One of Miami’s Community Newspapers _______________________________________ Supporting local businesses since 1958
South Miami
_____________________________________ www.communitynewspapers.com ______________________________ DECEMBER 22 - 28, 2009
Santa and UM football, baseball teams Amy on Santa make holidays special for area children
I
BY AMY LIVERGOOD DONNER
Most parents wonder at least a little if all the lies we tell about Santa might be doing some damage to the developing “trust meter” in our children. But we don’t wonder too long because once the oldest child knows the story, we add insult to injury with the famous follow up; “don’t tell your sister. Let this be our little secret.” I recently discovered the answer to this seasonal dilemma, and if you read on you will know too. “When is Santa coming?” wonders child. Easy one parent thinks, “December 25.” “Do you know him?” child asks curiously. “Not personally, but we’ll make him cookies just the same,” parent replies with a grin. “Do you believe in him?” “Yes, I believe in Santa” parent shares with confidence. “Is Santa real?” child asks. “What do you mean by real? I said I believe in Santa” you reply feeling a bit like Bill
BY BEATRICE DE PEYRECAVE
nterval International, a leading provider of vacation services headquartered in South Miami, and the City of South Miami cosponsored the Holiday Toy Fest last week benefiting more than 400 deserving children in the community. Each child had the chance to visit with Santa and select a holiday gift. Other highlights included “Frosty’s Face Painting” and some tasty treats. Along with Santa and his special elf, members of the University of Miami Hurricanes football and baseball teams and Sebastian the Ibis – UM’s mascot – volunteered their time to make this holiday a very special one for the children. Interval employees supported the annual event by donating both gifts and their time to the Holiday Toy Fest, one of the many community service initiatives that the company hosts throughout the year. Santa Claus, Sebastian the Ibis, South Miami Mayor Horace Feliu, and Interval employees enjoy sharing the spirit of giving with happy children at the annual Holiday Toy Fest held at the Bethel-Gibson Community Center.
–––––––––––––––––––– See
AMY ON SANTA, page 3
New Year’s facts about resolutions General Manager, Fitness Together Miami
BY SCOTT BAUMANN
Jacory Harris, University of Miami quarterback, shares gifts with his two “leading receivers” at the annual Interval International / City of South Miami Holiday Toy Fest.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See
HOLIDAYS, page 3
FACT #1 The number one New Year’s resolution is to lose weight and get into better physical shape. FACT #2: Close to 95 percent of those people
will give up on their resolution within the first thirty days. I think it comes as no surprise to anyone that the number one New Year’s resolution for Americans is to lose weight and get into better physical shape. The next fact unfortunately is not a big surprise either, particularly to those of us in the business or those who have given up on their own resolutions. So why is it so hard to lose weight? There are a couple of reasons that people find losing weight so hard. The first reason is that most people go about it the
wrong way. An overly restrictive diet or exercise plan that is too aggressive will inevitably lead to burn out and failure. Even worse, a diet that is too low in calorie will create a yo-yo dieting syndrome in which your metabolism will actually get slower and cause you to gain even more weight when you begin eating normally again. The key here is to establish a healthy eating plan that is realistic to stick with. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See
FACTS, page 5
Page 2
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December 22 - 28, 2009
HOLIDAYS,
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Several members of the University of Miami baseball team show their support for the hometown community by volunteering their time to distribute toys at the annual Interval International/ City of South Miami Holiday Toy Fest.
Interval International operates membership programs for vacation owners and provides value-added services to its developer clients worldwide. Based in Miami , Florida , the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving the vacation ownership market for more than 33 years. Today, Interval 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), a leading global provider of membership and leisure services to the vacation industry.
news
South Miami Miller Publishing • Community Newspapers 6796 SW 62 Avenue • South Miami, FL 33143 305-669-7355 www.communitynewspapers.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– PUBLISHER
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WRITERS Ron Beasley, Linda Bernfeld-Rodriguez, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Gary Alan Ruse, Richard Yager
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––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.
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AMY ON SANTA,
Page 3
from page 1 –––––––––
Clinton. Some of us really whip up elaborate tales at this point. “Of course Santa is real. In fact, I used to sell reindeer food before you were born and I met him once when I was doing my rounds at the North Pole.” “Really Daddy?” child beams. Every family leaves their own trail of deceit when it comes to explaining what’s up with Santa. My friend Erin took the opposite approach. Her four year old son Mason was quizzing her in the normal fashion. When can I see the real Santa, not the one in the mall? How will Santa get into our house, we don’t have a chimney? How does Santa visit all the kids in a single night? I have a friend that says Santa is not real. Erin jumped on that statement. “Your friend is right Mason, Santa is not real.” She told her four year old son there was no Santa. She would not carry on this charade. Mason cocked his head like a puppy and watched his Mom, and in that pause Erin added “I am Santa”. Mason and Erin were locked in a stare as each wondered from their own perspective where to go from here. Then Erin explained to me that, at that moment, if you looked closely into Mason’s eye’s you could see a
miniature Santa, with a sack full of toys. He appeared so clearly she could make out Santa’s rosy cheeks, and she said he did have a nose like a cheery. He was a right jolly old elf, and he danced in Mason’s eyes. Then Mason threw back his head, slapped his hands on his knees, and sighed with a smile. As he turned to face his mother, he wore a serious expression and he told his mother in a kind but firm voice “Mommy you are not Santa, you are Mommy.” No damage done, trust meter intact. Happy Holidays!
Page 4
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 22 - 28, 2009
Musical magic marks this holiday season Gloria Burns GLORIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GAB T h e U n i v e r s i t y o f M i a m i â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s F r o s t School of Musicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s H oli day Di nner G a l a, the 7th Annual Winter Wonderful!, held at the Fountainebleau Hotel on December 6, raised a record $156,000 to benefit undergraduate music scholarships at the University of Miami. The affair, chaired by P a t t i a n d A l l a n H e r b e rt , honored J o n S e c a d a , who received the Frost Achievement Award, and M a r ta S. Weeks, who received the Frost Legacy Award. While the Frost School showcased their talented music students, the special guest artist, of course, was Jon Secada. During the affair Secada spoke with U M F r i en ds of Music (FO M) Vice P resident, Rick To n k i n s o n, and accepted an Honorary Lifetime FOM Membership.
Among the many attending this holiday gala were Dean Shelly and Julie Berg, C a r ol A l e x a n d e r, T h o r B r u c e , D r. M o r t o n a n d I re n e H a m m o n d , F r a n k i e Hi pp , Ad e le Ne u m an n , R ic k a nd M a r g a r i t a Tonki nson, H ank La ngst on, M a r i a n K r u t u l i s , Ju l i e W illiamson, Alex a n d Abby Vicencio, to mention a few. By the way, Jon Secada will receive his Friends of Music recognition at his outdoor concert at F a i rchild Tr opical Botanical G a r d e n s . F a i rch il dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Va l e nt i n e â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day c onc ert w il l b e he ld on F ebrua ry 14, 2010. Save that date for a fabulous show and a great way to treat someone you love to a perfectly romantic event. In other holiday activity, G F W C C o r a l G abl es Wo m a n â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cl ub collected more than 150 gifts for the children who visit the Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free May Van Sickle Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dental Clinic that opens its services to school aged children in need though out Miami Dade County. A final push for gifts came in conjunction with the Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Holiday Party held December 9 at their lovely clubhouse in the Gables. Aside from collecting gifts and enjoying
Dean Shelly Berg with honoree Marta Weeks at UM Frost School of Music Dinner Gala.
Ficus Hedge Owners!
Rick and Margarita Tonkinson with Jon Secada at Frost School of Music Dinner Gala.
Pictured at the CGWC Holiday party are Yolanda Woodbridge, President Pam Schaefer, Ceres Campbell and Josephine Burke.
a massive Italian buffet brought by members themselves, the Club inducted ten new members. Vice President Debi W i l b o r n officiated over that ceremony and welcomed all to join the club in service to the community. Following the installation, President Pam Schaefer wished all a happy holiday season and the party began with lots of music and dancing by all. For those looking to give back to the community through service, CGWC invites you to join their efforts. For more information, go to <coral-
gableswomansclub.org>. Until next week, keep making each day count. May you all have a blessed and happy holiday season.
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, please send your news via e-mail to <galburns@aol.com>.
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December 22 - 28, 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 5
Two stories of courage in Siam Palace anniversary BY PAT FULTON
When Marc Buoniconti hosted a 20th anniversary celebration in early November for the Siam Palace restaurant on Sunset Drive, it’s possible that many of the guests who poured into the Thai restaurant were unaware of two important stories behind that event. Buoniconti, well known for his work with the Miami Project that conducts research on spinal cord injuries and other neurological injuries and diseases, is close friends with the owner, Cynthia Halelamien, who has a worthy story of her own. Coming alone from Thailand, she arrived in the U.S. more than 20 years ago to pursue a master’s degree in communications from University of Miami. When presented with the opportunity to take over a Thai restaurant that was failing, she took the challenge and transformed the business singlehandedly into a retail success. When Buoniconti visited Siam Palace in 1995 at someone else’s recommendation, the result was, as he puts it, “I came and I never left.” For the 20th anniversary, he encouraged Halelamien to add a sushi bar, which she did, to unanimous accept-
FACTS, from page 1 –––––––– This leads to the next reason that so many people fail. The “secret” to getting into better physical shape and losing weight is consistency. Consistency and determination are the keys to losing weight and getting into shape. It does not matter if you are on the best nutrition and workout program in the world. If you do not stick to it consistently for a good period of time you will not get results. The good news is that you do not have to be on the best program in the world. As long as you are dedicated and consistent you will reap better results than most. It is important to set a goal, a realistic goal, and stick to it no matter what. Make the goal something attainable, like 30 minutes of exercise for a minimum of three times per week and stick to it. The difference between the successful and the unsuccessful is that the successful do it even on the days that they don’t feel like it. If you only exercise on the days that you “feel like it”, you may never exercise at all! Just set a plan and do it. You will be surprised that even on the days that you didn’t feel like doing it, you will feel great when you are finished
ance from her clientele. “My customers like to try something of everything,” the owner explains. “Although the main menu is all authentic Thai food, the Japanese sushi has been a success.” The Siam Palace chef is Thai, giving an authentic stamp to the menu, but the rest of the staff is truly international: Japanese, Korean, Thai, American, and Latin American. One of the differences between Thai food and other ethnic cuisines, says Halelamien, is that all the ingredients are fresh, rather than canned or frozen. “In Thailand, we don’t know what a can of peas looks like,” she says. “We just go out in the garden and pick the peas for cooking.” One of the best-sellers on her menu is the Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles) and shrimp soup, made with lemon grass and lime juice. Another popular item is “Cynthia’s roll,” a Japanese creation devised by the owner, which is made with tuna, tofu, and Japanese rice, with a crunchy outer covering. The Thai doughnuts, served with condensed milk for dipping, make an unforgettable experience. One of the owner’s secrets for maintain-
and proud of yourself that you have accomplished what you set out to do. Start by setting a reasonable short term goal, like exercising for three times per week for 30 minutes each time and losing five pounds this month. Next, make yourself accountable to that goal. Commit to exercise with your spouse, find a workout partner, hire a trainer, or join a class; but somehow make the commitment to exercise. When you have someone else depending on you or waiting for you, it is much more likely you will keep that commitment. Once you have made this commitment, do not let anything stop you from reaching your goals. There will be days that you do not want to go, but go anyway. There will be days when you are tired and stressed, but go anyway. These are the days that you need to exercise the most and these are the days that will make all the difference in the long run. You will be glad that you did. Guaranteed! Fitness Together Miami is located at 5829 SW 73 St., Suite 2 in South Miami. For more information, call 305-6653694, or go online at: < w w w. f i t n e s s t o g e t h e r m i a m i . c o m > or email at: <scottbaumann@fitnesstogether.com>
Marc Buoniconti and Cynthia Halelamian ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
ing her clientele is that she is cooks food “for my customers like the way I cook for my family, which means it’s done with passion and quality.” Halelamien’s passion is also evident in her constant presence at the restaurant— from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., a habit for 20 years. “I know my customers and what they
like and they know me,” she says. One key to keeping her customers interested is a complete do-over of the restaurant — in all details — every five years. This includes furniture, décor, and menu. Her close friend, Buoniconti, whose life was changed because of a college football injury that left him a quadraplegic, recommends favorite dishes from the menu and talks business that shows the new life he has created for himself since the injury that left him in a respirator for seven months. That experience led him to connect with the American Lung Association, for which he hosts annually the Coral Gables Wine and Food Festival. (The next event will be on March 27, 2010.) He also serves on Gov. Charlie Crist’s Commission on Disabilities for the State of Florida. He travels extensively for the fundraising arm of the Miami Project, based at the University of Miami Jackson Medical complex, with a staff of 250.
Siam Palace is located at 9999 Sunset Drive in Miami; Cynthia Halelamien can be reached at <csiampalace@yahoo.com>
it’s time to
FEEL GOOD about getting
NAKED again.
the
WEIGHT IS OVER.
one client • one trainer • one goal
SOUTH MIAMI 305-665-3694 • scottbaumann@fitnesstogether.com
COCONUT GROVE 305.648.2202 • ftcoconutgrove@fitnesstogether.com
Page 6
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 22 - 28, 2009
Medicare fraud capital — one more black eye R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY The United States Inspector General Daniel R. Levinson said approximately 2 percent of the nation’s diabetics live in Miami-Dade County. He also said that 50 percent of all moneys disbursed by Medicare in the entire nation for diabetic reimbursement are spent in Miami-Dade. Levinson said, “that it might indicate fraud.” Might! How expensive could diabetic medications cost in Miami-Dade? Medicare is spending approximately $500 million a year on diabetic care for seniors in Miami-Dade, with a population of 2.4 million, the same amount it is spending on the rest of the nation’s 305 million people. They call Miami the “Medicare Fraud Capital of America.” Medicare estimates that fraud is costing the American taxpayer $60 billion a year. If we could save that
money we would be well on our way to covering the cost of the expanded health coverage currently being debated in Congress. How is it possible that we are spending, on average, $5,964 a month on each diabetic patient under Medicare coverage in Miami while the national average is $378 a month? The federal government says “a big part of the losses are incurred by the government wanting to quickly pay claims without verifying the bill.” Who pays a bill without looking at it and asking, “Is this correct?” Medicare claims that in the last year it has shut down 33 agencies in Miami that have been billing Medicare illegally. Once closed down they then go across the street and open up a new store and are back in business. Put them in jail and that will put an end to their staying in business. Payment caps proposed to go into effect this year will, it is lamented, hurt the legitimate diabetics who require home care. The government says it will continue to pay for home healthcare for the needy elderly, insisting that their only goal is to stop fraudulent claims. If approximately 50 percent of the
Looking for Something Special for the Kids Stocking? Consider a Custodial Account I am looking for something special for my children’s or grandchildren’s stocking. What do you suggest? If you can afford it, and you feel motivated to do so, I suggest that you put a check in their stocking to be used to open or add to a custodial account. Who controls the money in the custodial account? Custodial accounts are registered under the minor’s name and social security, but the custodian (you) controls the money until the minor is an adult. Is the custodial account more flexible than the Florida Prepaid College Plan or 529 plan? Yes, the Florida Prepaid College Plan and the 529 plan are for educational purposes only. The custodial account can be used for other purposes besides education.
When should you start a custodial account? The sooner the better. The cost of education will continue to rise. I suggest that you get into the “tradition” of making this a yearly item for the stocking. You should have a review of your financial condition prior to investing including a clear understanding of your investment criteria. Rick Tonkinson is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP™) who works with working people in your area since 1991. The family business, Rick Tonkinson & Associates, Inc is located at 100 Almeria Ave, Suite 310, Coral Gables, FL 33134. Telephone # 305447-6617. 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.
––– VIEWPOINT ––– Medicare fraud is in Miami-Dade why not pour 50 percent of the Inspector General’s staff into our community and clean it up once and for all? So who is guilty? First, the fake service providers that are billing Medicare for services and equipment that are not provided seniors. Then, there are the immoral members of the medical profession that receive bribes for fake referrals. The unsuspecting seniors that are victims of medical identity theft — their Medicare numbers being used fraudulently to make claims. Lastly, there are the seniors who are accepting under the table cash from illegal providers in exchange for the use of their Medicare numbers to make fraudulent claims. They are as guilty as the illegal providers who are billing Medicare for reimbursement for services they have not provided. Seniors, check your “Quarterly Medicare Summary Notice” which you receive in the mail. If you find billings for services you
have not received, send what you have found to The Office of the Inspector General: By email to <www.HHSTips@oig.hhs.gov>; Call 1-800-447-8477; By mail to HHS TIPS, PO Box 23489, Washington, DC 20026, or By fax to 1-800-223-8164. If all seniors checked their Medicare Summary Notices and turned fraudulent claims over to the government for investigation, we would go a long way in saving the taxpayers billions of dollars every year. 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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December 22 - 28, 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 7
Roque’s Curiosities has lots of ‘WOW’ inside 1430 MADRUGA AVENUE | CORAL GABLES | FLORIDA | 33146 BEHIND PUBLIX ON MONZA AVE Roque’s Curiosities new Bird Road location.
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Roque’s Curiosities, “The Curiosity Shop,” has just opened a second location. With the success of its first location at historic Cauley Square in South Dade, for many years now, owners George Roque and Laz Martinez have ventured out and opened a new store on Bird Road just off 67th Avenue. Long time customer Anthony Clark says, “It’s one of the few places in the Miami area that you can go to and be awed by what you find, a true gem nowadays.” The store is kept in the same style and décor as the Cauley Square Village shop with antique, Victorian, vintage and nostalgic pieces galore. They are also carrying a large collection of oil paintings from several renowned local artists including Juaquin Godoy, who is well known for his Everglades-scapes, and Avnain Tomer who, at his young age, is already an acclaimed up and coming
artist, originally from Israel. They also carry an extensive selection of marcasite jewelry, sterling silver jewelry and natural gemstone pieces. Roque’s Curiosities is a great place to find holiday gift ideas at very reasonable prices, such as their all soy candles, poured exclusively for them, and which carry such names as Pumpkin Pie, Egg Nog and Harvest Spice to name a few. Along the lines of the antique and vintage you can find a wide selection of antique books, porcelain-ware, metal banks, dolls, Tiffany style lamps, collectibles, and many furniture pieces from across a wide spectrum of styles. A visit to Roque’s Curiosities is truly a visit to a by-gone-era; only here, for a modest price, yes, you can take it with you. Roque’s Curiosities is located at 6550 Bird Road. They are open Monday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sundays noon to 5:00 p.m. For information, call 305-665-0466.
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December 22 - 28, 2009
• EDUCATIONAL AND TEEN ADVICE • whole new way of life. Stay with it.
Toby Rose ASK TOBY Do you have any answer that would help us understand why teenagers kill cats, dissect them or mutilate animals? I went online and this seems to be more prevalent than I thought. I’m not a psychologist and I’m not a criminologist. From what I’ve read and heard from professionals in these areas, this behavior many times results in the actions of a serial killer later on. I wish I had the answer.
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Can you give me some advice for my daughter who will is a freshman at the University of Florida? Stay focused, you are there to learn. Try not to be overwhelmed and if that happens, see a counselor; they are there to help. Ask questions of faculty and upperclassmen. Don’t be shy. Be prepared in class and don’t procrastinate. I suggest you wait until your second semester or sophomore year to join a sorority. And give college a chance, you are there to become independent and learn. Don’t be disappointed if, in the beginning, your experience is not what you hoped it would be. It is very difficult to adjust to a
I’m wondering why most colleges appear to have their applications online. I have an application for Washington University and it’s in paper form and I don’t know which is worse. It has so many pages and I’m overwhelmed. I receive many questions on what to do on a college application. If the student had poor academic grades in the beginning and had a good reason for it, explain it. If a student freezes on tests or if there’s anything else that could hurt their chances of being accepted, explain that as well. There is a space on most college application to explain your child’s situation. I’m looking at WashU’s application and it says “Additional information: if there is any additional information you would like to provide regarding special circumstances, additional qualifications, etc., please do so in the space below or on an attached sheet.” I feel that this statement to a college is extremely important. Nine out of 10 children that I work with have had some special situation or experience in life that cannot be explained by test scores or essays. This particular section on the application can really help a student in that situation. It’s their time to really zoom in on the truth. Toby Rose is president of Toby Rose’s College Prep. She is an independent college counselor, was a Dade County Outstanding Teacher, a past president of the Pinecrest Business Association, and served as chairperson of the Dade County School Board Academic Advisory Committee. Toby Rose may be contacted by calling 305-238-7737 or via the internet at <www.tobyrose.com>.
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December 22 - 28, 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Renters still have much to gain by pursuing home ownership BY ED WILBURN Managing Director, Great Florida Bank Residential Lending Buying a home vs. renting is a big decision that takes careful consideration, especially with regards to the recent housing slump. But the rewards of home ownership are still great! For many years, purchasing real estate has been considered an extremely profitable investment. It is an achievement that offers a sense of pride, financial stability and potential tax advantages. Yes, there are certain responsibilities associated with owning a home. Landlords will often argue the benefits of renting, and for obvious reason. If you are renting, you’re helping them make their mortgage payment. The numbers are staggering if you look at it this way. If you are paying $1,000 per month for an apartment, and you know your rent will increase 5 percent every year, then over the next five years you will pay your landlord $66,309. If you are currently renting a house, you may be paying much more than that each month. Either way, you gain no equity by shelling out this monthly housing expense and you certainly won’t benefit when the property value goes up! However, if you were to purchase your own home or condominium, you would be well on your way toward building equity within that same five-year period. By choosing a fixedrate loan program, you can have the comfort of knowing that your monthly mortgage payment will never go up. In fact, you would have the option of refinancing to a lower interest rate at some point in the future should interest rates drop, and this would cause your monthly mortgage commitment to go down. In addition to building equity, there are
tax advantages that come into play with home ownership. Depending on your tax bracket, owning a home is often less expensive than renting after taxes. Interest payments on a mortgage below $1 million are tax-deductible, and your mortgage consultant should help you evaluate the tax advantages of various loan scenarios, and share this information with your tax consultant to glean feedback on your behalf. To find the loan program that is right for you, your mortgage consultant will need to evaluate your monthly household income, current assets and savings, as well as any monthly obligations you may have for credit card payments, car payments, child support, etc. These prequalification factors, along with the report of your credit score, will determine how much house you can afford and what interest rate you will pay for financing. It is also important to let your mortgage consultant know what your future goals are, because this will help narrow down which loan option is the best fit for your long-term needs. There are many different types of loan programs available, including “low” and “no” down payment mortgage programs. These types of programs require the borrower to provide less than 3 percent of the loan amount as down payment. FHA lenders rule that the mortgage payment, including principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI) should not exceed 31 percent of your gross income, and the PITI plus other long-term debt (car payments, etc.) should not exceed 43 percent of your gross income. Housing is an expense that takes a big bite out of the monthly budget. If you are a renter and feel that “home” is more than just someplace to hang your hat, think about the advantages of purchasing real estate. It may be time to take the step into building your personal net worth as a home owner.
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December 22 - 28, 2009
SMH’s CEO honored by March of Dimes
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March of Dimes named Javier Hernandez-Lichtl, CEO of South Miami Hospital, one of seven 2009 recipients of its prestigious Building Our Community Humanitarian of the Year Award during a recent recognition luncheon at Jungle Island. Hernandez-Lichtl was honored for his personal involvement and commitment to making a difference in South Florida. The Humanitarian of the Year Award recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in their respective fields, as well as their commitment to community activities that enhance the quality of our lives. “It’s an honor to be recognized with this select group of individuals who truly embody the spirit of a humanitarian,” Hernandez-Lichtl said. “March of Dimes makes a huge difference in families’ lives. I am proud of their work —
past, present and future.” In addition to his role as hospital CEO, Hernandez-Lichtl has held various leadership positions within Baptist Health, South Miami Hospital’s parent company, since 2003. A resident of Coral Gables, he is active in the community with the Florida Sterling Council, Miami International University of Art & Design, Florida International University and University of Miami School of Nursing. He led the 2008 March for Babies campaign. The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency with a mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy to save babies. For more information, visit the March of Dimes website at <www.marchofdimes.com> or its Spanish website at <www.nacersano.org>.
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December 22 - 28, 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Experience the difference at The finest restaurant in Pinecrest-Palmetto Bay-The Falls has a fresh and contemporary new look with a new menu to match. Some new and exciting flavors like Snapper Ceviche and Cuban coffee rubbed Rib Eye Steak, Ginger Ahi Tuna with black bean-pineapple relish and plaintain chips or Coconut macadamia Crusted Mahi with a zesty orange marmalade sauce. Also some old favorites like Weinerschnitzel, Snapper Francais, Beef Stroganoff or Filet Mignon. We also have daily specials which have included our famous Roast Duck, Raspberrie Chicken or Honey Ginger Salmon. Call or email to see what specials we are doing today!
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Fleming’s Duck Danoise $25... Served with baked apple, prunes and red cabbage Tournedos Bearnaise $29... Twin filets topped with asparagus, mushrooms and béarnaise sauce Baby Calves Liver $23... Sweet and tender, smothered in onions Veal Tivoli $23... Veal cutlet sautéed with fresh mushrooms in a white wine cream sauce Chicken Raspberrie $21... Boneless breast, baked in a raspberry sauce. Frickadeller $22... Danish style meatballs, pan seared and flat, served with red cabbage and white wine cream sauce Grilled Salmon $22... Charbroiled and brushed with a honey ginger glaze
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December 22 - 28, 2009
Goodyear at Cutler Bay celebrates grand opening BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Goodyear at Cutler Bay Tire and Auto Service Center, 20390 S. Dixie Hwy. (on the west side of US1 across from Southland Mall), celebrated its grand opening on Nov. 21. Formerly Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co., it is now family owned and operated by Kevin and Michele Pedersen. “This is a great opportunity for us to serve the community that my husband grew up in (Palmetto High 1976) and we have lived in throughout the years,” Michele Pedersen said. “We have owned and operated the Goodyear at Homestead Tire and Auto for the past nine years and we wanted to expand to this location and provide a full-service state-of-the-art facility that provides automotive care to any type of vehicle on the road. “We have one of the largest selections of tires and provide complete auto care with the Gemini Nationwide warranty. From our
“We ha ve one of the largest selections of tires and provide complete auto care with the Gemini Na tionwide warranty.” — Michelle Pedersen staff to our waiting area we want to make sure our customers know we care about their needs and that our promise to them is to give them excellence service.” Hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. For information, call 305-233-5241.
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December 22 - 28, 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Sunrise School of Miami — A Green School in Your Backyard
BY PATTIE RUSSELL At the Sunrise School of Miami — a Waldorf school — being “green” and teaching environmental responsibility is a key part of the Waldorf curriculum. Waldorf education has become the largest independent, non-denominational educational movement in the world, with over 900 schools and an additional 600 early childhood programs in 85 countries. What accounts for this widespread interest? The Waldorf approach is based on the simple but profound insight that children learn in distinctly different ways at different stages of their development. It cultivates academic, social and emotional intelligence, and connects children to nature and the arts. Encouraging students’ connection with the earth is seen throughout the school. Gardening, especially biodynamic farming, was part of Waldorf founder Rudolf Steiner’s original vision. Starting in the youngest grades our students learn to take care of our garden, complete with organic soil and seeds and a composter where all students dispose of their leftover food to create fertilizer that we add back to the garden environment. Materials in a Waldorf classroom are always made from natural products. In the earliest grades students feel the warmth experienced with wooden rather than plastic toys, and they use beeswax crayons and organic paints. They even use pure, plant-dyed wools when knitting and weaving to develop fine motor skills essential to writing and developing the focus that they will need in future grades. Even the paint on our classroom walls is milk-based to avoid toxins and create a calming effect. The Waldorf curriculum links students to the world around them through the required study of music, art and foreign language—subjects that have become expendable in many schools. First-graders move through a science curriculum that leads to zoology in grade
four, botany in grade six and chemistry, anatomy, physiology and physics by grade eight. Math and geography follow a similar trajectory. The program of study additionally integrates unique classes such as knitting, quilting and woodworking. Fifth-graders re-create the Greek Pentathlon. At Sunrise School of Miami the link students have with the natural world is important. Nature deficit disorder is a newly coined phrase for the negative ramifications from a dearth of outdoor experiences. The Sierra Club and the National Wildlife Federation have recently expressed concern that today’s children will not grow up to be environmental stewards since there has been such a sharp decline in national park visit rates and camping rates in the last 20 years. They even think a declining interest in the outdoors could result in fewer conservationists. At Sunrise School of Miami, we are confident our students will grow up at a minimum to hold a great respect for the natural world, and it would not surprise me if many of them become the environmental stewards and conservationists that will continue our country’s green revolution. Sunrise School of Miami is a Pre-K4 – 8th Grade school located at 8795 S.W. 112 St. For more information visit: www.sunriseschoolofmiamil.com.
December 22 - 28, 2009
Gulliver students develop water purification system
Gulliver Prep student engineers inspect the solar water purification system earmarked for Haiti. A second unit is being constructed as well. Pictured (l-r) are seniors Eric Tano, Martin Arostegui and Kyle Kurzner. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY BAY PROBY
Gulliver Preparatory School engineering and biomedical science students are addressing one of Haiti’s most pressing health problems — drinkable water. With support from a LemelsonMassachusetts Institute of Technology two-year grant, the Gulliver students recently completed a prototype ultraviolet (UV) water filtration system that will produce 500 gallons of safe drinkable water per day. They also are developing a reverse osmosis system to determine which approach is most effective in removing dangerous waterborne bacteria, viruses and protozoa from Haiti’s water supply. The success of the Haitian Water Purification System project is the most recent accomplishment for Gulliver’s unique pre-engineering program, which integrates hands-on learning through service projects and textbook studies in its curriculum. “We want our students to design and develop technology solutions that improve the quality of life for individuals and communities,” said Claude Charron, Gulliver’s Engineering and Biomedical Science Department chair. “That was the overriding theme for our Haiti water purification project.”
Friends of the Orphans, an international nonprofit that operates orphanages in Latin America and the Caribbean is partnering with Gulliver and MIT to install the solar water purification system at St. Damien Pediatric Hospital in Port au Prince where the water will be used for medical purposes and drinking. Since last fall, the pre-engineering students have been researching, designing, and engineering a prototype purification system that uses a 15-watt ultraviolet light bulb. One bulb can last between three to nine years, depending on the size of the filtration equipment, and can be powered using self-sustainable solar energy. “It is difficult to find fresh water in Haiti without contaminants that cause potentially fatal ailments like Hepatitis A and E, typhoid fever, leptospirosis, and diarrhea,” said Nikita Mayani, an 11th grade biomedical science student at Gulliver. In addition to Friends of Orphans, the Gulliver team hopes to partner with the University of Miami and an international organization such as Engineers Without Borders, in order to implement and maintain the most effective system for Haiti. “Our goal for the next school year is to compare the two water purification systems and send the better one to Haiti,” Charron added.
December 22 - 28, 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page 15
First Everglades Sunset Bike Hike and Wine Tasting Tour Miami-Dade Parks Eco-Adventures is hosting its first Everglades Sunset Bike Hike and Wine Tasting Tour on Sunday, Dec. 27, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tour participants will meet at the Ernest Coe Visitors Center in Everglades National Park, 40001 State Road 9336 (Palm Drive/SW 344 St.) in Homestead. The evening will begin with a leisurely paced seven-mile bicycle ride along the Long Pine Key Nature Trail to Pine Glades Lake, led by experienced naturalist guide and author Roger Hammer. At Pine Glades Lake participants will taste an assortment of fine South Florida Tropical Fruit wines provided by Schnebly Redlands Winery, made from carambola, avocado, lychee, mango, guava and passion fruit, as well as sample an assortment of cheeses, while enjoying a picturesque sunset in the beautiful Everglades. The cost to take this tour is $50 and includes bicycles, helmets, wine, snacks and transportation into Everglades National Park. Space is limited. To reserve your seat, call 305-365-3018; the deadline to RSVP is Dec. 23. For more information, visit online at <www.miamiecoadventures.com>.
DADELAND MALL TO PRESENT ‘WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH FAIR’ In honor of American Heart Month, Dadeland Mall will present Sister to Sister’s “Women’s Heart Health Fair” on Saturday, Feb. 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Center Court of the mall, located at 7535 N. Kendall Dr. Dadeland Mall has partnered with Sister to Sister: The Women’s Heart Health Foundation, to recognize American Heart Month. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in women and this event will help educate them about ways to reduce the risk of getting this disease. For more information about attending this free event, contact Dadeland Mall at 305-665-6226 or visit online at <www.simon.com>. VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS SEEKING NEW VOLUNTEER GUIDES Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is seeking volunteers interested in providing meaningful and interactive experiences for visitors by leading tours. Join on location at 3251 S. Miami Ave., on Wednesday, Jan. 6, from 7 to 9 p.m., for refreshments and a chance to learn more
COMMUNITY NEWS briefs about the program. New volunteer guides training is scheduled for every Saturday from Jan. 23 through Feb. 26, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and attendance at all sessions is required to become a volunteer guide. Guides will be selected based on application and interview process during this special open house. A completed application, received no later than Jan. 4 will serve as your reservation to attend. Space is limited, so candidates are encouraged to turn their applications in quickly. Visit online at <www.vizcayamuseum.org> for detailed information and an application. UM CREATIVE WRITING PROGRAM PLANS CRAFT-INTENSIVE WEEKEND The University of Miami’s Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program will honor the 50th teaching anniversary of its founding professor and author of 14 books,
Lester Goran, by launching a weekend workshop series designed to engage the local writing community. The workshop will take place on Saturday, Feb. 27, and Sunday, Feb. 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the CAS Library, 1210 Stanford Dr. on the UM campus. Sessions at this program will span the breadth of creative writing, including memoir, poetry on and off the page and the development of what John Gardner calls “the vivid and continuous dream” in fiction. UM professors Jane Alison, Maureen Seaton, Walter Lew, Mia Leonin, Peter Schmitt and MFA program director M. Evelina Galang, joined by Lois Wolfe and R. Zamora Linmark, introduce narrative techniques, poetic traditions and hybrid forms of writing through lectures, demonstrations and in-class exercises.
––––––– Continued on next page
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
NEWS,
December 22 - 28, 2009
from previous page
For more information about seminars and breakout sessions with MFA students and alumni, visit the website at <www.as.miami.edu/english/creativewriting/lestergoran/writenow>. AWARD HONORS SMH UMBILICAL CORD BLOOD COLLECTION CENTER South Miami Hospital’s Public Umbilical Cord Blood Collection Center has won an international Stevie Award for
Women in Business in the “Best New Service of the Year” category. Denise Woods, RN, vice president of the hospital’s Center for Women and Infants, received the honor, chosen from among 2,600 candidates in 40 categories. The Stevie Awards were created to honor the positive contributions of businesspeople and companies around the world. The awards include the American Business Awards, International Business Awards, Stevie Awards for Women in Business and Stevie Awards for Sales and Customer Service.
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December 22 - 28, 2009
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World’s largest cruise ship exceeds expectations BY MIKE BERK When something is hyped as much as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas has been during the past few months, you expect that a visit on board might not live up to your expectations. Well, this grand lady, the largest cruise ship in the world, surpassed those expectations. Words and pictures, plans and drawings couldn’t do justice to the real thing. Designed with seven distinct “neighborhoods,” the 225,000-ton Oasis of the Seas sets a whole new standard of cruise ship design. The designers took advantage of its 208-foot width to open parts of the ship to the sky and create two of its seven neighborhoods — Central Park and Boardwalk — as well as greatly increasing the number of staterooms with balconies. “We wanted to create something that is game-changing. It is our tradition,” Richard Fain, chair of Royal Caribbean International, told a group of media members during a recent preview cruise from the ship’s homeport of Port Everglades. Dividing the ship into seven neighborhoods makes it much less overwhelming and finding your way around the 1,187-foot long liner is not nearly as daunting as one might expect. There are so many different areas on the ship, many quiet intimate spaces — inside and out — where you can conduct a quiet conversation or read a book, even with another 5,399 guests on board (based on double occupancy). The ships seven neighborhoods are: Central Park — Open to the sky, the unique lush tropical park at sea, complete with flower gardens and canopy trees, spans the length of a football field with paths and quiet rest spots. It also is home to some the
Sculptures like this one add an artistic touch to the gardens of Central Park.
N E W S ship’s premium dining and shopping venues. Boardwalk — For those who have spent any time near seaside piers such a Coney Island in New York, this may bring back fond memories. Complete with a carousel, it features a seafood restaurant, ice cream parlor, donut shop and Johnny Rockets, and is the gateway to the revolutionary AquaTheater. Royal Promenade — An evolution of the Royal Promenade found on the line’s Voyager and Freedom class ships, this center of activity features lounges, dining and shopping. During a cruise it is often the location of theme parades and other entertainment activities. Pool and Sport Zone — With pools galore, the Oasis of the Seas features the first “beach pool” at sea, the H2O Zone kids water playground, several whirlpools, an expanded adults-only Solarium, basketball court, miniature golf course, and two FlowRider surf simulators. Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center — This neighborhood includes several amenities that enhance healthy living including a spa, relaxation rooms, and a fitness center with all the latest exercise machines. Entertainment Place — This is the place to be after dark with a jazz club, comedy club, nightclub, casino and Opal Theatre. Youth Zone — There was a time when cruises were not family oriented, but the Oasis takes family cruising to a new level with more than 28,000 square feet dedicated to children, from tots to teens. There are age appropriate activities and facilities designed in conjunction with Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean program. Even with its great size and new features, guests who are regulars with Royal Caribbean will feel right at home with familiar place names. You’ll recognize many of the dining areas, lounges and recreational activities found on many other ships of the fleet. Fain said the concept behind the Oasis’ design was to incorporate a third that was familiar, a third evolutionary and a third revolutionary. If you liked the rock-climbing wall, there are two, as well as two FlowRiders, the popular surfing simulator. And if you like thrills, take a brief ride on the zip line nine decks above Boardwalk. Probably the most notable new feature aboard the Oasis of the Seas is the AquaTheater, a unique open-air amphitheater featuring a pool that can be used for syn-
Above: This view from above shows the Boardwalk with the Carousel (foreground) and AquaTheatre. Below: Video screens around the Oasis of the Seas shows occupancy at dining venues.
chronized swimming and diving shows, and when combined with giant video screens and dancing waters can create a multi-sensory experience unlike any other at sea. Another new feature of the Oasis is the Rising Tide Bar — the world’s first moving bar at sea. A feat of engineering, the bar rises and lowers as guests enjoy a cocktail as they slowly move between Central Park on Deck 8 and the Royal Promenade on Deck 5. This ship includes the latest 21st Century technology, much of which passengers won’t see, but there are some useful tools such as the touch screen video monitors that help you find your way to your stateroom or some other location on the ship. One unique high-tech feature is the video screens around the ship that give you up-tothe-second information about space availabil-
ity at any of the many dining venues on board. Each cabin’s flat-screen television offers access to the Internet, ordering room service, making reservations for activities on board and ashore, and keeping track of how much you spent in the gift shop or bar. With so much to offer onboard, you may not want to go ashore, but if you do, the Oasis of the Seas visits such ports in the Eastern Caribbean as St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Nassau, leaving Port Everglades every Saturday. In the spring, the ship will begin alternating weekly with ports in the Western Caribbean. For more information and reservations on the Oasis of the Seas or any other Royal Caribbean ship, call your travel professional, visit <www.royalcaribbean.com> or call 1800-ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.
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Ocaquatics Swim School owner honored by national association BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Miren Oca, owner of Ocaquatics Swim School, was honored by the U.S. Swim School Association with its 2009 Humanitarian Award, which was presented in October at the organization’s 21st annual National Conference, in San Diego, CA. The award is given to an individual who provides outstanding service to the local community in some way related to water safety, drowning prevention or aquatic education. Since 1999, in conjunction with the University of Miami Wellness Center, Ocaquatics provides a week of free, daily swimming lessons during spring break for 85-100 underprivileged children. Oca serves on the board of the Swim for Life Foundation which works to prevent incidents of drowning and near drowning. She is the water safety chair of Miami-Dade Safe Kids Coalition and is a member of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance. Ocaquatics participates in numerous local child safety fairs, holiday parades and cultural festivals where she distributes safety information. During the summer, Ocaquatics Swim School celebrated the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art teaching swimming facility in West Kendall. This new facility allows infants from as early as 6 months, children and adults to enjoy uninterrupted swimming instruction year round in a safe indoor pool, even during severe lightning storms and the colder winter months. Equipped with an Ultraviolet Treatment System that kills harmful bacteria resistant to chlorine, the 30,000-gallon heated pool uses fewer chemicals to sanitize the water, thus creating a more pleasant swimming experience. The new pool also features Stage One Drinking Water Grade Filtration, which is the same filtration process that is EPA approved for single pass removal of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in municipal drinking water systems. It also features other “green” innovations. “We are very proud and excited about our new indoor facility, especially because we believe that if those learning how to swim practice once or twice a week for an extended continuous period of time, they will become better swimmers than those who take a week or two of intensive lessons during the summer time only,” Miren Oca said. “It’s a safer, comfortable and more convenient alternative for all,
Miren Oca ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
doing away with cancellations and reschedules resulting from South Florida’s inclement weather.” This family friendly facility offers all the amenities and conveniences including: ample changing rooms and showers, air conditioned area for parents to comfortably watch their children; kids play area, refreshments/snacks kiosk and plenty of parking. Already teaching more than 550 students per week, classes are offered seven days a week at convenient times. Ocaquatics Kendall facility is conveniently located at 13408 SW 131 St. (across from Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport with easy access from Florida’s Turnpike). For more information contact Miren Oca at Ocaquatics Swim School, office, 305969-SWIM (7946); cell, 305-390-6446, or visit online at <www.ocaquatics.com>. With more than 350 swim school members throughout the U.S. and abroad, the U.S. Swim School Association strives to support the aquatic education, water safety and drowning prevention efforts of its members through ongoing education. For more details visit online at <www.usswimschools.org>.
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This knight on horseback adds pageantry and excitement to the Florida Renaissance Festival. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY JOSE BOZA
Ponce De Leon explored Key Biscayne on his first mission to the New World in 1513 and claimed it on behalf of the Spanish King. The Florida Renaissance Festival, the only festival of its kind in South Florida, will commemorate Ponce De Leon’s legacy by showcasing its first Miami show ever near Key Biscayne. The Miami festival’s three consecutive weekend dates are Jan. 910, 16-17 and 23-24, at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. “It’s been more than five years since a Renaissance festival graced Miami and our yearly festival goers have been very passionate about bringing an event back,” said Bobby Rodriguez, executive producer of the Florida Renaissance Festival. “We feel that Historic Virginia Key Beach Park is the perfect location because it offers the environment that we recreate every year at our other events.” This 16th Century production features more than 100 costumed performers, five stages with continuous entertainment and stage acts from around the world. During the three family-themed weekends, guests will enjoy jousting tournaments three times a day, hearty food, human-powered rides and games for children that include the World’s Largest Rocking Horse, Giant Chess, Barrel Rides, and games of strength and skill.
The festivities will feature historical reenactments, sword fights, magical illusions and an abundance of authentic fare from freshly made kettle corn to roasted giant turkey legs, which can be washed down with a swig of mead or ale. The Florida Renaissance Festival is produced by the national, award winning Bobby Rodriguez Productions and strives to create an entertaining and cultural opportunity by making Renaissance history come to life for both children and adults. The event is hosted by City of Miami Parks and Recreation Department and Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. The Florida Renaissance Festival at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park will be open weekends from 10 a.m. to sunset. Prices are $20 for adults and $7 for children ages 6-11 and children under five are free. Season passes are $30 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Advance discount tickets are available online. The Florida Renaissance Festival in Deerfield Beach has been seen by more than one million people in South Florida. This 16th Century production features more than 100 costumed performers and stage acts from around the world. For additional information, visit online at <www.renfest.com>, follow on Twitter: @flarenfest or find the festival on Facebook: The Florida Renaissance Festival. The office number is 1-954-776-1642.
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December 22 - 28, 2009
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Local young adult author has successful book debut BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD
When Danielle Cohen Joseph’s first book, Shrinking Violet, came out in May, it was an immediate hit. Not only was it popular with teens, the Disney Channel optioned it for a television movie. In fact, the book sold so well that it pretty much sold out its first printing by fall. She found out about the shortage when she went to order some for a conference she was attending and was told they didn’t have any more in stock. “They are all shipped out, all the 5,000,” she was told. Normally, selling out the first run is a good thing and a second run is ordered. But in today’s economy, things are different. Initially, the publisher, MTV Pocket Books, balked at ordering a second printing. That worried Joseph because she had a number of events scheduled where she needed to be able to sell her books, including the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Regional Conference, Jan. 15-17, at the Wyndham Miami Airport Hotel. In hopes of convincing the publisher a second printing is needed, “The printing ran on the first of she campaigned on December and shipped out a few days Facebook and through ago,” she said. “The Amazon rankings her Live Journal blog, Danielle Joseph since then have been good. When I was and she ran a “Save (Photo credit: running the campaign it was really good. Shrinking Violet” conMichael Sylver) test. Entrants had to post ––––––––––––––––––––––––– It seems likes it’s selling.” Her second book, Indigo Blues, comes a review on Amazon or Barnes and Noble. They also were supposed to blog, tweet or out July 1, to be published by Flux Books. Facebook about the Save Shrinking Violet She’s working on finishing another manuCampaign, and take a picture of themselves script called Graveyard Shift. Joseph is a stay-at-home mom with three wearing a sweater and mimicking the book’s children, two boys and an infant girl. Her cover. The contest ended Oct. 15. “I gave away four gift cards and then husband is a banker for SunTrust. Her older another book blogger gave away six advance son wants to write a book with her. He told reading copies,” she said. “A lot of people her she could put her name on the cover. She tries to find time to write whenever she just bought copies.” A number of fellow authors even ran con- can. She works primarily from home, but for a change of pace, she goes to Starbucks to write. tests in support of saving Shrinking Violet. Since the book came out, Joseph has been “People have been very supportive,” in demand as a speaker. She recently spoke at Joseph said. As a result, a number of children’s book the Florida Council of Teachers of English and the Miami International Book Fair on a bloggers reviewed her book. “I’ve had a lot of emails from people who young adult writers panel with fellow local have read it,” she said. “I had one girl who author Gaby Triana and Tampa author Alicia did a blog from the Philippines, telling Thompson. For more information about the Society everyone to buy.” Joseph’s savvy campaign got results, and of Children’s Book Writers and on Nov. 24 she received word the book Illustrators Conference, go online to <www.SCBWIFlorida.com>. would go to a second printing.
FOOTNOTES
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December 22 - 28, 2009
‘Barefoot Christmas Eve’ to benefit Soles4Souls BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Soles4Souls has a simple mission to collect new and “gently worn” shoes to donate to victims of natural disasters and those living in extreme poverty. This year, Bay Community Church, 9855 SW 184 St. in Palmetto Bay, and hundreds of other congregations across North America are participating in “Barefoot Sunday,” except Bay Community Church will be participating on Christmas Eve, where people leave their shoes at the door to be donated to the poor. Barefoot Christmas Eve is a unique opportunity for people to remove their shoes and walk out of worship services barefoot. “Churches have always been incredibly responsive to our programs,” said Wayne Elsey, founder and CEO of Soles4Souls. “This engaging event will not only leave a mark on the hearts of your entire congregation, but it will also help Soles4Souls continue our mission to ‘Change the World One Pair at a Time.’” The efforts of Bay Community Church
and participating congregations will go directly toward helping put shoes on the feet of barefoot children around the world. The U.S. government estimates that 300 million children around the world don’t own a single pair of shoes. A sad irony is that Americans threw away the same number of shoes into landfills last year alone. Bay Community Church serves the communities of Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay and is conducting the shoe drive in conjunction with the National Karate and Fitness Academy, 20435 Old Cutler Rd. The National Karate and Fitness Academy is having the shoe drive throughout the month of December while Bay Community Church will focus its drive at its Christmas Eve service at 7 p.m. To learn more about Soles4Souls and its upcoming charitable events, visit online at <www.giveshoes.org>, or call 1-866-521-7463. Churches also can email the Soles4Souls team at <sunday@giveshoes.org> to request more information on how to register for Barefoot Sunday.
December 22 - 28, 2009
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December 22 - 28, 2009
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December 22 - 28, 2009
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2010 Cadillac SRX redesigned with new engine options Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR
LET’S TALK CARS Since better fuel economy tops just about every consumer’s list of necessities in a new vehicle these days, most manufacturers are trying to deliver, and that includes Cadillac. The luxury manufacturer has redesigned the SRX for 2010 and given it a pair of more efficient engine choices. The luxury midsize SRX is powered by Cadillac’s advanced V-6 engines, the smallest-displacement engines that the company offers in North America. A new 3.0-liter, 265 hp direct-injected engine (direct injection results in more power, 10-15 percent better fuel economy and lower emissions) mated to a new Hydra-Matic 6T70 sixspeed automatic transmission is standard, while a new 2.8-liter turbocharged V-6 is optional. Both have advanced technology that helps produce high performance typical of larger-displacement engines, but with greater fuel economy and lower emissions. They replace the 3.6-liter and 4.6-liter
engines of the previous generation SRX. The new turbocharged V-6 is derived from engines that GM uses in luxury European models and it delivers about 300 hp under full throttle, but gets the fuel economy of a smaller engine during lowerload driving conditions such as highway cruising. An Aisin AF40 six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the 2.8-liter turbo and includes a driver-selectable “eco mode” that alters transmission shift points to maximize fuel economy. The new SRX seat seats five adults (the optional third row is no longer available), has ample cargo room, tows up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped and rides on a wide track that delivers responsive handling. It has the typical edgy Cadillac design of recent years, with minimal body overhang, and the wheels are pushed out to corners. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard and 20-inch wheels are offered. A multi-piece shield grille marks the face and vertical headlights blend into a sweeping body that tapers downward to give the vehicle a sporty, raked profile. A bold accent line dives across the body side and ends at a chrome front fender vent that incorporates a side marker light. An integrated spoiler on the rear edge of the roof extends the sleek
Redesigned Cadillac SRX has a shield grille, vertical headlights and a sweeping body that tapers down for a sporty profile.
design line and improves aerodynamics. On the inside, luxury abounds, with hand-sewn leather covering the dashboard and seats. An integrated center stack houses controls for climate and audio systems. The 2010 SRX has many advanced electronic systems, including adaptive headlights that swivel in synch with vehicle steering, a power liftgate with programmable height setting, an integrated hard disc drive for audio storage and a dual-screen
system for rear entertainment. Bluetooth compatibility is standard, as is OnStar’s Turn-by-Turn Navigation service. Pricing on the 2010 Cadillac SRX starts at $33,330. 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>.
December 22 - 28, 2009
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December 22 - 28, 2009
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