Pinecrest Tribune 12.20.2010 by Community Newspapers

www.thetribune.net

TR R II B BU UN NE E T

Pinecrest Phone: 305-669-7355

ONE OF MIAMI’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

DEC. 20, 2010 - JAN. 2, 2011

5k Fun Run, Jan. 2, to fund Andrew Parker Memorial Scholarship

BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

ndrew Parker’s family has created a scholarship to be awarded to a Palmetto High student to attend the University of Florida. Parker was a popular star on the Palmetto football team whose goal was to attend UF. He graduated in June and was accepted to Gainesville for the spring semester. He was attending Santa Fe Community College getting some prerequisites out of the way when he died in an October car accident. More than 1,000 people attended the memorial service. Now his family wants to take that support and do something for the community. They have created the Andrew Parker Memorial Foundation to fund the Andrew Parker Memorial Scholarship. To raise money for the foundation, the family is hosting the Andrew Parker Memorial 5k Fun Run/Walk on Jan. 2. “We are trying to make something positive out of this,” says David Parker, Andrew’s father. “Run, and if you can’t then walk and if you can’t walk, ANDREW PARKER

––––––––––– See

SCHOLARSHIP, page 7

Read at the Hearst Castle Pictured are Pinecrest residents Christie and Woody Stiver on vacation in California and visiting the Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Of course they remembered to take along a copy of their favorite hometown newspaper and sent us back this picture. Thanks for taking us with you, guys.

Library to host computer classes for seniors BY CHRISTOPHER LOPEZ, KATHLEEN BULGER

Staff Members, Pinecrest Library

alling all seniors! Conquer a new frontier and become the neighborhood computer expert with the help of the Pinecrest Branch Library’s free computer classes. Staff will make it easy to learn the basics of computers, email and social networking functions while working in a relaxed, slow-paced environment. Meet new friends and develop the confidence to gain valuable computer skills. Computers are not just for nerds. Everyday activities such as reading news from around the world, exploring

–––––––––––––––– See COMPUTER, page 6

Positive PEOPLE

in Pinecrest

These Positive People help add to the quality of life in Pinecrest. Look inside for their stories.

ALL TYPES OF COVERAGE FROM OVER 100 TRUSTED, COMPETITIVE, INSURERS

305.238.1000

Savings & Service Since 1950

CAROLYN WIEGERT

DANIEL LARKIN

VICTORIA DOUCETTE

Page 2

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Read in Rome Here’s Pinecrest resident Jonathan Bertner in the Pantheon in Rome. Oh yes, he gets around.

We’re Moving! Nick Waddell Insurance Agency Inc. • Celebrating 19 years as a State Farm Agent • Miami Palmtto High Graduate • Three Children in Palmetto Schools -Taylor & Nick attending Palmetto High School -Lucas attending Palmetto Elementary • Sponsor Palmetto Baseball, Softball and Football • Doctor’s Hospital Foundation board member (Baptist Health Systems)

305.661.0202 www.nickwaddell.com

New Address: 11205 So. Dixie Hwy, STE 200, Pinecrest, FL 33156 State Farm Agent Nick Waddell is relocating to Pinecrest on December 17th, 2010. Nick will be located in Suniland Shopping Center, above the Bank of America. This location has been a State Farm office for over 50 years. We welcome you to come by and say hello. • 13 Fully licensed staff members • Handicap accessible • Free Parking

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Thanks for your supportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

The Miami Elite Youth Soccer Team presented an award to Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen for her support of the team in the Danone National Cup tournament held in South Africa in late September. The team represented the USA and was ranked sixth among 40 participating countries. Pictured are (l-r) Stephanie Freire, Annie Freire, Santiago Freire, Gabriel Freire, Marcelo Ruiz, Matias Reynares, Alejandra Reynares, Ros-Lehtinen, Ralph Roca, Coach Marcelo Landau, Ivette Ruiz, Maya Silva, Maggie Hernandez, Mia Roca and Elena Roca.

Page 3

Page 4

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Positive PEOPLE in Pinecrest

CAROLYN WIEGERT Palmetto High School senior Carolyn Wiegert has spent several summers volunteering at a swim camp helping children three to 10 years old learn how to stay safe in the water. “It’s a camp that is centered on fun, but it works on basic swim techniques and the four strokes,” she says. Wiegert has been swimming since she was seven. She swims at a local club, the AquaKids, based at Westminster Christian. The name of the club team is the AK Sharks. “I like to swim spring events,” she says. “I like the 100 fly and the 200 IM.” This fall, Wiegert swam for Palmetto and was one of the varsity captains. When she’s not swimming for Palmetto, Wiegert usually swims the short spring events for the swim club. She says she doesn’t swim in the long course season because it requires a lot more endurance and a different mindset than the short spring events. She also has a lot of extracurricular activities that she takes part in at school, which makes it harder to swim in the long course season. Wiegert is the co-editor in chief of the Palmetto yearbook this year. “Last year I was the Real Life editor,” she says. “It covered all aspects of student life —

lunch, after school, their jobs, religion and community service — all aspects of student life, inside and outside school.” That was a challenging publication to put together because the yearbook computers were stolen, so the staff had to recreate sections of the book and find suitable photos to replace those that were digitally stored on the computers. “That was probably the most stressed we have ever been,” Wiegert says. “I don’t think I expected to make that great a book. We had some mistakes, but we were in such crunch time, and we were so far behind, but we were so proud of what we had done.” The only advantage was being able to go back and add in details of awards and sports victories that might not have made it into the yearbook otherwise because of deadlines. “We were really proud,” she says. “Our design was great and our photography was really strong.” This fall, the yearbook staff received the critiques on last year’s yearbook and they were all very positive. “We scored in the top level from everyone,” she says. “For the 2009 book, we won a Columbia scholastic press association silver crown, which is the second highest level.” They won’t know until spring what award the 2009-10 book might receive. The book is still under wraps from the student body because the staff tries to keep details secret. However, there will be some changes. “We are switching things up a bit,” Wiegert says. “I hope it’s something the kids will like. It’s going to be a lot different than last year’s book.” One of the lessons learned from last year’s near catastrophe is the need to back-up all the information on a separate system. “We now have a tetra byte hard drive,” she says. “We hope to back up every week.” Wiegert’s other extracurricular activities include the Italian Honor Society. She was president last year and vice president this year. She also joined the organization Common Thread, which teaches cooking to low income elementary school students. The idea is to help the children learn how to eat well so they are not part of the fast food culture. Each week, they cook foods from a different country. By Linda Rodriguez Bernfeld

VICTORIA DOUCETTE Palmetto High School senior Victoria Doucette is nearing 1,000 accumulated community service hours. Doucette has been raised to be involved in the community and her ultimate goal is to work in the non-profit sector. At Palmetto, she is a member of O Interact, a service organization. Interact is affiliated with O Ambassadors, a program started by Oprah Winfrey. “Through that I do a lot of beach clean-ups and arts festivals,” she says. “As O Ambassadors, we try to spread awareness of our region. We had the Panthers Got Talent show last year and we sent the profits to South Asia for a well.” O Ambassadors tries to educate others about the needs of children in developing countries. “The first year it started, we made presentations in social studies classes,” Doucette says. “We would get dirty water and show the kids the difference.” Doucette says it makes a difference showing someone the dirty water than when they are just told. “People don’t know that people are dying from diarrhea,” she says. “I like to make people aware of what’s really going on.” Doucette is also trying to make a difference in the lives of children in Africa. She is vice

president of the Invisible Children club. “That’s to spread awareness of Africa,” she says. “The civil war in Uganda just ended. The club is dedicated to raising awareness of the children who were abducted and forced to become child soldiers.” The club is now focused on helping in the reconstruction of the country. “We’re trying to rebuild homes and schools so Uganda can have a fresh start and try to live better after the war,” Doucette says. “We have screenings at school where all the social studies classes are aware what the club is about. We have a lot of fundraising activity.” She has held car washes at her father’s gas station, the Mobil on South Dixie Highway and 104th Street to raise money for Invisible Children. They have also had bake sales. However, Doucette has not forgotten about the people of this community. This past summer, she and a friend worked at Camp Shriver, the Special Olympics camp. “It was basically a summer camp and we played sports and board games with mentally challenged people,” she says. “It was a great experience.” Doucette has also volunteered at the Children’s Bereavement Center, working with the elementary and middle school group. Her community service also includes working at the Cutler Presbyterian Church vacation bible school for two summers. “I worked in the snack room and the Bible Studies,” she says. “We had a small stage and we would decorate the room and recreate a bible story. I think kids like learning that way, where they can see it.” Doucette is also involved in several Palmetto High School honor societies, including the math honor society Mu Alpha Theta. She has participated in many math competitions and has tutored other students in math, which she says is her best subject. “I’m in the math mentors class this year,” she says. “I go to a geometry class and if any students need help, I assist.” Doucette hopes to compete in social science competitions this school year as well. Her career goal is to join the Peace Corps and then go back to school to work on a master’s degree in non-profit management. But first she plans to earn a business and management degree. Her list of college choices includes Boston University, the University of Florida, Florida State University, Rutgers and Drexel. By Linda Rodriguez Bernfeld

If you know someonewho deserves to be a positive person in the Pinecrest Tribune, send us an email at:

ausbla@aol.com

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 5

Positive PEOPLE in Pinecrest

DANIEL LARKIN Palmetto High School junior Daniel Larkin has found his passion. A baseball player for 13 years playing in the Howard Palmetto Baseball Softball Association

league and on the Patriots Travel team, Larkin switched sports his freshman year and is now playing lacrosse. “I was kind of bored with baseball and lacrosse is fast paced and has more action,” Larkin says. He has tried several different sports over the years, including playing basketball in the Beth Am League, and soccer and flag football. He likes all types of action, including the action of debate. He is in the National Forensics League (NFL) and he’s in the debate class. Larkin’s debate style is Public Forum. He participates in debates with a partner and they take on issues such as “Should the UN Prioritize Global Poverty Issues Over Environmental Concerns”. Another of the debates last year dealt with President Obama’s plan to send 30,000 additional troops to Afghanistan. “What interests me is that I learn how to argue a point and I enjoy the knowledge I gain from researching the topics,” he says. “You have to know the topic so you can argue it without reading it off the paper.” Other school related activities for Larkin include the National Honor Society, the

Science National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. “This is my first year as an official member,” he says. “I plan on trying out for (math) competitions.” Larkin is also a member of Key Club, a service organization. Through Key Club he will participate in numerous community service projects. He also earned service hours by helping friends with their Eagle Scout projects. Larkin’s community service includes eight weeks as a counselor in training at the Dave and Mary Alper Jewish Community Center’s summer sports camp. “I worked with six and seven year olds,” he says. “They learned to play basketball and soccer, and they learned to play hockey with plastic sticks and a rubber ball; and they played kickball.” There were times when Larkin would play with the kids instead of just supervising the games. “It was a lot of fun, and I got to know and become close with a lot of the campers,” he says. “It was fun to supervise.” These days, he’s trying something new. He’s now a DJ and works occasional parties.

“Maybe one day I plan to do bar and bat mitzvahs,” he says. “I use mainly electronic dance music.” He’s self taught, but likes to DJ so much that he has purchased some equipment. Larkin also has his eye on the future. He’s edging into his college search and is already thinking about possible colleges and majors. His list of schools includes the University of Florida (where his sisters attend), the University of Central Florida and Florida State University. “It would be my dream to go to school in California, but there are also some interesting schools in North Carolina,” he says. He’s visited the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Appalachian University in Boone. “I visited there at a lacrosse tournament this summer,” he says. “I have family in Boone.” As for his major, Larkin says he enjoys chemistry and science, so he is considering pharmacology or pharmaceuticals, and maybe something outside of science, possibly in the business realm. By Linda Rodriguez Bernfeld

Page 6

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

COMPUTER,

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

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

hobbies and chatting with friends and family will become convenient and fun. Show the grandkids a thing or two and join the thousands of other seniors around the world who are sharing their knowledge online and are discovering new ways to stay connected right from their own homes. These classes will explore how computers can open up a new world where families and friends can reconnect even when scattered around the globe. Computer lessons are structured especially for those folks who think a mouse should be kept in a cage and for those who are interested in learning the very basics in computing skills, email and social networking functions. Our job is to turn the anxiety about computers into confidence. SESSION ONE Start Me Up! Fridays, Jan. 7, 14 & 21; Learn the basic “ins and outs” of computer hardware and the vocabulary that seems so technical, but makes sense when it is explained in context. Exercise with Mousercise and learn to navigate using a mouse. Tackle the Internet and learn to discover sites without hesitation. This introduction to computers will put the world at your fingertips. Gain easy access to information on any topic. It is all out there and ready to be explored. SESSION TWO Recipe for Success! Fridays, Feb. 4, 11 & 18; Microsoft Word is the typewriter of computer programs. Learning to use it will provide a solid foundation for almost everything you need or want to do with computers. Use it to type cards and letters for the holiday season, make your own cookbook, create a family tree or just help the grand kids with their school projects. SESSION THREE Keeping in Touch! Fridays, March 4, 11 & 25; Want to talk to your family and

friends but they are too far away to visit? Or perhaps it is too difficult to hear what someone is saying over a noisy phone line. Don’t let these problems keep you from communicating. Open your own free email account and learn to send and receive messages and photos like a pro. It is as easy as pie and we will teach you everything you need to know to get started.

SESSION FOUR Networking! Fridays, April 8, 15 & 22; Wish you knew what your friends were doing? Go to the number one online destination for seniors — Facebook. Socializing “ain’t” what it used to be. With social networking, you can still go out with your friends and play bingo on Friday night, but all while staying connected with virtually anyone on the planet via Facebook. Just answer the question “What’s on your mind?” and all your friends will know what you are up to. You can also share comments about daily events. Learn how to locate and chat with family, upload photos, join groups and reunite with old friends. Each series is comprised of three classes, held on three Fridays of the month in the auditorium from 3-4:30 p.m. Space is limited and registration is required. To register, call the library reference desk at 305668-4571.

PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ron Beasley WRITERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Albie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Celia Canabate, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diane Chasin, Enrique Chau, Sharon Christian, Lori Cohen, Amy Donner, Cecile Fanfani, Dianne Maddox, Denzil Miles, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller, Georgia Tait, Walter White PROOF DEPARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Vavrek PRODUCTION GRAPHIC ARTISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Ortega, Catalina Roca, Vera Salom, Marie Scheer, Isabel Vavrek, Sergio Yanes PUBLISHER EMERITUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ron Miller We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. If yoou send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material. Every issue of the Pinecrest Tribune is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including advertisements produced by Community Newspapers and Miller Publishing. Using artwork and/or typography furnished or arranged for/by us, shall be the property of Community Newspapers. MILLER PUBLISHING and COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS are proud to publish the following newspapers: Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Community Newspapers, Coral Gables News-Tribune, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Homestead News, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach, Miami Gardens, Opa-locka Review, Palmetto Bay News, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun. See us on the Internet: http://www.communitynewspapers.com

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

SCHOLARSHIP,

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

from page 1

donate. Our goal is to get to as many people in the community as possible for the event.” The fun run/walk will be held at Coral Reef Park in Palmetto Bay at 10 a.m. on Jan. 2. It’s a non-certified event, so the course is three times around the park. The money raised will fund the scholarship, which will be awarded to a Palmetto High student who attends UF. “We really want it to go to people who can’t afford to go to a good university, but they have to have the academics,” he says. “My son was an honor student, a real bright kid. It’s one of those really sad things in life.” Parker’s mom, Collette Powell, says she thinks Andrew would have been happy about the scholarship fund. “It’s important not to forget his name,” she says. “And all the good friends that he had.” Powell plans to run in the Jan. 2 event and then she is going to train for a marathon that she will run in his name. If the event is super successful, Parker says they hope to donate some money to

Page 7

the Palmetto Panther Touchdown Club and maybe even to the Palmetto Broncos. “He was a three-year varsity player,” he says. “He played Pop Warner football with the Broncos and he played baseball at Howard Palmetto.” Parker says they are hoping for a turnout of 500 people. As of mid-December, there were approximately 130 RSVPs on the event Facebook page. “All of Palmetto Bay knows about it,” Powell says. “There will probably be a lot of college students.” Powell says she has been in the area for almost eight years now, moving to Palmetto Bay from Cooper City. They had close friends in Cooper City and had worried that things would be different in Palmetto Bay. “This community has become our home as much as Cooper City,” she says. Pre-registration is urged so the foundation can have the correct number of shirts on hand for the runners and walkers. The cost is $7 in advance without tee shirt or $20 with a tee shirt provided. Same day registration remains the same for those who aren’t getting a shirt and $25 for those who want a shirt. For more information or a registration form, go to the foundation website at <www.AndrewParkerFoundation.org>.

Free Consultation A Law Firm Dedicated to Protecting Florida’s Families Medical Malpractice • • • • •

Brain Damage Death Anesthesia Accidents Drug Reactions Paralysis

• • • • •

Cancer Misdiagnosed Surgical Negligence Birth Injuries Pediatric Malpractice Neurology/Strokes

Nursing Home Abuse • Bed Sores • Amputation • Falls •Workers Compensation •Defective Products •Cruise Ship Litigation

Home, Hospital & Office Visits Available

• Neglect • Sexual Abuse • Physical Abuse •Car Accidents •Slip & Fall •Dog Bites •Aviation Litigation •Unpaid Overtime

•Sexual Harassment •Employment Discrimination

On Call 24 Hours 7 Days a Week

No Fees or Costs if No Recovery

Panter,Panter & Sampedro,P.A.

“Serving Our Community For More Than 20 Years”

305-662-6178

6950 N. Kendall Drive Miami, Florida 33156 Telefax: (305) 662-9472 / 1-800-PANTERLAW

www.panterlaw.com

THE HIRING OF A LAWYER IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION THAT SHOULD NOT BE BASED SOLELY UPON ADVERTISEMENTS. BEFORE YOU DECIDE, ASK US TO SEND YOU FREE WRITTEN INFORMATION ABOUT OUR QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPENSES

Page 8

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Tis the season to entertain your kids at the Apler JCC Linda K. Landy ALPER JCC NEWS As a life-long Miamian, I am accustomed to hearing northerners (anyone who lives north of Orlando) criticize South Florida for its lack of seasons. My usual response is, “We do have two seasons, summer and January 5.” Jan. 5, of course, being our one day of winter. The truth is we really do have seasons. There is summer, the three month period when your children are out of school driving you crazy, the heat and humidity make it impossible for you to step outside your door and you are faced with the terrifying prospect of putting on a bathing suit. Fall is my favorite time of year. It starts when school reopens and is jam-packed with the Jewish holidays, college and profootball, the baseball playoffs and the start of the basketball and hockey seasons. Then there’s winter, the time of year you step outside and announce, “This is why we live in South Florida.” Who cares if the

snowbirds and tourists jam our roads, restaurants and shopping malls? The weather is glorious. I need to warn you that the beautiful weather also brings winter break from school. Before I became an empty nester, I dreaded the prospect of two weeks trapped in the house with my children. But then I found the Alper JCC Winter Fun Break Mini-Camps. For the entire day they are safely entertained by somebody else, doing those wonderful things that kids love and parents endure. You can work without worry, relax in blissful silence, play tennis or shop to your heart’s content. All mini camps are open to everyone in the community and run Monday, Dec.20, through Friday, Dec. 24 and Monday, Dec. 27, through Friday, Dec. 31. The kids will enjoy two weeks of fun with cooking, arts and crafts, science, swimming, computers and all kinds of sports and physical activity. Plus each week includes a special field trip. Regular hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and early care (7:30 a.m.) and late care (6 p.m.) are available at an additional charge each. Contact Elyse Molk at 305-271-9000, ext. 263, or <emolk@alperjcc.org> to reg-

To register or learn more, contact Danny Berry at 305-271-9000, ext. 241, or <dberry@alperjcc.org>. A similar mini-camp packed with activities and field trips is offered for special needs children. The day includes a splash in the heated pool, arts and crafts, cooking and computer classes. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (they close at noon on Dec. 24 and 31). For more information or to register, contact Johana Sarmiento at 305-271-9000, ext. 238, or <jsarmiento@alperjcc.org>.

ister or for more information. Danny Berry’s JCC Baseball also offers a fantastic way to spend winter break. The program provides the ideal setting for a youngster’s initiation into the national pastime in a no-pressure, fun-filled atmosphere. Every day children will learn the fundamentals, play in real games and participate in award ceremonies. Full day campers can also participate in other great sports activities such as basketball, stickball, flag football and kickball. Lunch and snack are provided each day and early (7:30 a.m.) and late (6 p.m.) supervision is provided at no additional cost.

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 9

DREWKERN.COM

OPENING DOORS TO SOUTH FLORIDA REAL ESTATE

As a second generation real estate professional, and a Miami native, I have an intimate understanding of our local market. Let me help guide you through the sometimes turbulent waters of buying and selling your most valuable asset. The process should be easy and enjoyable when you have the assistance of the right professional.

14500 SW 84 Ct. 9510 SW 78 St. 9050 SW 69 Ct. 7741 SW 169 St. 14921 SW 87 Ave. 7801 SW 131 St.

DREW’S RECENTLY SOLD LISTINGS

7605 SW 178 Ter. 9138 SW 211 Lane 5718 SW 48 St. 903 Pizarro St. 641 Espanola Way #1 899 West Avenue #5G 6014 SW 146 Ct.

Drew Kern

7300 SW 68 Ct. 16611 SW 78 Ave. 16240 SW 92 Ave. 22607 SW 94 Path 8992 SW 212 Ter. 6830 SW 75 Ter. 150 SE 25 Rd #2F

1429 Messina Ave. 7411 SW 176 St. 19721 Cutler Ct. 14985 SW 85 Ave. 9013 SW 206 St. 18942 SW 306 St.

550 SOUTH DIXIE HIGHWAY, CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA 33146 305.329.7744 • KERN.D@EWM.COM

Page 10

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

CHABAD OF KENDALL/PINECREST

Positive teens contradict their image

Teens are members of Chabad’s Friendship Circle.

BY RABBI YOSSI HARLIG

Sadly, these days the word “teenager” isn’t a positive one. News articles about this sector of our community describe horrors from tragic car wrecks to violent crime. And yet, on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, a large group of them were at Chabad of Kendall and Pinecrest, chatting happily as loud music played, and wrapping gifts for their disabled buddies — some of the most challenged children in South Miami Dade County. The teens are members of Chabad’s Friendship Circle, a six-year-old program founded and lead by Nechama Harlig, the wife of Rabbi Yossi Harlig, Chabad’s director. The Friendship Circle recruits teens from area high schools, trains them, and then pairs them with special needs children —for play, companionship, and bonding. The teens earn Community Service Credit, now required for Florida high school graduation, but they earn something far more valuable: empathy, caring, and the crucial lesson about becoming adults who give back to their community. Miriam Singer is a tall, striking young lady, who is a freshman at Coral Reef High School For the past three years, she and her older sister Leah have visited Mathew, a mentally challenged five year old, at his house. Each time they visit, Mathew’s faced is pressed against his front window, eagerly awaiting the girls’ visit. The Singer sisters play water based games with Matthew, and give his mother a precious break from the

challenges of the constant care she gives to her son. Miriam loves the Friendship Circle because “for three years now, Chabad has become my second family. I love the togetherness, and how my sister and I feel when we spend time with Mathew.” Early on the pre Thanksgiving Sunday, the special needs kids who are able to travel were at the Center with their teen buddies, laughing, singing, and doing art projects. One little boy who is autistic walked past Nechama Harlig. Nechama caressed the child’s face as tenderly as she would one of her own seven children, and the child beamed. The Friendship Circle reflects the warmth and caring of Mrs. Harlig, and the teen mentors feed off of that, too. They clearly love being around her, and want to emulate her empathy and understanding towards all children in the community. Later in the afternoon, the teen mentors who conduct visits to children who are unable to travel spent the time wrapping holiday gifts to be delivered to the children. Because of their medical issues, many of these children cannot socialize with other young people, and receiving holiday gifts from their teen buddies is a precious event. The group of teenagers at Chabad of Kendall and Pinecrest’s Friendship Circle is a stark contrast to the negative images we often have of adolescents. They represent the best, and most giving, young people we are privileged to have in South Miami Dade. The lessons of Thanksgiving are, of course, appreciation for all we have, as well as the hope that we can take better care of each other in the future. These young teenagers at the Friendship Circle already understand.

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Crime Report The following is a list of crimes reported to the Village of Pinecrest Police Department during the week of Nove. 29 - Dec. 5, 2010.

AR SO N N one

The unknown offender(s) fled the scene before the police arrived.

A U TO T H E F T Ca se # 1 0 0 4 9 7 7 L o c a t i o n : 6 7 0 0 B l o c k o f S W 8 8 St On Nov. 29, sometime between 0100 hrs, and 0155 hrs, unknown offender(s) stole the victimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1994 Acura Integra.

Case # 1004987 L o c a t i o n : 7 2 0 0 B l o c k o f S W 1 0 0 St Sometime between Nov. 22, 0200 hrs, and Nov. 29, 1019 hrs, unknown offender(s) stole a garbage can from the victimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property. The estimated value of the stolen property is $50.

ASSAULT N one BAT T E RY Ca se # 1 0 0 5 0 1 9 L o c a t i o n : 6 7 0 0 Bl o c k o f 8 8 S t On Dec. 1, at approximately 2143 hrs, after having a verbal argument, a known offender struck the victim on the face. The victim did not wish to press charges at this time. BU RG LA RY ( C O M M E R CI A L ) Ca se # 1 0 0 4 9 7 8 Location: 12233 S Dixie Hwy ( D i x i e C l e a ne r s ) On Nov. 29, sometime between 0319 hrs, and 0329 hrs, when answering a burglar alarm it was discovered that unknown offender(s) had gained entry into the listed business by prying open a front door. The unknown offender(s) fled the scene before the police arrived. After inspection of the premises it appeared that nothing was taken. Ca se # 1 0 0 4 9 8 0 Location: 12231 S Dixie Hwy (S U In ves t men t C or p. ) On Nov. 29, sometime between 0319 hrs, and 0429 hrs, unknown offender(s) gained entry into the listed premises (which is vacant at this time) by breaking a hole in a bathroom drywall from the adjacent business. BU RG LA RY (RE SIDE NCE) N one ROBBERY None

:KDW <RX 'RQÂśW .QRZ $ERXW &RXQW\ 6HUYLFHV 'RQÂśW WKLQN \RX XVH &RXQW\ VHUYLFHV" 7KH WUXWK LV E\ RÂśFORFN LQ WKH PRUQLQJ \RX ZLOO KDYH XVHG D KDOI GR]HQ (YHU\ WLPH \RX WDNH D VKRZHU EUXVK \RXU WHHWK GURS WKH NLGV DW VFKRRO GULYH RU WDNH D EXV WR ZRUN DQG KRS RQWR DQ HOHYDWRU ZKHWKHU \RX NQRZ LW RU QRW \RXÂśYH XVHG D &RXQW\ VHUYLFH )DFWRU LQ WZLFH ZHHNO\ JDUEDJH SLFNXSV WULSV WR WKH OLEUDU\ RU D SDUN FDOOV WR DQG DQG \RXU FRQVXPSWLRQ RI &RXQW\ VHUYLFHV UHDOO\ DGGV XS $QG IRU WKRVH ZKR DUH OHVV IRUWXQDWH LQ RXU FRPPXQLW\ WKH VHUYLFHV UHFHLYHG IURP 0LDPL 'DGH &RXQW\ DUH HVVHQWLDOÂŤIURP WUDQVSRUWDWLRQ IRU SHRSOH ZLWK GLVDELOLWLHV WR PHDOV IRU WKH HOGHUO\ 7KHVH DUH MXVW D IHZ RI WKH KXQGUHGV RI VHUYLFHV DYDLODEOH WR \RX DV D UHVLGHQW RI 0LDPL 'DGH &RXQW\ 7R ÂżQG RXW PRUH FDOO RU JR WR PLDPLGDGH JRY

Case # 1004990 Location: 11425 S Dixie Hwy (Radio Shack) On Nov. 29, at approximately 1725 hrs, a known offender took merchandise and exited the store making no attempt to pay. The offender was arrested and charged with theft. The estimated value of the stolen property is $80. Case # 1004991 Locatio n: 11100 Block of SW 64 Ave On Nov. 25, at an unknown time, unknown offender(s) stole a cellular phone from the victimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence. The estimated value of the stolen property is $500. Case # 1005045 L o c a t i o n : 9 2 0 5 S D i x i e H wy (Bo rd er s Bo o k Sto re) On Dec. 3, at approximately 1316 hrs, a known offender took merchandise and exited the store making no attempt to pay. The offender was arrested and charged with theft. The estimated value of the stolen property is $150. Case # 1005061 Location: 8765 S Dixie Hwy (Parking Lot)

Hi-Tech Air Service

SEX CRIME FPL PARTICIPATING None HOMICIDE None

Page 11

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR SM

THE BEST SERVICE AND INSTALLATIONS IN MIAMI - DADE COUNTY # 1005083 Hi-TechCase Air Service

THEFT S Dixie Hwy ASK FOR Location: NANCY,10401 TINO, OR JOHN Case # 1004981 (Shell Gas Station) CACO49302 Location: 7400 Block of SW 135 St FINANCING AVAILABLE

SAME NAME SAME LOCATION SAME DEDICATED SERVICE

Auto â&#x20AC;˘ Health â&#x20AC;˘ Business â&#x20AC;˘ Home â&#x20AC;˘ Life â&#x20AC;˘ Disability The agency that does more for you... Your Business, Your Family, Your Life... We're here

â&#x20AC;˘ Responsive Customer Service â&#x20AC;˘ Reliable Professional Staff â&#x20AC;˘ Risk Management Services â&#x20AC;˘ Competitive Pricing & Payment Options Please contact us at: Phone: 305-446-2271â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 305-448-3127 Toll Free: 1-877-275-1180 â&#x20AC;˘ www.Kahn-Carlin.com 3350 South Dixie Highway We offer an independent agency solution representing many leading insurers including but not limited to:

13339 SW 88 AVE. Miami, FL 33176

305-969-2600

Page 12

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Crime Report The following is a list of crimes reported to the Village of Pinecrest Police Department during the week of Nove. 29 - Dec. 5, 2010.

AR SO N N one

The unknown offender(s) fled the scene before the police arrived.

A U TO T H E F T Ca se # 1 0 0 4 9 7 7 L o c a t i o n : 6 7 0 0 B l o c k o f S W 8 8 St On Nov. 29, sometime between 0100 hrs, and 0155 hrs, unknown offender(s) stole the victim’s 1994 Acura Integra.

Case # 1004987 L o c a t i o n : 7 2 0 0 B l o c k o f S W 1 0 0 St Sometime between Nov. 22, 0200 hrs, and Nov. 29, 1019 hrs, unknown offender(s) stole a garbage can from the victim’s property. The estimated value of the stolen property is $50.

Case # 1004989 Locatio n: 11751 S Dixie Hwy (Get Smar t) On Nov. 29, at approximately 1653 hrs, a known offender took merchandise and exited the store making no attempted to pay. The offender was arrested and charged with theft. The estimated value of the stolen property is $30. Case # 1004990 Location: 11425 S Dixie Hwy (Radio Shack) On Nov. 29, at approximately 1725 hrs, a known offender took merchandise and exited the store making no attempt to pay. The offender was arrested and charged with theft. The estimated value of the stolen property is $80. Case # 1004991 Locatio n: 11100 Block of SW 64 Ave On Nov. 25, at an unknown time, unknown offender(s) stole a cellular phone from the victim’s residence. The estimated value of the stolen property is $500. Case # 1005045 L o c a t i o n : 9 2 0 5 S D i x i e H wy (Bo rd er s Bo o k Sto re) On Dec. 3, at approximately 1316 hrs, a known offender took merchandise and exited the store making no attempt to pay. The offender was arrested and charged with theft. The estimated value of the stolen property is $150. Case # 1005061 L o c a t i o n : 8 7 6 5 S D i x i e H wy ( Pa rk i n g L o t) On Dec. 4, sometime between 1230 hrs, and 1300 hrs, unknown offender(s) stole the victims’ bicycles. The estimated value of the stolen property is $600. Case # 1005083 L o c a t i o n : 1 0 4 0 1 S D ix i e H w y ( Sh e ll G as St a ti o n ) On Dec. 5, at approximately 2135 hrs, unknown offender(s) took merchandise and exited the store making no attempt to pay. The estimated value of the stolen property is $45.

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 13

Page 14

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Rides â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n Smiles at Homestead-Miami Speedway

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 15

Rides ’n Smiles at Homestead-Miami Speedway

(PHOTOS BY MARLEN BEDOYA)

ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET WHERE YOU CAN EAT HEALTHY

SUSHI, SEAFOOD & GRILL

the best & freshest sushi in town!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS ONE & ALL!! CELEBRATE WITH US! OPEN CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR’S EVE Same Elegant Buffet Feast Featuring

LEAVE THE COOKING TO US COME AND VISIT MAMA LINDA!!! Senior Citizens 60 + $2.00 OFF DINNER Opening Hour: Lunch 11:30am-3:30pm Dinner 5:00pm-10pm (Mon-Thu) 5:00-10:30pm (Fri-Sun)

PRICES

Fine Japanese & Asian Cuisine, Sushi, Seafood & Hibachi Grill FRESH, JUMBO ALASKAN SNOW CRAB LEGS LUNCH $10.95 (Mon-Fri) $11.95 (Sat-Sun) $6.95 (Kids 11 & under) FREE (Kids 3 & under)

DINNER $16.95 (Mon-Fri) $18.95 (Sat-Sun) $8.95 (Kids 11 & under) FREE (Kids 3 & under)

CLOSED THANKSGIVING DAY

8800 S.W. 72ND ST. MIAMI, FLORIDA 33173 • TEL: (305) 275-8801 • FAX: (305) 275-1249

Page 16

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Edward Beiner

PURVEYOR OF FINE EYEWEAR

Express your individuality Expanding your vision of you for 30 years.

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Christmas means Jesus still offers gentle miracles Archbishop Thomas Wenski ARCHDIOCESE OF MIAMI

alain mikli

Complete Eye Exams now available. $50.00 off any prescription frame

Think globally... buy locally. 5817 Sunset Drive, South Miami • 305.661.1205 www.edwardbeiner.com

GORMAN PAINTING, INC

Let Gorman Painting Give Your Home A New Look!

General Carpentry: Fascia Soffit Crown and all molding Doors

Services: Painting and pressure cleaning interior and exterior Commercial and residential Roofs, Home, Buildings, etc.

FREE ESTIMATES 305-971-6300 / 305-216-

“Call Us When You Want

The Best”

Fully Licensed & Insured S E R V I N G

•

D A D E

CC#99BS00369 C O U N T Y

•

S I N C E

The Advent season arrives as our annual wake-up call. Throughout these weeks, the scriptures tell us to “awake and be vigilant”, we remember God coming among us in time – when the word became flesh and was born of the Virgin Mary; we await in hope to receive him at the end of time – when Christ will return in glory to judge us; and we ready our hearts to welcome him in Word and Sacrament, for he still lives in our midst. While the secular society is already celebrating its “winter holidays”, the liturgy of Advent is sober – calling us to repentance and conversion. Indeed, the entire purpose of Advent is to reawaken our thirst for God. In Luke 3: 10-18, the evangelist tells us that this is precisely what John the Baptist did — resulting in a “feeling of expectancy had grown among the people…” And the people asked him, “What must we do?” Advent also strives to evoke among us that same expectancy. And in doing so, Advent also calls us to conversion – so that the Lord when he comes finds us “watchful”. That is, ready to receive him. Because of this “penitential” aspect of our Christmas preparations, we should all make a serious attempt during this particular time of grace to approach the confessional. This is what we must do as we await the Lord’s coming among us. Without acknowledging that we are not as self-sufficient, as autonomous as we sometimes pretend; without recognizing the false turns we have made, the sinful choices that turn us away from the

destiny to which he calls us, God will be not only “missing” from our lives; he will not even be “missed”. How can we welcome the one who comes to save us, if we don’t acknowledge our need to be saved? Along with our holiday shopping and partying, we should all make time to go to confession if only to remind ourselves that Jesus is, after all, the reason for the season. Most of our parishes have scheduled extra time for confessions; many have communal reconciliation services (with individual confession and absolution). By taking advantage of these opportunities for the Sacrament of Penance, we can, in the words of John the Baptist, “prepare the Way of the Lord”. Christmas means that Jesus still offers us gentle miracles of healing, of reconciliation, of interior peace and consolation, if only we approach him with trusting faith. Such trusting faith is perfectly modelled in the sinless Virgin Mary whose “yes” to God’s will allowed the Word to take flesh in her womb. She became the true “dwelling place” of the Lord, a true “temple” in the world and a “door” through which the Lord entered upon the earth. Advent reminds us that Christ wants to come to us – and, through us, he wants to come and live in our world. Between his first coming as man, when he was born of the Virgin Mary and his final coming in glory at the end of time, he continues to come among us and knocks at the door of our hearts asking us: are you willing to give me your flesh, your time, your life? A good confession can bring Christ to birth once again in our lives – a good confession undoes the “no’s” of our sins and reaffirms the “yes” of our baptism. It allows us to cry out in hope: Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!

at the RIVIERA THEATER presents

Confessions of a Jewish Shiksa...

Dancing on Hitler’s Grave! Se Habla Español 1 9 9 4

Fri. Jan. 7th & Sat. Jan. 8th, 8pm & Sun. Jan. 9th, 3pm 1560 South Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146 (305) 666-2078 • www.areastagecompany.com

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 17

Page 18

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Make your move Lynda & Mike

Morgan

REAL ESTATE You know that it takes planning and preparation to sell your home, and the same applies to making a purchase. But whether buying or selling, you’ll also have to put a lot of thought into moving day. After you’ve gotten three in-home estimates from professional moving companies and made your choice, start packing! By starting your packing well in advance, you’re actually less likely to pack things you no longer need. Sort those items separately as you go and then have a yard sale or get receipts and deduct your donations. When it comes to packing materials, you

can save both money and the environment by using what you’ve got. Instead of bubble wrap or paper, use towels, sheets, and other soft items to wrap your breakables and save space. Label each box by number and room, and keep an inventory of the contents. Save a couple of “load last” boxes for easy access on moving day and your arrival (towels, sheets, toiletries, medications, etc.). When you do arrive, try not to be overwhelmed by all the piles of boxes. It’s a lot more fun to unpack and rearrange in your new home than it is to load everything up. If you’re properly organized, you can quickly get settled. Just work on one room at a time, and be sure to start in the kitchen! Mike and Lynda Morgan may be contacted at the Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate Offices at 12155 S. Dixie Hwy., 305253-2800 or by email at <mmorgan321@aol.com>.

www.communitynewspapers.com

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART 10 ACRE CAMPUS FOR GRADES 6 THROUGH 12 RIVIERA DAY SCHOOL 6800 Nervia Street, Coral Gables, FL 33146 I RIVIERA PREPARATORY SCHOOL 9775 SW 87 Avenue, Miami, FL 33176 305.666.1856 I www.rivieraschools.com I Accredited by AISF, SACS, AI, NCPSA

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

0%0, LQGG

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 19

Page 20

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Businessman gives back by coaching high school football players BY HEBE BAUZA

Every day, Bobby Vernon, president of UK subsidiary Howden Americas, develops strategies, analyzes information and comes up with creative solutions to drive his business forward. On most weekday afternoons, however, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find him in the office, as he swaps his business suit for a pair of shorts and a tee shirt and does exactly the same thing; only this time itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the football field for Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Felix Varela High School Vipers. Vernon, a graduate of Georgetown University where he played football for the Hoyas as a free safety and cornerback, has spent the last 17 years in the business world, successfully starting several companies and serving on the board of directors for three firms. In 2009, he decided he wanted to spend more time giving back to the community and after a chance meeting with Viper football coach Matt Dixon it became obvious to him how to do just that. There are over 5,000 high school athletes playing for the 33 public high schools in Miami-Dade County and there is a shortage of experienced coaches. Historically, coaching positions are often filled by teachers who enjoyed the sport, had the time and wanted the salary supplement. Unfortunately, with many of the cutbacks made in the Florida public school system, less money is available to attract and retain those teachers as coaches. Consequently, programs often must make do with fewer and, at times, less experienced coaches. In early 2009, Varelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coach Dixon began looking to add coaches to his staff and in his search he found one in the most unexpected of places â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the corporate board room. When Vernon was approached by Dixon, he accepted with-

Bobby Vernon donates his time coaching the defense for the Felix Varela High School Vipers.

out a second thought. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Football has had such a large and positive influence on my life,â&#x20AC;? Vernon says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It helped me get a college education and many lessons my coaches taught me on the playing field have served me extremely well in life off the field. I want to share this with as many players as I can so they too can get as much out of this sport as I have.â&#x20AC;?

Vernon brought not only his football experience, but also his strategic thinking to the game. He plays a key role with the Viper defense, including coaching the secondary and designing many of the defensive schemes. And the results have come quickly; the Vipers finished the regular season strong, securing a spot in the playoffs for the first time since 2006. Fellow defensive coach Ken Dodd, who began coaching in the county in 1979, says Vernon is a valuable asset. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bobby is a great coach,â&#x20AC;? says Dodd. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In addition to his own college playing experience, he visits with college programs in the off season and brings what he learns back to our team, which is very valuable. The players have a lot of respect for him and really respond to his teaching style.â&#x20AC;? Vernonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion and dedication for the sport is highly regarded by the players he trains. Undray Clark, who recently committed to play for the University of Maryland, has high praise for Vernon. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I respect Coach Vernon a lot,â&#x20AC;? says Clark. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He knows football and gives a lot. Not many high schools have coaches like him. He not only teaches us football skills, but life skills are a big part of it too.â&#x20AC;? In addition to sharing his skills, knowledge and time, Vernon donates his coaching salary to the Varela Football Booster club, which helps fund clothing, equipment, and educational needs of the players. This financial help goes a long way in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s difficult environment. Vernon hopes that perhaps more people like himself will consider donating some of their time and resources to public school athletics, becoming coaches, mentors, and role models to these student athletes.

/0%. #(2)34-!3 .%7 9%!23 !,, 9/5 #!. %!4 #().%3% 353() "5&&%4

-ON 3AT

-ON 4HURS

&RI 3UN

3UNDAY

,UNCH

$INNER

,UNCH

AM PM

PM PM

AM PM

&ULL -ENU !VAILABLE %AT IN OR 4AKE /UT !SK ABOUT OUR 3ENIOR $ISCOUNT +IDS UNDER ,UNCH $INNER

3OUTH $IXIE (WY #OLONIAL 0LAZA

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 21

Page 22

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Adopt a Mediterranean diet for a healthier heart

BY RICHARD BROWNE

Holistic Care Practitioner

Even for those with genes that put them at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, eating a Mediterraneanstyle diet can improve heart function, according to a new study in an American Heart Association journal. According to Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, people who eat a Mediterranean-style diet have greater heart rate variability (HRV) than those eating a Western-type diet. Heart rate variability refers to variation in the time interval between heart beats during everyday life — reduced HRV is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. “This means that the autonomic system controlling someone’s heart rate works better in people who eat a diet similar to a Mediterranean diet,” said Dr. Jun Dai, study author and assistant professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Indiana University in Bloomington. A Mediterranean-style diet is characterized

ON HEALTH

by one low in saturated fats and high in fish, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, olive oil and cereals. This type of diet can reduce the risk of heart disease, enable weight loss, lower blood pressure and reduce risk of diabetes. The Mediterranean-style diet helps to protect against heart disease by providing thousands of micronutrients, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that cannot be replaced by a nutritional supplement. A high proportion of plants foods, fish and olive oil in the diet also has protective effects against obesity and Type 2 diabetes.

Richard Browne is a licensed acupuncture physician and has been active in the acupuncture and naturopathic professions for 20 years. For more information about acupuncture for the treatment of stress, call 305-595-9500 or email <richard@amcollege.edu>.

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 23

Garden Fund preserves Village beauty BY KAREN MASHBURN

President, Community Garden Charitable Fund The Community Garden Charitable Fund was formed in the spring of 2007 by a group of local citizens who recognize the importance of preserving and enhancing the horticultural beauty of our public green spaces, particularly at Pinecrest Gardens. The Garden Fund is a grass roots organization that works closely with the Village in efforts to maintain and improve this diverse and rare place of beauty. Since its inception, the Garden Fund has attracted a wide range of supporters, has raised significant funds and has used those funds for specific botanical improvement projects in Pinecrest Gardens. The Garden is an oasis, a 14-acre historic site with a distinct and dramatic natural topography which houses limestone outcroppings, ponds, cypress sloughs, a piece of Snapper Creek and a tremendous variety of plant life. The preservation and improvement of this Garden will ensure its continuation as an enchanting destination for many generations to come. Thanks to the generosity of Mayor Cindy Lerner and the Pinecrest Village Council members, the Garden Fund is now headquartered in the historic Whilden-Carrier cottage located near the Pinecrest Community Center, 5825 SW 111 St. Our home is a continuing source of pride and inspiration for the work that we do. GARDEN FUND OVERVIEW As a result of the efforts of the Garden Fund’s board of directors, the Hidden Garden at Pinecrest Gardens is now a reality. It is a lovely winding pathway lined with coral rock and it is located to the left of the Garden’s main entrance. The pathway leads into the historic hardwood hammock where hand-painted tile benches now line an open semi-circle under an ancient tree canopy. The area, which had been completely overgrown and inaccessible, is now cleared of all debris and invasive species, and it has been replanted with slow growing and easy to maintain foliage, allowing the rare beauty that surrounds it to shine through. The Hidden Garden was intended as a place for the public to experience the majesty of a section of the garden which had previously been completely overlooked, and now many people are regular visitors into the site. The vision has come to fruition, and the new addition to the Garden is one which fits beautifully into the flow of the many areas of interest to be found throughout. The terrace area at the Garden overlooks magnificent Swan Lake, and it is the most frequently visited section of the property. It is

PINECREST

GARDEN FUND NEWS a common backdrop for photos, and many brides can be seen posing there at all times of the year. The land adjacent to the lake, known as area 12, is home to tall oaks and beautiful foliage, but until recently much of the beauty of the nearly 5,000 square feet was obscured by a great deal of overgrowth, and many invasive species were threatening to overtake it completely. The Garden Fund’s board of directors targeted the renovation of this area as a worthy undertaking, and after careful consultation with Parks’ director Loren Matthews and horticulturist Craig Morrel, plans were made to clear the site. Approval was received from the Village Council and the Historical Review Board, and the work began soon after. The walkway leading up to the terrace now affords a much more open vista, and as visitors ascend the ramp toward the lake, the section to the right is completely cleared, beautiful plants can be seen throughout, and a true sense of the depth and scale of the area has come to life.

make the Garden a world class destination. She has enacted cultural and special event programs, hosted art exhibitions and is working diligently to bring the Banyan Bowl to life with a full slate of theater and concerts. Perez is a welcome addition to the Garden team and her wealth of experience in marketing, public relations, organization and leadership will go a long way toward fulfilling her goals. She has embraced the community with open arms and she has been particularly generous to the Garden Fund, offering her expertise in the promotion of our events. The Fund’s board looks forward to a long and fruitful relationship with the Garden’s dynamic director.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP The Garden Fund enjoys a strong base of support from throughout Pinecrest and the surrounding area. In the board’s efforts to encourage and continue that support, and to show appreciation for the tremendous positive response received, a new program has been put into place that will benefit both the Fund and its members. For an individual yearly donation of $60, one orchid or other exotic plant will be available to members from the Fund’s office on a quarterly basis. There will be a wide variety to choose from and collection will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Emails will be sent to members with specific dates and times for pickup. The program is the brainchild of board member Paul Sasso, who also oversees and organizes the giveaway. His hard work is greatly appreciated by all. The Community Garden Charitable Fund is a not for profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible. For information about volunteer opportunities, membership, upcoming events or to make a donation, call 305-669-1028 or email us at <gardenfund@att.net>.

SOIREE NEWS Last Feb. 26 was one of the coldest nights in recent history, with temperatures dipping into the low 50s, but nearly 200 guests braved the chill to attend the Garden Fund’s fourth annual Soiree in the Garden. They had left their party attire behind in exchange for coats, scarves and even gloves, but their spirits were lifted by the beauty of Pinecrest Gardens, which was dressed for the occasion in special lighting focusing on the majestic Banyan trees, the lake, the terrace, the mead-

WELCOME TO ALANA PEREZ Pinecrest Garden’s new director Alana Perez is off to a flying start in her mission to

PHOTO EXHIBITION Perez has enlisted Garden Fund board member Annette Bonnier to become part of her ongoing art in the Garden series. Bonnier is a renowned photographer and photojournalist whose work will is on display at the Garden. We encourage all to come and support Annette’s opening at the Garden.

ow and much more. Appetizers, drinks and the beautiful piano music provided by Jimmy B brought guests to the terrace and the silent auction, which successfully supplemented the evening’s proceeds. The meadow was once again the setting for dinner and a concert which followed, this time performed by Grammy award winning jazz flutist Nestor Torres. Garden Fund organizers and volunteers can once again be proud of the magical evening that they helped to create and execute. There are very few night time events that take place at Pinecrest Gardens, and all who attend the Garden Fund’s annual soiree can appreciate the magnificence of the Garden as it comes to life after dark. Plans are now fully under way for next year’s fete, which is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 25. The many aspects of this very special fundraiser are being carefully worked out, and the Garden Fund’s executive committee is focusing on every detail in order to make this our most successful fundraiser yet. Volunteers and committee chairs will soon be brought together for a reception which will celebrate their past achievements as we rally together for the start of the organizing work ahead. Save the date for what promises to be another magical evening in Pinecrest Gardens.

Dear Members and Friends, You are invited to attend our fifth annual Spring Garden Soiree at Pinecrest Gardens. Cost $100 per person. We are accepting sponsorships for this event. Sponsors will be given advance recognition in all our publicity and future newsletters. To help sponsor the Soiree or to reserve a table call 305-669-1028 or call Ricardo Garbati at 305-588-4489.

Page 24

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

*5 4 .0-% :( &/($1 ,7 83 :( &/($1 ,7 83 &RPSOHWH 0ROG 5HPHGLDWRUV ,QF &RPSOHWH 0ROG 5HPHGLDWRUV ,QF &DOO IRU )5(( &RQVXOWDWLRQ

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 25

Page 26

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 27

Page 28

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

World-Class Education in a Private Setting For PreK-8 admission information contact 305.666.3593. For 9-12 admission information contact 305.666.7937 or visit our website at www.gulliverschools.org.

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 29

Recent teen deaths shock South Florida youth BY COLLEEN WRIGHT

The South Florida community continues to mourn the tragic deaths of several teenagers during the last month. An unexpected aortal dissection claimed the life of Daniella Tavarez, a former classmate of mine. Antonio Acosta from Belen Prep School was not wearing his seatbelt when he lost control of his SUV on the turnpike and was ejected from the car. Antonio Robas from Braddock High School suddenly collapsed and died while running track during his fifth period physical education class. Two football players from Palmetto Senior High and Msgr. Pace High were airlifted after serious injuries on the field. Fortunately they lived. It’s difficult for anyone to conceive why someone so young, with his or her whole future ahead of them, would have their life taken away. Tavarez’s last Facebook comment on Aug. 23 was “one of the best summers ever; hopefully the best high school year!” The pain that friends and family alike share over the loss of someone so full of youth and innocence is beyond overwhelming, and the only condolence those affected by the death is to know that he or she is in a better place right now. A young person is capable of understanding why death and tragedy occurs – most simply relate it to the result of old age or diagnosed illness. But no one could have predicted these situations; the fact that these incidents were random is nearly inconceivable to the teenage mind. No one can avoid the unavoidable,

TEEN TALK but certain precautions can help eliminate some risks. Safety should always be put as a top priority. Teenagers tend to think that they are invincible and nearly immortal to death. But these tragedies in the news, unfortunately, prove otherwise. Teens are more prone to accidents than any other age group. According to <distraction.gov>, an official U.S. government website for distracted driving, drivers under the age of 20 had the highest proportion of visually, manually and cognitively distracted drivers involved in fatal crashes, about 16 percent. Motor vehicle accidents are the number one cause of death among teenagers; driving according to the speed limit, even if it means being late, and ignoring incoming text messages will lower the risk of putting your teen’s life in danger. It’s beautiful to see that when a teenager has been hurt or killed, there is a strong sense of community. Teens who do not even attend the same school as the teenager, much less even know him or her when they were alive, can relate to the tragedy and pay their respects to anyone who knew the victim. When tragedy affects young people, one is never alone. No one can explain why these tragedies happen or why someone’s life should be taken away at such a young age, but the important thing to remember is that we should be thankful for the blessings in our life that we take for granted every day and never forget live life to the fullest.

LIGHT BULBS UNLIMITED LIGHTING SHOWROOM LIGHT UP YOUR HOME AND YOUR LIFE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

NEWTIMES

BEST OF MIAMI 2006 BEST PLACE TO SCREW IN A LIGHT BULB

Thousands of Light Bulbs Recessed, Picture & Track, Cabinet, Garden & Landscape Lighting Save Time and money with 20,000 Hours Light Bulbs

15% OFF Any Lighting Purchase with this coupon

LIGHT BULBS UNLIMITED / 12451 SOUTH DIXIE HIGHWAY 305-235-2852 • NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS OR PRIOR PURCHASES. OFFER EXPIRES 12/15/10 • *DOES NOT APPLY TO SPECIAL SALE ITEMS.

12451 1 South h Dixie e Highway y • Miamii • 305.235.2852

Page 30

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

The way ice cream is meant to taste! HAVING A

Birthday Party or other Social Event? Wall’s can cater ice cream for: • Birthday Parties • Company Picnics • School or Family Reunions • Fund Raisers • Special Events • Promotions and School Carnivals

305.335.3637 Call for Additional Information Most credit cards accepted

BUY ONE, GET ONE

FREE!

Equal or lesser value. Limit 1 coupon per person. Expires 01/31/2011

TV & Cartoon Classics Nightly! Gift Certificates Available! 8075 5 SW W 67 7 Avenue (Acrosss from m Big g Cheese)

305-740-9830

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

BETH AM TEMPLE TALK Benefit concert planned to raise money BY KARA FISHER

Vice President, BAFTY The feeling of making someone feel special and happy is truly exhilarating. Every year, something magical takes place in the hills of Cleveland, Georgia that gives off this same feeling. During Memorial Day weekend, a summer camplike experience is set up for inner-city youth of Atlanta by Jewish Teens across the southeastern United States. It takes place at the Union for Reform Judaism’s Camp Coleman and is run by the North American Federation of Temple Youth’s Southern Tropical Region and Southern Area Regions (NFTY-STR and NFTY-SAR). Camp Jenny was created as homage to a young teen that lived in Alabama named Jenny Rosenthal. She was very active in her youth group and she had one message, make the world a better place. After she was killed at a young age in a car accident, it was imperative to recognize and spread her message. A camp was started that sent inner-city youth with good grades and conduct to a summer camp experience that they would otherwise not receive. On Saturday, Feb. 12, Temple Beth Am’s youth group, BAFTY, will host a benefit concert to raise money for Camp Jenny. The concert will take place at 5950 North

Kendall Drive at Temple Beth Am in the Youth Hessel Complex Auditorium and will feature local teen bands and DJs, and also has performers for younger children. Doors are open from 4:30-9 p.m. and the suggested donation is $18 per person. We would love to see you there jamming out for this special cause. Youth groups in both regions work all year to raise money for this special experience. It costs $400 to send a child to camp Jenny and it is our duty to send as many children as possible. Teens that participate in this program are looked up to as role models by the kids. At Camp Jenny, campers have the opportunity to take place in various activities such as, sports, cooking, arts and crafts, song and cheer, swimming, camp fires and much more. A big part of Judaism is Tikkun-Olam, repairing the world. At Camp Jenny, it is our duty to repair that small part that has been given to us. Over a few days, laughter and tears, hugs and high fives, and smiles are exchanged. Memories are made and forever cherished. Mohandas Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Let’s together work as a community to effect world change. This is just one step closer to a better community and a better world. For more information, call 305-7337968 or email <Kbf2u@aol.com>.

www.communitynewspapers.com

Page 31

Page 32

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

I travel to you or you may come to my location in Pinecrest

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

THE GORDON TRAVEL GROUP Explore your world through unique and authentic travel experiences.

Group p discountss and d packagess available g sunkissed d results Fabulouss lasting

Let a travel specialist plan your next vacation.

$19 Spray Tan Special (first time Customers) regular price $35

Sunless Tan in less than 15 minutes!!! Please call, text or email me for an appointment 7 days a week

305.962.5212 • isig@bellsouth.net • www.tanbyisis.com

Office: 305-854-1622

www.thegordontravelgroup.com

In affiliation with Betty Maclean Travel, Inc.

CHRISTINE STIPHANY, CRS REALTOR ESSLINGER WOOTEN MAXWELL, INC. ACCREDITED LUXURY HOME SPECIALIST

CHAIRMAN’S CLUB TEXT “EWMhome” TO 59559 FOR INFO ON ANY HOME!

305.903.8845

WWW.MIAMISPECIALHOMES.COM

•

EMAIL: STIPHANY.C@EWM.COM D

DU RE

94711 SW W 977 Street….................................Baptist Area Tennis Acre on Cul-de-sac, Street to street property with 5 Bdrms + office and bonus rooms, 3.5 baths, 2 car garage, over 4,600 SF, remodeled kitchen, heated pool & screened patio. Quality construction! 80% financing available! Offered at $997,000 M14181950

28000 Alhambraa Circle..........................…Corall Gables TENANTS DREAM HOME - Gated Mediterranean Palazzo near Biltmore Hotel. 6 Bdrms + Office, 7.5 Baths, 2car gar + auto courtyard, elevator, resort style pool. Offered at $14,500/mo.

E NT

•

TE N RE

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

12929 SW 60 Ave…...................................….Pinecrest Pinecrest Elementary!! Great Price!! New Roof!! Fireplace, 3/2 with 2car garage, screened patio, over 2,300sq ft on builder’s acre, beautiful trees! $675,000.

A TOWNHOUSE!! 78700 SW W 899 Lane.....Near Dadeland TARA Estate Sale! Soaring ceilings! Over 2,500 sq ft, 2 master bdrms, office, 3 full baths, huge wrap around deck, 1 car garage. Offered at: $475,000.

Oldd Cutlerr Creekk 148700 SW W 766 Ct , Palmetto Bay 4 Bdrms, 2.5 Baths, 2 car garage, over 2,800sf in highly sought after gated community near Coral Reef Park. M1420427 Asking $3,400 Rented $2,850 “Represented Tenant”

LD SO 2400 Majorcaa Ave...................................... Coral Gables “Picture Perfect” 2/2 TH w/two parking spaces, Corner unit. Totally remodeled…..feels like a home! REDUCED $300,000 M1378565

1433 Morningsidee Drive………..…………Coral Gables ESTATE SALE!! Steps from Coconut Grove!! Great floor plan, 4/3 with 2car garage, screened pool/patio, new roof, 2800sq ft on 10,400sq ft lot. Reduced at $699,000

D OL S •

Free-Standing Corall Gables office building with US-1 frontage! FOR SALE OR LEASE! 706 S Dixie Hwy. 2 Story, 10 parking spaces, over 2,700sf, new roof, asking $849,000. Lease Top floorreception 1,350sf – 4 offices, conference room, area, Offered at $2,850/mo. Bottom unit – 650sf – 2 Offered at $1,350/mo. offices, secretary station,

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

550 S. Dixie Highway • Coral Gables, FL 33146

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 33

Page 34

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

2011 CR-Z is Honda’s all-new Sport Hybrid Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS Honda is calling the nifty little CR-Z a Sport Hybrid. It’s an all-new model for 2011 and it blends Honda’s popular CRX with the Insight, but has the Honda Fit’s four-cylinder engine mated to the company’s patented Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid technology. The CR-Z is a sleek two-door, two-passenger coupe with quick, sporty handling. It’s a gasoline-electric hybrid-powered vehicle available in two basic models — CR-Z and CR-Z EX. Honda counts CVT and navigation as separate models for pricing, which gives the line six trim levels ranging from the Base (M6) to the EX with navigation (CVT). The Base M6 lists at $19,200 and comes standard with the 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a 13-horsepower electric motor with a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery mated to a six-speed manual

transmission. It gets 31/37 mpg. The base model also includes some pretty nice standard equipment, such as cruise control, automatic climate control, a 160-watt sound system, USB and auxiliary input jacks, and stylish 16-inch alloy wheels. On the high end, the EX with navigation (CVT) goes for $23,210 and also comes with the same power as the M6, but it’s mated to an automatic transmission and gets much better fuel economy at 35/39 mpg. The CR-Z has a wedge-design body that’s aerodynamic and sporty, with a low hood and a wide stance. It rides on a lightweight rigid platform and has a chassis with a short wheelbase and a performance suspension. The front has a prominent nose with a large grille and swept-back headlights. To the rear, the flanks are accented by upward creases and LED taillights. On the inside, the CR-Z has a futuristic gauge cluster and digital instrumentation. Developed as a stylish, driver-focused vehicle with an emphasis on efficient “green” performance, the CR-Z has a new three-mode drive system that allows the driver to configure the vehicle’s responsiveness for Sport, Normal or Econ (Economy) driving modes. Driver efficien-

Honda CR-Z is a two-door, two-seat coupe with a prominent nose, large grille and swept-back headlights. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

cy tools include Eco Assist and Eco Scoring, which together can help you determine more efficient driving styles, and compare fuel economy to previous trips and over the life of the vehicle. Standard safety features include front, side and side-curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. A lightweight, rigid platform and

a chassis with a wide track, short wheelbase and performance-oriented suspension components include aluminum front lower control arms for better handling dynamics.

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>.

TH E G I F T O F TIM E E n j o y a s a v i n g s o f 2 0 % - 5 0 % o f f* s e l e c t m e r c h a n d i s e t h i s H o l i d a y S e a s o n. S h o w n: T i s s o t T-To u c h Wa t c h.

JEWELRY

WATCHES

GIFTS

TEL. 305.665.2624 8275 SO U T H D I X I E H W Y., CO RN ER O F U S1 & 67 T H AV E. ADJACENT TO T WO CHEFS RESTAURANT * Savings are off regular, original and sale merchandise only. Exclusions apply.

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 35

Time on the run BY ROBIN KORTH

It hits us all at one time or another in numerous quiet and not-so-quiet instances. We are getting older; we are getting old. Time is marching, no matter how hard we run and hide and try for a sleight of mind. We know in that quiet heart-voice that the physical resilience and harsh innocence of youth have turned the corner; never to be quite ours again. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see this passing or feel this passing as it is happening. It is only in retrospect that we look over our shoulders and see the minutes have become mountains of time-slapped events that we can catalogue and count. A phrase like, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Well, about 20 years ago,â&#x20AC;? can give us a â&#x20AC;&#x153;tunkâ&#x20AC;? upside the head. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Twenty years ago?â&#x20AC;? Dear God! Time is an interesting task master. It heals all wounds. It waits for no man. It is fleeting as it crawls. We mark our minutes by it and our hours; then our years and our generations. We catalog it, get caught in it and run from it. Yet, in essence, time is only the hash marks we use to organize ourselves and others as we move through life. Time helps us keep track of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;whoâ&#x20AC;? and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;whatâ&#x20AC;? and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;whenâ&#x20AC;? and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;how-longâ&#x20AC;?. The real markers, though, seem to be our bodies; they track time quietly, or not so quietly. Those aches and pains, mirrors and reflection tell us that our â&#x20AC;&#x153;outside,â&#x20AC;? this vehicle that carries our souls, is beginning to change, to show the dents and the dings, the wear and the tear of our hours on earth. Yet inside, remarkably, resides the timeless soul-filled powerhouse that drives us; that derides and sanctions the actions or lack thereof that mark us as oh so very human. A wonder-aching child stands next to the crinkle-eyed adult; the saint and the sinner

INSIGHTS ON AGING Time is an interesting task master. It heals all wounds. It waits for no man. It is fleeting as it crawls. We mark our minutes by it and our hours; then our years and our generations. stand hand-caught within us as we peer out at world. The hourglass fills and empties. Life moves and stops. We count it all in tickding seconds, as we place ourselves somewhere on a continuum that society and culture give kudos or judgment to. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We should be doing this by now. We should have accomplished that by now. We are too young for this or too old for that.â&#x20AC;? Time on the run can be cruel, a harsh whip that strikes with too-little or too-much as it flays us and whistles its song in passing. So, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remove timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s running shoes for a bit. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s put the clock down. Take out the battery or still the pendulum and rest in the moment; feel and celebrate in the breadth and reach of our heart-scanning. For therein lies the true delight of this living thing; therein resides the essence of the child or the sage that carries our souls at this moment. Stand quiet and know that this is life and it is at its most beautiful and at its most elegant here, right now. Robin Korth is a Pinecrest resident and publisher of the website Insights On Aging. She may be contacted at <robinkorth@gmail.com> or by going to <www.insightsonaging.com>.

Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10-5pm â&#x20AC;˘ Sat. 10-2PM Sun. - Mon. Closed

! "

8898 SW 129th Terr. â&#x20AC;˘ Miami, FL 33176 (Falls Warehouse District)

305.251.0959

Page 36

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

December 6 - 19, 2010

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Read in Blowing Rock, NC

Here are Palmetto Bay residents Carolina and Jorge Caram on a family Thanksgiving holiday in Blowing Rock, NC. Of course they remembered to take along a copy of their favorite hometown newspaper and sent us back this snapshot. Thanks for thinking of us, guys!

125

Page 37

Page 38

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 39

Page 40

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

16705 Old Cutler Rd, Miami, FL 33157 Toll Free: 800-771-0330 Local: 305-255-0330 WWW.BUDSTOPFLORIST.COM WWW.BUDSTOPFLORIST.NET

We service all of Miami-Dade County and deliver world wide Serving Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay & Pinecrest communities for over 30 years.

WEDDINGS • PARTIES • CORPORATE EVENTS • FUNERALS Elegance at affordable prices, award winning flower designers Flower arrangements, Bouquets, Fruit & Gourmet Baskets, plus other gifts

GRAND OPENING!!! CLEAN AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY TO RELEASE YOUR STRESS

$38 AND UP* $5 OFF

gives you a different feeling OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9:30AM TO 11:00PM HOMES • HOTELS • OFFICES

2281 SW 27TH AVE. • MIAMI, FLA TEL: 786.360.5887 15801 S. DIXIE HWY. • PALMETTO BAY, FLA TEL: 305.278.0818 10021 SW 40 STREET (BIRD RD) • MIAMI, FLA TEL: 305.225.3297

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 41

Page 42

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 43

Mieke S. • a Vi Community Resident

Another Senior Moment

There’s a place that gives you the freedom to do what inspires you. A place for creating a new kind of senior moment. Start writing your next chapter at Vi at Aventura. Call 305.692.4501. Visit ViLiving.com/aventura. 19333 West Country Club Drive • Aventura, FL 33180 FAC #88173 • Assisted Living Facility #10382 • Skilled Nursing Facility #130471038 • CC-Aventura, Inc., d/b/a Vi at Aventura, is the sole entity responsible for the performance of the continuing care MCN080110 contracts at Vi at Aventura.

Page 44

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Miami Palmetto Senior High Meet one of our Superstars

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Winter Nights & Lights at Seaquarium through Dec. 30

I am so proud to teach at Palmetto, a community school that provides an equitable and comprehensive education for all students. The highlight of my career has been my working relationship with talented educators who strive to engage and challenge students on a daily basis. With their guidance students excel academically, athletically, and socially. Personally, I am grateful to work for a school that supports my own professional growth, which in turn, impacts students exponentially.

Winter Nights & Lights features colorfully illuminated sculptures at Miami Seaquarium.

Andrea H. Spivak Language Arts Department Chairperson Region V Teacher of the Year (2007) National Board CertiďŹ ed Teacher

Discover excellence in your own backyard 37 3TREET 0INECREST &, s s MPSH DADESCHOOLS NET Vis Per Scientiam â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Strength through Knowledge

BY MICHELLE PALOMINO

In a dazzling display of holiday splendor, Miami Seaquarium will transform into a Winter Wonderland for its annual Winter Nights & Lights Celebration through Dec. 30. Complete with nightly snowfall, a Kids Winterfest, extended park hours and holiday themed shows and exhibits, Winter Nights & Lights, will light up the holidays with colorfully illuminated sculptures of reef fish, flamingos, dolphins, seals, sea lions, killer whales and other marine friends. Gates are open from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, except for Dec. 24 and 25 when the park will close at 6 p.m. Winter Nights & Lights will also feature a variety of holiday-themed shows after dark. Come early and enjoy your favorite. Stay late for our new holiday spectaculars, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Flipper &

the Nutcrackerâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Salty Saves the Holidays.â&#x20AC;? Also enjoy Top Deckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Cruise, a seasonal classic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Miami Seaquarium is pleased to make the Holidays come alive with Winter Nights & Lights,â&#x20AC;? said sales and marketing vice president Eric Eimstad. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Quickly becoming a South Florida Holiday tradition, Winter Nights & Lights promises to bring the Holiday spirit to South Florida.â&#x20AC;? Miami Seaquarium, South Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park, accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and marine-life exhibits. For information, call 305-361-5705, ext. 225, or go to <www.miamiseaquarium.com>.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Sharpest Fleet in Townâ&#x20AC;? WE CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR NEEDS

(305)-235-8333 â&#x20AC;˘ www.onetwotree.com

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 45

Page 46

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

15055 SOUTH DIXIE HIGHWAY, MIAMI FL 33176

305.233.6501 • www.goldchinamiami.com

WE DELIVER

ORIGINAL CHINESE CUISINE

OPEN 7 DAYS

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

2 LOBSTERS WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

ONLY

.95

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 47

This Dogโ s for You!

<PM 5QIUQ 6M_ <QUM[ PI[ \W [Ia" ยน.ZM[P ;M INWWL 5QV][ \PM ;M Iยบ ยน*M[\ WXMV 5QK 6QOP\ QV 5QIUQยบ

<PM 5QIUQ 0MZITL PI[ \W [Ia" ยน<PM .Q[P 0W][M Q[ Y]Q\M I +I\KP WV 5QTTMZ ,ZQ ^Mยบ ยน1\ยผ[ VW\ Ja \PM [MI J]\ .Q[P 0W][M NIZM Q[ \I[\a IVL .ZM[Pยบ ยน?WZ\P I LZQ ^Mยบ ยน .IJ]TW][ .Q[Pยบ ยน AM IZ[ WN .Q[P <IQT[ยบ <_W ,QIUWVL )_IZL )))

6*+ ยน5QIUQ 0QOP ;KPWWTMZ[ PI^M \PM *T]M[ยบ >Q[Q\ \PMNQ[PPW][M KWU NWZ .:-- LQ[KW]V\ KW]XWV[ 413- =; .IKMJWWS KWU \PMNQ[PPW][MUQIUQ \P )^MV]M ;? \P ;\ZMM \ ย 5QIUQ !

Every child learns in a unique way, and Killian Oaks Academy is designed to enhance each studentโ s learning style. Our Mastery Learning Program offers:

โ ข โ ข โ ข โ ข โ ข

Personalized and Customized Academic Programs Curriculum adapted to studentsโ unique learning styles Remedial, Accelerated, and Honors Programs Focus on Creative Expression and Growth Low Teacher to Student Ratio

10545 SW 97th Ave. Miami, FL 33176 Please call us at: 305-274-2221 www.killianoaksacademy.com Fully Accredited by AISFโ ขNIPSAโ ขSACS CASIโ ขCITAโ ขFCISโ ขFKC

Roddy is looking for a good home. Heโ s a nine-month-old German Shepherd-Rotteweiler mix with an active, friendly and cheerful personality. He weighs about 50 pounds and heโ ll get to be about 65 pounds when full grown. If you would like to give Roddy a good home, call the Born Free Pet Shelter, 305-903-6610, or go to <www.bornfree.petfinder.com>.

Page 48

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

This Dog’s for You!

This is Ears and he is looking for a good home. His personality matches his name. He’s a friendly, trainable, happy dog that likes being around people. He’s a nine-month-old Labrador mix and weighs about 60 pounds and that’s about as big as he will get. If you would like to give Ears a good home, call the Born Free Pet Shelter, 305-903-6610, or go to <www.bornfree.petfinder.com>.

Page 49

Page 50

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

STAND UP FOR OUR CHILDREN … STOP THE BULLYING! BY KAREN ARONOWITZ, President, United Teachers of Dade

Pictured are the new owners of Lots of Lox (l-r) Steve, Jimmy and Nick Poulos.

THE ORIGINAL LOTS

OF LOX • Catering Available • Dine In or Take Out

•

BREAKFAST SPECIAL

$6.45

MON. THRU FRI. 7AM TO 11AM

14995 South Dixie Hwy.

Tel: 305-252-2010 • Fax: 305-232-7560

NEW HOURS Open Monday thru Friday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Dinner Specials from 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM Saturday and Sunday 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

HOLIDAY CATERING AVAILABLE

I believe in supporting those who have been elected. In that spirit, I welcome our new Florida governor and new and returning state legislators. What troubles me greatly is the message being sent by Senate President Mike Hairidopolis and Speaker of the House Dean Cannon. My message to our community is this: be vigilant, active, and remain ready to stand up to any attempt by legislative bullies to reduce the quality of our children’s education. In a tone reminiscent of bullies everywhere, Senate President Mike Hairidopolis boasts of a “veto-proof legislature.” The message here seems to be that no matter how loud the cry might be to stop damaging legislation, the legislature is prepared to jam it through the process. What does that have to do with children? Everything. Our public school children may now suffer the wrath of a legislative body previously thwarted in their last session’s attempt to ramrod Senate Bill 6 through the process. As you recall, that ugly bill was stopped just in the nick of time by the veto of Governor Charlie Crist. Senate Bill 6 sought to revoke teachers' licenses if their students scored poorly on standardized tests; its veto may have cost Charlie Crist his election as senator from Florida. Parents, students, teachers, and community leaders who took to the streets to encourage the bill’s veto may now have the most to lose. Senator Haridopolis is already creat-

ing a script in which a new piece of legislative anger like Senate Bill 6 can gallop its way to the governor's desk, and cannot be stopped, even if the light bulb goes off for some that the bill will harm Florida and Florida's children.That is not working to better the lot and lives of Floridians. Parents, students, and community leaders all across our state should prepare for more activism. By voting “No” on Amendment 8 in this most recent election, Floridians once again demonstrated seriousness in maintaining small class sizes for our public school students. The result is that many legislators are miffed that they must fund the Class Size Amendment. At a time of year when we reflect on peace and good will to men, I am saddened to be prepared for a serious battle. Not from terrorists from afar. Not from tyrannical despots overseas. But from elected bullies who feel that the public will not dare stand up and shout, "No!" If Senator Mike Hairidopolis and Representative Dean Cannon think they can destroy our public schools under the guise of bullying their elected colleagues into harming our students, I say they are wrong. Let's make sure the state senators and representatives from MiamiDade are willing to stand up against the bullies. Let’s continue to make sure they hear us. It's up to us to make sure our legislators know we are following what they are doing in Tallahassee. If we have a zero tolerance policy for bullying in our schools, we are declaring the same policy for our legislature. Those of us who have stood up to bullies in our own lives know what it takes to face down someone who is bigger and stronger. In the legislative session to come, I am asking you to stand with our district, our teachers, and most importantly, our students. By doing this, we are sure to win. In that spirit of unity and activism for our future, I wish you all the happiest of holidays, and look forward to a New Year in which we stand together to support our children and public education.

The United Teachers of Dade represents 35,000 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.

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 51

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

• Flowers

• Plants

• Birthdays

• Wedding

• Balloons

• Anniversaries

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

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

q a i

305-235-4035 www.cchearing.com

Completely-In-Canal/ Completamente en el canal (CIC)

HEARING AIDS

Receiver-In-Canal/ Receptor en el canal (RIC)

In-The-Canal (ITC)/ Half Shell (HS) Intracanal (ITC)/ Media concha (HS)

In-The-Ear/ Intrauricular (ITE)

Receiver-In-Canal – Absolute Power / Receptor en el canal – Absolute Power (RIC AP)

AUDIFONOS

State-of-the-art hearing aids require a state-of-the-art hearing evaluation. Call today 305-235-4035 to make an appointment for a FREE hearing evaluation!

Instrumentos auditivos de vanguardia requieren una evaluación auditiva de vanguardia. ¡Lláme hoy al 305-235-4035 para hacer una cita para una evaluación auditiva GRATIS !

We carry hearing aids for almost every budget Financing Plans Available • Medicaid Accepted All Major Insurances Honored

Planes de financiamiento disponibles • Se acepta Medicaid • Se aceptan todos los seguros principales

Call 305-235-4035 today!

Llame al 305-235-4035 hoy!

11342 Quail Roost Drive Miami, FL 33157

Page 52

Ace Home Centers Acupuncture Center for Wellness AJR & Partners, Inc. Alquizar Orthodontics American Chariots, Inc. Area Stage Company Aurum Collections LLC Baptist Health South Florida Benefits Plus Inc Beverlee Kagan Antique & Vintage Jewelry Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern Chamber South Coldwell Banker Cool de Sac Play Café Cream D & L Hair Studio Deli Lane Cafe & Tavern Ed’s Boot Camp Elements of Time, Inc

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Fast Frame First National Bank of South Miami Fitness Together Five Golden Rings Foot Works Furniture Exchange GameWorks Green Apple Haircutters Green Monkey Images Dentistry Isabel, Fine Home Accessories John Edward Smith Communications LA Sweets Lanes Clothing Store Margaux Marhaba Restaurant Mark Richman Properties Massage Envy Metropolis Fitness & Spa Miami’s Community Newspapers

Miss Pepper Mojitos Grill Myra and Company My Sister's Closet of Miami, Inc Nikita Nikki’s Beachhouse Boutique North 25 / EWM Realtors Old Lisbon Restaurant OXXO Care Cleaners Pastis Paucar, Zamora & Hernandez, PLLC Pedro J. Alquizar, DMA, PA Physiocore Pilates & Rehab Power Pizza Enterprises Preemo Professional Bank RA Sushi Re/Max Advance Realty Saveso.com Shops at Sunset Place

www.rsmasm.com

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Shulas 347 Grill Simon & Green Inc Sir Galloway Dry Cleaners, Inc SO MI SO U South Miami Drug-Free Coalition South Miami Pharmacy Splitsville Sunset Quickprint Printing Suntrust Team Foot Works The Closet Shopper The Dog From Ipanema The Dressing Room T-Mobile Store #9632 Tropical Audobon Society Turnberry Bank Union Mortgage Investment Group Veronica's Dollhouse Vida Day Spa & Wellness Center Xotica Designs & Accessories

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 53

Here’s your

chance

to WIN a

42” HDTV! Log into:

www.communitynewspapers.com/tv-promo to register for your chance to win!

FREE "Soft Close" undermount drawers with your kitchen purchase! All cabinets are made in our factory in the USA. These are not foreign imports. Granite and Quartz counter tops manufactured in House!

We design and install kitchen and bathroom cabinetry.

We only use environmentally friendly, water-based finishes by Sherwin-Williams.

Call for a free in-home estimate or visit our showroom. Satisfaction Guaranteed!

50 standard colors to choose from, not to mention custom colors and glazes that we make upon request. Hundreds of door styles to choose from. Hundreds of decorative options available like island legs, corbels, onlays and appliques.

Many models, sizes and colors for any decor.

Come visit our showroom!!

2323 NW 72nd Avenue - Miami, FL 33122 • 305-716-0077 • www.durablewoodworks.net

Page 54

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Spirit of Camaraderie & Togetherness During The Holidays BY HELEN SHAHAM Q. I live in a condominium community and notice several of my elderly neighbors are away from their families during the holidays. How are holidays handled at a retirement community to help ease feelings of loneliness? A. As families face increased demands on time and longer distances from loved ones, gathering for holiday festivities may become more difficult. It may be worthwhile to stop by your neighbors’ apartments. You’d be surprised by how much a simple visit can brighten their day. At The Palace Senior Living Communities, we celebrate and recognize holidays with numerous events and activities so our residents never feel alone. For families who are unable to visit, they have peace of mind knowing their parent is surrounded by a team of caring professionals dedicated to their parents’ wellbeing and residents like themselves. Our independent living community, The Palace Suites, for example, kicks off the holiday season each year with a traditional Thanksgiving Day Brunch. Our full-time Entertainment Director fills the calendar of events with at least eight different activities each day ranging from lunch outings to water color classes to exercise programs and nightly cocktail hours. In December, The Palace Suites holds an annual Hanukkah Celebration. The community’s menorah lighting is another great way for residents to gather with friends and neighbors to celebrate the spirit and warmth of the season. Residents have the support of others who may also be away from their families and this reassurance and support makes the holidays less stressful. The season rolls on at The Palace Suites with a special holiday celebration luncheon and a driving tour of Miami’s holidays lights—a resident favorite.

Local schools provide a host of intergenerational activities and residents love this opportunity to enjoy children. We never need an official holiday to party at The Palace. There’s Hot Fudge Tuesdays and residents can satisfy a sweet tooth on Brownie Thursdays. The year ends with a bang as well. A New Year’s Eve extravaganza will feature entertainment by Derrick Salveston and serve as the official Palace countdown to 2011. The holiday season can be a lonesome time of year for everyone but for older adults living in a senior retirement community there’s camaraderie and commonality which help ease holiday blues. We understand that nothing replaces the togetherness of families gathering for the holidays and residents may miss being away from loved ones. However, with all the fun and excitement going on in our community, you just might have a hard time catching up with them to hear them say it. 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 305-270-7020, 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 TelAviv, 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.

Do Your Holiday Shopping at Orlando’s many Factory Outlet Malls and Enjoy the best Hotel Rates of the year!

SHOP, DINE AND PLAY!

You’ll enjoy cooler temperatures and shorter lines at all the Theme Parks! Choose from our four Orlando locations: Quality Inn International, Rosen Inn or Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando located on International Drive, and Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista.

Ask for our “Florida Resident Shopping Special” Book this rate and receive a VIP Shoppers Discount Book to Orlando Premium Outlets®. *Based upon availability. Book now through 12/24/10. Not valid for groups, during special events, holidays or convention dates. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Book online at www.orlandohotels4less.com/FLSHOP

or Call Today as space is limited at

877-224-5377

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Page 55

Page 56

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011

Page 59

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

1231MM

0328MM

1220DS

0228DM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 3 , 2010

Page 60

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 3 , 2010

MIAMI (MIA) FT. LAUDERDALE (FLL) WEST PALM BEACH(PBI) DELIVERY ON DEMAND

We’ll be there for your business. All Day. Every day. Rain or Shine 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year Providing Clients with the most Reliable and Secure Delivery on Demand with Consistent On-Time Performance since 1981

Baron Messenger Service, Inc. 386 N.E. 191 Street, Miami, FL 33179

Jonathan Wilson

0130DS

www.barondelivers.com

800.227.6648

Public Adjuster

the smart way to settle claims

ROOF & PLUMBING LEAKS • FIRE • THEFT • VANDALISM • MOLD

19386 SW 106 Avenue • Miami, Florida 33157 Office: 305.303.7012 • Cell: 305.244.9244 www.intellaclaim.com • jon@intellaclaim.com

0111GT

Are you 62 or older? Do you usually owe income tax when you file? CPA PREPARED INCOME TAX PREPARATION

$79.95

This is not cheap tax preparation. This is excellent quality tax preparation for less.

Call for FREE tax interview

0330DS

0211GM

1230GT

Mats Tyloskog Certified Financial Planner

0425RB

786-497-7050

0130RB

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

1231DS

1231MM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 3 , 2010

Pip Squeak Puppet Show

Birthday Parties! Fun Prizes!

305-790-6880 • 305-223-7823

Book Early for HOLIDAY SHOWS and BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Page 63

Page 64

PINECRESTTRIBUNE.COM

Dec. 20, 2010 - Jan. 2, 2011