9.18.2012 Kendall Gazette

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One of Miami’s Community Newspapers ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Connecting local businesses.

ENDALL GAZETT E K communitynewspapers.com

305-669-7355

SEPT. 18 - OCT. 1, 2012

Four of five incumbent council members lose seats BY RICHARD YAGER

our of five members up for reelection in two Kendall area community councils were ousted by surprising ballot results in the Aug. 14 primary election. Jose Garciga, chair of East Kendall Council 12, and Jeff Wander, former chair of West Kendall Council 11, were upset by first-time candidates. Only Angela “Angie” Vazquez, current chair of Council 11, retained her SubArea 124 post by corralling a 53-46 percent margin to defeat freshman candidate Joseph Sanchez, a graphics and printing studio owner. “I served the community in the best way I knew how,” Garciga said following his loss in SubArea 126 to Alex Duran. “That’s the way politics go,” Wander said after voters replaced the veteran police official in SubArea 112 with newcomer Daniel Ojeda, a Hialeah native and son of a former Venezuelan government official, Dr. Alfredo Ojeda, and prominent journalist, Marilyn (Gonzalez) Ojeda. Ileana Petisco of Council 11 and Anthony Petisco of Council 12, appointed to fill vacated terms, also lost their seats. The Petiscos, related through fathers who are brothers, live in separate Kendall areas. Carolina Blanco, a Kendall native and public schoolteacher, won 68-31 percent over Ms. Petisco, the most decisive victory in five council races. Matthew Larsh, an ex-Marine and an IT manager, received

The Fresh Market opens new store at The Falls

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COUNCIL, page 6

Miami-Dade Public Schools takes stand against childhood obesity BY ANN BRIGGLE iami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) has future plans to implement an inschool pilot program in partnership with the national non-profit organization, Common Threads, to educate fourth graders on nutrition, physical well-being, and the appreciation of cultural diversity. M-DCPS superintendent Alberto Carvalho will be honored for his passion and support toward fighting childhood obesity at Common Threads’ annual World Festival event on Tuesday, Oct. 2, at the Moore Building in Miami’s Design District. According to a recent Centers for

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Shoppers take part in activities during the Aug. 29 grand opening of The Fresh Market’s new store at The Falls, the company’s 30th store in the state of Florida. The Falls is located at 8888 SW 136 St.

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OBESITY, page 6

Small audience turns out to hear mayor on budget BY RICHARD YAGER arely 20 of West Kendall’s estimated 200,000-plus residents turned out on Aug. 28 to hear Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez explain his $5.9 billion budget to run county

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government during the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. The mayor’s remarks and answers to scattered questions barely took up a half-hour at the end of a two-hour session, led earlier in Gimenez’s absence by Jennifer Moon, budget director, and Fernando Figuerdo, director

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of communications. The session largely was dominated by Stephanie McIntosh of the Arthur Mays Resident Council of Miami who protested a

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BUDGET, page 6


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Kendall grandmother’s arrest helps nab drug fencing ring BY RICHARD YAGER

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A Kendall grandmother charged with multiple counts of grand theft led to the breakup of extensive Florida-wide fencing operations reported to have dealt in $3.5 million worth of stolen pharmaceuticals. The bizarre case involving a dozen individuals came to light when Det. Miguel Garcia was honored as Officer of the Month in the Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District on Aug. 29. His recognition ceremony was watched proudly by his two children, Michael, 15, and Danielle, 13. “This is an incredible story of a detective’s perseverance that begins with the simplest kind of theft report,” said Maj. Hernan M. Organvidez, district commander, noting a surveillance camera captured the image of a woman taking diabetic strips at a CVS pharmacy. The surveillance video given to Det. Garcia on June 12 began investigative work that produced linkage of the woman with a Florida vehicle bearing a registration tag that tied her traffic citation to its male owner. A Miami-Dade traffic database provided Det. Garcia with a match to the surveillance video photo with the likeness portrayed on the woman’s driver’s license after she was cited in Miami-Dade County. Once a positive identification was determined, Det. Garcia and a second detective began a stakeout of the woman’s home and on July 20 took the subject into custody without incident. Regular purchases by two fencing contacts of stolen items were admitted by the Kendall woman who said six other individuals regularly stole a varied number of pharmaceuticals to supply sufficient items for statewide purchases. Her confession also implicated four CVS employees, paid by her so she might con-

Danielle, 13, and Michael, 15, share pride with father, Det. Miguel Garcia, Hammocks District Officer of the Month. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

tinue thefts without the knowledge of store management. Two employees went so far as to supply her with security keys to further enable the thefts. Items taken varied from pregnancy tests to 50- and 100-count diabetic strips, Ibuprofen, antacid medication and common aspirin, along with other over-thecounter items. “In total, Miami-Dade County CVS stores sustained losses in excess of $1.5 million and Broward County CVS stores sustained losses in excess of $2 million,” Maj. Organvidez said, adding that the stolen items had been distributed for resale throughout Florida.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Commissioner Souto pushes for park Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN At the moment, it’s just a resolution on paper. But let’s give credit where credit is due to Commissioner Javier Souto for reviving a F requency of home break-ins project to expand Indian Hammocks Park which serves thousands of Kendall families. On Sept.6, his resolution to annex part of the unincorporated land adjacent to the existing park was approved by County Commissioners on first reading, directing the Planning Advisory Board to consider new property annexations. Early in 2011, the Gazette published a twopart series reviewing extensive planning that the Parks Department foresaw through acquisition of up to 70 acres of additional land to help accommodate expanded park facilities. One key land site is a 21-acre tract directly north of The Palace senior living center off SW 84 St. and SW 114 Ave., former location of a group of buildings once known as “The Haven Center” providing seniors with social

services. Another is a 15-acre solid waste transfer station in the northeast area off SW 72 Terrace and SW 107 Ave... Smaller plots are also held by county departments that Thursday, July 12, could put the current uses elsewhere. While Commissioner Souto’s effort only begins the process to seek added territory, we applaud his determination to keep future development of the park alive when recent Monday, July 16 so much belt-tightening years have created that has so severely curtailed worthy projects such as those planned at Indian Hammocks. At one time, an aquatic center and recreation building were proposed by the Parks Department with $6 million earmarked in the BBC (Building Better Communities) bond Graffiti cleanup issue for development. The new swimming pool was temporarily shelved due to lack of space in a southeastern area of the park. The senior center has been gathering dust, ever since the county had to put the skids on new capital spending for projects needing yearly operating expenses at a time the county was cutting back those very items. Thus we’ll keep our eye on how the annexation study proceeds while commending Commissioner Souto for making sure worthwhile projects like Indian Hammocks expansion do not get deep-sixed in tough economic times.

Still another

Candidates for

FirstBank’s Frank

Kendall Gazette

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PUBLISHER .................................................................................................................................. Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz WRITERS, COLUMNISTS.............................................................. Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Diane Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller, Walter White LEGAL ADVERTISING ...................................................................................................................... Georgia Tait BOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................. Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT.....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............................................................ Denise Cebrero, Isabel Ortega, Cristian Ortiz PUBLISHER EMERITUS .......................................................................................................................................... Ron Miller MIAMI COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Homestead News, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens Tribune, Palmetto Bay News, Opa Locka News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. Please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.

KFHA Prexy Michael Rosenberg at conclusion of Schools Supt. Albert Carvalho’s appearance in Kendall Sept. 10 asked over 150 in audience to close their eyes, then raise hands if they would “vote today” for the school bond issue referendum on the Nov. 6 ballot. “It seemed to me that every hand went up,” according to his view from the speaker’s rostrum. “I don’t think I saw anyone opposed. It Veteran should passKendall because we care about our children. His own popularity will help push it but $10-$20 a year? I can’t imagine thinking about it for more than one second. “So ironic that in the theatre behind our meeting place, popcorn cost as much as this would cost,” he adds. More burgers on the way as the new “Shula Burger” posts help wanted signs in its window at the Kendall Market Center off SW 117 Ave. at SW. 104 St., all on the heels of recent gourmet-burger emporiums around the neighborhood, now opening as fast as new pizza joints. Soccer fans should turn out in big numbers Sept. 29-30 when Miami’s only “Soccer Festival” returns to Kendall Soccer Park at 8011 SW 127 Ave. Presented by Soccer 5 USA and Miami-Dade Parks, the event will feature a full range of youth and adult soccer A UM Alumnus, tournaments in a festive ambience featuring music, Soccer 5 Live tricks, juggling, soccer

walk, get-in-the-game fitness and fun, as well as a full variety of food from around the world, all contained within a “soccer village.” Father Alan and son, Scott Georgeson, expecting the 2012 crowd to greatly exceed last year’s turnout of 3,500 due to continuing expansion of soccer interest throughout the Kendall area. Clarification. Please correct my quote to Wa l m a rt gets say that the Kmart “lease on the store was out of options to renew” not that the lease was denied – we did not have any more options to renew the lease with the landlord, per the terms of our lease,” Emails Kimberly Freely, Director, Corporation Communications, Sears Holding Company on Sept. 10, regarding our Sept. 2 story reporting Kmart closing its store at SW 104 St. and US 1 on Sept. 23. “We were not denied; it is a very distinct difference in the real estate community and Thought for the Day: with our associates,” she adds. Thought for the Day: Don’t argue with a fool. The spectators can’t tell the difference. — Charles Nalin 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

OBESITY, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Disease Control (CDC) study, the rate of childhood obesity in this country has more than tripled in the past 30 years. Obese children are more likely to become obese adults leading to health risks such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and ultimately cardiovascular disease. “In response to this growing public health concern, Common Threads facilitates a series of programs, in partnership with the school district, that teach youth the life skills to become healthy, productive citizens of the world,” said Linda Novick O’Keefe, executive director of Common Threads. “MiamiDade County Public Schools has long demonstrated a strong commitment to innovative educational programming, and we look forward to working with superintendent Carvalho in the expansion of our programs through this in-school pilot.” This unique pilot program is likely to operate in select schools and will consist of a series of 20- to 40-minute interactive lessons which support Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in Math and English. “Small Bites” will be incorporated into the regular school day and give teachers a fresh way to support the CCSS while providing students with the tools they need to live

longer, healthier lives. Each lesson plan will include background information for the teacher, a list of materials and resources necessary for that lesson, teaching suggestions and preparation tips, and tools for student participation and assessment. Common Threads provides both after school and in-school programming to children, from predominately low-income households, in various cities including Chicago; Los Angeles, and Washington, DC. Founded by celebrity chef Art Smith almost 10 years ago, the free hands-on cooking classes teach students the importance of healthy food, how to cook wholesome and affordable meals, and foster an appreciation for cultural diversity through cooking. Each year, Common Threads celebrates its success and showcases the work of the students during the World Festival event. The yearly event brings together celebrity chefs, organization supporters and local residents to celebrate a variety of cultural foods and learn about Common Threads’ mission. For additional information on Common Threads, or to purchase tickets for this year’s World Festival, visit <www.commonthreads.org>.

Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COUNCIL, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 58-41 percent support over Mr. Petisco. Defeated incumbents continue to serve until Nov. 20 when new council terms become effective “on the second Tuesday next succeeding the state general election,” according to Hilda Castillo, Human Resources manager for the Regulatory and Economic Resources Department (formerly Planning and Zoning) under MiamiDade’s revised structure. Orientation for new council members will be scheduled in mid-November, Castillo added. In West Kendall, the seat currently held by Joseph E. Delaney will become vacant until he (or someone else) is reappointed to serve SubArea 114. Delaney missed a fil-

BUDGET, from page 1

ing deadline to qualify for reelection in the primary. Primary voting after certification of 52 Kendall precincts: SubArea 112 — Daniel Ojeda, 59.43% (9,382); Jeff Wander, 40.57% (6,404); SubArea 116 — Carolina Blanco, 68.21% (10,621); Ileana Pestico, 31.79% (4,949); SubArea 122 — Matthew Larsh, 58.65% (6,003); Anthony Petisco, 41.35% (4,233); SubArea 124 — Joe Sanchez, 46.12% (4,877); Angela Vazquez, 53.88% (5,697), and SubArea 126 — Alex Duran, 65.33% (6,777), Jorge Garciga, 34.67% (3,596).

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lack of concern for maintaining public housing and providing job opportunities. A meeting to hear public housing representatives’ complaints was arranged by Deputy Mayor Russell Benford after a second budget session on Aug. 29 at South Dade Regional Library that “drew a slightly larger crowd with several positive comments about the mayor’s programs,” Figuerdo said later. Delayed by “the kind of traffic you all well know,” Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez and budget director Jennifer Moon check data Mayor Gimenez fielded on computer during Aug. 28 meeting in West Kendall. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– queries from a small turnout at the West Kendall Regional Library in the Reserve” to provide funding in 2013 for elimination of an additional 4 percent group health Hammocks on Aug. 28. Prior to Gimenez’s speaking, Moon contribution by county employees, subject to described budgeting high points during a county commission action. Should the controversial 4 percent contriPowerPoint presentation displaying key decisions leading to fiscal year 2012-13 bution be imposed again, reserve funding capital outlay of $1.6 billion and operating would be in place to make up the resulting deficit, he stated, noting that 2011 collective expenses of $4.3 billion. “We kept our promises made to citizens a bargaining agreements negotiations will year ago,” Gimenez declared afterwards. continue to save $158 million annually. “My priorities as mayor are first, job cre“We did it by developing a budget that would sustain operations for two years with- ation, and second, diversifying the county out increasing tax rates or requiring addi- economy,” he said. “Too many young people educated in our community are leaving tional concessions from employees.” “That two-year plan saves taxpayers because they can’t find jobs here. “Our responsibility is to leave better more than $405 million,” he emphasized. Gimenez credited part of the savings to opportunities for the next generation,” he reducing county departments from 42 to 25 said, adding his administration would focus (eliminating 1,767 positions), saving “near- on getting U.S. corporations with Latin and ly $80 million over two years, including $43 South American markets to locate headquarmillion in our proposal for fiscal 2012-13,” ters in Miami-Dade while reducing overly burdensome permitting that stifles small he said. Gimenez noted creation of an “Impasse business development.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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How would you like to live under the 1789 U.S. Constitution? R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY We often hear the comment “we should return to the U.S. Constitution as created by our founding fathers.” So I ask: What would it be like to live under the “original” U.S. Constitution? What voting rights would we have? Who would be denied the voting rights we enjoy today, if we lived when the Constitution was ratified in 1789? Let’s look at the right to vote. Remember that the rules governing the right to vote were determined primarily by federal and some state laws in 1789. Originally, only white men who owned land or had sufficient wealth for taxation could vote. It is estimated that when George Washington was elected our first president only 6 percent of Americans could vote. How would we fare today under those rules? Approximately 66 percent* of the United States’ “citizen” population of 284 million (92 percent of total population) owns their own homes. Therefore only 187 million could vote if the same rules existed today.

Adjusting for those under 18 (23 percent of population), the number is reduced to 143 million. What, that isn’t correct? No. Remember women could not vote under the original constitution. If half the population is women, the number of eligible voters is reduced to 71 million. What that isn’t correct? No. African Americans could not vote under the original constitution. Today 13 percent of Americans are black. That would reduce the eligible citizens to vote to 62 million. What, that isn’t correct? No. Native Americans could not vote. Today, approximately 1.5 percent of Americans are classified as “native.” That would further reduce the number of eligible Americans to vote to 61 million. We would only permit, under 1789 rules, 61 million of today’s Americans to vote. Today 234 million Americans are eligible (not necessarily registered) to vote compared with the 61 million who would be eligible under the original rules. All Americans who rent their homes, women, African Americans and Native Americans would be prohibited from voting. Oh, I forgot. If you lived in our nation’s capital, Washington, DC, you would not be eligible to vote. Sorry. Not officially, but permitted by some state

VIEWPOINT laws and common practice, Jews, Quakers and Catholics were prohibited from voting in many areas. For example, the State of Delaware, required the following oath to be sworn to before being eligible to vote: “I (your name) do profess faith in God the Father, and in Jesus Christ his only Son, and in the Holy Ghost, one God, blessed for evermore, and I do acknowledge the holy scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be given by divine inspiration.” That sure eliminated a lot of voters. Perhaps the most disrespectful and degrading aspect of the colonial mentality created the need for the 14th Amendment that elevated a black from three-fifths of a person to a “whole” person. It took too many years, too many tears, and too many lives for white, land-owning Americans to extend the rights of American citizens to African Americans, Mexican Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans and others — including Jews, Quakers and Catholics — to even think for one moment about returning to 1789.

What has made our Constitution such a grand document is the ability of our country to modify and amend without changing the basic concept of that great document — the longest standing national constitution in the history of the world. We owe so much to great Americans such as Susan B. Anthony, Dr. Martin Luther King, Frederick Douglas and Miguel Trujillo who put their lives on the line to open America to all, regardless of race, religion or national origin. * Population count and percentages are based upon the 2010 census and are rounded to simplify calculations. Note that different sources quote different numbers and percentages. 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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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Have a Happy Halloween without scary expenses

Al Sunshine CBS MONEY WATCH The last three months of the year — October, November and December — boast the three most consecutive budget-busting holidays of them all, with All Hallows Eve, commonly known as Halloween, kicking off the list of expensive festivities. According to the National Retail Federation 2011 report, consumers spent about $6.8 billion on Halloween activities with the average person spending $72.31. The bulk of Halloween dollars spent last year was on handing out candy (73.5 percent), decorating the home or yard (49.5 percent) and carving a pumpkin (47.8 percent). Although not among the top three expenses in terms of Halloween spending, dressing in costume accounts for 43.9 per-

cent of spending, slightly less than the funds spent for carving pumpkins. Halloween is a fun holiday indeed, but it doesn’t have to drain your financial reservoir. There are many ways to reduce unnecessary spending that will ensure a successful holiday. Here’s a list of simple tips and ideas about how to make this a fun holiday without excessive costs. Candy Shop early. Chances are you’ll find the best deals. Buy In bulk. The more you buy, the more you save. Buy generic. It costs a lot less than the “name brands.” Decorating Do It yourself. Avoid expensive décor. Shop at thrift stores. They often have great décor at cut-rate prices. Carving Do It Yourself. It’s a lot more fun.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

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Moss disputes statutes ‘unfairly’ charging $120 BY RICHARD YAGER

A traffic mishap leading to a $120 fine and the headaches of dealing with government bureaucracy have Miles Moss annoyed. The incident has led the longtime Winston Park resident and traffic expert to challenge a Florida statute that exacted the higher of two payments when asked to provide proof of insurance for his car, driven by a second person and involved in a minor fender-bender. “The insurance was in force but the little card with the current date was home in my desk drawer,” Moss said. “I showed the officer last year’s card I had in my wallet, but the officer cited me anyway.” At the Clerk of the Courts office in the South Dade Government Center to pay what he thought would be a $10 fine (as Florida Statute 316.066 allows), it turned out what he had been cited by the Florida Highway Patrol for carried a $120 fine. A former Miami-Dade County traffic engineer who regularly provides expert testimony in traffic litigation, Moss then took up the case with Florida Highway Patrol, only to discover the original citation as issued was legally correct. “Two statutes are applicable, one that allows the officer to issue a $10 fine or a $120 fine, depending upon the circumstances involved,” Moss explained, after an FHP captain even agreed that at the discretion of the clerk, the citation requiring a higher fee could have been dismissed by proving then that the insurance existed. “The officer agreed the system really made no sense but added they ‘don’t write the statutes, they only enforce them,’” said

Miles Moss ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Moss, who doggedly pursued the issue with Harvey Ruvin, Miami-Dade Clerk of the Courts. “His people agreed with me about a ‘double fine’ and said to keep them informed if I can find a legislator to clean up the statutes,” Moss replied with a hint of dissatisfaction. “I wonder if the county doesn’t actually prefer the statutes as they stand. They collect more money that way. “Frankly, I’m surprised that Mr. Ruvin doesn’t exhibit a bit more care,” he added, vowing he would continue a search for an empathetic legislator. “I paid the $120 as I presume others have, rather than waste any more time,” concluded the former long-time president of Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations. “The arbitrary option in the statute should be eliminated.”

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Diligent detective helps woman recover $425 from contractor BY RICHARD YAGER

While police aren’t usually called to resolve a consumer complaint, a Kendall officer won special honors for doing just that job. It all began in advance of the hurricane season when a Kendall woman called a contractor to install shutters on her garage. The woman, who wrote out a check for $425 requested by the contractor, told MiamiDade Police Det. Maurice Dutoit that it was cashed the same date it was written. Her problem: as of July 3, she had not seen the contractor again, nor any materials he had claimed were needed to do the job. A key to finding him was getting a phone number from an acquaintance that wound up a “lengthy investigation” to identify the

missing contractor, according to Barry White, chair of the Miami-Dade Police Kendall District Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC). Not only did Det. Dutoit locate and contact the contractor, but he convinced him to return the missing $425 which the detective was then able to present in person to the distraught homeowner. Commended for his alertness and expeditious investigative skills, Det. Dutoit was awarded a citation as Officer of the Month for July by Ryan Devereux, CAC vice chair, pinch-hitting for White at an Aug. 29 CAC meeting. Police warn homeowners to protect themselves by a thorough confirmation of credentials of any contractor or salesperson before handing over cash or a check.

Pictured (l-r) are Ryan Devereux, CAC vice chair; Det. Maurice Dutoit, and Maj. Delma Noel-Pratt, Miami-Dade Police Kendall District. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Kevin Rhodes lives fearlessly despite his cancer challenges BY RAQUEL GARCIA

“University of Miami said that we needed to take the foot off, but I didn’t want to believe them; I was being hardWhen Curacao native Kevin Rhodes was 12 years old headed,” Rhodes said. “The doctor in Texas told me the and still living on the island with his family, they took a car same thing. After I heard it from three different hospitals, I trip and he fell asleep in the back seat. Rhodes awakened a realized, if this has to be, let it be.” month later in the hospital and found out he had been in a In late January 2011, his left leg was amputated right coma. A drunk driver had hit the family vehicle and doctors below the knee. incorrectly predicted he would never walk and talk again. “Once they took the foot off, the cancer skipped my “I have had a lot happen to me in my life and I am not lymph nodes and went straight to my lungs. I had surgery really afraid of anything,” Rhodes said. in Texas on both of my lungs and the tumors they saw were That courage and resilience have served the 26-year-old mas- removed. I just went back up two months ago for my threesage therapist well as he awaits his next surgery in Maryland to month checkup CT scan and the tumors are growing in my once again tackle the cancerous tumors in his lungs. lungs again. They said there is nothing they can do and rec“I am not scared of death,” he said. “If I have to go, I ommended I go to Maryland.” have to go, but I don’t want to die. I’m fighting my best to As Rhodes waits clearance of paperwork for a promising stay alive, but if my time comes, my time comes; I cannot treatment plan at the National extend that.” Institute of Health in Bethesda, he Growing up in the is busy celebrating his first wedislands, climbing the rugged ding anniversary with his wife, mountainous terrain and Fabiola; his 27th birthday, and swimming along the beachpreparing for final massage school es of Curacao, Kevin was board exams. tough and resilient. “I just ran a 5K not too long ago Although the origin of his and my energy is flowing at 100 diagnosis may never be percent.” known conclusively, at age Because Kevin and his wife are 10 he was playing hide and huge Miami Heat fans, he had his seek with friends and twistprosthetic leg custom designed ed his ankle to such a degree with the Miami Heat 2012 that the pain never comChampionship logo. He said his pletely diminished. family “is cool” and taking their While in class at massage challenges in stride, counting on school in 2010 a professor their faith, and “not getting stressed suggested he have it looked out.” at. A sarcoma tumor was “You cannot really fight life,” ultimately discovered and Rhodes said. “We all have a date removed. However the set for when we will leave this tumor kept reappearing. world — old age, or a car accident, This active young man — or a shoot-out the way the world is who moved to Miami at age moving. I am still walking and still 13 — and drove a forklift doing everything I was doing. Why for the family business loadgive up, if you are still alive? I try ing 40-foot containers for to live life to my very best and not international freight delivworry about it. In my mind I am ery, did not want to accept Kevin finds a way to promote his favorite basketball team — cancer free, and my mind is powerthe doctor’s recommenda- The Miami Heat. ful.” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– tion of amputation.

Kevin Rhodes is about to step into one of his final massage school classes before taking board exams. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Who's Side Will You Choose? Passionate or Peaceful, These Two Queens Want to Win Your Heart! The Red Queen of Hearts and the White Queen of Hearts are fighting for your attention as the EDGE kicks off its fourth annual Green Masquerade Ball. Decked out in costumes for their Alice in Wonderland theme benefit the two queens will entertain and amaze you! This is your opportunity to find out more about Miami-based international non-profit, The Early Development for Global Education Charitable Foundation (EDGE)! This Green Masquerade Ball will take place on Saturday, November 3rd, 2012, starting at 7pm, at the Palmetto Bay Village Center, 18001 Old Cutler Road, Miami 33157, complete with best costume contest, performers, organic hookah, open bar and much more! The EDGE represents education, environmentalism and humanitarianism. Over 13,300 children in 10 countries (including Costa Rica, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Madagascar, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico and the United States) receive services with 40% of their children living right here in South Florida. This innovative organization was started by three very diverse women with the goal of building planet-focused bridges to education and service. Programs, including the EDGE's largest program, EDGE Children for Children, directly serve children in the 10 countries and hit home with a heart of gold! This non-profit has gone the extra mile for migrant families, low income students, domestic abuse victims and human trafficking victims in South Florida with an annual toy drive, food drive, back to school drives, a Green EDGE Curriculum, an Earth Month Education Campaign and much more!! Overseas all children are engaged through the Green EDGE Curriculum and receive humanitarian services that range from large tankers of donations to grants from major corporations. The EDGE believes the power of environmental education and social responsibility are key to sustaining a healthy future where we live as citizens of the world helping each other and caring for the planet. Tickets for this event are now available for $80 through October 1st, $125 after this date. Contact Mercy at 305-298-1763 or Priya at Priya@theedgeeducation.com for tickets. Group VIP lounge tickets available; 21 and over to party. To learn more about the EDGE at www.theedgeeducation.com. See you then!

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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Be ‘Forever a Camper’ at coming Alper JCC Reunion BY SHEILA STIEGLITZ

Growing up in Miami in the 1990s, Josh Rader and his twin brother spent every summer at the Dave and Mary Alper Jewish Community Center as campers, returning to the “J” as camp staff during their college years. Josh met his future wife, Michelle Applerouth-Rader, at the JCC. Their lifelong friend, Matthew Bittel’s childhood also revolved around summers at the center. As adults with families of their own, the friends wanted to re-engage and become part of the community center they knew so well as kids. With so many positive memories between them, Matthew and Josh decided to take on the daunting task of organizing and cochairing the first Alper JCC Summer Camp Reunion. A team effort was needed and within days they had recruited more than two-dozen former campers and staff, who shared their passion and formed the reunion committee. “It is always nice to get together, reconnect with old friends to reminisce about childhood, summer camp memories and the Alper JCC,” Bittel said. “The concept of a summer camp reunion has been talked about for years. We decided to put the plan into action and from there the event took on a mind of its own. This event is going to be a real success.” For over 60 years, the Alper JCC Camp has created meaningful summer experiences for thousands of boys and girls. In 1932, the organization was originally called the Hebrew Athletic Club, but changed its name to the YM/YWHA in the 1960s and opened the first summer program for kids at the “Y” on SW Eighth Street. JCC historian Roslyn Berrin recalls, “In 1965, in an effort to raise funds for summer day camp scholarships, the fundraising committee planned a special event, and it was truly ‘special.’ The committee planned a Las Vegas Night and during the evening the county police swooped down on the ballroom and confiscated the gaming equipment, and hauled off two of the organization top officers and assistant director to jail.” It is stories like these and perhaps memories of more traditional summer happenings that will bring countless numbers of former campers and staff to the Alper JCC on Sunday, Oct. 21, noon-4 p.m., to recall old times and rekindle friendships. Kids of all ages have the opportunity to reconnect and reminisce at the JCC’s “Forever a Camper.” Creating a fun-filled day is the responsibility of camp director Ashley Conant, the program committee, and Marsha Botkin, Paul Frishman and Susan Linder, who for

Pictured are Ashley Conant, camp director, and Marsha Botkin. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––

years all worked together at the center. The activities they have scheduled include Flag Pole, Color War, Singin’ with Susan, a bounce house, and a campfire with Mike Moss. Commemorative T-shirts are being printed, video collages assembled and a special closing ceremony is planned. “Based on the feedback we have received to date and with the interest which has spiked from the event’s Facebook Page, we are expecting a large turnout for the event,” said reunion co-chair Rader. “We are encouraging former campers, counselors and friends of the Alper JCC to register online and register now. “With all event proceeds benefiting the Camp Scholarship Fund, we are urging people to give generously to help provide a JCC Summer Camp experience and the memories that go with it, to someone else.” Since the 1960s, when the JCC first held its raucous summer camp fundraiser to this camp reunion, the center continues to creatively raise funds so that it can provide camp scholarships for children whose families are burdened with financial difficulties. Every child should spend a summer at the Alper JCC camp. Reunion general admission tickets include lunch and camp fun and are $36 for a family of four and $5 for each additional family member. Individual tickets are $18 per person. Patron tickets are $100, $180 and $360 and admit up to six people. For more information, call Ashley Conant, summer camp director, at 305271-9000, ext. 272. To register and pay online look for the Summer Camp Reunion link at alperjcc.org.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

‘Swim for Me’ teaches children water safety

William Romero urges drain cover changes for pool safety.

BY RICHARD YAGER

Growing up in Miami with its “uncommon numbers” of drowning victims has created a singular mission in life for William Romero, 41. “How many times do you see how desolated a mom and dad become after losing a child in a swimming pool tragedy?” said the Hammocks father who taught his daughter to swim at age 1. Now he heads “Swim for Me,” a coaching program that teaches youngsters and adults not only how to swim but how to protect themselves and help save lives of loved ones in water emergencies. “Knowing how to swim and how it can save a life is vital in a community like ours,” he told a West Kendall audience on Aug. 29 at the Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District station. He displayed safeguards from toy life preservers and swimming aids to gadgets to shatter a car window and provide escape from a car in a lake or canal. “There’s up to five minutes to save a drowning victim, including you,” he declared. “Lack of oxygen after two minutes underwater will cause a person to pass out but the heart can remain beating for up to two minutes thereafter. “Drowning is actually a heart failure, occurring at least two to three minutes after someone loses consciousness,” he

said. “Those precious seconds are the difference between life and death. “I’ve seen CPR administered to bring back a ‘drowned’ child back to life because someone acted quickly by knowing what to do in the critical time frame given to act,” Romero stated. His safety demonstration began with a simple precaution: replacing a standard swimming pool drain cover with a “$5 replacement” sprinkled with added outlet holes to decrease suction action that can grab and tangle a child’s hair underwater.” A variety of children’s devices are often deceptive, he added, showing a foam block flotation “frog” bearing a warning: “Not a lifesaving device!” Noting that he “can get anyone to begin swimming in two weeks or less,” Romero said he teaches individuals as well as small and large groups in his Swim for Me program using techniques based on six basic steps from blowing bubbles to taking the first stroke. He teaches individuals and groups at reasonable cost, emphasizing safety while making swimming fun for first-timers with instruction also covering basic CPR and first-aid for newborns, infants or toddlers. For information, call 786-233-3966 or visit online at <www.swimcoachmiami.com>.

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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Breast cancer survivors invited to celebrate at SMH on Oct. 4

Linda Burrowes, founder of Your Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group, (left) greets breast cancer survivor Maria Hernandez at last year’s celebration at South Miami Hospital. (Photo by Fareed Al-Mashat, Baptist Health South Florida)

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY PHYLLIS TEITELBAUM

“Partners in Hope: Helping a Loved One Cope with Breast Cancer” will be the focus of this year’s Your Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Survivors Celebration. The free event for breast cancer survivors, their families and friends is set for Thursday, Oct. 4, 6-9 p.m., at South Miami Hospital’s Clarke Education Center, 6200 SW 73 St. Featured speakers are Willie Ivory, his wife, Andrea, who is a breast cancer survivor and the founder of the Women’s Breast Health Initiative, and breast cancer husband Jeff Zavac. Heroines Choir, a singing group of local breast cancer survivors and their supporters, will open the program. Close family and friends play an important role in helping those with breast cancer cope with the physical and emotional impact of the disease. Their support is vital during this often-stressful journey. “I could not have made it through this journey as well as I did without my husband’s constant support,” Andrea Ivory said. “He was the wind beneath my wings. He has a lot that he can share with others about the role of a co-survivor.” Both Willie Ivory and Jeff Zavac will discuss meaningful ways to help a loved one. Other speakers at the celebration include Baptist Health breast surgeons Robert Derhagopian, MD; Anna Voltura,

MD, and Gladys Giron, MD; cancer specialist Grace Wang, MD, and plastic surgeon Brad Herman, MD. More than 20 community organizations will have displays and exhibits of interest to breast cancer survivors. There also will be music and a light dinner. The event is free, but space is limited. Reservations are required; call 786-5963815. The celebration is hosted by Your Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group. “We began in 1997 as a small event just for our group, but because it was so well received, we expanded it into a much larger community event,” said Linda Burrowes, founder of Your Bosom Buddies. The support group meets the third Thursday of every month at South Miami Hospital. Baptist Health South Florida is the largest faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization in the region. In addition to South Miami Hospital, Baptist Health includes Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, Mariners Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Doctors Hospital, West Kendall Baptist Hospital and Baptist Outpatient Services. Baptist Health Foundation, the organization’s fundraising arm, supports services at all hospitals and facilities affiliated with Baptist Health. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net.


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Baptist Health hosts Congregational Health Convocation, Award event BY STEPHANIE ROJAS

Baptist Health South Florida recently held the Congregational Health Convocation and Awards Ceremony at Don Shula’s Hotel and Golf Club in Miami Lakes, where the theme was “Healthy Communities: Impacting the Culture of South Florida.” Dr. Ana Viamonte Ros, former Surgeon General of Florida, served as keynote speaker for the evening. The event also marked the 15th anniversary of Baptist Health South Florida’s faith-health partnership, Congregational Health. “The model of congregation-based health ministries in partnership with a health system such as Baptist Health South Florida truly makes an impact on the health of our communities during these tough economic times,” said Reverend Dale Young, director of Congregational Health. “We will continue to work as community partners to promote health and wellness and support people with health challenges through this faith-health partnership.” The following awards were presented at the ceremony: The Congregational Health New Innovative Faith-Health Award recognizes a congregation that joined the Congregational Health partnership and has already caught the vision and launched their health ministry program to include several of the Congregational Health Pillars. Award Recipients: • Christway Baptist Church • Friendship Missionary Church

Baptist

The Congregational Health Mustard Seed Faith-Health Award recognizes smaller congregations that are doing great things; they have caught the vision and are using the good soil of their congregation and its resources to help grow

Pictured (l-r) are Emilio Freeman, Gladys Salked, Lorna Fyffe, Franklin Povea, Aleida Delgado, Ann-Marie Rodney, Phillis Willis and Emma Canada. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

their health ministry. Award Recipients: • Temple Beth Tov-Ahavat Shalom • Ascension Peace Presbyterian Church The Healthy Life-style Promotion Award recognizes the congregations that promote healthy lifestyles, especially those that change the culture of eating habits, promote physical fitness, develop an ongoing faith-based health support group, and/or educate their community on making Healthful Choices. Award Recipients: • St. Peter’s Missionary Baptist Church • St. Luke the Physician Episcopal Church • Branches United Methodist Church

and South Florida Urban Ministries The Congregational Health Living Water Award recognizes outstanding Faith-Health leadership and implementation of all the Congregational Health models of health ministry, which include bereavement support, faith-based support groups, community health fairs and more. Award Recipients: • Second Baptist Church of Richmond Heights • St. John Neumann Catholic Church Congregational Health has been serving the faith communities of the MiamiDade area since 1997 through a faithhealth coalition that has now grown to more than 130 partnering congregations.

The core programs of health education, health screenings, care teams, faithhealth support groups and bereavement support reflect the vision and mission of Baptist Health South Florida. Baptist Health South Florida is the largest faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization in the region. Baptist Health includes Baptist Hospital, South Miami Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, Mariners Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Doctors Hospital, West Kendall Baptist Hospital and Baptist Outpatient Services. Baptist Health Foundation, the organization’s fundraising arm, supports services at all hospitals and facilities affiliated with Baptist Health.


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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Publix raises nearly $550,000 for Miami Children’s Hospital BY JEREMY KATZMAN

Publix Super Markets customers and associates once again showed their immense support for local sick and injured kids treated at Miami Children’s Hospital during the annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals instore fundraiser. This year’s campaign raised nearly $550,000, a 19 percent increase over 2011 totals and the largest amount raised in the program’s history. Funds generated from the May 26-June 16 campaign will help fund programs, technology, medical experts and care for the nearly 400,000 children treated each year at Miami Children’s Hospital. “We are incredibly grateful to Publix and all of its associates and customers for remembering the children throughout their daily lives,” said Lucy Morillo-Agnetti, president and CEO of Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation. “It is thanks to the support of businesses like Publix that our doctors and nurses have the tools they need to care for the children of our community.” This marks the 21st year Publix associates

and customers have rallied to help their nearest CMN hospital through the purchase of $1, $3 and $5 “Miracle Balloons” at the register. Their generous donations help to fund a variety of livesaving treatments, purchase critical medical equipment and provide needed charitable care, research and education. To date, Publix customers have raised more than $23 million for 19 Southeastern U.S. hospitals. “The dedication, commitment and sheer generosity of Publix customers and associates is not to be underestimated,” said John Lauck, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals president and CEO. “The proof is in this year’s record fundraising totals, and the results will be evident in hospital rooms and hallways throughout the Southeast. We are so grateful for our longstanding partnership with Publix, and congratulate everyone involved on an extraordinary fundraising campaign.” To learn more about the foundation and offer support, visit mchf.org, become a fan on Facebook at facebook.com/MCHFoundation, or call 305-666-2889 (toll free 1-800-987-8701).


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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Bob Griese’s new book brings back memories BY RICHARD YAGER

When an email asked if we would like a review copy of Perfection, a new book by Bob Griese and Dave Hyde, I jumped at the opportunity. It’s not every day you’ll get a chance to write about someone you once knew. “The Kid” was the name my good friend, John “Phil” Clinger from the former Dolphins quarterback’s native Evansville, IN, gave Griese when all three of us were neighbors on Key Biscayne back in the late 1960s. We joined an appreciative crowd to hear Griese spin locker room stories about his career before queuing up to get our copies of Perfection signed during his personal appearance at Kendall’s Barnes & Noble on Sept. 7, a signature he carefully penned with the numbers 17-0 following his name. “The Perfect Season” memorialized his Miami Dolphins 1972 team when it chalked up the first and only undefeated stretch in National Football League history. That still unrepeated feat will be celebrated in November during a 40-year reunion of Griese’s teammates at Sun Life Stadium where Dolfans now keep their fingers crossed for the 2012 team. Meanwhile, old-timers will delight in recapturing those glory days of 1972 when “The Kid,” Earl Morrall, Nick Buoniconti, Paul Warfield and others created a legend along with “Shus” as Robert Alan Griese called Coach Don Shula. Appropriately numbered with 17 chapters, Griese’s story begins with “Are We Really That Good?” recounting how a return to Kansas City in the fall of 1972 recalled the previous year’s famed Christmas Day AFC Championship game battling the Chiefs for five and a half quarters with two overtimes before Garo Yepremian booted a 36-yard winning field goal, He had missed two others earlier that might have won the game.

FOOTNOTES

Jay Yager of Doral gets a copy of Bob Griese’s book at Kendall signing.

That’s why Bob remembers a run-weary Larry Csonka who lost 36 pounds that game, heaving his breath in a huddle after his bulldozing run set up the try and telling Garo, “You little bastard, if you miss this I’ll kill you!” Stories like this pop up on every page as Griese uses each winning game as a chapter headline although the text that follows more often gives him a chance to describe a fellow player, coach, owner Joe Robbie, scout Joe Thomas, and others he credits with varying contributions to the unbeaten record.

That’s where the drama and fun really come through, from learning how Buoniconti (Griese’s nomination for the key to the team’s defense) and talent scout Joe Thomas put Robbie to bed at the Jockey Club after the owner zonked out from another habitual overdose of booze. Even so, Robbie gets early credit for courage as a small town South Dakota lawyer who laid out $40,000 by mortgaging his home to bid for the Miami franchise, originally proposed to expand the NFL in Philadelphia. Jake Scott, the renegade safety twinned with a serious-minded Dick Anderson, gets Griese’s nod as the key cogs of team defense in a chapter titled “The Partnership of Opposites.” Also in for special praise: Coach Monte Clark who designed what Bob called his “check with me” defense allowing him to prepare alternative offensive plays to meet defensive lineup weaknesses before the snap. Perhaps that’s why Bob, speaking off the cuff during his early quarterbacking days, asked if we knew what a “lookout block” was. “Abner Haynes, our running back then, prided himself on dodging an onrushing lineman to take off around end. But he was no blocker,” Griese laughed. “Going back to pass, he’d yell ‘Look out!’ when an untouched tackle or linebacker came rushing in on me. That was Abner’s ‘look-out block.’” Once when Bob and Judi Griese made their home on the Key’s Redwood Lane, my friend, Phil, and I watched Bob and Karl Noonan prep opponent films for an

upcoming game. After 90 minutes of backand-forth repeats of films from a blimp-like level that rendered players ant-size in slow motion to (“Back it up again, Bob”) we’d had it. “You leaving?” asked the “Per’fessor” as he was known when equipped one season with glass-like goggles. “We’re just getting started.” We also saw Joe Namath, now Bob’s neighbor in Tequesta, upset the Colts in Super Bowl III, surrounded by Colt fans in the OB’s north stands along with Phil, Bob, and longtime pal, Archie Stone, a more rabid aqua-and-orange booster than “Dolfan Denny” with his rhinestonebedecked hat and jacket. Well before that ’72 season, Herald sports editor Edwin Pope rallied fans for “Victory Sunday” when the Fish ended a winless streak by beating Buffalo. My son, Jay, and friend carried a banner “We Back Bob” to support “The Kid” when disgruntled fans urged John Stofa’s return as QB. But our fondest memory was the story Judi told after Jay, then age 7, had pitched a ball back-and-forth with Bob on the front lawn of the Clinger Glenridge Rd. home, just across the street from our own. “You know, the next day when Bob was up in the bedroom studying charts, I heard a knock on our door,” she related to my wife, Barbara, over a hamburger at the old Press Club on Miami Beach. “There stood Jay, standing on his banana seat bike, holding a football. “I said ‘Hi, Jay, what are you doing here?’ Jay answered: “Can Bob come out and play?”


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Metro Ford: Big city features with small town friendliness

Metro Ford’s showroom is located at 9000 NW Seventh Ave. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY NANCY EAGLETON

Metro Ford has the desirable qualities of a big city auto dealership, while at the same time possessing the endearing qualities of a small town business. The family owned and operated dealership offers an exceptional selection of new and preowned Ford vehicles and incomparable financing options, but it’s the personalized customer service that makes it a local standout. “The atmosphere of a family-owned business is just different,” said Lomby Perez, vice president of Metro Ford who runs the business with his father Lombardo Perez Sr. “We work very hard to build and maintain long-term relationships with employees and our customers.” That hard work has paid off. In business since 1983, Metro Ford is now selling vehicles to second and third generations within the same families. “Some customers travel across the state or even from out of the state to come back to us for their next vehicle, or one for their son or daughter,” Perez added. “It’s been very rewarding to serve these loyal customers.” Before opening Metro Ford, Perez Sr., owned and operated a Fiat dealership. Miami Fiat was the most successful Fiat dealership in the nation. After Fiat pulled out of the U.S. in 1981, Ford Motor Company came knocking and Perez Sr. answered the call. Under his direction, in a short time Metro Ford became the No. 1 Ford dealer in the Southeast region. The younger Perez has grown up in the auto industry, starting at the Fiat dealership when he was just 11 years old. After paying his dues doing “owner’s son duties,” Perez worked his way up the business ladder to work side-by-side with his father. With good performance comes rewards,

which Metro Ford now can pass on to its customers. Metro Ford is one of only two Certified Electric Vehicle (EV) dealers in the area. The 2013 Ford Focus Electric, arriving soon, is powered exclusively by a new lithium-ion battery system. The Focus Electric has best-in-class horsepower, 100 miles of range and higher speed charging. “The future is electric cars,” Perez said. “We are thrilled to offer this product to our customers. Our sales and service team are EV certified by Ford to provide the very best service.” Another “major home run” for Ford is the combination of efficiency and performance in the 2013 Ford Fusion. In addition to the well-known hybrid model, Fusion will offer EcoBoost, the standard model and the upcoming Energi Plug-In. The 2013 Ford Escape also has an eco-friendly side, offering two available EcoBoost engines. The popular redesigned crossover offers the best automatic highway fuel economy in its class. Customers can shop for new and preowned vehicles on the interactive Metro Ford website at <www.MetroFord.com>. The site allows customers to view dealer specials and incentives, get a quote, apply for credit and chat online with a sales representative. “Customers today like to do their research in the comfort of their home or office,” Perez said. “An educated customer is our best customer. When they come to the dealership, they are often ready to test drive and make a decision.” The Metro Ford Service and Parts Department, staffed by Ford certified technicians, now offers extended hours — until 7 p.m. on weekdays — to meet the demands of customers’ busy schedules. Metro Ford is located at 9000 NW Seventh Ave. in Miami. For more information, call 1-877-8119402 or visit <www.metroford.com>.

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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Restored Digital Solutions is your green office equipment alternative

The RDS team offers business solutions that are friendly to your budget and the environment. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Restored Digital Solutions (RDS) provides South Florida businesses with restored multi-function copiers, printers and fax machines and managed IT services at affordable prices. The eco-friendly systems help companies go green and save green. RDS stocks more than 4,000 name-brand machines in its new 67,000-square-foot showroom near Miami International Airport. The RDS team combines this highquality digital equipment offering with superior service, professional advice, flexible financing and a personal guarantee to help businesses, big and small, improve performance and efficiency and reduce costs. “We have a large-company offering when it comes to our equipment and services, but a small-company mentality when it comes to our customer service,” said Gustavo Hermida, president and CEO, who operates RDS with business partner Mike Martin, vice president of service and operations. “Personalized service is what sets us apart from others. Our customers know they can always speak with one of the owners of the company.” With more than 30 years of experience in the industry, RDS has developed some best practice solutions to help companies grow. To determine a company’s equipment and technology needs, RDS begins with a business consultation. “During our consultation, we analyze the company’s needs in copying, scanning and printing — anything to do with the generation of documents,” Hermida said. “We then develop a customized and affordable

document management and IT plan to meet the company’s short- and long-term goals and budget.” Business strategies and technology are constantly changing and to be competitive companies need to keep up. RDS can help businesses stay current by safely storing their data and documents in the “cloud,” allowing employees mobile Internet access. “This technology helps a small business operate like a large business,” Hermida added. RDS understands the challenges that businesses face in today’s economy, which is why the company offers innovative and flexible in-house financing programs. “We specialize in helping start-up companies get out of the blocks. When banks say no, we say yes,” Hermida said. “To get started, new businesses need the right equipment, at the right time and at the right cost. They can get credit with RDS.” Of course, service does not end after initial equipment delivery. RDS’s certified office equipment technicians regularly perform preventive maintenance on all installed systems to ensure the maximum up-time. The RDS call center is staffed and ready to assist customers 24/7. “We offer one of the strongest guarantees in the industry: ‘If we can’t fix it, we replace it,’” Hermida said. “We respond quickly so our customers don’t experience an interruption in their businesses. Our goal is to minimize your worry and maximize your productivity.” For more information about Restored Digital Solutions, located at 5703 NW 35 Ave., call 305-468-9965 or visit <www.RDSTeam.com>.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Florida Election & Voter Guide available for November vote BY LEE STEPHENS

As election season kicks into high gear following the political conventions, the League of Women Voters of Florida Education Fund (LWVFEF) is offering millions of state voters important, nonpartisan information about the crucial decisions they’ll be making on Election Day. The just-published 2012 Florida Election & Voter Guide includes information on the presidential contenders as well as statewide candidates, Supreme Court justices and the 11 constitutional amendments on the Florida ballot. With a print run of 1.1 million, copies of the Voter Guide will be provided in all 67 counties through newspapers, local libraries, civic organizations and local Leagues. The Voter Guide also is available online at the League website, <http://thefloridavoter.org/>. As a volunteer organization, LWVFEF gathers and assembles Voter Guide information from candidates’ responses to questionnaires as well as pro-con analyses of constitutional amendments based on League research and consensus-developed policy. The Voter Guide offers information but does not make recommendations or endorsements. League president Deirdre Macnab says that Voter Guide information can help

Floridians make up their minds about the complex and critical issues they will confront on Election Day. “Florida citizens will be looking for information to help them navigate critical choices: picking our future leadership and making decisions that affect the future of Florida’s economy, jobs, housing, healthcare, education, natural resources and families,” Macnab said. “The League’s Voter Guide puts it all in one easy-to- understand tool.” The Voter Guide also be will printed and distributed in Spanish. To request copies of the Voter Guide from a local League, see <http://thefloridavoter.org/about-lwvfl/local-leagues> for contact information. Macnab also notes that with the changes to Florida’s election laws, it is essential for all voters to check their status to ensure their eligibility to vote. To register to vote, check voter status and election information, and to view local candidate questionnaires when available, visit <www.BeReadyToVote.org>, a voter service website provided by the League of Women Voters of Florida Education Fund. The 2012 Florida Election & Voter Guide is made possible through the support of American Express, Florida Bar, Wells Fargo, League of Women Voters of North Pinellas County, Harriett Lake and Elayne Goodman.

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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Residents have opportunity to get free financial advice BY ROBERT HAMITON

We’ve all heard that there’s no free lunch, but in these challenging economic times, Miami-area residents will be able to get free financial planning advice and guidance from professional financial planners at Miami Financial Planning Day. The event will take place on Oct. 4, 4-7 p.m., and Oct. 5, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at Miami Dade College’s Wolfson Campus Building 2, Room 2106. It will feature experts from the Financial Planning Association and highly qualified Certified Financial Planner professionals, all volunteering their time and expertise to work with local residents oneon-one to address important financial issues. Financial planners will be set up at their own tables to meet one-on-one with attendees to answer questions on getting out of debt, retirement planning, investment strategies, income taxes, insurance, mortgages and foreclosures, among many other topics. The advice will be offered on a “no

strings attached” basis and planners will not give out business cards or sell financial products or services. Miami Financial Planning Day is organized by City of Miami in partnership with FPA of Miami-Dade, Greater Fort Lauderdale, and Gold Coast Chapters as part of a national Financial Planning Days initiative created by Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Financial Planning Association, and the Foundation for Financial Planning and U.S. Conference of Mayors. The collaboration is a first-of-its kind effort involving city governments and thousands of financial planners nationwide united in an effort to provide free financial education and programming to communities throughout the U.S. Free online registration for the Miami Financial Planning Day is available at <www.financialplanningdays.org/Miami>, or by calling toll free at 1-877-861-7826. Walk-ins also are welcome.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

$1.7M grant helps students earn microbiology degrees

Eric Triplett, chair of the University of Florida’s Microbiology and Cell Science Department, is pictured in his laboratory. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY TOM NORDLIE

A team of University of Florida and Miami Dade College faculty members has won a five-year, $1.7 million federal grant to expand a distance-education program enabling MDC students to earn a bachelor’s degree in microbiology from UF. The grant was announced in August by the National Science Foundation’s Division of Undergraduate Education. The grant is part of an NSF effort to increase the number of science, technology, engineering and mathematics graduates, known as the STEM Talent Expansion Program. “We believe this program will allow students to become science graduates who otherwise would be unable to do so for financial or cultural reasons,” said Eric Triplett, principal investigator for the grant and chair of UF’s Microbiology and Cell Science Department, part of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. “This is one of the very few science degrees available by distance education anywhere in the U.S. from a top research university.” Launched last fall, the program is aimed at students from minority groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM disciplines. It’s based at MDC’s North Campus, where 90 percent of students are Hispanic or AfricanAmerican. With the distance-ed option, students can attend UF without relocating to Gainesville,

thereby reducing expenses and enabling students to maintain employment and personal responsibilities. These factors could improve retention, said Jennifer Drew, an instructor with the UF microbiology and cell science department and a co-principal investigator. Drew said the funding will help officials at both institutions improve the existing program by offering new features that may improve retention: scholarships, peer-to-peer tutoring, career mentoring and undergraduate research experiences. Lecture classes are taught online, but students will do their lab work in person at MDC or one of several UF facilities in South Florida. The program is open to all students, regardless of ethnicity, who have received an associate of arts degree from MDC and earned minimum grades in prerequisite courses. Beginning next fall, UF plans to offer a similar distance-ed program at community colleges across the state, Triplett said. At MDC, officials look forward to the opportunities the grant presents, said Heather Belmont, dean of the School of Science. “MDC and its School of Science are truly excited about NSF’s support of this innovative new way to attract more students into quality science programming,” Belmont said. “We look forward to working closely with UF to promote this partnership.”

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FPL CORNER

Florida Power & Light energizes classrooms with zany, new educational school show The fast-paced educational school show, “Men in Plaid: The Kilowatt Connection,” is energizing classrooms throughout Florida Power & Light Company's service territory. The program, featuring an incredible cast of characters, is available free of charge to teachers who are looking to enrich their science curricula for the 2012-13 school year. "Men in Plaid: The Kilowatt Connection" delivers important energy conservation messages through an engaging cast of characters including Moldy and Skuller, The Boss, Ooot Blatuu, and The Slug. The foursome travels the planet finding ways electricity is being used unsafely and unwisely. The cast teaches students how energy is made, used and wasted and why it's important to conserve it. “We know that many teachers reach into their own pockets to supplement their teaching and to help bring lessons to life," said FPL's Education Program Manager, Maureen Wilt. "It's our hope that programs like this will inspire students to be energy conservation advocates in their homes and ease the educational load on Florida teachers.” The show is performed by professional actors from The National Theatre for Children based in Minneapolis, Minn. This organization specializes in writing and performing educational programs for children nationwide using simple sets and audience participation. The 25-minute live theatre performance is offered to kindergarten through fifth-grade students in FPL’s service territory. The show can be performed at individual schools in the gym, cafeteria or any large assembly area where students can be seated on the floor. Each show includes grade-appropriate workbooks for each student, and comprehensive online teacher guides. To learn more about arranging a performance or to see the tour schedule, visit www.fpl.com/community/learning/show.shtml http://www.fpl.com/community/learning/show.shtml .

Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Breakthrough helps students succeed in school and preps them for college BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

During the summer, students from across Miami-Dade go to eight-week Breakthrough Miami programs at schools such as Palmer Trinity to help them get a jumpstart on learning for the next grade. “Breakthrough provides out of school academic enrichment for students from low income families,” said Ariel Edwards, senior site director, who heads the program at Palmer Trinity School. “We recruit them in fourth grade, hopefully giving them academic skills, social skills and leaderships skills.” The long-term objective is to help the students to go on to college. “We provide tutoring, mentoring, the six-week summer institute as well as the Saturday classes we offer from October to April during the school year,” she said. “Our goal is for them to do well in school so they have the opportunity to go to any college of their choice.” Breakthrough officials also look for ways to send the students to a top preparatory high school. “So they can enter International Baccalaureate programs, Advanced Placement and Honors classes. So they can be successful at those schools so they can go on to thrive in college,” she said. The students attend programming as they enter fifth grade and receive academic help through middle school. When they become rising ninth graders, the programming switches to College Bound, which includes SAT and ACT prep classes plus workshops. They also are coached on how to apply to college and they take college tours. As juniors and seniors, they are able to become volunteers for Breakthrough Miami. “They volunteer as teachers, but they can come back for tutoring at any grade

level,” Edwards said. “We recommend a lot of Breakthrough juniors and seniors for the Posse program.” Posse is a college scholarship program. One of the unique aspects of the sixweek summer program is that students are teaching students. “We bring in high school juniors and seniors and college students,” she said. Some of the teachers this summer came from Palmetto High, Coral Reef High, Ransom, FAMU, Barry University, University of Miami and a student from a college in Iowa. They received stipends of $1,500 to $2,000 depending on whether they are in high school or college. “We provide a dorm at the University of Miami and some of the parents provide their homes for the eight weeks,” Edwards said. This was Breakthrough Miami’s second summer at Palmer Trinity. They instructed 120 kids from fifth, sixth and seventh grades. “My goal was to recruit new rising fifth graders,” Edwards said. One of the advantages of being at Palmer is the school has the look and feel of a college campus. “They don’t want to leave when the summer is over,” Edwards said. Breakthrough Miami was started by alumni from Ransom Everglades. The first program was conducted at Ransom under the name Summer Bridge. There now are several campuses in the program that has evolved into Breakthrough Miami. In the summer, the children take math, science, social studies and language arts. They could choose electives such as journalism, dance, theater, chess, robotics, speech and debate and karate. They also have an hour of physical education.


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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

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South

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Fitness District

On a tree lined street behind the hustle and bustle of USI a collection of the finest businesses in the area of wellness and fitness have set up shop to serve you. If you want to be strong and fit then surround yourself with like minded people. That’s what’s happening on Madruga and Santona. Join the thousands that have already discovered this slice of South Gables heaven and let your journey begin or continue. The right food, the right clothes, the right mood. No matter what your training goals are, motivation awaits you at these wonderful establishments.

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Pablo E. Delgado, M.D., FACOG Mary A. Leyva CNM, ARNP Lauren D. Viego, ARNP

“Specializing in the Quality of Life and Healthcare for Women” At Women’s Healthcare of Kendall, LLC, we seek to provide the highest level of care through our highly skilled health care professionals and state of the art technologies. We are devoted to addressing the individual needs and demands of patients in a warm and caring environment.

Women's Healthcare of Kendall is a full service Obstetrics and Gynecology Practice Surgical Suite NOW OPENED. Patient’s NOW have the CONVENIENCE of having procedures performed in-office instead of in-hospital setting IN OFFICE PROCEDURES

Hysteroscopy • Essure • Endometrial Ablations Urodynamics • LEEP • Colposcopy

GENERAL GYNECOLOGY · Routine and yearly examinations · Adolescent Gynecology Counseling · Contraceptive Counseling · Pap Smears and Cervical Cancer Screenings · Breast and Ovarian Cancer Screenings · Urogynecology · Uterine Disorders · Premenstrual Syndrome Management · Menopausal Disorders

OBSTETRICAL CARE · Family Planning · Prenatal Care and testing · High risk Pregnancies · Labor and Delivery Care · Midwifery Care · Postpartum Care

10700 North Kendall Dr. Phone: (305) 270-7999 Suite 200, Miami, FL 33176 Fax: (305) 270-6788 www.womensmd.net • info.desk@womensmd.net


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Aspiring actors make their way to Area Stage Company BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

The Area Stage Company is an award-winning professional theater company located in South Miami. “We do professional theater for young actors,” said Maria Rodaz, company founder. “We have a conservatory. No matter how young the actors are, the productions are professional productions.” Rodaz developed the conservatory with her husband, John. Initially, they catered to students in their late teens to early twenties but they had so many requests to accept younger students that they opened the program to elementary school kids. Auditions are mandatory in order to get in. She said this raises the bar, even for the summer program. “Our program is more specialized,” Rodaz said. “Our classes are small and personalized.” Rodaz added that the groups are very unconventional. “The groupings have little kids and big kids.” The company does not have a one-size-fitsall approach. “I audition the kids and then I will craft an approach depending on how much the parents want to invest in their children’s progress,” Rodaz said. “If a parent can

Pictured is a scene from the production of Godspell Jr. by the Area Stage Company.

invest; if a child can come here, four or five times a week, they will progress faster than a child who comes one time a week.” Scholarships are available for financially challenged families. “I’m always fundraising,” she said. Area Stage Company has fall, spring and summer sessions. The only difference is that in the summer she has the students coming in for three weeks of intense work instead of three times a week during the school year. The company used to have a theater on

Lincoln Road but had to close it in 2000. “Gentrification pushed all of us off Lincoln Road,” she said. “It was a very cool arts district. Then the rents hiked. We were homeless for about seven years.” In 2008, they moved to their present location at 1560 S. Dixie Hwy. This summer, the company produced two shows, Hair and The Phantom Tollbooth. She cast 23 students in Hair and 28 in the Phantom Tollbooth. Even though the children are young, Rodaz said they don’t “dumb down” the

play’s language. “The same language is the same language used in the college,” she said. “The approach to the craft is a very mature approach. We prepare our kids professionally. It’s important we understand that distinction.” She warns parents that being a part of the conservatory is not easy. “It’s a disciplined approach. You are not going to be sitting down except for the half hour for lunch. The kids love it.” Not only the kids love the program. So do their parents. “As a parent, it has been so gratifying to see how Makhi has embraced Area Stage as a second home with the support and nurturing of Maria and John and their wonderful staff,” said Delle Joseph, whose son attends Coral Reef Elementary. “His interest in theater has turned into a true passion.” Makhi Joseph was in both plays during the summer and he will be in the production of Dear Edwina Jr. on Nov. 2-4. The program has had several students who have gone on to fame, including Oscar Isaac, who played King John in the Russell Crowe adaptation of Robin Hood and will star in the next Coen Brothers Film. For more information, call 305-6662078.


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Hectorr Wiltz,, MD.,, CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami

Do you or someone you know have

Tinea Pedis/Athlete’s Foot? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 years or older that suffer from Tinea Pedis “Redness, Itchiness, Maceration, Erosion, and/or Scaling areas in between your toes” to participate in a three [3] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication or placebo at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $150.00.

¿Tiene usted o alguien que usted conozca

Hongos Entree Loss Dedoss Dee Suss Pies/Piee Dee Atleta? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 18 años o más que sufran de Hongos Entre Los Dedos De Sus Pies “Enrojecimiento, Picazón, Humedad, Erosiones, y/o Descamación entre los dedos de los pies”, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere tres [3] visitas. Seguro Médico no es requerido para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación o placebo a no costo. • Compensación por tiempo y transporte hasta $150.00.

For more information please call / Para más información por favor llame:

(305) 220-5222

FXM M Research h Miami 11760 0 Bird d Road,, Suite e 452 Miami,, FL L 33175 5 • www.fxmresearch.com m

Hector r Wiltz,, MD.,, CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami

Do you or someone you know have Facial Acne? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 12 to 35 years of age that suffer from Facial Acne, to participate in an eight [8] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $800.00.

¿Tiene usted o alguien que usted conozca Acné Facial? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 12 a 35 años de edad que sufran de Acné Facial, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere ocho [8] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio.. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación sin costo alguno. • Reembolso por tiempo y transporte hasta $800.00.

For more information please call / Para más información por favor llame:

(305) 220-5222

FXM M Research h Miami 11760 0 Bird d Road,, Suite e 452 L 33175 5 • www.fxmresearch.com Miami,, FL m

Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

More than great seafood is on the menu at The Fish House BY NANCY EAGLETON

People who like a good seafood meal go to The Fish House Seafood & Raw Bar at 10000 SW 56 St. (Miller Drive). Since 1995, owners Jose and Angela Rivero have been satisfying diners with fresh seafood seasoned and cooked to perfection. With drink specials, live entertainment and your favorite game on the many TVs, The Fish House delivers more than just a good meal. “If your rod and reel let you down, The Fish House won’t,” Jose says. The restaurant is known to have the freshest catch in town and that’s because every morning, Jose selects the day’s fresh seafood. Choices such as grouper, mahi-mahi, tilapia, snapper and salmon can be cooked your way and topped with your favorite sauce, including the new and popular Caribbean salsa made with mango and pineapple. Resolve your seafood craving with two new items that have the authentic taste of the islands — conch salad and cracked conch. The Fish House is famous for its smoked fish dip and jumbo, “not skinny,” chicken wings that go great with the game. Want to try gator bites? You don’t have to go to the Everglades to try this delicacy. “Unfish” favorites on the expansive menu include steaks, baby back ribs, burgers and fajitas that are sinfully delicious. Children’s entrées are just $5 and there are eight great choices. “It’s really important to us to offer our customers an excellent meal made with culinary flair and the freshest ingredients,” Angela said. “We strive to provide our customers with an excellent dining experience. We’re not on the water, but our nautical

theme and laid back atmosphere make you feel like you are.” You’ve always been able to catch your favorite sports on the TVs at The Fish House. If you have plans to tailgate or entertain at home, pick up a platter of wings or conch fritters or a seafood rice dish to serve at your event. Happy Hour at The Fish House lasts for three — 4-7 p.m., Monday through Friday. End your workday with a dozen raw oysters on the halfshell or peel-and-eat shrimp for $5, two-forone draft beer and house wine, and $2 off most appetizers. Wednesday nights are special — wine by the bottle is 50 percent off. Live entertainment and special events at The Fish House cure the work-week blues and soothe the soul. Papa Joe hosts Pro Open Mic Blues Night with the AllStars Band on Thursdays. Fridays feature International Sounds by Papa Joe and other special musical guests, and on Saturdays, Motel Mel appears in the BackRoom Live! “There’s always something happening at The Fish House,” Angela said. “Every month we have a customer appreciation day that includes food and drink specials, giveaways and live music.” The Fish House is famous for its spectacular Mardi Gras celebration in February. The restaurant’s website has an up-to-date calendar of events to help you plan your week and coupons for food and drink specials that give your wallet a break. The Fish House Seafood and Raw Bar opens daily at noon. For more information, call 305-595-8453 or visit online at <www.thefishhouse.com> or Facebook/TheFishHouseMiami.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Seaquarium’s Dolphin Interaction, Sea Trek Reef Encounter specials BY MARITZA ARCEO-LOPEZ

Florida residents are in for a special dolphin and reef encounter deal. Through Dec. 14, Florida residents will enjoy up to 30 percent off animal encounter programs at Miami Seaquarium, including dolphin interaction programs at Dolphin Harbor and the Sea Trek Reef Encounter. With this special offer, the Dolphin Odyssey program is $134 plus tax per person (regularly $199 plus tax) and the Dolphin Encounter program is $94 plus tax per person (regularly $139 plus tax). Children ages 5-9 can participate in the Dolphin Encounter program for the discounted price of $68 plus tax (regularly $99 plus tax). Dolphin Harbor, home to 13 Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins and the park’s dolphin interaction programs, features a 12,000-square-foot, 700,000-gallon dolphin pool surrounded by an 8,000-squarefoot facility that includes a reception area, education seminar room, changing facilities and rest rooms. Dolphin Harbor offers guests two different dolphin interaction programs. Dolphin Odyssey is a two-hour experience, which includes feeding, touching and learning about these magnificent animals plus the opportunity for a deep-water interaction with a dolphin. Guests must be at least 52 inches tall to participate in the Dolphin Odyssey program. Dolphin Encounter is the newer program that allows guests to wade out into the pool and have a shallow water experience meeting the dolphins. The two-hour program features an educational seminar and the chance to feed and touch a dolphin as well as learn about dolphin training techniques. Dolphin Encounter participants must be at least 5 years of age and for those children under 9 years, an older

sibling or adult must accompany the child as a participant. Expectant mothers are not allowed to participate in dolphin interaction programs. Program fees include one day’s admission to the park. The Sea Trek Reef Encounter allows guests to become one with the park’s reef aquarium, while moving in ethereal slow motion in a near zero gravity diving system. Feels like walking on the moon, only you are submerged in a surreal underwater paradise where colorful tropical fish, large groupers, lobsters, cownose stingrays and moray eels abound. Sea Trekking, developed by Sub Sea Systems Inc., can be experienced by nondivers, ages 10 and above, No certification or swimming skills are necessary. In the magnificent Reef Aquarium at Miami Seaquarium participants may Sea Trek as deep as 15 feet under the sea. Sea Trek Reef Encounter is controlled by a compressor system that takes in air, compresses it, sends it through a series of filtration components and on to a control console and manifold to regulate the air flow to participants. Unlike deep sea diving, the participant’s entire head stays dry throughout the entire experience. Sea Trek Reef Encounter at Miami Seaquarium will take about 20 minutes and will cost Florida residents $79 plus tax. This Florida resident discount fee includes same day admission to the park. Discounts for Sea Trek are available to participants in the park’s dolphin interaction programs as well. The Florida Resident special offer for both programs is valid through Dec. 14. Proof of Florida residency is required. For more information or to make a reservation please call 305-365-2501. More information on Miami Seaquarium is available at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>.

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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

The Bangles to perform live at Magic City Casino BY SANDRA RODRIGUEZ

Magic City Casino, Miami’s first casino to offer Las Vegas style slot machines, welcomes The Bangles to Stage 305, its newest entertainment venue, on Saturday, Oct., 27 at 8:30 p.m. The female pop-rock powerhouse will perform a variety of their chart-topping hits as well as music from their newest album, Sweetheart of the Sun. “The Bangles concert will be among the first of many amazing events to take place at Stage 305,” said Scott Savin, chief operating officer of Magic City Casino. “We look forward to rocking with The Bangles on Oct. 27. Their funloving music is timeless and we encourage concert-goers to get their tickets early while they are still available.” Known for their pop-rock appeal and rich harmonies, The Bangles — consisting of Susanna Hoffs, Debbi Peterson and Vicki Peterson — have sold millions of albums and have produced a string of

successful hits spanning three decades. Their best known hits include Walk Like an Egyptian, Eternal Flame, Manic Monday and Hazy Shade of Winter. Their albums, Different Light and Everything, both reached Platinum status. Tickets are available and can be purchased by calling 305-460-6579 or online at <www.magiccitycasino.com>. Stage 305 at Magic City Casino, located at 450 NW 37 Ave. in Miami, offers free parking, with valet parking available as well. Magic City Casino features 800 Las Vegas-style slot machines, 18-table Poker Room, outdoor concert amphitheater, multi-purpose indoor venue, seasonal live greyhound racing and multiple food and beverage outlets, among other state-of-the-art amenities. The casino is open every day (Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 a.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 a.m.). For more information, visit online at <www.magiccitycasino.com>.


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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

UM-NSU CARD forms partnership with Miami-Dade Public Schools BY ANNETTE GALLAGHER

SAME DAY DELIVERY AVAILABLE We’ll help you find the perfect arrangement or gift.

• Flowers

• Plants

• Birthdays

• Wedding

• Balloons

• Anniversaries

• Gift Baskets • Sympathy (we deliver to funeral homes & hospitals)

Hirni’s Wayside Gardens Florist 9950 SW 57th Avenue • Pinecrest, FL 33156 305.661.6266 • www.hirnisflorist.com Monday thru Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm

q a i

Although the school year has just begun, many Miami educators are celebrating the recent announcement from the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD) and Miami-Dade County School Board regarding their fiveyear partnership. “UM-NSU CARD has a long and successful history of partnering with MDCPS on many important initiatives related to autism spectrum disorders,” said Dr. Michael Alessandri, UM-NSU CARD executive director. “This latest plan represents the next critical step in our organizations’ mutual goal of improving the quality of education and life for all students with autism.” Under the leadership of school board member Raquel Regalado, on Aug. 1 the MDCPS board approved an unparalleled five-year plan to partner with UM-NSU CARD to better serve the 3,237 students in the school system affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) beginning this school year. “Our school system must ensure that students within the autism spectrum are offered the educational resources they need to reach their full potential in school and beyond,” Regalado said. “We are confident that UM-NSU CARD will help us meet this obligation, given their strong dedication to providing information, resources and support to children and families affected by autism.” UM-NSU CARD is committed to optimizing the potential of children and adults with autism through services, including individual and family support services,

program consultation and technical assistance, parent and professional training, and public awareness and community outreach. This partnership will better support students with autism spectrum disorders, as well as be a more accessible resource to prospective students in need of ASD services. Through this plan, CARD, along with its Family Mobile Clinic, will host autism awareness events at local schools, serving students with autism during which families may register for CARD services. UM-NSU CARD also enables teachers to receive additional and important training to best deal with children affected by ASD. Through this plan, CARD will provide large-scale regional teacher training conferences, an annual administrator’s training and an annual summer institute for teachers and related service providers, while also providing support to the districts in delivering school-based trainings. UM-NSU CARD will partner with teachers selected to participate in the PEPSA (Partnership for Effective Programming for Students with Autism) program. This program provides teachers the opportunity to be mentored by a CARD clinical staff member to enhance and implement effective practices within the educational programs for students with ASD. Selected teachers also will be funded to attend the annual statewide CARD Conference. As part of the enhanced partnership with MDCPS, CARD will also reinstitute its popular “If I Only Had the Money” contest, which each year gives small grants to teachers for innovative projects to benefit students with an ASD. For more information on UM-NSU CARD, call 1-800-9-AUTISM, ext. 1, or visit online at <www.umcard.org>.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Gulliver Schools to induct into Athletic Hall of Fame

Gina Derks Gardner –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY MELISSA LICHTENHELD

A professional football star, Olympic basketball player and National Triathlon Team member, along with two championship title winning school coaches, will be inducted into Gulliver’s 2012 Athletic Hall of Fame on Oct. 19. The Athletic Hall of Fame ceremony will take place at the school’s Preparatory Campus, 6575 N. Kendall Dr. in Pinecrest. The late Sean Taylor, who graduated in 2001 and went on to play football for the University of Miami and the Washington Redskins, will be honored posthumously. Inductees are former U.S. National Triathlon Team member Gina Derks Gardner, class of ’90, and professional basketball player and Olympian Sylvia Fowles, class of ’04. Athletic director Mark Schusterman and boys’ varsity soccer coach Jorge Dieppa also will be inducted for their

Sylvia Fowles –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

dedication in shaping Gulliver athletes for 30 years and 25 years, respectively. With more than three decades of athletic heritage, it is with great pride that Gulliver formed the Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010. Spearheaded by the Athletic Department and the Alumni Association, the Hall was established to permanently recognize and honor coaches, administrators, student athletes, athletic teams and friends of the athletic program of Gulliver Schools who have made significant contributions to the advancement and reputation of the athletic program while demonstrating a high degree of sportsmanship, leadership and character. Tickets are $50 per person and tables of 10 are available for $500. To be a sponsor and to order tickets for the event, go online to <www.gulliverschools.org/halloffame>, contact Jeri Volpe, special events coordinator, by email at <volpj@gulliverschools.org> or call 786-709-4082.

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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Jim Gall named as auctioneer for Kiwanis Biscayne Bay Gala BY LEWIS MATUSOW

Jim Gall, one of the nation’s leading auctioneers, has been selected as the auctioneer for the 33rd Biscayne Bay Gala, Oct. 27, at the Jungle Island Treetop Ballroom. At the gala, the Biscayne Bay Kiwanis, one of South Florida’s largest and oldest Kiwanis clubs, will honor local business leader and community activist Rodney Barreto, chair of the Super Bowl Host Committee, as the recipient of the 2012 Michael Shores Citizen of the Year Award. The award is named for Michael Shores, who as a philanthropically minded attorney, made numerous contributions to the Miami-Dade County community throughout his life. The event begins at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception and silent auction, followed at 7 p.m. by a dinner and live auction. “We know Jim is highly sought after, so we’re excited he’ll be running the auction,” said Will Reich, gala chair and incoming president of the Biscayne Bay Kiwanis Club. “Nobody conducts a more lively and enjoyable auction than Jim Gall.” Gall, a South Miami-Dade resident and president of Auction Company of America, recently was featured in the New York Times and on ABC’s Nightline.

Jim Gall is one of the nation’s leading auctioneers.

The Biscayne Bay Gala silent and live auctions will feature a wide variety of sought-after items such as vacations, cruises, sports memorabilia, dining certificates to some of South Florida’s leading restaurants and fine art, including several pieces by Dali. “There’s something for everyone’s taste at the gala auction,” said Gall, who has more than a quarter century of auction experience. “Not only will everyone have a great time at this gala, they’ll also be supporting a great cause — assisting disadvantaged youths throughout Miami-Dade County.” Tickets to the event are $100 ($1,000 for a table of 10) through Aug. 31. After that date, tickets will be $125 ($1,250 for a table). Various sponsorships of the event — expected to be attended by approximately 500 of South Florida’s leading business people — are available, ranging from a $2,500 Silver Sponsor to a $25,000 Presenting Sponsor. For more information on table purchases, event sponsorship, or program advertising, contact Will Reich at 305-733-0062 or send email to <gala@biscaynebaykiwanisclub.org>.


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 45

Jackson Health’s Cuming chosen for prestigious nurse fellowship BY GRETCHEN WRIGHT

Richard Cuming, RN, MSN, EdD, NEABC, senior vice president and chief nursing executive at Jackson Health System, has been named one of only 20 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Executive Nurse Fellows from across the country for 2012. Cuming joins a select group of nurse leaders chosen to participate in this threeyear, world-class leadership development program that is enhancing nurse leaders’ effectiveness in improving the nation’s healthcare system. Born and raised in Montreal, Canada, Cuming began his career as a critical care nurse. He joined Jackson Memorial Hospital in 1991 as a staff nurse in the operating room, and held a variety of positions in the hospital and hospital system before being appointed senior vice president and chief nursing executive in 2011. Cuming currently serves as presidentelect of the board of directors for the Nursing Consortium of South Florida, and is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Nurses Association, Florida Nurses Association,

American Organization of Nurse Executives and Sigma Theta Tau International. He holds adjunct faculty appointments as a professor in the school of nursing at both Florida International University and at the University of Miami. Begun by RWJF in 1998, the RWJF Executive Nurse Fellows (ENF) program strengthens the leadership capacity of nurses who aspire to shape healthcare locally and nationally. The program will provide Cuming and his colleagues with coaching, education and other support to strengthen their abilities to lead teams and organizations in improving health and health care. The ENF program is located at the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), and codirected by Linda Cronenwett, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Beerstecher Blackwell Term Professor and former dean of the School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and David Altman, PhD, executive vice president of Research, Innovation and Product Development at CCL. “Now more than ever, with our healthcare system preparing to care for millions more patients, many of whom are living longer but with more chronic conditions,

we need nurse leaders who are well prepared to participate as full partners in this historic transformation,” Cronenwett said. “The RWJF Executive Nurse Fellows program has a proud history of building and enhancing the leadership skills of extraordinary nurses all across the country. We are delighted to be able to work with this new cohort. Each of our new Executive Nurse Fellows has made a powerful commitment to improving health and health care and is poised to become an even more effective leader,” she added. “I’m so excited to have the opportunity to participate in this world-class leadership development program,” Cuming said. “To have the resources of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Center for Creative Leadership is tremendous. As a professional nursing leader at one of the country’s largest public hospital systems, I know there’s a lot I can share from

Jackson’s experience and a lot that this exceptional group of nurses will be able to teach me for the benefit of the South Florida community.” Executive Nurse Fellows hold senior leadership positions in health services, scientific and academic organizations, public health and community-based organizations or systems, and national professional, governmental and policy organizations. They continue in their current positions during their fellowships, and during the fellowship each develops, plans and implements a new initiative to improve healthcare delivery in her or his community. For more information about the RWJF Executive Nurse Fellows program visit onine at www.ExecutiveNurseFellows.org. For more information about the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, visit online at www.rwjf.org.


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Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

Red Bull Flugtag returns to Bayfront Park in fall BY CASSADY FAIRCLOTH

What happens before and after takeoff is optional, but landing is mandatory. Red Bull Flugtag is soaring into Miami this fall for the first time since 2010, and applications now are being accepted from avid aviators throughout the Southeast. Bayfront Park will welcome thousands of South Florida residents and visitors to its beautiful waterfront to see the flights and follies of Red Bull Flugtag on Saturday, Nov. 3. Flugtag, German for “flying day,” is a competition that dares the brave and tests the brainy to design, build and pilot homemade aircrafts off a 30-foot high ramp in hopes of achieving human-powered flight. Forty teams will be chosen to test their “wings” and compete in the flying spectacle that awes millions around the world. Past applicants have created crafts representing everything the imagination can bring to life, from fairy tales and comic book characters to iPhones and cheeseburgers. Entry is open through Sept. 1 and applications can be submitted online at redbullflugtagusa.com or via “snail mail.” Interested teams should draw up their blueprints of an imaginative craft and prepare

Defying gravity for as long as possible is the goal of each entry in the Red Bull Flugtag. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

to fly — at least for a few seconds. Entrants must compile a team of no more than five people— four flight crew members and one pilot — to create a unique flying contraption concept. While distance is

important, creativity and showmanship are necessary to impress the judges. These criteria have inspired such outrageous crafts as a towering Pope-mobile, an airborne outhouse, gangsters, hotdogs and a replica of

Santa and his flying sleigh. While the sky may be the limit on creativity, there are still a few flight regulations. All aircrafts must be entirely humanpowered — no motors or stored energy such as slingshots or catapults — and cannot exceed 450 pounds (including the pilot). Remember that size does matter, and all aircraft must be less than 30 feet wide. Since the first Red Bull Flugtag in Vienna, Austria, in 1991, more than 100 Flugtags have been held around the world, attracting up to 300,000 spectators for a single event. The record for the farthest flight to-date in the United States currently stands at 207 feet and was set at Red Bull Flugtag St. Paul in 2010 by team Major Trouble and the Dirty Dixies. The pressure is on for this year’s Red Bull Flugtag flyers to blow these records off the charts. The Red Bull Flugtag in Miami will be the third of four Flugtags held this year, with other competitions occurring in Chicago, Philadelphia and San Francisco. Red Bull Flugtag is free and open to the public. For more information, visit redbullflugtagusa.com.


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Hyundai Veloster Turbo, Elantra GT target youth market Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS Hyundai Motor America recently invited me to Austin, TX, to preview a pair of new 2013 models — the Veloster Turbo and the Elantra GT. Both are key elements in Hyundai’s ambitious 7/11 product initiative, which will see seven new or redesigned models produced in the next 11 months. When I first drove the Veloster last year, my biggest complaint was that it was underpowered. Now, with the addition of the new 1.6-liter 201 hp Turbocharged-Gasoline Direct Injection (T-GDI) engine mated to either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission, that complaint no longer is valid. The added power makes all the difference in the performance of this little threedoor coupe, transforming it into a powerful, high-tech and fuel-efficient vehicle. With its precise power-to-weight ratio, unique sport-tuned steering and suspension

hardware set, the Veloster Turbo will compete very well with the likes of the Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si and Mini Cooper/Clubman S. Extras such as unique 18-inch alloy wheels with chrome inserts, projection headlights with LED accents, side mirrors with turn signal indicators, unique LED taillights and leather seating surfaces will help make the Veloster Turbo a big hit with the next generation of young buyers. The Turbo exclusive Graphite Black interior with blue accents and headliner graphics only adds to its attractiveness to the youth market. ELANTRA GT DEBUTS I also test drove the all-new 2013 Elantra GT during my visit to Austin. The lineup now includes the Elantra Coupe introduced earlier this year and the popular Elantra Sedan, voted as the 2012 North American Car of the Year. The Elantra GT is based on Hyundai’s new-generation i30 model designed for the European market. With its five-door functionality and European driving dynamics, it is indeed a fun-to-drive compact hatchback.

Veloster Turbo has unique 18-inch alloy wheels with chrome inserts, projection headlights with LED accents and side mirrors with turn signal indicators.

New Elantra GT represents evolution in Hyundai’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ streamlined design technology.

The 2013 Elantra GT will compete with the Ford Focus, Mazda3 and Volkswagen Golf, but has more interior room and better fuel economy. Powered by an advanced 1.8-liter 148 hp four-cylinder engine mated to Hyundai’s six-speed automatic or manual transmission, it delivers 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The new Elantra GT represents even more evolution in Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design technology. The Elantra GT has a slippery .30 coefficient of drag and everything about the vehicle is aerodynamic, from the aggressive profile and low overall height, to the sleek side mirrors. Even the tire gaps have been minimized and the rocker panels are streamlined to help lower wind resistance, which translates into better fuel economy and a smoother ride. Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.


Page 50

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012


Sept. 18 - Oct. 1, 2012

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