Coral Gables News 12.27.2011 by Community Newspapers

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Iconic Alhambra Water Tower restoration almost complete

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‘Party on the Plaza’ raises $25K for Gables Museum

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

BY ROSIE TOBALINA

he historic restoration of one of Coral Gables’ most iconic landmarks is almost complete. The Alhambra Water Tower, built in 1924 and used for many years as part of the city’s water supply system, has been undergoing a series of renovations including the painting of the exterior walls, doors, windows and railings as well as the restoration of its sundial and murals. Workers have replaced the lower and upper level railings, ground floor double doors, keyhole windows, and the broken glass in windows. The rehabilitation work also includes the installation of new interior stairs, replacing the old deteriorated wooden stairs as well as the replacement of the interior wood decks. Improvements to the tower’s electrical system and the installation of a climate controlled ventilation system are part of the restoration project. The entire site subsequently will be landscaped. Total cost of the project is approximately $280,000.

ARMANI ABREU

Pictured (l-r) are George Kakouris, Cristina Mas, Olga Santini Mas and Doug Jolly.

BY STEPHANIE ROJAS

ALHAMBRA WATER TOWER

he Young Associates hosted “Party on the Plaza,” their first fundraising event benefiting the Coral Gables Museum, on Friday, Dec. 2. The committee of young professionals, chaired by Cristina Mas, raised nearly $25,000 at the event, with $1,000 of the proceeds being donated to Radio Lollipop at Miami Children’s Hospital. U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Miami Commissioner Francis Suarez, former Coral Gables Mayor Don Slesnick and renowned journalist Maria Elena Salinas were among the 450 guests in attendance

at the art-themed soiree. Guests of the event viewed a collection of works by local artists, including Alex Yanes, Natasha Otrakji, Roberto Chamorro, Alexander Mijares, Javier Mora and Raul Boesel, as well as a live exhibition by Joseph Ferlito. Cocktails and light fare were served courtesy of Botran Rum, Wodka Vodka, Emporium Nostrum, 1500° at the Eden Roc, The Local and Pollo Campero, with live entertainment provided by DJ Tom LaRoc. The celebration continued into the night with an official after-party hosted by CEBU Lounge in Coral Gables. –––––––––––––––––––––– See

PARTY, page 6

ASHLEY ABESADA

MICHAEL CAPOTE This is another in a series of profiles of outstanding students attending schools in Coral Gables. These students excel both inside and outside the classroom. See profiles beginning on page 7.

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Nature always is in fashion during Fairchild Challenge BY JEANNE A. BECKER

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables hosted the annual Fairchild Challenge Botanical Fashion Show on Saturday, Dec. 3. This year, middle and high school students got the opportunity to be models and show off the accessories they designed made exclusively from plants including shoes, purses, hats, belts, parasols and jewelry. All of the student models descended the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s majestic “Stairway of Style” at the Students model some of the flora fashions from the annual Fairchild Challenge Botanical Fashion Show. Visitors Center before a ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– panel of judges. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, Each year before the fashion show, stu- Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, locatElementary school students did a parade of animal species (masks). Hundreds of teachers, Fairchild Challenge is a multidisciplinary, dents are asked to research and design ed at 10901 Old Cutler Rd., one of the environmental supporters and the local commu- environmental education outreach program horticultural accessories and to provide in premier conservation and educationnity attended. Some 140 high school students for elementary and secondary school students. a written statement the scientific and based gardens in the world, is a recogfrom 30 high schools and 169 middle school The Fairchild Challenge encourages students common names and useful properties of nized international leader in both Florida to appreciate the beauty and value of nature. the plants, as well as their origins. and international conservation. students from 28 middle schools competed.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

Coral Gables Garden Club celebrates annual Holiday Home, Garden Tour

Pictured (l-r) are tour chair Barbara Reese, Coral Gables Garden Club president Kay Murff, and tour co-chair Marie Vacca. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY ROSALIND MOORE

The Coral Gables Garden Club Tour, with the theme “Coral Gables the Miami Riviera,” had a huge attendance going through six homes. The theme of the tour featured the image cast by Coral Gables city founder George Merrick who originated it in the 1920s. Each of the six homes visited were either on the Riviera Country Club Golf Course or one of the waterways that meander through Coral Gables. Many were built the first years of Coral Gables with two on Santa Maria built in 1925 and one on University Drive built in 1926. Before the tour began many people

attended a special brunch at the Riviera Country Club in connection with the tour. After the brunch the attendees, joined by others, toured the beautiful homes that had many fantastic Christmas decorations. President Kay Murff welcomed everyone as did the tour chair Barbara Reese and her co-chair Marie Vacca. Other tour committees include tour hostess, Nancy Iliffe; tour brochure, Carol Berg; bake and plant sale chairs Gloria Zannis, Rea Zervas, Hilda Lawhorn, Liliana Porfiri and Jane Wilson. Other committee members were Alexis Ehrenhaft, Jane White, Charlotte Smiley, Teresa Zohn, Kay Lores, Blanche Brownell, Pat Clarke and Andrea Stringos.

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Toy drives, concerts and parties bring out holiday spirit Gloria Burns GLORIA’S GAB If you have been to a holiday party, you most likely have donated one of more gifts to those in need. Years ago, when the Coral Gables Chamber held its first Holiday Party at The Biltmore, a toy drive was part of the plan. So it was, on Dec. 8, after more than 15 years, toys continued to be collected at this festive get together as well as gifts for seniors. More than 400 gifts were collected and then distributed to CHARLEE Home for Children, Family Resource Center, Merrick Educational Center, Coral Gables Police Athletic League, YMCA of Greater Miami, and Home Instead Senior Care. This year’s affair provided partygoers with samplings from 20 of Coral Gables best restaurants for an evening of fun and entertainment. While chamber members partied at The Biltmore, members of GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club gathered for the club’s annual holiday party honoring its dental clinic staff. Also honored that same evening was longtime member and club parliamentarian, M a ry Scull Brown, 93, who was recognized for her years of service. Sadly for the club, Mary will be moving to Tampa to be closer to family. Among the many attending the affair were club president Linda Hartwell, along with numerous past club presidents bidding Brown a fond farewell. These included former Coral Gables Mayor Dorothy Thomson, Barbara Lapsley, P a m Schaefer and Charo Bolanos. In other Coral Gables Woman’s Club

activity, Carmen Suarez, Smart Ride captain reported that eight members from the club participated in Smart Ride 8 for AIDS as Pit Stop 1, again winning first place for their Angry Bird theme. This creative group actually spent five hours building the set for Angry Birds. While three members worked the day before the event in registration, the other five worked from 4 a.m. to noon the Friday and Saturday of the ride. Suarez already is recruiting volunteers for next year. Holiday fun took the stage at the Coral Gables Museum with its the third annual GingerBuild Competition on Dec. 10. Guests not only enjoyed seeing the gingerbread house entries and voting on their favorite but also were entertained with music by the Miami String Project. The musical selection featured songs from the 1920s and Spain complementing the museum’s inaugural introductory exhibit, “Creating the Dream,” curated by Arva Moore Parks. Finally, Coral Gables Rotarian Margarita Tonkinson and her committee have been hard at work planning a Red Carpet Gala event, the club’s annual fundraiser to be held at the Country Club of Coral Gables on Mar. 9, 2012. This year’s beneficiary will be Citizens for a Better South Florida. Save the date with more news on this annual gala to come. Wishing all of our readers a very “Happy New Year.” Until next time, keep making each day count.

Being honored by the Coral Gables Woman’s Club is Mary Scull Brown (center) surrounded by CGWC past presdents (l-r): Charo Bolanos, Barbara Lapsley, Dorothy Thomson, Linda Hartwell and Pam Schaefer.

If you want to submit information for this column, please send your news via email to <gloriagalburns@aol.com>. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pictured at the Coral Gables Woman’s Club’s holiday party are (l-r) Vicki McGroarty, Andy Young, Carmen Suarez, Barbara Lapsley and Bink Sime.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

UM Women’s Guild celebrates its annual Christmas luncheon

Pictured (l-r) are Women’s Guild vice president Kathy Limmiatis, singer Marion Scott, Santiago Rodriguez who introduced the singer, and pianist Rosa Scott. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY ROSALIND RUSH MOORE

There was plenty of Christmas spirit during the recent University of Miami Women’s Guild luncheon celebrated at the UM Hurricane 100 Room. There was a large crowd of Women’s Guild members and their guests in attendance. Christmas decorations were on each plate and a gift of a decorated votive candle was given to each of those who attended. A delicious turkey dinner was served after everyone was welcomed by vice president Kathy Limmiatis. As the dessert was

PARTY, from page 1

served Holly Freyre, executive director of Development and Alumni Relations, introduced Santiago Rodriguez, chair of the Keyboard Performance program of UM’s Frost School of Music. Rodriguez welcomed attendees and provided copies of traditional Christmas songs to each person so he or she could join in for songs. He next introduced two students, singer Marion Scott and pianist Rosa Scott. The crowd joined in with some of the songs and applauded loudly when the program finished.

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“The Young Associates’ Party on the Plaza showcased our local arts scene while raising funds for the Coral Gables Museum, the city’s newest cultural hub,” said George Kakouris, chair of the museum’s board of directors. “We are proud of Cristina Mas and her fellow committee members for hosting such a successful event.” The Coral Gables Museum celebrates the civic arts of architecture, city planning, landscape architecture, historic

and environmental preservation and history — the elements that define Coral Gables. It is a true public/private partnership between the City of Coral Gables and the Coral Gables Museum Corp., a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. The museum opened its first exhibitions in October 2011. For information on Coral Gables Museum, visit online at <www.coralgablesmuseum.org> or call 305-603-8067.

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

ARMANI ABREU

ASHLEY ABESADA

MICHAEL CAPOTE

Armani Abreu has been president of the Coral Gables Class of 2012 since he was a freshman. Actually, he was elected vice president in the freshman elections but then the president stepped down so Abreu took over. For the next two years he ran unopposed but when he came time to run for senior class president he faced two opponents. He said it was a close election but he emerged victorious. As president, he is involved with all aspects of the senior class. “We work with Grad Weekend and Senior Treats,” he said. “We also deal with Homecoming and Senior Takeover. We have Senior Sunday.” His other extracurricular activities include being vice president of Key Club. He said Key Club will work with Habitat for Humanity this school year. They also will work with the international organization LINK, which is working to end world hunger and to rescue North Korean refugees. Outside of school, Abreu has a history of community service. This summer he volunteered at the Hank Klein Unit of the Boys and Girls Clubs. Working there gave him the opportunity to give back to an organization that helped him when he was a child. “I attended the Boys and Girls Club for about six years,” he said. “It was a place I would go to have a good time and take my mind off things. It was my refuge.” During the summer, he played sports with the kids. He also chaperoned on field trips, including to places like the Grapeland Water Park. “I do enjoy working with the kids,” he said. “I remember when I was in their situation, and it made me happy doing all these things. It made me remember my childhood.” Another summer he volunteered at a swim camp at the University of Miami. “I’m a swimmer myself. I swim for the school’s team,” he said. “Anytime I can help other children learn something new, I find that self-fulfilling.” For Gables, he mostly swam events including the 100-

Coral Gables High senior Ashley Abesada is president of the National Honor Society (NHS), a club with approximately 300 members. Membership requirements for NHS include a high grade point average and community service. To reach the community service requirements, the Gables NHS members participate in a number of fundraising walks. “We do about three,” Abesada said. “Those are set walks like the Light the Night. We did the Epilepsy Walk last year and we plan on doing it again — and the Heart Walk.” The Epilepsy Walk is generally scheduled for springtime. The Light the Night Leukemia Walk took place in late October. “We try to raise money” she said, adding they also volunteer if the organizations need help setting up and cleaning up after an event. Abesada said in October some of the members cut their hair and donated the locks to help cancer victims. The requirements to donate hair to be made into wigs for cancer victims include hair length of 10 inches or more and the hair cannot have been dyed. The club also conducts canned food drives for the military as well as collecting toys for homeless children. “We’re doing a shoe drive for the holidays to give to another country for children who are less fortunate,” she said. They have collected Angel Backpacks filled with supplies for the homeless. They just finished a drive that concentrated on baby necessities that will be given to homeless families who have babies. They do the collection drives several times throughout the year. Abesada is a member of the Best Buddies Club. “We hang out with the buddies,” she said. “Mostly our meetings are fun and interactive.” One time they had someone teach the students tango and then they had the buddies participate. “An instructor came in and taught all of us, and we were partnered up,” she said. “We were circulating throughout. We all interacted with each other. It was something most of us had never done before so it was

Coral Gables High senior Michael Capote is a smart guy, taking dual enrollment classes in writing and government at Florida International University. He also is an athlete running track as well as playing linebacker on the football team. And he is a popular guy who placed in the top 10 of the Mr. Coral Gables contest last year. In the English class, he writes expository essays and personal narratives. Later in the year he expects to do a research paper. The class is taught at Gables but the students get credit for FIU as well. “I kind of like writing speeches and doing public speaking,” Capote said. “I’m the emcee at school for pep rallies and stuff. I also do the other events, like Cab Crash, a talent show put on by freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors.” He also has performed in the talent show. “We did the junior skit,” he said. “We had to put on this performance making fun of all our rival schools.” He has been involved in the Bridge for Peace fundraiser, which takes place each spring and raises money for a sister school in a third world country. He also spends weekends and summers helping out with projects at Gables. “I came in on weekends and cleaned up the school and painted,” he said. “Every summer I’m always here doing summer training for football so they asked a couple of us to do favors around the school. We moved tables and desks out of rooms so they could be cleaned. This summer we actually painted a large portion of the school and moved computers.” Capote helped paint the outside of buildings, the gym area, the front office area and the auditorium. During the summers, he was around anyway because of football practice. Capote played linebacker all four years at Gables, three of them on the varsity. This year he was team captain. Unfortunately, with so many players graduating last year, this was a rebuilding year for the team and the season ended with a 2-7 record. Last year, after football ended, he joined the track

See

ARMANI ABREU, next page

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ASHLEY ABESADA, next page

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MICHAEL CAPOTE, next page

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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For Gables, he mostly swam events including the 100meter breaststroke and the 200 individual medley. He also swam freestyle relays. While never a championship swimmer, Abreu’s contribution to the team has been important at swim meets. “Each event will give points toward your team,” he said. That same commitment to work together is something he learned more about attending the Ronald Reagan Centennial Conference in Washington in June. The event was limited to two students from each state and the candidates were chosen through the Boys and Girls Clubs. “The City of Miami asked for a representative male to represent the state of Florida,” Abreu said, adding he gained a clearer understanding about how to work together with people you might not agree with. “I learned as time progresses political discourse diminishes, instead of hearing other arguments, we block out what we feel is incorrect, instead of listening and trying to combine views,” he said. “Although Reagan was a Republican, and Tip O’Neill (a Democrat) was the speaker, they were able to work together.” His goal after college is to become a lawyer and then run for public office. He has applied to a number of schools, including Georgetown, Northwestern, Boston University and Duke. He also has applied to the University of Florida, Florida State, the University of Miami. Abreu already has been accepted to the University of Central Florida.

interesting to see everyone’s reaction.” As a member of the Future Business Leaders of American, Abesada has worked to prepare herself for competition. Last year, she was supposed to compete on the topic of Globalization of Business, but she became ill and could not participate. Her team did well in the local contest and qualified for the state event. This school year she once again is planning to compete with a team. Along with all her other activities, she works with the Little Cavaliers, the pre-school program on campus, because she is taking childhood education classes. “I’m interested in doing occupational therapy for children at a young age,” she said. “That’s why I’m in Best Buddies.” Through the classes, she has earned her DCF certification and she now is working on getting the Child Development Associates (CDA) certification. “It’s not college level, but I can work at a facility and be certified to work with children,” she said. She finds working with the children rewarding. “It’s really interesting,” Abesada said. “You learn a lot from them, as much as they learn from you. You form a bond with them.” It won’t be long before Abesada will be forming a bond with new classmates and teachers in college. She has considered a number of state universities with strong occupational therapy programs. She is a Posse progam semi-finalist and, if chosen for the program, she will be committed to one of the Posse universities.

team. He ran the 800 and the 4-by-400 relay. He also did the shot put and discus events. He plans on doing track again this school year. Another thing he planned on doing again this year was being in the Mr. Coral Gables contest. Last year he placed in the top 10, which was good for a junior because only seniors make the top five. He said he and a couple of the other contestants did a synchronized swimming skit that was pretty funny. The Mr. Coral Gables contest includes a swimsuit competition and a dance. While the contest is all in good fun and raises money for a good cause, he also has a more serious side. Capote is a member of 5,000 Role Models of Excellence, an organization geared to helping at-risk students achieve at school and in life. “It has a lot of football players in it,” he said. “We help each other out with our homework and projects.” He joined because one of his coaches was the sponsor. The students listen to motivational speakers, take college tours and go to homeless shelters. Earlier in his high school career, he was in the HIV Awareness Club, but that club was dropped because of funding. In college, Capote plans on majoring in sports administration, marketing or business management.

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Art in the Breezeway to begin the new year in a new location BY LEE STEPHENS

Art in the Breezeway, Coral Gables’ monthly exhibit of artwork by emerging local artists, is beginning the new year at a new location. On Friday, Jan. 6, 6-10:30 p.m., Art in the Breezeway will make its grand debut in the plaza at the Coral Gables Museum, located at 285 Aragon Ave. For the past three years, local artists have exhibited their creativity the first Friday of every month while contributing to the next generation of creative young artists. Artists donate art supplies to Ponce de Leon Middle School in exchange for their display space. Mike Thompson, a fourth generation Coral Gables resident, has directed this effort in the name of his late wife, Carole Hughes Thompson, who was an art teacher at Ponce Middle for 32 years. “Every year we would buy art supplies halfway through the year,” Thompson said. “At that point, Carole was always out of paper, pencils and paints for her lesson plan. So off we went to Rex Art and out came hundreds of dollars from our checking account. This donation program has been extremely successful and now other schools are asking to be a recipient in this

program.” Thompson said that with the help of Arva Moore Parks, Coral Gables Museum curator; Christine Rupp, director, and Caroline Parker-Santiago, program director, relocation has been seamless. Thompson has invited some of Coral Gables’ most creative artists to the January event. Miguel Rodez, who has been on the board of Miami-Dade County’s Art in Public Places and is responsible for installations on NW 36th Street near Miami International Airport, the Arsht Center and Metrorail, will display his photography, drawings and paintings as well as his famed inflatable sculptures that graced Bayfront Park during Art Basel. “Someone asked me why I create giant sculptures, and I do not know exactly how to respond other than to say that sometimes size matters,” Rodez said. “In public art, size is essential. It does not work well if the public can’t see it. So, I make it big. I want people to wonder about my sculptures in the way a child looks at an unusual object for the first time and endows it with meaning direct from the imagination.” Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason will be receiving his official portrait, commissioned and directed by Thompson and

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Artist Miguel Rodez, pictured in front of his inflatable sculpture Velocity, is a featured artist at the January Art in the Breezeway event in Coral Gables.

(Photo credit Sandra Garcia)

painted by local portrait painter Pery Franco. Franco has been a long-time participant in Art in the Breezeway and has helped Thompson distribute art supplies to Ponce Middle School and South Miami K8 Magnet Arts School. Cuban-born artist William Brito will be exhibiting his newest series “Cat in the Clock,” and Edgar Hernandez’s pastel of Life in Miami is sure to bring a smile. Other featured artists include Carole Hughes Thompson, Mike Thompson, Pery Franco, Henry Barnes, Sonia Kohler, Terry Jensen, Katrisk Toimil, Dawn Lovell, Rita V. Gaudry, Emilio Hector Rodriguez and many more. Music at the event will be presented by

Hal Roland, who many locals will recognize as the piano player at Christy’s and Seasons 52 in Coral Gables. Roland is well known for performing and recording with some of the biggest names in music, producing the music for Star Search and being the sultry voice of WDNA 88.9FM. While attending Art in the Breezeway enjoy dinner at one of the area’s fine restaurants, visit Books and Books or take in a movie at the New Cinema. Art in the Breezeway will be accepting donations from the public of new or used art supplies to be donated to local schools. For more information, contact Mike Thompson at 305-785-6344 or send email to <art4ubymike@gmail.com>.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

Gables Chamber taps Credomatic as merchant processor of choice

Pictured (l-r) are Joe Herrera, relationship manager, Credomatic Merchant Services; Mark Trowbridge, president and CEO, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, and Alex Rey, relationship manager, Credomatic Merchant Services. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY LEE STEPHENS

Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, a premier organization with a mission to foster and enhance the economic interests and quality of life of the Coral Gables community, has signed Credomatic Merchant Services as its partner of choice to handle their payment processing. Credomatic has been a staple in the credit card processing business in the U.S. since 1981 and its parent company holds a leadership position in the financial products and services sector in the Americas. “The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce is committed to giving all of our members the best possible experience and service through their membership, including hosting a variety of events that encourage members to get engaged and involved,” said Mark A. Trowbridge, president and CEO of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. “The selection of Credomatic will facilitate the secure processing of our members’ credit card transactions, both through our website and at the actual events. Credomatic’s expertise is what gave us the confidence to choose them. They offer innovative payment solutions and a high

level of customer service through their dedicated relationship managers,” Trowbridge added. “In addition, their impressive track record of competitive and transparent pricing has provided an invaluable resource to all of our members.” Credomatic, which manages over 100,000 merchant accounts, provides credit and debit card processing services as well as electronic check processing, gift card program and cash advances. The company prides itself on its relationship manager team, which provides one-to-one, superior customer service to merchant accounts. “We are extremely proud of our continued partnership with Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce,” said Gonzalo Ruiz, national director and CSO for U.S. and Caribbean for Credomatic Merchant Services. “We will provide cutting edge technology and cost effective solutions to meet all of the chambers and their members’ processing needs. Our company philosophy is about service. When we help our customers succeed, we succeed.” Credomatic Merchant Services has its headquarters at 9150 S. Dadeland Blvd., Suite 800. For more information visit the company’s website at <www.credomaticmerchantservices.com>.

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Are you among many Kendall motorists avoiding SunPass and wondering why traffic is heavier on local roadways? Three major East Kendall roadways showed increases in 2011 ranging from 2 percent to 12 percent in segments between S. Dixie Highway (US 1) and SW 110th Avenue, compared to 2010 counts when the Sanpper Creek Expressway (SR 878) and a busy section of the Don Shula Expressway (SR 874) were toll-free. Vehicle counts by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) showed corresponding increases in 2011 traffic on Sunset Drive (SW 72nd Street), Kendall Drive (SW 88th Street) and Killian Drive (SW 112th Street) since the establishment of Open Road Tolling (ORT) on SR 878 and SR 874. Once ORT began in July 2010, use dropped by up to 21 percent on five of those former toll-free segments monitored through July 2011 in the same area frequently used by eastbound and westbound motorists. Brian Rick, public information officer for FDOT, said reduced expressway use may or may be attributed to the result of many factors including the economic conditions of recent years “I can also understand people may not want to pay tolls if they’ll be slowed down by new construction,” Miami-Dade Commissioner Joe A. Martinez said, referring to reconstruction on the Shula Expressway in 2011. Recognizing Kendall traffic remains a major issue, Martinez said “the countywide need to improve transit is the best way to get people moving again. “We need to take the entire county into consideration by utilizing existing rail lines to establish routes that can accommodate four-car commuter trains that can safely move commuters at speeds of up to 50 miles an hour.” Tracing FDOT website counts back to 2009, each of the three Kendall roadways “show steadily increasing number of vehicle trips,” said Miles E. Moss, traffic engineer who served as president of Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations for 15 years through 2010. “But there is obviously a correlation of increased numbers with the falloff of traffic on SR 878 over the same periods,” he added after his study of FDOT and MDX

tables, and comparing vehicle counts in July 2010 and July 2011. The Snapper Creek Expressway showed the largest drop of 10,300 vehicle trips during 2011 as against 2010, Moss pointed out. “In that same period, directly north of SR 878 on Sunset Drive, there was a gain of 5,000 vehicle trips,” he observed. “On Kendall Drive, the count was up by 4,400 vehicle trips and on Killian Drive, trips increased to 1,900,” he noted. “By adding the increased vehicle trips on all three roads over the same 2010-11 period, you have a total of 11,300 new vehicle trips over and above the counts in 2010,” he said. “Naturally, Sunset and Killian were the highest, being located directly north and south of SR 878.” Moss agrees that such findings tend to bear out the often-heard complaints of commuting motorists that paying daily tolls on the Snapper Creek at $1 per roundtrip becomes a significant annual expense. “What is important is that FDOT may face consequences of heavier east-west use of arterials,” he added. “That compounds the problem that already exists, as well as the potential of higher maintenance, safety and other factors that go along with increased usage of any roadway.” Martinez’s proposal for an East Kendall commuter line using FEC tracks was defeated by resident opposition two years ago but today, he said he is continuing to explore rail system routes to establish a viable commuter service. “There has been no vision to improve transit since Metrorail expansion has become just about cost-prohibitive,” he concluded. “It’s a shame because the FEC is not only willing but eager to reach an agreement to utilize its tracks.” The still active “Roll Back Tolls” movement in 2010, headed by Kendall residents Carlos Garcia and Miller Myers, was based largely on the MDX decision to convert free roads to a ORT revenue source for the agency’s maintenance and system expansion. “While that’s true, we’ve concentrated on the new Shula construction during the past year,” Garcia said. “Primarily, we’re still concerned about the SW 104th Street intersection where so many accidents at the rebuilt Killian Drive interchange have occurred since last August.”

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Bric Peeples’ photography captures life in Galapagos

Photographer Bric Peeples greets Jo-Ann Gardner at opening of exhibit. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BY RAQUEL GARCIA

Although yacht captain Bric Peeples has been around the world, when he talks about the images in his photos it is as if he were a child making new discoveries on his first quest beyond the family front stoop. Peeples, a Palmetto Bay resident, recently celebrated the opening of his first photography exhibit on the Galapagos Islands at the First National Bank of South Miami’s Kendall Branch. “I fish for a living, love boating, and get to see some of the most amazing places in the world,” Peeples said. “I would Great Sapphire Wing by Bric Peeples always take pictures and got so –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– many compliments it inspired “We spent a full day driving around the me to keep at it. The Galapagos is the most beautiful place I have ever seen. To see the rain forest outside and around Quito and natural progression, the wildlife, the flowers there are 40 churches within one square mile, and the interesting rock formations, it was 40 churches. In one of them, the entire interior is covered in gold leaf,” Peeples said. just incredible.” His next adventure will be an Amazon trip Incredulous indeed are the images captured of sea lions in mid-kiss, a giant tor- to fish for freshwater piranha and to capture toise’s face smothered in his banana meal, a a whole new series of images for his collec“King Lizard” with his rooster head regalia tion. The Galapagos Photography Art and the “Great Sapphire Wing” humming- Collection will be on exhibit through January bird in mid-air. But Peeples finds beauty not at First National Bank of South Miami’s just in classical images of nature but also in Kendall Branch, 7887 N. Kendall Dr. To find out more about Bric Peeples, visit civilized works like the interior rotunda views looking up from an area church cap- online at <www.bricpeeplesphotography.com> or call 305-282-1006. tured in Quito, Ecuador.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

Rachel Allen playing soccer for USA at Maccabi Games BY ROBERT HAMILTON

Rachel Allen, daughter of Steve and Debbie Allen of Miami (Steve is executive director of Bet Breira Samu-El Or Olom synagogue in Kendall), has been chosen as one of only 16 girls to represent the United States on the Women’s Open Soccer Team. The Pan American International Maccabi Games are taking place in Sao Paulo, Brazil through Jan. 2 with Jewish athletes from all over the United States representing this country in international sports competition. Rachel, 21, currently is a senior at the State University of New York (SUNY), Oswego in upstate New York, majoring in Early Elementary Education. She graduates in May 2012 and plans on moving down to Florida and pursuing her teaching career here. She was an all-state soccer player in New York during her high school years, a member of the New York State Olympic Development program in soccer, and participated for five years in the Maccabi Games in the United States captaining the team for three years and earning a silver medal in Vancouver, Canada, in 2007.

Rachel Allen –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Young music lover gets acquainted with violin Don Slesnick, former mayor of Coral Gables, (left) and granddaughter, Olivia Kauffman, 5, are pictured with Manuel Berberian, proprietor of Allegro Music Center, 6869 SW Eighth St., prior to the Dec. 11 Sunday Afternoons of Music for Children program at Gusman Concert Hall on the University of Miami campus. Allegro Music Center brings the “Instrument Petting Zoo” to each event of the Sunday Afternoons of Music for Children series. For more information on the season’s series, call 305-271-7150 or go online to <www.sundaymusicals.org>.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Casino Night raises $50,000 for Friends Forever shelter BY CHERYL TAYLOR

Williamson Automotive emptied its beautiful, glass-enclosed showroom on Dec. 3 to host a benefit Casino Night for the Friends Forever Humane Society. Friends Forever is a “no-kill’ organization that believes every animal deserves a forever, loving home. It is a non-profit organization funded solely by generous contributions and events such as this. All personnel are strictly volunteers. A casino and holiday marketplace were created on the Williamson Cadillac showroom floor and hundreds of guests in their finest attire turned out to play poker and blackjack, as well as roll the dice at the gaming tables, all provided by Casino Party Nights Florida. The “gaming” was all in fun and the “winners” walked off with generously donated prizes. If you weren’t the gaming type, there was a festive holiday marketplace, with local vendors providing great gifts such as hand-made pins, handbags, sunglasses and ladies’

wear. And, of course, there was fine jewelry available from Maurice’s Jewelers of Pinecrest. Many local restaurants were on hand, including Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, Wagons West, Kris’s Restaurant and Grill, Captain’s Tavern and Roasters ‘n’ Toasters. Food catering was provided by Francine Powers of We’re Having a Party and delicious desserts came from You Oughta Taste My Mamma’s Cakes. The evening was beautiful and the Williamson Cadillac venue, at 7815 SW 104 St., was a perfect location for the mock casino, as almost $50,000 was raised for the Friends Forever organization. Founder Dee Chess said she was delighted with the success of the evening and thankful for the community support. “We are truly thankful for Ed, Carol and Trae Williamson’s generosity and for making this event a huge success,” she said. “Please think of them when it’s time for your next vehicle purchase.”

Williamson Cadillac showroom was converted into a casino for the evening. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

Community to ‘Come Together’ in fight against hunger, Jan. 12 BY DURÉE ROSS

Members of the South Florida community are invited to join the fight against hunger and attend Feeding South Florida’s (formerly Daily Bread Food Bank) “Come Together” evening event on Jan. 12, 2012. 7-10 p.m., at The Margulies Collection at the Warehouse, 591 NW 27 St. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Feeding South Florida is hosting the soiree that will feature food, spirits, incredible artwork, live entertainment, some of South Florida’s top chefs, and more. Proceeds/sponsorships will benefit Feeding South Florida, a notfor-profit organization that feeds South Florida’s hungry in order to improve their lives. Individuals and corporations are Feeding South Florida’s main sources of financial support. For every dollar donated, seven lifesaving pounds of food and grocery items are provided. Event sponsorships are available ranging from $25,000 (175,000 pounds sponsor) to $1,000 (7,000 pounds sponsor). Additional packages and sponsorship opportunities may be tailored to specific individual, corporate and community objectives. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Any and all donations are welcomed and needed. Attendees should dress for the “Come Together” event however they feel comfortable — from jeans to tuxedos. “Come Together” event chairs are Maria R. Millares, president of the board of directors for Feeding South Florida; Chef Allen Susser, one of South Florida’s top chefs, and Terry Zarikian of China Grill Management and New York’s City Harvest.

Current event sponsors are JM Family and Millares & Company; in-kind sponsors are The Margulies Collection at the Warehouse, VSBrooks Advertising, Panache Party Rentals, Le Basque, Bacardi, Southern Wine & Spirits and Shutter Box Photo Booth. Also participating in “Come Together” are some of the South Florida’s top restaurants including China Grill, Asia de Cuba, Egg & Dart, City Hall, Mercadito, Ortanique on the Mile, Chef Allen, D Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean, Scarpetta, The Forge, La Palme D’Or Restaurant at the Biltmore, Makoto, 1500° at Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach and Whisk Gourmet Food & Catering. Feeding South Florida’s mission is to feed South Florida’s hungry in order to improve their lives. It does this by distributing food and groceries through its network of not-for-profit organizations, educating the public about the issue, and engaging our community in the fight to end hunger. In South Florida alone, 936,000 individuals are food insecure; 36 percent of those served are children. Feeding South Florida provides approximately 29 million pounds of food annually to over 700 agencies throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties. Recently, Feeding South Florida’s agencies are reporting a 39 percent increase in the demand for food services, due to the current economic climate. Individual tickets are $125 per person. RSVP are required. To RSVP and/or for sponsorship information, contact Jessica Diaz at 1-954-518-1839 or send email to <Jdiaz@feedingsouthflorida.org> or visit <www.feedingsouthflorida.org>.

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Violinist Markov to debut Rock Concerto at benefit BY ADRIENNE JACOBY

Alexander Markov, one of the world’s most accomplished virtuoso violinists and passionate musical mentor to students across the world, will light up the lawn of the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden in Coral Gables with his critically acclaimed Rock Concerto on Jan. 27, 2012. The concert will begin at 9 p.m. following SpendforEd’s first annual gala supporting education. Markov, known for his masterful and dazzling performances, will debut his masterpiece to South Florida, which includes a variety of classical music followed by his original, musical epic — the Rock Concerto — featuring his six string, golden electric violin with lighted bow. Showcasing his world-class talent and technical skill, Markov brilliantly arranges and composes orchestrations to combine his love of classical and rock music into one musical experience. The Rock Concerto has astounded audiences in sold-out arenas around the world. The performance is divided into two parts and explores the depth and diversity of his classical background and rock music expertise. In Part 1 of the performance, Markov will present a variety of his Virtuoso Classical Masterpieces including Vivaldi and Schubert and his signature Paganini, with conductor Alfred Gershfeld. Part 1 also will include the New World School of the Arts Orchestra and renowned pianist Heike Doerr. A Gold Medal winner at the Paganini International Violin Competition, Markov’s reputation for performing this romantic 19th Century repertoire is hailed as second to none. He has performed as a soloist with some of the world’s most celebrated orchestras and conductors.

Virtuoso violinist Alexander Markov performs for 600 students at Gulliver Prep Academy’s Coral Gables Campus. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Markov’s thrilling, flawless performance guarantees to bring audiences to their feet. Part 2 will introduce the new audience to his sophisticated and highly evolved piece of music featuring brand blending, innovative original compositions and a combination of melodic, rich harmonies of classical symphony with the Gothic sounds of a chorus and a rock-n-roll group. The Rock Concerto features renowned rock musicians Neal Coomer (vocals), Ivan Bodley (bass and synth), Gregg Gerson (drums) with the new addition of Juanito Pascual on guitar, the New World School of the Arts Symphony Orchestra, and the students of Gulliver Prep Academy

and Coral Reef High School choruses. An original composition by Alexander Markov and James V. Remington, with lead vocal melodies and lyrics by Neal Coomer, the Rock Concerto brings classical and rock audiences together with tuneful melodies and breathtaking solos that open into a colorful, triumphant wall of sound. Playing the world’s only gold-plated, electric violin and wielding a glowing, lighted bow, designed by co-composer James V. Remington, Markov leaves audiences breathless. The Rock Concerto is a richly textured work, years in the making, featuring the violin’s enormous range of tone and mood, from quiet and sweet, to

playful and humorous, to dark, gothic and powerful. In Markov’s words, “The Rock Concerto is a musical fusion of contrasting classical elements, harmonies, melodies and counterpoints mixed with the contemporary sounds of rock n’ roll.” Markov was inspired to create the Rock Concerto when he observed the decline in the number of young people attending classical concerts. The result is a body of work that attracts a young, rock music audience without alienating traditional classical music fans. By performing both this original, modern work and a classical Vivaldi and Schubert violin concerto in the same concert, he has created a unique concert experience that bridges the gap between classical and rock music fans of all ages. Alexander Markov was born in Moscow, and studied violin with his father. By the time he was 8 years old, he already was appearing as a soloist with orchestras and performing double concertos with his father. Markov grew up in Darien, CT, where his love affair with rock ‘n’ roll began and eventually evolved into his Rock Concerto masterpiece. In 1987, he was awarded a prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant. Markov received his U.S. citizenship in 1982 and now resides in New York. The Rock Concerto, sponsored by D’Addario, will be performed at the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens, 10901 Old Cutler Rd. in Coral Gables. Tickets are available online at <www.spendfored.org> or by calling 1866-811-4111. Ticket prices range from $20 for general admission lawn seating to $75 for premium orchestra seats. For more information about the Rock Concerto visit online at <www.rockconcerto.com>.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

MDC’s tax program offers free help to low-income residents BY TARNELL CARROLL

Miami Dade College (MDC) is continuing its long-standing commitment to help low-income, elderly, and non-Englishspeaking residents complete their 2011 taxes with the always-free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The VITA program is administered and staffed by faculty and MDC business students who volunteer their time to help the public in preparing their tax forms. Students are trained beforehand and must pass an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) exam of basic rules, regulations, and tax preparation skills before they assist taxpayers. Divided into three groups, their functions are administrative, tax return preparation, and quality review. The VITA program was started decades ago by the IRS in an attempt to help those who need specialized attention in preparing their tax forms. All MDC VITA sites have the ability to file electronically. Now in its 19th year of providing this tax service to the community, MDC administrators believe the program’s success is due to the staff’s attention to quality. “MDC faculty supervises each tax assistance site to make sure tax returns are accurate and properly filed with the Internal Revenue Service,” said Dr. Ana M. Cruz, department chair of MDC’s School of Business. Federal income tax returns must be in the mail and postmarked no later than Apr. 17, 2012. Individuals interested in having their taxes done through the MDC VITA program must bring the following documents to the center with them: • Social security card and the social security cards of any dependents to be claimed.

• Picture ID. • W-2 earnings statement. • 1099 MISC (for self-employed individuals only). • 1099 INT (interest income). • Any documents pertaining to expenses to be claimed (receipts, etc.). This year’s IRS/MDC VITA tax service locations in the area, their schedules and contact information are: MDC HOMESTEAD CAMPUS 500 College Ter., Homestead 33030 Room D-307 2 to 5 p.m. Mondays, Feb. 6 through Apr. 9, 2012 305-237-5143 Additional information: Languages spoken — English and Spanish. Service is available by appointment only. MDC KENDALL CAMPUS 11011 SW 104 St., Miami 33176 Room 6343 (Business office in Room 6319) 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 7 through Apr. 10, 2012 305-237-2375 Additional information: Service is available by appointment only. Languages spoken — English and Spanish MDC WOLFSON CAMPUS 300 NE Second Ave., Miami 33132 ETCOTA Center, Bldg. 7, Room 7109 9 a.m. to noon; Saturdays, Feb. 4 to Mar. 31, 2012 305-237-3151 Additional information: Languages spoken — English and Spanish. The center will be accepting customers until 11:30 a.m. and will serve a maximum of 30 customers per Saturday, whichever comes first.

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Palace residents send touch of home to troops overseas BY KERRY GREEN-PHILLIPS

The Palace’s senior living communities are paying tribute to the U.S. military, veterans and their families by participating in the fifth annual American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign. The Palace Royale’s Make A Difference Club, comprised of assisted living residents, recently collected and assembled more than 150 Chanukah, Christmas and Kwanzaa cards which the Red Cross will deliver to military bases and veterans hospitals during the holidays. Each card was personally signed by club members and included notes of encouragement and gratitude. “We’re honored to support such a worthwhile cause,” said entertainment director

Marjorie Bonien, of The Palace Suites, spent Saturday mornings creating one-of-a-kind cards for troops stationed overseas. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

The Palace Royale’s Claire Caveny is part of the Make A Difference Club, which participated in the fifth annual American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign

Pamela Parker, who organizes the service club. “Residents sent a ‘touch of home’ and were moved knowing their words would be read by the brave men and women who protect our freedoms and sacrifice so much for our country.” The Palace Suites, which offers independent living, also participated in the campaign. Residents dedicated their Saturday mornings to creating and decorating one-of-a-kind holiday cards. The Palace’s Kendall campus offers a continuum of care and includes The Palace Royale, The Palace Suites, The Palace Renaissance and The Palace Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. For more information, call 305-270-7000 or visit online at <www.ThePalace.org>.

Effective Use of Social Networking Sites An increasing number of people are hopping on the social networking bandwagon. Whether Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, or the newly minted Google+, this growing trend has the potential to help connect us as never before. Social networking can be useful for advertising, networking, and making your business more accessible in our tech-savvy generation. However, social networking presents many dangers to users. Photos, videos, and even simple messages that are posted and made available to the public can and will be used against you in a court of law. For instance, a public photo of a woman cheerleading while she claims to have severe back pain can be used to disprove her claim of debilitating, chronic pain. Pictures of a person partying and holding drinks can damage the credibility of that person in divorce proceedings or a job interview. The same can be said of publicly posting that your interests and hobbies include illicit activities or frequently “checking in” at bars and clubs. If you do not want the entire world to access your profile, remember to limit the privacy settings. Keep in mind that even information you have marked as “private” is not protected from court-ordered information requests. The safest approach to social networking is to exercise self-restraint. Consider what you post, and monitor what others post about you. Check your social networking profiles regularly to protect yourself. Don’t be afraid to use social networking to expand your business and personal relationships, but remain mindful that anything you post on the internet can become public knowledge very easily.

Panter’s Pointers for safe use of social networking sites: 1.- Only “friend” or add contacts you know and trust. 2.- Restrict the privacy settings for your profile so that personal information is not publicly shared. 3.- Do not post pictures or videos you would not want your employers or parents to see. 4.- Never post anything concerning your legal case or dispute without consulting your attorney first. 5.- When in doubt, leave it out. Panter, Panter & Sampedro, P.A. is a Law Firm Dedicated to Protecting Florida's Families. We can be reached locally at 305/662-6178 or Toll Free at 1-800-PANTERLAW. Our office is conveniently located at 6950 N. Kendall Drive, Panter Building, Miami, FL 33156 (on the corner of Kendall Drive and US 1). Please visit our website at www.Panterlaw.com.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

KRMC hosts students for ‘Day in Life of a Nurse’

Kendall Regional Medical Center nursing staff meets with students in the Medical Assistance Program at Miami Senior High for the annual “Day in the Life of a Nurse” program. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY GLORIA BURNS

Kendall Regional Medical Center (KRMC) hosted 20 students from Miami Senior High School on Nov. 10 for a “Day in the Life of a Nurse” program. Mayra McCoy, RN, BSN, MS, KRMC’s director of education, partnered with Natasha Turner, head of the Vocational Department at Miami High, to provide the inspired learning experience. The students enjoyed interacting with and listening to presentations by people who understand the nursing field like few others including Marcia Causa, RN, MBA, MSN, CCRN; Sehnie Talisayon,

RN, BSN; Zenaida Ferro-Rodriguez, RN, BSN; Carmen Hamilton, RN, BSN, MSHSA, and Estela Carmona, RN, BSN. Those presentations, along with department tours, gave these students a true feel for the profession. All those participating are part of the Medical Assistant Program offered at Miami High, one that promises to inspire many to go into the medical field as they move onto college. For Kendall Regional Medical Center, this has been an annual activity for almost 10 years. Best of all, it gives the KRMC staff an opportunity to share their passion for nursing with the next generation.

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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‘Dancing with the Seniors’ big hit with SAS students BY DENNIS P. LINDSAY

The Salsa Club at School for Advanced Studies (SAS) took its fancy moves to the Joy of Life Adult Daycare Center in West Kendall for a December holiday celebration. The students were welcomed by a very friendly staff and a lively group of elderly members of the facility. The salsa group started by dancing one of its most invigorating routines. After dancing to a few songs, they asked the elderly to join in and each student invited a resident to dance. At first many of the students and residents were shy and a bit hesitant, but before they knew School for Advanced Studies student Vanessa Chaparro enjoys a salsa with it, they were all dancing Ventura Acosta. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– and having a good time. After a few dances, the students helped ed the students of their kindergarten days. She had the students singing their ABCs, serve lunch and took part in congratulating four residents whose birthdays were being Mary had a Little Lamb, and La Cucaracha among other old-time hits. After listening to celebrated. The SAS students joined the staff in many stories and dancing along with everysinging Happy Birthday, and after a healthy one, the students joined the elderly in their lunch, three of the students took turns playing favorite game of dominos. After a few hours at the center, no one was ready to leave. A the guitar and singing songs. When the students were done performing, bond was built and the students felt as if they it was their turn to be entertained. Many of were leaving their grandparents behind. the elderly in the center were very talented Many of the students’ eyes were filled with too. One of the center’s Chinese members, tears and sadness. One of the ladies ran after the group to find Cay Sen, taught the students some basic Thai martial arts moves and everyone was amazed out when the students would be coming back. by his ability and knowledge. Mercedes was The Salsa Club at SAS hopes to return to the the last member to entertain the students. In center to “Dance with the Seniors” in the near her youth, she was a teacher and she remind- future.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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22400 Old Dixie Hwy., Miami, FL 33170 Happy Holidays to all of our guests! From your friends at Cauley Square

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

Billy The Marlin reflects team’s new look, colors BY CAROLINA PERRINA

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After some colorful modifications, South Florida’s favorite fish, Billy The Marlin, has returned better than ever. Standing eight-feet tall, this new and improved Billy will reflect the Miami Marlin’s new colors and new logo. The new Billy The Marlin will feature the team’s colors — blue, red-orange, yellow and black. “The new look of Billy perfectly complements the new look of the Miami Marlins,” said Sean Flynn, Marlins senior vice president of marketing. “By utilizing the same color scheme, which represents Miami and its diverse cultural and geographical mix, we are confident fans will embrace Billy’s new style. Just as they have embraced our new brand by buying Miami Marlins tickets and merchandise at record-breaking numbers.” Billy The Marlin, an icon representing baseball in South Florida for more than 18 years, has been ranked as one of the most popular mascots in professional sports. The new Billy is making his first appearances as part of the Marlins’ fourth visit to U.S. military personnel stationed overseas. The Marlins organization is visiting U.S. troops stationed in Japan, Guam and Hawaii through Dec. 15. Billy The Marlin was handpicked not only for his skill, cunning and great competitive nature, but most of all for his outstanding sense of humor and great rapport with baseball fans of all ages.

Standing eight-feet tall, the new and improved Billy The Marlin will reflect the Miami Marlin’s new colors and logo. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

www.communitynewspapers.com

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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Miami law firm welcomes kids for lunch, gifts, Santa Claus

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Need a New Years Resolution? Consider Finding a Financial Advisor I wantt too startt shoppingg forr a financial advisor.. Whatt shouldd I bee lookingg for? Someone you can trust and feel comfortable with. A person who has several years of experience in both good and bad times. A well educated person. Someone who really listens to both the husband and the wife. Someone who provides objective advise to you and who is legally and morally obligated to serve your best interest at all times. Someone who does not have a sales quota of investment products to sell to you. Rick Tonkinson Someone who has malpractice insurance for your protection. Someone who is regulated and supervised by FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority). Someone who is not a sales rep but an actual money manager. How w manyy financiall advisorss shouldd I interview? The more the better, but make sure you ask the same questions to each one. Ask for their credentials, experience, investment process, references and code of ethics. I suggest that you talk to each advisor one on one. Consider talking to at least 3 advisors before you decide.

Robert Josefsberg, as Santa, provides holiday cheer to (l-r) Carl Dominic Juste, Arsenio Marrero and Stephanie Barradas. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY JAMI BAKER

Miami-based law firm Podhurst Orseck transformed its office into the North Pole on Monday, Dec. 12, complete with a festive Christmas tree, gifts and decorations. ‘The entire firm got into the Christmas spirit for its annual “Gifts for Kids” event

serving lunch and dessert to 17 children from the pre-kindergarten special education class (ages 4-5) at Air Base Elementary in Homestead. Even Santa Claus made an appearance — played by partner Robert C. Josefsberg — to give the children presents that were donated by the firm’s staff and lawyers.

Theree aree a lott off credentialss thatt advisorss use.. Aree theyy alll thee same? No. Each credential has a different level of course content and time requirement to attain the credential. Some credentials focus on life insurance such as the Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF) and a Charter Life Underwriter (CLU). The CLU is more of a Masters Degree in the area of insurance. Some credentials focus on mutual funds such as a Certified Funds Specialist (CFS). The credential that focuses on comprehensive financial planning is the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). It is more of a Masters Degree in personal financial planning. Ask the advisor for details of their skills and education. Rick Tonkinson is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Practitioner who started his first job as a paperboy at age 12. Rick Tonkinson and his family focus on the financial planning needs of working people. Tonkinson Financial Inc. is located at 2398 South Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL. 305-858-1628. Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services offered by Tonkinson Financial Inc. are separate and unrelated to Commonwealth.

Happy New Year! from Tonkinson Financial

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

Biscayne National Park photos by Brian Trainor at City Hall BY BEGOÑE CAZALIS

Councilmember Stephen Shelley, who started the “Art in the Chamber” program, Fine Art photographer Brian Trainor inaugurated the exhibit during the presented his Biscayne Wednesday, Dec. 14, National Park photography Homestead City Council exhibit at the December’s meeting, and invited the Homestead City Council community to visit the counmeeting. The pieces will be cil chamber and enjoy exhibited at the Homestead Trainor’s photography of City Hall Council Biscayne National Park. Chambers through January. Trainor, who has practiced photography for more than The photos, which were 30 years, does not digitally captured during his monthmanipulate the pictures, but long artist residency at the focuses on the process of National Park that surphotography from conceprounds Homestead, present tion to life. His Everglades themes of conservation and Photographer Brian Trainor National Park artist in resisustainability. –––––––––––––––––––– dency work also will be “In some of the pieces I focus on the beauty of our national park,” exhibited at the City of Homestead City said Trainor, who recently completed an Hall Council Chambers later in 2011. For more information on Brian Trainor’s artist residency at Everglades National Park. “In others I isolated garbage I saw in fine art photography visit online at the park to bring attention to the issue of <http://briantrainorphotography.com> or him by email at pollution and destruction of our unique contact <briansgallery@bellsouth.net>. South Florida environment.”

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

Exhibition of photos zooms in on Israel’s Galilee region BY ELIZABETH AMORE

The University of Miami Sue and Leonard Miller Center for Judaic Studies will present the photographic exhibition “Window to My World — Winds of Change in Galilee.” The exhibition will be on view Jan. 6-27, 2012, at the UM College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Gallery, located at the Wesley Foundation at 1210 Stanford Dr., Coral Gables. A closing reception will take place on Jan. 25 at 5 p.m. “Window to My World” is a photograph competition that is conducted annually by ORT Braude College of Engineering in Israel. It is open to all people residing in Israel. The theme of this year’s competition was “The winds of change in the Galilee.” Participating in the competition this year were 63 Arab and Jewish photographers from a broad spectrum of ages and from all parts of Israel. They used the medium of photography as a tool for transmitting their own personal stories, their weltanschauung, and their individual points of view regarding the changes that are taking place in the north of Israel, the Galilee, and the influence of these changes on the landscape and the resi-

dents of this region. In recent years Israel’s Galilee region has undergone many changes that find expression in all spheres: social, cultural, technological and ecological, as well as in various projects and initiatives. ORT Braude College which stands in the heart of the Galilee in Karmiel attributes great importance to the development of the Galilee by its encouragement and support for the changes occurring in the region in various spheres and has therefore chosen to give its patronage to this project. The competition and exhibition were the result of the initiative and direction of Effy Omiel-Pedida in collaboration with Shlomi Schvartsberg, curator and director of the Lady Roslyn Lyons Gallery at the ORT Braude College. The three previous “Windows to My World” exhibitions were held in the Lady Roslyn Lyons Gallery in the ORT Braude Academic College of Engineering in Karmiel, and parts of these exhibitions were shown in Pittsburgh in 2007. Before coming to UM, the exhibition will be shown at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). For more information, call the Miller Center at 305-284-6882, or visit online at <www6.miami.edu/miller-center>.

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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InterContinental Miami brings ice skating Downtown for holidays BY AURELIA VASQUEZ

The coolest place to be in Miami for the holidays is InterContinental Miami Holiday Ice Rink Presented by CocaCola, Miami’s only hotel ice-skating destination offering guests and residents a timeless holiday tradition in the hottest destination in the U.S. True to the hotel’s promise of creating unique and authentic experiences, the InterContinental Miami Holiday Ice Rink is packing six inches of real ice and will be located on the hotel’s outdoor Bayview Patio with stunning views of Biscayne Bay. The rink is operating daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. through Jan. 15, 2012. The InterContinental Miami is located in Downtown Miami at 100 Chopin Plaza. Ice Rink Events, the company responsible for New York’s Bryant Park rink, and the InterContinental Miami’s in-

house production partners, Deco Productions, Bayfront Floral Design and PSAV, have designed the winter wonderland. Presented by Coca-Cola, the InterContinental Miami Holiday Ice Rink also is sponsored by IHG Latin America, IHG World Class Beverage Program, Evian, Moet & Chandon, Rioja, Bacardi, Absolute Vodka, The Patron Spirits Company, Valley Crest, Engineered Comfort Systems, Waste Management and Worldwide Transportation. Cost is $20 per hour for adults; $10 an hour for ages 18 and under. Price includes ice skate rental and special-rate validated parking. Group and family packages are available, as well as ice rink rental for private and special events. For more information and reservations visit <www.ICmiamihotel.com/IceRink> or contact the InterContinental Miami Holiday Concierge at 305-372-4787.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

Redland: Its history and pioneers topic of next Bea Peskoe lecture BY BOB JENSEN

When it comes to the history of Redland (not the Redland and not Redlands) George Grunwell is the senior local chronicler of everything Redland. He will be the Bea Peskoe Lunchtime Lecture series speaker on Jan. 9, noon, at the Redland Fruit and Spice Park, located at the corner of Redland Road (SW 187th Avenue) and Coconut Palm (248th Street). The lecture is open free to the public. The Mango Café at the park will serve a lunch at 11:30 a.m. for $10 by reservation only at 305-230-9185 made before 2 p.m. on Jan. 6. The history of Redland is interesting and important to understanding Redland of today. Grunwell has spent all of his life here except for the first six months in Key West and 1943-46 when he served in the U.S. Navy. A licensed architect and Homestead’s first non-political appointee postmaster (1972-80), Grunwell has spent a lot of time paying attention to detail. The special purpose maps he has drawn for this presenta-

tion will themselves be an important addition to local history. Those attending will learn of the first two homesteaders, the first woman homesteader and who the other six single women homesteaders were. Contrary to what we remember of the rush of homesteaders into new territories out West, here the inflow was much less harried and more orderly. The planned community of Aladdin City also will be highlighted. Photos from Grunwell’s personal collection will add to the appreciation for life in early Redland. Grunwell will take questions at the end of his presentation. Ample free parking is available at the Fruit and Spice Park. The Bea Peskoe Lunchtime Lecture Series is presented by the Homestead Center for the Arts in honor of the late Homestead activist for justice, education and the arts and is presented free to the public with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs Council, the Mayor and the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners.

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

RayPrinciotta ON REAL ESTATE Once a popular selling method in California, non-distressed Residential Auctions are showing up here in Florida. The recent Auction Sale of two Golden Beach mansions sold in tandem set the local real estate market talking. The sellers decided to auction their properties at an Absolute Auction, which means the properties would be sold to the highest bidder regardless of price. The two properties sold for $12.4 million...the sale was fast, fair and satisfying to all concerned. If you are interested in selling your real estate at auction, you will need to work with an auctioneer who is a licensed Florida real estate broker. Based on your situation, there are various types of Auctions, the most popular are Absolute, Reserve, and Minimum Bid. Also, there are both Live and Online Auctions as well a hybrid Live and Remote, which is used to facilitate bidders from around the world.

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Sell your condo at auction? It just may be your best option Each method produces results that compare with, and in many cases, exceed traditional brokerage methods. The properties are sold AS-IS with no contingencies, and can include all furnishings if desired. With an Auction, you set the date your property will sell. An Auction generates excitement by sending a clear message that you, the seller, are serious and highly motivated. Remember, motivated doesn’t mean desperate. It means that you want to sell and move on to the next chapter. We all know the feeling of relief when your property goes into contract … and the pressure and anxiety when your home lingers on the market. Every passing month you are carrying the property, and if you have already bought a new home, you are carrying two..Ouch! Auctions bring Buyers to the point of decision quickly. In preparation for the Auction, the Bidders must bring a Cashier’s Check in order to bid; and the winning Bidder must make a deposit of 10% of the contract price at the signing of the contract. This significant earnest money deposit means the property is far more likely to close. Another major difference between an

auction and a traditional brokerage sale is there is no inspection period after the “Purchase and Sale agreement is signed by the Buyer and Seller. Prospective Bidders conduct their due diligence inspections before the auction. So the day of the auction, everybody is set and ready to deal. Live “On-Site” Auctions create spirited bidding, producing higher sale prices. The Auction will quickly bring the true market price. (The True Market price is the price a buyer is willing to pay for the property on that day.) As you can see, there are pro’s and con’s to selling your home at Auction. Built in to the Auction experience is the Buyer’s expectation that they will get something at a low price. This may or may not happen. Promoting and advertising the Auction through Target Marketing increases the visibility of the property. A larger audience sees the property and more potential bidders attend the Auction, on-site or on-line. For the Seller, the speed of the Auction is a major advantage. The home will sell

very quickly and the sale will be completed more rapidly than selling through the traditional methods. The waiting and worrying come to a quick conclusion. If you want to or need to sell in a set period of time, an auction may be your best option. Ray Princiotta is a licensed Florida real estate broker. If you have any questions, contact me - ray@rayonrealestate.com.

For more detail, visit www.rayonrealestate.com. Ray Princiotta is a licensed Florida real estate broker. Contact him at 305.494.4101 or ray@rayonrealestate.com.

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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

MDC aviation students help Santa spread holiday cheer BY ROBERT HAMILTON

This year was the Miami Dade College Eig-Watson School of Aviation’s ninth annual Holiday Flight to Remember. Students from the school raised money so they could host a party for less fortunate children from the Family Resource Center of South Florida. Santa Claus was flown in from the North Pole to an awaiting party of more than 200 people at the hangar of the Wings Over Miami

Air Museum. The students invited 10 children, but were quick to adjust their plans when more than 15 arrived. Santa had determined that each child behaved exceptionally well this past year so he presented them with more toys than they could carry home. The student were quick to adjust to this unforeseen event as well by helping the foster parents transport big boxes and bicycles back to their homes.

Students from Miami Dade College’s renowned Eig Watson School of Aviation spread holiday cheer during a recent toy drive and celebration at Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport, part of a longstanding tradition. Santa delighted the children by arriving by airplane. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Dodge Charger SRT8 balances power and performance Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS The Dodge Charger SRT8 was a hot seller last year for the resurgent automaker, so it is no surprise that it returns to the performance car market in 2012, but with several improvements for even better performance and more power for the popular four-door fastback coupe. New for 2012 is a 470 hp 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 with 45 more horses and 50 more pounds-feet torque across a wider rpm range. There’s also new exhaust system technology for improved fuel efficiency, new paddle shifters on the steering wheel and adaptive damping suspension for better handling and driver control. The new 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 clocks 0-60 mph in the high four-second range; notches a quarter mile in just under 13 seconds; 0100 mph in less than 16 seconds, and tops out at 175 mph. And, oh yeah, it will brake to a stop from 60 mph in a remarkable 120 feet. Even with the extra power, Dodge engineers have been able to coax an extra 21 per-

cent in fuel economy (up to 23 mpg) on the highway with the addition of a new active valve exhaust system that allows the standard Fuel Saver Technology (four-cylinder mode) to engage over a wider rpm range for improved efficiency or the use of all eight cylinders when the extra power is needed. The new active valve exhaust system also allows for straight through mid and rear mufflers for a really cool throaty exhaust note. The 2012 Charger SRT8 has an active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing to provide maximum low-end torque, including an additional 80 pounds-feet of torque at 2,900 rpm for jack rabbit standing starts, while optimizing high-end power. The five-speed automatic transmission may be operated manually by new steering wheelmounted paddle shifters that join the center console mounted Auto Stick. Both provide the ability to manually select specific gears. A standard adaptive damping suspension (ADS) system is new for 2012 and tuned specifically for the Charger SRT8. The ADS system uses a wide range of on-road and driver inputs, such as vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral acceleration to automatically tune the suspension for specific conditions. When drivers manually choose

Dodge Charger SRT8 four-door fastback coupe has high-gloss black grille and a new performance-sculpted hood with a black engine air exhauster. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

between the “Auto” and “Sport” settings, the shock damping characteristics are quickly changed from an everyday performance ride to a much firmer racetrack capable damping for more challenging driving situations. As for looks, there is no mistaking the high performance Charger SRT8 with its highgloss black front grille, grille surround, Dodge crosshair, signature SRT badge and the HEMI badges on each fender. A new per-

formance-sculpted hood has a black air exhauster for added engine cooling. Base price on the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is $46,660. 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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Dec. 27, 2011 - Jan. 9, 2012

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t Atlantis Academy Miami, the student as an individual is the primary concern. Individualization in curriculum, academic expectations and socialization are the foundation of our program. The primary elements of our school program include an academic curriculum that accommodates each studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual skills, social skills development and school to work transition.

Individualization in curriculum, academic expectations and socialization are the foundation of our program. Since 1976, Atlantis Academy Miami has helped TUVEFOUT CFDPNF DPOmEFOU BOE QSPEVDUJWF BEVMUT

Atlantis Academy Miami is one of few schools in the Miami area offering a K-12 program for students with disabilities and other unique needs. Because selecting the right school for your child is B QFSTPOBM BOE EJGmDVMU EFDJTJPO XF XBOU UP NBLF JU easier for you by providing personal tours of our school. The personal tour will provide parents a better understanding and appreciation of our school program. Parents will be able to visit classrooms and speak to our teachers and staff. Our tours are offered every Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday between 9 am and 2 pm. 1MFBTF DBMM UIF TDIPPM PGmDF BU UP schedule your appointment.

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ATLANTIS ACADEMY HAS THREE LOCATIONS: Miami Â&#x2122;Ă&#x2C6;Ă¤Ă¤Ă&#x160;-7Ă&#x160;ÂŁĂ¤Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Ă&#x160; Ă&#x203A;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x2022;iUĂ&#x160;/iÂ?\Ă&#x160;Ă&#x17D;Ă¤xÂ°Ă&#x201C;Ă&#x2021;ÂŁÂ°Â&#x2122;Ă&#x2021;Ă&#x2021;ÂŁ Coral Springs ÂŁĂ¤ÂŁÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x160; 7Ă&#x160;Ă&#x17D;ÂŁĂ&#x160;-Ă&#x152;Ă&#x20AC;iiĂ&#x152;UĂ&#x160;/iÂ?\Ă&#x160;Â&#x2122;x{Â°Ă&#x2021;xĂ&#x201C;Â°Ă&#x2021;xĂ&#x2021;ÂŁ West Palm Beach ÂŁÂ&#x2122;xĂ¤Ă&#x160;*Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x2C6;iĂ&#x160;,Â&#x153;>`Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;/iÂ?\Ă&#x160;xĂ&#x2C6;ÂŁÂ°Ă&#x2C6;{Ă&#x201C;Â°Ă&#x17D;ÂŁĂ¤Ă¤

www.atlantisacademy.com

Atlantis Academy does not discriminate against any applicant due to race, sex, religion or national origin.

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Protecting Your Young Athlete Against Sports Injuries Balancing Common Sense Against the Desire to Play By Gautam P. Yagnik, M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon, West Kendall Baptist Hospital More than 38 million children in the U.S. participate in organized sports, enjoying vigorous physical activity as well as the social aspects of team play. But, there is also a downside: the risk of sports-related injuries. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that more than 3.5 million sports-related injuries in children under age 15 are treated in hospitals, doctors’ offices, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers and hospital emergency rooms in the U.S. each year. Sports injuries are, by far, the most common cause of musculoskeletal injuries in children. Sports injuries have consequences that extend beyond simply missed time on the field. Young athletes may suffer from anger and depression following an injury. Parents may need time off from work to devote to doctor visits and personal care. And, of course, these injuries place a financial burden on families and an additional strain on our healthcare system. Parents can protect the health and safety of children while enhancing their enjoyment of sports by learning the basics about sports-related injuries. What are the most common sports-related injuries? Typical injuries are minor sprains and strains caused by twisting the ankle, knee or shoulder. They often happen when an athlete twists or gets hit in a particular way on the playing field. These injuries usually heal without surgery if the standard R-I-C-E treatment (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) is followed. We also often see repetitive-use injuries when a particular muscle group is continually overworked or over trained. What’s the difference between a sprain and a strain? A sprain involves injury to a ligament, which is the tissue that connects bone to bone, such as in the knee and shoulder. A strain affects a tendon, which connects muscle to bone. A good example is the Achilles tendon, which connects the big calf muscle to the heel and can be strained. When is surgical treatment required for a sports injury? Certain ligament injuries do require surgery. One example is a torn or ruptured ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), a critical component of the knee structure that aids in rotation. ACL injury is greatly feared by professional athletes as it is often a season ender, if not a career ender. ACL injuries do not heal on their own; reconstructive surgery is required to replace the ligament. Healing time may be as much as six to ten months. Interestingly, ACL tears affect a disproportionate number of female athletes, with such injuries happening five to 10 times more often to girls than boys. How can concussions be avoided? Gone are the days when an athlete simply shook off a mild concussion. Now referred to as “traumatic brain injury,” even a mild concussion requires medical evaluation and treatment. Thanks to greater public awareness of the dangers of concussions, positive changes are being made in the sports world. Improved head equipment for “collision sports” such as football and ice hockey is helping to reduce injuries. Rule changes at all levels are being enacted to avoid unnecessary hits to the head. And, teams are being more protective about returning athletes to play after a concussion. How can young athletes minimize the risk of sports-related injuries or heal more quickly? Proper training techniques are critical. Athletes should always do a proper warm-up and cooldown. Incorporating strength and agility training into the regimen helps protect bones and muscles as well as enhances performance. Previously injured limbs may benefit from a prophylactic brace (such as a knee or ankle brace) to ward off injuring it again. Today’s young athletes tend to become focused on a single sport at an ever-younger age, to their detriment. Playing multiple sports through the seasons allows body parts to rest and recuperate from repeated stresses. When an injury does occur, common sense dictates that the athlete stop the activity, rest and evaluate the situation. The “no pain, no gain” philosophy can cause needless complications. Medical attention is required when an athlete experiences swelling or severe pain that does not improve with rest. Pushing through the pain may make an injury much worse and create a need for surgery. Athletes are naturally driven people. Parents, coaches and teammates can add even more pressure to perform. Medical professionals play an important role in protecting young athletes— even if it is from themselves—by not allowing play to resume until they are fully healed. Gautam P. Yagnik, M.D., team physician for the Florida Panthers, is a board certified orthopedic surgeon at West Kendall Baptist Hospital. He specializes in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, elbow and knee.

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