South Miami News 2.22.2011

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FEBRUARY 22 - 28, 2011

Rotary Art Festival returns on Feb. 26-27 BY GARY ALAN RUSE

‘Strut-on Outa Here’ Sez Us!

T

he South Miami Rotary Art Festival returns for its 27th year on the weekend of February 26-27, running each day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The annual show continues to be one of the most popular and best attended events in the city of Pleasant Living. Located near the Shops of Sunset Place, the festival is held in the heart of South Miami on Sunset Drive between South Dixie Highway and Red Road (SW 57 Avenue). Each year, art lovers and weekend adventurers enjoy the chance to see the work of hundreds of artists and crafts people from around the country, eat at the multinational food court, listen to live music, and much more. Admission is free to this great family event, so bring the kids. Even pets are welcome, and there are watering stations at the South Miami Rotary Club Coke booths. You can come by Metrorail—it’s only a block from the South Miami station. If you come by car, on street parking is available and in the city’s municipal garage half a block south of Sunset on 58th Court.

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BY MICHAEL MILLER

Executive Editor

Scenes from last year’s art festival.

ART FESTIVAL, page 3

Commission rejects Hometown ordinance parking change BY KIMBERLY PORTER

A

n amendment to clarify parking space requirements in the Hometown District Overlay Regulations failed at first reading by a 5-0 vote at the February 15 City Commission meeting According to current ordinance wording, mixed-use buildings receive a 20 percent discount from non-District parking requirements. Mixed-use buildings are classified as those using no more than 75

Around Town

percent of the occupied building space. The proposed change would add the word “new” in front of the word “buildings,” effectively limiting provisions before the ordinance was amended in 2008. Buildings erected during the nine-year moratorium would receive no discount. According to Sandy Youkilis of the planning board, the intention was to restrict the 20 percent discount to new buildings, even though not explicitly stated. The city planning board recommended rejection by a 52 vote February 8.

Different rules for different buildings “is going to create a lot of problems,” said Commissioner Velma Palmer. “I am for the code but when the code is established unfairly, I am not for it.” “This would make for an uneven playing field. I agree with the planning board’s denial,” said Commissioner Walter Harris. Amy Donner, president of the Red Sunset Merchants Association, speaking

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ORDINANCE, page 5

My, oh my! Isn’t the City of South Miami having such a great time dealing with the King Mango Strut which emigrated from Coconut Grove to the City of Pleasant Living just a few weeks ago? Some folks with feathers in a fluff want to get to the bottom of this dastardly deed. Seems as though the Strut didn’t have its own EVENT permit within the VolksBlast event that was legally permitted. Some observers tell me the ‘Strut’ lasted maybe 15 minutes, weaving through the permitted VolksBlast event that took place on Sunset Drive not too long ago. About 40 or so fun-loving Strut participants did their usually ‘gig,’ wearing pretty cool and outrageous costumes, depending upon your perspective, of course. That made most folks smile, especially upon seeing Mayor Phil Stoddard, wearing a beautiful blue mask. Some asked: was he an unpermitted ‘Strut’ participant or part of the VolksBlast when the Strut happened by and he just had a mask handy? In any case, who cares? It must have really po’d some naysayers who saw a colorful sign carried by a couple of nice ladies at the front of the Strut, reading: ‘South Miami King Mango Strut’ —‘Stepping out for the 29th time.’ Golly, I thought. Had the South Miami Strut been around that long? Wasn’t this the first time the ‘Strutters’

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AROUND TOWN,

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 22 - 28, 2011

February 22 - 28, 2011

ART FESTIVAL,

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

from page 1

Children’s Alley, located on SW 57 Avenue just around the corner from festival headquarters at First National Bank of South Miami, features educational and interactive activities for children provided by local non-profits such as Aero Modelers of Perrine, who this year hope to fly a miniature helicopter. Other groups include Friends of Greyhounds, Miami Dade Public Library Systems and the Southern Cross Astronomical Association. And there

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will be free giveaways. First National Bank of South Miami is the founding and presenting sponsor of the show. The Children’s Alley is being sponsored this year by South Miami Hospital Center for Women and Infants. Williamson Automotive is the other major sponsor, and they will have cars on display. Portable rest room facilities are located on SW 59 Avenue just north of the food court and behind Chase Bank. First aid services provided by South Miami Hospital are located north of the food court as well and are staffed throughout

Above: Greek Flame. Left: Leising Fountain ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– show hours by qualified personnel to help or All proceeds fund an annual college scholrefer you for services elsewhere as needed. arship for a South Miami student, free dicSouth Miami Police will be on the premises tionary and atlas giveaways to South Miami at all times, including overnight surveillance. 3rd and 5th graders as well as at-risk stuATM’s are located at major institutions and dents throughout Miami-Dade, and the most artists accept credit cards. Since the festi- Rotary’s other local and international comval is always a family-friendly event, no alco- munity service projects. holic beverages are sold within the festival site. For more about the festival, go to their The Art Festival is produced entirely by volunteers of the South Miami Rotary Club. website at www.southmiamiartfest.org.

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February 22 - 28, 2011

Rotary Art Festival just around our corner Gloria Burns GLORIA’S GAB The 2011 South Miami Rotary Art Festival is almost here. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, February 26 and 27, thousands are expected to once again enjoy our awesome hometown festival that has it all. Look for a Children’s Alley for the little ones, a petting zoo, live entertainment, and great food selections along with a fine art, plants and crafts. You can be sure this will be a great familyfriendly event you’ll not want to miss. The festival occupies Sunset Drive between US 1 and Red Road with proceeds supporting South Miami Rotary Club charitable efforts.

In other happenings around town, Valentine’s Day weekend got off to a rocky start weather-wise on an overcast Saturday, February 13, but now with youth sports being played all over town from soccer to baseball, parents are in for a busy season. Of course, Sunday was sunny and spectacular with crowds flocking to favorite restaurants for Valentine’s Day weekend brunches and dinners. Most everyone seemed to take advantage of a picture-perfect Sunday, snapping digitals and phone cameras, too! Members of Profit, Inc., one of the oldest business networking groups in our community, gathered at Tropical Park for a family fun day of fellowship, games and a great BBQ provided by Karl Zoisi of Karl’s Catering. With members providing desserts, the incredible selection could have filled a bakery. Among the many attending the affair: Mike and Susie Sutta, bringing their boys who helped win

Volleyball action at the picnic. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

From left: John and Gloria Burns, Susie Sutta, Kemp Mobley, Mike Sutta, and Louis DeSouza enjoy picnic chat. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

volleyball and softball games. Among familiar faces in the crowd: Robert Beans, Kemp Mobley, Jose Alonso, Joe and ggle, Bob Kemper, and Frank Cathy Brig O b regon. Those interested in learning more about this dynamic group should contact Frank at 305-779- 8484. The Gold Diggers Second Bi-Annual “Cut-a-Thon for Charity” is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, February 27 at Ugo Ri Roma Salon & Day Spa, 2801 Florida Avenue, Coconut Grove. Come in for a $100 haircut for only $20 or blowouts for $25, a relaxing massage ($1 per minute) while enjoying delicious gourmet desserts from House of Frost, specialty salads from Sidewalk Salads and fresh Asian fare from CocoWok. JD TITI will be ‘in the house’ to keep the joint jumpin’ and

there’ll also be a special sale of exotic orchids by The Blond Tulip. All proceeds benefit Gold-Diggers, Inc., charities: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of South Florida and the Food for Life Network. Finally, condolences go out to the family and friends of South Miami Rotarian and civic leader, John Sorgie, whose sister, Theresa, passed away February 4 after a valiant and courageous fight with cancer. Customers at Sunset Quickprint loved Theresa’s ready smile and helpful disposition. She will be missed. 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.

February 22 - 28, 2011

AROUND TOWN,

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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had come to visit the City of Pleasant Living? Many think the King Mango Strut should stay in Coconut Grove where it has a traditional identity. They feel that merry band of fun-loving ‘Strutters’ should just slither right out of our town, leaving it to our own culture and entertainments. What I’m hoping is that the city will close its needless investigation of the ‘dastardly EVENT-less deed.’ Stop wasting taxpayer time and get onto more important things, like – well, you can fill in the rest! To m Va g e l i n e , the city’s Planning Director has called it a day and has tendered his resignation. No official reason given for his departure. But should he want to stay in the field, I hear Julian Perez, Department Director for the Division of Planning and Zoning and Code Compliance at Palmetto Bay has departed the Village. Julian, gentlemen’s gentleman, worked there for a couple of years, serving in South Miami in similar capacity before heading to Palmetto Bay. In Palmetto Bay Julian helped shepherd the city’s first “Green” initiatives under former Mayor Gene Flinn and the Council, including the creation of a Green commercial building code. Julian was also instrumental in developing Palmetto Bay’s sustainability web page which you can visit at: http://www.palmettobaygreen.com. Now, sources tell me the pressure is on the Palmetto Bay Village staff to put the brakes on any zoning applications that might put an elected official in an uncomfortable light (not unheard of, in any city government operation —the nice folks in South Miami have it down pat, been doing it for years). Sometimes unwanted city projects wind up on very slow tracks. Staff can delay action by picking apart every last application detail, ordering multiple changes and then repeating frivolous demands over and over again until an applicant just gives up. That’s just how the city gets the reputation as being unfriendly to developers and business people, and often winds up with empty storefronts and vacant lots. M a y o r S t o d d a r d did the city right a few weeks ago when the testosterone boiled as Yvonne Beckman acted up at during a city commission meeting, and ‘Dr. Phil’ (as he is sometimes known) tossed her from the chambers. Bravo, Mr. Mayor, for taking control of such outbursts that so often make the city an area laughing stock. Speaking of testosterone, we can’t wait to see what will finally happen to the dispute between the city and the YMCA, two parties who have yet to resolve long-term challenges about who will do what and when. (A former YMCA’er predicted way back that this muchballyhooed marriage would end up in court). A little history: a while back , the city

bought the 10-acre YMCA property on SW 58th Avenue and SW 43rd Street for some $2.5 million, and then leased it back to the ‘Y’ in a deal that would have the organization improve the property, along with other vague conditions. All that has been created is a bunch of grief for both parties. So now the city commission and the ‘Y’ folks ought to get together, sit around a circle and sing “Kum-Ba-Yah!” E n j o y e d t h e r a n t i n g a n d r a v i n g s of our beloved Vice Mayor Valerie Newman who (how can I say it?) was very ‘charged up’ when speaking about the Lee Park condo on SW 62nd Avenue. Seems that Lee Park holds a special place in her gracious heart. W ith the next election less than 12 months away, some folks in the Dante Fascell area, as well as the north side of town, are primed to advance a new and viable candidate. And some folks at City Hall can’t wait ‘til the new election is held. Speaking of north side, a rumor is going around that former South Miami Mayor Julio Robaina might run again for public office. Hmmm…could that be as South Miami Mayor? Or a seat on the County Commission? Ran into former m a y o r Horace Feliu at Town Restaurant the other day, he was with some of his croniesand looked like he was going over someone’s campaign materials. M o re a ro u n d t o w n : saw Senator Marco Rubio at Flanigan’s in Pinecrest a week ago Saturday, apparently a family outing, and just before sitting down, spending a moment talking with Dr. Don Harris and Paul Marolf. Also ran into Chip Black, Michael Raley and former Palmetto Bay Mayor Gene Flinn at Big Cheese the other day, and it turns out that when they go lunching there, they ask to be served by Ricardo — for good reason, as he’ll customize fare for favored customers. Finally proud to say we figured how to use those new downtown parking meters (it’s actually pretty simple). At each day’s end, the city expects to make a whole lot more money from those who just don’t know (or care) how much time is left on the meter. So, folks, have your money or credit card ready and remember: you don’t get any change, and you don’t need to put the receipt on your dashboard. And, the lovely meter r e a d e r s have a hand-held contraption to let them know what meters have used up all the advance deposit money when the meter runs out. Rest assured you’ll get an $18 ticket, compliments of the City of Pleasant Living. Thought of the Day: Humor is also a way of saying something serious. — T. S. Eliot

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

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before the vote, said “We can’t build a building with one set of rules that is always changing. Please partner with us. It is okay to have strict ordinances. Just help us to understand the rules. We have some really great people in our downtown business area.” she continued, “Some of the greatest merchants from all over the country have opened up businesses here. They have businesses elsewhere, like South Beach. We know [through them] it is extremely hard to do business here,” she added. “Though this matter is a big deal to the businesses and people of South Miami, it is only a part of the big picture,” com-

mented Brandon Lurie, vice president of the Richard-Brandon Company. “The big picture in the city is the continued negativity by the staff and commission toward most anything that is pro business and especially new growth.” Responded Commissioner Brian Beasley: “I go to the chamber meetings, I go to the Red Sunset Merchant meetings. I definitely show support.” Vice Mayor Valerie Newman also stated that she was “disturbed about the remarks about us not supporting the merchants. I do my shopping in South Miami,” she said “I do my dining in South Miami. “However, I am also supportive of following our codes,” she added.

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February 22 - 28, 2011

What’s behind Gov. Scott’s killing of drug database law? R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY We can agree or disagree with our governor about his proposed cuts in the number of state employees. We can agree or disagree about school funding or any of his other tax and budget cut proposals. But, for the life of me, I cannot fathom his logic in killing the much-heralded law that created a computer system upon which doctors could review the drug purchases of their patients to prevent them from seeking narcotics from multiple MDs, a practice known as “doctor shopping.” Drug addicts from around the nation come to Florida because it is the only major state that doesn’t maintain a databank on who is going from one doctor’s office to the next telling the MDs, “I’m hurting, I need a prescription for oxycodone to relieve the pain.” The state estimates that approximately seven residents of our state die every day

from drug overdoses. Just last week, a car returning to Kentucky from Florida was pulled over by Kentucky State Police for erratic driving on Interstate 75. The officer found 42-year-old Lisa Rogers in the back seat dead from a suspected drug overdose — courtesy of a “pill mill” in Florida. What is the governor’s rationale? He says government is too intrusive in the lives of the people. This answer is not acceptable. He is smart enough to know that he can’t say he wants to the kill the program because it costs too much inasmuch as the program is federally funded. It wouldn’t cost the state of Florida one thin dime! There’s more to this than meets the eye. On top of all this the governor proposes to eliminate the Office of Drug Control, the office charged with raising the private money to support the database. Last month the governor dismissed the head of that office, Bruce Grant, and isn’t going to replace him. It would seem, I am ashamed to say, that our governor doesn’t care about the effect of illegal drugs on his state. Besides the unnecessary deaths from drugs, its use increases all types of crimes from robbing a 7-11 to rape and murder. Doesn’t he care

VIEWPOINT about his fellow citizens? Law enforcement officers, in Florida and throughout the Southeast, are denouncing the governor’s actions. Law enforcement officers in Kentucky are screaming at Florida to shut down the pill mills. They are quoted as saying that drug addicts once had to drive to Mexico to get their illegal prescriptions; now all they have to do is drive to sunny Florida, escape the snow, get high, and possibly die. What a reputation we have: The “No. 1” state in the union for the sale of illegal drugs. And, our governor is against a procedure that would eradicate the practice. Shame on him. No wonder I found a recent letter to the editor in the Miami Herald asking, “Is it too early to start a recall of Gov. Scott?” It seems that communication between the governor’s office and that of recently elected Republican Attorney General Pam Bondi is amiss. Just last week Bondi report-

ed to the press that the governor had signed off on new rules imposing tougher rules on doctors dispensing and prescribing narcotics from storefront clinics. What is the real story? I don’t care if you are a liberal Democrat, a Tea Party Republican or in the middle of the road. No one with an ounce of morality would cut out a program that will save the lives of thousands and reduce crime in our state. We need a “real” explanation from our governor and we need it now before one more person dies from a drug overdose that could have been prevented. We appreciate your opinions on this column whether in agreement or disagreement. Please send your comments to (fax number) 305-662-6980 or email to <letters@communitynewspapers.com>. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of this newspaper, its editors or publisher.

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February 22 - 28, 2011

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Operation ‘Broken Hearts’ reveals South Miami drug trafficking BY KIMBERLY PORTER

Operation “Broken Hearts,” an eight-hour DUI checkpoint, resulted in traffic citations for 92 vehicles out of a total of 791 checked by law enforcement agencies February 11-12. More significant to police, out of 24 arrests, only one individual was cited for DUI while five others related to narcotics violations. Carried out in southbound lanes at the 6200 block of South Dixie Highway from 7 p.m. Friday to 3 a.m. Saturday, February 12, South Miami Police were assisted by the Miami Dade Police and School Police, Sweetwater Police, Florida Highway Patrol and the U.S. Department of Immigration. “They did a great job,” said City Manager Hector Mirabile. “It does show there is quite a bit of narcotics flowing through US1.” His observation coincides with three unre-

lated instances of suspected marijuana grow houses, successfully investigated in South Miami during the last two weeks. On February 2, a potential ‘grow house’ entered by S.I.U. detectives resulted in two arrests and seizure of eight pounds marijuana, street-valued at $26,000. S.I.U. detectives investigated two other suspected marijuana grow houses on February 10, one uncovering 64 full-grown marijuana plants weighing 168.2 pounds with an approximate $555,000 street value. The case is still ongoing. A second house investigation concluded with four arrests, confiscation of 19 pounds of marijuana and 20 Xanax bars plus $65,000 in seized cash. Total monetary value of all three cases of drugs and cash seized: approximately $670,000, Mirabile reported to City Commissioners February 15.

Conservation Concert Series welcomes The Members Staurday, February 26, 6:30 p.m. at 5530 Sunset Dr., the band The Members will return to TAS, headlining the second date in the 2011 Conservation Concert Series! If you joined us on January 29th for the Nightscape concert, you know how truly wonderful it is to soak up the music under the stars, oaks and pines. If you have not yet made it to a Conservation Concert, please mark your calendars now for the 26th. The Members (Diane, Scott, Joe, Al and Steve) are well known both their classic and contemporary Rock & Roll. A laid-

back “Old Florida” evening is in store, so pack a picnic, bring a blanket, your sweetie, your children, or a friend and come out. Admission $10, children free. Limited free parking on TAS grounds and along 56th Avenue. Metered parking available on Sunset Dr. Concert proceeds will benefit capital improvements to the grounds and historic buildings. The Restored Chickee Hut (last year’s Concert Series beneficiary) is again sheltering scout meetings, educational workshops and member events. Daily yoga classes take place in its shade as well.

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February 22 - 28, 2011

Teen diagnosed with leukemia campaigns for research funds BY TYPHANIE STEWART

Melanie, an eighth grade cheerleader from Coral Gables who was diagnosed with leukemia in August 2010, currently is undergoing chemotherapy at Miami Children’s Hospital. She has not attended school this year due to her condition. Although Melanie is being given a chance to live through the use of chemotherapies developed by Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) researchers, more than anything she wants to be cured. Melanie’s story can be seen on her recently released YouTube video that can be viewed online at <www.tinyurl.com/melanie-story>. Roberto R. Muñoz, executive vice president and chief lending officer of Professional Bank, based in the Gables, was inspired by Melanie’s story after his nomination for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of South Florida’s “Man of the Year.” Candidates include socially active community and businesses leaders who fundraise for blood cancer research leading up to the Annual Man and Woman of the Year Grand Finale Gala on Saturday, Mar. 26, at the Intercontinental Hotel. “I met Melanie by chance,” Muñoz explained. “I was asked to accept the Man of the Year nomination several months ago. I accepted, but needed a reason to feel what LLS brings to the table. I prayed, and days later a series of events allowed me to meet Melanie and her parents at Miami Children’s Hospital. We were brought together by a prayer, and now I am truly passionate about raising funds for this cause.” Now through Mar. 25, Muñoz is seeking donors to help raise at least $1 million to fund blood cancer research with the goal of finding a cure and rid society of the largest cause of death of children under age 20. Donations can be made online at <http://sfl.mwoy.llsevent.org/RobertoMunoz>.

Melanie is pictured with Roberto R. Muñoz. –––––––––––––––––––––– “The Man and Woman of the Year campaign is a great way for candidates to network with other influential people in their communities while also helping to bring help and hope to thousands of blood cancer patients,” said Joanne Davis, the LLS Southern Florida Chapter’s executive director. “Candidates get to showcase their fundraising and community outreach skills as well as their humanitarianism.” To learn more about Man of the Year nominee Roberto Muñoz and his campaign visit online at <www.professionabankfl.com> and <www.mwoy.org/sfl>. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. LLS’s mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since the first funding in 1954, LLS has awarded more than $680 million in research funding.

February 22 - 28, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Rotary honors supporters of South Miami Arts Festival BY KAREN VASSEL

ble for caring for children injured at birth. Oeters has been a long-time supporter of the In 2009, the Rotary Club of South Miami American Red Cross and was chair of the board established its Stellar Support Society Award, for Greater Miami and the Keys Chapter, 2002an award that recognizes individuals who 05. She has chaired the Spectrum Awards for strongly support the South Miami Rotary Art Women for the past 10 years. She is a founding member and past chair of the Festival, which raises funds for President’s Council of 100 for scholarships for local youths as Florida International University. She well as international and local comalso has been active in the Coral munity service projects. These Gables Community Foundation, individuals are leaders in the comMiami City Ballet, New World munity who provide humanitarian Symphony, Miami Bridge and the service, encourage high ethical University of Miami’s Cancer Link standards, and help build goodwill. and Camillus House. The first two honorees were Some of Oeters’ community long-time Rotarians and strong recognitions include Distinguished supporters of the South Miami Alumna from Barry University; Rotary Art Festival: Karen Phillis Oeters American Red Cross Volunteer of Dorfman and John Sorgie, owner the Year Award; Big Brothers, Big of Sunset Quick Print. This year’s Sisters Miami’s Miracle Makers honorees are community leaders Award; Bill Colson Award for who have made significant contriLeadership; South Florida Business butions not only to the festival but Journal Influential Business Women to the community as a whole. Award; Nancy Hughes Community The first honoree is Phillis Commitment Award for ethics in Oeters, corporate vice president of government, presented by MiamiGovernment and Community Dade County Days; L. Russell Relations for Baptist Health South Norton Community Service Award Florida. In this role she is responsiVeronica Birch Flores presented by Chamber South; ble for strategic planning of government and community relations, –––––––––––––––– Miami-Dade County Commission developing a state and federal legislative agen- on the Status of Women’s In the Company of da to include issues of health-care funding, Women Award; Greater Miami Chamber of insurance regulation and general health policy Commerce Salute to Miami’s Leaders Award; development, as well as family and work life United Way’s Dorothy Shula Community Service issues. In addition, she is responsible for the Award. Oeters came to Miami in 1981 to attend interface with local government as it relates to permitting, zoning and general expansion plans Barry University where she received her master’s degree in social work. She has been a for Baptist Health. Oeters serves on many community boards, Miami-Dade resident for more than 25 years, including the Greater Miami Chamber of living most of that time in Coral Gables. She Commerce, Beacon Council, United Way, Nat has an 11-year-old daughter, Raquel Peùa. Moore Foundation, Actors’ Playhouse and Oeters is an adventure traveler, an avid sailor Orange Bowl. She was 2009-10 chair of the and an accomplished equestrian. In 1988, she Orange Bowl Committee. She also was chair of was the first woman to win the J/30 North the board, from 2003 to 2008, of the America Sail Championship presented by the Neurologically Injured Compensation Fund for American Yacht Club. The second honoree is Ed Williamson of the State of Florida, a billion dollar fund responsi-

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Pictured are Ed Williamson, his wife Carol and son Trae. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The final honoree is Veronica Birch Flores, Williamson Cadillac. Ed, a Rotarian, his wife, Carol and son Trae have been strong supporters a key member of the executive team of First of the festival and the Rotary Club of South National Bank of South Miami since joining Miami. Ed’s concern for the community and the bank in 1999. As executive vice president, her primary great leadership qualities have led to his success responsibilities include the daily management and many accolades for Williamson Cadillac. They have won the Prestigious Master Dealer of the bank with a focus on customer relations Award 30 times in the last 34 years, one of only and community outreach. Flores enjoys over four Cadillac Dealers to have achieved the 30th- 30 years of community banking experience year milestone. It also has won the General and has served on several boards throughout Motors Dealer of the Year Award four times and her banking career. Presently, Flores serves on the boards of the for 2006, the Williamsons won Dealer of the Year for Cadillac, Saturn and both Hummer South Miami Hospital Associates and Chamber South. She is the immediate past Dealerships. In 2007, Carol and Ed Williamson were chair of Chamber South for 2009-10. awarded the People for the American Way of Additionally, she is past vice president and curMiami’s Guardian of Equality Award for their rent board member of the Red Sunset efforts to guard against discrimination. The Merchants Association promoting the mercompany is a multiple year recipient of the chants in the Red Sunset area. Flores was on the board of directors of United Way of Miami-Dade’s “Good Works� award and is a supporter of many local charities Fellowship House Foundation for three years including the University of Miami, YMCA of and now sits in the advisory board. She serves Greater Miami, Saint Thomas University, The as Human Resources State Committee memChildrens’ Trust, Yes Institute, Nat Moore ber for Florida Bankers Association. Flores grew up in the South Miami commuFoundation, Dade Community Foundation and many others. The Williamsons also are mem- nity enjoying the aroma from the Holsum bers of the Orange Bowl Committee, Yes Bakery. She attended South Miami High Institute Board, University of Miami Board of School and she is most proud of her two sons Trustees, and Baptist Hospital Women’s Board. that she has with her husband of 30 years.

Page 10

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 22 - 28, 2011

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February 22 - 28, 2011

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Page 13

County launches ‘GreenPrint’ for more sustainable future BY MARIE BERTOT

Miami-Dade County recently launched “GreenPrint – Our Design for a Sustainable Future,” a plan to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, cut energy, water and fuel consumption, and help develop a sustainable community for future generations. GreenPrint is the first collective and comprehensive steps to address climate change and to creating a resilient Miami-Dade County in terms of sustainability, environmental protection and climate change. The plan, which was developed by a diverse group of experts and community members, contains 137 separate initiatives that directly contribute to a reduction of GHG emissions. Some initiatives include the creating a Green Business Certification Program, continuing to transition the county fleet to hybrid electric vehicles, and improving safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. It is estimated GreenPrint initiatives will result in a reduction of 1.5 million metric

tons of emissions and an avoidance of 3.1 million metric tons over the next five years. Roughly speaking, 1.5 million metric tons of C02 emissions is approximately equivalent to the C02 emissions associated with making 144,000 trips around the earth; traveling the distance to the moon and back 7,500 times, or powering 206,000 homes in Miami-Dade County for the year. In addition, it is estimated that 1.5 million metric tons of C02 are equivalent to an energy cost savings of approximately $242 million (utilizing $0.09 per kwh as an average) over the next five years. “We cannot forget that we are a coastal community, vulnerable to the effects of climate change and sea level rise,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez. “It is for these reasons that, since the early 1990s, the county has taken steps to protect our natural environment, people, and economy. And in recent years, we have accelerated our actions.” By committing to the U.S. Cool Counties Program, the county has agreed to pursue the

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regional goal of reducing GHG emissions by 80 percent from 2008 levels by 2050. Miami-Dade also supports the state’s goal of achieving 20 percent of Florida’s energy from renewable sources by 2020. These are just two of the more than 100 actions taken by the Miami-Dade County Commission. “In GreenPrint – Our Design for a Sustainable Future, sustainability is offered in a comprehensive, balanced, and progressive spirit,” said Susanne M. Torriente, director of the Miami-Dade Office of Sustainability. “A sustainable community has a vibrant economy and clean, pedestrian-friendly, and treelined healthy communities. It provides for responsible land use and smart transportation, with easy movement via a variety of transportation options for the benefit of current and future residents and visitors.” To read the GreenPrint plan and provide comments, visit online at <http://green.miamidade.gov>.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 22 - 28, 2011

Florida Hemophilia Assn. slates inaugural Walk at Jungle Island BY LEE STEPHENS

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The Florida Hemophilia Association (FHA) will host its inaugural Walk on Saturday, Mar. 5, at the beautiful Jungle Island. The Hemophilia Walk is FHA’s largest event dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the bleeding disorders community by creating programs and services that provide education, emotional support and advocacy. FHA invites you to join in as an individual walker, or as a team participant. Join an existing team or form a team. Enlist as a team captain and choose a team name. Recruit team members from your circle of friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors. You must register to walk and to get into Jungle Island. Sign up for the Walk online by visiting <www.hemophilia.org/walk>. Then click on the Florida Walk. Everyone is welcome to participate. Sponsorship opportunities are available from $250 up to $10,000; entitlements may include logo on the website, t-shirt, and promotional materials. Organizers are

Volunteers are invited to help out before and/or during the Walk. seeking companies that can help underwrite or donate services for food and beverage, entertainment, rental equipment, printing. These in-kind sponsorship opportunities (a $500 value) also are available. Volunteers are invited to help out before and/or during the Walk. If you’re unable to walk but still want to participate, enlist as a volunteer. Call 305-235-0717 for more details. The Walk will consist of a 1.3-mile (short) or 2.6-mile (long) route. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. with the Walk starting at 8:30 a.m. All registered walkers can then enjoy the remainder of the day at Jungle Island free of charge. For information contact Debbi Adamkin at 305-235-0717 or visit online at <www.floridahemophilia.org>.

February 22 - 28, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page 15

MDC to host Free Community Health Fair, Feb. 26 Miami Dade College (MDC) is hosting its sixth annual Free Community Health Fair on Feb. 26, 9 a.m., at the Medical Center Campus, 950 NW 20 St. Services being offered at the fair include glaucoma, glucose and cholesterol tests; a limited number of free mammograms, plus dental and vision screenings. There also will be information on nutrition, heart disease and cancer prevention; a blood drive and much more. The MDC Health Fair is free and open to the public. Free shuttle transportation to the fair will be available at the Culmer Metrorail Station, beginning at 8 a.m. the day of the fair. A “Stress Relief Zone” will include free chair massages and other services, as well as on-site pharmacists from the Florida Pharmacy Association providing medical information and bone density screenings. For more information about the health fair, contact Madeline Pumariega at 305-2374212. To schedule free transportation to the fair, call 305-237-4209.

INFORMED FAMILIES TO PRESENT ‘LUNCH & LEARN’ WORKSHOP In an effort to help educate parents and members of the community, Informed Families/The Florida Family Partnership invites parents/caregivers to attend its free

“Lunch & Learn” workshop on Thursday, Feb. 24, noon-1 p.m., “How to Be Helpful Without Enabling” Informed Families board member Marino Carbonell, who will discuss ways to be helpful without enabling, is a licensed psychotherapist specializing in the field of addiction treatment for the adolescent and adult population, offering individual and family psychotherapy. An optional $10 box lunch will be available for purchase for the workshop when making reservations. To RSVP and/or order a $10 boxed lunch, send email to <aferro@informedfamilies.org>, or visit online at <www.informedfamilies.org>. For information, call 305-856-4886.

WALKING EVENT ON FEB. 27 TO BENEFIT AUTISM SPEAKS Thousands of walkers — including individuals with autism, their families and friends — will join together on Feb. 27, at 8 a.m., at the Miami-Dade Walk Now for Autism Speaks. The Walk will take place at the JC Bermudez Park, 3000 NW 87 Ave. The event is designed to raise much-needed funds for critical scientific research, advocacy efforts, family services and to increase awareness about autism spectrum disorder, which is now diagnosed in 1 in 110 children.

COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS All proceeds from the event support the local and national work of Autism Speaks, North America’s largest autism science and advocacy organization. The day includes a three-mile Walk and a Community Resource fair with educational sources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations, and creative child-friendly activities, a true “one-stop-shop” for families affected by autism. Autism Speaks Walk sponsors Toys ‘R’ Us and Babies ‘R’ Us will host a tented area at the Walk, serving as home base for the company’s mascot Geoffrey the Giraffe. For information about the Miami-Dade Walk Now for Autism Speaks, call 305-968-1799.

HAIR CUTTING EVENT TO BENEFIT THE GOLD-DIGGERS CHARITIES Centrally located in the heart of Coconut Grove, Ugo Di Roma Salon & Day Spa is opening its doors on Feb. 27, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., for a salon experience like no other, all in the name of charity. While haircuts usually range from $65 to

$100 at Ugo Di Roma, guests at the salon on Feb. 27 can receive a haircut for $20, blowout for $25, or a relaxing massage for $1 per minute. Gourmet, “couture” desserts will be served from House of Frost. They also will have the popular deejay Titi in the house to keep the joint jumping. All proceeds will benefit the Gold-Diggers Inc. in support of their charities. For more information, visit online at <www.gold-diggers.org>.

JUNIOR LEAGUE TO CELEBRATE ANNUAL ‘WINE WALK,’ MAR. 2 The Junior League of Miami Foundation (JLMF) will celebrate its signature event, the annual “Wine Walk,” on Mar. 2. This year, the event will take place among three beautiful homes in the historical Coral Gables French Village. Tickets are $18 per person in advance and $20 at the door. The event is where League members and

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

NEWS,

February 22 - 28, 2011

from previous page –––

friends “walk” to neighboring homes and taste a variety of “wines” all for a great cause to raise money for the JLMF and endow programs and projects that will help distressed women and children in the community. For information, call 305-595-1500.

NATIONAL KIDNEY FOUNDATION BEGINS NEW YEAR WITH WALK The National Kidney Foundation of Florida invites South Floridians, their friends and families to join in the 2011 Miami Kidney Walk on Mar. 6 at Crandon Park, 4000 Crandon Blvd. Presented by Apollo Renal Center, this fun non-competitive 5K event raises funds and awareness to fight kidney disease. With more than 50 walk teams already signed, excitement is building as the Miami Kidney Walk gets closer to its goal of raising $160,000 to help more than 2 million Floridians suffering from chronic kidney disease. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the Walk begins at 10 a.m. For more information, call 305-854-5690 or visit online at <www.miamikidneywalk.org>. ASIAN CULTURE FESTIVAL RETURNS TO S. FLORIDA The sights, sounds and flavors of Asia return to the Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187 Ave., with the 22nd annual Asian Culture Festival on Mar. 5 and 6, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Adult admission is $10 and children get in free. The fun-filled family event offers a virtual day trip to Asia where festival-goers will enjoy a variety of Asian arts, crafts, entertainment, plants and exotic cuisine. Activities include a Malaysian no-hands volleyball tournament known as Sepak Takraw, Chinese Lion Dances, a Dragon Boat display, performances by Japanese Taiko drummers and demonstrations of fruit and vegetable carving. Other highlights include Thai, Bangladeshi, Indian folk, 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.). For more information about this event, visit <www.fruitandspicepark.org>.

MIAMI-DADE COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY OFFERING SCHOLARSHIPS The Miami-Dade Community Action Agency’s (CAA) Community Advisory Committees (CAC) is accepting applications through Mar. 11 for educational scholarships in the amount of $1,500 each. The scholarships are awarded to individuals between the ages of 16 and 25 to assist them with reaching their educational goals. To qualify, candidates must be enrolled in a college or vocational institution or will be attending a college or vocational institution in the fall of 2011. The selection criteria are based upon the individual’s academic achievement, which requires at least a “C” average to qualify. Other requirements include performing community service hours and any employment during the candidate’s junior or senior years. Individuals interested in applying for the scholarship may obtain an application at any of the Miami-Dade Community Service Centers, or may download the application and requirements from the county portal at <www.miamidade.gov/caa/citizen_participation.asp>. For additional information call the MiamiDade Community Action Agency at 786469-4600 or visit on the Web at <www.miamidade.gov/caa>. CORAL GABLES TO CELEBRATE PIONEER DAY AT CEMETERY The City of Coral Gables and the Pinewood Cemetery Advisory Board will present Pioneer Day, a celebration of the history of early pioneer families, on Mar. 19, at 10 a.m. Harriet Stiger Liles, author of Pinewood Cemetery, Coral Gables, Florida, a History with Pioneer Biographies, is the featured guest speaker. The event is free and open to the public and will take place at the Pinewood Cemetery on Erwin Road just south of Sunset Drive. For details or to RSVP for the event, contact the City of Coral Gables Historical Resources Department at 305-460-5093.

February 22 - 28, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Robots ready to battle in national competition BY ROBERT HAMILTON

The 2011 BotsIQ National Robotics Competition returns to Miami for its fourth year as middle school, high school and college teams from all over the United States and Puerto Rico converge at the Miracle Marketplace, 3301 Coral Way, Feb. 25-27. The event will host more than 2,000 students, parents, teachers and family members from all over the country. Participating this year will be a variety of student teams that have designed and built their own robots, and will compete in three types of competitions and two divisions. The remote-controlled robots will go head-to-head against each other as well as participate in task-oriented challenges. This all takes place in the full-size 20- by 32-foot Lexan arena made of bulletproof material ready to withstand pieces of metal hitting the arena walls at 5000 RPM’s, as seen on the BattleBots TV program. As the competition progresses, students have a limited amount of time to repair their robots. BotsIQ sees many of the participating students go on to seek professional careers in the fields of mathematics, science, technology, engineering and manufacturing, and medicine. Miami-Dade County has more teams competing this year than anywhere in the country. More than 30 student teams from Miami-Dade County will participate in this year’s national competition, including: Miami Northwestern High, Belen Jesuit Preparatory, Miami Lakes Technical

Education Center, Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, Christopher Columbus High, Gulliver Preparatory School, Ransom Everglades, as well as the champion University of Miami College of Engineering Robotics Team. Students from such states as Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Missouri and Kansas will be participating. “It is exciting to see so many young people dedicated to being the innovators and leaders of this country,” said Bots IQ CEO Nola Garcia. “The students’ hard work, determination, combined with their instructors, mentors and parents’ dedication is to be applauded and noted. “The future looks bright as these enthusiastic young people gather right here in South Florida to see which team has created the most durable and high tech robot. Come and see what the future looks like.” BotsIQ is the educational program created by the producers of the incredible successful BattleBots television series in which remote-controlled robots face off in competition. As the television program became more popular, so did the number of student fans who wanted to build competitive robots of their own. Events are free and open to the public. The schedule is as follows: Friday, Feb. 25, 9 a.m., opening ceremony; Friday, Feb. 25, and Saturday, Feb. 26, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., robot competition; Sunday, Feb. 27, 9 a.m.-noon, competition and closing ceremonies. For more information on the BotsIQ National Competition, visit online at <www.botsiq.org> or call 305-505-0699.

Page 17

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

February 22 - 28, 2011

Family Energy Day: Go green, save some green BY LEE STEPHENS

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Miami-Dade County, along with Dream in Green, the Miami Science Museum (MiaSci) and Radio Disney AM 990, is hosting Family Energy Day on Saturday, Mar. 5, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the museum, 3280 S. Miami Ave. Miami-Dade parents and children can come out and learn how to be environmentally friendly by playing interactive games with the Radio Disney Road Crew, participating in a Home Energy Savings Workshop and visiting energy exhibits at the museum. The Radio Disney Road Crew, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will be holding interactive games with a “green” theme where kids and families can learn about being good to our planet while winning some cool prizes. Miami-Dade residents also can attend a Miami-Dade Home Energy Savings Workshop from noon to 1:30 p.m. (registration begins at 11:30 a.m.). The workshop is being held in collaboration with Dream in Green to educate residents on energy efficiency and conservation and provide homeowners with information, resources and incentives to reduce their utility costs. Participants will receive a free energy savings toolkit (limit one per household) valued at over $100 and will learn to track household energy consumption/reduction. To register, call 3-1-1 or visit <http://green.miamidade.gov>. The workshop has limited space, and is open to the

first 50 registered residents. All event participants will have free access to MiaSci’s Energy Garden from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., which includes the Human YoYo and the Giant Lever outdoor full-body exhibits. First, turn your body into a human yoyo and rocket yourself 10 feet in the air. Then, how would you like to be as strong as a giant? Experiment with the Giant Lever to lift not one, not two, not three, but as many as your friends as you can. In addition, Miami-Dade families that register for the Home Energy Savings Workshop will receive free entrance to the museum where they can enjoy the Energy Tracker exhibit. Throughout all of MiaSci is an ever-growing interconnected trail of hands-on exhibits that explore everything from basic energy principles to the future of renewable energy. Grab your ticket, select a line to follow, and visit stations along the route to track and identify different forms of energy. At the final stop, there’s a prize for each completed ticket! The Family Energy Day is part of the county’s energy efficiency campaign, a communitywide energy education program managed by the Miami-Dade Office of Sustainability that will engage residents to gain support for energy conservation, renewable energy, recycling, and waste reduction and serve as a catalyst for longterm behavior changes resulting in reduced energy usage. Learn more about the campaign online at <http://green.miamidade.gov>.

February 22 - 28, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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February 22 - 28, 2011

February 22 - 28, 2011

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February 22 - 28, 2011

Restoring Health & Home BY MIKE THORNTON What does decades of working in the boating refurbishing industry prepare you to do? “Most of the boats I’ve worked on were basically floating, second homes,” says Palmetto Bay resident Lisa Brang, CMR. “They’re all microcosms of houses, having almost all the same human needs, technical systems, and environmental and health risks. We’d assess, plan, deconstruct, and rebuild from top to bottom.” Complete Mold Remediators, Inc., or CMR, established in 2005, focuses on detecting and controlling excessive moisture in your home, and the damaging effects. “Moisture is the key to mold control, period,” says Brang. “We’re in a subtropical, moist climate that’s the hurricane capital of the world. Many still suffer from our 20042005 seasons on many planes.” Brang is determined to help “lift the myth” that mold is an insurmountable obstacle. “It’s there, we can eliminate it or reduce it, we can fix the property damage it may have caused, and help boost your health.” Her no-nonsense approach comes from years of project management, logistics, and containment applications for industrial, governmental, and residential settings. What is mold? Like mushrooms and yeast, mold or mildew is a type of microscopic fungi that needs water and air. We live in a climate of nutrient-rich surfaces ripe for its competitive success: wood, paper, carpet, fabric, wallpaper glue, sheetrock, wood, leather, clothing, insulation, and “practically any part of a dwelling’s construction or content if there is excessive moisture present.” Mold can lie dormant in temperature ranges less than 40 degrees F or above 100. Many species are capable of extracting enough moisture from ambient air to survive, and the CDC notes that relative humidity above 70% is sufficient for that threshold. “That’s where we’re at most of the time,” observes Brang, “and the key to a healthy, safe, and valuable property is to maintain it and make it as weatherproof as possible. That excessive moisture harms in so many ways.” How does mold develop and spread? Mold can grow on virtually any organic substance, and Brang

says “the water or moisture accumulation anywhere is the fuse. A lot can go wrong from there.” Mold presence is impossible to eliminate 100% indoors, but “there is much that can be done to

remove the mold and stop the spores from spreading,” notes Brang. “You need to attack it at its sources.” The spores, or mold seeds, enter structures through the air or on people, animals, and objects brought indoors. What are some of the health risks? “Everyone’s tolerance to mold and other microtoxins is individual, but some have really severe reactions and long-term effects. You’ve got to draw the line!” CMR has a “no-growth policy”; CMR is also the name of the state certification required, and her use of infrared technology augments her deep satisfaction and efficiency in working with homeowners, particularly “chemically-sensitive people,” those with low tolerance. Many are afflicted with eye irritation, respiratory complications, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nasal irritation, nausea, and more. “By improving the health of the home, the health of the individual can also greatly improve,” summarizes Brang. To help restore your Healthy Home, contact Lisa Brang of Complete Mold Remediators, Inc. at 305.903.8885 or cmrcomplete@comcast.net Learn more at her website http://cmr-moldremoval.com

February 22 - 28, 2011

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Thomas steaming into Miami for Gold Coast Railroad stop

Fans of Thomas the Tank Engine wait to board the train. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY SARAH GUMINA

Thomas the Tank Engine is pulling into the Gold Coast Railroad Museum for the “Day Out With Thomas: Leader of the Track Tour,” presented by HIT Entertainment, a worldwide leader in children’s entertainment, and sponsored by MEGA Brands, a leading toy company. This fun-filled event, to be conducted on three consecutive weekends in March, offers little engineers and their families the opportunity to take a ride with a 15-ton replica of Thomas the Tank Engine, star of the popular Thomas & Friends series. Children will ride along with their favorite hero on his latest adventure. The tour, now in its 16th year, is making stops in more than 45 U.S. cities, including Miami, and is expected to welcome more than one million passengers in 2011. Attendees at the Day Out With Thomas event with have an opportunity to take a 25-minute (approximate) ride with Thomas the Tank Engine; meet Sir Topham Hatt, controller of the railway; take part in activities for the whole family, including arts and crafts, storytelling, video viewing, and live music. There will be commemorative activities, merchandise and giveaways focusing on steam engines and diesel engines to celebrate the 2011 Thomas & Friends DVD movie Day of the Diesels (September 2011, Lionsgate). Dates are Mar. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20,

This fun-filled event, to be conducted on three consecutive weekends in March, offers little engineers and their families the opportunity to take a ride with a 15-ton replica of Thomas the Tank Engine, star of the popular “Thomas & Friends” series. with departures leaving at intervals throughout the day beginning at 9 a.m. The museum is located at 12450 SW 152 St. Tickets for Day Out With Thomas: Leader of the Track Tour 2011 are on sale now and available by calling Ticketweb toll-free at 1866-468-7630, or by visiting online at <www.ticketweb.com/thomas.html> or <www.gcrm.org>. Ticket prices are $18 plus tax for ages 2 and up (service charges and fee may apply). For more information and directions contact the Gold Coast Railroad 305-2530063. For information on Thomas & Friends, visit online at <www.thomasandfriends.com/dowt>.

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February 22 - 28, 2011

Pop culture favorites coming to Wizard World Miami Comic Con

(305)-235-8333 • www.onetwotree.com

Hulk is the center of attraction at this Wizard World Comic Con in another city. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY GARY ALAN RUSE

South Florida fans of comic books, TV and film stars, video games, wrestling and other pop culture favorites have a rare opportunity the weekend of Feb. 26-27 when Wizard World Miami Comic Con arrives as part of a national tour. Want to see Batman TV stars Adam West and Burt Ward and the Batmobile in person? How about Star Wars’ Billy Dee Williams (“Lando Calrissianâ€?), Ray Park (“Darth Maulâ€?) and Daniel Logan (“Boba Fettâ€?)? Maybe actress Julie Benz of the ABC TV series No Ordinary Family, Ernie Hudson (Ghostbusters), Gena Lee Nolin (Baywatch, Sheena) or the time-traveling DeLorean car from Back to the Future movies? They’re all coming to the colossal fan event at the newly refurbished Miami Airport Convention Center (MACC), 711 NW 72 Ave., along with more than 100 other celebrity guests, leading comics artists and creative directors. Comic creators and artists Michael Golden (Wolverine: First Class, New Exiles), Phil Jimenez (Amazing SpiderMan, Astonishing X-Men), Rob Liefeld (Deadpool, Youngblood), David Mack (Kabuki, Daredevil) and AlĂŠ Garza (Superman/Batman, Batgirl) also will be there, as will wrestlers Kevin “Big Sexyâ€? Nash and Former WWE Divas Angela Fong “Savannah,â€? “Cookie,â€? Candice Michelle and Torrie Wilson.

With more than 100 dealer booths, fans of all ages can shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games. They also can see interactive product exhibits and film screenings, participate in costume contests, photo ops or just hang out with fellow fans. Hours are Saturday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 27, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at up to a 20 percent savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult singleday tickets are $25 ($30 on site); two-day weekend tickets are $40 ($45 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items also are available. For more information or to purchase tickets, go online to <www.wizardworld.com/miami.html>.

February 22 - 28, 2011

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Swamplandia!: Novel gives us glimpse of life in the Glades BY SARA EAGLE

In the novel of the same name by Karen Russell, Swamplandia! is a shabby tourist attraction deep in the Everglades, owned by the Bigtree clan of alligator wrestlers. When Hilola, their star performer, dies, her husband and children lose their moorings, and Swamplandia! itself is endangered as audiences dwindle. “The chief leaves; brother Kiwi, 17, sneaks off to work at a new mainland amusement park, and otherworldly sister Osceola, 16, vanishes after falling in love with the ghost of a young man who died while working for the ill-fated Dredge and Fill Campaign in the 1930s. It’s up to Ava, 13, to find her sister, and her odyssey to the Underworld is mythic, spellbinding, and terrifying. In the book Russell uses her profound knowledge of the great imperiled swamp, from its alligators and insects, floating orchids and invasive “strangler� melaleuca trees to the tragic history of its massacred indigenous people and wildlife. Ravishing, elegiac, funny and brilliantly inquisitive, her archetypal swamp saga tells a mystical yet rooted tale of three innocents who come of age through trials of water, fire, Karen Russell and air.�

FOOTNOTES

Karen Russell will read from her debut novel Swamplandia! on Thursday, Feb. 24, 8 p.m., at Books and Books, 265 Aragon Ave. in Coral Gables.

–––––––––––––––––––––

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February 22 - 28, 2011

Join your favorite celebrity chefs at Jungle Island, Feb. 26 and 27 BY LARRY CARRINO

Foods Market Food Labs presented by Breville include: Michelle Bernstein, Produced by the same team who brings the Adrianne Calvo, Cat Cora, Melissa Food Network South Beach Wine & Food d’Arabian and Marcela Valladolid. Festival presented by Food & Wine to South Emceed by local, teenage foodie Jeremy Florida each February, Kohl’s Fun and Fit as Salamon, the children will sit down for a a Family featuring Kellogg’s Kidz Kitchen hands-on culinary experience of cooking will return for its fourth year, Feb. 26 and 27. healthy recipes from their favorite culinary Taking place at Jungle stars to bring home to the Island, one of Miami’s prewhole family to try. Fun and Fit as a mier theme parks, the event The fun continues in the Family again once again will bring Kellogg’s Kidz Kitchen together everyone’s favorite where Rachael Ray, Guy welcomes a celebrity chefs, culinary Fieri, Giada De star-studded group personalities, health and fitLaurentiis, Rocco ness professionals, and of chefs and culinary Dispirito, Duff Goldman, more for a weekend of interand Tyler Florence will talent to help teach active learning for the whole demonstrate their favorite family. healthy recipes for kids families about how “I’m excited to be a part and their parents. Chefs to make healthier of Kohl’s Fun and Fit as a and culinary personalities Family and to share inforin both the Kellogg’s Kidz eating choices mation with other parents Kitchen and the Whole together. that will help them make Foods Market Food Labs thoughtful, healthy and will be working in custom affordable choices for themselves and their kitchen spaces courtesy of Panda Kitchen families,” said Melissa d’Arabian, host of & Bath. Food Network’s Ten Dollar Dinners. “As a In addition to the culinary demonstramother of four young girls, I understand the tions and other activities, families can importance of getting children excited enjoy healthy food and drink samples at about smart food choices now as I know it “Destination Food” from sponsors like will establish a foundation for them to Kohl’s, Barilla, Blue Cross Blue Shield, make healthy lifestyle decisions that will Cape Cod Potato Chips, Cranberry last a lifetime.” Marketing Board, Lifeway, Pollo Tropical, Fun and Fit as a Family again welcomes and more, a star-studded group of chefs and culinary Tickets and more information can be found talent to help teach families about how to online at <www.funandfitasafamily.com> or make healthier eating choices together. by calling 1-877-762-3933. Just $20 (per perThese include the internationally recog- son/per day) will get you a whole day of food, nized Jamie Oliver, who helped kick off the fitness, family, and fun with your favorite first Fun and Fit as a Family event in 2008. celebrity chefs. Jungle Island annual passport Other chefs and personalities appearing members receive free admission to this event alongside Oliver in the interactive Whole with valid passport.

February 22 - 28, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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2011 Fiesta is Ford’s new ‘world’ automobile Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS The Ford Fiesta has returned to the United States. Conceived in 1973 under the project name “Bobcat” as a front wheel drive subcompact, the car was built and marketed just about everywhere in the world but here, selling more than 12 million units after its debut in 1976. This latest version of the Fiesta was developed under the ONE Ford plan to “design and develop vehicles that meet the differing needs, wants and expectations of consumers around the world.” More than 500,000 copies of the new Fiesta already have been sold in Europe and Asia. The sixth-generation 2011 Fiesta is a stylish four-door sedan or five-door hatchback with a 120 hp, 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission (estimated highway 40 mpg). Optional on all but the base sedan model is a six-speed, twin clutch, electrically shifted, automated manual

for an extra $1,070. Available models are: Fiesta S — Goes for $13,320 and comes standard with air conditioning; cloth upholstery; 60/40 split fold down rear seatback; four speaker, 40-watt AM/FM stereo with audio input jack; power door locks and outside mirrors; carpeted front floor mats; rear seat heat ducts; cloth door panel trim. Fiesta SE — Lists for $14,320 and comes with upgraded upholstery; metallic painted interior trim accents; power windows; trip computer; and 195/60R15 tires on aluminum alloy wheels, cruise control and a deck lid spoiler. Fiesta SEL — Priced at $16,320, it has everything that was standard and optional on the S and the SE, plus rear seat floor mats; seven-color ambient lighting; a second, rear seat auxiliary power point; auto dim rearview mirror; SIRIUS satellite radio, and leatherwrapped steering wheel. Fiesta Hatchback — Has two trim levels, SE ($15,120) and SES ($17,120). Standard equipment is the same as the SE sedan; spoiler is standard equipment. SES is equipped similarly to SEL. The Fiesta has the global Ford face with the Blue Oval badge centered on the grille over the signature inverted trapezoid lower grille opening. Elongated headlights frame and connect the hood to sculpted front fenders. To the rear, the low roofline merges into

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February 22 - 28, 2011

TeamFootWorks announces dates for Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run BY MAYRA HERNANDEZ

Following the success of the 2010 race series, TeamFootWorks has announced the dates for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series. Through their continued partnership, Mercedes-Benz and TeamFootWorks once again will host three separate 5K (3.1-mile) runs beginning in Fort Lauderdale on Mar. 24, West Palm Beach on Apr. 13, and concluding in Miami on Apr. 28, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the South Florida Chapter of the American Red Cross. “For the second year, the American Red Cross South Florida Region is honored to be the benefiting charity of the 2011 MercedesBenz Corporate Run Series, receiving $1 per participant,” said Sam Tidwell, CEO of the American Red Cross South Florida Region. “We are dedicated to providing relief to victims of disaster and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. With the support of the Corporate Run Series and its participants, last year we received more than $25,000 to further our mission.” 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, a 5K Run Walk, attracts more than 800 South Florida companies and is open

Runner’s take off in the Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run in Miami. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– to employees of businesses, corporations, gov“With the 2011 race series right around the ernment agencies, financial institutions and corner, we are excited to officially announce non-profits-no matter how big or small. the 2011 run dates,” said Laurie Huseby, presiAll companies are encouraged to participate dent of TeamFootWorks. “For more than 25 and may enter an unlimited number of employ- years, TeamFootWorks has organized and proees to walk or run as a group. duced the Corporate Run with one goal in mind

— to promote health and fitness at all levels and provide a venue to boost company morale and encourage camaraderie in the workplace. “Based on last year’s participation number, we expect more than 25,000 runners and walkers.” The Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run in Miami will take place on Thursday, Apr. 28, 6:45 p.m., at Bayfront Park, 305 Biscayne Blvd. Sponsors of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run series include: Mercedes-Benz of South Florida, American Airlines, Baptist Health, Aetna, BB&T, Pearl Izumi, Sharp Business Systems, UPS, Miami-Dade County, Miami DDA and more. Media partners include: Miami.com, CBS 4, My 33, Mega 94.3, 93.9 MIA, NewsRadio 610, Y100, Brickell magazine and WLRN. “Mercedes-Benz holds the health and wellness of its employees and the communities it serves with the utmost importance,” said Kevin Sreenan, regional manager of MBUSA in the Southern Region. “Now in our eighth year, being involved with the Corporate Run is a natural fit for our organization.” For registration information or to reserve a registration packet, contact FootWorks at 305666-RACE (7223) or visit <www.mercedesbenzcorporaterun.com>.

February 22 - 28, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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February 22 - 28, 2011

Rick Tonkinson and Associates Recognized as a Top 100 Small Business in South Florida Rick Tonkinson and Associates has been recognized as a Top 100 Small Business in South Florida in 2010 by Business Leader magazine. Rick Tonkinson and Associates is only one of the two financial planning firms to be selected and the search is based on all small business south of Fort Pierce. Rick Tonkinson and Associates is a family business specializing in helping working-class people and their families attain their financial goals. Their “handson� money management with daily monitoring of performance, exclusively for the middle class, provides a level of service that is normally reserved for the rich and famous. Recognized by several prestigious publications including Forbes, Employee Benefit News, Financial Adviser and Pacific View magazine, Rick and his family have been major donors to such organizations as the University of Miami, Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, Diabetes Research Institute, Rotary and the Cleveland Orchestra. For more information, contact Rick Tonkinson & Associate at (305)447-6617, 100 Almeria Ave, Ste. 310, Coral Gables, FL 33134.

Securities offered through Securities America Inc member of FINRA/SIPC. Rick Tonkinson Registered Representative. Advisory Services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Rick Tonkinson Investment Advisor Representative. Rick Tonkinson and Associates, Inc. & Securities America companies are not affiliated.

February 22 - 28, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Getting Back to Work After a Criminal Conviction By Michelle Estlund, Criminal Defense Attorney One of the most difficult parts of piecing a life back together after serving a criminal sentence is finding work that pays well. Ex-offenders consistently have difficulty with obtaining meaningful employment once a potential employer knows about their prior record. For many people, the inability to find steady, life-sustaining employment results in a cycle of recidivism, jail, and release. However, for those who are willing to invest some time and effort in their futures, there are ways to find substantial employment. This is possible even for people who have been convicted of serious crimes. There are two important steps that can be taken to help gain the confidence of potential employers. The first is having your civil rights restored. Some exoffenders’ civil rights are automatically restored after their sentences are complete, but others need to apply for that relief. The application is a simple, straightforward one-page document, and does not necessarily require a lawyer’s

assistance. Having one’s civil rights being restored is significant because it shows that a person has paid her debt to society, and has been deemed eligible to participate in civic life as a citizen once again. Another way to provide assurance to a potential employer is to show that the federal government will stand behind you. Some local organizations provide assistance with obtaining federal bonding for potential employees who are exoffenders. Employers are more willing to employ federally bonded ex-offenders because they enjoy significant tax incentives for doing so. It is true that a reputation can be destroyed in a moment, and takes years to rebuild. However, once the first step has been taken, and then a second, and then a third, the task becomes less daunting. As friends, family, and employers see that a person has made real efforts to change, they become more willing to allow for the possibility that he or she can be trusted again. Michelle Estlund is a criminal defense attorney practicing in Florida since 1995. She can be reached at 305-448-0077. For more information go to <www.estlundlaw.com>.

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February 22 - 28, 2011

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