South Miami News 2.21.2012 by Community Newspapers

FEB. 21 - MAR. 5, 2012

Art for a good cause at the 28th Annual Rotary Art Festival

Former Mayor Cathy McCann honored with street naming

BY RAQUEL GARCIA

alking along Sarasota Beach on a crisp February afternoon, JoAnne Brooks realizes she is only picking up the broken seashells she finds along the shoreline; inspired by the unique beauty of their imperfection. Diagnosed with polio at age four and unable to use her arms, Brooks scoops up the discarded mollusk pieces with her toes and drops them into an awaiting bucket. Charming and unflappable, this 53 year old petite blonde retired federal probation officer from Laredo, Texas, is one of the hundreds of artists who will be presenting her fine jewelry at the 28th Annual South Miami Rotary Art Festival February 25 and 26. As a public speaker for the Rotarians, Brooks is representative of one of the international organization’s main missions: the global elimination of polio. “I spent my life trying to prove I was not disabled. I did everything, I raised kids, I worked, I was a Type A overachiever. I thought I was the only person like me. It took me 50 years to realize my flaws are unique and what make me beautiful. In the United States nobody talks about polio. But

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FESTIVAL, page 3

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The McCann Family on newly designated Cathy McCann Drive ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY RAQUEL GARCIA “PEACOCKS IN PARADISE” BY EILEEN SEITZ

Police Explorers receive the ‘President’s Volunteer Ser vice Award’ BY RAQUEL GARCIA

t the end of the year, South Miami Police Department Detective and Explorer Post Advisor Director Joe Mendez submits the total volunteer service hours for each member of the high school and college age students who participate in the program to learn about law enforcement service. Thanks to hundreds of dedicated service hours by the team working at community sponsored

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EXPLORERS, page 7

Det. Joe Mendez receives unexpected recognition from Explorers Dailin Roman and Christopher Zambrana

hile in high school, Cathy McCann met then Senator Harry S. Truman and got to be “senator for the day” during a high school field trip to Washington DC. Perhaps this was one of the formative occasions in her lifetime that propelled her to years of civic service for the South Miami community after she and husband Peter left their native Maine for the Sunshine State. A South Miami resident since 1970, McCann served 10 years as city commissioner and four years as mayor from 1980 to 1994. She passed on April 18, 2009 at 75 years old. The legacy of Cathy McCann lives on thanks to a recent street naming ceremony in her honor. On a recent sunny Wednesday afternoon, family and friends gathered at Dante Fascell Park to unveil the new sign that runs from the corner of 58 Avenue and 87 Street to Sunset Drive. After an

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McCANN, page 5

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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FESTIVAL, from page 1 Rotary talks about it.” Founded in 1902 by Paul Harris and four colleagues in Chicago, Illinois who would rotate lunch at each other’s homes, the service inspired organization today is millions strong. The Art Festival is one of many fundraising events hosted by the Rotary whose proceeds will go directly back into the aims of the organization. Produced entirely by volunteers of the South Miami Rotary Club,

JoAnne Brooks Fine Jewelry Bronze Turquoise Necklace ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

news

South Miami

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

Grant Miller grant@communitynewspapers.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Michael Miller Michael@communitynewspapers.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS David Berkowitz, Richard Yager

WRITERS Ron Beasley, Linda Bernfeld-Rodriguez, Kenneth Bluh, Nancy Eagleton, Robert Hamilton, Gary Alan Ruse, Richard Yager, Lee Stephens, Raquel Garcia

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

PROOF DEPARTMENT Isabel Vavrek

GRAPHIC ARTISTS Isabel Ortega, Catalina Roca, Cristian Ortiz

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Ron Miller

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We will not return solicited or unsolicited material including stories, columns and/or photographs. If you send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material. Every issue of the South Miami News is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including advertisements, produced by Community Newspapers and Miller Publishing. Using artwork and /or typography furnished or arranged for/by us is the property of Community Newspapers.

MILLER PUBLISHING AND COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS are proud to publish the following newspapers:

Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens Tribune, Opa Locka News, Palmetto Bay News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun

this year’s festival will fund an annual college scholarship for a South Miami student, provide free dictionaries and atlases to atrisk third and sixth graders throughout Miami-Dade County, help fund Caribbean Charities for Children, and contribute to worldwide causes such as the elimination of polio in India and Pakistan. World traveler and local painter Eileen Seitz has been a regular at the South Miami Rotary Art Festival for 12 years. “I was born in Manhattan in the concrete jungle. When I began traveling and experiencing the bright colors of the tropics while surfing in the Virgin Islands I decided JoAnne Brooks Fine to make Florida my Jewelry Cuff Bracelet home. I feel I am giving –––––––––– back to people the spirit of living through drawing to remind them of a simple way of life. I am blessed to be able to capture the harmonious beauty of the sunlit tropical colors that surround us everywhere.” The multi-dimensional appearing painting “Peacocks in Paradise” is exuberantly colored in bright pinks, yellows and blues with smiling Hibiscus throughout the landscape and two peacocks almost hiding behind the

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“Side by Side” by Eileen Seitz ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

flowers while the sea beckons in the background. The Giclee (or fine art print, original is sold) of “Side by Side” is a simple wooden dock image from Camden, Maine with colorful canoes resting alongside each other in a tranquil sapphire bay at sunset. The fine jewelry of JoAnne Brooks makes dramatic elegant statements in bold rich colors like translucent fuchsia, topaz, and bronze. Sleek lines and elegant curves shape the stone-bedazzled necklaces, earrings, and cuffs. Brooks says she knows exactly when the look is right for a client: “Their cheeks get rosy, their eyes sparkle, it looks like they just put on lipstick and a big smile brings out all the true colors.” The true purpose of the festival is why Chair Wendy Lapidus has devoted over 20 years of service to help make it happen. “The most exciting thing to me about the festival

is what we spend the money on. Not only to provide a wonderful experience for festival goers and artists but to fund a full scholarship for an at-risk student and also to contribute to the many other worthy causes Rotary sponsors. The 28th Annual South Miami Rotary Art Festival is open from 10 am to 6 pm February 25 and 26 on Sunset Drive between US 1 and Red Road. In addition to hundreds of artists from around the country exhibiting, there will be a children’s alley on SW 57 Court, a multinational food court, live music, not for profit association tabling, raffle tickets, and beer and soda sales to benefit Rotary’s charities. For more information about the festival, visit southmiamiartfest.org. To find out about Rotary, visit the Rotary booth in front of headquarters on the festival site.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

Cocoplum Woman’s Club celebrates 100 years Gloria Burns GLORIA’S GAB The GFWC CocoPlum Woman’s Club has been celebrating its centennial in style with a variety of events including an Open House followed the next day by their Centennial Luncheon. This past Valentine’s Day, a stringed ensemble entertained guests as they enjoyed touring the historic clubhouse while munching on a variety of enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres and an open bar provided by the Club’s in house catering company. Centennial Celebration CoChairs, Peggy Vi t a l and M a r y L o u W i n k l e r; dressed in period costume, welcomed guests and moved them onto the Club’s historical memorabilia exposition beautifully displayed. It was a walked

through time. One of the day’s highlights was the opening of a 75 year old time capsule with the reading of some very interesting documents that were brought inside for all to view. South Miami Mayor Phil Stoddard was on hand to remove the cornerstone and reveal the time capsule Open House Chairman, M a x i n e B i z e t t e and Club President Heike Leibkuckler looked on with the crowd. After enjoying Rotary’s South Miami Art Show, folks may be looking for some indoor fun and March has lots to offer. On S a t . , M a r 3r d , the GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club is holding its annual Casino Night fundraiser with a silent auction. This is definitely one of the most fun events in town and certainly the best deal with tickets priced at $25 per person. Past President B a r b a r a L a p s l e y is chairing this year’s affair that has a Hollywood theme for those who like to come in costume. Lapsley and her hardworking committee, including silent auction chair, C a r m e n S u a rez, are

Mayor Phil Stoddard chips away at the cornerstone containing the time capsule during the Coco Plum Centennial Open House.

Seen here at Centennial Celebration Open House for the GFWC Coco Plum Woman’s Club are the Open House Chairman, Maxine Bizette; Co-Chairmen of the Centennial celebration, Peggy Vital and Mary Lou Winkler; and Coco Plum President Heike Leibkuckler. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

dedicated to raising enough funds to extend the hours and days of operation for the Club’s May Van Sickle Children’s Dental Clinic that provides more than $170,000 in free dental care annually to disadvantaged children. For tickets or more information on the dental clinic, call D r. Iris To r res at 305 446-1047. Save those Hollywood costumes for the Friday, Mar. 9 and join Coral Gables Rotarians for the Club’s Annual Gala,, “A N i g h t o n t h e R e d C a r p e t ” , at the Coral Gables Country Club. Zoo Miami’s entertaining R o n M a g i l l will emcee this evening of hilarity with award presentations and more. Club President D e b o r a h Swain and Gala Chair Maa r g a r i t a Tonkinson promise guests great food, lively entertainment, dancing and an auction to benefit Citizens for a Better South Florida and the Rotary Foundation. Single tickets are $150 per person. The Club is also sell-

ing raffle tickets for $125 for a 1 in 300 chance to win $20,000 or a new car of boat. For more information on the event and the raffle, visit www.coralgablesrotary.org. On Monday, Feb 27, you can bowl with some of your favorite former Hurricanes at the 2012 University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame Celebrity Bowling Tournament to be held at Splitsville in Sunset Place. Participants are paired with a former Canes player. Look for chance to win a 2001 Hurricanes National Championship Ring in a live auction. Teams of 4 bowlers are $400, individual bowlers are $125. Call 305-2842775 or go to UMSportsHallofFame.com for more information. Until next time, keep making each day count.

If you would like to submit information for this column, please send your news via e-mail to gloriagalburns@aol.com.

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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McCANN, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

What should I do for my abs? BY HAROLD CASTEDO-GARCIA

The Singing Miamians of Pinecrest perform “God Bless America” at the McCann Drive street sign designation ceremony ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

invocation from Pastor Cathy Felber of First United Methodist Church and comments from city officials, widower Peter McCann spoke affectionately about the amazing life of his bride. “Cathy was one of nine children born during the depression in Portland, Maine. Pre-politics she was an avid skier and graduate of Kalamazoo College in Michigan. Cathy lived by the motto ‘we should always try to give back more than we receive.’” McCann said one of the family’s fondest moments from her days in office came after the devastation of Hurricane Andrew. “South Miami was the first city in MiamiDade County to get cleaned up. We actually slept at city hall during the initial two weeks after the storm as the clean-up efforts got underway.” The legacy of Cathy McCann seems to be her quest for affordable housing to all residents of the community. Having served for many years on the board of Habitat for Humanity and as president, former board members and friends repeatedly shared stories about her commitment to build homes for the disadvantaged.”

An enthusiastic Commissioner Velma Palmer talked about fond memories of her mentor and all the valuable advice she received prior to Palmer’s start as city commissioner. “Now you make sure people get housing in South Miami, Velma” Palmer quoted McCann as saying. “Cathy was life. She was so good to everyone.” Friend Anne Manning said that she met Cathy on the slab of the firs Habitat for Humanity house in South Miami. “Forty houses in this city would not be here but for Cathy. She was the kind of mayor that stayed and worked on the building site with us all day, not just for a photo opp.” Before the benediction The Singing Miamians of Pinecrest did a copula rendition of God Bless America. In her concluding remarks Pastor Felber said God brings people into our lives for a purpose and Cathy’s presence in her life was indeed heaven sent. “She made a big difference in this city’s life. Cathy had so much drive it is appropriate we honor her with Cathy McCann Drive. We have a living legacy for her right her in her family and her spirit, energy, and commitment to this city will live on.”

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NUTRITION I always make sure my clients are eating within their caloric needs. Regularly eating an excess of calories will absolutely add some fat to your physique. So, inversely, it makes sense that regularly eating slightly less calories than you need will more definition to your abdominal region as well as the rest of your body. In regards to taking cheat days throughout the week, ask yourself how long you want to wait before you see some real results. COMPOUND RESISTANCE EXERCISES I realize that this term may sound like some incredibly complicated idea that requires years of experience to grasp. However, it’s very simple. Just grab some weights and do movements that

require as many muscles as possible. Some personal favorites of mine include the wood-chop, squat thrusters, and my absolute favorite: the squatting row. Not sure what these are? Time to ask your trainer! The reason I promote these compound movements is because the more muscles you use in a movement, the more calories you’re burning. This is especially important if you’re not the type to go hang out at the gym for 4 hours. Don’t worry. I’m not that type either. CARDIO FUN Don’t write me off just yet. I know that for many of you cardio is not fun…at all. That may just be the biggest reason your abs are tearing through your skin just yet. It’s important to find an activity that requires significant amounts of sweat, and is also enjoyable! If you have to go dragging yourself onto the treadmill for 6 hours a week, it’s time to find a new hobby. If you’re not sure what to pick, you can start by exercising with friends in a class or something of the sort. So that’s it, everybody. This is what you need to do for your abs. Put in maximum effort and don’t stop trying. You never know just how many days you are from seeing some results! Harold Castedo-Garcia is a NSCA Certified Personal Trainer at Fitness Together South Miami. For details, call 305-665-3694, or go to: www.fitnesstogethermiami.com. Facebook: www.facebook.com/fitnesstogethermiami. “Where excellence in personal training meets privacy and luxury.”

Felice and Gerald Schwartz receive the United Jerusalem Medallion at Prime Ministers Club Dinner

Felice and Gerald Schwartz of Aventura are shown receiving the United Jerusalem Medallion at the recent national Prime Ministers Club Dinner of State of Israel Bonds. Making the presentation, left to right, are Izzy Tapoohi, president and CEO of the international Bonds organization; State of Israel Finance Minister Yuval Steinitz; and Richard Hirsch of New York, national chairman of Israel Bonds. Debra and Dr. Lawrence Halperin of Boca Raton were among eight other couples from throughout the United States who also were honored with presentations of the medallion struck to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. More than 750 persons attended, with some $225 million in sales of Israel Bonds announced at the dinner, include $15 million purchased by the State of Florida. Photo by Howard Zimmerman.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

Educate Tomorrow charity raises What every restaurant should major funds for at risk youth know about mobile marketing BY JUAN MANUEL COLOME

CEO, Infoseek Technologies, Inc.

Pictured (l-r) County Commissioner Lynda Bell, Palmetto Bay Councilmember Patrick Fiore, Mark Bell and host John Dubois. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY RAQUEL GARCIA

The Seventh Annual Educate Tomorrow Fundraiser Gala at the bay front home of Honorary Chair John Dubois raised over $200,000 for programs that strive to connect youth aging out of foster care with educational opportunity. “It was a wonderful night and we had a record year. For the times we are living in and for a charity our size we did great,” said co-founder Virginia Emmons. The Emmons family is not unacquainted with poverty and family struggle. The five founding sisters of Educate Tomorrow: Virginia Emmons, Melanie Emmons Damian, Mary Emmons Dhanji, Melissa Emmons McCarthy, and Lucy Emmons Spoerk broke their own poverty cycle through education and familial support. Now established and degreed career women in various fields, they found a way to “pay it forward” through Educate Tomorrow. “My sister Melanie was a volunteer working with youth through Guardian Ad Litem and Lawyers for Children. We asked five boys she was counseling if they had college plans and they said ‘no we can’t go to college we are in foster care’ and growing up poor we knew that was not true. As long as former foster youth stay in school and show progress, the state covers their college education through the Road To Independence (RTI) Scholarship. We saw a need to connect former foster kids with college possibilities and life skills training and that is how Educate Tomorrow began,” said Emmons. Educate Tomorrow is also an extension of Emmons’ work as a Peace Corps volunteer in Niger, West Africa where they established the first local language primary school in the remote village of Kabey Fo. The fundraiser gala brought in $10,000 for the continuing

efforts of the Niger education program. “Without the strong team of support we have in staff and friends of the charity we would not have been able to enjoy the success we did. John Dubois has been a great friend of the program for years and he was very generous in hosting the event at his home,” said Emmons. C.E.O. of Eyecast Technology and Palmetto Bay resident Dubois has hosted the gala for years at his home and believes the work of Educate Tomorrow is critical to make sure young adults aged out of foster care do not end up at Camillus House. “I am on the board at Camillus House and I saw a connection with the population we serve there and the youth at Educate Tomorrow. For those of us blessed with success in business, it is about giving back and being role models and counselors for disadvantaged youth to help them get a foothold on a promising future,” said Dubois. Educate Tomorrow Mentors are connected with “mentees” on matching days who share the same interests and geographic location. In an informal casual environment over an afternoon complete with ice breaking activities, mentors and mentees essentially selfselect each other and this leads to solid lasting relationships according to Chair of the Board Melanie Emmons Damian. “The program is strongly supported by staff and we do our best to help make the best connections between mentor and mentee. Through training and guidance we help facilitate the mentor support. We are not a case managing agency so if there is a crisis we work together to find solutions for the mentee. Sometimes it is hard for the kids to concentrate on school when they don’t even know where they are going to live,” said Emmons Damian. To find out more about Educate Tomorrow visit educatetomorrow.org or call 305-374-3751.

The emergence of mobile marketing among businesses seems to mirror the buzz of social media – everyone is talking about it but few businesses are using it and of those using it, few are using it well. The following is a list of some of the potential opportunities and challenges that marketers will need to acknowledge if they are going to have a chance at harnessing the power of mobile couponing. According to the 2010 U.S. Local Mobile Advertising and Promotions Forecast, text message marketing spending was $90 million in 2009 and is expected to hit $8 billion in the next four years. Yet despite this rapid growth, text message marketing and coupons are still in their infancy. Although most businesses are fully aware of the marketing potential of text message couponing, many are still not using it in effective ways. Here are some tips that are working for our clients. Keep it simple Text message coupons are permission-based so make sure that you give your customers a good reason to opt-in and receive your deals. One-way to do this is to offer customers an incentive while they are already engaged with your product. An invitation to text a keyword to a short code is a welcome diversion when the receiver might be waiting in line to be seated. Choose a keyword that has some sort of relationship to your brand. Keep it short and simple – avoid random numbers, hyphens, underscores, or any other symbols that customers might forget to insert. Timing is everything If you want your

customers to act on your mobile coupon, you need to catch them on the move and create a sense of urgency. If you want your customers to grab a burger today at lunch, for example, you should send mobile coupons at around 10:00 a.m. – right when their stomachs are starting to growl. To add a sense of immediacy, the coupon should expire after lunchtime. Start a conversation Text coupons have the ability to communicate directly with your customers. First, auto-replies are a must when sending text coupons as they are the first step toward creating more meaningful and advantageous customer relationships. Anytime a customer opts-in to receive your mobile coupons, it is important to thank them for inviting you to earn their business. Another way to start a conversation with your customers is to ask them what kinds of deals they are interested in. For example, a burger place can send a text that says, “Lunch deal of the day – would you rather have a free burger or two free side items with the purchase of a combo meal? Text ‘burger’ or ‘side’ to vote.” Making the most of your mobile coupons The redemption rate of mobile coupons is nearly 25 percent higher than printed internet coupons. It is roughly 10 times greater than mail or newspaper distributed coupons at a fraction of the cost. Mobile promotions can do more than just increase sales for your business; they can also create more meaningful, lasting relationships with your customers. Juan Colome is founder and CEO of Infoseek Technologies an Internet Marketing Firm located in Miami. For case study examples of text marketing success contact Juan @ Jcolome@InfoseekTechnologies.com or call 786.447.7948 and a free two week trial. http://InfoseekTechnologies.com

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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Healing for patients from nontraditional sources at HealthMedPlus BY SUSAN SMITH

The warning signs were in the blood work. Then Robert Castellanos’ facial muscles on one side froze and he realized it was Bell’s palsy: acute facial nerve paralysis. Although Castellanos was told the condition might last as long as six months, as a teacher and lecturer he could not afford to wait that long. The alternative medical treatment Castellanos received from Dr. Luis Fuentes and the team at HealthMedPlus enabled him to begin healing within a few weeks. Since 1988 Dr. Fuentes, a Doctor of Oriental Medicine (D.O.M.) and Licensed Acupuncturist, has been offering his patients a non-traditional alternative to western medicine’s approach to health. As a result he is bringing healing solutions to the lives of his many patients. “He helped me change the way I was thinking and develop a different way of dealing with things. As a teacher I wasn’t sure how I would do my lectures with the Bell’s palsy and he helped me turn a negative into a positive. I was told it would take over six months to begin to see changes and it happened in a matter of weeks with Dr. Fuentes’ treatment plan,” said Castellanos. The three main components of health and disease are the spiritual/emotional, diet-related, and musculoskeletal, according to Fuentes. “We can address every health issue based on these three principles. On an emotional level, even the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) admits that 80 percent of all diseases originate from emotional issues. As far as diet, our bodies are high tech machines that require good quality fuel to keep running well. For musculoskeletal disorders we can improve circulation of all types and nerve conduction using body work, acupuncture, and state of the art healing modalities,” said Fuentes. Fuentes became disillusioned in western medicine as a

Dr. Fuentes with visiting patient Robert Castellanos. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

medical student when it seemed like answers for patients were reactive in nature and usually involved a lifetime of prescription medication or invasive surgeries. “I became disenchanted with this band-aid approach and was motivated to

EXPLORERS, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– events and participating in related activities of the program, Detective Mendez was pleased to announce that 20 President’s Volunteer Service Awards will go to the South Miami Police Explorers. “America’s volunteers work to make our communities stronger and safer. As a Certifying Organization for the Award program, the South Miami Police Explorers is proud to be aligned with this prestigious volunteer award, and we are especially proud of our Police Explorers who have made volunteer service a central part of their lives,” said Detective Mendez. The evening of January 17 in city commission chambers was a special night for the Explorers. They filled the auditorium in their uniform blues with big happy faces while camera snapping family members hovered around them. Sponsor Hector Chavez of Latin American Restaurant and Cafeteria was in the audience and surprised to receive a plaque himself that evening for his work in support of the organization. “They were looking for sponsors and so I got involved. It has been an absolute pleasure and I was pleasantly surprised to receive a plaque myself that evening. They do incredible work and it is important to

invest in the kids. You’ve got to support the kids and it is really a great program,” said Chavez. Chavez was not the only one surprised to receive recognition that evening. It seems the Explorer team also caught Post Advisor Detective Mendez unawares as he was gifted with his own plaque in gratitude for his leadership and dedication to the Explorers. “I did everything I could to hold back the tears. For the first time in a long time I found myself speechless. I do what I do because it is important to me to give these kids an opportunity to be a part of a great career. Law Enforcement has been good to me and my family and I know that it will be good to them as well. The funny thing is, that I learn as much from these kids as I teach them,” said Mendez. The 2012 South Miami Police Explorers President’s Volunteer Service Award recipients are: Jenesis Aguiar, Tania Barberena, Jerome Blain, David Celis, Joseph Lopez, Roxana Maldonado, Yessica Martin, Dayan Martinez, Crystal Morales, Kassandra Morales, Sasha Navarro, Keilin Perez, Richard Perez, Dailin Roman, Christian Rosado, Alyssa Trujillo, Angela Trujillo, Melanie Viera, Cristopher Zambrana, and Josue Zambrana.

explore traditional Chinese medicine that is thousands of years in the making versus modern western medicine that is about 150 years old.” Fuentes combines traditional lab testing to evaluate disease patterns and nutrient irregularities while his on staff medical doctor views another perspective. Rather than prescription drugs, Fuentes focuses on medical nutrition, centuries old herbal formulas along with modern nutraceuticals and the physical healing arts and acupuncture as necessary. One of the successful strategies Fuentes has found for patients is in Glutathione. Glutathione (pronounced glue-tathigh-on) is the “mother of all anti-oxidants and the most important component in the human cell you need to stay healthy and prevent disease” according to physician and journalist Dr. Mark Hyman, MD. For years, Fuentes says scientists have been trying to find ways to prescribe Glutathione treatment to patients but attempts have failed due to absorbability until now. “This is groundbreaking,” said Fuentes. “Cellgevity/Glutathione is the pre-eminent anti-aging product on the planet. It is good for everyone who wants to feel better and live longer and is especially good for endurance athletes and the infirm as well. There are no real side effects and increases in Glutathione are clearly measurable through blood work.” Dr. Fuentes creates customized health and wellness programs and life strategies; documented plans for the improvement and healing of the human body. New patients receive complimentary initial consultations. HealthMedPlus accepts insurance and works with qualifying clients on payment plan options. To find out more about Glutathione and other treatment options with HealthMedPlus visit HealthMedPlus.com or contact the Dadeland area office of Dr. Fuentes at 9420 SW 77 Avenue at 305-412-0011.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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SOUTH MIAMI

SIGHTINGS g Leslie Stukes of Mount Olive Baptist Church, Kemy Joseph of U R Awesome, and MLK Jr Committee Chair Gail Alexander during Black History Month kick off weekend.

Lifelong resident Sarah Ann Tompkins asks candidates how they will protect the historic neighborhood at the CCSM Election Forum: “South Miami is my heart,” said Tompkins.

Iliette Oliveros and Julio Robaina, Jr on the campaign trail

Josh Liebman after winning the Group 62 Commission seat

Sharon McCain wears her colors proudly during the Concerned Clergy of South Miami (CCSM) Election Forum at Mount Olive Baptist Church.

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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Kick-Off Celebration prepares teams for King Pins Challenge

JESKennardMPSPaul.jpg: SoMi Magazine publisher John Edward Smith, former South Miamian and current Seattle Seahawk Kennard Cox, Coalition Director Margaret Sotham and Coalition member Paul Merker, an addiction therapist in South Miami, enjoying the team-building event. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY LEE STEPHENS

As the clock counted down on another Miami Heat win, some 50 athletes of a different sort gathered on a recent Sunday to kick off their season – competitors on the battlefield known as Splitsville in the contest known as The King Pins Challenge — benefitting the South Miami Drug-Free Coalition sponsored by Informed Families. The athletes (supporters and players) came prepare for the Fourth Aannual King Pins Challenge on March 25. Civic and business leaders, law enforcement and area high school students will then take to the lanes for fun and fundraising. Competitorsl vie for The King Pins Challenge Trophy awarded to the team that raises the most money for the South Miami Drug-Free Coalition. Funds raised at the event go directly into programs in the community that help kids make wise choices and grow up safe, healthy and drug free. South Miami Coalition Director Margaret Sotham thanked the players and sponsors for their steadfast support of the event and the work it makes possible. “We know that too many youth turn to alcohol and other drugs to combat the pressures they experience and desire to fit in,” Sotham said. “With your participation and support, we can meet the challenges in kids’ lives.” Miami Heat’s Tim Hardaway and wife

The public is invited to join in the fun of “The Challenge” on Sunday, Mar. 25, 5p-8p at Splitsville. Yolanda will once again serve as Honorary King Pins Co-Chairs, and former South Miami resident and current Seattle Seahawk Kennard Cox will be on hand to show off his bowling prowess. Hosted by SoMi Magazine and Splitsville, The King Pins Challenge IV is sponsored in part by South Miami Hospital, Team FootWorks, Dr. Rene Landa, Jr., the Police Benevolent Association, the Red Sunset Merchants Association and the Rotary Club of South Miami. Community Newpapers is media sponsor for the event. Additional sponsorships and player positions are still available. The public is invited to join in the fun of “The Challenge” on Sunday, March 25, 5p-8p at Splitsville. Spectator tickets may be purchased for $25 per person at www.informedfamilies.org/kpc or by calling 305.856.4037. Ticket price includes the buffet and non-alcoholic beverages.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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‘BARupy’ backs our bow-wows for Pets’ Trust Michael Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN Tr o p i c a l P a r k was full of dogs and owners February 11, rallying for a right to vote for Pets’ Trust, a dedicated fund designed to save thousands of animals from being killed in Dade County each year. The “BARKupy” campaign was largely the work of Kendall’s Michael Rosenberg who unknowingly adopted a diseased kitten from Dade County Animal Services, only to see it die four days later. That provided the inspiration to create Pets’ Trust and BARKupy with those equally appalled at daily killing of cats and dogs by the system now in place. “A tax similar to funding for the Children’s Trust, Pets’ Trust would be dedicated to help save our animals,” explains Rosenberg who witnessed the trauma of pet euthanasia, further inspiring him to prevent killing unwanted cats and dogs. “For the past 25 years, Dade County Animal Control has been killing animals at over 20,000 a year, averaging 60 to 70 each day,” he states. “One by one, they are lethally injected simply because there’s no room to keep them. That’s now remained constant for decades. “Also, there are over 400,000 free-roaming cats, producing litters of new kittens every four months,” he said. “Dade can only spay/neuter up to 15,000 yearly and will swarm with them by decade’s end without immediate prevention.” Rosenberg’s idea to create a “modest” tax formula for the concept has rallied almost all animal rescue groups and pet advocates to join forces, aimed at establishing some viable plan to solve the killing of unwanted animals. To keep up with the cause, visit <www.PetsTrustMiami.com> where you can

sign a petition for the right to vote on enabling legislation, he urges. Intervention by Gov. Scott may be the last chance to initiate a ballot in 2012, he added, noting legislative unwillingness to sponsor any new taxing instruments. “But if we don’t speak for our animals, who will?” he asks. E v e ryone has thrown in their two cents about those Bayfront casinos so we’ll pitch in a ‘tuppence’ or two. If you don’t mind loopy-looking buildings, that’s okay with us. Downtown trips are thankfully few and, besides, we must constantly watch out for NASCAR nitwits who seem to predominate expressway driving these days. Seems ironic that where the casino complex would arise, John and James Knight built what was once chastised as the “Taj Mahal on the Bay.” Those who would save it for “historic” preservation ought to come over and clean out my garage. Besides, now that county zoning allows “McMansions” on tiny house lots, who should object to “MegaMonsters,” guaranteed to revitalize the economy? Will high stakes gambling bring a “bad element” to town? Well, that’s the price paid for election promises mostly replaced by political chicanery rather than legislating a more favorable climate to attract light industry or technology. Ritzy roulette tables for Monte Carlotypes is hardly a destiny most of us envision for Miami even if Chamber types salivate over creating larger payrolls than ever for chambermaids and custodians. Casinos? Up there, somewhere, Julia Tuttle must be tootling “Help!” B r i c k b a t s t o FDOT, the MDX, railway folks and whoever else failed to provide ample (if any) warning about blockading Kendall Drive in BOTH directions during the weekend of Feb. 11-12 at SW 94 Avenue. Unsuspecting motorists on normal routines were forced to travel the Shula (north or southbound), or wait out mini-traffic jams worse than usual in Snapper Creek and

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

www.communitynewspapers.com PUBLISHER .................................................................................................................................. Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz WRITERS, COLUMNISTS.............................................................. Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton, Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon, Roberta Bergman, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Diane Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller, Walter White LEGAL ADVERTISING ...................................................................................................................... Georgia Tait BOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................. Jesus Toledo PROOF DEPARTMENT.....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............................................................ Denise Cebrero, Isabel Ortega, Cristian Ortiz PUBLISHER EMERITUS .......................................................................................................................................... Ron Miller MIAMI COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News, Doral Tribune, Homestead News, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens Tribune, Palmetto Bay News, Opa Locka News, Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach Sun We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. Please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.

Pictured (l-r) are Natalie Silver and Rita Schwartz as they join Kendall’s Michael Rosenberg at BARKupy rally.

(Photo by Debora Rosenn)

Killian Drive neighborhoods. Southern C r oss A s t r os hosting “MarsWatch” for public and media at 8 p.m. Mar. 3 at Bill Sadowski Park & Nature Center, SW 176 Street, one-half mile west of Old Cutler Rd. in Palmetto Bay. Fiery Mars will be brightest as it lies opposite the Sun, and closest to Earth (on its two and one-half year schedule). High-tech equipment will focus on Martian detail, the Great Orion Nebula, the Moon, Jupiter and more! Wheelchair accessibility provided. Call 305661-1375 for details. Sgt. T h o m a s P i k u l at Florida Highway Patrol wants you to know that if you (or your organization) want to view their day-to-day

enforcement life, there’s a just-released documentary: Inside the Florida Highway Patrol available, a 92-minute flick featuring recruits becoming Troopers. Details at 305308-0586. T h o u g h t f o r the Day: Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet. — Colette

Richard Yager contributed to this column. Got any tips? Contact me at 305-6697355, ext. 249, or send emails to <Michael@communitynewspapers.com>.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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JoAnne Brooks Fine Jewelry Bronze Turquoise Necklace ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

news

South Miami

Grant Miller grant@communitynewspapers.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Michael Miller Michael@communitynewspapers.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS David Berkowitz, Richard Yager

WRITERS Ron Beasley, Linda Bernfeld-Rodriguez, Kenneth Bluh, Nancy Eagleton, Robert Hamilton, Gary Alan Ruse, Richard Yager, Lee Stephens, Raquel Garcia

PROOF DEPARTMENT Isabel Vavrek

GRAPHIC ARTISTS Isabel Ortega, Catalina Roca, Cristian Ortiz

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Ron Miller

MILLER PUBLISHING AND COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS are proud to publish the following newspapers:

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ground. The Giclee (or fine art print, original is sold) of “Side by Side” is a simple wooden dock image from Camden, Maine with colorful canoes resting alongside each other in a tranquil sapphire bay at sunset. The fine jewelry of JoAnne Brooks makes dramatic elegant statements in bold rich colors like translucent fuchsia, topaz, and bronze. Sleek lines and elegant curves shape the stone-bedazzled necklaces, earrings, and cuffs. Brooks says she knows exactly when the look is right for a client: “Their cheeks get rosy, their eyes sparkle, it looks like they just put on lipstick and a big smile brings out all the true colors.” The true purpose of the festival is why Chair Wendy Lapidus has devoted over 20 years of service to help make it happen. “The most exciting thing to me about the festival is what we spend the money on. Not only to provide a wonderful experience for festival

goers and artists but to fund a full scholarship for an at-risk student and also to contribute to the many other worthy causes Rotary sponsors. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The 28th Annual South Miami Rotary Art Festival is open from 10 am to 6 pm February 25 and 26 on Sunset Drive between US 1 and Red Road. In addition to hundreds of artists from around the country exhibiting, there will be a children’s alley on SW 57 Court, a multinational food court, live music, not for profit association tabling, raffle tickets, and beer and soda sales to benefit Rotary’s charities.

For more information about the festival, visit southmiamiartfest.org. To find out about Rotary, visit the Rotary booth in front of headquarters on the festival site.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

Cocoplum Woman’s Club celebrates 100 years Gloria Burns GLORIA’S GAB The GFWC CocoPlum Woman’s Club has been celebrating its centennial in style with a variety of events including an Open House followed the next day by their Centennial Luncheon. This past Valentine’s Day, a stringed ensemble entertained guests as they enjoyed touring the historic clubhouse while munching on a variety of enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres and an open bar provided by the Club’s in house catering company. Centennial Celebration CoChairs, Peggy Vital and M a ry Lou Winkler; dressed in period costume, welcomed guests and moved them onto the Club’s historical memorabilia exposition beautifully displayed. It was a walked

CGWC members enjoyed a presentation by artist, Nancy Martini, who has taken recyclable materials and up cycled them into beautiful works of art. Seen here with Martini are Mireya Kilmon and Club Presdient Linda Hartwell.

through time. One of the day’s highlights was the opening of a 75 year old time capsule with the reading of some very interesting documents that were brought inside for all to view. South Miami Mayor Phil Stoddard was on hand to remove the cornerstone and reveal the time capsule Open House Chairman, Maxine Bizette and Club President Heike Leibkuckler looked on with the crowd. After enjoying Rotary’s South Miami Art Show, folks may be looking for some indoor fun and March has lots to offer. On Sat., Mar 3r d , the GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club is holding its annual Casino Night fundraiser with a silent auction. This is definitely one of the most fun events in town and certainly the best deal with tickets priced at $25 per person. Past President Barbaa ra Lapsley is chairing this year’s affair that has a Hollywood theme for those who like to come in costume. Lapsley and her hardworking committee, including silent auction chair, Carmen Suarez, are

dedicated to raising enough funds to extend the hours and days of operation for the Club’s May Van Sickle Children’s Dental Clinic that provides more than $170,000 in free dental care annually to disadvantaged children. For tickets or more information on the dental clinic, call Dr. Iris Torres at 305 446-1047. Save those Hollywood costumes for the Friday, Mar. 9 and join Coral Gables Rotarians for the Club’s Annual Gala, “A Night on the Red Carpet”, at the Coral Gables Country Club. Zoo Miami’s entertaining Ron Magill will emcee this evening of hilarity with award presentao rah tions and more. Club President Debo Swain and Gala Chair Margarita Tonkinson promise guests great food, lively entertainment, dancing and an auction to benefit Citizens for a Better South Florida and the Rotary Foundation. Single tickets are $150 per person. The Club is also sell-

If you would like to submit information for this column, please send your news via e-mail to gloriagalburns@aol.com.

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

McCANN, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Solar Dogs "play" Tropical Audubon Society February 25 Tropical Audubon's 2012 Conservation Concert Series, now in its third season, continues to gain momentum. Solar Dogs, a four-piece, acoustic string band specializing in Americana, Bluegrass, Blues and Country & Western, returns for their second season, volunteering to again rock the old Doc Thomas House and Tropical Audubon grounds. The critically praised Coconut Grove-based band regularly appears at venues such as The Barnacle, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Gifford Lane Art Stroll, Scotty’s Landing and the annual Shell Lumber Howl in the Wood. Michael Stock, host of WLRN’s Folk and Acoustic Music, considers Solar Dogs (Eric Wagner/vocals, guitar and mandolin, Zip Robertson/vocals, guitar and harmonica, Bill Kunz/fiddle and mandolin, and Steve Gaskell/upright bass) “the definitive South Florida sound.” Concert goers are encouraged to pack a picnic, bring a blanket, a date, a friend and come out to enjoy a laid-back "Old Florida" evening. A donation Bird Bar provides liquid refreshment in the form of beer, wine or water. Picnic tables are available on a first-come basis. Mark your calendars now and flock to Tropical Audubon Society for a truly wonderful evening under the stars, the oaks and the pines.

and comments from city officials, widower Peter McCann spoke affectionately about the amazing life of his bride. “Cathy was one of nine children born during the depression in Portland, Maine. Pre-politics she was an avid skier and graduate of Kalamazoo College in Michigan. Cathy lived by the motto ‘we should always try to give back more than we receive.’” McCann said one of the family’s fondest moments from her days in office came after the devastation of Hurricane Andrew, 1992. “South Miami was the first city in Miami-Dade County to get cleaned up. We actually slept at city hall during the initial two weeks after the storm as the clean-up efforts got underway.” Part of the legacy of Cathy McCann seems to be her quest for affordable housing to all residents of the community. Having served for many years on the board of Habitat for Humanity and as president, former board members and friends repeatedly shared stories about her commitment to build homes for the disadvantaged.” An enthusiastic Commissioner Velma

Palmer talked about fond memories of her mentor and all the valuable advice she received prior to Palmer’s start as city commissioner. “‘Now you make sure people get housing in South Miami, Velma” Palmer quoted McCann as saying. “Cathy was life. She was so good to everyone.’” Friend Anne Manning said that she met Cathy on the slab of the first Habitat for Humanity house in South Miami. “Forty houses in this city would not be here but for Cathy. She was the kind of mayor that stayed and worked on the building site with us all day, not just for a photo opp.” Before the benediction “The Singing Miamians of Pinecrest” did a copula rendition of “God Bless America.” In her concluding remarks Pastor Felber said God brings people into our lives for a purpose and Cathy’s presence in her life was indeed heaven sent. “She made a big difference in this city’s life. Cathy had so much drive it is appropriate we honor her with Cathy McCann Drive. We have a living legacy for her right her in her family. Her spirit, energy, and commitment to this city will live on.”

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CUSTOM SUITS • EXPERT ALTERATIONS At John the Tailor our mission statement is “to produce high quality men’s custom suits and shirts that fit as close to perfect the very first time. Also, we know how important alterations are to you, and we offer the best alterations Miami has to offer.” We have served the Miami community for over 28 years, Call us to schedule an appointment, at:

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Mayor’s watering hole cleared of permit regulations by county board

Victor Citarella addressing the County Board of Rules and Appeals with Mayor Stoddard and wife Gray Read to his immediate left –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY RAQUEL GARCIA

The Miami-Dade County Board of Rules and Appeals passed a motion clearing Mayor Philip Stoddard’s watering hole of potential permit requiring pool status and determined it falls into the category of pond notwithstanding the two inches of concrete borders and maximum depth of seven feet on an approximate 1000 square foot body of water. Although one board member said it looked more like a lake than a pond and board member Rolando Diaz worried about the access of children to the area, along with the main intent of the pond— whether it was for swimming or landscape—the motion declaring it a non-permit requiring pond passed unanimously. “My concern is safety,” said Diaz. “I have 11 grandkids and you say you have a fence but what about kids that are inside the house. If they get loose you have about five seconds (before possible drowning).” Attorney Leonard Fiengold, the former city attorney who was fired during Stoddard’s first term, represented the Stoddards who were present at the meeting. Fiengold apologized to the board for

taking up their time and said the issue was brought up as a result of city politics in the most recent election. Stoddard said that although they used to swim in the pond “in the beginning” they now go to the neighbor’s house to swim and the kids only use it for fishing and tadpole hunting. Stoddard also said the pond had benign water snakes such as one they have named “Patrick” along with bass, mosquito fish, and migratory birds and no filtration system. Built in 2004, the original intention was ecological restoration according to Stoddard. When asked by board member Carmen Garcia how the issue came about, Stoddard said after inviting former mayor Julio Robaina, Jr over for breakfast, he filed a complaint. Of the three possible status options presented at the outset of the hearing: 1. a pool governed by building code, 2. a pond not covered by the building code and 3. some other type of structure covered by the code, the second determination was made by the board declaring this was a decision made on an individual basis and not a blanket interpretation. No photos of swimmers in the pond were presented.

EXPLORERS, from page 1

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events and participating in related activities of the program, Detective Mendez was pleased to announce that 20 President’s Volunteer Service Awards will go to the South Miami Police Explorers. “America’s volunteers work to make our communities stronger and safer. As a Certifying Organization for the Award program, the South Miami Police Explorers is proud to be aligned with this prestigious volunteer award, and we are especially proud of our Police Explorers who have made volunteer service a central part of their lives,” said Detective Mendez. The Explorers were recently recognized by the city for their award achievements. The students filled the auditorium in their uniform blues with big happy faces while camera snapping family members hovered around them. Sponsor Hector Chavez of Latin American Restaurant and Cafeteria was in the audience and surprised to receive a plaque himself for his work in support of the organization. “They were looking for sponsors and so I got involved. It has been an absolute pleasure and I was pleasantly surprised to receive a plaque myself that evening. They do incredible work and it is important to

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

What should I do for my abs? Kick-Off Celebration prepares BY HAROLD CASTEDO-GARCIA

NSCA CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER So you want to get ripped abs, right? Well, you’re not the only one. You’re also not the only one who has done millions of crunches and not seen. However, an entire session of crunches is not the way you’ll drop inches from your waistline to see the shredded abs you dream of! Does it really make sense that the muscles will build enough mass to just tear through the fat that is currently covering them? Not exactly. Well, here’s what I’ve found to work for my clients! NUTRITION I always make sure my clients are eating within their caloric needs. Regularly eating an excess of calories will absolutely add some fat to your physique. So, inversely, it makes sense that regularly eating slightly less calories than you need will more definition to your abdominal region as well as the rest of your body. In regards to taking cheat days throughout the week, ask yourself how long you want to wait before you see some real results. COMPOUND RESISTANCE EXERCISES I realize that this term may sound like some incredibly complicated idea that requires years of experience to grasp. However, it’s very simple. Just grab some weights and do movements that require as

many muscles as possible. Some personal favorites of mine include the wood-chop, squat thrusters, and my absolute favorite: the squatting row. Not sure what these are? Time to ask your trainer! The reason I promote these compound movements is because the more muscles you use in a movement, the more calories you’re burning. This is especially important if you’re not the type to go hang out at the gym for 4 hours. Don’t worry. I’m not that type either. CARDIO FUN Don’t write me off just yet. I know that for many of you cardio is not fun…at all. That may just be the biggest reason your abs are tearing through your skin just yet. It’s important to find an activity that requires significant amounts of sweat, and is also enjoyable! If you have to go dragging yourself onto the treadmill for 6 hours a week, it’s time to find a new hobby. If you’re not sure what to pick, you can start by exercising with friends in a class or something of the sort. So that’s it, everybody. This is what you need to do for your abs. Put in maximum effort and don’t stop trying. You never know just how many days you are from seeing some results! Harold Castedo-Garcia is a NSCA Certified Personal Trainer at Fitness Together South Miami. For details, call 305-665-3694, or go to: www.fitnesstogethermiami.com. Facebook: www.facebook.com/fitnesstogethermiami. “Where excellence in personal training meets privacy and luxury.”

www.communitynewspapers.com

teams for King Pins Challenge

SoMi Magazine publisher John Edward Smith, former South Miamian and current Seattle Seahawk Kennard Cox, Coalition Director Margaret Sotham and Coalition member Paul Merker, an addiction therapist in South Miami. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY LEE STEPHENS

As the clock counted down on another Miami Heat win, some 50 athletes of a different sort gathered on a recent Sunday to kick off their season – competitors on the battlefield known as Splitsville in the contest known as The King Pins Challenge — benefitting the South Miami Drug-Free Coalition sponsored by Informed Families. The athletes (supporters and players) came to prepare for the Fourth Annual King Pins Challenge on March 25, civic and business leaders, law enforcement and area high school students will then take to the lanes for fun and fundraising. Competitors vie for The King Pins Challenge Trophy awarded to the team that raises the most money for the South Miami Drug-Free Coalition. Funds raised at the event go directly into programs in the community that help kids make wise choices and grow up safe, healthy and drug free. South Miami Coalition Director Margaret Sotham thanked the players and sponsors for their steadfast support of the event and the work it makes possible. “We know that too many youth turn to alcohol and other drugs to combat the pressures they experience and desire to fit in,” Sotham said. “With your participation and support, we can meet the challenges in kids’ lives.” Miami Heat’s Tim Hardaway and wife

The public is invited to join in the fun of “The Challenge” on Sunday, Mar. 25, 5 - 8 pm at Splitsville. Yolanda will once again serve as Honorary King Pins Co-Chairs, and former South Miami resident and current Seattle Seahawk Kennard Cox will be on hand to show off his bowling prowess. Hosted by SoMi Magazine and Splitsville, The King Pins Challenge IV is sponsored in part by South Miami Hospital, Team FootWorks, Dr. Rene Landa, Jr., the Police Benevolent Association, the Red Sunset Merchants Association and the Rotary Club of South Miami. Community Newpapers is media sponsor for the event. Additional sponsorships and player positions are still available. The public is invited to join in the fun of “The Challenge” on Sunday, March 25, from 5:00 - 8:00 pm at Splitsville. Spectator tickets may be purchased for $25 per person at www.informedfamilies.org/kpc or by calling 305-856-4037. Ticket price includes the buffet and non-alcoholic beverages.

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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What every restaurant should know about mobile marketing BY JUAN MANUEL COLOME

CEO, Infoseek Technologies, Inc. The emergence of mobile marketing among businesses seems to mirror the buzz of social media – everyone is talking about it but few businesses are using it and of those using it, few are using it well. The following is a list of some of the potential opportunities and challenges that marketers will need to acknowledge if they are going to have a chance at harnessing the power of mobile couponing. According to the 2010 U.S. Local Mobile Advertising and Promotions Forecast, text message marketing spending was $90 million in 2009 and is expected to hit $8 billion in the next four years. Yet despite this rapid growth, text message marketing and coupons are still in their infancy. Although most businesses are fully aware of the marketing potential of text message couponing, many are still not using it in effective ways. Here are some tips that are working for our clients. Keep it simple. Text message coupons are permission-based so make sure that you give your customers a good reason to opt-in and receive your deals. One-way to do this is to offer customers an incentive while they are already engaged with your product. An invitation to text a keyword to a short code is a welcome diversion when the receiver might be waiting in line to be seated. Choose a keyword that has some sort of relationship to your brand. Keep it short and simple – avoid random numbers, hyphens, underscores, or any other symbols that customers might forget to insert. Timing is everything. If you want your

customers to act on your mobile coupon, you need to catch them on the move and create a sense of urgency. If you want your customers to grab a burger today at lunch, for example, you should send mobile coupons at around 10:00 a.m. – right when their stomachs are starting to growl. To add a sense of immediacy, the coupon should expire after lunchtime. Start a conversation. Text coupons have the ability to communicate directly with your customers. First, auto-replies are a must when sending text coupons as they are the first step toward creating more meaningful and advantageous customer relationships. Anytime a customer opts-in to receive your mobile coupons, it is important to thank them for inviting you to earn their business. Another way to start a conversation with your customers is to ask them what kinds of deals they are interested in. For example, a burger place can send a text that says, “Lunch deal of the day – would you rather have a free burger or two free side items with the purchase of a combo meal? Text ‘burger’ or ‘side’ to vote.” Making the most of yourr mobile coupons. The redemption rate of mobile coupons is nearly 25 percent higher than printed internet coupons. It is roughly 10 times greater than mail or newspaper distributed coupons at a fraction of the cost. Mobile promotions can do more than just increase sales for your business; they can also create more meaningful, lasting relationships with your customers. Juan Colome is founder and CEO of Infoseek Technologies an Internet Marketing Firm located in Miami. For case study examples of text marketing success contact Juan @ Jcolome@InfoseekTechnologies.com or call 786.447.7948 and a free two week trial. http://InfoseekTechnologies.com

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SOUTH MIAMI

SIGHTINGS Leslie Stukes of Mount Olive Baptist Church, Kemy Joseph of U R Awesome, and MLK Jr Committee Chair Gail Alexander during Black History Month kick off weekend.

Lifelong resident Sarah Ann Tompkins asks candidates how they will protect the historic neighborhood at the CCSM Election Forum: “South Miami is my heart,” said Tompkins.

Iliette Oliveros and Julio Robaina, Jr on the campaign trail

Josh Liebman after winning the Group 62 Commission seat

Sharon McCain wears her colors proudly during the Concerned Clergy of South Miami (CCSM) Election Forum at Mount Olive Baptist Church.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

Healing for patients from nontraditional sources at HealthMedPlus BY SUSAN SMITH

Dr. Fuentes with visiting patient Robert Castellanos. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Fuentes became disillusioned in western medicine as a medical student when it seemed like answers for patients were reactive in nature and usually involved a lifetime of prescription medication or invasive surgeries. “I became disenchanted with this band-aid approach. I motivated to explore tradi-

tional Chinese medicine thousands of years in the making versus modern western medicine that is about 150 years old.” Fuentes combines traditional lab testing to evaluate disease patterns and nutrient irregularities while his on staff medical doctor views another perspective. Rather than prescription drugs, Fuentes focuses on medical nutrition, centuries old herbal formulas along with modern nutraceuticals, the physical healing arts, and acupuncture as necessary. One of the successful strategies Fuentes has found for patients is in Glutathione. Glutathione (pronounced glue-tathigh-on) is the “mother of all anti-oxidants and the most important component in the human cell you need to stay healthy and prevent disease” according to physician and journalist Dr. Mark Hyman, MD. For years, Fuentes says scientists have been trying to find ways to prescribe Glutathione treatment to patients but attempts have failed due to absorbability until now. “This is groundbreaking,” said Fuentes. “Cellgevity/Glutathione is the pre-eminent anti-aging product on the planet. It is good for everyone who wants to feel better and live longer and is especially good for endurance athletes and the infirm as well. There are no real side effects and increases in Glutathione are clearly measurable through blood work.” Dr. Fuentes creates customized health and wellness programs and life strategies; documented plans for the improvement and healing of the human body. New patients receive complimentary initial consultations. HealthMedPlus accepts insurance and works with qualifying clients on payment plan options. To find out more about Glutathione and other treatment options with HealthMedPlus visit HealthMedPlus.com or contact the Dadeland area office of Dr. Fuentes at 9420 SW 77 Avenue at 305-412-0011.

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Studio helps young patients have a picture-perfect day

Carlos Barquin shows the photo he took with his camera to one of the children. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY LEE STEPHENS

More than a dozen children at Miami Children’s Hospital benefited from a special activity presented by Barquin Photography, a professional photography studio in the Kendall area. Barquin Photography hit the road on Monday, Feb. 6, to introduce Posh Portrait Parties, a unique concept that lets boys and girls play dress up, sing karaoke, work on arts and crafts and pose in front of the camera for their very own professional photo shoot. Patients ranging from the age of 10 months to 15 years enjoyed an afternoon filled with excitement that will never be forgotten. Carlos Barquin, owner and professional photographer at Barquin Photography, created this event to offer families in the community an alternative to traditional birthday parties for kids, but now it’s also touching the lives of those that need it most. “Seeing the expressions on the faces of

these young kids was the most rewarding experience,” said Eli Barquin, marketing assistant and wife of Carlos Barquin. “We are proud to have been able to use Posh Portrait Parties to impact the lives of people in our community.” Young girls also received a light makeup application, wore feather scarves and tutus and got their nails painted. The arts and crafts activity entailed decorating a picture frame to have as a keepsake of the Posh Portrait Party. At the end of the event, participants got a glimpse of their spectacular photos. “Thanks to Miami Children’s Hospital for granting us this wonderful opportunity.” Carlos Barquin said. “As a family and children photographer, being able to capture such magical moments and uplift the spirits of these boys and girls was phenomenal. It truly helped them forget about their illnesses for a day and dream big.” Barquin Photography is located at 7192 SW 47 St.; call 305-984-8028 or visit <http://poshportraitparty.com>.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

Students of all ages benefit from tutoring programs at Huntington By Susan Smith

he Huntington Learning Center on North Kendall Drive has been successful for so long they now welcome adult alumni students coming back to bring their own children in to benefit from the program. A holistic approach involving exhaustive academic evaluations and individual attention is why the tutoring program at Huntington has excelled since 1986. “Tutoring means different things to different people. We do not do classroom settings and we do not work in clusters where all of the students are working on the same material regardless of their level of proficiency. After exhaustive testing to determine exactly what skills the student needs to focus on, our teachers work with them on a one to one basis. We are totally dedicated to the student throughout the session,” said Huntington proprietor Robert Santana. All of the tutor/teachers at Huntington are accredited so the center is able to maintain its established accreditation status from The

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. “We do not hire teachers who do not have degrees. Of our staff of 26 teachers, about 20 are Dade County public school teachers and the rest are teachers by profession in area private schools,” said Santana. The purpose of the initial academic evaluation is to hone in exactly on the area of study where the student has fallen short. “If a student is failing Algebra we do not know why until we test them. Then we may, for example, discover they never mastered fractions and decimals from fourth grade Math. So our next stop would be to fill in those gaps and make sure they understand those concepts before moving on to the next lesson,” said Santana. Filling in those educational gaps is essential to the ultimate success of the student according to Santana. Instead of a reactive approach that appears to be prevalent in the industry whereby students are essentially getting homework help, the program at Huntington Learning Center is designed to

break the tutoring chain. Learning opportunities at Huntington are not limited to Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Study Skills, Phonics and Vocabulary tutoring for ages 5 to 17 although this is a major element of the program. They also offer high school entrance exam preparation and SAT, PSAT and ACT coaching as well. “We are seeing Moms coming back to the center who received instruction from us when they were kids and they are now bringing in their own children. So while Mom is brushing up on her Math for the SAT because she plans to go back to school, her third grade daughter is working on her reading skills. We are seeing a lot of that because we have been around for so long and people know about us and know we deliver results,” said Santana. The results are derived from over 1000

pieces of curriculum utilized by the center including over 300 Math books alone. A combination of the latest resources, one to one instruction and exhaustive progress monitoring with a team of qualified professionals is why Huntington Learning Center sets the standard for successful individualized tutoring of all ages. To find out more about Huntington Learning Center call 305-598-0686 or visit huntingtonlearning.com

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

Student’s summer internships lead to ‘Poster of Distinction’

Jake Radell, a Gulliver Schools senior, recently presented a poster on kidney transplantation during a national surgical symposium. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY MELISSA LICHTENHELD

Jake Radell has been learning a lot about rejection lately. But the Gulliver Schools senior isn’t referring to the omnipresent college application process. He is more interested in the processes involved in kidney transplant rejection and success in patients. Radell became so well versed on the subject during a series of summer internships that he was invited to defend a clinical research poster accepted for presentation during the American Society of Transplantation Surgeons Winter Symposium that took place, Jan. 12-15, in Miami Beach. A student in Gulliver’s International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Radell researched and wrote part of the abstract appearing on the poster. To his surprise it earned a Poster of Distinction award as one of the 10 best posters presented at the annual meeting. The topic: predicting the success of organ transplants. “It was really interesting to hear the questions asked by other researchers who came around to visit the poster,” said Radell, who presented the poster alongside his grandfather, Ralph J. Graff, MD, a pioneer in the subject of transplantation and organ rejection. When Radell was 15, he started spending his summers as an intern at his grandfather’s clinical laboratory at St. Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

Always interested in biology, he added this to other activities in his busy life that include working on engineering club projects after school and playing classic rock on the bass guitar. “My grandfather always told me about his work and kept inviting me to come out and help in his lab, and I finally did,” Radell said. Summers in the lab opened his eyes to the undertaking required to match a donor organ to a patient and developed a passion for working in the area of transplantation. His most recent internship gave him the opportunity to help analyze test data from successful transplantations. The research he helped with resulted in an abstract published in the American Journal of Transplantation on “The effect of flow cytometry cross match and panelreactive antibody status on kidney transplant survival.” Radell took the subject and turned it into the topic of his Extended Essay, an arduous 4,000-word paper IB students must research and write to qualify for an IB diploma. Has the early success made a difference? “This is just the beginning of my work in research. I hope to do research at college and possibly for the rest of my life,” said Radell, who has been accepted at several prominent universities. “Jake is the perfect mixture of test tube and YouTube,” said Warren Zucker, the Gulliver Schools counselor who has been advising him during the college application process.

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Barry Katzen, MD, honored with prestigious award for excellence

Barry T. Katzen, MD, founder and medical director of Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, (left) receives the Julius H. Jacobson II, MD Award presented by Robert B. McLafferty, MD, president of the Vascular Disease Foundation. (Photo credit: Gort Productions) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY BARBARA MOORE

Interventional radiologist Barry T. Katzen, MD, has been presented with the Julius H. Jacobson II, MD Award presented by the Vascular Disease Foundation. The prestigious annual award recognizes outstanding contributions to physician education, leadership or patient care in vascular disease, and is endowed through a donation from Julius H. Jacobson II, MD. Dr. Katzen is the founder and medical director of Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute. He has been a leader in advancing the science and clinical practice of vascular disease in endovascular interventions for more than 30 years. He pioneered the development of angioplasty for vessels outside of the heart, and performed the first

“peripheral” angioplasty in the United States in 1976 by using a balloon mounted on a catheter to open a blocked artery. He helped popularize the use of clot-busting drugs for vascular disease. More recently, he has been on the forefront of developing carotid artery stents and stent-grafts to repair aortic and thoracic aneurysms. Dr. Katzen graduated from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and completed his radiology residency at the New York Hospital Cornell Medical Center. He was awarded a fellowship in cardiovascular radiology at St. Vincent’s Hospital and Medical Center in New York. He lives in Coral Gables with his wife, Judi. They have three grown children and two grandchildren.

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3 Steps to Better Social Media Marketing By Misty Buck

Fact: social media use is growing. A few years ago most business owners labeled social media as a fad. Today, the staggering numbers prove otherwise. Social media usage is increasingly popular across all demographics with no signs of slowing down. Regardless of which website is the current favorite, it’s clear that people love socializing on the web. What does this mean for businesses? How can you have an effective social media presence? The answer is simple: You have to build it. There are basic principles that will put you ahead of your competitors if you take the time apply them correctly. Here are three easy steps to help you dramatically improve your social media efforts. Miss Ink’s Three C’s of Social Media Marketing™: 1. Content: What’s in it for me? Post information on your blogs and on your social networks that people will find useful and interesting. For example, if “Buy from Miss Ink” was the title of this article, would you read it? Yeah, I didn’t think so. Instead, you choose to read stories about information that is of value to you. The same rule applies for your network. Don’t be afraid to showcase your expertise while being creative. Photos and videos are great eye catchers. The content will keep them there. 2. Consistency: If you have a Twitter account, but are only tweeting once a week or worse,

once a month, you’re completely missing the boat. You have to be consistent. New information is posted every minute of every day. If you’re not sharing information on a regular basis, how can you expect to be seen? I’m not suggesting that you bombard your fans with status updates, blogs or emails every 5 minutes, but do find a rhythm that works for your audience. To help you stay consistent, make social media part of your daily schedule and only sign up for as many networks as you can dedicate time to daily. 3. Conversation: Last, but certainly not least, is conversation. You spend time coming up with interesting content to post so don’t ignore your fans and followers when they comment. Similarly, participate in the conversation by “listening” (i.e., reading) what others are saying and then respond. One of my top pet peeves is people who auto post everything that appears on their social networks. For one, a post on Facebook won’t necessarily translate the same way on Twitter. Secondly, those who auto post hardly ever check their networks to see if anyone has reached out to them. In other words, get involved. Of course there is much more to social media marketing than these three concepts, but if you can remember “Miss Ink’s Three C’s of Social Media Marketing™” you’ll be on your way to powerful results. Misty Buck is the president of Miss Ink, LLC, a public relations firm specializing in social media marketing. For more information, contact Misty at info@miss-ink.com or visit miss-ink.com.

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

First Lady in Homestead to discuss living healthy

First Lady Michelle Obama joined an expert panel from WebMD at the Homestead YMCA on Feb. 10 to discuss how families can implement healthy changes in their daily lives. The WebMD Town Hall was a collaboration to highlight the First Lady’s Let’s Move program and WebMD’s FIT initiative, two efforts to help families maintain health and wellness.

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Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run registration has gone online

More than 20,000 runners begin the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run in Miami. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY MAYRA HERNANDEZ

After 27 years of managing loads of paper registrations, TeamFootWorks announces some big changes are coming to the 2012 Corporate Run series as the race goes green. For the first time since the race’s inception in 1985, all participants in the Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run series will submit their registration paperwork online. In addition, onsite registration no longer will be available at each of the 5K runs, which begin in Fort Lauderdale on Mar. 29, wind through West Palm Beach on Apr. 18 and conclude in Miami on Apr. 26. “With 25,000 plus participants, we are always looking for ways to improve the Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series experience,” said Laurie Huseby, race director. “By taking the registration process online, we are utilizing technologies that will make the process easier for all race participants. Registration is easy and can be done on our website, <www.mercedesbenzcorporaterun.com>.” Race dates and registration deadlines are as follows: Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run — Fort Lauderdale, Thursday, Mar. 29, 6:45 p.m., Huizenga Plaza, 32 East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, $30 until Feb. 23; $35 from Feb. 24 through Mar. 8. No registrations accepted after Mar. 8. Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run — West

Palm Beach, Wednesday, Apr. 18, 7 p.m., Meyer Amphitheater, 104 Datura St., West Palm Beach, $30 until Mar. 14; $35 from Mar. 15 through Mar. 28. No registrations accepted after Mar. 28. Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run — Miami, Thursday, Apr. 26, 6:45 p.m., Bayfront Park, 301 North Biscayne Blvd., Miami; $30 until Mar. 22; $35 from Mar. 23 through Apr. 5. No registrations accepted after Apr. 5. With a special competition that awards the overall men’s, women’s and co-ed teams in 20 different industries, the Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run series, a 5K (3.1-mile) Run Walk, attracts more than 800 South Florida Companies and is open to employees of businesses, corporations, government agencies, financial institutions and non-profit organizations — no matter how big or small. With the goal of promoting health and fitness at all levels and provide a venue to boost company morale and encourage camaraderie in the workplace, all companies are encouraged to participate and may enter an unlimited number of employees to walk or run as a group. A portion of the proceeds from each race will benefit the South Florida Chapter of the American Red Cross. For more information, contact TeamFootWorks at 305666-RACE (7223), <www.teamfootworks.org> or visit online at <www.mercedesbenzcorporaterun.com>.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE United Way Center offering BY KAREN ARONOWITZ, President, United Teachers of Dade

responses that you can use interchangeably as an instant response (a requirement of this brave new world) which allows you to take some time before you answer, while still providing an answer. Try ‘em, you’ll like ‘em! I’ll get back to you by early next week. Let me run that suggestion by the team. I see what you mean. (Ha!ha! It doesn’t mean you agree! – No, this is not part of the response! Don’t press the SEND. . .too late.)

Don’t press that button! You know which one. SEND. How many of us have pressed that button in a moment of anger, a moment that is followed by ten minutes of terror and years of living with words that can never be recalled. Heck! (OK, not heck, but this is a family paper.) I can’t believe I sent that to my boss, my manager, my sister-in-law, my kid, reply all—the list goes on and on. Some of us have even gone so far as to write a second email requesting that the first email was sent in error, prompting everyone to run to read what they might have skipped. Ah, me. Life in the connected lane. Are we really saving time? We spend more time mopping up the messes we create with our instant messages than we would have spent cooling down, composing a letter, burning the letter in a can, rewriting the letter and sticking it in a drawer for later because we are out of stamps. So, in service to my fellow interconnected, intergalatic citizens, I have provided a list of

Let me think that over. (People will puzzle over this one for days.) I’m going to consult _____on that. Have you run that by legal? And finally, the coup de grace: I’m required to report this to _____________________. I hope this helps! It’s no use replying faster if we end up undoing what can’t be undone and requires more work, or in the case of sisters-in-law, more frequent contact than ever before! Bye for now. I’m off to the post office for a stamp. The United Teachers of Dade represents 35,000 teachers and school support personnel in MDCPS. The union is committed to being a leader in creating public school reform, fostering a quality public education for all students and elevating the professional status of teachers, paraprofessionals, o f f i c e employees, and all school support personnel.

tax help, financial resources BY YANET OBARRIO SANCHEZ

United Way of Miami-Dade is launching a public awareness campaign to inform families who earn less than $49,078 annually that they can receive up to $5,751 in tax credits through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). In addition, the campaign is promoting dozens of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites in Miami-Dade that offer free tax services by IRS-certified volunteer preparers to those who qualify. This campaign is made possible by two separate grants — a $20,000 grant from Bank of America and a $15,000 grant from the Walmart Foundation. United Way is utilizing radio and outdoor advertising to reach its target audience. The “Put more money in your pocket” message will be heard on Spanish, English and Creole radio stations and seen on Metrorail cars and stations. The campaign also combines public relations, website and social media outreach with a direct market-

ing component via United Way’s database of supporters and partner agencies. In addition to free tax preparation, working individuals and families can access year-round financial services and support — from financial coaching to benefits enrollment to employment assistance and credit counseling — at the United Way Center for Financial Stability. “Each year billions of dollars in tax refunds are not claimed by the people who most need those funds, because they don’t know they qualify or how to properly file their taxes,” said Harve A. Mogul, president and CEO, United Way of MiamiDade. “We are grateful to Bank of America and Walmart for their dedication to helping our neighbors file their taxes correctly and access much needed funds.” For more information about free tax preparation sites call 2-1-1, or visit online at <www.miamifinancialstability.org>. For information on free year-round financial services, contact the United Way Center for Financial Stability at 305-688-3551.

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Waste Management collects organic material from Publix BY SAVANNAH WHALEY

Waste Management trucks are collecting and transporting organic material from 40 Publix stores in Aventura, Coral Gables, Cutler Bay, Doral, Hialeah, Kendall, Miami and Miami Lakes to a new Okeechobee Organics Recycling Facility, the most advanced aerated composting technology to process food residuals in South Florida. The eight-acre facility, located adjacent to Waste Management’s Okeechobee Landfill, utilizes a forced aeration system with computer controls to regulate airflow and air treatment to process pre-consumer food waste from Publix stores — including produce, bakery and floral items — with yard waste into organic compost products. “As the nation’s largest environmental solutions provider, our customers are asking us to help them meet their sustainability goals,” said Tim Hawkins, area vice president for Waste Management. “We’re very pleased to partner with Publix on the first dedicated organics composting site in South Florida to serve their needs.” During the coming months, Publix plans to add additional stores in Miami-Dade and Broward counties to the program. “Publix commends Waste Management on moving the industry forward with the opening of their Organics Recycling Facility in Okeechobee,” said Kim Jaeger, Publix’s Miami media and community relations manager. “Our partnership with Waste Management presents an opportunity in fulfilling our mission to be intolerant of waste by diverting food waste that would typically be sent to local landfills. Publix’s continued success depends upon sustaining our environment, our community and our business.” The Okeechobee facility is permitted to accept up to 30,000 tons per year, including 15,000 tons of food waste and 15,000 tons of yard waste, and is part of Waste

Management’s strategy to expand organics recycling in Florida and throughout North America. Garick, a subsidiary of Waste Management and leading manufacturer, marketer and distributor of organic lawn and garden products, is producing the lawn and garden products from the Okeechobee composting facility. North America generates more than 80 million tons of organic waste each year. In the United States, approximately a third of municipal solid waste is organic, including food, yard and wood waste. Approximately 65 percent of yard waste and 2.5 percent of food wasted collected in the United States is currently diverted from disposal. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), converting waste into valuable raw materials through recycling creates jobs, builds more competitive manufacturing industries, and adds significantly to the U.S. economy. “As one of the nation’s largest residential recycling services provider, we’re always focused on how to improve recycling rates in our communities so that we can extract more value from the materials we manage,” Hawkins added. “Recycling is easy, good for the environment and good for our local economy, and we encourage residents in South Florida that on America Recycles Day we think about recycling every day.” Waste Management currently operates some 155 recycling facilities and processes approximately 10 million tons of recyclables per year. The company is now halfway to its goal of managing more than 20 million tons each year. In 2010, Waste Management recycled, reused, or managed enough material to fill a football field 2.11 miles high. To learn more information about Waste Management visit online at <www.wm.com> or <www.thinkgreen.com>. For information about Publix, visit the company’s website at <www.publix.com>.

Pictured at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of the Okeechobee Organics Recycling Facility are (l-r) Bob Shanz, Garick; Eric Myers, director of Organic Recycling Operations, Waste Management; Tim Hawkins, area vice president, Waste Management; Kim Brunson, Recycle and Solid Waste manager, Publix; Maria Borus, director of Media and Community Relations, Publix, and Bill Fauerbach, vice president, Retail Operations, Publix. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

Simon Youth Foundation seeking applicants for $1M in scholarships BY DESIREE LLERENA

Simon Youth Foundation, a national nonprofit that provides educational opportunities for at-risk high school students, will award a college scholarship to one student from every community that is home to a Simon property. Any student who will be graduating in the class of 2012 and lives within 50 miles of a Simon property is eligible. The program will award a one-time scholarship of up to $1,400 to students who plan to enroll in an accredited college, university, vocational or technical school. Simon Youth Foundation Community Scholarships are awarded through the Simon Youth Scholarships program and in partnership with local Simon properties. The application period is open through Thursday, Mar. 1. Locally, students can pick up a copy of the scholarship application at Simon Guest Services Centers in Miami-Dade County at Dadeland Mall, The Falls, Miami International Mall and The Shops at Sunset Place. Applications also can be downloaded at the SYF website at <www.syf.org/our-initiatives/scholarships/community-application>. In addition, 10 regional awards called “Award of Excellence” will be given to top

candidates in regions that include Miami. Students from these areas will have the opportunity to win a $2,500 scholarship that is renewable for up to three years. In 2011, the Simon Youth Scholarships program awarded $1.15 million to 260 students nationwide. “Our mission is to ignite hope for a brighter future in students, and our foundation is proud to partner with Simon’s South Florida Malls to award scholarships that will remove some of the financial obstacles that would otherwise prevent a student from achieving the dream of a college education,” said J. Michael Durnil, PhD, president and CEO of SYF. The 2012 SYF Community Scholarship recipients will be selected by Scholarship Management Services, a third-party administrator. Students are selected based on a variety of criteria, including financial need, academic performance, leadership skills and participation in school and community activities. Those students who are the first in their family to pursue a post secondary education also will be given close consideration. The completed application, along with official school transcripts and parents’ most recently filed tax form, must be sent to Scholarship Management Services by Mar. 1.

Community Newspapers

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Miami-Dade County recognizes Jason Taylor with his own day BY ARLEEN GOMEZ

Retired Miami Dolphins player Jason Taylor received resounding applause in Miami-Dade Commission Chambers as he was honored by county officials for his 15-year football career and service to the community. Commission chair Joe A. Martinez presented Taylor a proclamation declaring Jan. 24 as “Jason Taylor Day” in MiamiDade County. He also was commended by Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez, who gave Taylor the Key to the County, and Commissioner Jose “Pepe” Diaz, chair of the Miami-Dade Sports Commission. With a NFL career spanning 15 years, Jason Taylor spent 13 seasons in a Dolphins uniform, becoming a stellar defensive player who collected more sacks than any player in Dolphin history and a NFL record holder for career fumble-return touchdowns. Aside from his exceptional football career, Taylor is known for giving back to his community. In 2004, he established the Jason Taylor Foundation, a non-profit

organization that supports and creates programs to facilitate the personal growth and empowerment of South Florida’s underprivileged children. Since its inception, the Jason Taylor Foundation has contributed more than $2 million in programs and services to more than 40 different organizations, awarded 35 middle school students college scholarships, and annually gives 50 kids $300 back-to-school shopping sprees. Taylor graciously accepted the awards, thanking officials and the community for their support. He also congratulated and signed autographs for Miami Norland High School’s varsity football team, which was honored earlier in the morning for being Class 5A State Champions. “It was privilege to be able to honor Jason Taylor for everything he has contributed to our community,” Martinez said. “His dedication and hard work on and off the field are what makes him a role model. I am confident that whatever endeavor he takes on he will continue to do great things, especially for this community.” For more information, contact Martinez’s office at 305-375-5511.

Miami-Dade County Commission chair Joe A. Martinez shakes hands with retired Miami Dolphins defensive lineman Jason Taylor after presenting the athlete with a proclamation. (Photo by Armando Rodriguez/Miami-Dade County)

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

Florida Board of Governors seeking applicants for FIU Board of Trustees BY KELLY LAYMAN

The Trustee Nominating Committee of the Florida Board of Governors is seeking candidates for an appointment to the Board of Trustees for Florida International University. Each of the 11 state universities has a 13-member board of trustees responsible for cost-effective policy, and for implementing and maintaining high-quality education programs consistent with the university’s mission. The boards of trustees also develop processes to meet state policy, budgeting and education standards. Individuals interested in this public service must complete an application. The term of service is through Jan. 6, 2015, and would fill an existing vacancy. Applicants do not need to live in the Miami area to serve in this capacity. “The Board of Governors is looking for individuals to serve as university trustees who are interested in higher education and

interested in taking our universities to a level of excellence that helps both the institution and the goals of the State University System,” said Morteza “Mori” Hosseini of Daytona Beach, chair of the Trustee Nominating Committee of the Florida Board of Governors. For more information and the application visit online at <www.flbog.edu/aboutsus/ubt.php>. Applications for seats appointed by the Board of Governors should be mailed to the address in Tallahassee indicated for processing, and not to the university. Also, Board of Governors’ appointments are separate from appointments that are made to university boards of trustees by the Governor of Florida. The deadline for completed applications to be received is Mar. 1. For questions, call the Board of Governors at 1-850-2450466. For more about the Board of Governors, visit <www.flbog.edu>. For more about FIU, visit <www.fiu.edu>.

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

ELEVATION BURGER FINALLY ARRIVES IN SOUTH MIAMI THE FIRST100% USDA CERTIFIED ORGANIC NATIONAL BURGER CHAIN OPENS NEW LOCATION IN DOWNTOWN DADELAND

Elevation Burger, the rapidly growing, fast-casual restaurant serving great-tasting 100% USDA-certified organic, 100% grassfed, free range burgers, opened its first-ever location in South Miami last week. Recognized as the nation’s first organic hamburger chain since opening in Falls Church, VA in 2005, Elevation Burger offers a healthier, delicious alternative to the usual fast-food burger. Elevation Burger is re-thinking an American-classic and redefining the fast food

gestalt with its focus on offering quality food that is better for customers and for the environment. In addition to amazing organic hamburgers, Elevation Burger offers two kinds of veggie burgers, fries cooked in hearthealthy olive oil and hand-scooped shakes. The chain’s warm, welcoming, and well-appointed restaurants provide an elevated dining experience for families and kids, health-conscious consumers and on-the-go urbanites. The entrepreneurs behind the new Downtown Dadeland location are French transplants Magali and Stephane Vannier de Langre, who purchased the Miami-Dade franchise rights and have plans to open 5 locations by 2015. After hearing about the Elevation Burger concept and its healthy and environmental focus, the Vannier’s were immediately interested in coming on board to

bring the chain to Miami. “We have lived all over the world, in places where eating Organic is the norm. With Elevation Burger we found an opportunity to do what we love and provide a healthy food alternative that is often hard to find at affordable prices for the entire family,” said Magali. “We also really liked the fact that Elevation Burger is committed to environmentally sustainable practices and to being part of the communities it serves,” added Stephane. The new Dadeland location features monthly and weekly specials including Teacher Tuesdays, Uniformed Officer Days, Senior Citizen Discounts, Little League/Sports Days, College Days and “Fun” Raising Wednesdays where they will donate 10% of the days sales to a different local charity each week. In addition, they will be sponsoring and participating in activities around the community to promote sustainability in schools. South Miami’s Elevation Burger is located at 8975 SW 72nd Place. The Franchise is the second in Miami-Dade and first in South Miami. Both are managed and operated by Magali and Stephane Vannier de Langre and

their group EBM2. The rapidly expanding chain is set to have over 100 locations by the end of 2013. For more information visit www.elevationburger.com. About Elevation Burger Elevation Burger is a national organic burger chain that serves 100% USDA-certified organic, 100% grass-fed, 100% free range beef burgers. Recognized as the nation’s first organic hamburger chain since it’s opening in Falls Church, VA in 2005, the idea for Elevation Burger was conceived by Hans Hess in 2002 and quickly gained national acclaim. Driven by their passion to bring organic, sustainable and fresh food to a national audience, Hans and his wife, April, created Elevation Franchise Ventures, LLC, which began franchising Elevation Burger restaurants in 2008. There are currently 27 Elevation Burger locations throughout Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York Pennsylvania, Florida, and Texas.

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Deering Estate at Cutler to host One-Minute Play Festival, Feb. 26 BY SHEILA STIEGLITZ

The One-Minute Play Festival, Deering Estate at Cutler and South Florida Theatre League present the South Florida OneMinute Play Festival on Sunday, Feb. 26, 4:30 and 8 p.m., at the Deering Estate at Cutler, 16701 SW 72 Ave. The South Florida One-Minute Play Festival wraps up the SoBay Festival of the Arts, a two-week celebration of literary, visual and performance art at the Deering Estate at Cutler. The South Florida One-Minute Play Festival will feature 40-plus new oneminute plays by writers connected to the South Florida Community, including: Michael McKeever, Michael Yawney, Juan Sanchez, Gene Excaliber, David Sirois, Mark Della Ventura, Vanessa Garcia, Kimberly Patterson, Marj O’NeillButler, Andrew Rosendorf, Kenny Finkle, Sheri Wilner, Deborah Zoe Laufer, Andie Arthur, Carmen Pelaez, David Caudle, Stacy O’Neill, Neena Beber, Edith Freni, Jorge Jorge Ignacio Cortiñas, and more.

The plays will be directed by Steven Chambers, Elizabeth Price, Nicole Stoddard, and Ricky J. Martinez. The South Florida One-Minute Play Festival is curated by One-Minute Play Festival producing artistic director and founder Dominic D’Andrea, One-Minute Play Festival director Tessa LaNeve (Primary Stages), and co-produced by Andie Arthur (South Florida Theatre League) and Jennifer Tisthammer (Deering Estate at Cutler). Tickets are $25 per show and can be purchased online or by calling the Deering Estate Ticket Office at 305-235-1668, ext. 233. The proceeds from this event will benefit the Theatre Lab, a yearlong series of playwright workshops presented by the South Florida Theatre League and the Deering Estate at Cutler. The next Theatre Lab will be on Sunday, Mar. 18, at 2:30 p.m. at the Deering Estate at Cutler. For more information on the Deering Estate’s educational and cultural programs, visit online at <www.deeringestate.org>.

Asian Culture Festival returning to Fruit and Spice Park, Mar. 3 and 4 BY CATHY GUERRA

The Miami-Dade County AsianAmerican Advisory Board, the Fruit and Spice Park and the Thai-American Association present the 22nd annual Asian Culture Festival on Saturday and Sunday, March 3 and 4, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187 Ave. in Homestead. The fun-filled family event offers a virtual day trip to Asia where festival-goers will enjoy a variety of Asian arts, crafts, exotic music and dance, and authentic Far Eastern cuisine. Activities include a Malaysian no-hands volleyball tournament known as Sepak Takraw, Chinese Lion Dances, performances by Japanese Taiko drummers, and demonstrations of Thai fruit and vegetable carving. Children can participate in the Asian passport activity, storyteller, show and more.

New to the festival this year is the Traditional Thai Wedding, which will take place on Saturday and Sunday at noon. Other highlights include Iranian, Persian, Thai, Bangladeshi and Indian folk and classical music and dance as well as demonstrations of Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangements) and Origami (Japanese techniques by folding papers into decorative shapes such as flowers, animals, etc.). Admission is $10; Children ages 10 and under are free. Located 35 miles south of Miami, in the historic Redland community, the Fruit and Spice Park is a 35-acre park filled with more than 500 varieties of fruits, herbs, spices, nuts, and other exotics. The park is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit the park’s website at <www.fruitandspicepark.org>.

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Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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Second annual ‘Vintage Day’ at Everglades National Park BY LINDA FRIAR

Experience Everglades history during the second annual “Vintage Day” celebration on Saturday, Mar. 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Park admission at the Homestead entrance will be waived for the day and all activities are free of charge. Events include historical re-enactors, an old fashioned ice cream social and the Guardians of the Everglades exhibit. This is a great opportunity for young and old to interact with the characters that molded Everglades National Park into one of the most biologically and culturally diverse parks in the world. At the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center celebrate the opening of Nicholas Petrucci’s multi-media exhibition featuring life-size oil portraits of Everglades advocates and heroes. Portraits of Miccosukee Chairman Buffalo Tiger, Gladesman Franklin Adams, photographer Clyde Butcher and statesman Nathaniel Reed will be on display against a backdrop of Connie Bransilver’s paintings of endangered native orchids. At Royal Palm, interact with historical re-enactors portraying Calusa and Seminole people, Gladesmen, plume hunters, early park wardens, botanists, artists, gator hunters, women conservationists, and political activists. Their stories will bring you back to the days of old.

Collect a limited edition vintage character trading card from each re-enactor. Guided tours of the old Royal Palm State Park also are available. This historical area was owned and protected by the Florida Federation of Women’s Clubs members. These genteel women activists provided the vision while the Civilian Conservation Corps supplied the muscle to develop a world-class tourist destination that became the nucleus of Everglades National Park. A Civilian Conservation Corps enrollee will reveal remnants of this old Florida paradise. Cool down at an old-fashioned ice cream social, compliments of the Everglades Association. Don’t forget to bring your camera. This is a fee free day at the Homestead entrance of Everglades National Park. Fees will be collected at the other park fee station at Shark Valley. Visitors coming from the Miami area and points north should take Florida’s Turnpike (Route 821) south until it ends merging with US1 at Florida City. Turn right at the first traffic light onto Palm Drive (State Road 9336/SW 344th Street) and follow the signs to the park. Visitors driving north from the Florida Keys should turn left on Palm Drive in Florida City and follow the signs to the park. General park information is available by calling 305-242-7700.

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Miami-Dade County Extension Civic Chorale of Greater Miami to perform in concert, Mar. 3 to host 2nd open house event BY ROBERT HAMILTON

BY ALEJANDRA CASTRO-NUÑEZ

The Miami-Dade County Cooperative Extension will host its second open house event on Saturday, Feb. 25, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the John D. Campbell Agricultural Center, 18710 SW 288 St. in Homestead. Make plans for a fun-filled day for the entire family. Come and interact with the county’s Cooperative Extension staff and volunteers, including 4-H/Youth Development Program members and leaders. Master Gardeners will be on site to discuss gardening problems and answer questions. The event will feature interactive demonstrations, including grafting (in English and Spanish), and making a rain barrel. There also will be educational displays on gardening, tree pruning, healthy eating, new pest and plant problems, a plant diagnostic clinic, and much more.

“We encourage residents to join us, learn more about what County Extension is, and have a fun-filled educational day with us,” said county Extension director Teresa Olczyk. In addition, there will be fun and educational activities for the entire family, including a “Fun and Learn 4-H Zone” for kids, and seminars on the following topics: • Vegetable gardening made easy; • Colorful landscape plants for waterwise yards, and • Florida-friendly plants for your landscape. Participants will be able to purchase fresh, locally grown vegetables, orchids, and other plants for their gardens. They also will have the opportunity to exchange up to two old showerheads and three incandescent light bulbs for new ones that are more efficient as part of the water conservation effort by the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department.

Miami Dade College Kendall Campus presents the Civic Chorale of Greater Miami in a program titled “The Language of Love” on Saturday, Mar. 3, 7:30 p.m., at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 14260 Old Cutler Rd. in Palmetto Bay. The program features music of Rogers & Hammerstein, Brahms and more — something for everyone to enjoy. The chorale is under the direction of Dr. Kenneth Boos, artistic director; Dr. Robert Gower, associate conductor, with William James, accompanist. Featured special guests are “Good Blend,” a four-part vocal a cappella harmony quartet with Mike Verdesca, Tom Ball, Roberto Masson and Chris Moore. There will be a post-concert dessert reception prepared by Master Chef

–––––––––––––––––––––––– ••• –––––––––––––––––––––––––

County seeking qualified parties to provide Head Start services BY W. DAVID ALLISON

Miami-Dade County is seeking Requests of Expressions of Interest (REOI) from qualified parties to provide Head Start/Early Head Start (HS/EHS) Program services. As part of the 2012 budget approved by county commissioners, the county is seeking to contract out Head Start/Early Head Start services currently provided by the MiamiDade County Community Action and Human Services Department (CAHSD).

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Emcee-Zoo Miami’s Ron Magill Enjoy a night on the red carpet! Cocktail reception, prizes for best costumes, silent auction, entertainment,dinner and dancing!

Steve Tangredi. Under the direction of Kenneth Boos, the Civic Chorale of Greater Miami has been a vital part of the South Florida musical community since 1970. Founded by Lee Kjelson, the group is comprised of students and adult members of the community who share a love for singing and musical excellence. The Civic Chorale is housed at Miami Dade College’s Music, Theater and Dance Department, Kendall Campus; Rodester Brandon, chair. Tickets available at the door are $25, including concert and reception. Concertonly tickets are $10, adult; $8, senior, and $5, student. For more information, call 305-4905930 or send email to <kboos@mdc.edu> or <pheeprice@gmail.com>. Visit the Civic Chorale’s website at <www.civicchorale.info>.

Parties interested in providing these services must complete and submit the REOI documents by Feb. 29, 2 p.m., in order to be considered for a county (HS/EHS) contract. The REOI documents are available online at <www.miamidade.gov/dpm>. Head Start/Early Head Start is a federally funded, comprehensive child development program, serving low-income families. In Miami-Dade County, the Head Start/Early Head Start Program serves 6,756 children and families.

–––––––––––––––––––––––– ••• ––––––––––––––––––––––––– For tickets call

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Greater Miami Symphonic Band to present Sousa-style concert BY ALLAN TAVSS

Join the 85-member Greater Miami Symphonic Band, celebrating 33 years of musical excellence, as it presents a re-creation of the style of concert that John Philip Sousa presented at the turn of the 20th Century. The concert will take place on Sunday, Feb. 26, 3 p.m., in Pinecrest Gardens’ Banyan Bowl 11000 Red Rd. Sousa, the “March King” traveled the

world with his band and this concert will showcase the style and music that Sousa presented to his audiences. There will be plenty of marches. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students/children (5 years and older). Advance tickets are available at <www.gmsb.org>. Box Office opens an hour before the concert. For additional information regarding concerts or tickets visit <www.gmsb.org> or call 305-273-SOUSA (7687).

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Program to honor Jack Meyer, Columbus, Belen to compete Miami Marine Stadium engineer at new Marlins Park, Mar. 5 BY ALEX I. MADEJA

Miami Marine Stadium is seen under construction. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY DON WORTH

Join Friends of Miami Marine Stadium in honoring Jack Meyer, engineer of the Marine Stadium, during a program and dinner on Feb. 29 at the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club in Miami. Tickets are $40 (price includes a full buffet dinner). The event is open to the public but space is limited. Meyer, now 88, performed this amazing body of engineering work while at Norman Dignum Engineers in 1962. He was responsible all of the engineering work on the Marine Stadium and collaborated with architect Hilario Candela. When the stadium was completed in 1963, it was considered an engineering marvel. Its roof, consisting of a series of hyperbolic parabolas, was the longest span of cantilevered concrete in the world. Meyer said that it was by far the most difficult project in his 60-plus-year career. Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. with a cash bar and at 7 p.m. a multi-course buffet dinner will be served. The program will include an array of speakers honoring Meyer. The event is sponsored by Friends of Miami Marine Stadium, (www.marinestadi-

um.org) a not-for-profit organization devoted to restoring the Marine Stadium. Since its inception in 2008, the Friends of Miami Marine Stadium has succeeded in achieving historic designation locally from the City of Miami. The Marine Stadium was included in the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s “11 Most Endangered List” (2009) and was internationally recognized in the World Monuments Fund Watch List (2010). The stadium’s restoration is a key priority of Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado. Friends of Miami Marine Stadium will present its much anticipated restoration plan to the City of Miami in the near future. Biscayne Bay Yacht Club not only provides a stunning location for the dinner, it also plays an important role in the story of the Miami Marine Stadium. The oldest organization in Miami, Biscayne Bay Yacht Club was founded by Miami Pioneer Ralph Middleton Munroe. The Marine Stadium was named for Ralph Munroe. Meyer is a long-time member of Biscayne Bay Yacht Club and is a past Commodore of the Club. For tickets, call 1-800-838-3006 and ask for “The Jack Meyer Dinner.”

All eyes will be on the new Marlins Park when the first baseball players take to the field on Mar. 5 to begin the second annual Selective Recruiting/Sir Pizza Invitational. The tournament, to be played at various locations throughout South Florida from Mar. 12 to 17, invites top regional high school baseball teams for a week of intense competition aimed at increasing exposure for the participating players. The tournament’s first match-up will create history as Christopher Columbus High and Belen Jesuit open the gates at Marlins Park for the facility’s inaugural baseball game. The previous year’s opening event was named one of the top-five tournaments in the country by Baseball America and included five teams ranked in the top 100 by Rivals.com. This year, 32 high school teams from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties will be competing, including Class4A National Champions Archbishop McCarthy (2009, 2010), 2A State Champions Westminster Christian, last year’s tournament champions, and 2008 National Champions American Heritage, as well as a host of other top baseball programs in South Florida. Teams include: American, Archbishop Carroll, Belen Jesuit, Braddock High, Christopher Columbus, Coral Park, Coral Springs, Doral Academy, Dwyer, Ferguson, Hialeah, Killian, La Salle, Mater Academy, Mater Lakes, Miami Senior, Monsignor Pace, North Broward Prep, Pompano Beach, South Dade, South Miami, Southridge, Southwest Miami, St. Brendan, Stoneman Douglas, Terra and Trinity Christian. “Sir Pizza recognizes the talent and commitment shown by our high school ath-

letes,” said Rene Prats, CEO of Sir Pizza of South Florida. “We feel it is very important to help these students realize their potential to play baseball on the collegiate and even professional level. That’s why we help sponsor this great event.” Sir Pizza has sponsored various scholastic sporting events over the years and is the official pizza vendor of the new Marlins Park. Created six years ago by former Archbishop Carroll baseball coach Lazaro Llanes, the mission of Selective Recruiting is to assist talented players in South Florida to realize their dreams of playing in college and beyond. “I felt that the hard work of high school coaches in South Florida, and the need to help student athletes fulfill their dreams, would receive a boost by having a local tournament with national implications,” Coach Llanes said. “Selective Recruiting is now one of top-ranked tournaments in the country. There could be as many as 15 players drafted in the 2012 Major League draft and dozens of players have committed to major college programs. “This year’s event will again be among the top tournaments and the expectations are that we will continue to amass attention from recruiters and media around the country,” Llanes added. For more information about the tournament, visit online at <www.sirpizzarestaurants.com>. La Ley Sports will televise live both the Columbus vs. Belen game at Marlins Park on Mar. 5 and the championship game at the University of Miami on Mar. 17. Visit <www.layleysports.com> for more information. Both games also will air on CSS Sports. Visit <www.css-sports.com> for broadcast scheduling.

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S. Florida animal shelters offer spay/neuter surgeries for cats BY KATHLEEN LABRADA

In an effort to help reduce the pet overpopulation problem in Southeast Florida, six animal shelters have joined forces to provide spay and neuter surgeries for all owned, feral and free-roaming cats. The weeklong event is taking place from Feb. 21 through Feb. 25. The service is available to all residents of MiamiDade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Surgeries can be scheduled at any one of six convenient locations. There is no limit to the number of cats that any individual can present for sterilization. The cost is the same at all six locations — $15 per cat, which includes the sterilization surgery, rabies and FVRCP vaccines and a microchip. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling the desired location.

“The goal is to sterilize 1,650 cats over the course of the five-day event,” said Alex Muñoz, director, Miami-Dade County Animal Services. “This is a critical step to reducing the number of cats and kittens received in shelters throughout the spring. While kittens are cute, the sad truth is that there are often more kittens than there are homes for them.” Southeast Florida Region Spay/Neuter Coalition Members: • Broward County Animal Care and Adoption, 1-954-359-1313 ext. 9271; • Humane Society of Broward County, 1-954-895-3605; • Humane Society of Greater Miami, 305-696-0800; • Miami-Dade Animal Services, 3-1-1 • Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control, 1-561-233-1261, and • Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, 1-561-686-3663.

East Ridge Hosts First Olympic Challenge On February 4, East Ridge Retirement Village, known for its camaraderie and sense of community among residents and staff was divided. Neighbor competed against each other and employees battled for bragging rights. The friendly competition was part of the life care community’s first annual East Ridge Olympic Challenge. Teams of residents representing six nations competed in five grueling events which included Equestrian Irons, Bocce Ball, Golf, Bowling and Ball Vaulting. Each of the community’s departments then rooted for their respective resident teams. “The athletes who participated should be especially proud of themselves,” said Wellness Coordinator Suzana Delgado, who organized the event. “They trained very hard and continue to take advantage of the host of health and wellness programs available at East Ridge.” The East Ridge Olympic Challenge— complete with torch lighting ceremony— was attended by 500 guests including residents, families, community supporters and vendors/sponsors.

Winston Park Middle School’s cheerleaders and Quartet + One hyped the crowd and players from Pinecrest Premier Soccer Club served as referees for the Challenge. Author and long-time Miami Herald humor columnist Dave Barry officially commenced the competition with “Let the games begin!”. For residents Jay and Louise Lockwood, 58 years of marriage was put to the test when the two squared off against each other on opposing teams. She represented the United States while he was on Team Brazil. The Lockwoods joined two other competing couples—George and Nancy Fehr and Barrie and Sandra Reed. Judy Mangasarian could be seen (and heard) cheering her mother, Betty White, and Team Armenia onto victory. “She’s playing hard and having a great time,” she said. “It’s all in such good fun. The good times never end at East Ridge.” Cutler Bay VIPs also attended the event to show support to the Olympians. Vice Mayor Ernie Sochin and Councilmembers Sue Loyzelle and Peggy Bell praised the community’s commitment to seniors. Guests were treated to a special appear-

ance by Essie Faria, a 20-time gold medalist in the Florida Senior Games State Championships. The 77 year old, who began competing at age 70, addressed the audience and assisted in the event’s closing ceremony and award presentation. “The Olympic Challenge is a wonderful activity,” she said. “I encourage everyone to continue being active. Everyone can do something, regardless of age or physical limitations.” The Gold medal was awarded to Team Libya, comprised of George Fehr, Carole Bell, Bonnie Massey and Skippy Rossi. Team USA’s Barrie Reed, Tag Marvel, Elise Henline and Louise Lockwood came in second place and received the Silver award. Bronze went to Team England’s Nancy Fehr, Keith Phillips, Grace Ganser and Gwen North. Team Bolivia (Bob Parkerson, Jackie Smith, Margie Brown and Helen Berner); Team Armenia (Art North Betty White, Ann Burdin and Fran Plummer); and Team Brazil (Carolyn Carter, Jay Lockwood, Sandra Reed and Elaine Koch) finished fourth, fifth and sixth respectively.

Community VIPs – Cutler Bay’s Vice Mayor Ernie Sochin and Councilmember Sue Loyzelle joined Miami Herald humor columnist Dave Barry in supporting the East Ridge Olympians.

East Ridge Olympic Challenge athletes, who represented six nations, competed in five grueling events including Equestrian Irons, Bocce Ball, Golf, Bowling and Ball Vaulting.

Team Libya (Carole Bell, Bonnie Massey and George Fehr) celebrate their victory with special guest Essie Faria, a 20-time gold medalist in the Florida Senior Games State Championships, and Wellness Center Coordinator Suzana Delgado, who organized the event.

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Cavalia is returning in March with an all new show, Odysseo BY GABRIELA LAMBERTUS

Cavalia, whose horse-and-human production received standing ovations and critical acclaim in Miami in 2010, has announced that, in partnership with the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, it will make Miami its second U.S. tour stop for its all-new show. Set to open Mar. 13, 2012, Odysseo will be performed at the same site as in 2010 — Bicentennial Park in downtown Miami — but this time under a White Big Top more than twice the size. Tickets are available now at <www.cavalia.net> or by calling 1-866-999-8111. Surrounded by awe-inspiring projections and visual effects, some 70 horses and 55 artists embark together on a journey, traveling through amazing natural landscapes. “The horse has been a partner of humanity throughout the ages,” explained Normand Latourelle, president and artistic director of Cavalia. “It’s thanks to horses that humans imagined they could travel to the ends of the earth. “This powerful and natural wonder of an animal enabled mankind to bridge cultures, to create alliances amongst people, and thus to freely roam the planet. He has been one of the most important instruments in the evolution of humanity. This is the essence of Odysseo.”

Some 70 horses and 55 artists will perform in Cavalia’s all-new show, Odysseo. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Latourelle continued, “We had such great big top in 2010,” said M. John Richard, presisuccess in Miami last time around that we dent and CEO of the Adrienne Arsht Center. knew it would be one of our first tour stops “This new production, Odysseo, will captivate once we finished creating our all-new show.” Miami audiences with its pristine beauty, bold Miami is the only Florida stop slated for acrobatic feats, and remarkable artistry.” Odysseo’s U.S. tour. Odysseo is presented under the world’s “The Arsht Center is proud to partner once largest touring big top. Covering an area of again with the internationally renowned cre- more than 100,000 square feet — two and a ators of Cavalia, which brought so much joy to quarter times larger than the original Cavalia Miami audiences when it debuted under the show’s tent — the new big top houses a

27,000-square-foot stage. “We’ve created an even bigger big top to put as few limits as possible on our horses and artists, allowing them to play, run, dance, jump and twirl around to their hearts’ content,” Latourelle said. Inside, an immense theater seats 2,290 people with no obstructed views. By redefining the scale and possibilities of a touring space, Odysseo can accommodate even more in the way of equestrian arts, acrobatics, music, multimedia wizardry and special effects, the signature ingredients of a Cavalia show. For its exclusive run in Miami, Odysseo will be presented under the White Big Top at Bicentennial Park in downtown Miami. Tickets are on sale now at the introductory price of $59.50 to $109.50 plus applicable fees for regular tickets. For guests who desire an extraordinary outing, the show can be customized for an extended experience from $144.50 to $199.50, including a Horse Lover’s Package that lets patrons tour the Cavalia stables after the show, and the VIP Rendez-Vous Package which includes a tour of the stables after the show, a cocktail/dinner reception and much more. Special pricing also is available for children (ages 2-12), juniors (13-17), and senior citizens (65-plus). For ticket information, visit <www.cavalia.net> or call 1-866-999-8111.

Why You Can’t Lose Weight BY SONIA MARTINEZ, RPH

If you have tried diet after diet without shedding pounds, it may not be your fault. In “Why You Can’t Lose Weight: Why It’s So Hard to Shed Pounds and What You Can Do About It”, Pamela Smith, MD, MPH discusses the eighteen most common reasons why you can’t lose weight, and guides you in overcoming the obstacles that stand between you and a trimmer body, including insufficient exercise and sleep, biochemical problems such as insulin resistance and depression, food allergies and thyroid hormone dysfunction. For example, when you’re under constant stress, your body remains in fight-or-flight mode and your adrenal glands pump out excess cortisol, a hormone that suppresses the thyroid’s ability to regulate your weight. The last part of the book can guide you in putting together a customized, easy-to-follow weight-loss program. If you’ve been frustrated by one-size-fits-all diet plans and medications that have not worked, contact our compounding pharmacist who can help you begin your journey to optimal health.

Photo by Ella Woodson Sonia Martinez, RPH - Marco Drugs

Marco Drugs and Compounding will provide you with compounded medications prepared with the highest standards and with high quality bulk materials, traditional prescriptions and high grade nutraceuticals, supplements and multivitamins. We provide to you health information in a clean, comfortable, fun and safe environment. Make us your doorway to total health. Marco Drugs & Compounding is located at 6627 South Dixie Highway, Tel: 305-665-4411 • Fax: 305-663-3258 Email:marcodrugs@bellsouth.net <www.marcodrugs.com> This article is intended to provide information on healthrelated matters. The ideas expressed cannot be used to diagnose or treat individual health problems and should not be taken as medical advice or instruction.

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Author Jen Lancaster to discuss her latest book, If You Were Here BY MELISSA BRODER

After a fall from designer handbags and spa visits to the unemployment line, Jen Lancaster began detailing her experiences on her blog at <www.jennsylvania.com>. Her acerbic wit quickly won the blog a massive following, and Bitter is the New Black, Lancaster’s first memoir, was born. Four memoirs later, Jen Lancaster is a repeat New York Times bestselling author. Bitter is the New Black was published in 2006. Since then, Lancaster has published one book a year with NAL. The first three — Bitter is the New Black; Bright Lights, Big Ass, and Such a Pretty Fat — have more than 100,000 copies each in print. Such a Pretty Fat spent six weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Pretty in Plaid, her hardcover debut, earned a coveted spot on the New York Times hardcover nonfiction list when it came out in 2009. My Fair Lazy debuted at No. 9 on the New York Times hardcover nonfiction list and If You Were Here (NAL Trade Paperback; $15; Mar. 6, 2012) now in paperback debuted at No. 14 on the New York Times hardcover fiction list. funny cast of supporting characters, Lancaster’s longincluding a celebutard ex-landlady. awaited fiction debut To top it all off, they end up buying is as uproariously the same exact house that the dreamy entertaining and Jen Lancaster laugh-out-loud funny (Photo credit: Jeremy Lawson) Jake Ryan “lived in” in John Hughes’ Sixteen Candles. As Mia and Mac strugas her beloved mem––––––––––––––––– gle to adapt to their new surroundings, oirs. If You Were Here follows Amish-zombie-teen-romance they will discover whether or not their marauthor Mia and her husband, Mac, (and riage is strong enough to survive months of their pets) through the alternately frustrat- do-it-yourself renovations. A nationally syndicated monthly columing, exciting, terrifying — but always hilarious — process of buying and renovat- nist for Tribune Media Services’ Humor ing their first home. Set in the same Hotel, Jen Lancaster lives outside Chicago. Chicago suburbs as John Hughes’ 1980s Visit the author on her blog at <www.jennmovie classics like Sixteen Candles, The sylvania.com>. Lancaster will be speaking and signing Breakfast Club and Pretty in Pink, Mia and Mac get caught up in wars with the home- her book on Tuesday, Mar. 6, 8 p.m., at owner’s association, meet some less-than- Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave. in Coral friendly neighbors, and are joined by a Gables.

FOOTNOTES

Community Newspapers

Feb. 21 - Mar. 5, 2012

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Thom Elliott’s photo exhibit captures images of the stars

Thom Elliott (right) is pictured with an attendee at the opening of his photo exhibit, which continues through Mar. 2. (Photo by Daniel Portnoy) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY GARY ALAN RUSE

Thom Elliott, a Cutler Bay resident who has lived in South Florida since 1973, is a photographer whose celebrity photos are featured in an exhibition, which continues through Mar. 2 at Pyramid Photographic Studios in the warehouse district of the Falls. Images of Paul Newman, Steve McQueen, Peter Sellers and other stars reveal a different approach to photography. “They’re not portraits,” Elliott said. “I call them ‘super candids.’” The 10 featured photos and others in smaller frames in the main room were taken when he was the film production manager of a daytime television show in the 1960s, called Dateline: Hollywood on ABC-TV, starring Rona Barrett and Joanna Barnes. Mastering the job in about a week, Elliott sought to add some interest to his routine through photography. “I picked up my camera and took casual snapshots of celebrities,” Elliott said. “The unique thing is that the stars did know I was taking their pictures because nine out of 10 times I asked their permission. One of them was George Raft, and the lighting was so low that his face was lit up by the match he was lighting his cigarette with.” Elliott’s interest in photography began in the seventh grade in junior high. An afterschool program allowed students to process their own negatives and make contact prints. “Then when I went into the Air Force I had a top-secret job I couldn’t talk about and my father had sent me a $10 box camera so I started taking pictures with that,” Elliott said. “I wanted to get a better camera so I bought a Rolleicord that was a version of a Rolleiflex, and I started taking pictures

around Germany and Europe during the four years I was stationed over there.” After Dateline went off the air, Elliott returned to the advertising field and moved to New York, doing freelance work for a number of clients. After he moved to South Florida, a chance encounter gave him new insights into the kind of work that was important to him. “I took pictures of the artist Christo when he was here at the Lowe Art Museum for three days,” Elliott said. “He said that he never used corporate sponsorship because there are too many strings attached to it, and he didn’t allow anybody to put strings on his heart, and he did this from his heart. I turned away and started to cry, and his wife came over and said, ‘Thom, what’s wrong?’ and I said I just realized that I hadn’t taken any pictures from my heart.” Since then he has tried to devote as much time as possible to creative photography, although he still does it as a business locally and keeps his New York clients by commuting monthly. He and his wife, Irene, also work as a team — she as a court reporter and he as the videographer. Elliott has taken part in Career Day at Southwood Middle School in Palmetto Bay, talking about photography to Jenifer Berse’s art students. “I love the process of photography and I’ve met a lot of fine people through photography,” Elliott said. When asked what’s next, Elliott said that a friend of his who lives in Las Vegas has broached the idea of him coming there with the same show of his celebrity pictures. Elliott’s website is <http://www.tomelliott-photography.com>. Pyramid Studios is located at 8890 SW 129 Terr. Its hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., or by appointment at 305-256-6944.

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