APRIL 5 - 11, 2011
Former City Attorney Feingold prepares Around Town Spiraling lawsuit against Vice Mayor Newman Sideway City Hall
BY KIMBERLY PORTER
V
ice Mayor Valerie Newman’s battle with exCity Attorney Laurence Feingold accelerated the past week with two major
developments: Newman’s assertion that Feingold accepted a $26,000 check in 2010 that she questioned as a potential referral fee (since corrected); Atty. Feingold subsequent planning to take Newman to court due to what he claims as defamation and emotional distress. Feingold disclosed he is in the process of drafting a legal suit against Newman after she alleged to a Miami Herald reporter, numerous South Miami residents and Feingold himself, that he accepted a $26,000 check from Jeff Bass of Shubin & Bass, P.A., on February 24, 2010. According to an email dated March 22, 2011, Newman had asked Feingold to “please explain what the $26,000 check from Shubin and Bass was for” and wondered if he was receiving referral fees for directing business to them. In the email, Newman says she met on February 24 with Feingold and Bass at Christy’s Steak House in Coral Gables at Feingold’s request “in regard to handling my ethics case.” During that meeting, her email states: “You received at the table a check for $26,000 from Shubin and Bass delivered by Jeff.” Her email also states: “I have since learned that you referred Shubin and Bass to Mattaway. There is confirmation of that.”Rick Mattaway is associated with Richard-Brandon Company, real estate developers whose projects include Plaza 57. Feingold indicated that referring the firm to Mattaway would be unethical since Mattaway is currently engaged in a city lawsuit. Another email received by a Miami
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St. Patrick’s Day is fun day at Paper Boutique South Miami
Kids wearing St. Patrick’s Day green attire gather at Paper Boutique South Miami for a fun-filled afternoon. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY JILLIAN O’CONNELL
E
veryone was “Irish for a day” at Paper Boutique South Miami, as the store held its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration on Mar. 17. The long-time South Miami invitation and gift shop, located at 7346 SW 57 Ave., invited everyone for a fun-filled afternoon of cupcakes, cookies, Irish
soda bread, green tea, games and prizes. Irish music played, kids practiced their Jig dancing and everyone came dressed in head-to-toe green, sporting shamrockthemed hats and accessories. Carrollton Girl Scouts sold cookies and a special reading of the story of the life of St. Patrick completed an afternoon of family-friendly fun, best described by Mia Zakka, 3, when she said, “This is the most fun day… ever!”
Specialty BY MICHAEL MILLER
Executive Editor City Hall continues to spiral sideward before heading downward. But at the current pace of its office-holders, ‘sideway’s’already seems faster than a dropped stone if cyber-space exchanges are any indication. Recent emails written by City Hall’s cast of characters not only testify to a waste of time and valuable dollars, even though some of ‘em just might make your day. Let’s not forget, however, the deteermined animosity, hostility, and resentment they display embarrasses SoMi citizens – through them! Such shenanigans are only surpassed by taking my own time to write this column so that you can laugh, cry or simply shake your head in disbelief that we ever put these folks to work at City Hall in the first place. So here’s the deal: apparently, former city Attorney Laurence Feingold was over at City Hall with his car parked in the spot marked “City Attorney.” Okay so far, even though he is no longer the City Attorney, but ‘assisting in the transition’ and probably had some proper business there before leaving City Hall and his parked car, too. All right, he shouldn’t have put it there but at the end of the day, who cares? Does it really matter? So, here is a peek at some recent emails:
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AROUND TOWN,
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April 5 - 18, 2011
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Mercury Ball nets over $170K to benefit SMH BY JOSE BOZA
South Miami Hospital recently celebrated its 51st annual Mercury Ball, “Paraiso Brasileiro – A Celebration of Color, Music and Joy” at the Doral Golf Resort and Spa. The event was sponsored by South Miami Hospital Associates, business and community leaders who serve as goodwill ambassadors and fundraisers for the hospital. Chairing this year’s ball were Jim Brennan; Sylvia Sanchez Vegas, and Steven Kang, MD. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by dinner and live entertainment by Marty K’s Music Makers. Proceeds from the Mercury Ball exceeded $170,000, which will be used to renovate and expand South Miami Hospital’s emergency center, operating suites and imaging center. The two-story 84,000square-foot clinical expansion project will include a new emergency center with 28 treatment rooms, one trauma room, and a 12-bed Clinical Decision Unit. The second floor will have 12 state-of-the-art operating suites (with room for four more), 36 pre-
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Pictured (l-r) are South Miami Hospital CEO Lincoln Mendez and wife, Meky; South Miami Hospital Board of Directors chair Yerby Barker and wife, Pam, and ball co-chair Jim Brennan with wife, Marie Vacca. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
and post-procedure rooms and a new central sterile processing area. Additionally, the project will include
imaging enhancements such as a new CT scanner and an administrative support area for Radiation Oncology.
Noted oncological surgeon Ricardo Estape, MD, was honored as “Person of the Year,” for his many contributions to the hospital, the community and the healthcare field. During the evening, real estate investor and chair of the South Miami Hospital Foundation Board of Directors Robert Berrin was honored as “Philanthropic Volunteer of the Year” for his dedication to South Miami Hospital. The event, presented by Total Bank, hosted more than 500 guests, including top executives from leading corporations and community leaders. South Miami Hospital is part of Baptist Health, the region’s largest faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization. With more than 13,000 employees, Baptist Health is the area’s largest private employer. It also includes Baptist, Baptist Children’s, Doctors, Homestead and Mariners Hospitals, as well as Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, Baptist Outpatient Services and Baptist Health Enterprises. Baptist Health Foundation, the organization’s fundraising arm, supports services at all hospitals and facilities affiliated with Baptist Health.
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April 5 - 18, 2011
Two Hundred Club helps police, fire rescue families Gloria Burns GLORIA’S GAB The Two Hundred Club of Greater Miami held its spring dinner at Riviera Country Club on March 23. A low profile organization, the Club is one of many unsung but heroic South Florida organizations whose financial support (and more) continue to help families of police and firefighters killed in the line of duty. President Richard Souviron introduced University of Miami alumnus, Billy Corben, a film director, producer and founder of rakontur. Among his laurels: a
June Sparks with Billy Corben at Two Hundred Club dinner.
feature documentary and directorial debut, Raw Deal: A Question of Consent, which premiered at the 2001 Sundance Film Festival, making him one of the youngest directors in Sundance history. Corben entertained members with humorous takes on South Florida and applauded the group for its mission. Among the hundreds enjoying the affair were Peter Bermont, James Loftus, Katherin Ezell, Hank Langston, John Krutulis, Charles Johnson, June Sparks, and Randy Groh. For more information on this organization, contact Nancy Morgan at 305-443-8973. More than 1,800 individuals are expected to participate in LYFE Management Group’s Fifth Annual Celebrity Charity Weekend that benefits Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Greater Miami and Starks Charitable Foundation. On Friday, April 15, at 7 p.m. at St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens, the fun kicks off with a “Celebrity Charity Basketball� called “Top of Da’ Key� with “Joes� vs. the�Pros� who include NFL Superstars Duane Starks ,Dante Culpepper, Miami Dolphin Brandon Marshall, ex-Hurricanes p ort and Frank Gore, Ed Najeh Davenp P e r ry, plus Major League baseballer Shannon Stewart, as well as Street ‘Ballers,’ more NFL and MLB stars and ‘high profilers’ Half-time performance is promised “to knock your socks off!� On Saturday, April 16 at 5:30pm, it’ll be “U and the Stars� Celebrity Bowling at Sparez Bowling Alley (Davie) where you can bowl with the UMiami ‘Canes who went on to the NFL, along with Miami Dolphins, Major Leaguers and TV Personalities. On \Saturday, April 16 at 11:30 a.m., more than 80 young men (ages 8-15) will participate in a “Tie to Success� panel and group discussion, interacting with professional and business people as well as athletes. “Tie to Success� participants include Gale Nelson of Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Greater Miami, NFL’s Duane Starks, Darrin Smith, and Miami Dolphin Channing C rowder; Eric Pettis, financial advisor; Lindell Pettis, movie executive producer;
Pictured (l-r) Charles Johnson, Hank Langston and Bob Gallagher at Two Hundred Club dinner.
G regory Burton, business owner; Atty. Marlon Hill and Dr. Pierre Garcon, a podiatrist; Richardd Ingram, celebrity chef); and Nathaniel Surrancy, pastor. There’s a $10 donation at the door for each event! For more information, to purchase tickets or volunteer, email Dacia@lyfemanagement.com or call 786-320-6690 (office). The Annual Junior League “Wine Walk� drew more than 100 guests on March 2 to benefit the Junior League of Miami (JLM) and endow programs and projects that help families in our community. A progressivestyle dinner is highlighted by champagne, wine, and port donated by Carisam-Samuel Meisel and Kobrand Wines & Spirits while visitors tour beautiful homes in the historic Coral Gables French Village. This year’s affair marked it’s a five-year anniversary with the goal of reaching the $1million milestone in JLMF funds.Raffle with prizes ranged from a one-year wine club membership to a Phillips Frankel wine cork necklace
and a weekend get-away at the Ocean Reef Club in North Key Largo. Opening homes for the evening: Lamar Noriega, Meg and John Daly, Edith Huntley and Kemp Stickney. Among guests enjoying the event: M a r i a n a de Maria, Beguiristain, Sissy and Dan Dean Klevan and Christy Starr, Tom and Debbie Korge, Dori Foster Morales, Audrey Ross, Mary Yoo ung, and Judy Zeder among many others. Wine Walk committee included Junior League president K a relia Martinez Carbonell, and JLMF board members L a u ren Harrison Genovese, Ashley Cusack, Michelle R a m i rez-Patricios, Maria Byrd, and Meg Valls. Until next time, keep making each day count.
If you would like to submit information for this column, please send your news via email to gloriagalburns@aol.com.
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--------- Forwarded message ---------F rom: Velma Palmer <palmer2007@gmail.com> Date: Tue, Mar 22, 20 011 at 10:47 PM Subject: Re: Re: Fwd: Re Limited use of City Attorney Parking To: "Mirabile, Hector" <HMirabile@southmiamifl.gov>
Dr Mirabile, Mr Fiengoal was visiting with you and he disappeared for whatever reason/s. He may or may not have gone to the doctor, could'nt you have called him ( discussed this matter/ ask him to remove his car ) or simply ask him to park at another parking space when doing business with the city. I agree that everyone is entitle to their parking space however all l of what transpired was unnecessary and uncall for which makes it a negative behavor. If it was you I would have addressed it in the same way. This matter is closed and I will not clear any statement in the furture. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– On Tue, Mar 22, 2011 at 9:52 PM, Mirabile, Hector <HMirabile@southmiamifl.gov> wrote: Commissioner Palmer, Mr. F Thank you for your input into the matter of the parking assignments. First, I would like for you to clear up the first sentence, "This kind of negative behavior is uncalled for." I do not understand what you are trying to state, I would like for you to clear up the statement. Regarding parking at the Government Center, citizens are not allowed to simply park around the Government Center and depart for personal business. The unassigned spaces around the Center is for the public to use for business with the City. As to your parking space being taken previously, I will ask Chief Martinez De Castro to ensure that all the assigned parking spaces are only occupied by the authorized designated elected officials or employees. As to the inference by Mr. Feingold that my actions are promulgated by another individual, that is totally false. The reality is that I walked outside and noticed that Mr. Feingold's vehicle was parked in an assigned parking spot and personally searched the entire complex since he came to my office about an hour previous to speak with me. Not finding him I realized that he may have gone to his therapy. If he is not an employee of the City then he would not be allowed to use a parking space most specially an assigned space. Additionally, I nor anyone from my staff was informed by Mr. Pepe that he provided Mr. Feingold prior approval to park in the City Attorney's parking slot. Thus, I became conscious of the possibility that Mr. Pepe may come by and find Mr. Feingold using the parking space assigned to him. As to Mr. Feingold doing us a favor, Mr. Pepe informed me via email that he and Mr. Feingold are working together in the transition of various cases and I appreciate his spirit of coorperation and civic duty. I hope this clears up any misunderstandings and I still respectfully request a response to the first line statement since it has serious implications. Sincerely, Hector Mirabile, PhD City Manager –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– F rom: Palmer [palmer2007@gmail.com] h 22, 2011 9:05 PM Sent: Tuesday, March To: Mirabile, Hector; pepenemirepa@bellsouth.net d use of City Attorney Parking Subject: Fwd: Re: Fwd: Re Limited -------- Original message -------Subject: Re: Fwd: Re Limited use off City Attorney Parking F rom: Velma Palmer <palmer2007@gmail.com> To: AslanF@aol.com
This kind of negative behavior is uncalled for. Mr Fiengold is still a citizen of South Miami and he is not the the only one. My space got taken previously. He maybe doing us a favor by helping with the transition. Remember do unto others as you like them do unto you. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– On Mar 22, 2011 6:15 PM, <AslanF@aol.com> wrote: Hon Mayor, Com Palmer, Com Harris May I use your parking space if need be?????????? I do not believe this mean action came from Dr Mirable. If it came from a elected official, it may be interference with the City Manager form of Government L a r ry Laurence Feingold P.A. South Miami Office 305-665-5789
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Under the present ‘leadership’ (whoever that could be), the city continues a slide into a sinkhole of pettiness while remaining anti-business, anti-reasonable over new development, anti-hospital and just making it tough for people all over to take this elected administration seriously when vital matters are on the agenda. I’ll even add that Vice Mayor Valerie Newman may well be referring to us as the “Slumlord on 62nd Avenue” as we have both commercial and residential on 62nd Avenue. Hey, folks! If that includes the residential units we own in Lee Park as “Slums,” then shame on her! These individually-owned condominiums are the “homes” (not slums) of some very nice people whom we know personally. And, by the way, for purpose of full disclosure, I serve as the president of the Lee Park Condo Association. And if memory serves me correctly, Commissioner Randy Wiscombe received an email a while back from Ms. Newman in which she wrote: “Screw the Black vote.” So, folks there you have it... South Miami political philosophy at its ‘phinest.’ Doesn’t it make you swell with pride for the City of Pleasant Living? Thought for the Day: The belief that there is only one truth and that oneself is in possession of it seems to me the deepest root of all evil that is in the world. — Max Born
Got any tips? Contact me at 305-669-7355, ext. 249, or send emails to <michael@communitynewspapers.com>.
F rom:valerienewman09@gmail.com To: AslanF@aol.com Sent: 3/23/2011 12:11:26 P.M. Subj: Re: Statement in response to my taking 26K fee from Shubin and Bass
Dear Mr. Feingold you accepted a check from Jeff in the amount of $26,000 at Christy’s in my presence on February 24th. That is a fact. Please answer the other questions. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • On Wed, Mar 23, 2011 at 11:57 AM, AslanF@aol.com wrote: I have sent the following email to The Herald. Please stop and return to your work where you can help our city on its real present and future problems rather then demonizing me as you have demonized others. I have resigned from city employment as you requested after you moved to fire me. Lets not dwell on the past. Laurence Feingold P.A. South Miami Office 305-665-5789 Web: laurencefeingold.com
EDITOR’S NOTE: In our March 22nd edition, former city attorney Laurence Feingold was misquoted. On page 7 it was stated that Vice Mayor Newman allegedly had Feingold believe that Commissioner Velma Palmer would vote against him if he did not step down willingly. The correct statement should have been that the wife of Commissioner Harris, Eda, had Feingold believe that Commissioner Palmer would vote against him if he did not step down willingly. Feingold has stated, “At no time, did Vice Mayor Newman advise me about the vote of Commissioner Palmer.”
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April 5 - 18, 2011
Charter change: Will of voters or commissioners? R. Kenneth Bluh KENNETH’S COMMENTARY I participated in a radio talk show program last week, on 880 AM, where the topic was “They don’t get it: Reforming the County Commission.” After a brief discussion about the ouster of Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez and Commissioner Natacha Seijas, the talk turned to the meeting of county commissioners where the subject of charter change was openly discussed for hours. During the meeting commissioners proposed charter changes that will appear on the ballot along with the election of a new mayor and county commissioner for District 13. Voters have consistently turned down the commissioners’ requests for a pay raise from the paltry sum of $6,000 a year, which was appropriate in 1957 but is far too low by today’s standards. The voters have, on a number of occasions at the ballot said “no” to a pay raise, if it wasn’t tied to term limits that voters want. So the polls indicate a two-term limit — that, or no pay raise. The question is why is the subject of a citi-
zens’ vote on charter revisions being volunteered for voter consideration. They haven’t done so in the past. Commissioners, in my opinion, are scared that if they don’t offer something to the voters as a way of appeasement, the public again will take to the streets, sign petitions and vote the remaining commissioners, with a few exceptions, off the dais. They are afraid! They love their commission jobs, paid speaking engagements, salaried board of director positions, and campaign contributions that come in by the tens of thousands of dollars. There are definitely many, many perks to being a Miami-Dade County commissioner. What have the commissioners offered, that on the surface sound good, but upon examination don’t come anywhere near to what we have been asking. What have the commissioners proposed? Term limits. They offer three terms in office. That gives sitting commissioners 12 more years in office until 2024. Every poll shows that voters, including me, want a twoterm limit. Further restricting sitting commissioners who already have served eight or more years to one more term. The charter calls for a charter review taskforce to review the chanter every five years and make appropriate recommendations for change. The current procedure is for the task-
VIEWPOINT force to make recommendations to the board of county commissioners who review and place the changes they want on the ballot. Their gallant proposal would have taskforce changes go directly to the voters eliminating commissioner review. Sounds like a great offer? It isn’t. The members of the taskforce are still appointed by the commissioners. So they are safe. They will only appoint taskforce members who think like the commissioners and are beholden to them for the appointment. Sneaky! Wait a minute. Are we being thrown a few bones by the commissioners in the hope that we will be so happy to vote on term limits and other subjects that we will say, “thank you, thank you, thank you;” vote in the charter changes, and grant the commissioners another 12 years on the county commission at $92,097 a year salary? Some say, “We should be glad to have the chance at a ‘start’ on change. We can make more changes later. Some of these items we have been begging for, for years.” Some say, “The commissioners are scared. Let’s tell them ‘Good start, but not enough!’ If you want our vote, we will give you a list
of “our” demands. Put them on the ballot, give us an opportunity to vote and we will gladly give you your pay raise.” Still others say, “Let’s go the polls and vote the changes down. Then start a petition drive to place the changes we want on the ballot. If we vote them in then we will rid ourselves of the current bunch.” What should we do? I say go to the commission, give them a detailed list of charter changes that we will accept, including the $92,097 pay raise and say, “This is it. Put them on the ballot and take your chances. Don’t and we will vote your current proposals down and go back to the streets with new petitions to change the charter and remove several of the current commissioners at the same time.”
We appreciate your opinions on this column whether in agreement or disagreement. Please send your comments to (fax number) 305-6626980 or email to <letters@communitynewspapers.com>. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of this newspaper, its editors or publisher.
April 5 - 18, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Job training program grant application available at South Miami Community Redevelopment Agency JOB TRAINING PROGRAM OBJECTIVES The South Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (SMCRA) Job Training Grant Program provides funding to eligible job training organizations to provide job training for residents of the South Miami Community Redevelopment Agency Area to assist in providing skills and competencies needed to obtain or upgrade employment opportunities in high-growth industries or economic sectors. All grant funding awards shall be utilized for this purpose. GRANT PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Potential grantees must demonstrate an adequate organizational capacity, both fiscally and programmatically, and strong proposed plans for implementing their project. The scope of potential job trainees under this program can be broad and should include a variety of employment populations in the SMCRA Area including both unemployed individuals and incumbent workers. APPLICATION SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS (APPLICATIONS MUST CONTAIN ALL INFORMATION LISTED BELOW) COVER LETTER: An authorized representative of the applicant, preferably the Executive Director, must sign the cover letter. The cover letter must identify the work services that the applicant’s work program is proposing to complete and the address of the service location that will be utilized for the provision of services. In addition, the cover letter must contain an overview of the
experience and background of the applicant.
description of service provided.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The Executive Summary must provide an overview of the project. The overview should contain a detailed description of all aspects of the work service and job training components including the number of proposed job trainees, job training supervisors, plans for training rotation and overall project management plan. Applicants should include a proposed work schedule for the work service and job training components.
APPLICATION EVALUATION CRITERIA An Evaluation Team will compare and evaluate each grant application to determine relative strengths and abilities of each applicant proposing to provide job training services. The Evaluation Team shall apply the below referenced criteria on a comparative basis to each grant application received. The following selection criteria shall be applied evenly and fairly to all grant applications:
PROGRAM NARRATIVE: In this section the applicant must thoroughly explain their plan to provide customized job training and work services. The narrative should be concise, but contain enough detail to ensure that the evaluation committee understands the applicant’s job training and work services program activities and how participants will be chosen and their flow through applicant’s job training program. BUDGET: Please submit one budget that includes proposed work services and training project, hourly rates and total gap/project funding requirements. REFERENCES: Preferably submit at least 3 references from previous or current projects. References should include: company name; company address; contact person and phone number; date of service provided; brief
Baptist Health Home Care receives joint commission accreditation Baptist Health Home Care, a Medicarecertified home health agency, received full Joint Commission accreditation. The accreditation, a nationally recognized honor, demonstrates an organization’s dedication to high standards of clinical performance. “Baptist Health Home Care consistently receives great scores, which reflects our team’s effort of providing high-quality patient care that will prevent them from going back to the hospital,” said Dario Pancorbo, M.D., medical director of Baptist Health Home Care. By providing care to patients in their own homes, our experienced clinical staff offers emotional and financial benefits as well as the same high-quality care they
would receive at a Baptist Health facility. “With these results, Baptist Health Home Care has solidified its commitment to providing the best quality care to our patients in services such as social work, home-health aide and skilled nursing, as well as speech, occupational and physical therapy,” added Dr. Pancorbo. Baptist Health Home Care services are covered by Medicare and managed care organizations, as well as private pay. Medicare does not require that a patient be hospitalized prior to receiving home health services, provided that the patient is homebound. For more information, call 786-596-3010 or visit gettreatedbetter.com.
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: (MAXIMUM 50 POINTS) The Evaluation Team shall consider the Applicant’s organizational structure, personnel and resources required to successfully implement the proposed program; (Please be sure to indicate how trainees will interface with proposed program trainer(s). Also provide a detailed description of the plan for supervision of participants and instruction in work skills and habits) EXPERIENCE: (MAXIMUM 25 POINTS) The Evaluation Team will consider the Applicant’s prior experience in providing simi-
lar economic development type employment services. The Evaluation Team shall also place emphasis on the applicant’s familiarity in providing community services to residents of South Miami Community Redevelopment Area; QUALITY CONTROL: (MAXIMUM 25 POINTS) The Evaluation Team will consider the Applicant’s internal organizational processes needed to implement a high standard of quality control for the required services. (Please provide a detailed description and explanation of methods used to ensure quality control of service and a list of measurable program outcomes) Applications should be submitted to South Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (SMCRA) Offices at 6130 Sunset Drive, South Miami, Florida 33143. All eligible grant applications shall be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis and provided to the Community Redevelopment Agency Board for a final determination and potential award of available grant funding. (Application questions or concerns should be directed to the SMCRA offices at 305-668-7238)
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April 5 - 18, 2011
Mayor tosses first pitch as Panthers, â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Cudas battle
The Palmetto High School Panthers Boys Varsity Baseball team, playing on its home field at Coral Reef Park, beat the Coral Reef High Barracudas on Saturday, Mar. 5, with a score of 4-0. Played the same day as the Palmetto Bay Village Celebration, the game began with the first pitch being tossed by Mayor Shelley Stanczyk. (Photo by Bill Kress, Village of Palmetto Bay)
April 5 - 18, 2011
LAWSUIT,
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Herald reporter on March 24 from Newman made the correction that the February 24 meeting was actually with Jeff Sudduth, an attorney with Todd Fodiman of Legon Ponce & Fodiman, P.A. In that email she also states, “Todd Fodiman registered as a lobbyist representing 7300 Investments and 62nd Avenue (Mr. Mattaway). The check was from Mr. Fodiman’s firm. It is Mr. Fodiman’s firm that represents Mr. Mattaway.” Feingold said he questions Newman’s credibility because one day she confirmed Shubin & Bass, P.A. as representing Mattaway, then corrected herself two days later. Legon Ponce & Fodiman, P.A., was already handling Newman’s ethics case as of the stated meeting on February 24, 2010. A bill from the firm to the City of South Miami shows a charge for a conference with Feingold on that date to “review and analyze second amended ethics petition” and to “prepare for commission hearing.” The ethics commission hearing for Newman was held the following day, February 25, 2010. “This is her own attorney whose name she
didn’t remember even though they went to trial the very next day [after the alleged check scenario],” said Feingold. Following their successful dismissal of her ethics case, Newman again attempted to hire Legon Ponce & Fodiman, P.A. to defend her in the case of Balogun vs the City of South Miami and Valerie Newman. A resolution at the April 6 2010 City Commission meeting passed by a 3-1 vote. Feingold said the only reason the firm did not end up representing her a second time is due to the insurance company refusing to pay her fees unless she used one of their approved attorneys. Feingold has stated in public meetings that Newman has lied, and has asked: “If Valerie saw me take an improper referral fee in February 2010 from either law firm, why did she wait a year to complain about an illegal act? “She is not concerned with an alleged improper act but seeks to harass and slander me even after I left the city.” When contacted for comment, Newman said “I have made no such allegations.”
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---------- Forwarded message ---------F rom: valerie Newman <valerienewman09@gmail.com> Date: Tuee , Mar 22, 2011 at 11:15 AM Subject: Questions? To: AslanF@aol.com
Dear Mr. Feingold, On February 24,2010, you asked me to meet Jeff from Shubin and Bass in regards to handling my ethics case. We met at Christy’s Steak House in the Gables. You and Jeff ate, I had a bowl of soup. You received at the table a check for $26,000 from Shubin and Bass delivered by Jeff. You bragged to me how you did not have to leave your house and the money just keeps coming in. “You are in the big leagues now baby...” and I quote. You offered to pay the bill in light of the most generous payment from Shubin and Bass. You, however, did not pay your extravagant dinner at Christy’s instead you charged the taxpayers of South Miami. You detailed this meeting on the receipt. When the Lady Marmalade case came before the commission you were playing both sides against the middle. You indicated that the attorney speaking on behalf of Lady Marmalade was really representing Mattaway. I have since learned that you referred Shubin and Bass to Mattaway. There is confirmation of that. Research shows that Shubin and Bass became the firm representing the Bacardi family on February 2, 2010 . I guess my question is about your referral fees from Shubin and Bass. Was that check I witnessed you receive a referral fee? How much more did you receive? Did you receive fees for Bacardi, and Mattaway? I also would like to know if and how much you received from the SEC attorneys. Is it based on a percentage of the legal costs? If so, is that be the reason for the outrageous cost to fly them all down here last year? Is that the reason for the long winded conference calls and volumes of emails? Was that the resistance to Guy Lewis stepping in? I wonder. Did you get paid a referal fee for my case? Is that why you wanted me to dismiss Jorge Pinon? How about from Brian’s attorney? Please explain what the $26,000 check from Shubin and Bass was for. Regards Valerie Newman
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Coral Gables High students spend day at local law firm
More than 50 Coral Gables High School students visited the Bilzin Sumberg law firm. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY KELLY PENTON
Miami law firm Bilzin Sumberg welcomed more than 50 Coral Gables High School students to its offices on Tuesday, Mar. 8, to provide them with a real life legal experience through a full-day legal education conference. Bilzin Sumberg staff taught the juniors and seniors enrolled in law classes about contract disputes, the First Amendment
aspects of “cyber-bullying,” and real estate negotiations. The conference was part of the Third Annual NALP/Street Law Legal Diversity Pipeline Program, a national initiative designed to engage minority high school students and encourage them to pursue a career in law. Bilzin Sumberg is one of only six law firms in the country — and the only one in Florida — selected to participate in this diversity pipeline program.
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Zoo Miami trainer Willy Coto competes to help orangutans BY GARY ALAN RUSE
Willy Cotto, 23, has a passion for education and for rainforest wildlife, and he hopes to unite those interests in his quest to be selected as one of 10 people to participate in a program to help save endangered orangutans. Cotto, a senior at Barry University, grew up in Palmetto Bay and attended Palmetto High School. Scheduled to graduate in May, he has applied to George Mason University in Virginia, but his immediate goal is many more miles away. “I’m hoping to be in Indonesia July 1 with this team,” Cotto said. “I saw this program online through DeforestACTION. I’m a big supporter of orangutan outreach and had noticed a post about this program and decided that it was definitely something I wanted to do. “Of all the animals I have worked with, orangutans are the animals that have made the biggest impact on my views and what I really want to focus on in the conservation initiative.” Putting in many hours a week at Zoo Miami as a wildlife show trainer and curatorial intern, Cotto has been involved in zoo-keeping work in one way or another for the past decade. Having worked closely with orangutans, he is excited about this opportunity to help them on their ‘home turf.” “We’d be establishing this program,” Cotto explained. “They’re selecting 10 youth leaders around the world to do this and have the full focus conservation initiative where we’re involving the Dayak people, the indigenous tribe of people in Borneo, and having them know that they can do something other than work in the palm oil industry or log or poaching primates. We’d be rehabilitating the people just as we’d be rehabilitating the orangutans.” Cotto explained that palm oil is a big part
of the problem because natural areas needed by the orangutans are being bulldozed to make room for profitable palm plantations. “Palm oil is found in more than 50 percent of items in grocery stores, and 90 percent of it comes from Indonesia,” Cotto said. “There are more than 17,000 islands in the Indonesian Archipelago — two of them have orangutans, the only place in the world.” DeforestACTION is a global collaborative project involving young people between ages 18 and 35 to halt the destruction of important rainforests, create a permanent home for orangutans, and “save the planet.” Their website estimates that in Indonesia alone, a forest the size of 300 football fields is being cut down every hour to make way for palm oil plantations. One of the project’s goals is to produce a 3-D film and a television series to help spread the word and encourage more people to make a difference. Cotto admires those who have done so in the past. “What Dian Fossey did was remarkable,” Cotto said. “She established something not only research wise, she made these gorillas accustomed to people so that people can go into the rain forests of Rwanda and Uganda and see them first hand. That makes a big impact. Orangutans are in zoos and people can really have that one-to-one connection by seeing them first hand. But if people can go to Indonesia and see them there, it would be a totally different feeling.” Cotto also praises Wildlife SOS in India, whose co-founder, Kartick Satyanarayan, has visited Zoo Miami to discuss the group’s successes in improving conditions for sloth bears there. “I think that we can definitely make a change,” Cotto said. “I want to see these things come to the forefront, and what better way of teaching than having a movie and a TV show along with this project? Not only will we be establishing
Willy Cotto is pictured at the orangutan exhibit at Zoo Miami. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
this project, we’ll be sharing it with the rest of the world. “But even if I don’t go, I know that I have shared my passion with as many people as I can and I will continue to do so. I would hate for my grandchildren to find someday that there are no orangutans
in Indonesia.” Voting ends Apr. 10. To view Willy Cotto’s video submission and have a chance to vote to help him achieve his dream, go online to <http://gg.tigweb.org/tig/deforestaction/52299/>.
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April 5 - 18, 2011
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UM student-run recording label announces latest project The University of Miami’s student-run recording label, ’Cane Records, announces its latest project, a combination of a promotional music compilation album, titled Breaking the Surface, Vol. 1 – Miami Artists on the Rise, and a live music performance showcase. The showcase will take place at the Transit Lounge, 729 SW First Ave., on Thursday, Apr. 7, from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Admission to the showcase is free and open to ages 18 and older. Promotional copies of the compilation album, in CD form and as digital download cards, will be given away at the event and on the UM Coral Gables campus during the days leading up to the event. A free bus will be running continuously between Gusman Concert Hall on the Coral Gables campus and the Transit Lounge beginning at 7:30 p.m. and ending with a final drop-off on campus at 2 a.m. For more information, visit online at <www.miami.edu>.
M.D.C. WOLFSON CAMPUS TO HOST MATHEMATICS OLYMPICS, APR. 7 High school students from throughout Miami-Dade County will converge on Miami Dade College’s (MDC) Wolfson Campus, 300 NE Second Ave., for a friendly, yet
intense competition at the second annual High School Mathematics Olympics on Apr. 7 beginning at 8 a.m. Created to foster and increase interest in mathematics among students in the community, some 30 high schools in Miami-Dade County are expected to participate in the event. Students competing in the contest are expected to be proficient in algebra, pre-calculus and trigonometry. For more information about the second annual High School Mathematics Olympics or MDC’s Mathematics Department, visit online at<www.mdc.edu/wolfson/mathcompetition/>.
U.S.D.A. COMMUNITY DAY TO TAKE PLACE ON APR. 9 The USDA Subtropical Horticulture Research Station has announced it will host its annual Community Day at 13601 Old Cutler Rd. on Apr. 9. Admission is free and the hours are from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Miami Council of Garden Clubs’ Presidents (Council) and the Friends of Chapman Field to enlighten clients, neighbors and partners in the community about the exciting research being accomplished at the station. Thanks to the organization of the council,
COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS there will be spaces where food, horticultural-related books, plants and herbs, totes and additional items will be available for purchase from vendors. For more information, call 305-573-7056.
SOUTH MIAMI K-8 CENTER TO HOST FAMILY FUN DAY South Miami K-8 Center Expressive Arts Magnet, located at 6800 SW 60 St., will be conducting its inaugural Family Fun Day Carnival on Apr. 9, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free event is open to the community and promises to be great fun for all. For the thrill seekers, the carnival offers rides such as Adrenaline Rush, BMX Slide, Ninja Combo, and Sports Bungee, as well, as traditional carnival games, dunk tank, bounce house, delicious food and a silent auction. For more information, call 305-606-3561. MIAMI-DADE PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK Since 1958, libraries around the nation have celebrated National Library Week as a way to commemorate the contributions of the
nation’s libraries and librarians. This year’s theme, “Create your own story @ the library,” will be observed Apr. 10-16, but the Miami-Dade Public Library System has expanded it to a two weeklong celebration. Starting on Apr. 4, community leaders are visiting library branches and reading to children. During this time, recognition is given to the value of libraries in providing educational, recreational and cultural opportunities to people of all ages. For more information, visit online at <www.mdpls.org>, or call 305-375-BOOK (2665).
NEW NEIGHBORS OF SOUTH DADE SETS APRIL LUNCHEON, INSTALLATION Join the New Neighbors Club of South Dade at its monthly luncheon and installation of officers for the 2011-12 year on Apr. 13 at the Coral Gables Country Club, 997 N. Greenway Dr. in Coral Gables.
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Past president Barbara Richards will conduct the candlelight installation. Award-winning jazz pianist Shawn Sutta and saxophonist Ricky Jackson provide the afternoon’s entertainment. Sutta is a 2009 graduate of the prestigious University of Miami Jazz Music Department, and is the current music director at Old Cutler Presbyterian Church. Jackson studied with recording artist-musician-MDC professor Ed Calle, who has headlined many jazz concerts throughout the country. Together, Sutta and Jackson promise to “tear the house down” with a variety of jazz and popular favorites. For reservations call Barbara Richards at 305-595-8631 no later than Apr. 7.
MIAMI’S ALHAMBRA ORCHESTRA FEATURES THREE YOUNG ARTISTS The Alhambra Orchestra, with principal conductor Alfred Gershfeld, presents the three amazing young winners of its annual concerto competition on Apr. 17, 7 p.m., at Ransom-Everglades School, 3575 Main Hwy. They are Southwood Middle School student Erica Ogihara, 13, cellist; Sage McBride, 13, violinist who lives in Davie, and New World School junior David Fernandez, who
took first prize with the Polonaise Brilliante by Wieniawski. These young stars will each perform their competition masterworks with orchestral accompaniment. Bring the whole family to enjoy the talent and exuberance of the next generation of classical celebrities. Admission and parking are free (donations requested). No reservations needed except that large groups should call in advance. For information, call 305-668-9260 or visit online at <www.alhambramusic.org>.
who reside and/or do business in the Kendall/Pinecrest area. Upcoming speakers are: Apr. 11— Lexi Matiash, “The University of Miami Launch Pad;” Apr. 18 — Dr. Tomas Villanueva, medical director, Baptist Hospital Medicine Program, “Top 10 Things to Know as a Hospital Patient,” and Apr. 25 — Dr. Brad McGuinn, “The Middle East and Egypt.” For information, call Ron Lieberman at 305613-6744 or Tom Boswell at 786-417-6003.
WOMEN’S PROSPERITY NETWORK TO HOST COMMUNITY EVENT The Women’s Prosperity Network will be hosting the “Mastermind Luncheon for Women” on Apr. 19, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Doral Park Country Club, 5001 NW 104 Ave. Discussion topic will include “Be a Client Attraction Magnet. How to Inquire, Inspire & Acquire Your Perfect Clients.” Details and Registration information may be found on the organization’s website at <www.WPNGlobal.com/doral>. For information, call 1-954-370-1176.
CREW-MIAMI TO HOST ANNUAL ‘WOMEN AT TOP’ LUNCHEON CREW-Miami invites members and guests to its annual “Women at the Top” luncheon on Apr. 20 at the Four Seasons Hotel, 1435 Brickell Ave. Here you can get up close and personal with some of the region’s most successful women executives who have risen to the top of their respective fields. Hear their stories and learn the tips that got them to where they are today. Please RSVP by Apr. 15 at <www.crewmiami.org>.
ROTARY CLUB OF MIAMI DADELAND PINECREST ANNOUNCES SPEAKERS The Rotary Club of Miami Dadeland Pinecrest has announced speakers for their weekly Monday breakfast meetings at the Dadeland Marriott Hotel, 9090 S. Dadeland Blvd. Meetings start at 7:30 a.m. and are for people
THAI FRUIT CARVING CLASS AT FRUIT AND SPICE PARK A Thai Fruit Carving class will be offered on May 7, from 9 a.m. to noon at Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187 Ave. in Homestead. The class will expose participants to the
April 5 - 18, 2011
techniques and traditions of this fascinating culinary tradition. Participants will get to carve a vegetable with the help and advice of an expert. Cost of the class is $25 per person. The Fruit and Spice Park, operated by Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Department, grows more than 500 varieties of sub-tropical fruits, herbs, spices, vegetables and nuts from around the world on 39 lush acres in the agricultural Redland. The park offers daily botanical tours, fruit tasting and naturalist led workshops. For more information, visit online at <www.miami.dade.gov/parks>.
DEERING ESTATE AT CUTLER BAY TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72 Ave., during the annual Mother’s Day Brunch on May 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Enjoy a variety of appetizing dishes and desserts provided by Bill Hansen Catering, tour the grand Stone House and historic Richmond Cottage, and take in the natural beauty and grandeur of the estate. The cost is $70 for adults and $45 for children (ages 5-12); ages 4 and under are free. Advance reservations are required. Purchase your tickets early for preferred seating. For more information visit online at <www.deeringestate.org> or call 305-2351668, ext. 233.
April 5 - 18, 2011
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United Way Wine and Food Festival expands to 4 days BY YANET OBARRIO SANCHEZ
The 16th annual United Way Miami Wine and Food Festival, Miami’s first and foremost charity wine and food festival, will take place Thursday, Apr. 14, through Sunday, Apr. 17. Presented by American Express, all proceeds from the festival will benefit United Way of Miami-Dade’s work in the areas of education, income and health. This annual event brings together food and wine lovers for a now-expanded fourday festival featuring notable chefs, sommeliers, prestigious wineries and winemakers, celebrity mixologists, breweries and impressive auction lots. This year, one of the nation’s most prolific apostles of Progressive American cuisine, Chef Dewey LoSasso, executive chef of The Forge Restaurant Wine Bar will headline the Interactive Dinner on Friday, Apr. 15. Festivities begin on Thursday, Apr. 14, with the Taste & Toast — Fine Wine Tasting presented by Miccosukee Resort & Gaming, featuring dozens of international wineries and 30 of South Florida’s top restaurants and caterers, including: Acqua at Four Seasons Hotel, AltaMare, Meat Market, Ortanique on the Mile, Season’s 52, Timo Restaurant and Two Chefs among many others. The VIP tasting begins at 6 p.m.; general admission begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $150 for VIP admission and $75, general admission. Following the tasting, guests can enjoy the Glenfiddich “Music to Drink Whiskey By” afterparty featuring whiskey ambassador and scotch specialist Heather Greene and deejay Adam Williams. Taste & Toast takes place at Village of Merrick Park, 358 San Lorenzo Ave. in Coral Gables. Friday, April 15, the Food, Friends & Fun — Interactive Dinner, presented by Bacardi USA, belongs to celebrity Chef Dewey LoSasso of The Forge Restaurant Wine Bar. This interactive experience is the ultimate good time for foodies, where tables will team up to cook their own three-course meal under Chef LoSasso’s tutelage. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. with a Bacardi cocktail reception, and Bacardi master mixologist Gary Hayward will teach guests a few tricks of the trade during dinner, which begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $300 per person and $2,400 per table of eight. Food, Friends & Fun takes place at the InterContinental Miami, 100 Chopin Plaza in Downtown Miami. On Saturday, Apr. 16, the Cellar•bration
— Good Food and Award-winning Wines, presented by Cypress Hill Financial, features award-winning wines from the first annual Best in Glass Wine Challenge and a multi-course dinner, exclusive auction lots, and live entertainment and dancing by quintessential American jazz vocalist Kevin Mahogany. A champagne cocktail reception and silent auction begin at 6:30 p.m. with dinner at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $300 per person and $3,000 per table of 10. Cellar•bration also takes place at the InterContinental Miami, 100 Chopin Plaza in Downtown Miami. The festival culminates on Sunday, Apr. 17, with Brews & Bites — Craft Beer Tasting, presented by CBIZ, featuring bites from area restaurants, live entertainment, craft beers and mirco-
brews from around the world including: Narraganssett Brewing, Blue Point Brewing, Shipyard/Sea Dog Brewing, Abita Brewing Company, The Boston Beer Company, Brooklyn Brewery, Sierra Nevada, Stone Brewing and many more. The VIP tasting begins at 1 p.m., general admission begins at 2 p.m. Tickets are $75 per VIP admission and $55 for general admission. Admission to the event includes a commemorative tasting cup. Brews & Bites takes place at Mary Brickell Village, 901 S. Miami Ave. in Miami. For more information and tickets, visit <www.miamiwinefestival.org>; <www.facebook.com/miamiwineandfoodfestival> or follow on Twitter@MiamiWineFest. For tickets call 1-877-820-3378.
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Spring is in the air during April Fridays at The Falls BY MAYRA HERNANDEZ
“Fridays at The Falls” continue to heat up every Friday during April. Music lovers are invited to take a stroll and enjoy a musical escape featuring a multicultural mix of free, open-to-the-public performances under the moonlight with musical styles including jazz, Latin pop, classic rock ‘n’ roll, world music, pop melodies and contemporary Latin grooves. Coming performances are: Apr. 8, from 6 to 9 p.m., Alma Kings — A mix of original and popular Latin music tunes including salsa and bachata from this trio; Apr. 15, from 6 to 9 p.m., Steven Duell — Celebrating the cool sounds of the Florida Keys, this musician will take you away with him to “Margaritaville;” Apr. 22, from 6 to 9 p.m., Andares Latin Band — A celebration of World Dance music including salsa, cumbia, raggaeton, mergue and Americana tunes, and Apr. 29, from 6 to 9 p.m., Seven Mile Bridge — Relive the best decades of rock
Music lovers are invited to take a stroll and enjoy a musical escape featuring a multicultural mix of free, open-to-the-public performances under the moonlight with musical styles including jazz, Latin pop, classic rock ‘n’ roll, world music, pop melodies and contemporary Latin grooves. ‘n’ roll and pop music with the classic sounds of the ’50s. Concerts are at The Falls Center Court, 8888 SW 136 St. For more information, contact The Falls at 305-255-4571, visit <www.simon.com> or become a fan on Facebook at <www.facebook.com/ShopTheFalls>.
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Friends of the Orphans luncheon to help transform children’s lives BY ANA MARTINEZ
Friends of the Orphans, a non-profit organization that supports a network of nine Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH, Our Little Brothers and Sisters) homes and their outreach programs in Latin America and the Caribbean, is hosting a Faces of Hope luncheon on Wednesday, Apr. 13, noon, in the Country Club Ballroom of the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. The annual “friend raising” signature event, is a complimentary luncheon where guests will learn about how Friends of the Orphans and NPH transform the lives of orphaned, abandoned and disadvantaged children in Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and Peru. Emmy award winning NBC 6 news
anchor Jackie Nespral will be the mistress of ceremonies. Pequeña alum and guest speaker Clara Grove, will share her poignant and inspiring story of how she went from a poor orphaned child with little prospect of a future, to joining NPH Mexico and now living as a productive member of society with her family in the United States. Corporate Sponsorship opportunities are available: Patron Sponsor, $10,000; Advocate Sponsor, $5,000; Friend of Friends Sponsor, $2,500, and Mentor Sponsor, $1,000. To attend the luncheon or for more information regarding corporate sponsorships call Friends of the Orphans at 305-6636211. Seating is limited. More information about Friends of the Orphans can be found online at <www.friendsoftheorphans.org>.
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Miami-Dade County partners with Spring Boutique Week, Apr. 17-24 BY MARTHA HOFFMANN
The Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) is partnering with Spring Boutique Week taking place in Miami-Dade, Apr. 17-24. Premiering in October 2010, Boutique Week is a semi-annual event, bringing together America’s boutiques for a week of incredible sales and discounts. Fall Boutique Week took place in Boston, New York, and Los Angeles and was a huge success. Boutique Week can help boost sales of individual boutique owners in Miami-Dade while offering customers unique products and in some cases affordable access to high-end couture. A variety of Miami’s local boutiques will celebrate Spring Boutique Week by offering a minimum of 25 percent off of at least half of the boutique’s merchandise to access code holders. Boutique owners interested in participating in Spring Boutique Week Miami should contact Olga Vidisheva at 1-857-225-2637 or by email to <olga@boutiqueweek.net>. There is
a $250 fee for participating boutiques. Some of the benefits to retailers for participating include online and print advertising, a dedicated public relations team that works on promoting participating boutiques and Spring Boutique Week, opportunities for increased sales and traffic, as well as 30-50 percent retention rates. Consumers interested in signing up for a free access code and seeing a full list of participating boutiques should go on to <www.BoutiqueWeek.net>. Boutique Week also will make a significant financial contribution to Dress for Success with a $25 donation offered on behalf of each participating boutique. Dress for Success is an international non-for-profit organization offering services designed to help clients find jobs and remain employed. The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support, and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
April 5 - 18, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Biltmore Hotel hosting second annual Facebook Photo Contest BY ROSA QUIROZ
The Biltmore Hotel is hosting the second annual Facebook Photo Contest inviting amateur photographers to submit their photos showcasing a site of the historic hotel — such as the pool, a ballroom, architectural detail or memorable event with friends. Now through Apr. 29, the Biltmore is posting the photos submitted on the hotel’s Facebook page at <www.facebook.com/biltmorehotel>. To enter, participants may send their photos to <pr@biltmorehotel.com>. Only one photo is allowed per entry. Facebook users may vote by clicking “Like” on their favorite photos. The winners are chosen for the amount of “Likes” the photo receives. The top five photo winners will be announced on Friday, Apr. 29. First Prize — Two-night stay, daily cabana use, and dinner for two at Palme d’Or; Second Prize — Sunday champagne brunch for four guests; Third Prize — Couples massage at the Biltmore Spa; Fourth Prize — Round of golf for four guests at the Biltmore Golf Course,
and Fifth Prize — Culinary class for two guests at the Biltmore Culinary Academy. The Biltmore is a National Historic Landmark located in Coral Gables. The 273-room hotel resembles classic Italian, Moorish, and Spanish architectural influences spread over 150-acres of tropical landscape. A favorite of world leaders and notables since its opening in 1926, the hotel offers a restored Donald Ross 18-hole, 71 par championship golf course; tennis; the largest hotel pool in the country; private cabanas; a European spa, and an award-winning fitness center. The hotel’s dining destinations include the acclaimed Palme d’Or, which Zagat calls one of the best restaurants in the country; Fontana, an Italian restaurant surrounding the Biltmore fountain, and the poolside Cascade. In 2009, the hotel unveiled its culinary academy offering an array of hands-on cooking classes for adults and children. For more information or to make reservations, visit online at <www.BiltmoreHotel.com> or call 1-800-727-1926.
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April 5 - 18, 2011
It’s a family Easter at Cauley Square Village BY SHERRY MILLER
The entire family — even the family pet on leash — is welcome to join the fun of the annual Cauley Square Village Children’s Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday, Apr. 24. An estimated 10,000 colored plastic Easter Eggs with assorted candy and miniature prizes inside will be hidden around the lush tropical gardens surrounding the Main Patio in the center of South Miami-Dade’s Cauley Square Historic Railroad Village. Tickets, at $5 per child, will be sold beginning at 10 a.m. on the Main Patio. Parents should bring your child’s own Easter basket for collecting the treasured eggs. The Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 2-6 will take place from 11 a.m. to noon. Parents must accompany these children with their own Easter baskets. Children ages 7-10 will hunt for eggs from 1 to 2 p.m. The Egg Hunt for Children older than 10 years of age will be from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Mr. Bunny Rabbit will be present and
there will be buggy and pony rides, face painting and a deejay playing music. Hot dogs or hamburgers, chips and beverage will be served outdoors for $7 per person. The Village Chalet Restaurant and The Tea Room Restaurant, both with outdoor dining patios where pets on leashes are welcome, will be open as well for the entire family’s enjoyment. Easter Sunday at Cauley Square Historic Railroad Village is open to the public with free entry and free parking. Cauley Square Village is located at 22400 Old Dixie Hwy. in Goulds. Take S. Dixie Highway to SW 224th Street. For information, call direct to 305-2583543. Cauley Square Village is open daily, except shops which are closed on Mondays. Village Chalet and Tea Room restaurants are open seven days a week from 11 a.m. Reservations for weddings, special parties, events and Friday and Saturday Night live entertainment may be made by calling 305-258-8900.
April 5 - 18, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Entries open until Apr. 16 for $100K dream wedding BY SANDRA RODRIGUEZ
Magic City Casino, Miami’s first casino to offer Las Vegas style slot machines, will collect entries for its first-ever $100,000 Magical Wedding Giveaway until Apr. 16. The winning couple will be determined during the finals on May 7, and the Magical Wedding is set for Nov. 6. The grand prize will consist of a Magical Wedding planned/designed by a Magic City representative, with a budget valued at approximately $100,000. Magic City Casino will sponsor the ceremony, reception and honeymoon for the winning couple. The wedding will include a special performance by Grammy Award winner Jon Secada. “We encourage Miami’s engaged couples to enter the competition to have the wedding of a lifetime,” said Scott Savin, chief operating officer of Magic City Casino. “Most couples do not have the opportunity to have a $100,000 dream wedding, but by entering this competition, the opportunity will become a reality for one lucky couple.” Interested couples must complete an entry form no later than Apr. 16. The form is available on the Magic City Casino website at
<www.magiccitycasino.com> or onsite at the Magic City Casino Players Club desk. Entries must include responses of 100 words or less on the following topics: (a) The couple’s love story and (b) why the couple hopes to hold their $100,000 Magical Wedding at Magic City Casino. The application also must include a color photo of the couple. Initial entries will be judged on the following criteria: • Originality and creativity used in writing about their love story and why the couple hopes to hold their magical wedding at Magic City Casino, • Technical aspects related to how the application was filled out and how well directions were followed, and • How well the photo reflects the entrant’s response. Magic City Casino features 800 Las Vegas-style slot machines, 18-table Poker Room, outdoor concert amphitheater, seasonal live greyhound racing and multiple food and beverage outlets, among other state-of-the-art amenities. The casino is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. For more information, visit online at <www.magiccitycasino.com>.
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April 5 - 18, 2011
3 students to participate in ‘Teens Only’ Town Hall BY TRICIA THOMAS
Students were chosen for the panel based on their responses to questions on their Three local students are among a dozen application as well as their demonstrated from across the state selected to share their leadership abilities throughout their school concerns and issues at the and community. The panel “Teens Only” Town Hall will have the opportunity to Students were meeting on Apr. 5 in ask questions to the cabinet. chosen for the panel Tallahassee. They also will serve a oneThe students are Lorenzo based on their year term as members of Babboni, a sophomore at the Youth Commission and responses to Coral Gables Senior High attend local meetings of questions on their School; Philip Koenig, a Florida’s Children and senior at Christopher application as well as Youth Cabinet. Columbus High School, The event is free to the their demonstrated and Monica Dyches, a junpublic, taking place on ior at Miami Palmetto Tuesday, Apr. 5, from leadership abilities Senior High School. a.m. to noon at throughout their school 10:30 The Florida Children and Tallahassee City Hall durand community. Youth Cabinet consists of ing the Children’s Week 20 members and is com“Capitol for a Day.” The prised of government officials, policy event is being recorded for statewide makers and children’s developmental broadcast on The Florida Channel. advocacy experts, and now a Youth For more information about the “Teens Commission comprised of 12 students Only” Town Hall Meeting visit online at selected from a statewide pool of students. <www.childrensweek.org>.
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Is A Short Sale Right for You? BY PETER B. LAIRD
Recent data indicates that by the end of 2010 nearly half of all property owners in Miami-Dade County owed more on their homes than the properties were worth. That’s 245,530 underwater homes just in Miami-Dade. Statewide, the number jumps to 2.1 million. Do you owe more than your home is worth? Is a major illness, accident, job loss or divorce preventing you from making your monthly mortgage payments? Are you tired of paying for an investment property that has lost its value? You do have options, according to Robert Perdigon, president of Miamibased Perdigon Title Services, a fullservice title company founded in 2002. “In an ideal world, the best strategy is to continue paying your mortgage, wait for the market to correct, let your property appreciate and sell your house when the value has returned,” advises Perdigon. “However, we do not live in an ideal world and property owners need to know their options.” A foreclosure should be avoided at all
Robert Perdigon (left), president, and Scott Perdigon, attorney partner at Perdigon Title Services, 9100 S. Dadeland Blvd., PH1 / Suite #1701, Miami. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
costs, Perdigon says. Not only will you lose your home, you could also be forced to pay what you owe on your mortgage plus additional fees. Worse still, it will be reflected on your credit report for three to five years.
Your best option, says Perdigon, may be a short sale. In the past few years, short sales have become the leading distressed property solution. “With a short sale, your house is sold for less than what you owe on your
mortgage, and your lender willingly accepts the proceeds from the sale as payment in full,” says Perdigon. “No lien is filed against you, the sale is reflected on your credit report for only 12 to 18 months, and in some cases the lender will even contribute up to $30,000 to cover your relocation expenses.” Before making such an important decision, though, seek professional advice. Perdigon Title Services has special expertise in handling short sales, and its attorney partner can guide you through all aspects of what can be a complex transaction. “We’ve successfully handled hundreds of short sale transactions over the past few years,” says Perdigon. “We’ll work closely with you, your realtor and your lender to ensure the quickest and best possible outcome for all.” For a free initial consultation to determine if a short sale is right for you, contact Perdigon Title Services at 305-728-8184, or e-mail rperdigon@perdigontitle.com.
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April 5 - 18, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Students have until Apr. 15 to nominate favorite teacher BY JACKIE MACKAY
Students nationwide have until Apr. 15 to enter the “A+ For Teachers at Downtown Disney” essay contest to win a vacation prize package to the Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels. Winning teachers also receive the same vacation package. The contest is being hosted by the Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels in partnership with AirTran Airways and Walt Disney World. More than 200 students already have entered this year’s contest, and 1,000 students entered the contest last year. The contest asks participants to nominate their favorite teacher, with winning educators and the students who nominate them each receiving a four-day, three-night vacation trip to one of the seven Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels. Entrants to date are praising their teachers for hard work, mentoring, a sense of humor, engaging lesson plans, dedication, patience, and sincere concern for their students. The essays relate tales of educators who stand out with their unique teaching and ability to connect with students. Students who wish to nominate their teachers for consideration must write a 500-word essay and submit it via the Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels’ website at <www.downtowndisneyhotels.com>. The essay should explain how the teacher has made a difference in the student’s life and will be judged on its relevance to theme, creativity, originality, and the merit of the teacher’s accom-
plishments as outlined in the essay. Ten national winners will be chosen, and the participant and their favorite teacher nominee each will win the prize package that includes: • Four-day/three-night accommodations (for up to four family members) at one of the Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels’ • Free airfare to Orlando (for up to four family members) on AirTran Airways (only for non-Florida residents); • Four free Walt Disney World oneday, one-park passes; • Four free tickets to the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park, and • Complimentary breakfast at the hotel each day (for up to four family members). “Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels want to celebrate those teachers who truly make a difference in the lives of their students in spite of the many challenges their schools are facing,” said Laurence Richardson, chair of the organization’s marketing committee. “We’re thrilled with the entries we have received to date in our nationwide contest, and we look forward to rewarding another group of 10 lucky entrants.” Contest winners will be announced on the hotels’ website. Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels is a consortium of seven official Walt Disney World Resort hotels that include: Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel, Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa, Doubletree Guest Suites, Hilton Orlando Resort, Holiday Inn, Royal Plaza Resort and Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort.
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Communities In Schools of Miami to celebrate annual gala, Apr. 16
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“The side-by-side performances at this year’s gala is a direct reflection of what our Communities In Schools of Miami (CIS) student mentorship program strives to will be celebrating its annual Gala on accomplish every day at CIS — self conSaturday, Apr. 16, at Downtown Miami’s fidence and passion for personal growth,” InterContinental Hotel. said executive director Elizabeth Mejia. The theme for this year’s gala, “It Takes “I’m honored to be a part of an organizaTwo, An Evening of Duets,” will feature tion that has such a positive influence and exquisite food and wine pairings, as well impact on the lives of the children in our as mentor and student community.” paired musical and enterThe mission of The mission of tainment performances. Communities In Schools All funds raised will help is to surround students Communities In provide educational and with a community of supemotional support to more port, empowering them Schools is to than 5,000 students in 21 to stay in school and surround students achieve in life. The oneschools and communitybased sites. mentorship prowith a community on-one Joining this year’s gala gram focuses on the orgais the leader of one of nization’s five basic of support, Miami’s premiere local building blocks: empowering and nationally acclaimed • A personal, one-onbands, ¡Suénalo!, whose one relationship with a them to stay in members will be performcaring adult; school and ing side-by-side musical • A safe place to learn pieces with their CIS of and grow; achieve in life. Miami mentees. • A healthy start for a Chad Bernstein, a memhealthy future; ber of ¡Suénalo!, and founder of Guns • A marketable skill to use upon graduaOver Guitar Operation, has partnered with tion, and CIS of Miami to provide a mentor program • A chance to give back to peers and for middle school students that uses music community. instruction as an avenue for connection. It is these fundamental tools that have Since inception, the band’s hands-on par- made CIS the most effective dropout preticipation with CIS of Miami has helped vention organization in America. improve the lives of youngsters in MiamiThe event also will feature a silent aucDade County. tion, live entertainment and food and wine “We are incredibly excited about the pairings with white glove service throughwork we’ve been doing with CIS of Miami out the evening. Gala sponsors include and are very fortunate to partner with an Gibraltar Private and Carlton Fields. organization that provides our youth with a Event donations, individual tickets and pathway to success,” said band member table sponsorship can be purchased online Chad Bernstein. at <www.cismiami.org>.
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April 5 - 18, 2011
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April 5 - 18, 2011
‘Sweet’ village night planned to honor cancer survivors BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Evelyn Greer Park in Pinecrest will be transformed into the beloved childhood board game, Candyland, on Saturday, Apr. 9. That’s right, Candyland, with all the color and excitement of the candies and characters we all know from childhood. Starting at noon on Saturday and continuing until 8 a.m. the following morning, the community will host Relay for Life to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society. Groups will be joining forces to create a carnival atmosphere including bounce houses, face painters, mega slides, hair extensions and more. There will be all types of foods from hot dogs to pizza, hamburgers to sausage, and a complimentary survivors’ dinner donated by Bargello’s Bistro at The Falls. Dessert for the survivors will be donated by Joanna’s Market. And the candy — M&M’s, Hershey’s Kisses, Nerds’ — you name it. Not to mention ice cream and cotton candy for dessert. Co-chairs Mayor Cindy Lerner and Debi Strochak, long time advocate for all cancer causes, have joined with a cross-section of the Village of Pinecrest to put together this fun filled event that will appeal to kids of all ages. The teams that have created the fair-like atmosphere come from all walks of life with a similar goal: to help fight cancer and support its victims. These participants are not only businesses and professionals, restaurants and government officials, but also represent area schools, churches and synagogues. Entertainment is being provided from 11 a.m. Saturday until 6 a.m. Sunday morning. Various vocal and instrumental groups have donated their services to make this a spectacular event for everyone. “The Mix,” “The Intrasigents” and “The
Eclectics” are just some of the bands slated for the evening. Some of the entertainment attendees can expect to hear and see are students from the local area. Elementary, middle and high schools will be contributing with their smooth dance moves and beautiful voices including jazz, modern, hip hop and more. The opening ceremony honor guard will be in the capable hands of Scout Troop 457. There will be a survivor lap and a beautiful luminaria ceremony. At 9 p.m. everything will stop. The band will stop playing and the lights will be turned down and to celebrate life with the survivors and remember those who lost their battle with cancer. This lighting of hundreds of candles will recognize those who have been honored and remembered in an emotional and inspiring ceremony. St. Andrews Piper Band, playing Amazing Grace, will lead the way for a walk with all who wish to show their support. At 11 p.m., the survivor tent will be transformed into an Old Flick style coffee house with entertainment, coffee provided by Starbucks and cupcakes from Mischa’s. Jenny and friends will provide entertainment consisting of acoustic cover artists, a contortionist, a dancer, and a comedian. This is a free event. Teams will have food and fun for sale showcasing the past six months of hard work. More than $40,000 has been raised with the help of the teams and area sponsors such as Gus Machado Ford Kendall; Upscale Furniture Consignment Gallery-The Falls; Baptist Health South Florida; Vitas; Gottahalfit.com; CBS4 print publications; S. Miami Psychology Group; Andrea L Loeb, PsyD, and Innerspace Custom Storage Solutions. Park your car at Palmetto Senior High School and there will be trolleys to transport attendee back and forth at no charge.
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Miami Children’s Chorus events to bring hope and help to Haiti BY ANALY MENDEZ
Miami Children’s Chorus (MCC) Haiti Relief Effort, “Give Us Hope,” scheduled on the weekend of Apr. 8, will be the culmination of a yearlong community service effort by the children of MCC. The choristers, having been moved by the tragic events in Haiti, wanted to do something to help. In their quest to help, they decided to put on a Haiti relief benefit concert, and to produce and distribute a CD. “Give Us Hope” is a three-day event that kicks off with a free lecture and demonstration on Friday, Apr. 8, at the Little Haiti Cultural Center at 7 p.m. The weekend will feature music by Haitian-American composer Sydney Guillaume, and Argentinean composer Oscar Escalada. Both composers have been commissioned to write works for the chorus through the MCC commissioning project New Works for Children’s Voices, and will work with choristers in preparation for this event. Both Guillaume and Escalada will discuss their music with the community on the evening of Apr. 8.
Following this symposium will be an open rehearsal on Saturday, Apr. 9, 1:30 p.m., at Riviera Presbyterian Church. The community is invited to attend this rehearsal and witness the artistry of the Advanced Chorus as the members interact with each composer. The final event will take place on Sunday, Apr. 10, 5 p.m., at the Byron Carlyle Theater in Miami Beach. This concert will be the result of a year’s work for the Miami Children’s Chorus. The hope is that the South Florida Community will come together to help support and aid the struggling people of Haiti. Donations collected at the concert and proceeds from ticket sales and the sale of the Give Us Hope CD, will go to Doctors Without Borders in support of the group’s continued work in Haiti. To purchase tickets for the final concert on Apr. 10, visit <www.ticketmaster.com> and search Miami Children’s Chorus. Adult tickets are $20 and student/senior tickets are $10. For more information regarding the Miami Children’s Chorus, and its concert schedule visit online at <www.miamichildrenschorus.org> or call 305-662-7494.
April 5 - 18, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
County announces additional subsidized spay/neuter days BY XIOMARA MORDCOVICH
Animal Services has announced additional donor-subsidized surgery days for Miami-Dade County residents. In an effort to help control the pet overpopulation problem, Miami-Dade Animal Services is offering donor-subsidized ($25 owner co-pay) spay/neuter services every Monday and Tuesday for dogs and ($15 owner co-pay) spay/neuter surgeries for cats every Thursday and Friday. The procedures will take place at the Animal Services shelter located at 7401 NW 74 St. in Medley. Check in begins at 7:30 a.m. “There are simply too many stray and abandoned dogs and cats and not enough homes to save every pet surrendered to Animal Services,” said Dr. Pizano, Animal Services director. “Spaying or neutering your pet helps reduce the number of unwanted litters and protects them from health issues that may develop later in life.” Requirements include:
• Proof of current rabies vaccination for dogs over four months of age. Rabies vaccine can be obtained the day of surgery for $10 (or $3 if qualified low-income). • Microchipping is available for $10. • Up to four pets per household, and they must be 3 months and older. • No food or water after midnight the night before. No appointment necessary, veterinarian may decline surgery due to health reasons. Miami-Dade Animal Services is responsible for enforcing Chapter 5 of the MiamiDade County Code, as well as Florida Statute 828, which deals primarily with animal cruelty issues. Unlike private shelters that have limitations on the number of pets they accept, Animal Services accepts all dogs and cats. Each year, the shelter impounds more than 36,000 pets. The goal at Animal Services is to reunite lost pets with their families or find life-long homes for as many animals as possible. For more information visit online at <www.miamidade.gov/animals> or call 3-1-1.
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April 5 - 18, 2011
FALLS ART DISTRICT NIGHT OUT APRIL 15, 2011
D
Did you know The Falls has been designated as a new up and coming Art District? That’s right-an Art District right in our local community. There are now 14 galleries located in and around the Falls Warehouse Area from 129th St to 134th St. These galleries open their doors on a Friday night with exhibitions, demonstrations, live music and a free Colombian shuttle bus to move you around. This months’ event will be better than ever with the addition of 5 new studios for you to visit and 6 traveling food trucks parked on 132nd St at Shops by the Falls. This new phenomenon is the hottest ticket in dining right now, and with 6 different menus there will plenty of options to choose from. You will find a variety of art displays and artists at work. You can look for the perfect accent for your home or office, or just have a glass of wine and enjoy the company of your friends in a relaxed setting. The festivities run from 7-10 pm. Look for the red Chinese lanterns along the route-you can start anywhere. For more information call 786.251.7974, find us on Facebook or go to:
www.upscalefurnitureconsignmentgallery.com and go to the “gallery” to see a map of all participants’ locations. See you there!
April 5 - 18, 2011
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Seasons 52 featured restaurant at ‘Driven to Dine’ charity event BY ROBERT HAMILTON
Seasons 52 (Chef Matt McCormick) will be one of 13 top South Florida restaurants participating in the Florida Heart Research Institute’s most popular charity event, “Driven to Dine,” a unique culinary journey to the finest restaurants and chefs, taking place Apr. 16. Guests will gather at the Mitchell estate in Cocoplum on Tahiti Beach, for an exclusive cocktail reception crafted by Le Cordon Bleu before drawing an envelope that is handed to the limo driver who then reveals their destination. Priced at $5,000 for the limo — with eight to a limo — the high-priced ticket delivers the promise of amazing food and tremendous fun, for a great cause. This year there will be a live auction and the Tiffany & Co. Mystery Blue Box Wall. Sponsors of this special event include Mercedes Benz of Coral Gables/Cutler Bay, Whole Foods, Le Cordon Bleu, Tiffany & Co., St. John, Smartwater, Casa
Vinicola Zonin, Callaway Cellar Selection, Marques de Riscal, Brustman-Carrino and I Heart Olive Oil. Aside from Season’s 52, other restaurants participating include 1500 at the Eden Roc Hotel (Chef Paula DaSilva), Asia de Cuba (Chef Joseph Maynard), Capital Grille (Chef Matt Livers), DB Bistro Moderne (Chef Jarrod Verbiak), Emeril’s Miami Beach (Chef Tim Doolittle), Eos at Viceroy Miami, Gibraltar at Grove Isle Hotel & Spa (Chef Rafael Melendez), Gotham Steak at the Fountainebleau Miami Beach (Chef John Suley), La Cava Wine Club (Chef Carmen Trigueros), Seasons 52 (Chef Matt McCormick), The Trapiche Room at JW Marriott (Chef Maria Tobar), Truluck’s Seafood Steak & Crab House (Chef Jeffrey Hundelt) and Vino & Olio (Chef Andrea Menichetti). For more information on the event or for reservations, call Sallie Byrd at 305-6743020, ext. 5823, or send email to <sallieb@floridaheart.org>.
Page 41
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April 5 - 18, 2011
Exciting changes coming to Corporate Run Series BY MAYRA HERNANDEZ
When TeamFootWorks asked participants of its Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series what they wanted to see changed for future races, the response was unanimous — electronic timing. In an effort to produce accurate results and provide participants with their complete race ranking, TeamFootWorks is announcing that, for the first time since the race’s inception in 1985, all participants in the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series will be chipped. In addition, the top male and top female finishers at each race also will be rewarded as part of the new Pearl Izumi Elite Running Division. “We are always looking for ways to improve the Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series,” said Laurie Huseby, race director. “By incorporating the electronic timing chips, we are excited to provide all participants with an accurate time, as well as providing them with a listing of the rankings on our website, <www.mercedesbenzcorporaterun.com>.” TeamFootWorks and Pearl Izumi also are incorporating the new Elite Division, which was debuted at the Corporate Run in Miami in 2010, into both of the Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach races. The Pearl Izumi Elite Division will be made up of male runners who can complete a 5K in less than 19 minutes and female runners who can complete a 5K in less than 20 minutes. Elite individuals will be able to enter and compete for prize money in all three cities. Runners will vie for a piece of the $5,400 prize purse which will be distributed among the top three male finishers and the top three female finishers at the Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach runs, while the top five male and top five female
finishers will be rewarded in Miami. Although being a member of a corporate team is not required, elite runners are encouraged to welcome their co-workers to join them at the race, keeping in mind the goal of the Corporate Run is to promote health and fitness at all levels and provide a venue to boost company morale and encourage camaraderie in the workplace. With more than 25,000 runners and walkers from hundreds of companies expected to participate in the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series, the race continues to grow. The 5K series began in Fort Lauderdale on Mar. 24, continues in West Palm Beach on Apr. 13, and concludes in Miami on Apr. 28. For the second year in a row, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the South Florida Chapter of the American Red Cross. 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 (3.1mile) Run Walk, attracts more than 800 South Florida companies and is open to employees of businesses, corporations, government agencies, financial institutions and non-profits-no matter how big or small. All companies are encouraged to participate and may enter an unlimited number of employees to walk or run as a group. Sponsors of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run series include: MercedesBenz of South Florida, American Airlines, Baptist Health, Aetna, BB&T, Sports Authority, Club Med, Miami-Dade County, Miami DDA and more. For registration information or to reserve a registration packet, contact TeamFootWorks at 305-666-RACE (7223) or visit <www.mercedesbenzcorporaterun.com> or <www.teamfootworks.org>.
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2011 Kia Optima combines style and performance Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS Kia has a winner with its new Optima four-door sedan. It’s stylish and comfortable with a long list of amenities and technology features, and there are three all-new powertrains to choose from, including a turbo and Kia’s first-ever hybrid. This next generation Optima has Kia’s new design language highlighted by a streamlined profile. Based on an all-new midsize platform, it’s longer, wider and lower than its predecessor and has a coupelike profile with a sweeping chrome arc that flows from the A through C pillars. It has a high and pronounced shoulder line that leads to sculpted flanks, while the front has a striking face with Kia’s signature tabbed grille surrounded by projector headlights. Under the hood, there’s a choice of three new Theta II powerplants — a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo or a 2.4-
liter hybrid engine. The 2.4-liter GDI engine produces 200 hp, while upgrading to the available 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine (EX Turbo and SX models) delivers V-6 power with a four-cylinder engine that produces 274 hp, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2011 Optima is available in the four trim levels — LX, EX, EX Turbo and SX: LX — Includes dual exhaust with chrome tips, solar glass, outside mirror turn signal indicators and 16-inch steel wheels fitted with 205/65R16 tires. EX — Has standard fog lights, heated outside mirrors, exterior chrome/bodycolor door handles along with 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/55/R17 tires. EX Turbo — Adds a unique front grille design. SX — Is the performance model; adds HID headlights with auto leveling, LED rear combination lights, unique front grille design, rear lip spoiler, sculpted side sills, aero wiper blades, black front brake calipers and 18-inch black machined finish alloy wheels with P225/45R18 tires. On the inside, the Optima cabin is spacious and comfortable, with many standard convenience features such as a six-way adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar
New Kia Optima is wider and lower than its predecessor and has a streamlined, coupe-like profile.
support, illuminated vanity mirrors with a ticket holder and a trip computer. An available panoramic sunroof provides an openair feeling, while the seats are ergonomically designed and there is plenty of storage space available. At the same time, the Optima is designed as a driver’s car, with the instrument panel contoured toward the driver for a cockpit feel, with precision gauges and controls contributing to an overall sport performance environment. A high console with a short shifter adds to the cockpit feel and paddle shifters
behind the steering wheel allow alternative gear changing. Additional standard interior features include a tilt/telescopic steering column, power door locks, power windows, sun visor extension and a cooling glove box. Base price on the 2011 Kia Optima EX is $22,495.
Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.
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Pet Tips Brought to You by Pet Supermarket
Training Your Dog To Do Simple Tricks Once you and your pup have mastered the basic obedience commands, you can have even more fun by teaching him simple tricks. Here are some tips: â&#x20AC;˘ Positive reinforcement training is a popular method. To start, choose a code word (one not used in normal conversation), or use a clicker. Sit quietly with your dog and have some treats on hand. Each time you use the code word or clicker, feed a treat immediately afterward. After several times, your dog will associate the sound with goodies. Then give your dog a command he knows, such as "sit". Once he sits, use the word or sound and reward him. To avoid overfeeding your dog later on, slowly phase out treats and replace them with a pat on the head or verbal praise. Remember to keep training sessions short
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You can â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Be a Kid Againâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at Miami Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum BY WOODY GRABER
Miami Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum (MCM) has provided an environment for happy childhoods with exceptional educational and entertainment opportunities for children and families. On Saturday, Apr. 16, the annual â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Be A Kid Againâ&#x20AC;? 2011 Gala will commemorate this accomplishment with the theme â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Never Too Late To Have A Happy Childhood.â&#x20AC;? The Be a Kid Again Galaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier sponsor is Berkowitz Development Group and the presenting sponsor is Mastercard. Hosted by gala chairs Gisela and Diego Lowenstein and board chair Jeff Berkowitz, the museum invites the public to its home at 980 MacArthur Causeway on Watson Island to enjoy a celebrated evening of culinary delights and spirits amid the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s galleries followed by a one of a kind performance by the legendary Village People. Through the generosity of Moet Chandon, major benefactors will celebrate in the Moet Chandon VIP Lounge, where magnums of champagne will be available at each table. â&#x20AC;&#x153;MCM has always strived to provide continuous programming of the best fun and educational experiences for children and families throughout South Florida in the hope that everyone we touch will come away richer and happier for the experience,â&#x20AC;? said Berkowitz, board chair for the non-profit Miami Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are looking forward to celebrating another year at MCM filled with exciting and fun exhibits and activities that all our friends in the South Florida community can enjoy.â&#x20AC;? With the evening starting at 6:30 p.m.,
explore MCMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 14 exciting galleries while enjoying delectable food and drink. Smooth music accents the way as you move through the many exciting exhibits. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to take in the newest special interactive attraction, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Adventures of Mr. Potato Head.â&#x20AC;? Then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for the live auction with a celebrity auctioneer and a whole host of exquisite, luxurious and unique items including two of the huge pink snails from Art Basel each decorated by a well-known artist and donated to the auction by Caâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Oro. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the silent auction, including many exciting gifts and getaways, will also be a highlight of the evening. Enjoy a rare treat with a live concert by the Village People. Recipients of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (between Liberace and Betty Grable), the one-of-akind Village People is synonymous with dance music. With their unforgettable hits such as Macho Man, YMCA and In the Navy, these six talented men combine energetic choreography with outrageous fun and lots of singing and dancing to provide great entertainment for all. Their songs endure and their performing talents delight audiences all over the world. All proceeds of the event benefit the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s educational programming. Tickets are $500 per person or tables of 10 people for $5,000 and $1,000 per person or tables of 10 people for $10,000 for special benefactor seating. Sponsorship opportunities also are available. To RSVP for the event, contact Kelly Bresnahan at 305-373-KIDS (5437), ext. 142, or send email to <kelly@miamichildrensmuseum.org>.
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