South Miami News - January 26, 2010 - Online Edition - Local, Community News - Miami, Florida

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One of Miami’s Community Newspapers _______________________________________ Supporting local businesses since 1958

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JAN. 26 - FEB. 1, 2010_____________________________________www.communitynewspapers.com ______________________________

Martin Luther King prayer breakfast brings community, officials together

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BY GARY ALAN RUSE

he South Miami Community Center was the setting on January 9 for the annual Martin Luther King Jr. prayer breakfast, attended by community leaders, city officials and others. Beginning at 9:00 a.m., the event celebrating the life and accomplishments of the famous civil rights leader drew about 100 people, including Mayor Horace Feliu and the other city commissioners, current City Manager Roger Carlton and former City Manager Ajibola Balogun. The gathering featured a presentation by Dr. Marvin Dunn about the tragedy of Rosewood, described as one of the worst race riots in American history, in which hundreds of angry whites killed an undetermined number of blacks and burned down their north Florida community in 1923. There was an invocation by former South Miami Mayor Anna Price and prayers were given by the Rev. Bernice Ellis, the Rev. Pansy Graham, and the Rev. Cathy Felber. Reflecting on the significance of the event, Mayor Feliu said that he thought it accomplished its goals. “It was a wonderfully planned event and we had a good time reflecting on Black History and on coming together as a community, which is what Martin Luther King Jr. was all about,” Feliu said.

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Interval International gets award for support of charities, youth initiatives

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BY LEE STEPHENS

he City of South Miami recently presented Interval International with an award in appreciation of the company’s ongoing support of its charitable and youth initiatives. Interval is a longtime co-sponsor of the city’s annual Thanksgiving Food Drive and Holiday Toy Fest events, and the Grey Ghost football and cheerleading programs, as part of its community outreach efforts. Headquartered in South Miami, Florida, since it was founded in 1976, Interval is a leading global provider of vacation services. Today, the company has a network of approximately 2,500 resorts in more than 75 countries and offers its resort clients and about 2 million member families high-quality products and programs through offices in 26 cities in 16 countries. Interval is an operating segment of Interval Leisure Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: IILG). For information, contact Chris Boesch at 305-666-1861, ext. 7267 or via internet at <Chris.Boesch@intervalint.com>.

Above: The prayer breakfast at the Gibson-Bethel Community Center was catered by Roasters ‘n Toasters restaurant and assisted by the Mt. Olive Hospitality Committee.

Right: Mayor Horace Feliu and other city officials attended. (See more photos on page 7)

Awards for South Miami Middle Community School

BY SANDY BARON

Magnet Lead Teacher

outh Miami Middle Community School Center for the Arts has received awards and recognition in the following areas:

PHOTOGRAPHY: Under the Visual Arts teachings of Ms. Nancy Handler, in the specialty of Photography, the following students received awards for their talent: NATIONAL SCHOLASTICS COMPETITION: Is a Bo nne t – two accepted pieces,

A n d rea C an t i l lo – Silver Key, J a d e Higgins – selected piece, E i l e e n L u – Gold Key, J o h a n n a Schieff e r – two accepted pieces, Se an Tao – accepted. ANNUAL BEAUX ARTS STUDENTS ARTIST SHOWCASE: P a m el a Rub i o – Honorable Mention,

Jeanette Marbert, chief operating officer of Interval International, receives the award from City of South Miami Mayor Horace G. Feliu. Also pictured are Vice Mayor Brian D. Beasley and City Commissioners Valerie Newman, Lew Sellars, and Velma Palmer.


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Jan. 26 - Feb.1, 2010


Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

AWARDS, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– M a d d i e B i x bi e and J a d e H i g g i n s – Jade Higgins showcase inclusion.

Cheyenne Hardy, Paige Mcghee and Michael Mena.

THEATRE: Under the Theatre teachings of Ms. Madelin Marchant, the following students received awards for their theatrical talent:

S m a l l Group G roup Musical Musical –– Small S t ra i g ht Superiors S up er i or s –– Straight

Maddie Bixbie

DISTRICT 4 – JUNIOR THESPIAN FESTIVAL:

Alba Abrams, Sasha Aparicio, Victoria Carabeo, Gabriela Fernandez, Jonathan Fleites, Safiya Harris and Tyler Morrison. Musi cal –– Superior S uperi or L a r g e Group G roup Musical Large

Large L a r g e Group G roup Musical Musical –– Critic’s Choice Award Aw a r d –– Cri t i c ’s Choice

Julianna Bigham, Dali Carvajal, Natasha Espinosa, Dominique Ferguson, Samantha Garcia, Mia Granade, Ciara Harris, Caylin Jimenez, Emma Kervel, Austin Lopez, Debby Marsan, Maggie Maxwell, Rada Mckinnon, Rachel Nogues, Cristyne Ramirez and Allexa Velazquez. Ensemble Acting Scene – EnsembChoice l e ActinAward g Scen–e – Critics

Marianna Babboni, Catalina Berenblum, Essence Brown, Seana Bruff, Mia Cepeda, Daniel Cohn, Celine Diaz, Jonathan Fleites, Justine Garcia, Jack Graham, Johanna Herman, Audrey Houston, Ryelee Lebowitz, Tyler Morrison, Natalya Pedrouzo, Natalie Rubio, and Florencia Schinoff.

news

SSouth outh M i a m i Miami Miller Publishing • Community Newspapers 6796 SW 62 Avenue • South Miami, FL 33143 305-669-7355 www.communitynewspapers.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– PUBLISHER

Grant Miller grant@communitynewspapers.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Michael Miller Michael@communitynewspapers.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS David Berkowitz, Gary Alan Ruse

WRITERS Ron Beasley, Linda Bernfeld-Rodriguez, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Gary Alan Ruse, Richard Yager

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Albie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Ana Caceres, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Amy Donner, Cecile Fanfani, Dianne Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller, Lori Schwadron, Georgia Tait, Walter White

PROOF DEPARTMENT Isabel Vavrek

GRAPHIC ARTISTS Isabel Ortega, Angie Santiesteban, Catalina Roca

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Ron Miller

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We will not return solicited or unsolicited material including stories, columns and/or photographs. If you send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material. Every issue of the South Miami News 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 is the property of Community Newspapers.

MILLER PUBLISHING AND COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS are proud to publish the following newspapers: Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Palmetto Bay News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News and Sunny Isles Beach Sun

S o l o M u s i ca l – S u p e ri o r – Gabrielle Arias.

Solo Musical – Superior –

S m a l l G ro u p M u s i c a l – S u p e r i o r – Dali Carvajal, Mia Granade and Debby Marsan. Solo Musical Musical –– Superior Superior –– Solo Allexa Velazsquez. Small Group Musical – Superior –

Duet Scene Scene –– Excellent Excellent –– Duet Nicholas Gonzalez and Jessica Mendez. Ensemble Ensemble Acting Acting Scene Scene ––

Daniel Leira, Austin Lopez, Alexander Lozana and Colbi Pinto. VISUAL ARTS: Under the Visual Arts teachings of Ms. Cheryl Goodman, the following students received awards for their artistic talent:

Duet Musical – Superior –

Du et Mu si cal – Su p er io r – Hunter Hoffman and Joshua Roman.

Playwriting – Superior –

Critics Choice Aw a r d – Samantha Garcia, Thomas Garcia,

Pl a y wr it i n g – S u p er i o r –

Playwriting Superior Emma Kervel– and Rachel– Nogues.

P la yw ri ti ng – S u peri or – Samantha Gonzalez.

ANNUAL BEAUX ARTS STUDENTS ARTIST SHOWCASE: Uma Blandon and Maysa Pedigo – Mixed Media – Showcase Inclusion.

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Under the Visual Arts teachings of Ms. Margie Campmany, the following students received awards for their artistic talent: NATIONAL SCHOLASTICS COMPETITION: • Michelle Gorra – Gold Key • William Harrison – Gold Key • Ana Remis – Gold Key • Mika Rosenberg – Gold Key • Sebastian Ruiz – Two pieces – Two Gold Keys • Sofia Zavarse – Gold Key ANNUAL BEAUX ARTS STUDENTS ARTIST SHOWCASE: • Jaminely Emmanuelli – 2nd Place – Graphics, • Mika Rosenberg – Photography & Painting • Kevin Zapata-Rubio – Graphics – showcase inclusion. South Miami Middle Community School is very proud of our teachers, Ms. Handler, Ms. Marchant, Ms. Goodman, Ms. Campmany and all these students for their achievement.


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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

Area organizations reach out to Haitian earthquake victims Gloria Burns

assist in the delivery of these boxes that provide a tent and 6 months supply of survival items to disaster areas. Three thousand three hundred boxes are already being shipped to Haiti. While Steven is not “on call” until next month, he and many other volunteers are helping organize and raising additional funds for the program. In fact, Gables Rotarian J o r g e S u a rez a n d S t e v e n To n k i n s o n addressed the Coral Gables Rotary Club, a group that had purchased several shelter boxes earlier last year to advise them that their donations were critical in the delivery for this earthquake disaster. Of course, replenishing supplies is crucial and the Club answered with many offering matches that brought the pledges to total more than $10,000. This truly is a giving community with many like Steve’s dad and Jo Burke donating $1,000 each, the cost of each box. Speaking of Rotarians and their massive outreach, hundreds of free dictionaries and atlases were gifted over the last several months to students thanks to a partnership between Rotary Clubs, including the S o ut h M i am i Rot a ry Club, and the Miami-Dade County Public Library. Among the many delivering 1,093 books over a two day period were D e b r a S h e p h e r d ; South Miami Rotary President P a n s y G r a h a m ; J e s s i c a Va n S m i t h ; D i a n a Ph i l l i p s; M i c h e l e D y e ; R a n d y Ramos, to mention a few. On the cultural front, Actors’

GLORIA’S GAB C h a m b e r S o u t h held its networking luncheon recently at Carrabba’s Italian Grill in South Miami. The earthquake aftermath was certainly a topic of concern that day as luncheon sponsor, financial planner Rick Tonkins on, addressed the crowd with his wife, Margarita, and son, Steven, who both work with him in their family business. While both Rick and Margarita are Rotarians, Steven is also connected to Rotary through his involvement with the S he l te r Box pro g r a m and is on call various times during the year to

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Martin Lynch, of John Martins Irish restaurant and Pub, serves up food to hungry theatre goers following opening night performance at Actors’ Playhouse on January 15.

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Jorge Suarez is pictured with money collected for Shelter Boxes with volunteer Steven Tonkinson, after the two addressed the need for more funding for the Shelter Box Program at a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Coral Gables at the Westin Colonnade.

P layhous e held the opening night for “T The G re at Am er ic a n Tr a i l e r P a r k M us i c a l . ” After a week of emotional news coming out of Haiti, this musical transported the audience to Stark, Florida, for a truly hilarious evening with off-the-wall-characters beautifully portrayed by the talented cast whose performances make you howl with laughter. In addition, David Nehls music and lyrics are so funny, I suspect audiences may want to see this more than once just to catch all the laughs they missed the first time. Suffice to say, the show received a standing ovation from the opening night crowd, all of whom stayed around to partake in a late supper provided by J o h n M a rt i n s R e s t a u r a n t a n d I r i s h P u b . Warning, this is strictly an adult show not suitable for any underage children. Hats off to Artistic Director David Arisco and, of course, B a r b a r a S t e i n, for finding another great show. For tickets and show info, call

305-444-9293 or go online to www.actorsplayhouse.org. Finally, nationally noted trial attorney and author A l a n G . G re e r will be doing a book reading at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 2750 McFarlane Road, Coconut Grove, on Thursday, February 4, at 7 p.m. The book reading is free and open to the public. Greer will be reading an excerpt from his book about God and religion called Choices & Challenges, Lessons In Faith, Hope and Love.. Until next week, keep making each day count. Gloria Burns is Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Pinecrest, a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization, as well as a columnist for Community Newspapers. Keeping abreast of community activities is a challenge. If you would like to submit information for this column, send your news via email to <galburns@aol.com>.


Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Promoting health and fitness options at The Shops at Sunset Place

Page 5 John Balzola Photography

Special event to feature fitness demonstrations, health screenings, food samplings and more The Shops at Sunset Place, one of South Miami’s leading retail and entertainment destinations, invites all companies and organizations with products and/or services related to healthy and fit living to participate in the “Health and Fitness Expo” on Sat., Mar. 6, 2010 from 12 noon to 6 p.m. on the first level of the mall by Dan Marino's Town Tavern. The “Health and Fitness Expo” will showcase various services and organizations that will educate families about the importance of living a healthy life. Event attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy health and fitness demonstrations, food samples, beauty makeovers, style demonstrations and much more. This informative event is designed to celebrate healthy living through exercise and healthy eating habits to last a lifetime. “The ‘Health and Fitness Expo’ is dedicated to building a healthier community,” said Claudia Marquez, director of marketing and business development at The Shops at Sunset Place. “The Shops at Sunset Place continues to be an important part of the community by providing ongoing programs that improve the quality of life for both shoppers and employees.” To participate in the “Health and Fitness Expo” or to receive more information about the event, please contact Claudia Marquez at 305-663-0482 or via email at <cmarquez@simon.com>. ABOUT THE SHOPS AT SUNSET PLACE The Shops at Sunset Place is an open-air shopping venue that features a majestic waterfall and cascading fountain amidst a dramatic grand staircase. The mall is located at the

South Miami’s Best Kept Secret

intersection of US 1 and Red Road/SW 57th Avenue in South Miami, Florida and is managed by Simon Property Group, Inc., headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Shops at Sunset Place offers a sensational line-up of stores and entertainment, including AMC 24 Sunset Place with IMAX, Niketown, Martinibar, Barnes & Noble Superstore, Dan Marino's, Gameworks and Splitsville Luxury Lanes & Dinner Lounge. In addition, The Shops at Sunset Place is home to some of South Florida's most exclusive retailers such as Armani Exchange, American Eagle Outfitters, Banana Republic, dELiA*s, Forever XXI, Gap/Gap Kids, Hollister Co., Pottery Barn, Victoria's Secret, Urban Outfitters, Z-Gallerie and many more specialty retailers. Additional information is available at <www.simon.com>. ABOUT SIMON PROPERTY GROUP Simon Property Group, Inc. is an S&P 500 company and the largest public U.S. real estate company. Simon is a fully integrated real estate company which operates from five retail real estate platforms: regional malls, Premium Outlet Centers®, The Mills®, community/lifestyle centers and international properties. It currently owns or has an interest in 385 properties comprising 262 million square feet of gross leasable area in North America, Europe and Asia. The Company is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana and employs more than 5,000 people worldwide. Simon Property Group, Inc. is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol SPG. For further information, visit the Company's website at <www.simon.com>.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

Here we go again — playing the numbers game R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY Here we go again — playing the numbers game. How much money is spent in MiamiDade during the Super Bowl game weekend? The National Football League says around $460 million. Economists say between $58 and $120 million. Who knows? There are ways to “estimate” spending by analyzing tax revenue increases and hotel bookings. Where is the money spent? Miami-Dade, Broward, where? Another numbers game is how much does it cost to build a government-sponsored project? The guys and gals who want us to commit our tax dollars estimate what they feel is realistic. And, if it wasn’t a “government” project they would more than likely be correct. But, they are government projects. Just look at the Performing Arts Center.

It was estimated to cost $255 million. It ended up costing $419 million. And, that is not considering the taxpayers having to cover the annual revenue shortfall to keep the doors open now that the center is completed and in use. Look at the cost of the expansion at Miami International Airport. Currently $2 billion over original projections and the building isn’t even finished. I’d bet my pension that the cost of building the Florida Marlins baseball stadium will run at a minimum of one and a half times the original projected costs. Now, not wanting Miami to be left out of future Super Bowl weekends, Roger Goodell, NFL commissioner, says that if we don’t spend $240 million to put a roof over the Dolphin’s stadium there very well might not be any more Super Bowl games in Miami. Cold, cold Chicago and Minneapolis must love to hear that threat. And so it goes. Project the benefits high. Project the cost low. Then the public, gullible as we are, will buy it again. Kind of reminds me of the Peanuts cartoon, where Lucy tells Charlie Brown: “I’ll hold the ball and you kick it.” And every time he tries she jerks the ball away at the

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–– VIEWPOINT –– very last moment and Charlie Brown falls on his butt. That aptly describes the taxpayers of South Florida. We fall for the “trust me” answer to our question: Where’s the money? We always seem to end up on our “financial” butts. The NFL is awash in money. The owners of the Miami Dolphins are billionaires. The stadium is privately owned. Why, in our wildest dreams, would we want to spend taxpayer money to fix up a private investor’s assets? The sunshine, sand, South Beach night life and casinos bring a lot of football fans to Miami Super Bowl games that might not go to the same game if it were played in freezing, snow-blinding weather. South Florida’s hotel rooms in January and February are pretty much filled. The biggest advantage to the hotels is the increased room charges that are more often than not

sent the hotel chains’ home offices up north. Few of those dollars remain in Miami. The $240 million cost of the roof for the stadium, it is suggested, would be paid for by hotel bed taxes. My, how we do stretch the “projected” hotel bed tax dollars. Every time a new project comes along that will need hotel bed tax dollars the project sponsors increase “their” estimates of future tax revenues to justify their “new” project. When will we ever learn? We appreciate your opinions on this column whether in agreement or disagreement. Please send your comments to (fax number) 305-662-6980 or email to <letters@communitynewspapers.com>. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of this newspaper, its editors or publisher.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Martin Luther King prayer breakfast brings community, officials together Left: Residents and community leaders gathered for the Prayer Breakfast on Jan. 9.

Middle left: Rev. Pansy E. Graham of the Higher Praise & Worship Center led the group in prayer for the invocation.

Parks & Recreation Director Cesar Garcia, city staffers and other volunteers helped with the event. Dance and music selections were provided by the St. John AME Church Youth Choir, Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church and Lift Every Voice.

You are invited to the 6th Annual

MIAMI CRAWFISH BOIL and CAJUN FESTIVAL

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Dear neighbors and friends, Please let this letter serve as an introduction to my candidacy for the South Miami City Commission. I am running because I care very much about my city. As a resident of South Miami for over 34 years, I have had the opportunity to represent you as a city commissioner in 1988-92. I chose not to seek reelection because of the severe time demands of my full time job as a public school teacher. Prior to my election as a City Commissioner, I was President of the South Miami Homeowners Association, a member of the South Miami Pension Board, and a Selection Committee for City Manager. Let me share some of my background so that you can make an informed decision in this important election. Before and after being a South Miami City Commissioner, I served on a variety of private and public advisory boards including Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Greater Miami, the Urban League, the Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center, the American Association of Women, and until recently Friends of the Everglades. I was a member of South Miami’s Charter Review Committee, Community Relations Board and the Commission for Women. My early professional experience was predominantly in the fields of research and education. After I received my Ph.D. from Howard University, I was offered the newly created post of Director of the Affirmative Action Program for Dade County. The program’s goal was to improve and expand opportunities for minorities and women within the County government. Subsequently, I was promoted to Executive Director for the county’s Fair Housing and Employment Appeals Board. This department enforced the county’s civil rights law which applied to local housing, employment and public accommodation. I rounded out my government career with a nine year stint as an assistant in the County Commission. Throughout my government career I was asked to teach graduate and underground political science courses at Barry University, Nova University, Florida International University, and Miami Dade College. As a result of my administrative and academic background as well as the invaluable experience which I gained from the multitude of decisions I made while seated on the City Commission, I will come to this position ready to move us into a new arena of collegiality, cooperation, and constructive leadership. I hope you agree and will support me.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

Doctors organize for Haiti mission and need supplies BY DEBORAH ALBERTO

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When the cameras leave and publicity dies down, the work in Haiti will continue outside of the international spotlight. The Cuban Association of the Order of Malta, a local group dedicated to providing humanitarian aid through its relief organization, Malteser International, is organizing teams of doctors, nurses and other relief personnel with a commitment to stay for the long haul. “Our mission will last longer than a year and possibly multiple years,” said Mauricio Fernandez, a member and vice treasurer of the local chapter of the Order, a group with no paid staff members. “Volunteers can be called several months from now to fly to Haiti and provide relief. Everyone wants to go now but the real work begins when the cameras are gone and Haiti is old news.” While there has been a great response to humanitarian aid in Haiti, there remains a problem with organization. As reported on news stations, supplies are frequently not being directed to places where medical personnel can utilize them, and there is a host of other logistical problems with the flow of relief into Haiti. For these reasons, the local chapter of the Order of Malta is committed to creating a humanitarian relief project that is organized, quality driven and self-sufficient. Teams of six medical personnel are being flown into Haiti on two-week missions where they are assisting the Haitian victims in dire need of medical care. Local doctors and volunteers are participating in a grassroots effort that involve organizing doctors, arranging lodging and transportation for them, and collecting desperately needed medical supplies. These efforts have included email and phone campaigns, and door-to-door pleas for assistance to garner the public’s assistance in obtaining these supplies and funds to help defray the

expenses of doctors traveling into these impoverished and destructed areas. The medical Malteser International team has been working in the nearly destroyed hospital Francois de Sales with one surgeon, two emergency medical technicians and anesthetists and three native Haitian medical attendants. “Finally, we can help the people directly and alleviate their suffering,” said Dr. Runggaldier, a physician involved in the relief effort. “Furthermore, our planning for a sustainable assistance after the first emergency relief phase is becoming more concrete and more detailed. It is our aim to revitalize this hospital and render it again into a useable institution for the poorest and most severely affected population in the downtown,” Anyone wishing to donate to this cause can send checks payable to: The Foundation of the Cuban Association of the S.M.O. Inc., Grove Professional Building, Suite 300, 2950 SW 27 Ave., Miami, FL 33133. You also can donate via Paypal at <http://ordendemaltacuba.com/donations.aspx>. Supplies needed include: Alcohol, Betadine, antiseptics, antibiotic creams, hydrogen peroxide, 11-inch scalpels, sutures (2-0 silks, vinyl, Prolene, all sizes), syringes, needles (all gauge size), surgical equipment, 4x4 and 2x2 gauze, 18 and 21 gauge needle catheters; IV tubing, water swab stick, pain medication, Motrin, Tylenol, adhesive tape, Scrub/Betadine brushes, x-ray film, antiseptics for operating rooms, thermal paper rolls, elastic bandages (Kerlix), splinting material (Orthoglass 3 & 4 inch), Webrill and any over the counter supplies such as bandages, gauze, masks, gloves, etc. All donations of money and supplies are being directed to the Haiti relief effort. If you would like more information call Mauricio Fernandez at 305-662-7839, 305794-4701 or send email to him at <mfernandez@fernandezandassociates.net>.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Selling old jewelry and coins becoming easier BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

Jordan Athos has opened Miami Mint, a new coin and bullion shop at 8275 SW 124 St. Athos says this is a good time to visit a coin and bullion store. “People that are down and out a little bit, they can invest in gold and protect their money,” he said. “Now is a great time to be buying, trading and selling, because the economy is not doing well. You have to capitalize on what’s happening right now.” Right now gold is at record highs. Athos said silver is a little bit below record levels, but is heading back up. “Gold over the past fivesix years has doubled,” he said. “Nothing at this time has done what gold has done. It’s a good time if you want to sell what you have, if you want to cash it in with me, or Jordan Athos is pictured at his new Miami Mint store. you want to get into it and –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– cash it in in the future. Athos has been in the gold and bullion of the time, I’ll beat them. If it’s a small amount, I’ll give them cash. business for eight years. The jewelry people are turning in for “It was my first opportunity to open my cash is not being resold, instead it is being own store in an excellent location.” Someone who has gold they want to turn melted down. “It has to be a special, special piece to be into cash, coins they want to buy or sell, or worth more,” he said. bullion can take the gold to him. Athos deals in gold and silver coins, as “I will test it and I will buy it off of them if they want,” he said. “What I recommend well as rare coins. He said today, some of is have a quote from somewhere else. I will the more sought after coins are the beat the quote. I don’t want anyone to walk American Eagle, South African Krugerand and Canadian Maple Leaf. in blindly. I want people to be educated.” As far as the 50 State collection of quarHe is concerned that some people will be taken in by the TV ads for online compa- ters, Athos said that’s something you have nies that are buying old jewelry for cash, to hand down to your children and eventubut send consumers envelopes and give ally it will be worth something. “I would suggest, when you deal with quotes after the gold is mailed to them. “You should not send your jewelry any- the state quarters, you leave them how they where on good faith to receive a check in are. Never clean a coin and never alter a two weeks,” he said. “I can guarantee to coin,” he said. For those who are interested in selling anybody I will pay more than any online gold or coins, Athos said his shop is open place. People should be aware.” More importantly, when a customer to all. He also will look over coin collections comes in with gold or jewelry to sell, Athos and help people understand what they have weighs the items in front of them. “There are no smoke and mirrors. I don’t of value, even if they don’t want to sell it. For more information, call 305-255send you a check in a week,” he said. “I do honor other people’s quotes and 95 percent 4240.

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Page 10

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Miami’s Community Newspapers introduces . . .

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Families have only days remaining to purchase a Florida Prepaid College Plan at current plan prices. Enrolling children by the Jan. 31 deadline is easy to do online at <www.myfloridaprepaid.com>. For the past 21 years, more than 917,000 children have been enrolled in the Florida Prepaid College Plan and 230,000 students have gone to college using their prepaid benefits. “The earlier families begin saving for college, the better,” said Duane Ottenstroer, chair of the Florida Prepaid College Board. “And, the Florida Prepaid College Plan is financially guaranteed by the state of Florida. Once your family has purchased a Florida Prepaid College Plan, your payments are fixed and never increase, and you don’t have to worry about the economy when it comes to college savings.” Prepaid tuition can be purchased for children and grandchildren as soon as they are born and up until the 11th grade. With college tuition representing just 16 percent of the total cost for attending a public university in Florida, four flexible plans are available

through Florida Prepaid College Plans — tuition plans, tuition differential fee plan, local fee plan, and dormitory plan — to help cover the costs of a college education. “Every grandparent would like to see their grandchildren get a college education,” said Florida Prepaid purchaser, Justine Kellner McGheehan of Tallahassee. “You want the best for them and one of the best things you can give them is a head start towards a college education.” Once children are ready for college, they have a broad selection of universities to choose from under the Florida Prepaid College Plan. The plans can be used at Florida’s 11 public universities, 28 community colleges (including the nine colleges offering baccalaureate degrees) and select technical schools. Or the plan’s full dollar value, what would be paid to a Florida public college, can be transferred to most private and out-of-state colleges. Only a $50 application fee is due by the Jan. 31 deadline. The first plan payment is not due until Apr. 20. Families can call 1-800-552GRAD (4723) to order an Enrollment Kit and paper application in English or Spanish and speak to a customer service representative.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 11

Old Cutler Animal Clinic Providing High Quality Veterinary Care in South Dade Since 1974 A Full Service Veterinary Hospital General Medicine Vaccinations Surgery Orthopedics Dentistry Radiology ECG Ultrasound Senior Pet Health Care Pharmacy

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Page 12

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

www.kendallvillagediner.com 8695 SW 124 Avenue • Miami, FL 33183 • 305-595-4444 WE SERVE BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER ALL $6.50 movie tickets available with minimum meal purchase of $6.95 per person.

Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

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Clearwater Pools and Patio maintains over 400 pools throughout the South Dade community, and they know that your pool area is an integral part of your home. You swim, you entertain there and it is your backyard oasis. As with many Florida homes, your pool probably is visible from several of your rooms, so it is important for this area to be maintained and to look sharp. Clearwater Pools and Patio maintains residential and commercial pools, repairs and installs pool equipment and the specialty is renovating pool and patio areas. Owner Ken Manheimer assembled his team of seven professionals for Clearwater Pools in 1996 and together they have more than 40 years of combined experience in the industry. “We have a fresh approach to pool service,” Manheimer said. “We strive to maintain our customers’ pool systems, educate our clients and communicate with them on a regular basis. Our supervisors are always on the road, so we are always available.” He continued, “We are professional in our service, so we want to be professional in our company appearance, as well. Our trucks are clean and new, and marked with our logo. Our supervisors are always in uniform because we enter our clients’ backyards, so it’s important for them to know who is there.” For your swimming enjoyment Clearwater Pools installs heat pumps so you can stay warm in your pool year-round. They also install salt chlorination systems, for those who want an alternative to liquid chlorine. Manheimer said that many pools need resurfacing after a 10-year period and Clearwater Pools offers all of the popular

options. From Diamond Brite and similar finishes, to tile mosaics on the pool bottom, to completely tiled pools, your pool can match the feeling of your home and be truly unique. With today’s pool renovations, it also is popular to add colored lights, steps and seated areas in the pool and even a beach entry, complete with chairs and umbrellas in the water. Water features, using natural or artificial rock, or beam water falls, which feature a sheet of water flowing off a straight edge, will transform your pool into an island retreat. “Pool areas are not just for swimming anymore,” Manheimer said. “They’ve become the place in the home to hang out, lounge and cool off when entertaining.” Clearwater Pools and Patio can give your pool deck and patio a new and improved look. Manheimer said that currently, most customers are choosing travertine or brick pavers on sand. The company also offers the popular Eurotile and Sundek surfaces. “There are so many materials and options for patio and pool coping surfaces,” he said. “Whatever a customer needs that’s pool related, we do. Some companies won’t touch small jobs,” Manheimer said. “We’ll fix tiles or coping that have popped up and touch up deck surfaces. We don’t say ‘no’ to any customer request.” Manheimer also announced that beginning in the summer of 2010, Clearwater Pools and Patio will offer new pool construction service. Clearwater Pools and Patio is located at 12308 SW 117 Ct. in Kendall and the phone number is 305-278-9395. For more information, you may send an email to <clearwatermiami@gmail.com>, or to see the photo gallery of the company’s work, visit the website at <www.clearwatermiami.com>.


Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

The Top 5 Questions When Facing Foreclosure BY DANIA S. FERNANDEZ, ESQ., Attorney at Law 1. Once I get the Complaint for Foreclosure what should I do? When you receive the complaint, your best action is to consult with an experienced attorney to properly respond to the Complaint of Foreclosure. In Florida, you will have 20 days to give a response to the Complaint for Foreclosure. Once the response has been filed, you will have between 6 to 12 months to take action and make decisions Each provision in the complaint should be answered with a Denial or Admit along with your defenses against the Foreclosure Complaint. An Attorney will know the law and will properly form the answers and all the defenses on your behalf. Many of my clients come to my office with a recorded hardship letter as their answer to the Complaint. A recorded hardship letter is not an answer to the complaint. 2. I do not have any money right now. What should I do? Analyze your employment options and start looking for a way to make money. You must show some kind of income to qualify for modification or refinance. If there is no income, the Lender will not agree to new loan terms. Even though money is short, investing in a qualified attorney is essential. The attorney will be able to defend your case and may be able to negotiate a better agreement with the bank. 3. Should I keep my home? Is it still a good investment? The following is a list of points to consider when making this decision: •Do you owe more than the property is currently worth?

•What are the new modification terms the Lender is offering you? •Are there properties comparable to yours available at reduced prices? •Are there any loan programs you could qualify for if you do buy a new home? •Are family or friends available to help you get a loan as a co-signer/co-borrower? 4. Should I leave my home and rent another? No. It is not until there is a foreclosure sale date and the sale has occurred that you will need to leave your home. Hire an attorney to defend your case. You can stay in your home during the defense of your case. During this time you should be working at getting a loan modification with the Lender. This will take a few months. 5. Can anyone get a loan modification? No. First, a hardship must exist, such as loss of income, health issues, divorce, etc. Second, there must be proof of income sufficient to substantiate the payment of a loan modification. Third, the monthly expense should not be greater than the monthly income. We are experiencing great results with loan modifications. Some examples: 4%fixed for a term of 40 years; 3% for 5 years and thereafter fixed at prime; decreases in interest rates from 8.5% to 6%. These are a few of the most commonly asked question and answers regarding foreclosure. For more information go to www.daniafernandez.com and download the e-book “Foreclosure and Bankruptcy Today: What everyone should know?” by Dania Fernandez, Esq. and Emmanuel Perez, Esq. For a FREE initial consultation please call Dania Fernandez at 305-2544492 or e-mail me at dania@fap-law.com. Offices are located at 10205 S. Dixie Hwy. Suite 204.

Page 13

Holy Rosary Flea Market Saturday February 6th, 2010 • 8am - 2pm COME SHOP! 9500 SW 184 Street

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Page 14

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

Two of my trees are failing to thrive while others of the same type are doing well. What is the problem? The tr ees may s imply be plantTHE ed too deep. When a tree ARBORIST Right Tree – Right Place is planted too deep, the base of the tree has soil and moisture right up against the trunk. This impairs tree growth, encourages root rot and pest infestation. The tree is working so hard to defend itself against this damage that it fails to thrive. Deep mulch packed around the base of a tree results in the same damage as too-deep planting. Mulch should be limited to less than 6 inches deep, start at least a foot away from the tree trunk, and be used underneath the canopy out to the canopy edge, if possible. Circling or girdling roots impair tree health and growth This occurs when roots circle back and girdle the trunk of the tree. The roots turn up towards the surface and cross back in over the base of the tree strangling the tree and causing moisture

retention at the base of the tree. This problem can be avoided by looking at the root ball of a tree before you plant. A root system with lots of roots growing back in towards the center is not a good choice. How can I tell if a tree is planted too deep? If you cannot see the flare of the trunk at the base of a tree, it is planted too deep or mulched too high. The tree should have a “trumpet” shape at the bottom. If you have a tree that is failing to thrive, call a certified arborist before you decide to replace the tree. There are ways to remedy the problems and save a tree you have invested time and money in.

Ron von Paulus is an International Society of Arboriculture certified arborist (ID #Fl-5770A). He has more than 20 years experience working with trees in South Florida. He offers free consultations to homeowners and businesses. Please contact him at Big Ron’s Tree Service 305-588-3091 or by email at ron@BigRonsTreeService.com

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 15

CAA offering scholarships to college-bound students The Miami-Dade Community Action Agency’s (CAA) Community Advisory Committees (CAC) are accepting applications through Tuesday, Feb. 16, for educational scholarships in the amount of $1,500 each. Applications are available at all CAA Community Service Centers, or can be downloaded at <www.miamidade.gov/caa/citizen_participation.asp>. To qualify for the scholarships, which are awarded to individuals between the ages of 16 and 25 to assist them with reaching their educational goals, candidates must currently be enrolled in a college or vocational institution or will be attending a college or vocational institution this fall. The individual must reside within the boundaries of any of the 16 target areas represented by a CAC, and whose annual household income does not exceed 125 percent of the Health and Human Services Poverty Income Guidelines. The individual must have at least a “C” average in school to qualify. Other requirements include performing community service hours and any employment during the candidate’s junior or senior year. For additional information about the scholarship program, call 786-469-4600.

Actual Patient

OBTAIN A PASSPORT AT CORAL GABLES CITY HALL Now until Mar. 27 the City of Coral Gables will be processing passport applications on Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The passport office will continue to be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. On whichever day you come, remember to bring proof of citizenship and proof of identity, as well as two passport photos, which can be taken at the facility. You must pay with two checks or money orders. For information call 305-460-5351. THE HENRY FLAGLER YOU MAY NOT KNOW Meda Jensen will speak on Thursday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m., at the Historic Homestead Town Hall Museum, 41 N. Krome Ave. in Homestead, about the Henry Flagler not known to the public eye. Jensen, who will offer attendees an opportunity to decide for themselves who the real Henry Flagler was, frequently is a speaker on South Dade history and the people of Everglades National Park. Seating is limited. Come early and enjoy dinner in downtown Homestead, and view the collection of historic photos in the museum. For more information call Ruth Campbell

COMMUNITY NEWS briefs at 305-242-4463 between 1 and 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

SWITCHBOARD OF MIAMI SEEKING CREOLE-SPEAKING VOLUNTEERS Switchboard of Miami Inc., is recruiting volunteers to answer the agency’s helpline information and referral calls in Creole, and provide emotional support to the Haitian community in this time of grief. Training will be provided at Switchboard of Miami, 701 SW 27 Ave., Miami. For more information on how to volunteer, contact Zaymar Vargas at 305-358-1640, ext. 161, or by email at <zvargas@switchboardmiami.org>. ‘THE RACE,’ JAN. 31, TO BENEFIT CHILDREN’S BEREAVEMENT CENTER “The Race,” hosted by Rachel and Brian Dubow and benefiting the Children’s Bereavement Center, will take place on Sunday, Jan. 31, at Coral Reef Park, 7895 SW 152 St. in Palmetto Bay. Registration

will begin at 9 a.m. and the race will start at 10. Brunch will be served. The race, a three-mile run, walk or roll around the park, was established seven years ago in memory of Rachel and Brian’s uncle, Brent Hershman, and takes place annually. This year’s race is dedicated to the memory of Rachel and Brian’s dear friend Alexander “Zander” Standiford. To date, the race has raised over $55,000 for the CBC. For more information, contact Peter Willig of the Children’s Bereavement Center at 305668-4902 or send email to <pswillig@childbereavement.org>.

ATTENTION VETERANS: VA BENEFITS TO BE HIGHLIGHTED AT FREE EVENT Veterans and their spouses can learn how to apply for the VA-administered Aid and Attendance benefit during a free seminar on Thursday, Jan. 28, 6:30 p.m., at Heartland

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Life is Brighter with a Smile Dr. Jorge Blanco DDS Comprehensive Dentistry for Every Smile Caring for you and your family since 1989. New patients are always welcome. Call today for your COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION and let us prove why we should be your new dental home.

Call 305-670-0352 | ImagesDentistry.com Conveniently located at: 7700 Red Road with lots of easy parking Friendly and Professional Staff


Page 16

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

NEWS,

from previous page

ACLF, 9400 SW 137 Ave. The seminar will be presented by Ric Pertierra of the American Association of Wartime Veterans, who will educate senior wartime veterans on the government benefit that can provide up to $1,949 per month, tax free, to help offset the cost of assisted living and other costs associated with aging. To RSVP for this free presentation, call Frankie Bell at 305-385-8290.

FREE DIABETES SCREENING OFFERED AT BAPTIST HOSPITAL More than 16,000 South Miami-Dade residents have diabetes and don’t even know it. Find out if you are one of them during a free diabetes screening at the Diabetes Care Center located in the Baptist Medical Arts Building, East Tower, 8940 N. Kendall Dr., Suite 803-E. The screenings take place daily, MondayFriday, by appointment only. For reservations, call the Diabetes Care Center at Baptist Hospital, 786-596-3696. CAA MICRO-ENTERPRISE GRANT FUNDING DEADLINE EXTENDED The Miami-Dade Community Action Agency (CAA) is extending the deadline for submission of applications for the Micro-Enterprise Grant Program to Friday, Feb. 5, at 3 p.m.

This program is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Addendum 1 has been added to the grant application, indicating the new deadline for submitting applications and the date for the notice of awards. Through the program, grants in the amount of $5,000 will be awarded to eligible small business owners through a competitive process in each of the 13 Miami-Dade County Commission districts. Applications should be submitted to any of the CAA Community Service Centers. Successful applicants will be notified on Mar. 9. For information, call 786-469-4682.

BORN FREE PET SHELTER’S ANNUAL BENEFIT ON FEB 6 Born Free Pet Shelter has planned its sixth annual benefit, “Tropical Night in Paradise,” dinner and silent auction on Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Key Biscayne Beach Club, 685 Ocean Dr., Key Biscayne. Music will be provided by Reggie Paul with catering by “Parties by Pat.” Tickets for this event cost $85 each or $800 for a table of 10. If you want to attend or donate to the shelter, issue your check to the Born Free Pet Shelter and send to: Born Free Pet Shelter, PO Box 823, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, or call Alicia Aballi at 305-361-5507. KIWANIS CLUB PRESENTING ‘AN EVENING OF THE ARTS’ The Kiwanis Club of Pinecrest/Palmetto

Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

Bay will present “An Evening of the Arts,” on Saturday, Feb. 6, from 5 to 8 p.m., at Evelyn Greer Park, 8200 SW 124 St. in Pinecrest. There will be live entertainment and complimentary hors d’oeuvres, plus artwork and wine for sale at this free event. For more information, call 305-252-0305 or send email to <sgordon999@bellsouth.net>.

MUSEUM TO PRESENT ‘MUSIC & POETRY OF LINCOLN’S TIME’ To conclude the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial, the Jewish Museum of Florida presents, “Music and Poetry of Lincoln’s Time,” on Thursday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., at the museum, 301 Washington Ave. in South Beach. The concert, organized and led by renowned South Florida clarinetist Paul Green, includes a narration about Lincoln’s relationship to the Jews, music of Lincoln’s time that he liked, musical tributes to Lincoln after his death, a recitation of Emma Lazarus’ poem inspired by Lincoln that is inscribed on the Statue of Liberty, a selection of patriotic songs written by American Jewish composers in the first half of the 20th century and concluding with an arrangement of portions of Aaron Copland’s A Lincoln Portrait, performed by the FIU Wind Ensemble. Admission costs $18 per person for museum members; $25 per person for non-members. Call 305-672-5044, ext. 3175, with a credit card number for reservations.

COMMISSIONER MOSS ANNOUNCES DISTRICT 9 SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS Small business owners in Miami-Dade Commission chair Dennis C. Moss’ District 9 will have the opportunity, from Feb. 8 to 22, to apply for Mom and Pop Small Business grants up to $5,000. Eligible business owners receiving grant awards may use the funds to assist their businesses by purchasing equipment, supplies, advertising/marketing, inventory, building liability insurance, security systems and/or to make minor renovations. To be considered, the applicant’s small businesses must be located in District 9 and meet certain criteria. Grant applications will be available for pick-up from Moss’ District North Office at 10710 SW 211 St., Suite 206 in South Dade Government Center, or District South Office at 1634 NW Sixth Ave. in Florida City from Tuesday, Feb. 8, through Tuesday, Feb. 22, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Applications can be accessed online at <www.miamidade.gov/district09>. All applications must be properly completed and returned between Wednesday, Feb. 23, and Friday, Feb. 25, by 5 p.m., only at the District North Office/South Dade Government Center, Suite 206. For information regarding Mom and Pop grant opportunities, contact Dallas Manuel in the District 9 office at 305-234-4938.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

NEWS,

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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

FORGET RED FOR VALENTINE’S DAY, NOW IT’S TIME TO THINK GREEN The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Division is hosting a workshop that teaches how to love your landscape by helping it recover from cold damage brought on by recent dips in temperature and keep it green year-round. The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 13, 9 a.m.-noon., at Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 SW 57 Ave. Workshop presenters will explain how much water you should be using on your lawn during the winter, which plants you should prune and which plants are spectacular winter bloomers. They will demonstrate proper techniques to maintain and promote good plant health, including fertilizer application, in ways that are eco-friendly. Attendees will be able to participate in a series of hands-on activities. The workshop registration fee is $10. To make your reservation, call Patty Viera at 305-248-3311, ext. 225. For more information, call Laura Vasquez at 305-248-3311, ext. 239. ANIMAL SERVICES CELEBRATES PET ADOPTION EVENT, FEB. 14 Animal Services invites you to celebrate the “Open Your Heart and Your Home” pet adoption event on Sunday, Feb. 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Animal Services Shelter, 7401 NW 74 St. in Medley. Interested adopters must be at least 18 years old. Adoption fees apply, including a $50 refundable deposit if the pet is not yet spayed or neutered. Under the spay/neuter agreement, only Miami-Dade County residents may adopt pets. Attendance is free and open to the public. Donations of dog and/or cat toys are appreciated. Adoption gift certificates, for people considering giving a pet to someone as a present, can be purchased so they can choose the pet best for their lifestyle. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY TO PRESENT BOATING SKILLS, SEAMANSHIP CLASSES The award-winning U.S. Coastguard Auxilliary Flotilla 65 presents Boating Skills and Seamanship Classes beginning Monday, Feb. 15, 7 p.m., at UM Rosential School, 4600 Rickenbacker Cswy. Learn and discover the right boat for you, equipment, boat handling, boat highway signs, rules of the road, weather for boating, navigation introduction, powering your boat, boat radio, knot tying and much more. The program is recognized by the State of Florida and meets the legal requirement for agerestricted power boaters. You may be eligible for boat insurance discounts after completing the program.

For additional information, contact Sheldon Dobkins at 305-666-6024 or Elena Cohan at <elena.flotilla65@gmail.com>.

SEMINAR: RESOLVE TO RUN CLEAN CAMPAIGN IN 2010 With dozens of elections scheduled throughout 2010, now is the time for candidates, their staff members and volunteers to get an update on election and fundraising regulations during a Campaign Skills Seminar sponsored by the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust. The seminar will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 6:30 p.m., at the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department Auditorium, 9300 NW 41 St. in Doral. The seminar will provide essential information to declared candidates, individuals considering running for election or anyone who wants to understand the legal and ethical obligations of seeking public office. Speakers include representatives of the Miami-Dade Ethics Commission, State Attorney’s Office and Elections Department. The event is free and open to the public. Attorneys can earn Continuing Legal Education credits from the Florida Bar. For more information or to reserve a seat, call Robert Thompson at 305-350-0630 or send email to <robthom@miamidade.gov>. HEAD START/EARLY HEAD START NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS The Miami-Dade Community Action Agency’s (CAA) Head Start/Early Head Start program will begin its open enrollment for the 2010-11 program year, which begins this August. Applications are being accepted until Apr. 30 for pregnant women and children ages 2 months to 5 years after Sept. 1. The program also provides services to homeless families with children. Applications are available at all Head Start/Early Head Start centers and CAA Community Service Centers throughout Miami-Dade County. Applications and a list of Head Start Centers may be downloaded from the county’s website at <www.miamidade.gov/caa/hsrecruitment.asp>. Head Start is a federally funded, comprehensive child development program serving low-income families. Services available through this program include health, mental health and nutrition, assistance with disabilities, education, social services and parent involvement. For additional information or to locate a Head Start Center in your neighborhood, call 786-469-4622.

Page 17

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Two wild evenings planned to benefit Miami Metrozoo

PRESENTED BY

BY CINDY CASTELBLANCO

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

FEBRUARY 11, 2010 7:00pm - 11:00pm FREEDOM TOWER in Downtown Miami

ART Francesco LoCastro, JC Bravo, Adam C Schrimmer, Daniel Fila MUSIC Otto Von Schirach, Carmel Ophir Afrobeta, BFGF Notorious Nastie Emcee

FASHION Luis Valenzuela, Hair and Make-up by David D Jaded FILM Miami International Film Festival PERFORMANCE Circ X, Krave Art ART VIEWING Miami Mumbai MASTERMIND Grant Presented By Complimentary

A DONATION WILL BE MADE TO BENEFIT

Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

The Zoological Society of Florida and the Host Committee are hosting two wild evenings to celebrate wildlife in the spirit of Carnival — the new Beastkeeper VIP Party on Jan. 29 and Feast with the Beasts (FWTB) on Mar. 5. Presented by TotalBank, both events will help support the Zoological Society of Florida’s wildlife education and conservation programs on behalf of Miami Metrozoo. Taking place at the private residence of event co-chair Irene Korge and Chris Korge on Jan. 29 from 7 to 11 p.m., the Beastkeeper VIP Party will be vibrant as guests are invited to wear Venetian Carnival-style outfits and masks. Aside from open bars, cool jazz tunes, disc jockeys, and complimentary valet parking, revelers will enjoy fire dancers and exotic animal encounters from Miami Metrozoo. Exquisite fare will be served from fine restaurants including Azul at the Mandarin Oriental, Meat Market, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Canyon Ranch Grill, Caffé Abbracci and Giardino’s Gourmet Salads. Aroma Expresso, Bake Me a Wish, Hot Cookies and 2 Girls and a Cupcake will be satiating sweet cravings with delectable desserts and a decadent chocolate fountain. An extravagant silent auction will include items like a basketball signed by Alonzo Mourning, Guy Harvey lithographs and stays at the Atlantis Resort & Spa, Mandarin Oriental Miami and in the Amazon Reserva Rainforest Lodge in Peru. Admission to the Beastkeeper VIP Party also includes entry to FWTB at 8 p.m. with a VIP Cocktail Reception at 7 p.m. on Mar 5. The main event, Feast with the Beasts, returns to Miami Metrozoo on Mar. 5 from 8 p.m. to midnight. In its 17th year, one of the best events in town will feature 40 of South Florida’s finest restaurants, eight open bars, wild animal encounters, live entertainment and complimentary valet parking. To date some of the FWTB participating restaurants and dessert providers include: Gotham Steak at The Fontainebleau,

Trattoria Sole, Creative Tastes Catering & Event Production, Kitchen 305, Gatsby’s Kendall, Kaliapy’s and Blue Bell Ice Cream. “We are so excited to have added the new Beastkeeper VIP Party as a prelude to the legendary Feast with the Beasts event,” said Norma Jean Abraham and Irene Korge, FWTB co-chairs. “We are honored to chair these events with a host committee of inspiring people that will help us make it an even better fundraiser. We expect the restaurants and entertainment to surpass anything that has come before.” More than a 1,000 party goers, clad in Mardi-Gras Carnival themed outfits with masks, will enjoy delicious food, music and dance routines by So You Think You Can Dance star Brandon Bryant and Pyrofusion, all to benefit the Zoological Society of Florida’s (ZSF) conservation and education programs on behalf of Miami Metrozoo. After all of the wining and dining, every guest is invited to Ron Magill’s Spectacular Dance After Party from 10 p.m. to midnight at Dr. Wilde’s World plaza. Live entertainers and the hottest deejay in town playing the latest tunes will make the party unforgettable. Feast with the Beasts’ presenting sponsor is TotalBank. Other event sponsors include: Assurant; Bank of America Private Wealth Management; Bernstein Global Wealth Management-a unit of AllianceBernstein LP; CapTrust; Cherokee Enterprises Inc.; FP&L; Miami Jai-Alai; Norma Jean Abraham; Shutts & Bowen LLP; United Property Management; United Way, and White & Case LLP. Limited Beastkeeper VIP Party Passport tickets are available for $500 each. These passport tickets include admission to the VIP Party on Jan. 29 as well as to FWTB and the VIP cocktail reception on Mar. 5. Admission tickets to FWTB, limited to the first 1,000 guests, are available for $175. Those planning on attending should make advanced reservations. Sponsorship packages also are available. Visit <www.fwtb.org> or call 305-255-5551 to purchase tickets or for more information. Miami Metrozoo is located at 12400 SW 152 St.

SPONSORS

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

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Call to reserve your seat today! Miami Denny’s Restaurant 15235 S.W. 137th Ave. February 2 & 16, 10:00 a.m. Looking for a neighborhood meeting more convenient to you? Additional dates and locations may be available. Call the plan for more details. Remember, if you want to switch, now’s the time. A sales representative will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call the number listed.

Call 1-866-984-9187 (TTY/TDD 1-888-788-4010 FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED A M TO P M SEVEN DAYS A WEEK s WWW MEDICARE THINGS COM 3UMMIT Summit Value (Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)), Summit Ideal (HMO), Summit Ideal One (HMO), Summit Plus (HMO) and Summit Maximum (HMO) are Coordinated Care Plans with a Medicare Advantage contract. 4HE BENEl T INFORMATION PROVIDED HEREIN IS A BRIEF SUMMARY BUT NOT A COMPREHENSIVE DESCRIPTION OF AVAILABLE BENEl TS !DDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT BENEl TS IS AVAILABLE TO ASSIST YOU IN MAKING A DECISION ABOUT YOUR COVERAGE 4HIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE PLAN %XCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS MAY APPLY PLEASE CONTACT THE PLAN FOR MORE DETAILS

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 23

New Royal Palm Grill opens in Cutler Bay

Customers already are enjoying the new Royal Palm Grill. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY GARY ALAN RUSE

Expanding on the success of the popular Royal Palm Grill in Homestead, a new restaurant location recently opened in the Town of Cutler Bay. Business partners David Grubbs and William Lockley bought the former Lots of Lox Deli in the Old Cutler Town Center at 20445 Old Cutler Rd. and hope to offer residents a wider selection of fare with delicious homestyle cooking, serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. “We have the same menu as we do in Homestead, with breakfast and lunch specials,” Grubbs said. “It’s mainly American but we have Latin dishes as well. The soups are now all homemade as well as the sauces.” Royal Palm Grill is only closed three times a year — Christmas Day, Thanksgiving and Easter. It employs 12 people, mostly from the area. Grubbs likes where they are, and the hometown atmosphere. “I think the location is great, right next to Publix,” said Grubbs, a Kendall resident. “It’s a very busy plaza and we look forward to benefiting from that. This is kind of a new world for me, where everybody knows everybody.”

The restaurant delivers during the week, with a $15 minimum order, and there is no charge for delivery within the area. “We already have some businesses that use us — from Mercedes Benz of Cutler Bay to several places within Southland Mall — which has helped us grow our business,” Grubbs said. “We send out a fax everyday to local businesses with our daily specials. People come in and ask to be put on our fax list.” Lockley is a resident of the Cutler Ridge area and is pleased to be bringing the menu of the popular Homestead diner style restaurant to the Old Cutler Town Center. “It’s a great spot,” Lockley said. “We’re changing the atmosphere from a Jewish delicatessen to more of a melting pot. We have a wider variety of foods and hope to reach more people.” Laura Reynolds, executive director of the Tropical Audubon Society and a resident of Cutler Bay, already is a regular customer of Royal Palm Grill, and says she is pleased they have opened in the area. “We needed a good restaurant here,” Reynolds said after having lunch last week. The Royal Palm Grill can be reached by phone (voice) at 305-238-3866. The fax number is 305-238-6770.

Serving Breakfast & Lunch Daily 6:30 am to 2:30 pm You'll always find fresh muffins and Southern hospitality at this mom-and-pop restaurant owned by Mike and Mary Mabjeesh. Mouth-watering house specialties include eggs benedict, breakfast burrito, country sausage gravy and patties over biscuits with eggs, cinnamon nut French toast and homemade Belgian waffles and pancakes. Home-baked muffins in flavors such as banana nut, blueberry, raisin bran, corn, orange cranberry, chocolate chip and lemon poppy are the Muffin Tin's specialty. The Muffin Tin Restaurant Fast luncheon specials include homemade soups and chili, cold and hot sandwiches and a variety of hot platters, dogs, burgers, and salads. Save room for dessert: try the popular homemade rum cake. Please stop in soon!

Pinecrest Town Centre 12655 S. Dixie Hwy., Miami, Florida 33156 (305) 235-9020 • Fax (305) 235-1023 www.MaryMuffinTin.com


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Romantic Cauley Square Village says ‘I love you’ in special way BY SHERRY MILLER

For 107 years Historic Cauley Square Village has provided a romantic destination for guests who live and work in South Florida, as well as for international visitors from around the world. “Cauley Square seems to say ‘I Love You’ in a special way,” said executive chef Noel Fiallo. “Everyone that visits falls in love just from the romantic atmosphere.” This year is no exception as Cauley Square will celebrate Valentine’s Day Lunar Weekend on Friday, Feb. 12; Saturday, Feb. 13, and Sunday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. Charming horse and buggy rides will be available in the afternoons with all traditional historical Cottage Shops open with Platters artist Kim Bankston performing live in the Village Chalet Restaurant from 6 to 11 p.m. on Friday with no cover charge and free parking. Bankston will be singing his most romantic repertoire of Only You, Twilight Time, Magic Touch, Great Pretender and more, including his classic Brazilian jazz and instrumentals. Built in 1903 by multi-cultured pioneers of the Flagler Railroad, Cauley Square is one of the last official Railroad Villages in the USA and Florida. In fact, Henry Flagler’s residence is still standing adjacent to the world-famous Tea Room Restaurant on the main street of the cobble-stoned village with some 20 original cottage shops. Today the environmentally preserved 10 acres of lush tropical Florida foliage frame sculptures, patios, fountains and atriums with classical background music flowing through the gardens sound system is illuminated at night with thou-

• • • • •

Today the environmentally preserved 10 acres of lush tropical Florida foliage frame sculptures, patios, fountains and atriums with classical background music flowing through the gardens sound system is illuminated at night with thousands of twinkling mini lights. sands of twinkling mini lights. Special dinners will be served from 6 to 11 p.m at the Village Chalet Restaurant and the world-famous Tea Room Restaurant located in the heart of Cauley Square Village. For reservations, call direct to 305-8781410 or send email to <IslandColor.CauleySquare@yahoo.com>. Cauley Square Village is owned and operated by Frances Varela. The Village Chalet Restaurant and the world-famous Tea Room Restaurant at Historic Cauley Square Village are located at 22400 Old Dixie Hwy. Restaurants are open daily seven days a week and parking is free. For details visit online at <www.cauleysquare.com>.

Riding Lessons Balanced Seat & Hunt Seat Instruction Jumping & Basic Dressage Local Horse Shows Stalls Available for Rent

(305)781-3882 • kami@thumbsupriding.com www.thumbsupriding.com

Page 25


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

! " # $ ! % & ' ( (( )) * " ! (( % & ++,' +( (( )) - &) -& # & (( (( ! (( )) & . Cutler Bay Tire& Auto Service Centers offers complete auto care backed by the Gemini Nationwide Warranty. This includes oil changes, brakes, A/C, com! " #" $ % & ' puterized alignment & balancing, radiator, shocks & struts, tune-ups, suspension and transmission service. We carry all brands of tires for your car, truck, () )( *+, ) $ % " % ) $ van and SUV.

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ATTENTION VETERANS:

VA benefits to be highlighted at free event Veterans and their spouses can learn how to apply for the VA administered Aid & Attendence benefit during a free seminar on Thursday, Jan. 28th at 6:30pm. at Heartland ACLF located at 9400 SW 137th Ave, Miami, FL 33186. The seminar will be presented by Ric Pertierra of American Association of Wartime Veterans, who will educate senior wartime veterans on the government benefit that can provide up to $1,949 per month tax free to help offset the cost of assisted living and other costs associated with aging.

To RSVP for this free presentation, call Frankie Bell at (305)385-8290.

Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

Free ‘Super Art in the Park’ comes to Gables on Jan. 29 BY SYLVIA VIETA

A free official Super Bowl event, “Super Art in the Park,� on Friday, Jan. 29, 6 p.m.midnight, at Ponce Circle Park in Coral Gables, is being co-hosted by the Kiwanis of Little Havana Arts and Music Foundation, City of Coral Gables, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Coral Gables and the Super Bowl Host Committee. Modeled after the monthly “Art in the Park� series held the first Friday of each month on Gallery Night, this super celebration is an officially sanctioned event for the Super Bowl festivities. Super Art in the Park begins with a pep rally at 6 p.m., followed by the reggae music of Fourth Dimension at 7 p.m. and the smooth rock sounds of Jacob Jeffries Band at 8 p.m. The fusion continues with the soul music of

Ketchy Shuby at 9 p.m. and culminates with Latin funk by DJ Le Spam and the Spam Allstars. The Carnaval Miami Poster presented by Dewar’s 12 will be unveiled and kids will have activities all night long with art lessons by Marcy Grosso, the Carnaval Miami poster artist. Team mascots will be available for photo opportunities. There will be special appearances throughout the evening by sports personalities, memorabilia, and activities for the entire family as the community welcomes the world for the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl XLIV. Admission is free. For details, visit the event’s website at <www.artintheparkconcerts.com>. Super Art in the Park is sponsored by Fox Sports en Espaùol, Comcast, Dewar’s 12, Boost Mobile, Coors Light and Fuze.

See us online at: www.communitynewspapers.com


Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 27

Net Income vs. Net Worth – More Money vs. More Wealth One of my New Year Resolutions is to be more financially independent. Do I want a Pay Raise or to have an increase in my wealth? For those who are employees the focus is on salary. For sales people the focus is on commissions. The focus is on earnings. After taxes, employee benefits and 401k deductions you have a net amount. Many people of this mind set want more salary and/or commissions to feel like they are becoming more financially independent. The focus of an entrepreneur or business owner is not on income from sales but on what is left over after all the bills are paid. The financial term of what’s left over is net worth. Net worth is wealth. What is the purpose of Financial Independence? Freedom. The more money you have after the bills have been paid, the more choices you have to use the left over money. How do I find the passion to be Financial Independent? To help yourself be motivated make a wish list of all the things you would like to do if money was not a concern. House, car, travel, charities are just a few to consider. Visualizing a specific item to own will help you to start working toward buying it with the money available after the bills are paid.

I have items of value – my home, car and 401k but I owe on a mortgage, car loan and credit cards. I struggle pay check to pay check. How can I find financial independence? You need to review your financial condition no matter how bleak it may be. You need to know what’s on your balance sheet; what you have, what you owe and what’s left over. At the same time, you need to review how you spend your money. Make a budget. In order to progress, you need to pay down completely on what you owe. What you owe is called debt. A balance sheet and a budget are not only a starting point, but you need to pay attention to the results on an ongoing basis. Rick Tonkinson was broke and unemployed at age 37. At that time, if he earned $5, he owed $6. He found a passion to be debt free and it took him 5 years to become financially independent. Part of his passion was to educate himself in financial planning. He become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) in 1991. His focus for the past 18 years is to help other working class people to attain financial freedom. Rick Tonkinson and his family have their office at 100 Almeria Ave, Suite 310, Coral Gables, FL 33134. Telephone 305-447-6617. Securities offered through Securities America Inc member of FINRA/SIPC. Rick Tonkinson Registered Representative. Advisory Services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Rick Tonkinson Investment Advisor Representative. Rick Tonkinson and Associates, Inc. & Securities America companies are not affiliated.

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

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Page 28

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Autographed NASCAR racing helmet prize for Shake-A-Leg benefit raffle BY CINDI PERANTONI Shake-A-Leg Miami — a community-based aquatic activities center serving ablebodied individuals as well as those with physical, developmental, and economic challenges — has launched an online raffle for a chance to win an official, one-of-a-kind NASCAR racing helmet signed by 32 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series drivers including four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson. The helmet was donated to Shake-A-Leg Miami by supporters Kenneth Batchelor, vice president of CMC Helmet has signatures of 32 NASCAR drivers. Construction, and racing ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– enthusiast Brack Maggard, CEO of Southern Pan Services Company and Leffler, Eric McClure, Michael McDowell, co-owner of RAB Racing, to help raise funds Alex Tagliani, John Wes Townley, Kenny Wallace, Mike Wallace, and David Green. for the organization. “We are extremely grateful to Brack and The 32 signatures were collected at Texas Motor Speedway and Phoenix International Kenny for giving us this unique opportuniRaceway earlier this year and include many ty to raise funds, said Harry Horgan, CEO and co-founder of Shake-A-Leg Miami. of NASCAR’s top names, such as: Sprint Cup Chase drivers Jimmie “The helmet is truly one-of-a-kind and we Johnson, Juan Pablo Montoya, Mark Martin, encourage people to log-on and purchase a raffle ticket. It is with your support that we Denny Hamlin, and Matt Kenseth; Sprint Cup Series drivers Martin Truex can continue empowering and improving Jr., Clint Bowyer, Carl Edwards, Brad the quality of life for so many deserving Keselowski, Paul Menard, David individuals.” Tickets are available currently for $25 Reutimann, Reed Sorenson, and Nationwide Series drivers Justin Allgaier, each and can be purchased on the Shake-AMichael Annett, Trevor Bayne, Mike Bliss, Leg Miami website at <www.shakealegmiaJason Bowles, James Buescher, Kent Butler, mi.org>. The winner will be selected on Johnny Chapman, Kevin Conway, Brendan Mar. 1 following the commencement of the Gaughan, Mark Green, Kevin Hamlin, Jason 2010 NASCAR season in Daytona.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010


Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 29

Corvette adds Grand Sport model to 2010 lineup Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS Grand Sport is one of the legendary names in Corvette racing history, the dream of renowned GM engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov. His dream led to the production of five special prototype Corvettes in 1963, but the project was later shelved, following GM’s agreement to stay out of manufacturerbacked auto racing. The five prototypes were based on the 1963 Corvette design and were hand-assembled under Duntov’s direction. While the cars looked like production models, they really were built for racing and shared little with the assembly line versions. Although never officially sanctioned by General Motors, the five Grand Sport prototypes were raced extensively in the 1960s by “private” racers who had strong contacts within Duntov’s circle. Today, all five prototypes are accounted for and listed among the most valuable in the Corvette collector market.

Chevrolet offered a limited-edition Grand Sport production model in 1996 to commemorate the five originals and mark the end of the C4 platform in Corvette production. Now, an all-new 2010 version combines Corvette’s LS3-based powertrain with widebody styling, a wider track and a racing-bred suspension. It’s available with either a sixspeed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The LS3 6.2-liter engine is rated at 430 hp and 424 pounds-feet of torque with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust hikes the power to 436 horses. The Grand Sport replaces last year’s Z51 package and delivers better handling thanks to wider wheels and tires; revised shock, stabilizer bar and spring specifications, and specific gearing. It all adds up to a 0-60 performance of four seconds and an EPA-estimated 26 mpg on the highway. Grand Sport coupe models equipped with the manual transmission are uniquely equipped for race track competition, too, with a dry-sump oiling system, differential cooler and a rearmounted battery. The Grand Sport also includes: • Wider front and rear fenders, including specific front fenders with integrated Grand Sport badges;

Chevrolet has returned the storied Grand Sport name to the 2010 Corvette lineup, joining the ZR1, Z06 and standard coupe and convertible models.

• Z06-style front splitter and tall rear spoiler; • Functional brake ducts and extra cooling; • Unique 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels; painted finish standard and chrome finish optional; • Large 275/35ZR18 tires in front and 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear; • Z06-size brakes, including 14-inch front rotors with six-piston calipers and 13.4-inch rear rotors with four-piston calipers; • Specific manual transmission gear ratios, and • Specific rear axle ratio on automatic-

equipped models. A paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmission is available, while an optional Heritage package adds iconic front fender hash marks offered in four colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. Base price on the 2010 Corvette Grand Sport is $58,540. Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.

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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

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9500 S.W. 97 Ave. • Miami, Fl. 33176 www.pinewoodacres.org Pinewood Acres School provides an educational environment designed to foster leadership skills and to stimulate and nurture the academic, physical and developmental needs of children. Located on a beautiful 10-acre campus, Pinewood Acres continues a strong commitment to academic excellence and good citizenship. Pinewood Acres takes pride in providing small classes and experienced teachers to create a nurturing environment where each child is encouraged to flourish.

NOW OPEN IN THE OLD CUTLER SHOPS (next to Starbucks)

REGISTRATION FOR THE 2010-2011 OPENS IN JANUARY. Located near the Falls, Baptist Hospital, Dadeland and the Don Shula Expressway

For more information on a personal tour and classroom visit call

305-271-3211

www.pinewoodacres.org Accredited by the National Independent Private School Organization (NIPSA), Florida Council of Independent School (FCIS) and the Florida Kindergarten Council (FKC).

Visit our store today to receive your complimentary nylon transport bag, along with $100.00 worth of dry cleaning coupons.

7290 SW 168 Street • 305-254-8880 www.sirgalloway.com


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Jan. 26 - Feb. 1, 2010

South Miami 7325 SW 57th Ave Ph: 305-667-1195 Pinecrest 8285 SW 124th St Ph: 305-235-9341 Miami Beach 545 41st St (Arthur Godfrey Rd.)

Ph: 305-531-0836


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