nd master sommelier in the world. The extensive list includes more than 100 wines, with 60 wines available by the glass. Speaking of indulging… Seasons 52 is the creator of the popular Mini Indulgence – small portions of classic desserts. “We don’t think dessert is bad,” said Marcoe. “The portion size of the Mini Indulgence is perfect. Since you don’t have to share it with someone, you don’t have to skip dessert if you’re the only one who wants it.” In other words, you can have it all to yourself. Try the Key Lime Pie, Chocolate Peanut Butter Mousse or the Tres Leches, which is exclusive to the Coral Gables location.
Go ahead… have a Mini Indulgence.
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–––––––––––––––––––––––––– You’ll also want to try the custom flatbreads, layered with flavor and baked to crispy perfection in the brick ovens. The Cuban flatbread, another Coral Gables’ exclusive, is a local favorite. The signature flatbreads are perfect for lunch or as a starter to share. Rich mahogany fixtures, brick accents, rich earth tones, sophisticated exposed beam ceilings and lush greenery give the expansive grill and wine bar a warm, welcoming ambiance. The large and vibrant bar has a piano right in the middle of it and the upbeat music, played nightly, adds casual sophistication. Three private dining rooms, which feature full service audio-visual amenities and dedicated event planners, are perfect for private parties, business meetings or group events. For an intimate and unique dining experience, live it up and reserve the Chef’s Table.
Indulge with the Cedar Plank Roasted Salmon, Caramelized Sea Scallops or Oak Grilled Filet Mignon, all served with roasted fresh veggies alongside pearl pasta, wild rice or new potatoes. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from the award-winning international wine list
Seasons 52 opens daily at 11:30 a.m. The restaurant is located at 321 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables and the phone number is 305-4428552. For more information, visit www.seasons52.com
Discover sensational flavors of the seasonally-inspired menu at Seasons 52.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Baptist Children’s Hospital planning corrective facial surgeries for kids BY BARBARA MOORE
A child’s smile is one of the greatest joys of life, but unfortunately, one in 800 children in the United States is born with a facial deformity. For the 10th year, Baptist Children’s Hospital will donate its facilities and charitable funds to perform corrective facial surgeries and other clinically needed reconstructive procedures for South Florida children. These operations will be provided at no cost for children whose families are unable to pay for these types of services. A screening to identify children who may be candidates for surgery will take place on Saturday, May 21, at Baptist Children’s Hospital. The surgeries will take place on Saturday, June 11. Types of facial deformities that can be corrected include: cleft palates, cleft lips, scars, tumors, burns, port wine birthmarks and congenital hand deformities. Baptist Children’s Hospital doctors from
various specialties, including plastic surgery, dentistry and anesthesiology, also will participate. To be eligible, patients must meet certain surgical and financial criteria. Patients must be 18 years old or younger and residents of Miami-Dade or Monroe counties. They also must present documentation substantiating their parent or guardian’s previous 12 months’ gross income. A financial screening must take place before the clinical screening on May 21. To make an appointment for the financial screening, call Baptist Children’s Hospital at 786-596-3673. Baptist Children’s Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization in the region. It also includes Baptist Hospital, South Miami Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute and Baptist Outpatient Services.
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Is A Short Sale Right for You? mortgage, and your lender willingly accepts the proceeds from the sale as payment in full,” says Perdigon. “No lien is filed against you, the sale is reflected on your credit report for only 12 to 18 months, and in some cases the lender will even contribute up to $30,000 to cover your relocation expenses.” Before making such an important decision, though, seek professional advice. Perdigon Title Services has special expertise in handling short sales, and its attorney partner can guide you through all aspects of what can be a complex transaction. “We’ve successfully handled hundreds of short sale transactions over the past few years,” says Perdigon. “We’ll work closely with you, your realtor and your lender to ensure the quickest and best possible outcome for all.”
BY PETER B. LAIRD
Recent data indicates that by the end of 2010 nearly half of all property owners in Miami-Dade County owed more on their homes than the properties were worth. That’s 245,530 underwater homes just in Miami-Dade. Statewide, the number jumps to 2.1 million. Do you owe more than your home is worth? Is a major illness, accident, job loss or divorce preventing you from making your monthly mortgage payments? Are you tired of paying for an investment property that has lost its value? You do have options, according to Robert Perdigon, president of Miamibased Perdigon Title Services, a fullservice title company founded in 2002. “In an ideal world, the best strategy is to continue paying your mortgage, wait for the market to correct, let your property appreciate and sell your house when the value has returned,” advises Perdigon. “However, we do not live in an ideal world and property owners need to know their options.” A foreclosure should be avoided at all
Robert Perdigon (left), president, and Scott Perdigon, attorney partner at Perdigon Title Services, 9100 S. Dadeland Blvd., PH1 / Suite #1701, Miami. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
costs, Perdigon says. Not only will you lose your home, you could also be forced to pay what you owe on your mortgage plus additional fees. Worse still, it will be reflected on your credit report for three to five years.
Your best option, says Perdigon, may be a short sale. In the past few years, short sales have become the leading distressed property solution. “With a short sale, your house is sold for less than what you owe on your
For a free initial consultation to determine if a short sale is right for you, contact Perdigon Title Services at 305-728-8184, or e-mail rperdigon@perdigontitle.com.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
CHRISTINE STIPHANY, CRS REALTOR ESSLINGER WOOTEN MAXWELL, INC. ACCREDITED LUXURY HOME SPECIALIST CHAIRMAN’S CLUB
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•
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EA RL
9471 SW 97 Street….................................Baptist Area Street to street acre with tennis court nestled in cul-desac. Five bdrms + office & bonus rms, 3.5 baths, 2c gar, new metal roof, fireplace, gourmet granite kit, heated pool & screened patio, over 4,600sq ft. Quality Construction! REDUCED - $937,000 M1418195.
LUXURIOUS RENTAL..............PONCE/DAVIS AREA Gated Estate w/ 5 Bdrms + office, 5.5 baths, lovely pool/patio, impact windows, chef’s kitchen, exquisite finishes! Offered at $10,500/mo.
R DE N U
THE GRANDE CONDO….............................near Baptist Unit 702, 2/2 over 1,145 sf, granite, split bedroom, tile floors, low maintenance....................................$249,000.
T AC R NT CO
7272 SW 53 Ave.......................High Pines Charmer 3 Bedrooms plus office/studio 2 Bathrooms.. over 2300 square feet.. Updated Wood Floors.. Huge Family room,Gourmet Kitchen.., Beautiful pool in lushly landscaped backyard. REDUCED $669,000 D1414532
240 Majorca Ave..................................... Coral Gables “Picture Perfect” 2/2 TH w/two parking spaces, Corner unit. Totally remodeled…..feels like a home! REDUCED $300,000 M1378565
R FO
O LE A S
Free-Standing Corall Gabless office building with US-1 frontage!! 2Story, 10 parking spaces, over 2,700sf, new roof. Bottom two units rented. Top floor 1,350sf-4offices, conference room, reception area. Building Offered at $799,000 or lease top floor at $2,300/mo
Executive Pinecrest RENTAL…................................. 11149 SW 78 Ave…..Avail in July! 4bdrm +off/maids, 3bths, 2car gar, pool/patio,high ceilings, quality finishes, quiet street, over 4,300sf…....................….Offered at $6,200/mo.
LD
SO
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16780 SW 78 Ave….................................Palmetto Bay Short Sale! 5 Bdrms, 3 Baths, 2car gar w/pool, over 3,400sf in prime school district! Soaring ceilings, granite kit, recently painted. Offered at $515,000 D1304052
10540 SW 60 Street .................... Miller Drive Estates Get a free house when you purchase this 1.25 Acre property! Build your dream home or land bank this lot and lease out the current 2bdrm. 1bath house blt in 1953. M1492210 Offered at $325,000
Represented BUYER, Listed by: JoAnn Forster, EWM 11100 Snapper Creek Road, Coral Gables Waterfront home w/5Bdrms, 4.5Baths, over 5,700SF on 1.2Acres in Gated Snapper Creek Lakes…. $2,350,000
550 S. Dixie Highway • Coral Gables, FL 33146
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Earth Day admission is free at Fairchild Tropical Garden BY PAULA FERNÁNDEZ DE LOS MUROS
Fairchild is offering free admission to all visitors on Earth Day, Friday, Apr. 22. In support of earth-friendly products, the Shop at Fairchild will have a display of sustainable and recycled products for purchase and will offer a 10 percent discount on all items in the shop. This is the perfect opportunity to walk Fairchild’s grounds, have a family picnic, admire the monumental sculptures of Claude and Françoise-Xavier Lalanne, make a wish at Yoko Ono’s Wishing Grove or simply sit on a bench and read your favorite book while overlooking 83 acres of lush tropical paradise. In addition to free admission, guests can take advantage of the following special offers on Earth Day: • Indulge the little ones in educational kids’ activities; • Eat gourmet food from local food trucks gastroPod and MexZican Gourmet;
• Learn about local non-profit environmental organizations Membership special: 50 percent off for new members and renewing members receive 10 percent off. Special Earth Day offers are available by phone or in person only on Apr. 22. At 3 p.m. in the Garden House, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and Books and Books present a special Earth Day book signing featuring author Joel M. Curzon presenting his book Light Fading: Reflections on the Imperiled Everglades. (http://www.lightfading.com/). This event is free of charge. RSVP by email to <marketing@fairchildgarden.org>. Fairchild is located at 10901 Old Cutler Rd. in Coral Gables. Regular admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors, $12 for children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under as well as Fairchild members. For more information, visit online at <www.fairchildgarden.org>.
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Youth Arts Day, Music Fest coming to Deering Estate BY CATHY GUERRA
Co-hosted by Students Offering Support and the Deering Estate at Cutler, the fifth annual Youth Arts Day and Music Fest will take place on Sunday, May 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Deering Estate at Cutler. Youth Arts Day and Music Fest is a community collaboration that celebrates youth artists and creates awareness of the rich cultural resources that Miami-Dade County has to offer. The event is free for children and youth (grades K-12); the cost for adults is $12. There also will be a month-long visual and literary art exhibition at the Deering Estate where student’s artwork will be on display from May 1 through June 3. The exhibit is free with estate admission. Schools and organizations with students contributing visual pieces include: Reach for the Arts, Devon Aire K-8 Center, Perrine Elementary Expressive Art School, Deering Estate at Cutler Art Shorts, plus individuals from DASH, Ransom Everglades, Oxford Academy, and Southwood Middle School. Performances will be by: Greater Miami Youth Symphony, Downtown Miami Charter
Schools Chorus and Recorder Ensemble, Perrine Elementary Dancers, and Fienberg Fisher K-8 Center Philharmonic. There will be individual performances by students from: W. Hialeah Gardens Elementary, Holy Rosary and Miami Springs Senior High School. Band scheduled to perform are: Robot Tea Party Band, TOWN and Blue Money Jazz. Founded in 2008, Students Offering Support (SOS) is a countywide, non-profit, youth community service organization. SOS’s mission is to introduce high school students to the impact that they can have on their community as they themselves conduct the business each year of identifying community needs and creating a plan of fundraising and service that will assist in meeting those needs. Membership in SOS is an honor and members are selected based on their character, leadership and interest in community involvement. The Deering Estate at Cutler, a MiamiDade County Park, is located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. For more information on the Deering Estate’s educational and cultural programs, visit online at <www.deeringestate.org>.
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Manage your Financial Condition like a Business What you have (assets) minus what you owe (liabilities) results in what’s left over (net worth). $1 of assets and $1 of liabilities means $0 in net worth. $1 less in liabilities means you are $1 richer. Many employees with more salary will spend more, so they still have little net worth or financial independence. The car and house they own may be fancier but they may still be broke. The book, The Millionaire Next Door, describes how a business owner thinks and behaves. It is not secret how to become financially secure. It comes down to not thinking and behaving like an employee when it comes to your financial future.
Most working people are employees and they think like employees when it comes to their financial condition. This means their focus is on salary, health insurance, 401k and vacation time. Yes, these benefits do impact your financial condition but it is one-sided. It is on the side of what you have (assets). Rick Tonkinson and Associates proI suggest that in order to attain finan- vides hands-on money management cial independence, employees should for the middle class. They are located begin to think and behave as a business at: 100 Almeria Ave, Suite 310, Coral owner. A business owner’s focus is not Gables, FL 33134. Phone: 305-447-661 only on what they have but more imporoffered through Securities America, Inc., tantly, what they owe (liabilities). This Securities member FINRA/SIPC, Rick Tonkinson, Margarita Tonkmeans accounts payable, which for in- inson, Steven Tonkinson, Registered Representatives dividuals are items such as credit cards, Advisory services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc., Rick Tonkinson, Margarita Tonkinson, car loans and mortgages. On this side Steven Tonkinson, Investment Advisor Representatives of the balance sheet, the business Rick Tonkinson & Associates and the Securities Amerowner wants to minimize expenses. ica companies are not affiliated
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
Writers Institute at MDC offers classes for writer in everyone BY SUE ARROWSMITH
South Florida’s celebrated Writers Institute, presented by the Florida Center for the Literary Arts (FCLA) at Miami Dade College (MDC), begins on May 4 with four days of intensive workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, plot and more. In addition, the Writers Institute will host some activities that are open to the public, such as the Pitch-o-rama on May 7 and the daily Lunchtime Reads, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Free lunch will be served for those registered for at least one Institute workshop. Others can purchase lunch for $8. The Pitch-o-rama on Saturday, May 7, at 2 p.m., provides a unique opportunity to pitch your book or idea to a panel of literary agents and other industry professionals. Participation is free. Those not registered for the workshops may sign up starting at 1 p.m. Manuscript consultations will be available as well. Get feedback from literary professionals Betsy Lerner, Ayesha Pande or Jill Marr, who will read participants’ works, and meet afterwards for one-on-one,
The Pitch-o-rama on Saturday, May 7, at 2 p.m., provides a unique opportunity to pitch your book or idea to a panel of literary agents and other industry professionals. 15-minute consultations. The cost is $80. Space is limited and registration is required. Visit <www.floridacenterlitarts.com> for full submission guidelines and deadlines. Seating is very limited, so register early Some workshops already are sold out. For more information on workshops, fees and deadlines, call 305-237-3940 or visit the center’s website at <www.flcenterlitarts.com>.
Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
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Seeing Green — Earth Day blossoms on April 22 As Earth Day blossoms on April 22, The Palms at Town & Country marks the month with “green” facts about its retailers. Subway® only provides its cus- Publix’s reusable bags which are not only tomers with 100% hormone free milk, all new SUBWAY® Cards are manufactured using 30% recycled plastic and the company saves 16,607 trees annually by using re-engineered corrugated boxes.
good for the environment but are fashionable too!
Moe’s Southwest Grill has a Meatless Mondays program offering organic tofu marinated in Moe’s signature, southwest flavors. In addition, the restaurant’s menu includes grass-fed sirloin steak, grain-fed pork, cage-free chicken and local produce whenever possible in an effort to practice sound sustainability all year long.
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a recycling program that helps save nearly 5.2 million trees, 16.8 million gallons of water and 1.8 million cubic yards of landfill space. Publix also offers instore recycling of paper and plastic bags. Customers can drop off any brand grocery paper bag or plastic shopping bag for recycling, plastic sleeves from dry cleaning and newspapers. Pick up one of
Moms, don’t miss this…CARTER’S BABIES & KIDS is opening on April 14th! The Palms at Town & Country is located at the corner of Kendall Dr. and SW 117th Ave., minutes from the Florida Turnpike. Mon.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 12pm-6pm. For more interesting facts, visit www.thepalmsshops.com or call 305-2747982.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Spend Easter weekend with Seaquariumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bunny-Palooza BY MICHELLE PALOMINO
Bunny-Palooza, the ultimate Easter Egg Hunt Celebration, marches in to Miami Seaquarium from Friday, Apr. 22, to Sunday, Apr. 24, featuring a big Easter Parade, continuous Easter Egg Hunts and five acres of adrenaline-pumping fun with bounce houses, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Giant Fun Slide,â&#x20AC;? rock climbing wall and Euro Bungee jump. Bunny hoppers will enjoy heaps of candy, prizes and many surprises. The Easter festival offers egg hunts throughout each day between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and a spectacular Easter Parade daily at 1 p.m. complete with marching bands, strolling performers, costumed characters and culminates with the arrival of the Easter Bunny. Special discount coupons offering 50 percent off child admission with the purchase of a regular adult admission to Bunny-Palooza are available at participating Publix Supermarkets. During the festivities, bunny hoppers should be on the lookout for the Golden Egg, which will be hidden in one goodie bag that will be given out during BunnyPalooza. The Golden Egg will give one lucky child and up to three other family members or friends admission to Miami Seaquarium for their entire lifetime. Miami Seaquarium is located at 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway. For more information call 305-361-5705, ext. 225. Miami Seaquarium, South Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular tourist attraction, is a familyoriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. General admission to Miami Seaquarium is $38.95 and $28.95 for children (ages 3-9). More information on Miami Seaquarium is available online at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
For the price of a one week family vacation, enjoy Deering Bay all summer long with our Summer Membership.
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Summer Members May Enjoy… Membership from May 28 - Oct. 30, 2011 Full access to our Arnold Palmer Signature 18-hole course in it’s finest shape ever. More Social & Junior Events than ever before; Educational “Green” Family Programs, Summer Pool Parties, Teen Golf Workshops, Summer Camp, Lecture Series, WineTasting, Member Mixers, fishing tournaments, book club, movie night and much more Seven of the finest Har-True Tennis Courts in Miami-Dade County Fine dining using organic produce from our 1,000 square foot on –site Organic Garden Full access to our Jr. Olympic Heated Pool, Gym, Aerobic Studio, Locker Rooms and much more.
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Apr. 19 - May 2, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Local artist exhibits work in new show at Datran Center
Guests view the artwork of Deborah Blank during the opening reception at the Datran Center on Apr.1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Places, Blackman’s Gallery in Bayside Downtown Miami, Cultural Art Exhibition Artist Deborah Blank, the art director at in Melbourne, ArtWorks Gallery in Miami, Temple Bet Shira’s school and at Greenfield MiArte Gallery in Coral Gables, Picture Source in Miami, Sun Trust Art Day School, celebrated the Exhibit in Downtown Miami, opening reception of her curCoral Gables Art for Public rent art show at the Datran Places, and Lowe Art Museum Center in Dadeland on Apr. 1. benefit in Coral Gables Attending the event were In addition to her private more than 150 art enthusiwork, she was chosen to design asts, teachers, parents and fabrics for Miami manufacturer friends. Comfort Inc. who integrated Blank, a native Miamian, is her designs in an exclusive an art educator and the recipiproduct line used by several ent of the Deaver Foundation national department stores. for Excellence in Teaching Deborah Blank For those who missed her art Award. She also is a prolific ––––––––––––––––––– opening reception on Apr. 1, artist whose strength is a great diversity combined with her true passion for you still can catch her exhibit in the Datran Center Lobby through Apr. 30. Portion of all the arts. She has exhibited her work in various ven- sales from the current exhibition will be ues, including the Bandel Gallery in donated to the Red Cross Disaster Fund. You also may visit her website at Downtown Miami, Beaux Arts show in Coral Gables, Miami Beach Art for Public <www.DeborahBlank.com>.
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Mazda2 has a lot to offer in a small package Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS They say good things come in small packages and the new 2011 Mazda2 is a good example of that old adage — it’s affordable, stylish and fun to drive. The Mazda2 was designed and engineered from scratch and originally introduced with great success in Europe, Japan and Australia in 2007. Now, it’s finally come to the U.S. and I can only say that it’s about time. This car has been acclaimed worldwide and has won 48 automotive awards, including Car of the Year in Japan, New Zealand, Chile, Bulgaria and Greece. It was selected as the 2008 World Car of the Year at the 2008 New York International Auto Show and has established itself as a player in the subcompact segment with total sales topping 400,000 units in the three years since introduction. The new Mazda2 is available in two trim levels — Sport and Touring — and has a good combination of performance, sporty styling and simplicity. It has shortened body
overhangs and the corners have been trimmed as much as possible to give it a compact form, yet still have a sense of stability and confidence. Key design elements include a wedge shape that conveys a sense of forward motion, a sculpted form that draws the body inward fore and aft of the A-pillars, and distinctive character lines that extend from the front fender arches to the body shoulders. On the inside, the design theme is “a space that communicates movement” with strikingly different contoured forms that combine thickness with visual movement and a low belt line, allowing for good forward visibility and an open, roomy feeling. The instrument panel helps to create a sense of space, with the controls concentrated in the central area. A simple center-stack shape is complemented by piano black trim and both audio and climate controls are easy to read, while the seats are upholstered in a textured fabric with a black keynote color. The Mazda2 Sport is powered by a 100 hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (27/43 mpg) and is available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers, 185/55/R15 all-weather tires, body-colored door handles and power mirrors, air conditioning, power
Mazda2 has a wedge shape and distinctive character lines from the front fender arches to the body shoulders.
windows and door locks, AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with four speakers, audio auxiliary jack, tilt steering wheel, remote keyless entry system, rear window wiper/washer and 60/40 split fold-down rear seats. The Touring model takes everything on the Sport and pumps it up a notch. It comes with a five-speed manual transmission or available four-speed automatic transmission and has upgraded cloth seat fabric with red piping, 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, rear roof
spoiler, chrome exhaust tip, leather-wrapped steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, trip computer and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo system. Base price on the Mazda2 is $16,435. 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>.
Page 46
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Fellowship of Christian Athletes to host annual golf tournament BY ROBERT HAMILTON
The Miami Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) will host its 23rd annual golf tournament on Thursday, Apr. 28, at Don Shula’s Golf Club, 7601 NW 154 St. in Miami Lakes. This annual tournament is used to create awareness of ministry outreach and to raise funds to support programs and activities associated with the local FCA chapter. FCA Miami has honorably served the young men and women athletes of the community for four decades, and its hopes and expectations are higher than ever. This faith ministry has created 22 huddle groups in high schools and universities across South Florida, providing a platform for fellowship, growth and guidance together with a mission to teach each young person that through the love of God, all things are possible. Through those weekly huddle meetings, camps and events, FCA gathers its members in a safe environment to teach them the values of firm, positive commitment and unyielding faith. They are taught core values through involvement, whether it be in team play or in
volunteering to give back to the communities in which they live, emphasizing that the direction they follow now will speak volumes about the persons they will become. Executive director Joe Oliver has led FCA’s efforts for the past 24 years. “As we look at FCA in Miami I cannot help but think how far we have come,” Oliver said. “We started with two huddles and 60 students and have grown to 22 huddles with over 2,500 student athletes, but growing FCA’s faith ministry has become more and more taxing in these challenging economic times. We need your prayers and financial support as we move to what God has in store for this coming year.” The FCA golf tournament begins with a shotgun start at noon. Foursome packages are available at $1,000 and include a tee sign and green sign. Individual tee signs are available for only $100. For more information about event, sponsorships or to participate in this year’s event contact FCA Miami executive director Joe Oliver at 305-445-1600, send email to <joliver@fca.org> or visit online at <http://fcamiami.org/Registration.pdf>.
Palmetto Elementary School’s Drama Club presents
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