South Miami News June 7 2010 Online edition

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

South Miami

JUNE 8 - 14, 2010

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Somerset SoMi celebrates Around Town the end to their first year Fun and games

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BY LEE STEPHENS

omerset SoMi, the new kids on the block, celebrates the end of its first year! The Charter School is the first bilingual Charter School in South Miami.

“This has been a fabulous first year,” said Principal Kim Guilarte Gil. “The students, teachers, parents and administrators have been involved in making this, our first year, a successful one.”

Students have made friends and as a result, families have united to create lasting friendships. From the first gathering as a family at “Habitat for SoMi” to the Preschool and Kindergarten graduations, this year was one where many firsts were initiated. The kids participated in many cultural, after-school enrichment activities that have helped their understanding of the Community and the World.

This year they also helped the South Miami Community with its Thanksgiving food drive, raising toys for Amigos for Kids, and helping with the disaster in Haiti.

The kids have learned to be part of a community where they all pitch in and give back.

“The kids have a wonderful family here

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in the City of Pleasant Living

BY MICHAEL MILLER <Michael@communitynewspapers.com>

Ms. Caro’s first and second grade classes.

Mayor Stoddard addresses RSMA

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BY GARY ALAN RUSE

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outh Miami Mayor Philip Stoddard will be the guest speaker at the meeting of the Red Sunset Merchant’s Association on June 8.

The meeting will start at 11:45 a.m. at Casa Larios restaurant in South Miami, with time for networking before and after the program and luncheon. This will be the first opportunity for Mayor Stoddard to address the organization and he said he is looking forward to it.

“I will tell the association my views

on the importance of businesses to the city, the imperative for improved relations between residents and business owners, and the need to support small businesses through the recession,” Stoddard said. “That’s a view shared by the rest of the commission, I might add.”

Stoddard is a professor of Biological Sciences at Florida International University, is 53, married and has one child. He is a graduate of Swarthmore College and the University of Washington.

Casa Larios is located at 5859 Southwest 73rd Street.

T he s oap ope ra at city hall continues and some of our never to be revealed sources tell me that they overheard one of our bright eyed and bushy tailed commissioners tell the now old city manager something along this line, “Oh good, you have children. Well, there are five of us up here and we all need some attention.” And boy oh boy, do they need attention and would someone please pay attention to them.

You can rest assured, if you don’t give it to them, they will do something real soon to get someone to write about or talk about them. And by the way, how are those hidden microphones doing nowadays?

I hear that at a recent CRA meeting, the board instructed staff not to place any more advertising with us. Hmmm. Well folks, I think that this is wonderful; they didn’t like what we wrote so they’re holding back on giving us paying ads.

Golly, I’ll just bet you that if the city attorney researches that type of behavior and checks out the lawsuit that the Broward Reviews filed against the Broward County Sheriff’s Department, he’d tell you all about the real world most of us live in and that the courts gave the Review a bunch of money for the BCSD retaliating against the newspaper.

But alas, the city shouldn’t be concerned about that because the last time

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AROUND TOWN,

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June 8 - 14, 2010

June 8 - 14, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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K-8 Center recognized for year round drug prevention

BY AMY GOLDSTEIN

Marisol Arceo, Informed Families Community Action Team Director, Assistant Principal Maida Court, PTSA President Marilyn Correa-Gonzalez, Community Involvement Specialist Piedad Abedrabbo, Principal Anamarie G. Moreiras and Simone Brown Knight, Informed Families Statewide Director of Red Ribbon Certified Schools Program.

Editor’s Note: Due to a printing error in the June 1 -7, 2010 edition of South Miami News, Community Newspapers will run this article again in its entirety.

Kindergarteners dressed in red proudly marched down the sidewalk at South Miami K-8 Center on Tuesday, May 25th, to join in celebrating the school’s most recent accolade: Red Ribbon Certification.

South Miami K-8 Center is one of only four schools in Miami-Dade County selected for this distinguished honor. Red Ribbon Certified Schools, a program of Informed Families and the National Family Partnership, recognizes schools that improve academic performance by keeping kids drug and alcohol free, and engaging parents and the community.

“The Red Ribbon Certified Schools program provides a wonderful opportunity to honor schools that utilize the Red Ribbon Campaign and other effective prevention strategies year round to help kids grow up safe, healthy and drug-free,” said Peggy Sapp, President & CEO of Informed

Families. “South Miami K-8 Center does just that – and involves the entire community of students, parents, administrators and South Miami citizens in the process.

That is prevention at its best.”

During the recognition ceremony on May 25, School Board member Augustin Barrera and Vice Mayor Valerie Newman of South Miami congratulated the students, parents, faculty and administrators for their

achievements. Vice Mayor Newman went on to suggest that all South Miami area schools should work toward Red Ribbon Certification.

Other participants at the event included Peggy Sapp, President & CEO of Informed Families, Simone Brown Knight, Statewide Director of Red Ribbon Certified Schools, Margaret Sotham, Director of Informed Families’ South

Miami Drug-Free Coalition and PTSA President Marilyn Correa-Gonzalez. The event concluded with South Miami K-8 Principal Anamarie G. Moreiras raising the Red Ribbon Certified Schools flag while reminding participating students about the importance of staying drug and alcohol free.

To be considered for Red Ribbon Certification, schools must utilize substance abuse prevention-related curriculum guided by best practices, work with parents as partners and engage in year-round Red Ribbon events. Schools selected for certification remain certified for a three-year period. The program was originally developed by Informed Families, The National Family Partnership and the Florida Center for Prevention Research at Florida State University and funded by the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) of the US Department of Health & Human Services.

To find out how your child’s school can be a Red Ribbon Certified School, contact Simone Brown Knight at 305-856-4886, by email at sbrown@informedfamilies.org or visit www.redribbonschools.org.

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June 8 - 14, 2010

Those who serve in uniform are in the news Gloria Burns GLORIA’S GAB

With Memorial Day still in mind, it seems appropriate that this week’s column focuses on those men and women who serve in our armed forces, insuring that we continue to enjoy the freedom our constitution provides. One such group embracing the idea of honoring our military recently was the South Dade Chamber. At the Chamber’s May 25th breakfast meeting, sponsored by Gulliver Schools at the Dadeland Marriott, a sell-out crowd enjoyed a dynamic program packed with great presentations by Gulliver students and M a j o r G e ne r a l T ho ma s Wi lkers on, USMC (Ret), the highlights for the morning that focused on our armed services and the upcoming Memorial Day. Gulliver fourth grader Mi a Vazquez helped lead the pledge to the flag, while another Gulliver

fourth grade student, A na s t a s i a P e rezTe r n e n t and E m i l y M a r t i n e z - L a n z a , valedictorian for this year’s graduating class, spoke about their experiences as Gulliver students. Yet another Gulliver graduating senior, S h aa n P e t al , introduced the guest speaker Major General Wilkerson.

Wilkerson is CEO of the U nited Stat es N av al Ins t it ute, one of the oldest professional military associations in the U.S. With a 31 year career, this retired marine entertained the crowd with wonderful inspirational and sometimes hilarious stories. Wilkerson suggested that in order to give us all a common bond, we should all be required to serve two years of mandatory service in military, or some other kind of service working at minimum wage for government, Peace Corps, charity, or something of that sort. This idea has the support of many, including this writer.

Among the honored guests introduced by Chamber Chair Ve ronic a Fl ores at the event was Bri g. Gene ral W illiam Binger, Commander of the Homestead Air Reserve Base, who leaves soon to create a new Air

Win $20.00 in gift certificates to

That’s right, just go to Deli Lane and take a photograph of you and/or your family holding a copy of the South Miami News right outside the front door or from inside the restaurant. Then send us the photo with the names of everyone in the picture and we’ll mail you $20.00 in gift certificates.

Deli Lane is located at 7230 SW 59th Avenue and not only do they have great service and a wonderful family atmosphere, the food is great!

Send your photo to Michael@communitynewspapers.com. Be sure to include the names of everyone in the photo as well as the address where we can send your gift certificates. If you have any questions, call Michael Miller at 305-669-7030.

Supplies are limited as we have just 10 prizes to give away.

Gulliver School and Notre Dame alumnus Daniel Boston, Hank Langston, Marian Krutulis, John Krutulis, Brig. Gen. William Binger and Vice Commander Jose Monteagudo.

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Force initiative called F o rc e G en era ti on.

Also attending the breakfast was Binger’s Vice Commander, J os e Mont eagudo, who will serve as interim Commander until Binger’s replacement is in place.

In other military news, save the date of S a t u r d a y, J une 19, 2010. O n that da te S o u t h C o m D e p u t y C o m m a n d e r, US A r m y LT G K e n K e e n will host the I n a u g u r a l U S S O U T H C O M A rm y Ba l l at the Dora l G olf and S pa Re sor t. Guest speaker will be the Sergeant Major of the Army, K e n n e t h P r e s t o n . The Army’s Birthday is June 14th and hence, this date.

The evening will start at 7 p.m. with a cocktail reception. During cocktail hour, guests will be entertained with a performance by the internationally recognized Trumpeter, Saxophonist and Vocalist, SSG J ohnny Ho ll i day.

The formal activities of the night will begin with the National Anthem sung by the spectacular voice of Detective Henr y G u z m a n, from the South Miami Police Dept. The dinner will be accompanied by the Vocalist Group from the US Army Field Band, Vocalease. Tickets for civilians are $75 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, go online to www.s outhcomarm yball .com.

Finally, may all those who serve our country and their families be assured that their sacrifices will always be remembered and their service to our nation very much appreciated.

Until next week, keep making each day count.

Gullver Schools’ 4th grade students, Mia Vazquez and Anastasia Perez-Ternent, with Major General Thomas Wilkerson, USMC (Ret.) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Gloria Burns is Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Pinecrest, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit 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, please send your news via e-mail to gloriagalburns@aol.com.

June 8 - 14, 2010

AROUND TOWN,

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

from page 1 –

the city paid us for ads was in November.

And all the ads that we have been running for the kids, for sports, for football, for the James Bowman Scholarship fund and a variety of other great causes have been free and we gladly do it.

So, don’t you worry your little pea brains over a thing, and just because your guys come from a slash and burn, take no prisoners, mentality we’ll keep running those announcements/ads as we did before, because we know it’s the right thing to do.

And speaking of that I got a letter and a phone call from the Parks and Recreation Department seeking donations for the July 4th fireworks event. Yes, the city in all its infinite wisdom wants some $35,000 to put on the show. Now, gee whiz, folks. How about you raise the $35,000 and give some scholarships to some kids that need help.

Ran i nt o Wa yn e Bra c ki n (who is now a big wig at Baptist Health) at Deli Lane, and just a few days before there was Dr. Joe Traina having breakfast, and a few tables away was the one, the only John Sorgie, from Sunset Quick Print.

And there is good news on the home front.

Sunset Tavern, which is right next door to Deli Lane, has gone NON-Smoking. After all those years of being the place to go for drinks, dinner and a smoke, the smoking will be no more and the smokers will either have to go outside and sit out front under the umbrellas or go...well...elsewhere. Or better yet, just don’t smoke for the 45 minutes that you’re having lunch, dinner and or a drink or two.

My congratulations go out to the owners, Jan and Mike, for doing the right thing.

Now that the city fired the old city manager, who had fired just about everyone that the commission wanted gone, just what will this city commission do? I can’t wait to see their agenda and their vision for the future.

And speaking of seeing things, you gotta get your hands on the report that Kenneth Harms prepared for the city, in its

quest to fire the Chief of Police. It’s an eye opener and filled with some facts, lots of suppositions and lots of stuff that is not relevant, but there are some allegations that do need more investigation. But, alas, the city didn’t need to find reasons to let him go, but they did, so that it would strengthen the city’s position and weaken the Chief’s position. You must know if the city’s position is strong, they pay out less money. If the Chief’s position is strong, it’ll cost the city more money. So, folks, at the end of the day, it’ll be about the money.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • A few months ago, the Miami Herald and several other “news” organizations entered into a relationship, where local media, like Community Newspapers, would provide news / comments and more to some of the local websites inside of “Herald.com.” At the present time we are supplying and posting news on South Miami as well as in Pinecrest and Palmetto Bay. The arrangement is pretty simple and straightforward and it provides readers with the local news and information that people seem to want more of every day.

A few weeks ago, an independent contractor, not an employee of the Herald, Edward Schumacher-Matos, who does not live in Miami nor South Miami, nor in South Florida, wrote an opinion piece as the Herald Ombudsman titled, “When a partner goes too far, who is responsible?”

I’d like to point out that Mr. Matos is a distinguished individual with credentials that are amazing and for us mere mortals down in South Miami. But nevertheless his piece clearly reminds me of the old story about the Blind men and the Elephant. The essence of the fable is: A number of blind men try to decide the form of an elephant by feeling the animal.

One, feeling the leg, declares the elephant to be like a tree; another, feeling the trunk only, declares the elephant to be like a snake; a third, who feels only the side, says that the elephant is like a wall; a fourth, grasping the tail, says that the elephant is like a rope, etc. So since each one is only getting part of the facts, they don’t

know the whole story.

There are some things that I’d like to point out: For starters, the writer makes reference to us as a “12 paper chain in South Florida.” We’re not in South Florida. My goodness, doesn’t he know we are in Miami?

Next, Matos writes… “Miller in an interview acknowledges…that he writes about his building.” Golly folks, I have never spoken to him, nor has he asked me any question in writing, email or by voice.

I did though speak to someone who called on his behalf. She asked me about zoning issues and I had to guess what she was really after and spoke for a few minutes to her. She never asked me about the context of a portion of my column where I wrote about a supposed death threat against an elected official. If he would have spoken to me, perhaps he would have looked at it a scant bit differently and I would have asked him directly, did the column that you are referring to ever make it onto herald.com? Cuz I just can’t find it. Maybe it’s there, and I’ve asked Mr. Matos to help me out and see if he can locate it. I’ve also asked two people from our office to find it, but to no avail.

Then, of course, there are the errors in reporting that perhaps would not have occurred if HE called instead of the lady that did his research for him. In one instance Matos writes... “He writes about the building, for which he has been suing since 1997, but says he does so openly in his column, without hiding his self interest.” Wrong.

That’s not so. Here’s the real deal: The master comprehensive plan that effects us has been around since 1997 and there have been over 20 meetings about the zoning on the street and we sued the city a few months ago. I also told the young lady that we have been writing stories and making comments about this and other zoning issues in my column for years.

And then on the opinion page of the Herald’s website is this complaint from Yvonne Beckman: “I cannot believe that the Miami Herald is allying themselves

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with the Community Newspapers. There (is) no worse example of yellow journalism I have ever seen. In South Miami that rag is commonly known as the ‘Mullet Wrapper;’ for years and years the owner has openly interfered with politics in South Miami in the most egregious way.’’

I wasn’t quite familiar with the meaning of Beckman’s term “Mullet Wrapper” so I Googled it and son of a gun, it must be some words of endearment as I found a newspaper by the name www.mulletwrapper.com, and it’s a very friendly newspaper, so much so that I made them one of my favorites.

Well, anyway here’s what someone posted on www.eyeonmiami.com: “‘For years and years the owner has openly interfered with politics in South Miami in the most egregious way’…. That is not possible in politics. It is POLITICS! PLEASE MAKE UP YOUR MIND Mrs. Beckman. Are you For or Against Free Speech in the United State of America???

Or Does Free Speech ONLY APPLY to you. When Law enforcement has to escort you out of a meeting in handcuffs or from a Memorial for a public official. But no one else can do/act the way she does because they are trampling on her First Amendment Rights??? It seems by your actions, Mrs. Beckman is free to trample on the free speech of others, especially when she disagrees with or does not like those people.”

H e r e’s a n o t h e r c o m m e n t re c e nt l y pos te d on the H era ld’s website: “At a time when the FCC is making it easier for large media companies to gobble up the little guys, the last thing I want to see is any community newspaper silenced or crowded out in a marketplace.

As Community Newspapers capture the small town news and precious gossip that depict what is going on at the local local local level, those advertisements that you wrap your fish in are from the small business that I try to patronize. At the –––––––––––––––––––––––––– See

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

June 8 - 14, 2010

Who is ahead in the U.S. Senate race in Florida?

R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COMMENTARY The withdrawal of Gov. Charlie Crist from the Republican primary has taken a great deal of interest out of the Aug. 24 primary races for the U.S. Senate. The question was: Would Charlie Crist or Marco Rubio represent the Republican Party against Democrat Kendrick Meek in the Nov. 2 general elections?

Since then, Jeff Greene, a billionaire from Palm Beach, has challenged Meek for the right to go against Republican Rubio and independent Crist. Greene claims that because of his plan to spend his own millions on his campaign he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be beholden to any pressure groups seeking his support because of financial campaign contributions. He can be his own man.

Greene must be green when it comes to politics. Campaign contributions are only one of several political pressures on how you vote in the Senate. Pressure from with-

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in the party on how and for what you vote, and vote trades between senators is an even bigger challenge to being an independent thinker.

Rubio, not having any real primary challengers, is moving toward the political center acknowledging, by his actions, that neither a leftwing nor rightwing radical can ever win an election. Unfortunately for Rubio his slow move to the center is angering his financial supporters that were attracted to him because of his conservative Tea Party political philosophy.

Meek, the Democratic candidate is facing the threat of Crist stealing votes from the more conservative wing of the Democratic Party. On top of this, Meek must contend with the looming problem of his association with and his support of disgraced real estate developer Dennis Stackhouse. You can bet Greene will not let Democratic voters forget Stackhouse this August.

Gov. Crist seems to be enjoying the benefits of sitting right in the middle of the political mainstream. He is conservative enough to appeal to a majority of independent voters who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like Rubio and havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t heard of Meek. Crist has lined

â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; VIEWPOINT â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; up the majority of teachers in the state with his veto of the Republican-masterminded modification of the way Florida pays, promotes and protects its teachers.

Parents of school children are moving toward Crist.

It appears, at this writing, that the governor will veto the Republican-passed law requiring pregnant women planning an abortion to have an ultrasound picture of their baby shown to them before they can have the procedure. Most women favor his veto, both those who absolutely support the right to an abortion and those that do not believe in abortions but support the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right to make their own decision without governmental intervention.

Cristâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stating that he might call a special session of the legislature to consider a bill banning oil drilling within the 10.5-mile limit â&#x20AC;&#x201D; maximum permitted by federal law â&#x20AC;&#x201D; of Florida shores will bring more supportive votes this coming August. Oil

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on Florida beaches is a very strong issue given BPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s failure to control the pollution of the Gulf of Mexico and its impact on the unforeseeable future of the Gulf states.

When it is all over, and the politicians have time to debate their actions in this voting cycle, Rubioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pushing Crist out of the Republican Party will stand out as the biggest political mistake of the election.

Rubio could have totally eliminated Crist by encouraging him to stay in the party and end his threat Aug. 24. Now it looks like Crist will be in the Senate and Rubio will be looking for a job.

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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June 8 - 14, 2010

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at SoMi,” said VVIP president Mari Secada. “Both the teachers and administration strive for excellence and that gets passed on to the kids. It’s wonderful to see the kids enjoying school and most of all yearning to learn.”

Also, with the help of Coach Ryan, the SoMi basketball team, The Pistons (4-6th grades) and The Heat (2-3rd grade) went undefeated and were Champions of their Junior Premier Sports League. SoMi’s Flag Football team the Vikings (4-6th grades) also

had a phenomenal year! The (2-3rd grade) Chargers came in second place finishing the year 7-1-1, and the (2-3rd grade)Chiefs with a 6-2 record. Great job for their first year.

Many local businesses helped SoMi throughout the year, and Somerset would in particular like to thank Cool-de-sac Play Café for providing the school with a great place to meet for their parent meetings, and F ootw orks for all their hard work in making this year’s Carnival a tremendous success.

Left: Celebrating Thanksgiving.

Are you dreading the idea of going to the beach or wearing a bathing suit in front of your friends?

Below: Principal Guilarte in the dunk tank.

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AROUND TOWN,

from page 5

end of the day, when I pull my car into my driveway, I am in Mayberry. Kids are riding their bikes and the neighbors are watering their lawns. I am glad that the Herald is partnering with CN. It makes perfect sense to me.”

A n o t h e r un so l i c i t e d o p i ni o n fro m a n a ct i v e K e n d a l l n e w s s o u rce: “I do not consider local-local-local news a prostitution of the profession. All you have to do is look at what Ruppert Murdock has done to the profession to realize that the spin doctors on the higher levels are the real prostitutes, multi national

corporations are the clients and Daddy Murdock is the grand pimp. Local-locallocal keeps us grounded. Gossip is the reality. It is no different to hear Miller gossiping about a community member as to hear Beck, Oberman or O’Reilly gossiping about Senators, Congressmen or the Pres.

It is the same thing.

Long live CN.” And to that, we say Thank you!

T ho u g h t o f t h e D a y : The reward of a thing well done, is to have done it.

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

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

Coconut Grove 305-648-2202 South Miami 305-446-3665

www.fitnesstogethermiami.com

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

June 8 - 14, 2010

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q a i

When it comes to elections, don’t just sit back and watch To the Editor: Another excellent column by Ken Bluh.

If I remember correctly, I have voted in every election, except two when I was hospitalized during my Vietnam Era military service, since I was able to vote (back then at age 21).

I feel that it is a duty to vote in our democratic society. And, in order to vote intelligently, I feel I must keep myself as well informed as possible.

Unfortunately, the Election Department reports that in some of our recent elections fewer than 20 percent of the eligible voters took the time to cast their sacred ballot.

I say to my fellow citizens: Vote; work on a campaign you feel is important; donate as much as you can to a candidate you want to see elected. Attend commission meetings. Read the newspaper. Develop informed opinions about the issues facing us today.

Be involved.

As the League of Women Voters has continually said: “Democracy is not a spectator sport!”

Paul C. Hunt South Miami

June 8 - 14, 2010

D e a r M a y o r a nd Com missi oners: I was alarmed and dismayed by the nasty political shenanigans that are being perpetuated by the Commission of South Miami. The resolution that Vice Mayor Valerie Newman is sponsoring to investigate alleged malpractice against our former City Attorney for alleged improprieties associated with the development of the garage is nothing short of disgraceful and hypocritical. I believe an after-thefact attempt to blame any member of the staff and/or the former City Attorneys to be unconscionable.

In 1997, the City Commission determined that a municipal garage was required in order to meet the growing infrastructure demands for parking in the downtown area. In response to the demands the City Commission approved the issuance of a request for proposal (RFP) to solicit private developers to make proposals for the development of the municipal garage on a parcel owned by the City. Public records show that Valerie Newman did not participate in any of the discussions.

The City selected SPG Phase One Ltd. to design, construct and manage the garage. During negotiations, the sitting City Commission learned that the City Charter prohibited the City from entering into leases for fifty years. The City Commission passed an ordinance to place a ballot question on the next election to amend the City Charter to specifically allow the City to enter into leases for 50 year terms (public records indicate that Valerie Newman did not participate in any of the discussions). On February 8th 2000, the voters of South Miami approved the Charter Amendment.

As a result, the lease agreement was negotiated between SPG and the City of South Miami provided for a fifty (50) year term. The lease agreement also specifically approved the assignment of the lease to one of SPG Phase One’s partner, Mark Richman Properties (MRP).

At that time, the Commission also approved and authorized the City staff to make application to the Florida Municipal Loan Counsel in order to obtain the project funding through the bond underwriting program.

After the City had received the project financing of 6.5 million dollars it decided not to proceed with the development of

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Open Letter the garage. As a result, MRP filed a complaint against the City alleging breach of contract to jointly develop the parking garage. The City Attorney, Mr. Earl Gallop, received approval from the City Commission to hire special litigation counsel to represent the City in the lawsuit. The law firm Kurzban Kurzban Weinger Tetzeli and Pratt P.A represented the City in the law suit.

Although I was not on the commission from 2004 to 2006, it is my understanding the City Attorney along with the Kurzban firm participated in several attorney client sessions with the City Commission during the course of the litigation. Further, in accordance with direction given during the attorney client sessions the parties reached a negotiated settlement of the lawsuit. A condition of the settlement agreement was that MRP and the city enter into a new lease agreement. The term of the lease agreement did not change; it was still fifty (50) years.

However, MRP now assumed a greater financial responsibility for the repayment of the construction loans. Our city attorneys were able to negotiate more favorable terms for the city than under the prior lease.

The terms of the settlement agreement and the terms of the lease agreement were discussed by the Commission in an Attorney Client session. The agreements were also read at public commission meetings and voted on by the City Commission. There is no record of Valerie Newman publically voicing a “concern” during any of the many public proceedings. Indeed, then Commissioner Craig Sherar, an attorney who was supported by Valerie Newman, reviewed the agreement and approved it. (Again, there is no record of Valerie Newman voicing a “concern” regarding our city attorney.)

Our City Attorneys and our special litigation counsel all acted under the direction of the City Commission and in the best interest of the City. For a commissioner to target one of them in order to serve her political agenda is extremely disingenuous. Our City attorneys acted in concert with our City Managers and more importantly under the direction of the City Commission. It is important to note that then City Manager, Maria Davis (also supported by Newman) wanted to settle the lawsuit and recommended approval. The decision to provide the ten-

ant with a fifty (50) year lease was one that was clearly made by the City Commission and not the City Attorney’s office. The bond underwriting applications were prepared by the City staff and transmitted to the Florida Municipal Loan Counsel for their consideration, review and consequent approval.

The South Miami City Commission voted to approve the lease agreement as part of the settlement of a lawsuit against the City. The Commission at that time was not only faced with the challenge of defending a lawsuit of significant legal merit, but also with the fact that the city had borrowed money and could not return the bond financing for a period of ten (10) years. The City was making principal and interest payments on the 6.5 million dollar loan and had no project.

I have been disappointed by many actions that have been taken by this Commission, unfortunately the origins of which can be traced to a single source.

The commissioner which is sponsoring the resolution to investigate the former City Attorney has a history of embattled and embroiled behavior which will continue to cost the city dearly.

Several years ago the City Commission unanimously voted to move forward and develop the garage and our town center has benefitted tremendously. Municipal garages are considered infrastructure improvements to benefit our citizens, patrons and business owners who in turn help to maintain our city services.

To now attack and attempt to discredit our former City Attorney for following the directives of prior City Commissions, who in turn went through countless public meetings is a cowardly and reprehensible act that illustrates extremely poor or nonexistent leadership.

S i n c e rely, Horace Feli u F o r m e r M a y o r o f So ut h M i a mi

South Miami Music Club sponsors benefit concert for the scholarship fund On June 12, 2010, the South Miami Music Club is sponsoring a benefit dinner concert for the scholarship fund. The program features present and former scholarship recipients and several professional musicians associated with the club.

WHEN:

June 12, 2010

WHERE:

Good Sheperd Catholic Church Parish Hall 14187 Sunset Dr.

TIME:

6:00 - 6:30 p.m. (Hors d’oeuves will be served)

PRICE:

Adults $30 / Students $15

Reservations can be made or more tickets secured by contacting either Betty Brand 305-665-1755 or Betty Ahing 305-382-4026. Checks should be made out and sent to The South Miami Music Club, 9864 S.W. 88 Street, Apt. D101, Miami, FL 33176-1847.

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June 8 - 14, 2010

June 8 - 14, 2010

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Miami-Dade County Fair funds provide foundation for future

Students of a second grade class at Blue Lakes Elementary School in Kendall are using the money earned from exhibiting at The Fair to lay the foundation for their future.

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BY MICHELLE PALOMINO

Every year, in recognition of youth achievement, the Miami-Dade County Fair presents students from across South Florida with prize money for outstanding projects that are exhibited at The Fair.

This year, the students of a second grade class at Blue Lakes Elementary School in Kendall are using the money earned from exhibiting at The Fair to lay the foundation for their future. In an effort to instill early saving skills, each student in the class will start his or her very first bank account with the moneys earned by exhibiting at The Fair. The students received instructions on how to set up their first account from a representative from a local bank.

“The Fair congratulates this second grade class at Blue Lakes Elementary School not only for their outstanding achievement at The Fair this year but also for taking the initiative to use their prize money to lay the

groundwork for their future,” said Phil Clark, president and CEO of the MiamiDade County Fair “Learning money management and saving is one step in the right direction for a very bright future,” he added.

“Learning about saving and financial matters is an important aspect of education,” said Maria Aluma, second grade teacher at Blue Lakes Elementary. “The Fair’s exhibit program offers students a wonderful opportunity to earn money and start saving.”

The Fair will be celebrating its 60th year Mar. 17 to Apr. 3, 2011. Awarding more than $8 million in scholarships, awards and premiums along with outstanding educational student and youth programs, The Fair is more than just an 18-day event and a sought after venue for community events and festivals held throughout the year. The not-forprofit organization is a South Florida institution that is there for the community throughout the year.

Read-cycle this newspaper, share it with a friend

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June 8 - 14, 2010

Hospital board member gets firsthand view of nurse’s day

Baptist Health Foundation Board member Paul Soulé spent the day up close and personal learning about the nursing profession while shadowing Shenny Cordero, RN, during “Shadow a Nurse Day” at Baptist Hospital. The annual event gives community and hospital board members a chance to get a first-hand look into a nurse’s day during National Nurses’ Week.

(Photo by Mabel Rodriguez)

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June 8 - 14, 2010

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June 8 - 14, 2010

Rick Tonkinson & Associates, Inc. listed in the Forbes 2010 Special Issue “The World’s Leading Companies”

Goldline Research, an independent market research firm that evaluates professional services firms on behalf of the consumers, has selected Rick Tonkinson & Associates, Inc. as one of the 2010 Leading Providers – Wealth Managers in the Forbes magazine 2010 Special Issue, “The World’s Leading Companies”.

By using a proprietary research process, Goldline Research investigates tens of thousands of service providers in numerous industries to feature companies in those sectors. Tonkinson’s firm was one of a few to pass this rigorous evaluation and certification process. This represents the first time this firm has been recognized in a national publication. With a subscription base of 6.5 million, this is a special edition that will remain on the newsstand for 3 months.

Rick Tonkinson & Associates is a family business specializing in their clients’ Early Retirement with a mission of helping people and their families attain their financial goals. They are located at 100 Almeria, Suite 310, Coral Gables, Florida. Telephone: 305 447-6617.

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June 8 - 14, 2010

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Ferguson High student wins Farm Bureau speech contest

Juan Aguas of Robert Morgan Educational Center, and Antonello Castelo and Michael Cartamil from John A. Ferguson High School, competed in the 2010 Farm Bureau Speech Contest on May 18. Castelo was named the winner and will advance to the Florida Farm Bureau District 8 contest in the fall.

(Photo by Theresa Smith)

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY ROBERT HAMILTON

The Dade County Farm Bureau conducted its annual Youth Speech Contest on Tuesday, May 18. The topic for this year’s contest was “What opportunities and/or challenges exist for Florida agriculture in regards to renewable energy and climate change legislation?”

Participants presented a five-minute speech on the topic to a panel of three judges.

After the presentations, contestants answered impromptu questions from the judges.

The winner of the speech contest was Antonello Castelo of John A. Ferguson Senior High School. Castelo received a $50 cash prize and will advance to the District 8 contest which will take place in the fall.

The panel of judges for the competition included Jessica Borek of JVB Farms, Tom Vick of T. Vick Farms, and Diane Massucci of Dade Agri-Council.

If you are interested in learning more about membership with Dade County Farm Bureau, contact Debbie Brady, director of Member Services, at 305-246-5514, ext. 224.

Dade County Farm Bureau represents more than 4,000 members, over 1,000 of whom are involved actively in agribusiness and represent over 900 agricultural operations. Dade County farmers provide an economic impact of more than $2.57 billion to the local and state economy.

Visit on the internet at <www.dade-agriculture.org>

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June 8 - 14, 2010

Lady Sharks softball celebrates its first national championship

Miami Dade College’s (MDC) unstoppable softball team, the Lady Sharks, brought home the national title recently after defeating Wallace State Community College of Alabama by a 7-0 score at the National Junior College Athletic Association championship tournament in St. George, UT. It’s the team’s first national title in the history of the program. Gathered around the trophy are (l-r, back row) head coach Carlos Caro, assistant coach Eugenia Fernandez, Tamara Hidalgo, Amanda Lara, Simone Suetsugu, student trainer Francisco Larios and Vivian Morimoto; (middle row) Rebecca Hall, Stephanie Martinez and Nicole Rodriguez; (front row) Simone Miyahira, Veronika Fukunishi, team captain Erika Bennett, and Ashley Silveira.

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June 8 - 14, 2010

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Don’t let burglar bars trap you in case of fire at home

BY CRISTINA ARMAND

Imagine that you are in a deep sleep when the shrilling of the smoke detector wakes you up. You find yourself surrounded by heavy thick smoke, and your only escape route is your window that has burglar or security bars.

Each year we read about people who have perished in house fires because they could not escape due to burglar bars. These bars may help keep your family safe from intruders, but they can also trap your loved ones in a deadly fire.

If you reside in a home with burglar bars or are considering installing them in your home, be mindful of the following: • Inspect your bars. Security bars must be able to be opened from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. A child should be able to open the bars and easily get out.

• Consider installing a quick-release device. This device allows bars to be opened easily and immediately in an emergency. The devices operate from the inside and allow the bars to be opened for emergency escape without compromising the security of your home.

• Retrofit your current bars. If the burglar bars in your home are permanently fixed or do not have quick-release devices, they should be retrofitted with release devices.

• Keep the key handy. If your burglar bars require a key to open, keep the key near the bars at all times for easy access in case of fire. Review with your family where the key is kept and how to use it to open the burglar bars.

• Know your escape route. Do not install security bars, grills, grates or any device on windows or doors used for escape routes that cannot be easily opened from the

inside. In a fire, your life will depend on it!

• Check your smoke alarms. There should be smoke alarms in all homes, but if you have security bars, you should have them installed protecting each sleeping area or hallway. One smoke alarm is required for each level of the house and on the ceiling near a stairway when bedrooms are located upstairs. The signal from a smoke alarm must be able to be heard from every bedroom. If the smoke alarm in your home is battery-operated, don’t forget to change the batteries every six months.

• Practice your escape route. Know and practice fire escape plans monthly, and use them to identify and correct obstructions of windows and doors needed for escape from a deadly fire. Locked or barred doors should operate quickly and easily. Make sure that windows are not stuck, that screens can be taken out quickly and that security bars can be opened properly.

Review with your family the importance of how to open a window easily and wide enough to allow escape.

In addition to burglar bars, some South Florida residents keep their hurricane shutters up year-round. If you have a fire in your home and these shutters are up, you can find yourself trapped without a proper escape route. Also if a fire breaks out in an unoccupied residence with hurricane shutters, the damage may be more severe because firefighters have to take time to cut through the shutters before they can get to the fire.

These tips can ensure that you sleep soundly and safely at night.

Cristina Armand is a public information officer for the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department.

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“Unexpected concoctions are another untraditional tradition at Two Chefs -- perhaps goat meat paired with lobster or an escargot potpie.”

“The room is lovely in a warm, curvy, bistroish manner, and the terrifically talented staff will likewise put you at ease -- friendly and loose in demeanor, tightly professional in their work, and knowledgeable about both cuisine and the smartly chosen wine selection... At Two Chefs, this is still a beautiful world.”

TWO CHEFS RESTAURANT 8287 S. DIXIE HWY • CORNER OF LUDLAM & US 1

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The results of “Hat Racking” or improper pruning Star vation— “Hat Racking” removes more than 50% of the Right Tree – Right Place tree’s crown, plants can starve quickly, especially if trees are poor quality at pruning time. The preferred practice, called “crown reduction,” removes less than 1/4 of the crown, boosting the tree’s ability manufacture food. This can be seen in palms as well, where over-pruning can and will lead to the starvation death of many palm species.

Insectss and d Diseases—an improperly pruned tree will result in large branch stubs that are more susceptible to insect damage and fungi.

Weak k Branches—weak branches can grow after a larger one is removed. Often, a tree will produce many thin and weakly-attached branchlets called water shoots which don’t add to the structure of a tree.

Tree e Death—some species of trees will not tolerate improper pruning and die after being topped or hat racked. An arborist can lend accurate counsel at the outset of a job.

Ugliness—an improperly pruned tree is a disfigured tree. Even with its re-growth, it never regains the grace and character of its species. The landscape and the community are robbed of a valuable asset.

“Lowerr Cost”—hat racking a tree is

THE ARBORIST

much faster and easier than employing the skill and judgment needed for good pruning. Improperly pruning a tree may cost less in the short run; the true costs are hidden. These include reduced property value, the expense of equivalent replacement, increased future maintenance, and the risk of liability from weakened branches.

Liabiliity—the weakened wood from an improperly pruned tree is much more susceptible to breakage. This may result in legal liability. Further, poorly pruned trees are more likely to fail in storms, sometimes catastrophically.

Beware e off Doorr Knockers—most reputable companies have all the work they can handle without going door to door. Make sure they are certified arborists. Every International Society of Arborist (ISA) member has an individual ID number and an ID card that you can check online at the ISA website: <www.isa-arbor.com> 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

June 8 - 14, 2010

Fishing tournament raises $428K to benefit Crohn’s and Colitis fight

BY STEPHANIE LLAMAS

The 2010 Sabadell Mellon United Keymorada Invitational Fishing Tournament to benefit the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) recently wrapped up another successful event, raising more than $428,000 for the organization, which raises funds for research and initiatives to help find a cure for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

More than 360 law firms throughout Florida and the United States participated in the tournament. Robert LaTour of Miami won the 2010 Grand Champion title.

“It’s wonderful to be able to raise the amount of money we raise to help find a cure for these terrible diseases, while doing something we all love, and with such a wonderful group of people,” Mitchell Widom said The tournament is the brainchild of brothers Mitchell and Glenn Widom, attorneys with Bilzin Sumberg and Glenn L. Widom, PA, and was inspired by Mitchell’s daughter, Taylor, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2005. Co-chaired by the brothers since 2005, the tournament has Pictured with his catch is Glenn Widom, co-chair of the event. raised more than $2.1 million for –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– the CCFA. The annual tournament takes place in tournament sponsor, more information can the Florida Keys during May. The 2010 be found on the tournament’s website at event was held at Hawks Cay Resort in <www.keymoradafishing.com> or by sending email to Mitch Widom at Duck Key. If you are interested in fishing, partici- <mwidom@bilzin.com> or Glenn Widom pating as a Law Firm Challenger or as a at <gwidom@sghpa.com>.

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June 8 - 14, 2010

June 8 - 14, 2010

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Babalu presents tribute to music of Desi Arnaz

Desi Arnaz photo from Lucie Arnaz Family Archives ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY SUZETTE ESPINOSA

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County has announced the special engagement of Babalu, a loving tribute and phenomenal stage show celebrating the extraordinary musical legacy of Desi Arnaz.

Created, directed, and hosted by Lucie Arnaz, Babalu’s engagement at the Adrienne Arsht Center features multiple Tony Awardnominee and Miami native Raúl Esparza, Broadway’s Tony-nominated diva of dance Valarie Pettiford and, in a rare special guest appearance, Desi Arnaz Jr. playing percussion on his father’s classic hits.

With a live 15-piece orchestra playing from the original Desi Arnaz Orchestra charts, Babalu brings the rhythm of the tropics and the glamour of the Tropicana nightclub to the Adrienne Arsht Center, July 8-11, in the John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall.

Tickets range from $35 to $70 and may

be purchased through the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling 305-9496722, or online at <www.arshtcenter.org>.

“Babalu is the perfect show for Miami,” said M. John Richard, president and CEO of the Adrienne Arsht Center. “This performance celebrates one of America’s most beloved entertainment pioneers with the music that made Desi Arnaz a timeless Cuban-American hero. To have his children, Lucie and Desi Jr., starring in this show alongside Miami native Raúl Esparza, ranks this engagement in the Adrienne Arsht Center hall of fame!”

Featured in the show are Desi Arnaz’s greatest hits, including the hip-swiveling Cuban Pete, his signature conga Babalu, and the beloved theme from I Love Lucy, plus dozens of Latin and Broadway standards — performed to a Cuban beat — in this one-of-a-kind tribute to the most glamorous music of the 1940s and ’50s.

Visit <www.arshtcenter.org> for more information.

Page 23

Should I Convert To a Roth IRA?

Years ago, one of my clients opened a Traditional IRA and made non-deductible contributions for many years, since he fully participated in his 401k. The reason he did this was because he was trying to shelter as much income as possible from taxes.

The fact that he was not deducting his annual Traditional IRA contributions will turn into a huge benefit for him this year. With the passing of the new law, he will now be able to convert his Traditional IRA into a Roth IRA. In the year 2010, anyone is allowed to convert their Traditional IRAs into Roth IRAs, regardless of income amounts.

This client started making Traditional IRA contributions in 2001 when the contribution limit was $2,000.00. He continued to make these contributions through the years and increased them as the contribution limits increased. His total nondeductible contribution amount was $31,000.

Knowing this nondeductible amount is important because this amount is convertible to a Roth IRA tax free. Since he was not able to deduct this amount from his income taxes in the past, he does not owe taxes on this portion.

The only part of the Traditional IRA that is taxable at the conversion is his appreciation.

Well, this is a time that having a stock market decline is actually a benefit. His portfolio value is now approximately $32,500, meaning that his taxable amount is only $1,500.

He has the option to pay this tax fully in 2010 or spread it over 2011 and 2012. Since it is a small amount, he will pay it in 2010, avoiding the potentially higher tax brackets in 2011 and 2012.

This client now has more than 20 years to sit back and watch his new Roth IRA grow tax-free for him.

There are many additional important components of the Roth IRA conversion that are necessary to understand before you act.

Make sure that you contact your accountant to determine if it is right for you.

If you would like additional information about Roth IRA conversions, please contact us at (786) 242-4067 or plan to attend one of our educational seminars.

The seminars are being held Wednesday, June 23 and Tuesday, June 29, at 6:30 p.m. at Fleming Restaurant, which is located at 8511 SW 136 Street in Pinecrest.

To attend, please call 800-9216854 for reservations.

Ronald Teasdale, MBA,CFP®,CRC® Vice President, Financial Advisor SunTrust Investment Services, Inc. 11333 S. Dixie Highway Miami, FL 33156 ron.teasdale@suntrust.com www.suntrust.com/wealth

SunTrust Investment Services, Inc. (STIS) and its affiliates and the directors, officers, employees and agents are not permitted to give legal or tax advice. Clients of STIS should consult with their legal and tax advisors prior to entering into any financial transaction.

Securities, insurance (including annuities and certain life insurance products) and other investment products and services are offered

by SunTrust Investment Services, Inc., a SEC registered investment adviser and broker/dealer affiliate of SunTrust Banks, Inc., and a member of the FINRA and SIPC.

Page 24

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Alma Accent XL Treatment

June 8 - 14, 2010

Kendall Advantage Academy to Open August 2010

Targeted heat therapy for immediate and visible reversal of the early signs of aging Skin Tightening and Body Contouring with immediate results

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305-274-0221

www.JudithCrowellMD.com

The Advantage Academy Miami Board of Directors announces that Santa Fe Advantage Academy will open August 2010 to serve approximately 350 students in grades kindergarten through fifth.

Santa Fe Advantage Academy located at 9790 SW 107th Avenue, is a tuition-free public charter school serving students in grades kindergarten – five for the 2010-2011 school year. The school is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in mid-July. Advantage Academy Board Member Helena del Monte stated, “I am confident the school will be an asset to the Kendall community and will offer parents an exceptional choice for the education of their children” According to Mike Strader, President Charter School Associates, “Santa Fe Advantage Academy will be characterized by a challenging and rigorous academic program set within a caring nurturing environment. Parent participation will be encouraged through compulsory volunteer requirements and students will experience a broad academic program to include music, art, literature and character education, in addition to traditional core academic subjects. This school will offer parents seeking a challenging performance-based learning environment another choice for public education in the Kendall area.”

Principal Yesenia Cantillo stated, “I am so excited about the up-coming

school year. We will offer students a challenging curriculum with handson opportunities including the Apple I-Pod Learning lab. Students will experience many aspects of technology with a computer lab and Mimio Boards in the classroom. Learning will be fun and exciting!” According to Ms. Jennifer Lardizabal, Reading Coach, “The school is going to be a wonderful learning environment for students. Reading will be brought to life with literacy circles, guided reading instruction and center activities designed to not only teach reading skills but to spark, in our students, a life-long love of reading. “ As a public charter school, Santa Fe Advantage Academy will be tuition free and open to students entering grades kindergarten through five in August 2010. Student admission is by application and students are admitted without consideration to their racial, cultural, ethnic or religious orientation. Student applications are available at www.santafeacademy.com.

Please check our website for upcoming Parent Meetings held at 7:00 p.m. at the Riverside Baptist Church, 10775 Southwest 104th Street; Kendall, Florida. Please contact us at 786-228-5309 or email us at info@santafeacademy.com for more information. Santa Fe Advantage Academy is a member of the Charter School Associates family of schools.

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Author makes splash with book, The Red Umbrella

BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

When Christina Gonzalez held the launch party for her first book, The Red Umbrella, there were almost 400 people crowded into Books and Books in Coral Gables to hear her speak.

The crowd included many men and women who had been a part of Operation Pedro Pan, when Cuban parents took a leap of faith and sent their unaccompanied children to the United States to keep them out of communist hands. Both of Gonzalezâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents came to the U.S. that way, which was how she got the idea for the novel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was always a part of my familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until I heard [Country Walk author] Ruth Vander Zee talking about Erikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story that I realized there was a story to be told in my familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history.â&#x20AC;?

She heard Vander Zee speak at a Society of Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) conference in January 2006.

Gonzalez began to write the story as the conference continued. Initially, it was a picture book. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I wrote it as a short story I sent it out; it was pretty much a universal response that it was a wonderful story but it was not a short story, it was a novel,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was 2008 that I was ready to transfer it into a full novel.â&#x20AC;?

Her family loved the idea of the book. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because it was the book honoring what they had gone through, they were incredibly supportive and enthusiastic about the whole thing and they wanted to talk more about what they had gone through,â&#x20AC;? she said.

That summer of 2008 was not exactly the best time to be writing because Gonzalez was in the midst of building a new home.

The family moved twice, into temporary quarters and then into the new house. She credits her critique groups with helping keep her on track. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wrote it in like eight weeks,â&#x20AC;? she

Local author Christina Gonzalez (seated) and Marilyn Milian

Page 25

Lower Your Medicare Costs

FOOTNOTES

D w w w. f l o r i d a s h i n e . o r g said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That was because there was already interest in it.â&#x20AC;?

At another SCBWI conference at the beginning of that summer, she had the first 10 pages reviewed and it caught the interest of both an editor and an agent, which pushed her to finish quickly. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a part of American history that hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been dealt with, especially in a young adult novel,â&#x20AC;? Gonzalez said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;13,300 to 14,000 kids were coming to the U.S. by themselves. Most kids arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t aware of that, even Cubans. People are fascinated by it.â&#x20AC;?

Writing the book gave her a new appreciation for what her parents and grandparents had to endure during that time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The fear that the parents had to be living through, enough to sending them away,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gives me a deeper understanding.â&#x20AC;?

The book has been chosen an Indy Bookstore Top Ten for the summer, which has guaranteed the success of the novel and sent it into a second printing, and possibly a third. Locally, Gonzalez has another signing scheduled for June 16 at the Books and Books in Bal Harbor.

She said the positive attention for her debut novel â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which includes glowing reviews â&#x20AC;&#x201D; has been gratifying. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than what I expected. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than what I had hope for,â&#x20AC;? she said.

For help applying, call 1-800-963-5337 Se habla EspaĂąol Paying for Medicare can be costly for anyone, but it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be. Trained counselors at the local Area Agency on Aging are available to help you see if you may qualify to save money on your: t .POUIMZ 1BSU % %SVH 1MBO QSFNJVN t $P QBZ GPS QSFTDSJQUJPOT t .POUIMZ .FEJDBSF Part B premium t $PJOTVSBODF GPS .FEJDBSF services and visits t .FEJDBSF EFEVDUJCMFT

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Page 26

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

June 8 - 14, 2010

Wine and Food Festival benefits Camillus House and United Way

BY YANET OBARRIO SANCHEZ

The 15th Annual Miami Wine and Food Festival, hosted recently by one of the most decorated, respected and charismatic chefs in the world, Todd English, delighted Miami’s wine, culinary and philanthropic VIPs with an exciting threeday lineup of good food, great wine and exceptional auction items that raised more than $900,000 for the community.

Benefiting Camillus House and United Way of Miami-Dade, the festival is South Florida’s premier charity wine and food event.

“I cannot thank our generous supporters enough,” said Harve A. Mogul, president and CEO of the United Way of

Miami-Dade. “We are so grateful to those who continuously step up to support the South Florida community, including our corporate sponsors, wine distributors, airlines, cruise lines, wine collectors, jewelers, restaurants and our enthusiastic bidders. We are truly inspired by the increasing level of support for both organizations.”

The festival kicked off on Thursday, Apr. 22, with the Taste and Toast extravaganza at Merrick Park where Spam Allstars entertained, 65 international wineries poured their finest wines, and more than 30 premier restaurants and caterers served gourmet treats to more than 1,000 attendees.

Friday night, Apr. 23, belonged to

Pictured (l-r) are Swanee DiMare, Linda Bittel, Jodi Dickinson and Donna Shepard.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Pictured (l-r) are Alberto Carvalho, Loreen Chant, Nancy and Jon Bachelor, and Harve Mogul.

renowned Chef English, who led a crowd of nearly 600 through an interactive dinner, during which each table prepared a three-course meal. The menu at the Food, Friends and Fun Interactive Dinner included Kingfish Hall’s tuna martini, warm pea soup with minted lobster-stuffed squash blossoms and pastrami-rubbed sirloin with spring mushroom risotto.

The festival culminated on Saturday, Apr. 24, with the Bubbles, Bids & Bites Auction and Dinner, which featured live and silent auctions of exotic travel packages, one-of-a-kind jewelry and a world

class collection of rare wines.

“We are delighted to continue partnering with the United Way of Miami on this wonderful event,” Dr. Paul R. Ahr, president and CEO, Camillus House, said.

“The funds raised through this annual festival continue to change the lives of thousands of people in our community who turn to Camillus House and United Way for help.”

Lyn Farmer served as festival director, Dan Hanrahan as committee chair and Bob Dickinson as advisory chair.

For more information on the festival visit <www.miamiwinefestival.org>.

June 8 - 14, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Redland Summer Fruit Festival at Fruit-Spice Park, June 19-20

BY CATHY GUERRA

This summer, enjoy a variety of fruits that are in season at the Fruit and Spice Park’s annual Redland Summer Fruit Festival, June 19 and 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Redland Summer Fruit Festival will feature local agriculture and tropical-fruit plants on display and for sale. There will be educational workshops and demonstrations on various topics including cultivation, propagation, grafting techniques, cooking demonstrations using various kinds of fruit, and more.

Sample rare fruits or visit the concession booths offering fruit-based foods such as fruit smoothies, chocolate-covered fruit and other mouth-watering foods.

In addition to all things fruit, there will be live music throughout the weekend, a children’s area featuring the Little Farm Petting Zoo, pony rides, book signings, watermelon-eating contest, and other fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Admission is $8 per adult and children under 12 are admitted for free.

Sample rare fruits or visit the concession booths offering fruit-based foods such as fruit smoothies, chocolate-covered fruit and other mouth-watering foods.

The Redland Fruit and Spice, located at 24801 SW 187 Ave. in Homestead and operated by the Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Department, grows more than 500 varieties of sub-tropical fruits, herbs, spices, vegetables, and nuts from around the world on 40 lush acres in the agricultural Redland. The park offers daily botanical tours, fruit tasting and naturalist-led workshops.

For more information, call the Fruit and Spice Park at 305-247-5727 or visit the website at <www.fruitandspicepark.com>.

Page 27

Panini Grill: Discover The Amazing Powers of Olive Oil!

Lose weight . . . Lower cholesterol and blood pressure . . .

Prevent heart disease and cancer . . . and much, much more.

In Italy, Greece and Spain olive oil always has been an integral part of the culture. People of Mediterranean part of Europe also have long known of its health benefits and healing properties. Whether the problem is a case of sunburn, persistent earaches, or dry hair, Italians traditionally have turned to olive oil.

Now, new research highlighting the healing qualities of extra virgin olive oil not only confirms these uses but also reveals even more beneficial effects from its use.

Whether a malady is heart disease, diabetes, digestion, or age-related deterioration, olive oil has been shown to be beneficial in its prevention and treatment.

Many prominent doctors, dietitians and chefs conducted fundamental research of the healing powers of this liquid gold. Studies show, that by including extra virgin olive oil in your daily food will improve your health right away! It can •Lower your risk of heart disease and cancer •Enhance your immune system •Prevent cancer •Stave off diabetes •Fight fat •Help turn back the clock on aging •Add years to your life •Fight infections •Soothe inflammation •Ward off arthritis •Stop pain •Deter memory loss •Help beat osteoporosis At Panini Grill restaurants we are using extra virgin olive oil, imported from Italy, Spain and Greece. We are using most expensive brands.They taste better and you can smell the magnificent oil from almost three feet away. We recommend Felipe Berio (Italy) and El Cardenal (Spain) brands. They are sold in retail packaging at our local Publix store or in larger volumes at BJ’s wholesale club store.

All salads, Panini sandwiches and even our grilled chicken tenders we are making with olive oil. Cooking healthy and living healthy is our concept.

We strongly believe, that God gave us all we need and we need to preserve our body, to live as healthy and as long as possible. “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body Corinthians 6:19-20” Did you know that one tablespoon of olive oil has the power to wipe out the cholesterol-raising effects of two eggs? You can take years off your biological age by changing your diet and lifestyle — and olive oil can play a vital role.

Olive oil also is considered one of the most popular folk remedies. In South Europe and Mediterranean countries folk remedies olive oil plays a key role in many healing procedures, including: •Beating bladder infections •Helping heal skin burns naturally •Curing coughs •Easing constipation •Curing dandruff •Relieving diaper rash •And much, much more . . .

Olive oil has been praised by leading health experts as one of Mother Nature's most healthful fats.

And now, olive oil is making news worldwide and is here to stay in homes, restaurants, and even fastfood chains!

People from all walks of life, including some olive oil pioneers and contemporary medical experts, believe olive oil helps fight body fat, keeps blood pressure down, and combats heart disease. It's also known to help relieve colds and maintain healthy skin.

Jean Carper, a leading authority on health and nutrition, points out that new Italian research finds olive oil contains antioxidants similar to those found in tea and red wine that fight heart disease, including LDL cholesterol's ability to clog arteries.

Olive oil is like "virtual youth in a bottle." Start living a more healthy life today!

Vachagan Robert Yengibaryan PhD Natalia Yengibaryan, MBA Panini Grill owners and operators.

20465 Old Cutler Rd. Ph. 305.238.5894

Page 28

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

June 8 - 14, 2010

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Catering Thai and Sushi 5pm - 7pm Monday - Friday Bring your family and friends for our special discount Thai and Sushi Menu

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June 8 - 14, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 29

Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon marks return of the station wagon Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS The station wagon is back and Cadillac’s new CTS Sport Wagon is a good example of what this latest incarnation of the old American favorite is all about. It has all the trappings of the station wagon of yore, but comes with the styling, technology and safety features of today’s modern vehicles.

From the front, the CTS Sport Wagon looks very much like the Cadillac CTS sedan and is just about the same size, yet it has double the hauling space with 25 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. It also has 19inch wheels, a large (optional) panoramic rear sunroof, large vertical taillights, an integrated roof spoiler and a seamless roof load-management system that blends with the roofline for uninterrupted design line.

Under the hood, there’s a 3.0-liter Direct Injection V-6 engine rated at 270 hp. It has variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, and

gets 28 mpg on the highway. If you’re looking for more power, a 3.6-liter DI V-6 with 304 hp is optional. Both engines balance performance and efficiency while operating on regular unleaded gas and both are mated to a GM Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is an option.

The CTS Sport Wagon handles with precision you might not expect from a station wagon. Chalk that up to an independent short/long arm (SLA) front suspension system, with performance optimized by the use of aluminum for the upper and lower control arms, and knuckles. Hydraulic control arm front bushings are used for motion control and help minimize high-speed road vibration, while hollow front stabilizer bars further reduce weight and are sized specifically to each of the three available suspension levels. A multi-link rear suspension, with a fully isolated subframe contributes to a superior ride and excellent handling.

Inside, the interior is luxurious and has a “sporty” feel, with an integrated center stack design trimmed with either a satin metallic finish or genuine Sapele Pommele wood. The lower instrument panel sweeps forward and away from the front seat and the hand-assembled center console leads seamlessly into the center stack without

CTS Sport Wagon looks like the Cadillac CTS sedan, but has twice the hauling space.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

compromising space. The seats incorporate “thin-seat” technology for comfort and enhanced rear-seat leg, knee and foot room.

French stitching is evident throughout the interior, including the upper instrument panel, door inserts, seats and the shifter boot. The cockpit and rear seating areas of the Sport Wagon are the same as the CTS sedan, though the Sport Wagon has more storage capability. A push-button power

liftgate is standard and can be programmed to raise to a specific height.

Base price on the 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon is $48,665.

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>.

Page 30

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

***** Five Star Baseball Camp

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Jorge Fabregas 9 year major league career,World Series Champion University of Miami Baseball Hall of Famer

Emil Castellanos - Head Coach Westminster Christian High School

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D I R E C T O R Y

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WHEN SUCCESS IS THE ONLY OPTION!

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BIO

Also Available: Music Entertainment For All Occasions

Florida Interational University 2004-Present Music Education/Performance Lead Saxophone player in FIU’s Premiere Wind Ensemble ALL STATE Baritone player - 2004 All County Jazz/Concert band 1996-2004

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JRG Lawn Care Inc. We Make the Cut!

“Call Us”We’d like to get to “MOW” you!

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ROOFING ARE YOU 62 OR OLDER?

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EXPERT REPAIRS & COMPLETE ROOFING BY Call

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300 Sevilla Avenue, Suite 202 Coral Gables • FL 33134

Fully Insured Florida State Certified Roofing & General Contractor

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THE ROOFING EXPERTS Repairs New Roofs Re-Roofing Coatings

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June 8 - 14, 2010

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Use a microwave for cooking whenever possible

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

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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 only use environmentally friendly, water-based finishes

by Sherwin-Williams.

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.

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Come visit our showroom!!

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June 8 -14, 2010