Kendall Gazette Newspaper 9 21 2010

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One of Miami’s Community Newspapers

Phone: 305-669-7355

ENDALL GAZETT E K www.communitynewspapers.com

SEPTEMBER 21 - 27, 2010

Repeal of park parking fees gaining support

BY RICHARD YAGER

T

hree of five commissioners representing Kendall have indicated they will back repeal of the $5 parking fee scheduled to begin at six Miami-Dade parks on Oct. 1. Miami-Dade Commissioners Joe A. Martinez and Carlos A. Gimenez have told the Gazette they will seek alternate methods of funding while commission chairman Dennis Moss said he would delay his decision until discussion and vote of the full commission on Sept. 21. Only Katy Sorenson, among five commission members whose districts include Kendall, opposes Commissioner Javier Souto’s resolution to cancel the fees sought by the Parks and Recreation Department to offset $8 million in budget cuts during fiscal year 2010. Gimenez indicated that a reduction in automobile expenses he is studying could save up to $1 million annually, more than the $750,000 that Parks director Jack Kardys indicated was needed from additional parking fee revenues to maintain current service levels. Kardys projected loss of 20 employees in addition to 95 already cut from the Parks

–––––––––––––––––––––– See

PARKING, page 4

Campaign to ban tolls on xways finds backing

Dept. of Emergency Management selected a leading model by FEMA BY DAVID PEREZ

T

Pictured at the KFHA meeting on Sept. 13 are (l-r) Carlos Garcia, Palmetto Bay Mayor Eugene Flinn and Miller Myers. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY RICHARD YAGER

A

campaign to ban tolls on expressways in Miami-Dade County gained qualified support from several candidates in the Nov. 2 general election during a Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations (KFHA) meeting on Sept. 13. The meeting came prior to a community-wide meeting scheduled for Sept. 27 to amass grassroots support for an outright repeal of ORT (Open Road Tolling) in Kendall. Palmetto Bay mayor and county commission candidate Eugene Flinn agreed

that he was against “privatization of taxpayer-built roads” when his stand on the issue was questioned by Carlos Garcia and Miller Myers, organizers of a “No Toll” campaign. “Open Road Tolling by Sunpass on the expressways was sold as a non-taxpayer expense, but the truth is, it has become a daily expense for those who regularly commute on the expressways,” Flinn said. State representative candidates also backed “non-privatization” when asked by Garcia. ––––––––––––––––––––––– See

TOLLS, page 4

he Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has selected the Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management (DEM) as a leading model for public private partnerships. Specifically, DEM’s Business Recovery Program is being touted as a template for other large urban areas across the country to follow. The Business Recovery program is a public-private collaboration to ensure private sector emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. The goal of this program is to minimize the number of businesses, especially small and medium sized, that fail to reopen due to a lack of accurate and actionable information, during and following an emergency or disaster event. This is accomplished through a partnership with the private sector to encourage, where necessary, private sector emergency preparedness and mitigation. Additionally, the exchange of timely information between the private and public sectors facilitates emergency management response and recovery and enables businesses to make appropriate decisions to sustain continuity of operations. “We are very pleased FEMA has selected our Business Recovery Program as a model for other large urban areas to follow,” said DEM director Curt Sommerhoff. “The active hurricane sea-

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See

FEMA, page 4

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September 21 - 27, 2010

September 21 - 27, 2010

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New mural of Everglades welcomes Winston Park K-8 Center students

A 360-degree view of the Florida Everglades welcomed back Winston Park K-8 Center students the first the day of school. Under the leadership of Elena Nieves, PTSA vice president of hospitality, and with the support of school principal Carlos Diaz, the Winston Park K-8 PTSA spent the summer working with mural artist (Ms.) Corey Burton. Burton created the mural of the Everglades in the cafeteria and a marine life and beach scene on a stairwell in the covered patio. Nieves and Diaz rolled up their sleeves too, in order to pressure clean and paint the covered patio floor. With the help of student and parent volunteers the endeavor took eight weeks of hard work with no air conditioning.

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TOLLS,

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

from page 1 ––––––––––––––––

House District 120 Rep. Ken Saunders said he was against “having any private companies in control of our highways.� Saunders cautioned that a recent 2010 bonding program will commit acceptance of Miami-Dade Expressway Authority (MDX) for the immediate future. To finance its projects, MDX put $412 million in bonds on the market in August based on projected revenues from conversion of Sunpass collections on five MiamiDade expressways, including the Shula (SR 874) and Snapper Creek (SR 878) that began toll collections on July 17. By 2014, MDX expects to increase annual toll collection to approximately $150 million from a current $109 million. The Gratigny Expressway in north Miami-Dade began collecting tolls electronically on June 7 with the Airport Expressway (SR 112) scheduled to convert by 2012 and the Dolphin Expressway (SR 836) in 2013, completing ORT on all five MDX managed expressways. “While we understand the commitment already made, we believe a change in the direction of handling taxpayer-funded roads is needed,� said Garcia who with fellowKendall resident Myers organized a Sept. 27, 7-9 p.m., meeting at the Civic Pavilion of the

Kendall Village Center, 8625 SW 124 Ave., co-hosted by the KFHA. Meeting information is available on a “rollbacktolls.com� website with advance questions accepted by email to <info@rollbacktolls>. WORKSHOP TO FOCUS ON 136TH ST. RAMP A public workshop on planning for a new ramp connecting SW 136th Street with the Shula Expressway (SR 874) to relieve growing traffic congestion in southwest MiamiDade will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6 to 8 p.m., in the Country Walk Clubhouse, 14601 Country Walk Dr. The workshop’s “open house� format allows the public to view preliminary planning, ask questions and provide comments to Miami-Dade Expressway Authority (MDX) representatives on a one-on-one basis, according to Tere Garcia, MDX spokesperson. Seven environmental issues identified within the project area for assessment include: floodplains, wildlife and habitat, recreation areas, potential parks and historic sites, aesthetics, and both secondary and cumulative impacts. Potential noise and air quality levels surrounding the project area also are being assessed during the study, as well as noise abatement barriers, where warranted, feasible and desirable. A public hearing on construction planning is scheduled for June 2011.

JUMPS FOR KENDALL

September 21 - 27, 2010

PARKING,

from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Department payroll if new parking revenues were not implemented. As members of the commission’s Recreation, Tourism and Cultural Committee, Souto, Bruno Barreiro and Rebecca Sosa voted in favor of the repeal during a Sept. 13 meeting. Sorenson voted against repeal along with Commissioner Sally Heyman, both noting the Parks Department would need such funding to continue facility maintenance. With Commissioner Audrey Edmondson also indicating support for the repeal, a pre-vote total of at least six of 13 commissioners back Souto’s effort, while two opposed. The decision on $5 parking fees occurs simultaneously during ongoing commission deliberations to find up to $444 million to balance the fiscal year 2010-11 budget. The $5 fees would be charged weekends and holidays at A.D. Barnes, Tropical, Indian Hammocks, Kendall Soccer, Larry

FEMA,

and Penny Thompson parks in southwestern Miami-Dade, and a part of Amelia Earhart Park in Hialeah. In proposing the repeal, Souto said, “This is a regressive tax that will hit middle- and lower-income families hard, and was passed without any input from voters.� Souto said he felt it unfair for citizens who may be faced with a 12-15 percent increase in property taxes to pay additional parking fees for use of parks and programs. Heyman and Sorenson in opposing the change pointed out that several major county parks already charge parking fees, and voiced concerns about cutting services elsewhere to make up for any deficiency. The $5 fees approved in 2009 for the 2010 fiscal year originally were to become effective during the July 4 holiday but Souto led opposition to beginning the new charges during a June session of the commission’s subcommittee.

from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

sons of 2004 and 2005 were a wakeup call for the private sector. Some local business had record losses as a result of hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma where parts of Miami-Dade County where without power for as long as 21 days.� Since then, many businesses have taken mitigation measures such as installing generators to enhance preparedness efforts. Current partners in the program include Walmart, Home Depot, Visa, Macy’s, Greyhound, Bank of America, Beckman Coulter, Ryder System, Office Depot,

Publix, Wachovia, Walgreens, UPS, FloridaFirst (a coalition of financial institutions), T Mobile, and other private sector partners. The Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management is committed to working with its partners and the community to lessen the impact of disasters and potential catastrophic incidents. DEM accomplishes its mission through planning, response and coordination of information and resources. Residents may access emergency information online at <www.miamidade.gov/oem>.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

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MDX bonds lock taxpayers into expensive marriage Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN Kendalll Federation of Homeowners Association should welcome a fall schedule lighter than that of the past summer “vacation” time when the organization hosted four separate candidate forums from July thru September. Now another special session is set September 27 to hear the “No Toll” advocates air their views in an attempt to gain grassroots support to revoke the Metropolitan Expressway Authority charges on both the Shula and Snapper Creek expressways. The word “privatization” kept popping up in the most recent KFHA political go-around as candidates stated views on defining MDX as an arm of government in its quasi-administrative function as created by a special legislative act. Just to keep the record straight, MDX was created in 1994 by the State of Florida as a transportation agency with financing by tolls

for construction, operation and maintenance of five Miami-Dade Expressways: SR 112 (Airport); SR 836 (Dolphin); SR 874 (Shula); SR 878 (Snapper Creek); and SR 924 (Gratigny Parkway). Current programming is carried out under a Five-Year Work Program (2009-2013) for system improvements, enhancements and rehabilitation from project inception through construction. The MDX Board of 12 are non-paid local business and civic leaders with the 13th member, Gus Pego, Florida Department of Transportation District Six Secretary who serves as an ex-officio member. Of the 12, Florida’s Governor appoints five of them and the Miami-Dade Commissioners appoint the remaining seven members. Unlike a few other Miami-Dade agencies, at least it has remained free of corruption to date. With its recent $412 million in bonds put up for sale in August, a substantial debt has already been placed on taxpayers for MDX projects, all predicated on a projection of Sunpass collections. Thus like it or not, Joe Taxpayer is legally married to a high-spending bride whose divorce would not come cheaply, if at all. Those thumping the drum for toll abolition well know the best they can hope for is a

Kendall Gazette

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PUBLISHER .................................................................................................................................. Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz WRITERS, COLUMNISTS.............................................................. Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Cecile Fanfani, 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 ............................................................ Catalina Roca, Isabel Ortega, Vera Salom PUBLISHER EMERITUS......................................................................................................................................... Ron Miller MIAMI COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Aventura News, Biscayne Tribune, Coral Gables News-Tribune, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Cutler Bay News, Palmetto Bay News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach 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.

reduction of toll rates by regular commuters, seniors, students, the disabled and other special cases. So even if that alone is a result of the “No Toll” movement, it will have served a valuable purpose. MDX says it already has such programming under consideration. So let the financial experts decide whether or not existence of the MDX is in MiamiDade’s long-term interest to manage our key expressways on a user-paid basis. That’s what the current fuss really boils down to. Campaigning g can work wonders for the waistline, report two candidates who are going door-to-door, soliciting Kendall voters. “Believe it or not, I’ve lost 35 pounds since I filed for office,” laughs Atty. Jose Felix Diaz, seeking the District 115 State Representative seat. Agrees Katie Edwards, trim Executive Director of the Dade County Farm Bureau: “Can’t match that — but I’ve lost 10 pounds myself!” Whilee unablee to cast a vote in his behalf, we recommend ex-Kendallite Patrick Fiore in his bid for the District One seat in Palmetto Bay’s Council election. Having served West Kendall’s Community Council in past years as both Chair and Vice Chair, he competently honed governing and leadership skills while working tirelessly on behalf of community athletic programs. Now, at 53

years, he combines experience and youth as youngest of the three candidates in the field — not to detract from the accumulated wisdom of the two ladies who oppose him, of course! Manyy thanks to Miami Dade County and taxpayers for the million buck-plus beautification of SW 62nd Avenue, right smack in front of our newspaper offices. When completed in 2011, we’ll have nice big sidewalks, a median planted with tropical flora, new drainage and, for the most part, single lane traffic in either direction right up to SW 69th Street. Should be beautiful, adding a lot of value to neighborhood properties, including our own, so I thank all taxpayers for helping make this possible even though’ only time will tell if the experts were right about improving traffic flow hereabouts. Thoughtt off thee Day: Saying what we think gives us a wider conversational range than saying what we know. — Cullen Hightower

Richard Yager contributed to this column Got any tips? Contact me at 305-6697355, ext. 249, or send emails to <michael@communitynewspapers.com>.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

Taxpayers just can’t afford our county government R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY We live in two different worlds in Miami-Dade County. A world where every day we read of more private sector employees losing their jobs, where employees are going from fulltime employment with hospitalization benefits to part-time employment without hospitalization, and where the hope of quality employment is only a dream. We live in a community where auto repossessions equal the number of homes going into foreclosure. Food stamps are becoming more and more a way of life. People just don’t have money to pay their bills. Meanwhile, at our county government we find our elected officials, who do not know the meaning of leading by example, keeping their big cars, their drivers, their perks and county commissioners are still trying to figure out how to trick the voters

into increasing their salaries. How do county officials react? They trim the county’s proposed budget by 1 percent. Wow! Our homes have gone down in value. We can’t even sell and recoup a small portion of our investment if we wanted, so we are stuck in the main, with our homes. How is it possible with home values going down, from multi-million homes on the bay to modest one-bedroom condos on the fringe of the community, that the county is projecting 40 percent of all homes, both owner-occupied and investment, will see increased real estate taxes. The county manager’s answer, paraphrased, is we need the money to run the people’s government. I guarantee you if it was “our” government we would see some realistic cuts in expenses. One small suggestion would be to replace the mayor’s BMW with a nice used four-door Saturn. The county manager says the proposed budget “does not increase taxes.” This is correct inasmuch as under the state’s definition the county will not be taking in “more” money. Tell that to the senior living on $800 or $900 dollars a month and is facing an increase in his or her real estate taxes. While 12-plus percent of Miami-Dade

–– VIEWPOINT –– County residents are unemployed, while people who were earning $3,000 or more a month are now living on $1,191 a month unemployment which will end soon, the county plans on spending $132 million giving salary increases and bonuses to county employees. The county will be doling out a 5 percent pay increase followed next summer by another 3 percent, to almost all remaining county employees. Just look at what Mayor Carlos Alvarez receives in compensation: a salary of $233,123, plus $89,154 in benefits, which include a $42,000 expense account. At least do something to justify your salary, Mr. Mayor. The county anticipates raising water and sewer fees by 5 percent next year in order to free up $25 million in water and sewer department reserves, transferring the money to the county’s general revenue funds to help pay the bills. Just look at the inequity of it all. We work in the private sector for a lower income than

the equivalent job pays working for the county. When we retire we receive Social Security, which represents a small percentage of our pre-Social Security income and the county employee, working the same number of years, can retire on 80 percent or more of their pre-retirement salaries. Now the county is asking, no telling us, we must pay more into the county’s operating funds to keep it afloat, while we are losing our jobs, our homes, our cars and our futures. It just doesn’t make sense. And, we still reelect the same officials that are sticking it to us year after year after year. I just don’t understand it. Would someone please explain it to me? We appreciate your opinions on this column whether in agreement or disagreement. Please send your comments to (fax number) 305-662-6980 or email to <letters@communitynewspapers.com>. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of this newspaper, its editors or publisher.

September 21 - 27, 2010

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Foreclosure program to help ‘underwater’ homeowners

Al Sunshine CBS MONEY WATCH If you are one of the many Florida homeowners who currently find themselves “underwater,” the White House’s new foreclosure program could benefit you. The Obama administration is trying to jumpstart attempts to tackle the foreclosure crisis with an effort to assist homeowners who owe more on their properties than their homes are worth. The Federal Housing Administration soon will permit lenders to give these borrowers refinanced loans backed by the government. The lenders will be required to forgive at least 10 percent of the original mortgage amount. Investors who have control over the mortgages as part of their large portfolios will select which borrowers are invited to participate. The plan was first announced in March. Its rollout represents the latest of numerous efforts by the administration to address the housing bust. The lending industry was ill prepared for a crush of distressed homeowners, the economy worsened and millions of homeowners had taken on so much debt that their financial woes have been nearly impossible to resolve. Nearly half of the 1.3 million homeowners who have enrolled in the Obama administration’s main mortgage relief program — overseen by the Treasury Department — already have fallen out over the past year. Many borrowers say the government program is a bureaucratic nightmare, with banks often losing their documents and then

claiming borrowers did not send back the necessary paperwork. Banks say borrowers often didn’t return the required documents. The new refinancing program takes a different approach. It allows investors in mortgage-backed securities to evaluate their holdings and select borrowers that will be offered refinanced mortgages guaranteed by the FHA. The theory is that there are some loans that investors simply want to unload because they have a high risk of default. However, when faced with the choice between slashing the amount borrowers owe on their home loans and foreclosing, lenders have generally chosen to foreclose on borrowers. Government officials acknowledge that getting the plan going will be complicated. But the government estimates that between 500,000 and 1.5 million homeowners could be helped. The program is funded with $14 billion from the Obama administration’s existing $75 billion mortgage assistance program. That money will be used to cover incentive payments to lenders and losses from borrowers who fall back into foreclosure. To qualify, borrowers must be up-to-date on their mortgages, although many people who already have received loan modifications through other programs are still eligible. The plan is limited to loans in which homeowners owe at least 15 percent more than their home’s current value. Analysts at Barclays Capital estimated last month that the refinancing program would only aid between 200,000 and 300,000 homeowners. If it reaches that many, it would be a small share of the number of Americans with so-called “underwater” mortgages. Watch Al Sunshine’s “CBS Money Watch” reports Monday-Friday beginning at noon.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

Letter to the Editor Letters to the Editor 6796 SW 62 Ave. • South Miami, FL 33143 E-mail: letters@communitynewspapers.com

Taxpayers have had enough of county manager Burgess To the Editor: I would like to respond to R. Kenneth Bluh’s recent article in the Kendall Gazette titled “Looks like the Marlins outfoxed our county officials.” As you know Miami-Dade County taxpayers recently passed in the primary election the abolishment of the county manager’s office. This will not go into effect until the end of the year. However, it is likely that county manager George Burgess’ buddy, Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez, will attempt to keep Mr. Burgess employed by simply changing the name of the office or putting him in an assistant director position. Of course if Mr. Burgess thinks he is so good that he can make three times as much in the private sector, let’s wish him well. However, the taxpayers of Miami Dade have had enough with him, and want to get rid of him all together. It is important that whichever new commissioner takes over Katy Sorenson’s District 8 seat — whether it is Palmetto Bay Mayor Eugene Flynn or former Homestead Mayor Lynda Bell — that they keep a close eye and make sure Mr. Burgess is not back in county government under a different guise. We have had enough of him. Let him drive his Lexus to his cushy private sector job, but enough of him here in Dade County government. He has done enough damage with the Marlins Stadium and the downtown tunnel fiasco. Kenneth Karger Kendall

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September 21 - 27, 2010

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Pink fire rescue trucks aim to raise cancer awareness BY ASHLEY SUGARMAN

Mall visitors will have the opportunity to interact with firefighters and police Pink fire rescue trucks and South Florida officers donning pink attire, learn more firefighters dressed in pink will about the American Cancer take over Dadeland Mall as part Society and have the opporThe Pink HEALS of the 2010 Pink HEALS Tour. tunity to purchase a Pink Fire Tour is made up As one of the stops on this Truck Organization T-shirt of pink fire national tour, Dadeland Mall with proceeds helping to rescue trucks will help to raise cancer awarefund the Pink HEALS Tour that drive ness and funds on Thursday, which allows the pink fire across America Sept. 23, from 2 to 5 p.m., in the trucks to continue on their spreading parking lot in front of The mission of love and hope. awareness of Limited and Express. The Pink HEALS Tour is breast cancer “Dadeland Mall is the perfect made up of pink fire rescue and rallying backdrop for the 2010 Pink trucks that drive across HEALS Tour,” said Humberto communities America spreading awareness Maldonado, director of markettogether to show of breast cancer and rallying ing and business development support by communities together to show of Dadeland Mall. “We are wearing pink. support by wearing pink. proud to not only provide a For more information on the great shopping and dining experience for the Miami community, but to Pink HEALS Tour or to donate funds, visit also take part in raising awareness for online at <www.PinkFireTrucks.org>. For important causes that affect so many in more information on Dadeland Mall, visit <www.simon.com>. South Florida.”

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September 21 - 27, 2010

KFHA hosts candidates for legislature, school board BY RICHARD YAGER “Candidate Night 3” of four such events hosted by the Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations (KFHA) on Sept. 13 drew an audience of nearly 200 to hear 10 of 15 state representative office seekers trade points on current county and state issues. The fourth and final KFHA special candidate meeting was scheduled Monday, Sept. 20, to hear hopefuls for Congress and Florida governor as well as details about Florida constitutional amendments. Concluding the Sept. 13 session, Palmetto Bay Mayor Gene Flinn stood alone to pitch his platform while former Homestead Mayor Lynda Bell, runoff opponent for Katy Sorenson’s District 8 County Commission seat, was reported in Alaska attending the birth of her eighth granddaughter, according to Tony Garcia, campaign aide. The only heated exchange of the evening occurred between School Board District 7 runoff candidates when Carlos Curbelo accused opponent Libby Perez of a conflict of interest, alleging a KFHA member had

been involved in her campaign. Perez initially received a KFHA endorsement as well as that of her employer, Dr. Marta Perez of the Miami-Dade School Board. Curbelo’s charge was denied vigorously by Marvin P. Stein, Political Action Committee chair, who declared, “Never has the PAC ever been involved in any misrepresentation or involvement during my 25 years of chairing the committee,” emphasizing the PAC is “completely independent” of the KFHA organization. KFHA board member Don Kearns, internal vice president, heatedly questioned Curbelo on his statements. Curbelo, 30, a Republican campaigner for national and state offices, was employed last year by U.S. Sen. George LeMieux before seeking the District 7 school board seat being vacated by Ana Rivas-Logan. Rivas-Logan, candidate for state representative in District 114, was absent for the second time during the KFHA Candidate Nights since July. Her two opponents, Millie Herrera, former East Kendall Community Council member, and Denny Wood, self-appointed “spokesman for dis-

October 24, 2010 • 3 pm

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abled issues,” appeared on Sept. 13. Wood said his primary goal was to seek more para-professionals in pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grades (at a 1 to 5 teacher to pupil ratio) “because our children’s minds gain up to 90 percent of basic learning know-how at those age levels.” Herrera prioritized eliminating tax breaks for corporations in favor of small business people, like herself, as well as reapportioning state funding for MiamiDade County. Earlier, two Doral city commissioners, Sandra Ruiz and Robert Van Name, pointed to their experience in one of MiamiDade County’s newest cities as reason for election to a District 112 state representative seat. A third candidate, Jeanette Nunez, did not appear. In District 115, Jeffery (Doc) Solomon, banked on his leadership in state affairs as past president of the statewide chiropractic association, and mostly agreed with stands taken by opponent Jose Felix Diaz, a University of Miami law graduate who has represented clients in Tallahassee. A third candidate, Christopher Blau, failed to appear. Diaz said he would make a special effort to develop legislation aimed at eliminating Medicare fraud in Miami-Dade and Florida. Solomon noted “a near total lack of enforcement” and rampant greed has created corrupt healthcare providers. In the District 119 state representative race, Redland agricultural advocate Katie Edwards and opponent Graziella Renee Denny claimed new ideas were needed to better represent Miami-Dade’s interests in Tallahassee. Candidate Frank Artiles did not appear. Edwards favored retaining agriculture to further development to help Miami-Dade’s economy while Denny said “only new and fresh ideas will break RepublicanDemocratic politics that now rule legisla-

tive decisions.” Veteran legislator and District 120 incumbent State Rep. Ron Saunders said he would rely on his past performance to continue representing Kendall interests, opposing Senate Bill 6 tying educational funding to student performance while remaining in support of the class size amendment. Key West Mayor Morgan J. McPherson claimed state educational allotments were “poppycock, just game-playing with numbers,” adding “decentralization of state government with greater local controls is the only way to provide an alternative to lobby-influenced decisions in Tallahassee.” Perez claimed her 21 years’ service in schools, PTAs and administration “would best serve all children” in Miami-Dade. She seeks to protect art, music and elective programming during proposed cutbacks in curriculum. Curbelo said he wants to reform student learning and work for higher efficiencies in the system, noting his endorsements by the United Teachers of Dade and Rep. Juan C. Zapata, four-term Miami-Dade legislator. Earlier, Kendall candidate Eddie Barrera who lost in the primary for the District 7 post, announced his backing of Curbelo. At the session’s conclusion, Flinn, when asked by KFHA’s Ken Karger if he believed in cutting budgets “from the top down or bottom up as evidenced by Miami Mayor Carlos Alvarez,” the Palmetto Bay mayor said he had spent eight years in office “without any office staff to run a city government” except for an aide and clerk. Endorsed by Commissioner Sorenson after the Aug. 24 primary, Flinn said he believed in “sharing staff,” and emphasized his priority to seek restoration of $80 million-plus state funding cut in state apportioned funding to Miami-Dade County.

September 21 - 27, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

WOMEN’S HEALTH This great question came from Lori in Palmetto Bay: What are 3 questions I should be asking my OB/GYN?

Have I been tested for HPV? Am I appropriate for the vaccine? The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, and is what I consider “the common cold of the vagina�. We now know that HPV is the cause of precancers of the cervix, and cervical cancer. It is the very reasons we recommend women have a pap smear. We can improve the sensitivity of pap smear screening by testing for the HPV virus. We usually do not test women in their 20s, since the infection comes & goes so commonly in this age group. However, it is recommended that women over 30 be tested every 3 years. Did your doctor test you? There are 2 different types of vaccines for HPV, both of which can be given to girls as young as 9 or 10. They must be given by the age of 25-26, and to my mind, represents one of the most important things girls and women in this age group (or the moms who look after them) can do for themselves. Much like I have never seen Polio during my professional career, generations from now hopefully the same can be said for cervical cancer.

It is normal that my periods are so heavy? What can be done, and do I have to live like this? Uterine cancer is, by and large, a preventable disease. In order to prevent it, we must find it as a pre-cancer when it can easily be treated. A simple office based biopsy can make or rule-out this diagnosis. Assuming that heavy periods are just because of age, or “peri-menopauseâ€?, or having had children, is simply dangerous. Once we know a woman is normal, there are several great options for getting rid of heavy periods. An endometrial ablation can be performed in a doctor’s office without general anesthesia, and can reduce menstrual bleeding by 50-100%! There are even great non-hormonal medications now that can significantly decrease heavy menstrual bleeding. Is my current birth control the best one for me? We’ve come some far in birth control! Now there are many different low dose pills, the vaginal ring, implantable contraception (in your arm), and two different types of IUDs. There truly is something for everyone. In fact, permanent birth control can now even be performed in a gynecologist’s office without incision, scar, or anesthesia! If your birth control is less than ideal for you, it’s time to step up! Dr. Randy Fink is a Board Certified OB/GYN and is the Medical Director of the Miami Center of Excellence for Obstetrics and Gynecology and The Sky & Sea Spa, located at 8700 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 208. He is a recipient of the PatientĘźs Choice Award and has been named one of AmericaĘźs Top Obstetricians & Gynecologists. The office can be reached at (305) 274-3130. Email your questions to HYPERLINK "mailto:nurse@miamiobgyns.com"nurse @miamiobgyns.com. All will receive a personal response, and one will be selected to be printed in this column each month.

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Do you think you have what it takes to make Miami’s most delectable cupcake? This is your chance to show off your baking skills by entering “Miami’s Top Cupcake Challenge” at the Shops at Sunset Place, 5701 Sunset Dr. Now through Friday, Oct. 22, local residents are invited to submit recipes for their original cupcake concepts. “As we gear up for our premier event, ‘How Sweet It Is,’ residents have an opportunity to share their delicious cupcake recipes as part of this great dessert-filled celebration,” said Claudia Marquez, director of mall marketing at the Shops at Sunset Place. “Cupcakes are so popular right now and they were an obvious choice for our dessert-themed competition at the Shops at Sunset Place.” “Miami’s Top Cupcake Challenge” invites local residents to submit an original recipe of their favorite cupcake concept. A selection committee will review the recipe submissions and select a limited few to compete. The finalists will be asked to prepare their cupcake concept, which will then be judged live at the Shops at Sunset Place on Saturday, Nov. 13, at 2 p.m. The panel of celebrity judges will sample the cupcakes and base the winning decision on taste, creativity and presentation during a special competition. One finalist will be selected to win a $100

Simon American Express Gift Card and have his or her photo taken to be featured as the winner of “Miami’s Top Cupcake Challenge” in SOMI magazine. The winner also will receive four complimentary tickets to attend “How Sweet It Is,” where they will be recognized as the winner of the contest. “How Sweet It Is” is a delicious tasting celebration that will take place on Thursday, Nov. 18, at 6:30 p.m., to benefit local charities. South Florida restaurants, vendors and caterers will transform the mall into a paradise of tasty treats and gourmet delights. The event will feature lavish displays of all-you-can-eat desserts, live entertainment and a kid zone with familyfriendly activities such as cookie decorating, trail-mix creation station and more. Recipes for “Miami’s Top Cupcake Challenge” can be submitted to the Shops at Sunset Place Management Office, 5701 Sunset Dr., Suite 350, South Miami, FL 33143, Attn: “Miami’s Top Cupcake Challenge” or via email to <CMarquez@simon.com>. Entries must include the name of the cupcake creation, brief written concept description, ingredients and cooking instructions. The entrant’s name, address, phone number and email address also must be included. All entries must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 22. For detailed contest rules and additional information, visit online at <www.simon.com> or call 305-663-0482.

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Miami-Dade County Health Department to provide flu shots The importance of protecting yourself, your family members and your community is more important now than ever before. Individuals 65 years and older and children ages 6 months through 18 years may receive flu shots for free. Adults 19 years old through 64 years pay only $25. The West Perrine Clinic, located at 18255 Homestead Ave., is one of the facilities serving the area. For an appointment, call 786-845-0550.

SYLVAN LEARNING TO HOSTS LOCAL FRANCHISING SEMINAR Sylvan Learning encourages all South Florida entrepreneurs to attend a franchising seminar on Sept. 22 to learn more about this growing industry as well as possible ownership. From noon to 2 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., guests are welcomed to join the seminar at the West Kendall Sylvan Learning Center, located at 8264 Mills Dr. in The Palms at Town and County shopping center. Sylvan Learning Inc., North America’s most recognized provider of supplemental education, announced that for the first time South Florida is open for franchise sales. Sylvan is seeking franchises to develop more than 10 new centers throughout the region. Despite the current economic decline, edu-

cating children continues to be a major priority for many families. Because of this, Sylvan Learning must expand to accommodate the constant needs from local families and their children. Significant financial incentives will be given benefiting new franchisees. For more information on Sylvan’s franchise opportunities call 1-800-284-8214 or visit online at <www.sylvanfranchise.com>.

CLASSIC CAR SHOW SCHEDULED AT LONDON SQUARE CENTER Classic car owners and enthusiasts are invited to the Kendall Kar Cruise at London Square in Kendall, located at the southeast corner of SW 120th Street and 137th Avenue, on Thursday, Sept. 23, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. All are welcomed to attend free of charge. A disc jockey will announce the classic cars as they drive into the center and play music. Attendees will enjoy seeing the classic cars on display with music, as well as obtain merchant offers and savings with registration. For more information call Enrique Kaufer at 1-561-989-1961. ADOPT-A-TREE EVENT SCHEDULED SEPT. 25 Whether it is a mango, avocado, desert senna, green buttonwood, or a paradise tree, Adopt-a-Tree invites the community — rain

COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS or shine — to come out on Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. to noon, and make a difference by “planting for the future.” There will be more than 3,000 trees to give away for adoption. This free event will take place at J.C. Bermudez Park, 3100 NW 87 Ave., in Doral. Attendees are urged to arrive early in order to help make sure that the tree species you want to adopt is still available. A valid picture ID is required to participate. You must be a private single family or duplex residential property owner in Miami-Dade County or have written permission and copy of photo ID from owner. You may also be eligible to receive two free trees. This program is designed to strengthen the condition of the community’s tree canopy. Therefore, the trees selected for “adoption” are ones that make good shade trees in their adulthood. The program provides both native “ornamental” shade trees and a variety of non-citrus fruit trees. For more information about this event, visit online at <www.miamidade.gov/derm>.

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RECENT WORLD CUP BRINGS ATTENTION TO SOCCER CLUB TotalBank will present a $25,000 check to the Pinecrest Premier Soccer Club at its annual soccer season kickoff on Saturday, Sept. 25, 10 a.m. ,at Evelyn Greer Park, 8200 SW 124 St. After all the hype of this year’s World Cup games, the recreational academy of Pinecrest Premier Soccer Club for children ages 4-10 had to turn down kids after reaching capacity. Because of this, TotalBank has committed to sponsor the league with a two-year sponsorship for $25,000 in order to accommodate the increase in applicants. SAVOR THE FLAVOR OF MIAMI AT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDEN Together with the Archdiocese of Miami, Our Lady of Lourdes Academy is inviting members of the community to its first event of the year, “Savor the Flavor of Miami,” on

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NEWS,

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September 21 - 27, 2010

from previous page ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Sept. 30, 7-10 p.m., at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens, 10901 Old Cutler Rd. in Coral Gables. Tickets for this event, currently on sale at $60 each, include all food and Premier Spirits samplings. Savor the Flavor of Miami allows you to sample an array of delicious dishes and cocktails from some of Miami’s finest restaurants. Among the restaurants scheduled to participate are: Anacapri, Benihana, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Giardino Gourmet Salads, Mojito Grill, Old Lisbon, Rincon Argentino, Spris of Coral Gables, Sushi Maki, and Trattoria Sole. An impressive lineup of desserts also will be available at this event. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Lourdes Athletic Association. For more information contact Olga Martinez at 305-667-1623 or by email at <omartinez@olla.org>.

CELEBRATE OCTOBERFEST DURING ART IN THE PARK Kiwanis Club of Little Havana will celebrate Octoberfest’s 200th birthday around the world at Ponce Circle Park in Coral Gables on Oct. 1-2. The tradition of Octoberfest is one of the most famous events in Germany. The festival weekend will be filled with a celebration of music, art, pretzels, wursts and beer. A free concert by Fusik & B boy Dance will take place on Oct. 1 at 8 p.m., Shamarr Allen at 9 p.m., and Conjunto Progreso at 10:30 p.m. On Saturday at 2 p.m., a costume contest with prizes for most original men in lederhosen and ladies in dirndl or barmaid costumes will be given. Dueling pianos with Hal Roland and his piano group along with musical chairs, food, and a beer garden will be the perfect ending to a fun-filled weekend. All artists are encouraged to attend and submit applications for the following categories: paintings, mixed media, claywork, digital art, photography, sculpture and metalwork. By reaching an upscale crowd, this will give aspiring artists the opportunity to

get a foot in the door. For application and general information about Octoberfest, call Kiwanis Club of Little Havana at 305-644-8888.

NEW COMMUNITY CHURCH WELCOMES DR. ROY GATON After a number of requests from the community, Dr. Roy Gaton has announced he has accepted the call to be the lead pastor of New Community Church, located at 14920 SW 67 Ave. in Palmetto Bay. The community is invited to join the church in welcoming Pastor Roy Gaton during a special service on Saturday, Oct. 2, at 11:30 a.m. Dr. Gaton received a BA with double majors in Theology and Spanish Literature and a Master in Divinity. He later received his Doctor of Ministry degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling. He brings not only significant knowledge to the church, but great passion for the community as a counselor in the areas of marriage, family, spirituality, success, and leadership. For more information about the service, call 305-934-7997. 13TH ANNUAL SIGNATURE CHEFS & WINE EXTRAVAGANZA, OCT. 14 The March of Dimes will host its 13th annual Chefs & Wine Extravaganza in Miami on Oct. 14 at 6:30 p.m. in Jungle Island’s Treetop Ballroom, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail. Event tickets are $150 per person in advance and $175 per person at the door. Keep in mind that tickets are limited for both the Extravaganza and an exclusive VIP Champagne Reception, which will immediately precede the event with tickets at $250 per person. More than 30 of Miami’s top chefs and best wine suppliers will gather along with special celebrity guest Sunny Anderson. Guests will have the opportunity to taste delicacies from the area’s best restaurants, sample incredible wines, and bid on hundreds of fabulous action items, with all proceeds ben-

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efiting the March of Dimes. For sponsorship or ticket information, contact Nanette Molina at 305-477-1192 or visit online at <www.marchofdimes.com/florida>.

JEWISH MUSEUM OF FLORIDA TO HOST ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING, OCT. 17 All members, supporters, board members and the advisory council are encouraged to participate in the annual membership meeting of the Jewish Museum of Florida, 301 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach. The meeting will take place on Sunday, Oct. 17, 9:30 a.m. Breakfast will be served to attendees at $20 per person. Museum members are urged to come and learn about the museum’s process and challenges, and pay tribute to the museum’s leadership and volunteers. Marcia Jo Zerivitz, museum founding executive director and chief curator, will be presenting the annual “State of the Museum and Annual Review” PowerPoint report. Administrative assistant Roberta Wien will be honored for her 15 years of dedicated service. Museum volunteers will be recognized and thanked for all their services and dedication. For more information call 305-672-5044 or visit <www.jewishmuseum.com>. JOURNAL WRITING WORKSHOPS TO TAKE PLACE IN OCTOBER Two workshops led by Victoria Frigo — a writer, editor, and instructor of writing — will be conducted on Oct. 18 at 6 to 8 p.m. and Oct. 25 at the same time at the Paper Emporium, 231 Aragon Ave. in Coral Gables. The price for both workshop sessions is $100 per person. Guests will gain insight, inspiration, and clarity with sample writing exercises. The workshops will help spark solutions for creative projects, awaken insights into future decisions, and provide perspectives on earlier experiences. Attendees will write in their journals in

response to simple exercises. The comments of well-known authors, artists, and fellow journalers will serve as a basis for class discussions. For more information, call 305- 445-7090 or send email to <paperemporium@bellsouth.net> to reserve your space.

‘COLLEGE IS POSSIBLE’ EVENT AT MDC KENDALL ON OCT. 30 Leading Hispanic scholarship organization, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, will team up with Miami Dade College’s Kendall Campus, 11011 SW 104 St., to host “College is Possible” event on Oct. 30 from 8 a.m. until noon. Registration is required for this free event at <www.kendall.eventbrite.com>. The purpose of the event is to educate students and families about the college admissions process, financial aid, scholarship opportunities, along with many other helpful presentations. The event is sponsored by FedEx. For more information about HSF, contact Harold Lockheimer at <hlockheimer@hsf.net> or visit <www.hsf.net>. MINI-CAMPS AT DEERING ESTATE SLATED FOR TEACHER WORKDAYS From now until the end of the school year, the Deering Estate at Cutler is offering MiniCamps for children ages 6-15 on teacher workdays. Deering Estate at Cutler is located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. in Palmetto Bay. Camp hours are from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Early dropoff and late pickup for parents’ convenience are available for an additional fee. The cost for the Teacher Planning Day MiniCamp is $38 for one day or $75 for two days. Say goodbye to the stress of making plans for your child on days they have off from school. Campers will enjoy nature through hands-on activities such as hiking, catching critters, nature photography tours, experiments, and more! Your child will continue to learn, even outside of the classroom. For more information, contact Yoelly Burgos at 305-235-1668 ext. 222.

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Members of undefeated football team gather at Edison High 50-year reunion

Members of the Miami Edison High School football team posed for this shot during the recent 50-year reunion of the class of 1960 at the Doral Hotel and Country Club. The team — led by quarterback Shelby Lee; fullback Joe Taylor and running back legend, the late Darrell Cox — went undefeated in the 1959 season beating cross town rival Miami High and capturing the state championship. More than 150 members of the class attended the reunion, coming from across the nation and around the world.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

Animal Services to celebrate 5 years with Pet Adoption Party BY XIOMARA MORDCOVICH

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old. Adoption fees apply, including a $50 refundable deposit if pet is not yet spayed Miami-Dade County Animal Services or neutered. Only Miami-Dade County invites the community to celebrate its residents may adopt pets under the fifth anniversary with a Pet Adoption spay/neuter agreement. Party on Sunday, Sept. Attendance is free and 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 open to the public. This Pet Adoption p.m. The adoption celeDonations of dog and/or Party will give bration will take place at cat toys are appreciated. the Animal Services residents the Adoption Gift Shelter, 7401 NW 74 St. Certificates also are opportunity to adopt in Medley. available. If you are dogs and cats who This Pet Adoption thinking about giving a Party will give residents are in need of a pet to someone as a presthe opportunity to adopt ent, you may purchase an loving home and find dogs and cats who are in Adoption Gift Certificate true unconditional need of a loving home so they choose the pet and find true uncondibest for their lifestyle. love. Anyone who tional love. Anyone who Donation Gift adopts a pet at the adopts a pet at the event Certificates are ideal event will receive will receive a complipresents for any occamentary picture with the sion. It’s the perfect gift a complimentary new family member. for everyone and a gift picture with the new Interested adopters that will help the shelter family member. must be at least 18 years animals.

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6355 SW 113 Street…...................................Pinecrest Gated Acre with North/South tennis court. 3/3 with huge family room, screened patio/pool. Large gazebo. Reduced $800,000 M1345192

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1433 Morningsidee Drive………..…………Coral Gables Great location! Good bones! Excellent value! 4 bdrms, 3 bths, 2car gar, screened pool/patio, over 2,700sf. Ready for your remodeling but has 4yr old roof & great floor plan. Offered at $759,000

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72722 SW W 533 Ave.......................High Pines Charmer 3 Bedrooms plus office/studio 2 Bathrooms.. over 2300 square feet.. Updated Wood Floors.. Huge Family room,Gourmet Kitchen.., Beautiful pool in $699,000 lushly landscaped backyard. D1414532

Gatedd “ Daviss Gardens” …........................South Miami 6610 Acacia Ct. - 3/3 with 2 car gar, over 2,500SF, community pool and tennis court $455,000 M1395162

9245 SW 78 Ct.... Gated Pepperwood Near Dadeland 3 Bdrm, 2.5 Baths, 2 car garage, screened patio. Community tennis court & pool. Seller wants offers! Reduced $359,000 M1316676

2400 Majorcaa Ave...................................... Coral Gables “Picture Perfect” 2/2 TH w/two parking spaces, Corner unit. Totally remodeled…..feels like a home! REDUCED $325,000 M1378565

145400 Sailfishh Lane…..............................Coral Gables King’s Bay Executive Rental – gated community, 5/3/2 over 3,600 SF, Howard Drive, Palmetto Middle & Senior Avail 8/28/10, Offered at: $3,500/mo. D1410985

100 Edgewater Drive Unit 207, Coral Gables Waters Edge Condo - 2/2 over 1,200 sf, marble flrs, granite counters. $1,550/mo. D1380683

550 S. Dixie Highway • Coral Gables, FL 33146

September 21 - 27, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Willie’s Boot Camp gives back to the community

William Del Sol, owner of Willie’s Boot Camp, is pictured during one of his workout sessions. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY LEE STEPHENS

As you probably know by now, Willie’s Boot Camp/SoMi Fitness of South Miami is a great place to get fit, lean and healthy. What you may not know, is that William Del Sol, owner of Willie’s Boot Camp, and Unni Greene also are giving back to the community all year long. In addition to giving their clients the gift of health and fitness, Willie and Unni have been running a Saturday morning Boot Camp to benefit the Children’s Home Society (CHS). Every Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m., for more than a year, Willie and Unni have been giving the Boot Camp, free of charge to the community, at Matheson Hammock Park in Coral Gables. What they ask for in return, is a voluntary donation, in the form of a check made out to the Children’s Home Society. CHS provides the only shelter in MiamiDade County for abused and abandoned children. Other services include family and individual counseling, child abuse prevention and intervention services, home-based services, help for pregnant teens and firsttime mothers, residential and group homes, adoption and foster care services, mentoring programs, family preservation, and more. Every year, CHS provides services to an average 100,000 children and families throughout Florida. “It is so important to give back to the community,” Willie said. “I wanted to help people less fortunate than I, and through the assistance of Unni, I choose the Children’s Home Society. Children are so dear to my heart, and they are the most defenseless and vulnerable individuals. It is a great feeling to

be able to help them.” Willie and Unni have raised thousands of dollars through the year for this cause. Many people come out and enjoy the Boot Camp, and bring family and friends. Some have been there from the beginning, like Julio Hanono and Ron Novas, who often bring their own children and families to enjoy the work out. They now consider the Boot Camp a necessary part of a great weekend. “These guys never miss, and it’s amazing to have people with that positive energy stepping up to the plate, week after week” Willie said. In addition to the charity Boot Camp, last Christmas, Willie and Unni spearheaded a collection and donation of Christmas gifts that were donated to the children of the congregants of the Oliver Batisa Church in South Miami. Again, Willie and Unni felt that there was a need, and reached out to the community. “The joy on the children’s faces when they saw the toys lined up that they could choose from was priceless” Unni said. The fitness team is planning to do this collection again this holiday season. They are looking to team up with local businesses, such as Boca Tanning of South Miami that has supported Willie’s Boot Camp since the beginning, to assist in this great cause for the children of our community. Willie’s Boot Camp and SoMi Fitness operate out of the South Miami area. Both Willie and Unni are Certified Personal Trainers, with specialties in nutrition planning and counseling and also personal and group training. For more information on how you can help, visit <www.somifitness.com> or <www.williesbootcamp.com>.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

September 21 - 27, 2010

September 21 - 27, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Use a microwave for cooking whenever possible

Energy efficiency is something we can all share Being energy efficient can save you money on your electric bill, and FPL makes it easy for everyone to take advantage of this benefit. Just go to FPLConnect.com and take a no-cost Online Home Energy Survey. This survey will give you an in-depth look at your energy use, and provide information about valuable incentives that FPL offers to help you save even more money. Take a no-cost Online Home Energy Survey at FPLConnect.com today, and share in the savings.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

September 21 - 27, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

September 21 - 27, 2010

Students raise funds to help historical artificial reef site BY LUIS ESPINOZA

Thanks to a $2,000 donation from Ransom Everglades School’s Marine Awareness Club, the Miami-Dade County Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM) has installed two additional mooring buoys at the “Half Moon Marine Archeological Preserve,� located just offshore of northern Key Biscayne. With the help from a matching grant, the students from Ransom Everglades School raised enough money to sponsor the installation of the buoys at this popular and historic archeological site. The Half Moon Preserve is the location of a sunken 154foot long racing sailboat built in Germany in 1908. To commemorate this accomplishment, DERM and Ransom Everglades School scheduled a visit to the reef site. DERM has installed and maintains 24 mooring buoys, including these two new ones, near seven natural and artificial reef sites throughout the county as part of its one-year-old Adopt-a-Buoy Program. The main purpose of the program is to protect Miami-Dade County’s coral reefs from damage caused by boat anchors. The buoys allow boaters, divers, and fisherman to tie their vessels to a flotation device instead of dropping their anchors onto the fragile coral reefs. Future expansion of this program will include installation of another 13 buoys, which will be funded through grants and donations or sponsorships from private or public agencies. The two mooring buoys installed at the Half Moon Preserve will help to protect this historic reef site, which rests in only

10 feet of water and offers a lush underwater ecosystem filled with marine life. Accessible to snorkelers, this century old vessel became Florida’s seventh Underwater Archaeological Preserve in November 2000, and in 2001 was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The site is visited annually by hundreds of divers and snorkelers from Florida, the United States, and abroad.

With the help from a ma tching g rant, the students from Ransom Everglades School raised enough mone y to sponsor the installa tion of the buoys a t this popular and historic archeolog ical site. The Half Moon Preser ve is the loca tion of a sunken 154-f oot long racing sailboa t built in German y in 1908. After a long history, including being seized as a prize of war by British officials towards the beginning of World War I, this German yacht sank and came to rest on a shallow, sandy shoal between Key Biscayne and Virginia Key during a severe storm in 1930. For more information about DERM’s Mooring Buoy Program, visit online at <www.miamidade.gov/buoy.asp> or send email to <reefs@miamidade.gov>.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

How To Feel Comfortable About Your Investment Decisions By Rick Tonkinson

Certified Financial Planner CFP®

After 18 years of being a money manager, I have consistently heard how many people do not feel comfortable with their investment decisions. Have you ever second-guessed the investment decisions you have made? Do words like foolish, dumb, wrong, confused, guess, uncertain, frustrated, and overwhelmed describe your feelings? You are not alone in feeling uncomfortable about decisions you have made. Would you like to feel better about your investment decisions? If the answer is yes, then here are some basic steps to consider: Determine if You are a Saver or an Investor If you need guaranteed stability, then you are a saver. When the stock market is positive, many people say that they want to invest and that they are an “investor.” They say that they can tolerate the volatility of the stock market and that their investment time horizon is long term (greater than 10 years). Then 2008 comes along and the stock market (S&P 500) drops 34% and the “investors” now are running for safety as “savers”. Their long-term time horizon has decreased from 10 years to 10 minutes and the risk tolerance has decreased from moderate to minimal. You need to be honest with yourself as to what degree you are a saver or an investor. This is a personal decision that in a perfect world should not be influence by your family, friends or coworkers. There are investments for savers and investments for investors. Before you select from the thousand of choices, decide what will make you sleep at

night. Don’t rely on a sales rep to tell you what your investment profile is because the sales rep may adjust your profile to fit the suitability of the investment they are trying to sell you.

Focus on the Purpose of Your Investment Do you need to put money away for a rainy day? Make a “To Do List” of items that you want the money to attain such as vacation, education or wedding. Give each item a specific cost such as $5,000 for a vacation. Determine which item motivates you to attain it. Motivation that is ratcheted up is called passion. If you find a passion for an item, that will be your top priority. How quickly you want to attain the item will help determine what investment to consider. Again decide on the specific purpose of the money and then consider your options. Be Realistic with what You have to Invest As an “investor,” you need to accept that you are prepared to lose of or all of your investment. If this risk is not comfortable for you, then you are a saver. There are times when people have borrowed on the equity of their home and invest in the stock market because the potential gains offset the risk of losing their home. People make reckless decisions so that they can attain the item they want quicker than what is realistic. Plan so that if it takes a year to attain an item, you give yourself two years to attain it. If you attain the item in one year, that’s good but don’t beat yourself up if you don’t make your deadline. The important thing is to keep working toward what you want. His firm, Rick Tonkinson & Associates, Inc. is a South Florida based company with offices at 100 Almeria Avenue, Suite 310, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, offers financial planning services to many in the community with a specialty in assisting the middle class. For more information, or to schedule an initial meeting at your business or home, call 866-323-8326 or (305)447-6617. Also visit the website at HYPERLINK "http://www.ricktonkinson.com" www.ricktonkinson.com. Securities offered through Securities America, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, Rick Tonkinson, Registered Representatives. Advisory services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc., Rick Tonkinson, Investment Advisor Representatives. Rick Tonkinson & Associates, Inc. and the Securities America companies are not affiliated.

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#1 Boot Camp in South Miami MON, WED, FRI. FROM 6:30PM - 7:30PM @ THUMP GYM

8100 SW 81st Drive, South Miami, FL 33143

Ample free parking and changing/restroom facilities. Suitable for ALL fitness levels and offers a COMPLETE BODY WORKOUT. We have a PROVEN FAT LOSS METHOD that will give you quick, incredible results! Gain strength, muscle and health and loose fat and unhealthy habits all while having fun!

"BACK TO SCHOOL" BOOT CAMP starts August 23, at 9:30 AM -10:30 AM on Mon, Wed & Fridays.

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SoMi Fitness, Willie's Boot Camp 305.775.4128 or 786.488.6842 www.williesbootcamp.com • www.somifitness.com

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

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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

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September 21 - 27, 2010

Teachers to receive FPL grants for renewable energy projects BY ESTHER GRIEGO

Florida Power & Light Company recently announced that three teachers in MiamiDade County are recipients of its 2010 Renewable Energy Teacher Grants totaling $3,000. Additionally, FPL now is accepting applications, due by Oct. 15, for 2011 grants. FPL is providing a total of $40,500 to 47 teachers at public, private and charter schools in FPL’s 35-county service territory to fund renewable energy classroom projects. The winning projects are designed to help teach school children about renewable energy and adhere to the Florida State Board of Education’s Sunshine State Standards. “Renewable energy is a critical component of Florida’s future, and it’s vital that the next generation understands the science behind new technologies such as solar power,” said Manny J. Rodriguez, FPL’s external affairs manager for MiamiDade County. “We commend these teachers for taking the initiative to create dynamic, inspiring projects that will enhance the science curriculum in their classrooms.” Miami-Dade County’s winning teachers, schools and projects are: Cathy Bellinghieri, grades K-5, Gulfstream Elementary in Cutler Bay — The entire student population will work to understand how humans can use alternative energy sources to create positive change in “Understanding Solar Energy, We Can Help Save the Earth.” Ana Roman, grade 5, St. Agnes Academy in Key Biscayne — In “Finding Alternatives to Fossil Fuels,” the students participate in a science fair that shows various types of renewable energy technologies that are alternatives to fossil fuels. The

science fair takes place before the end of the school year. D r. Miverva Santerre, grades 4 and 5, Frank C. Martin K-8 International Center in Richmond Heights — In “GEEKS – Goal-Oriented Energy Efficient Kids for Society,” students will become energy detectives and discover opportunities for improving energy efficiency in their homes and community. Award recipients were selected by the National Education Energy Development project (NEED), a non-profit organization working with energy companies and agencies to bring balanced energy curriculum and training to the nation’s classrooms. “Energy is at the forefront of discussions all over the country and the world today,” said NEED executive director Mary Spruill. “These projects will expand learning opportunities to students in the Sunshine State, where renewable energy is more important than ever before.” The awards range from $500 to $2,500 per project, based on the proposed budget and number of students who will benefit. The grants come from the NextEra Energy Foundation, which is funded by shareholders of Florida Power & Light’s parent company, NextEra Energy Inc. Projects were judged according to stated goals, energy content, creativity and plans for budget and evaluation. Completed projects may be featured on FPL’s Solar Station website at <www.FPL.com/solarstations>. The website serves as a resource for other teachers around the state. To apply for the 2011 grants, interested teachers must fill out an application available at <www.FPL.com/solarstations>. Completed applications should be emailed to <teacher.grants@FPL.com> no later than Oct. 15.

September 21 - 27, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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‘Discover’ A Senior Living Community Today BY HELEN SHAHAM Q.. I’m 83 years old and live alone in a condominium. My children and I are concerned about my safety and well-being, especially at nights. I’ve started researching several senior living communities but I have a major concern: How will I know if the community is right for me? A. It’s great that you’ve began thinking about the next chapter in your life. The best advice for older adults considering a move to a senior living community is to begin the research process early and it seems you’re being proactive. By now, you’ve probably already narrowed down the list of communities you feel closely align with your needs and budget. Now comes the final step: deciding which one is the best fit for your lifestyle. There are numerous ways to determine if a community is right for you. Perhaps the most effective way to truly get the flavor of the community is to sample the lifestyle. Most retirement communities, including our Palace communities, encourage prospective residents to get into the swing of life at a community by attending an on-site holiday celebration, special event or adult education class. These nopressure activities are a great way to get a feel for the lifestyle offered. The community’s marketing staff should be able to provide a list of upcoming events that you may find of interest. Future Palace residents can find out about the communities’ calendar of events on our website, www.ThePalace.org/events . The sales and marketing staffs at Senior Living Communities understand that moving to a new community may be stressful for seniors and many have implemented several programs to help prospective residents feel confident about their decision. For example, The Palace Suites, our luxury independent living community, has launched a trial stay program called The Palace Discovery Package to encourage seniors to experience the lifestyle before committing to a move. Unlike most communities which simply offer an overnight stay, The Palace Suites opens its door for two full days, allowing perspective residents to truly get a first-hand experience of The Palace lifestyle. The Discovery Package—offered free of charge—provides accommodations in a fully furnished suite and the opportunity to join residents for two exciting days of activities, lively entertainment and three delicious meals a day. The Discovery Package also gives sen-

iors time to connect with residents in an informal setting to learn about their views of the community. Asking questions such as: “What do you like about the community?�; “Are their concerns I should be aware of before moving in?�; and “How was your transition?� are great ways to get the conversation started. Senior communities shouldn’t be measured by square footage alone. Look beyond the community’s “bells and whistles� to determine how it will best serve your needs. Did you feel a part of the community during your stay? Did residents and staff make you feel welcomed? Was there a sense of commonality between you and other residents? Will you be proud to call the community your home? While at the community, take advantage of the amenities—workout in the fitness center, enjoy a friendly game of bridge in the card room or a enjoy swim in the heated pool. Remember, trial stay programs are designed to provide a full scope of life at the community. Testing the water before finalizing your decision is the best way to determine if the community is right for you. Often, a tour isn’t enough to make an informed decision. Sure the community is buzzing with activity during the day, but what happens after 5 p.m.? Trial stay programs are like college campus visits. You have to find the one that best reflects your personality and lifestyle. Each has its own sense of community and spirit of camaraderie. By taking the time to experience life at the community prior to your move, you’ll soon discover that there’s never been a better time in your life to have the time of your life! If you have questions about the lifestyle changes that go with aging, or if you’d like to be invited to a social event at The Palace Suites, please send a note to Helen Shaham, The Palace Suites, 11377 S.W. 84th St., Miami, Florida 33173, call her at 305-2707020, or email helen@thepalace.org.

Helen Shaham and her husband, Jacob, have been operating Senior Living Communities for the past 30 years. The Palace Suites in Kendall is a luxury Independent Living Community for active seniors. In addition, The Palace at Kendall campus is home to two Assisted Living Residences and a Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. They also operate The Palace Gardens Assisted Living Community in Homestead, Homestead Manor Nursing Home and The Palace @ Home, a Medicare Certified Home Health Agency. Their two newest projects are The Palace at Weston – Luxury Living for Those 55 and Over and The Palace Tel-Aviv, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Israel. They have two communities under development – The Palace at Coral Gables and The Palace at Weston Senior Living. More information can be obtained by calling 305-271-2220 or by visiting The Palace website at www.ThePalace.org.

September 21 - 27, 2010

Seaquarium admission $10 before 10 a.m. on Oct. 10 BY MICHELLE PALOMINO

Miami Seaquarium has announced its 10/10/10 promotion, which offers guests who are in line for park admission before 10 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 10, admission for $10. In addition, guests who arrive after 10 a.m. may enjoy $10 off admission throughout the rest of the day. The $10 off admission is available only with a coupon that can be found at <www.miamiseaquarium.com/coupon>. “It’s a Perfect 10 of sorts,� said Andrew Hertz, general manager at Miami Seaquarium. “With the 10/10/10 promotion guests enjoy bargain prices on admission at Miami Seaquarium. Nowhere else in Miami will guests be able to interact with our stingrays and see breathtaking and edu-

cational marine mammal shows and exhibits including the Lolita the Killer Whale Show, Flipper the Dolphin Show and Top Deck Dolphin Show for just $10.� Miami Seaquarium, South Florida’s most popular tourist attraction, is a familyoriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and marine-life exhibits. General admission to Miami Seaquarium is $37.95 and $27.95 for children (ages 3-9). More information on Miami Seaquarium, located along the Rickenbacker Causeway on Virginia Key, is available at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>. Become a fan on Facebook at <www.facebook.com/miamiseaquarium>.

Go online at: www.communitynewspapers.com

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September 21 - 27, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Author finds no censorship at Miami International Book Fair BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

A censorship controversy has raged this summer involving Ellen Hopkins, a young adult author scheduled to speak during the Miami International Book Fair. Hopkins’ books — Crank, Burned, Identical, Impulse, Glass and Glass — deal with tough subjects such as teen addiction, prostitution and suicide. She made the 2009 list of most frequently challenged authors. Things started with an email to Hopkins telling her that an invitation to speak at the Humble, TX, teen literature festival had been rescinded. The Humble school superintendent, acting on objections by a middle school librarian and some parents, decided that Hopkins books were not appropriate for the festival. Hopkins contacted the other writers to tell them what happened and five authors pulled out of the festival in solidarity. Humble school officials say that Hopkins never was invited officially because she never had a contract. But Hopkins disagrees, saying she was asked to the 2009 festival but had a conflict. To make up for pulling out, she did school visits in Humble at a discounted price and was invited to the 2011 event. The resulting firestorm of blogs, editorials and news stories led to the cancellation of the January 2011 event. This isn’t the first time Hopkins has been asked to stay away after being invited to speak. It happened in Oklahoma last year. “Obviously the more times it happens, the more it becomes a concern,” Hopkins said. “I’ll just learn how to deal with it. I would assume in a city the size of Miami, I’m not going to face the same issue.” Alina Interian, executive director of the Florida Center for the Literary Arts, which puts on the book fair, agrees. “We try to keep our doors open to all points of view and all thoughts,” she said. “We don’t pass judgment; we just offer good literary works.” Interian said the book fair is all about keeping the doors open to free expression. “She [Hopkins] talks about dysfunctional families and addiction, things we see in real life every day,” Interian said. “I don’t understand their decision but I respect it. But our doors are open.” The book fair has a history of turning down censorship requests.

Ellen Hopkins –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

“We’ve had authors from Latin American countries that have presented. Their political backgrounds have ruffled the feathers of the community,” she said. “We’ve had some demonstrations.” Interian said that the teen lit organizers could have avoided going so far as disinviting Hopkins. “By saying portions of these talks might be offensive to you,” Interian said. What amazes her is that the Humble decision was made without having read any of the controversial books. In Miami, Hopkins will talk about Fallout, the third in the Crank trilogy. Despite the controversy, Hopkins said she loves to do book festivals. “When I talk to the kids, I talk about choices,” she said. “And my books are about choices. Kids make choices every day. I want them to see if they make the wrong choices, they can affect their lives forever. That’s what happened to my daughter.” And despite everything, she won’t avoid speaking in Texas. She’s been invited to do an April teen book convention in Houston and she plans to go. “They are going to try and get all the authors who pulled out,” Hopkins said.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

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Celebrate Halloween during Spooktober at Zoo Miami BY CINDY CASTELBLANCO

Enjoy a host of new Halloween festivities during Spooktober at Zoo Miami. If you dare, enter Dr. Wilde’s Creepy House, a full-scale haunted house at Dr. Wilde’s World, Oct. 16-31. If dressing up and partying is your thing, show up to the second annual adults-only costume party, “The Monster Masquerade,” on Oct. 23, benefiting the Zoological Society of Florida (ZSF). The entire family also can enjoy Halloween at the zoo at night during the second annual Spooky Zoo Nights on Oct. 29 and 30, and during the daytime at the annual Zoo Boo! (formerly MetroBoo!) on Oct. 30 and 31. Dr. Wilde’s Creepy House, a 7,000square-foot haunted house, is guaranteed to send chills up and down your spine when it debuts on Oct. 16 from noon to 5 p.m. It will make your every fear come to life. Roaches take over the kitchen while cats take over the home of a deceased grandma. What will you find when the freezer defrosts — a zookeeper or two perhaps? You’ll have to come and see it for yourself. With an admission cost of $5 per person, this house of chills will remain open through Oct. 31. Parental discretion is advised for young children. Get your Halloween costume ready and come dance the night away at the darkest nightspot around town — Zoo Miami. Costumed adult monsters ages 21 and older are invited to the biggest Halloween party in South Florida, The Monster Masquerade, on Oct. 23 from 8 p.m. until the stroke of midnight. With your ticket purchase, you will be supporting the Zoological Society of Florida in its mission of wildlife education and conservation. Come where the wild things are and party in the dark while enjoying premium cocktails at the open bars, savory treats, music, dancing, and entry into Dr. Wilde’s Creepy House! At the end of the night, the “Best Costume Contest” will have you dying for awesome prizes, such as weekend getaways and hotel stays, restaurant gift certificates, and much more. Pre-sale tickets to The Monster Masquerade are $50 per person. A limited number of tickets will be sold at the door for $65 a person. Anyone purchasing a ticket before Oct. 10 will be entered into a drawing to win one of two packages including a Family Membership to Zoo Miami and a VIP Behind-the-Scenes Tour. Tickets will be

At the end of the night, the “Best Costume Contest” will have you dying for awesome prizes, such as weekend getaways and hotel stays, restaurant gift certificates, and much more. available at the ZSF office, phone 305-2555551, or online at <www.zoomiami.org>. “Spooky Zoo Nights,” an after-hours family event, will take place on Oct. 29 and 30, from 7 to 11 p.m. The $10.95 per person admission ($9.95 for zoo members) includes entry into Dr. Wilde’s Creepy House, spooky tram rides, ghoulish carousel rides, and chilling storytelling around a fire pit. Goodies and roving street theater will add excitement along the pathways. Soon, you can save $2 by purchasing your tickets for $8.95 per person plus tax during the online pre-sale at <www.zoomiami.org> under “Visit the Zoo.” Zoo Boo! returns to Zoo Miami on Oct. 30 and 31 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Included with zoo admission, families and kids ages 12 and under are invited to trick-or-treat in costume, participate in costume contests, watch special performances, make Halloween crafts, and see the wild animals get their Halloween goodies. Music and games with fun prizes will be provided by Radio Disney AM 990 and The Coast 97.3 FM. Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 St. General zoo admission is $15.95 per adult and $11.95 per child (ages 3-12) plus tax. Children under age 2, Zoological Society of Florida members, and parking are free. Zoo Boo! is included with paid zoo admission. Dr. Wilde’s Creepy House, The Monster Masquerade, and Spooky Zoo Night have separate admission prices. Zoo Miami’s regular hours are 9:30 a.m.5:30 p.m.; ticket booths close at 4 p.m. For more information, visit <www.zoomiami.org> or call 305-251-0400. For information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Danny Elfenbein at 305-255-5551 or <dannye@zsf.org>.

Page 39

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The Celtic Cultural Series presents Irish composers BY MARILYN LUNA

The Irish are known for their music from sophisticated symphonies to simple tunes for crying in your beer — and who is better prepared to discuss Irish music than Paddy Kelleghan? Kelleghan, a musician born in Dublin, will be the first speaker in the 2010-11 Celtic Cultural Series at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 3, in the Upstairs Tipperary Room of JohnMartin’s Restaurant, 253 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. Kelleghan’s family was musically inclined and he taught himself to play the guitar, mandolin and flute. His musical inspiration came from a wide variety of artists such as the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Machen, Van Morrison and Eric Clapton. At the age of 15, he was on the road playing with Dublin bands such as Skid Row, a splinter group of Tin Lizzy. He was accompanied by his brother, a drummer, who still plays with a Dublin band, The Moving Hearts. His musical experience landed him a job as a recording engineer at a firm that produced recordings of Cat Stevens, The Kinks and Pink Floyd. Later, in this country, he used his engineering experience to build his own recording studio in his home and is now working on a solo album he plans to release shortly. Kelleghan came to the United States 28 years ago and plays regularly at JohnMartin’s Restaurant with his band that offers a mixture of traditional Irish music, blues and rock and roll. He will tell of Irish composers and their work from the 1800s to the present. Since he always travels with his musical

Paddy Kelleghan lectures during last year’s Celtic Cultural Series. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

instruments, he probably can be coaxed into playing some of that great Irish music and singing a few songs. All Celtic Cultural Series events are free and open to all. Ample parking is available on Miracle Mile and in the City Parking Garage behind JohnMartin’s, accessible from Aragon Avenue. The Celtic Cultural Series is produced by the St. Patrick’s Day Committee Inc. with the support of the City of Coral Gables, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, Cultural Affairs Council, Mayor and the MiamiDade Board of County Commissioners.

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Page 45

All new 2011 Buick Regal has roots in Germany Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS Buick is in the middle of a transformation that company officials hope will launch it back into contention in the premium brand segment, with vehicles characterized by sculpted designs, personal technologies, luxurious interiors and responsive performance. It all started with the Enclave crossover and continues with the redesigned LaCrosse luxury sedan and the new Regal sport sedan. The 2011 Regal was our test vehicle for the week. It’s a new midsize sedan with a sleek design and a European sport handling. It blends a sweeping silhouette and coupe proportions with signature design cues such as the waterfall grille and select use of chrome trim. Regal’s development has roots in Germany, where the engineering team created the Opel Insignia, the 2009 European Car of the Year. Regal has all of the Insignia’s

award-winning design, technology and performance capability. Under the hood, there’s a 2.4 liter, 182 hp four-cylinder Ecotec direct-injected engine (30 mpg on the highway) mated to a sixspeed automatic transmission. There’s also a driver-selectable suspension system and a firm European-tuned chassis with MacPherson strut front suspension and fourlink independent rear suspension. A 2.0-liter turbocharged model due later this year will have a twin-scroll turbocharger and a sixspeed manual transmission as an option. The new Regal takes aim at such hot competition as the Acura TSX and Volvo S60. It has a longer wheelbase and greater trunk volume than either of those and such standard features as a six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch alloy wheels and OnStar. For 2011, the Regal is offered in the premium level CXL trim only, with additional trim levels slated for the 2012 model year. It includes such standard or available equipment as: • Four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel anti-lock braking system, brake assist and electronic parking brake; • StabiliTrak stability control system and full-function traction control; • Dual-stage frontal air bags, side-curtain

2011 Buick Regal has a sweeping silhouette and coupe proportions, signature waterfall grille and chrome trim. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

air bags and pedal-release system; available rear-seat thorax air bags; • Available navigation system, Harman Kardon sound system, internal flash drive (1GB), hard drive with 10GB for music and USB port, and • Standard 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch alloy wheels standard with Interactive Drive Control). Also standard is a 12-way power leather, heated driver and passenger seat; Bluetooth

and XM Satellite Radio. Pricing for the 2011 Buick Regal starts at $26,995 for the premium CXL and $29,495 for the turbo model, including a $750 destination charge. Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.

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September 21 - 27, 2010

Vote NO on 8 to Get It Right BY KAREN ARONOWITZ, President, United Teachers of Dade

Hello, my fellow voting Americans. I’m sure you feel the same puzzlement as I do when the candidate or issue I voted for comes up on the losing end. I shake my head in amazement, saying to myself, “The majority of my fellow citizens feel that way? Really?” Even so, that is where it ends. The people have spoken and they have the final word. Unfortunately, some Florida Legislators have a different thought process saying, “Vote until you get it right.” The voters made it clear to Florida Legislators in 2002. Citizens of Florida voted to have smaller class sizes. They knew it would cost money, but it would be money well spent providing quality education for our children. The original Class Size Amendment was to be phased in over time and the Florida Legislature was required to fund it. But ever since the day this vote passed, some legislators have been working to have the Class Size Amendment either voted out or watered down. If that happens, it would mean millions more in cuts to education funding. Again, I find myself thinking, “Really?” Ask any teacher you know if putting more students back into classrooms is a good idea. Legislators have placed Amendment 8 on the November ballot so we have another chance to “Vote until we get it right.” But there is nothing “right” about Amendment 8. The

majority of Florida voters decided that the class size Amendment should be law, and now we must let the legislators hear the voice of Florida’s majority one more time. Legislators don’t like the Class Size Amendment -- never have and never will -- because the money must be spent in our schools! Yes, imagine that! The money must come to the schools themselves to make this happen! It doesn’t go to a vendor! It doesn’t go to a consultant! It doesn’t go to the Florida Department of Education to recalibrate test scores! Of course, the private schools to which these same legislators send their own children put out lovely color brochures explaining the individualized instruction and attention their students receive because of small class sizes! I am glad these legislators want to provide the best for their own children. But they are elected to take care of the children in our public school system and enforce the law. We, through our own free will and rights as citizens, have voted to provide just that through the Class Size Amendment! We knew what we were doing the first time. Voting NO on Amendment 8 will not raise your taxes. It will allocate a larger portion of the taxes you already pay to education. Voting NO on Amendment 8 keeps our classes small and prevents further gutting of education funding. Voting NO on Amendment 8 protects the only required funding for education we have. Vote NO on Amendment 8. See you at the polls! Voting NO on Amendment 8 will not raise your taxes. It will allocate a larger portion of the taxes you already pay to education. Voting NO on Amendment 8 keeps our classes small and prevents further gutting of education funding. Voting NO on Amendment 8 protects the only required funding for education we have. Vote NO on Amendment 8. See you at the polls! The United Teachers of Dade represents 38,000 teachers and school support personnel in MDCPS. The union is committed to being a leader in creating public school reform, fostering a quality public education for all students and elevating the professional status of teachers, paraprofessionals, office employees, and all school support personnel.

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