Palmetto Bay News, December 30, 2008 Edition - Local, Education News - Miami by Community Newspapers

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Broncos should stay in park BY BRIAN W. PARISER Vice Mayor Having knocked on over 600 doors and speaking to hundreds of Palmetto Bay voters during the recent campaign for vice mayor, I never once heard any Palmetto Bay resident tell me that they wished for the Broncos youth football league and the Broncos cheerleaders to be prohibited from playing in Coral Reef Park. I also heard from the voters that they were appreciative of the wonderful new village parks and improvements to the existing parks, and no one was opposed plans for a new bathroom/concession/picnic pavilion building, which is sorely needed by the intense use of Coral Reef Park by all the sports leagues and everyday users of the park of all ages. I also have never heard one village council member state the Bronco football players or cheerleaders should be removed for any reason from Coral Reef Park in the village’s six years of existence. The fact is that the old storage building owned by the village in Coral Reef Park is in the footprint of the site plan of the new pavilion and, coupled with the report of the Palmetto Bay Building Official listing multiple building code and permit violations, the old building is a hazard and should be removed and replaced with the new pavilion which the village received a $200,000 grant towards its construction. I had the opportunity to talk to the Broncos leadership on Dec. 3 at Village Hall, on the record with all the council members present, in an attempt to determine what the real concerns of the Broncos were, versus leftover front page campaign rhetoric and misinformation being promoted by outside individuals who have

––––––––––––– See

BRONCOS, page 4

Westminster Christian Middle students visit nation’s capital

Westminster Christian sixth grade students (l-r) Alexandra Machado, Isabella Pestana, Matthew Mendez, Julian Infante and Devin Decker are pictured while attend the National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, DC.

BY ANA M. POVEDA ive Westminster Christian Middle School students — Devin Decker, Julian Infante, Alexandra Machado, Matthew Mendez and Isabella Pestana — were invited to attend the recent Junior National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, DC. This conference, sponsored by the Congressional Youth Leadership Council, offers high-achieving middle school students the opportunity to learn about leadership by studying the leaders of the past and by focusing on social advocacy to make a positive impact in their homes and communities. This experience also helps stu-

dents gain a better understanding of what it takes to become an effective leader. During the weeklong conference, the Westminster students visited the White House, Capitol Hill and Lincoln Memorial, among other important sites. They also participated in the academic study of leadership and American history, and infield studies that brought the fundamental aspects of leadership — including character, communication, teamwork, problem solving, goal setting and respect — to life. Additionally, they attended workshops on different social advocacy topics and in turn formed action plans to test their leadership skills.

Give gift to the environment; recycle your Christmas tree BY GAYLE R. LOVE iami-Dade County Department of Solid Waste Management (DSWM) customers looking for an environmentally friendly way to give back to the earth following the holidays can do so by recycling their Christmas trees. Now through Sunday, Jan. 18, DSWM waste collection customers can drop off clean, undecorated Christmas trees at the DSWM’s 13 Neighborhood Trash and Recycling Centers as well as a special dropoff area at the South Dade Landfill (24000 SW 97 Ave.) daily from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. In addition to Christmas tree drop-off, the DSWM will provide curbside collection of trees for service area residents for one week only beginning Wednesday, Jan. 7, through Wednesday, Jan. 14. Trees free of tinsel, lights and other decorations should be placed at the curbside for collection. Clean trees collected at drop-off sites and during the week of curbside collection will be chipped in-house, and the mulch product will be distributed starting the third week of January to service area residents free-of-charge at designated sites while supplies last. “Recycling Christmas trees is a great way to help the environment, saves valuable landfill space and provides a free product that residents can use in small landscaping and gardening projects,” said Kathleen Woods-Richardson, Department of Solid Waste Management. “Christmas tree chips can be placed in plant beds, along garden paths or in potted plants and are a wonderful, fragrant reminder of the holiday season,” Woods-Richardson added. For more information on the DSWM’s Christmas tree recycling program, dropoff locations or proper tree disposal options, residents can call the county’s Answer Center at 3-1-1 or visit the department’s website at <www.miamidade.gov/dswm>.

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

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Alvarez appoints directors for Economic Development, Finance BY MARIE BERTOT Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez has announced the appointment of two new directors to his management team. Shalley Jones Horn will serve as director of the Office of Community and Economic Development and Carter Hammer as director of Finance. Per Miami-Dade County Charter, Hammer’s selection is the result of a joint appointment of Mayor Alvarez and Clerk of Courts Harvey Ruvin. Horn brings extensive experience in banking, housing and community development. Her most recent experience includes serving as Florida director for Community Development for Fannie Mae, where she was responsible for dealing with urban housing challenges, urban revitalization, workforce housing and foreclosure prevention. In her new position, Horn will be working closely with the Miami-Dade Housing Agency, Housing Finance Authority, Homeless Trust and other agencies to meet the community’s housing and development challenges. Horn holds PhD and master’s degrees from Florida International University and a bachelor’s from the University of Miami. Most recently, Hammer served as chief financial officer, treasurer and auditor for the Palm Beach County Clerk’s Office. There, he managed an investment portfolio of more than $2 billion and maintained a AAA bond rating. Hammer will be reviewing MiamiDade County’s debt portfolio and advising the administration of any necessary actions needed to mitigate the current market’s instability. He also will be reviewing the county’s investment policy to ensure sound and safe investments as well as other. The new Finance director will work closely with the commission auditor to educate and inform the administration on significant bond related and financial items, as well as other financial duties. Hammer holds a master’s of

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from page 1

their own agenda to the detriment of the Broncos program and the village. I asked the following key questions of the Broncos leadership and received the following answers: 1. Is there any requirement in the Pop Warner football league rules that requires the Broncos football players or the cheerleaders to have permanent storage facilities onsite or offsite of the playing field in order for the Broncos to play in the league. The answer was NO. 2. Do they personally believe and/or is it the Broncos Board of Director’s official position and belief that the village is motivated to construct the new pavilion because the village council does not want minority children playing in Coral Reef Park. The answer was a resounding NO, and to a man they disavowed such a proposition. Therefore as a result of the meeting, the only matter to be resolved is what storage space in the new pavilion will be available to the extent that it will exist for the Broncos, as well as the other sports leagues to share, and if necessary the allowance of additional temporary onsite storage during the Broncos football and cheerleading season.

I recommended to the Broncos leadership that the storage issue should be worked out now during the offseason. I also advised them that as far as I am concerned the Broncos are a tradition in Coral Reef Park and must remain there, and they cannot delay any longer in advising the village of their needs as any further delay (this has been discussed for eight months) would involve construction cost delays at the expense of the village taxpayers. I also advised them that it is my position that if mitigation payments to the county ever end, that the per youth league maintenance fee should be reduced by the savings. Youth sports leagues have always had an important role in my family. My daughter was a Broncos cheerleader for four years and a girls softball player, my oldest son played a year of football for the Broncos, all three of my children played T-ball, Little League baseball and soccer, and my wife and I have coached numerous youth sports teams. The children’s interests are paramount, and the Broncos storage issue should not be exploited for personal political vendettas. I look forward to the next season of Broncos football and cheerleading and the new pavilion in Coral Reef Park for all villagers to enjoy.

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Village’s Family Movie Night gets a ‘corporate sponsor’ Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN Family Movie Night at Coral Reef Park on Saturday, December 27, which showed “Alvin and the Chipmunks,” had something different besides the feature—an event sponsorship by local restaurant Pollo Campero. Through a unique agreement with Pollo Campero, the largest LatinAmerican chicken restaurant chain with more than 260 restaurants in 11 countries, the Village of Palmetto Bay helped offset the fee associated with hosting this season’s holiday movie-night. Guatemala-based Pollo Campero just opened its third Florida-based Pollo Campero earlier this month at 18860 S. Dixie Highway in Cutler Bay. “This initial partnership with Pollo Campero enhances the vision of increased business involvement in the community for mutual benefits,” said Director of Parks & Recreation Ana Garcia. “Under this agreement, Pollo Campero gets to introduce itself to a new consumer base during our well attended community event, while the Village benefits by significantly reducing the cost of its popular movie-night program. We are excited to partner with Pollo Campero as a program sponsor. Garcia. “Partnering with local business results in a win-win situation: Palmetto Bay residents enjoy fun events and local companies get great

publicity.” Maybe other sponsors can be found for upcoming events in the village, which would be a help during these trying economic times. Turkey Point Bulletin... Although designed primarily for the news media, FPL has created a website with safety planning information for Turkey Point Nuclear Power Plant that area residents may find helpful. The web site, http://webtest.jointnewscenter.com/n uclear/TurkeyPt/index2.htm, has been created to provide an overview of those plans as developed by the Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management & Homeland Security, Monroe County Emergency Management, the State of Florida, Department of Community Affairs, Division of Emergency Management and Florida Power & Light Company. In addition, the Web site summarizes plant operations, radiation, the Emergency News Center operations and protective actions that might be implemented in the unlikely event of an emergency at the Turkey Point plant. The PLANETARIUM of Miami Science Museum needs your help! The Museum must replace its wellused, outdated laser equipment which contributed to the great success of the Astronomy and Laser Light Shows for so many years. Your donation today will help the Museum raise the $75,000 it needs to purchase a new state-of-the-art laser system. The Batchelor Foundation has offered a 1:1 challenge match up to $25,000, so any contribution you make

Palmetto Bay News 6769 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355, Fax (305) 662-6980

www.communitynewspapers.com 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, Ana Caceres, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Cecile Fanfani, Tammi Jimenez, Diane Maddox, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller LEGAL ADVERTISING ..................................................................................................................... Georgia Tait BOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................ Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek CUSTOMER SERVICE....................................................................................................................... Elaine Mink GRAPHIC ARTISTS ......................................................................... Isabel Ortega, Angie Santiesteban PUBLISHER EMERITUS...........................................................................................................................................Ron Miller COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS / MILLER PUBLISHING publish the following newspapers: Aventura News, Biscayne Tribune, Coral Gables News-Tribune, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Cutler Bay News, Palmetto Bay News, Palmetto Bay Monthly, 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.

could be doubled. Thanks to the efforts of area residents, this Campaign has already collected over $6,000. Anyone making a donation of $30 or more will receive a limited edition Planetarium T-shirt. Recycling your Christmas tree is an environmentally-friendly way to end the season, according to Miami-Dade Solid Waste Management which encourages you to truck “clean, undecorated” trees to any of the DSWM’s 13 Neighborhood Trash and Recycling Centers through January 18, or at a special drop-off area at the South Dade landfill, 24000 SW 97th Avenue, from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Dropped-off trees will be chipped and recycled into mulch, available during the third week in January at sites to be announced. (Curbside tree collections in DSWM service areas will begin January 7 continuing only through January 14). Whoops, again! That get-acquainted meeting with East and West Kendall Community Councils, twice-rescheduled in December, must be postponed again, according to an update received from prexy Miles Moss of Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations. Instead, an executive board planning meeting is now the agenda item scheduled for KFHA Monday, January 5, with the next Town Hall Meeting dated for February 2 (topic to be announced). Sunpass tolling is steadily becoming part of expressway driving, especially those who must regularly commute while paying the Piper, so to speak. The MDX (Miami-Dade Expressway Authority) will convert State Road 874

to Sunpass tolls by 2011, with the same system due on SR 112 (the old Airport Expressway) by 2012 and on SR 836 (the Dolphin) by 2015. Just no free expressway rides in the future! You can pretty well predict what’s coming for transportation relief by checking out the current planning study list for by the MDX, which we discover includes funding in 2009 for a study to convert the existing Busway along S. Dixie Hwy. into a “Managed Lane” facility as part of a long-range transportation network. It will evaluate using the Busway for pay-as-you-go tolls from SW 344th Street north to Kendall Drive. It remains to be seen if any conversion to private vehicle use can be safely integrated into the existing Busway. Oh, yes, let’s not forget our bicycling corps who are spending the holidays getting ready for the annual “Ride the Rickenbacker” event on Saturday, January 10, when East Kendall’s Commissioner Carlos A. Gimenez will cut a ribbon to celebrate completion of bike-lining along the causeway and areas of Key Biscayne, all part of a Parks Department effort to build and interconnect 500 miles of trails and bikeways throughout the county. Thought of the Day: Men are more often bribed by their loyalties and ambitions than by money. — Robert H. Jackson Gary Alan Ruse and Richard Yager contributed to this column. Got any tips? Contact me at 305-6697355, ext. 249, or send e-mail to <Michael@communitynewspapers.com>.

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

I was going to turn in my free senior Metro Transit pass until... R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY Our Miami-Dade Transit system is in a mess. We don’t have the money to fund the expanded system we were promised in 2002 — promises that were made as an inducement to vote for a hike in the sales tax. This we have known for a long time. Now we learn that the dollars dedicated for the future were long ago used to make up for shortages in the past. Where do we stand? Our transit system is broke. I told my wife that my riding on a “Golden Passport” didn’t make sense. I earn enough money to pay for the Metrorail when I go downtown. Why should I — or for that matter any senior earning a good income — get a free pass? I voted for the increase in the sales tax back in 2002 to fund the “expansion” of the system, not to get a free ride. I already had written the letter to

Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez attaching my free pass, asking that it be cancelled, and that he should ask the same of all seniors that are living well above the poverty level. Thank goodness I didn’t mail the letter. I read the Miami Herald’s Sunday article “Gravy Train!” After reading the entire article, I realized that I should be writing the mayor asking for a refund of the extra sales tax I have been paying since 2002. What a rip-off! I thought that I made a good living. When you look at the “gravy” spread among the “insiders,” you realize that working for government, especially Miami-Dade County government, is a true “gravy train.” Why we as voting taxpayers continue to accept this malfeasance in government is beyond me. Who said Chicago politics makes Miami-Dade look like a bunch of good guys and gals? We are not amateurs. Our county government has been right up there with the “bad guy – big leaguers” for years. To summarize two full pages of the Herald’s article, all you need to say is:

VIEWPOINT Our county government took the money that was to be used for expansion of our transit system and spread the “goodwill” among the insiderplayers. They created new positions. They hired more employees. They increased salaries — increases made in months that should have taken years to earn. They must have had a bunch of laughs over a few beers — we probably paid for — laughing at the stupidity of the voters who fell for the increase. They were so sure we would fall for the “sales job” that they entered into a salary increase agreement days before we even voted. And you read that senior management said: “I didn’t even know about the contract to increase salaries!” If you believe that, I have a bridge to Miami Beach that I would like to sell you.

There’s a postscript to the whole story. We recently were told that the county had to eliminate certain bus routes and decrease frequency of service on other routes because fuel cost the county more than $4 a gallon. Well, the price is down to $2.60. Are we getting the bus routes back and the frequency of service increased? I bet not. And I’ll bet voters of Miami-Dade will return the same leaders to office at the next county elections. We’ll get what we vote for.

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 publish-

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Greedy bankers and lenders took advantage of financial illiteracy To the Editor: While the blame for our current economic crisis lies resolutely with greedy Wall Street bankers and predatory lenders, their schemes succeeded because they took advantage of the low financial literacy of many working Americans. A comprehensive response to this crisis should not only curb the excesses of Wall Street, but also ensure working Americans know how to avoid financial risks that could force them into long-term debt and even cost them their homes. At the Homestead Job Corps Center, financial literacy and managing your personal budget is a core component of students’ education, along with traditional academics and Career Technical Training. We should ensure similar opportunities for basic financial educa-

tion are available throughout our schools and communities to help protect working Americans and our economy from falling victim to predatory lenders again. Homestead Job Corps Center is proud to have had speakers from Centro Campesino, Bank of America, First Bank, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and others speak to our students about financial literacy and responsibility. The State Attorney’s office taught students about Identity Theft Protection. Contact Bernard Krogh, STARS Coordinator at 305-258-7164 or via email at <Krogh.Bernard@jobcorps.org> to find out how you can volunteer as a speaker, tutor or mentor. Lesly Diaz, Business & Community Liaison Homestead Job Corps Center

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Federal Trade Commission slaps lender for loan bias

Al Sunshine 4 YOUR MONEY The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) took a stand against home loan discrimination recently, proving that, despite the difficulties in the mortgage industry, injustice wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be tolerated. As a result, a home mortgage lender has agreed to settle the commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s allegations that it violated federal law by charging African-American and Hispanic consumers higher prices for mortgage loans than non-Hispanic white consumers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; price disparities that cannot be explained by the applicantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; credit characteristics or underwriting risk. According to the FTCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s complaint, Gateway Funding Diversified Mortgage Services LP and its general partner, Gateway Funding Inc., based in Horsham, PA, violated the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) in pricing both prime and sub-prime mortgage loans. The defendants gave loan officers nearly complete discretion to charge, in addition to the risk-based price, â&#x20AC;&#x153;overagesâ&#x20AC;? that included higher interest rates and higher up-front charges. The FTC alleges that Gateway paid loan officers a percentage of these overages and failed to monitor whether AfricanAmerican and Hispanic consumers were paying higher overages than nonHispanic white borrowers. As stated in the complaint, Gatewayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy and practice of allowing loan officers to charge discretionary overages resulted in African-Americans and

Hispanics being charged higher prices because of their race or ethnicity â&#x20AC;&#x201D; price disparities that are â&#x20AC;&#x153;substantial, statistically significant, and cannot be explained by factors related to underwriting risk or credit characteristics of the applicants.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unlawful discrimination in the pricing of mortgages is intolerable,â&#x20AC;? said FTC chair William E. Kovacic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Discretionary pricing policies must be crafted and monitored carefully so that all applicants are treated fairly.â&#x20AC;? The ECOA and its implementing Regulation B bar creditors from discriminating against applicants for credit on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or the fact that an applicantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s income is derived from public assistance. The proposed settlement bars the defendants from discriminatory lending practices and requires them to implement a fair lending training program, a comprehensive data integrity lending program designed to ensure accuracy and completeness of loan data, and a fair lending monitoring program that includes a system for performing periodic analyses to monitor for disparities in loan prices. The settlement imposes a judgment of $2.9 million, all but $200,000 of which is suspended based on the defendantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; inability to pay. The full judgment will be imposed if they are found to have misrepresented their financial condition. The FTC did not seek civil penalties because of the defendantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; financial condition. More information about consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rights under the ECOA is available at < w w w. f t c . g o v / b c p / e d u / p u b s / c o n sumer/homes/rea08.shtm>.

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Two local FIU players find benefits of staying home BY LUCA MESSINA This year Florida International University’s football fortunes improved with the Panthers winning five games, due in large part to two local athletes. The two players who chose to stay local are wide receiver T.Y. Hilton from Miami Springs and cornerback Anthony Gaitor from Northwestern. They picked FIU over schools such as West Virginia, Florida and Georgia and are soaking in the benefits of their choice this year. Hilton, a freshman, became the first receiver in FIU history with more than 1,000 yards receiving (1,013). He returned a punt and a kickoff for a touchdown and even threw for a game-winning touchdown against Arkansas State. For his remarkable season, Hilton was named Sun Belt Conference “Freshman of the Year” and a first-team All-Conference kick returner. He also was named one of Sporting News’ Freshman All-Americans and won numerous Sun Belt Conference “Freshman of the Year” Awards from various media outlets. “Choosing FIU was the best decision I ever made,” Hilton said. “My family is in the stands every practice and every game. They don’t have to fly all over the country just to see me play.” Gaitor, a sophomore, tied an FIU record with five interceptions and was named a first-team All-Sun Belt cornerback as well as an All-American among non-BCS Conference schools according to ESPN. “They don’t throw the ball to his side,” FIU quarterback Paul McCall said. “It’s huge for our defense to have a lockdown corner like that. He plays so big for us.” In just two seasons as head coach at FIU, Mario Cristobal has taken a team that was winless in 2006 and brought them within one game of bowl eligibility this season. Cristobal has done this through grassroots recruiting, finding

Left: Anthony Gaitor

Right: T.Y. Hilton

players in South Florida who had the option to go elsewhere but decided to stay locally at FIU. “There’s a strong energy about FIU right now. I think the community is seeing it,” Cristobal said. “There is no question recruiting-wise we’re getting stronger and stronger and we’re going to keep going getting players like T.Y. and Anthony.” Both Gaitor and Hilton already have banners hanging from the new FIU

Stadium. Hilton’s No. 4 jersey is selling everyday at the FIU bookstore on campus. He has the fans chanting “T.Y. goodbye” every time he breaks off a long touchdown run. FIU Stadium has become home to many local high school football games and every time these teams play at the stadium they can see two successful local football stars stealing the show at a young football program that is putting itself on the map in

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the Division-1 college football world. Gaitor and Hilton grew up together and are related as godbrothers. They played Optimist football together and spent time with each other outside the classroom and the football field. Now they are playing together on the same football field and helping turn FIU football into a school that will be competing for championships sooner rather than later.

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

One Seventeen Professional Arts Center closes on 16 units BY DEIDRE KRAUSE Kenneth Weston & Associates Inc. recently announced the closing of 16 units for nerly $10.5 million at One Seventeen Professional Arts Center, a medical and professional office condominium located at 8200 SW 117 Ave. in Kendall. The 16 units comprise approximately 33,000 square feet of the two four-story buildings totaling 133,000 total square feet in The Palms at Town & Country. One Seventeen Professional Arts Center is an ideal location for medical office tenants with three major accredited hospitals within several miles and 750,000 neighboring residents. “One Seventeen Professional Arts Center is a unique mix of ideal location complemented by a strategic design and tactical execution,” said Kenneth Weston, president of Kenneth Weston & Associates Inc. “There is not another comparable option on the market in Miami today.” Designed with the end user in mind, the One Seventeen Professional Arts

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The general nature and purpose of Beaux Arts is to promote interest in the Lowe Art Museum of the University of Miami, to provide improvements, equipment, financial assistance to exhibitions of the museum and to encourage a more thorough understanding and appreciation of the Arts.

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

Four Fire Rescue personnel receive prestigious awards BY ALEJANDRA CASTRO NUÑEZ The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association (FFCA) has announced the winners of its annual awards of excellence. Four Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) personnel have been recognized by the FFCA as the top in their fields for 2008. MDFR Battalion Chief Abel Fernandez has been selected as the recipient of the 2008 EMS Award of Excellence. Fernandez was selected for his outstanding response to a large and chaotic incident where he displayed exceptional decision-making skills, rapidly prioritizing the tasks necessary to handle the dynamic nature of the emergency. The FFCA also selected Lt. Scott Mullin and his canine, Striker, as the Search and Rescue Responder of the Year. This award recognizes an individual whose acts and deeds as a search and rescue responder demonstrate the highest level of excellence and ongoing commitment to the fire service and community. Also selected by the FFCA is fleet

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

Westminster Christian School invites community to donate in blood drive BY ANA M. POVEDA Westminster Christian School, in partnership with The Community Blood Center of South Florida, will host a blood drive in honor of senior student Taylor Kniseley, who was diagnosed with leukemia this past summer. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 14, 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m., at Westminster Christian School, 6855 SW 152 St. in Palmetto Bay (telephone 305233-2030). The Blood Mobile will be parked in front of the high school dropoff circle. The blood drive is open to students ages 16 and older, as well as any adult interested in showing support to Taylor, or others like him. The collection goal is 75 units of blood. Community support is necessary to reach this goal. Taylor recently completed his chemotherapy treatments and is expec-

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tantly on the road to remission. During his treatments, Taylor was fortunate to have received blood and platelets from the Community Blood Centers that allowed him continue his treatment. The Community Blood Centers of South Florida works tirelessly to collect 800 units of blood every day, and provides service to more than 49 area hospitals and their patients. Every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood. Westminster Christian School also is encouraging parent participation by offering incentives to the classes with the most parent participation. The high school class with the most parent participation will earn $100 toward the class trip. The middle school class with the most parent participation will win a pizza party. The Elementary School class with the most parent participation will win an ice cream party.

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 15

Santa brings holiday cheer to young patients at BCH

Emily Portillo, 5, tells Santa what she would like for Christmas during a surprise visit to Baptist Children’s Hospital. Santa delivered bears and lots of hugs to the children, courtesy of St. John Neumann Catholic Church, which has visited the hospital for the past 17 years bringing holiday cheer.

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Continental Group donates carloads of toys for kids BY JEREMY KATZMAN Despite the slumping economy, employees of the Continental Group made it a priority to help those less fortunate this holiday season by collecting toys to be distributed among some 700 foster children in Miami-Dade County. Staff from the locally based property management company’s South Florida and Broward offices collected more than 1,000 toys and delivered them to Voices For Children storefront at CocoWalk for distribution to foster families throughout the Miami-Dade County. “We are pleased to support Voices For Children in its mission to assist abused, abandoned and neglected children in Miami-Dade County,” said Tom Roses, Continental president. “Despite these rough economic times, our employees continue to step up and assist their less fortunate neighbors, not only during the holidays but year-round. Giving back to our community is an essential part of being a good corporate citizen.” A long-time supporter of Voices For Children, the Continental Group com-

mitted to the Toy Drive this year as part of its ongoing Continental Cares initiative in which employees give service for a cause. “It is truly a rewarding feeling to know that from our efforts children who are in need will be receiving gifts during the holidays,” said Andrea Braverman, Continental’s associate general counsel and the event organizer. The company was one of the largest corporate contributors this year and was honored with the Voices For Children (VFC) Philanthropy Award at the foundation’s annual “Be a Voice” luncheon in October. In addition to its local support of VFC, the Continental Group supported the following charities this holiday season: Toys for Tots, Isaiah House and Aid to Victims from Domestic Abuse (AVDA). Founded in 1990, the Continental Group’s corporate headquarters is located in Hollywood. It also has regional offices in Kendall, West Palm Beach, Orlando, St. Petersburg and Jacksonville. The company is the largest manager of

Looking for quality business leads? The Miami Business Exchange invites you to join us as our guest for a networking breakfast this Thursday at 7:15 am at Chamber South Office 6410 SW 80 Street, South Miami For more information, go to www.MiamiBusinessExchange.com or call Marc Hernandez at (305) 598-1044 Richard Browdy at (305) 668-4414

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

32nd Annual Redland Festival set for Fruit/Spice Park, Jan. 10-11

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Celebrate the arrival of 2009 at the 32nd Annual Redland Festival, Jan. 1011, at Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187 Ave. in Homestead. The Redland Festival, a Fruit and Spice Park-staple event that draws crowds in the thousands, will have its traditional natural arts and crafts, over 20 nurseries selling native plants and fruit trees, a children’s area, as well as a variety of entertainment for young and old. Featured entertainers performing both onstage and impromptu throughout the park include Merlina the magician and bilingual storyteller bringing her stories to life with audience participation; Redland Festival returning favorites Ed and Geraldine Berbaum performing old-time musicals and inviting children to join them in playing rhythm instruments, and David Ballard performing comedy-variety using puppets and clowns. New this year is the

South Florida Bluegrass Association, a five-member acoustic string band performing bluegrass and American traditional music. The Natural Selection of South Florida, with host and owner Joseph Wasilewski, will conduct live animal shows teaching about the environmental importance of native Florida animals. Animals featured include alligators, crocodiles, venomous and nonvenomous snakes, native and snapping turtles, and other interesting creatures. Admission is $6 per person with children under 12 admitted free. Doors open at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. For more information, call the Fruit and Spice Park at 305-247-5727. The Fruit and Spice Park, operated by Miami-Dade County Parks, grows more than 500 varieties of sub-tropical fruits, herbs, spices, vegetables and nuts from around the world on 39 lush acres in the agricultural Redland. The park offers daily botanical tours, fruit tasting and naturalist-led workshops.

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

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Page 23

Grove Chamber announces Taste of the Grove dates BY CRISTINA RIVERA What better way to defy today’s economy, than by enjoying a glorious weekend of free entertainment in the delightful bayside setting of Coconut Grove’s Peacock Park, while sampling the culinary delights of the Grove’s diverse restaurants for as little as $1a portion. The Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce provides that opportunity with its signature outdoor event, the Great Taste of the Grove, Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 10 and 11, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Many of Coconut Grove’s restaurants, including the new Angelo & Maxies at Mayfair Hotel and Cita’s Italian Chophouse, plus favorites such as Al Fresco, Biscaya at Ritz, Carlton, Jaguar Ceviche Spoonbar & Grill, Monty’s, Sammy C’s, Chart House, Panorama Peruvian Cuisine at Sonesta, Bice, Los Ranchos and many more will offer a-lacarte tasting menus with dishes ranging from $1 to $8. More than 100 menu items will be featured, ranging from exotic to casual, as well as tempting desserts, including the renowned Sweet Art by Lucila. “We have made it a point to keep dishes to $8 or less, which in today’s economy is a fantastic opportunity for the whole family to come out and enjoy food from their favorite restaurants, sample new tastes and spend a relaxing day in the Grove for just a few bucks,” explained Gary Ciuca, vice president of the chamber’s board of directors. This is the fourth year that Ciuca is serving as volunteer co-director of the event, along with fellow board member Monty Trainer, who is president of the other great Grove outdoor event, the Coconut Grove Arts Festival. The extensive live music lineup, organized by music director and chamber board member Manuel Alonso-Poch,

Visitors fill Peacock Park for Great Taste of the Grove.

starts each day at 12:45 p.m., featuring classic jazz from Arts & Minds Jazz Ensemble, fusion jazz from Arte Vivo, and R&B from Pocket Change, which rocked the park last year with favorite oldie but goodie Motown sounds. This year, the Miami Museum of Science will sponsor the Children’s Area, featuring a delightful range of activities, which, unlike previous years, will be absolutely free, offering an even more attractive weekend plan for the whole family. Indeed, the Taste of the Grove, now in its 19th year, is a labor of love for the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce’s all-volunteer board of directors, and members who volunteer in the planning and execution of the event. “Most of us are passionate about this community; we live and work here, and see this as a great way of encouraging

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locals and visitors to come to the Grove and support local businesses. The Great Taste also is an excellent venue and marketing opportunity for the Grove’s restau-

rants, allowing them to present their menu to a wide audience that will then return to enjoy the restaurants time and again in the future,” said Liliana Dones, chamber president. “It also allows us to give back to the community by offering participation to local PTA’s and non profit organizations as volunteers in our water and soda booths, enabling them to raise money for their organizations,” she added. The 19th Annual Great Taste of the Grove is generously sponsored by Coconut Grove Bank, Majic 102.7, Shops of Mayfair, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, Havana Beverages, Bacardi, FastSigns/Downtown, Winn-Dixie, Presidente Beer, Coconut Grove Business Improvement Committee (BIC), and Coconut Grove Neighborhood Enhancement Team (NET). Peacock Park is located at 2820 McFarlane Rd. Admission is free. Public parking is available across the street from the park, adjacent to the Sonesta. For more information, call the Coconut Grove Chamber office at 305444-7270 or via email at <info@coconutgrove.com>.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

SOUTHLAND MALL A new collection of your favorite stores for the holidays: • Spencer Gifts • Perfumania • MW Tux • Ulta • Old Navy • The Children’s Place • Charlotte Russe Plus your classic favorites!

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

Dade County Fair begins ‘We Are There’ campaign

SHOP EARLY AND STAY LATER! Visit www.mysouthlandmall.com for extended mall hours! SOUTHLAND MALL 20505 S. Dixie Highway Culter Bay, FL 33189 (Off Turnpike Exit 11)

Phillip Clarke, president and CEO of the Miami-Dade County Fair, greets Grammy-winning singer Albita Rodriguez at recent PSA launch.

BY MICHELLE PALOMINO

January 4, 2009 • 4 pm Eglise Gutiérrez, soprano Jorge Emilio Rodriguez, piano Featuring works by Rachmaninoff, Proch, Alabiev, Caccini, Thomas and others Cuban American soprano Eglise Gutiérrez is one of the fastest rising stars in the world of opera. She has thrilled audiences at Carnegie Hall, and the great stages of Buenos Aires, Rome, Mexico City, Helsinki and more.

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Tickets may be purchased online at www.sundaymusicals.org, or are available at HERITAGE HOUSE Allegro Music Center The City of Coral Gables, Florida This program is sponsored in part by Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Mayor, the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts, and with the support of the City of Coral Gables.

The Miami-Dade County Fair (The Fair) recently launched the “We Are There” PSA campaign to increase awareness of the nonprofit organization’s outreach to the local community. With the help of some familiar faces, the 58-year-old organization launched the first public service announcement (PSA) campaign in its history that touts its commitment to recognizing and rewarding youth achievement in this community. During its history, The Fair has donated nearly $8 million in scholarships, awards and premiums. The “We Are There” PSA campaign, that features the faces of Albita Rodriguez, Grammy-winning singer, producer and composer; Miami-Dade Commissioner Joe Martinez, and John Offerdahl, former Miami Dolphins player and founder of Offerdahl’s Café Grill, consists of local television and radio spots in both English and Spanish. “For decades The Fair has been known as one of the largest family events that takes place in the county each year,” said Phillip Clark, president and CEO of the Miami-Dade County

Fair and Exposition Inc. “But unless you are a student or family member of a student that benefits from one of The Fair’s programs, chances are you think The Fair is only an 18-day event that comes and goes each year. We hope that this PSA campaign will create an awareness of The Fair’s commitment to the community year round.” Some of The Fair’s community outreach that is highlighted in the “We Are There” Campaign include: • Scholarship program; • Youth achievement programs; • Miami-Dade County School District joint programs; • Agricultural Ambassadors program; • The Howdy Program; • The Fair’s athletics program; • Agri Council; • Miami-Dade County 4H Club, and • Youth Agricultural Programs. The “We Are There” PSA campaign is designed to draw attention to the valuable community work that The Fair engages in throughout the year. The Fair is more than just an annual 18-day event. The organization is there for the community 365 days a year. For more information on The Fair visit online at <www.fairexpo.com>.

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

World’s Greatest New Year’s Concert!

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

Beginner auditions scheduled for Miami Children’s Chorus BY ROBERT HAMILTON Miami Children’s Chorus music director Timothy A. Sharp, will be conducting Mid-Season Auditions for beginning level only, ages 8 and older, on Tuesday, Jan. 6, and Thursday, Jan. 8, 4:30-6:30 p.m. To audition, parents should call Theresa Haft, business manager, at 305662-7494 or send email to <thaft@miamichildrenschorus.org>. No walk-in auditions will be accepted; parents must make an appointment. Auditions and rehearsals are conducted at Riviera Presbyterian Church, 5275 Sunset Dr. Rehearsals are

Wednesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. during the school year. Half-year tuition is $150 and annual registration fee is $50. The MCC Beginning Chorus is comprised of children in their beginning stages of vocal development. Choristers can spend up to two years in this choir. Here they will be immediately engaged in singing experiences through imitation. The repertoire will include rounds and canons, folk songs, chorales, and patriotic songs. Their training will include developing vocal skills, musicianship and sight singing skills. Choristers perform throughout the year in Miami-Dade County and beyond.

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

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Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

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2009 Chevy Traverse is a stylish, efficient crossover Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is a brand new model in the automaker’s lineup. It’s a nicely styled, well-equipped crossover with people-hauling and cargo-carrying capability that’s usually found in larger SUVs. The Traverse looks a lot like the new Malibu, which made its debut last year as the “new face” of Chevrolet. It has a sleek profile with optimized aerodynamics that enhances fuel economy and reduces wind noise. The smooth, flowing design incorporates taut bodylines and minimal overhangs, wraparound fascias, chromeringed grille inserts, available projectorbeam headlamps and a choice of 17-, 18and 20-inch wheel-and-tire combinations. The overall affect is to convey the image of a vehicle smaller than it actually is. Traverse actually rides on a long 118.9inch wheelbase, with a wide 67.8-inch

front track and 67.4-inch rear track, a combination that lowers the center of gravity and enables a smooth, stable ride and positive handling. Some of technological design cues that we like are the turn signals in the outside mirrors and the integration of the rear spoiler over the liftgate window. At the same time, the roof rails have been designed to enhance the vehicle’s sleek appearance. The interior can be configured for seven or eight adults, including two front bucket seats, a 60/40-split second-row bench (three passengers) or two secondrow captain’s chairs (two passengers) and a 60/40-split third-row bench seat. Perforated leather seats as well as secondrow captain’s chairs are available. A second-row Smart Slide seat allows easier access to the third-row, and a rear-seat entertainment system has controls positioned in the second row. Traverse has six standard air bags (including side curtain bags) that deploy over all three rows of seating. OnStar (with a one-year directions and connections plan) also is standard and it features Bluetooth-enabled hands-free cell phone

Chevrolet Traverse has a flowing design with wraparound fascias and chrome-ringed grille inserts.

calling, Turn-by-Turn Navigation and the Advanced Crash Response System. If the crash activates an air bag, the OnStar system automatically notifies an advisor who immediately calls the vehicle or summons emergency help. A panoramic, poweroperated sunroof is an option. Traverse is offered in LS, LT and LTZ models, in both front-wheel-drive and allwheel-drive configurations, and is powered by a new 288 hp 3.6-liter V-6 engine with direct injection technology mated to the Hydra-Matic 6T75 six-speed automatic transmission, allowing it to deliver a

respectable 17/24 mpg fuel efficiency rating and tow up to 5,200 pounds. The StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is standard equipment, as is a fourwheel independent suspension system. Our test vehicle for the week was the Traverse FWD 2LT and it carried a base price of $33,515.

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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The emerging new “green” industry of carbon trading is coming to our shores in 2009, and Miami businesses will get to hear more about this fledgling $100 billion industry during the Carbon Finance Miami Conference, Jan. 15-16, at the Westin Colonnade in Coral Gables. Co-sponsored by the British Consulate General Miami, the event will look at how to turn a corporation’s financial liabilities in carbon emissions into financial assets, and more importantly, how to trade carbon both in the U.S. and abroad. The two-day event will feature a keynote address from the Florida Governor’s Office on the State of Florida’s carbon policies and market activities, and four themes will be covered comprehensively: Carbon Policy; Carbon Trading and Investments; Carbon Finance and Project Development, and Carbon and Other Markets. The conference offers networking opportunities with both U.S. and European businesses, NGO and other decision makers in the global carbon markets. Currently, the global carbon markets have emerged out of the European Union’s continent-wide cap and trade system — the Emissions Trading Scheme (EUETS). This market is fast becoming an emerging industry globally through the United Nation’s Kyoto Protocol, but still is basically under the radar in the U.S. Last year, the global compliance carbon markets grew from $33 billion to $66 billion in a 12-month period and are expected to hit $100 bil-

lion by year’s end. Although the majority of these trades took place in the European Union, the imminence of both the Western Climate Initiative, California’s cap and trade and an Obama-driven federal cap and trade (expected between 2010 to 2013 timeframe) means that this market will be arriving on our shores soon and should not be ignored. Jan. 1, 2009 sees the arrival of the carbon compliance markets to the U.S. with the launch of the first carbon cap and trade. Ten Northeastern states — including New York, Maryland, New Jersey and Maine — have grouped together to put a binding cap on emissions from utilities, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). Florida also is talking about becoming the 11th state to join the Initiative. What are carbon markets? The carbon markets are an artificial commodity market driven by compliance cap and trade schemes. A cap and trade consists of state, federal, national or inter-governmental regulation that caps carbon emissions of big “polluters,” such as utilities, steel, glass, paper and pulp. “Polluters” must then reduce carbon emissions by a specific percentage over a given time frame either by introducing technologies to reduce their own emissions or buy “carbon allowances” (issued by the regulator) from other companies in the system who already have introduced technologies and who, as a result, have surplus allowances to sell (carbon market). At the end of the year, each company must submit allowances to the regulator for every carbon emission for that year.

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0316AD

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SERVICE

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2006 Buell Ulysses XB 12X 1k mi, $7500, Barricade Orange, Ref#: 5595677, Phone: 786-286-1010

1987 Chevrolet Honey Bee 41k mi, $14000, Tan & Black, Ref#: 5512261, Phone: 786-390-2116

2004 Suzuki Trike Voyager Kit.I 15k mi, $9800, White Gray, Ref#: 5269106, Phone: 954-817-4089

1993 Offshore Center Console 200 hrs, $2000, White, Ref#: 5512247, Phone: 786-390-2116

2006 Harley Davidson Soft Tail Deluxe 1k mi, $16000, Black Cherry, Ref#: 5078072, Phone: 561-654-4443

1970 Fibercraft 16 ft. Open Fish 100 hrs, $3500, Dark Gray Hull, Ref#: 4400686, Phone: 305-242-5870

1991 Prince Craft 100 hrs, $4000, White/Blue, Ref#: 5178929, Phone: 954-435-4053

Selling Your Motorcycle, RV, Boat, ATV . . .

2006 Custom Built Harley-Davidson 1k mi, $14500, Dark Red, Ref#: 5698350, Phone: 305-479-4400 2001 Harley Davidson Fatboy FLSTFI 15k mi, $18000, Black, Ref#: 5818896, Phone: 305-479-3534

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12/16/2008

1230TJ

954-989-2884 Fax resume to 954-989-0536

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2008 Terry Extreme Edition $26000, White w/ Graphic Design, Ref#: 5391713, Phone: 954-261-8858 2004 Custom 20’ Bay Boat 160 hrs, $6200, Grey, Ref#: 5765408, Phone: 954-410-4451

2004 Harley Davidson Fat Boy 4k mi, $13500, Teal Green, Ref#: 5748820, Phone: 305-259-5051

2007 Young 20 57 hrs, $43500, Baby Blue, Ref#: 5573504, Phone: 954-410-4451

Feature your vehicle here and online. Log on to:

1997 Damon Ford E350 51k mi, $13000, White, Ref#: 4573243, Phone: 954-914-4133

1981 Cruisers Yachts 17.5 $4999, Red, White, Black, Ref#: 5482023, Phone: 954-784-9904

2007 Honda Eagle 100 mi, $2500, Blue, Yellow, Red, Ref#: 5671148, Phone: 786-556-5860

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Luis Hernandez: 786-255-1980 Frank Nocedo: 305-496-3008 0216GT

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So. Florida’s Premier Boutique & Nutrition Center for dogs with over 10 years successful operating history is offering franchise opportunities with single unit. Area rep/development available.

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0113KB

With Kumon, children master the basics of math and reading. Plus, they also build the learning skills, study habits, and confidence they need to succeed in school…and beyond.

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14920 S.W. 67th Avenue

786.242.0806 Miami, FL 33158

1230GT

Jenniffer Morales, Licensed Agent 305.235.4417 in Miami or 877.235.4417 Statewide or Jmorales@angelassurance.com www.angelassurance.com

3409HJ

Page 34

Please email franchise@dogbar.com or please visit dogbar.com for details. HJ1230

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C A L L

( 3 0 5 ) 6 6 1 - 9 2 0 0

Ceramic League Semester January 5 – February 14

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PERSONAL TRAINING FOR ALL AGES Make your workout into a meditation at home or in the gym. • Beginning Art • People, Places & Things • Drawing & Painting • Portfolio Preparation • Draw, Paint, (MDCPS- Magnet Programs, Private Schools, Cartoon, Illustrate Colleges & Universities) • Mixed Media • “Manga” • P rivate On-on-One Tutoring (K-12) (Japanese Comic Art) • Creative Writing Call now to enroll today, limited seating (305)

contact: Jill Gerlach

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GT0130

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OPEN: M-F 8am to 5pm Sat. 9:30am to 12:30pm 129DKM

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A Law Firm

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RB1230

Page 36

People Forget How Fast You Did a Job But, They Remember How Well You Did It • Must Be Licensed & Insured

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1215DS

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CHAPMAN SEPTIC SERVICE , Inc. “We’re Thankful for Your Tankful!” Drainfields Installed & Repaired Septic Tank Inspections Pump-Out (residential & commercial) Grease Traps - Maintenance Contracts High Pressure Water Jetting

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MAID BRIGADE

BENEATH THE CLEAN, YOU’LL FIND SPARKLING CUSTOMER SERVICE! Cleaning homes like yours since 1979. Every cleaning inspected and guaranteed.

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For Information:

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• • • • •

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RO O F I N G Steve Nagy Enterprises

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DM1110

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•

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0101SC

T R E E

I M P R O V E M E N T

•

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Our product line includes conventional roofing & roof coating products which can lower your cooling cost an average of 20% all the while extending the lifespan of your roof. 0210SC

Call now to receive your FREE ROOF EVALUATION and product demonstration. EMERALD ROOF COATINGS AND MAINTENANCE CCC 053854 • LICENSED & INSURED EMERALDROOFCOATINGS@YAHOO.COM 786-419-ROOF • 786-419-7663

OFF

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209AC

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ASPHALT PAVING & SEAL COATING

Replace your old, inefficient unit with a new effcient unit... up to 18 seer ALL YEAR COMFORT!

Owner on the job

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We are a high end commercial and residential roofing company that offers a full line of reflective & elastomeric roof coatings especially formulated to withstand South Florida’s climate.

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H O M E

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T H E

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

GT1230

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

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th Per Mon W.A.C.

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ent Agreem 13mth.

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ut First c

0127AD

1223DM

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0106CF

Call AJ • 305-807-2100

OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM - 5PM SATURDAY 9:30AM - 12:30PM

Page 38

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

THE HEALTH BEAUTY & FITNESS DIRECTORY • CALL (305)661-9200 Lois Ashman

D i s c re e t • D e d i c a t e d • E x p e r i e n c e d

Master Stylist

IN CHRONIC PAIN?

Now Back At Welcoming my old and new clients!!!

1563 SUNSET DR. • CORAL GABLES

A Personal Touch Fitness

$350

1 hr in-office treatment

• Rehab • Senior Fitness • Post-childbirth shaping and toning • Fat Reduction • Shaping and toning • Strength and Flexibility

www.watsonhamiltondental.com 11373 SW 211 St., Suite 10 & 11 • Cutler Bay, FL Emergencies welcome • Most insurance accepted

Ramona

Certified & Insured Nat’l CPR Certification Reiki Master

invisalign® CareCredit® LUMINEERS ®

Master Stylist is now at Joseph’s Salon

27 years of experience

Sibyl Adams

Regular fee $500.00 Exp. date: 12/31/08

305-378-5544

Happy Holidays To All My Great Clients!

Please call me today for an appointment

(786) 395-1588

305.992.1543 305.233.5291 14973 So. Dixie Hwy • Miami, FL 33176 • www.josephs-salon.com

TRADITIONAL CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE

HUI SHAO, AP, OMD

SC331

By Doctor from Shanghai, China. Practicing Chinese Acupuncture for Over 15 Years Specializing in Pain Control Acute or Chronic Pain (neck, shoulder, back, sciatic...) • Arthritis • Bursitis • Athletic Injuries • Anxiety • Sinusitis • Colitis • Weight Control • Allergies • Migraine & Headache • Hypertension • PMS & Gyn Problems • Immune Disorders • Stress & Depression • Sexual Disorder • Stop Smoking . . . Many other disorders, call to inquire. • We accept most Health Insurance & auto accident insurance

CORAL GABLES OFFICE • (305) 461-4046 3310 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Suite #250, Coral Gables, FL 33134 w w w . a c u p u n c t u r e i n m i a m i . c o m

O C TAV I A N O ’ S

STUDIO OF GYMNASTICS Helping Our Students To Live Their Dreams

YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS OF GYMNASTICS AND COMPUTERS • Recreational gymnastics for girls and boys (ages 5-17 years)

• Classes and Competitive team program for home-schooled children

• Tumble tot classes ages 3-5 years

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12420 SW 117th COURT, MIAMI, FL 33186 GYM 305-255-3811 FAX 305-238-5479

BB1809

RK22409

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Family & Cosmetic Dentistry • • • • •

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0120SC

Dr. Sheri S. WatsonHamilton, DMD

129AD

305-663-1313

115BB

“I’m still in the neighborhood!”

Medical Management of Pain Addiction Medicine Adult Family Medicine

Some English needed • Clientele a must Chair rental available.

Please call me for appointment: 305.205.8757 • 305.233.5291 14973 South Dixie Hwy, Palmetto Bay, FL 33176 www.josephs-salon.com

Dr. Erik van Ginkel, M.D.

FULL SERVICE Beautiful Salon looking for Hair Stylist & Manicurists.

RK1609

25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Broad expertise in styling both men and women’s hair. Specializing in precision cutting, chemical relaxers, straightening, coloring, highlights, and the Brazilian Keratin Treatment with Collagen (NEW No formaldehyde) treatments.

AT TO R N E Y S

LAW

INSURANCE DISPUTES

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTY DAMAGES PIPE BURSTS PLUMBING BACKUPS FIRE

VANDALISM WINDSTORM

HURRICANES DAMAGED FLOOR TILES BURGLARY

Call DAN LIGMAN 305-255-1144, ext. 105 “Se habla español”

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Dec. 30, 2008 - Jan. 5, 2009

THE PERSONAL SERVICE YOU CAME TO ENJOY IS STILL AVAILABLE TO YOU AT SOUTH MIAMI PHARMACY, CALL TODAY, TRANSFER YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS AND RECEIVE $10 OFF.

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